Milan 2014: Dutch studio Bernotat & Co created 3D-knitted fabric lamps that emulate microscopic organisms to show in the Ventura Lambrate district in Milan this week (+ slideshow).

Anke Bernotat and Jan Jacob Borstlap of Bernotat & Co have created Radiolaria, a collection of 11 lamps made from a 3D-knitted polyester textile normally used in technical applications where the material is hidden.

Thanks to the 3D-woven structure, the soft lamps do not require additional reinforcement. "When sewn together, the fabric creates its own character and shape," Borstlap told Dezeen. "We let the fabric do the design work in a way."

Influenced by the drawings of German biologist and artist Ernst Haeckel, the project is named Radiolaria after a type of microscopic biological organism that produces intricate mineral skeletons.

The designers created the patterns for the textile based on these organisms, whose skeletons are known for their natural geometric form and symmetry.

In a completely dark room, the lamps glow as the textile has been sown together with a glow in the dark material. "It creates a dreamy kind of atmosphere in your bedroom," said the studio. "It also acts as a point of reference so you don't bump into your bed."

All lamps come with porcelain fittings and a silver-coloured cable and will be show from 8-13 April on via Ventura 6 in the Ventura Lambrate district in Milan.

Product photography is by Rogier Chang. All other photography is by Marleen Sleeuwits.