Streamlight’s Brad Kalish, a Zest for Lighting, Life and an InkLink

The pioneering lighting design initiatives of Streamlight, have paved the way for and claimed a considerable stake within the lighting industry in South Africa. 

For almost 30 years, this sensation of a lighting establishment has housed some of the most exclusive and renowned lighting brands from around the world including Vibia, Estiluz, Arturo Alvarez and more (Click here to view Streamlight’s Latest Collections). In addition, they deliver outstanding residential and commercial lighting projects on both a national and global scale.

Gianluca Tucci, partner at CN&CO, works closely with Streamlight Director, Brad Kalish on Streamlight’s marketing and communications efforts. 

Brad is known by his peers and colleagues to be friendly, approachable and artistic, which ultimately leads him to his current role in Streamlight. 

In a recent discussion, Gianluca caught up with Brad to find out more about his background and zest for lighting, design, tattoos and life in general…

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE STREAMLIGHT GROUP?

Being a member of the Streamlight team started out as a hobby. My Dad, Robert Kalish, is the CEO of the company and it has always been his life’s passion. He diligently guided and trained me in the business, so it has gradually become second nature to me. 

I’ve always been passionate about design and how the entire process empowers us to enjoy life. I even studied design at university, so the creative world is certainly no stranger to me.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT STREAMLIGHT?

As a Director, I am focused on driving the Streamlight Projects (Commercial) channel, Marketing (growing the brand and offerings) and Industrial Design sections.

I am currently employing each of the above functions to ensure that Streamlight continues to forge a lighting evolution we refer to as Lightecture:

As visionary architects of the lighting landscape, we not only cultivate distinctive lighting design, but offer exceptional technical and commercial applications along with only the finest craftsmanship of premium lighting collections.

HOW DOES DESIGN PLAY A ROLE IN YOUR LIFE?

I am a huge fan of the minimalist look. I find that modern, sleek lines really accentuate a space. 

Growing up, I was always inspired by the work and application of Arik Levy and we currently stock a renowned brand of his called Vibia. 

He is a truly inspirational designer who unfailingly manages to capture the “WOW’ factor in each and every single piece of his work.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE FROM VIBIA?

At the moment, it would have to be the the Vibia Sticks and Wire Flow.

These are the most celebrated products and have been extremely popular amongst our clients and agents.

Their clean, minimalistic style gives them an individual signature of elegance, modernism and presence.

TELL US ABOUT DARK?

DARK is a local lighting collection we started intended for the eclectic lifestyle. 

We especially created DARK to approach varying markets and consumers in Africa and to provide them with top-tier European quality as well as alluring and striking lighting designs at affordable local prices. 

By utilising Streamlight’s expertise, DARK has become exceptionally popular with a wide range of products that can be viewed at the Streamlight showroom.

WHERE IS STREAMLIGHT BASED?

We are based in Kramerville (17 Kramer Road, Kramerville), Johannesburg’s popular design district where a multitude of design experts are stationed. 

Our premium showroom, from where our team operates, houses a diverse spectrum of products and serves as a popular and welcoming location – especially from an aesthetic perspective. Not only is it an illuminating space for clients to view our various lighting products from around the globe, but to meet our team of design specialists.

THE INK LINK – TELL US ABOUT YOUR TATTOOS

I have several intricately designed and positioned tattoos that speak to my life journey. I suppose they symbolise my internal creative and unique character in a way…

• The map of Africa on my arm represents my devotion to the special place where I was born and have subsequently grown up in

• The Hebrew script on my wrist “Gam Ze Yavoh” means “This too shall pass”, depicting life as a journey and while it may be complex at the best of times, we must hold fast to confronting it with optimism and passion

• On my tricep there are three tattoos showing a King of Spades, a Crown and a Skull – symbolising the Crimson King, Judaism and life respectively

• My ankle sports a range of brands representing different chapters in my life that have all contributed to the person I am today

LASTLY, HOW HAS WORKING IN THE LIGHTING INDUSTRY LINKED YOU TO THE WORLD AND TRAVEL?

The lighting realm has presented me with a number of opportunities to see the world, meet fellow industry experts and grow the knowledge and expertise of the Streamlight team.

I have been fortunate enough to travel to iconic events and exhibitions over the years in Shanghai, Germany, Milan and Frankfurt along with meeting a broad spectrum of fascinating and talented people.

I am constantly amazed by the perpetual innovation and learnings that people provide and how the world tirelessly continues to evolve. I find this notion synonymous with design because as creatives, we have to constantly keep an open mind to the perspectives of others, to travel and especially to discover opportunity.

I have undoubtedly missed travelling through the pandemic and am so excited to broaden my and Streamlight’s horizons once it all opens up again.