Convotherm, a long-established company founded in 1976, is a manufacturer of professional catering kitchens with annual sales of over 10,000 steam cookers. The company’s product portfolio is outdated, resulting in economic stagnation. Studio F. A. Porsche is commissioned to design a revitalised product range.

The starting point is a detailed analysis of the market environment. In addition to evaluating the market, positioning, product and quality, this also involves identifying unique selling points as well as weaknesses in product characteristics.

The next step involves analysing the existing products with regard to the consistency of design elements such as feet or buttons. Weaknesses in the corporate identity are identified.

A detailed phase of process analysis enables the designers at Studio F. A. Porsche to understand the specific functions of Convotherm appliances and how they are used on a day-to-day basis.

The actual design process begins with brainstorming, based on the design principle of ‘form follows function’. Clear, simple industrial design combined with a hygienic surface – the new design approach adheres to both functional and aesthetic principles. The appliances are available as part of a modular system, ensuring the necessary flexibility.

The result of this product development is an innovative range of units available in a total of seven sizes. Particular attention was paid to user-friendliness and freedom of movement – including, amongst other things, an optional retractable door as a new standard feature.

The new Convotherm 4 is a modern combi-steamer that combines a convection oven and a steam cooker.

The intuitive user interface makes manual operation particularly straightforward, with all additional functions clearly visible on a single screen. An integrated USB port also makes it easier to manage recipes and menus.

The collaboration resulted not only in a clearly distinct product, but also in an innovative and holistic design language for the entire Convotherm brand.