Limited edition light objects driven by a visually oriented research process

Stavros Kotsakis is the creative force behind Greek Studio Lampent. His design journey began with the handcrafting of industrial luminaires from upcycled components, a pursuit that gradually evolved as he sought materials that interact more vividly with light.

Drawing inspiration from Kinetic and Concrete artists as well as the minimalist aesthetic of Scandinavian Design, Kotsakis has carved out a unique visual language that speaks through the interplay of light and form. His initial fascination with light was sparked by his grandfather, who crafted table lamps from sea urchin shells, leading Kotsakis to explore the transformative power of light and its potential to create immersive visual experiences. Stavros Kotsakis’ aim is to craft light objects that not only radiate playful luminescence but also challenge and engage the viewer’s perception.

Who is Stavros Kotsakis? What motivated the inception of your design journey and the establishment of Studio Lampent?

Stavros Kotsakis:

“I was born in 1986 in Greece, where I very recently moved back, after having lived in Sweden for the last 11 years. My journey started with handcrafting industrial luminaires from upcycled components and materials. Later on, I felt the urge to experiment with materials which interact more actively and genuinely with light. In parallel, drawing inspiration from Kinetic and Concrete artists as well as Scandinavian Design, I gradually developed my own visual language.”

What led you to specialize in crafting artworks centered around light?

Stavros Kotsakis:

“Initially I was inspired by my grandfather who used to make table lamps out of sea urchin shells. This is how I started developing an interest in light and also in the ways it can be ‘formed’ or manipulated, creating different visual experiences. Light has a dynamic quality which allows endless possibilities for experimentation. Once I got into this experimentation, I have constantly felt challenged to transform my research findings into complete light objects.”

What is the purpose / message / motto you or your firm wants to convey through your works?

Stavros Kotsakis:

“My process of working is based on exploring forms of light which communicate a sense of depth through captivating materials. The purpose is to create light objects that diffuse a playful radiance, while challenging the visual perception of the viewer.”

How do you choose the type of client/project to work on?

Stavros Kotsakis:

“Most of my sales are light objects which I produce in limited editions and in fixed specs. In addition, I have so far completed a few commissioned projects and I haven’t had the luxury of being more selective. Unless there are technical limitations such as size of project or location, I am always eager for new collaborations.”

Is your investigation as a designer driven mostly by written text or by visuals? What information is most useful to carry out your creative process?

Stavros Kotsakis:

“My research is driven mostly by visuals. Knowing how certain materials interact with light, but also their limitations, is a good starting point for the creative process.

The overall process can be described as solving a puzzle where I intend to match the unique properties of different materials with the desired form of light, while keeping the overall structure simple, functional and attractive.”