In Focus | Studio d'Armes | Hyphen

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Hyphen by Alexandre Joncas Studio d'Armes

What is the design inspiration behind Hyphen? Staying true to d’Armes’ aesthetic, Hyphen draws clean, minimal lines that are also fascinating. The details are kept to the essentials, creating a sophisticated design. Our team focused on creating volume that is evolving on a 360° scale; the lighting changes in its shape as we look at it from different points of view. Adding to the different light positions and orientations, the chromatic black finish, with its iridescence, accentuate this effect. Hyphen designates the union of two opposites in one; the warm, soft, and sensitive porcelain and cold, strong, and brilliant steel. It is a reinterpretation of the simple pendant spotlight.

How long have you been working on Hypehn for? Two years.

Can you describe the design and manufacturing process? A local artist-ceramist casts and molds by hand the porcelain version. It requires several steps that extend to almost two weeks. Hyphen in porcelain is a work of mastery that demands finesse and achieves refinement. The steel version is also the porcelain version's opposite by its production process, as it is fabricated in a factory. High heat is necessary for the deformation of the steel, and then follows the welding and polishing work. The topcoat is the last step. What was the most challenging aspect of producing this piece? Working on the mould for the Hyphen in porcelain was the most challenging aspect. Because it was made by hand, the mould required us to go back and forth with adjustments to achieve this result. Afterwards, we had to fine-tune the steel version so it would tie in perfectly to the porcelain model.

What makes this product different to other lighting products available on the market? Its shape and the different light positions and orientations make of Hyphen an object that catches the eye and leaves no one indifferent. Hyphen is both intriguing and attractive. Our team decided on a PAR30 lightbulb instead of an integrated LED light engine so it can answer to the many specific needs of the industry. It is also more ecological to change a lightbulb than the whole fixture.

Can you describe the product in 3 words. Fascinating, attractive, soft.

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