daniel hilldrup 3D prints triangulated multi-colored lampshades

This article details the journey of Ivy Karlsgodt, a former costume designer who founded Ace of Shades, a Brooklyn-based business specializing in handmade lampshades. During the 2020 COVID lockdown, Karlsgodt, laid off from her costume industry job, began making lampshades to personalize her apartment, driven by a long-standing appreciation for vintage glamour and maximalism. This newfound hobby quickly evolved into a passion, leading her to document her intricate lampshade-making process through videos shared on Instagram and TikTok. Her online presence rapidly cultivated a significant following, captivated by both the soothing nature of her process videos, often set to old-timey music, and the visual appeal of her finished products. These creations are characterized by unique color palettes and opulent combinations of silk, lace, beads, and fringes, drawing inspiration from Victorian, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau aesthetics, yet with a modern twist. Her work is also recognized for its meticulous, slow craftsmanship, a refreshing contrast to the fast and inexpensive production common in today's market. Karlsgodt's approach to learning the craft was largely self-taught, building upon her extensive professional background in sewing and hat-making techniques. She utilized instructional DVDs by Mary Maxwell for foundational knowledge but largely developed her own methods. She emphasizes that while her videos are crucial for business growth and exposure, she only records a fraction of her work, prioritizing unique or particularly ornate commissions due to her heavy workload. The recording process, although sometimes disruptive, is deemed worthwhile due to its impact on her business success. She notes that the formulaic nature of her videos and efficient editing help mitigate the time commitment. Her design process is iterative, often starting with a specific frame shape, fabric, or color combination, then building the rest of the design around that initial inspiration. She utilizes an iPad for detailed drawings, comparing various material and color options before finalizing a design and sourcing supplies. When working on commissions, she offers clients extensive involvement in the design process, often presenting multiple versions for their selection. Materials for her lampshades are sourced globally, including custom-made frames from LA, wholesale fringe and braid from Spain, and fabrics and trims from NYC's Garment District, Etsy, and eBay. She also prioritizes the reuse of vintage materials, such as old dresses or embroidery, to create unique lampshades. Karlsgodt expresses surprise at the unexpected evolution of her hobby into a full-fledged business, a path she had not initially envisioned for her career. Her proudest moment to date involved her work being licensed for Stevie Nicks' concert backdrop, a significant full-circle experience given Nicks' influence on her style. This unexpected journey highlights the power of combining traditional craftsmanship with modern digital platforms to build a successful and personally fulfilling enterprise. #LampshadeDesign #HandmadeCrafts #SocialMediaMarketing #HomeDecor #MaximalistDecor #DesignProcess #CostumeDesignInfluence #VintageGlamour #ArtisanEntrepreneurship

The Dune Collection is a series of distinctive and refined lighting fixtures that draw inspiration from the striking formations found in desert landscapes. Rollo Bryant's design philosophy underpins this collection, emphasizing the integration of traditional craftsmanship with digital era advancements, particularly in materials and lighting technology. Each lamp is intricately manufactured using advanced 3D printing technology and incorporates meticulously selected quartz sand, which contributes to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. The choice of quartz sand enables remarkable precision in the lamps' construction and results in a smooth external texture that visually echoes organic desert formations. A key characteristic of the Dune Collection is the unique luminous output generated by the sand element. As light passes through the sandy material, it diffuses to create an atmospheric crimson radiance. This effect is specifically designed to evoke the soft, subdued glow of twilight in a desert environment, adding a distinct ambiance to any contemporary interior. The lamps are conceived to serve a dual purpose: they function as practical lighting solutions while also acting as decorative elements that enhance the visual appeal of modern living spaces. The small design studio behind the Dune Collection demonstrates a strong commitment to innovative design and an unwavering focus on intricate details. Every component within the collection reflects the studio's dedication to pushing the boundaries of lighting design. The organic composition and graceful designs of these lamps make them a suitable addition to contemporary settings, symbolizing the delicate beauty found in natural landscapes within modern society. Future expansions of the continuous collection are planned to include a variety of lighting solutions, such as wall-mounted and hanging lamps, offering a diverse range of options for consumers. Despite their seemingly fragile appearance, the artifacts boast remarkable durability, primarily due to their composition of 98% Bavarian quartz sand. Following the 3D printing process, a natural resin binder is applied to enhance the material's structural integrity. This binder is chosen specifically to maintain the original color and texture of the sand, preserving the intended aesthetic. The development and physical realization of these sculptures, despite employing cutting-edge production technologies, presented several challenges. Until recently, achieving such intricate geometries on a large scale using aggregate materials was considered extremely difficult. However, the studio has overcome these hurdles, demonstrating the potential of advanced manufacturing techniques. Beyond aesthetics and innovation, the studio prioritizes environmental sustainability in its production processes. The design philosophy incorporates a strong regard for generating a positive environmental impact, which is achieved through the utilization of sustainable resources and production methods. The adoption of 3D printing technology for fabricating these lighting fixtures plays a crucial role in this commitment. This technology allows for optimized material usage, thereby reducing waste and minimizing the overall environmental footprint. Any surplus materials from the printing process are recycled, further contributing to sustainable practices. Additionally, 3D printing enables a heightened degree of accuracy and complexity that would be unattainable through conventional manufacturing techniques. The studio also takes pride in using sand, a readily available and sustainable resource, in the creation of the Dune Collection. By leveraging the inherent aesthetic appeal of natural sand formations, the studio aims to produce visually captivating lighting installations that honor the planet and the distinctive splendor of the natural world. #3DPrintedLightingFixtures #3DPrinting #DesertLandscapes #DuneCollection #RolloBryant #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #ArchitecturalLighting

