Chinese design studio Neri&Hu design the unique Xi collection for Italian label Poltrona Frau. The Xi collection is comprised of frosty, blown glass lighting pieces that were designed to imitate a soft morning sunlight. The word "xi" translates to "the light of dawn" in Chinese, which indicates the exact time in the morning when the sun is about to rise. Hu explains that "xi" is very specific in the dictionary, indicating the time between 5:30 to 6:30 as a period where the sky exudes a special light. To the designers, the lamps indicate more than just a soft light, it aims to represent a concept of something intangible. Similar to a sunset, it marks a beginning and an end, whilst also representing cyclicality.
The Xi collection is comprised of a table lamp and two hanging lamps, combining signature Italian leather from Poltrona Frau, with blown glass from the Venetian. Every lamp has two different types of blown glass, with the upper part blown with ridged details and is translucent, then colored with hues of either amber, sapphire, emerald, or moonstone. The lower glass has a pearl finish or a frosty finish to give off the soft illumination.
Morning Sunlight-Emulating Lamps
Neri&Hu Create The Glass-Blown Xi Collection for Poltrona Frau
Trend Themes
1. Blown Glass Lighting - Opportunity for artisans and designers to create unique lighting pieces using blown glass techniques.
2. Morning Sunlight Emulation - Opportunity to develop lamps and lighting fixtures that mimic the soft, warm glow of morning sunlight.
3. Conceptual Lighting Design - Opportunity to explore lighting as a representation of intangible concepts and emotions, creating lamps that evoke specific feelings or moods.
Industry Implications
1. Interior Design - Interior designers can incorporate blown glass lighting into their projects to add a unique and artistic touch.
2. Lighting Manufacturing - Manufacturers can explore the production of lamps that emulate the morning sunlight, catering to customers seeking a natural and soothing lighting experience.
3. Home Decor - Retailers and designers can offer the Xi collection lamps as part of their home decor offerings, appealing to customers who appreciate the blend of Italian leather and blown glass craftsmanship.