Ingo Maurer to Unveil Shhh! pendant at Euroluce 2025

(Germany) – Munich-based design studio introduces Shhh!, a new suspension lamp debuting at Euroluce 2025. Known for innovative lighting designs, the brand continues to experiment with the concept of the light source, reinterpreting it in unexpected ways.

The pendant integrates an ear defender headset around a lamp, creating a distinctive visual statement. This design juxtaposes industrial protection equipment with a traditional light source, offering a blend of irony and poetic expression.

While the lamp appears to be the primary light source, the actual illumination emanates from within the noise-proof headset. The light filters through, producing a diffused glow, while two directional spotlights beneath the headset provide focused illumination.

Developed through a workshop on brand identity by Ingo Maurer’s creative team, Shhh! explores the interplay between perception and reality. The design challenges conventional expectations, merging aesthetic appeal with functional lighting solutions.

www.ingo-maurer.com


Cruise Ship Interiors Americas and Hotel & Resort Design South opens registration

(UK) - Cruise Ship Interiors design expo Americas (CSI Americas) and Hotel & Resort Design South (HRDS) have opened up registration for their next events in Miami Beach Convention Centre from 3-4 June 2025.

With the cruise industry order books now extending to 2026, the sector is experiencing significant growth. By the end of 2024, 35 new ship orders had been placed, and Carnival Cruise Line recently introduced the Dream Makers programme, allowing select guests to contribute to ship design decisions.

CSI Americas will feature networking events aimed at fostering business connections, including the opening party on 2 June and various industry socials. The event will also host Meet the Brands and Lunch & Learn sessions, providing insights into procurement and design processes. A game-show-style pitch event will offer designers and architects a platform to present their concepts.

Meanwhile, HRDS returns for its third edition, showcasing exhibitors from across the Southern States, Central and South America. The HRDS conference track will explore topics such as wellness trends and brand value in diverse locations.

New to this year, the Cruise Xperience Innovation summit (CXI) will be co-located with CSI Americas, focusing on emerging technologies in hospitality, including holographic and interactive entertainment.

Register today for your free pass to attend CSI Americas, CXI and HRDS.

 

www.cruiseshipinteriors-expo.com

www.hotelresortdesign-south.com


Lindsey Adelman - Branching Disc Collection new variations

(USA) – New York-based lighting design company has extended its Branching Disc Collection with new variations.

Originally featuring delicate ceramic discs crafted in Munich by Nymphenburg Porcelain, the collection now includes options in hammered bronze, hand-spun domes, and natural earthenware. These new materials provide expanded customisation possibilities, allowing designers to tailor the minimalist lighting system to diverse aesthetics. The collection emphasises a balance of craftsmanship and adaptability, for a wide range of architectural and design concepts.

www.lindseyadelman.com

 

 


Women's Industry Groups: Who are they and why do we need them?

As a part of the lead up to International Women’s Day this Saturday we at darc want to reiterate some of the women in design industry groups we work alongside, discuss the impact they’re making and why joining or supporting such groups are important to everyone.

Women’s industry networking groups are crucial for providing a supportive space to address gender-specific challenges, promote mentorship, and foster career growth. In many industries, particularly those dominated by men, which is most, women face barriers such as pay gaps, lack of representation in leadership, and limited mentorship opportunities.

Industry networks for women help break the cycle of work inequality by connecting them with role models, providing guidance, and encouraging career advancement. Additionally, they create a safe environment to discuss workplace issues, such as gender bias and work-life balance, without judgment. While some criticise these groups for being exclusionary, advocates argue that they are necessary to drive meaningful change, increase diversity in leadership, and inspire future generations of women in the workforce.

Women in Lighting (WIL)…
WIL is a global digital platform dedicated to showcasing and celebrating women in the lighting and lighting design industry. Through storytelling, social activism, and a strong online presence, WIL highlights achievements, challenges unconscious bias, and inspires the next generation. Supported by ambassadors in 75+ countries, the initiative fosters a connected international community, offering resources, local and global initiatives, an annual conference on 8 March, and an awards programme to recognise excellence in the field.

Established in 2019, by Martin Lupton and Sharon Stammers, the duo, known as Light Collective, are committed to documenting and celebrating all things light and all that it empowers. The Women in Lighting organisation has documented essential research into gender imbalances in the industry including a global survey in 2023 examining the lighting profession’s equity and opening discussions on how to change this.

www.womeninlighting.com

Women in Office Design (WOD)…
Another close collaborator with [d]arc media, WOD is a global platform for female architects and designers to collaborate, connect and create. The groups goals are dedicated to promoting professional growth, leadership and connecting other design individuals with the goal of empowering women in their professional roles.

