Behind the scenes of an icon lamp: how pendant was born

In his creative journey, Marco Pagnoncelli is always in search of three key elements: “light, comfort of light, and design.”

Every Icone lamp starts with a bold idea: to create an object recognizable at first glance.

With designer Marco Pagnoncelli, we go behind the scenes of the ideation and creation of these lamps, focusing particularly on the intriguing new “Ciondolo.”

An icon challenges conventions

“Commercially, we do have to follow trends, but we also try to anticipate them whenever possible. It’s easier to sell familiar lamps, but we aim to push beyond, to experiment,” explains Marco. This philosophy reflects not only in Icone lamps in general but also in “Ciondolo” specifically—an object that challenges traditional conventions of domestic lighting.

The process of creating an Icone lamp is about balancing aesthetics and functionality; the latter is never secondary to aesthetics. “Each of our lamps is born considering three characteristics—light, comfort of light, and design—that must always coexist together,” he says.

The quest for the perfect light

The goal is to produce a warm and comfortable light, beyond just a visually impactful lighting fixture. “Our lamps are made to make a difference,” Marco says, emphasizing the importance of pleasant, non-glaring light. “People buy lamps that provide the right light. That’s why I seek quality over quantity—I want a beautiful light.“

The creation of “Ciondolo” is a prime example of this approach. Innovative in its design, it was born from a creative process that didn’t start with a predefined drawing, but through successive steps of experimentation and finding harmony according to the designer’s vision.

The lamp plays with a transparency that is almost the absence of form, creating a surprising visual effect. The diffused light from “Ciondolo” changes its appearance from the moment it is switched on to full illumination, transitioning from a matte to a satin effect without creating dark or unpleasant shadows on the surface over which it is suspended.

Unusual materials to discover

The choice of materials is also crucial in Icone’s creative process. Marco Pagnoncelli experiments with different solutions, visits suppliers, and curiously searches for lesser-known, functional materials, shapes, and objects—often drawing inspiration from outside his field—to find the perfect combination that respects both aesthetics and the quality of light he seeks.

“Lamps like these are born step by step. I research, create the product progressively, without starting from a drawing. I mix materials and products from other sectors, then add the light. The materials I choose must not diminish the light for the sake of aesthetics—quite the opposite. Step by step, I achieve the lamp I envisioned.”

Ciondolo transforms the space around it

The result is an object like “Ciondolo” that not only illuminates a space but transforms it, making it relaxing and pleasant to inhabit.

“A classic chandelier hides what’s around it. I wanted a lamp that would be as invisible as possible—transparent,” says Marco.

Icone lamps are the expression of a vision that goes beyond mere functionality, embracing beauty and uniqueness. With Icone, light becomes art.