This 3D-printed pendant lamp is inspired by the structure of brain coral. It is covered in a landscape of ridges and valleys that transmit different amounts of light when illuminated, creating a striking pattern of stripes when illuminated.

We created the form by simulating reaction-diffusion, a process where two chemicals diffuse across a surface and react with one another to form stable patterns. This process has be used by scientists and mathematicians to explain the intricate patterns found on the skin of many types of animals, from the spots of leopards to the radiating stripes of angelfish. Growing a pattern with different parameters can produce dramatically different results.

Here, we orchestrated a pattern that twists elegantly towards the base of the lamp where it terminates in a gentle spiral. Lines diverge and converge along the contours of the sphere, blanketing the surface in many deep grooves. We think the pattern recalls the forms of sand dunes and hard corals.

The lamp is 3d printed by means of Selective Laser Sintering at the largest size possible, 13.5 inches. We can supply the lamp with a plug in cord or a canopy kit for hard-wiring. Please let us know which you prefer.

Looking for the smaller version of this lamp? Check out the Reaction Lamp - small.