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

Decimal, a company with bases in Vancouver and Mexico City, is at the forefront of integrating design and technology to produce innovative 3D printed light fixtures. The company emphasizes a novel approach to lighting, departing from the traditional lightbulb and socket paradigm that has persisted since 1879. Instead, Decimal centers its products around a single, high-quality LED module, engineered for longevity and superior performance. These LED modules are designed to last up to 70,000 hours, offering a sustainable and efficient lighting solution. The unique forms of Decimal's light fixtures are made possible through additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. This technology allows for the creation of intricate and previously impossible shapes and designs, offering a significant advancement in the aesthetic and functional possibilities of lighting. The company highlights that these fixtures are highly customizable, with a variety of attractive colors and finishings available to suit diverse preferences and interior design schemes. This level of customization ensures that each fixture can be tailored to meet specific aesthetic requirements. Decimal operates on a collaborative platform, engaging tech-savvy designers from around the globe to create its 3D printed shades. This international collaboration fosters a diverse range of design perspectives and constantly pushes the boundaries of lighting design. The company aims to appeal to individuals worldwide who possess a passion for both design and technology, offering them access to cutting-edge lighting solutions that merge artistry with engineering. The integration of LED technology and additive manufacturing represents a transformative period in the lighting industry. LED technology provides endless design possibilities by liberating designers from the constraints of traditional light sources, allowing for greater flexibility in form and function. Concurrently, additive manufacturing empowers the creation of complex geometries and intricate details that would be unachievable with conventional manufacturing methods. Decimal positions itself at this intersection, leveraging these advancements to deliver a new generation of light fixtures that are both visually striking and technologically sophisticated. By focusing on a single, optimized LED light source and utilizing the creative potential of 3D printing, Decimal is challenging conventional notions of lighting. Their products are not merely functional items but serve as contemporary design elements that embody the synergy of modern technology and global design talent. This approach promises to reshape consumer expectations for lighting, offering products that are durable, energy-efficient, customizable, and aesthetically revolutionary. #3DPrinting #LightFixtures #LEDTechnology #ProductDesign #AdditiveManufacturing #HomeDecor #TechnologicalInnovation #SustainableDesign

Aztec Scenic Design, an Orlando-based firm, has successfully integrated 3D printing into its custom ceiling design projects, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods. The company recently completed an Arabian-inspired ceiling for a client, demonstrating the potential of additive manufacturing in intricate home decoration. Traditionally, detailed ceilings can be a significant expense, often exceeding $30,000, due to the labor-intensive process of creating molds and working with plaster. Aztec Scenic Design, however, pioneered a new approach by utilizing 3D printing to produce the decorative appliqués for their custom ceiling. This innovative method was spearheaded by Marc Leonard, a scenic designer at Aztec, who became captivated by 3D printing and sought to merge it with the company's design work. After convincing owner Gabriel Collazo of the technology's potential, Aztec established its own makerspace, specifically for incorporating 3D printing into various applications. The project began with initial drawings by Benjamin Cremer, based on Arabian patterns. Marc Leonard then translated these sketches into 3D models using 123D Design. Austin K. Butler, a scenic designer and fabricator, joined the team to manage the 3D printing process. The actual printing phase involved several 3D printers, including a Tinkerine Ditto+ and multiple Prusa i3 8-inch printers, and took approximately three weeks to complete. The materials used were around six spools of 3mm ABS filament and three spools of 1.75 PLA filament, costing just over $200, a stark contrast to the potential costs of traditional methods. The ceiling structure consists of nine wood panels, which serve as the base for the affixed 3D printed components. Gold-leafed molding, cut with a CNC router, frames the design. The 3D printed pieces underwent a multi-step finishing process: painting with acrylics, aging with oil stains, and finally, touch-ups and glazing. The entire installation, measuring approximately 18 feet by 14 feet, was completed in just two days. One of the most challenging aspects of this project was managing the approximately 400 individual 3D printed parts and troubleshooting five simultaneously operating printers. The team also faced hurdles in working with various software applications, including 123D Design for modeling, MeshMixer for editing, and Slic3r and Repetier Host for slicing. Despite these challenges, the collaborative effort of the entire Aztec crew, including Gabriel Collazo, Marc Leonard, Benjamin Cremer, Janelle Lyons, Timothy Dameron, and a friend named James, proved successful. This project highlights a significant shift in custom interior design, showcasing how 3D printing can streamline complex processes, reduce material costs, and offer greater design freedom. Aztec Scenic Design's success with this Arabian-inspired ceiling has led to further commissions, including another, more intricate ceiling for the same client's theatre, indicating a growing demand for 3D printed architectural and decorative elements. #3DPrinting #CustomDesign #CeilingDesign #HomeDecoration #AdditiveManufacturing #ScenicDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalElements #DigitalFabrication

