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The renowned designer elaborates on his aesthetic ideals and the inspiration behind the Dror for Tumi collection
If the idea of versatile, travel-friendly products appeals to you, then the latest collection by Dror Benshetrit for Tumi is certainly worth a gander. Comprised of hardsided cases and soft travel and business bags capable of dynamic “transformation”, the Dror for Tumi collection is designed to adapt for multiple uses by expanding or changing their shape. It is the result of 18 months of extensive research and prototyping, where Benshetrit worked closely with the Tumi team to push the boundaries of engineering and manufacturing.
For example, a backpack can be turned into a tote or a briefcase simply by adjusting the straps; a two-wheeled case can have its depth expanded from nine inches to 14 inches; and a travel kit allows various packing and usage styles.
Benshetrit is somewhat of a multifaceted being himself – through his interdisciplinary practice, Studio Dror, he has built up a portfolio encompassing product design, architectural projects, interior design, graphic design, and art direction, he has worked with clients including Alessi, Bentley, Bombay Sapphire, and Swarovski.
On the advent of his latest collection with Tumi, we speak with the New-York based Israeli designer to find out more about his design ideals, inspiration for these travel-friendly bags, and what his idea of a dream vacation would be.
Asia Tatler: How would you describe your own design aesthetic?
Dror Benshetrit: My studio is an idea-driven practice so it is kind of hard to draw a consistent aesthetic feature across our projects. I guess our design signature would be better described as transformative and engaging design, non-static objects that can adapt and morph to respond to a scope of needs. We try to always explore new technological avenues and push boundaries to come up with innovative products and bring something new.
AT: How did you approach designing this collection for Tumi?
DB: I was very inspired by the challenge of improving the travelling experience and bringing together style, elegance, and performance within the design of our bags. I am always about adaptability and the non-static character of objects. I wanted to make these bags a transformative extension of ourselves, while giving them this transformative and adjustable character within.
AT: How has this idea been incorporated into the designs?
DB: For instance, the Dror for Tumi backpack can become a briefcase or a tote as you fold in or out the different optional handles. As another example, the hard-case carrier can extend two times and gain twice its initial capacity. I myself do a great deal of traveling; I was excited about the opportunity to contribute to this experience that is part of our lifestyle.
"I am fascinated by the ability of the human being to adapt to the different environments he passes by"
AT: How much of your own experience as a traveller did you tap into when designing this collection?
DB: I am constantly traveling for work – I am more often in planes and airports than I am at home. I would dream of greater efficiency in my travelling experience. I need a bag and luggage that can follow me everywhere; that are reliable and meet my idea of style; that can expand when I bring things from a trip or reduce in sizes when I leave things behind. I am fascinated by the ability of the human being to adapt to the different environments he passes by – I am constantly trying to bring this transformative quality to my design work. I think good design and performing objects should reflect our qualities while they meet our needs.
AT: Tell us about your favourite bag from this collection.
DB: I have been using the backpack a lot and cannot separate myself from it. It follows me everywhere, everyday, and in all occasions. It has become an extension of me. The transformation from tote to backpack is so comfortable. I have also used the toiletries bag and the expended hard-case a lot; those are so convenient. I can’t imagine myself travelling differently now.
AT: What are some of your favourite destinations, and why?
DB: Paris because of its history, its architecture, and cultural vibrancy; Costa Rica for its mind-blowing nature; and Asia for its dynamism and beautiful landscapes.
AT: What is your packing strategy like?
DB: Taking the minimum necessary – I’ve become pretty good at it.
AT: Describe your idea of a dream vacation.
DB: Costa Rica, where I have no reception and can only connect with my thoughts and nature
AT: What is “luxury” to you?
DB: Simplicity, travelling, and doing what you love.
