Giopato&Coombes – Light Between Craft, Research, and Emotion

Giopato & Coombes was founded in 2014 by Cristina Giopato and Christopher Coombes. The studio, based in Treviso, combines traditional Italian craftsmanship with an experimental, research-driven design approach.

From the outset, the two designers have understood light not just as a functional element, but as an independent design tool in space. They give free rein to their imagination and pursue an open, experimental design approach.

Their work exists at the intersection of design, art, and technology, and emerges from a continuous engagement with material, perception, and atmosphere.

A central component of their work is close collaboration with specialized manufacturers in Italy. Here, traditional techniques are combined with new technologies, resulting in luminaires that are both handcrafted and technically precise.

Material, Research, and Light as a Medium

At the heart of Giopato & Coombes' work is the exploration of light and material. Glass, metal, and innovative surfaces are deliberately used not only to shape light but also to make it a tangible experience.

Traditional processes meet modern manufacturing methods, opening up new design possibilities.

For the designer duo, a luminaire doesn't just illuminate a room. For them, it is a work of art that connects the eyes, heart, and mind. With their designs, they aim to evoke wonder, creating a living space that awakens emotions and is full of magical fascination. 

At Herrendorf, we showcase selected luminaires by Giopato & Coombes that particularly highlight this approach:

The Bolle luminaire uses transparent glass spheres that absorb light and distribute it throughout the room, creating a calm, almost floating lighting effect.

 

Bruma creates a softer, more diffuse atmosphere. The light appears filtered and develops a subtle presence in the room, yet possesses a sculptural character.

With Gem, the interplay of material and light becomes particularly clear. The structured surface refracts the light, creating vibrant reflections.

All three designs demonstrate how differently light can be conceived and how precisely Giopato & Coombes combine material, technology, and design.

We would be happy to advise you individually on the collections from Giopato & Coombes.