Founded by interior designer Harsha Kotak in May 2018, Kotak noticed the disparity in numbers of women executives in the workplace design industry and these statistics were surprising, if not disconcerting. She poses the question at many event gatherings; what do we want our industry to look like and how do we get there?

www.woduk.com

Women in Architecture (WIA)…
A dedicated group of women from diverse backgrounds working to promote equity and inclusion in architecture. Led by a committed steering group and supported by a wider committee, ambassadors, and industry collaborators, WIA drives initiatives such as mentoring and networking events.

Reformed in 2018 following the documentary She Draws: She Builds’, WIA gained momentum alongside the #MeToo movement, expanding its outreach and advocacy. Today, it continues to champion female architects through events, mentorship, and community-building efforts across the UK and beyond. Through community-building, policy advocacy, mentorship, and collaboration, WIA aims to create a more inclusive profession. In 2024, its focus includes expanding networks, shifting work culture, and strengthening mentorship. WIA remains committed to evolving its mission to meet the challenges of the profession.

www.wia-uk.org

Women in Furniture Network (WFN)
A networking group curated for women in the furniture industry to learn, connect, and share their ideas. Created in conjunction with ‘The Furniture Show’, the platform was created with the belief that whatever position you hold in the furniture industry women should be offered a supportive space to thrive and grow professionally.

WFN offers a mentorship programme where people in the furniture industry can connect with mentors who are at the top of their field, providing guidance and tips as well as their own stories of rising through adversity.

www.thefurnitureshows.com/women-in-furniture

In previous years, [d]arc media has collaborated closely with these industry groups to create a platform for meaningful discussions on gender issues. In 2024, alongside LiGHT24, we explored how men can actively serve as allies in amplifying women’s voices and fostering a more inclusive industry.

Building on the success of last year’s event, [d]arc media are proud to host the second edition of the Women in Design industry group brunch at Clerkenwell Design Week on 22 May in London on as part of Design Meets. Follow darc’s social media to keep in the loop on upcoming details on the event and register for Clerkenwell Design at https://www.clerkenwelldesignweek.com/darc-invite

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Why Are We Still Talking About Sustainability? When what we need is radical action…

https://vimeo.com/1034347239

Moderator: Chloe, Petersen-Snell, MIX Interiors
Panelists: Adam Strudwick, Principal, Perkins & Will; Ruud Belmans, Creative Director, We Want More; Rachel Hoolahan, Sustainability Lead, Orms; Thomas Lommee, Open Structures

In this panel discussion we ask, when it comes to sustainability, is the pace of change too slow and the scale of ambition too small? If so, what are the revolutionary design ideas, bold new approaches and seismic creative shifts required to affect meaningful, timely change.


Studio Modijefsky reveal upcoming book

(Netherlands) – Amsterdam-based interior designers mark 15 years of shaping story-driven spaces through its unique design approach. The studio now revels its latest book and up-coming project for 2025.

In 2020 the studio published its first book “Making Space”, revealing the secrets to their design process and how materials have inspired them on some of their project. Now the studio is launching “Making Space: Project 2021 – 2024” documenting their design evolution.

With a portfolio of more than 60 projects spanning hospitality, retail, corporate, and residential design, Studio Modijefsky has redefined interiors by weaving storytelling and sensory experiences into every space.

Notable projects include De Witt Dordrecht, a historic cinema reimagined from its past lives as a convent and laboratory and Gitane Amsterdam, where chef Angelo Kremmydas’ culinary vision unfolds in a richly layered setting. This project was covered in darc’s issue 53, looking at the full design concept and lighting approaches. Other standout works include The Van Stapele Cookie Bakery, Museum Arnhem, Booking.com HQ, and Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.

Studio Modijefsky’s future remains steadfast in creating more phenomenal interiors and taking on large scale projects with remarkable transformations. The next project in the works for the studio includes Amsterdam’s, once known as the beloved restaurant Vertigo in 2012, the space will now once again take on the iconic name after Hitchcock’s cult classic. Set to open in 2025, the reimagined Vertigo will seamlessly blend history, cinematic inspiration, and contemporary design into dynamic new destination.

Stam says “Our vision for 2025 is clear, crafting destinations where people feel deeply connected – both to the space they move through, from rooms to restaurants to spas, and to the broader context of their surroundings. Every interior reflects not just thoughtful design but also the history, colours, scents, traditions, materials, and stories of the place itself, creating an experience of true immersion and discovery.”

www.studiomodijefsky.nl

 

(hyperlink “issue 53” to here: https://issuu.com/mondiale/docs/da53_digital_issuu/20)


Secto Design publishes Environmental Product Declarations

(Finland) – The Finish lighting brand has strengthened its commitment to sustainable manufacturing by conducting a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for all products to reach its 2023 sustainability target.

