Marble seems to be the it-material of designers in the last couple of years, often used in unexpected contexts and paired with surprisingly modern, clean design language. We hardly see any examples that take reference to the historic applications of the material, while the novelty-factor empties out easily. New-York based studio Apparatus is known for their contemporary homeware accessories spiced up with some subtle vintage-y twist. The starting point of their designs process is always the material: they examine its qualities, history, application possibilities, and define shapes, forms, and further design concepts only afterwards.



When turning to marble, they were inspired by its archaic quality which is due to its strength and permanence. As often used for building purposes especially in sacred places, the designers decided to hit a ceremonial tone, and created a collection inspired by accessories used at holy services. Before picturing something extraordinarily ornate, let’s make it clear that the two pieces of Neo Marble operate with simple, cleaned-up lines.



The lantern consists of a glass orb, sitting on a conical marble base, the two separated by a simple brass strip. Housing a single candle, the lamp omits a moderate, soft glow. The lamp is available in either black or white marble, and in two sizes.



The other piece from the collection is a bowl, available also in two colours but only one size. It is composed of a brass inner part embedded in marble, resting on an urn-like marble base which can be detached, so the bowl can stand on its own.



The combination of materials with the subtle glow of the lantern, paired with the occasional smoke rising from its middle definitely carry an archaic, almost occultic feel, that gives a fresh twist to the marble-overdosed current design scene.






Source: Dezeen