Transforming Discarded Transit into Luminous Art: The WA Lamp Story
A Vision for Sustainable Design and Upcycling Innovation
The WA table lamp, conceived by the London-based studio Akasaki & Vanhuyse for Tokyu Corporation's commitment to ecological stewardship, represents a groundbreaking achievement in sustainable product creation. This limited-edition luminary ingeniously reclaims approximately 1,400 resin strap handles from the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500 series trains, which were decommissioned in January 2023. These previously utilitarian components are meticulously transformed into 150 individually hand-assembled lighting pieces, illustrating a profound design-centric approach to repurposing that honors the material's past and significantly diminishes waste.
The Artistry of Form and Function: Crafting the WA Lamp's Distinctive Aesthetic
The lamp's striking sculptural shade is composed of nine sandblasted rings, precisely arranged with minimal spacing to cast a soft, diffused light. A key design philosophy behind WA is the deliberate retention of surface imperfections—such as scratches, dents, and the natural patina—which are integrated to create a unique, crackle-glaze effect, celebrating the individual history embedded within each ring. Complementing this, gracefully curved stainless-steel legs subtly echo the original contours of the train straps, while custom laser-cut mirrored bolts add a sophisticated Art-Deco flair, ensuring both robust construction and enduring artisanal quality.
A Commitment to Environmental Stewardship: Production and Longevity
Environmental responsibility is woven into every phase of the WA lamp's creation. Each repurposed ring undergoes a thorough cleaning process, is carefully assessed for its unique characteristics, and then evenly distributed across the entire production run, ensuring a harmonious balance between individuality and consistent quality. All metallic elements are fabricated from stainless steel, chosen for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability. Furthermore, the design inherently supports straightforward disassembly, facilitating the reclamation and recycling of components at the end of the lamp's lifecycle. Local artisans in Tokyo manage the collection, sorting, assembly, and packaging of each lamp, utilizing recyclable, vapor-coated paper to minimize transportation impacts and overall waste. The WA lamp's compact yet adaptable form makes it suitable for diverse settings, from contemporary offices to cozy homes or even station waiting areas, standing as a testament to the fact that upcycled design can achieve both commercial success and lasting aesthetic appeal.