Signify myCreation, a leading lighting company, is revolutionizing the lighting industry through advanced 3D printing technology and a strong commitment to sustainability. The company empowers brands, startups, and designers to create personalized luminaires tailored to specific identities, visions, and needs. This is achieved through an intuitive online configurator that allows users to select from a diverse range of shapes, colors, textures, and lighting specifications. The platform offers over 190 design variants, facilitating the creation of lighting solutions that seamlessly integrate into retail, hospitality, business, and residential spaces. Additionally, all functional lighting solutions are designed to be energy-efficient and can be integrated with connected systems for further energy savings. Signify myCreation is returning to Milan Design Week 2025 with an elegant bar installation at Milan’s Palazzo Giureconsulti. This installation, designed in collaboration with Dekker Zevenhuizen and Triboo, will be illuminated by a curated selection of award-winning luminaires. The exhibition will feature the Gleam and Smooth luminaires, along with the Voila table lamp, showcasing the platform's ability to combine functionality with sophisticated aesthetics and environmental responsibility. A new addition to the Smooth Spotlight series, promising superb adaptability, will also be previewed. The Gleam luminaire, designed by Sebastian Bergne, is a refined bulb-based pendant light known for its serene, heptagon-inspired silhouette and its ability to add a touch of wonder to everyday objects. Available in multiple sizes, the Gleam design aligns with the 3D print grain, with all printed parts made from ISCC Plus certified bio-circular materials. Its minimalist and delicate nature allows it to create intimate atmospheres or serve as a striking interior accent. The Gleam lighting pendant family, recognized with a 2025 iF Design Award, reinterprets the simple glowing pendant globe through alternative geometry and Bergne’s distinctive flair. The flexibility of 3D printing enables horizontal form lines that create a skeleton of uninterrupted harmony, with each piece possessing a unique presence and allure, available in three sizes and one texture. The Smooth Spotlight series, also a recipient of the 2025 iF Design Award, is designed for hospitality and residential settings, offering superior customization in both colors and textures. This allows for the creation of unique lighting formulas to highlight spaces effectively. Its printed components are made from 65% recycled and ISCC Plus-certified bio-circular materials, while the heatsink is crafted from 85% recycled aluminum, ensuring durability and longevity. The minimalist spotlight includes a honeycomb accessory to reduce glare and improve light distribution. Its circular design ensures it can be upgraded throughout its lifespan. The Voila collection of table lamps features charmingly proportioned designs with a vibrant color palette and playful presence. These lamps, reminiscent of 1960s interior design with their petite mushroom silhouettes, are crafted from bio-circular materials like biomass and natural waste, processed into sustainable polycarbonate. The single light source shines both upward and downward, creating a mesmerizing diffused light with a mandala effect through the crafted underside of the lampshade. The Voila lamp, an iF Design Award winner in 2022, is available in various colors such as white, bronze, gold, pink, and green, subtly complementing any interior space with its lightness and versatility. Signify myCreation emphasizes eco-friendly practices by incorporating at least 65% recycled and bio-circular materials in all its products. The 3D printing process reduces material waste and carbon emissions through local, on-demand production, minimizing transportation impacts. The company actively collaborates with research institutions, startups, and industrial organizations to advance 3D printing technology and sustainable practices, having produced nearly 2 million luminaires globally. At Milan Design Week 2025, visitors can explore the potential of personalized, smart, efficient, and sustainable lighting solutions at Signify myCreation’s pavilion. The initiative plans to expand its offerings and improve user experience through enhanced configurators and advanced product roadmaps, aiming for ambitious sustainability goals such as increasing climate action revenues to 72% and achieving zero waste to landfill. Signify myCreation sets new standards in circular lighting design by blending cutting-edge technology with artistic expression and a commitment to sustainability. #LightingDesign #3DPrinting #SustainableDesign #InnovativeMaterials #MilanDesignWeek #CircularEconomy #ProductDesign #SmartLighting #BioCircularMaterials

