With the LD 8177 recessed light, ELEKTRA demonstrates how lighting technology can be seamlessly integrated into furniture. This delicate and minimalist system has now been awarded the German Design Award for its outstanding design, a recognition that underscores this commitment.
The LD 8177 system from ELEKTRA illuminates recesses and feature walls in kitchens, living areas, bedrooms and hotel rooms. It is based on an LED strip with closely spaced chips. This arrangement produces a uniform, indirect and glare-free light. Various versions allow for atmospheric lighting that radiates upwards and downwards – similar to a wallwasher effect. In this way, the recess and the furniture merge into a single unit. Formally, the design concept incorporates the 16 cm grid and blends visually into any furniture scheme. A special feature of the LD 8177 is that the customer can easily enhance the LED system with additional functional elements such as shelves or brackets.
“We design every solution to be as discreet as possible,” says Henrik Bültmann, Head of Development and Design at ELEKTRA. “Ideally, the light source remains invisible so that the lines and surfaces of the furniture take centre stage.”
Design with manufacturing in mind
When developing its systems, ELEKTRA consistently takes into account the day-to-day production processes of furniture manufacturers. Profiles, dimensions and assembly follow clear principles; components are kept to the essentials and are easy to install. “We design profiles so that they use identical milling dimensions,” explains Bültmann. “This saves the customer machine time and ensures stable production processes.” Technical advances are supporting this development: LED strips are becoming smaller, with chips packed more densely and yet becoming more efficient. “We achieve greater brightness with less energy,” adds the head of development. “This enables narrow profiles and delicate light guides.”
Information about the award
The German Design Award is one of Germany’s most prestigious design awards, presented by the German Design Council since 2012. The award recognises products and concepts that stand out for their design quality, functionality and clear practical relevance. An independent jury comprising designers, academics and industry experts evaluates the entries.
You can find further information on the LD 8177 recessed light here:
elektra.de/de/niche-lighting-ld8177/