client
paul mitchell
Overview
A hair dryer and a hair straightener share a bold geometry inspired by hair moving in the wind, with gentle arcs and tapers that suggest flow at rest. Dark, purposeful surfaces and clear touchpoints keep the focus on control and comfort.
Client
paul mitchell
Industry
hair tools
Service
consumer product design
The Challenge
Design two distinct tools that feel like one family while serving very different grips, heat paths, and weights. Capture a sense of motion without slipping into ornament. Maintain professional ergonomics and easy maintenance for daily use.
The Solution
Adopt a language of streamlined cylinders and soft aerodynamic transitions that echo wind swept strands, then tune each tool to its task. The dryer balances mass between handle and barrel with protected intakes and a simple, legible control cluster, while the straightener uses low profile plates, a stable hinge, and an intuitive on body interface. Subtle textures and clean seams resist buildup and wipe down quickly.
The Result
A cohesive pair that looks disciplined, feels centered in hand, and communicates settings at a glance. The wind inspired forms add quiet dynamism without distraction, turning heat and airflow into a precise, repeatable ritual. The shared language builds brand recognition on the vanity and in the kit.
