Totem

Materials

Pine, Plywood, PLA, Walnut Oil

Dimensions

12 x 4.5 x 5.5 in

Description

Totem is a modular lamp with three interchangeable configurations

Totem, in every configuration. 2025. Photographed by Ahme Park.

Concept

Project context This project was made within the context of a design course led by Martin Racine studying the conceptual and technical foundations of 3D object design, with an emphasis on sustainability, contemporary fabrication methods, and the broader professional context of design practice.

Design for dissassembly Crucial to this project’s guidelines was avoiding the creation of a permanent artefact: one that could not be disassembled and properly recycled at the end of its life cycle. Complying with these fabrication restrictions, none of the materials are permanently joined together.

Materials The lamp was made using pine, locally forested in Québec. All plywood components were upcycled. The PLA lattice is fully recyclable and slots within the lamp without glue. All wood components were stained using Osmo’s Polyx-Oil, and sealed using organic walnut oil.

Assembly

Configurations
Totem’s assembly follows a modular system that allows for components to be swapped around. Each of these parts rely on dowels and blind holes to connect to eachother snuggly.

No glue required.

Tower
When combining section A, B and C, the lamp takes the form of Tower, the tallest of the family. This version is composed of two wooden boxes placed above and below a latticed core from which light seeps through.

Toupie
When removing section A, the lamp transforms into Toupie, the stubby lantern, which completely alters it’s personality. This shorter version allows for new contexts and environments.

Tortue
When removing section B, the lamp transforms into Tortue, the sculptural wooden monolith. By sliding up the lid, light shines only through the back and the adjustable opening, introducing a new lighting effect and dimming system.

Totem, 2025

Gabriel Makinde
Concept, Industrial Design, 3D Modeling, Fabrication, Finishing, Documentation,
Photo Post-Processing

Ahme Park Photography

Sandbox

Jewelry