David Weeks Studio Reissues the Iconic Aluminum Bullet Chandelier

Allied Maker, a New York-based design and manufacturing studio founded in 2012, recently introduced four new lighting fixtures at the Architectural Digest Design Show. The studio is known for its minimalist designs that emphasize the inherent beauty of materials such as brass, glass, and hardwoods. The newly unveiled collection continues this aesthetic, incorporating both angular, structural lines, specifically triangles, and soft, curving circular forms into their latest creations. One of the new additions is the Tri Cone Pendant, a fixture that features a cone-shaped shade designed to direct a focused beam of light. This focused illumination is achieved with a glass disc, all contained within a tetrahedron-inspired structural frame. The design seamlessly blends geometric precision with functional lighting, creating a visually compelling piece that is both modern and elegant. Another significant launch is the Grand Aperture 4, an expanded version of Allied Maker's existing Aperture 4 chandelier. This larger chandelier is specifically engineered to make a substantial visual impact in spacious environments. It comprises four glass domes strategically placed to encircle four distinct light sources. This arrangement ensures a broad and even diffusion of light, making it suitable for grand living areas or commercial spaces where significant ambient lighting is desired, all while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. The collection also includes the Contour Wall Lamp 22”. This wall-mounted fixture is characterized by its graceful, hand-bent arc, which extends to connect with a glass sphere. The design's functionality is enhanced by its ability to swivel against the wall, allowing for adjustable lighting direction and adaptability to various room configurations. The elegant curve and spherical element offer a blend of art and utility, providing both illumination and a sculptural presence. Completing the quartet of new fixtures is the Concentric 15”, a versatile piece designed for either wall or ceiling installation. This fixture stands out due to its handcrafted wooden dome, which features a series of concentric circles. These circles create a topographic effect, giving the fixture a unique textural and visual depth. The pleasing arrangement of the concentric rings adds a subtle yet striking decorative element to any space, reinforcing Allied Maker's commitment to thoughtful design and meticulous craftsmanship. These new offerings from Allied Maker reinforce their dedication to creating lighting solutions that are not only functional but also serve as artistic statements within a space. The combination of high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and a keen eye for minimalist design ensures that these fixtures enhance the ambiance and aesthetic of contemporary interiors. #AlliedMaker #LightingFixtures #ArchitecturalDigestDesignShow #MinimalistDesign #BrassLighting #GlassDesign #Chandeliers #WallLamps #HomeFurnishings

The IKEA STRÅLA star lamps, a popular item in Christmas decor, have been updated for 2025 with new patterns and a red and gold colorway. These lamps, known for their Scandi-style XL seven-pointed star shape, are often quick to sell out. IKEA experts provide guidance on how to style these decorations, which are affordable at £5 but appear more expensive due to their elegant design. Scandi paper stars have been a prominent Christmas trend, and the IKEA STRÅLA is recognized as a trendsetter in this category. Maria O'Brian, Creative Leader for the STRÅLA collection, explains that the 2025 designs were created in collaboration with Evelina Kroon and Katie Kirk to combine traditional holiday elements with modern touches. The seven-pointed star symbolizes hope and the festive season, and when lit, it provides a warm and comforting illumination, ideal for the darker, colder months. Additionally, these stars align with the oversized decoration trend, making an immediate and striking statement with minimal effort. For styling, Maria O'Brian suggests placing the stars above a dining table to enhance a festive tablescape, in an entryway to welcome guests, or on a mantelpiece to add sparkle to a living room. Traditionally, Scandinavian paper stars are displayed in windows. When aiming for an authentic look, the principle of 'lagom,' meaning 'just the right amount,' should be embraced. The star is a bold, sculptural piece that benefits from being balanced with simplicity. Key styling tips include playing with scale and height by combining different available sizes to create visual depth, especially in window displays. Visual texture is also important; the delicate cut-outs and patterns of the STRÅLA stars are enhanced when lit, casting intriguing shadows. Pairing them with natural materials like solid wood furniture, woven textiles, or a simple greenery garland helps create an earthy aesthetic. The stars are impactful even in daylight, so styling them against a clean, neutral background, such as a white or pale gray wall, allows their geometric shape to provide a strong design contrast before they are illuminated in the evening. Given their popularity and rapid sales, alternative affordable options are also presented for those who may miss out on specific IKEA styles. #IKEA #ChristmasDecor #ScandiStyle #HomeDecor #SeasonalDecorations #Lighting #InteriorDesignTrends #BudgetDecorating

