[01]StoryLong-form write-up
The kōwhai (Sophora microphylla) has one of the most recognisable silhouettes in Aotearoa — long compound leaves and clusters of tubular yellow flowers. This lamp takes that silhouette and turns it into a parametric laser-cut shade.
Three layers of 3mm birch ply are cut with progressively more open patterns — the innermost layer is near-solid for diffusion, the outer two cast detailed shadows on the wall. All three slot together with friction-fit tabs and no glue on the shade itself.
The base is a simple hardwood block with a warm-white LED module pressed in. Total material cost: around $10 NZD from the university workshop offcuts. Assembly time: about an hour.