Driven by deep people and market insights – and vertical industry expertise and capabilities – we help clients realize their visions and meet their business objectives by designing relevant and innovative products, solutions, and services.
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Value of design
Strategic value
Our work method
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Designing urban spaces
Smarter sanitary ware
Architectural hardware
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Working with light
Jury work insights
Strategic product visions
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The future of mobility
Clients
Awards
We design to create value for people, business, and society
Strategic Product Design
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We design to create value for people, business, and society Driven by deep people and market insights – and vertical industry expertise and capabilities – we help clients realize their visions and meet their business objectives by designing relevant and innovative products, solutions, and services.
Strong brands – sustainable value We design for and help build powerful brands in Europe and the rest of the world - together we engage human beings, solve problems for people, and create sustainable value for business and societies. Scandinavian design – global reach With more than 40 years of experience and deeply rooted in the Danish-Scandinavian design tradition, we create thought-through products and services for our clients. Empathy for context, end-user, and the business – while balancing simplicity, shape, and functionality – are cornerstones in our design methodology.
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Flos Camera Our team has continuously to come up with new ideas and innovative designs to make a collaboration last for over 20 years. Our aim with Flos Camera was to create a spot expressing highly professional functionality while having its very own identity. The spot should distance itself from traditional luminaires and at the same time have a neutral but easily recognizable expression that can withstand repetition. The iconographic shape, composed of two archaic geometric volumes – a cube carrying a cylinder – emphasizes the light source invigorating objects and surfaces. Inspired by the art of photography that precisely captures light by using lenses, shutters, and filters, the cylinder of Flos Camera can obtain a wide range of accessories providing outstanding technical performance and a high degree of flexibility. Spot on!
“Photography is the art of capturing light. Flos Camera is the art of bringing life to matter through light”
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Our founder and mentor, Knud Holscher, with Camera at the launch in 2021
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Seed Pli Seed Pli is a safe pram for newborns and a stroller for the toddler in one – without compromising the performance: A cozy cave for sleeping, and a comfortable seat on wheels for exploring the world. The functionality is almost self-explanatory: · Easy to unfold and prepare for a walk · Easy to transform from pram to stroller · Even easier to fold up and store away · Plenty of storage room under the box The materials have all been chosen with durability in mind: High grade aluminum for the frame, a diverse range of flight industry plastics and alloy for the fittings, and high-quality fabrics for the box and the textile parts.
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“Safer being a child, easier being a parent” Anders Berggreen, CEO Seed
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“With Holscher Design, I get a consultant with high aesthetic ambitions, and someone who is capable of transforming the client’s wishes and visions into form” Britta Lyager Degn, Project Manager AAL
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Creative Solutions Vol. No 3
Aarhus Light Rail AAL Between 2011 and 2019, Holscher Design held the title as both design consultant and designer for Denmark’s first light rail. As consultants, we assisted with projects of various scale and character, melting shareholders’, stakeholders’, and the client’s interests into a coherent design identity. Our work spans from service- and technical buildings, OCM and rolling stock (by Stadler Rail AG, Switzerland) to graphic design, manuals and interior design. Furthermore, Holscher Design is responsible for the design of the platforms including furniture, technical equipment, shelters, and lighting - developed in close collaboration with AFA JCDecaux and AAL. Aarhus Light Rail started operating in 2017.
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“Well-designed products create value for both our customers and the end user.” “Strategic Product Design goes beyound the product with a wider and deeper understanding of brands, customers, and end users”
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Strategic value for our clients Globalization has opened up for huge markets, but it has also widened the load of products offered, so the competition is enormous. With this overload of products, the first-hand communication with the customers is of growing importance. Differentiation through storytelling, extra focus on user-friendliness, sustainable decisions when it comes to the choice of materials, production, transport, etc. – and of course the aesthetic qualities – are essential.
A human revolution Understanding human needs in a creative perspective will be of even more importance in the 4th industrial revolution and beyond. Products should surprise and provide their users with a positive human interaction. We see a growing number of smart products that are able to learn and communicate with each other, both nearby and over great distances. Therefore, we have to create intelligent products that make life easier and safer for mankind without increasing alienation between end users and technology. Playful, intuitive user interfaces are crucial here. Technology must serve human needs and never be a purpose in itself!
A holistic approach Well-designed products create value for both our customers and the end user. Well-designed products are simply the ones that make their owners happy and proud, and that fulfill their purpose and make life easier. Today, this isn’t enough, though. A well-designed product is also a product, that is well thought out in relation to our eco-system: how, where, of what, and by whom is it made, and what does its lifecycle look like? The demand for eco valuation has grown rapidly in recent years. Both legislation and end users put a lot of pressure on manufacturers. We as designers have to be prepared to help our customers make the right choices.
