Bronze Homeware Design · 2025
Enlighten The Universe Candle
- A' Design Award 2025 Bronze Winner in Homeware Design
- Awarded April 15, 2025
- CLIENT: Felicita Candle
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 14,864
- Verification code 738B6E25EA · Verify this award
About Enlighten The Universe Candle
The design is inspired by the emotional warmth and comfort of a lit candle, a beloved object for many. It combines the sensory experience of a candle with user functionality, emphasizing both connection and practicality. The challenge was creating a stationary design that remains flexible. Starting with three foundational elements, the design offers stability while allowing infinite expansion. This modular system invites users to personalize and evolve it, making the design adaptable, meaningful, and interactive over time.
Enlighten The Universe Candle represents a compelling synthesis of sculptural form and functional illumination, situating itself within the rich tradition of candelabrum design that extends from medieval ecclesiastical metalwork through Baroque candelabra to the streamlined geometries of mid-century Scandinavian design and contemporary minimalist product design, the work demonstrating particular affinity with the material restraint and formal clarity championed by design movements that privilege essential form and honest material expression over applied ornament or surface decoration, suggesting resonances with the design philosophy articulated through movements ranging from the Bauhaus emphasis on form following function to the Japanese aesthetic principles of wabi-sabi that find beauty in simplicity and subtle imperfection, the candelabrum's staggered arrangement of seven holders creating a rhythmic visual cadence that elevates the functional object into the realm of sculptural composition while maintaining absolute clarity regarding its ceremonial purpose. The technical and formal accomplishments of this design merit considerable attention, particularly the sophisticated resolution of engineering challenges inherent in creating a stable multi-branch candelabrum where slender vertical elements must achieve both structural integrity and visual elegance, the designer demonstrating admirable restraint in material palette selection, limiting the composition to a refined range of cool metallic grays that allow the warm golden glow of candlelight to emerge as the singular chromatic accent, this discipline in color application serving to amplify the emotional and symbolic impact of living flame while establishing the candelabrum itself as a neutral architectural framework for light rather than a competing visual presence, the matte surface treatment of the metallic elements revealing a sophisticated understanding of how surface finish affects perceived material quality and atmospheric integration, the brushed or satin texture absorbing ambient light and creating gentle gradations across cylindrical forms that enhance volumetric presence while avoiding the visual distraction of specular reflections that might fragment compositional unity, the trumpet-form flares terminating each vertical stem demonstrating particular formal intelligence, their gentle outward expansion creating both functional receptacles for taper candles and graceful visual terminals that prevent the vertical elements from appearing truncated or unresolved, the overall proportional relationships between stem diameter, height variations, and horizontal spacing revealing careful attention to visual rhythm and the creation of engaging syncopation that rewards continued viewing rather than presenting immediate symmetrical resolution. Thematically, this candelabrum invites contemplation of humanity's enduring relationship with fire as a source of illumination, warmth, and symbolic meaning, the work participating in ancient traditions of ritual lighting that span cultural contexts from sabbath candles to menorah illumination to Buddhist altar lamps to birthday cake candles, each flame representing not merely functional light in an age of electrical illumination but rather a connection to elemental forces and the ceremonial marking of significant moments, the deliberate choice to create a contemporary candelabrum rather than pursuing more technologically advanced lighting solutions suggesting a valuing of slowness, ritual, and the meditative qualities inherent in tending living flame, the seven-branch configuration potentially evoking without explicitly referencing the seven-branched menorah of Jewish tradition or the mystical significance attributed to the number seven across numerous cultural contexts including the seven classical planets, seven days of creation, seven liberal arts, or seven chakras, though the organic rather than symmetrical arrangement suggests the designer's intention to create a contemporary domestic object that honors historical precedent while asserting its own formal identity rather than functioning as direct religious or symbolic reproduction, the overall aesthetic communicating values associated with mindful living, domestic sanctuary creation, and the elevation of everyday rituals through thoughtfully designed objects that bring beauty and contemplation into daily experience. The work situates itself within broader contemporary design conversations regarding the role of craft tradition in an age of industrial production, the potential for functional objects to transcend utility and enter aesthetic discourse, and the ongoing negotiation between minimalist restraint and sensory richness that characterizes much significant contemporary decorative arts practice, the candelabrum achieving a subtle balance where formal simplicity serves rather than contradicts experiential warmth, where industrial materials and apparent precision manufacturing coexist with the organic irregularity of flame and the gradual transformation of wax, where contemporary design language honors rather than abandons the ceremonial and symbolic dimensions that have surrounded fire and light throughout human cultural development. One might observe how this candelabrum transforms the simple act of lighting candles into a choreographed ritual, the staggered heights inviting sequential ignition that becomes a small performance of light gradually spreading across the horizontal expanse, or consider how the work creates a portable threshold space, a zone of warmth and contemplation that can be positioned wherever its gentle illumination and symbolic presence might serve to mark a moment as significant, separate from the ordinary flow of daily activity, the question arising for each viewer regarding what occasions, gatherings, or solitary moments might call forth this particular quality of light and presence, what meanings might be kindled alongside these flames.