Nimba

An ethereal concept backs the Nimba lamp, named after the nimbus. A clear-cut outline adds to sophisticated lighting technology to create a large scaled lamp evocative of the splendour of the past. Technically it consists of a lamp shade which is inserted into a metallic structure holding a sequence of xenon light bulbs, known as Agavekov. This lighting technology is frequently used in architecture and is known for its great resistance and durability, making it suitable for use in very spacious interiors with high ceilings. The Nimba’s luminous crown dresses bare ambiences with a warm spiritual touch. A good example of its application is found in the National Library of Madrid.

"The Nimba was my first lamp, the first one that I designed in my own studio. For this reason and for the way it looks, it is one of my favourites. There was something "casual" about its origin, as is almost always the case, like it was stumbled upon. It all started when I was playing around with a linear illumination system (Agabekov) which was basically conceived for use in architecture. The peculiarity of this design consisting of a string of very small bulbs, is that in addition to projecting warm, soft light, it can curve in both directions. The aim was to make a hoop with it and hang it from the ceiling using barely visible clips. We added a translucent circular interior shade, which diffused the light and covered the hoop producing a halo of light. This produced a volatile, almost celestial sensation. The Nimba lamp began with a traditional and universal vocation, almost unconsciously, to recreate and update a typology as classic as the history of the lamps themselves. Its technical development was very long and complex, but the tenacity and instincts of Jordi Miralbell, editor of Santa&Cole, saved it from the rubbish heap."

Antoni Arola
AX Book. Ten light years. Barcelona: Santa&Cole, 2007