Introduction
Formakami &Tradition is a design collaboration between Danish design company &Tradition and Spanish designer Jaime Hayon. The collection features a series of lanterns that merge traditional paper lantern-making techniques with Hayon’s contemporary design ethos, resulting in a stunning fusion of old and new.
The Inspiration Behind Formakami &Tradition
The Formakami collection draws its inspiration from the traditional paper lanterns that Hayon encountered during his travels in Japan. These lanterns are often hung outside homes and shops, creating warm and welcoming spaces that glow with a soft light. The lanterns are crafted from washi paper and bamboo frames, often decorated with intricate patterns and designs.
Hayon was struck by the beauty and simplicity of these lanterns, and was inspired to create a contemporary version that would pay homage to their traditional roots while also incorporating his own design aesthetic.
The Design Process
To create the Formakami collection, Hayon worked closely with &Tradition’s team of skilled craftsmen to develop a series of lanterns that would capture the essence of the traditional paper lantern while also bringing a fresh, modern twist to the design.
The lanterns are available in three different sizes, and each one features a cylindrical shade that is crafted from ivory-coloured washi paper. The shade is suspended from a metal frame that is finished in either black or brushed brass, and the lanterns can be hung individually or arranged in groups to create unique lighting displays.
The Formakami Collection in Context
Although the Formakami collection is undeniably contemporary in its design, it also taps into a larger trend in the design world: a renewed appreciation for traditional materials and techniques.
In recent years, designers have been exploring the ways in which traditional crafts can be reinterpreted and reimagined for a modern audience. This trend has been driven in part by a desire to preserve these crafts, which are often at risk of dying out due to mass production and globalization.
The Formakami collection is a perfect example of how designers can blend tradition with innovation, creating objects that are both functional and visually stunning while also paying tribute to the rich cultural history that has come before them.
Conclusion
Formakami &Tradition is a remarkable collection that showcases the power of design to bring together the past and the present in meaningful and inspiring ways. By blending traditional materials and techniques with contemporary design, Jaime Hayon and &Tradition have created a series of lanterns that are both functional and beautiful, paying homage to the rich cultural heritage of Japan while also looking towards a brighter, more innovative future.
If you’re in search of lighting that is both timeless and modern, look no further than the Formakami collection. Its elegant lines, subtle colours, and exquisite craftsmanship are a testament to the enduring power of good design, and are sure to add a touch of warmth and beauty to any space.