Lucie Koldová: Sensual Gloss

Having worked in Paris and Prague, Czech designer Lucie Koldová has become a major name within lighting and furniture design sectors. Though highly refined, her transcendent practice is still influenced by this cultural duality. Designing in various mediums, the designer employs the power of tried and tested craftsmanship but isn’t afraid to explore new technologies. Developing objects for both contract and limited edition markets, Koldová has garnered numerous accolades, including a 2013 Grand Designer of the Year award in Czech Republic. Her minimal yet formally-expressive designs often contrast material properties and push the limits of proportion. For the past few years, the designer has worked closely with Czech boutique glassworks Brokis. TLmag spoke to Koldová about the silver qualities of her new Whistle hanging lamp, conceived for the innovative brand.

TLmag: What is your affinity for silver?
Lucie Koldová: Provocative and sexy, silver’s glossy shine has a monochromatic charm. For a design like the Whistle lamp, such a finish can extend the bounce of light rays. In other words, silver helps reflect more light.

TLmag: What visual, physical, or metaphoric treatment does this effect allow you to express?
L.K.: It demonstrates a certain dignity which is emphasized by the clean lines of the light reflector. This is achieved by the combination of an internal polished chrome metal cone and an external hand-made glass volume.

TLmag: How did your choice of material allow you adopt an iridescent, reflective, or luminous effect within your design?
L.K.: The choice of material actually pushes the lamp to a higher level, with a classier character.