Everything Is Illuminated: New Lighting from Germany

Lately we have been inspired by the innovative lighting coming out of design studios in Germany. Here are a few recent finds.

STUDIO LAURA STRASSER

Studio Laura Strasser was founded in 2009 with a focus on porcelain and ceramic designs. Strasser's product portfolio focuses on lighting, tabletop, and decorative items.

Above: A recent project by Strasser, the 14% Lamp is so called because of the 13-to-16-percent shrink factor of the porcelain clay used to craft the shades. In this series, each porcelain lampshade is a cast of the previous, larger shade and is itself the model for the next, smaller one. Currently in production to be released sometime in 2012.

Above: The pear shape of Laura Strasser's Von Ribbeck Porcelain Pendant Light was inspired by glowing pears featured in one of the designer's favorite poems.

45 KILO

45 Kilo Design Studio was founded by two Bauhaus University Weimar product design students who focus on using a simple visual language. Contact 45 Kilo for pricing and ordering information. Photos by Das Schmott for 45 Kilo (via Wallpaper).

Above: The Hang Jack Light by 45 Kilo is a handmade polished brass socket strip that is suspended from the ceiling and offers 16 outlets. According to the designers, it "will turn electricity and wiring into something you no longer want to hide."

Above: The 45 Kilo's Hallo Wall Light is fully adjustable.

THOMAS HOOF PRODUKT

While not new to the scene, no German lighting roundup would be complete without Thomas Hoof Produkt. The company was founded in 1998 with a mission of bringing back classic, out-of-production fixtures for the home. Many of their products are sold through Manufactum. For more, see Lighting: Thomas Hoof Produkt.

Above: The THPG Porcelain Pendant with brass supports and sheathed cables; €59 through Thomas Hoof Produkt.