The 'Accent Light' is a limited-edition desk lamp designed by Zürich-based designer Fritz Jakob Gräber, focusing on perspectives, symmetries, and colors. Gräber, who possesses extensive experience across various crafts, aims to create an eclectic range of products, furniture, and lighting. The 'Accent Light' exemplifies his approach to design, which centers on transforming flat materials into three-dimensional forms. The development of the 'Accent Light' was driven by Gräber's ambition to establish his own design practice and produce his own editions, a challenging endeavor for a young designer. The lamp is designed to be highly practical, emphasizing ease of production, storage, and shipment through its super flatpack design. This minimizes labor costs and logistical complexities, making it an efficient product to manufacture and distribute. The lamp's aesthetic is minimalistic yet visually striking, crafted from a specialized type of paper. This material choice is integral to the lamp's ability to create volume from a flat form. The production process involves a unique technique where all envelopes are hand-printed on a Dainippon flatbed offset machine, a vintage piece of equipment from 1971. This detail highlights Gräber's dedication to craftsmanship and his appreciation for traditional printing methods, adding a unique character to each lamp. Functionally, the 'Accent Light' emits a subtle warm downlight, designed to create an inviting and cozy atmosphere. The lamp is a limited edition, with only seven pieces produced, all manufactured in Switzerland. This exclusivity underscores its status as a collectible design object, reflecting the designer's personal commitment to quality and unique artistry. The limited availability and local production emphasize the bespoke nature of Gräber's work and his focus on maintaining high standards of craftsmanship. The design reflects a blend of artistic vision and practical considerations, addressing both aesthetic appeal and the challenges of independent production. The 'Accent Light' is not just a lighting fixture but a statement piece that embodies the designer's philosophy of creating impactful objects from simple materials while managing the complexities of establishing an independent brand in the design industry. #LightingDesign #LimitedEdition #DeskLamp #FritzJakob #MinimalisticDesign #SwissDesign #Handcrafted #ProductDesign #InteriorDesign

The Barava lava lamp, designed by Johnny Betz, represents a modern reinterpretation of the iconic 1970s and 80s lava lamp, integrating smart technology with retro aesthetics. This product capitalizes on the current trend of nostalgia, evident in various cultural phenomena such as 80s music revivals and vintage home decor. Unlike traditional lava lamps, the Barava is app-controlled, smart-home compatible, and features dynamic light syncing with music, offering a contemporary twist to a classic item. Functionally, the Barava is versatile, designed to serve as both a tabletop fixture and a hanging pendant light. Its design aims to be captivating while incorporating several advanced features. The lamp is equipped with a touch-sensitive control for manual operation, but can also be managed via a dedicated app or through smart home assistants, allowing for convenient activation with voice commands. When illuminated, the Barava provides direct light from its base and creates ambient mood lighting through the mesmerizing movement of its internal blobs. The lighting system of the Barava is highly customizable, featuring built-in RGB LEDs that offer access to millions of colors across the entire spectrum. A key feature is its ability to synchronize these colors with music, creating a dynamic visual experience that reacts to auditory input. The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities allows the Barava to seamlessly connect with smart home ecosystems, enabling users to switch it on or off and adjust its settings through voice commands, thereby enhancing its convenience and functionality in a modern living space. The Barava lamp stands 12.2 inches tall and contains a non-toxic, glycol-based 'ooze' within a premium optical-grade glass vessel, facilitating the characteristic arbitrary movement of the lava. Multiple RGB panels are strategically placed to illuminate both the interior of the lava lamp and its base. Activation can be achieved through the app or by simply touching the top or bottom of the fixture. The product is available in two formats: a pendant version that connects to ceiling outlets and a tabletop version that includes a 28-inch tall metal stand. Priced at $289 for the tabletop model and $309 for the pendant version, the Barava includes a 1-year warranty and supports global shipping, positioning itself as a nostalgic yet technologically advanced lighting solution for contemporary homes. #lavaLamp #SmartLighting #RetroDesign #HomeDecor #AppControlled #IoT #MoodLighting #ProductDesign

Bell jar lanterns, also known as "hall lamps with glass shades," are historic light fixtures characterized by their glass shades that magnify light. These lanterns were originally introduced to America from England, though Bohemian glass examples were also available in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. They were a common feature in Virginia's historic estates, such as Eyre Hall, Gunston Hall, and Prestwould, often found in entryways and passages. Historically, the glass piece at the top of the lantern was referred to as a "smoke shade," designed to prevent soot from staining ceilings. While serving a practical purpose, the aesthetic appeal of these lanterns, with their distinctive silhouettes, remains relevant and charming in contemporary homes. The article highlights the enduring beauty of bell jar lanterns, irrespective of their historical function, and suggests their suitability for modern interiors. Interest in these classic fixtures has led to a search for both antique and contemporary versions. Nineteenth-century Belgian bell jar lanterns, often found in colored glass varieties like cranberry, cobalt, and emerald, are particularly sought after on platforms like 1st Dibs and at auctions. These antique pieces showcase intricate craftsmanship and a rich history, adding a unique character to any space. The article provides examples of such antique lanterns, illustrating their diverse forms and colors, such as a cranberry Belgian lantern, a cobalt blue English example, and a green "pumpkin" bell jar pendant. Beyond antiques, there are modern reproductions and contemporary interpretations that capture the essence of the bell jar lantern while adapting them to modern design sensibilities. These newer designs incorporate modern materials and aesthetics while retaining the classic shape and light-magnifying qualities. Notable examples include a mercury glass design by E.F. Chapman for Visual Comfort, which offers a sophisticated, reflective surface, and an etched star motif from Caroline Brackett, providing a decorative and whimsical touch. These contemporary options demonstrate how the timeless design of the bell jar lantern can be successfully integrated into current home decor trends, offering both historical charm and modern elegance. The author, Haskell Harris, a style director, expresses a personal interest in both antique and modern variations of these fixtures, underscoring their appeal in home decoration. #BellJarLanterns #HistoricLighting #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SouthernHomes #AntiqueLighting #Glassware #LightingFixtures #DesignTrends

