Cathal Gibson

Product Design BSc (Hons)

A three-piece lamp collection that aims to breathe new life into forgotten books in homes through interactive design and illumination.

About

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Books are a rich source of knowledge, entertainment, and inspiration, often cherished for a lifetime. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, owners lose interest in the stories or information the pages hold. Gradually, these books may shift from their proud place on a bookshelf or table to a less conspicuous spot in the home where they gather dust and become forgotten.

The Light Reading Collection offers an alternative—a chance to revisit these neglected books in a unique, interactive, and personal way. Users are encouraged to unearth these old books, which are becoming relics in their homes. They are then invited to decide the fate of these volumes, whether that means recycling them or allowing the energy originally put into them to shine through in a new form.

The collection features three floor lamps, which may seem standard at first glance, yet they possess the ability to make a statement. Each lamp offers a distinct method for integrating these forgotten books into its structure, each creating a different effect. Over time, your personal book choice becomes imprinted onto the lamp, transforming each piece into a living reflection of your literary journey and tastes.

The Light Reading Collection, post-interaction

The collection of three post interaction, with a glowing warm light.

The Light Reading Collection, pre-interaction

The three lights lined in a row on a floor of books. Yet to have books added to the lamps.

The Honeycomb Lamp, mid-interaction

A demonstration of one of the interactions offered by the collection. Pictured above is the Honeycomb lamp, which requires users to cut through the paper using a supplied tool and then insert rolled pages from books.

A demonstration of one of the interactions offered by the collection. Pictured above is the Honeycomb lamp, which requires users to cut through the paper using a supplied tool and then insert rolled pages from books.

The Light Reading Collection - A two minute demonstration

A two-minute video showcasing the collection in action, highlighting the unique interactions and effects each lamp has on the pages.

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