Founder &
Designer Maker
Portrait by Kajal Nemani Photography
Riya Panchal is a London-based designer and maker renowned for her innovative and expressive lighting pieces that blend modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship.
Riya's creative process is characterised by meticulous attention to detail and a playful, imaginative approach. Originally from India, her intuitive and timeless designs reflect her rich cultural heritage and personal experiences, adding profound emotional depth and narrative to each piece. Drawing inspiration from life's varied themes, Riya strives to create conceptual lighting that transcends utility. Her approach allows her to consider elements of narration, form, colour, texture, and composition, resulting in captivating lighting pieces that engage the senses.
Influenced by her family's background in paper machine engineering and enriched by her extensive experience in sculptural and decorative lighting, Riya has developed a deep understanding of materials and processes and has gradually transitioned towards a more artistic and expressive approach. While crafting the products herself, Riya collaborates closely with talented craftsmen, incorporating dynamic elements and challenging traditional notions in lighting design, creating sculptural pieces that push beyond conventional boundaries.
She holds a master's degree in Product & Furniture Design from Kingston School of Art and a bachelor's degree in Product Design from Bournemouth University.
Studio & Making
/meseme/
Pronounced as ‘meh-seh-meh’
The name ‘MESEME’ captures the essence of ‘mesmerising’, perfectly defining the awe-inspiring effect our lighting is to have on our clients, captivating their full attention.
MESEME Studio is a design and manufacturing studio that embraces a multi-disciplinary approach. Our core philosophy is marked by an in-depth exploration of materials, fostering artisan partnerships, and an impassioned commitment to colour and meticulous detailing.
Specialising in the creation of sculptural and evocative lighting, producing a combination of self-directed and collaborative collections, limited edition and one off-works.
Conceptualised, meticulously crafted and assembled in our London based studio, from the genesis of intuitive paper models to the refinement of prototypes, each lighting creation seamlessly marries traditional and modern craftsmanship. Some of our collections are brought to life through partnerships with skilled glassblowers and metalworkers from around the world. This cross-pollination of international artisanal talents and cultural influences creates an artistic narrative that transcends boundaries.
As we continue to celebrate these partnerships, we are increasingly working with local and UK-based craftsmen to create a truly unique design practice.
Quality, sustainability, and cultural enrichment converge in our creations. In the realm of decorative sculptural lighting, our designs embody not just artistic expression but a conscientious approach to the entire lifecycle. Effortlessly combining efficient light sources and responsibly sourced materials, our creations aspire to transcend time.
Awards
Gmund Awards 2024 - CONCHA Collection nominated in art’s category.
Darc Awards 2021 - ALMA Table Light Shortlisted Top10 (3rd Place)
Lamp 2020 - Student Pendant Lamp Winner (Dec 2020) - ‘Caustica’
December 2020 - KSA Studentship x Palomar Labs Award
Talks & Workshops
Workshop (September 2024) - MESEME x Make Stuff Club Collaboration on fixing and illustrating MANTIS Table Lamp Paper Shades
Workshop (September 2024) - MESEME x Make Stuff Club Collaboration on fixing and illustrating CONCHA Pendant Paper Shades, SEN Group.
Panel Talk (February 2024) - Kingston School of Art, Alumni Panel Discussion “Our Creative Futures”
Panel Talk (August 2021) - Getting started, The first 5 years after graduation, London Desing Festival, Panel Discussion Hosted by Sebastian Bergne
Exhibitions/ Shows
September 2024 - ‘MANTIS Table Lamp in Aluminium Finish’ at Makers Showcase by Blackhorse Workshop
June 2024 - ‘MARSHA Table Lamp in Honey Amber’ at Wow! House as art of ‘A Sitting Room’ by Studio Ashby and United in Design
May 2024 - ‘CONCHA Feature Installation’ at Future Icons Selects 2024 as part of London Craft Week
Nov 23 - Jun 24 - Iconic Showcase - pop-gallery space at New Bond Street
Oct 2023 - Formed with Future Heritage 2023 at Design Centre, Chelsea as Blackhorse Workshop Collective
Sept 2023 - London Design Fair as part of London Design Festival 2023
2023 - MESEME x Blackhorse Workshop Cafe - CHRYSALIS Private Pre-Launch Showcase
2022 - New Designers One Year In 2022 curated by Sally Angharad
2021 - ALMA Table Lamp Debut at Herman Miller x Kingston School of Art Showcase
Galleries & Stockists
Curio - https://www.curio.space
Adorno.design - https://adorno.design
1st Dibs - https://1stdibs.com
Artling - https://theartling.com/en/