GLITTER IN THE AIR kinetic Christmas tree by Nendo – Photo by Takumi Ota, courtesy of Nendo.

Design – Japanese studio Nendo has created a 7.5-meter-high conical and kinetic Christmas tree with a polyhedral surface consisting of numerous cut-out pieces that resemble sparkling stars. The pieces not only sway and move with the wind but can also stop swinging in the air catching the wind at the programmed timing.

• RELATED STORIES: Discover more Christmassy architecture and design on Archipanic.

Indeed, behind each of the 416 cut-outs is a compact fan that can be controlled to blow air in coordination. The combination of this air control allows the ‘pieces of light’ to show a variety of different expressions and patterns spiraling up, moving in random dots, or spreading out like ripples.

Named Glitter in the Air, the kinetic Christmas tree “creates an uplifting and shimmering atmosphere, the very essence of Christmas,” explains Oki Sato, founder of Nendo. “By continuously receiving a certain amount of airflow, the pieces also float upward in a sustained manner.”

Matching cut-outs in the same colour, described by Nendo as matte champagne gold, are used as decoration in the galleria, garden terrace, and other atrium areas as well, adding a sense of unity and glamour to the event.

Discover more eclectic Christmas trees on Archipanic. Lee Broom installed and suspended crystal installation in London, Georgian studio Stipfold has deconstructed traditional geometries by playing with materials and reflections, while Yabu Pushelberg used handblown glassware and lighting elements to create glowing patterns in Hong Kong.

• RELATED STORIES: Harewood House has commissioned unconventional Christmas trees that dialogue with the country house’s 18th-century interiors.

All photos by Takumi Ota. Photos and video: courtesy of Nendo.

GLITTER IN THE AIR kinetic Christmas tree by Nendo – Photo by Takumi Ota, courtesy of Nendo.