The Story of Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “PAPER STONE”

Lighting plays a crucial role in determining the impression of a space. Floor lamps, in particular, are popular items that nestle into daily life, as they can easily change a room's atmosphere regardless of where they are placed. The interplay of light and shadow from lighting imparts warmth and depth to a space, and sometimes the fixture itself becomes an interior accent, emanating a presence akin to a work of art. Lighting fixtures that beautifully fuse Japanese traditional techniques with modern design have recently attracted attention from around the world as items that create sophisticated yet comfortable spaces. The Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “PAPER STONE” series, which we introduce this time, is a true crystallization of Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship, a light that richly colors your life.

The “PAPER STONE” series is born from Japan's proud traditional techniques, particularly the "Gifu Lantern" method passed down in Gifu Prefecture, and "Mino Washi," which boasts a history of 1300 years. Mino Washi has long been used for various purposes due to its characteristics of being extremely thin yet surprisingly strong and beautiful. Washi carefully crafted by skilled artisans possesses a unique texture and is ideally suited for softly transmitting light. 
The specific type of Washi used in the "PAPER STONE" series is called "Asa Rakusui-shi," into which hemp fibers are blended, creating a distinctive water drop-like pattern. Particularly noteworthy is the beautiful design resembling ice stone, rendered using high-strength Washi. By carefully pasting this thin yet incredibly durable Washi onto the delicate frame structure of a Gifu Lantern, the unique design of "PAPER STONE" is achieved. The Gifu Lantern technique, designated as a national traditional craft in 1995, was also utilized in Isamu Noguchi's internationally acclaimed "Akari" series, and "PAPER STONE" can likewise be said to be a work connected to this rich lineage of tradition.

The "PAPER STONE" series is produced by Hayashi Kogei, a workshop in Gifu Prefecture with over 75 years of history. Hayashi Kogei designs, manufactures, and sells innovative lighting fixtures and interior products that harmonize with contemporary spaces, primarily using traditional Mino Washi as their main material. 
The craftsmen at Hayashi Kogei have inherited delicate processing techniques to maximize the strength and thinness of Mino Washi, which has a history of 1300 years. The product manufacturing process undergoes five strict stages, from papermaking and frame construction to lantern assembly, all consistently carried out in-house, ensuring thorough quality control. The warm light transmitted through the Washi brings a calm atmosphere to the space, and their excellent quality and design are highly regarded both domestically and internationally. Hayashi Kogei preserves the tradition of Mino Washi, a valuable cultural heritage of Japan, while connecting it with modern sensibility, bringing new value to spaces through light.

The most impressive feature of the "PAPER STONE" series is its original design. It possesses a bold, organic form, much like a large block of ice or a stone sculpted by nature. The combination of this "ice stone-like" design and the hemp fibers and water drop-like patterns blended into the Asa Rakusui-shi creates a unique texture and shadow. When lit, it projects a beautiful, crystal-like pattern of light onto the space. 
With different presences depending on their size – Paper Stone at approximately 22 inches (about 56cm) in height and Paper Stone Small at 13.7 inches (about 35cm) in height – both lamps have the power to become the centerpiece of a space, not just as simple lighting fixtures, but as "light art pieces." "PAPER STONE," which fuses the warmth of traditional Washi with modern sculptural beauty, is a testament to Japanese craftsmanship and brings sophisticated serenity and peace to a space.

The "PAPER STONE" series is ideal for private spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms due to its calming light and unique design. The soft light transmitted through the Washi is gentle on the eyes, creating a relaxed atmosphere. In particular, the crystal-like light pattern characteristic of Asa Rakusui-shi casts beautiful shadows on walls and floors, adding depth and character to the space. 
Its simple yet impactful design blends naturally with various interior styles. It harmonizes perfectly not only with minimalist spaces and modern interiors incorporating Japanese elements but also with the popular "Japandi" style, which fuses Nordic design with Japanese aesthetics. Place the Paper Stone in a living room corner or beside a sofa as a spatial accent or indirect lighting. Place the Paper Stone Small on a bedside table, in an entryway, or a niche space to create a welcoming atmosphere with its gentle light. By incorporating "PAPER STONE" as ambient or accent lighting, you can create a sophisticated and peaceful space.

To ensure you can enjoy the "PAPER STONE" series, made using Mino Washi, for a long time, proper care is essential. For routine care, gently brush away dust that accumulates on the shade using a soft brush or feather duster. Washi is a delicate material, and particular care must be taken regarding moisture and direct sunlight. Avoid installing it in humid locations and ensure regular ventilation. Also, to prevent deterioration and discoloration of the shade, do not place it in areas where it will receive direct sunlight for extended periods. In the unfortunate event that the shade is damaged, we recommend consulting a professional rather than attempting repairs yourself. By carefully maintaining your "PAPER STONE," you can preserve its beautiful light and form for many years.

The "PAPER STONE" series has been designed with consideration for use in various environments around the world. For the power plug, you can choose between a US type or an EU type to suit your region. The Paper Stone is compatible with E26 (US) / E27 (EU) base bulbs, and the Paper Stone Small is compatible with E12 (US) / E14 (EU) base bulbs. Please note that a light bulb is not included with the product and must be purchased separately. When purchasing, please check the base size corresponding to your chosen plug type. Furthermore, considering the effect of heat on the Washi, we recommend using low-heat bulbs such as LED bulbs. The product is for indoor use only.

The Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “PAPER STONE” series is a unique presence, a masterful fusion of Mino Washi and Gifu Lantern traditional techniques that span over a thousand years, and contemporary design sense. The bold form inspired by ice stones and the crystal-like light emitted through Asarakusuishi bring stillness and sophistication to the space, embodying wabi sabi style.

Created by the hands of Hayashi Kogei craftsmen, "PAPER STONE" transcends being merely a lighting fixture, embodying Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility as a piece of art. By incorporating "PAPER STONE" into various spaces such as the living room, bedroom, or entrance, you can add peace and a sense of quality to your daily life. They serve beautifully as a living room lamp or bedroom lamps. We encourage you to welcome this beautiful light art, a true Japanese lamp, into your daily life.