Back in October 2022, independent lighting studio RBW moved its operation from Brooklyn to a sprawling facility in Kingston, New York (while still maintaining its SoHo showroom). Coinciding with the brand’s 13th anniversary, the relocation consolidated all aspects of its designing and manufacturing under one roof and marks an opportunity for it to strengthen its “holistic approach” to lighting design. Dubbed the RBW Factory, the new headquarters takes up residency in an adapted 9,290-square-metre building that was once part of IBM’s campus (RBW tapped New York architect Neil Logan and local firm Dutton Architecture to consciously re-imagine the facility to meet its needs) and reinforces the founders’ commitment to sustainability (the company has been B-Corp certified since 2019). With numerous upgraded windows, including 16 skylights, energy-efficient LED systems and daylight harvesting – among other ecologically minded features – the low-slung black-painted brick building makes the most of its natural surroundings. 

A perfect encapsulation of the RBW’s sustainable ethos and forward-thinking position is the recently released Topo collection. At first glance, what is immediately noticeable is the simple yet elegant design, which marries a sleek circular backplate with an elliptical opal glass bulb. Together, the two seemingly uncomplicated elements have a clean-lined beauty that becomes more pronounced upon closer inspection. 

Made from a composite material common to the construction industry, Topo’s backplate is defined by a terrazzo-like texture that “radiates with warmth as the light illuminates the organic patterns on its surface.”

It’s the first time the cement and wood fibre (FSC- and PEFC-certified) substance has been used for a lighting fixture and its honesty shines through, blending the durability of concrete with the natural warmth of wood (while also adhering to standards that support the latest LEED certification). 

The dimmable Topo is offered in five distinct earth tones – Oat, Straw, Clay, Rust and Basalt – and two sizes (small, at 21.5 centimetres in diametre; and medium, at 30.4 centimetres). Adding to the fixture’s charm is the fact that no two will be alike, with each backplate expressing its own unique patterning and tonal variation.

Whether installed as a singular statement or arranged in a grouping, the new Topo collection wonderfully conveys the respect for craft, material and technology that RBW has become known for.