Ngala Trading Introduces Sustainable Lighting From MUD Studio to North America

For lighting showrooms looking for eco-friendly lighting with a unique look, New York-based Ngala Trading is offering a line of ceramic lighting by MUD Studio of South Africa to the North American marketplace.

Using recycled clay waste from its ceramic studio to form new products, MUD Studio’s artisans handcraft textural chandeliers that celebrate the artistic heritage of South Africa and provide a distinctive aesthetic.    

MUD Studio artisans create the designs by stringing together small-scale ceramic pieces on steel frames to form layered, textural lighting fixtures.

“We are honored to partner with MUD Studio to introduce their visionary masterpieces to a broader audience of wildly talented American designers,” says Lawson Ricketts, creative director of Ngala Trading. “The layers of handmade ceramic pieces that grace these lighting forms have caught my eye for years. It feels fresh, authentically creative, and innovative. Designers come to Ngala Trading namely for our unique lighting designs; this introduction further cements our reputation as a resource for beautiful lighting. Our team looks forward to seeing these designs further transcend cultures and captivate beautiful homes across North America.”

MUD Studio’s work has a well-respected fan base of design visionaries, appearing in installations throughout the world by Kit Kemp, Ralph Lauren, and MOMA. The initial introduction will feature six styles in varying sizes and earth-toned colors:

The Original MUD Chandelier: First displayed in MOMA NY from 2006 to 2007 as part of the Africa exhibition, the Original MUD Chandelier was conceived as a response to the surplus of waste material generated within the studio, reflecting MUD’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

The Leaf Pod Chandelier: Inspired by the architecture of the bagworm cocoon that is indigenous to the arid regions of southern Africa, the Leaf Pod Chandelier is crafted with delicate ceramic leaves delicately draped over a sturdy steel frame. The pod provides a beautiful sculptural piece by day, and a soft glow by night.

The Spiky Chandelier: Long, handmade ceramic twig-like beads suspended from two, three or four tiers provide a textural appearance as the light filters through.

The Thatch Dome: Made with long ceramic leaves, the Thatch Dome pendant is reminiscent of thatch beach umbrellas seen on holidays in tropical island getaways. Seamlessly blending sustainability with elegance, the handcrafted dome comes together through the artisans’ use of recycled clay that undergoes a stoneware firing process that increases durability and ease of cleaning.

The Coupe D’Or: A symphony of craftsmanship and eco-conscious design, the Coupe D’Or features an intricate arrangement of thousands of recycled ceramic leaves delicately spiraling around a robust steel frame. Each leaf, warm and unglazed, exudes a natural allure while also emitting a soft chime with the gentlest touch, heightening the sensory experience and adding a whimsical charm to its interiors. By day, the Coupe D’Or casts intricate shadows and commands attention as a sculptural centerpiece; at night, it emanates a warm and inviting glow reminiscent of a flickering campfire.

MUD lighting will debut at High Point Market in April and can be seen at Ngala Trading’s space in The Suites at Market Square. The line is also available to order online now. Following its market debut, select pieces will be on display in the Ngala Trading flagship showroom in the New York Design Center.