Biography
Colin Schälli: A Journey in Design
Born in Chur, Switzerland, in 1980, Colin Schälli's artistic path began with an apprenticeship as a draftsman under Peter Zumthor, renowned for his meticulous approach to detail. This experience instilled in Schälli a deep understanding of design principles that continues to influence his work.
Schälli further honed his skills at the Zurich University of the Arts, studying industrial design and exploring various disciplines like graphic design, typography, and layout. It was here that his creative vision began to solidify, leading him to create designs that are both visually striking and intellectually stimulating.
Following his studies, Schälli collaborated with FREITAG, a renowned Swiss label known for its recycled bags. This opportunity allowed him to showcase his versatility and refine his design style, contributing significantly to the company's graphic and packaging design.
In 2006, Schälli established his own design studio, embarking on a path of creative independence. Since then, he has worked with numerous national and international companies, focusing on both corporate and product design. His ability to seamlessly blend form and function has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple Design Prize Switzerland awards.
Schälli's work has been exhibited internationally, gracing venues like the Museum für Gestaltung Zurich and the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris. His designs have also been featured in prestigious publications and magazines, solidifying his reputation as a talented and innovative designer.
Beyond individual projects, Schälli actively shares his expertise through lectures and serves as a design jury member. He is committed to fostering a vibrant design community and inspiring future generations.
Today, Colin Schälli continues to push boundaries and create thought-provoking designs that leave a lasting impression. His dedication to his craft and artistic vision make him a leading figure in the Swiss design landscape and an inspiration to many.
Artistic Achievements and Recognition
Awards:
• 2x Design Prize Switzerland
• Red Dot Design Award
• Foundation for Grisons Arts and Crafts
• Culture Promotion Prize of the Canton of Graubünden
Financial support:
• Grant from the Foundation for Innovation of the Canton of Graubünden
Lectures:
• Genuine Swiss, Swiss Design Symposium Tokyo
• A+D Museum in Los Angeles
• Sangsangmadang, Seoul
• Lucerne School of Art and Design, Lucerne
Residency:
• Tokyo Arts and Space – Genuine Swiss, Swiss Design Symposium
Design Jury:
• Die Besten 2011, Hochparterre
Exhibitions: various exhibitions in L.A., Paris, Milan, Zurich, Tokyo and Kyoto. For example:
• exhibition of FREITAG Hangtag and V30 POS Skid in the Museum für Gestaltung Zurich
• exhibition of con.temporary furniture at Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris
• exhibition of V30 POS Skid at the A+D Museum in Los Angeles
• exhibition of con.temporary furniture at Design Tide in Tokyo
• exhibition of con.temporary furniture at Showcase in Tokyo
• exhibition of con.temporary furniture at Salone del Mobile Milan
• exhibition of con.temporary furniture at the IFFT interior lifestyle exhibition in Tokyo
• exhibition of I AM URBAN at Urban Research Gallery in Kyoto
to mention a few
Notable publications:
• published under Birkhäuser Verlag; Wonderwood
• published under Lars Müller Publishers; FREITAG Ein Taschenbuch & Spielwitz und Klarheit
• published in magazines such as Esquire, Hochparterre, Milk, Brutus, Casa Brutus, Schöner Wohnen and Ideales Heim
• published in newspapers such as SonntagsZeitung, NZZ am Sonntag, Z Magazin, Südostschweiz, Bündner Tagblatt
• published online at Core77, Designboom and Domus
to name a few
Notable professional experience at:
• Atelier Peter Zumthor
• Althaus Architekten AG
• FREITAG lab. ag
• Darlington Meier Architekten
• Hinoki Kougei, Tokyo
• Torafu Architects, Tokyo
• Saloon Creative GmbH
• Designers' Club
to reveal a few
Well-known customers:
• HM Cross, Tokyo
• Rudi Mauser, Munich
• Boris Becker Tennis
• Sport Media Services, Germany
• Allegra Passugger AG
• Pioneer Corporation, Japan
• Urban Research, Japan
• Kalabrese, Zurich
highly praised
Patent:
• V30 FREITAG Skid
CONTACT
Colin Schälli
c/o Beat Ris
Forchstrasse 232
8032 Zürich
colin@colinschaelli.com
Currently employed as Senior Designer at Designers' Club Zurich Switzerland ➔
Designers' Club is a design-driven consultancy dedicated to shaping how the world perceives brands and spaces. We believe that design is far more than aesthetics; it’s a powerful form of communication that influences emotions and perceptions long before words are spoken. Whether a space feels warm or cold, or a brand exudes seriousness or playfulness, design is at the heart of that perception.
At Designers' Club, we view communication through the lens of design. Our mission is to help our clients achieve visual clarity and develop a language that outlasts fleeting advertising trends. Our approach is both analytical and tactical, understanding that the visual identity of a company is its emotional language, making it a crucial strategic asset.
From creating corporate identities and designing exhibition posters to developing websites and planning interior spaces, our work is grounded in a deep understanding of the essence of a company. We believe that only by uncovering this essence can we make its core visible, thereby creating the intangible capital of a brand.
Our expertise lies in transforming complex ideas into clear, compelling visual experiences that resonate on an emotional level, ensuring that our clients’ brands not only stand out but also endure.