Vibia - Kontur
Designed by Sebastian Herkner, Vibia’s new Kontur collection is defined by its sleek black metal frame. An elegant stage setting for the exploration of linear light, the frame is embedded with LEDs and pairs with different diffusers and reflectors to create a range of lighting atmospheres.
The frame houses either a handblown opaline glass diffuser or a rounded metal reflector, the pure volumes producing a delicate balance within the graphic geometric architecture. With the cylindrical glass diffuser, Kontur generates a warm, 360-degree glow as if from a fire. When combined with the reflector’s curved metal sheet, it lends the ambient look of raining light.
Kontur is available in a range of LED colour temperatures from 2200 to 4000 Kelvin for warm, candlelit looks or brighter, daytime effects. It’s offered in five sizes in wall or pendant styles.
Women in Lighting launch Gender Equality Survey
(UK) - This week, Women in Lighting launches #womeninlightingUKfacts to gather data on the gender equality in the UK lighting industry.
This week, Women in Lighting launched #womeninlighitngUKfacts, a survey collecting data about gender equality in the UK lighting industry as a whole. It welcomes participation from lighting consultancies and engineering practices, as well as manufacturers, educators, researchers, and related disciplines, which sometimes do not feel represented in the mainstream. The survey aims to find out quantitative and qualitative data. It will collect figures and facts about equal opportunities, sexism, pay gaps and company policies. Some questions will give the chance to expand on the answers if anyone wishes to.
The survey is completely anonymous, so it encourage participants to provide their honest opinion and was conceived by Carmela Dagnello, WiL UK Ambassador, with the support of a team made up of Amy Rennie (WiL Ambassador for Scotland), Carolina Sterzi and Sandra Babini. The survey can be completed here.
New Works - Tense
First introduced in February 2020, the long-awaited Tense pendant got caught in the flux of the global pandemic, with material production suddenly difficult to procure. The cloud-like shade is made from Tyvek, which is also used for healthcare equipment in the fight against Covid-19. Now Tense is finally here, it is time to revisit this striking lighting design.
Stretching to over one-metre in length, the Tense pendant appears like a soft floating cloud. Designed by Panter & Tourron, Tense is made from 100% recyclable Tyvek and finished with a slimline LED light source, which simply clicks onto the cord using magnets. All components fit into flat-packed packaging for easy and environmentally-friendly transport. When assembled, the shade is tightened up with carbon rods, allowing a sculptural form to come to life through tension.
"At that time, we were looking at solutions to build big and generous volumes out of tension, only using sticks and fabrics. We looked at kites, tents, ultra-lightweight sports equipment, and photography gear. Later our idea emerged from that research," says the duo Panter & Tourron.
Studio Atkinson - Antique Brass and Leather Lighting
Studio Atkinson's lighting collection, the Antique Brass and Leather Lighting Collection is designed by Susie Atkinson and handmade in Britain, the collection includes both table and wall lights.
The Antique Brass and Leather Lighting collection includes the Dionis table lamp and wall light, as well as the Parsons table lamp and wall light, all beautifully handmade in England.
Created from antique brass and hand-stitched leather, each lamp comes with a shade bound in a matching trim in one of three colours: black, oxblood or cream. The refined aesthetic and elegant lines of the lights instantly bring a sense of sophistication to both contemporary and traditional interiors.
Inspiration was found from looking at mid-century lighting designers, such Jacques Adnet, where the combination of brass and leather is pleasing to the eye. The curved brass softens the aesthetic and features such the toggle switch add an element of functional tactility. The lights also use a traditional card shade, bound at the top and bottom which matches the leather.
The Parsons and Dionis wall lights and the Parsons table lamp all have an adjustable head allowing the light cast to be angled perfectly in any space. Deliberately pared back in style, the carefully considered lines and subtle detailing allow the beauty of the materials to take centre stage.
Atkinson comments: “Lighting is such an important part of a successful interior, and yet is often overlooked. We have designed these pieces to add a sense of understated sophistication that will elevate both contemporary and traditional settings, ensuring that the shapes themselves are interesting to look at without being too dominant. Each of the lights has a handsome profile, and the antique brass contrasts so well with the leather for a timeless aesthetic. It has been a real pleasure to work with British experts to handcraft these beautiful pieces.”
Having created some of the most inspiring interiors in the UK, including Lime Wood and Beaverbrook Hotels, Dean Street Townhouse and the Soho House Group, Atkinson inherently understands what is required to bring an interior to life and launched her first collection of furniture in 2020. The Antique Brass and Leather Lighting collection has been developed with makers Atkinson has personally selected from across the UK, continuing her commitment to supporting British craftsmanship.