Design as a strategy Strategic Product Design goes beyond the product itself with a wider and deeper understanding of brands, customers, and end users. Only with the whole picture in mind and in-depth knowledge of our customers strengths and pains, we can advise and challenge them – and ultimately create significant value. As close partners, we want to be involved in the strategic considerations of our customers and constantly support them. The transformation from the linear into a circular economy is without doubt one of the greatest challenges for product designers. We have an enormous influence and responsibility on how products are planned, and where, how, of which materials, and under which conditions they are manufactured. In the future, designers not only come up with concepts and ideas, but we get more and more involved in our customers’ strategies. The pressure on manufacturers is growing, but they lack experience, and they are nervous to fail. Designers have to guide and suggest materials, productions methods, etc. That requires a lot of knowledge in a wide span of areas. In addition to the actual product development, we have to take the entire lifespan of the products into account – disposal, replacement, recycling, reuse, etc. An eco-friendly, emission neutral/plus carbon footprint production will be the new normal as far as I see it – and hope for.
Rasmus Holscher Architect MAA CEO, Partner Urban Design + Energy
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Our work method Holscher Design’s work method consists of four business critical and value creating steps. This methodology allows us to understand the client needs, the market, and the end-users – in order to achieve our client’s business objectives through relevant and attractive design solutions.
DISCOVER
DEFINE
Our team sees the world through different eyes, and we know what questions to ask to gain new knowledge and to uncover new possibilities.
With the client’s business objectives as a starting-point, we clearly set the goals, define the task, and design the work process together with the client.
At the outset of every project, we conduct in-depth research to discover and define relevant human behaviors and mindsets.
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DESIGN
DELIVER
Driven by the findings discovered during the research phase, our design team defines a vision for the project in line with the client’s values and aspirations.
We have a record of bringing commercially successful products to market.
The vision is the driver for the creation of a series of concepts leading to the generation of an intelligent design. The concepts are tested through sketching, UI/UX scenarios, conceptual CAD, and physical prototypes.
Our delivery is tailored to our partners’ needs, from crafting storytelling videos and strategic presentations to creating market-ready products. When delivering a product to market, we collaborate with selected production facilities from our global network and create data for tooling, production-ready parts and manage the quality control process.
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Bicycle service station BikeHub is a system that unites bicycle service, meeting point, and information spot in one and the same product and at a level that has not previously been seen in Denmark. Here, you can fix small repairs, charge your e-bike or mobile phone, meet with friends and check out the best bicycle routes in the surroundings. The station also invites locals and tourists, cyclists and pedestrians to just enjoy a seat in the sun or seek shelter from the rain under the cover.
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BikeHub is built up in modular elements made of urban materials - concrete, sheet metal, and wood. The elements can be combined and adapted to different environments and equipped with functions like playground, picnic area, etc.
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Washroom The d line sanitary range combines cleanness in its lines with cleanliness in its function, and unlike thehardware collection of solitary yet complimentary items, this series consists of fittings that form a cohesive whole. Wherever they appear, d line sanitary products can be flexibly combined yet always provide the same uniform impression. In their technical design, installation and maintenance are key focuses, to meet the need for impeccable hygiene no matter how long they live in a space. Simple and modular, the d line sanitary range’s AISI 316 rust-resistant, noncorrosive, marine quality steel stands up to the high humidity levels of the bathroom, while its subtle curved edges and functional circular hole details are a nod to the bend in our first ever products, the L and U lever handles. Both internally and externally, every detail of every d line sanitary piece is rigorously tested for seamless functioning so that it endures. Then, assisted by the most cutting-edge machinery in our field, each is expertly crafted by hand.
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“Well-designed urban spaces support inclusion, promote physical and social wellbeing, and the feeling of living in a safe space”
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Designing our urban spaces The rise of urban design The attention towards the spaces surrounding our buildings – private as well as commercial and public – has been growing a lot during the last years. Urban spaces are activated and designed both for recreation, well-being, inclusion, and the feeling of safety. The quality of the urban space has been recognized as a driver for real estate prices and gained larger focus. As more and more people choose to live in the cities, the urgent need for attractive urban spaces of high quality and with a wide range of activity offers has been a lot in focus. New movements like urban gardening, open air activities, outside workspaces, etc. stem from this need.
