So your job is to remove things?
That’s a big part of my job now. How can we get rid of a layer while still giving the product a surface and texture that we want? It has to look good in all light conditions, and at the same time it can’t be vulnerable to scratches. One of our solutions has been to integrate the texture into the tool that’s shaping the case. A minimalist approach to material sometimes requires a lot from the machines that make the product, and from us as designers of course. That applies to color strategy as well.
What does color have to do with sustainability?
When you’re making colorful products, I’d say a lot. Since we don’t want to add unsustainable color coatings, we need to source recycled, and well-sorted plastic that is as close to white as possible to allow us to add the pigment we want to get. That means we really must think ahead and have a long-term strategy. We also can’t use too many product colors since we’re looking to not get any leftover material.
Your colors are going in a more somber direction?
Well slightly, but again it’s twofold; it’s about the recycled material but it’s also because we want the products to last longer from a consumer point of view. Basically, we’re looking for exciting nuances that people won’t grow tired of.
But aren’t those poppy colors your company’s trademark?
Our color selection has definitely been one of our trademarks. Unique colors have provided our products with lots of personality. But if we were the best in the business at colors before, I think we’ll be the best at sustainable colors moving forward.
