Julie Morringello

Title:
Woodhedron

Concept Statement:
The Woodhedron pendant light is inspired by the score-and-fold techniques commonly used with paper and other sheet materials to create crystal polyhedral forms. 

In this case, the material employed is real wood. What makes the score-and-fold technique possible with wood is a unique material which incorporates a micro-thin layer of plastic between two sheets of FSC Certified veneer.  This unusual lamination process allows the thin plywood to be scored and folded without breaking, much like paper.

Wood is an excellent choice for contemporary lighting.  When lit from within, its grain pattern becomes beautifully defined, and its translucency adds a welcome warmth and softness to the often cold light of an LED or CFL bulb.

The prototype I’ve submitted to this competition was cut and scored by hand; I am currently investigating the use of a die-less knife cutting process, which would help lower production costs.  This part of the design process can be quite challenging for an independent designer, as it relies on the willingness of fabricators to experiment with tooling and to take on low-volume jobs. The opportunity to connect with an interested manufacturer would be very welcome.

Project Specs:
Dimensions: 19” wide x 17 tall”

Materials: .025” thick specialty maple plywood, electrical components

Fabrication Technique: the prototype was hand cut and scored; in production it would be digitally diecut and scored.  Assembly is by done by hand using fast-bondingcyanoacrylate glue.

Bio:
Trained as both a fine woodworker and an industrial designer, I have worked simultaneously in both fields for many years, building furniture and sculpture in my fully equipped studio, while also designing products for manufacture.
 
In 2011, I decided to merge my diverse skills to create a company focused on contemporary lighting. 
 
My lighting blends my knowledge of functional design and manufacturing processes with a love of materials, self-expression and expert craftsmanship.
 
All of my work is designed and assembled locally; select components are lasercut or CNC routed as close to home as possible.

URL:
www.modernmaine.com

Country of Origin:
Stonington, USA