Flos In Vitro Unplugged Portable Outdoor Light

The Flos In Vitro Unplugged Portable Outdoor Light, designed by Philippe Starck for Flos, is a cordless ambient lantern that pairs a laboratory-inspired form with robust outdoor performance.

Its cylindrical composition—a solid circular head, four protective pillars and a ring base—creates a clear architectural silhouette. A flexible loop handle signals its portable intent and the range is available in a wide range of finishes to suit different schemes.

Construction combines an opalescent diffuser integrated in the head with an outer transparent borosilicate capsule. Structural components are die-cast and extruded aluminium treated with a chemical conversion process and finished in a durable powder coat.

Light is delivered by an integrated LED using Edge Lighting technology to provide uniform illumination. Published output and colour information include 115 lm at 2700K with CRI >90 and a wide beam angle; the design allows broad ambient emission while the upper housing directs the source into the capsule for even diffusion. The luminaire is rechargeable via the supplied 120 cm micro USB-C cable and will run for up to 6 hours.

The dimmer driver (5/100–240 V, 50–60 Hz) is integrated into the body and controlled by an optical touch sensor on the head with four steps: 100% – 50% – 3% – OFF. The body is rated IP65 for outdoor use; note the supplied charger is IP20 with interchangeable EUR, UK and USA plugs and should not be left outdoors while charging. Take care not to damage the powder-coated finish: scratches combined with moisture can lead to corrosion and chemical cleaners may compromise the corrosion protection.

At Lighting Design Online we present this product as part of making the right lighting decision for temporary and flexible outdoor schemes. The In Vitro Unplugged is presented with clear technical notes on charging, dimming and maintenance so you can specify confidently, supported by our professional assurance and project-friendly guidance.