Tom Dixon - Burst
Tom Dixon's largest chandelier to date, Burst is made up of 12 perfectly spherical globe shades, which explode from a single point construction to create a spectacular chandelier.
Burst is mirrored and perfectly reflective during the day, and when switched on reveals a multiplicity of internal reflections from the integral LED.
Inspired by Tom Dixon's interest in molecular structures and the forward-thinking space-age, Burst has a geometric configuration and chrome aesthetic. With its heroic proportions, Burst is intended for filling larger spaces and ceiling voids.
On 13 April, the studio launched Burst in Milan, on a part-virtual, part-real-life 24-hour adventure. This was its way of celebrating what would have been the first day of the 60th Salone del Mobile.
During #24Milan, Tom Dixon used digital trickery to inhabit an extraordinary space with its extraordinary piece - Burst at Chiesa San Nicolao della Flue - Milan's historical Brutalist Church, built in 1968-1969.
"This minimal chandelier felt like the right fit for this extraordinary, beautiful church," says Dixon.
Burst is available in copper and chrome finishes.
ANDlight - Vale Series
ANDlight adds to its already existing Vale Series, which consists of single and multiple pendants with new wall and ceiling options.
The Vale Ceiling/Wall aspires to strike a balance between classic utilitarianism and ornate luminaire.
Thermo-formed, its translucent body vacillates from its linear baseline creating volume; while its textured surface further draws light across its contoured face. Intrinsically inspired by the basic laws of geometrical optics, the light projected through Vale’s prismatic lens appears forever set in motion.
The open-ended profile explicitly reveals the technical aspects of the fixture: the lightweight aluminium frame houses the electrical assembly, mounting system, while providing structure for the lens. As a surface-mounted luminaire, the space efficiency of the Vale Ceiling/Wall meets the technical specifications of tighter spaces: lower ceiling, corners and corridors, or the need for wall-mounted light. It may be surface mounted horizontally and vertically; singularly and plurally; its compound curves oscillating with further confidence as they are repeated.
The material caught my attention; I immediately saw the value and potential in elevating it through technique, cross-processes and form," says Designer Caine Heintzman.
Flos - Pointbreak
Designed by Piero Lissoni, Pointbreak is a compact, pure shape declined in two different sizes ideal for residential lighting solutions, hospitality and public environments. Full visual comfort matches an even and professional light distribution able to manage all sorts of applications.
"All these lamps share what I think is a very important characteristic: the way they handle and move light across surfaces is extremely special and delicate. The presence of the light is almost imperceptible. They are objects that create light, a little like a candle. When you light a candle, it has a certain sensual effect on the surrounding environment. These lamps fulfil the same role," says Piero Lissoni.
Kundalini presents 2021 Collection
(Italy) - Kundalini announces the launch of its 2021 collection, which includes table, floor, ceiling and suspension lamps.
The Kundalini 2021 collection portrays the contemporary and sophisticated style of the Italian lighting design company. Decorative table and floor lamps, ceiling and suspension lights, which stem from new and well-established partnerships to create ever-changing atmospheres. It is a series of versatile lighting suggestions, perfect for residential and contract settings.
The collection gives shape to new ideas thanks to the all-Italian expertise of Kundalini. The care taken over the construction details, the research on materials and production, entrusted by the company to the very best manufacturers, translate into a blend of high performance and beauty. Multiple sources of inspiration include nature, science, art and nods to the past reworked with a contemporary vision.
Marc Sadler designed Tyla, a floor lamp with a delicate, ethereal look. The slender stem-like supports and glass shade with meticulous faceted patterns conjure up images of the bulrush, an elegant aquatic plant.
Poise, design by Robert Dabi, reinterprets the table lamp resulting in a playful and interactive version. A circle of light and a metal rod to be positioned at will in acrobatic or static poses for a lamp with which to establish an empathetic relationship.
Dala, designed by Francesca Smiraglia, is a fluid, yet disciplined ceiling light. The two outer metal casings wrap around the large diffuser, overlapping like the petals of a flower.
The two suspension lights in the collection are by Valerio Sommella and Anonima Luci. The cylindrical shape of Jer is tinged by colours in eye-catching shades. The glass, ground by hand, creates sophisticated geometric patterns.
Bolha plays on the sensory contrasts in the use of glass. An ethereal, transparent bubble for the diffuser. A textured inner cylinder for the light source which resembles the filaments of traditional incandescent light bulbs.
