Laminates and chipboard maker Merino Industries has launched Merino Manan to celebrate thoughtful design solutions through conversations with design professionals. Developed as a platform for showcasing the company’s design solutions in the presence of architects and designers, Merino Manan was held in Kolkata in the first week of December.
Manoj Lohia, director at Merino Industries, asserted that the event aimed to explore how thoughtful design can redefine user experiences.
“At Merino, we believe that design is not just about aesthetics or functionality; it is about creating meaningful solutions that resonate with the diverse needs of users. Through Merino Manan, we aim to foster conversations that inspire empathy and thoughtfulness in design, ensuring it meets both stated and unstated user expectations. While we have launched Merino Manan to celebrate thoughtful design, this journey has started at Kolkata, the City of Joy, with its rich cultural tapestry and vibrant design sensibilities. We hope to take this conversation around to other cities as well.”
The event was held in a setting that echoed a museum or art gallery, and showcased some of Merino’s latest offerings, reflecting the company’s commitment to thoughtful innovation.
The Sampada Laminate Collection, inspired by Indian textiles such as Ikkat and Chikankari, stood out as a celebration of heritage craftsmanship fused with modern design.
Also showcased was Mystik, a new restroom cubicle model offering full height and privacy with a glossy finish. This is an industry first in India, according to Lohia, and it is a testament to Merino’s dedication to addressing both functional and aesthetic needs.
Adding to the intellectual richness of the evening, leading architects shared their philosophies on thoughtfulness in design, emphasising how it can cater to diverse human experiences. Their insights highlighted the importance of empathy and inclusivity in creating spaces that go beyond functionality.
The evening’s highlight was a keynote address by Sanjoy Nag, renowned actor, director and National Award-winning filmmaker. Drawing parallels between storytelling and design, Nag shared his thoughts on how empathy and thoughtfulness are vital to creating narratives—be it in cinema or architecture—that connect deeply with audiences. The keynote was followed by an engaging Q&A session, allowing attendees to explore these themes further in a collaborative discussion.
The attendees complimented Lohia for launching Merino Manan to celebrate thoughtful design, as it offered an authentic platform to understand how good design could positively impact user lifestyles and experiences.
