Through metallurgy, forging and shaping technologies, mankind has transformed various kinds of mines into hardwares in life with an alchemist touch. In order to make the objects more exquisite and durable, the essentials of metals have been continuously expired with new processes of technology by artisans across generations. 

Metals have become an integral and ubiquitous part of the SEED design aesthetic, from raw casting to surface treatment, what are the processes completing a piece of work? In which steps require great skill from dedicated artisans to perform with? In this article we are going to reveal the precision and accuracy hidden in the details.

“ Everything in its right place ”

Material Selecting & Forming

In SEED, carbon steel, aluminum and copper are often used on the products proform. While in the design process, engineers who have solid mechanical knowledge get involved together applying the right materials according to the physical properties, to approach the original design concept.

“ An uncut gem goes not sparkle ”

Welding & Polishing

“Being detail-oriented in design” is consistently self-demanding of SEED.

It’s really common to see the frames and tubes in SEED collections. The key to performing the seamless connection of joints is the finely welding and carefully engineered preliminary process. Each component has been hand-held and polished by various particles of high-speed grinding wheel back and forth. Gradually the surface becomes more and more smooth with the shiny sparkle flashes around. What we are looking for is to give it that real craftsmanship look, ensuring the neatness for the following surface treatment plating or painting.

▲ Symbolising the fortitude of rocks, each shade of Zhe is hand-folded and welded to perform the irregular sharp lines.

“ Fine feathers make fine birds ”

Surface Treatment

Surface treatment has had an instrumental effect, not just on anti-oxidation prolonging the lifetime, but also on how the products are designed in response to the colors and texture demands.

Grinding away the bevels and burrs to realize its essential feature of the metal and coloring on that, a Seed lamp was borned. We simplified our products to the finest, and discarded all unwanted decoration, weaving every lifestyle for homes.

After a long wait from March to November, Design Shanghai finally came to a successful conclusion at the end of this uncertain year 2020.

2020 has been a tough year, the world has faced many unexpected challenges.
And yet, still, we keep on creating new designs of lights. Together we face the long night side by side, waiting for dawn breaking and the sunshine.

The unique interactive structure is one of the mouth-watering designs of the SEED luminaires that makes visitors WOW at the show every time.

Thank you everyone for spending time with us in the unpredictable 2020. It is our honor to count and share new series of works with you. The smile and feedback you have been giving are always motivations that make us more determined to move forward.

Stay safe and healthy, we’ll see you again in 2021!

Spirited Light

Most impression about lamps is a quiet and settled home fitting, we believe it can be more than that. The flexible luminaire can be set exactly to suit your needs.

Relationship Between People and Light

In our daily lives, we derive comfort, peace, and warmth from light. In addition to our stance on design aesthetics, the direct relationship between the object and people is the first factor that we take into account.

Practical Simplicity

SEED Design Director Meiric, who has solid mechanics background, he believes that giving the fixtures adjustable functionality allows for more exploration of lighting scenarios. In addition to making the use of light more intuitive and convenient, it also encourages the users to touch the texture of daily objects and feel an aesthetic sense of spaces.

Thinking outside the box, we aim to endue luminaires an interactive ability, overcoming the obstacle of development by a series of physical experiments, trying to find a perfect balance between function, craftsmanship, and aesthetics. A symphony of light.

Let’s take a look at what we’ve done for all multiple possibilities of movement and shape.

Patented Structural Engineering Innovation

Comprehensive Adjustments

While we are on the subject of flexible adjustment function toward various users scenarios, those SEED classic models will absolutely come to mind: PLANET 、HERCULES and LAITO MEGA . The frequency of human-light interaction can be said to be outstanding among lamps, and the multi-link elements contain in-depth consideration like you had never saw before. SEED products take in account function and usability, that always package with exclusive and patent devices to interact cleverly with user scenario. We offer extraordinary craftsmanship with fine-tuned engineering.

Hidden Extraordinary Craftsmanship in the Fine Details

“Perfection consists in doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.” We offer dedicated craftsmanship with fine-tuned engineering. Every piece is meticulously crafted with ardent passion and stringent ethics.

