'The synergy between technical execution and design is what matters'

An interview with Simon Luitse, Engineering Director at VOUW. Simon Luitse boasts a diverse background in architecture, product design, and construction engineering. His journey began in architecture, but he soon discovered his true talent lay in the systematic design and technical execution of ideas. He worked on 3D-printed bras, large-scale steel structures for tram networks in South Korea, and sustainable construction projects in the Netherlands. From the very beginning, he has been involved in VOUW. 'It's always about the synergy between technical execution and design, and the best results emerge from that fusion.' A good example of successful fusion is the Bloomlight—from the initial prototype, looking at how technical functionality and design could coexist. During the transition from version 1 to version 2 of the Bloomlight, plastic components were gradually replaced with stainless steel to improve durability. By adding strategic folds to the steel, they created a structural profile with the necessary strength. On maintenance: extensive testing is conducted, including heat-resistance tests in Qatar at 50 degrees Celsius and sandstorm simulations. He discusses prototyping as the path to resolving design-vs-engineering disagreements, tailoring solutions to museum, festival, hotel and government clients, and the Bloomlight LiDAR algorithm work with developer Daan van Hasselt that improved detection. 'Without wonder, there would be no slowtech. If we apply technology that doesn't amaze people, they won't pause or engage.'

— Justus Bruns