Designer stories: Studio WM

Included in the design futures section of our 25th anniversary show is the Lucent Mirror by Rotterdam based Studio WM. We spotted the piece in Milan this year and just couldn't resist bringing it to London for its first UK showing. 

Studio WM are Wendy Legro and Maarten Collignon (pictured above) who decided to work together after graduating from Design Academy Eindhoven. The duo describe their work as "a mission to create seemingly simple designs that reflect the love that is put into them and their details for years to come."

For them, working as a team is the perfect way to challenge themselves and draw the best out of each project by utilising their complementary skills. Their work is characterised by incredible attention to detail, each component is painstakingly researched and realised, whilst holistically the objects retain an aesthetic simplicity that is both beautiful and timeless. In addition to their work as designers both Maarten and Wendy also teach in the furniture and product design department at the Royal Academy of Art in the Hague.

Wendy and Maarten kindly chose a selection of images to share with us, each image and the words that accompany them tell us a little more about themselves, their work and the world around them.

Small Lucent Mirror /

This wall-mounted object shows a gradual transition from mirror to lamp through a simple touch. The filtered glass can both reflect and transmit light depending on the light intensity coming from behind. Reflections visible in the mirror are filtered with a glow of two contrasting colours. As a lamp, white light is being separated into various soft colour tones, producing an ambient light in the room. 

Details /

We share a passion for details. The first prototype of every new design is made in our workshop in Rotterdam where we enjoy the freedom to develop every single part with great care and precision. 

Research /

This film shows our the Nebula Diffuser from our last collection 'Senses Unfold'. We reflect on every step and share our thoughts to create structure and to find the core of our stories. 

Studio /

This is where we spend most of our days (and occasional nights). Beedi is our small mixed Indian street dog that has her own spot underneath the desk. Our studio is based in an old orphanage situated in one of the oldest streets of Rotterdam. We share this building with 30 other creative entrepreneurs, giving it a lively atmosphere. 

Street and Inspiration /

Every morning we walk through this lovely street to enter our workspace at the end of it. Having the first walk of the day with our dog here never fails to make our day begin with a positive mood, followed by a cappuccino in the office. Next to sketching in our black books, we create 3D compositions with material samples we find interesting lying around in our workspace. These still lives change on a daily basis when we process new ideas and help us to test atmospheres.

To find out more about Studio WM visit their website : www.studiowm.com.