Extreme Knitting meets fibre optics at Sofitel

Custom lighting in sparkle fibre and wool from Di Emme and extreme knitter, Jacqui Fink. Image: Jacqui Fink.

The design for the hotel reception and Esprit Bar at Sofitel Darling Harbour is reminiscent of the historical use of the site for wool stores, auction houses and wharves. The floors are weathered timber and giant woollen light installations descend from the lofty ceiling.

A+ design group commissioned fibre artist and extreme knitter, Jacqui Fink, to create the woollen elements of the awe-inspiring lights. Di Emme fashioned the framework and threaded the 3000m of sparkle fibre optic cable that provide the ethereal glow for this custom made light.

The installations measure between 300mm and 800mm in diameter with lengths of sparkle fibre up to 7m. The framework is suspended on stainless thread. Building a large prototype in the Di Emme studio was essential for completing the complex project to schedule and budget.