Cenit Lighting Series Combines Cultivated Cellulose With Natural Ash

Mexican biomaterials company Polybion and design studio Natural Urbano have launched Cenit. This made-to-order lighting collection combines natural ash with translucent Celium. Polybion grows this cellulose material with the help of bacteria and fruit waste.

The series shows how bio-based materials can move beyond fashion. Instead, designers can use them as functional parts of interior products. Cenit suits homes, studios and hospitality spaces.

From Fruit Waste To Warm Light

Polybion produces Celium by feeding bacteria with waste from the fruit industry. Through this process, the bacteria create sheets of cellulose. Each sheet has its own colour, texture and level of transparency.

In Cenit, Celium does more than cover the lamp. It filters the light and creates a soft, warm glow. At the same time, the light highlights the material’s natural surface. As a result, interior designers can add a bio-based material without hiding its organic character.

A linear frame made from natural ash supports the cellulose sheets. In addition, customers can choose between Natural and Smoke versions. Both options highlight the contrast between the wooden frame and the light-filtering layers.

A Horizontal Line Of Light

The collection takes its name from the zenith, the highest point in the sky above an observer. Natural Urbano turned this idea into a horizontal line of light. Therefore, the design resembles a horizon floating within a room.

Cenit follows Lapso, the first project by Polybion and Natural Urbano. The partners presented this sculptural lamp at several design events. These included The Biofab Fair during London Design Festival, What Design Can Do México and Design Week Mexico.

However, Cenit has a more linear and flexible form than Lapso. The collection includes a large pendant for dining areas and hospitality spaces. A smaller pendant suits compact rooms. Finally, a table lamp provides light for desks, bedside tables and quiet corners.

Grown And Made To Order

Polybion grows the Celium for every lamp on demand. Natural Urbano then assembles each piece individually. Consequently, the estimated delivery time is five weeks.

The growing process creates small differences in colour, texture and transparency. These differences give every lamp its own identity. Moreover, they show how designers can use biological variation as both a visual and functional quality.

Source & photos: Polybion