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- This candle holder features a modular and expandable design that allows users to arrange multiple units from a minimum of three to an unlimited number, adapting to different spaces and needs. Its sturdy and cost-effective base allows for long-term use with easy candle replacement, ensuring continuous enjoyment without the need for new installations. Users can customize the candle placement to enhance the decor, create ambient lighting or create a relaxing atmosphere, making it a versatile, practical and beautiful solution for any environment.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- The flexibility of the project’s dimensions, particularly in terms of length and width, allows the product to be adaptable to various design contexts and user preferences. This adjustability enables the product to fit seamlessly into different environments, whether it is used in homes, commercial spaces, or specific aesthetic arrangements. The height is a significant aspect of the product, starting from twenty Cm at the base and tapering down to a minimum height of seven point six three Cm , adding both functional and aesthetic value to the design.
- Tags
- Modular Lighting, Candle Aesthetics, Eco-Friendly Design, Customizable Decor, Ambiance Enhancement
- Production Technology
- This candleholder features a modular, expandable design, allowing users to connect multiple units with magnets, from three to an unlimited number, adapting to any space. Its sturdy, cost-effective base ensures long-term use with easy candle replacement, providing continuous enjoyment without a new setup. Users can customize candle placement to enhance décor, create ambient lighting, or establish a calming atmosphere. This versatile, elegant, and functional design seamlessly blends aesthetics with practicality.
- Design Challenge
- The challenge focuses on the correct application of the project idea while ensuring user-friendly functionality. This product merges design and practicality, allowing for effortless candle replacement, which enhances usability. By emphasizing both aesthetics and practical use, the project demonstrates a seamless user experience. The results highlight the successful integration of the concept into a product that is both elegant and easy to use, fulfilling the project’s goals.
- Project Duration
- The project started in July 2024 in Isfahan/Iran and finished in September 2024.
- Operation Flow
- This product emphasizes ease of use, allowing users to effortlessly replace candles for continuous functionality. Its cone-shaped design prevents melted wax from dripping onto surfaces, reducing mess and preserving cleanliness. This practical feature ensures the product remains functional while maintaining its visual appeal. The elegant design complements any setting, blending aesthetics and practicality for a seamless user experience.
- Research
- The design of “Enlighten the Universe” was inspired by the four elements water, air, earth, and fire engaged when a candle burns. Customer research revealed two key issues: wax dripping, which leaves a mess, and the loss of aesthetic appeal as candles deform over time. The design addresses both, offering a solution that maintains its beauty and functionality, even after repeated use. This ensures the product remains both a practical and decorative piece, embodying elegance and ease of use.
- Inspiration
- The design process began with a fundamental question: Why does lighting a candle create a sense of peace? The answer lies in the activation of the four elements—Water, Air, Earth, and Fire—as follows:
Water: Melted wax
Air: Rising smoke
Earth: Solid wax
Fire: The flame
This project embodies this elemental harmony in both form and function. The triangular structure reflects Fire, reflective surfaces represent Water, and varying heights symbolize the changing nature of Air, creating a holistic sensory experience. - Patents
- I dont do it now but i will do that .
Colors of Enlighten The Universe Candle
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Design Interview about Enlighten The Universe Candle
The first thing I considered when starting this design was how to create an emotional connection between the object and the person experiencing it. To me, the universe is made up of deeply interconnected relationships, and I kept asking myself how I could express that bond between human beings and the natural world through a tangible form. That’s when I was drawn to the four classical elements—earth, fire, water, and air. I saw them as the essential building blocks of life, and they became the foundation for this design. My goal was to create an object that not only holds aesthetic value but also carries meaning—a piece with identity, formed to symbolize the connection between human presence and the universe itself.
My main focus in designing this piece was to create something that goes beyond function or decoration something that feels meaningful and emotionally resonant. I wanted the design to evoke a sense of calm and connection, inviting the viewer to pause and feel grounded. It was important to me that the object carry a sense of identity, rooted in the four classical elements of nature, as a reminder of our relationship with the universe. I aimed to design something that is not only visually appealing, but also thought-provoking and quietly inspiring.
