A Challenge Worth Embracing

Participating in a design competition for MUUTO, one of the most iconic Scandinavian brands in home product design, has been a unique and enriching experience for our studio. Facing the challenge of creating a piece that aligns with MUUTO’s values and aesthetics pushed us to rethink our approach and explore new ways of blending tradition and modernity in a product.

Simplicity with Soul

Scandinavian design is defined by its focus on functionality, simplicity, and a strong connection to nature. Each piece often conveys calm, balance, and understated beauty, with special attention to detail and the use of sustainable materials. Designing within this framework meant embracing the philosophy of “less is more” while maintaining the personality and storytelling of our product.|

The TILE Challenge: Blending Tradition and Modernity

The product we developed for the competition was TILE, a lamp designed to be much more than a light source: it’s a statement of design. TILE is crafted from an aluminum body paired with a shade made from natural materials such as ceramic or clay. This combination symbolizes the harmony between artisanal traditions and industrial elegance.

Modularity and Versatility

One of TILE’s key features is its ability to adapt to various settings. We designed this piece to transform into:

  • A desk lamp
  • A living room lamp
  • A ceiling lamp
  • A wall lamp

Its variety of colors — white, blue, red, and green — and materials reinforces its storytelling. Each TILE lamp tells a unique story, blending warmth and durability. It’s a piece that not only illuminates spaces but also transforms them, becoming the focal point of any room.|

A Process Full of Learning: Shaping a Design Mindset

Although TILE did not win the competition, we are proud of the result and everything the process has brought us. Designing for such an influential brand as MUUTO allowed us to:

  • Explore new perspectives and methodologies.
  • Face a different kind of challenge that enriched our capabilities.
  • Create a design piece that has become a reference in our portfolio.

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The Value of Participation

Participating in high-caliber design competitions not only boosts creativity but also positions the studio in a demanding environment and connects us with new audiences. TILE is the tangible result of this journey — a lamp that reflects our passion for design, our adaptability, and our constant drive to innovate.

Participating in this competition aligned perfectly with our commitment to the Design Mindset, which emphasizes the fusion of creativity, purpose, and user-centered solutions.

In conclusion, while we didn’t secure first place, we gained something far more valuable: the experience, the learning, and a piece that, for us, is already a winner.