Newly published EPDs cover six pendant lamp models:  Octo 42040, Octo Small 4241, Secto 4200, Secto 4201, Victo 4250, Puncto 4250 and Puncto 4203.

Each EPD includes the product’s carbon footprint, measured total global warming potential (GWP-total), with greenhouse gas emission expressed in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The CO₂ footprint of the production stage is notably low, and in some cases negative, due to the carbon stored in the wood. However, when considering the entire cradle-to-grave lifecycle, energy consumption during use accounts for over 90% of the CO₂ footprint in the EPD scenario, which assumes 15 years of operation and nearly 60,000 hours of illumination.

By investing in the development of EPDs, Secto Design reinforces its commitment to sustainability, transparency, and empowering clients to make environmentally responsible choices.

www.sectodesign.com


Ango featured in ‘The Hopescape’ installation

(Thailand) – Showcasing at Bangkok Design Week 2025, Design Objects (D&O) present an installation described as a “mythical light landscape that represents a beacon of hope for all”.

Bangkok-based lighting brand Ango’s piece The Hopescape features in the Hope+ Exhibition by D&O where visitors can experience practical function and artistry.

Created from bamboo and super fine and highly translucent mulberry fibre paper, The Hopescape is an ephemeral landscape where folds and flows of light energy are expressed, with intervals and intensity of the material modulate the central light sources.

More than just an artwork, The Hopescape carries a deeper message of transforming waste into beauty, offering discarded materials a second chance. Through intricate folds and shifting, it reflects diverse personal stories and a collective plea for renewal.

“It’s a piece of self-realisation, where our team of artisans and designers express their inner thoughts using scrap waste from our production processes,” describes Ango.

“We hope you enjoy our latest exploration, which unveils new possibilities for our materials, skill of our handcrafted techniques, and optimistic vision—paving the way for even greater opportunities in design.”

The exhibition will run 8 – 23 February at the Tantivejkul House, Bangkok Design Week.

www.angoworld.com/hopscape


In Conversation with Ekho Studio

https://vimeo.com/1034347269

Sarah Dodsworth, Founding Director of Ekho Studio discusses her studio’s work on Astra Zeneca's high craft, bespoke workspace in London’s Pancras Square, where sophisticated Art Deco-inspired allure fuses with the radically-calming use of curves.


Design LSM has officially evolved into DLSM Studio

(UK) – Marking a bold new chapter for renowned interior design studio, co-owners Holly Hallam and Rachel Pratt announce the rebrand as a strategic approach to branding and interiors.

Founded in 1988 by Steve La Boucharderiére and Simon McCarthy, the studio has spent 37 years shaping award-winning designs in hospitality and lifestyle. While ‘LSM’ remains a nod to its founders, the rebrand signals fresh leadership and a future-focused approach.

“Our evolution into DLSM Studio marks an exciting new chapter, cementing our place within luxury hospitality while staying true to our values of designing spaces that appeal to the senses, enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of its users whilst creating an emotional engagement,” says Hallam. “We remain deeply connected to the incredible legacy built by Steve and Simon, and we are proud to continue shaping compelling and inspiring environments for our clients worldwide.”

With a growing international presence, DLSM Studio has secured five-star hotel projects with InterContinental Doha (Qatar), Cheval Maison and Currio by Hilton Collection. While headquartered in Brighton, UK, the studios growing UAE team strengthens global reach.

Pratt adds: “The new identity is more than just a change in name; it reflects the strength of our studio today and the direction we are heading. DLSM Studio represents a dynamic, forward-thinking design practice that crafts immersive and luxury spaces with purpose and impact. Holly and I thank our peers and clients for their continued support as we embark on this new chapter. We look forward to shaping the future of design, together.

www.designlsm.com


Call for Milan Design Week editorial

(Italy) – Take this opportunity to get involved in our next issue of darc magazine to showcase your brand and new products to a large, captive audience of lighting specifiers and interior designers.

