IHA speaks with Charles Viancin, president and founder of New York-based Charles Viancin Group, which will present their latest nature-inspired products in Discover Design N7913 at the 2017 International Home + Housewares Show.

Charles Viancin established his company in 2005 and created new color and form statements in kitchen accessories. Their unique food preparation and storage products attract attention for their vivid colors in silicone materials, shaped to suggest flowers, fruits and leaves. For example, reusable lids that sustain high cooking temperatures and provide air-tight storage bring beauty and smiles in unexpected ways to everyday tasks.

Charles, where do you find inspiration when designing new products?
I find inspiration in the nature and the breathtaking beauty and surroundings from my home in the French Alps near Lake Annecy. I draw inspiration from the shapes, sounds and picturesque beauty of Lake Annecy as well as during my travels abroad.  I’m constantly being inspired and finding beauty and wonder in the world around me.

How do you choose which idea to take to development?
Our goal is always to provide a high quality and high functioning product with beautiful design. If we are able to meet these criteria along with our price point objectives we move forward.

How do you identify the key user audience for your products?
Through a combination of social media, retailer interaction and direct consumer feedback, we are able to identify not only our key audience but also an audience/demographic we have not reached yet. Therefore, this allows us to open up new opportunities for growth and product development.

Is there an approach or look that joins the functionality, form or emotional appeal of your product line?
We focus on the design aspects of all of our products to make that emotional connection between the product and the end users. We want them to feel great about using our products in their homes.

How do you use social media?
We use social media as one of the influences in improving our existing product and the development of new ones.  It’s very important to listen to your customers, value their feedback and show that you are responsive and engaged in their loyalty to the brand.

How do you see design’s importance in our industry?
As the marketplace becomes omni-channel and more global, great design allows us to maintain our position as an industry leader in our category.  Great design separates the Charles Viancin brand from the commodity products and “me-too” designs and continues to drive the brand.

Can you give us a preview of what you will show in your booth in Discover Design?
The company was formed on the basis of being “Inspired by Nature” and for more than 10 years we continue to push the envelope in design and function including this year’s launches.

Several new designs based on the heartier elements of nature, such as Granite, Crystal and Timber, appeal to a new audience including those who want more contemporary designs as well as gender neutral and color neutral options.

We are also introducing Watermelon and Tomato with our traditional Charles Viancin use of color as well as a new line of spatulas and cutting board set.

Tell us about your previous experience with Discover Design.
Being part of Discover Design has provided us with great exposure to those retailers who are seeking higher quality and high design products. It has also opened up new opportunities for us not just in the United States but globally.  In addition, we have always received positive response and coverage from the consumer and trade press as they are always looking for the latest trends in design.

Thank you, Charles, for sharing your stories of inspiration and for this preview of your latest products. We look forward to seeing your new items in your growing assortment of fun and functional kitchen and home accessories in Discover Design N7913.

See more about Charles Viancin at www.charlesviancin.com.

Discover Design is the premier destination at the International Home + Housewares Show for trend spotters who make design their priority. Retailers looking for the unique will find early 200 design leaders at Discover Design located at the front of the North Building.

Anchored by renowned brands such as Alessi, Blomus and Eva Solo, Discover Design welcomes new exhibitors, such as notNeutral, Luckies of London, and Stelton, and introduces 10 emerging companies at the Design Debut incubator. Additional fresh offerings from veteran design-focused exhibitors such as Kikkerland, Zoku and Magisso will also inspire your choices for the coming year. Find more information on Discover Design exhibitors online.