Header: Nico Freitas
SPIN lamp by Nico Freitas filters the light through the object’s architecture rather than a traditional translucent shade. Envisioned as an architectural study of indirect light, SPIN consists of numerous thin plywood planes spinning at precise angles around a central axis. The design explores how the lamp structure can shape light and atmosphere through an interaction of light, material and geometry.
Light shaped by delicate wood planes
Wood plays a central role in the lamp’s design. More than a finish applied to a luminaire, it represents the material through which the light is shaped. The planes block direct light, with a sequence of wooden surfaces separating the light source from the environment. High-quality plywood is selected to achieve the design’s required thinness.
Plywood is a sustainable, renewable material made from layers of wood veneers, maximising the efficiency of timber resources. The cross-layered construction provides stability. As light passes through the wooden surfaces, the wood’s natural tones cast a warm glow, adding an organic note to the overall experience. Natural oil finish highlights the plywood’s textures while avoiding harmful chemicals.
Laser cutting, manual assembly
The construction combines digital and manual work. The laser-cut individual wood surfaces are later assembled and finished by hand in Nico Freitas Studio. Apart from providing more precise results, laser cutting also reduces waste. The lamp produces a warm and controlled glow through reflection between wooden surfaces. In order for the design to work, every piece must be placed in a precise position, resulting in the physical structure that shapes both the visual language of SPIN and the movement of light.
Measuring 30 x 33 cm, the SPIN lamp comes with a Europlug Type C plug and a recommended LED 2700–3000 K bulb. Designed and handmade by Barcelona-based designer Nico Freitas, SPIN is part of the designer’s permanent collection. The lamp comes in several limited editions, each exploring different textures and tones. Careful hand assembly gives the lamp longevity and character, transforming numerous flat pieces into a long-lasting, refined design.
SPIN by Nico Freitas
Barcelona-based Brazilian architect Nico Freitas has turned his attention to wood after more than fifteen years of architectural practice. Founded in 2024, his material-focused studio, developed alongside his architectural work, explores the relationship between material, structure and spatial perception. His recent work centres on design and handmade production of wooden luminaires. One of Nico Freitas’ first lighting designs, the SPIN lamp, received an Honourable Mention at the LIT Design Awards 2025 in the Spinning Light category.
SPIN table lamp represents an architectural study, connecting light, material and structure into a cohesive functional product. Made of high-quality plywood and assembled by hand, the lamp explores how light can influence the atmosphere and perception of the space.
