Cape Town’s Lighting Scene Shines Brighter with K. Light’s New Space

Eli Kalmi

Cape Town’s design scene has a new reason to glow: K. Light’s Milnerton showroom is now officially open, welcoming both trade professionals and the public to explore one of South Africa’s most comprehensive collections of decorative lighting. While direct sales are reserved for the trade, the space offers inspiration and access to the very latest in lighting design.

For over 30 years, K. Light has illuminated the industry with a singular focus on quality, service, and style. Since opening its first Cape Town store in 1995, the brand has brought a curated selection of exclusive European light fittings to South Africa, introducing international trends while shaping a distinct local identity.

Today, K. Light remains synonymous with splendour. From statement chandeliers to contemporary pendants, architectural pieces to entry-level fixtures, the brand caters to the full spectrum of lighting needs. Each collection reflects its strength in design innovation, offering pieces that balance beauty with functionality, and timeless appeal with cutting-edge technology.

A trusted lighting partner

With showrooms now in both Johannesburg and Cape Town, along with representatives across the country, K. Light has become a trusted partner for interior designers, architects, decorators, and homeowners alike. This latest showroom opening marks another milestone in a journey defined by dedication, growth, and loyal customers without whom, as the brand humbly notes, none of it would have been possible.

We sat down with Eli Kalmi, the founder of K. Light Imports, to reflect on the journey so far, and what the future holds for lighting design in South Africa.

Let’s hear from the team behind the brand

Today we’re talking to the team behind this phenomenal lighting brand to gain insight and inspiration about how the lighting industry continues to evolve and how K Light is making a mark as a market leader.

Can you take us back to 1995 — what inspired the founding of K. Light Import?

In 1995, we saw an opportunity to bring something fresh and inspiring to the South African lighting market. At the time, quality and stylish lighting options were limited, and we wanted to create a company that would not only import world-class products but also set a new standard in style and service.

What was the vision when you first opened the doors in Cape Town?

Our vision was simple but ambitious: to be the trusted name in lighting by offering South Africans a wide selection of unique and quality products at accessible prices. We wanted to make our lighting options a design statement that enhanced people’s lifestyles and spaces.

How has the lighting industry changed over the past 30 years, and how did K. Light evolve with it?

The industry has changed dramatically. We’ve seen shifts from traditional incandescent bulbs to energy-saving solutions, then to LED technology, and now smart lighting. Design trends also evolved constantly, influenced by international fashion and architecture. At K. Light, we’ve embraced these changes by continuously refreshing our ranges, keeping up with global trends, and ensuring that our customers always have access to the latest innovations in lighting.

When did you realize K. Light had become a market leader?

It wasn’t a single moment, it was a series of milestones. Seeing our products in showrooms across the country, being recognized by industry partners, and having customers come back to us year after year were all signs that K. Light had become a market leader.

What makes K. Light’s product range stand out in the South African market?

Our strength lies in variety, design, service and quality. We cater to many customers, from someone wanting a timeless classic to someone looking for the latest statement piece. Every product we bring in is carefully curated with style, durability, and affordability in mind. That combination makes K. Light unique.

In what ways has customer loyalty shaped the K. Light brand over the years?

Customer loyalty has been the heart of our growth. Many of our clients have been with us from the very beginning, and their trust has shaped how we do business. Their feedback and support push us to innovate, improve, and always deliver on our promises. We’ve grown alongside them, and in many ways, of which many are now friends. K. Light is a reflection of the relationships we have built over three decades.

How do you stay ahead of international trends and bring them home?

We stay connected to the global industry by attending leading international trade shows, collaborating with top manufacturers, and monitoring design trends across the world. But more importantly, we adapt those trends to suit the South African market.

What would you like to say to your customers and supporters on this special milestone?

To our customers, suppliers, and partners; thank you. For 30 years, you have trusted us to light up your homes, businesses, and projects, and we don’t take that lightly. This milestone is as much yours as it is ours. We are incredibly grateful for your loyalty and support, and we look forward to continuing this journey together. We will be bringing you the latest, most inspiring lighting solutions for many years to come.