INSIDE CABAL STUDIOS – Numéro Berlin (2024)

Operating out of Berlin and Mainz, Cabal Studios is a young design studio dedicated to reviving craftsmanship and ensuring the highest quality production. Founded by brothers Philipp and Simon Sinopoli, along with Daniel Ercin, Cabal Studios aims to merge product design, architecture, and innovation. Their journey began in December 2022, driven by a desire to create independently and bring a fresh perspective to the design world.

With backgrounds rooted in architecture, the founders have seamlessly transitioned their expertise into the realm of product design, ensuring that every detail, from materials to final execution, reflects their high standards. This dedication to excellence has not only defined their brand but also attracted prestigious collaborations.In this interview with Numéro Berlin, they share how their first product came to life and what’s coming next.

Philipp: We mostly work together over Zoom. Although we meet up now and then, about 90% of our work happens online or over the phone. It’s practical because everyone can arrange their day as they need. But regular meetings would definitely be more effective.

Philipp: Exactly, Daniel and I are near Mainz, while Simon is in Berlin. We meet occasionally, especially for bigger tasks. At the start, organizing everything over Zoom was quite tiring, but now we have a clear idea of how to approach projects and divide tasks accordingly.

Simon: At the beginning, it was an adjustment. I came from a background where we worked together in a studio during our studies. We had to learn how to transfer that creative collaboration online. Over time, we got used to it, set regular appointments, and divided tasks clearly. When we do meet, it’s always particularly productive and motivating to work together in one room.

Daniel: It’s actually great. Philipp and Simon are very different, like water and fire. But that diversity brings balance to our team. We all know each other well, which makes communication easier, even when emotions are running high.

Daniel: We wanted to create a reference product that visually combines our services and products. It was a long development process until autumn 2023 when our brand identity was finalized.

Simon: The vibe between us and the partners was crucial. We wanted to ensure they understood and shared our vision. We also placed great importance on natural materials. For example, we work with a small family business for the ceramics that perfectly implements our ideas.

Philipp: It was important to us that every detail was right. The ceramics, the wax, the packaging – everything had to meet the highest quality standards. We worked with Gmund at Tegernsee, one of the oldest paper manufacturers in Europe, to create the perfect packaging. These details are extremely important to us.

Philipp: We focus on craftsmanship and high-quality materials. Each candle is a small piece of art, not just a mass product. Despite the high price, we earn very little from it as we often pass on the margin to partners. For us, the quality is paramount.

Simon: We also invested a lot in the development and selection of the best materials. Each candle is hand-poured, and the ceramic container can be reused after the candle is burned, for example, as a tea bowl or key holder. This way, we also want to counteract the throwaway trend.

Daniel: That was a significant milestone for us. We produced a special product for them, and it was great to see our work being appreciated. Even though we can’t publicly advertise the collaboration, it opened many doors for us and brought a lot of positive attention.

Simon: We are attentive to opportunities and seize them when they come. At the same time, each of us has personal interests from which project ideas arise. For example, we want to develop a table and chair design out of wood. We also recently received our first larger architecture contract.

Philipp: At the beginning, we let ourselves be guided a bit to see what works well and where our strengths lie. After a year, we now have a better idea of where each of us wants to go and what we can achieve as a team. Daniel focuses more on architecture and interior design, I focus on the business side and product development, and Simon works in both areas.

Daniel: I’d love to build luxury single-family homes where you can determine every detail yourself. Another dream project would be a museum where you can fully explore architectural creativity.

Philipp: For me, a dream would be to create a product that establishes itself over years and decades, similar to the Porsche 911. A timeless classic.

Simon: I would like to renovate old cultural monuments and combine them with modern elements. The combination of old and new is very exciting to me.

Simon: Peter Zumthor inspires me a lot. His ability to reduce buildings to simple geometries while considering complex details is impressive.

Daniel: I find it difficult to name individuals as I get inspired more by specific projects. There are many cool brands and artists, but also a lot of bad stuff that affects the overall impression.

Philipp: Bjarke Ingels fascinates me, especially because of his entrepreneurial approach. He built a global company in a short time and won many awards. It shows that it’s possible to be successful and innovative.

Daniel:Products or architecture that are subtle but reveal their uniqueness upon closer inspection are my goal.

Philipp: Simplicity is often the result of thoughtful design. We want to be loud in the details and show how much thought goes into each one. That’s our approach.