My plan for this award-winning design is to move it from the conceptual stage to limited production so it can connect with a wider audience. I’m interested in exploring different materials to highlight various aspects of its concept. Additionally, I’m considering collaborations with brands that value meaningful design and can help bring this work to a broader market. Ultimately, my goal is for this design to become a part of people’s everyday lives without losing its conceptual depth or aesthetic value.
Actually, this idea had been in my mind for quite some time—I kept thinking about it, refining it, and improving it. When I found out about the A’ Design Award and realized it was a great opportunity, I had about one to two weeks to submit the initial registration. During that time, I quickly decided to work on this concept because I felt it was an interesting and unique idea that I could showcase to the world through this competition. After submitting the initial registration, I started working more seriously, and the result is what you see now.
This design was entirely inspired by my personal vision and was not commissioned. My goal was to transform a deep and long-held concept in my mind into a tangible and relatable form. I wanted to express the connection between humans and the fundamental elements of nature, which is something very meaningful and fascinating to me. That’s why I decided to pursue this concept and develop it into a presentable design.
Currently, this design has not reached the production stage nor is it being used by another company. My plan is to either manage the production myself or collaborate with related brands and companies to produce it in limited quantities with high quality. Additionally, in the future, I may consider licensing the production rights to interested companies to expand the reach and impact of the design.
The main reason I designed this particular type of work was my personal interest in creating a deep connection between humans and nature. I have always thought about how to convey a sense of presence and belonging to the universe through design. This type of work allows me to focus not only on form and aesthetics but also on the deeper, emotional meanings behind everything. Therefore, this design was an opportunity to express these concerns and inspirations in a tangible and understandable way.
During the design process, I drew a lot of inspiration from nature and the fundamental elements of the universe, though I was also influenced by the experiences and works of renowned designers. However, my main focus was on creating a personal and emotional connection with core concepts rather than trying to imitate a specific style or other works. Overall, my inspiration came more from nature and existential philosophy than from other designers’ creations.
The target audience for this design consists of people seeking an experience beyond mere visual beauty, who appreciate the meaning behind the work. They also value functionality, flexibility, adaptability, and having options in how they use a product. This design offers expandability and adaptability while maintaining an accessible level of luxury, making it suitable for a wide range of people across society.
What sets this design apart is its deep integration of form and meaning. Unlike many similar designs that focus solely on aesthetics or function, this work aims to create an emotional and philosophical experience, inviting the viewer to reflect on the connection between humans and the natural world. Additionally, its flexibility and expandability make it suitable for various applications and adaptable to different lifestyles. This combined approach gives the piece a unique and innovative identity that distinguishes it from other concepts.
The name “Enlighten the Universe Candle” is directly drawn from the core concept of the design. On one hand, “Enlighten” refers to both physical illumination and a deeper sense of awareness or understanding. On the other hand, “Universe” symbolizes vastness, order, and the interconnectedness of all natural elements. The choice of this name reflects the purpose behind the design: to evoke a sense of connection, calm, and a reminder of the bond between humans and the universe. In this context, the candle is not just a functional object, but a medium for expressing that message.
In the initial stage, I worked with hand sketches to develop the concept and better understand the feeling and form of the design. After that, I used 3D software such as AutoCAD, 3ds Max, and Rhino to refine the forms and focus on the technical details. These tools allowed me to ensure both technical accuracy and strong visual presentation. For the final presentation materials, I used Photoshop to prepare high-quality visuals for showcasing the design.
The most unique aspect of this design is the combination of a minimal form, flexibility in use, and the deep concept behind it. This is not just a candle—it serves as a medium to express the connection between humans, nature, and the universe. At the same time, it is designed to be functional, customizable, and visually calming, evoking a sense of balance. This blend of aesthetics, meaning, and usability is what gives the design its distinct identity.
In this project, I handled most of the design and development on my own, as the idea was very personal and conceptual for me and I wanted to experience it as much as possible myself. However, at certain stages such as technical aspects, execution, and animation, I cons.ulted and collaborated with specialists to ensure the design was both aesthetically refined and practically feasible
Technology plays a key role in this design, helping me to precisely implement ideas and technical details in an executable way. Using 3D software and modeling tools allowed me to design the forms with high accuracy and create the necessary flexibility in the work. Overall, technology served as a bridge between the concept and reality, enabling the design to be realized in the best possible way.
