(The 15-foot, 1,100-pound crystal chandelier, crafted by Bluebird Lighting and designed by Baskervill, features an intricate art overlay by Kevin Barry Art Advisory and a cascade of crystals. Donated through the JavitsCares program, it now graces the ballroom of Brooklyn’s House of Yes.)
A dazzling trade show centerpiece finds a new purpose in Brooklyn’s vibrant arts scene
by Exhibit City News Staff
In a remarkable union of sustainability and artistry, a 15-foot, 1,100-pound crystal chandelier has found its new home in Brooklyn’s House of Yes. Originally displayed at Boutique Design New York (BDNY), the $18,000 chandelier—crafted by Bluebird Lighting and designed by Baskervill—was donated through the JavitsCares program, ensuring it avoided the landfill and instead became a centerpiece for creativity.
The chandelier showcases an artful overlay designed by Kevin Barry Art Advisory at its center, surrounded by an intricately draped outer ring of crystals. When BDNY organizers flagged it for donation, the Javits Center’s sustainability team worked with Materials for the Arts, a nonprofit that redistributes surplus materials to New York’s creative community. Among thousands of potential recipients, House of Yes—a venue known for immersive performances and community-driven events—was chosen as the perfect match. With the help of Javits union staff, the chandelier was prepared for transport to its new home, where it now hangs in the center of the venue’s ballroom.
“This donation reflects what JavitsCares is all about: transforming leftover materials into opportunities for creativity and connection,” said Alan Steel, chief executive officer of the Javits Center. “We’re thrilled this unique piece found such a fitting home to bring a new light to the neighborhood rather than the landfill. Thank you to Materials for the Arts for working with us to make a difference in our community.”
House of Yes: A Home for Creativity
House of Yes has become a Brooklyn institution celebrated for its eclectic performances and inclusive culture. Co-founded by Anya Sapozhnikova and Kae Burke, the venue has overcome challenges such as fires and relocations, evolving into a “temple of expression” that serves as a hub for artists, performers, and dreamers.
The chandelier’s placement perfectly complements House of Yes’s vibrant spirit. Once admired at a trade show, it now illuminates a space that thrives on creativity and community.
JavitsCares: Sustainability in Action
The chandelier donation is part of the JavitsCares program, which collects and redistributes items left behind by exhibitors to local nonprofits. Since its inception in 2018, the program has diverted materials ranging from furniture to food, supporting New Yorkers in need while reducing waste. Collaborations with groups like Materials for the Arts ensure that these donations find meaningful uses, whether in arts organizations, schools, or community spaces.
Tara Sansone, Executive Director of Materials for the Arts, says,”Here at MFTA, this is exactly the sort of partnerships we look to create: a group or individuals with incredible items they no longer need, and cultural groups who can give those items a new life in service of our city’s vibrant creative community. It’s not everyday an extraordinary chandelier like this comes through our warehouse doors, and we’re so excited to work with Javits Center and Bluebird Lighting to find it a new home at House of Yes. Though not every donation is as grandiose as this one, every day we are diverting a vast array of items —paper, paint, rubber bands, fabric, and so much more— from the waste stream into our missions of supporting affordable, accessible arts programming for all.”
A Second Life for a Masterpiece
The chandelier’s journey from tradeshow floor to the Brooklyn ballroom reflects the power of collaboration and vision. At House of Yes, it now serves as a beacon for performances, celebrations, and gatherings—proof that sustainability and beauty can go hand in hand.