Plumen, a recognized lighting brand, has introduced a new self-assembly kit that enables individuals to construct their own modular chandeliers without the need for ceiling hooks. This innovative product, named the Plumen Chandelier, utilizes a series of spacer rods to establish a foundational triangular or square framework. These rods are designed to secure the electrical cords and integrate with a central ceiling rose, accommodating either three or four pendant lights. The modular nature of the design allows for significant customization. Users can position the spacer rods at various angles, facilitating the arrangement of pendants at differing heights, which introduces an architectural dimension to the lighting fixture. The ceiling rose component is versatile, compatible with any of Plumen's existing bulbs and shades, providing further options for personalization. The chandelier kits are offered in several configurations: as a complete package, or as separate sets of roses and spacers. Additionally, individual spacers can be purchased, either singly or in packs of three or four, catering to specific design requirements and allowing for incremental expansion or modification. Since its inception in 2010 with the launch of its pioneering low-energy light bulb, which notably received a Brit Insurance Design of the Year Award in 2011, Plumen has systematically expanded its product portfolio. The brand now features a diverse array of bulbs, including an LED model characterized by a gold-colored shade integrated within the bulb itself, and an Edison-style bulb reputed for an impressive 25-year lifespan. Nicolas Roope, co-founder of Plumen, emphasized that the new chandelier spacers are intended to transform individual pendant lights into more elaborate, coordinated, and architectural compositions, leveraging the brand's extensive range of compatible bulbs, shades, and accessories. The development of this customisable chandelier kit aligns with Plumen's ongoing commitment to offering versatile and aesthetically pleasing lighting solutions. Recent additions to their product line underscore this commitment, such as pendants adorned with miniature bunting, specifically designed for children's spaces, and a distinctive hat-brim shaped shade available in various metallic finishes. These expansions demonstrate Plumen's strategy to cater to a broader spectrum of design preferences and functional needs, solidifying its position in the design and lighting market. The self-assembly kit empowers consumers with creative control over their lighting installations, fostering a personalized approach to interior design. #Plumen #Chandelier #ModularDesign #LightingDesign #SelfAssembly #InteriorDesign #LightBulbs #CustomisableLighting

The Gala chandelier, designed by American lighting designers Rich Brilliant Willing (RBW), features glowing glass bulbs suspended from aluminum rods. The design draws inspiration from nature, with RBW describing it as resembling "full, ripe fruit hanging on a branch." These chandeliers were showcased at New York Design Week. The Gala chandelier is characterized by its curvaceous, organic forms that are arranged along a robust linear aluminum arm. The hand-blown glass bulbs, crafted by a local glassblower, are connected to the aluminum rods using fixings that resemble basket handles. This handcrafted element emphasizes artisan skills and craft, which RBW aimed to further explore in their 2013 collection. The glassblowing technique, a method dating back to the middle of the last century BC, involves using a blowpipe and significant lung strength to shape molten glass into the desired form. The aluminum rods are available in three different lengths: 42 inches, 72 inches, and 114 inches. These rods can be paired with a selection of small, large, or long glass bulbs, allowing for versatile configuration. Designers can arrange the bulbs in either symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns along the rod, providing flexibility in design and aesthetic appeal. The sleek aluminum beam supports these hand-blown glass elements, intending to introduce warmth and subtle character to contemporary interior spaces. The name "Gala" also evokes a sense of festive celebration, and the warm glow emitted by the orbs of light is intended to contribute to this spirited atmosphere. Discreet powered cables connect the aluminum beam to the ceiling, ensuring a clean and uncluttered installation. All RBW products, including the Gala chandelier, are hand-assembled in their studio, underscoring the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and quality. In addition to the Gala chandelier, RBW also launched a wall-mounted bedside lamp at New York Design Week. This lamp, known as the Monocle lamp, is designed to swivel, allowing users to direct light precisely where needed. This reflects RBW's broader focus on innovative and functional lighting solutions. Other recent lighting innovations from the design community include pendant lamps with raised collars that direct light both upward and downward, and floor lamps featuring shades that mirror the design of their bases, showcasing a diverse range of approaches to lighting design. #ProductNews #Lighting #Chandeliers #RichBrilliantWilling #Design #Glassblowing #InteriorDesign #NewYorkDesignWeek #Lamps

