Creativity can be bred from any number of things, whether it be from a particular problem that needs solving, from the wonders of nature, the emotions of sound, or the food we eat. Taiwan-based designer Kenyon Yeh found his inspiration in the latter for his most recent project.

Maku is a brass table lamp made for design house Esaila, which can be defined as both a functional and sculptural object. The concept of the lamp came about by creating a sketch of a half-finished hand-rolled sushi. “Maku” means “roll” in Japanese and so the form of the base of the lamp reflects this in the most elegant way—it is both expressive and minimal.

Comprised of untreated solid brass to allow for a natural patina to develop over time, Maku uses a single rolled sheet with the lamp socket positioned securely in the rolled space, holding the lamp components. The part of the lamp that is unravelled acts as a handle so it can be easily picked up and repositioned.

Due to oxidisation and how it is handled, Maku develops beautiful signs of ageing, is incredibly sturdy, and over time, will tell a story of its surroundings and those who use it.

Kenyon Yeh currently lives and works in Taiwan, where he produces work for international brands. His design studio focuses on furniture, lighting, product, and interior design projects.

After graduating with a Masters in Product Design from Kingston University in London, Kenyon began his design career in London before relocating to Taiwan.

His inspirations come from minimising the outlines of mundane objects and exploring the possibilities of traditional and modern manufacturing techniques. The application of these principles makes his work unique and amiable at the same time.