Sleek. Elegant. Refined. The ultra-minimal lines of ZETR’s award-winning products are the stuff of architectural product design dreams. To reach this level of precision – where even a humble light switch or USB-C module can be described as sexy –  takes more than just design intellect. It takes countless hours of research and development and an infatuation with design’s capacity to elevate the everyday. 

The winners of the IDEA 2024 Object, Furniture and Lighting — Professional category have recently launched their latest product, a flush Dual USB-C module, which builds on the success of their award-winning 13 / FLUSH range. An advanced power solution designed to meet the growing demand for fast, reliable charging, it offers a seamless experience – especially for design geeks who appreciate both form and function.

Australian Design Review (ADR) spoke to ZETR head of design and brand Joseph Romano to reveal the studio’s source of inspiration and its laser focus on the future, in which design history plays an important role. 

Australian Design Review:  Where does your design process start? What is it that sparks an idea for you?

Joseph Romano: Our design process starts with a deep understanding of our users and spaces. We draw inspiration from the interplay between materiality, function, technology and minimalist design. We are curious people watchers and love to observe how people interact with their environment. I always think of the series 10/1 by Romanian photographer Bogdan Gîrbovan, who photographed 10 identical apartments in the same block. As he noted, “The rooms may be regarded as a psychological chart of those who live in them, reflecting their history and relation to present times.” Our goal is to enhance those everyday interactions through thoughtful, quiet design and innovation.

ADR: The proportions of the 13 Dual USB-C are unique. How did you find your way to this elongated shape?

JR: Our ambition was to create a high-output, long-lasting USB-C module capable of charging a laptop, and pushing the boundaries of design and engineering. By innovating from the outside in, we ensured the module retained the compact footprint of our 13 / FLUSH range. The capsule shape is synonymous with our brand, seamlessly integrating into surfaces of varying finishes. We wanted to create a product offer that not only appeals to new users but also provides existing users with the ability to add to or upgrade their existing ZETR product.

ADR: Can you share any sneak previews or hints about what might be coming next for ZETR?

JR: We are excited about great upcoming projects, including the expansion of our 25 / CONNECT system in the United Kingdom and European Union which was recently showcased at ORGATEC in Cologne. This modular power and data system is designed to adapt to the evolving needs of our workspaces. Additionally, we are continuing to explore new regions, technologies, materials and finishes to broaden and elevate our product range, ensuring we continue to lead in architectural design innovation.

ADR: What are your thoughts on ornate Victorian light switches? Are they beautiful pieces of history or over-adorned relics?

JR: Ornate Victorian light switches are not just a mark of a movement but reflect craftsmanship and detail, which has influenced architecture since its inception. Craftsmanship and this attention to detail is an undercurrent of our design ethos. Our quiet approach to the integration of features, function and technology, our minimalist approach to design and the addition of our range of natural metal finishes like Aged Brass, Natural Brass and Bronze, allow the ZETR range to complement these great pieces of history.

All images supplied.

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