Three years ago in west London’s Notting Hill district, dynamic design duo Martin Nihlmar and Jimmie Karlsson, of innovative furniture design company Jimmie Martin, took their first steps to designing a distinctive lighting collection to add to their portfolio – the Mannequin collection. Today, the Mannequin lighting collection comprises an abundance of styles and designs and are works of art in their own right.
The duo’s inspiration derives from their surroundings; art, fashion, pop culture and current affairs. “Being based in London there’s so much to be influenced by,” explains Jimmie. “A lot of the designs featured on our mannequins in this collection are taken from pre-existing pieces. We wanted to create a piece of art by transforming a shape into something that was both fun and functional, and many of the designs are repeated across our collection – from mannequins through to furniture.
“For our striped design, we wanted to play with the angles of the body against the lines of the monochrome stripes. It’s a timeless and versatile design.
“Another example is our parrot design. Here, we wanted to create a design that differed from the others by exploring interesting ways of draping the wire around the body. The shape is much lighter without the shade and, as she’s balanced on one leg, the design is less imposing and could be suitable for smaller spaces.
“The mannequins weren’t based on anyone in particular. The human form is a beautiful thing and is enjoyed by both men and women alike, so by having the option of both a male and female figure allowed for more people to enjoy them.”
The first mannequins the pair designed were the ‘Diaz’ and ‘Ka Boom’ and, with endless design possibilities, today’s collection is available in various poses and designs. “We like to offer our clients a choice – it keeps the designs fresh and unexpected,” comments Jimmie. “And, as the designs are custom-made, we often create unique designs for clients that are personal to them.”
Jimmie and Martin designed their Mannequin collection for clients who are looking for a statement piece for their space. Jimmie explains further: “We designed our Mannequin collection for someone who wants something different and exciting. Much like all our pieces, they transform an interior into a unique setting, whether it be a home, hotel or workplace. The mannequins are so versatile that they can be suited to any space that a client is looking to enhance.”
Jimmie and Martin’s mannequins have been specified for a variety of settings, as Jimmie explains: “The lamps aren’t designed for one place in particular. They belong anywhere people want them and we cater to that. From office spaces and homes through to commercial settings, such as hotels.
“Our Mannequin collection brings a sense of playfulness and fun to the interior industry. So much of the design world takes itself too seriously and we want to create pieces that are exciting, unique and make people smile,” concludes Jimmie.