Introducing Kismas

Vintage glass blocks meet modernist architecture cues in a collection of striking table and floor lamps.

Believing in playfulness, in the concept of constant change, and in the importance of creating an imaginative home environment, Lithuanian design studio and brand Kismas makes distinctive lighting products that establish a clear dialogue between the past and present. The company’s name refers to the Lithuanian word for “change”, but as a more substantial process that allows an object to acquire a new identity. The Kismas collection celebrates the enduring character of vintage design, with an innovative twist. Created by Ramūnas Minkevičius, the table and floor lamps bridge different eras by incorporating elements of design from the 1970s-1980s with cues from modernist architecture and contemporary details. The collection features two main ranges: the Vintage Line and the Modern Line. Both of them comprise sculptural glass brick lamps that alter their surroundings even when turned off during the day.

The Kismas Vintage Line combines minimalist steel bases with reclaimed glass blocks that date back to the Cold War. Sourced from various Baltic countries, these original glass elements have been found in warehouses and industrial buildings, in various degrees of preservation. Indeed, the brand describes some of these lamps as “not perfect”, highlighting their unique features. Considered waste, the glass blocks transform into something new in this collection. Sturdy but subtle, the dark steel bases provide support to the vintage glass. At the same time, they emit light through the transparent elements, accentuating their graphic patterns and corrugated edges.

Bringing elements of brutalist buildings back to life.

Like its name suggests, the Rich Green Lamp 01 has a deep green color. Manufactured between the 1970s and the 1980s in countries that were then a part of the Soviet Union, the green blocks were used primarily in brutalist buildings. Due to the original manufacturing methods, these blocks feature unique marks, scratches, and small cracks that make the glass brick lamps one-of-a-kind. Additionally, they boast rippled edges which originally optimized the use of mortar. Kismas offers these lamps in a standard or an “I’m not perfect” version that features more markings, small cracks and imperfections.

Also a part of the Vintage Line, the Bigger Optical Lamp 01 comes with a large base and glass block. Produced in Lithuania between the ‘70s-’80s, these blocks have a lighter green color and a distinctive graphic pattern. These lamps also allow the use of filters that change the color of the light.

A collection of dimmable glass brick lamps inspired by modernist architecture.

The Kismas Modern Line comprises block glass lamps, but with new components. Made by leading manufacturer Seves Glass Blocks, these five lamps reference modernist architecture with their clean lines and bold patterns. Flawless and clear, the Modern Line lamps work exceptionally well with the Kismas light filters.

The Doric Lamp 01 is the centerpiece of the entire collection. It comes with a Doric19 glass block based on the drawings of renowned architect Rafael Moneo, and with a custom steel base. The Linear Lamp 01 boasts a clean ribbed pattern which subtly diffuses the light. This design works either horizontally or vertically. The Cross Linear Lamp 01 features intersecting lines that create subtly different lighting effects depending on the angle. Aptly named, the 80s Dream Lamp 01 has a frosted surface that softens the light and the mood but still lets the linear pattern shine. Finally, the Orbital Lamp 01 gives a nod to the Maison de Verre building in Paris. This lamp features a central circle and pronounced edges.

Light filters that can instantly change the color of the lamps and the atmosphere in a room.

The brand’s collection also offers a creative way to alter the look of the Kismas glass brick lamps. Easy to install and versatile, the lighting filters come in seven hues that produce different effects and suit a variety of spaces or occasions. For example, Dirty Yellow and Tokyo Blue create almost cinematic moods in a room, while Dark Pink and Neon Green give the light a subtle neon effect. Primary Red accentuates the design of the glass blocks and makes the lamps stand out even more, making it perfect for parties. Both Pale Rose and Aprico soften the light and give it a warm, cozy color. Images courtesy of Kismas.