Inspired by spinning Yo-Yo. In 1994, Meiric masterfully captures childlike innocence in his creation of the JOJO pendant. Looking like a musical note on a pentagram, users are able to adjust the wire length swiftly by pulling its oblate lampshade up-and-down to generate a lighting scenario with some personal touch.
“How is it made?” From time to time we get questions like that.
Physically, the basic principles of pulleys inhibit many mechanical advantages – i.e., redirecting the force required to lift an object – to keep the shade balanced while sliding up-and-down along the track. Yet there exist limitations that can be caused by live electrical parts resulting in complex structure as we can see in general lighting designs. Meiric had seen the functionality of pulleys being applied on lighting, as well as the need of reducing unnecessary complexities.
Basic principles bring peace to the world
Like a spinning yo-yo, the cable height can be easily adjusted by holding the opal mouth-blown glass shade and sliding vertically; And the shade will remain steady when the hand is off. The key to keeping the shade still and steady is dependent on the counter weight. In the oblate spheroid, the counter weight successfully balances the uneven thickness of each mouth-blown glass.
The coefficient of friction between the wire and the pulley is also a variable that must be taken into account. With another set of fixed pulleys under the canopy, it absorbs over-weighted glass shades. So users are able to pull it down for more luminance while reading or working, or push it up for ambience.
▲ JOJO fixed pulleys
The tinned copper braided wire of JOJO has also had an instrumental effect, not just on electric conduction and aesthetic consideration with its delicateness, but also how the bare wire works finely with the pulley because of its strength and flexibility. Never should you worry about the lamp shorting out when wires go twist, as soon as an overcurrent is detected, the overload protection will break the circuit temporarily and return to normal operation.
▲ JOJO tinned copper braided wire
▲ JOJO was redesigned to LED light source in 2017.
Yesterday once more
“Guess what, the oblate spheroid counter weight is literally my original idea.” says Meiric randomly. JOJO has been welcomed for decades, along with the technology development of LED, in 2017 it was redesigned replacing halogen with LED light source and brought this alive. The new JOJO not only has the appearance neatly aligned with the designer’s desire, the LED light source within JOJO is highly efficient compared to the power consumed, with a lifetime of more than 50,000 hours lasting for a long time.
▲ JOJO LED
Debuted in 2004, CHINA table lamp was renowned for its sophisticated finishing, revealing the hand-brushed antique copper edge. Another distinctive feature is its low-key but playful DJ Dimmer switch.
DJ Dimmer is one of the designer’s wacky inventions. Once upon a time, designer Meiric and his Danish clients Carsten and Christian sat on the floor engrossed in a deep discussion in the sample room. While Meiric was playing with a lamp in hands, an idea occurred to him: “what if a lamp switch could be operated like DJ’s with their turntables, to control brightness by scratching? What fun that would be!” So he immediately took to his drawing board and sketched the concept out on paper.
Thanks to great team work with R&D engineers hashing out their theory, the DJ Dimmer has gradually taken shape. Mechanical construction with emphasis on durability over electronic parts took emphasis. The mountain shaped base inlays, with central and outer arc gears transmit to the VR-dimmers, so when rotating the base clockwise, the light would gradually turn on. This intuitive operation creates almost a rhythm of light.
However, when it comes to production, there are challenges one after another. For instance, how to accurately simulate the gears transmission and obtain a smooth result? How to prevent the base from tilting while in operation, or even set up a consistent haptic feedback of each lamp base?
Being obsessed with detail oriented operation, the R&D team has considered all these issues pursuing accurate gears transmission.
Horizontally, the angle of rotation has been set 120 degrees for user-friendly concern from off to full brightness. Each DJ Dimmer construction has been carefully set up like a skilled watchmaker, by determining gear ratio precisely and assembling the gears into the right position with jigs and fixtures. Vertically, in the middle of the dimmer plates a double row angular contact ball bearing is mounted, in order to control the up-and-down vibration tolerance to less than 1 mm. Each lamp is 100% tuned up and tested before packing for the consistency of operation feedback.
▲ CHINA LED Table Lamp
When the development of the construction is almost done, Meiric comes up with the last question: ”Will it be durable enough over time?” Thankfully, through repeated testing, we have proved it can be rotated up to 23,000 times at least. In other words, it can last 20 years even if you play with it on a daily basis!
