Phase

Lead Designers Roland Ellis and Dev Joshi

Entry Description

Correct to the night's view, Phase is a longform timepiece and lunar light synchronised to the moon in real time.

Phase encapsulates the moon’s ethereal qualities in a thoughtfully detailed object. Every element is conceived in relation to the moon, from materials choices to behaviour. Phase mirrors the progress of the moon as it orbits the Earth, revealing intricate details of the lunar landscape each time the light crosses the glass. Balancing the intensity of light and opacity in conjunction with bespoke optics and high-performance fading, Phase emulates the quality of natural moonlight. Phase prompts us to be more aware of our surroundings, scale and the passing of time. Bringing our moon into touching distance, Phase is evocative and enduring.

The studio explores different modes and means by which humans seek to measure and make sense of space and time. The image displayed by Phase is of the near side of the moon. Released by NASA in 2014 it is a mosaic that combines 15,000 wide angle photographs taken from orbit. Hand assembled in our London studio, Phase is wall-mounted and available at diameters of 30, 60 and 120 cm.

Changing imperceptibly each day, we become aware of Phase’s constant progression. By bringing the moon into close proximity, Phase prompts us to be more aware of our surroundings, of scale, perspective and of the passing of time.

Sustainability Approach

Phase is produced in small batches, employing just-in-time manufacturing processes and hand-assembling in order to minimise waste and embodied carbon. As Phase is illuminated half the time, this effectively doubles the LED lifespan, reducing electrical consumption. Spatial distribution of LEDs uses a minimal amount of LEDs to achieve the lighting levels required. Internationally used USB-type-C power reduces e-waste. We prioritise locally sourcing heavy components in the UK in a hyper-localised ten-mile radius. Latex printing uses inks formed of 70% water minimising the use of non-renewable resources, hazardous chemicals and pollutants. Transport emissions are minimised by a lightweight FSC-certified wooden crate, precisely fitted cardboard packaging, using materials that are recycled in practice and at scale. Phase is designed for disassembly, encouraging repair to extend longevitiy.