Inside the Collaboration: Schoolhouse x Roll & Hill
For our first-ever Roll & Hill for Schoolhouse lighting collection, created in collaboration with New-York based founder and creative director Jason Miller, Jason combined his love of industrial fixtures with Schoolhouse’s rich color palette to create four mixed-material styles we’re calling Bento. Named for its modular metal shades—similar to Japanese lunch boxes—the collection draws from Donald Judd’s minimalism and Le Corbusier’s tubular furniture, harmonizing painted aluminum, Pennsylvania-sourced oak, and chrome tubing to give off a warm, balanced glow anywhere in your home.
To dive deeper into the creative process behind Bento, we spoke with Jason about the inspiration, challenges, and details that make this collection so special. Read on to discover how Bento came to be.
Can you share a bit about the inspiration behind Bento and how the idea first came to life?
The original references were architectural forms and vintage industrial fixtures. We were trying to find a way of making a modular linear pendant that could be almost any size. We also wanted it to make a strong color statement because color is one of the core elements of Schoolhouse's product assortment.
You mentioned looking at designers like Donald Judd and Le Corbusier. How did their work inform the design ethos of Bento?
Donald Judd and Le Corbusier were both ideal inspirations when keeping the goal of the collection in mind. In particular, their use of rich and sophisticated colors.
How did you decide what materials to use in the creation of this collection?
Folded, painted metal was ideal for the modular element that is the basis of this collection. We also chose a reeded glass as the diffuser to add an unexpected, textural element.
Bento blends utilitarian roots with more refined materials. How did you approach the balance between industrial and elevated design?
This balance may be the heart of the collaboration. Schoolhouse is known for its contemporary take on industrial forms, while Roll & Hill is known for elegant, modern designs. We wanted to make something that felt right in the Schoolhouse collection but refined in a way that is typical of Roll & Hill, and I think we accomplished just that.
Were there any unexpected challenges or discoveries during the design and development process?
The socket and bulbs alternate sides to give a more even light on the floor lamp. Originally, we had designed pieces with an odd number of units, and the first prototypes leaned to one side because they weren't balanced. This is a great example of a simple detail that gets overlooked until you physically create the product.
How do you see this collection fitting into different types of spaces and design styles?
The mix of materials and the balance of references makes Bento perfect for many types of spaces, from contemporary sophistication to coastal modern to rustic country.
Do you have a favorite detail or element in the Bento Collection that you feel defines its character?
The wood rail. It gives the collection a warmth and softness that it wouldn’t have had if it were just metal and glass. I think it makes it feel more human.
