welcome to aki universe
Our philosophy
We help people enhance their spiritual wellness and rediscover the power of simple, meaningful objects. We encourage personal rituals that create connections between our physical surroundings and our inner selves, and we inspire a holistic approach that fosters self-care and reflection.
OUr values
We believe in conscious consumerism and a simple approach to life with no extra decoration, no noise, only essential to keep the focus on what matters. We believe that “less is more”, and that by stripping away excesses we can find peace and fulfilment in our homes and our daily routines.
The path to fulfilment lies in cultivating intimacy with oneself, one's home, one's loved ones, and nature. It's in those quiet, peaceful moments of vibrant presence that we can truly connect. We strive to inspire personal rituals that cultivate deep connections between our physical surroundings and our inner selves, empowering people to live more meaningful lives.
True wellness is about nourishing the soul as much as the body and mind. In today's fast-paced, tech-driven world, it's more important than ever to take a step back, slow down, and reconnect with nature, our purpose, and our inner selves. That's why we're committed to living and promoting these values through our ethical approach and guiding philosophy.
OUR STORY
In 2020, during the Covid pandemic, AKI embarked on its journey. Amid the uncertainty and fragility we all experienced, a deep need arose to connect with our souls and the mysterious. AKI oil lamps were originally designed by Laura for her brand Animacontemporanea, established in 2014, with the aim of creating pieces for silent rooms and meditation spaces, infused with her unique spiritual perspective. Inspired by her love for glass and pure, simple forms, Laura has reimagined these ancient vessels for modern spiritual environments. Oil lamps, which transcend cultures and traditions, hold a central place in many rituals and stories.
Animacontemporanea evolved from a third-generation family company, founded in 1958, dedicated to creating furniture for sacred spaces using natural materials and skilled artisans. This heritage, combining arts and crafts into original designs, culminates in the timeless beauty of our oil lamps.
A Word from the Founder
As a former financial analyst and keen trend forecaster, I anticipated a resurgence of spirituality in our society as early as 2013. I envisioned a light accessory that could serve as a universal symbol for contemporary men and women—a ritual object that connects us to our humanity and to each other. During the Covid lockdowns, when loneliness was widespread, I discovered that an oil lamp was the perfect object for this purpose. AKI lamps symbolize a way to feel connected to others, reminding us of our basic human needs and fostering a sense of community.
Moved by the mental suffering many experienced during the pandemic, I felt a deep gratitude for the grounding essentials of life and my capacity for calm introspection. This inspired me to help others find comfort in silence and solitude, encouraging them to discover companionship within themselves through the gentle glow of a small flame. The power of fire, with its living presence, symbolizes home, protection, and warmth, serving as a bridge to connect us with the unknown and bring light to the darkness.
With over 20 years of experience working with glass companies and expertise in recreating ancient lamp designs over a century old, I chose glass as the material for my lamps. My admiration for Japanese culture, which harmoniously blends tradition with modernity, inspired me to name my lamp and brand AKI.
HEAR FROM REAL PEOPLE
AGGELIKI F.
"An oil lamp for me represent the peace of country life and more specifically travels me in moments of relaxation with a cup of tea by the window to look at the snow. Such a lamp
creates warmth and I remember when I was little, my grandmother had an old-styled one in the kitchen of her house and she taught me how to turn it on".
AGATA D.
"I've had the pleasure of being around AKI for many years, both as my ongoing photography subject and an addition to my home. Capturing their subtle glow through the lens creates a sense of mindfulness, while incorporating them into living spaces adds warmth and tranquillity.
Beyond their aesthetic design, the ritual of lighting an oil lamp serves as a moments of calm reflection, making them a wonderful companion."
LUCIE S.
“AKI are beautiful vessels that are able tobring much needed light both in its literal and metaphorical meaning into our everyday lives. The warmth of the flame creates coziness that is desired especially on long and gloomy days and the lamp’s elegant shape decorates the
home when not in use.”
Our name comes from the Japanese name AKI that means ‘bright’, 'light', ‘clear’, and ‘sparkle’.
It can also signify ‘autumn’– a season whose golden light and long shadows evoke the warm, tranquil atmosphere that our lamps create.
Signature selection
