trace solar lamp by gionata gatto + mike thompson

‘trace’ lamp by gionata gatto and mike thompson

the ‘trace’ series of outdoor lamps by eindhoven-based designers gionata gatto and mike thompson are self-sufficient lighting units powered by solar energy. the series continues the concept explored in their 2011 ‘trap light’ but uses a more efficient shape and the material of polyurethane rubber to power ray-shaped lamps with ambient light.

a charge of about 30 minutes provides several hours of light. the ‘trace S’ small lamps utilize a combination of electrical and solar power, while the large ‘trace M’ model completely replaces the lightbulb with the ambient glow of captured sunlight, since it has a larger surface area from which to charge. the designers note that in contrast to their previous use of glass, ‘trace’ permits a higher concentration and greater control over the photoluminescent pigments used.

developed for transnatural (arts, research, and future design), ‘trace’ was on exhibition at milan design week 2012 at spazio rossana orlandi.

construction process of the series

the lamp glowing from its solar energy reserves, in a darkened room

view from below

profile view

with a smaller shade, ‘trace S’ combines solar and electrical energy

production process: working with the photoluminescent pigments