As we combed through Artists’ Handmade Houses, the prize in our current book giveaway, we noticed an interesting theme running through the houses of many of the 13 artists featured. They often used the simple rice paper globe ceiling lights pioneered in the 50’s by Isamu Noguchi: an electrical wire hung from the ceiling from which hung a bulb surrounded by a translucent rice paper shade. Paolo Soleri, Sam Maloof, Wharton Esherick, Ruth and Robert Hatch all used them to great effect: they lend a pleasing sculptural element to a room while casting a lovely light.
George Nakashima had them all over the house. We’re wondering if he made this clever wall light by cutting a globe in half and affixing it to the wall.
…He even used one in the kitchen…
To our eye several of the genuine, pricey Noguchi Akari Ceiling Lights (which you can buy here) …
…are almost identical to these inexpensive Japanese paper lanterns available from Shoji Decor (which come in many shapes and sizes)…
You can buy yourself a big 39″ Noguchi globe for about $1000. Or buy a 36″ one from Shoji for about $37, along with an electric cord kit for about $15…our modus operandi for years.
Our giveaway contest for Artists’ Handmade Houses ends tonight. To enter, click here.
ends tonight. To enter,
Related posts: task lights suspended from the ceiling
are you a secret lighting designer?
great clip-on lamp shade (+ the search for glass fiber paper)
more from ‘artists handmade houses’ (our great book giveaway)
Beautiful kitchen. I’m curious about the cabinet–the small panels appear to be angled. . .
Need replacement shade for Noguchi Lamp BB1-30DL. Any idea where to find one that would be suitable? Thanks.
Love your site!
Did you check the source given in the post…which is here?
Does anyone know a place to get a 6′ and 4′ diameter Noguchi lamps with custom printed paper?
How do I buy two of your Naguchi-esque lanterns? I am confused on how to do this.
Thanks
Sorry it was confusing. I’ve tweaked the post to make it clearer. You can buy authentic (and expensive) Noguchi shades here; or inexpensive knockoffs here.
And what exactly is to be gained from authenticity in this case, except perhaps the approval of brand-snobs? I recommend the Ikea ones that can be had for £2. I’m sure that you could tell the difference from the Noguchi ones if you were determined to do so, but to be honest they will look just as good. It’s a tribute to the artist that the design transcends the execution and the precise materials used and has become universal.
IMG_9865.PNG
I am looking fir a lamp like the one in the image. Where can I find it?
Thank you
Links are in the article. You can buy the real thing or a cheap version.
Looking for an inexpensive Nagucci knockoff. (2) 48 inches round.
aepenque@aol.com
Improvised Life is not a store, but posts ABOUT strategies and goods. Just follow the link in the story for resources.
Hi Sally, have you personally ordered from Shijodecor? I have sent an email and called twice/ no response. I’m trying to buy one of their products but the color is out of stock/ trying to find out if it’s coming back but now I’m getting bad vibes – maybe they are just busy. Curious if anyone has actually purchased and what they think the quality is.
Oops sorry I misspelled the business name it’s, Shoji Decor.
Hi Katie, I’ve ordered various paper shades from Shojidecor in the past but not in years. I called and it rang a while before a recording picked up with a message indicating the store is still viable. Did you let it ring until you got the answering service? Their site is ancient and old-school thought it doesn’t necessarily mean they are failing; there is a stellar incense store I order from with a similar old site and they are true blue. I did a search to find other options. Paper Lantern Store has both very good and some dicey reviews on Yelp and TrustPilot. Amazon also sells paper shades through various sellers.