Joakim Thedin

We are delighted to share the images of the recent completion of The Central hotel in Queenstown by Undercurrent Studio. Our Oblure ‘Balance’ Lamp features in this imaginative and playful fit out.

Joakim ideas and inspiration come from art, color, form and a curiosity about different production methods. Recently, he has developed an interest in the works of landscape artist Michael Heizer, and Hilma af Klint. When designing, Joakim never sits down with a blank sheet of paper, ideas usually just arrive while he is thinking about something entirely different. When this happens he quickly scribbles down a simple picture from memory.

When asked whether he considers form or function more important, Joakim explains that he always starts with form. He says a lamp must be beautiful, both on and off. Only then does he move on to function, through the strength and distribution of light, and the construction, durability and production method. Most important of all to Joakim is to make the most affordable and adaptable product possible, while retaining a high level of design.