Snøhetta has designed a line of lighting products for Swedish lighting manufacturer ateljé Lyktan. 

The line, named Superdupertube, sees a revision of the manufacturer’s 1970s Supertube product, which was given a “contemporary makeover through extensive material research.”

“When ateljé Lyktan challenged us to create a new technical office luminaire, we rediscovered their iconic Supertube from the 1970s,” said Snøhetta Partner Jenny B. Osuldsen about the project. “Our joint decision was clear — let's update and elevate the Supertube to a 2.0 version, guided by our commitment to sustainability and cradle-to-cradle thinking.”

The project began as an exploration into how ateljé Lyktan’s products could be reimagined using locally sourced materials with a smaller ecological footprint. Initial experiments with pine cones and coffee grounds led to the choice of hemp fiber, which the team notes reduces CO2 emissions by over 50% compared to traditional aluminum variants. By mixing the organic material with sugarcane starch, the team was able to meet both the strength and functional needs of the lighting product.

The hemp material’s natural color means each lamp’s color will vary with the different crops used, while LED strips emit a warmer tone through the material. Intended as an office lamp, the product comes in four lengths with a diagonal louver reducing glare through longitudinal and diagonal light shielding.

“The key improvement involves completely revamping the material and integrating a smart light system,” Osuldsen added. “The extensive material research journey, culminating in using hemp and sugar cane as the foundation for the new material, marks the beginning of our quest for more sustainable, regenerative solutions. The Superdupertube serves as an inspiration, urging others to continue seeking innovative solutions for a better future.”

Superdupertube is one of several architecture-based products featured in our editorial recently. Last week, ecoLogicStudio unveiled a collection of biophilic design products, including an algae-based air purifier and 3D printed compostable stool, while in December, Frank Gehry designed a Louis Vuitton handbag collection for Art Basel Miami Beach. In October, meanwhile, BIG unveiled a new sofa piece for Natuzzi Italia.