We love the energy-conserving qualities of compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), but the look of them? And the somewhat harsh light they emit? Not so much.
London-based design firm Plumen set out to solve the first problem in 2010, unveiling the Plumen 001: a thoughtfully sculptured CFL that conserves roughly 75 percent more energy and lasts eight times longer than a standard bulb.
Now the company is at it again, this time with a more ambient, lower wattage option. Dubbed “the CFL you’d actually want to use (and look at on a daily basis),” the Plumen 002 energy-efficient lightbulb is an eco-friendly alternative to the 30W incandescent bulb.
Plumen debuted its sophomore product on Jan. 9, launching a simultaneous crowdfunding campaign through Kickstarter. The company is currently raising money for the 002, and estimates it will ship products to supporters in July.
The goal is to jump-start order volume and thus lower manufacturing costs.
“Our mission is to put these desirable objects, energy-efficient alternatives, in people’s hands at an affordable price,” says Nicolas Roope, founder and creative director of Plumen.
Roope adds that the company wanted to make something that people feel good about using and associating with.
The Plumen 002 has exceeded its $20,000 goal (it’s at more than twice its goal and counting), thanks to more than 450 backers. The campaign closes at 5 p.m. EST, Sunday, Feb. 9.
Next page: What Sets the Plumen 002 Apart