The Story of Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “TYPE G”

The "home" where we spend our days is more than just a living space; it's a sanctuary we yearn for – a haven to quiet the mind and discover profound peace. The very atmosphere of this cherished space is deeply influenced by light. Illumination bestows warmth and depth upon a room, and at times, akin to exquisite art, breathes a unique vitality into the space.

Among the myriad lighting options, floor lamps and standing lamps for living room are beloved for their ease of integration and versatility. A simple placement can refresh a room's entire impression, acting as a comforting luminous accent or a gentle, all-encompassing indirect light, particularly enhancing living rooms and bedrooms. In recent years, lighting fixtures that artfully blend Japanese traditional techniques with contemporary design have garnered global acclaim for their distinctive aesthetic, exceptional quality, and the captivating narrative woven into each creation. The Japanese Paper Floor Lamp "TYPE G" we present here is precisely such a floor lamp, embodying Japanese traditional craftsmanship and a poetic aesthetic inspired by the natural world, designed to elevate your space into a true sanctuary. A "poetic light," crafted from genuine handwork and unique materials, unattainable in standardized mass-produced goods, will infuse your daily life with quiet, profound emotion, perfectly aligning with the principles of "wabi sabi interiors" and "Japandi interior". 

The uniquely soft light emanating from the "TYPE G" floor lamp is born from the confluence of two revered Japanese traditional techniques: the refined artistry of "Gifu Lanterns," passed down through generations in Gifu Prefecture, and the exquisite material known as "Mino Washi," a Japanese paper with a rich history spanning 1300 years. Mino Washi is characterized by its astonishing thinness coupled with surprising strength, and above all, its beautiful texture, making it an ideal choice for a paper lamp or Japanese lamp, especially in creating the gentle ambiance desired in bedroom lamps. This Japanese paper, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who hand-ladle each sheet using carefully selected natural materials, is both delicate and exceptionally durable, diffusing light gently and uniformly.

The shade of "TYPE G," in particular, makes luxurious use of a Mino Washi variety called "Harusamashi". As its name suggests, Harusamashi is a unique Washi with a delicate yet rich texture, reminiscent of gentle spring rain scattering across a surface, adding a distinct element to "Japanese decor". The fine unevenness created by the fibers and materials kneaded into the paper produces a special expression when illuminated. The light diffused through Harusamashi is soft, akin to sunlight filtering through thin clouds, emitting a poetic glow that seems to subtly "fluctuate," enhancing the "wabi sabi arts". It is a light that resonates with the heart, evoking the subtle transitions of nature, making it a captivating feature in Japandi bedrooms or Japandi living rooms.

Gifu Lanterns, designated a national traditional craft in 1995, are distinguished by the delicate handwork using Mino Washi and bamboo, contributing to the beauty of "Japanese lanterns". With a history exceeding 300 years, the globally renowned "Akari" series by Isamu Noguchi also draws upon this Gifu Lantern technique. "TYPE G" stands firmly within this rich lineage of tradition. By utilizing the special material of Harusamashi, it transcends being merely a lighting fixture, holding significant value as a "craft piece of light" where material, technique, and the beauty of nature converge, perfectly embodying the "wabi sabi decor" and "wabi sabi style". Within it resides the skill of craftsmen honed over a millennium of history and a delicate sensitivity to Japanese nature.

Products like the "TYPE G" floor lamp, which maximize the inherent beauty of a specific material and elevate it to the realm of light art, cannot be born without the profound understanding and unwavering dedication to the material by the workshop that creates them. This poetic light object is crafted by Hayashi Kogei, a Gifu Prefecture-based workshop with over 75 years of experience in creating lighting using Mino Washi, often contributing to the serene atmosphere of a "Japandi style living room". Hayashi Kogei is an innovative workshop that consistently manages the design, manufacturing, and sales of highly designed lighting fixtures and interior products that naturally harmonize with modern spaces, primarily utilizing Mino Washi, a precious cultural heritage of Japan, as their core material, often enhancing "wabi sabi interior designs".

