Testimonial: Balance Architettura, a passion for the authenticity and robustness of Sammode lighting
Balance Architettura is an Italian architecture firm based in Turin, founded by Jacopo Bracco and Alberto Lessan. Since discovering Sammode lighting twenty years ago, they have regularly specified it in their projects, seduced by its authentic design and robustness. Won over by the brand’s philosophy, they have naturally integrated Sammode products into their projects and particularly appreciate their technical and refined approach. They agreed to answer a few of our questions to share their experience and vision of architectural lighting.
A chance discovery that became a no-brainer
Jacopo Bracco and Alberto Lessan discovered Sammode lighting twenty years ago in the Turin metro station. Attracted by their design, they were unaware at the time that they were looking at a French-made product. ‘We are very interested in contemporary French design. This aesthetic gave us the idea of integrating these lights into our architectural projects,’ they explain. What appeals to them above all is the robustness and authenticity of the materials: real glass, visible parts and a technical design without artifice.
A fruitful collaboration since 2021
Since 2021, Balance Architettura has regularly incorporated Sammode architectural lighting into its projects. Although the brand is less widespread in Italy than in France or other European countries, it is recognised by certain architects and designers for its technical approach and refined industrial aesthetic. ‘What we like about Sammode tubular lights is that they fit in perfectly with our architectural philosophy: everything is visible, there is no overdesign’, they emphasise.
Sammode, a subtle signature in the projects of Balance Architettura
The agency has deployed Sammode solutions in various projects, including offices for TÜV and private residences. However, the most emblematic project is Superlab Milano, an urban innovation laboratory where more than 300 Sammode luminaires have been installed, both indoors and outdoors.
Superlab Milano: technical lighting at the service of innovative architecture
Superlab Milano is an ambitious urban regeneration project located in the Bicocca district, one of Milan’s most dynamic and innovative centres. This new-generation office building, with a surface area of 6,500 m², focuses on flexibility and user well-being. The bold architecture preserves the site’s industrial DNA while integrating cutting-edge technologies.
Lighting plays a key role in this transformation. More than 300 Sammode luminaires have been installed to meet the different needs of the workspaces. The Werefkin, Elgar, Benson, Vouet and G13A models were selected for their industrial aesthetics and luminous efficiency. They reinforce the architectural identity of the site while guaranteeing optimal visual comfort.
Technical and justified lighting
For Balance Architettura, light must serve architecture without dominating it. ‘We don’t want the lighting to be purely decorative. It must be technical and justified, never taking precedence over the architecture. The light must reveal the space without disrupting it’, they say. A philosophy that resonates perfectly with that of Sammode.
Future expectations of Sammode
When asked about their expectations of Sammode, Jacopo Bracco and Alberto Lessan expressed their desire to see the brand continue to develop while remaining true to its core values. ‘We hope that Sammode will continue to avoid artificial materials and preserve the iconic shape of the tube, which is the reason for its success.’
Sammode in three words
If Balance Architettura had to summarise Sammode in three words, they would be: essential, resilient and authentic.
We would like to extend our warmest thanks to Balance Architettura for this inspiring testimonial!