Jamb founders Will Fisher and Charlotte Freemantle, known for their bespoke lighting tailored for leading interior designers, are set to launch their new Deco collection. This collection, which will debut at London Design Week, features five distinct pieces that deliberately eschew current trends, focusing instead on timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship. The duo, operating from their London home and studio, emphasizes traditional skills and meticulous attention to detail, a philosophy that stands in contrast to the rapid-fire launch cycles common in contemporary design. The Deco collection is characterized by a glamorous and somewhat majestic aesthetic, designed to soften the edges of each piece in a romantic fashion. This romantic sensibility extends from their previous work, including their distinctive pink room at the Wow! House at Chelsea Harbour Design Centre. Will Fisher's background in studying antique objects heavily influences their design process. The team initiates new designs by identifying original antique pieces that serve as the foundational inspiration. Their deep immersion in historical objects led to the early twentieth-century themes evident in the Deco collection, drawing from movements and periods such as The Bloomsbury Group, the Roaring Twenties, and the Belle Époque. The collection highlights a focus on rich materiality, combining hand-planished metal, luminous alabaster, and shimmering silk textiles to create compelling juxtapositions. Some designs incorporate hand-carved patterns, which are then cast using the traditional lost wax technique, a method Will Fisher describes as the "noblest form of manufacture." Charlotte Freemantle is particularly interested in integrating decorative fabrics, a concept carried over from the Wow! House show, into their new product lines. She notes that drapery softens and diffuses light in a room, and similarly, the textiles in their collection evoke the gentle glow of candlelight, enhancing the overall ambiance. Often described as the "jewelry of the home," lighting in the Deco collection aims to create unique and inviting atmospheres. The pieces are designed to complete and complement diverse interior aesthetics, whether mid-century modern or traditional, effectively bucking trends and potentially establishing new ones. To illustrate their versatility, the designers have photographed the collection in various in situ settings, demonstrating how these objects can seamlessly integrate into different environments. The article specifically mentions pieces like the Hopper Alabaster wall sconce, the Thelma pendant light with its hand-stippled brass frame and optional linen or silk skirt, a new floor lamp styled with antique furniture, and the Hatton Rod, which embodies the Art Deco aesthetic with its alabaster bowl and brass detailing, offering both down and uplighting. The collection will be available from Jamb at 95-97 Pimlico Road, London, and through their website. #JambLighting #DecoCollection #LondonDesignWeek #BespokeLighting #InteriorDesignTrends #AntiqueInspired #Craftsmanship #AlabasterLighting #LuxuryLighting

Gabriel Scott has unveiled the Welles Reimagined series, a new lighting collection developed in collaboration with renowned American architect David Rockwell. This collection serves as an evolution of Gabriel Scott's popular Welles Chandelier, initially launched in 2017. The original Welles Chandelier was designed to be a modular lighting system capable of expansion without visible rods, a concept that emphasized both luxury and innovative design in contemporary lighting. The Welles Reimagined series maintains the geometric foundational principles of its predecessor while introducing a modern interpretation. The design draws inspiration from natural formations, specifically referencing the clustered arrangements found in crystals, clouds, and chemical compounds, translating these organic structures into sculptural lighting fixtures. A significant design shift in the Welles Reimagined collection involves replacing the steel elements that previously encased the bulbs with hollowed glass polygons. This alteration imbues the fixtures with a jewelry-like aesthetic, enhancing their brilliance and sophistication. These luminous glass shapes are arranged at varying heights and in diverse dimensions, contributing to the sculptural and organic feel of the collection. The glass polygons are available in five distinct finishes: Smoked, Purple, Alabaster White, Bronze, and Clear. This variety in finishes allows for extensive customization, enabling designers and homeowners to tailor the lighting to specific interior aesthetics and preferences. This transformation signifies a continuous progression of the Welles design, with a strong focus on personalization and adaptability to diverse spatial requirements. Scott Richler, the Founder and CEO of Gabriel Scott, emphasized that the Welles Chandelier, and now its reimagined counterpart, embodies the brand’s core design philosophy: to create modular products that are highly customizable. Richler highlighted the Welles Reimagined by David Rockwell capsule collection as a sculptural masterpiece, noting the brand’s excitement to expand its allure with additional glass finish options in their standard series. This expansion directly addresses client demand for choice and personalization, reinforcing Gabriel Scott's commitment to meeting diverse needs within the luxury lighting market. David Rockwell further elaborated on the collaborative effort, stating that the partnership facilitated the creation of truly exceptional pieces. He underscored the blend of Gabriel Scott’s modular lighting approach and impeccable craftsmanship with his own emphasis on narrative and materiality. Rockwell explained that through systematic experimentation with volume, color, texture, and scale, the team developed organic compositions of light. These compositions are designed to profoundly influence the ambiance and spatial perception of the environments they illuminate, offering more than just functional light but also artistic elements that shape the character of a space. The Welles Reimagined collection is comprehensive, featuring a range of fixture types including chandeliers, pendants, and sconces. This broad offering provides numerous possibilities for mixing and matching finishes and forms, allowing for a cohesive yet customizable lighting scheme throughout a space. The versatility of these customizable options ensures that the Welles Reimagined series can effortlessly enhance any setting, whether the fixtures are actively illuminated or serving as decorative, sculptural elements during daylight hours. The collection's ability to function as both a source of light and a piece of art exemplifies its innovative approach to contemporary lighting design. #WellesReimagined #GabrielScott #DavidRockwell #LightingDesign #SculpturalLighting #HomeFurnishings #LuxuryDesign #ModularLighting #InteriorDesign

