Design start-up Knnox fuels ethical manufacturing with a build-your-own lighter

London-based fire-starter Knnox is shedding light on non-disposable design; plastic is passé and the heat is back on longevity.
Its first product, the Knnox lighter aims to extinguish visual noise through a distinguished tool to ‘reimagine light’. The intricately crafted device requires ten different manufacturing processes, fueled by expertise from 15 separate UK manufacturers.
Realised by Australian husband-and-wife duo, Desmond and Jessica Ware over an extensive development period, their sophisticated product is ethically and proudly made in England. ‘We’ve spared no expense when it comes to the finer details and quality, which is why we offer a lifetime guarantee,’ explains Jessica.
There’s no doubt that Knnox has a flair for refined design, in its 1970s-inspired attention to curves and contours, and contemporary approach to technology. With precision-machined brass mechanisms, stainless steel hex tool, fierce flint fire-starters and custom felt inserts; the flame-making business may finally have met its match.
The consumer’s story begins with the packaging; a neat navy box with gold embossed typography, designed by London-based SocioDesign. The lighter is presented as a kit, with each component itemised and ready for assembly. This tactility extends to the product itself; the device is encouraged to age naturally through touch and continued use.
The Knnox lighter is sure to spark compliments, defying disposable culture, and feeling firmly at home in our hall of flame.
INFORMATION
For more information, visit the Knnox website
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Harriet Lloyd-Smith was the Arts Editor of Wallpaper*, responsible for the art pages across digital and print, including profiles, exhibition reviews, and contemporary art collaborations. She started at Wallpaper* in 2017 and has written for leading contemporary art publications, auction houses and arts charities, and lectured on review writing and art journalism. When she’s not writing about art, she’s making her own.
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