Founded more than a century ago, USM was originally a producer of iron works and window fittings. In 1961, Paul Schaerer—grandson of USM founder Ulrich Schaerer—decided to transform the Münsingen-based factory from a large, manually-oriented metal production plant into a modern, industrial enterprise. To achieve this, Schaerer commissioned Swiss architect Fritz Haller to design a building that would accommodate the factory while providing ample space for administrative offices. The facility’s modular architecture inspired Haller and Schaerer to accompany USM’s growth prospect with concepts for flexible storage solutions. In 1963, the two men created the pioneering furniture product known today as USM Haller Systems. The long life cycle of the company’s products—achieved through the unlimited possible reconfigurations of the system— contributes to minimal waste generation and account for USM’s sustainable philosophy.
At Downtown Design, USM will supply a series of furniture installations to be installed as part of the framework of the event. Visitors to the show will be able to see the true versatility of the USM product at various locations throughout the venue.