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This year’s Lightfair International in Chicago was one for the books. Packed with LED fixtures in every possible direction, the show was equal parts about showcasing cutting edge technology and performance, and ensuring that those qualities were housed within a striking aesthetic design. As we scoured the floor for our favorites, illuminated beneath each brand’s most daring, eye-catching designs, it was hard to ignore the common finish that just won’t seem to go away, season after season: matte and satin black.
Another detail that we noticed was that increasing numbers of brands were scaling up their usage of this finish, not only encasing single fixtures but also massive integrated lighting systems. These systems allow critical flexibility for architects to build upon a foundation, and grow and adapt it to fit their most challenging projects needs. In this round up, you will discover a sleek fixture for every typological setting, from unassuming residential spaces to grand commercial spaces.
Image via Sonneman
Intervals by Sonneman
Designed for expansive architectural settings, Intervals stood its ground this week as it weaved across the entire expanse of Sonneman’s Lightfair booth. Supported by ceiling mounted cables, the horizontal beam can span unusually long lengths, all while providing uplight, downlight or bidirectional illumination, depending on the specifications that you select. Configured in a rectangular shape in the image above, the flexible system can be rhythmically aligned to curve with the contours of even the most challenging spaces.
Image via Casa di Luce
Chaos by Modern Forms
Modern Forms presented some of the most exciting sculptural forms of this week’s Show. Designed with the image of piano keys falling from the sky in mind, the breathtaking Chaos pendant appears to be a single moment frozen in time, alluding to the looming sense and immediacy of chaos. Ultra-thin powered aircraft cables stabilize the dramatic LED suspension, holding every piece in place with as minimal visual interference as possible.
Image via Tech Lighting
Hex Suspension by Tech Lighting
At this year’s Lightair International, Tech Lighting’s showstopping booth drew us in time and time again. Designed around the geometry of a pentagonal cube, the Hex Suspension light in particular, caught our eyes with it’s honeycomb shape, organic curves, and unmatched sense of visual depth. Available in two sizes and in both matte white and matte black, the integrated LED lamp is fully dimmable to create a variety of difference ambiences, rendering stunning shadow effects and directional illumination that escapes through the unique body of the fixture.
Image via Picasso Lighting
Anello by Picasso Lighting
With several large circular pendants on display at this year’s Lightfair, Anello by Picasso Lighting grabbed our attention with its clean curves and bold presence. The modern extruded aluminum ring provides both direct and indirect light distribution, and is available in a wide range of sizes, from those suitable in small rooms or grand halls. Depending on the size of the fixture, the Anello is also available in wood finishes.
Image via WAC Lighting
Bossa Nova by WAC Lighting
Honing the contrast of a few simple and familiar shapes, Bossa Nova captures the formal energy of mid-century modernism, while adding a hi-tech twist with cutting-edge LED light and an installation friendly design. Mouth-blown opal glass shades extend interchangeable and customizable armatures, together creating an alluring profile that is both intentional and playful.
Image via XAL
Move It System by XAL
The Move It System by XAL is a flexible magnetic profile LED system that is available in recessed, suspended and surface mounted customizations. In this case, decorative suspended luminaires are integrated into elongated beams, which create an elegant system that is appropriate in living areas, bars, reception areas and more. Thanks to magnetic mounting, trimless installation and streamlined design, insets can be mounted along the entire profile without the use of any tools.
Image via Tech Lighting
Spectica Chandelier by Tech Lighting
Another favorite by Tech Lighting, the Spectica chandelier is a novel and modern adaptation on the traditional chandelier. The artful energy-saving design features a swiveling canopy, adjustable arms, rotating head and fully dimmable unidirectional Integrated LED light source, making it perfect for dining room settings, foyers and conference rooms. Just one of three designs in Tech Lighting’s impressive Spectica collection, the Spectica chandelier is available in matte black and satin gold.
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