Ross Gardam Launches New Lighting Collection Ceto.

Pendants, wall light and a floor lamp are shown in situ, from the newly launched Ceto lighting collection by Ross Gardam. Visualisation by Mr. P Studios.

Melbourne designer Ross Gardam’s latest lighting collection Ceto is reminiscent of the variation and rippling of the ocean surface. Each piece reflects a unique pattern, emitting a delicate luminosity that’s reminiscent of the presence of the sea.

The launch of the Ceto collection defines a new universal language for decorative lighting. The poetic, sculptural luminaires span chandeliers, floor lamps, wall lighting, and pendant varieties, cumulating in the most extensive collection the Melbourne based studio has produced to date.

“The ability for this collection to bridge across many functions was key. I wanted something that was truly universal,” says Gardam.

The unique forms achieved in the glass were developed through experimentation with traditional optic glass blowing techniques. The rippled glass effect is formed on the inner side of the shade while the external shape remains consistent. The glass is blown into a preliminary mold, called the optic, before being blown into the final mold, which gives the glass its absolute form. Glass has a memory, so the pattern in the optic mold is represented in the complete object.

Related: Ross Gardam’s New Studio Space in Brunswick & Marble Desk Lamp for New Volumes.

After testing how mouth-blown glass reacted in various existing optics, Gardam’s team developed an optic to a contemporary geometric form. This geometric pattern, combined with the variation inherent in the blowing technic created the diverse and subtle patterns desired.

“For me, the ocean has such a calming effect; it’s a place heavily wrapped up in childhood nostalgia and a deep feeling of tranquillity,” says the designer. “I wanted the Ceto light to act as a kind of mnemonic device, allowing you to return to this place.”

Each element of the collection is produced in the Melbourne studio, meticulously assembled, wired, and packaged with the utmost care. Each glass shade is individually mouth-blown by Adelaide-based Jam Factory, while the aluminium components are all produced in Melbourne with Ross Gardam’s manufacturing partners.

“Intertwined with everything we do is locality,” explains Gardam. “Being able to collaborate with local makers not only achieves heightened results, but it’s also fun. Engaging on a project on a micro level with other passionate people is one of the reasons I love doing what I do.”

The full collection is now available directly through the studio by emailing [email protected] or calling +61 3 9329 4145. For more info, visit Ross Gardam website.

Detail of Ceto collection’s ripple glass effect.

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[Images courtesy of Ross Gardam. Photography by Haydn Cattach, unless otherwise noted.]