Paper lamps are the lighting trend of the moment. While they may seem like the most basic thing ever, their story is actually ancient and way more complex than you'd think.
Today they’re seen as minimalist design icons, and we owe a lot of that to one artist: Isamu Noguchi.
Born in Los Angeles in 1904 to a Japanese father and an American mother, Noguchi trained as a sculptor but became a multidisciplinary artist, leaving a big mark on 20th-century design.
But paper lamps, of course, go back way further. They first appeared in the 3rd century BC in China as lanterns, mainly used during religious ceremonies and festivals.
The structure was super simple: bamboo or wooden frames covered with rice paper (which, fun fact, isn’t actually made from rice).
Japan took that idea and gave it a major glow-up, creating Chōchin: elegant paper lanterns wrapped in a strong, unique material called Washi paper.
Washi is handmade using fibers from the Kozo, Mitsumata, or Gampi shrubs. It's insanely durable, has a silky translucence, and is a true artisanal gem.
The most famous place that makes traditional washi paper is Gifu, a small town in Japan.
Which brings us back to Noguchi, who visited Gifu in 1951 and was instantly mesmerized by the way light passed through the washi.
Being a sculptor, he combined his Japanese roots and creative instincts to design what he called “lighting sculptures.” That’s how the Akari collection was born, akari meaning “light” in Japanese.
Whach here how Akari lamps are made
Noguchi wanted to add a touch of poetry to electric light. And honestly, that softness and poetic quality is probably why we’re still obsessed with these lamps today.
They’re traditional, yet totally modern: foldable, portable, lightweight… They practically float in the room.
Akari lamps are the perfect balance between functional modernity and zen spirituality. Minimal, Dreamy, and Full of Soul.
Of course, most of the paper lamps we buy today, from Ikea, Muji, Hay and more, aren’t quite crafted with the same care and their prices reflect that.
Don’t get us wrong, they’re gorgeous! But original Akari lamps are on another level in terms of detail and soul.
If you’re after the real deal, you can still buy authentic Noguchi lamps through Vitra website, which continues to produce them using washi paper and traditional methods.
How many of them do you have? Personally, I have 2.
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Monica Picchi
Creative and curious, with a degree in Design and a career in Fashion Digital Production, I'm now sharing my passion for Design across social media.
Though my future path remains wonderfully uncertain, I’m constantly seeking beauty in all its forms. My love for vintage and mid-century design makes me want to explore flea markets worldwide and transform spaces into beautiful homes.