Idam

Alain Monnens (1969) is a Belgian designer who graduated with honours as an industrial designer at the media & design academy in Genk. In 2000, he took his first steps as an independent designer and in 2006, founded his design studio idam bvba. "I don't like products with decorations or additions that don't add anything. My designs aren't contrived and don't scream for attention. The key question is: how can I make this easy and simple? How can you create an object that is free of the unnecessary without sacrificing functionality?" It is this quest that forms the constant in his work. Along with lighting, Monnens also designs bowls and furniture. Quite a broad repertoire, one might think – but he doesn't necessarily draw a line between the different forms. "It's not hard to come up with new things, because ideas are not in short supply. You shouldn't be restricted by products or materials. Designing for different sectors also works as a form of cross-pollination."