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Red Dot Award: Product Design
Choosing the right sun protection for your balcony can be a challenge. Installation is often complicated and awnings can rarely be taken with you when you move house.
The markilux 900 wedge-in awning offers a practical solution. Thanks to its clamping column design and minimal drilling requirements, it is easy to install and remove, making it easier to take with you when you move and requiring no permanent structural changes.
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Interview with Michael Gerling
Red Dot: The markilux 900 was specifically developed for urban balcony settings. What features did you focus on?
Michael Gerling: Our new wedge-in awning is designed for fast installation with just a few drill holes. At the same time, we aimed to create a product with convincing design, function and quality. The markilux 900 is the first awning of its kind with folding arm technology and a cassette.
What role does simple installation play?
The awning is primarily intended for renters and homeowners, so this is naturally an important consideration. Classic folding arm awnings cannot be fitted in every flat and can rarely be removed in case you move house. Installation with clamping posts also minimises the structural impact on the building, an argument that could persuade hesitant landlords to agree to the installation of an awning.
How did you manage to achieve stability in a minimalist design?
We have been experimenting with materials, statics and various forms for decades, so it was a pretty routine process for us. An idea is always the first source of inspiration, followed by numerous further steps to make it technically feasible. This is where our many years of experience come into play, as well as our aspiration to continuously develop our expertise, our products and the related technology.
How important is the development of new products to you?
It’s a powerful driver that shapes a company’s image. But we aren’t just focusing on launching new awnings in the market. There is also excellent potential to optimise existing models. We always keep an eye on market requirements and try to eliminate as many constraints as we can in the product development process.
