LaFaye's at 79th: A Lighting Showroom in Columbia
What LaFaye's at 79th Offers
LaFaye's at 79th is a lighting fixture and equipment showroom located in Columbia that carries residential and commercial lighting options, ceiling fans, and related hardware. The showroom displays working samples so you can see how different fixtures perform in actual light before purchasing. Staff can help you match fixtures to your space, discuss installation requirements, and answer questions about energy efficiency and maintenance.
The store stocks both standard inventory and special-order items, which means you can walk out with some pieces the same day or arrange delivery for larger orders. Whether you're replacing a single fixture in your home or outfitting a new commercial space, the showroom model lets you compare styles, finishes, and brightness levels in person rather than relying on photos alone.
Key Takeaways
- LaFaye's at 79th displays working lighting fixtures and ceiling fans so you can see how they look and perform before buying.
- The showroom carries both ready-to-take inventory and special-order options for fixtures not in stock.
- Staff can advise on fixture selection, installation considerations, and energy-efficient options for your specific space.
- The store serves both residential customers replacing home fixtures and commercial clients outfitting larger projects.
Browsing the Showroom
Walking into LaFaye's at 79th, you'll find fixtures organized by room type and style—kitchen and bath fixtures in one section, chandeliers and pendant lights in another, and ceiling fans grouped separately. Many fixtures are mounted and lit so you can see the actual light quality and spread, not just the shape of the frame. This matters because a fixture that looks elegant in a catalog can cast harsh shadows or feel too dim once installed.
The showroom also stocks lampshades, bulbs, and mounting hardware, so you can often complete a project in one visit. Staff can show you how different bulb types (LED, incandescent, halogen) affect both the look of the light and your energy costs, which has become an important consideration for many homeowners and businesses in South Carolina.
Installation and Special Orders
If you find a fixture you like but it's not in stock, LaFaye's can order it for you. The staff will give you a timeline for arrival and can often recommend local electricians if you need installation help. Some customers bring in photos of their spaces or measurements, and the team can suggest fixtures that will work with your ceiling height, wall color, and existing décor.
For commercial projects—offices, restaurants, retail spaces—the showroom can handle larger orders and coordinate delivery. They understand the difference between residential and commercial-grade fixtures, which matters for durability and building code compliance in South Carolina.
Why See Fixtures in Person
Lighting is one of those purchases where online photos and in-person reality often don't match. A fixture that looks warm and inviting in a showroom photo might feel too yellow in your actual kitchen, or a modern chandelier might overwhelm a smaller dining room than you expected. Visiting LaFaye's at 79th lets you stand under the fixture, see how it casts light on a surface, and imagine it in your own space.
The showroom also helps you avoid common mistakes—like choosing a fixture too large for your room, picking a style that clashes with your home's character, or buying something that won't work with your existing electrical setup. These decisions are easier to make when you can see and touch the actual product.
Types of Fixtures and Styles Available
LaFaye's at 79th carries a range of styles suited to different tastes and home types. You'll find traditional brass and crystal chandeliers, modern minimalist pendants, rustic farmhouse fixtures, and contemporary designs. Ceiling fans come in various finishes and blade styles, from simple brushed nickel to decorative wood-blade options.
The inventory includes fixtures for specific rooms—vanity lights for bathrooms, under-cabinet lighting for kitchens, recessed lights for general illumination, and decorative fixtures for living areas. Whether your home is a historic Charleston-style house, a modern suburban build, or a commercial space, the showroom usually has options that fit the aesthetic.
Planning Your Visit
Before heading to LaFaye's at 79th, it helps to have a few details ready: the room you're lighting, the ceiling height, the existing décor style, and whether you need a fixture for general lighting or accent lighting. If you're replacing an existing fixture, note the current bulb type and wattage so staff can suggest comparable or more efficient alternatives.
Bring measurements of your space if possible, and consider taking photos of the room on your phone. If you're working with an electrician or contractor, you can also ask them what type of fixture will work with your electrical setup before you shop, which narrows down your options and saves time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I return a fixture if I buy it and it doesn't look right at home?
Return policies vary by store and product type. Contact LaFaye's at 79th directly to understand their specific return window and conditions. Some fixtures, especially special orders, may have different policies than ready-to-take inventory.
Do I need to hire an electrician to install a fixture I buy here?
Most fixture installation requires turning off power at the breaker and working with existing wiring, so hiring a licensed electrician is the safest approach. The staff at LaFaye's can tell you whether a particular fixture is a straightforward swap for an existing one or if it requires new wiring or a different mounting setup.
What's the difference between LED and traditional bulbs for these fixtures?
LED bulbs use less energy, last much longer (often 10+ years), and produce less heat than incandescent or halogen bulbs. They cost more upfront but save money over time on electricity and replacement. The staff can show you LED options that fit your fixtures and explain the brightness and color differences.
How long does a special order usually take?
Timeline varies depending on the manufacturer and current demand. LaFaye's staff will give you a specific estimate when you order. Some items arrive in a few weeks; others may take longer if they're coming from a distant supplier.
Do you work with contractors and designers on larger projects?
Yes. The showroom handles commercial and residential projects of various sizes. If you're working with a contractor or designer, they can often coordinate directly with LaFaye's on pricing, delivery, and installation logistics.