Twisted Diamond: A Contemporary Take on Middle Eastern Geometric Patterns

An Evolution of The Edge - Beirut Collection

Twisted Diamond is a unique lamp design by Tarek Elkassouf, inspired by the vibrant city of Beirut and the designer's Middle Eastern upbringing. This lamp is part of The Edge - Beirut Revisited Collection, which explores the themes of instability, chaos, creativity, and adaptability that define the city.

Twisted Diamond takes the form of a cube and distorts it with precision, creating a twisted and bent shape that can be easily recognized. The geometric design draws inspiration from Middle Eastern architectural patterns and the repetition of forms found in Arabic architecture. Each individual lamp unit can be stacked, rotated, and flipped to create different shapes and forms, allowing users to customize their lighting experience to suit their mood and space.

Made from steel with a charcoal paint finish, Twisted Diamond is crafted through laser cutting and hand-welded by artisans in Lebanon. The perforated design adds a touch of elegance and allows light to shine through, creating a captivating play of light and shadow.

The Twisted Diamond unit is like a puzzle piece that can be rearranged to fit together with other units, creating various shapes and forms. This versatility makes it adaptable to different spaces and allows for endless creative possibilities.

The design process for Twisted Diamond involved extensive research into Middle Eastern geometric patterns and the essence of oriental light often seen in traditional Middle Eastern souks. By incorporating these elements into a contemporary shape, Tarek Elkassouf has created a design that pays homage to the region's rich cultural heritage while embracing modern aesthetics.

Despite the challenges of manufacturing in Lebanon, including electricity problems and infrastructure issues, Elkassouf was determined to produce the design locally to stay true to its inspiration - Beirut. The dedication to supporting local artisans and the country's craftsmanship is evident in the attention to detail and the high-quality finish of each Twisted Diamond lamp.

Twisted Diamond has received recognition for its innovative design, winning the Bronze A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category in 2015. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate technical and creative excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

With its contemporary twist on traditional Middle Eastern motifs, Twisted Diamond is not just a lamp but a work of art that adds a touch of elegance and cultural richness to any space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Tarek Elkassouf
Image Credits: Photographer: tarek elkassouf
Project Team Members: Tarek Elkassouf
Project Name: Twisted Diamond
Project Client: Tarek Elkassouf


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