At first glance, WA might look like just another modern lamp – sleek, sculptural, and quietly contemporary. But hidden within its glowing rings is a piece of Tokyo’s rich history. Each ring was once part of a train strap handle on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line 8500, gripped by thousands of daily commuters before the series retired in 2023. Now, London-based design studio Akasaki & Vanhuyse has reimagined those resin rings as a limited-edition table lamp, turning the everyday gesture of holding on during a rush-hour ride into a luminous reminder of the city’s past.
Around 1,400 reclaimed resin rings was collected for the purpose of this project, resulting in a limited edition run of only 150 WA lamps. Each one is built from nine rings, stacked to form a gently glowing shade that filters light through the small gaps. Marks from years of use – scratches, dents, and subtle surface wear – have been preserved, creating a unique crackle-like effect that could never be replicated with the same unique context. The rings are held in place by mirrored stainless steel legs, giving the lamp both structure, sheen, and a touch of polish. Compact in size at just under 8 inches tall and weighing 2.65 pounds, WA is designed as a modest, modern fixture that celebrates a part of Tokyo.
Photo: ©TOKYU CORPORATION
Photo: ©TOKYU CORPORATION
Sustainability is woven into every stage of WA’s design. Beyond reusing train parts, the rings were sandblasted for a durable matte finish without erasing their history, while all metal elements are crafted from rust-resistant stainless steel to ensure longevity. The lamp was designed with end-of-life in mind, allowing for easy disassembly of its components. Even the packaging reflects this ethos: recyclable paper with an aluminum vapor coating replaces typical plastic films. Together, these choices highlight a commitment to timeless design that extends the lifespan of both the object and the story it tells.
To learn more about the WA lamp by Akasaki & Vanhuyse, visit akasakivanhuyse.com.
Photography courtesy of Akasaki & Vanhuyse, unless otherwise noted.