My design is primarily inspired by personal insight and philosophical concepts. However, I conducted various research on the four fundamental elements of nature and their connections to different cultures and beliefs to gain a broader perspective on the subject. Additionally, I studied materials and technologies related to candle production to ensure the design is practical and feasible. This research helped me convey the depth of the concept more effectively while keeping the design technically realistic and sustainable.
One of the main challenges was conveying a deep and philosophical concept into a visual language that would be understandable and meaningful to the audience. I aimed to design something that is both visually appealing and effectively communicates the underlying message. Another challenge was balancing simplicity of form with functional flexibility. On the technical side, adapting conceptual ideas to the limitations of design software and tools was also challenging. In the execution phase, I faced the challenge of implementing the idea of expandability in a thoughtful way, ensuring that the components of the object fit together easily and logically. These challenges ultimately helped the design evolve into a more refined and precise outcome.
I have always been looking for opportunities to present my work beyond local boundaries and receive broader feedback. International design competitions like the A’ Design Award, due to their credibility and extensive network, provide the best platform to introduce new ideas and designs. When the opportunity arose, I felt this competition was the best way to showcase my work to a global audience and gain professional feedback. Additionally, participating in such contests helps me better understand international standards and take steps toward professional growth.
During the design process of this project, I learned how to translate a deep and philosophical concept into a simple and understandable visual language. I also improved my technical skills in using 3D design software and digital tools, gaining better experience in balancing form and function. This process gave me a broader perspective on design and a deeper understanding of the importance of harmony between aesthetics, usability, and meaning. Ultimately, I gained more confidence in implementing complex ideas.
Perhaps the most important point I’d like to add is that for me, design is not just about creating a beautiful object, but a tool for deeper connection between humans and the surrounding universe. I hope this work helps the audience reflect on the fundamental values and elements of existence and immerse in a moment of calm and contemplation. Also, this project has been a path of personal learning and growth, broadening my perspective on both design and life.
Grand Interview about Enlighten The Universe Candle
The four elements—Water, Air, Earth, and Fire—served as both inspiration and guiding framework throughout the design of Enlighten The Universe Candle. Each element shaped a different aspect of the candle, creating a balanced and immersive experience.Water inspired the smooth, flowing form that evokes calmness and continuity.Air guided the open structure, allowing light and shadows to dance freely and enhancing the sense of space.Earth influenced material choices and grounded the design with a sense of stability and tactile presence.Fire, the heart of the candle, defined the atmosphere I aimed to create—warmth, energy, and inner focus.For me, the real challenge and joy was finding harmony among these elements while staying true to my personal design philosophy: creating objects that are not only visually striking but also emotionally resonant. By combining them thoughtfully, the candle becomes more than a functional object; it becomes a sensory and symbolic experience that connects with the user on multiple levels.
The modular nature of Enlighten The Universe Candle was inspired by the idea of growth, adaptability, and personal expression. I wanted the candle to evolve with the user, allowing them to combine, expand, or adjust its components according to their space, mood, or intentions.This adaptability enhances the emotional connection because it invites participation and interaction. Users are not just passive observers; they become co-creators of their experience, choosing how the candle is arranged, how it interacts with light and shadow, and how it fits into their personal environment.By designing a system that is both flexible and stable, the candle offers a sense of empowerment and intimacy. The user feels that this object is uniquely theirs, capable of evolving with their journey, which deepens both appreciation and attachment.
The cone-shaped design of Enlighten The Universe Candle emerged from an iterative research and development process aimed at solving a common practical issue—wax dripping—without compromising aesthetics.We explored multiple forms, materials, and wick placements, testing how the wax flowed under different conditions. Through these experiments, the cone shape proved to naturally guide the melted wax inward, preventing drips while creating a visually elegant silhouette.This design solution demonstrates that functionality and beauty are not mutually exclusive. By carefully considering both user experience and visual harmony, the candle achieves a balance where practical needs enhance, rather than detract from, the overall aesthetic.
The varying heights of Enlighten The Universe Candle, ranging from twenty centimeters to seven point six three centimeters, were carefully determined using the Golden Ratio (approximately 1.618) as a guiding principle.By applying this mathematical proportion, each candle’s height relates harmoniously to the next, creating a natural rhythm and visual balance that is pleasing to the eye. This ratio is not only historically significant in art, architecture, and design, but also resonates subconsciously with the human perception of beauty and order.Functionally, the heights were chosen to optimize burning time, stability, and light diffusion, while the Golden Ratio ensures that the arrangement of the candles forms a cohesive and aesthetically harmonious ensemble. By combining mathematical precision with artistic sensibility, the candle series achieves a sense of elegance, balance, and emotional resonance for the user.
