Coil Lamp: A Desk Light with a Twist

Reimagining Materials and Reducing Waste

The Coil Lamp, designed by Brian Richer of Castor Design, is a unique desk light that combines innovative design with a sustainable approach. Inspired by the surplus of first-generation MagSafe adapters from Apple, the lamp recontextualizes these materials to create a functional and stylish lighting solution.

What sets the Coil Lamp apart is its construction. Made from a single piece of machined aluminum, the lamp features a copper base and a custom spring. The user supplies the power by connecting the Apple MagSafe adapter to the lamp. A strip of LEDs set into the machined aluminum head emits warm directional light, which is partially diffused by an acrylic lens. The head is designed with Acme threads, allowing it to screw into the custom spring located at the top of the lamp's copper base.

The realization of the Coil Lamp involves precise machining techniques. The lamp's head is milled from a single piece of 6061 aluminum rod, with a narrow channel to accommodate the LED strip and a shoulder for the acrylic lens. The base is constructed from mild steel, with a torsion-style spring wound around an acrylic "coil" attached to the lamp's head.

Measuring at W 195mm x D 330mm x H 340mm, the Coil Lamp is a compact and versatile lighting solution for any desk or workspace.

The interaction with the Coil Lamp is simple and intuitive. The lamp is powered by attaching the Apple MagSafe adapter magnetically to the back of the lamp's head. The head can rotate in either direction along its own axis, allowing for easy adjustment of the light direction.

The design process for the Coil Lamp began in January 2013, with a working prototype completed by May of the same year. The initial production run started in August 2013. Throughout the design process, the team at Castor Design conducted hands-on research, experimenting with various lighting technologies and adapters to create a product that repurposes obsolete technology.

The Coil Lamp has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category in 2014. This prestigious award acknowledges the lamp's exceptional creativity, technical characteristics, and innovative approach, showcasing the team's expertise and introducing a sense of wonder and amazement.

The Coil Lamp by Brian Richer is a testament to the possibilities of reimagining materials and reducing waste. By repurposing Apple's MagSafe adapters, the lamp not only provides functional lighting but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainability in design.