Enhancing the urban experience Urban design can support the purpose of a public space and activate it. The quality of the design you find in urban spaces is of great importance. The perception of value of the offered functions and the aesthetics has a strong impact on people’s behavior. The more public spaces are being accepted and used, the bigger is the user’s feeling of ownership - and the better they take care of it. Urban design and architecture are closely connected. They form a total experience representing the inside and the outside of a building. The space around and in between buildings influences the overall experience of the building’s and the city’s quality. Well-designed urban spaces can dissolve the boundaries between inside and outside and thus expand the space of your personal habitat. By creating the framework for physical activities and for the connection between people, well-designed urban spaces support inclusion, promote physical and social well-being and the feeling of living in a safe space.
Urban design creates massive value Physical and social well-being are the essential drivers for a healthy population. The inclusion of people with disabilities and special needs, differences in age and cultural backgrounds create the framework for a heathy and save community and enhances the value of living and working together in the cities.
Rasmus Holscher Architect MAA CEO, Partner Urban Design + Energy
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Pictoform Pictoform is a system of tactile guidelines developed to assist blind and visually impaired in navigating within the urban space. The system consists of single buds as well as paving tiles in different materials. Due to their aesthetic qualities, all these elements enhance the architectural facets of urban public spaces. Pictoform can be used for indicating defined walking routes, marking shifts from pavement to road, or indicating bus stops.
The system is particularly useful in and around hubs or city centers with open spaces and pedestrian areas. Both the shape of the bud and its sound when touched by the mobility cane are optimized in order to guide visually impaired pedestrians. Pictoform is an efficient, functional device for its users while at the same time adding an aesthetic quality to its surroundings.
“Holscher has created our best-selling product. Things are thought-through, which means lower production costs on the final product” Christian Wolff-Petersen, CEO GH Form
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Copenhagen bus shelter The 2nd generation of bus shelters for the Danish capital is the result of a design tender, initiated by the Copenhagen municipalities with the wish to replace the existing equiment from the 1990s. The shelter system was developed and realized in close collaboration with AFA JCDecaux. The goal of the project was to include all Copenhagen citizens through greater comfort, safety, and transparency. The design should reflect Copenhagen as a modern city with a long history. The structure is elegant, yet easy to install and maintain with only few ground fixings and a slim roof with integrated rainwater drainage. A wooden bench allows seating for a family – or even laying down!
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A configurable digital information screen can be adapted in length and width to varying needs in the urban environment. The subtle and transparent expression and high functionality make the bus shelter suitable for many different urban contexts.
”All elements of the Copenhagen series offer high functionality to the public and integrate advertising in a sensible and aesthetic way” Kim Axelsen, CEO AFA JCDecaux
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“Fighting global climate change with smarter sanitary ware”
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Smarter sanitary ware Major market trends In terms of design and shape, everything is possible, and everything is allowed. Of course, the majority of products that are displayed at trade fairs and in magazines are high-end. Highly geometric, soft vaulted shapes, and coloured products have been mega-trends, but the vast majority of large sanitation companies earn their profit on the low and medium segment, which is straight forward white porcelain, with a design based on production optimization, functional optimization, cleaning issues, green considerations, weight, and of course a design that fits in the majority of the low and medium housing segment. We observe a strong tendency towards an increased focus on Green Water and Smart Water in all segments within sanitary ware. Just like the promotion of Smart Home solutions for heating and electricity, in the future, there will be similar initiatives for water, heat, and possibly health systems.
Adding value to the sanitary ware industry In a few decades, the bathroom has evolved from a pure functional room to a private lifestyle space. In architecture, it used to be a downgraded, rather small space that was tucked away. Today, the bathroom is a wellness space that is prioritized in terms of light, materials, and aesthetics, and it is displayed as a status symbol. Designing products that make the bathroom a wonderful space to stay in - both aesthetically and functionally - naturally enhances both the personal wellbeing and the value of the house. Furthermore, design and innovation within the area Smart Water have great perspectives. Designers, in particular, can contribute to green solutions such as recycling water in showers or reusing the water from the washbasin for flushing toilets. Smart products have huge functional and water saving potentials, and the most important challenge for the designer is – in our perspective – to limit the functionalities to a level, where the end user still feels confident and not alienated. Developing Smart products for an end-user, who is more or less naked in the moment of use, demands sensibility when it comes to balancing unique selling points and the personal limits of consumers.
Smart and green initiatives for the future Smart Water products will in this segment be dominating in the future.There has been a tradition of not mixing water and electricity in the wet room. This is naturally justified due to safety, but also because installers have been plumbers and not electricians. Products that require two different installers have a higher end price. But with low voltage and the development of optimized batteries, the way is paved for new electrical products such as douche toilets, non-touch devices, and other Smart Water products, which provide us with control of water, heat, energy consumption, and health. Green initiatives such as recycling water from washbasins to toilet flushes, recycling shower water, and focus on reducing bacteria in the daily use of the bathroom, are examples of new innovative initiatives that will meet the wishes of the end-user.
