Plié: A Minimalist Lamp that Plays with Visual Perspective

A Unique Design by Jean Lagard

The "Plié" lamp is a testament to Lagard's expertise in shaping metal with apparent simplicity. The rigorously drawn geometry of the lamp highlights the clean lines of the metal, resulting in a visually striking piece. The main idea behind the design was to showcase the beauty of a simple sheet of metal, and after extensive research and prototyping, Lagard achieved a final design that perfectly captures this vision.

What sets the "Plié" lamp apart is its minimalist approach and versatility. The lamp features two cold folds on a sheet of metal, allowing it to adopt multiple positions. This design allows the lamp to emit light that can be used directly or indirectly, making it suitable as both a desk lamp and ambient lighting.

The "Plié" lamp is made from a single sheet steel strip, which is bent cold—a complex process given the dimensions and thickness of the metal. The lamp is available in painted, rusted, or raw metal finishes, giving it a unique and industrial aesthetic.

Designed as a table lamp and task light, the "Plié" lamp offers both functionality and style. Its minimalist design makes it easy to forget the technical constraints that influenced its creation. The lamp's ability to emit light in different directions adds to its versatility, allowing users to create the desired ambiance in any space.

The "Plié" lamp project began in November 2014 in Montréal, Canada, and was completed in December 2016 in Toulouse, France. It was exhibited in "Les Puces" of Saint-Ouen, near Paris, in April 2017. Throughout the design process, Lagard's research focused on upcycling metal strips that are often discarded in metal workshops. The "Plié" lamp represents Lagard's most successful attempt at repurposing these metal strips and showcasing their beauty.

The creation of the "Plié" lamp presented several challenges for Lagard. The most technically demanding aspect was the realization of the two folds, requiring precise angles and careful execution. However, these challenges were overcome through meticulous design and prototyping.

The "Plié" lamp has garnered recognition for its exceptional design. In 2017, it was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Lighting Products and Fixtures category. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The "Plié" lamp's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to its fulfillment and positive impact on the world.

With its minimalist aesthetic and unique play on visual perspective, the "Plié" lamp by Jean Lagard is a true testament to the beauty of simplicity and the transformative power of design.