Kami was started as a small studio project while studying product design at Parsons School of Design in New York. It began with a simple question: why is good lighting so hard to achieve without changing the fixture, especially with no affordable options? We began prototyping with paper lanterns because they were accessible and recyclable. In late 2025, we shared the idea on Facebook Marketplace to test interest, and hundreds sold within weeks. That response made it clear there was real demand for a simpler lighting solution.

What started as a student project grew into a more intentional brand focused on thoughtful, affordable design. Kami products are made to work in real spaces, particularly rentals, where flexibility matters. The goal is to make small changes that meaningfully improve how a room feels without complexity or excess.