Jette Banke Architect, Product Designer Partner Sanitary Ware
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Spira Holscher Design has been the main designer for Ifö, Swedish manufacturer of bathroom sanitary items, for over 40 years. In this period, Ifö has become the most commonly used brand in large parts of Scandinavia. Over one million toilet units are manufactured annually at the Ifö factory in Sweden. For now, Spira is the latest of four extensive series for Ifö, with a wide range of bathroom porcelain and furniture. Spira toilet’s innovation is rim-free, a bowl design which counteracts lime scale formation and makes the toilet easy to clean. Spira combines the qualities of Scandinavian design and high-tech production methods.
manufacturing design classics since 1976 Strategic Product Design
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“There is no doubt that the cooperation with Holscher Design has had a major impact to the success of Ifö in the last decades. I am particularly thinking of the ability to combine functionality with changes in the production methods while maintaining a consistent, timeless Scandinavian design” Peter Jangstam, CEO Ifö
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Pressalit Sign Art Holscher Design and Pressalit have been collaborating on the design of toilet seats since the introduction of the first ifö products more than 40 years ago.. Always with the user and the architectural context in focus, Holscher Design have improved functionality through innovations as soft-close, integrated release-buttons, and automatic closing systems. Furthermore, improved hygiene is supported by integrated lift handles in the cover to avoid direct contact with the seat. Small changes, that turn a necessity into a good experience.
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“COVID-19 has set focus on hygiene, disinfection, air quality, social distancing, and many other issues, and designers around the world help find answers to these challenges and demands”
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Architectural hardware
Interconnected smart products The world is getting more and more digitalized and interconnected, and architectural hardware products transform from pure hardware to new products that combine soft- and hardware. A major theme is the introduction of smart devices and IOT in architectural products, e.g. as interconnected house control systems, climate control and security systems.
Finding answers to new challenges Several factors have influenced the field of architectural hardware in the past years. In many countries, new legislation is driving a need for new product development. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, hygiene, disinfection, air quality, social distancing, and many other issues have caught a lot of attention, and designers help find answers to these challenges and demands. Another topic that is currently attracting a lot of attention is acoustics. The growing use of video-communication and the fact, that many people don’t thrive in noisy open plan offices cry out for good solutions for a pleasant and healthy indoor climate.
Integrated products and customer awareness I expect the digital development to become more and more predominant. With the growing number of devices and appliances, I think the trend is going towards a stronger integration of architectural hardware in the actual building components – kitchen appliances, climate systems, lighting, etc. Further, there is a trend towards combining functions, e.g. air purifying + lighting, heating + air purifying/ acoustic insulation, ventilation + lighting and so on – to reduce the number of “noisy” elements in buildings – and to reduce power consumption. Lastly, we see an increasing focus on design quality. As wealth is growing, many put a lot of effort in the design of their homes and workplaces, and consumers expect sincere materials and want to make sustainable choices. That is very good.
Friederike Faller Architect, Master In Design Partner Transportation + Architectural Hardware
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Barrier - Free d line’s move into barrier-free is about enabling people, and as with many of the d line products, the leap into this important new area started with a need. When d line was approached by the Disabled People’s Organisations Denmark to create truly universal architectural ironmongery for the world’s most accessible office building, the organisation’s inspiring ambition to democratise daily life instantly became part of the thinking at d line. With 10 per cent of the Western population suffering from a disability and with the global population living longer, energies could be put into products that, while being attractive, could make life easier and better for all.
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A.PETERSEN Roller Cabinet The intended function of this cabinet was a flexible, informal room divider and storage space for kitchen and wardrobe, originally designed by Knud Holscher in the 1970s for his famous own house. The upright box on wheels is reminiscent of a vertical version of an old travel trunk. Recently, the concept was taken up againin a wooden and an acrylic version. Roller Cabinet can be fitted with a hange bar and shelves and is thus suited for many different purposes. Roller Cabinet is manufactured in Oregon pine by A. Petersen in the caninetmaking workshop in Copenhagen. The acrylic version starts in the Danish Plastsnedkeriet at Silkeborg.
”Funny that the roller cabinet caused a stir – just because the shape was a little different”
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Knud Holscher
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A bestseller going global Professional dispenser series for a market leader Holscher Design won a design pitch initiated by the Danish hygiene service company Berendsen, today part of French Elis. The result was Fusion, a dispenser series with a strong focus on optimal functionality for all users and a design expression that fits into all environments. Fusion was introduced in Northern Europe in 2009, and shortly after, Cintas, the world leading hygiene service company in the US showed interest.
