Louis Vuitton has teamed up with the design duo that created the Olympic torch, Barber Osgerby, to launch a unique bell lamp as part of its Objets Nomades Collection. The project, which is a collaboration between 11 leading contemporary designers, made its European premiere this weekend. A selection of the travel-inspired items are now on display at the brand’s New Bond Street Maison.
“We were excited to work with Louis Vuitton, which has such a rich history of craftsmanship and design,” said Jay Osgerby. “It was a great opportunity to bring a new kind of product to a company that has for so long pioneered the style and function of the objects we travel with.”
The brief for each designer was to create a contemporary interiors object that could be taken traveling – whether foldable, compact or portable. Barber Osgerby re-imagined a modern-day lantern, using Venetian Murano glass, incorporating pioneering technology to allow it to recharge by sunlight as well as conventionally.
“We began with the idea, then the function,” said Edward Barber. “First came an exploration of the technological possibilities to ensure that the lamp was both portable and sustainable. Ease of carriage and the way the lamp’s solar and lighting technology work informed the shape. Our method is reductive, hence the simplicity of form.”
Materials – Hand blown glass, aluminum
Dimensions – 287 x 150
designer: barber osgerby
producer: louis vuitton
period: 2012
