The unique Q gets full marks for design and convenience!
Sitting on the coffee table like a king on his throne, the Q radiates with its distinctive metal shine. Shaped like a letter of the alphabet it leaves us pondering about the meaning of this design choice, so many associations cross our mind. Q… what is Q, what does Q mean…? Quality, Quiet, Quick!
The letter q is one of the least used letters in the English language. A good shape for a fan that always stays exclusive and exquisite due to the rarity of its namesake. Someone who, be it during a game of Scrabble or with furnishing, manages to integrate a Q in a skillful arrangement receives a triple score from astonished guests!
Ever since its introduction to the market this designer piece made by the Stadler Form brand has cleared the way for desk fans that can be so much more than just simple, plain household appliances – and become much sought-after collectibles amongst art connoisseurs and enthusiasts for unusual designs. The Q’s special shape invites you to see things from a different perspective – based on artist Carlo Borer who creates a captivating contrast by setting up shiny, metallic sculptures in a natural environment.
"Q" was born in 2009 and has already become an icon. The first model of the series to surface was the fan in the colour metal. Today it is available in its original, brushed stainless steel look, in matt-finished black or, brand-new for the season in 2016 in a strong bronze colour. The safety guard and blades of each model are colour-coordinated with the finish. The limited edition in Berry, trend colour of 2015, enjoyed great popularity and went out of stock in no time.
The Q requires little space, due to its extraordinary appearance it can be combined with furnishings in any room. Even the technical equipment reflects the high demands Stadler Form have for quality in their product range. Offering three powerful fan speeds, this portable fan is suitable for rooms with up to 40m2, where consumes an economical maximum of 40 Watts.
Our product choice for you
All benefits of the Q series at a glance:
- elegant designer piece with potential for becoming a classic
- distinctive shape created by designer/artist CARLO BORER
- three timeless colours are available
- easy transport to other locations whenever it is necessary
- durable stainless steel housing, aluminium blades
- air flow up to 2,400 m3 air / hour.
- three fan speeds guarantee ideal air supply
- angle of air flow is easily changed by vertical adjustment of the fan
- stable base with additional rubber feet
- pleasant, quiet operation
- suitable for rooms with up to 40 m2
- removable protective grid on the back ensures easy cleaning
- year-round eyecatcher
The features in detail
Speed control
Non-slip base
Removable protective grid for easy cleaning
Brushed stainless steel on metal model
The round rotary switch is located in the middle of the base of the “letter“ Q. It is integrated in a way that makes it harmonise with the overall design and gives easy access from both sides. It regulates the features of turning the device on and off (setting 0) and theselection of the rotation speed. Depending on your personal sensation of warmth choose between light, medium and strong air flow. The brand Stadler Form itself humorously refers to the fan speeds 1-3 as “gentle breeze to powerful ciruclation“. With a consumption as little as 40 Watt this compact fan circulates air in rooms from 40m2 or 100 m3. The top motor was produced based on Swiss designs and only operates on alternative current, if applied internationally it might be necessary to use an adapter or converter.
The stability of the device is enforced by one large base as well as two small feet made of white synthetic material. Their rubber-like surface makes the Q stick to slick floors and glass tables. If the position of the foot is slightly altered, the air flow angle changes for about 1-3 cm.
Application of the Q fan:
- in timeless and modern furnished homes
- as bedroom and living room fan
- in office, conference and reception rooms
- in museums, galleries and libraries
- in bars, clubs and sophisticated restaurants
- due to little space requirements directly on window sills, dining tables or writing desks
- also chic as floor fan
- for ventilation in summer, as objet d’art in winter
- as a stylish present for good friends
How colour and shape bring a sense of well-being in your home
Valued items in our immediate vicinity increase the perceived quality of life, pleasing the eye and the heart. This is not an invitation for thoughtless consumption, but rather an advice to pay more attention to the shapes and materials surrounding us, true to the motto “Quality, not Quantity“. Say “Welcome“ to a product if it is one of your favourites. And that is just what the Q is: conscious design and thoroughly tested, so that it is not too much but also not too little body and substance. Several years went by until the perfect combination of presence and lightness was finally created.
This fan might have a somewhat resolute design, yet that is what makes it so changeable. It has the potential to stay with us for the rest of our lives. Its timelessness comes across as well in a stylish bachelor apartment as it does in the private library of a mature individual, and is also a suitable present for younger people, for example as a gift for the confirmation. The beauty of it is that it can be combined both with a feminine and masculine interior scheme. The round belly represents organic-feminine shapes, the angled pedestal stands for masculine drive. The Q is a unisex-model with outstanding shape and colour!
The colour effect of each model should therefore be well-considered – then again, it is a lot of fun to imagine how each version would look like at home.
The Q fan is available in three expressive colours
The saying that black never goes out of fashion ha soften proven to be true. Think Coco Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld: black and white combinations can, depending on the accessories, appear either very feminine or opulent - romantic, even. The round shape of the Q for example can be picked up in polka dot patterns or geometric petal designs, to name a few. A room with light furnishings offers great potential for working with contrasts, for example by including dark picture frames and black and white photos – combinations of pure white materials, maybe even with lacing, black seams and hemlines create modern elegance and comfort. When applied in commercial areas in bars, clubs and hotel industry dramatic matt black signalises a legendary night!
