Kalo is utilitarian elegance reborn, a classic brought into modern times. To be used at home, in a boardroom, in a restaurant. Single or grouped together over tables, bar counters, in lofty lobbies. Axel Bjurström has adapted the cobblers lamp to contemporary times. The lamp has been refined with a clear-cut simplicity where the bulb and shade together create a gentle downward-directed light. The luminous glow will allow for a play of light and shadows, the dimmable LED will adjust to any need. The shade can be slid out horizontally for cleaning or a new light bulb: just lift the top and take the conical shade out. The frosted glass emits a soft light circle for a book, a flower, and a whole workplace. Kalo is perfectly suited for work and leisure: a pragmatically functional and an aesthetically radiant embellisher.
‘Use three or more along a bar counter, or a single solitaire at home, all in all for warm and welcoming atmosphere,’ suggests Axel Bjurström. ‘The theme is all about straightforwardness: the lampshade, the cup for the bulb holder, the textile suspension cord.’ The lampshade is made in sand blasted clear pressed glass that is much stronger and more durable than the original cobbler’s lamp. The cup is available in either white or black along with the same colors for the textile suspension cord.
While light is a quintessential necessity of life, it is especially so in the northern hemisphere where lamp designs abound. The cobblers lamp has been a fixture in Scandinavian cities and countryside homes and workshops since the electrification in the late 19th century, it was one of the first electric lamps to be mass-produced as a substitution for its kerosene forerunner. Axel Bjurströms modernized version retains the exact graphic profile while reducing the old design to its essential charm. The removable shade can even be cleaned in a dishwasher if needed.
The simplicity of Kalo does away with any unnecessary decoration. ’The pendant is much easier to handle,’ explains Axel Bjurström, ’Kalo will fit in any modern setting while keeping the bond to the past.’ A classic brought into modern times, Kalo is with its 21-centimeter diameter right in between the original sizes.