An elevated solution for small space living

What is Nim?

Nim combines task and ambient lighting in a powerful way. It focuses on complimenting your living space rather than standing out like many traditional lighting systems.

Using a low-profile t.v. mounting system, Nim saves valuable floor space and is easy to install.

My Process

Small problems can be big_

Nim began with looking at the future trend of micro apartments.

Usually 600 sq/ft and smaller

Furniture must be intentional, often multi-functional

If poorly designed, can be mentally compressive

Typically rented

Problems I found with lighting in micro apartments:

Small windows = little light Landlords save money by skimping on light fixtures Little space for free-standing light fixtures

The solution came from art.

My research began with lighting artists. Doing so, I discovered the works of James Turrell

His work distorts the depth perception of viewers, achieving a manipulation of visual space.

Inspired by his manipulation of visual space, I set out to create a similar effect in a product.

The main elements I’d need are:

Creating even, diffuse lighting

Eliminating corners that defined the space

Looking at the consumer:

Growing interest in connected/smart lighting
Process needs to be streamlined and simple for renters
Product should function as a task and an ambient light source
The form should soften the visual noise of the room

Connected Lighting

A rise in LED usage and connected or “smart” products creates a great opportunity for integrating phone connectivity for a new lighting product. An app interface provides customization opportunities and convenience.

The one downfall many “smart” products have is a lack of a physical interaction point. It was extremely important that I provide a physical interaction point for the light. This ensures that it can be used without a phone or app, allowing others to interact with it. Adding a physical interface pushes the light beyond a trendy “smart” device, and defines it as a product designed to last.

Streamlined experience

It was important to provide an enjoyable experience from start to finish. To achieve this, everything from purchasing, transporting the product, carrying the box, installation method, and setup guide were considered. Interacting with the box needed to be ergonomically feasible and fit in most smaller sedans. Installation similarly had to be ergonomically friendly and feasible for the general consumer.

The Light Source

The lights for this product are the forefront of it’s function. Their quality in durability, light output, and CRI rating ( or Color Rendering Index) are the selling point of the product. I used “Z Strips” from LIFX due to their connectivity abilities, high quality lighting, and ease of setup.

Softened Form

The physical design of the product was a balance of emotion, function, and creating the desired visual effect. I explored a wide range of shapes and forms to meet these factors. The large, sloping form erases the corner of the ceiling. Combined with a diffuse light source, it diminishes depth perception.