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Intelligent
More than 6.2 million dispensers have been sold in Europe and North America by 2021.
Fusion features an innovative, add-on Light Guide that reminds washroom guests to keep hands clean.
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In general, 50% leave the toilet without washing hands. In a company setting, Light Guide reduces emplyee sickness absence with up to 40%, dramatically preventing loss of productivity.
The series contains 15 products which are available in 8 colours.
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The strong design unity of Fusion has led to increased sales per washroom from previously 4 to 6 products in average
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The future of the washroom A line of hygiene dispensers for washrooms, with each product designed to function efficiently and to make the daily routines of both primary users and maintenance staff easy, efficient, and hygienic. A selection of colours gives the option of choosing according to interior style or brand colour guidelines. All products feature a patented, antibacterial soft-touch surface that reduces the spreading of virus and germs. The series is marketed as a private label to CINTAS in the US and Canada with great succes.
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“We are driven by an ambition to take the impact of light on humans very seriously”
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Working with light The impact of light on humans If you look at the last 100 years, we are in the middle of one of the most exciting eras in the field of lighting. Our subconscious understanding of what constitutes good lighting is being challenged by the latest research. Since the discovery of the ipRG receptor in 2001, we have seen a paradigm shift in how lighting is measured, manufactured, specified, and applied. It offers new possibilities for using light precisely, dynamically, and individually dosed. At the same time, our knowledge of the crucial importance of light in relation to human health, both physically and mentally, as well as for the working environment and quality of life, is increasing. The answer is Human Centric Lighting (HCL), or Integrative Lighting as it is now called, balancing excellent visual, biological, and emotional effects of light. Light influences human well-being in four distinct ways: vision and visual comfort, chronobiology, psychological effects, and photochemistry in the skin.
Lighting in the transition to an emission-free world We see an increased focus on reducing light pollution as a corollary of excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light. Light pollution has consequences; it washes out starlight in the night sky, interferes with astronomical research, disrupts ecosystems and has adverse health effects – and wastes energy. We as designers have a great responsibility here. At Holscher we specialize in light design and are focused on designing lighting and luminaires that live up to the recommendations from the International Dark Sky Association. Together with our clients, we work within the framework of smart lighting, which has been recognized as one of the most actionable and ready-to-implement technologies in the transition towards a low-carbon economy in the next decade.
The great potential of light in the future The future offers great potential for improving the design of lighting solutions, and design can help us take advantage of the opportunities and help overcome the challenges ahead. Architectural lighting is a key part of the design and aesthetics of a building or space, and LED offers great opportunities to integrate lighting in objects other than conventional luminaires. We at Holscher Design are driven by an ambition – not only to shape and design fantastic luminaires with great aesthetics and functionality – but to take the impact of light on humans very seriously.
Stig Myler Architect MAA, Product Designer Partner Lighting Design
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Flos Pure Pure is the third series the Holscher Design team has developed for the renowned Italian lighting manufacturer Flos. Precise briefings and a close collaboration with the product development team at Flos resulted in a very positive and rewarding collaboration. The aim with Pure was to create a collection of accent spotlights that adapt to a large number of different situations, always emphasizing the architectural context and the object to be illuminated. Three innovative aspects are implied: · The transformer box is fixed in its position, hiding the adaptor and thus achieving a homogeneous expression. · The possibility to lock the beam position with a release button · All movements - tilting and rotating - are accomplished by one single joint.
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“This collaboration has allowed us to reach the objectives, and thanks to the Holscher Design team’s contribution, we have developed something extremely professional.” Roberto Botti, CEO SIMES
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Stage Round Spot Simes is a consolidated Italian company dedicated to the design and production of superior outdoor luminaires with a clear brand identity.. The collaboration with our team resulted in Stage Round Spot, a comprehensive series of high performance architectural spotlights suitable for illuminating architecture. Stage gracefully articulates what its surroundings wish to communicate. With its technical, yet anthropomorphic expression, Stage gives life to its built environment, creating synergy and a captivating play with the architecture. The spotlights, manufactured with a die-cast aluminum housing, allow rotation and adjustment of the beam in any direction and angle. Stage is available in a wide range of versions and sizes and with many accessories, making the series suitable for the illumination of larger environments where different functions are required.