Many years ago, Meiric visited Florence and was intrigued by the “Jersey Barrier”, a modular concrete employed to separate lanes of traffic, that stood in the middle of the square. The delicate work of the fence amazed him and broke his stereotype against “cement objects”. While he was impressed, a bold idea occurred to him: “Is it possible to use cement as a material for lighting?”
That’s where it all began the following cement materials experiment for over two years.
A period of innovation and experimentation with new techniques
At that time, you could never see a cement lamp in the market, every experimental idea was an adventure. At the beginning it was even difficult to reach a breakthrough making the cement strong enough to avoid cracking. After a series of failures, the R&D team turned to looking for a composite material. In a series of approaches eventually coming up with a formula and appropriate temperature that effectively accelerated the concrete curing and crystallized in this way encloses the aggregate particles and produces a dense material , ensuring its comprehensive and impact strengths by a critical 40-degree impact test. The mold, on the other hand, is hand-made with inner high-precision silicone rubber + outer plaster for easy demolding and for giving that delicate and smooth texture.
Before they were
In addition to material innovation, another key factor to make this work is the production process management.
The mixed cement has to be evacuated by vacuum machine to 6~8 cmHg (Centimetres of mercury, while the atmospheric pressure is 76 cmHg). After the machine stops stirring, the concrete material begins to solidify. At this time, the master has to precisely control the timing and volume of the grout, keeping it slow, and focusing on every detail, while filling into the mold. Any tiny slip-up in this stage may result in unwanted imperfections such as cracks or holes.
In order to prevent the shade from cracking by dramatical change of temperature and humidity, there is a wash-and-soak procedure extending the dry-up period. The cement crystallized in this way encloses the aggregate particles and produces a dense material. Each piece is gently hand washed and polished by P600 sandpaper back and forth one at a time and carefully wiped and patted dry., and it is then removed outdoor 5-7 days for drying. A cement lampshade is officially completed.
▲ CASTLE S
“ From dawn to dusk, people are naturally attracted by the change of the sky. For this very reason, I created a fixture that channels the natural brightness from outside,” – MD
Symbolizing the Sun, the APOLLO collection features a large LED light source with sun-like warmth to create a relaxing living space. Among them, the floor lamp is equipped with progressive dimming function, whether it is mimicking the bright morning light, afternoon sunlight, or elegant moonlight, all of which can be collected in one room everyday.
Handmade surface polishing
In efforts to re-create the notion of the sun, each APOLLO boasts an impressive 550mm diameter lampshade. This one solid piece is formed with a 3mm thickness of aluminum plate. The exterior of the shade takes shape gradually through the repeated brushing and polishing process performed by our skilled craftsmen. This arduous process eliminates surface ripples caused from the spinning. The challenge is that the inner shade cannot be machined because of its concave, and instead it must be carefully hand brushed with a 600-grit sandpaper until the surface is smooth to perfection. The coloring process entails a by 2-3 spray-painting steps to complete the exquisitely flawless workpiece.
As warm as sunlight
While inner lampshade polishing usually not being done, the “indirect light” of APOLLO, in which the light emitted by a source is diffusely reflected, requires a more critical roughness standard on its inside surface. As long as there exists any bumps or traces of alien material, obvious shadows will be generated when light is on.
Development on intangible light
The way light reflects is so unpredictable, it took the team 15 months to focus on the end result. In the initial development phase, there was shadow around the edge of the shade, whereas the simplest solution by downing the light source would result in offending the eyes. Making the impossible possible is what drives the team here. Through a series of experiments cross-matching the different configuration, high-efficiency and heat sink performance of light sources and the options of diffuser material, the best solution was finalized with the key factor – 42 deg. beam angle – to soften the light gradually as beautifully warm as sunset.
▲ APOLLO MEGA Floor lamp
This year, we are celebrating our 30th anniversary with an emotional tribute to our traditions of iconic design, light quality, and detailed craftsmanship. And, this book records the path of partnerships and crafting memories over the past 30 years.
光氛，是生活中的獨特素材；人們，始終是開始的理由。
Coordination
Cachéxl
_
Art direction, graphic design
Dou, Ye Cin
Chang, Huan Rou
Wang, Sheng wen
_
Editor
Chen, Yu Chen
Wei, Hung jui
Wu, Wen Ting
Kuo, Yen Hsi
_
Translator
The Calling Creative Arts
_
Photography
Hey!Cheese Jamie Lo
Kevin Hsiao
_
Furniture
Fonur co., Ltd.
