Joakim Fihn – Designer

Joakim Fihn is in-house designer at the lighting manufacturer Belid in Varberg since 2008. He is behind many of their most iconic fixtures. We asked Joakim a little about his work as a designer.

Can you tell me about your background as a designer?

I have studied design at Växjö University (Bachelor’s Degree) and HDK in Gothenburg (Master’s Degree). Already on HDK, my focus became illumination after an earlier lighting project aroused my interest.

I got in touch with Belid during my degree work, where I started working as an in-house designer after graduating in 2008.

Fashion and furniture industry can also be a source of inspiration.

What inspires you?

My inspiration can come from every possible angle. An example is nature or from different objects and details in everyday life. Fashion and furniture industry can also be a source of inspiration.

“TAURUS” with Clara AC IP65.
Design: Joakim Fihn/Belid
Foto: Belid

How do you start with a lighting project?

Usually, we start to identify the areas in our range, where we lack or need to update products. We can also get inquiries from eg interior designers who have their own ideas on products that we can work on from outside.

How do you work practically?

I often start with small sketches by hand, which sometimes can last for a while. Then I will return to these, to pick out the most interesting parts to proceed with.

After that, I make more detailed sketches, where I also go into more detailed level and construction.

I’m working more and more with 3D modeling even during the sketching process, to more easily detect problems and opportunities. In our product council, we then select the suggestions that are interesting to proceed with. Then our prototype department will also be involved.

I’m working more and more with 3D modeling even during the sketching process, to more easily detect problems and opportunities.

What is important with a light source for an armature?

Important characteristics of a light source may be that it produces even light without reflections on the illuminated surface. That it gives a lot of lm / watts and that directed light sources are well dazzled through optics. Another thing that is becoming more and more up-to-date is to get down the girls’ values. Personally, I am very sensitive to the stroboscopic effects that you often experience with some light sources. Especially when it comes to 230V.

Size and dimension can play a role in some cases. Above all, if it’s a slim design proposal that is based on and does not design the design alongside an existing light source.

Can you tell me about your products?

Something that I strive for when it comes to the end result is to try to maintain a solid and robust feeling, to protect Belid’s DNA.