Through the eyes of Robert Bronwasser and Aarti Aggarwal
Robert Bronwasser is known for developing products that can be used on daily basis. The designer talks about his recently completed projects at Ambiente in Frankfurt
Your last project...
In May last year I was invited by Ambiente and visited the Galleria, which is an amazing and huge open space. Within this space I had to realise the partner country presentation and to think about the presentation without knowing the exact products I would be working with. First I analysed the space, the goals of the partner country presentation and importantly I analysed what the characteristics of the Netherlands were that I wanted to show in this presentation. Based on this research, I decided to focus on the creativity and mentality of the Dutch, because I thought it would be interesting and inspiring to show the diversity of the Dutch brands and designers.
About Do Dutch...
With ‘Do Dutch’ I aim to show Dutch creativity and diversity by presenting the products from Dutch manufacturers and designers in a new context. In the Galleria, I have created a green polder landscape where visitors can meet and relax. In this landscape, you will find an architectural and geometric cabinet built with colourful frames. Within each frame a selection of typical Dutch products is combined to create an abstract still life.
Inspiration Galore...
The inspiration for the design are all typical and unique Dutch elements. The design is based on an open green carpet, inspired by our flat polder landscape, the cabinet is a tribute to the Dutch architects and De Stijl, with its minimal geometric lines and the creative use of limited space and the colourful frames are inspired by the old Dutch still life that painters used to make of everyday products.
Design mantra...
In my work, I always try to focus on the essence of a product. Personally, I don’t like decorations or adding extra elements that distract the pure function and aesthetics of a product. A pure functional product has no personality, so in my designs, I always like to play with the function, giving it a little twist.
Philosophy behind SMILE...
It is based on five principles that I think make good design. And that are...
Smart: design needs smart solutions that improves the quality of daily life
Modest: as a designer you need to respect the user as well as the environment
Iconic: as a designer,
I like to create new archetypes with personality or character Logical: the best designs are evident and almost self-explaining
Enjoyable: a good designed product is a pleasure to have and
use. SMILE if you get it.