What was the design concept for the Flar collection?

Patrick Norguet (PN): The first product we developed for Lodes was made three years ago [the Jim collection]. This got me thinking about designing table lamps [for Lodes]. The idea was to use glass techniques to create something visually strong and unique and in different sizes. We spent almost two years working on it.

I’m happy with Flar because there’s not too much to explain; it’s like a candle. We tried to do something very elegant, and luxurious, although I don’t like this [latter] word. But it would be interesting to make a limited-edition version of this lamp in red or orange; it could look really cool in a bar.

As a designer, my job is to understand the company, the client and respect its DNA, and not have too much ego. It’s important to have a very strong relationship with the company.

What’s a pandemic-related trend that you think might be set to stay?

PN: In the past, furniture companies worked on hotels, and now the focus is on the residential market. Now that we have gone back to normal life, our responsibility is to ensure that we work with materials that are good for the environment and reduce waste. To be sure that we produce something clean, and recyclable. 

More and more I don’t appreciate the world of fashion. It’s easy to be trendy; it’s vulgar, I think. [Personally], I don’t need a lot of things. I design products but I’m not consuming the products. And I live in my country house more and more. 

What’s a material that you’re interested in using more of?

PN: Aluminium is very interesting because it’s easy to recycle. I love aluminum, as there are also different techniques to use with it.

Which are the techniques that you’re most interested in working with right now and why?

PN: There are always new processes. 3D printing is very trendy but [my studio] doesn’t produce with 3D printing.

[I appreciate] new technology like the CNC machines*, and the [improved] quality of metal; when you bend metal tubes [nowadays], and the quality is better, the shape was not as nice in the past.

What’s a colour that you would consider timeless and why?

PN: The choice of colour [for each product] is a dialogue between the design, the hue, and culture too. I’ve developed a new outdoor collection in aluminium for the US market. In the US, they prefer more classic colours; in the streets, you see grey, black and white cars. It’s a risk for the clients to buy something in a very strong colour.

*Editor’s note: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are used to produce parts as it is able to cut materials with great precision, in ways that minimise waste.

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