Modulo Luminaire

Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr

Interview about Modulo Luminaire, winner of the A' Lighting Projects and Light Art Design Award 2024

About the Project

Nowadays, Recessed Lights RL are widely used in buildings. Besides serving as a technical light source, the RL can attract more attention as a decorative element in the space. Modules come in different forms and colors. In Modulo, the lamp has been proposed as a module, enhancing the variety of this light fixture and making it more adaptable to the space. Modulo offers three unique modules: Outside, Inside, and Lamp. The Outside and Inside modules provide many options for selection. The Lamp module offers various cap colors, Kelvin temperature options, light intensities, and beam angles.

Design Details
  • Designer:
    Mohammad Mostafa Sharifianmehr
  • Design Name:
    Modulo Luminaire
  • Designed For:
    HOBO
  • Award Category:
    A' Lighting Projects and Light Art Design Award
  • Award Year:
    2024
  • Last Updated:
    November 29, 2024
Learn More About This Design

View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.

View Design Details
Your innovative approach to modular lighting design in Modulo Luminaire has earned recognition with a Bronze A' Design Award - could you share the journey that led to conceptualizing this adaptable three-module system?

The journey to conceptualizing the Modulo Luminaire was both exciting and challenging. It all started with a simple observation: traditional lighting systems often lack flexibility and adaptability in different environments. As a lighting producer, I recognized the need to create a lighting solution that could seamlessly integrate into various spaces and meet diverse user needs.Modular design is a great concept that allows for the production of almost anything you want, including adaptable lighting systems. I aimed to provide my customers and projects with lighting solutions that fit every design and need. This led to the creation of a modular system in lighting.The initial idea came during a design workshop where the concept of modularity in furniture was being discussed. Inspired by how modular furniture could be reconfigured and adapted, I thought, "Why not apply the same principle to lighting?" This idea sparked the beginning of the Modulo Luminaire project.Modulo Luminaire is a reflection of my belief in the power of adaptable design. Each module can be used independently or combined to create a variety of lighting arrangements, offering users the flexibility to customize their lighting according to their needs and preferences. This adaptability not only enhances functionality but also allows the lighting to become a dynamic element within a space.Receiving the Bronze A' Design Award is an incredible honor and a testament to the hard work and creativity that went into this project. I'm proud to have created a design that not only meets practical needs but also inspires and engages users.

The integration of Outside, Inside, and Lamp modules in Modulo Luminaire offers unprecedented customization - what inspired you to break down the traditional recessed light structure into these specific components?

The inspiration to break down the traditional recessed light structure into the Outside, Inside, and Lamp modules for the Modulo Luminaire stemmed from a desire to push the boundaries of customization and functionality in lighting design.As a lighting producer, I constantly seek ways to provide my customers with solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations. Traditional recessed lights often have a fixed structure, limiting their adaptability to different spaces and requirements. I wanted to challenge this limitation and create a lighting system that offers unprecedented flexibility.The concept of modularity became the key to achieving this goal. By deconstructing the recessed light into three distinct components—Outside, Inside, and Lamp—I could offer a versatile system that allows users to tailor their lighting according to their specific needs and preferences.By dividing the light structure into these specific components, I aimed to provide a system that offers both functional and aesthetic customization. Users can mix and match the modules to create a variety of lighting configurations that best suit their environment. This approach not only enhances the flexibility of the lighting design but also empowers users to be more involved in the creative process.Ultimately, the integration of these modules in the Modulo Luminaire represents my commitment to innovative design and my belief in the power of adaptable solutions. It's about breaking away from the conventional and offering something truly unique and user-centric.

How does Modulo Luminaire's aluminum construction and thermal management system address the critical challenges of LED heat dissipation while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the fixture?

The basic design of Modulo Luminaire centers around the lamp itself. We designed a modular lamp that integrates seamlessly with our structure, serving as a module within the overall modular system. This lamp is not just a source of light but also a high-design element that enhances the aesthetic appeal of any space.Given the technical needs of LEDs, addressing heat dissipation was critically important. We devoted extensive study to the design of the heatsink, as efficient heat dissipation is vital for the longevity and performance of the LEDs. After significant research and experimentation, we developed heatsink designs that offer excellent heat dissipation and align well with our overall design objectives.By focusing on these aspects, we ensured that the Modulo Luminaire combines high performance with aesthetic appeal, providing a lighting solution that is both functional and beautiful.

