Translucence: A Masterpiece of Light and Glass

Iestyn Davies' Award-Winning Pendant Light Design

The inspiration for Translucence came from Davies' desire to reintegrate traditional craft-based techniques of hot glass into a bespoke contemporary process, rather than mass production. The goal was to explore the unique properties of variable thickness optical glass and experiment with the interplay between two interactive glass surfaces, natural and integral light. The result is a pendant light that can be viewed as a unique bespoke object, each subtly different from the next.

The design process involved extensive experimentation with packaging the LED cob tape, creating the core of the design. Countless acrylic laser-cut variations were produced while exploring numerous hot glass forms, using different optic moulds, reheats, shapes, and proportions. The intricate central section, laser-cut from acrylic, enhances the light source and emulates the same material properties of the main body, offering precision, detail, and durability.

Translucence is available in three sizes, each emitting approximately 100 to 130 lumens. The materials used include hand-blown glass from 0% lead crystal, acrylic housing for cob tape, LED cob tape, mild steel threaded bar, decorative cast acrylic laser-cut detail to centre, and mirrored acrylic centre. The switch is customisable and mains dimmable.

The design was developed in London and Shropshire, starting in June 2020. The project was part of an ongoing investigation into sculptural glass components. The research focused on designing a luminaire around a dedicated low energy light source, using the effect of light through various substrates to provide illumination. The thicker and thinner cross-sections of the glass catch and transmit the light, creating an exciting aesthetic based on energy economy and longevity.

Translucence represents a balance between aesthetics and function. The greatest challenge was ensuring that what is essentially a handmade item can be fully reproducible in volume. The solution was to use due care and diligence, and two sets of callipers. The result is a design that references a quirkier side of lighting, offering a range of non-uniform, asymmetric blown glass forms that feature a hidden light source. Each can be viewed as a bespoke hand-crafted item yet belong to an overall aesthetic that explores the relationship between light, both natural and integral, and the singular beautiful properties of overlaying layers of twisted optical glass.

Translucence is a testament to the innovative spirit of Iestyn Davies and his team. It is a design that pushes the boundaries of what is possible with light and glass, creating a product that is not only functional but also a work of art. The Golden A' Design Award is a fitting recognition of this remarkable achievement.