The idiosyncratic characterisitcs of nature were at the heart of the design of the lamp shade produced. ‘florentem’, meaning ‘flowering’ in Latin was inspired by the reoccurring organic shapes and forms apparent in various natural matter such as flowers, rose buds and leaves. The repetition of layering and circular patterns served as the centre of the lighting concept, which were to be visible in the final design solution. Inspiration was also sourced from aquatic animals, particularly builuminescent animals. The unique and delicate light patterns they protray when undergoing a chemical reaction prompted the incorporation of scattered lights around the shade.

 

The overall theme of the light shade was based around the idea of bringing in an object of pure and rich quality into a clustered and dystopic modern environment. The lamp was to serve the purpose of allowing a touch of warmth, freshness and illumination into a contemporary cool setting that is com- monly seen in modern day homes.

 

Polypropylene was selected to be the final material for the lamp shade due to its multitude of positive attributes. The plastic comes in a variety of finishes, from transparent to translucent to solid, allowing the material to suit a range of purposes. The main reason behind the selection of the material was its excellent thermal insulating properties, light weight and rigidity, and ability to mold and bend into different forms and shapes, which were all important in terms of responding to the brief of creating a freestanding lamp shade with a high safety factor.

 

In addition, considering mass production and marketing of the product, polypropylene has good surface hardness, dimensional stability and impact strength, allowing it to be an acceptable product to be sold to consumers in retail and commercial stores.

‘florentem’ is a flat packed lamp, consisting of four independent ellipse pieces connected by mild steel fasteners. These pieces, once connected, wrap around a circular wire frame that support the light globe. This lampshade stands independent of the wire frame, allowing the soft pattern of the shadow to not be disturbed by other materials. The shade can be turned to view any angle and can easily be moved to different locations. No extra materials were used to connect the two componenets as it would have jeopardised the integrity and rounded soft shadows the shade projects. The extra material would have been visible and would have disrupted the effect the lamp portrays when lit up.

 

‘florentem’ is a great addition to any modern style environment, allowing a touch of warmth and softness to be welcomed in various contemporary living rooms.