Balancing practicality with artistic expression in Enlighten The Universe Candle was a careful and iterative journey. From the beginning, I wanted the candle to be functionally reliable—stable, safe, and free from common issues like dripping wax—while simultaneously embodying a poetic and engaging visual language.Throughout the design process, every decision was evaluated against these two criteria. Materials, forms, and proportions were tested and refined multiple times to ensure that functional requirements did not compromise the aesthetic vision. Conversely, artistic intentions were always checked to see if they supported usability and user experience.The key was integration rather than compromise: the candle’s practical features, such as the cone shape and modularity, were designed to enhance its beauty, while the visual design elevated its everyday functionality. This iterative dialogue between form and function ensured that the final piece remained true to its core purpose—creating an immersive, meaningful, and harmonious experience for the user.
The magnetic connection system in Enlighten The Universe Candle was conceived as a way to redefine how users interact with candles. Traditional candle holders are static and limit creativity, while the magnetic system encourages users to engage, experiment, and personalize their arrangement.I envisioned this feature transforming the candle into a living object, where each user can decide how to expand, connect, or rearrange the modules to fit their space, mood, or intention. This interactive approach allows the candle to evolve over time, fostering a deeper emotional connection as the user becomes an active participant in shaping the experience.By integrating practicality with interactivity, the magnetic system not only enhances usability and flexibility but also turns the candle into a personal, expressive, and dynamic element within any environment.
Customer feedback played a pivotal role in shaping the innovative solutions of Enlighten The Universe Candle. During the research and prototyping phases, common issues such as wax dripping, uneven burning, and aesthetic wear were identified not only through technical tests but also by observing user interactions and listening to their experiences.By incorporating this feedback, I was able to refine the candle’s form, material choices, and structural elements, ensuring that practical problems were addressed without compromising visual elegance. For example, adjustments to the cone shape and wick placement directly responded to user concerns, while also enhancing the sculptural quality of the candle.Engaging with users throughout the process allowed me to develop solutions that are both functional and emotionally resonant, creating a product that feels intuitive, reliable, and deeply connected to the needs and desires of the people using it.
The triangular structure of Enlighten The Universe Candle was intentionally designed to symbolize fire, evoking energy, warmth, and focus, while the reflective surfaces were incorporated to represent water, creating a sense of fluidity, calm, and light interaction.These symbolic elements work together to create a multi-layered sensory experience. The triangular form draws the eye upward, guiding attention to the flame and instilling a feeling of dynamic energy. Meanwhile, the reflective surfaces capture and scatter light, producing subtle visual movement that engages the viewer and evokes the calming qualities of water.By combining these symbolic cues, the candle does more than illuminate a space—it orchestrates an emotional and sensory journey, where warmth, reflection, and visual rhythm interact to create a balanced, immersive, and meaningful experience for the user.
As the creator of Enlighten The Universe Candle, I see this design as a bridge between traditional symbolic elements and modern functionality, offering a model for future homeware design. By integrating elemental symbolism, modularity, and practical features such as drip prevention, the candle demonstrates how aesthetics and usability can coexist harmoniously.I believe this approach encourages designers to think beyond conventional boundaries, combining emotional resonance, cultural references, and technical innovation in their creations. The candle exemplifies how a product can be interactive, customizable, and visually compelling, setting a precedent for homeware items that are not only functional but also deeply meaningful and adaptable to the user’s lifestyle.Ultimately, Enlighten The Universe Candle reflects a philosophy that future homeware should engage the senses, tell a story, and provide both utility and emotional connection, inspiring a more holistic and thoughtful approach to everyday design.
With Enlighten The Universe Candle, my intention was to create more than just a decorative object—it is designed to transform a space into a sanctuary, a place of calm, focus, and reflection. I believe that decorative items play a crucial role in shaping the emotional atmosphere of living spaces, influencing mood, perception, and even daily rituals.This candle embodies that philosophy by combining sensory elements, symbolic references, and interactive features that engage the user on multiple levels. Every detail, from its form and proportions to its modularity and reflective surfaces, contributes to an environment that feels intentional, harmonious, and immersive.Through this design, I aim to demonstrate that decorative objects are not merely visual accents—they are tools for emotional well-being, personal expression, and spatial transformation, reinforcing the idea that thoughtfully designed objects can elevate everyday experiences and enrich our connection to our surroundings.