Porowhita

Inspired by the maori symbol for the circle of life (known as the porowhita), the Porowhita table lamp is the next stage in the life cycle of the materials that make up its form.

Made from recycled book pages and old boating net, the design gives new life to unwanted materials, while celebrating their original properties. The woven paper strips evoke images of traditional Maori flax weaving, while the circular design represents the circle of life.

Free of their original context, the illuminated words on the recycled pages invite the user to make new combinations and find their own story. As the paper strips deteriorate, the lifecycle of the Porowhita lamp can continue with the user weaving in strips of recycled wrapping paper, newspaper, or another old book to transform the design.