The AD Home Design Show did something a little different in 2009: it doubled its MADE section, a juried selection of art objects and furniture. As part of this year’s expanded group of artisans, MetaForm Studio displayed their Conga Light. The Conga “is a graceful drum shape formed from golden slats gathered into a harmonious sphere.” Measuring 24” H x 12” W, the Conga Light works well by itself in a residence or grouped in commercial spaces.

Conga Light. Designed by MetaForm Studio.

The slats of the Conga Light soften the light, casting a warm glow. Reminiscent of a Chinese bird cage, the Conga Light brings a touch of nature into any interior. MetaForm Studio’s story and company philosophy is rather interesting. Like many enlightened designers, they have chosen to go green. But their reason for doing so deserves attention: “Our lighting designs started on the streets of Manhattan when we came across discarded sunflower crates in the Flower District. With their varied wood tones and elegant long lines, the crates were full of character and inspired our first light. We realized that discarded, recycled, and sustainable materials are a rich source of creativity.” That initial stroll led to MetaForm’s creation in 2000. Since then, MetaForm’s lights have graced the pages of Dwell, Domino, and Natural Home Magazine.

What exactly is green about MetaForm Studio? They use FSC-certified woods and energy-efficient bulbs to design lighting that reduces waste in a small manufacturing facility that reuses and recycles as much as possible. Low-VOC finishes make the lights completely biodegradable. As MetaForm points out, their lights “could be disassembled and burned for heat or mulch.” If you did get a chance to vist MetaForm Studio’s Conga Light at the Architectural Digest Exhibition, you will have had a chance to see how good green can look. If not, check out the 3rings wrap-up of the AD Home Design Show the best and brightest exhibitors in 2009.