In addition to the fundamental characteristics of thinness and strength that Mino Washi has possessed for 1300 years, the artisans at Hayashi Kogei have inherited and further refined techniques for handling Washi with unique textures like Harusamashi, and delicate processing techniques to draw out the material's optimal light-diffusing qualities, making their creations stand out as exceptional examples of a Japanese floor lamp or paper floor lamp. To perfectly express the interplay of the Harusamashi texture and light within the organic, minimalist form of "TYPE G," advanced techniques and a deep understanding of the material by skilled craftsmen are indispensable. At Hayashi Kogei, where product quality is held to the highest standard, all processes, from selecting the Washi used and creating the shade frame to pasting the Washi and conducting the final rigorous inspection, are performed in-house. This comprehensive quality control system ensures that each product meets stringent standards, giving birth to "TYPE G," which fully utilizes the inherent beauty of Harusamashi paper and the unique light it produces, making it a truly unique floor lamp alternative or a sophisticated standing lamp for living room.

Hayashi Kogei is not merely preserving tradition; they are a collective of true creators who continuously explore the potential of Washi as a material and create beautiful "light products" that complement modern life, often found in interiors embracing the "Japandi style". "TYPE G" was born from their deep love for the material, respect for traditional techniques, and the pursuit of new expressive forms. Understanding their story will undoubtedly make the light that "TYPE G" brings to your space feel even deeper and more resonant with your heart, highlighting the "genuine" quality that mass-produced items often lack, especially in creating a tranquil "Japandi interior". 

The most captivating feature of the "TYPE G" floor lamp is its design, a masterful harmony of organic lines inspired by nature and refined minimalism, perfectly aligning with the principles of "wabi sabi". Standing at approximately 39.3 inches (about 100cm) in height and approximately 7.8 inches (about 20cm) in width and depth, its relatively compact, vertical silhouette integrates seamlessly into the space without creating a sense of visual clutter, making it a versatile floor lamp for living room or bedroom. The simple design, devoid of excessive ornamentation, evokes a quintessential Japanese aesthetic, particularly the "aesthetics of subtraction" and the inherent beauty of organic forms found in the natural world.

In this design, the delicate and unique texture of the Harusamashi paper used for the shade plays an exceptionally important role, not just as a material, but as an integral part of the design, enhancing the "Japanese decor". When illuminated, the texture of the Harusamashi – the embedded fibers and subtle unevenness – interacts with the light, diffusing a soft, poetic glow throughout the entire space, appearing subtly "fluctuating," as if light is filtering through delicate clouds, a hallmark of "Japanese paper lanterns". The combination of this unique light diffusion and the shade's organic lines creates a quiet, refined atmosphere that resonates deeply with the heart, making it more than just a paper lamp or Japanese lamp. It feels less like light emanating from a mere fixture and more like the beauty of nature manifesting as light within the space, perfectly suited for creating a serene ambiance in Japandi bedrooms or Japandi living rooms.

"TYPE G" transcends the mere function of illumination; its elegant form, combined with the unique texture of Harusamashi, allows it to adorn the space as a beautiful light object even when unlit, adding a touch of "wabi sabi arts" to your home. While employing traditional Japanese materials and techniques, this poetic and minimalist design that naturally integrates into modern spaces stands as a testament to the crystallization of Japanese aesthetic sensibility, craftsmanship, and a profound understanding of materials. The overwhelming differentiation from mass-produced goods lies in this harmonious combination of design and material, making it a truly unique table lamp alternative or a distinctive Japanese floor lamp. 

The soft, poetic light emitted through Harusamashi paper by the "TYPE G" floor lamp and its minimalist, organic design are ideally suited for spaces where genuine relaxation and unwinding are desired, such as the living room or bedroom, especially those designed with the "Japandi style" in mind. Its relatively compact size makes it well-suited for Japanese homes and other spaces where ease of placement is a priority for a paper floor lamp.

Positioned in a corner of the room, it can add warmth and depth as soft indirect lighting diffused through the Harusamashi paper, enhancing the tranquility of Japandi living rooms. Placed along a wall, the Washi texture interacting with the light creates delicate and poetic shadow patterns, bringing visual tranquility and stillness, aligning with the "wabi sabi style". Beside a sofa or armchair, it becomes a comfortable light source for relaxing or quiet, introspective moments, serving as an elegant floor lamp for living room or a subtle bedroom lamp. The light filtering through Harusamashi is exceptionally gentle on the eyes, reducing fatigue during extended periods of reading or work.

