Thierry D'Istria

Thierry Galloni D'Istria  grew up in an artistic environment where pencils and sketches were far more common than remote controls. Surrounded by architecture, drawing and creativity, he quickly developed a curious eye for shapes and objects.

With Corsican roots, he has a very special relationship with light. Perhaps it comes from memories of the Mediterranean sun—but one thing is certain: for him, light is never just a technical detail. It shapes spaces, reveals lines, and gives character to a place.

His inspiration comes from an unexpected mix: music, astronomy, science fiction… and even surfing. The result is a unique design language that blends boldness, minimalism and elegance.

For more than fifteen years, Thierry d’Istria has collaborated with ARPEL, creating distinctive lighting pieces and objects with a strong identity—designs that are instantly recognizable.

Today, he continues to design luminaires with a simple philosophy: finding the perfect balance between function, emotion and beauty. A precise line, a subtle presence in space… and above all, light that gently enhances architecture.

Because for Thierry d’Istria, light is not just meant to illuminate.

It’s meant to bring spaces to life