KLEEN - the art of simplicity 22. September 2025
Minimalist, clear, uncompromising: with the KLEEN luminaires series, RIBAG is launching a product that impresses with its formal restraint and technical sophistication. In a conversation with Pascal Amacker, Creative Director at RIBAG, it becomes clear how much depth lies within this apparent simplicity.
Where does the inspiration for new designs like KLEEN come from?
Personally, I’m constantly inspired by nature when it comes to new designs. Natural light in particular is an endless source of impressions for me. We try to translate this light, effortless, and harmonious atmosphere into something tangible in our products.
At first glance, KLEEN appears minimalist - and that's exactly where its strenght lies. What was the original idea behind the luminaire?
Right from the beginning, the goal was to create a luminaire that is formally reduced to the essentials, yet completely harmonious in itself. The name KLEEN is intentionally derived from the English word clean. It reflects not only the clear design language but also our design philosophy: clean in line, precise in execution, and uncompromising in expression.
What does it mean to you that the name and the design correspond with each other?
For me, a product has to work on all levels. The name is part of the design: it’s a means of communication. It conveys the same clarity as the luminaire itself. Even the typography of the word KLEEN appears straightforward and uncompromising.
What design questions particularly occupied you during the development?
Product development always comes with challenges. How large can the luminaire be, and how small, so it doesn't dominate the space? How do we keep it compact without sacrificing perceived value? Our guiding principle was: as small as possible, as large as necessary. This approach is reflected both in the proportions and in the choice of lighting technology. At the same time, with every design you grow and benefit from the experience of past projects.
Speaking of technology - what makes KLEEN special in terms of lighting technology?
We use Bartenbach’s dual LFO technology, which enables brilliant, glare-free, and directional light - all within an extremely compact form factor. What makes the KLEEN pendant luminaire special is the combination of direct and indirect lighting, which creates an exceptionally pleasant atmosphere. This makes it versatile - from living spaces to offices.
And formally? Are there any key design motifs?
Absolutely. The circle plays a central role: for me, it symbolizes the pursuit of perfection and infinity. The form of the luminaire consists of two half-circles, connected by a clean line. No decorative curves, but a deliberate, precise geometry. This design language continues all the way to the ceiling canopy. Even the surrounding facet of the profile follows this idea of infinity.
"The circle plays a central role: for me, it symbolizes the pursuit of perfection and infinity."
Pascal Amacker, Creative Director
What role does color play in such a reduced design?
A very significant one. The refined surface finish makes the quality both visible and tangible. We chose four color variants: white, black, sand gold, and rose gold. These tones represent timeless elegance and can be seamlessly integrated into various architectural and interior design contexts.
In which spaces do you see KLEEN being used most effectively?
The pendant luminaire is ideal for dining tables or meeting areas. Anywhere people come together. The wall luminaires works perfectly in hallways or transitional spaces. The ceiling-mounted version offers focused light, which is especially beneficial in kitchens or workspaces. KLEEN creates atmosphere without pushing itself into the foreground.
You often talk about the “pursuit of perfection.” What does that mean to you as a designer?
It’s about wrestling with every detail. Every edge, every surface, every technical solution has to be carefully considered. I don’t see design as decoration, but as an expression of attitude. For me, that attitude is clarity. With KLEEN, we aimed to create a product that delivers strong impact through apparent simplicity.
With KLEEN, RIBAG is sending a clear message: a design that eliminates the superfluous asserts itself even more strongly.
This luminaire is more than just an object that provides light, it is a statement: for reduction, for material honesty, and for uncompromising quality.
Creative Director Pascal Amacker with KLEEN
The KLEEN wall luminaire creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The KLEEN ceiling luminaire offers orientation and creates a welcoming sense of well-being.
The KLEEN pendant luminaire provides focused lighting that enhances concentration.
The KLEEN pendant luminaire creates a pleasant atmosphere and lends spaces an inviting feel.
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