MEET A DESIGNER #2:
SILVIA CEÑAL
On our second interview story let us bring you to sunny Spain where our designer Silvia Ceñal lives and has created her colourful confection inspired Macaron lamps. Just like a perfect sweet, Macaron lamp excels a well-thought balance too. Wood conveys warmth and strength while the textured cord ads a touch of originality.
“This eye-catching combination was exactly what we were looking for back in 2015. With no doubts all the team agreed to welcome our very first lamp aboard,” remembers EMKO Sales Executive Inga Markovska-Malinauske.
BUT HOW EXACTLY NEW COLLABORATIONS HAPPEN?
Well, sometimes just a simple “Hi” is enough to kickstart a fruitful collaboration. No matter if it’s at a trade show, passing by our showroom or simply dropping a message via email — meeting emerging talents and getting to work on some fresh designs is always our pleasure.
And this is also how we met Silvia. After carefully examining the ideas she shared with us, Macaron lamp seemed to be the one of mutual aesthetics, able to seamlessly blend into our collection.
„In six months, the first Macaron pendant lamp was developed and ready for its premiere. To our pleasant surprise, appreciation was immediate — vibrant colours and playful character must have won the hearts of our followers, proving that the choice was right,“ continues Inga.
FROM THEN – TO NOW
Anyway, the process of developing a relevant design does not stop with the first sale. During the years Macaron looks have varied in order to offer the best solution to our customers. But for this day, all dots seem to be finally connected:
〰️ Yellow, red, blue, black and white – these are the five colours of Macaron, selected to brighten up your interiors.
〰️ Starting its journey with a pendant lamp, today Macaron name unites two more models – floor and wall lamps. All these editions follow the same style pleasing the eye of Macaron lovers.
〰️ Who are mostly based in France, Japan or the USA — these are the top destinations where the majority of Macarons has gone to so far.
While we can‘t wait to see where this collaboration goes next, why not to learn more how such versatile and appealing designs are born?
LET’S TAKE A LOOK FROM DESIGNER’S PERSPECTIVE
Silvia, please describe, which is your favourite part of being a designer?
For me, there are two moments: when you start sketching a new idea on a white paper and when you finally get to see your design produced. Even if it’s only a prototype.
And how about your daily inspiration — where does it come from?
I can find inspiration in various places or experiences, for example, travelling, in nature, walking into the woods, riding a bike through my city or just browsing the internet. I am always open for inspiration around me.
Which are the major steps of your creative process?
Before initiating a new design project, I tend to research the market: to see what’s already there and to spot an unexploited niche for new ideas. Then, I start drawing the first sketches in my notebook — I really love this moment. After that, I use my computer to model the piece and detail technical parts and finishes. This part is crucial as you can easily realise if your design goes the right way or you should consider taking a step back. Finally, I do some mock-ups, adjust the measures and prepare for making a real-size prototype.
How would you describe your personal style?
In three words: colourful, simple, functional.
What according to you, is the role of collaboration in design?
For me, collaboration is when everyone involved in a design piece enjoys every single step of its production: from the designer to the supplier or manufacturer. Such partnerships lead to success and most importantly — improve everyday life.
Is there any particular message you'd like to convey by your designs?
My aim is to create functional, timeless and beautiful objects, which one should be able to use and enjoy at any time. That design is for everyone.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST – BLITZ QUESTIONS
Favourite work tool?
A pencil and white paper.
Best soundtrack for design?
Movies’ soundtracks.
Favourite material?
Wood — it’s warm, soft and alive.
Favourite shape or figure?
A circle.
What’s the closest thing to real magic?
For me — snow. It doesn’t snow too often in my city.
