northwards design studio: C-lamp

'the C-lamp is a technical lamp constructed from off the shelf components and connecting elements cast
from recycled aluminium. the main element is a C-shaped clamp, which is constructed from cuboids of
polystyrene packaging hot-glued together, whilst the connectors for the supporting aluminium rods are
made from two off set cubes in the same manner. these patterns are then set into sand and cast using the
flower pot furnace.

post operations are minimal. any flash in the cast sections is cut away and finished by hand. the clamp
and connectors are drilled out to take the rod, whilst smaller holes are drilled and tapped with a thread
to take the locating thumb and grub screws that fix the lamp in place for adjustment. finishing is minimal
to keep the texture of the cast and emphasize the narrative of the production process. in case of a very
rough finish, rubberized paint has been applied to keep the castings from damaging surfaces and assist
in the ease of adjustment.

a standard 10mm aluminium rod is used, available from any DIY store. satin and polished finishes have
been achieved with wire wool and a standard metal polish. grommets screws and electrical components
can be found in electrical and audio wholesalers. the diffuse for the lamp is a fabric conditioner bottle,
cut away and finished with a craft knife.

predominantly made from aluminium, the C-lamp can be melted down and recycled again in the back yard furnace to make another creation.' - northwards design studio

process images: