Urbanoids: A Unique Floor Lamp by Urban Fiction

A Combination of Organic and Industrial Design

The inspiration for Urbanoids came from exploring the wood lamination technique and the desire to rejuvenate organic forms inspired by natural patterns. The designers aimed to capture the controversial state of consciousness for natural awareness. The lamp symbolizes the uninfected state of nature, represented by the wooden block, contrasted with the human's violent interference, symbolized by the aluminum plate. One side of the lamp visualizes how distant people have become from nature, while the other side represents the need for friendly environmental cohabitation.

What sets Urbanoids apart from other floor lamps is its combination of contrasting elements. The lamp features a mix of organic and linear forms, as well as cold and warm light sources. The handcrafted construction and limited production give each piece a unique identity and aesthetic balance. The main body of the lamp is constructed using fifty-one pairs of plywood strips formed by hand, while the remaining elements are made of aluminum using industrial methods.

Urbanoids functions not only as a floor lamp but also as a room separator, adding versatility to its design. The lamp measures 2800mm x 250mm x 1800mm and is equipped with seven spotlights placed at the bottom of each aluminum square tube.

The Urbanoids project started in May 2008 in Athens and was completed in October 2009. Throughout the design process, the team conducted extensive research on wood lamination techniques and natural patterns. The patterns found in nature became the foundation for the lamp's development, while the inclusion of industrial elements visualizes the human's interference and the current state of cities.

Urbanoids has received recognition for its outstanding design. In 2013, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

Urbanoids is a testament to the power of combining technology and handcrafted techniques, as well as the harmonious integration of natural and industrial materials. This floor lamp not only illuminates a space but also serves as a statement piece that reflects the designer's vision and the current state of our relationship with nature.