Mondrian: A Symphony of Light and Color

Monica Pinto de Almeida's Award-Winning Suspension Lamp

Monica Pinto de Almeida, a renowned Portuguese designer, has created a lighting solution that is not just a source of illumination but also a medium of artistic expression. The Mondrian lamp, named after the famous painter, is a beautiful blend of modernity and the aesthetics of the 20th century. The lamp's design is a tribute to the Neo-plasticism movement, characterized by the reduction of forms and the use of pure lines.

The unique properties of the Mondrian lamp lie in its construction and visual appeal. The lamp is built from several layers of colored acrylic, suspended from adjustable steel cables. Each of the four sides of the lamp offers a different view, creating a dynamic interplay of six colors. The design is interrupted by a vertical white line and a yellow layer, adding to its uniqueness. The lamp emits light both upwards and downwards, creating a diffused, non-invasive lighting effect, controlled by a wireless remote.

The creation of the Mondrian lamp involved a meticulous process of sketching, 3D modeling, and technical analysis. The first prototype was built in collaboration with a manufacturer, using colored acrylic and stainless steel cables. The lamp's design specifications include adjustable height, dimmable LED light source, and a total flux of 5300 lm.

Almeida's inspiration for the Mondrian lamp came from her subconscious, influenced by her background in painting and artistic studies. Her research focused on the impact of colors on human beings, their cultural significance, and their representation in various art movements. The biggest creative challenge was achieving a balance of colors to create a piece with reduced forms and pure lines, where shapes, lines, and colors coexist in harmony.

The Mondrian lamp was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2021, a testament to its remarkable design and innovation. The award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise, creativity, and technical excellence, evoking positive feelings and amazement. The Mondrian lamp, with its unique design and innovative lighting solution, truly embodies these qualities.