SOL, launched in 2019 Q3, the cutting-edge design elaborates its details of appearance, function, and innovation, expressing the spirit of SEEDOLOGY we abide by.

The metallic bar in the center is more than just an ornament, it’s a balance device which allows the fixture to be able to change the light angle even after installed. Each installation is unique, the multiple apertures of light are arranged to create an endless galaxy of star shifting atmosphere. Ideally installed in groups of two or three, they rotate to the custom configuration dictated by the size and shape of a space, geometrically emits an ambient light.

Followed by Christmas eve of 2019, the SIRCLE is available in elegant sand gold finishing perfectly combine with warm mouth-blown opal glasses. By flipping the opal shade in and out of the metal frame, the designer succeeds in creating the fantacy of floating milky twilight.

2020 is the year we need love and light more than ever when things are mixed up with the unknown. We groped our way through the fuzzy clouds, as a metaphor, DAWN is the first light for us. By the collaboration between the built-in physical structure “Double Helix” and the optical accessory “Zoom Lens”, the light is able to change the beam angle by zoom in and out. In addition to floodlight and focus, it can also be a wall washer, creating a natural sense of art in the space. As the dark clouds recede and the dawn emerges, DAWN is not only beyond the scope of a lamp, but also enriches the natural mission of a lamp.

Thanks to all guests who attended our launch party, and shared a wonderful afternoon with us in autumn 2020.

As the theme of the year, “UNKNOWN” suggests, we are groping in the unknown and trying to deal with various struggles in business, and the same goes for life.

The party began with opening remarks from the Meiric, the design director, who gave us a small talk sharing his experiences, insights and some interesting stories. How we stood firm in an unfriendly environment and how we turned the corner to keep going while facing many obstacles and odds. Just like his quote of “The Little Big Man” poem by Rabindranath Tagore, the courage of taking challenges has been gradually shaping who we are now, and that absolutely echoes the spirit of breaking through the framework of the unknown.

The next session, let’s get down to new designs and focus on the presentation today.

SEED designers and marketing teams were demonstrating the new collections and conveying the original concepts to the guests.

The world is unpredictable and changing. Stay faithful and positive amongst all the fear, the truly “Big Man” is how we react in tough times.

There is an ever-changing view through the circle frame,

Slowly and silently it changes.

Each unexpected glimpse is all about the touching, beautiful scenery.

Inspired from a unique, oriental, landscaping architecture_ Moon Gate, HUAN was created by the young designer Rou who was attracted by this poetic idea and applied it to her lighting design.

A dialogue between light and space

Eastern aesthetics focuses on the appreciation of the dark— the shadows, the different shades of light. Using the techniques of framing, HUAN brilliantly combines Western geometric composition and the Eastern aesthetics of blank space, presents a gentle and comfortable moment, weaving the boutique-style for homes.

Four calming colors, more choices

In addition to the classic color scheme of black and white, HUAN S is now available in new color combos of olive green + sand gold, and navy blue + copper. The coastal calm colors balance the favorite nooks with peaceful and refreshing vibes.

Create its own vibe

HUAN is transferrable to a wide range of interior elements. It does not scream for attention to be the centerpiece of the room but quietly fits in so many different styles as you can see.

Designer  Chang, Huan Rou

Watch the continuous rising action of sunrise, DWAN emits the first morning light from the sea horizon, bringing us a brand new day. When morning has broken, we can’t help being intoxicated in the ever-changing light.

DAWN PL4

DAWN PL4 collects 4 lamps into a linear suspension, each lamp is individual for flexible beam angle and light direction adjustment by simply rotating the lens shade. No matter focusing the luminaire on the delicacy; Or spread the light evenly creating a suitable reading zone, DAWN PL4 can be set exactly to suit your needs.

DAWN P1 / DAWN PR1（The tube version）

DAWN P1 can be multiple used to various user scenarios, for dining table, the bar table, or just one fitting hang at the bedside. P1 creates countless compositions as a symphony of light. The tube version allows us to position the light direction by moving its body vertically and horizontally.

DAWN WR  / DAWN CW（Ceiling/ Wall）

Besides zoomable beam angle, the wall lamp is equipped with a gradual touch dimmer that provides more flexibility for bedtime reading or entrance corridor when coming back to the sweet home. Ceiling/ Wall lamp is made for dual-purpose, for ceiling usage you are free to project downwards and zoom the light cone, creating an atmospheric space.

