Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Monir: The Portable Lamp Inspired by Soft Moonlight

Header: Soroush Akbari

Monir is a table lamp designed for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi, a student at Azad University. The project was completed in July 2025 and later received a LIT Lighting Design Award in the “Desk Lamps” and “Floor Lamps” categories.

The lamp was designed to be portable and simple to use: it charges by USB, therefore avoiding disposable batteries, and it is modular, with parts intended to be accessed for maintenance when needed.

Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari
Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Inspired by the Moon

The designer took inspiration from moonlight held between the night sky and the earth. This unique idea can be found in three main parts: a dome stands in for the sky, a dark base marks the ground, and between them, a semi-transparent upper section represents the soft glow of the moon. An LED ring was added to the inside of the upper section so users don’t have direct contact with the bulb, enjoying only an even glow through the diffuser.

Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Day-to-day handling

Monir uses two actions for control: a simple tap turns the lamp on, and brightness can then be adjusted by a smooth rotation directly on the lamp, with three set levels of dimming. By remaining simple to use and unassuming, this simple interface fits the designer’s goal of creating a cordless, practical lamp.

Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Materials and construction

The base and upper dome are made from 100% recycled aluminium, and the diffuser is bio-based polycarbonate, a renewable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. These materials were chosen for both their durability and environmental footprint.

Monir was built following a modular approach, as mentioned above. The LED ring lighting system and the other internal parts are arranged as separate components, allowing for repairs and material recycling once the lamp has run its course.

Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari
Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Sustainability

The designer was careful to be thoughtful in all sections of this design, having chosen recycled aluminium for the main metal parts, a bio-based diffuser, a rechargeable power system and LED lighting for its low energy consumption and long lifespan. Monir’s sustainability pitch is simple: the lamp is something that can be either maintained or broken down into parts, rather than a single disposable unit.

Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari
Monir for Rey Studio by Rahi Seyedi
Photo credit: Soroush Akbari

Project Information

University / School Name: Azad University
Lead Designer: Rahi Seyedi
Client: Rey Studio
Date: July 2025