The mark of transformative design is translating ancient concepts that work, to solve modern problems. As we grapple collectively with sustainability as a concept, the textile and lighting industries have much to reckon with in terms of circular design. Enter the Knit Series – designed by Canadian lighting company Hollis+Morris in collaboration with Dutch textile studio BYBORRE – promoting a new paradigm of responsible design, where transparency in business and tactility in design don’t contradict, but catalyze.

A fascinating, almost biomimetic abstraction of the traditional line of globes, the lights wrap slowly around the surface of the cylinders, creating a dynamic movement within each piece. The central cylinder is upholstered in a textured, knit cloth, with openings to allow hardware and light to shine through.

This cloth has been specially engineered, utilizing three-dimensional knit structures to promote texture and reduce waste. Using recycled materials, traceable yarns, and waste-conscious production, BYBORRE can significantly reduce energy consumption in the manufacturing process and pave the way for new sustainable paradigms within lighting design.

The knit is expertly woven to achieve a sloping pattern that works nicely with the curvatures of the central element, following the path of the globes. A light gray and taupe interact for a striped, mottled base, while pops of a brilliant, neon red-orange give the overall look a peachy tone when viewed at a distance.