March 8, 2012
Once upon a time Milan and Paris were the creative hubs of the world’s most proficient designers. Today, designers no longer look to Milan or Paris for ideas, with a renewed interest in the environment and increased globalisation, their attention is turning to the Pacific, Africa and South America for inspiration.
David Trubridge is a New Zealand designer dedicated to environmental sustainability and the conservation of wildlife. He constructs his décor from eco-friendly plywood timber and designs his pieces to ensure minimal wastage. Many of Trubridge’s designs are flat-packed and kitset for easy and low energy freighting. His classic pieces are not only environmentally sound, but they also renowned for their intricate detail and exceptional craftsmanship.
The ‘Koura’ Lamp is from one of Trubridge’s kitset collections and was designed to replicate the shape of small fresh water shrimps. The criss-cross pattern of the lamp mirrors the woven traps used for catching these small animals. Dedicated to energy conservation, Trubridge has ensured the ‘Koura’ Lamp is available both with a halogen and LED option.
Recently, Trubridge’s ‘Koura’ design was spotted in the new Hermes boutique at the Lutetia swimming pool in Paris. Within the heritage building, French architecture firm RDAI (Rena Dumas Architecture Interieure) has designed an organic series of timber lattice domes for the momentous French brand. The three-level dome structures are the main feature within Hermes new store and are notably influenced by Trubridge’s ‘Koura’ Lamp.
The over-sized domes may appear unlike the ‘Koura’ Lamp in size and functionality, but it is undeniable that the criss-cross pattern of both features is identical. Cited by the Architects as a key influence, Trubridge is notably setting trends within the World’s design capital. With more focus on eco-friendly designs, European designers are increasingly drawing inspiration from previously ignored cultural sources, providing non-European artists with an opportunity for global recognition.
Trubridge continues to keep up with the world’s design leaders, striving for innovation and revolution in the formulation of his designs. More recently, his Icarus lamp was purchased for the permanent collection of the Pompidou Centre in Paris.
For more information on the ‘Koura’ Lamp or any other David Trubridge products please contact us.
