It can be no small coincidence that somewhere within the acronym/company name “Minimis,” is evoked that great icon of simplicity in design, Mies van der Rohe. For both company founders—Luciani Misi and Alex Lorenz—mention Mies as a guiding influence, one that figured to no small degree in the conception and execution of the Catwalk line of modular LED-illuminated structural decking.

Catwalk LED-Illuminated Decking System. Designed by Luciani Misi and Alex Lorenz. Manufactured by Minimis.

Catwalk Decking by Minimis is a Veritable Path of Enlightenment

The decking system provides a pragmatic and delightful solution to treacherous landscapes—both aesthetically and topographically speaking—as it facilitates a smooth, even, skid resistant, and durable means of passage which also happens to be a visual stunner.

Constructed of steel and white polycarbonate, the Catwalk modules readily show their two faces to the world, as well as to the happy feet of passersby. The first is the clean, geometrical, and shiny white aspect under the sun; the second is the LED illumined tour de force that makes it seem as if the stars had fallen from the sky and landed smack dab on the walkway to your front door.

The illumination feature is certainly unique among garden paths and entranceways—it not only gives guests a personal lightshow, but also the assurance of well-lighted, firm ground underfoot. And the self-powered LEDs cost very little to operate—around $2 per module per year for a system that’s on every night.

And though the lighted modules are the showstopper of the line, Catwalk Decking is also available in a variety of non-illuminated styles. Offerings include the attractive sustainable Brazilian hardwood Ipé, the reclaimed and super-grippy rubber sidewalk (sourced from defunct tires), and translucent polycarbonate modules in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black.

About the Manufacturer: Austin-based manufacturer Minimis takes its name from an auspicious Latin proverb, “Minimis Amplis Est” or  “Less is More.” The term is also a handy acronym for characterizing the company philosophy: Modern, Natural, Modular, Sustainable. Indeed, the quartet of adjectives accurately describes the company’s output. Minimis’ product offerings of modular outdoor living systems, modular landscape tiles, recyclable countertops, and garden planters made from repurposed filing cabinets each demonstrate contemporary aesthetics and a pronounced sustainable ethos.