A Luminous Symphony: Lee Broom's Artful Illumination in Mexico City
The Inaugural Mexican Exhibition: A Fusion of Design and History
Renowned British designer Lee Broom has unveiled his groundbreaking exhibition during Mexico City Art Week, marking his first display in the vibrant Mexican capital. This significant showcase, featuring more than 50 of his distinctive creations, is hosted within the elegant 20th-century mansion that serves as the showroom for the local lighting specialist, Diez Company. Broom's innovative designs, drawn from various collections, are strategically positioned throughout the Diez Company's Polanco district showroom, titled 'The Resident'. Among the highlights are a stunning cascading Hail chandelier gracing a grand foyer and the sophisticated cubic Chant lamps illuminating a gold-accented bathroom.
Crafting an Experiential Masterpiece: Light as Sculpture
The exhibition's organizers describe Broom's endeavor as creating an immersive installation within the historically significant Diez Company house, recognized as one of Mexico City's most architecturally distinguished showrooms. The entire edifice has been transformed into a sculptural spectacle of light, where each piece contributes to a cohesive artistic narrative. Beyond Broom's own works, the exhibition also features a selection of artworks by Mexican artists, carefully curated in collaboration with Broom and the Diez Company, fostering a dialogue between international and local creative talents.
Harmonizing Design with Architecture: A Site-Specific Approach
In a discussion with Dezeen, Broom revealed his collaborative process with the Diez Company, emphasizing the deliberate selection of his pieces for specific rooms. This meticulous approach ensures that each design not only complements but also 'responds to both the natural daylight and the architectural details of the building'. Broom further elaborated on his philosophy, stating that his exhibitions are consistently shaped by their architectural settings. For this particular show, the historic house served as the fundamental inspiration, dictating the overall presentation. The installation unfolds across a series of rooms, each possessing its unique character, scale, and relationship with ambient light, enhancing the space while allowing the building to amplify the artistic impact of his work.
Diverse Collections and Artistic Collaborations
Among the other notable works on display are pieces from Broom's Requiem collection, which artfully incorporate plastered fabrics draped around luminous orbs. Additionally, the exhibition features a series of geometric, porcelain lights developed in collaboration with the Spanish company Llardó. Broom's recent engagements include showcases at prestigious events like the London Design Festival and 3 Days of Design, highlighting his continuous presence and influence in the global art and design landscape.
The Visionary Founders of Diez Company and Concurrent Exhibitions
The Diez Company, established by Gina Diez Barroso and Rodrigo Fernández, inaugurated its Polanco showroom in 2025. This expansive three-story space showcases an impressive array of brands, including A-N-D and Bocci. Complementing Broom's exhibition, Mexico City Art Week also presents other significant installations. These include a dual-purpose sofa and rug creation by Sabine Marcelis and lighting fixtures crafted from crushed shells by David Pompa, enriching the city's artistic landscape with diverse and innovative designs. The Resident exhibition, open from February 5th to 8th at the Diez Company house, extends its viewing period until April 10th, 2026. Photography for the exhibition is credited to Ema Peter.