We often see lamps as these serious lighting fixtures that illuminate our surroundings and uplift the ambiance of a space. Of course, lamp designs are not limited to those, and some do take on a more playful character while still performing those sacred duties. That said, they don’t need to look like actual toys to have that kind of effect.
This floor and desk lamp reimagined from a classic design is one such example. At first glance, its soft spherical base does have the semblance of a plaything, but its metal, scepter-like body gives it a more serious character in the end. It’s a curious design that is both adorable and elegant at the same time, adding a unique flavor to any space it occupies.
Designer: Bottega Veneta x Flos (Original: Gino Sarfatti)
The original Model 600 lamp from the late 60s is perhaps even more playful and lighthearted. It stands on a ball-like shape covered in leather and filled with lead shot pellets that not only weigh it down but also let the base tilt without completely falling over. Think of it as the precursor to bean bags, though with an equally curious-looking lamp on top instead of a human body.
The reimagination of this classic design still uses leather but with a slight design twist. It employs an interwoven design that makes the base look like woven baskets, adding another layer of sophistication to the design. In terms of function, however, it’s exactly the same as the original Model 600 from 1966, providing versatility of position without the risk of having the lamp fall over.
It’s this rather quirky trait that also makes the new Model 600 usable both on a desk and on a floor. The light can emit direct or indirect light, which depends on the angle of the reflector and the lamp itself. Unlike the original’s wedge-shaped shield, the redesign has a curved reflector that looks more like a trowel. This better complements the rest of the lamp’s design, replacing straight lines with curves.
Available in two sizes and five colors, the reinterpreted Model 600 brings an old design to the present while maintaining its unique personality. The soft and bouncy base beautifully contrasts the rigid lamp, creating a harmonious composition that fits perfectly with modern aesthetics, a testament to how great design is timeless.
