The design must serve the function—this is the philosophy that drives pretty much everything at Studio F.A. Porsche. Also known as the Porsche Design Studio, the company has been responsible for coming up with stunning yet functional masterpieces throughout its forty-five year history. And we’re not talking about cars here, mind you.
Yes, its founder, Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, eldest son of Ferry Porsche, may have come up with the styling for the legendary Porsche 911. And yes, the studio may be an integral part of Porsche AG. Yet to this day, it has been more than just about automobiles over there. In fact, it has created more than its fair share of functional masterpieces that encompass everyday objects.
One such example is the business class seat of Cathay Pacific’s A350-1000 aircraft, which neatly stretch out into a full-size bed at the press of a button. Then there is the Alpha Pianos E-Piano, which take its cue from a classic concert grand.
If these creations aren’t mundane enough, Studio F.A. Porsche, has likewise come up with glasses, writing instruments, and even furniture. Then there are the capsule filing machine that was done for a pharmaceutical company, paint spray, guns, and the interchangeable lens sunglasses that are both cool and of course, functional.
But the biggest design projects to date have to be the Porsche Design Tower in Miami, and the Chronograph I. The former naturally showcases Porsche Studio designed products in its high tech interiors and will allow residents to bring up their cars all the way to the 60th floor to park it in their apartments. The later, on the other hand, is the Studio’s very first creation that is likewise its best seller thus far. It uses a black motif, just like that of aircraft instruments that not only look chic and timeless but also help keep out the glare.
And of course, the Studio has likewise been responsible for some design cues for cars like the Porsche 911. This includes the blacked-out trim pieces that were done at a time when chrome was all the rage.
Yes, its founder and namesake may have already gone on some 5 years passed. Yet his motto will always live on in every object it creates.
