Issey Miyake is set to unveil a special exhibit at the upcoming Milan Design Week. Titled TYPE-XIII Atelier Oï project, this collaborative initiative brings together Swiss-based design studio atelier oï and A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE to explore innovative concepts that fuse “a piece of wire” and “a piece of cloth” into creative lighting products. The exhibition presents prototypes of these designs in an installation format, showcasing the intersection of art and functionality.
The project represents a shared vision between atelier oï, renowned for its architectural and product design expertise and A-POC ABLE ISSEY MIYAKE, which continues to innovate within the realm of garment construction by collaborating across disciplines and industries. Rooted in the process of creation, the initiative blends diverse perspectives and techniques, resulting in groundbreaking designs that push the boundaries of traditional aesthetics. It also ventures beyond garments to explore new possibilities for “a piece of cloth” within lighting products.
The “O Series,” co-developed with Japanese lighting manufacturer Ambientec, emphasizes human-centered design and portability. Inspired by the elegance of flowers, these lamps incorporate organic pleats made from recycled polyester “Steam Stretch” material — a textile technology developed by A-POC ABLE. When exposed to heat, the material forms robust three-dimensional textures. Enhanced by the interplay between fabric, light and shadow, the lamps feature a detachable frame and foldable shade, making a fuss-free fit for various environments and living spaces.
The exhibition also introduces the “A Series,” a lighting concept featuring seamless knit fabric and a hallmark of A-POC. Lampshades within this series are pre-knitted into rolls of fabric, taking three-dimensional forms when wireframes are added. This innovative approach allows customization through cutting and connecting the knitted shades, providing flexibility to create single, double, or triple fixtures. Developed in partnership with Spanish lighting brand PARACHILNA, the pendant light prototype will debut at the exhibition, demonstrating the brand’s craftsmanship and commitment to honest design.
Both series highlight the collaboration’s dedication to merging textile and lighting innovations, transforming materials into objects of beauty and functionality. As prototypes evolve, they are poised to make their way into commercial markets, extending the possibilities of design in contemporary living. Further updates on development and availability will be shared in the future.
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