Drift by Michael Young is a mathematically calibrated light designed for Resident

Resident announces the launch of Drift, the first lighting design created by British designer Michael Young for the New Zealand-based brand. Known internationally for his precise yet poetic approach to design, Young introduces a pendant light that exemplifies refined engineering and restrained elegance. "It is a pure and simple, mathematically formed light that relies on its purity of form and materiality to distribute light over 100 per cent of the surface—which, in this technique, is a great challenge," he says in an official statement.

Drift is defined by a mathematically calibrated form engineered to emit light uniformly across its entire surface—a notable technical achievement that elevates the pendant beyond conventional lighting. Offered in two sizes, Drift can be installed singularly or arranged in clusters, with each vantage point revealing a subtly shifting silhouette. The product draws inspiration from pebble stone paving, evoking a sense of calm and understated tactility reminiscent of natural landscapes. "It presently comes in two sizes and has the ability to stand alone or exist in a cluster. No matter which way you look at the light, that shape will never look the same," explains the product designer who is the founder and creative director of Michael Young Studio.

The Drift pendant is suited to both residential and commercial interiors. Its refined presence complements spatial compositions without contention, offering a nuanced interplay of light and form that enhances the atmosphere with subtlety and depth.

In an interview with Resident, Young delves into the process and making of the product design, tracing the thoughts and inspirations that mould it. Excerpts below:

What was the inspiration behind Drift?

Michael Young: As simple as it sounds, pebble stone paving—soft stones set into the ground—creates such serenity and calm. I made a floor of loose stone in my office in Lake Como; it sounds like walking along the beach to get to my desk.

Where can you see this collection being used?

Michael: I think in both residential and contract environments, it creates a sense of visual freedom to exist within an architectural space, one that does not fight against the walls or demand too much of other things.

What is the essence of Resident to you?

Michael: I admire how they capture particular nuances within materials and typologies—it is a very well-articulated brand.

How did working with Resident compare to other collaborations you've had?

Michael: Resident knows what they want and how it must reflect their brand and market. I think they can extract and nurture what a designer puts on the table. We certainly had a two-way conversation, which is what collaboration is about. It was very human, very real and a pleasure. 

How would you describe your practice?

Michael: I have refined and honed it down to garner as much trust as possible, so that when I open my mouth, I can join the dots a client requires—a bit like a pinball machine, which all makes sense. I have worked with skilled partners for 20 years or so, and we know what we are doing (at the blink of an eye).

If you could give a piece of advice to a young designer, what would you say?

Michael: Learn how to make things in metal and wood, mix it up with a bit of 3D printing. Draw more, even if you’re not good at it—it does not matter; in fact, that helps.