When I hear the words ‘upside down’, I immediately think of Diana Ross, whose disco song of the same name is somewhat of a cult classic. Unfortunately, I was forced to dance a John Travolta-style number to that song at summer camp, where a misguidedly exuberant counselor insisted on staging a disco extravaganza. Despite this early trauma, I retain a love for upside down, the song and anything that’s turned on its head—the symbolism of all things nonconformist appeals to me. The idea must also appeal to designers Dan Yeffet and Lucie Koldova, the creators of Versa Lamp.

Versa lamp. Designed by Dan Yeffet and Lucie Koldova.

Upside Down, Mushroom-Shaped Oak and Glass Lamp

Versa Lamp is “an interpretation of an archetype shape and material,” according to Dan Yeffet. Whether that archetypal form is a mushroom, tree, or lamp is unstated, although I see Versa Lamp as a Platonic mushroom. With its perfectly sloping bowl and elongated base (all upside down, mind you), Versa Lamp resembles a fairy tale toadstool. This effect is only intensified when the Versa Lamp is red. The base of Versa Lamp is made of oak, while the shade is constructed of hand-blown glass in red or white. These natural materials combine to create a rich, organic object whose light glows like a star or planet.

Versa Lamp is a great piece for people who appreciate wonder, since its upside down design makes us rethink the quotidian. Dreamers, children, and the young at heart will enjoy the playful nature of Versa Lamp. The creation will surely act as a conversation piece in the parlor.

About the Designer: Dan Yeffet’s studio known as JellyLab was established by the Israel-born designer in 2003. Since then, he has been creating unique lighting, furniture, and accessories. Many of his lamps use large glass-blown shades in bold shapes. His works are shown in various museums throughout the world, most notably the New Design Museum in Chicago, Moss in New York City, and the FNAC Foundation in Paris.