Minimalism as the antithesis in a complex world

Sascha, you are convinced that a designer's job is not just to solve problems, but that a product should also always create an emotional connection with the user. Can you explain this in more detail?

Sascha: In my opinion, the emotional connection between people and products is one of the most important factors in creating a long-lasting and sustainable product. If a product works well, then I can use it, then it is effective and perhaps even efficient. But if it is also aesthetically pleasing, then I want to use it and enjoy it for as long as possible. Appreciation increases, products are better cared for and, to put it simply, the life cycle is extended. However, the whole thing only works if the basic properties, i.e. the function, the material and the general quality of workmanship, are right. Ultimately, it is a combination of many factors in which the emotional bond is just one of many factors.

Many of my designs are based on simple, graphic patterns or shapes. In an increasingly complex world, these are a kind of antithesis, simple to understand and timeless. The pattern for VERTIKO, for example, was created from two simple squares: one small and one large, which combine in their arrangement to form an interesting pattern. This creates the basic grid that runs through the entire collection. An interplay of open and closed compartments then adds variety and excitement to the design. Müller Small Living stands for modular furniture that adapts to any living situation - the VERTIKO range is the best example of this.

How flexible or adaptable do you think furniture should be?

Sascha: Longevity also plays an important role here. Most people naturally change their living space in the course of their lives by moving house or changing it through renovation, remodelling, etc. With its various elements, VERTIKO can be adapted to individual changes in living space. The system works just as well in small spaces with just one or two elements as it does in large rooms or combined living zones, where six, eight or even more elements can be combined. The great thing about it is that, despite a continuous grid, there are very different variations available and the "face" of the storage unit can be changed again and again. Once you have "seen enough" of a combination after years, you can give the product and therefore the room a completely new look simply by rearranging the cubes. This distinguishes VERTIKO from other storage systems, which are usually very linear and standardised.

What does small living mean to you personally?

Sascha: For me, "small living" doesn't just mean consciously opting for a smaller living space, but also making the best possible use of it. In other words, not having to make any compromises in terms of comfort, functionality, aesthetics and quality despite the small space. Whether it's a tiny house, micro-apartment, co-living or other forms of living: if these concepts are to work, appealing and well thought-out furniture concepts must offer users the freedom to design their living space individually and flexibly.

We mainly work with birch plywood and the plywood edge comes into its own with the mitred VERTIKO elements. What do you think of this material? 

Sascha: In my opinion, birch plywood has many different properties that are advantageous in furniture construction. Due to its construction, it provides stability and strength as well as a high load-bearing capacity. This in turn is an important factor for the quality and the aforementioned longevity that I want to achieve in my designs. With VERTIKO, the laminated wood edge also emphasises the graphic grid that visually connects the different cubes. The interplay between coloured and white surfaces and the light, natural and warm laminated wood edges creates a visual tension and aesthetic quality that I find very appealing.