Miguel Milá: A Modern Spanish Design Icon Whose Legacy Endures

In design, there are luminaries whose work sets itself apart from the rest. Their designs last over time, remaining relevant, influential, and inspirational across generations. One such luminary is Miguel Milá, a Spanish interior designer, inventor, and bricoleur whose impact on the design landscape is immeasurable.

The Early Years: A Legacy of Artistic Influence

Born into an aristocratic Barcelona family with deep ties to the art world (notably, his uncle Pedro Milá Camps commissioned Gaudí to construct the renowned Casa Milá, also known as La Pedrera), Miguel Milá embarked on his career as an interior designer in the family studio shared alongside his brother, Alfonso Milá, and Federico Correa. This journey unfolded during the 1950s, a time of autocracy and constant crisis, when resources and raw materials were scarce in Spain.

Miguel Milá sitting on one of his designs, the Salvador Chair, next to his TMC Floor Lamp

Innovation Amidst Adversity

Undeterred by the limitations of his era, Miguel Milá took matters into his own hands, quite literally, by experimenting with materials and designing his own furniture and lamps. This innovative spirit soon led him to establish his own company, Tramo, a name derived from the Spanish "Trabajos Molestos," which translates to "Annoying Jobs." Little did he know that these "annoying jobs" would pave the way for some of the most iconic pieces in the world of design. Around this time, he created the first iterations of the TMC Lamp (1958) and the TMM Lamp (1961) — two timeless designs that continue to captivate modern audiences.

Three TMM Floor Lamp models in differing wooden structures. This collection features 3 basic components: the structure, the electrical parts and the shade. The light source is cleverly designed to rotate around the shaft and can be raised or lowered like a flag on a mast.

From Experimentation to Iconic Award-Winning Designs

Many of Miguel Milá's creations have become contemporary classics, cherished for their timeless appeal and functionality. In recognition of his groundbreaking work, the Spanish Ministry of Education and Culture awarded him the prestigious Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts in 2016. His accolades also include numerous ADI awards in Barcelona, the first-ever Spanish National Design Award (shared with André Ricard), and the esteemed ADI Compasso d'Oro for Lifetime Achievements in 2008.

First envisioned in 1962, the Cesta, as its name suggests (Spanish for “basket”), was designed to hold an opal glass shade.

Miguel Milá Designs at LightForm

Within our showrooms, you can find Milá's products elegantly displayed in our dedicated Santa & Cole sections. The selection spans Milá's illustrious career, featuring lighting designed from the early 1960s to the present day. These pieces reflect the essence of Milá's design philosophy: functionality, emotion, and an innate understanding of materials. Among the treasures are his iconic TMM Lamp (1961), M68 Suspension Light (1962), the Cesta Collection (1962), and more. These designs serve as timeless reminders of his commitment to creating objects that not only serve a purpose but also evoke a profound sense of connection and beauty.

The M68 in polished aluminum (left) and vibrant red (right) are inspired by the female shoulders, designed in 1962 and edited by Santa & Cole in 1995.

Visit LightForm Showrooms

As we take the time to celebrate the legacy of Miguel Milá, we are reminded that great design knows no bounds. It transcends time, geography, and circumstance, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Miguel Milá's pioneering spirit and enduring creations continue to enrich our lives and inspire future generations of designers, ensuring that his legacy lives on. We invite you to visit a LightForm showroom near you to get up close and personal with Milá's ingenious solutions, each a testament to his craftsmanship and capacity for experimentation.

Discover more lights designed by Miguel Milá