This article details a practical and cost-effective hack for repositioning pendant lights without the need for an electrician or extensive re-hardwiring. It addresses the common problem of a light fixture becoming off-center due to furniture rearrangement or slight alterations in a room's layout. The traditional solution, calling an electrician, can be expensive, ranging from $300 to $600, and involves potentially disruptive work like cutting into ceilings. The featured hack, demonstrated by Cathy Poshusta, involves 'swagging' the pendant light, a technique that costs as little as $13 for a brass ceiling hanger. This method is particularly beneficial for renters or those looking for a relaxed aesthetic. Poshusta's approach offers a straightforward DIY solution, which she outlines on her blog, and the article distills into three key steps. The first step focuses on determining the appropriate height for the pendant light. This involves a simple measurement and visual assessment, often aided by a second person, to find the 'sweet spot' for the fixture's placement. The article provides an example of Poshusta and her husband finding their ideal height at 36 inches from 10-foot ceilings, while also highlighting that flexibility exists, allowing for dramatic drops, such as Lynda Gardener's use of an oversized industrial lantern brought low near a sofa. The second step, customizing the chain, involves calculating the necessary length to provide enough 'give' for the light to hang correctly and allow for the desired drape. Poshusta added an extra two feet, bringing her total chain length to 60 inches. The article also mentions options for concealing wiring, such as Diane Keaton’s lighting collection, which includes pre-hardwired chains and ropes, catering to different aesthetic preferences. Finally, the third step covers the installation of the hook. This involves pre-drilling a small hole in the ceiling at the desired suspension point. While Poshusta was able to twist her hook directly into solid-wood ceilings, the article advises using a screw anchor for added security in most cases. This method effectively creates an asymmetrical yet balanced lighting setup, offering a practical and visually appealing alternative to traditional hard-wiring. #PendantLight #DIYHack #HomeRenovation #LightingDesign #InteriorDecor #CostSaving #HomeImprovement #RentalFriendly

skinflint, a British lighting brand, has dedicated over a decade to giving new life to vintage lights, rescuing more than 50,000 items from landfills. The company sources lights globally, from abandoned glassworks in Budapest to old Navy ships, meticulously restoring them to modern electrical standards while preserving their original character. Co-founder Chris Miller emphasizes that repairing, restoring, fixing, and mending were integral to his upbringing, influencing his career path and the foundation of skinflint, which was established with a mission to prevent vintage lights from ending up in landfills. He notes that the practice of repairing vintage lights is an act of care for both the planet and its inhabitants. The appeal of repairing objects over creating new ones for skinflint lies in a triple-bottom-line approach, prioritizing people and the planet over profit, especially as a Certified B Corp. Miller believes that restoring and repairing vintage lights is the most effective way to achieve this. The company aims to counteract "fast furniture" trends, thus avoiding the creation of new waste through designing and manufacturing new lighting. Vintage lights, crafted before the concept of planned obsolescence, were built to endure. This inherent durability allows skinflint to find them in remarkable locations worldwide, often outliving the structures they once illuminated. Miller prefers the term "restoration" to describe skinflint's work, defining it as an effort to preserve as much of each vintage light's original character as possible. This involves ensuring modern technological standards are met while consciously retaining signs of age and patina, which tell the unique story of each light's journey from diverse locations such as UK churches, private residences in Prague, and Eastern Bloc factories. The inspiration for skinflint stemmed from a desire to challenge the conventional approach to lighting in modern spaces. In 2009, the founders tested their theory in a Victorian home in North London, which ultimately led to the brand's establishment. Fourteen years later, skinflint remains true to its founding mission, with an ethos that positions business as a force for good, demonstrated through initiatives like 1% for the Planet. The restoration process is varied, tailored to each light, and involves techniques such as soda-blasting for paint removal, polishing, and lacquering. The process is slow and meticulous, always executed with sustainability and environmental priorities in mind. The objective is to preserve the original function of salvaged vintage lights, enabling them to continue their stories. This means a light that once illuminated a mine shaft could later adorn the ceilings of B Corps like Aesop and Patagonia. The visibility of repair is managed to retain the light's character, with patina seen as an asset that adds to its history and makes for interesting conversation pieces. However, all electrical components are rigorously updated to meet modern technological standards. As a member of the UK Lighting Industry Association, skinflint undergoes independent audits and verification to ensure faultless functionality. Consumer attitudes towards mending and repair are evolving, with clients showing increased awareness of environmental impact. skinflint's B Corp Certification legally obligates the company to consider and report on its impact, pushing it to continuously refine its circular working methods. This commitment is exemplified by the recent introduction of Full Circle, a product buy-back scheme that offers clients a 50% credit for returning vintage lights, ensuring their continued existence. The company also provides a lifetime guarantee for repairs, reinforcing its dedication to circularity. Looking ahead, skinflint envisions a future where its fully circular approach to vintage lighting, particularly with its buy-back scheme, inspires other industry players to adopt similar practices, fostering sector-wide change and a more sustainable future. Katie Treggiden, a purpose-driven journalist, author, and podcaster, champions a circular approach to design and contributed to this article as Editor at Large for Design Milk. Her work explores how craft can contribute to saving the world through initiatives like her book "Wasted: When Trash Becomes Treasure" and her podcast, "Circular with Katie Treggiden." #VintageLighting #Restoration #CircularEconomy #SustainableDesign #BCorp #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #RepairCulture #EnvironmentalImpact

