[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Riff 2-Light Flush Mount is my second light fixture from Kohler, so I kinda knew what to expect…Kohler creates high quality, weighty, gorgeous designs, so I knew I couldn’t go wrong. Good news is, I wasn’t disappointed despite pretty high expectations.
As has everything I’ve ever ordered from the brand, the Riff came in perfect condition, well packaged and safe. Everything was wrapped, boxed and buffered so that I knew nothing would be scuffed or scratched, and that proved true.
I’m pretty experienced with installation and electricity, so there weren’t any surprises with getting this up on the ceiling. If you are at all familiar with swapping out light fixtures, you won’t have any problems. I will say I didn’t expect how heavy the Riff would be. It is shockingly heavy for its size, which makes me confident that is made with quality complements, but less confident in the structure of my ceiling to be able hold it. I’m kidding, a little, as the fixture is secured tightly, but you definitely need to be aware of the weight, especially if you don’t have someone to help you with installation. Fortunately it does come with an anchor cable, so you can use both hands while standing, like I was, on a ladder, and that’s a nice, useful feature.
The polished nickel is bright and attractive, and the design is classic and demure. I like the way it looks on my ceiling, but because the glass is transparent, you’re going to want to get decent looking lightbulbs, as they will be on full display when not switched on. Too, keep in mind the Riff takes candelabra bulbs, so have some in hand.
The only other thing to note is that you need to be aware of the dimensions of this light fixture, as the photos make it look rectangular, and it is a square. The statistics are clearly stated in the description, but I didn’t pay close enough attention, relying on the picture instead. Still, I could accommodate the square, and it looks just as good, but just be aware, at least until a few more pics show up online.
Another really nice feature of this fixture is that it has insulation fitted tightly into it, which will help both with maintaining heat and cool, and keeping bugs from climbing inside (as they’d be in full display since the glass isn’t frosted). I really appreciate these details, and you can tell that Kohler is thinking about the practical needs of their customers.
To sun it all up, I’m absolutely loving the light fixtures Kohler is putting out…these are substantial in every way, from quality of component, and beauty of designs. But again, they aren’t for the weak, so plan for a friend to help you with the install. That said, I’m a fan!
