wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts

the lampshade is formed by stacking nine resin ring handles.

Kenta Akasaki edited by christina vergopoulou August 29, 2025 4 min

Upcycled train strap handles form WA lamp by Akasaki & Vanhuyse

WA is a table lamp designed by Akasaki & Vanhuyse, produced from reused train components of the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 series, which was retired in January 2023. Around 1,400 resin strap handles were collected, cleaned, and repurposed into a limited edition of 150 lamps, with the project emphasizing both reuse and sustainable production methods.

The strap handles were chosen for their circular form and availability in large numbers, making them suitable for upcycling. Each piece was inspected and graded based on imperfections, then sandblasted to remove the glossy coating and produce a matte finish. Surface marks such as scratches and dents remain visible, highlighting the material’s previous function and history. The lampshade is composed of nine stacked resin rings, arranged with small gaps to allow light to filter through softly. Mirrored stainless steel legs hold the structure together using custom bolts, their curved shape referencing the original strap form. A transparent power cord reduces visual interference, making the lamp adaptable for a variety of settings, including offices, stations, or domestic interiors.

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 1 — all images courtesy of Akasaki & Vanhuyse

WA table lamp emphasizes reuse, durability, and local production

The project by design studio Akasaki & Vanhuyse was developed with a strong focus on minimizing waste and ensuring longevity. The decision to reuse existing components reduced the need for additional processing, while stainless steel elements provide durability and resistance to rust. The design allows for easy disassembly, ensuring that materials can be separated and recycled at the end of the lamp’s life. Packaging was developed with the same approach, using recyclable aluminium vapor-coated paper instead of PET film, with manuals printed on recycled paper. Production was carried out locally in Tokyo, where the train line operated, reducing transport requirements and associated emissions.

WA demonstrates how upcycled components can be transformed into a functional and durable design object. By reusing resin strap handles from retired train carriages, the lamp connects material history with new utility, offering an alternative approach to production that combines reuse, local manufacturing, and sustainable design principles.

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 2 — collecting, cleaning, and sorting the ring straps were carried out by local manufacturers in Tokyo

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 3 — WA is a table lamp crafted from reused train parts of the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 series

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 4 — around 1,400 resin ring components were collected and turned into a limited edition of 150 lightings

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 5 — the lampshade is formed by stacking nine reused straps with small gaps between them to gently filter the light

wa-upcycled-table-lamp-akasaki-vanhuyse-retired-tokyo-train-parts-designboom-1800-2 — the table lamp was designed as a functional and long-lasting statement piece

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 6 — the rings were sandblasted to clean their surfaces and achieve a durable, soft matte finish

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 7 — surface marks from years of use, like scratches and dents, are intentionally preserved, creating a unique crackle-glaze effect

wa-upcycled-table-lamp-akasaki-vanhuyse-retired-tokyo-train-parts-designboom-1800-3 — the lamp is built to last while considering end-of-life disassembly

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 8 — reusing parts in their original form avoids unnecessary processing

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 9 — packaging uses 100% recyclable aluminum vapor-coated paper with no PET film layer

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 10 — exterior of Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 Series train

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 11 — interior of Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 Series train

wa upcycled table lamp by akasaki & vanhuyse is crafted from retired tokyo train parts - 12 — all metal parts are made from rust-resistant stainless steel

project info:

name: WA
designer: Akasaki & Vanhuyse | @akasaki_vanhuyse

manufacturer: Tokyu Corporation

material: Stainless steel, Resin

dimensions: L120 x W114 x H193 mm

weight: 1.2 kg

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