Anna Tomschik is a 30-year-old architect specialising in lighting that has won the 2017 LIT Awards Emerging Lighting Product Design of the Year with her project Henyx. In the last few years, she has been working in various design studios in Vienna, London, and Stockholm. Her portfolio spans from architectural lighting design for interior and exterior projects to daylight design, as well as product design. Anna enjoys the variety of working on different scales from large-sized and complex projects to small installations.
She believes in sustainable design solutions and minimalistic design with unique character. Anna gets inspiration from travelling, natural phenomena, and meeting new people. Her favourite activities are climbing, hiking, practising yoga, and doing road trips.
How did you first discover your passion for Lighting Product Design?
I have always loved to design objects and spaces in a functional way. Being trained as an architect, I became interested in the emotional component that can be implemented into luminaires. To me, lighting products are small-sized objects that have the power to fill a whole space with emotion.
Photo credit: Anna Tomschik
What do you think are the main strengths of the lighting product Henyx, and why do you think it deserved to win?
Henyx tells a story. It incorporates the light qualities of sunlight and moonlight. A simple concept that people can relate to.
What does LIT Design Awards mean to you, and how has it helped your career?
I felt honoured to hear that my design is appreciated by many people. It has helped me to gain exposure as a designer. Since I received the award, I have been working as a lighting designer in London and Stockholm, focusing on architectural lighting design, daylight as well as on product design.
I am still looking for a manufacturer to produce Henyx on a larger scale. Would be glad to receive any help or recommendations on that end.
Where do you get motivation and inspiration from in your work?
Daylight and natural light phenomena are my main inspiration when designing with man-made light. I am aware that nothing competes with the beauty of nature. Therefore – rather than seeking to replicate natural light – I am trying to interpret it in my own way.
What are you working on now? Can you share some glimpses of your next Lighting Product or inspirations?
I am working on the architectural lighting design for three new subway stations located in Stockholm – all very different concepts – a collaboration between art and design with complete darkness as a canvas. Furthermore, I am working on several outdoor projects in the Stockholm area. As Sweden can get long and dark winter nights it is even more important to contribute pleasant lighting to public spaces.
