I can’t help but remark on a concept Philips is promoting for an outdoor lighting structure that transforms from a solar flower during the day to a wind turbine on cloudy days to a nightlight. It’s been out for a few months, but as a designer, I’m drawn to both it’s functional and aesthetic qualities. The concept is called Light Blossom. And I definitely want to see this concept bloom.

The idea is to provide a large tower that collects solar energy on the inside of its open petals, moving in harmony with the position of the sun. On cloudy or windy days, the petals half-close upward to catch the wind and convert the movement to energy. At night the petals close to form an LED nightlight providing only the light that’s necessary. Great for cities, but even better for rural areas where a power infrastructure is not possible, or power outages are frequent. A smaller version for residential use I believe would find a very willing market.

What I truly admire about the concept is that it takes an everyday mainstream item like a streetlight and serves up sustainability with style. Truly remarkable is how simple a concept it is in theory and how in line it is with the Philips brand of sense and simplicity. With so many variables, it surely won’t be easy to build nor maintain. Harder still will be making it cost efficient enough for cities and communities to afford. But if Philips can make it a reasonably priced option to retrofit or build into new communities, that’s not good design–that’s great design. Just think of it…wild energy flowers scattered from the seeds of imagination.

Find out more about this concept at www.Philips.com and check out the concept called: Simplicity Tomorrow – Light Blossom