Bodo Sperlein is the proprietor of the eponymous Bodo Sperlein Ltd, an award-winning London-based strategic creative consultancy. Taking a pragmatic and tailored approach to product design, art, and brand direction, the studio showcases an appreciation of craft combined with the use of high-quality materials. Sperlein’s designs are internationally renowned. He has worked with various global luxury brands, including Dior, Swarovski, Mulberry, and the LVMH group, as well as on his own product lines. Sperlein has won several esteemed design awards, and his works of art and design are represented in distinguished international galleries and museums.
Bodo Sperlein has recently unveiled two exclusive collections for LZF, which were showcased for the very first time at Euroluce 2023.
Introducing Osca, a lamp named in homage to Oscar Niemeyer’s remarkable journey. Its cubist style showcases interlocking arches made of wood veneer, giving it a unique and elegant sculptural shape. Select from two hanging options or a table lamp to elevate the look of your space with a touch of sleek sophistication.
The Voliere chandelier effortlessly brings the classic 1920s art deco style into the modern era, elevating any interior to new heights of sophistication. Its meticulously crafted wood veneer layers bear an uncanny resemblance to soft feathers, paying homage to the timeless elegance of French art deco lighting design. This lamp is lightweight and visually stunning from every angle, making it a true masterpiece of design.
You designed two distinct lighting concepts for LZF: Voliere and Osca. What was the inspiration behind each?
Osca is an architectural and curvaceous geometric structure that reminds me of Arches and Buildings from my Idol, the fantastic Architect Oscar Niemeyer.
I believe Voliere‘s bird-like structure is an abstraction of a Bird of Paradise. Wood veneer lends itself perfectly to the creation of Feather structures, and the Wood grain texture in the feather elements comes to life when used in lighting.
Voliere and Osca reference 1920s art deco and cubism respectively. What draws you to historical periods of design and how does this influence your work today?
I always like to look back in time for inspiration; one can learn so much from the past, particularly the appreciation for materiality, which is also apparent in my LZF designs. I love history but do not like replicas. I aim to use historical influences in my design, paying homage to the past, but design products firmly centred in the 21st century.
What attracted you to working with LZF? Can you describe your collaboration?
I love working with Companies with a similar mindset. LZF‘s quality and materiality obsession impressed me enormously.
We developed an enormous portfolio of Light designs within a sensational short period of only four months, which is only possible when you and the Brand are in tune with each other. LZF is a dream to work with.
Your studio designs a wide array of high-end products for notable ‘luxury brands’. What does luxury mean to you?
Luxury for me is Quality, longevity, Appreciation of craft and skill, Materiality and products with a soul which triggers emotions.
I absolutely do not want to design throw-away products.
We wonder how your German heritage influences your thinking on design (if at all)?
My German Schooling helped me to be organised etc. However, creativity was nurtured in the UK, particularly by going to UAL Camberwell College of Arts, which fine-tuned my creative eye.
As a designer, what are you still curious about?
Everything; Food, science, politics, art, architecture, biology, literature, people… The world is a treasure trove of wonders.