The next issue of darc is jam-packed with exciting editorial ahead of Euroluce/Milan Design Week! See below some of the issue’s highlights:

  • Interview – darc is honoured to showcase an exclusive interview with Axel Schmidt at Ingo Maurer, which will dive into the brand’s approach to design, new product releases, its merger with Foscarini, and the studio’s future plans.
  • On The Board – looking at the 2025 Japandi design trend, we will present a comment piece from London-based interior designer Yoko Kloeden looking at how she incorporates the theme into her projects.
  • Materials Focus – Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Tom Rosseau will feature a piece that represents the studio’s dedication to carefully crafted wooden lighting created in Denmark.
  • Euroluce Product Preview – with numerous brands launching new pieces at this year’s lighting exhibition at Salone del Mobile, we are running a dedicated product preview. This gives brands the opportunity to bring our reader’s attention to specific launches with stand locations for ease of reference.
  • In the city – A round up of events that will take place during Milan Design Week including parties, showroom openings, installations, and more. This is an opportunity to showcase your presence in Milan outside of Euroluce.

Be included in our Euroluce-dedicated product highlight and/or In The City preview and take advantage of darc’s extensive distribution at the show and at Archiproducts' showroom in Tortona. Email Rosie at r.jackson@mondiale.co.uk by 21 February with your editorial material (high resolution product image, 50-words product description, website, and stand location and/or event press release and images) and she will provide more information on how to secure your slot.

The Mar/Apr will be in circulation from 21 March.


Cocody Project

The latest fine dining restaurant to hit Texas that combines European experience with culinary tapestry from the West Coast of Africa. Renowned interior designer Nina Magon reveals how she masterfully wove two culturally contrasting concepts together to create a design that was elegant and sophisticated.

Houston, Texas is often described as the foodie capital of the American South, boasting an array of cuisines and food joints from hole in the walls to fine high-end restaurants. Houston has it all, or at least we thought it did until now, a new fine dining restaurant has landed and is offering a fresh perspective in Houston’s hospitality landscape. Cocody is a restaurant that offers a unique gastronomic journey that fuses its owners’ love of high-end Parisian hospitality with their native Ivory Westcoast cuisine. Established by Edwin and Edith Basso, the restaurant brings together renowned chefs David Denis, Lionel Debon, and Sylvian Denis, who came from a successful career at Le Mistrel where they caught the Basso’s attention. The final piece to the project, and challenge to conquer, was to seamlessly blend the West African culinary identity of the restaurant with a world-class establishment akin to those in Europe therefore, creating a distinct and immersive experience that will become a landmark in Houston’s fine dining scene.

Leading the design project was Austin Architect Winn Whitman who introduced frequent collaborator and Houston-based interior designer, Nina Magon. The Basso’s took Magon on to bring their creative vision to life and encouraged her to draw inspiration from far-flung places from around the world. One of the key influences came from one of Edith Basso’s favourite restaurants, Plaza Atheénéé in Paris, which influenced the colour palette of gold and pink hues, Venetian plaster, backlit marble, curved furnishings, and brass elements. Stand out features of the main restaurant include champagne brass-coloured arches and a golden horseshoe-shaped bar, crystal-lit dining room, and a whimsical lounge featuring playful details like a Mona Lisa with a lollipop. The project took approximately two years from concept to completion, with every detail meticulously crafted to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

“The balance was delicate, creating a space that celebrated global influences without veering into something garish, but rather, achieving an environment of refinement and timeless elegance reminiscent of Europe’s finest dining destinations” says Magon.

“We overcame this by meticulously curating materials, textures, and design elements that spoke to a sophisticated European aesthetic, while integrating subtle cultural nuances that honoured the culinary identity of the restaurant. By focusing on craftsmanship and restraint, we ensured every detail contributed to a cohesive and elevated ambiance that complemented the world-class dining experience the client sought to provide.”

Pivotal to Magon’s approach in realising Basso’s vision was to infuse opulence and sophistication through the use of light, to ultimately craft an enchanting immersive experience. Lights played a central role and were added generously to the spaces, including 5,000 individual lights concealed within walls, stairs, and wine racks, with the help of lighting designer Andre Medena, of AM Light Studio, who dealt with all the technical lighting aspects. The decorative lighting was essential in creating Cocody’s enchanting ambiance, using custom sculptural pieces that added to that sense of luxury while aiming to still be functional and personable. The main dining room showcased a sparkling canopy of crystal lights that bathes the space with a soft ethereal glow. Created by VISO Lighting, the purpose of the installation is to provide a wow-factor centrepiece that refracts and reflects light in a subtle dramatic visual that doesn’t impede on the atmosphere or the patron’s experience.

In the private dining room, above the chef’s table the lighting takes a more bespoke role with Preciosa’s ‘Pearl Curtain’, which is suspended at alternating heights to form a waving curtain. However, the light offers to be more than a piece sculptural art, blurring the line between functional and decorative. The chandelier’s programmable lighting systems enables for a variety dynamic sequences tailored to complement the cuisine being served. Originally intended to react to touch, the chandelier can now be programmed to create dynamic lighting sequences tailored to the patrons, adding an element of exclusivity and therefore sophistication to the space. 

