Light becomes more than a convenience in certain climates. In Norway, for example, light takes on a vital role during the overly dark days from late November to late January; it is also a significant factor during the months of 20+ hours of daylight. From the land of too much and too little comes Northern Lighting, a Norwegian lighting design company that acknowledges its source of inspiration as “the unique Nordic nature, the culture and the very special natural light which surrounds us.” Showing once again at 100% Norway at 100% Design, Northern Lighting will re-introduce Sunday, a wall lamp whose base accommodates both a bulb and a candle—simply switch the direction of the socket and lock it in place. Sunday also has a small built-in shelf for those reading-in-bed necessities—a glass of wine, a pair of glasses, or even a wedge of cheese. Last shown as a prototype at 100% Design in 2008, the Sunday lamp is currently in production. If you happen to be a Libra—or a person with a paradoxical bent—Sunday is the perfect light: it allows for a nod to the past with its place for a candle while it beckons the future with its place for a simple electric bulb.

Sunday. Designed by Northern Lights.

Whimsical and Kitschy Lighting at 100% Design

Another interesting lamp from Northern Lighting is Moo, a wall-mounted moose head light. The designers of Moo, Trong Svendgârd and Ove Rogne, both have summer houses in the town of Hamarey, where they regularly spot moose “passing close to the houses and even over the lawns.” Moo is a playful tribute to this large ungulate. Made of poly-resin, Moo emits a “smooth and transparent flow of light.” It even has bulbs within the horns that add a soft glow to the antlers. Moo fulfills the goal of Northern Lighting’s founder Over Rogne, who seeks to make lamps that “create a good mood.” Moo puts me in mind of Moooi’s Horse Lamp and Starck’s Gnome Table. Northern Lighting explains the aim of Moo quite beautifully: “The designers hope Moo will stand out as a post-modern kitsch trophy, making the viewer smile happily as they recognize the ‘king of the Norwegian forest.’”

Moo. Designed by Northern Lights.

Sunday. Designed by Northern Lights.

Via Depsoke.