Fragmentos de Mar is an exhibition by Studio Davidpompa created using discarded shells sourced from Contramar. The installation marks the second collaboration between the lighting studio and the restaurant and was presented in Davidpompa’s showroom inside a historic building in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City. More than 800 kilograms of shells were collected, representing nearly all the shellfish and oysters consumed at Contramar over a six-month period.
The exhibition includes a lighting collection composed of wall sconces, pendants, table lamps, and a suspended statement piece. Each fixture is formed using a composite material made from crushed shells, paired with high-gloss metallic components that contrast with the muted red tones of the shell material.
The showroom was reconfigured using ochre-colored crates originally used for oyster transport, stacked to form temporary walls. Framed panels display samples of the shell composite, including a sequence showing different stages of material development. Pendant lights illuminate pedestals holding raw shells, while additional framed fragments are mounted throughout the space.
Image Credit: David Pompa Studio
What's Driving This Trend
- Sustainable Design Materials
- Innovative use of discarded shells in lighting design highlights an opportunity to develop eco-friendly materials by repurposing waste.
- Biomaterial Lighting
- The transformation of natural waste into functional lighting solutions showcases potential for creating sustainable and aesthetically pleasing design elements.
- Circular Economy Exhibitions
- Purposeful exhibitions that utilize waste materials offer a platform to raise awareness and demonstrate the viability of a circular economy in design.
Who This Affects Most
- Lighting Design Industry
- New lighting products incorporating sustainable materials like shells pave the way for eco-friendly innovations in the lighting sector.
- Interior Design Industry
- Utilizing composite materials derived from natural waste fosters a unique approach to sustainable interior aesthetics and decor.
- Sustainable Building Materials Industry
- The creation of decorative elements from composite natural waste materials drives the development of environmentally friendly building components.