The architectural lighting industry is increasingly focused on sustainability - could you elaborate on how Modulo Luminaire's modular design approach contributes to reducing environmental impact through component replacement rather than full fixture replacement?

In the architectural lighting industry, sustainability is becoming an essential focus. With Modulo Luminaire, our modular design approach significantly reduces environmental impact by enabling component replacement instead of full fixture replacement.The essence of our modular system lies in its adaptability. Each part of the Modulo Luminaire—from the Outside and Inside modules to the Lamp module—is designed to be easily replaced or upgraded without the need to discard the entire fixture. This approach offers several environmental benefits:Resource Efficiency: By replacing only specific components, we minimize the need for raw materials, reducing the overall consumption of resources. This practice helps in conserving valuable materials and energy that would otherwise be used in manufacturing entirely new fixtures.Reduced Waste: Component replacement significantly cuts down on waste. Traditional lighting systems often require the entire fixture to be disposed of when a part fails or becomes outdated. In contrast, Modulo Luminaire allows for individual components to be swapped out, leading to less waste sent to landfills.Extended Product Lifecycle: Our modular design extends the lifecycle of the lighting system. Users can upgrade or change components as needed, ensuring that the fixture remains functional and up-to-date for a longer period. This longevity reduces the frequency of replacements, further contributing to sustainability.Customization and Adaptability: The modular approach means users can adapt their lighting to evolving needs and preferences without a complete overhaul. This flexibility not only enhances user satisfaction but also aligns with sustainable practices by reducing the need for constant replacements.Efficient Manufacturing and Distribution: Modular components can be produced and distributed more efficiently, optimizing manufacturing processes and reducing transportation emissions. Smaller, modular parts are easier to handle and ship, leading to lower carbon footprints.Overall, the modular design of Modulo Luminaire represents our commitment to creating a sustainable lighting solution that balances functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. By focusing on component replacement rather than full fixture replacement, we provide a more sustainable option that supports the industry's shift towards greener practices.

What specific technical and design challenges did you encounter when developing Modulo Luminaire's adjustable beam angles and variable color temperatures while maintaining the compact 8cm installation footprint?

Advancements in the LED industry and established standards have provided us with numerous lenses, reflectors, and connectors to adjust beam angles efficiently. LEDs, with their integrated light sources and small size, allow us to fit high-performance lighting within a compact 8cm footprint. Additionally, LEDs offer a wide range of light colors with high-quality light and a high Color Rendering Index (CRI), getting us closer to natural sunlight each day. Efficient heat dissipation is also crucial, and after extensive research, we developed heatsink designs that offer excellent heat dissipation while aligning with our design objectives, ensuring the fixture remains cool and performs efficiently.

The transformation of Modulo Luminaire from initial concept in 2021 to its award-winning design in 2024 represents a significant evolution - could you walk us through the key developmental milestones that shaped its final form?

We started designing Modulo in 2021, and the journey is far from over. Every day, we continue to innovate and develop new modules for the system. Since receiving our award, we've designed two additional modules. The design of Modulo Luminaire is an open and evolving process, reflecting our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation.Every color finishing technique, new light source, lens, reflector, material, and lighting technique has the potential to add a module to our modular system. This ongoing evolution allows us to continually enhance and expand the system, ensuring it remains versatile and up-to-date.

How does Modulo Luminaire's design philosophy align with HOBO Lighting's transition from sourcing designs internationally to local manufacturing, and what advantages has this shift brought to the product's development?

Modulo Luminaire's design philosophy perfectly aligns with HOBO Lighting's transition to local manufacturing. Our focus on modularity and adaptability naturally complements the local manufacturing approach, allowing us to be more responsive to the needs of our customers and the market.Local Manufacturing Advantages:Customization: Local manufacturing enables us to quickly adapt and customize designs based on feedback and specific requirements, enhancing the modular system.Quality Control: By producing locally, we maintain strict quality control over every component, ensuring that each module meets our high standards.Sustainability: Reducing transportation distances minimizes our carbon footprint, making our production process more environmentally friendly.Innovation: Close collaboration with local manufacturers fosters innovation, allowing for continuous improvements and the incorporation of new materials and technologies.Overall, the shift to local manufacturing has streamlined the development process, increased efficiency, and enhanced the quality and sustainability of the Modulo Luminaire. This alignment strengthens our commitment to delivering versatile, high-quality lighting solutions.