Original BTC - Drop Three
Original BTC has launched the third in its bone china Drop series that follows the journey of a water droplet. The Drop Three pendant presents the splash stage as the water hits a surface.
The Drop Three pendant from Original BTC is the final instalment of its bone china Drop collection, which takes its inspiration from the journey of a droplet of water as it falls through the air. Previous pieces in this collection include Drop Zero, One and Two, each showing a droplet’s shape from initial formation, falling in air and landing on a surface. Drop Three represents the stage of the droplet flattening after impact and remerging as it splashes upwards.
“We worked on the Drop Three back in 2001 when my father Peter first designed it, but we weren’t able to produce it to the standard we wanted,” explains Charlie Bowles, Director of Original BTC. “It was technically very challenging to manufacture. Then in 2002, we acquired our Stoke-on-Trent bone china factory, Staffordshire Heritage. We spent the next two decades investing in the team and the factory’s production techniques and capabilities. As a result, we were able to forge ahead with the Drop Three, and we revisited the designs at the start of June last year. This time around, it took us six months to get the Drop Three absolutely perfect.”
The “sculptural, organic and elegant” Drop Three pendant comprises a handmade bone china shade with a satin brass cap and cord grip, grey cotton braided cable and a matching bone china ceiling rose.
When asked about the design process, Managing Director Peter Bowles, explains that the concept originated back in 2001. “Back in 2001, I developed the concept by studying pictures and slow-motion, videos of falling water droplets – how they behave, what they look like as they take shape and fall. I sketched and drew, and then set about seeing if a series in bone china was a possibility.
“As Charlie says, we didn’t have our bone china factory at the time so there was some back-and-forth with the manufacturer we were using back then. With Drop One and Drop Two there was no problem… But Drop Three was problematic. It was very fragile before it was biscuit-fired (that’s the first firing in the kiln) and had to be handled incredibly carefully,” explains Peter further. “With the production facilities available to us at the time, it proved to be too complex to take forward. It often didn’t make it out of the kiln without collapsing. But, with the advances we’ve made in terms of having our own bone china factory and having the ability to really develop our techniques – that’s changed everything.
“Design-wise there’s very little difference between the original and this new launch. We’ve slightly tweaked the depth of the well around the inside of the shade - the foundation, essentially. And of course, there’s the prop and setter we’ve designed to achieve a consistently perfect sculptural form. The bulb is positioned higher up in the shade to illuminate the top of the Drop Three and creating a ring of ambient light through the curved lip.”
Adding to these challenges, Charlie expands, adding that one of the first hurdles they had to overcome was fixing the stages using wet moulds. “The first challenge comes from pouring out the excess slip as it can get stuck in the curves. Next, was getting the shade to retain its shape after firing. Bone china is a very tricky material to work with and requires extreme care, effort and attention to detail. We use a two-part mould for the shade – so heavy it requires four hands to lift - but we’ve also designed other components to hold and retain the shape of the main mould. There’s a prop to hold the upward curve nicely in place, and a setter on which the shade sits to support the ring itself from underneath.”
The finished product is a beautiful pendant that emits a soft intimate glow. The team also decided to leave the product unglazed (unlike its predecessors that come in matte or gloss finishes), as they believe it “emphasises the natural purity of bone china”. Charlie notes it works particularly well over dining tables, providing a “flattering overhead illumination”.
“We’ve had interest from restaurants as well as for residential projects,” he adds. “Its organic, natural shape combined with its 390mm diameter make it an elegant statement piece. I think it’s especially impactful in numbers. It also works well over kitchen islands, and in living spaces where its soft light is ideal for creating a cosy atmosphere that makes you feel instantly comfortable and relaxed.”
Remarking on what sets it apart from other decorative lighting products, Charlies comments that its being handmade in the UK and their attention to detail allows them to stand out.
“We’re very particular about designing lights that are considered down to the finest detail. The ceiling rose, for example, also has the distinctive curved lip of the shade itself. We’ve done this with other lights in our collection – our ‘Fin’ has a ribbed shade that is echoed in its rose, as does the faceted Hatton collection. We’re able to design and trial as much as we want because of our production facilities – we’re not bound by someone else’s production schedule and can take our time to produce lights that are just as we want them, and that we are proud of.
“We’re so pleased with it, we’re considering if there could be a ‘next stage’!”
WAC Lighting acquires Schonbek
(USA) – WAC Lighting announces its acquisition of all operating assets related to the Schonbek brand from Swarovski Lighting, which includes the manufacturing plant that will remain in Plattsburgh, NY.
