Taking inspiration from both nature and architecture, Emma Graney created the lamps’ block-form bases in three simple geometric shapes, off-set by fragile glass shades. The use of the traditional filament bulb, also available in a variety of different styles, adds a layer of warmth to the design and juxtaposes the brutalist form of the bases.
“I investigated the relationship between nature, geometry and architecture to create simple, effective and functional lighting that symbolises the stark utilitarian beauty of both nature and architecture combined,” says Emma.
The trio sit approximately 30 centimetres high, making them ideal for use in the living room, bedroom or study, and come with a natural finish to the concrete base, presented in a light grey or muted terracotta. The forms of the concrete bases reference familiar domestic shapes such as an inverted plant pot.
A graduate from the BA(Hons) Three Dimensional Design: Product and Furniture course at Northumbria University, Emma has chosen to focus her attention specifically on lighting design, with an architectural approach. “I focused on lighting in particular because it is fascinating, and can come in so many different shapes, forms and many different materials can be used.” she told Design Geek.
Another piece in her graduate collection is the Standing Lamp, which epitomises her architecture-inspired geometric and minimalistic aesthetic. Stripping back the design to its functional parts, black powder-coated tubes form the base, stand and fixture. The light source is enclosed within a glass tubular shade, with polished brass finishing details to the end cap, and exposed fixings. Designed for easy access, the visible fixings unscrew to enable the user to remove the shade and change the bulb.
The flexible design allows the user to slide the triangular base against a chair so the lamp becomes a task light, or into the corner of a room so it can act as an ambient light feature.
Emma plans to continue to develop her lighting range, and is hoping to put both collections into commercial production. “My plans include further experimentation with concrete design,” she says, “and I would also like to gain skills and expertise in furniture design using wood as the main material.”
Emma Graney launched Concrete Lighting and the Standing Lamp at New Designers as part of her graduate collection. Already highlighted as one of my Ones to Watch from my visit to New Designers, the 22-year-old designer from Wakefield in West Yorkshire, comes from a talented bunch of designers graduating from Northumbria, including last week’s featured designer, George Riding.
Emma Graney is one of Look Like Love’s Ones to Watch designers, find out more about her work here.