DAWN D / DAWN F

The simple yet fully functional table lamp is your ideal partner to complete tasks on the desk, the floor lamp beside the sofa in the living room arouses your cozy mode handily. We’d say DAWN plays multi-roles to accompany every family member in the house.

“Unboxing sometimes is more likely to start a life you always yearn for.”

We are always eager for a better life.  It could be by moving forward to a new place or using good objects to reveal a new page of everyday life. Unboxing could be a magic ritual that stimulates our imagination about life’s possibilities.

Three different light styles with portable and unique features turn on a new life mode for us: Where the light is, where life is.

｜Wanu｜

With a poetic metaphor that touched our emotions from home or memory

Seem like we can hear the moon’s whisper from her wisdom. Under the soft moonlight, she will lead you to the answer that you kept looking for in the daytime. Combine the cement as the lamp base and the beautiful streamline to reinterpret the classic table lamp years ago. The lovely opal glass hung there feels like soft moonlight spreading its kindness toward the city.

｜OLO Φ ｜

More freedom to play with the light

Inspired by the diameter symbol Φ, OLO got a new family member with a U-band frame. Multiple possibilities of movement, OLO Φ gives more freedom to play with, easy to carry, rotate, and dim. No matter up or toward the wall light for the vibe, or downlight for reading, the direction adjustment is easy and handy by rotating the shade.

｜HOODIE｜ 

The adventurer who braves your world

HOODIE debuted in 2018 with its adorable look and fearless adventurer spirit. Two years later, it’s bringing us new colors: Olive green+Sand gold/ Navy blue+copper which is absolutely eye-popping!

WANU 

Light Source LED 2.5W 2700K CRI 90

Size   L 24.5 cm x W 8.2 cm x H 39 cm

Designer Chen, Chao-Cheng

OLO Φ

Light Source  LED 6.5W 3000K CRI90 415lm

Size   L 19.7 cm x W 13 cm x H 49 cm

Designer  Li, Hui Lun

HOODIE

Light Source  LED 2W 2700K CRI90

Size   L 15.4cm x W 9.75cm x H 13.4cm

Designer  Li, Hui Lun

Cement, known as binding material with a rough texture, is normally used in the realm of architecture since the Roman Times. In 2008, SEED came out with the first idea to utilize cement as a primary material in our lamps, creating an exceptionally exquisite and smooth surface yet maintaining the raw characteristics of it.

Without further ado, let’s explore the craftsmanship as well as the cement lamps we recommend in the SEED line-up.

Preparation：

Mixing

Temperature is the key

In the beginning, the most difficult variable to overcome is Temperature Change. Cement is easily affected by temperature which results in cracks. This poses an added challenge for us given that lamps are inevitably electrical products that generate temperature. Our savvy R&D team tried a variety of formulas that have been thoroughly tested and refined to achieve the strength and toughness required, as well as efficient heat dissipation in the structural design. The end result is a beautiful Cement Lamp that is well suited for varying weather conditions from hot summers to cold winters.

Vacuuming

Getting rid of bubbles

To ensure a fine cement surface, the craftsman will need to tediously vacuum the mixture cement grout via a special vacuum machine. This process is crucial in the prevention of bubbles as well as chipped corners on the edges of the lamp from forming.

0 — 100% LOADING

0 %
Into the mold

“Timing control is crucial, yet the process must be steady and slow.”

After the vacuum 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.

50 % → 60 %
Demold, dry in the shade

“Wait and see, it’s time to uncover.”

Similar to the process in which a cake is baked, the timing of demolding must take place at around 50% – 60% solidification state. The slightest delay may result in an over-dried concrete that is prone to cracks.

When interviewing the Craftsman, we asked the master to slow down his process so we could capture the moment by a film, however, he vehemently objected. With experience and authority, he informed our crew “No, No, No! We cannot delay any longer, not even a few seconds.”

80 %
Wash

Each piece is ever so gently washed by hand, one at a time. With care, the surface of every lampshade is wiped down and carefully patted dry. Each piece is left out to dry slowly in the shade.