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MileWide luminaries1+2 Philips Lighting is an international lighting company with focus on providing innovative solutions centered on the end-user and energy-efficient solutions and applications for lighting, based on a deep understanding of customer needs, both at home and in public spaces. With new lighting technologies such as LED technology and the increasing demand for energy saving solutions, Philips will continue developing groundbreaking new lighting products. The MileWide street luminaires by Holscher Design have been developed for Philips as part of MileWide, a large series of road accessories and urban furniture. The clean, elegant shape fits in many surroundings and is easy to maintain. Philips MileWide luminaires are available in different sizes and with a number of mounting poles.
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T3 Immersive Siteshow Room
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T3 is the result of a a long term and intensive collaboration between Cisco and Holscher Design on the product development of several teleconferencing devices.
to achieve the optimal meeting experience with focus on a natural representation of the meeting participants and a comfortable atmosphere.
T3 is a Telepresence room which enables meeting participants an immersive experience of being in the same room while communicating over video over a long distance. The identical rooms are equipped with 65” screen modules with optimized built-in cameras, tables with integrated touch screens, menu screen integrated in the side wall, wooden acoustic wall panels, blue glass panels lit from behind – all designed
T3 and the smaller version T1 have both been developed for large, global companies, the public sector, and international organizations - with the aim of offering high-end online meetings that saving time and reducing the need for air travel.
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Caring Island Caring Island was developed in collaboration with Italian Inglesina, manufacturer of high-end prams and Metalco, family-owned brand for street furniture. Caring Island offers a fun, playful, and safe place for parents and their babies for social interaction and relaxing, meeting the basic needs of the users. Circular pavilions create an exciting play of light and shadow and protect parents and kids from the sun. Seen from a long distance they act as a landmark with a strong, yet humble identity. Basic functions like diaper changing table and breastfeeding bench are connected to these shelters, while seating and tables for both adults and children, a baby pool and other features are arranged around them. Caring Island is defined by basic geometric shapes, that - when combined – create a living, organic and exciting space. A toolbox of elements can be combined in endless configurations to adapt to any environment and local requirements. The paving defines the stage of the island. Its material, colours,features, and graphic elements can be customized to achieve a harmonious total experience in relation with the surroundings. Modern and timeless, yet organic and natural.
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PLATEAU
- outdoor seating for the future
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Plateau PICNIC O Plateau PICNIC O is a pleasant alternative to the conventional picnic table - a cool outdoor table surrounded by an integrated bench that invites for socializing. The stringent – almost graphic - rounded shape makes PICNIC O suitable for many urban settings and layouts. PICNIC O seats 10-12 for dining, studying, working, or just relaxing. The table can be equipped with SunHub, a solar panel top, offering the possibility to charge electronic devices, feed light sources, play music, etc. and thus makes PICNIC even more versatile for a stay or work in the open air.
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The design is maintenance free, yet slim and elegant - produced from durable materials like high pressure laminate and hot galvanized steel, and available in many colours. PICNIC O is the basic model in the Plateau family consisting of a wide range of related products. The Plateau family provides accessibility for all kinds of users and offers a variety of solutions both functionally and aesthetically.
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DESIGN AWARD
Insights from the IF jury work Having been part of the IF jury team for some years now is both an honor and a huge pleasure. I am impressed about the high quality of the jurors, their incredible dedication, and the well-elaborated judging tools, IF has come up with. As a juror, it is, of course, extremely interesting to have the chance to see what is going on in the world when facing top brands and designers’ latest work. As part of a huge group of designers and thinkers from all over the world, I do not only enjoy the jury work itself, but also the important discussions with my colleagues about the future of design.
Judging design is getting more and more complex Judging design is getting more and more complex, and new criteria beyond the product itself have to be taken extremely seriously. A good idea alone is not good enough. It cannot stand alone. We have to look at the whole package – from start to end! More than ever, international design awards like IF possess the power to set the bar and reward designers and companies that come up with extraordinary projects, or groundbreaking, courageous new ideas that really matter for our world, nature, and societies.
Design has to make sense and solve actual problems As jurors, we have a great social responsibility when selecting the projects to be awarded: They have tomake sense and solve actual problems, give joy, and provide good experience - and make life easier and better. We need solutions that respect humans and resources and make technological advances approachable for all.
We need to apply our creative intelligence As designers, we need to apply our creative intelligence and come up with new production and distribution methods, new materials – and focus on quality! Design has the power to solve the big challenges.