As SEED reaches the age of thirty and embraces the next generation with maturity, we wish to write and share the story of SEED before and after the accomplishments. Through the dialogue between two generations, we will open every capsule buried deep within the sands of time, forming a beautiful connection between you, us, and light.
Meiric（”MD”）
As the leader of SEED, Meiric has the right to be strong-willed more than anyone, which is usually grounded in years of experience, wisdom, and insight, as well as the “I want it this way” attitude. His confidence may have come from the perseverance and courage to press on when that was the only option back then.
Jen（“J”）
SEED ties to many pivotal moments in Jen’s life. When she was little, she helped with packaging at the production line. After graduating from university, Jen wanted to be a social worker. But she later decided to work for the company and help it grow. Jen is a deeply compassionate person. She cares for those around her and every family through the warmth of SEED’s lights.
Up until now, which qualities does SEED pay most attention to?
J：Going back to the previous question, besides appearance, practicality, and interactivity, we pay even more attention to lighting quality (optics) now. This is what we have focused on in the past two years. The most basic thing about lighting quality is if the lighting is offending under normal conditions, as glare will definitely make you physically uncomfortable. Emotionally, does it make you feel warm and relaxed when you come home at night? During the day, does its style match the room? This is also related to the color design of the product.
Color design is not just about whatever the designer prefers. We need to pay attention to the current interior space trends and see which colors are comfortable for everyday life.
MD：I am much older than you guys, so my eyes are more sensitive to lighting quality. A few years ago, I visited foreign distributors and saw the lighting atmosphere of leading brand products, and I was really shocked. Although we are still growing, we need to have the vision of a leader. So now, when we launch new products, I always imagine we are competing with these premium brands. For example, the lighting of the APOLLO and SQUARE are top-notch.
How does “lighting” affect the rituals in our lives?
J：Besides the on and off switches, our bodies and minds have revolved around the sun since time immemorial. In the past, when there were no electric lamps, people knew they should rest when they saw the dim light of sunset. The use of lighting should also follow the changes of sunlight to signal the body to switch gears.
MD：Light is associated with our health and emotions. For example, many people recommend melatonin. Also, fine dining restaurants usually put a lot of effort into the lighting atmosphere to make you feel relaxed so you can enjoy the atmosphere, meal, and the person you are dining with.
J：Enjoy the meal while eating, chat with your family while hanging out together, concentrate while working. ( MD：I really like this point ). This in itself is a form of meditation. The information we receive every day is too cluttered. A lot of people cannot focus on what is happening at the moment, even when they are at home, which causes arguments and upset feelings in the family. I think the reason for all this is because people have neglected the essence of life. I hope that we can help people find their way back through lights so they can learn to enjoy their time at home, and the lamp placed in the workspace can help them focus on their work.
“ The purpose of light is to help us return to the essence of life and focus on one thing at a time. ” – Jen
▲ Photo Credit ：23Design
Is there anything you want to say about SEED turning thirty? Which brand do you look up to?
MD：I actually do not have much to say. I just feel that I have gotten older. I read Tagore’s poems a while ago, and there is a line that describes how I feel: “I leave no trace of wings in the air, but I am glad I have had my flight.” Looking back on the last thirty years, I have had my flight, and that is what I want to say from the bottom of my heart.
J：I did not think too much about the “age” at first. But on reflection, there aren’t many companies that are still around after thirty years. Now, we think about what more we can do for ourselves, the employees, clients, and customers. I still focus on the same job, and I will do it for as long as I can. I hope the seed will grow into a tree and expand into a forest.
MD：What Jen is talking about is staying true to ourselves. We will move forward according to our “way” but also “keep our ears open” to the market and the people around us. Wanting to help others is a very important attitude to have.
J：I think it is harder to be yourself in Chinese culture than in the West. We cannot just “be ourselves” all we want in this cultural atmosphere that has been shaped over a long period of time. Sometimes, I wish to pass on this message to many others through SEED. We are now in a place where we are comfortable with sharing our joy. This also reflects the way I feel now. In my salad days, I wanted to prove myself with all I got, afraid of falling behind. But now, I can handle things with ease instead of trying so hard to prove something. Just let your true values and personalities shine through.
There are definitely more challenges to come. But I think people will never stop “picturing the perfect home.”
