4 lighting brands and their visionary designers who I believe deserve the spotlight
As the days grow shorter and a hint of autumn lingers in the air, it feels like the perfect time to introduce you to some extraordinary light designers and their creations. These are not just designers – they are true artisans, each with a unique story behind their craft.
FIBRA x Hermano Maguey
Hermano Maguey focuses on promoting sustainable practices in the use of maguey (agave) fibers, particularly in collaboration with indigenous communities in Oaxaca, México. The initiative aims to foster financial, social, and cultural inclusion by working with local artisans to create eco-friendly products from maguey, a byproduct of the mezcal industry.
Driven by a passion for preserving cultural heritage, Hermano Maguey launched FIBRA – a project that connects agave fibers with artisan hands. Sourced from espadine leaves, the fibers are carefully extracted and prepared for weaving, spinning, and crafting through a variety of traditional techniques. Each product reflects a deep respect for the land and the people who transform waste into timeless creations. Honestly, a truly beautiful design with an even more beautiful story.
Each product reflects a deep respect for the land and the people who transform waste into timeless creations.
The FIBRA x Hermano Maguey lamps can be purchased via Artisan Ensamblo, a collaborative platform that sees design as the bridge to stronger communities, innovative solutions, and the connection between creativity and social entrepreneurship.
Ong Cen Kuang
The power of visiting fairs in real life is discovering truly inspiring new brands. And so I did – I discovered the stunning designs of Ong Cen Kuang in January at the previous edition of Maison&Objet in Paris.
The brand celebrates the artistry of original, hand-crafted creations, allowing the distinct qualities of each material to shine. Their designs are a perfect blend of timeless elegance and contemporary innovation, merging traditional craftsmanship with modern flair to produce pieces that are rich in both story and soul.
Budiman Ong, the founder of Ong Cen Kuang, has long been captivated by lighting – an irreplaceable element in any home. Driven by a passion for discovering the unique characteristics and signatures of various materials, as well as a love for modern design, he established the brand in 2008 in Bali.
I believe these designs infuse any home with warmth and depth, thanks to their exquisite natural materials. My personal favourite is the Bungkus. The lamp’s crocheted details add a soft, inviting touch to your space, while the interplay of lines draws the eye with its captivating elegance.
In Europe, Gong is the exclusive retailer for Ong Cen Kuang. Here, you can find and purchase Ong Cen Kuang’s stunning designs, perfect for adding warmth and charm as autumn approaches.
SWADOH
When you’re ready to transform your space with what I consider visual poetry, look no further than SWADOH. While it may be in a higher price range, the beauty is undeniable. Every detail and every inch of the designs reflects meticulous craftsmanship and dedication.
I came across SWADOH's stunning designs on Instagram earlier this year and was instantly drawn to the brand. This creative studio is dedicated to harmonizing artistic expression with exceptional craftsmanship, and it's clear from their work that they achieve this beautifully.
When you're ready to transform your space with what I consider visual poetry, look no further.
With locations in both New Orleans and Paris, the brand represents the work of five talented artists. Among them, Morgane Baroghel-Crucq creates textile designs for lighting in her studio in Aix-en-Provence. The final assembly and construction of the pieces take place in the US.
Each collection is born from the distinctive relationships between creators and their chosen materials, driven by the belief that thoughtful design enhances spaces.
SWADOH’S collections are handcrafted and made to order – with every piece remaining a unique model.
Cristina Omarrementería
I’ve been following Cristina’s design journey for a few years now, and I find her work and story truly inspiring.
Cristina is a self-taught designer with a romantic vision. She works exclusively with classic materials like wrought iron, natural stone, and glass. Her ongoing aesthetic and intellectual exploration infuses her creations with a psychological depth, blending meaning with material, tradition with imagination, and drama with practicality to produce truly unique furniture.
Cristina has a unique approach to presenting her designs, seamlessly integrating them into their surroundings. I vividly recall how inspired I was by the lookbook she sent a couple of years ago; its impact has stayed with me ever since.
The Boatiné, Glass Cube, plays with colour, light and nostalgia, the feeling is familiar - the glass texture imitates the classic padded grandma's dressing gown.
The Boatiné, Glass Cube, plays with colour, light, and nostalgia, the feeling is familiar - the glass texture imitates the classic padded grandma's dressing gown. This unique glass is crafted by artisan Sara Sorribes, who uses a fusing technique to shape each face of the cube in her grandfather’s workshop, founded in 1920 in Valencia.
Sara Sorribes, Cristina's artisan, uses a fusing technique to shape each face of the cube in her grandfather’s workshop, founded in 1920 in Valencia.
This lamp is a versatile addition to any room, effortlessly adding a funky vibe wherever it’s placed.
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