The Artichoke is a nature inspired lamp with that captures one's gaze, whether it's illuminated or not.
Design Brief: Create a lamp design inspired by nature.
The repeated layers of the artichoke have been my source of inspiration. When the artichoke dries, something interesting happens to its leaves; they curl up and separate from each other in a delicate manner.
The concept behind the Artichoke is to craft a lamp that differentiates itself from the common outdoor lamps often seen today, which are typically a post with a light at the top. In contrast to these lamps, the entire form of the Artichoke lights up when turned on, and the light reflects between each lampshade. The shape of the lampshade optimally utilizes the light and reduces light pollution. The curved forms guide the light downward towards the ground, illuminating one's path. Its organic shape fits seamlessly into a wild garden, where it complements the surrounding plants, but it can also stand alone, creating a contrast with its surroundings.
fase 1 - moodboards
I took various photos of places in nature that I found inspiring. I assembled 3 moodboards and chose to proceed with the one that resonated with me the most; the dried artichokes.
fase 2 - Inspiration - Dried Artichokes
I drew inspiration from the organic layers of the artichoke, bending in various ways. I am particularly intrigued by the drying process and the motion that occurs as the leaves dry and curl up.
I began my process by creating illustrations of the artichoke from different angles. These illustrations gradually became more and more concrete.
In general, I employed sketching, prototyping, and mockups to arrive at the final design.
fase 3 - Sketching and Mockups
I frequently use mockups in my design process. I view it as a valuable tool to swiftly visualize a 2D drawing. I've extensively utilized this approach in my process since the shape of the artichoke was complex to depict through sketches. When a 2D sketch showed potential, I tested the idea with mockups. I've worked with paper, clay, and aluminum foil mockups.
fase 4 - Selection
First design proposal
The first design i made didn't resonate with me. The lamp was too organic in its form language. But the shape had potential, and was worth working on.
The first design i made didn't resonate with me. The lamp was too organic in its form language. But the shape had potential, and was worth working on.
Second design proposal
Peer to Peer feedback has been a great tool for me, in situations like this where I ended up with many different iterations. It gave me an overview of possible improvements I hadn't discovered myself.
Peer to Peer feedback has been a great tool for me, in situations like this where I ended up with many different iterations. It gave me an overview of possible improvements I hadn't discovered myself.
fase 5 - Prototype
The prototype is made of Polystyren foam, which I have puttyed and painted white with acrylic paint. The LED light chain winds through each layer and is attached with glue. On the inner layer, a thin opal plastic sheet has been added to give a diffused light.
