The Pebble: Blending Nature and Urban Geometry in Street Lighting

A Sculptural Design by Gizem Deniz Guneri Sogut

The Pebble, designed by Gizem Deniz Guneri Sogut, is a unique and innovative street lighting device that also doubles as seating-leaning furniture. Its irregular pebble-like geometry sets it apart from traditional street lights, making it a sculptural addition to any urban landscape.

What makes the Pebble truly remarkable is its use of recycled materials. It is constructed using the sludge waste generated during the cutting of andesite stones, which is the most widely used natural stone in the construction industry. This waste is rarely reused, resulting in tons of unused material. By repurposing this waste, the Pebble not only reduces environmental impact but also showcases the tactile qualities of the material.

The Pebble emits light from a subtle slit, providing low-altitude illumination that significantly reduces urban light pollution. Its size and geometry slightly differ among a range of four alternatives, allowing for customization to suit different urban environments.

One of the main challenges in designing the Pebble was finding a simple and recognizable form that could bridge the gap between natural and urban geometries, materialities, and identities. The result is a design that seamlessly blends into the urban environment while still referencing nature in its form.

The Pebble can be used both vertically and horizontally. When used vertically, it operates as durable leaning furniture, while in the horizontal position, it functions as seating furniture that emits light from below. This versatility allows for various interactions and uses within urban spaces.

Designed to fit into all sorts of urban environments, the Pebble does not respond to a specific case but rather aims to blend into different spatial compositions. Its organic form and biophilic design principles make it a visually pleasing addition to any street or public space.

The Pebble has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Street and City Furniture Design category in 2023. This prestigious award is bestowed upon outstanding designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.

The Pebble by Gizem Deniz Guneri Sogut is a testament to the power of design to transform waste into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects. By repurposing andesite waste, this unique street lighting device not only illuminates urban spaces but also contributes to a more sustainable future.