Philips MyCreation, a brand introduced by Signify, a global leader in lighting for over 125 years, is at the forefront of sustainable design, offering innovative 3D printed lighting solutions. This brand was developed in response to growing environmental challenges, aiming to contribute to a circular economy, significantly reduce CO2 emissions, and eliminate waste. At the core of Philips MyCreation's production process is advanced 3D printing technology, where all printed components are manufactured using at least 55% recycled or bio-circular plastics. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also enables the creation of unique, custom-fit designs tailored to specific brands and spaces, all while maintaining a minimal carbon footprint. For design enthusiasts and professionals, Philips MyCreation offers two distinct pathways to acquire their ideal luminaires. The first option involves exploring a curated selection of pre-designed lighting solutions. These include a variety of high-quality luminaires such as downlights, projectors, and pendants. Clients can customize these pre-designed products by mixing and matching elements like color, texture, and shape, providing extensive possibilities for personalization. Notable examples from this collection include special edition pendant products such as the Spring Oasis collection, which innovatively repurposes water jugs, and the Coastal Breeze collection, which champions sustainability by utilizing recycled fishing nets sourced from the coast of Cornwall. The Jewels collection, another highlight, has received an IF Design Award, signifying its artistic and functional excellence. The second pathway caters to those seeking truly bespoke lighting solutions through a co-creation process with Philips MyCreation’s expert designers. This collaborative model empowers clients to materialize their vision, ensuring the luminaire perfectly complements their space and brand identity. The co-creation journey is streamlined into six straightforward steps: clients share their project ideas, designers develop initial sketches, and then work with the client to select the design, texture, and color. Further details are specified, a prototype is fine-tuned, and finally, the unique creation is 3D printed and delivered. This methodical process ensures that every custom luminaire is a precise and personalized reflection of the client's requirements. Philips MyCreation's commitment to sustainability extends beyond material use to the entire production lifecycle, ensuring that the future of lighting design is both brilliantly illuminated and environmentally responsible. Whether opting for customizable pre-designed options or embarking on a comprehensive co-creation journey, Philips MyCreation offers unparalleled design possibilities. The brand positions itself as a beacon of inspiration for those looking to integrate innovative and sustainable lighting solutions into their environments. This initiative not only addresses critical ecological concerns but also offers a flexible and creative platform for diverse lighting needs. DesignWanted plans to further explore Philips MyCreation's impact in an upcoming series of articles, delving deeper into how the brand is revolutionizing the lighting industry with its responsible approach to illuminating spaces. #LightingDesign #3dPrinting #SustainableDesign #InnovativeMaterials #CircularEconomy #CustomLighting #EcoFriendly #DesignInnovation

The Analog lighting collection, a collaboration between industrial designer Chris Granneberg and sustainable lighting brand Gantri, showcases a playful and functional approach to illumination. The collection, which includes task lights, floor lights, and wall lights, draws inspiration from Granneberg's daughter's LEGO collection and the IKEA FREKVENS, aiming to infuse joy and a childlike spirit into everyday objects. The core design element of the Analog collection is a compact, cubic light module that rotates 360 degrees, allowing for versatile light direction. Granneberg conceptualized these lights as being 3D printed, a vision brought to fruition by Gantri, which specializes in additive manufacturing for its lighting products. This manufacturing method allows for the creation of intricate and precise forms, contributing to the collection's distinct aesthetic and functionality. The lights are characterized by their simple, compact shapes and vibrant colorways, designed to evoke a sense of happiness and unencumbered creativity. The collection challenges the traditional seriousness often associated with task lighting, offering a design that is both practical and engaging. Granneberg's emphasis on color as a means to introduce joy into people's lives is a central theme, reflected in the vibrant hues chosen for the Analog lights. The design philosophy aligns with the idea that playful elements can enhance functionality and user experience, rather than detracting from it. The lights are designed to be accessible and adaptable, fitting into various interior settings while adding a unique, modern touch. Gantri's commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of 3D printing technology, which can reduce waste and allow for on-demand production. The collaboration with Granneberg highlights how innovative manufacturing techniques can support creative design visions, bringing unique products to market that might not be feasible through conventional methods. The Analog collection represents a fusion of artistic inspiration, modern technology, and practical application, providing lighting solutions that are both effective and aesthetically pleasing. The lights are intended to appeal to those who appreciate thoughtful design and wish to incorporate elements of playfulness and color into their living or working spaces, ultimately illuminating not just a room, but also the 'inner child' within users. #Gantri #ChrisGranneberg #3DPrintedLighting #ModernDesign #HomeFurnishings #IndustrialDesign #SustainableDesign #PlayfulDesign #InteriorLighting

The article introduces Contour Blinds, an innovative interior design concept developed by London-based designer Helena Karelson. Debuted at the London Design Festival, these blinds aim to redefine the conventional window covering by offering both aesthetic appeal and enhanced functionality. Karelson's design draws inspiration from light dynamics and the interplay between form and shadow. When fully extended, the blinds mimic the fanned display of a peacock, creating a visually striking element within a room. A key feature of Contour Blinds is their ability to manipulate light in different orientations. In a horizontal position, the irregular gaps between the slats allow light to filter through, producing an undulating effect reminiscent of a topographical map. This design not only provides visual interest but also controls the intensity and pattern of natural light entering a space. When the blinds are oriented vertically, the light passing through the window behind them is diffused into a soft, warm glow, attributed to the specific light-colored wood used in their construction. This demonstrates a thoughtful approach to material selection and its impact on ambient light. Beyond their aesthetic and functional attributes, Contour Blinds are designed with sustainability in mind. Karelson ensures that the production process minimizes waste, aligning with environmentally conscious practices. The blinds are available in various options and can be custom-made to suit specific design requirements, offering a versatile solution for diverse interior styles. The introduction of Contour Blinds presents a strong alternative to traditional window coverings, which often lack distinct design or innovative functionality. Helena Karelson's work on Contour Blinds has garnered significant recognition, including the D&AD Best New Blood Award and an award from Coillte, a natural resource supplier focused on sustainability, for Best Use of Materials. These accolades underscore the design's originality, its effective integration of form and function, and its commitment to sustainable production. The project contributes to a broader movement within interior design that seeks to elevate everyday objects into artistic and functional statements. #ContourBlinds #HelenaKarelson #LondonDesignFestival #InteriorDesign #WindowTreatments #SustainableDesign #LightManipulation #DesignInnovation #HomeDecor

