A new chapter for van Esch and Functionals. The two brands – that belong to the same family firm from Goirle – will merge in January 2025 to become a single rock-solid brand: Functionals. Under this name, the family firm will build on the rich legacy, ready for the future. The new Functionals organises and arranges spaces with functional and carefully designed products that last a lifetime. From coat racks and waste sorting bins to lockers, display cabinets, tables and chairs.
Three generations, two brands, one family firm: Functionals and van Esch have a history that dates back to 1972. Over the last 50 years, van Esch grew to become the ultimate coat rack specialist and later shifted the focus to 'Products for places where people meet' with the introduction of waste bins and display cabinets. Functionals was established in 2009 as a label for unique design and launched the icons the Lloyd Table and Wendela Chair. The brand's products blend in perfectly in settings around the world: from the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam to Apple's head office in the United States. Now it is time for the next chapter.
Third generation at the wheel
According to director Simon van Esch, the brands have grown ever closer together in recent years. 'van Esch and Functionals share a passion for metal, artisanship and attention for detail. And make functional and timeless products that last a lifetime', he explains. 'Now that the third generation of van Esch is at the wheel, it feels like a natural step forward to blend van Esch and Functionals into one rock-solid brand. A brand with which we are prepared for the future. With more focus to serve our customers even better.'
Organising spaces
The new Functionals brand promise is: Organising Spaces. 'We believe that comfortable working and living starts with a tidy and orderly environment', explains Simon. 'Because a well-organised space creates peace and quiet, around you and in your mind. At Functionals, we get spaces to work for you with functional and thoughtfully designed products that last a lifetime. For at home, in the office, a museum or changing room. Together with leading designers from across Europe, we develop products that excel in simplicity, craftsmanship and sustainability. Made in our own factory in Goirle, the Netherlands.'
25 year warranty
From now on, the family business also offers 25 years of warranty on almost all products. Simon van Esch: 'This is unique in our industry. I see it as a logical result of our quality. We truly stand behind it.'
Leading designers
The family firm has worked with leading designers from across Europe for many years. From Christoph Seyferth and KASCHKASCH to Boris Berlin and Frans de la Haye. 'Professionals who – just like us – love to make', relates Simon. 'And who see the beauty in simplicity. Through combining our strengths with their talent and vision, we set the tone with innovative products. Stylish and a little bit quirky. But functional and well-thought-out too.'
The Functionals selection
In January 2025 we will merge the Functionals and van Esch selection of products on www.functionals.com. A new website with a completely new house style, including a logo designed by renowned graphic designer Karel Martens. On the website you will find a rock-solid collection of functional and carefully designed products, made to last a lifetime. From coat racks like Krok and Just, to the waste sorting bins Ditch and Dunk. From the locker range Aquarius to the display cabinet Stolp. And from the Lloyd Table to the Wendela Chair.
Upcoming presentations in 2025
Next to the permanent presentation of the collection at HQ, Functionals will present once more at Design District (Rotterdam, May 2025) and for the first time at 3daysofdesign (Copenhagen, June 2025) amongst others.
More information:
Functionals
www.functionals.com