Friederike Faller Architect, Master In Design Partner Transportation + Architectural Hardware
Dnd/ POD handle POD is the first design for Dnd, an Italian family-driven manufacturer of design handles. The design of the POD handle family establishes a bridge between the huma body and architecture. With a smooth, organic, yet geometrical shape, the handle both complements the architecture and offers a pleasurable touch for the user’s hand. The handle consists of a Ø18 mm rounded bar connected to a rounded rose, creating a smooth and homogenous entity. POD is manufactured in brass, which is antibacterial and develops a beautiful patina over time, supporting the organic character of the handles. For the pull handles and railings, brass fittings can be combined with bars in materials like wood, plastics, or metal with a diamond-milled knurl surface.
“The interesting thing about designing a door handle is, that it, in fact, is one of the few elements in a building which comes into physical contact with the human hand”
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CIGA Design Mechanical Watch Washroom CIGA Design is a young watch company The d lineinsanitary range by Knud Holscher based Shenzhen, committed to combines cleanness in its lines with to redefining the classical wristwatch cleanliness its function, and unlike the become ainfashion accessory, accessible for hardware collection of individual yet everyone. complimentary items, this series consists of fittings that form a cohesive whole. Holscher Design was chosen to design a
wristwatch which should combine CIGA’s Wherever theymechanics appear, d line high quality withsanitary a Scandinavian products can be flexibly combined yet design expression. always provide the same uniform impression. By using the mechanical parts and functions Inlayered their technical design, installation and as design elements - a flower-like, maintenance are key focuses, to meet the decorative expression was obtained. need for impeccable hygiene no matter how long they live in a space. Simple and modular, the d line sanitary range’s AISI 316 rust-resistant, noncorrosive, marine quality steel stands up to the high humidity levels of the bathroom, while its subtle curved edges and functional circular hole details are a nod to the bend in our first ever products, the L and U lever handles. Both internally and externally, every detail of every d line sanitary piece is rigorously tested for seamless functioning so that it endures. Then, assisted by the most cutting-edge machinery in our field, each is expertly crafted by hand.
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We help clients realize their visions
Strategic Product Design
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LEGO Brick Drawer
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LEGO Brick is a family of colorful storage items, providing playful, easy, and safe access to a variety of items.
The LEGO Brick Drawers can be placed almost anywhere and fit with the LEGO Storage Brick System.
As a leading toy brand with a long history, LEGO and the iconic LEGO Bricks have become a well-known and popular classic for people of all ages. The LEGO Brick Drawers complete the LEGO Brick storage family. Stacked in piles, you save space and have access to the contents without having to lift the boxes.
A fun, lightweight, and decorative storage box with drawers for toys, office utensils and, of course, LEGO bricks!
Holscher Design
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Pantone Tableware The Pantone Universe series, developed in collaboration with ROOM Copenhagen, contains a wide range of kitchen storage solutions, items for food preparation, table setting, as well as office accessories. Our job was to create outstanding designs for everyday living, using insights from the world’s leading colour authority, Pantone. Innovative functions are implemented into all products. The characteristic Pantone color range and logo form a playful symbiosis between product and functionality. All items are made of high-quality plastic. The finish with a matte - whipped cream white - exterior and a shiny, colorful interior gives a porcelain-like feel.
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“Ongoing mega-trends in society, such as digitalization, sustainability, and servitization, fundamentally change the conditions for manufacturers”
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Holscher Design
Designing to realize future visions
The impact of mega-trends on design and the industry The digital transformation – on a human, societal and business level – is constantly accelerating. The Covid-crisis has set extra speed to this trend: Remote working and learning, digital communication, immersive VR experiences and e-commerce have become our everyday. Life has become more virtual. Digital transformation is not only about technology, but about changing people’s mindset and skills - and making digital services user-friendly. The acceptance of digital solutions is growing, and people can see benefits for their health and well-being - and for the environment. Businesses need to invest in digitization to become more resilient, efficient, and competitive.
Designing authentic experiences Consumers expect qualities that go beyond the functionality of products. Their mindsets are today more conscious, attentive, and humane. Many customers expect authenticity and transparency. They are getting more and more life conscious, they consume less, but better, travel less, and collaborate more. Digitalization on one side and a more conscious way of living and consuming on the other side seemed contradictory before, but digitalization has improved the work-life balance, health, reduced stress on the environment and it connects people - so they work together well.
