Lepper Schmidt Sommerlade

Background

Lepper Schmidt Sommerlade is a design agency in Kassel, Germany. According to Thonet's designer page and brochure it was founded in 1992 by Christian Lepper (1958-2008), Roland Schmidt (born 1961) and Uwe Sommerlade (born 1961). Thonet's page says all three trained as carpenters before studying design in Kassel.

Signature Style

The agency works mainly on furniture for commercial applications. One of its trademarks, in Thonet's words, is the combination of design and construction competence, and independent projects with architects, graphic designers and artists provide inspiration for serial products. Thonet adds that the agency has received several design awards.

Notable Works

Thonet's designer page lists the S 847 DW swivel chair, part of the S 840 range (dated 2006 on the S 845 DRW page), and the A 1700 leg evo table leg.

Legacy

Uwe Sommerlade's page on Thonet's site says he established his own studio in 2011 after the death of Christian Lepper.