Lighting the way forward with industrial designs by ISM Objects

For Melbourne-based duo Celina Clarke and Simon Christopher, co-founders of ISM Objects, studying industrial design together illuminated a shared love of homewares and lighting. Founding ISM Objects in 1990, the pair have been recognised as leaders in the lighting industry and, over the past three decades, have become a go-to brand for architects and interior designers alike.

Designed in 1991 and released the following year, the flat-packed Fab Lamp went viral before going viral was a thing, selling more than 500 units and retailing in the MoMA gift shop in New York. With its contemporary, streamlined silhouette and easily transportable nature, the Fab Lamp appealed to modern lifestyles.

A masterclass in timelessness, the Fab Lamp has endured with ISM Objects releasing the redesigned Fab 25 in 2017. Retaining the elegant aesthetic, slimline shape and flat-pack nature of its predecessor, the Fab 25 represents a step forward in technology, incorporating an LED lamp, cordless battery power and USB recharging – resulting in a truly portable table lamp suited to lifestyles of today.

With each ISM Objects design representing Celina and Simon’s genuine interest in materials and processes, the resultant lights coalesce aesthetically pleasing decorative lighting with technical prowess to create pieces that go beyond mere illumination. As well as being favoured by creatively minded individuals, lighting by ISM Objects can be found in hospitality, health care and corporate projects; a testament to the functionality and adaptability of the designs.

Designing and manufacturing every product in Melbourne, ISM Objects is committed to providing unique, locally made lighting solutions. Quirky, playful and a tad irreverent, many of the designs derive inspiration from the unexpected, whether it be the singular casual Australian way of life or even Newton’s cradle. In addition to the classic Fab 25, here are four more ISM Objects lighting designs you need to know about.

Drawing its name and design inspiration from the Edo period in Japan – an era that spanned almost 300 years from 1608 to 1868 – wherein art and culture thrived, the Edo wall sconce is a sculptural piece that combines superior technical abilities with pared-back forms. Spun in aluminium and available in an array of finishes, the light source is reflected from within to create a practical product that lends itself to a variety of applications.

An all-encompassing pendant or ceiling light, Cloche takes on a wide silhouette, is available in three sizes and fitted with an LED lamp equipped with dimming options. The small lights can be teamed together to make for attractive task lighting, while the large diameter version makes for striking ambient lighting in any space. Available in both neutral and colourful hues, each has a white interior.

Inspired by the casual Australian way of life, Snag takes its name and silhouette from the sausages often found grilling on barbeques around the country; albeit with a more elevated tone. Imbued with retro style, the decorative ends of each Snag light are spun in aluminium and available in a choice of four metallic finishes. Produced in two sizes, its linear form means it can be hung horizontally or vertically, or even teamed together to make a string of Snags.

Made to perform solo or hung in a line to form an orchestra of individually lit orbs, the Snitch pendant light combines the aesthetic of the golden snitch used in a game of Quidditch with the concept of Newton’s Cradle. The glowing lights can be arranged in multiple lines, making them well-suited to intimate spaces and grand foyers alike. Crafted from solid brass, each ball is finished in either black or gold with custom options available.

Explore more ceiling, pendant and wall lights by ISM Objects on ArchiPro.

Words by Tanisha Angel