Tano: A Simple Desk Lamp with Optimal Lighting

Designer: Lukas Avenas

The inspiration for Tano came from a task to create interesting lamps out of paper. Designer Lukas Avenas sketched two big cylinders inside each other as the basic principle of light manipulation. While some may see similarities with a French press coffee maker or a spyglass, the telescopic principle of Tano allows users to change the intensity and direction of the light, as well as the shape of the lamp itself.

One of the unique properties of Tano is its ability to change the intensity of the light, which is useful when users switch between different activities. For example, if someone is drawing or reading and then decides to work on a computer, they may require less direct light. Additionally, by changing the direction of the light and pointing it towards the wall or ceiling, users can create ambient lighting.

The lamp is designed with simplicity in mind, using basic shapes and principles. This allows Tano to seamlessly blend into most work environments. Made from aluminum, Tano features warm-colored LED lights and a soft cloth between the cylinders. The lamp measures 450 x 440 x 130 mm, but if optimized for production, it could be packed into a box measuring 441 x 131 x 60 mm.

Interacting with Tano is intuitive and straightforward. Users can simply push or pull the part that emits light to change the intensity, or turn it to change the direction of the light. This transformation is achieved without sacrificing aesthetics, ensuring that Tano remains both functional and visually appealing.

Tano was developed in Vilnius, Lithuania, starting in October 2013 and finished in the first week of 2014. It was exhibited at the Vilnius Academy of Arts, as well as at the "Litexpo" furniture exhibition and "Design Week" events. The design was informed by extensive research, including online surveys, observations of daily routines, and visits to design and interior shops. Lukas Avenas discovered that most people rely on ceiling lamps for general activities and desk lamps for tasks requiring more concentration.

Tano faced several challenges during its development. Finding tubes of the correct size proved difficult, as they are usually sold in large quantities. Additionally, selecting the right cloth to place between the tubes required extensive testing to ensure the correct thickness and ease of sliding. The decision on how to connect the larger tube to the rod came unexpectedly while searching for materials in a supermarket.

Tano's simplicity, versatility, and optimal lighting capabilities have garnered recognition in the design community. In 2015, it was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures Design category. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, innovation, technical characteristics, and artistic skill.

With its sleek design and practical functionality, Tano offers a stylish and efficient lighting solution for any workspace.