There is something almost otherworldly about a lamp that looks like it’s breathing. Milan-based Filipina designer Mirei Monticelli has mastered this magic, creating biomorphic Banaca lighting that blurs the line between functional furniture and fine art. Her pieces don’t just sit in a room; they undulate and dance, glowing with a quiet, organic energy.
The secret behind these sculptural forms lies in their DNA—specifically, a material called Banaca. It’s a term Monticelli coined to describe a unique blend of modern design and hand-woven Abacá fiber. Sourced from the Bicol province in the Philippines, this isn’t just a supply chain; it’s a deep-rooted Filipino heritage project. Monticelli works directly with local weavers, turning a laborious, communal tradition into contemporary masterpieces.
“Human rhythm is what gives the material its character,” Monticelli says. “It’s why every piece feels alive.”
You can feel the influence of her mother—a fashion designer—in every curve. Instead of traditional carpentry, Monticelli uses techniques like draping and volume-building, treating the fabric almost like a couture gown for light. This “bodily” essence is exactly what made her “Pleasure Garden” installation such a hit at Milan Design Week last month.
Whether hanging from a ceiling or standing in a corner, these hand-woven lamps bring a piece of the Philippines to the global stage. They serve as a beautiful reminder that when we honor our roots, the results are absolutely luminous.
Want to see these glowing giants in action? Check out Monticelli’s latest work on Instagram!