The importance of a well-conceived lighting plan in home design is often underestimated, frequently being an afterthought rather than an integral part of the initial concept. Good lighting significantly contributes to an inhabitant's well-being, optimizes functionality, and elevates the overall aesthetic of a room, transforming an ordinary space into something remarkable through strategic fixture selection and placement. This principle was vividly demonstrated at the recent WOW!house design exhibit held at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour in London, England. The exhibition featured 22 unique rooms, each crafted by leading interior designers, where lighting often took center stage. The WOW!house exhibition, open to the public for a month in June to support the United in Design charity, was not a traditional house but an innovative installation. It comprised a series of exterior and interior spaces within the atrium of the Design Centre. These spaces were diverse, ranging from entries, kitchens, dens, bars, and dining areas to libraries, bathrooms, bedrooms, and outdoor courtyards, all brimming with originality and creative design solutions. Across most of these spectacular settings, lighting played a prominent role in defining the ambiance and functionality. One of the most striking examples was the grand entry of the installation, which featured an dramatic leaf chandelier by Cox London. Victoria Davar, founder of Maison Artefact, specifically requested a five-meter ceiling height to ensure the fixture was not only accommodated but also given pride of place, asserting its visual dominance upon entry. Davar emphasized that this height aligns with classical design principles. Her design philosophy for the entry embraced a blend of classical and modern elements, where the chandelier was framed against a traditional-surround fireplace. This approach allowed each element to balance the other, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. Davar intentionally utilized negative space, leaving the wall above the fireplace blank, to allow the chandelier to stand out as a sculptural piece without visual interruption, fostering a sense of airiness. Another innovative approach was seen in the courtyard room designed by Emma Sims-Hilditch. This multi-functional space, envisioned to support various aspects of country living such as a boot room, dog wash station, and gardening area, integrated classical elements of heritage country homes with modern touches. Sims-Hilditch positioned an oversized Charles Edwards lantern as a focal point above an island, drawing inspiration from classical English country house lanterns. The lantern received a contemporary update through its coloration, painted in Farrow & Ball's Lulworth Blue. Wall lights, inspired by carriage lanterns, and pendant lights with fabric shades in corner spaces were strategically placed to layer the lighting, ensuring both functionality and comfort. Sims-Hilditch underscored the importance of soft lighting and avoiding bare bulbs, opting for a layered system that included John Cullen Lighting for downlights and Soane Britain for wall lights. The bathroom designed by 1508 London exemplified how lighting can transform a functional space into a luxurious retreat. The design studio incorporated an advanced lighting system by John Cullen Lighting and Lutron, offering three distinct illumination programs: Ritual, Revitalizing, and Revery. Paris Albert, an associate at 1508 London, explained that “Ritual” supports daily cleansing routines, “Revitalizing” enhances vanities and showers for rejuvenation, and “Revery” creates a dreamlike state for relaxation. These options, accessible at the touch of a button, elevated the bathroom experience from mere utility to a restorative escape. Interior decorator and antiques dealer Daniel Slowik presented his morning room design, emphasizing subtle, layered lighting rather than bright, centralized fixtures or intrusive task lighting. He advocated for side lights, often converting decorative vases or antique items like Arts & Crafts candlesticks into lamps, to create ambient illumination. Slowik aimed for a subdued, not overlit, atmosphere, focusing on objects that also serve as beautiful design elements. While generally disliking overt task lighting, he integrated a brass floor lamp discreetly next to a reading chair, chosen for its distressed appearance that conveyed a sense of history and permanence. The unifying theme across all these designs is the necessity for lighting to be an intrinsic component of the overall design strategy. A thoughtful approach to illumination enhances comfort and functionality, highlights the aesthetic, and can dramatically transform a room into a unique and spectacular environment. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #LightingSolutions #WOWHouse #DesignExhibition #ArchitecturalLighting #DecorativeLighting #SmartLighting

