Why color makes the difference in modular designer furniture
Color makes all the difference in modular designer furniture, as it not only influences the look but also shapes the spatial effect, atmosphere, and functionality. It lends character to simple forms, visually structures spaces, has a psychological impact, and can be flexibly adapted. Light tones open up a room, dark tones create depth, and bright colors add vibrant accents. Especially with modular systems like USM or Flexcube, color enables individual design and adaptability – thus becoming the key to stylish, personal interior design concepts.
USM Haller color palette overview
List of the 14 USM standard colors
USM currently offers 14 standard colors, including classics such as pure white, graphite black, anthracite grey, ruby red, steel blue, golden yellow or USM green.
| USM Haller paints | RAL code |
|---|---|
| Pure white | RAL 9010 |
| Light grey | RAL 7035 |
| USM Medium Grey | – |
| Anthracite grey | RAL 7016 |
| Graphite black | RAL 9011 |
| Steel blue | RAL 5011 |
| Gentian blue | RAL 5010 |
| USM Green | – |
| Golden yellow | RAL 1004 |
| Pure orange | RAL 2004 |
| USM Ruby Red | – |
| USM Braun | – |
| USM Beige | – |
| Olive green | RAL 6003 |
USM Limited Editions
USM Limited Editions are exclusive special editions of the renowned USM Haller furniture, distinguished by unique colors, finishes, or design collaborations. Released for a limited time or in limited quantities, they are aimed at design-conscious customers who appreciate individuality, as well as collaborations with brands like Monocle in 2022 with "True Pink . " They are typically available only through select retailers or special promotions.
USM furniture in special colors
USM Haller itself offers 14 standard colors for online purchase. If a different color is desired, it is recommended to contact a USM retail partner directly. Custom colors for larger projects are available upon request. Studiostandard currently offers 5 pastel colors as color alternatives for upcycled USM furniture.
Flexcube Color World – Swiss USM Alternative
Flexcube is a popular Swiss alternative to USM Haller. Flexcube is comparable to USM Haller in quality, functionality, and appearance. However, the systems differ in dimensions (sizes and depths), colors, and the iconic connector element.
Flexcube standard colors at a glance
List of the 9 Flexcube standard colors
Flexcube currently offers nine standard colors, including RAL classics such as traffic white, signal black, dark gray, and purple red. Flexcube also offers a highly distinctive touch with its own in-house colors, ranging from classic to ultra-modern shades for home textiles.
| Flexcube Standard Colors | code |
|---|---|
| White | RAL 9016 Traffic White |
| Light grey / Argent | based on RAL 7038 Agate Grey |
| Taupe | based on Pantone Warm Gray 5 |
| Dark grey | RAL 7005 Mouse Grey |
| Black | RAL 9004 Signal Black |
| Mint | based on Pantone 5503 |
| Petrol | based on Pantone 7477 |
| Olive green | based on RAL 6003 |
| Red | RAL 3004 Purple Red |
Flexcube variety with RAL & house colors
Flexcube's configurator offers the ingeniously simple option of selecting any RAL color for all furniture. Nearly 200 RAL colors are available. If the desired color is not within the RAL spectrum, it is possible to have a specific "house color" produced.
Flexcube in Chrome Black and Chrome Rose Gold
Flexcube connectors are available not only in chrome silver, but also in chrome black and chrome rose gold. This allows you to create truly unique pieces of furniture. All color combinations are easily available through the online shop and configurator.
Comparison: USM Haller vs. Flexcube
Design freedom and prices
While the current USM color palette comprises 14 standard colors as well as limited special editions, enabling stylish, timeless combinations, Flexcube, with its standard colors and the option to create virtually any RAL or custom color, offers significantly more design freedom for individual room concepts. Flexcube is also considerably more cost-effective and grants business customers and SMEs an additional 25% discount.
