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Walhub | Functional Wall Plates

Walhub | Functional Wall Plates 
Upwell Design
Walhub is a functional switch cover that provides storage for the objects that often come and go with you – keys, mail, umbrella, scarf…Walhub re-imagines the standard, underutilized switch plate by adding practical function to it. www.walhub.com
 
There’s no reason why that flat piece of plastic on your wall can’t do more than just cover a hole. Taking advantage of an existing installation system in most buildings – light switch screw brackets – Walhub is a simple upgrade that only requires a screw driver – no new holes in your walls like existing wall hooks and other systems.
 
“Might seem like a simplistic concept, but the Walhub is actually one of the most organic designs created when it comes to seamlessly creating a place to put keys or other small essentials.” – Trendhunter
Its a system
Walhub was designed as a 3 part system for two reasons. Having three parts allows the user to determine which position they want their Walhub in – right or left – by simply snapping out parts and flipping them to the opposite side. Having parts that can be easily removed also allows for new future functions; anything from charging phones, note taking, or new colors.
 
Upwell Products
Walhub is Upwells first endeavor into the retail world under the brand Upwell Products – we manufacture, sell and distribute a product family of 6 SKUs. Upwell was responsible and involved in every step along the way: concept ideation, manufacturing management, package design, marketing and even sales. Walhub was first conceived in 2007 for a Muji competition, 2 ICFF shows (Best of ICFF 2013) and 2 Kickstarter campaigns later Upwell Products has its first product in production within the US.
Walhub Packaging
Upwell worked with Coa Design – close friends – and a talented design duo to develop the Walhub logo and branding. Once the brand language was established Upwell focused on creating informative packaging. The major challenge was to illustrate immediately to the consumer what was unique about Walhub. By die cutting a hole in the front of the package it allowed the functional aspect of Walhub to protrude creating a strong focal point; which in this case is the core concept of Walhub. Walhub’s packaging was even recognized by the editors at The Dieline.
 
“As someone who just moved into a new space –  this product speaks to me on many levels, from its design for functionality to the packaging that cleverly illustrates the product in use.” - The Dieline
Walhub IKEA Research & Marketing Video
I wanted a way to test the “retail” validity of Walhub with an ideal target demographic at an ideal retail location. It’s always nice to know if your intended consumer even wants to buy your product before investing too much time and money.
 
Unfortunately, accurate consumer research isn’t cheap and before entering the unforgiving retail arena, the ability to gain as much insight into your intended consumer is invaluable. So we conducted a research experiment that doubled as a marketing tool. 75,000 Youtube views later, an interview on national TV, and creative accolades from press outlets like Advertising Age and was even editors creative pick of the week on Creativity. Upwell was able to stretch a $600 marketing budget about as far as it would go while receiving valuable sales research.
Walhub | Functional Wall Plates
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