The Return of the Noughties Design Trend: Tubular forms
The early 2000s were a defining era for interior design, characterised by a distinct embrace of chunky, inflated forms that brought a sense of fun and playfulness into the home. As we navigate through 2024, we're witnessing a dynamic resurgence of this noughties design trend, but with an even more adventurous spirit. This revival isn't just a nod to the past; it's a reimagining that infuses contemporary spaces with a sense of joy and creativity, reminiscent of a time when interiors dared to be bold and expressive.
Our tube rechargeable table lamp in new shade - Peel, alongside our classic brass
A World of Playful Shapes
The essence of the 00’s design trend lies in its celebration of playful shapes. Furnishings with exaggerated proportions, rounded edges, and an almost cartoonish aesthetic define this style. From sofas that invite you to sink into their voluminous forms to coffee tables that look as though they've been plucked from a whimsical storybook, every piece brings a sense of whimsy into the room. This trend extends to all corners of the home, with chunky, inflated forms appearing in everything from vases and lamps to rugs and mirrors. It's a visual feast that encourages homeowners to embrace their fun side and experiment with their decor.
The beauty of these playful shapes is their ability to infuse everyday environments with a sense of wonder and imagination. This trend challenges the conventional, inviting us to reconsider our notions of space and how we inhabit it. It's a reminder that design can be fun, that our homes can be spaces of creative expression, and that the ordinary can indeed be transformed into the extraordinary.
Lighting the Way: Our Tube Rechargeable Table Lamp
Within this adventurous landscape of the tubular interiors trend, our Tube Rechargeable Table Lamp emerges as a perfect embodiment of the noughties’ playful spirit. Available in finishes that span from the elegant brass to the zesty new orange-peel, this lamp, affectionately known as our "little brass glow worm," exemplifies the trend's essence. It's not just a source of light but a statement piece that carries the joyful, bold character of the noughties design into the modern home.
Our glow worm has up to 7 hours of charge time (but after 3-4 hours will start to gradually darken) and it is fully charged after about 3 and a half hours.
Kicking off with Brass, the star where it all began for our rechargeable table lamp! This isn't just any finish; it's the original, blending timeless elegance with a modern twist. Brass shines as a beloved neutral in contemporary homes, its solid metallic lustre offering a striking contrast to the soft opal glass shade.
We also offer the rechargeable table lamp in 'Sand,' a gentle and understated colour that merges the cosiness of cream with the sophistication of grey. Under the day's light, 'Sand' will subtly alter the ambiance within your home, allowing the lamp's glow to harmonise beautifully with its environment. This timeless hue adds a layer of tranquil elegance to any setting.
Bright, bold, and utterly a-PEEL-ing, 'Peel' is a hue that perfectly blends joy and positivity with warmth and creativity. This vibrant, refreshing, and dynamic color brings a dose of hope and positivity, especially needed during uncertain times. Echoing the warmth of Pantone’s "peach fuzz" and the nourishment of WGSN’s "apricot crush," our 'Peel' orange radiates comfort and vitality.
Brass and sand rechargeable table lamps
Other designers who have revived this trend
Gustaf Westman, a visionary designer based in Sweden, has made a significant mark on the contemporary design scene with his iconic "Chunky" series. Known for pieces like the "Chunky Cup," "Chunky Plate," and others that follow the "Chunky..." nomenclature, Westman's work embodies a playful, spirited approach to design. The "Chunky" series not only highlights Westman’s distinctive style but also underscores his ability to infuse everyday objects with a sense of fun and imagination, redefining our expectations of domestic aesthetics.
In a similar vein, the new BARRO collection by HAY introduces a subtler, yet distinctly tubular quality into its design aesthetic. This tableware collection elegantly captures the warmth and beautiful simplicity inherent in terracotta, showcasing a seamless blend of modern design with traditional craftsmanship. The name "Barro," translating to 'red clay' in Portuguese, is a nod to the designer's intention of celebrating his home country’s rich heritage of craftsmanship.
The Beads S table by Paleworks stands as a remarkable example of tubular design transcending into the realm of functional art. With a flower-shaped base supported by eight tubular legs, each meticulously handmade by local artisans, the Beads S table embodies a distinctive and playful aesthetic.