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Our history

We have been bringing light into the world since 1987

From unique sculptural pieces to high-tech workplace lighting: at GRAU, we have always looked for new ways to enrich life with light. For five decades and over two generations, we have experienced many changes, but we have always remained true to our philosophy: good light enriches life.

Design from Hamburg

1987

Our small family-run company opens its doors. Our very first luminaires, designed by Tobias Grau, establish important features of our design language: dynamic shapes, fine surfaces and state-of-the-art lighting experiences.

Made in Germany

1990s

Our campus with its own production facilities is built on the outskirts of Hamburg. All our luminaires have been built here ever since. GRAU luminaires are known for their durability and high quality workmanship.

Oh China Trace mit 2 Pendeln beleuchten einen Holztisch auf dem eine Schale mit Avocados und Tassen stehen
Oh China Trace mit 2 Pendeln beleuchten einen Holztisch auf dem eine Schale mit Avocados und Tassen stehen
LED pioneer

2000s

We establish a holistic lighting collection for living spaces, with classic luminaires such as Oh China and George. From 2008, we quickly convert the entire collection to LED technology and become a pioneer in LED home lighting.

Elegant minimalism

2008

Products such as Falling and Falling in Love mark a further step in the direction of radically modern minimalism.

Kabellose Akku Stehleuchte Parrot in orange, getragen von einer Person in cremefarbenen Hosenanzug, helles Ambiente
Kabellose Akku Stehleuchte Parrot in orange, getragen von einer Person in cremefarbenen Hosenanzug, helles Ambiente
A new freedom of light

2017

When Timon and Melchior Grau join the company, our first rechargeable luminaires are created. They set the start for a freer approach to light.

Rebranding

2021

With a holistic rebranding, we shorten the brand name to GRAU and focus on an atmospheric lighting experience, which is expressed with the Sei Licht campaign.

Sunset Dimming

2022

Our light innovation Sunset Dimming brings a new light spectrum inspired by the color spectrum of the sun and has a health-promoting effect because it supports the biorythm.

Light art since 1987