Prize(s) Winners in Mood Lighting
University / School Name Georgia Institute of Technology
Lead Designers Lucy Blood
Professor Names Thomas Clifton
Completion Date 04/12/2025
Project Location Atlanta, GA
Entry DescriptionUrchin is a thoughtfully designed table lamp that brings a cozy, intimate ambiance to upscale dining environments. Made from sustainable materials, it emits a warm, inviting glow that enhances the atmosphere of romantic dinners and elevated dining experiences. The design draws inspiration from geometric forms, with a diamond motif repeated in both the wooden base and the washi paper shade to create a sense of balance and visual harmony. When lit, the lamp casts a subtle, star-like pattern onto the table, adding an extra layer of warmth and visual interest to the dining experience.
Urchin is carefully designed to provide just enough illumination to highlight menus and diners faces, while remaining soft and understated to preserve the moody, atmospheric quality of high end, dimly lit restaurants. Designed for "date night" settings, it helps create a feeling of seclusion and intimacy, allowing guests to feel as if they are in their own private world, separate from the rest of the room.
Sustainability ApproachUrchin was thoughtfully designed with sustainability at its core. The lamp features a wooden base and a shade crafted from washi paper, an eco-friendly material made from natural tree bark fibers that is fully biodegradable. A discreet metal wire frame beneath the shade provides structural support so the lampshade does not move around. The shade is removable, allowing for easy bulb replacement or cleaning, and can be replaced if needed. To further extend the product’s lifespan, an energy efficient LED bulb is used, minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
