Atelier Morphology's inaugural collection ‘BIOPHILIA’ embodies ingenuity and finesse

Boston-based studio Atelier Morphology focuses on lighting design. The studio is founded by architect and lighting designer Maroula Zacharias, who has channelled her impressive academic research on the fusion of adaptive material systems and photobiology, into her design style. The creative endeavours of the studio unfold at the crossroads of design, technology, and biophilia—an inherent inclination to forge a connection with nature through the integration of plants within our living spaces. Atelier Morphology thus crafts objects that not only nurture plant growth but also beckon human interaction by emphasising the use of material systems that can be assembled in sustainable ways, while integrating the science of light. Through the artful integration of optics, 3D printing, plant-derived materials, and dynamic components, the resulting biophilic designs are inventive and inviting, embodying both material ingenuity and sculptural finesse.

It is known that plants flourish in elevated levels of brightness, whereas humans seek illumination that feels gentle and welcoming. Thus, BIOPHILIA, the inaugural collection by Atelier Morphology, unveils an array of sculptural lighting design pieces that portray a unique visual language of expression to encapsulate this inherent duality. The designer reveals, “The BIOPHILIA Collection introduces a process in which plants and their waste are used to create objects that support future plants, that, in turn, contribute to human health and well-being. This cycle gives biophilic lighting a new meaning: made from plants, for thriving plants, happy humans, and healthier, more sustainable interiors.”

The growing BIOPHILIA collection presently consists of the inaugural pieces of the studio. The first one is, the Fold Lamp, a biophilic lamp design crafted through 3D printing, boasting a dual lighting nature. In one direction, it casts a gentle and inviting warmth for humans, while on the opposite side, it emanates luminosity conducive to the flourishing growth of indoor plants. Pioneering in creating avenues of interconnectedness among plants, human occupants, and the natural world, this lamp is consciously designed using eco-friendly biopolymers derived from plants. It ensures recyclability, adopting zero-waste production techniques, and integrating mechanical components without the reliance on adhesives. Similarly, the second piece, the Biophilic Vessel is an assemblage of lenses that forms a radiant column. Depending on its alignment this column offers a soothing radiance to human eyes while concurrently providing a vibrant and nurturing amount of light for plants. This collection is an articulation of the designer's belief that “For light to be truly biophilic, it must address both humans and nature at the same time.”

(Text by Aatmi Chitalia, Intern at STIR)