Kelly Hoppen’s "jewellery-like" electrical accessories target the luxury interiors market
Interior designer Kelly Hoppen has created a collection of premium light switches and plug sockets for Focus SB that provide an alternative to "very conservative" electrical wiring accessories.
Hoppen worked with the British electrical accessories manufacturer to develop a range of products aimed at the UK and China luxury hospitality and residential markets.
The collection of switches and sockets is described by its manufacturer as "wall jewellery" and features a variety of finishes intended to appeal to high-end customers.
The project was led by Focus SB managing director Gary Stevens, who wanted to respond directly to the needs of the company's target market in China.
The collection includes a plate style called Pinstripe that features parallel metallic stripes set against a matte backdrop, and a bold half-and-half design comprising two contrasting blocks of colour.
The Dot plate features small metallic spots inspired by classic jewellery designs, while the Corner wall plate incorporates a contrasting triangular detail in its bottom right hand corner.
Stevens chose to collaborate with Hoppen because of her minimalist style of interior design, which complements the company's own approach to the finish and aesthetics of its products.
Focus SB added that Hoppen was also the standout candidate because of her ability to set trends in the interiors industry, as well as her current focus on growing her business in the Chinese market.
In 2019, the designer launched an awards programme at the Design Shanghai fair that aims to help talented young Chinese designers establish their careers.
"One of the reasons I'm doing these design awards is that there are some insanely brilliant designers coming out of China," she told Dezeen ahead of the inaugural awards.
Hoppen explained that the collection of electrical accessories she designed for Focus SB can be used to add a final luxurious element to premium interiors projects.
"The world of electrical wiring accessories is generally very conservative," she said, "but I wanted to create something that would very much be part of the overall design, introducing jewellery-like details and alternative finishes."
"This collaboration with Focus SB introduces a new aesthetic to electrical fittings in a way we haven’t previously seen," she continued.
Hoppen's favourite among the new collection is called Plank and comprises a monochrome plate featuring machined grooves that catch the light and introduce a subtle textural detail to the surface.