Lava stone is one of nature’s most alluring resources. Celebrated for its unique origins, it forms when volcanic magma from deep within the earth’s crust erupts, cools, and solidifies into stone. During this process, tiny air pockets form and minerals become embedded in the surface of the rock. Traversed by grooves, pits and crevasses, each piece of lava stone possesses a unique, irregular texture and a rich, elemental appearance.

Recognising these unique natural properties, Buzao forged a collection of inimitable lights from lava stone. The beauty of this collection lies in its versatility; with the matte black finish and understated elegance of the stone, the lights can complement a minimalistic style, or they can be contrasted with other colours and textures to create visual intrigue and add new spatial dimensions. And when paired with subtle refractions and warm speckles of light, the stone is transformed into an enchanting work of art, as beautiful as it is functional.

“Buzao has always been interested in betterment through design, and they often utilise local materials to achieve this,” says Jen Schilbach, Remodern Founder and Director. “After spending some time on Hainan Island, they learned just how important lava stone is to the islands’ residents. They work with the locals to cultivate vast basalt deposits and form them into durable and sustainable lighting objects that are imbued with intrigue.”

For the people of Hainan Island, volcanic rock possesses immense sentimental, cultural and symbolic value. The residents are deeply connected to the material, having coexisted with it for two millennia. In the northern regions of Hainan, their ancestors crafted entire villages from volcanic rock; the gates, walls, roads, houses, wells, temples, and stone monuments – all made from lava stone, and built to last for centuries. Today, the locals continue to fashion work utensils and build dwellings, bridges and tombs from it.

Buzao’s designs allow us to share in the joy lava stone brings to the people of Hainan, whilst also reflecting the profound connection that has always existed between humans and their natural environment for thousands of years. Despite the rapid modernisation that has taken place around the globe, Buzao draws our attention to a small pocket of the world where this connection continues to flourish and thrive.  

Buzao’s lava stone collection includes: In Pendant, Calm Pendant, Ri Pendant, Bang Pendant, U2 Pendant, Oops Pendant, Circle Pendant and W01 Wall Light, to name a few. Each of these pieces takes on a unique shape; from angled peaks and simple geometries to more complex cylindrical forms and three-dimensional undulations, they engage intimately with the stone to tell its captivating story. Through design, Buzao infuses a higher sense of value into a material that is often considered utilitarian.

“Buzao’s lava stone collection is a true expression of everything we strive for here at Remodern: honest form and authentic design. We’re proud to exclusively represent Buzao in Australia and celebrate such a unique offering of lights,” says Jen.

Browse the complete Buzao collection here.

Get in touch with product inquiries here.