New York-based designer Steffany Tran is the founder of the studio Vy Voi and it recently unveiled the captivating Rễ Cây collection. This capsule came to fruition after the designer explored deeper into the contradictions that exist in the design itself. She crafts the light capsule that connects to her Vietnamese heritage and highlights how disparate elements can elevate one another when together.
Rễ Cây translates to 'root' in Vietnamese and the capsule is comprised of five table lamps. "Sắn (Cassava) Light, Cà-rốt (Carrot) Light, Củ Cải (Radish) Light, Khoai Môn (Taro) Light, and Củ Đậu (Jicama) Light."
Trần speaks about the design and how it connects to her culture, stating “With the long-term goal of working more closely with Vietnamese materials, I discovered Dó paper in my research and became enamored. The paper is truly the leading character in this design. It’s my hope that by centering this historic paper into a contemporary design context, we’ll be able to not only spotlight Vietnamese history but the paper’s potential as a design material for generations to come.”
Image Credit: Steffant Tran, Vy Voi
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Heritage-infused Lighting
- Vy Voi's Rễ Cây collection highlights how integrating cultural heritage into contemporary design brings unique aesthetic and storytelling dimensions to functional items.
- Material-centric Design
- The use of Dó paper in lighting design emphasizes the potential of traditional materials in modern applications, creating a blend of historical significance and innovative utility.
- Contradictory Elements Synergy
- The Rễ Cây collection showcases how combining seemingly disparate elements can result in elevated and harmonious design outcomes.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Interior Design
- Incorporating cultural and historical elements into modern design can create distinctive and meaningful spaces.
- Sustainable Materials
- Exploring traditional materials like Dó paper for contemporary use can drive sustainability and innovation in material selection.
- Artisanal Lighting
- Crafting lighting solutions that blend heritage and modernity offers a niche market for consumers seeking unique and culturally infused products.