The French-based design firm AD-3D, led by Bulgarian designer and artist Aleksandar Dimitrov, has introduced an innovative 3D-printed accessory called 'clip on glass.' This creation transforms an ordinary drinking glass, specifically the IKEA Pokal glass, into a functional vase for flowers. The design aims to add a secondary purpose to everyday items through a simple yet effective modification. The 'clip on glass' is engineered to be minimalistic while maintaining full functionality. Measuring 9 x 9 x 6 centimeters, the object is optimized for material efficiency, utilizing a minimal amount of polyamide. Polyamide was selected for its strength and flexibility, critical properties for the 'clip' mechanism. The material's fine surface texture allows for the necessary expansion and contraction during the clipping process, ensuring a secure fit without compromising the integrity of either the accessory or the glass. The design ethos behind 'clip on glass' centers on enhancing existing household items rather than replacing them, promoting a sustainable approach to home decor. By leveraging 3D printing technology, AD-3D offers a customizable and accessible solution for users to repurpose their drinking glasses. The ease of attaching the accessory means that users can effortlessly switch between the glass's original function and its new role as a vase, providing versatility in home styling. This project highlights the potential of additive manufacturing in creating practical and aesthetically pleasing objects for daily use. The ability to produce complex geometries with minimal material waste makes 3D printing an ideal method for such small-scale, high-utility designs. The product serves as an example of how thoughtful design can integrate new functions into common objects, extending their lifespan and utility. Aleksandar Dimitrov's work with AD-3D demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to product design, focusing on user-centric solutions and the innovative application of modern manufacturing techniques. The 'clip on glass' accessory is not only a decorative item but also a statement on adaptable design, encouraging creative uses of everyday objects and showcasing the transformative power of 3D printing in the realm of home accessories and functional art. #3DPrinting #HomeDecor #ProductDesign #IKEAHack #SustainableDesign #FunctionalArt #AleksandarDimitrov #AD3D #Polyamide

In a design landscape increasingly concerned with environmental impact, ALT Design, a French studio founded by Alexandre Touguet and Lise Rissel, has launched ALT Light, a brand focused on sustainable lighting solutions. Their latest offering is a 3D-printed lamp crafted from bio-sourced polylactic acid (PLA), a plastic derived from renewable corn starch. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to integrating advanced manufacturing with eco-conscious material choices, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of product design. The selection of PLA as the primary material is a key aspect of the lamp's sustainability. Unlike conventional petroleum-based plastics, PLA is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative. This material choice helps mitigate carbon emissions associated with plastic production and minimizes long-term waste. Beyond its ecological benefits, PLA is suitable for 3D printing, allowing for precise and intricate designs that might be challenging with other materials. The use of PLA enables the creation of lamps that are both sustainable and structurally sound. From an aesthetic perspective, the lamp combines modern simplicity with playful elements. It features a rectangular base that smoothly transitions into a flared, sculptural top, echoing traditional lampshade forms while offering a contemporary twist. The surface of the lamp is adorned with vertical ribbing, which not only adds a dynamic texture but also interacts with light in a way that enhances its visual appeal. This design detail provides a sense of movement and makes the lamp a distinct accent piece within any modern interior setting. Functionality and versatility are also central to the ALT Light’s design. The lamps are available in various sizes, including a compact wall light and larger medium and table lamps, accommodating diverse spatial requirements. Customers can opt for either translucent or transparent finishes, influencing how light is diffused. The translucent option provides a softer, more ambient glow, ideal for creating a warm atmosphere, while the transparent version offers a clearer and more directed illumination, suitable for task lighting or highlighting specific areas. One of the most forward-thinking aspects of ALT Light's production model is its made-to-order approach. This method avoids the waste associated with mass production and excess inventory, as each lamp is printed only after a customer places an order. This strategy also facilitates extensive customization options, allowing buyers to select from a range of two-tone color combinations. This bespoke capability ensures that each lamp can be tailored to individual preferences, harmonizing with existing decor or expressing personal style through unique color pairings. This integration of sustainable materials, advanced manufacturing, and customizable design positions ALT Light as a notable example of contemporary product development that prioritizes environmental responsibility without sacrificing aesthetic quality or consumer choice. #3DPrintedLamp #SustainableDesign #BioSourcedPlastic #PLA #HomeLighting #EcoFriendlyProducts #ModernDesign #CustomizableLighting #ALTLight

