SUIT-CASE

A collaboration between
Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS

With the hand-luggage-sized SUIT-CASE architect David Chipperfield and TSATSAS not only define their requirements for a piece of luggage but also their desire for a more mindful approach to travel.

SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS

Travel is part and parcel of David Chipperfield’s life. In addition to his architectural projects that take him around the globe the architect’s four offices located variously in Berlin, London, Milan and Shanghai necessitate constant shuttling between these cities. David Chipperfield has spent a large part of the last decades in the air, airports have been his constant companion and a suitcase a means of conveying all those objects needed on a daily basis. “I guess the idea of the bag is personal to me because I have spent most of my life travelling. Instead of complaining that every bag I buy does not work, it has been an opportunity to design a bag that suits my lifestyle,” explains David Chipperfield.

This idea has been at the back of his mind for years, decades. When he first met Esther and Dimitrios Tsatsas in 2017, not only was Chipperfield immediately taken by both the quality of their work both as regards design and material, but the chemistry was likewise right. In this way, the idea of a joint project was born: the ultimate SUIT-CASE.

SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS

In the project spanning more than three years, Esther and Dimitrios Tsatsas contributed their design and material expertise while Chipperfield laid down what he required of a suitcase: Hand-luggage size yet with enough space for a short trip with a suit. But as they explored the topic more deeply it became clear that SUIT-CASE was not just about an item of luggage but also about the desire for a different approach to travel in the future. For conscious decisions about which flights are really necessary. A move away from travel as something that is stressful and a mad rush, in the direction of a more conscious perception and experience of travel. Accompanied by a suitcase that as regards material and finish stands for longevity and an appreciation of lasting values.

“Sustainability through design” is a central credo of TSATSAS that applies likewise to the architecture of David Chipperfield. And it is central to the design of SUIT-CASE: The timeless, clear design of a product whose look will not fall out of favor ensures it will survive for many years and it is this enduring quality that makes it stand for true sustainability.

SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS

The minimalist, clear silhouette conceals an interior perfectly organized for storing all needed travel utensils. The case of SUIT-CASE is made of a completely biodegradable, emission-free wood fiber, covered with gold-certified calfskin leather from a German tannery. Its interior is lined with soft lamb nappa leather combined with natural canvas; the metal fittings are made in Italy of recycled brass. SUIT-CASE is completely plastic-free.

Conceived as hand luggage, SUIT-CASE is ideally suited for business or weekend trips. Weighing in at just 2,7 kg the suitcase compares well with almost every hard-shell case.

SUIT-CASE is made on demand and available on www.tsatsas.com.

SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS
SUIT-CASE — A collaboration between Sir David Chipperfield and TSATSAS

Photography and Videos
Gerhardt Kellermann

Portraits
Alexander Kilian