ONINO is dedicated to creating innovative design objects that captivate and inspire. Their primary brand, MARBOLOUS, launched in 2022 on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, quickly became one of the most successful campaigns of the year. MARBOLOUS focuses on developing and building design marble runs, reimagining them not as toys, but as kinetic design objects that offer both interactive enjoyment and aesthetic pleasure. These modern marble runs blend the timeless appeal of classic children’s toys with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic and are crafted from high-quality materials such as stainless steel rails and real glass. Some models also feature an electrical twist with integrated motion sensors and more, elevating the interactive experience to new heights.
Interview with Jan Friedmann, Co-CEO of ONINO GmbH.
Easy Engineering: What are the main areas of activity of the company?
Jan Friedmann: ONINO GmbH primarily focuses on three main areas: Design, Engineering, and Branding. Our strength lies not only in our ability to design innovative products but also in our comprehensive production knowledge and extensive network, which allow us to bring novel design ideas to life without compromise. Additionally, we excel in building remarkable brands that perfectly complement our products.
Beyond developing our own products and brands, ONINO also supports other companies in realizing their visions. Examples include projects like an e-cargo bike and the reinvention of a sustainable tea light. This dual approach ensures that we not only create and market our own groundbreaking designs but also assist other firms in bringing their unique ideas to fruition.
E.E: What’s the news about new products?
J.F: We have expanded our MARBOLOUS product portfolio with the launch of the BIG M, a large-scale marble run sculpture designed as an eye-catching centerpiece. This fully automatic, stunning piece with integrated lighting is perfect for upscale establishments and hotel lobbies.
Additionally, we have established a collaboration with Sandsara, creators of kinetic sculptures that draw infinite patterns in the sand. Their products align perfectly with ours, both in design and aesthetic quality, making this partnership a natural fit.
E.E: What are the ranges of products?
J.F: Our product range focuses on kinetic art objects that embody the highest standards in design, functionality, and material quality.
For MARBOLOUS, we offer three variants: Classic, ElectRoll, and BIG M.
Classic: A fully mechanical marble run that serves as an ideal decorative object and desk toy, perfect for enhancing any workspace.
ElectRoll: An advanced version of the Classic, equipped with a motion sensor that detects movement and sets the marbles rolling automatically, as if by magic. In interval mode, marbles are periodically released onto the track.
BIG M: A large-scale marble run sculpture designed as a striking centerpiece with integrated lighting, perfect for upscale establishments and hotel lobbies.
Every variant is offered in different wood variations and can be individualized by colored marble sets.
For Sandsara, we offer three versions: Alabaster, Obsidian, and Dark Walnut.
Each version is equipped with an integrated battery for wireless use, integrated lighting, and can be controlled via the SANDSARA app. This makes the sculpture, where a marble magically draws infinite patterns into the sand bed, absolutely stunning.
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
J.F: The high-end design decoration market in 2024 is flourishing, with a strong appetite for novel and unique products. Since entering this niche, which was previously underexplored, we have been amazed by the number of marble run enthusiasts around the world who love the MARBOLOUS and SANDSARA concepts. This enthusiastic reception has confirmed the market’s demand for our innovative kinetic art objects.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
J.F: As a company operating in the upper-class design market, we have observed several emerging trends that could be interesting for us in the future:
- Seamless Technology Integrations: Design increasingly incorporates hidden gadget features and smart home technology.
- Personalization and Lifestyle Considerations: Decoration is becoming less about brands and more about how products enable and express a personalized lifestyle.
E.E: What are the most innovative products marketed?
J.F: The goal of our company is to continually offer more innovative designs than the previous ones, making this question quite challenging for us. However, if I had to choose, I believe our most innovative product is our very first: the MARBOLOUS Classic. Overcoming numerous technical hurdles to realize our vision for this product was a monumental task. Ultimately, all the effort paid off, as evidenced by our recent won ICONIC AWARD 2024 for Interior Products. It’s incredible how far this crazy marble idea has rolled!
E.E: What estimations do you have for 2024?
J.F: ONINO’s objectives for the year 2024 is to be able to create a portfolio with even more products with brilliant designs that suit us. Firstly, by increasing the number of different MARBOLOUS models, but also by creating new brands which fit ONINOs core idea: fascination knows no boundaries.