Layer
LAYER is a London-based multi-disciplinary design studio of 30 creatives founded in 2015 by Benjamin Hubert, delivering industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design for 150+ global partners across furniture, consumer electronics, audio, beauty, telecom, and clean energy.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2015
- HeadquartersLondon, United Kingdom
- Headcount11–50
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingServices
What Layer does
LAYER is a London-based multi-disciplinary design studio founded in 2015 by Benjamin Hubert. The studio employs a team of 30 industrial designers, engineers, strategists, and branding specialists operating from a single East London studio equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, industrial sewing machines, and material libraries. Over a decade it has delivered 150+ collaborations spanning furniture, consumer electronics, audio, beauty, telecom, mobility, clean energy, and wellness — including Calma and Velo task chairs for Andreu World, Beosound Balance for Bang & Olufsen, ONE tripod for Manfrotto, Aura 2 projector for Xgimi, Shark Beauty styling systems, View holographic hub for Deutsche Telekom, and Croft hydrogen power systems.
The studio's technical capabilities center on research-driven, human-centered design with a strong sustainability orientation: 3D-knitted textile innovation (Membrane, Tent Chair), foam-free modular product architecture (MAZZU mattress with 72 independent spring units), design for manufacture, and rapid in-house prototyping. Notable outputs include the holographic SAGA HoloBike (Popular Science Best of What's New), Viture One smart glasses (which helped raise $3.1M on Kickstarter), and a PiA modular AI-device ecosystem concept.
LAYER generates revenue through project-based professional services engagements, with pricing quote-driven and not publicly disclosed. The studio combines a sales-led direct engagement model with event-driven marketing anchored by Milan Design Week, London Design Festival, and NeoCon — most recently the 101010 retrospective exhibition at Milan Design Week 2025, which drew 50,000 visitors. The studio has accumulated 200+ industry awards and 2,500+ press features, and remains privately held with no disclosed institutional capital.
Layer firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- Layer
- Legal name
- LAYER
- Website
- https://layerdesign.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2015
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 11–50 employees
- Short description
- LAYER is a London-based multi-disciplinary design studio of 30 creatives founded in 2015 by Benjamin Hubert, delivering industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design for 150+ global partners across furniture, consumer electronics, audio, beauty, telecom, and clean energy.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
Where Layer is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- London
- HQ country
- United Kingdom
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices1 record
Markets served
Layer business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Services
- Cost components
- Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure
Revenue model
- Design Consulting Services: LAYER generates revenue through client-funded design projects across industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design. Projects range from brand identity creation to full product development and manufacture preparation. The studio collaborates with global partners including tech brands, fashion brands, furniture manufacturers, and startups.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Other | Multi-year contract | Project-based design engagement |
Go-to-market motion2 records
Distribution channels3 records
Marketing channels6 records
Layer product offering
Product offeringCore offering
Layer is a London-based multi-disciplinary design studio that delivers industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design services to brands and startups. Engagements span brand identity creation, full product design and engineering for manufacture, and digital/UX design, with work covering furniture, consumer electronics, telecommunications, beauty, personal transport, and clean-energy products for clients such as Bang & Olufsen, Andreu World, Deutsche Telekom, Manfrotto, Shark Beauty, and Viture.
Product overview
Layer is a London-based design studio offering industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design services. Their portfolio spans furniture (Calma, Velo, Hula, Press chairs for Andreu World, MDF Italia, Fritz Hansen), consumer electronics (Aura projectors for Xgimi, Beosound Balance for Bang & Olufsen, ONE tripod for Manfrotto), wearables and XR (Viture One smart glasses, Unison VR headset, HoloBike for SAGA), smart home devices (View holographic hub for Deutsche Telekom, charging stations for Daily Objects), personal care products (FlexFusion, SilkiPro, Glossi, CryoGlow for Shark Beauty), sustainability solutions (MAZZU mattresses, Croft hydrogen systems, Worldbeing carbon tracker), and brand identities (Zima, Sanne, PiA). The studio collaborates with over 150 global partners including tech startups, Fortune 500 companies, and furniture brands, delivering products from concept through manufacturing.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Products and services
- Industrial Design Multi-disciplinary physical product design service covering concept development, CMF (color, material, finish) strategy, ergonomic research, and engineering for manufacture. Delivered to brands and startups across furniture, consumer electronics, beauty, telecommunications, and clean-energy categories.
