French artisan eyewear brand, Struktur puts extensive research and development into every aspect of each frame to ensure they enhance the uniqueness of the individual’s features, always highlighting, rather than overpowering, the wearer’s face. With collections displaying vibrant colourways, innovative materials, exaggerated shapes, and striking sculptural ‘structures’….
Struktur eyewear has drawn its inspiration from architecture and fashion for ten years. According to the brand owners today, Jean François Lufeaux and Thierry Bonhomme: “Our vision is to make the differences that we all have as human beings, a strength. We want our frames to be in line with and to represent the identity of each customer.” Above: Struktur glasses are made in a traditional factory in Northern France
Asked to describe the design process, Struktur’s owners refer to traditional creativity and good old-fashioned drawing. “Hand-drawing is a whole process. We create shapes and after dozens of sketches, there is always one shape that stands out from the others. The computer stage of this process allows us to finalize the design so that it meets everyone’s expectations – to every extent. Once finished, the acetate material allows the frame to work with and fit the human face.”
Each piece in the collection is developed with minute attention to detail and painstaking precision. The research is based on two points; the ideas for shapes and the innovative techniques in manufacturing eyewear. “For the shapes, we seek inspiration in everything – except the world of eyewear! Architecture, fashion, jewellery, even sport,” explains Thierry Bonhomme. “The technical aspects of eyewear, like the titanium temples are developed over time. During their conception, we first focus on the aesthetic aspects; reflecting on the possibilities of designing two temples that could merge into one. Next, we looked at the mechanical aspects to find a specific opening technique, and finally, we worked on the flexibility and rigidity of titanium. We did many trials to find the right material with the right density and width, before eventually coming to the decision on colour. We also trial over ten colours across multiple prototypes, of which only three might be selected. The research is extensive, to say the least!”
Established artisan craftsmanship underlies this careful design work. The Struktur frames are produced at SOLF Production, a manufacturer present in the eyewear industry for over fifty years. “The factory produces frames in acetate and metal. They are truly gifted, with an incomparable talent in the nuances of the craft of spectacle making. SOLF works with many independent brands and some e-commerce sites, supporting its customers throughout the process of designing and making the frames.”
Struktur is one of a group of unique European eyewear brands featuring at the UK’s optical fair – 100% Optical in London – 23-25 April 2022 – www.100percentoptical.com. Find out more about Struktur at https://en.struktur-eyewear.fr
Co-Authored By Clodagh Norton & Victoria G. L. Brunton – All rights reserved