Talash: Transforming Brass Waste into Artful Lighting

Sustainable pendant lighting redefines industrial remnants with refined design

Waxy Design Studio’s Talash collection stands as a testament to the transformative power of design. Inspired by the hidden potential within industrial waste, the project reclaims brass shavings—typically discarded after machining—and compresses them under high pressure to create decorative pendant lights. This approach not only highlights the aesthetic value of overlooked materials but also champions sustainability in modern design.

Each Talash pendant is unique, with the compressed brass shavings forming a textured surface that interacts beautifully with light. The natural randomness of the material ensures that no two fixtures are identical, offering a bespoke element to both residential and commercial spaces. The interplay of light and texture creates dynamic visual effects, making each installation an interactive experience that evolves with changing lighting conditions.

Durability and longevity are central to the Talash design. After shaping, each fixture receives a protective coating—either a clear lacquer or a nano-ceramic layer—to prevent oxidation and preserve the brass’s golden hue. This careful finishing process ensures that the luminaires maintain their visual appeal over time while remaining environmentally responsible.

The technical realization of Talash involves collecting tons of brass shavings from factories, which are then pressed into solid forms suitable for lighting. The fixtures are fitted with LED-compatible components, offering both warm and neutral lighting options. A 150 cm cable with an integrated switch provides ease of installation and operation, while the matte finish showcases the organic brass texture.

Talash’s journey from concept to completion in Istanbul, Türkiye, involved extensive research and collaboration. The team faced challenges in balancing the structural integrity of the pressed shavings with their delicate appearance, requiring multiple rounds of prototyping and technical refinement. The result is a collection that not only addresses environmental concerns but also sets a new standard for artistic lighting design.

Recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2025, Talash exemplifies how innovative thinking and responsible production can harmonize to create meaningful, beautiful objects. The collection invites a reimagining of waste as a resource, encouraging designers and consumers alike to seek new possibilities in the materials that surround them.