The Sphelar Lantern is a classy solar light in the shape of an hourglass, using some of the most sophisticated solar technology in the world today. Developed originally by Kyosemi Corporation and design studio graf, this lamp blends Japanese craftsmanship, a green aesthetic, and real hi-tech solar power.
We're super excited about this product, not least because it looks great but also as it has all kinds of implications for stylish home accessories in the future. And it's not every day that you come across an item with such a high-level design and advanced eco technology to boot!
Partly made in handpolished wood (birch or walnut) from sustainable forests, the Sphelar Lantern is an LED lamp that captures sunlight in every direction to provide you with elegant illumination during the evening and night. The solar power comes courtesy of spherical solar cells, which are superior to regular flat solar cells because they diffuse the sunlight from every direction and can even be used in windows and as other flexible forms.
We think this is a wonderful light for reading by in bed or in the living room, or for adding an atmospheric glow to the dinner table or outdoor patios. Of course in the winter or on cloudy days it won't always be possible to take advantage of the tech - sadly that's the nature (no pun intended) of solar power. When that's the case, you can simply charge the Sphelar Lantern up by USB or regular AC adaptor.
The Sphelar Lantern features:
- LED lamp with birch or walnut (choose below, or get both!)
- Size: around 21 x 8cm (8.3 x 3.1")
- Life: around 4 hours continuously (full charge)
- Charging time: around 6-8 hours in direct sunlight and in sunny conditions
- Can also be charged by USB cable (and AC adaptor) (around 3 hours till full charge)
Check out this video about the Sphelar micro solar cell technology being used in the lamps!