Karimoku Launches its First Lighting Collection
First designed by Norm Architects for a private residence.
Japanese lifestyle brand Karimoku has unveiled its first ever lighting collection, which has been designed by Norm Architects in collaboration with lantern maker Kojima Shoten.
The N-PL01 has been crafted from a wooden bamboo frame in a bold triangular shape, and is covered in Washi paper. Having been first designed for Karimoku’s case study 03 summerhouse, which was also designed by Norm Architects, the form of the lamp mimics the building’s steeped roof construction.
Other details, such as the paper cord, offer references to the Karimoku furniture line but also the ropes and lines found around a harbour close-by. To soften the light, the bottom of the shade is covered with a piece of Washi paper, which is held in place by magnets. When the bulb needs to be changed, it is easily removed and snaps straight back into place.
“At Kojima Shoten, we always seek new possibilities for our handmade lanterns, without losing our traditional manufacturing methods,” Shoten said. “In this collaboration with Karimoku and Norm Architects, we have created lamps with a more modern and architectural expression, to be used as interior lighting.”
“We firmly believe that the harmonious balance between the traditional Japanese manufacturing methods of Kojima Shoten and high- tech high-touch philosophy of Karimoku Furniture is beautifully embodied in the newest addition to the Karimoku Collection,” Norm Architects added.
The N-PL01 lantern is available in two different wood finishes, Pure Oak and Smoked Oak, and joins Karimoku’s permanent collection.