Simple yet organic, the design of "TYPE G" harmonizes naturally with various interior styles. It seamlessly integrates into a wide range of interiors that prioritize natural materials and minimalism, such as Japanese rooms, Mid-century Modern interiors, Nordic styles, and the popular Japandi style, making the space more refined and calm, embodying the essence of "Japandi interior". Placing it in an entrance or hallway to add a poetic light accent can also gently welcome guests and create a sophisticated atmosphere, showcasing beautiful "Japanese paper lanterns".

Incorporating "TYPE G" as ambient lighting or accent lighting means that your usual space transforms into a quieter, more comfortable, and poetic place, reflecting the beauty of "Japanese decor". The poetic light woven by Harusamashi will gently oversee your sanctuary, bringing quiet beauty to your daily life. It will softly color your moments of mindfulness and quiet time spent honing your senses, making it a cherished standing lamp for living room or a unique addition to any serene space.

To maintain the delicate and unique texture of the Mino Washi shade of the "TYPE G" floor lamp, especially the Harusamashi paper, in a beautiful state for years to come, careful maintenance is essential. This is more than mere product upkeep; it's an act of reverence for valuable Japanese traditional materials, the craftsman's handwork utilizing them, and the inherent beauty of nature, aligning with the principles of "wabi sabi interiors".

Routine care primarily involves gently removing dust from the shade. Use a soft brush, feather duster, or an anti-static microfiber cloth to gently brush away dust, stroking the shade's surface without applying force. Avoid rubbing or pulling strongly to prevent damage to the Harusamashi texture. Washi is highly susceptible to water, so absolutely avoid wiping it with a wet cloth or applying any moisture. Should liquid accidentally come into contact with it, quickly and gently blot it dry with a soft, dry cloth, following the paper's texture.

Furthermore, Washi is vulnerable to ultraviolet light, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can lead to discoloration and deterioration, diminishing the unique light transmission of Harusamashi. To preserve the shade's beautiful color and texture, we strongly recommend avoiding placement in areas where direct sunlight shines for extended periods, such as near windows. The lantern structure is relatively delicate, so handle it with care to avoid applying strong force or bumps. Exercise particular caution in environments with pets or children, ensuring it is placed in a secure location.

By performing appropriate care and handling it carefully, you can enjoy this poetic art of light, where Japanese tradition and natural beauty are harmoniously fused, in its timeless beauty for many years, appreciating the artistry of this Japanese paper lamp and Japanese floor lamp. This practice also connects to a rich way of living that cherishes and values genuine quality in an era of mass consumption, embracing the essence of "wabi sabi style". 

The Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “TYPE G”, while upholding the exceptional quality and beauty of a Japanese traditional craft, is designed for ease of use in diverse environments worldwide, ensuring that people everywhere can experience its unique light. This reflects Hayashi Kogei's deep desire to share this poetic light, born from Japanese craftsmanship, across borders. To enable overseas customers to purchase and use it with confidence, the power cord's plug type can be selected between US type and EU type, matching your region's power specifications. This allows for direct connection to your room's outlet. One standard E26 or E27 base bulb is required as the light source.

Please note that the bulb is not included and must be purchased separately. When making your purchase, verify the compatible base size (E26 or E27) for your selected plug type and acquire one bulb. we recommend using low-heat bulbs such as LED bulbs. LED bulbs also minimize heat impact on the Washi, contributing to extending the shade's lifespan. Please be aware that the product is intended for indoor use only. These Japanese paper lanterns are designed for global homes.

The Japanese Paper Floor Lamp “TYPE G” is a floor lamp imbued with Japanese aesthetics, a fusion of the unique beauty of Mino Washi with 1300 years of history, especially Harusamashi paper as a special material, the Gifu Lantern traditional technique with over 300 years of history, the skilled craftsmanship of Hayashi Kogei, and a minimal, organic design that brings stillness and harmony to modern spaces. The soft light emitted from the Harusamashi shade, which seems subtly "fluctuating" and poetic, brings deep, quiet peace and beauty that speaks to the heart into your daily space. Welcoming "TYPE G" into your living room, bedroom, or even entrance holds value beyond simply placing a lighting fixture. It is about adding a significant piece of Japanese decor. We encourage you to welcome the poetic light of Harusamashi, "TYPE G," into your life.