The Mercury lamp is a perfect example of Ross Lovegrove's "fat free" design philosophy. Taking his cue from nature, Lovegrove has created a portfolio that is brimming with streamlined, sculptural designs.
Mercury's organic shapes and smooth, tactile surfaces are also typical of the celebrity designer. This is a product that cries out to be touched, and is a welcome reminder that contemporary, cutting-edge design can also be warm and inviting. The fixture consists of floating pebble-like forms suspended under a simple aluminium disk. The pebbles are made from an injection-moulded thermoplastic material with a metallic finish and die-cast aluminium reflector. In layman's terms, light bounces off and between the elements, creating a dynamic, dramatic effect. The pebbles also reflect movement and natural light during the day, ensuring that the lamp doesn't fade into insignificance once the lights are off.
The Mercury lamp was designed by Lovegrove for the Italian lighting house Artemide. It is available in suspension and ceiling versions, and in satin aluminium and polished chrome. It's a statement piece that's guaranteed to transform any room.
Mercury lamp, Dh11,510-Dh12,131; available from Purity, Al Moosa Business Centre, Dubai, 04 334 9943, www.purity.ae