Tel-Aviv based designer Asaf Weinbroom is anything but old-school, but he still loves to embrace the methodology and traditional techniques of the past. An innovative lighting designer, Weinbroom welcomes new technologies, but focuses on making his light hand, out of wood. As part of this is to create a one-of-a-kind item with a soft and natural feel, it is also to refrain from creating fixtures that look like they popped out of a catalog. Wood naturally emphasizes the incredible craftsmanship and hand-worked detail that goes into each and every piece.
Continue reading to learn more about Weinbroom’s unique take on contemporary layout.
Q: What is it about light that inspires you?
A: The major attraction for me in all products — notably in light elements — is the mechanics, joints, and also the movement of this object. I always start in the small detail and construct the rest of the lamp around it. My thoughts usually involve a technical component, and using wood rather than metal or other substances that are more commonly utilized, the handmade procedure is emphasized.
weinbroom.com
Waf CE Light
The Waf Limited series contains a desk lamp and these three hanging lampshades, offered in various colors. These sturdy but delicate looking fixtures are made from brushed veneer sheets of ash and white oak, buttoned together with wood buttons.
Q: What kind of changes do you see occurring in product design now?
A: The shift I detect in industrial designers at the previous years is that now you find a strong link with people’s inner artisan character. They look for the wisdom in antique and traditional techniques. The main attraction is functioning by hand and experimentation with the substances, not figuring out how the layout onto the computer and sending the drawings to the mill.
weinbroom.com
Series 1 Wall Lamp
Weinbroom’s very first series of light was intended for large spaces. Each lampshade in this show is 50cm in diameter. The collection comprises this wall lamp, floor lamp, and a ceiling lamp. The lampshades are made out of a laminated read oak veneer, and also engraved with textile-inspired patterns.
Q: What are you trying to say with your own designs?
A: My intention is to create an honest simple layout — light fixtures with a taste of the previous times.
Q: How has your work evolved since you first started? How can you see it growing in the future?
A: When I started working with wood, my wish was to become a master of this substance. It’s important for me to perfect my works and create high-end lighting fixtures. Recently, I’ve completed the creation of a series integrating brass with wood, and in the long run I’ll be displaying this series together with others in Jerusalem Design Week. From the exhibition, I’ll showcase other fixtures between wood with metals, glass, concrete, ceramics and much more.
weinbroom.com
Series two Stool Lamp
The Series 2 collection consists of 2 table lamps and this unique stool lamp. Each one the pieces in this group are made in easy and obvious shapes to draw attention to their joinery — that is made entirely out of wood.
Q: What are some of your new favorite design trends?
A: I’m eager to see the works of designers who are willing to travel away from their comfort zone to learn and collaborate with real artisans, and take inspiration from heritage. Another trend is the combination that is designer/artist. It is always interesting to see the job of a product designer at a less restricting surroundings — it is an emotional process to combine with the art world.
weinbroom.com
Braa Desk Lamp
The recent Braa series combines brass tubes with wood joinery. The brass is locked into hollowed out pieces of wood, which allows for smooth motion without friction. The materials on this fixture are left untreated — the brass has been only sandblasted, so it’ll darken over time.
Q: What is your favourite piece on your line?
A: I really like my most recent show, Braa, due to the combo of wood with brass that was new for me. I’m also still very attached to my very first series of fixtures.
Q: What performers (both past and present) are you inspired by?
A: From the past, I actually like Jean Prouve’s technical layout. Currently, I like the artistic designs of Jaime Hayon.
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