When the cement has reached approximately 80% solidification, which feels both moderately soft and hard, the final washing step of the surface beautification process will be carried out. The expert craftsman holds the cement in hand, pouring water on it while washing the fixture back and forth with sandpaper. After the rough texture is gradually eroded, the cement becomes delicate, smooth, and even. At this stage, the production is almost complete.

80 % → 100 %
Sun-dry

“The final step is dependent on the weather.”

With the Washing Phase complete, the next step is air-drying. In this stage, ideal humidity levels are the recipe for success. Previous steps were heavily reliant on the Master’s experience and expertise but this final and very important stage is weather dependent.

In 2008, SEED launched the first cement lamp in the world. Today, the use of cement has become a more common material in the lighting industry. Nevertheless, SEED is proud of our many loyal followers who are still fond of our cement fixtures, because they can still identify the subtle differences as well as enhancements a Seed fixture inhibits in comparison to other counterparts.

Before we close the interview, the last question we asked the Master Craftsman is, “Which step is the most vital in the production of the cement lamp?” It took him a while to contemplate, he paused for a few additional seconds keeping the suspense flowing, and finally he concludes “Umm…. all the steps matter.”

SEEDDESIGN cement lamps recommendation

CASTLE 2008

SEEDDESIGN’s cement lamps give life to an otherwise lack-luster material. The application of cement in the context of lighting preserves the natural textures and characters of this raw material yet has reintroduced this with a softer touch and exquisite appeal.

CASTLE MERMAID 2016

With the Mermaid we have merged contrasting yet complimentary elements, cement with metal, creating for an interesting appeal. The lustrous metal adds a visually bright element in space.

MUSE 2018

Cement combined with the mouth-blown glass, is simple and harmonious. Allow the MUSE to twinkle into the night and allow your surroundings to simply shimmer.

Having a steady frame joined in, that balances the flexible movement of light.

The linear U-band frame holds the 4 of hollow shades, which allows diffusing the light in a gentle, calm, and graceful way.

For wall lamp and ceiling lamp, their lampshade is softly embraced by the ring-frame, which leaves the users spontaneity to revolves both round the ring and on its own axis.

With the 290-degree rotating shade, OLO Φ D subtly adapts to a variety of usage scenarios while thoughtfully bringing artistic aesthetics to life.

The Saturn-like finely welded U-bend ring embraces the floating and flipping lamps in its arms that served us sufficient warm light as a soft aria.

OLO Φ PL4

Light Source LED 4 x 6.5W 3000K CRI90 1650lm
Size   L 135 cm x W 20 cm x H 5.5 cm

OLO Φ CW

Light Source  LED 6.5W 3000K CRI90 415lm
Size   L 19.7 cm x W 19.7 cm x H 25.5 cm

OLO Φ W

Light Source  LED 6.5W 3000K  CRI90 415lm
Size  L 25.5 cm x W 19.7 cm x H 19.7 cm

OLO Φ D

Light Source    LED 6.5W 3000K CRI90 415lm
Size   L 19.7 cm x W 13 cm x H 49 cm

Designer： Li, Hui Lun

Finally, we released a one-minute short film for the whole collection of SOL, showing its details of appearance, function, and innovation, expressing the spirit of SEEDOLOGY we abide by.

Inspired by star trails in the night sky, Designer Dian combined the metallic luster balance bar and the ring-like lampshade to form a special look of SOL.

SOL L

Light Source  LED 1 x 21W 2700K 802Lm CRI90
Size  L 45cm x W 45cm x H 3.3cm

SOL S

Light Source  LED 1 x 17W 2700K 622Lm CRI90
Size  L 35cm x W 35cm x H 3.3cm

SOL F

Light Source  LED 1 x 21W 2700K 802Lm CRI90
Size  L 200 cm x W 49 cm x H 204 cm

SOL D

Light Source   G9 1 x 3W LED 2700K CRI90
Size   L 14.5 cm x W 16.4 cm x H 30 cm

SOL W

Light Source   LED 1 x 7W 2700K 250Lm CRI90
Size  L 27cm x W 25cm x H 18cm

Designer：Kuo, Keng Dian/Meiric Chen