Interview with Kurt Merki Jr, Bottle Designer from Scent of Africa

Rather than confining myself to a single title like product designer, architect or interior designer, I consider myself a creator who brings ideas to life.

At our studio in Zurich, our goal is to be the missing link that brings our clients' visions to fruition. We have had the privilege of creating a chocolate museum, retail shops around the world, bathroom faucet series and even a yacht design.

Design is an intelligent pursuit of solutions. This intelligence can be seen in proportions, aesthetics, and material combinations, but above all, it must solve a problem; otherwise, it is useless and devoid of meaning.

I don't have a favorite type of design. For me, the thrill lies in the challenge of solving problems and generating new ideas.

Good design tackles problems directly and in the simplest way possible.

I strive to steer clear of mere style and instead focus on providing effective solutions.

My design process primarily begins with conversations and observations. Out of this blend of contemplation and interaction, my intuition takes over. The specific process may vary depending on the project.

Certainly, some things I am consciously aware of, while others reside in my subconscious.

It is truly an honor and a pleasure to be recognized for one's hard work and dedication in creating a product.

The process was straightforward and clear. As a Ghanaian (African) brand entering the international design market, it was a significant step for us. I designed a bottle that stands proud and unites the brand with the future in its architectural avant-garde design. The perfume cap in the shape of the continent at the top is an invitation to return to our roots.

When it is looked at from above, the shape of Africa can be glimpsed which looks as if it is projected above the sphere of Earth, embodied by the bottle’s body. Entering this project gives me an opportunity to showcase my work as well as the Scent of Africa brand which has a unique purpose of highlighting Africa to the world. Therefore, this award has granted us recognition and reaffirmed that we are on the right path.

The design underwent several iterations in the quest for the perfect balance suitable for both men and women. It took time to crystallize the final version for the Eternal Legends Collection.

Winning this award has brought us a wealth of positive feedback and it continues to pour in.

The constant challenge of generating fresh ideas, the diversity of products, and the act of creating something from scratch are all immensely rewarding.

Switzerland and Ghana together create a harmonious blend of expertise, innovation, and cultural exchange, ensuring that our work maintains the highest standards of quality while embracing the richness of global collaboration.

My hope is that we prioritize nature and build in harmony with what our planet offers us.

In essence, it boils down to working hard, staying focused, and persevering.

Maintain curiosity about your surroundings and constantly question why things are the way they are.

On a lighter note, I must admit that I'm not particularly fond of writing emails :-)

My father deserves recognition for his unwavering perseverance.

There are no shortcuts to achieving excellent results.

I genuinely love what I do and wake up each day excited to go to the office. However, the journey to reach this point has been long and challenging. So, keep pushing forward, work hard, and strive to achieve your goals.