The Story Behind Space - Vision to Luminaire

Learn from designer and Architect, Morten Hove Lasthein, as NEO sits down to discuss how Space’s thoughtful design, new lighting principles, and sculptural form came together.

NEO: What was the goal when developing SPACE?

Morten Hove Lasthein: We wanted to create a post top that has a direct lighting LED board that delivers very effective light output from a tall pole with maximum pole spacing while still being a comfortable experience for people.

We also wanted an adaptable post top that appeared visually harmonious on both short and tall poles. This inspired the circular lens shape. Looking slim from the front and gradually larger from below when mounted higher up.

NEO: Can you share about the design process for SPACE?

Morten Hove Lasthein: Space is the latest luminaire AART Designers designed with F-L Lighting. Simplicity is the essence of Space, based upon the interaction between form and function. The result is a unique design where the light from the compact LED source spreads with the help of rings and circular elements in a precise and harmonic composition.

NEO: What is the innovation you developed to combat glare from LEDs?

Morten Hove Lasthein: The benefit of LEDs compared with other light sources, is particularly their low energy consumption. As is often the case when turning to new technology, there are new challenges to handle, and in the case of LED, uncomfortable glare is one of them. LEDs are extremely bright due to their small size and powerful light-A really hard contrast on the eye. To control and tame LEDs to make them less glaring can be a difficult but nevertheless essential and an exciting challenge for us.

Considering many parameters, ambitions, and goals. We decided to develop a completely new lighting principle for SPACE.
SPACE was developed based on the goal of elevating LED technology and expanding the small, sharp point of light into a larger and more pleasant light surface. We achieved this by combining direct, indirect and shielded light in circular shapes and rings.

NEO: What is the meaning behind the name, SPACE?

Morten Hove Lasthein: The overall ambition behind the luminaire was to make spaces in the city for people. Safe and comfortable spaces for people to live. It’s simple though articulated form — an interplay of glowing circular rings — not only enhances the environment but could also evoke some futuristic space references, giving the name a charming twist.