The Booklight: A Novel Approach to Illumination

Designer Kahyun Kim's Award-Winning Fusion of Reading and Lighting

The Booklight is a unique interpretation of a common household item. Its design is rooted in the familiar action of taking a book from a shelf, making it not only functional but also engaging and fun. When not in use, the Booklight blends seamlessly into your bookshelf, becoming a part of your collection.

Constructed from white polycarbonate plastic, aluminum, and acrylic glass, the Booklight is as durable as it is stylish. It utilizes an LED bulb, which consumes 90% less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb, making it a sustainable choice for modern homes.

Measuring 50mm in width, 200mm in depth, and 240mm in height, the Booklight is compact and portable. It features a USB charger, making it easy to power up wherever you are. To switch on the light, simply remove it from the shelf, mimicking the action of taking out a book. To turn it off, replace it on the shelf.

The Booklight project began in Korea in 2010 and was developed further in Italy in September 2011. The design was inspired by the inseparable relationship between light and reading. The designer envisioned a scene of reading books surrounded by vast bookshelves, illuminated by the Booklight.

Despite the challenges faced in the technical aspects of the design process, the Booklight emerged as a successful fusion of design and technology. It represents a new concept in lighting design, one that is both poetic and practical. The Booklight is more than just a lamp; it's a celebration of the joy of reading.

The Booklight's innovative design and exceptional functionality earned it the Platinum A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category in 2012. This prestigious award recognizes world-class, highly innovative designs that contribute to societal wellbeing and push the boundaries of art, science, design, and technology.