Since its playful beginnings in Paris in 2014, Goodnight Light has become a beloved design brand known for its whimsical yet sophisticated lighting creations—most famously, the giant floating Duck-Duck lamps. At the heart of it all is artist and co-founder Marke Newton, whose imagination and sense of childlike wonder continue to shape the brand's identity. In this conversation, Marke reflects on the journey he and his partner Eva began together, their commitment to sustainability, and the joy of creating objects that light up lives—literally and emotionally. From the spark of a pineapple lamp to global recognition, this is the story of how Goodnight Light became a glowing symbol of creativity, conscience, and connection.
What was the original spark behind Goodnight Light—and how did you and Eva turn that idea into a real brand?
Eva started GNL in 2014 while we were living in Paris. I was a contemporary artist, and Eva had the idea to create a pineapple lamp, which I was able to perfectly envision. This project became a global success, featured in concept stores, museums, movies, commercials and on social media.
Our motivation stemmed from wanting to create something meaningful for our two children and our own inner children. The integration of light into our designs was a delightful serendipity, as spreading light serves as a beautiful purpose for any artist or designer.
Goodnight Light brings “light and love” into homes. What does that phrase mean to you personally?
I grew up in a spiritual home, as my father was a community and church leader who often spoke of light and love. We aim to share the fun and warmth of our designs, bringing happiness to others and creating a sense of community. Show someone your duck, and I guarantee they'll giggle! We feel privileged to imagine the joy we can bring to people around the world. In times of darkness, we strive to spread positivity and offer a sort of design enlightenment.
How do you balance playfulness and sophistication in the product design—especially knowing your lamps appeal to both children and adults?
Being both a big kid and an adult requires a bit of sophistication. I always start by putting myself back in the shoes of my childhood self, looking through his eyes and asking, “What would baby Marke think about this?” We never truly grow up, and our connection with our inner child is extremely precious. It serves as a source of pure, instinctive creativity.
Designing these objects allows me to connect with that little guy, and I believe the adult me and the adult you connect because we all remember what it was like to experience wonder as a child—to step into a toy shop and be amazed. That’s the vibe I’m tapping into: engaging with our inner children. After all, there’s nothing better than jumping into the pool with a giant floating duck! 😃
How important is sustainability to you—not just as a business value but as a creative philosophy?
Very little is truly sustainable, but we can work towards that ideal. Every small action and moment of awareness about our environment counts. While change takes time, individual efforts can lead to significant impact over generations.
At GNL, we aim to reduce our environmental footprint. Our LED components come from a transparent, ethical French/Chinese company, and we only partner with clean factories in Barcelona that comply with EU standards. We aspire to become a circular business and have implemented several initiatives, including energy-efficient, rechargeable LED modules and the use of recycled materials in packaging. We recently launched our first 100% recycled product, the black MEGA duck, and a solar lamp named The Boleti.
As a creative philosophy, we prioritize meaningful, durable designs over trends and disposable culture, avoiding overproduction and planned obsolescence. We focus on renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable materials and local manufacturing to minimize energy consumption and waste. We respect local communities and traditional skills while creating products that enrich rather than exploit culturally and ecologically. Ultimately, it’s about creating with conscience.
What kind of experience do you hope someone has when they open a Goodnight Light box for the first time?
I hope people say, “Holy DUCK!”
I’ve seen visitors at trade shows who are sleepwalking suddenly awaken from their daze when they encounter our Ducks. Their eyes light up, they smile, and they touch and hug the duck. It’s an amazing and incredibly heartwarming experience to witness. I hope everyone feels a similar rush of joy when unboxing.
In your eyes, what sets Goodnight Light apart from other lighting brands in terms of emotional impact and lifestyle?
We are a small family of artists focused on making a positive impact in the world. We are self-supported and genuinely care about our customers, always striving to do our best. While we’re a work in progress and make mistakes, we learn and grow from our challenges. Our authenticity resonates with people, encouraging them to join our community and share our values.
What’s been one of the most unexpected or rewarding responses you’ve received from a customer?
One day, a little toddler and her father visited our stand at the Maison & Objet trade show in Paris. She completely understood our products, she was SO delighted and her parents found it very difficult to convince her to leave.
Looking ahead, what’s your shared vision for where you want to take Goodnight Light next—creatively and as a brand?
We have many dreams to bring to life. Art, design, and creativity are limitless. Our goal is to progressively become more environmentally friendly, with an increasing number of our products being 100% recycled and/or biodegradable. We aim to create some furniture, and I would love to start painting and sculpting again. We want to continue surprising our customers and bringing joy to their hearts.
If you had to describe Goodnight Light in one sentence—as if introducing it to someone for the very first time—what would you say?
“You know, it’s those guys that make those MASSIVE Ducks!”