The article highlights the significance of lighting in interior design, emphasizing its capacity to unify a room and establish ambiance, often overlooked in favor of larger furniture items. It showcases eight Hudson Valley-based businesses and artists specializing in diverse lighting solutions, aiming to provide local alternatives to urban design sources. These establishments offer a range of styles, from hand-blown glass pendants and modern-chic sconces to vintage fixtures and custom neon art. Niche Modern, located in Beacon, NY, is featured for its brightly colored, hand-blown glass pendant lighting. Founded by Jeremy Pyles and Mary Welch, the company is known for its contemporary yet deeply colored glass products, operating from a historic factory building and offering significant discounts at annual factory sales. The Culture+Commerce Project in Hudson, NY, a design consultancy, represents regional artists, including Rafael Avramovich of Work and Design. Avramovich creates "Living in Harmony" pendants using recycled metal strips of iron, steel, and brass, designing pieces that evoke emotion and blend organic-industrial aesthetics suitable for various settings. While their retail store has closed, they continue operations online and by appointment. Materia Designs, led by husband-and-wife team Matt Ensner and Megan Sommerville, integrates diverse backgrounds from choreography to landscape design into their work. They produce lighting, furniture, and home accessories, along with undertaking residential and commercial interior design projects. Their design philosophy focuses on elemental materials such as marble, parchment, porcelain, un-lacquered brass, and leather, resulting in authentic, high-quality pieces. Their operations, including a showroom, design studio, and workshop, are consolidated in a 4,500-square-foot facility in Accord. Luddite Antiques in Germantown, NY, caters to those seeking vintage lighting. This Brooklyn retail expat offers a wide array of early electric lighting, from Victorian chandeliers to Art Deco sconces and neon bar signs, alongside other antique furnishings like wooden card catalogs and 18th-century apothecary cabinets, all displayed in their tin-ceilinged showroom. Lite Brite Neon in Kingston, NY, began in 1999 as artist Matt Dilling’s studio, focusing on neon's decorative and architectural potential. It has since grown to include a team of neon artists creating everything from gallery pieces to commercial signage and restoration. The studio moved its production to a 15,000-square-foot facility in Kingston, where its 12-member fabrication team handles hundreds of projects annually, transforming client concepts into neon realities. FRG Objects & Design/Art in Hudson, NY, is founded by FR Gillette, a stylist, photographer, and interior designer. His 3,000-square-foot space serves as his home, office, and showroom, reflecting a curated aesthetic characterized by a disruptive approach to color and mixing fabrics and art. Gillette's work was showcased at Design Hudson 2018, and he recently collaborated with Italian engineer Daniele Gualeni on the "Design by Demand" lighting collection, featuring pieces produced in Italy by master craftsmen using metal, ceramic, Murano glass, and marble. Lightexture, a Troy-based design studio, creates perforated white clay spherical and egg-shaped pendant lamps. These lamps are designed to illuminate modern kitchens and dining areas by casting star-like patterns on walls and ceilings while providing warm light below. Each pendant uses an energy-efficient xenon bulb with a long lifespan. Finally, Entner Glass in Rhinebeck, NY, showcases Barry Entner’s sculptural lighting. His works, which are more artistic visions than commercial products, involve meticulously planned designs using hundreds of components to create gravity-defying glass and metal sculptures. Entner’s art has been exhibited internationally and is part of numerous private and public collections. #HudsonValley #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArtisanLighting #VintageLighting #NeonArt #GlassArt

The lighting studio Bone Simple Design, founded by Chad Jacobs, is innovating in the realm of lighting fixtures by incorporating texture and color through unique dyeing and painting techniques. Located in a 100-year-old industrial building in Long Island City, the studio now occupies a space formerly used by luxury fabric house Scalamandré for textile dyeing. Jacobs finds this serendipitous, as his current work involves similar processes with lighting components. Jacobs, who launched his custom lighting line in 1993, has recently expanded into dip-dyeing and painting large rope pendants and using shibori-inspired methods for linen shades. This creative shift was notably demonstrated when he completed 15 five-foot-tall string fixtures for a hotel in the Bahamas, where the cord was immersed in golden yellow dye. Jacobs emphasizes that for him, lighting is not solely about illumination but also significantly about texture, expressing a clear preference over the minimalist bare bulb aesthetic. Operating from a 5,000-square-foot ground-floor space, Jacobs leads a team of seven employees, predominantly from art backgrounds. The team meticulously handcrafts all components, outsourcing only metal plating and powder-coated frames. Jacobs strategically designed the studio's layout, ensuring junction boxes were installed to allow for the suspension of numerous fixtures, providing ample light for work and displaying dramatic pieces for clients. A notable display piece is a massive hanging white cage pendant lamp, hung low to showcase its impressive dome shape, though Jacobs advises a 30 to 36-inch clearance from tabletops in typical installations. He also suggests diversifying lighting arrangements with a combination of wall sconces, floor lamps, table lamps, and ceiling fixtures to achieve optimal control over light levels within a space. Jacobs's creative inspiration is drawn from a vibrant mood board adorned with art show posters, sketches, and photographs of design icons like Ruth Asawa, whose wire sculptures are a significant influence. The mood board also features a South African artist's necklace, a colorful piece that has recently informed Jacobs's bold color palettes and experimental design approach. For achieving a wide range of colors, Jacobs uses commercial-grade Rit Dyes, which are versatile enough for natural and synthetic fibers. He notes that these dyes can be mixed to create custom hues, with paper towel tests guiding the intensity. When painting rope and string fixtures, the team employs wide, flat brushes for thorough coverage. Linen shades are preferred for dyeing due to their excellent absorbency, and while silk hasn't been tested, it is believed to be equally effective. Jacobs's technique for creating unique linen drum shades stems from a desire to utilize leftover dye, involving rolling and folding the fabric before dyeing. This process, loosely inspired by Japanese shibori, is simplified and allows for dye bleeding, often resulting in multi-tonal effects. He describes these outcomes as "happy accidents" when successful, indicating an embrace of experimentation in his design process. The article encourages readers to try these techniques themselves or explore Bone Simple's existing range of colorful lighting options. #TexturedLighting #LightingDesign #CustomLighting #BoneSimpleDesign #DyeingTechniques #ShiboriInspired #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #ArtisticLighting

