Meet the designers
Notchi Architects
Notchi Arkitekter, founded by Oscar Gillkvist and Carl-Magnus Elander almost 10 years ago, is a multifaceted architecture and design studio known for its ability to navigate the intersection of architecture, product design, and art. This is our first collaboration with Notchi, and their latest collection, Belle, demonstrates how their creative vision is combined with our focus on Swedish craftsmanship.
The collaboration – a creative synergy between design and Swedish craftsmanship
The journey to Belle began when Notchi visited our factory in Varberg to see how our production could fit their interior projects. They were inspired by the possibilities within our factory, and we realized that together we could create something exciting.
We were given a tour of the factory in Varberg and were incredibly inspired. That’s probably when the first idea for the collaboration was born. We’ve previously made lamps for Oblure and see lighting as both very fun and very complex. A lamp involves so many aspects beyond the object itself, which makes it extra exciting to develop, says Oscar, with Carl-Magnus agreeing.
In Sweden, there is an incredible amount of craftsmanship knowledge, which we have both cherished and learned from over the years. Belid's approach to preserving production and the tradition of craftsmanship truly impressed us.
How does the design process differ when it comes to lighting versus spatial design?
A luminaire must work in various environments but also be able to enhance something specific in a room. Light is an important part of the whole, whether it is decorative, functional, or both, says Carl-Magnus.
The design process – From minimalism to maximalism
With the Belle collection, Notchi Arkitekter wanted to create something that was both playful and timeless. Their design is based on minimalist shapes, but with a strong emphasis on color and details. Color became an important part of the design process, and each lamp is carefully assembled to create a harmonious and sophisticated whole.
Tell us about Belle – from minimalism to maximalism?
Yes, the collection spans a wide spectrum. The expression is playful, the form is minimalist, and the whole starting point has been color. There’s a belief that people, in general, want a bit of color, but I think we as designers have a task to prove the opposite. In this project, color even became the guiding element and starting point. I would describe the lamp as a meccano of details, where everything from the ceiling cup, the cord, color choice, and form come together to create a solid whole, leaving nothing to chance. All of this has been made possible thanks to Belid’s expertise, craftsmanship, and the closeness to the factory and production, says Oscar.
Color and Function – A Perfect Balance
The color choices in Belle play a central role in the lamp's function and help create the right atmosphere in the room. By choosing one of the eleven color combinations, you can create an ambiance that matches your style, whether you're looking for a more neutral tone or a bolder color. This versatility makes Belle equally suitable for private homes as well as public spaces.
Color is design in its truest form, and it was interesting to work with different color combinations at an early stage, allowing color to play a prominent role from the very beginning. We have developed eleven different color combinations, all with the potential to grow and expand. You can choose a bold color, a more subdued color, or mix several different hues together. This makes the lamp compatible with many different styles, making it suitable for both private homes and public spaces, says Carl-Magnus.
Timeless Design and Sustainable Craftsmanship
The collaboration with Notchi has resulted in a pendant that is both functional and sustainable. Belle is made with high-quality materials and a design that lasts over time. By combining Scandinavian design with sustainable production methods, we have created a lighting solution that not only adds warmth and elegance to your home but also contributes to a more sustainable future.
Our Best Lighting Tips
At Belid, together with Notchi Arkitekter, we strive to help create the perfect lighting for your home or workspace. Here are some of Oscar's and Carl-Magnus' best tips for using light in an inspiring way.
Oscar: I would probably say to use varied lighting. Use light to create more dimensions in a room.
Carl-Magnus: Use a dimmer.