Molding Marble Into Light

Marble's pliable, fluid properties form the DNA of some of the world's greatest works of art and architecture. From Michelangelo's David, Venus de Milo  and other masterworks of ancient Greece and Rome to The Lincoln Memorial on Capitol Hill, we owe a debt of gratitude to this hard crystalline metamorphic form of limestone. Fastforward to modern-day where this ancient stone takes on the unconventional function of contemporary furnishings. A budding UK design company called On Entropy recently debuted a marble collection of contemporary furnishings and lighting fixtures at 100% Design during the London Design Festival.

Design Writer/Blogger/Host Karen LeBlanc at the 100% Design show in London checking out the Ray Marble Light by On Entropy

It seems counterintuitive that a solid stone can illuminate a space so I was surprised by the design and engineering feat of Architect Niki Moskofoglou, who was able to tame marble's properties into a beautiful translucent glow.

The Particle marble floor light made of bronze legs by On Entropy

Ray Marble Light Pendant by On Entropy

Moskofoglou's light, On Particle, explores the connection between the marble void with 4 bronze flat pieces rising up the marble shell and three legs supporting the structure. The bronze legs are oxidized to give prominence to the structure. The marble light fixture Ray exploits the connection of the marble to the metal work. Notice that the strings and fixing are barely visible. Moskofoglou says the interchange on the rawness of the marble and the technologically advanced LED is intentional to enhance its presence.

 

The On marble light by On Entropy

"The concept of entropy sprung over the last two years, as I was designing marble furnishings for friends and clients. I started designing furniture because I could not find in the market exactly what I had in mind," explains Moskofoglou, who draws from his background in architecture to create interactive experiences with his creations.

His fascination with marble began as a teen while working in a marble quarry. Moskofoglou was drawn to the strength and fragility of this material. "The ability of such a sturdy material to collapse under certain pressures and different slip surfaces is something that still blows me away. It is a natural material and I do admire its uniqueness, as one can never find the exact same piece twice," says Moskofoglou.

 

Aerial Marble floor light with solid bronze legs by On Entropy

The creation of marble light fixtures is a time-consuming process. Moskofoglou chooses marble based on its properties like color, mineral content and its fragility. For light fixtures, he carves out parts of the raw stone to create a void that hosts the light.

 "After experimenting with what each different piece can do, I set up a design brief. Then metal work follows.  All bronze detailing is hand-crafted with care and a certain level of experimentation to the finish of the metalwork is undertaken. My aim is to produce fine items, which engage most senses," says Moskofoglou.  All items are designed and made as single, seamless cut marble pieces. On entropy also designs and manufactures contemporary furniture that mixes marble and metal such as bronze.

 

The Orbit marble coffee tables with metal base by On Entropy

 

The Blast marble and bronze shelf by On Entropy

On entropy's custom marble lights and furnishings are available in the US on demand.  

Prices range from $500 to $5000 depending on the size and detail entailed in each item.