Pocket doors, a feature where a door glides into a wall rather than swinging open, are experiencing a significant resurgence in home design. This renewed popularity is driven by their ability to save space, offer versatile use of rooms, and add a touch of dramatic flair to interiors. Designers universally praise pocket doors for their clean aesthetic and practical advantages, especially in compact areas such as bathrooms, closets, and pantries, where traditional swinging doors might obstruct movement or functionality. They provide flexibility in design without compromising style, fitting seamlessly into both modern and traditional home aesthetics. The increasing trend towards closed-concept layouts, moving away from the previously dominant open-plan designs, also contributes to the comeback of pocket doors. Homeowners are seeking ways to create distinct zones within their living spaces without resorting to permanent walls. Beyond interior applications, glass pocket doors are being utilized on home exteriors to maximize natural light and foster an open, expansive feel. The ability of pocket doors to disappear into the wall when open allows for unobstructed pathways and a more fluid transition between areas. When closed, they can create a sense of privacy and separation, acting as a statement piece that reveals or conceals spaces. Several specific benefits underpin the designers' enthusiasm for pocket doors. They are effective in reducing noise, a common issue in open-concept homes, by allowing occupants to easily close off areas for quiet activities or to contain sound from lively gatherings. Their versatility extends to various applications, including creating privacy in libraries or studies, partitioning pet areas, or serving as a contemporary alternative to standard doors. A key factor in their comeback is the significant improvement in hardware technology over the last decade. Modern pocket door systems feature soft open-and-close mechanisms, synchronized hardware for double doors, and flush-closing designs, elevating them from a potentially problematic element to a sophisticated architectural feature. Moreover, pocket doors offer practical solutions for awkwardly shaped or compact spaces where overlapping door swings or tight hallways pose design challenges. They are particularly beneficial in older homes with unique architectural details that require creative problem-solving. In primary suites, especially in urban environments like New York City brownstones where space is at a premium, pocket doors are ideal for connecting walk-in closets and primary bathrooms without sacrificing floor space or disrupting the flow. Beyond functionality, pocket doors also contribute to visual appeal. Designers are incorporating solid wood pocket doors, sometimes with frosted or seeded glass, to allow light while maintaining privacy and adding an element of elegance. The demand for pocket doors is expected to continue, as they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, offering a timeless design solution that conserves space and enhances the architectural character of a home. #PocketDoors #HomeDesign #SpaceSaving #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalFeatures #DesignTrends #VersatileDesign #HomeRenovation

Dana Harel, a San Francisco-based Israeli designer, has launched her inaugural lighting collection under her studio, White Dirt. Harel's career trajectory showcases a diverse artistic exploration, starting with architecture and extending into ceramics and line art before her current venture into luminaires. The new collection, dubbed "Ora," comprises three tented table lamps—Ora I, II, and III—and a suspended, trapeze-like floor lamp, Ora IV. These pieces draw inspiration from Harel’s existing body of work, particularly her vases and vessels, which inform their hand-carved sculptural aesthetic. The lamps are crafted using a combination of gypsum cement, muslin, and brass, materials that contribute to their unique visual and tactile qualities. The design intentionally evokes the imagery of draped wedding gowns, suggesting moments of concealed intimacy and exploring the delicate balance between revealing and hiding forms. This interplay of materials and forms allows the collection to convey a sense of fluidity and softness, a departure from more rigid sculptural traditions. Harel describes the process of working with fabric—folding, pleating, and draping—as a refreshing experience, contrasting with her previous work that often involved tools like chisels and hammers. This shift towards softer, more pliable materials allowed her to experiment with light in a new way, focusing on how textiles interact with illumination to create ambiance and shape. The collection's design ethos embraces a certain spontaneity, reflecting Harel’s approach to her creative process. Each piece in the Ora collection stands as a testament to her evolving artistic language and her ability to translate diverse inspirations into functional art. A notable and unconventional source of inspiration for Harel was a scene from the HBO series *Succession*, where characters Tom Wambsgans and Cousin Greg consume a rare delicacy with napkins tented over their heads. This seemingly obscure reference underscores Harel's willingness to draw from unexpected cultural moments, transforming them into artistic concepts. The designer interprets this act of "masking shame" or "heightening pleasure" as a metaphor for the lamps' ability to create intimate, almost cloistered, environments through their draped forms. The sculptural swagger of the lamps is deeply rooted in these varied influences, bridging architectural precision with textile softness and cultural anecdotes. The collection as a whole is an exploration of form, light, and material, reflecting Harel's multidisciplinary background and her continuous quest for new creative expressions. #DanaHarel #LightingCollection #SculpturalLighting #InteriorDesign #WhiteDirtStudio #ProductDesign #TextileArt #ContemporaryDesign