The shift to working from home has transformed personal living spaces into hybrid offices, prompting a reevaluation of household products and their functionality. Recognizing this new paradigm, New York-based Smart Design embarked on developing a four-piece transitional lighting collection in collaboration with 3D printed lighting manufacturer Gantri. The collection, known as the Aim Collection, was conceived to address the challenges of integrating professional work environments into compact home settings, where space is a valuable commodity. Industrial Design Director Dan Grossman highlighted that the design inspiration stemmed from the need to adapt existing home spaces, such as dining tables, into effective workspaces. This led to the creation of four distinct lighting solutions tailored for various work-from-home scenarios: a floor lamp, a directional task light, a lantern, and an upcoming clamp light. The core principle of the Aim Collection is adaptability, with each light designed to offer simple yet ingenious solutions to modern living challenges. For instance, the Aim Task Light allows users to effortlessly transition between directional task lighting and ambient lighting by simply adjusting its arm. Grossman further noted the intricate connection between mood and lighting, and how traditional task lighting, often designed for specific creative or productive tasks, needed to be reimagined to provide a more comforting experience in an often-stressful work-from-home context. Despite the apparent simplicity and intuitive nature of the Aim Collection's aesthetics, its manufacturing presented significant technical challenges for Gantri. Prior to this collaboration, Gantri had not produced 3D-printed lights incorporating moving parts. The partnership between Smart Design and Gantri leveraged the engineering expertise of both teams to overcome these manufacturing hurdles. A notable challenge was integrating the power cord within the movable arm of the Aim Task Light, requiring the development of internal hardware with round pivots and tension screws to minimize friction and prevent the cord from dislodging. Grossman emphasized that achieving this level of complexity with articulated joints and pivots through 3D printing was a considerable undertaking, necessitating extensive prototyping and testing to refine material constraints, tolerances, weight, and balance. The Clamp Light, another intricate component of the collection, also demanded the production of multiple moving parts. Smart Design's consumer research underscored the relevance of such a flexible lighting solution, as it revealed that work often occurs in unconventional home settings. The Clamp Light was designed to be highly portable and adaptable, featuring a hinge for easy adjustment and a clamp mechanism that allows it to be attached to various surfaces like shelves or table edges, transforming any spot into a makeshift desk. Ultimately, while 3D printing is central to the production process, Grossman stressed that it serves as an efficient means to an end. The primary objective was to create functional, intuitive products that resonate with customers, regardless of the manufacturing method. The Aim Collection, in alignment with Smart Design's overarching philosophy, prioritizes function and the inherent beauty of simplicity, aiming to provide users with valuable and significant lighting solutions that are easy to understand and use. #SmartDesign #Gantri #3DPrinting #LightingDesign #HomeOffice #FurnitureDesign #ProductInnovation #WorkFromHome #IndustrialDesign

The article highlights the approach of Interior Design by Emily, a design studio in Decorah, Iowa, which emphasizes the significant role of window coverings in enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of a home. Emily, the owner of the studio, explains that window treatments are often undervalued but can profoundly influence the feel and utility of a space. Her firm offers custom window solutions and comprehensive interior design services, operating from its downtown Decorah location at 215 W Water Street. As an authorized Hunter Douglas dealer, Interior Design by Emily provides a diverse range of premium window treatments. These include options with cordless and motorized functionalities, cellular shades designed for energy efficiency, and sophisticated layered drapery. Emily notes that clients frequently seek general design assistance but ultimately find that window coverings address practical challenges they may not have initially identified. These challenges range from mitigating glare in home offices to maintaining cooler temperatures in bedrooms during summer and aesthetically framing outdoor views. In response to contemporary demands for safety and environmental consciousness, the studio prioritizes child-safe cordless designs, compatibility with home automation systems, and the use of eco-friendly fabrics. The showroom allows visitors to interact with full-size displays, explore various fabric samples, and collaborate directly with Emily to develop a personalized window covering plan. This tailored approach considers the client's individual style, budgetary constraints, and lifestyle requirements, acknowledging that each window and home is unique. The studio's objective is to provide a design process that is straightforward, enjoyable, and customized for every client. Emily underscores that the distinctiveness of each home necessitates bespoke design solutions. Interested individuals can gain further information or schedule a consultation by visiting the studio's website at www.interiordesignbyemily.com, stopping by the downtown Decorah showroom, or engaging with their social media channels for design inspiration and updates on ongoing projects. This branded content piece aims to showcase how Emily's design philosophy elevates window coverings beyond mere accessories, transforming them into integral components of modern home design. #InteriorDesign #WindowCoverings #HomeDecor #DecorahDesigner #HunterDouglas #CustomDesign #SmartHome #SustainableDesign #FunctionalDecor