- Design Engineering Engineering and design-for-manufacture service that runs alongside industrial design, using the studio's 3D printers, laser cutters, industrial sewing machines, and material libraries to iterate and produce manufacturable designs.
- Branding Brand strategy, identity, packaging, and tone-of-voice service for emerging and established brands. Delivered for clients including Earth Rated (full rebrand), Never Go Alone (NGA), Sanne, PiA, and Zima.
- Digital Design Digital product, UX/UI, and experience design service delivered as part of the studio's multi-disciplinary engagements, including companion apps and digital ecosystems for physical product brands.
- Spatial Design and Exhibitions Spatial and exhibition design service creating immersive environments and large-scale installations for brands and events, including the 101010 exhibition (50,000 visitors) and the Deutsche Telekom Connectivity Concept installation at Milan Design Week.
Quantifiable outcome
- Partners raised over £50M in funding with LAYER's design support
- +5 more outcomes
Companies that use Layer
Customer profileNamed customers30 records
Segments6 records
Ideal customer profiles3 records
Layer technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed No
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Feature3 records
Layer partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
36 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.
- MAZZUcoreLAYER collaborated with Chinese sleep brand MAZZU to create a modular, foam-free camping mattress system with 72 independent spring units and snap-fit connectors. The MAZZU Camping Mattress won Red Dot Design Award 2026 and iF Design Award. LAYER also designed the original MAZZU Mattress featuring replaceable components and mechanical fixings for repairability.
- Bang & OlufsencoreLAYER designed the award-winning Beosound Balance speaker for Bang & Olufsen, which set a new design standard for the brand. Launched Marbled Black Atelier Edition with fewer than 60 units worldwide. The collaboration developed a new brand language expressing interior sensibilities and crafted materials.
- SAGAcoreLAYER designed HoloBike, a revolutionary holographic exercise bike for SAGA that breaks workout monotony through rich holographic immersion using sight-tracking technology. The bike creates a 3D portal to virtual scenes with 4K resolution. HoloBike was recognized in Popular Science's Best of What's New awards and launched on Kickstarter.
- ViturecoreLAYER designed Viture One smart glasses and led crowdfunding campaign that raised $3.1M from over 5,000 backers, setting a new sector record. The studio created photorealistic visuals, prototypes, and behind-the-scenes videos for the campaign.
- Andreu WorldcoreMulti-product partnership spanning Calma task chair (first dedicated work chair), Calma Lounge, Velo task chair (NeoCon Gold 2025), Hula stool, Triada Lift tables, Sero chair (NeoCon Sustainability Gold 2026), and Host beehive. LAYER has worked extensively with Andreu World on circular design and workplace solutions.
- Deutsche TelekomcoreLAYER collaborated with Deutsche Telekom on multiple projects: Connectivity Concept devices, View holographic home hub with AI assistant Emma, LightVision, Buddy AI router concept, Level modular router, and Concept T. View won multiple awards including Fast Company Innovation Award and Good Design Award.
- ManfrottocoreLAYER designed ONE tripod system for Manfrotto - a next-generation tripod reimagining camera support for hybrid photography and videography. Manfrotto invested USD $50 million in the project. ONE won Red Dot Design Award 2026 and iF Design Award 2026. LAYER also developed branding and packaging for the system.
- Shark BeautycoreOngoing design language partnership with Shark Beauty spanning multiple products: SilkiPro Straight, Glossi 2-in-1 Hot Tool, FlexFusion 5-in-1 modular styling system, and CryoGlow LED skincare mask combining light therapy and cryotherapy.
- XgimicoreLAYER designed Aura 2 ultra short-throw projector with motorised lens cover for Xgimi. The projector won iF Design Award 2025 and features a fabric-covered exterior that transforms the tech product into a sculptural home object.
- Daily ObjectsminorLAYER designed Loft 65W charging station with twin power sockets and USB-C charging, and Node modular wireless charging ecosystem for Daily Objects. Both products combine high-performance functionality with lifestyle-driven design.
- MuutocoreLAYER designed Strand pendant and table lamp collection for Muuto - one of Muuto's best-selling collections. The collection features lightweight steel frames with fibrous cocooning material. LAYER is the first British designer to work with Muuto.
- MDF ItaliacoreLAYER designed Press chair crafted from 3D-Veneer (2 years in development), and Collect modular rainwater harvesting system for MDF Italia and Kvadrat (shortlisted for Dezeen Awards 2025). Both products are part of the 101010 collection.
- Fritz HansencoreLAYER designed Pair modular chair system with over 8,000 possible combinations using polymer, steel, and plywood. LAYER is the first British design agency to launch a product with Fritz Hansen.
- ClassiConcoreLAYER designed Membrane ultra-lightweight chair weighing just 3kg using a lightweight steel and aluminium frame with stretched 3D knitted textile mesh that eliminates polyurethane foam.
- ProstoriacoreLAYER designed multiple products for Prostoria: Rostrum infinitely scalable sofa system, Sabot modular sofa with playful timber feet, and Scale collection for Woven Image.
- OrreforscoreLAYER designed Ensemble modular glass collection for Orrefors - six interchangeable plinths and dishes creating nine configurations. The collection reimagines traditional glassworking techniques for contemporary context.
- MorosocoreLAYER designed Talma armchair for Moroso - an entry-level luxury armchair using minimal polyurethane foam through innovative textile wrapping technique. Also designed Cradle collection combining net hammock and upholstered lounge chair.
- KFI StudioscoreLAYER designed Vale sustainable chair and stool collection with pressed PET felt shell made from recycled plastic bottles. The collection is designed for easy disassembly and recycling.
- De La EspadaminorLAYER designed Pelt dining chair with thin 8mm plywood shell wrapping solid ash frame, using sophisticated construction to minimise material usage.
- NIO LifecoreLAYER designed PAL near-future modular scooter concept with AI integration through NIO's NOMI system, and Pal app. The graphene-coated carbon fiber vehicle transforms vehicle design into a lifestyle product.
- CatapultcoreLAYER led complete rebrand of Catapult including brand identity, tone-of-voice, and designed PLAYR smart wearable system. Transformed B2B system into B2C bestseller in 12 months.
- VitraminorLAYER designed Ampi discreet charging station for Vitra with induction charging and USB ports concealed in elegant form for modern workplace.
- KiteminorLAYER designed KiteONE 3D-printed bespoke eyewear system with in-store head scanning, live fitting app, and fully customized frames.
- KanucoreLAYER designed Pebble playful coffee machine and Urban coffee machine (Red Dot Design Award 2024) for Korean brand Kanu. Both feature soft design language contrasting typical appliance aesthetics.
- Never Go Alone (NGA)coreLAYER defined complete brand identity for Never Go Alone including branding, tone-of-voice, social media, website, retail platform, and NGA Mask with advanced technical fibres and antibacterial properties.
- Carbon TrustcoreLAYER designed Worldbeing wearable and app for Carbon Trust that tracks carbon usage and empowers consumers to make better environmental decisions.
- Earth RatedcoreLAYER created complete rebrand for Earth Rated including brand mark, design language, CMF strategy, tone-of-voice guide, suite of product design, and sustainable packaging for pet products.
- CroftcoreLAYER led industrial design, engineering, and brand strategy for Croft hydrogen power system including Nanocartridges, Nanoplant, and hose module. Won H2 Monaco Prize for Innovation. Work instrumental in helping raise further funding.
- AllsteelminorLAYER designed O6 task chair for Allsteel with six adjustability controls, combining functionality and approachability.
- RÆBURNminorLAYER designed Shield product for sustainable fashion brand RÆBURN.
- Bitossi CeramicheminorCollaborated on 101010 exhibition prototype during Milan Design Week 2025 celebrating 10-year anniversary.
- KvadratminorCollaborated with Kvadrat on Collect rainwater harvesting system for MDF Italia, part of 101010 collection.
- CosentinominorLAYER designed Raytrace immersive installation showcasing Dekton material at Milan Salone del Mobile - massive 6m x 24m architectural slabs with caustic light patterns.
- AirbusminorLAYER designed Move prototype airline seat using smart textiles and sensors to monitor and control seat tension, temperature, and pressure via app for improved economy class experience.
- PhaidonminorLAYER collaborated with Phaidon on publishing a monograph documenting the studio's decade of work, with LAYER involved in layout, cover design, and material selection.
- 100% DesignminorLAYER designed Amass - a 200-square-metre reusable auditorium space for 100% Design using three simple modules that can be reconfigured and reused.
Scale indicators9 records
Recent moves6 records
Expansion highlights5 records
Layer competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- frog (frog design): Global multi-disciplinary design and innovation consultancy founded in 1969. Direct comparable to LAYER across industrial design, brand, and digital for Fortune 500 clients (Apple legacy client, Airbus, Logitech). Operates at a much larger scale but competes for the same enterprise design engagements and category leadership positioning.
- IDEO: Pioneer of human-centered design and integrated product/brand/engineering services. Directly comparable business model — design research, industrial design, and digital for global brands — though IDEO operates at significantly larger scale and has a stronger Bay Area concentration.
- Pentagram: Multi-disciplinary partner-led design consultancy with strong industrial design and brand identity practices. Comparable on the brand and product design intersection, with a similar premium positioning and high-profile client base, though Pentagram is partner-owned and US-anchored.
- Heatherwick Studio: London-based design and architecture studio operating across product, furniture, and public-realm commissions. Comparable as a founder-led, design-credibility-driven London studio competing for premium cultural and commercial briefs, with overlapping furniture and brand-language engagements.
- Map Project Office: London industrial and product design studio working across furniture, consumer products, and spatial design. Closest size and geography peer to LAYER, with similar founder-led creative positioning and award-driven reputation building.
- Pearson Lloyd: London-based industrial design studio specializing in furniture, transport, and workplace design. Direct comparable on sector mix (contract furniture, public realm), studio size, and London-anchored enterprise client base.
- Barber Osgerby: London industrial design partnership with a strong furniture and consumer products portfolio. Comparable on founder-duo creative model, award pedigree, and premium client mix in furniture and lifestyle.
- Tangerine: London-headquartered design and innovation consultancy with industrial design, branding, and digital capabilities. Comparable full-service business model and client profile (Virgin, Samsung, Nissan) at similar scale.
- Ammunition Group: Product design and brand strategy firm founded by former frog principal Robert Brunner. Directly comparable as a premium industrial design + brand studio serving consumer technology and lifestyle clients (Beats by Dre, Microsoft, Polaroid).
- Tom Dixon: London design brand and studio operating across furniture, lighting, and accessories with in-house manufacturing. Comparable as a London-based design brand with overlapping furniture-industry relationships and a founder-led, premium positioning.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat4 records
Key risks7 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
Layer social profiles
Digital presenceLayer financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
Layer leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles1 record
Layer funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Layer M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about Layer
What does Layer do?
Layer is a London-based multi-disciplinary design studio that delivers industrial design, engineering, branding, and digital design services to brands and startups. Engagements span brand identity creation, full product design and engineering for manufacture, and digital/UX design, with work covering furniture, consumer electronics, telecommunications, beauty, personal transport, and clean-energy products for clients such as Bang & Olufsen, Andreu World, Deutsche Telekom, Manfrotto, Shark Beauty, and Viture.
Is Layer a public or private company?
Layer is a private company. It is classified as founder individual operated bootstrapped and is currently operating.
When was Layer founded?
Layer was founded in 2015. It employs 11 to 50 people.
Where is Layer based?
Layer is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, in the Europe region.
How does Layer make money?
One revenue line is on record: design Consulting Services.
Who are Layer's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are frog (frog design), IDEO, Pentagram, Heatherwick Studio, Map Project Office, Pearson Lloyd, Barber Osgerby, Tangerine, Ammunition Group and Tom Dixon.
Does Layer have an API?
No public API is recorded for Layer.