Vela Table Lamp Designed by new Italian design brand, Mario Alessiani Design Studio, the minimal luminaire is small and simple due to its call for affordability. The desk lamp consists of a tilted L-shaped stand which doubles as a diffuser and partial shade, fitting snug around a cylindrical lamp holder. The metal used to create the luminaire is laser cut then assembled and finished by hand. This approach affords the lamp its clinical, sleek look. The brand’s stance on design, craftsmanship and the technology of metal is evident in their design process as well as finished product.
The luminaire design is stunning on its profile. The functionality of the actual desk lamp appears to be dictated by the design. The position in which the lamp would be most comfortable to use appears to be certain because of the design. The desk lamp is nice to look at but doesn’t seem nice to look at other things with, while it is on.
Thelma Ndebele is an editor at Arch2O and a part-time lecturer at the University of Johannesburg. With a background in architecture and critical spatial research, Thelma’s academic work explores the intersections of urbanism, cultural identity, and public space. Their editorial contributions reflect a commitment to unpacking the socio-political dimensions of architecture, especially within African urban contexts. Through both teaching and writing, Thelma engages with emerging discourse on inclusive design, making them a thoughtful and vital voice in Arch2O’s academic and editorial landscape.