The article highlights the recent collaboration between Mark & Graham, a personalized lifestyle brand, and Sanderson, a British design group, which introduces a new collection of gifts and decor featuring Sanderson's iconic floral prints. This partnership is particularly exciting for those looking to infuse their homes with vibrant colors and soft floral patterns, especially during the colder months. The collaboration draws upon Sanderson's rich heritage, a brand that was granted a Royal Warrant in 1924 for supplying fabrics and wallcoverings to the British royal family, signifying over a century of trusted elegance. Mark & Graham's in-house design team meticulously selected six signature floral prints from Sanderson's extensive archives, some dating back over a hundred years, such as the Rose & Peony print from 1914 and the recolored Hollyhocks print. These historic designs are now featured across a diverse range of products, including everything from practical items like beach totes and pet bowls to decorative pieces like ceramic tissue box covers, luxury chess sets, and elegant packing cubes. The collection incorporates various textures and patterns, including woven raffia, subtle stripes, blooming flowers, and distinct inky botanical motifs. The article showcases several key items from the collection that stand out for their design and functionality. Among the recommended pieces are a Sanderson Ceramic Ring Holder, a versatile 3-in-1 Chess, Checkers, and Dominoes Game Set, and a 5-Piece Packing Cube Set, all adorned with the unique floral patterns. Other notable items include the Sanderson Ceramic Frame, featuring a scalloped trim and patterned border, and the Sanderson Ceramic Vase, available in different sizes and patterns to suit various floral arrangements. Additionally, the collection offers a Sanderson Dresser Top Jewelry Box, a Sanderson Dual Travel Organizer to keep accessories neat on the go, a Sanderson Scalloped Ceramic Catchall for everyday essentials, a Sanderson Scalloped Raffia Box for stylish storage, and a Sanderson Ceramic Tissue Box, designed to elevate mundane household items. The collaboration provides an opportunity for individuals to incorporate a touch of 'grandmillennial flair' into their living spaces, blending classic elegance with modern functionality. These pieces are presented as ideal options for housewarming gifts or as personal additions to one's home decor, offering a blend of historical charm and contemporary appeal. The collection celebrates timeless floral designs, making them accessible for everyday use and home enhancement. #MarkAndGraham #Sanderson #FloralDecor #HomeAccessories #BritishDesign #RoyalWarrant #SpringDecor #GrandmillennialStyle #InteriorDesign

The acid-sick, highlighter-adjacent yellow-green color known as Brat Green, popularized in 2024, is evolving into its calmer, more design-literate cousin, chartreuse, making an unexpected return as a key color trend for fall 2025. This electric shade is anticipated to lift darker, moodier interiors, providing energy and irreverence to autumn palettes. While Brat Green offered a maximalist, club-kid aesthetic, chartreuse leans more yellow and offers a fresh, alive feeling, especially as the weather turns colder and natural greenery diminishes. Interior designers are expressing enthusiasm for chartreuse, recognizing its ability to bring instant energy and optimism to a space, countering the recent trend of softer palettes. For fall, when interiors often become heavier, chartreuse acts as an unexpected spark, preventing rooms from feeling too dark or oppressive. Designers view it as a 'rockstar accent color,' suggesting its use in patterned wallpapers, single velvet chairs, or even stripes to transform a space. This color trend is not entirely new; chartreuse has a rich history in pop culture and design, from Andy Warhol's art to 1960s fashion and 1990s television shows, giving it a nostalgic appeal for many. Designers recommend strategic integration of chartreuse, using it in textiles like drapes, which project confidence, or as paint colors in high-gloss lacquer behind built-ins. For a cozier winter aesthetic, chartreuse can be balanced with deep, rich tones such as inky navy, dark espresso, or chalky mauve. The color’s presence in nature, evoking images of Concord pears or Aspen trees changing from green to gold in the fall, makes it easy to incorporate into various color schemes. Its versatility allows it to pair well with different design styles, from antiques to modern lines or coastal themes, maintaining a fresh feel regardless of the context. Chartreuse is being embraced in new product lines, including wallpaper and fabric collections, by design houses. Unlike fleeting viral trends, chartreuse is presented as a sharp and versatile tool for interior design, rather than a gimmick. It offers a sophisticated way to introduce vibrancy and life into homes, particularly during the darker months of fall. Practical applications include using chartreuse as an accent color in decorative trays, vases, hardware, and lamps, allowing for subtle integration or bolder statements depending on personal preference. The article also briefly mentions 'dill green' as another earthy tone to watch for in upcoming color trends, suggesting a broader interest in green hues for interior design. In essence, chartreuse is positioned as a significant interior design trend for fall 2025, offering a vibrant yet sophisticated alternative to past color crazes. Its historical roots, combined with its current reinterpretation by leading designers, underscore its potential to revitalize and add character to home environments. The color’s adaptability to various design elements and its ability to harmonize with different palettes ensure its relevance and enduring appeal in modern interiors. Overall, the color is seen as a timeless and impactful choice for adding an energetic touch to decor. #ChartreuseColor #InteriorDesignTrends #FallDecor2025 #AccentColor #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #DesignInspiration #DecoratingWithGreen

