A Lamp Makeover

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 The transformation story of this lamp begins the instant I stepped into Mom’s shop.

There it was: A boasted, shiny metallic lamp, wrapped in a plasticky crystal chandelier. It had a distinctly intimate, “bedroom-like” invitation. I couldn’t understand how this little, bright metal piece had made its way into an environment anchored in warm, rich wood tones. Still, this lamp was a fixture in Mom’s shop.

As I began working, I felt like a skilled fitter from a bygone era, carefully tightening a young woman’s lingerie beneath a grand gown. My first step was stripping the lamp down. I was on a mission to find the perfect material and color to elevate its tone within its surroundings, dressing it in a way that showcased its inherent form.

My vision was clear: a wooden ring that would provide substantial, see-through space for light. Given its prominent position at the front desk—where it catches every eye upon entering—I wanted the piece to look truly grand and impressive (or 大气 dàqì).

I discovered the coconut rings, drawn to their organic texture and drillable density. To achieve the bold look I wanted, I scaled up, choosing a one-inch diameter. The remaining work involved careful drilling and threading to securely assemble the pieces.

Halfway through the process, as I attempted to drape and hang the large circular net around the lamp’s frame, it appeared frustratingly uneven. I questioned my design approach, but I pushed that doubt aside and trusted the weaving process. When I finally hung the completed piece, the result of its deliberate, intentional design brought me to my knees.

The night I delivered it was the very night I picked up Mom at LAX from her trip. When the lamp was switched on in the dark shop, its large silhouette cast intricate shadows. Mom was genuinely happy with the surprise, and I was satisfied knowing that this striking remake only cost me a humble $17.60.




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