The 'Algae Lamps' have been created by the New York-based architecture and design firm NEA Studio as a naturalistic illuminator that utilizes an unlikely material for a high-end finish.
The lamps are made using dried sheets of algae that have been molded into the cylindrical lampshades seen here, which eliminates the need for virgin or synthetic materials. The shades are positioned onto metal frames that can be customized to suit different preferences and includes polished nickel, brushed brass, brushed bronze or even white powder-coated aluminum.
The 'Algae Lamps' comes as the first of what is hoped to be an entire collection of illuminators that feature the algae lampshades to offer consumers a dramatically more natural option to use when updating their homes.
Molded Algae-Made Illuminators
The 'Algae Lamps' Have a Rustic, Naturalistic Look
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Lighting Design - The use of algae as a naturalistic illuminator presents an opportunity for interior design companies to incorporate sustainable lighting solutions in their products and services.
2. Organic Material Moldability - The innovative use of dried sheets of algae as a moldable material for lampshades creates a trend for further exploration of organic materials for product development.
3. Customizable Lamp Frames - Customizable metal frames for the algae lamps offers opportunities for personalization of lighting design.
Industry Implications
1. Design - Design firms have an opportunity to explore sustainable lighting solutions in their products using innovative materials such as dried algae sheets.
2. Lighting - Lighting companies have an opportunity to incorporate algae lampshades in their product lines, thus offering natural and sustainable lighting solutions to consumers.
3. Environmental - Environmental conscious companies can incorporate this idea of sustainable lighting solution into their products or services portfolio, offering customers an eco-sustainable option.