John Pawson designs minimalist gaslight for Wästberg

The British designer has applied his renowned minimalist style to create a streamlined gas lantern for the Swedish lighting brand.

Holocene, John Pawson

The Holocene No.4 gas lamp has an unembellished form made from aluminium and steel, with a subtle matt finish on the exterior surfaces and a reflective interior that bounces light. 

It is the latest addition to the Holocene lighting collection, which Wästberg launched in 2017. Jasper Morrison, Ilse Crawford and David Chipperfield have also contributed to the range, which is named after the geological period that began after the last ice age and ended 100 years ago. 

Founder Magnus Wästberg sees the age as a time when “man lived in harmony with nature, was careful with resources, cherished fire”, and used it as the inspiration for this collection that harks back to more primitive times.      

Pawson's design comprises a small cylindrical container with an elongated handle, meaning the lantern can stand unaided or be suspended. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. 

“Lighting is the biggest element of architecture and completely changes one’s perceptions of space,” says Pawson, who is well-known for his sensitive approach to design. 

“I wanted to create something that had its own presence, so that when you set it down it makes its own atmosphere.”

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