The Porthole: A Unique Wall Light Inspired by Airplane Windows

Combining Emotion and Function in Lighting Design

The Porthole is a wall light designed by Harry-Hongwei Yang that draws inspiration from the windows of airplanes. This innovative design aims to evoke the joy and excitement of travel, bringing a sense of adventure and exploration into the home. In a time when many people are confined to their homes due to the Coronavirus pandemic, The Porthole offers a glimpse into a world beyond, reminding us of the possibilities that lie ahead.

The Porthole stands out from other wall lights with its unique combination of emotion and function. Its familiar form and intuitive controls make it instantly recognizable, eliminating the need for users to learn how to operate it. By simply pulling up the window shade, the light gradually brightens, mimicking the experience of opening an airplane window. When the panel is fully open, the lamp emits its brightest light, creating a captivating and immersive lighting effect.

What sets The Porthole apart is its ability to create customizable scenes and evoke different emotions. The LED lampshade panel is coated with Na2O2 nanoparticles, which scatter light and decompose light of different wavelengths. This technology replicates the lighting effect of sunlight passing through the atmosphere, resulting in a warm and natural illumination. The scene created by The Porthole can be tailored to suit individual preferences, allowing users to transform their living spaces and create unique atmospheres.

The realization of The Porthole involved overcoming several challenges, particularly in the control of light intensity through the sliding glareshield. This precise and intricate mechanism was the most difficult aspect to achieve, but it ultimately contributes to the seamless user experience of the design.

The Porthole wall light measures 225*300*55mm, making it a compact and versatile addition to any interior. Its sleek and modern design complements a range of decor styles, while its functionality adds both practicality and aesthetic appeal to any space.

The project to develop The Porthole began in April 2021 and was completed in February 2022 in Shanghai. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to ensure that the wall light not only serves as a source of illumination but also evokes emotions and creates a unique experience for users.

The Porthole has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category in 2022. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate a high level of innovation, practicality, and adherence to professional and industrial standards. The Porthole's ability to integrate industry best practices and provide a fulfilling and positive experience sets it apart as a truly remarkable lighting solution.

With The Porthole, Harry-Hongwei Yang has successfully merged art, architecture, design, and technology to create a wall light that not only illuminates but also captivates. Its ability to transport users to new realms of imagination and emotion makes it a standout piece in the world of lighting design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Harry-Hongwei Yang
Image Credits: Image #1-#5: Designer Harry-Hongwei Yang, Variations, 2022.
Project Team Members: Harry-Hongwei Yang Zheng Pan Meng Sheng Xinyuan Xu Xiliang Liu Zijie Zhang Peiwen Yang Haojie Wang
Project Name: The Porthole
Project Client: Harry-Hongwei Yang


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