Lehar
Roto-Form Lamp
CMU, Spring 2025
Designed by Gauri Sharma & Cameroon Cassano
This project was an exploration of form language, material harmony, and rotational symmetry. As part of a four-week assignment, my partner and I were introduced to rotational forming techniques and challenged to design a lamp using a single 12" x 4" block of mahogany and linen fabric with a repeating pattern.
The final piece reflects a balance between sculptural form and functional lighting. Turned on a lathe, the wooden base evokes the soft, rhythmic motion of ripples and waves—an inspiration drawn from the ocean’s surface. The linen shade, sewn and patterned by hand, complements the base with warmth and texture, reminiscent of a glowing fireplace. The project emphasized hierarchy, contrast, and unity—transforming raw materials into a cohesive lighting object that invites quiet reflection.
Design Development
Fabrication
We began by exploring how orientation could shape the experience of light—debating whether the lamp should stand upright, hang freely, or mount to a wall. This iterative phase helped us think critically about how form meets function, leading us to test multiple structural designs.
After a series of sketches, we arrived at an hourglass-inspired geometry—elegant yet practical. We designed within the limits of lathe machining, carefully considering turning radii, arcs, and the thinnest feasible waist to maintain both visual balance and structural integrity.
To translate the concept into a tangible form, we prototyped with pink foam. This step was essential in identifying constraints and refining the proportions. It allowed us to evaluate the overall composition and address potential issues before committing to final materials.
