Meet: Bodo Sperlein
- Written byEleanor Harvey
- Published date 13 March 2025
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Designer and artist Bodo Sperlein is known for his timeless and original creations, which include lighting, furniture, tableware and textiles.
Originally from Germany, Bodo moved to London to study BA (Hons) Design at Camberwell College of Arts. He graduated in 1997 and went on to set up his eponymous brand in 2000, which was quickly spotted by the iconic Browns South Molton Street.
In his work Bodo explores form and texture, taking inspiration from the balance between tradition and innovation. Alongside this, he provides tailored art direction. In 2024 he designed the Jugendstil, Made in Munich exhibition at Kunsthalle München, where he reinterpreted Art Nouveau through a contemporary lens. He’s also designing the MENU exhibition for Milan Design Week 2025 in April. The historic All Saints Anglican Church will be transformed into a ‘banquet of design’ featuring leading international brands.
Bodo spoke to us about the ongoing influence of his time at Camberwell, his illustrious career and the advice he’d give to someone at the start of their design journey.
You graduated from Camberwell College of Arts in 1997; can you tell us about your time there?
During my time at Camberwell College of Arts, I was immersed in a creative and exploratory environment that encouraged pushing boundaries across various design disciplines. A key highlight was the college’s history department, which served as an invaluable resource. Beyond fostering freedom in material design, it emphasised creative thinking and research, providing a rigorous academic foundation. This approach deepened my understanding of design as a discipline, refining both my conceptual process and artistic language.
What drew you to Camberwell, and to London?
Camberwell’s renowned excellence in 3D Design was a key factor in my decision to study there. The college’s blend of traditional techniques and contemporary practices provided a well-rounded design education. Additionally, London’s dynamic and vibrant cultural landscape - rich in art, history, and innovation - offered an inspiring environment that fuelled my creative growth.
Did your time at Camberwell impact your creative practice in any way, and if so, how?
My time at Camberwell was truly transformative. Its interdisciplinary approach encouraged me to experiment with various materials and techniques, fostering a holistic understanding of design. The college’s emphasis on research, critical thinking, and historical context played a pivotal role in shaping my creative practice. It instilled a deep appreciation for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics—a philosophy that continues to guide my work today.
You’ve had an incredibly impressive career; from setting up your studio, Bodo Sperlein Studio in 2000 and your early collaborations; to art-directing and designing the current exhibition at the Kunsthalle München. Do you have any highlights?
A pivotal moment in my career was being discovered by Browns South Molton Street, the iconic fashion store known for championing emerging designers. This exposure introduced my work to a wider audience and created new opportunities. Around the same time, Caroline Burnstein became an important mentor, guiding me as I developed a homeware collection for Trials—an experience that greatly influenced my approach to product design.
Since then, my career has been shaped by enriching collaborations with luxury brands, including those within the LVMH group. These partnerships have allowed me to merge material reality with my passion for craftsmanship, creating designs that are both contemporary and rooted in heritage techniques. A significant milestone was serving as Creative Director for Loewe from 2016 to 2018, where I redefined the aesthetics of consumer electronics through a design-led approach. More recently, designing the Jugendstil, Made in Munich exhibition at Kunsthalle München in 2024 has been particularly fulfilling, allowing me to reinterpret Art Nouveau through a contemporary lens.
You are currently designing an exhibition for Milan Design Week 2025 in April. Can you tell us any more about the work that you’ll be showing?
For Milan Design Week 2025, I am curating MENU, an exhibition at All Saints’ Anglican Church in Milan’s prestigious Brera district. The exhibition will showcase a diverse collection of designs, from textiles and furniture to bone china and woodwork, exploring how design shapes our surroundings and connects us. It will also showcase unique lighting designs, exploring the interplay of light, materiality and space. Collaborations with esteemed brands will contribute to a broader dialogue on the role of design. Through a fusion of innovative craftsmanship and artistic expression, MENU will offer a thought-provoking experience that underscores the power of design to foster connection.
What inspires you?
My inspiration is deeply rooted in materiality, craftsmanship, and the balance between tradition and innovation. I am particularly fascinated by the dialogue between historical techniques and contemporary design, as well as the way materials influence both function and emotion in an object. Nature, architecture, and fine art also play a key role in my creative process, offering endless possibilities for form and texture.
And lastly, what advice would you give to someone who has just graduated?
Embrace curiosity and stay open to learning from every experience. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who challenge and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Most importantly, stay true to your creative vision and let your passion for craftsmanship and design guide you through the ever-evolving industry landscape.