Wartski, a venerable dealer of antique Russian artwork, particularly those by Carl Fabergé, and jeweler to the British royal family since 1865, has opened a new London boutique. The design for this new space was undertaken by architecture studio Waldo Works, known for its work with clients such as Selfridges and Smythson. The central concept guiding the design was the golden ratio, a time-honored mathematical principle. This design approach reflects Wartski's long-standing history and its association with tradition and royalty, including crafting wedding rings for Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge. The 2,700-square-foot boutique incorporates elements that subtly reference Wartski’s origins in North Wales. The entrance to the sales gallery is flanked by upper walls of ribbed concrete, intentionally faceted and flecked with slate chips sourced from Welsh quarries. This detail serves as a direct homage to the firm's historical roots. Above, the ceiling is coffered, featuring a classical geometry that aligns with the golden ratio theme, contributing to an overall sense of order and elegance. Below these architectural features, expansive display cases are designed to slide open electronically, combining modern functionality with traditional aesthetics. Throughout the boutique, a consistent use of materials and color palette reinforces the brand's heritage and the design's underlying principles. The flooring is covered with woven wool carpeting, specifically chosen in a Welsh green color, further emphasizing the connection to North Wales. The meticulous selection of materials and their arrangement within the space are not just aesthetic choices but also serve to enhance the presentation of Wartski’s high-value items, such as antique Russian artwork and jewelry, including pieces from Carl Fabergé. Key design elements within the boutique include the stainless steel trims that complement the ribbed concrete walls, adding a touch of contemporary elegance while maintaining the classical structure. The front sales gallery is designed to be both inviting and secure, creating an appropriate setting for the display of rare and valuable artifacts. The private sales room features a portrait of Queen Alexandra, a visual cue that underscores six generations of British royal patronage, reinforcing the firm's esteemed client base and historical significance. The project by Waldo Works for Wartski's new London boutique demonstrates a blend of historical reverence and sophisticated design, where every detail, from the material choices to the spatial arrangement, contributes to an environment that celebrates the firm's legacy and its dedication to exquisite craftsmanship. The application of the golden ratio provides a harmonious framework, ensuring that the boutique is not only a retail space but also a reflection of Wartski’s enduring prestige and connection to its origins. #Wartski #WaldoWorks #LondonBoutique #GoldenRatio #InteriorDesign #RetailDesign #JewelryBoutique #WelshHeritage #LuxuryRetail

This article explores the innovative work of designer Shane Holland, who transforms repurposed materials, particularly old airplane parts, into distinctive pendant lights. The piece begins by discussing the common experience of furnishing a home, where many fixtures are pre-determined, and highlights the recent resurgence of pendant lighting as a key element in interior design. It then introduces Shane Holland Design as a standout Irish studio in this field. The narrative delves into Shane Holland's background, tracing his journey from graduating NCAD in 1989 to his early foray into lighting design in 1991, famously converting a Russian hoover into a light fixture. The article paints a picture of Dublin in the 1990s, characterized by available studio space and low rents that fostered a thriving community of artisans and designers, including Holland. However, it also notes the subsequent urban development that led to the displacement of many of these creative spaces, with Holland himself relocating his life and work to Meath. Holland's move to Meath proved to be a catalyst for new creative avenues, specifically connecting him with individuals involved in recycling diverse materials, including airplane components. A pivotal moment occurred when Holland received a consignment of un-recyclable parts from a Boeing engine. These pressure canisters, constructed from materials like Kevlar and fiberglass-coated aluminum, presented a unique design challenge and opportunity. Holland, guided by the philosophy that "Objects come your way - you have to act on them," saw the potential in these distinctive, bomb-shaped capsules. He ingeniously repurposed these discarded aviation parts into the 'Cruise Aviation' pendants. The article emphasizes that these lights are not merely functional but also aesthetically striking, retaining the original manufacturer's markings, which serve as a unique 'fingerprint' or 'signature' of their origin. The 'Cruise Aviation' pendants are described as cool, beautiful, and capable of adding a distinct character to any interior, showcasing Holland's ability to infuse recycled industrial components with artistic value and contemporary design appeal. #ShaneHollandDesign #PendantLighting #Upcycling #RecycledMaterials #AirplaneParts #IndustrialDesign #IrishDesign #HomeInteriors #SustainableDesign