The lamps by Finland's Mari Isopahkala catch the eye for their fine design, minimal lines and elegant colour combinations. Going past the first glance, however, you discover that each one also contains a little invention prompted by a reflection on how we use light.

Take Kurki, an aluminium floor lamp formed of a number of horizontal pieces that revolve around a central pivot. Has a very physical action – you align the strips to switch it off and then they are gradually opened to turn the light on, via a switch concealed in the vertical element. "I took an economic approach even though this is a very visual object", explains the designer, who admits that her formal references include the two Modernist icons, Rietveld and Mondrian. "Those using the lamp can choose how much light they need and so turn on one or more elements." This could easily become a ceiling lamp, perhaps inverted so that the light is directed upwards. Her Greenhouse table lamps, in glass and glass and cork, also contain a surprise – they are mini display cabinets that preserve and show off precious objects. ES

Fiera Rho-Pero
Salone Satellite, stand B16
12-17.04.2011, 9.30 am-6.30 pm