A 3D-Printed Lamp Achieves Translucency With Corn Starch-Based Plastic

In a world overflowing with plastic waste, it’s encouraging to see designers opting for more sustainable materials while creating innovative and aesthetically pleasing solutions. ALT Design, a French design studio founded by Alexandre Touguet, is at the forefront of this movement, offering eco-conscious solutions with its newly launched brand, ALT Light. In collaboration with his partner Lise Rissel, Touguet introduced a 3D-printed lamp made from bio-sourced PLA (polylactic acid), a plastic derived from renewable corn starch. This lamp showcases the potential to combine cutting-edge technology with sustainable materials, all while achieving a balance between aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility.

Three modern ALT Light lamps with pleated paper shades in beige, green, and purple are elegantly arranged on a white surface, all connected by a sleek cord.

The choice of PLA is significant because it is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, offering a more sustainable option compared to petroleum-based plastics that dominate most consumer products. By using a plant-based plastic, ALT Light is contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions associated with plastic production and minimizing the long-term environmental impact of their products. PLA is not only environmentally friendly but also versatile, making it ideal for 3D printing, where precision and customization are key.

A modern interior setup featuring three cube-shaped lamps, one mounted on a wall, next to a book, a potted plant, candles in holders, and a small cabinet

A modern table lamp with a purple and green base sits on a wooden surface next to a small potted plant

A modern white wall-mounted lamp, with a pleated shade, illuminating a corner. Nearby are colorful candleholders and a green plant

A modern lamp with a ribbed, two-toned design emits a warm light. It is placed on a white cabinet next to colorful candle holders in green, blue, and purple

Modern tabletop lamp with a white, pleated shade and a purple and orange rectangular base, placed on a white surface

The lamp’s design is a striking combination of simplicity and playfulness, featuring a rectangular base that smoothly transitions into a flared, sculptural top reminiscent of traditional lampshades. The vertical ribbing that runs along the surface adds a dynamic texture, catching light in unique ways that enhance its visual appeal. This subtle detail gives the lamp a sense of movement, making it more than just a functional object; it’s a statement piece for any modern interior.

Close-up of a purple, ribbed texture lamp base with "ALTLIGHT" embossed on it, a pleated lampshade on top, and a white power cord connected to the base

close up of a 3d printed lamp shade

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, the lamp is designed for versatility. It is available in different sizes, including a small wall light, as well as medium and large table lamps. Customers can choose between translucent or transparent finishes, offering flexibility in how the lamp diffuses light. The translucent option softens the glow, creating a warm, ambient atmosphere, while the transparent version allows for a clearer, more focused illumination.

Four rectangular swatches in beige, purple, green, and orange are attached together with a string, each tag embossed with the word "ALTLIGHT.

One of the most innovative aspects of ALT Light’s approach is its made-to-order production model. Instead of mass producing items that may end up as unsold stock, each lamp is printed only after an order is placed, significantly reducing waste. This method of production also allows for customization, letting customers choose from a variety of two-tone color schemes. Whether it’s the bold contrast of green and purple or the subtler, earthy tones of sand and orange, the ALT Light can be tailored to fit personal style preferences or complement existing decor.

A white and purple table lamp sits on a white desk next to two books, one titled "1000 Lights." The lamp emits a soft glow, and a small shelf is visible in the background

A green vase with red flowers, a lit rectangular lamp, and a geometric candle are placed on a wooden shelf next to a book titled "À la lettre" in front of a window

ALT Design’s work is part of a larger trend where sustainability is increasingly becoming a core focus of product design. The integration of bio-sourced materials and modern 3D-printing technology reflects the growing demand for environmentally responsible choices without compromising on creativity or functionality. As consumers become more aware of the environmental impact of their purchases, products like the ALT Light offer a way to contribute to a more sustainable future while still enjoying beautiful, innovative design.

Two small table lamps, one purple and white, the other green and white, are illuminated on a wooden surface next to a stack of books and a small potted succulent

A bedside table with a colorful lamp, books, and decorative items, including a framed picture and a vase with yellow flowers. The lamp is turned on, casting a warm light

A bedside scene with a small lamp, books, and decor on a table next to a bed. A green headboard, wall art, and radio are visible in the background

A bedside table with a glowing lamp, a book on a floating shelf, and a bed with a striped pillow and blanket in a modern bedroom

A wooden shelf with various items, including a lit lamp, framed photos, plants, a blue decorative object, various small decorations, a camera, by a window

A wooden lamp emits warm light on a wooden crate near a houseplant and a dried flower arrangement. A framed quote and a book titled "CULOTTÉES" are also in the scene

A modern, white and violet air purifier with a grooved design sits on a wooden crate. It is flanked by a potted plant on the left and a dried floral arrangement on the right

Close-up of the back of a device with a green ridged surface and a purple panel. The panel is engraved with "dii-light" and designations of "UKCA," "CE," and "Designed by Alt Design in France.

Three wall-mounted lights with pleated white lampshades are fixed to a wood paneled wall. Each light has a colored base in green, orange, and purple respectively