The future of product design as a profession I see a development towards specialization, polarization and sustainability. Ongoing mega-trends in society, such as digitalization, sustainability, and servitization, fundamentally change the conditions for manufacturers when developing and providing new products. Product development will be defined by the complexity of products, processes, and a globally distributed value chain. Due to the growing complexity of product development in a circular economy, designers will be much more involved in the entire process. With the need for deep knowledge in many fields, collaborations and knowledge sharing through networking will grow even stronger than today. At the same time, the emotional value of products and the customers’ aesthetic satisfaction are gaining importance for the market competitiveness. I also see a polarization within products. On one hand, digital aids for product development and optimization are time saving and minimize failure. This will be relevant in many product areas where the purpose of a product is the predominant value. On the other hand, the importance of emotional values, product quality, sustainability is relevant for a growing number of customers that are willing to pay more for their products. Product development is not only about covering the process from brief to launch, but it will include the entire lifecycle of products including services, recycling, repair, etc.
Anders G. Ellegaard Architect MAA, Product Designer Partner Communication + Business Development
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The future of mobility New demands for public transport A major trend is the global awareness of the importance of reducing CO2 emissions, meaning that public transportation has to be an attractive alternative to the private car. A well-functioning infrastructure of public transportation is therefore crucial. Many people live far away from their workplace, and today, the car often is the only efficient means of transportation. There lies an enormous task in developing connected and seamless journeys with public transport.
Nudging towards a car-free future Design is the necessary means to attract a wide group of userswho would traditionally choose private transportation. While important parameters like energy consumption and efficiency mean a lot to the operating companies, design is the visible, tactile experience, the user-friendliness that forms the touchpoint with the end user. If we want to convince the majority to switch to public transport, design is of invaluable importance. Today, end users do not only choose public transportation to get from A to B. They expect a convenient journey with the possibility to work, rest, or socialize - and a worthy alternative to the private car. Besides that, connected travel information and digital services are necessary to gain new customers that choose public transportation as a more comfortable as well as time and money saving modes of transport compared to the car.
New modes of transportation I expect major developments in non-personalized transportation: New modes of transportation, that complete the journey from A to B. This needs supplementary mobility like self-driving shuttle-busses that take you right to the doorstep. The more convenient and time-saving the journey, the bigger the chance for convincing even incarnated motorists and leave them with no arguments for choosing the car. Of course, all kinds of transport have to be emission free within the close future, but they should also be free of charge! If people that use their bicycle or public mobility offers, they should be rewarded.
Friederike Faller Architect, Master In Design Partner Transportation + Architectural Hardware
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Lamy Dialog2 C. Josef Lamy is a traditional German manufacturer of writing utensils, well-known for their strong design awareness as one of the main aspects of the brand identity. Holscher Design have designed Dialog2, a high-end rollerball, as well as Pur, a family of customizable aluminium pens. The challenge was to match the architectural expression of the Lamy brand, while adding an innovative technology and expression. With Dialog2, the turning mechanism and the clip disappearing into the body of the rollerball while in use are just some of the innovative design features that characterize the pen. Dialog2 has become a Lamy icon and a collector’s pen.
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CLIENTS Holscher Design is fortunate to work with a large number of innovative and well-respected companies. Our client portfolio includes a range of highly specialized brands from all over the world. Our goal is always to transform our client’s vision into solutions that generate a measurable market impact.
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The iF Design Aaward ...was introduced in 1954 and is annually conferred by the iF International Forum Design. The award, which spans multiple disciplines, has more than 6.000 entries from around 60 nations every year.
AWARDS Together with our clients, we are continuously awarded for the things we do well. We always strive to do our best, and we pride ourselves receiving recognition demonstrating the usefulness and aesthetic qualities of our designs.
The GOOD DESIGN® Awards ...was incepted by Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and Metropolitan Arts Press Ltd., annually awarding and exhibiting the most innovative and cutting-edge designs produced around the world. Good Design® was founded in Chicago in 1950 by Edgar Kaufmann, Jr., Eero Saarinen, and Charles and Ray Eames.
To receive an award highlights excellent achievements in the field of design and distinguishes the product in the market. Over the years, Holscher Design has won over 100+ awards in various categories.
The Red Dot Design Award ...is a German international design prize, awarding excellent design quality in different categories since 1955
The Danish Design Award ...has existed since the year 2000 and is an initiative of Dansk Design Center and Designdenmark rewarding outstanding design developed in Denmark.
The Norwegian Design Award/ DOGA ...annually honors the best Norwegian achievements in design and architecture.
Design Plus ...pays tribute to outstanding product achievements at trade fairs such as ISH or Light+Building, organised by Messe Frankfurt and the German Design Council.
The German Design Award (DBD) ...is the highest officially provided award for excellent design quality in Germany, initiated by Rat für Formgebung in 1953.
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Holscher Design
We help build powerful brands
The Strategic Product Design Agency Contact Holscher Design Vermundsgade 40A DK - 2100 Copenhagen
holscherdesign.com info@holscherdesign.com +45 3929 1001
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