Location: New York - Ciudad Juarez
Design and project direction by Reynaldo Studio
Advised by Christine Facella and Pablo Aldaba
Recent research in this project has identified wood veneer as an option for regeneration material.
A study comparing the environmental impacts of veneer and common materials used in lamps, such as plastic and metal, concludes that veneer has clear advantages when considering the sequestered carbon dioxide.
Using timber veneer in this lighting project can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, making it a more environmentally friendly option for interior designers and homeowners.
General Description
Design opportunity: Ambient light for a school project
Usage/Intent: Table lamp | Unfoldable ambient light
Category: Lighting
Location: New York
Completition: 05/2024
Photography: Reynaldo
Note: The light fixture is not included in the design.
Height: 4” / Diameter: 4” | W 10 x H 10 cm
Material: Wood veneer
Performance Objective: Provides warm, ambient light.
Recommended lighting fixture: White warm, LED Lamp by Lin and Gleason (Bambu Lab)
Design Elements
The primary body of the lamp is made from sustainably sourced timber veneer. This choice significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional materials like plastic or metal, making it an environmentally conscious option.
The natural grain and warm tones of the wood veneer enhance the lamp’s visual appeal, complementing its purpose as a source of warm, ambient light. The lamp features a LED light source for a soft, inviting glow. It uses a USB-powered LED lamp, allowing versatile and energy-efficient operation.
The secondary element of the design is an envelope crafted from recycled paperboard, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability. The envelope has a curved shape and incorporates teardrop clips, enabling easy fold-assembly. This aspect adds a layer of interaction and engagement, inviting users to participate in the assembly process.
The Hugme lamp is a lighting design project that merges sustainable materials, user interaction, and meaningful emotional connections. Designed as part of a university project, this ambient table lamp aims to bring a sense of warmth and familiarity into users' lives, symbolizing the simple yet profound gesture of a hug. With its thoughtful design and sustainable ethos, Hugme offers not just illumination but an emotional experience that can be gifted to loved ones.
Concept and Inspiration
The inspiration behind Hugme originates from a deeply personal experience. When I left my hometown in Mexico to move to New York City, I became very aware of cultural differences, especially regarding physical affection. In my hometown, hugs are a common and heartfelt gesture that foster a sense of connection and comfort. In NYC, this expression of warmth felt absent. Hugme was born out of the desire to bridge this gap, offering a symbolic hug through a functional and artistic product. This lamp embodies the idea that everyone deserves to receive a hug, and it can be shared as a meaningful gift, infused with intention and care.