The Art of Design Issue 43 2020 | Page 57

57 Stevens suggested that the thinking should be stripped back to basics, and instead of coming up with a plate finish in line with what the team thought everyone else might be doing, should focus on the company’s target market and take the lead from design trend influencers dictating the future of modern interiors. The team carefully considered the main target audience for a new collection in terms of the finish and aesthetics that Focus SB is synonymous with, along with high calibre interior designers involved with prestigious projects in the UK and overseas. Kelly Hoppen emerged as the obvious choice, not just because of her high public profile, or the fact that she is undoubtedly a trendsetter and pioneer of the neutral, minimalist approach to interior design but also because, in synergy with Focus SB, Hoppen has a growing business and huge presence in the Chinese market. It’s clear to the product development team at Focus SB that Kelly recognises the importance of the link between interior design and product design, having developed an impressive portfolio of design collaborations with companies such as Brintons carpet manufacturer, Chesneys luxury fireplaces and Crosswater bathrooms, with a dedicated team of product designers to support her. This makes Kelly Hoppen the perfect partner for Focus SB and over the coming months you can expect to see an innovative collection of fresh new plate styles come to life; the likes of which have never been seen before by the luxury electrical accessories manufacturing industry. Gary Stevens, Focus SB’s managing director life with UK and China product launches in accessories is generally very conservative, says: “We are all very excited about this early 2020.” but I wanted to create something that collaboration and from the moment I first would very much be part of the overall met with Kelly it was like a breath of fresh Kelly Hoppen MBE comments: “Interior design, introducing jewellery-like details air and she was bursting with new ideas fittings such as light switches and plug and alternative finishes. This collaboration for what is a relatively conservative and sockets are often not considered until with Focus SB introduces a new aesthetic mature product sector. We are delighted the end of a project, but these details to electrical fittings in a way we haven’t with the designs, they are fresh and elegant can add an extra touch and shouldn’t be previously seen.” and we look forward to bringing them to overlooked. The world of electrical wiring