RETROCORE is a modular lighting system designed by Arthur Koshatahyan and Kostya Trunov of WOLOLOW. RETROCORE consists of square light panels that can be arranged on walls or ceilings in custom configurations. The system includes two panel types:
MONO, which features a single illuminated opening, and QUATRO, which contains four illuminated apertures within the same format. Users can combine multiple panels to create installations that range from a single accent light to larger architectural compositions. The design draws visual inspiration from Space Age design and mid-century futurism.
The system is intended to function as a flexible lighting platform rather than a fixed fixture. Panels can be expanded, rearranged, or reconfigured as interior needs change. White versions of the modules can also be painted after installation to match surrounding walls or ceilings. RETROCORE evolved from WOLOLOW’s earlier UFO-shaped night light inspired by the Futuro House designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen.
Modular Space-Age Lighting
RETROCORE Uses Modular Panels to Create Custom Light Installations
Trend Themes
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Modular Lighting Systems — A move toward reconfigurable square panels that scale from accent pieces to architectural compositions enables adaptable illumination strategies across changing interior programs.
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Configurable Architectural Panels — The proliferation of interchangeable wall and ceiling modules offers opportunities for surfaces to integrate lighting, acoustics, and finish personalization as a single design layer.
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Retro-futurist Design Revival — Renewed interest in Space-Age and mid-century futurism creates demand for lighting products that marry nostalgic aesthetics with contemporary modular functionality.
Industry Implications
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Interior Design — Specifiers and studios can leverage modular panels to create customizable mood, wayfinding, and branded environments without relying on fixed fixtures.
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Commercial Real Estate — Flexible tenants and adaptable workspace trends increase the value of lighting systems that can be reconfigured with tenant turnover or program shifts.
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Lighting Manufacturing — Producers of luminaires may see potential in platform-based products that support interchangeable modules, finish customization, and integration with control systems.