As SEED reaches the age of thirty and embraces the next generation with maturity, we wish to write and share the story of SEED before and after the accomplishments. Through the dialogue between two generations, we will open every capsule buried deep within the sands of time, forming a beautiful connection between you, us, and light.
Meiric（”MD”）
As the leader of SEED, Meiric has the right to be strong-willed more than anyone, which is usually grounded in years of experience, wisdom, and insight, as well as the “I want it this way” attitude. His confidence may have come from the perseverance and courage to press on when that was the only option back then.
Jen（“J”）
SEED ties to many pivotal moments in Jen’s life. When she was little, she helped with packaging at the production line. After graduating from university, Jen wanted to be a social worker. But she later decided to work for the company and help it grow. Jen is a deeply compassionate person. She cares for those around her and every family through the warmth of SEED’s lights.
What is the most memorable moment of the brand so far?
MD：When I first started the company, the business could not keep up. Then, I met Hans, a Danish distributor. He suggested that I make small glass pendants, which is why SEED ventured into glass lamps. However, the glass lamp market back then was not the same as today. This was the turning point that brought the company back to life. Hans also gave me suggestions on the content of the design and business model. You can say that SEED evolved with Hans. It was not until the financial crisis of 2008 when European life values changed dramatically that our company went through another transition.
J：The most memorable moment was my first trip to Hong Kong for an exhibition. I was only twenty-two and still an assistant at the time, so all I did was introduce the products. But since it was my first business trip abroad, and there were so many people at the exhibition, I felt that our brand was very popular, which somehow made me very confident.
The most touching moment was the opening of the Hsinchu store in 2018. We opened a store in Hsinchu because we believed it had a lot of opportunities. Also, the owner of the local furniture shop was so enthusiastic and kept on inviting us to go there. That was the first time I felt someone really looked forward to SEED opening a local shop. That year was also ten years since I came to the company. We started to shape a new style for the brand and determine the standard we wanted to achieve.
▲ 2021 Design Shanghai
▲ Hsinchu Brand Store
What is the biggest change about the design process in the company?
MD：I feel like a child who has grown up. We handle everything from upstream to downstream. We are pioneers in this field to a certain degree. It is all a process of trying new things. In the past, we had to put out a new product at the same time every year, which made me anxious. But the design is something I am least worried about now, especially after Jen joined us, and the team started to develop a decision-making process for products. I used to be the one to give the green light, but it is not like that anymore. Now, we all take a look at the designs and have a discussion, though I still make the final decision. However, everyone has a say in the process, and I think this is a change for the better.
J：In terms of product design, when I first joined the company, the domestic sales were still centered on export sales and the opinions of foreign buyers. But now, we need to obtain more information about retail customers, which requires certain tools and then making a decision based on MD’s experience. However, there must be a balance between design and market opinion to meet the demand without limiting creativity.
MD：In other words, customer opinions matter but are not the be-all and end-all. Sometimes, I just want it that way! I am strong-willed, and this has always been my style. Many foreign clients have commented that “your products are too ahead of their time” but I think it is great to be ahead. Take cement as an example. Decades ago, you would have never known that you could make lamps out of cement if you only listened to the market opinions. Sometimes, you just have to follow your instinct and show customers what makes you different.
“ To make products that are not on the market is why we can enjoy the sweet rewards. ” – MD
▲ UFO makes its own debut in Europe on 1992.
What is a “good design”? Why is it important in our lives?
J：A good design must be beautiful and practical. Besides these two qualities, it must also be interesting and interactive. There are a lot of beautiful and practical products on the market, which are nothing new to us. But without interaction, they can sometimes be a little boring. Also, the supply exceeds demand in this day and age, which is why we often ask ourselves: “If customers do not buy this lamp, what difference will it make to them? Do they have better options?” Sometimes, we even ask: “Is it better not to provide than to provide?”
Besides having a good design, we want the product to be durable. This falls in line with environmental protection because making a product very durable so it can last ten years is, in a way, protecting the environment. We will not discuss high-end green materials now because a lot of green materials are not necessarily more durable than traditional metals or fiber-reinforced plastics. This goes back to our philosophy—good products are durable, and you do not have to search for other ones on the market when their time is up. Therefore, SEED’s marketing strategy is not to bombard customers, as if we are the only option. But the longer you use our products, the more you will recognize their importance.
“ Life is complicated. If a product helps users back to the basics to make their lives better, it is a good design. ” – Jen
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