Following the launch of some quirky new luminaires, we talk to the Melbourne-based lighting designer about his work, ambitions and intriguing aesthetic.

How did you first discover your passion for lighting design?

As far as I can remember back I tinkered with lights, I was always fascinated by the ’unusual’ globe, be it 1/2 mirrored or of some strange shape or over-sized…

How would you best describe your design aesthetic?

Simple, quirky and humorous, yet elegant. Different to what people are used to…

What was your first big break into the design industry?

Well after having worked with Geoffrey Mance for 1.5 years, where I’ve learned a lot about the general lighting ‘know how’ and how the lighting industry works, I then went out on my own and transformed my garage into a workshop.

I did the ’new enterprise incentive scheme’ (NEIS), which was very helpful facing all sides of the business as well as having some financial support.

I had my first big commercial commission at Breathe Yoga & Pilates in the Melbourne CBD.

Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years time?

Hmm, good question, I’d like to tap into the international lighting market and make a difference with my designs. I’d also like to have a great team of people working with me.

Tell us about the Antler design.

Yes, they once upon a time found plastic adaptor Antlers are now made of porcelain and have also grown in size by 50%.

Although I am still very fond of the original designs, I’m very pleased to have taken these to the next level as I felt there was potential.

The Antlers, still quirky, have now a more polished and sophisticated feel. The bigger size also helps as it gives the Antlers a better presence.

The Daisies and Luckies?

The Daisies and Luckies are made out of the same material.

My partner Chris played a big roll by reincarnating the ‘knitting Nancy’ technique that he uses in some of his artworks.

At the time, the whole house was full of over-sized sausages of all kinds of different ropes and colours so something else had to be done.

Electrical cable was the next close thing and together we came up with these shapes.

Volker Haug
volkerhaug.com