Could you elaborate on how Modulo Luminaire's versatile mounting options and customizable aesthetics were developed to meet the diverse needs of architects and interior designers?

Modulo Luminaire was developed with a keen understanding of the diverse needs of architects and interior designers. The versatility in mounting options and customizable aesthetics were key considerations throughout the design process to ensure it met their varied requirements.Versatile Mounting Options: To cater to different architectural and interior design contexts, Modulo Luminaire offers a range of mounting options. These include recessed, surface-mounted, and suspended installations. Each option was designed to provide flexibility in integrating the lighting system into various spaces, whether it's a minimalist ceiling or a more complex, decorative setup. The modular design allows for easy installation and reconfiguration, enabling designers to adapt the lighting system to different projects seamlessly.Customizable Aesthetics: We recognized that aesthetics play a crucial role in lighting design. Therefore, Modulo Luminaire was designed with customizable components that can be tailored to fit any design theme. Every detail, from color finishes to material choices, can be adjusted to match the specific aesthetic vision of a project. This level of customization ensures that the lighting system not only fulfills functional requirements but also enhances the overall visual appeal of the space.By focusing on these versatile and customizable features, Modulo Luminaire provides architects and interior designers with the tools they need to create unique and adaptable lighting solutions that complement their design vision.

What insights from your experience with Modulo Luminaire would you share with emerging designers about balancing technical innovation with market feasibility in architectural lighting?

From my experience with Modulo Luminaire, one key insight I would share with emerging designers is the importance of striking a balance between technical innovation and market feasibility. Dare to know and embrace the challenges that come with this balancing act. Here are some considerations:Understand Your Market: While pushing the boundaries of design, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your target market's needs and preferences. Conduct market research to gather insights and ensure that your innovations align with what users actually want and need.Iterative Development: Innovate in stages. Start with a minimum viable product (MVP) that incorporates the core innovative features. Test it in the market, gather feedback, and iterate. This approach helps in refining the design and making necessary adjustments to meet market demands effectively.Collaborative Approach: Work closely with engineers, manufacturers, and end-users throughout the design process. Collaboration can bring diverse perspectives and expertise, helping to address technical challenges and improve the feasibility of your design.Sustainability and Cost Management: Innovative designs often come with higher costs. It's crucial to consider the cost implications and find ways to make your product both innovative and affordable. Additionally, focus on sustainable practices and materials, as they are increasingly important to both the market and the environment.Flexibility and Adaptability: Design with flexibility in mind. A modular approach, like with Modulo Luminaire, allows for customization and adaptability, catering to different preferences and spaces. This versatility can enhance market acceptance and broaden your product's appeal.Balancing technical innovation with market feasibility requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. By staying connected to market needs, collaborating effectively, daring to know, and remaining adaptable, you can create designs that are both groundbreaking and commercially successful.

Looking ahead, how do you envision Modulo Luminaire's modular approach influencing the future of architectural lighting design, particularly in terms of customization and sustainability?

Looking ahead, how do you envision Modulo Luminaire's modular approach influencing the future of architectural lighting design, particularly in terms of customization and sustainability?Looking ahead, Modulo Luminaire's modular approach is set to have a profound influence on the future of architectural lighting design, particularly in terms of customization and sustainability.Customization: The modular design allows for unparalleled flexibility in lighting solutions. Architects and designers can mix and match different modules to create unique lighting configurations tailored to specific spaces and needs. This adaptability means that lighting systems can evolve with the space, offering the ability to easily update or change the lighting without a complete overhaul. As new technologies and design trends emerge, new modules can be introduced, ensuring that the lighting remains contemporary and relevant.Sustainability: Modulo Luminaire's modular approach also promotes sustainability by allowing for component replacement rather than full fixture replacement. This reduces waste and conserves resources, as only specific parts need to be updated or replaced. The use of energy-efficient LED technology further contributes to sustainability by reducing energy consumption and extending the lifespan of the lighting system. Additionally, local manufacturing supports eco-friendly practices by minimizing transportation emissions and promoting resource efficiency.By combining customization and sustainability, Modulo Luminaire sets a new standard in architectural lighting design, offering a versatile, efficient, and eco-friendly solution that can adapt to the evolving needs of both designers and users. This approach is likely to inspire future innovations and drive the industry towards more adaptable and sustainable lighting solutions.

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