Where Tradition Meets Innovation – OBE Supports the Eyewear Designers of Tomorrow

How do you reinterpret the Black Forest for the future? This was the inspiring challenge taken on by the 4th semester students of the Accessory Design program at Pforzheim University.

Under the guidance of Prof. Madeleine Häse, Head of the Bachelor's Degree Program in Accessory Design, and with the support of Antonia Ziegler, Program Coordinator for Accessory Design, the students developed inspiring concepts that successfully combined tradition with contemporary design.

Alongside belts, gloves and jewelry, three outstanding eyewear concepts were created – all featuring original OBE hinges.

The three eyewear designs reflect the diversity of creative interpretations:

🫐 Amanda Röhm drew inspiration from the Black Forest blueberry, creating eyewear that translates natural shapes and colors into a contemporary design language.

🌲 Mailin Pöhler explored the mysterious world of the dark creatures said to inhabit the shadows of the Hagwald forest, resulting in a bold and expressive concept with a mystical character.

🏡 Johanna Gilbert reinterpreted the traditional Black Forest "Stube" concept, transforming its warmth, comfort and craftsmanship into a modern eyewear design.

At OBE, collaborations with universities are much more than exciting projects. They create a valuable exchange between industry and design, open up new perspectives, and foster early connections with the eyewear designers of tomorrow. At the same time, they allow us to share our expertise and inspire young talents with innovative hinge technologies already during their studies.

A sincere thank you to Pforzheim University, Prof. Madeleine Häse, Antonia Ziegler, and all participating students for the excellent collaboration. We look forward to many more inspiring projects together.