USM moves to Marylebone: A new era of luxury modular living
While office environments have been incorporating domestic aesthetics for some time now, furniture typically associated with the workplace has also been finding a place in our homes. So much so that USM, the Swiss manufacturer of slick modular units, has made a call to move its London showroom from Clerkenwell to Marylebone. “Already considered a classic piece of furniture throughout Europe, in the UK we are now seeing a greater demand for steel furniture in private homes. Moving forward, USM aims to introduce its brand to a broader audience and challenge the perception that it is solely for office spaces,” says Mirko Müller, CEO of USM UK.
For 60 years, USM has been synonymous with modular innovation. Launched in 1965 the modular system, based on a chrome-plated steel tube framework with metal panels quickly gained popularity in corporate offices around the world. Its minimalist aesthetic, durability and flexibility made it a favourite in modern workspaces. In the 1990s USM furniture began to attract interest beyond offices, appealing to design-conscious consumers.
The new Marylebone shop redefines the showroom as a curated journey through the possibilities of modular living. Set within a thoughtfully composed, residential-inspired interior, the space has been crafted as a living showcase of USM’s precision-engineered furniture – demonstrating how its signature system can adapt to a range of domestic settings.
Visitors are welcomed by a low, understated credenza – an elegant hallway solution that hints at the brand’s blend of form and function. From there, the layout flows into a beautifully composed kitchen zone, anchored by a striking floor-to-ceiling installation that effortlessly displays glassware and kitchen essentials. Here, USM’s World of Plants collection adds a verdant twist, integrating herbs and greenery in a way that’s as visually engaging as it is practical.
In the living room, USM’s modular system is reimagined as a sleek home cinema, developed in collaboration with Leica. Nearby, a bold display features sculptural works by Abid Javed, part of a rotating art programme set to spotlight a range of creatives throughout the year.
A central staircase descends to the lower ground floor, where the mood turns more intimate. A refined bar and listening lounge feature a sleek media unit with a curated vinyl collection, while a serene bedroom setting highlights USM’s wardrobe capabilities. A dedicated workspace and training area round out the brand’s vision for adaptable, multi-functional living.
Designed by ForEveryday.Life, the store concept echoes USM’s iconic 350 x 350mm Haller grid, turning the floorplan into a modular reflection of the product – flexible, versatile, and scalable. The move from Clerkenwell to Marylebone signals USM’s evolving vision. As demand grows for sustainable, adaptable furniture, the USM system offers seamless solutions – from striking shelving and bespoke media consoles to fully customised home offices – tailored to modern living.
The new Marylebone store offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore curated residential settings and discover exclusive collaborations with like-minded brands.
Photography by James Retief
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