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This design studio's new launches reflects the rich textures of Mexico

Bandido has launched two new collections that take inspiration from Mexican heritage and design

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By House & Garden South Africa | November 5, 2022 | Design

Established in 2016 by Alejandro Campos and Joel Rojas, Bandido is a design agency located in Puebla, Mexico. The studio strives to design and produce high quality products that can transcend in time and can generate a circular and local economy through the different artisanal and semi-industrial processes. This year, the brand launched two new collections: AURA and TEMPLO.

Bold design with Aura

The AURA table lamp is formed by a solid cylindrical base of walnut wood that supports an opal glass diffuser. Around this diffuser are two porcelain steel discs with different dimensions, which create contrast by radially spreading the light.

The concept comes from the warm and subtle glow obtained from the dispersion of light through the body of each luminaire in the collection. The AURA family features a perfect balance between materials, textures and shades. It combines the unique grain and tone of walnut wood with the nuances of porcelain steel.

Ceramic enamel and wood collide for the AURA lamp, Image: Supplied

It is the result of ceramic enamel experimentation – a material with a strong Mexican influence that has been used since ancient times. It is currently known in Mexico as “Peltre” and is commonly applied in utilitarian and everyday objects.The AURA’s lamps arise from a process where the transformation of materials is mixed by artisanal and industrial techniques, and reflects the hands of the craftsmen who work on these pieces. The ‘imperfect’ placement of the ceramic glaze on metal is what makes each piece unique.

Let the light in with TEMPLO

The TEMPLO collection is inspired by several architectural elements of prehispanic sites located throughout Mexico. It’s an abstraction of forms that originated in ancient times and a reinterpretation of simple curves and materials that refer to the idea of cyclical.

The TEMPLO collection rises in an infinite circle of light, converging nature with memory, remembering and bringing the light of the past to the present time.

Soft lighting abound for the TEMPLO collection, Image: Supplied

During the design and development of these lamps, the Bandido team sought to contrast the circular shapes obtained by abstraction through the materials; this is how walnut and brass were selected. Both materials contrast and play with each other, converging with light within the cyclicality of the form.

The TEMPLO series rises in an immovable circle of light where nothing ends, combining wood, brass and light to give any space a mystical atmosphere.

“Mexico is rich in textures, flavours, aromas, colours and materials,” add the cofounders. “We want to reference the context and country where we live. This is why we work with families who are experts in materials because we want to showcase their work and the richness of our country.”