Trends and concepts for contemporary working and living environments
The magic of colors – and how they can be used consciously
There are spaces that instantly appeal to you – without it being immediately obvious why. Often, it's the colors that trigger an immediate emotional response. Colors touch us and convey messages. Color choice has a significant impact on atmosphere and well-being. Current trends show a clear tendency towards natural, calming tones, combined with targeted accents that bring energy and structure to the space. Integrating these color trends gives modern work environments a balanced blend of functionality and aesthetics. Nature-inspired color palettes: Tones like olive green, warm beige, or soft terracotta create a relaxed, nature-connected environment. This palette has a positive effect on the emotional climate and supports both concentration and inner peace in the workday. Soft pastel shades: Delicate shades of blue, green, or lavender have a subtle effect and create a pleasant environment that stimulates creativity without being distracting. Such colors are ideal for open-plan workspaces or quiet retreats in the office. Vibrant Accents: Bold colors like sunny yellow, coral orange, or petrol blue create targeted highlights and bring energy to a room. Used as wall paint, furniture details, or decorative elements, they foster a dynamic atmosphere – especially in meeting rooms or creative zones. Timeless Neutrality: Monochrome color schemes with various shades of gray, black, and white represent understated elegance and clarity. They underscore a minimalist design and provide a neutral foundation for focused work. Color Schemes for Small Spaces: Compact workspaces benefit from thoughtful color choices: Light tones like white, cream, or very light gray make rooms appear more open and spacious. Combined with carefully placed color accents on walls or furniture, a lively, welcoming effect is created despite the small size. Warmth and Structure in Large Offices: Spacious office areas can feel more inviting with rich, warm colors like crimson, dark blue, or olive green. Color-coded zones also help to visually separate different work areas – such as quiet zones, team areas, or meeting pods – thus promoting orientation and a sense of community. These color trends and strategies demonstrate how thoughtful color design can enhance both small and large office spaces and create a pleasant, functional working environment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How do I obtain color samples for USM Haller or Flexcube? USM color samples are generally available from USM dealers. Some also offer this service online. Flexcube color samples are available in the showroom, online, or by request (email, phone, chat).
- What is the most popular color? White, black, and shades of gray are in high demand – they are considered particularly timeless and versatile.
- Which color suits my decor? Light colors like white or beige create a modern and airy feel, while dark colors like black or gray appear more elegant and understated. Bright colors like red, blue, or green add deliberate accents.
- Is it possible to change the color of existing furniture? With modular systems like USM and Flexcube, individual elements such as flaps, drawer fronts, or side panels can be replaced – for example, for a color update.
- Are color differences possible when purchasing replacement pieces? Color differences are generally possible when purchasing replacement pieces, although they are usually minor. The main reason for this lies in the different production batches: Despite high quality standards, slight variations in color or gloss level can occur during powder coating, especially if several years have passed between the original purchase and the replacement. Additionally, the colors of furniture can change slightly over time due to light, UV radiation, or other environmental factors, so new pieces may appear lighter or more saturated than older ones. For visible combinations, it can be helpful to arrange new and old pieces separately or symmetrically to visually minimize any differences. Overall, slight color variations cannot be ruled out, but they can usually be easily compensated for with careful planning.
Conclusion: Colors as the key to individuality – USM Haller & Flexcube in a color comparison
Color no longer plays a merely secondary role in the design of modular furniture like USM Haller and Flexcube – it's a central component of a modern interior design concept. The current USM palette of 14 standard colors, along with limited special editions, allows for stylish and timeless combinations, while Flexcube, with nine standard colors and the option of virtually any RAL or custom color, offers even more scope for creative room concepts. Whether neutral tones for a minimalist ambiance, natural colors for a calming work atmosphere, or bold accents to zone and enliven spaces: the right color choice creates structure, mood, and identity – in the office as well as in living areas. Flexcube breaks new ground with modern color nuances and color-variable connectors, offering a flexible alternative to USM. With careful planning, color can not only define spaces but also convey specific emotions, functionality, and brand identity. Whether classic or experimental – color is a crucial design tool in modular furniture design.
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