Consumers have been a bit more conscious about the materials that are used in the items that they buy. This also means that product designers, well at least those that love the planet, are also thinking about how they design their items and what kind of materials can be recycled and upcycled.
The WA table lamp is a striking example of upcycling and timeless design, created by Akasaki & Vanhuyse using rescued train strap handles from Tokyo’s iconic Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 series. These trains rolled through the city for decades before retiring in January 2023, leaving behind a treasure trove of about 1,400 white resin ring handles that once supported countless commuters. Instead of fading into obscurity, these rings have been lovingly transformed into a limited edition of just 150 lamps, each one telling a unique story of Tokyo’s vibrant daily life.
Designer:
The lamp’s design draws inspiration from the original white color and distinctive circular form of the train handles. For each lamp, nine of these reused rings are stacked with small, deliberate gaps that allow light to softly filter through, creating a gentle glow that feels both modern and nostalgic. The rings themselves are carefully sandblasted to clean their surfaces and give them a durable, soft matte finish. Rather than hiding the wear and tear from years of use, Akasaki & Vanhuyse have chosen to preserve each scratch and dent, so every lamp displays a subtle, crackled effect that celebrates the rings’ first life aboard the train.
Stainless steel mirrored legs support the stacked rings and bring a sense of order and harmony to the lamp’s overall look. The metal is rust-resistant, ensuring that the lamp is built to last, while also making it easy to take apart at the end of its life. Every detail has been considered with longevity and sustainability in mind, from the use of reclaimed materials to the local assembly process.
The result is a lamp that feels both industrial and refined, equally at home in a minimalist living space, a collector’s shelf, or a cozy reading nook. It’s a true statement piece for anyone who loves design with a story or values objects that tread lightly on the planet. The WA table lamp is a daily reminder of the beauty that can be found in everyday objects and the creative possibilities of upcycling.
Collectors and design lovers will appreciate that the edition is strictly limited, making each lamp as rare as it is meaningful. Whether you are drawn to its understated Japanese aesthetic, its sustainable story, or its subtle nod to Tokyo’s bustling train culture, the WA table lamp is sure to spark conversation and admiration.
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