Founded by designer Sophie Poelman on Waiheke Island, Lof creates lighting and interior objects that explore the potential of New Zealand strong wool. Through thoughtful design and local craftsmanship, the studio reimagines one of Aotearoa's most abundant natural fibres for contemporary interiors.
After years working with international design brands abroad, Sophie returned home to build a slower, more intentional design practice. In 2020, she became aware of the challenges facing New Zealand's strong-wool industry, where an exceptional fibre had become increasingly undervalued. Rather than looking elsewhere for materials, she turned to what was already here, beginning a five-year exploration into wool's structural, acoustic and tactile qualities.
The result was Hiwa, a collection of knitted wool pendant lights made in New Zealand using wool sourced from Palliser Ridge in South Wairarapa. Softening both light and sound, the collection reveals the remarkable versatility of natural wool while celebrating the craftsmanship and knowledge behind every stage of its journey.
Grounded in a commitment to local growers and responsible making, Lof creates enduring objects that reconnect people with the value of New Zealand wool and the places from which it comes.
process Lof.
The Making of Light
"As a designer, I believe in choosing materials that meet the highest standards of beauty and function, and carry a deep responsibility to the environment. Wool, with its natural intelligence and quiet strength, perfectly embodies that ethos."
Sophie Poelman, Founder / Designer.
About LOF
LOF is a design studio based on Waiheke Island, Aotearoa New Zealand, exploring the relationship between light, material and form through New Zealand wool. From farm to finished piece, LOF creates lighting that celebrates the natural performance of strong wool, softening sound while diffusing light with warmth and texture. Designed and assembled by hand on Waiheke Island, each piece reflects a deep connection to Aotearoa through circular design, local craftsmanship and the thoughtful use of natural materials.
The HIWA Collection
Named after Hiwa-i-te-rangi, the Matariki star associated with aspiration and new beginnings, HIWA explores the natural performance of New Zealand strong wool through textile lighting. LOF reimagines pendant lighting through the language of textiles, where sculptural form meets the natural performance of knitted wool. Designed and assembled on Waiheke Island, each piece brings together the natural materials, craftsmanship and design traditions of Aotearoa, gently diffusing light, enhancing acoustics, and bringing warmth and materiality to interior spaces.