Change

Stephan Hürlemann is a Swiss architect and designer with his own studio in Zurich. For decades, his work has followed one clear principle: things should last. Quality, formal longevity and the ability to create identity have always shaped his work. Yet as ecological crises are intensifying worldwide, it becomes evident that this alone was never enough.

In recent years, this shift in understanding has made circularity a vital part of our design process. Today, we rethink how materials, products, and spaces can remain in use for as long as possible — and how they can be repaired, reused, or transformed instead of ending up as waste, without sacrificing emotional connection or economic sustainability.

Origin

Born in 1972 in the Canton of Appenzell, he later studied architecture at ETH Zurich. He then devoted several years to his passion for music. From 2002, he spent six years working with designer Hannes Wettstein, who introduced him to the world of product and furniture design. After Wettstein’s passing in 2008, Stephan Hürlemann became the creative head of the studio, which he reinvented together with architect and Managing Director Britta Herold and concept developer and brand strategist Barbara Hutter.

Since 2008, more than 100 design concepts by Stephan Hürlemann have been realized – including the new headquarters Implenia Connect; the installation Giants with Dwarf for Horgenglarus; and Dancing Wall, one of Vitra’s most successful products of recent years.

From 2008 to 2023, the Studio Hürlemann team developed numerous pioneering architectural projects.

In 2023, Hürlemann and his partners downsized the company to free up more resources for projects that promote the circular economy. In addition, Barbara Hutter and Stephan Hürlemann became co-founders of World of Pi.

People

Owner Studio Hürlemann AG: Stephan Hürlemann, Britta Herold and Barbara Hutter
Owner Stephan Hürlemann Design GmbH: Stephan Hürlemann
Design Assistant: Elisa Böll
Management Assistant: Martha Korda