isabel brouwers' LUMNES lamps mimic photogenic algae

suspended like light drops, LUMNES is the latest collection of lamps crafted by product designer isabel brouwers. these unusual lighting fixtures are actually derived from the shape of a photo-luminescent algae that the designer has encountered during a swimming journey in cambodia. wanting to immortalize that fascinating moment, the installation allows her to mingle again with the marine plant.

the shape of the lamp evokes the photo-luminescent algae encountered by the designer during a trip to cambodia

to be more precise, isabel brouwers‘ LUMNES series evokes the pyrocystis fusiformis algae, a species that naturally produces light. for this reaction to happen, oxygen is needed. hence, the lighting fixtures also react to the amount of oxygen present around them. as the traditional method of glassblowing is being used, every lamp has its own unique design. furthermore, during the crafting process,  oxygen is used — which is essential for light to originate. every piece from the LUMNES series is completely handmade.

close-up at night- just like the algae, LUMNES requires the presence of oxygen to light up 

each piece is handmade through the process of glassblowing 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom