Molecules Origami Lamps: Folded Paper & LEDs

Molecules Origami Lamps: Folded Paper & LEDs

Range Govindan
May 5, 2011

These beautiful lamps were recently unveiled in Milan, Spain, and they are part of the Molecules collection, which is a completely new series of lights based upon the origami art of Ilan Garibi. You wouldn't think that these lights were technological, but you'd be wrong; they include digitally dimmable LEDs and are touch-operated.

The Molecules collection was based on Ilan Garibi's creations, and designed in collaboration with industrial designers Ofir Zucker and Albi Serafty from Aqua Creations. Origami that usually begin their life as paper have been hand sculpted into the shape of stylized molecules. The paper hasn't been cut in any way, allowing it to diffuse the light from the LEDs. It also makes them resistant up to a point, so they don't unravel easily.

The lamp shades are a stark contrast to the overall structure of the lamps, which were made out of wood. The light switch has been integrated into the wood. The lamps are powered by digitally dimmable LEDs, which can be operated by touch. These lamps can be found through August Avery and J. Batchelor. We find these lamps quite interesting, and it would be novel to see if you can create something like this yourself. In order to do so, you'd need to be good at origami and examine the lamp shades that you want to duplicate in detail.

The lamp shade will then need to be put on a lamp, preferably an LED light since they don't generate too much heat. Since the lamp shade is made out of paper, that's a prudent precaution. There are several lights from IKEA which could do the trick as a base.

You can also check out some unique LED lights that we've put together. LED lighting is fast becoming the go-to choice when you want some distinctive lighting solutions for your place. You could also hack some lighting fixtures together to get something that looks very good but doesn't break the bank.

(via If It's Hip It's Here, images by Aqua Creations)

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