Experimentation, Play, and Materiality: Exploring the Minima by Patkau Studio

The Minima Series of Floor Lamps

Lighting is more than just illuminating a space — it’s a form of art that sets the mood, draws attention to key details, and enriches the overall atmosphere. The Minima by Patkau Studio exemplifies this approach to lighting with its elegant, sculptural presence and innovative materiality. Designed with a deep appreciation for form, craft, and material exploration, the Minima floor and table lamps attest to the studio’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.

To offer deeper insight into the design process and inspiration behind Minima, we had the pleasure of speaking with John Patkau, Founding Principal of Patkau Studio. In the following Q&A, he shares the story behind the Minima, from its conceptual roots to the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation.

Frei Otto’s German Pavilion at Expo 67

A Journey from Concept to Creation

The Minima finds its roots in architectural inspiration, particularly the minimal curved geometry of Frei Otto’s German Pavilion at Expo 67. Patkau Studio admired the pavilion’s fluid form and sought to translate this concept into a smaller-scale lighting piece. The breakthrough moment came when they discovered how to contract a thin, translucent material over a frame to create minimal surfaces — an unexpected yet defining element of the Minima design.

JP: The process started with finding an appropriate polymer film that could form the lamp’s skin. The objective was to create an evocative luminous form that also functioned as a lamp.

Close-up detail of the Minima Series

Material Innovation: The Heart of Minima

One of the defining features of the Minima is its unique composite skin, a proprietary blend of organic fiber and polymer film. Through extensive experimentation, the team discovered that this combination achieved the perfect balance of translucency, texture, and tensile strength. The material softly diffuses light, creating an ethereal glow that enhances the sculptural quality of the lamps.

JP: The polymer film alone lacked the necessary surface qualities to produce the glowing effect we envisioned. After multiple trials, we developed a composite that merges the natural warmth of organic fibers with the durability of polymer film.

Structural Evolution & Lighting Effects

Initially, a metal wire frame was used to support the lamp’s skin and internal LED array. However, this structure cast unwanted shadows within the glowing form. The team refined the design by replacing the metal with a clear acrylic skeleton, which not only enhanced stability but also preserved the purity of light diffusion.

JP: The graded luminosity of the Minima lamps is a result of the interplay between the central LED array and the composite skin’s variable thickness and angles. This subtle glow brings depth and dynamism to the form.

The Minima in varying heights clustered together to make a statement impact near a stairwell

Versatility in Application

Available in four sizes ranging from table to floor lamps, the Minima series seamlessly integrates into a variety of interior settings. Whether as a statement floor piece or a delicate table lamp, Minima’s adaptability makes it suitable for residential, hospitality, and commercial spaces. And with the upcoming release of the Minima 2 pendant and Minima 3 table and wall lamps, the collection will soon offer even greater flexibility.

Precision Meets Craftsmanship

The manufacturing process behind the Minima is a careful balance of high-tech precision and artisanal craftsmanship. The internal clear structure and LED array are digitally manufactured using CNC cutting, ensuring accuracy and consistency. Meanwhile, the hand-applied composite skin adds a human touch, making each lamp a truly unique piece.

JP: This blend of digital fabrication and hand-finishing allows us to achieve both technical perfection and the warmth of craftsmanship.

The Minima in varying heights clustered together in a kitchen setting

Minima’s Place in the Patkau Design Philosophy

For Patkau Studio, every project is an exploration of materials, form, and craft—a philosophy also evident in their book Patkau Architects: Material Operations. The Minima embodies these values, offering a luminous experience that enriches the spaces it inhabits.

JP: Our goal is always the same — to enhance human experience and quality of life through design.

What’s Next for Patkau Products?

The studio has exciting projects on the horizon, including new additions to the Minima line and the development of a lounge chair to complement their well-known Joey stool. As they continue their exploration of materials and form, we eagerly anticipate their next innovative creation.

Discover the Minima, available exclusively at LightForm, and bring the artistry of Patkau Studio into your space.