WAC is a leading manufacturer of LED architectural, task and decorative lighting. WAC will now own and operate a key US-based factory that will expand its domestic manufacturing capabilities to include fabrication, finishing, and assembly.
The Plattsburgh factory will focus on made-to-order and custom products for all of the brands in the portfolio, including Modern Forms, dweLED, WAC Lighting, LIMITED and AiSPiRE. It will also play a strategic role in designing new products and developing new luxury finishes for all brands. This synergy underscores WAC’s commitment to vertical-integration and market expansion. Schonbek is a global brand with established distribution in Europe, Australia and the Middle East where WAC does not yet have a presence. This strategic acquisition can be expected to be a precursor to an introduction of the W Group companies into those markets.
“If not for the time Dirk spent at Schonbek and then Swarovski, WAC would not have been approached to carry on the Schonbek tradition,” says Shelley Wald about her partner and Co-CEO of WAC, Dirk Wald. “But veterans of the lighting industry, will likely see the union of WAC and Schonbek as a natural progression,” continues Shelley Wald.
According to Dirk Wald, an industry visionary who co-founded Modern Forms, dweLED, WAC Landscape, LIMITED, and AiSPiRE brands, “We are excited to acquire the Schonbek brand of luxury crystal lighting and collaborate with the talented people in Plattsburgh to continue this proud tradition. After 1 July, there will be a period of investment in the operations necessary to secure the future in Plattsburgh, beginning with a KILLER new product launch that we have been planning for several months, in anticipation of this acquisition. Leveraging WAC’s strengths in nimble product development, the new Schonbek product launch, to be unveiled simultaneously in New York City and Montreal this coming Fall, will represent the largest product introduction in the history of Schonbek.”
“My family and I were thrilled to hear this news,” says Andrew Schonbek. "Working with Dirk was a joy, as I witnessed first-hand his creative energy, passion for the product, impeccable design sense and understanding and advocacy of customers. I predict that these unique talents will soon find expression in a creative renaissance at Schonbek that will once again position it as a leading, cutting edge brand. There’s nobody I know of who’s better positioned than Dirk and WAC to carry forward the legacy that four generations of Schonbeks laboured to build since 1870.”
Completion of the transaction is subject to various closing conditions. Subject to such conditions, the transaction is expected to close by June 30, 2021.
Chelsom - Looking Ahead
Although the world has suffered considerably over recent months, Chelsom's key strategic goal is to accelerate away from the Covid-19 pandemic so that it can fully return to servicing its global customer base with all of the enthusiasm and passion that has made it strong and successful over the years.
Will Chelsom, Managing Director, presents this short video of how Chelsom is "Looking Ahead" to a post-pandemic world.
HBA Announces New Management Appointments and Organisational Structure
(Singapore) - Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) announced today a new organisational structure with the appointment of four senior management positions as part of its growth strategy.
HBA’s organisational structure comprises four core business units, namely: HBA Americas, HBA Asia Pacific and EMEA, HBA China and HBA Brand Partners. In line with this, the following senior management appointments from within the Partnership will also take effect from the beginning of April 2021.
The Managing Partners will form a four-member Executive Committee overseeing groupwide strategy and decision-making, in addition to leading their individual business units.
Co-CEO, Ian Carr, said: “Today’s appointments recognise the remarkable talent among the leadership team of HBA, and will ensure our continued focus on delivering our commitments to clients, employees, business partners and shareholders. I’m confident that, together, Jacques, Andrew, Leo and Chris will lead their respective units and the group to greater success.”
Separately, the company announced today the retirement of René Kaerskov and Ian Carras Co-CEOs. They will both maintain their long associations with HBA as members of
the Board of Directors; from where they will continue to provide strategic consultation and advice.
Andrew Moore, HBA’s Global President, said: “Over the past decade, René and Ian, both influential figures in the global hospitality design industry, have overseen growth and led the transformation of HBA. Thanks to their leadership, the group is stronger today and is well placed to service our clients as the global hotel industry rebounds from the pandemic challenges. We look forward to their guidance as Board Directors.”
Incoming Head of HBA’s Brand Partners, Chris Godfrey, concludes: “HBA remains the dominant force in hospitality design and is committed to growing our design services that build on our beliefs and core competencies. The company has come a long way in the past 10 years. Today, we are excited to pivot on these successes as we navigate the current environment and push forward into the next decade and beyond.”
Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, the HBA’s long-term management succession plan and timely organisational restructure will strongly position the group for growth and opportunities in the new normal.
