Huey
In a market often dominated by the conventional, Bret and her brand, Huey Lightshop, are shining a different kind of light. As the founder and lead designer, Bret champions a philosophy of handmade artistry, local production, and unwavering sustainability. We sat down with this interior design and lighting enthusiast, whose stunning designs were captured through the lens of photographer Kelsey Vansickle, to uncover what sets Huey Lightshop apart, and how she’s illuminating homes with pieces that are as eco-conscious as they are exquisitely designed.
Hello Bret, how are you? Can you tell us a bit about yourself, who you are, where you’re based, and what you do?
Hi! I'm doing well, thank you for asking!
I’m Bret, the founder and lead designer of Huey Lightshop. Huey is a women-led, Canadian-made lighting brand dedicated to creating handmade, artful light fixtures. Everything is designed and crafted in-house by our small but mighty team of five local artisans located in the countryside of rural Ontario, in an area called the Blue Mountains. I am an interior design and lighting nerd who also has an affinity for antiques!
How does the natural environment where you live in Southern Georgian Bay influence your lighting designs?
Living in Southern Georgian Bay provides constant inspiration. The natural surroundings, from the dramatic seasonal changes to the calming landscape, deeply influence the forms and textures in my designs. I often draw from the organic patterns I see in nature, which I then incorporate into the final pieces, creating something that feels rooted in the environment around us.
You mentioned a focus on both artistry and function. Can you describe how you achieve this balance in your work?
For me, striking a balance between artistry and function is key. Every piece starts with a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical. I focus on ensuring that the lighting not only enhances a space but also serves its intended purpose in terms of light quality, direction, and energy efficiency. The challenge is to integrate these functional elements seamlessly while maintaining a level of craftsmanship that makes each design a work of art.
How do you incorporate the concept of «storytelling through light» into the design process?
Light has the power to create mood, transform spaces, and evoke emotions and memories. When designing a light, I often draw inspiration from various design and craftsmanship movements throughout history, then "Frankenstein" these influences together to create something entirely unique. By the time a light is installed in someone’s home, their own life becomes woven into its story, making it a living piece that continues to evolve over time.
Huey Lightshop emphasizes sustainability and is a made-to-order brand. Can you elaborate on the company’s commitment to sustainable practices?
Sustainability is a core value of Huey Lightshop. Our lights are made to order, in-house, meaning we only produce what’s needed, reducing potential waste. We prioritize working with locally sourced materials and vendors within Canada. The majority of our fixtures are crafted from porcelain, a material composed of clay, ordinary rocks, and water—elements that are naturally abundant and have an extremely low eco-footprint. Porcelain is also highly renewable, making it a sustainable choice that does not contribute to resource depletion or environmental harm. This commitment extends to our packaging, which is entirely plastic-free.
What distinguishes Huey Lightshop from other lighting brands in the Canadian market?
What sets Huey Lightshop apart is our commitment to top-notch craftsmanship, sustainability, and design-forward lighting. Each piece is handmade with care, built to last, and thoughtfully crafted from start to finish. Our designs blend the timeless quality of heirlooms with modern sensibilities, creating lighting that is both functional and artful. By prioritizing local artisans and sustainable practices, we offer something truly unique—lighting of this caliber simply doesn’t exist elsewhere in the Canadian market.
How do you define the unique aesthetic of Huey Lightshop, which seems to blend timeless craftsmanship with modern elegance?
To be honest, I'm not really sure what my aesthetic is! I suppose it's just an extension of myself which is hard to put a label on. I really dont think huey fits into a specific box - this is evident when the same fixture is being used in multiple different styles of homes and somehow it just still works so beautifully!
What is the most rewarding aspect of working with skilled artisans and seeing their craftsmanship come to life?
Working with skilled artisans is incredibly rewarding and one of my favourite things to do in life. Seeing a concept evolve into a tangible piece through their expertise brings immense satisfaction. The process allows for collaboration and creative exchange, which is crucial to ensuring that the final design exceeds expectations. I’m always amazed by the precision and care they bring to every detail, and it makes me proud to offer pieces that reflect their talent and dedication.
Your studio is located in a converted schoolhouse where you live. How has this unique workspace impacted your design process or company culture?
Sorry! I should have clarified this more. The shop is not located in my schoolhouse home - it is about a 15 minute drive away surrounded by forestry! The work we do with clay is simply too messy to be in my house and I need a little separation from the two haha!
Outside of lighting design, are there other forms of art or design that inspire you? For example, do you find inspiration in painting, sculpture, or architecture?
I find inspiration everywhere—from nature to jewelry, fashion, vintage furniture, and textiles. I’m drawn to the details in interior design and architecture, as well as the craftsmanship found in painting and glassware. There’s something fascinating about the way different materials and disciplines intersect, influencing how I approach lighting. Whether it’s the curve of a sculptural chair or the texture of an old woven fabric, these elements often find their way into my designs in unexpected ways.
You mentioned traveling to inspiring locations to photograph your lights. Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations?
I mostly do this on my personal travels, always bringing a light or two along to photograph in beautifully designed hotels—hotel interiors are a huge source of inspiration for me. I love the challenge of capturing my designs in different settings and seeing how they interact with new spaces. This year, I’m also in the process of narrowing down a long list of incredibly talented photographers from around the world to collaborate with—it’s proving to be a tough decision!
What are your long-term aspirations for Huey Lightshop and how do you envision the brand evolving in the future?
One day, I’d love to open a Huey boutique hotel—combining my love for interiors, hospitality, and lighting under one roof. It would be a space where design is fully immersive, with every detail thoughtfully considered. I’m constantly inspired by the incredible creatives out there, and collaborations are one of my favorite parts of the process, so I see many more of those in Huey’s future. More than anything, I want the brand to continue evolving organically, staying true to craftsmanship, creativity, and the stories that light can tell.
Huey Lightshop @hueylightshop
www.hueylightshop.com
Pictures - Kelsey Vansickle @vnskl
www.kelseyvansickle.com