There is a magic to the times spent on the coast. The mysterious and majestic stirring of the water, the soundtrack of breaking waves and the fresh scent of sea salt can create a picturesque moment of bliss unlike any other.

On a weekend away along the shore, Melbourne-based designer, Ross Gardam was intrigued by the soul of the water with its ability to move so effortlessly in a natural and transitional way. Born from a deep love for the coast and a myriad of trace sketches, the new Ceto Collection by Ross Gardam captures the variation and rippling of the ocean’s surface in a powerful and extraordinary lighting range.

The biggest collection under the Ross Gardam name to date, Ceto represents a milestone for the Australian lighting and furniture brand. The complete range of Ceto luminaires spans chandeliers, floor lamps, wall lighting and pendant varieties – creating a cohesive story unparallel to any other collection within the brand.

“Ceto is the result of a concept that took over 12 months to develop. It’s mesmerising story and unique characteristics needed the right amount of time to craft. In this time, I was able to discover and explore the true essence of a concept that was very special to me,” expresses Gardam. 

Each piece in the Ceto collection reflects a distinct pattern, emitting a delicate luminosity. The various configurations of the products make it a truly universal light; meticulously crafted with the intentions to perform, entice and inspire all at once. The pieces are sculptural in form – strikingly minimal with an engaging artistic spirit that is prolific across all Ross Gardam products.

“The ability for this collection to bridge across many functions was key,” notes Gardam. “I wanted something that was truly universal.”

Alluring in character, Ceto seeks to soften the everyday space with a serene sense of wonder through a distinct and refreshing universal language for decorative lighting.

The elegant structures all share a delicate balance between the organic glass elements and the machined aluminium components with superior functionality and versatility.

Beneath the surface, remarkable craftsmanship is embodied within Ceto, where the material and textural composition push past your traditional lighting feature. Each light source is seamlessly connected onto the supporting tube with no visible connections – an ingenious method that gives the product an overarching lightness and sophistication to its name.

The forms in the glass were developed through experimenting with traditional optic glass blowing techniques. By blowing the glass into a preliminary mold – called the optic – the rippled glass effect is formed on the inner side of the shade, while the external shape remains consistent, giving the glass its absolute form.

After testing the reactions of mouth-blown glass in existing optics, the design team developed an optic into a contemporary geometric shape. This unique geometric pattern, combined with the inherent variations in the blowing techniques, created the subtle patterns Gardam desired.

Idyllic of the unhurried motions of the sea, the silhouette of Ceto is designed to transcend the individual into a moment of repose. Gardam incorporated the organic ways of light into the way the collection is perceived – naturally, and all at once.

The perception of the light changes at every angle, allowing the form to diffuse the light and interplay with your senses and the surrounding space. This detail provokes a surreal experience that’s distinct to each individual; introducing you to the mesmerising personality of the Ceto collection. 

“For me, the ocean has such a calming effect; it’s a place heavily wrapped up in childhood nostalgia and a deep feeling of tranquillity,” says Gardam. “I wanted the Ceto light to act as a kind of mnemonic device, allowing you to return to this place.”

Ceto speaks of a nostalgic time, connecting you to the inimitable spell of nature’s poetic wilderness. With its refined form and harmonious personality, Gardam presents a lighting range that is more than meets the eye – celebrating tales of memories in a timeless embrace, inviting you to reminisce and escape.   

Photography by Haydn Cattach & Mr P Studios. 

Explore the complete Ceto collection and other exciting products on the Ross Gardam page. If you enjoyed this article, we think you’d like the story of Place by Ross Gardam. To get the scoop on the latest products, join the community on The Collection.