The Metal (silver) model is the shiniest of all three models and is ideal for use in offices and reception areas of hotels or agencies. It continues the technical appearance of other electronics and computers and harmonises with chrome-plated chair legs and shimmering laptop housings. This model is also a good choice in combination with smooth cool materials such as marble, metal wardrobes, glass tables and mirrors, of course. Together with different shades of grey the Q comes off as very elegant, go ahead and give it a try, for example with a large grey square on a plain white wall.
The Q in Bronze gives living and reading rooms with a warm colour scheme a refreshing, modern touch. Thanks to its natural colour this model goes very well with light to warm reddish and dark brown timbers, plants and other vegetation. The colour does not resemble the typical copper golden tone, but rather a dark, luscious brown. The surface also appears matt instead of polished. Due to its straightforward design the Q Bronze is the highlight of the room and creates a nice contrast to traditional furniture and fitment. It harmonises with the latter in terms of colour, but overall its shape is exhilarant, futuristic. A piece of avantgarde, that manages the balancing act between proud and grounded.
Quiet circulation
The Q’s noise level varies depending on the settings, ranging from 41 to 58 dB, which resembles other common technical home appliances. The value of ca. 40 dB can be compared to soft music, 60 dB correspond to a normal conversation in 1 m distance. Due to its extraordinary air flow the Q is not completely inaudible, but still very quiet. Our tip: If you are sensitive to noise try not to set up your directly in the bedroom, but rather in corridor and leave the door slightly open.
Safety instructions
Safety guards on both sides prevent you and your loved ones from getting too close to the rotating blades. Even though the Q is just so appealing and the ease of transport might seem like an invitation, don’t take the Q everywhere. It has been designed exclusively for indoor use and does not have a protection against water. Only use the Q inside! Not only drops of water and rain, also extremely high humidity levels should be avoided. It is also out of place next to sources of heat and humidity, such as on the kitchen counter or near the bathtub. That’s just not its natural habitat. Like most devices that are supplied with a power cord, pay attention to tripping hazards and ensure a good, even base for the fan. The black power cord vanishes behind shelfs or underneath carpets in no time.
The transport from Switzerland to your home is absolutely shockproof for the devices. Should any repairs be required nevertheless, only seek professional help from experts in repair shops to preserve warranty. If you have any questions, read the detailed instruction manual or consult get in touch with our customer service.
Care and maintenance
The Q looks so inviting that one just can’t not touch it, it is not everyday that you see a fan like this. Should the soft glossy surface of these popular appliances have been exposed to too many fingerprints from overzealous visitors, they can be removed carefully with a damp towel along with other stains like insects. The housing of the Q fans is made of stainless steel, a material which is characterised by resistance to scratches, debris and rust due to its pure composition.
The blades are easy to clean, and should they be a bit dirty after some time, simply give them a brush with the feather duster once the fan is turned off. If required, it is also possible to remove the guard on the back – the dismantling is done so easily and quickly that the cleaning can be done without any technical background knowledge. You only need to remove eight screws on the back, take off the back protective cage, and wipe clean the inside of the fan including the blades with a soft cloth. Try to use cloths or sponges with metal elements to prevent damage on the lacquered aluminium blades. The cloth should also not be too wet, go easy on the water and wring out the cloth. Afterwards you can assemble the Q again – an experience which promotes a personal relationship with this article of daily use. But don’t sweat it, a hex socket screw key is included in every package and is all you need for the assembly. Reattach the protective cage by tightening the screws. Wipe off the housing after this process with a dry cloth so that there will be no stains left.
High-class from Switzerland
Company founder Martin Stadler with Q Metal
The manufacturer Stadler Form stands for fashionable products of everyday life. Fans, heaters and even kitchen utensils with a high demand for aesthetics are the core of the selected range. Since the beginnings of the company the management has invested into the best product designers that combine art with objects, which has resulted in several awards that are much sought-after in the business and international critical acclaim.
Q designer Carlo Borer (check out his website) possesses the ability to create expansive objects: Despite their rectilinearity they convey a playful, easy way of thinking and of creative work. His sculptures easily integrate into everyday life, yet they can turn the natural (living) environment into an exhibition space, a stage for artistry even. Enhancing the ordinary seems to be a key element of Borer’s work.
Technical data of the Q series outlined:
Power supply: wall socket through wire with European plug, 230 Volt / 50 Hz
Wattage: 40 Watt
Material: stainless steel housing, aluminium blades
Housing colours: Black, Metal, colour of the season 2016 Bronze, colour of the season 2015 Berry (already out of stock)
Sound level: 41 - 58 dB(A), depends on setting
Air flow: Max. 2400 m3/h for rooms with up to 40 m2 or 100m3
Control: 3 fan speeds with rotary switch on the pedestal
Dimensions: (B x H x T): 43.0 x 36.0 x 15.0 cm
Weight: 4.0 kg
Accessories: Hexagon socket screw key already included in the delivery
If you prefer the homely, cosy atmosphere of wood décor, check out Stadler Form's Otto Bamboo fan. It is suitable for rooms with up to 40 m² size and offers you 3 speed levels. The frame is made from bamboo that has been cultivated in an environmentally sustainable way.
Image sources:
Product images © creoven.de and Stadler Form