Smart Water

A passion for problem-solving is what led American product designer Michael T. Seum to create his latest eco-friendly, techno-driven water safety and security products for leading German firm Grohe.

- Catherine Belbin

“Everything that isn’t found in nature has to be designed, so I’m always inspired to create new things,” says Michael Seum, Grohe’s Vice President of Design.

“I love to solve problems and to create better experiences for people, and technology used correctly can help us simultaneously enhance the experience and save the environment,” says the multiple-award-wining designer, who has over 50 patents to his credit.

“So many things influence my designs. Influences and input come from all parts of the world, as we are all so connected nowadays. I suppose the biggest trend, which is more a behaviour than a trend, reflects the nomadic lifestyle that we enjoy today – with so many people travelling and living in different places,” says the American-born, Dusseldorf-based designer.

“This is possibly seen in the design of all types of things, which are generally becoming lighter, more modular and flexible – giving the opportunity to mix and match them as space and interior design requires.”

Over the years Seum has designed for leading brands including PepsiCo Sports, Sterling, Procter and Gamble to name but a few. “We at Grohe are not necessarily following trends but rather social behaviour and environmental needs, and trying to adapt those requirements into our products, which are produced to be long-lasting, timeless and more permanent fixtures, with a lifespan of about 10 years,” says Seum, stressing: “Longevity is essential to us.”