“Each of these elements were selected to serve a dual purpose: enhancing the functionality of the space while becoming a defining feature of its design,” comments Mogan. “The interplay of light, form, and material was carefully considered to ensure a cohesive yet dynamic experience, allowing the lighting to tell its own story within the larger narrative of Cocody.”

In the grand room, light again takes the design focus in the shape of a breathtaking, multifunctional chandelier above the bar that serves as both a striking centrepiece and a structural marvel, supporting 5,000 pounds of liquor bottles. Expertly crafted in Colorado, this captivating feature is made from translucent materials, allowing for a seamless diffusion of light and the result is a dual-purpose masterpiece that combines opulent design with functional bottle storage, elevating the space’s aesthetic while reinforcing the bar’s role as a centrepiece for the restaurant. 

The synergy between the design team and lighting consultants ensured that the lighting not only enhanced the ambiance but also became a defining feature of the space, with architectural and decorative working in harmony. The architectural lighting provided structure and direction, setting the mood and defining the spatial character, while also highlighting key features such as the backlit onyx, the stairs, and other specific architectural details. This then allowed the decorative pieces such as the Wink lamp by Masquespacio and Houtique, to add a layer of drama, and a “whimsical” atmosphere that Magon repeats throughout her design.

However, not all developments of the project worked so cohesively to begin with, including significant structural constraints that required careful consideration during the installation of the liquor chandelier and the crystal canopy. Both elements necessitated precise engineering to support its weight and ensure long-term stability without compromising the design’s integrity. For the liquor chandelier, the team collaborated closely with fabricators and structural engineers to address the challenge of supporting its substantial weight while seamlessly integrating it into the space. They also worked to ensure that lighting connections remained hidden within the translucent material and carefully diffused the light to avoid harsh spotlights, creating a soft, inviting glow that enhanced the ambiance. The crystal canopy presented its own unique challenges to managing weight considerations, the team strategically positioned HVAC vents to prevent airflow from causing the crystals to move excessively or collide, ensuring the installation retained its elegance and harmony.

Magon says: “the collaboration with our manufacturers and fabricators, such as 3Form, Preciosa, and VISO Lighting, was instrumental in bringing the vision to life. Each partner brought a unique level of craftsmanship and innovation to the project. Their ability to translate complex designs into tangible, bespoke pieces was exceptional. For example, the crystal canopy and the liquor chandelier required precision engineering and an understanding of both the structural and artistic demands, which they executed flawlessly.”

The original brief also envisioned two full height restaurant levels for the main space however, this was made unfeasible due the HVAC ducts that were to be accounted for. To resolve the issue the design team collaborated closely to incorporate a mezzanine area, this was made possible by installaing a state-of-the-art HVAC system and relocating on of the main pipes. By introducing a quasi-double-height area this allowed the stunning crystal canopy to dramatically span the area and creating an ethereal backdrop. When asked if there were any aspects Maron would reconsider, in hindsight she says she would explore ways to optimise the ceiling height in the space, despite successfully incorporating a mezzanine and addressing structural constraints. She suggests greater vertical clearance could have allowed for even more dramatic design elements, particularly in the main dining area. However, the evolution of the brief ultimately resulted in a more dynamic and multi-dimensional design, one that exceeded the initial expectations while remaining true to the client’s vision.

Cocody as an establishment already set itself apart since the inception of its unique concept. However, as a design, it stands out for its seamless integration of light as a storytelling element. From the ethereal crystal canopy to the grand custom liquor chandelier, every fixture provided functionality in the form of a piece of art. By using custom pieces alongside dynamic lighting it enhances the customer’s experience making it evident it is a one-of-a-kind establishment.

When asked about what makes Coody stand out in comparison to her other projects Maron says:

“What truly sets Cocody apart is its ability to transcend traditional restaurant design by blending architectural precision with artistic expression. It is a space that celebrates the fusion of form and function, creating an experience that is as visually captivating as it is immersive. This project stands as a testament to the possibilities of thoughtful design, making it a highlight in our portfolio.”

The realisation of Cocody’s vision was a collaborative triumph, seamlessly blending the expertise of the design and project teams, structural engineers, and skilled artisans. Innovative solutions overcame challenges such as structural constraints and airflow considerations, preserving both the aesthetic and integrity of the design. Timeless yet dynamic, every detail harmonises to captivate and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on all who enter.

www.ninamagon.com