Energy efficient lighting is fast emerging as a simple solution to cutting down power consumption. They can be used by anyone and don’t cost an arm and a leg. Moreover, the long term returns are far more profitable than conventional lighting options. LEDs are increasingly being used in homes and commercial establishments and designers also seem to have been caught by the bug with studios like Britain-based Troika designing stunning chandeliers powered by kinetic LED lights.
Called Thixotropes, the chandeliers rotate to produce power for the LEDs. The contemporary style is perfect for showing what future lighting designs could be like. The chandeliers aren’t overly done so don’t expect to see regal frames intertwined to form majestic pieces. Instead, Thixotropes leans towards a minimalistic design, fusing two color schemes to produce illumination that stylishly lights up interiors.
The project involves making use of eight mechanized systems comprising carbon, LEDs and steel banding. All come together to form what looks like a single huge entity that measures 6.5 feet in diameter. The geometric forms revolve around their axes to create energy that’s used by the bulbs. The rotating fixtures also cast interesting light patterns on the walls and the floor, giving them the appearance of ribbons.
The LEDs illuminate the steel bandings from beneath, highlighting the two colors to create a warm and cool effect simultaneously. A close look no doubt reveals the mechanisms but when observed from a distance, the chandeliers give the illusion of translucency. Most LED lighting systems tend to take on a dull appearance or an overly heavy look. This isn’t the case with Troika’s work, however, which is ethereal.
The idea for Thixotropes is said to have been inspired by long-exposure photography which is why the chandeliers look like light paintings. The project was displayed at Selfridges department store in London.
‘Thixotropes’, Troika, 2011 from Troika on Vimeo.
Via: Treehugger