We want the objects we surround ourselves with to inspire us – sometimes that’s simply aesthetically, sometimes it’s because of their historical significance, and increasingly, it’s because of the forward-thinking ideas behind how the piece came to be.

For September’s list, all of these ideals have been captured. There’s a piece of Finnish design history, a paper lampshade that’s been crafted with the ultimate precision, and a lamp that is making the case for design and biotechnology as a match made in heaven. Read on for more.

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Experiment Chair
Yrjö Kukkapuro for Hem

When Yrjö Kukkapuro launched his Experiment Chair back in 1984, it quickly became one of the most emblematic pieces of his career. Now, Swedish brand Hem is bringing it back to the market, and has worked closely with both the designer himself and his daughter Isa Kukkapuro-Enbom to ensure the re-edition of the chair represents the original vision.⁠ Experiment’s crowning feature is its armrests, which were artfully designed by Kukkapuro to contrast with the otherwise simple form. ⁠

14p Pendant Lamp
Aesop for Bocci

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Reimagining Bocci’s 14p pendant style, the limited-edition Aesop version consists of two hemispheres of hand-poured glass, encasing the light source at the center. ⁠The colour resembles that of Aesop’s deep brown bottles and is finished with a frosted granite texture that refracts the light into an organic irregular glow.

Philae Bookshelf
Raphael Kadid, BWB and Raw Senses

Raphael Kadid first unveiled the Philae bookshelf in 2020. A modular system, it was made up of a series of aluminium connectors and MDF panels, and took its name from the Egyptian island of Philae – in particular its temple complex. More recently, the designer worked with Raw Senses and surface design company BWB to create a limited-edition version crafted entirely in aluminium, with colors inspired by aerial photographs of bauxite mining sites.

Move a Little Bit Further Bench
Garza Studio

This piece debuted at the inaugural NYC edition of Collectible, and was definitely one of the biggest hits. Made from solid aluminium, the bench features two sitting spots, placed on top of steel bearing balls. “A bench on which a couple can adjust the distance between themselves by sliding their seats over steel bearing balls, giving a physical representation of the proximity fluctuations we experience during different phases of relationships,” Garza Studio founder Leonardo Garza said.

Zavolo Console Table
Zaven for Zanotta

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This one is firmly on our wish list – and makes for a great addition to a space of any size. The table features a matt lacquered surface that comes in ten different colours – ranging from soft lilac to punchy grass green.⁠ According to the designers, the inspiration for the table came from the “precision” of the aviation industry, which can be seen in the sleek inverted “Y” joint. ⁠”This detail is not just a decorative element, but a true symbol of strength and originality, lending a unique and distinctive character to each piece in the collection,” the brand says.

The Guest House For An Ostrich
Rio Kobayashi

One weekend in September, the garden at South London Gallery became populated by weird and wonderful bird houses, in an exhibition curated by Computer Room (made up of designers Andu Masebo, Jesse Butterfield and Charlie Humble-Thomas) in collaboration with Ollie Ranger of Flock Together. As one of the featured designers, Kobayashi created a scorched wooden dwelling that is made to look “dynamic”. “It reflects the Ostrich’s ability to get up to speeds of 80 kilometers per-hour,” the designer said.

Tipu Salt and Pepper Mills
Tiipoi

Enough to brighten up any tablescape, Tiipoi’s new Tipu salt and pepper mills are crafted in Channapatna, India – a region known for its hand-carved, lacquered wood children’s toys. While these pieces very much aren’t toys – their forms are playful. Each has been made from locally sourced Hale Maara (ivory wood), and the hues derive from turmeric, Manjista and indigo. The glossy finish comes form a final polish, which is done with a fibrous leaf from a screw pine.

Kite Pendant Lamp
Panter & Tourron for New Works

The Kite collection features three different geometric forms, each with slightly different proportion – “by adjusting the proportions, a new shape—and a new story—emerges with each iteration,” the designers say. Each is made from folded Tyvek sheets that have been glued onto polyethylene sheets for added rigidity, and is available with either black or white taping.

Colour Rack Rail
Muller van Severen for HAY

The latest installment in the long-standing collaboration between Muller Van Severen and HAY comes in the form of this clothes rail. Rather than hide your clothes away, the brand is making the case of using them to create a focal point. “Muller Van Severen have a marvellous understanding of dimensions, so you are sure to end up with something that is very balanced in terms of proportions,” says Rolf Hay. Typical of both the studio and the brand – the colour options are simple but strong – Jungle Green, Dijon Yellow, Eggshell, Standard Grey, Maroon Red and Steel Blue.

Gathering Lamp
Mitre & Mondays for Normal Phenomena of Life

Around the same time as the London Design Festival, Normal Phenomena of Life launched its latest original project. Named “Gathering Lamp” the piece takes its aesthetic from the functionalist aspects of Brutalism, and makes use of bioconcrete, developed using microorganisms at ambient temperature that can turn sand into stone. What’s more, the portable lamp comes with custom parts – each of which can be replaced, repaired or recycled.