Laura Schwab, a seasoned professional with over 22 years of experience in the automotive industry, has transitioned into entrepreneurship by founding Addition, a luxury design house. Addition was founded almost two years ago. Its mission is to combine empathic technology with artisanal design, implementing that philosophy in its first product, Alma.
Alma by Tsung-Hsin Yang is a circular, wireless charger that provides a creative, thoughtful alternative to common smartphone chargers. It clings with magnetism to the rear of your smartphone. In as little as one hour of charging, it provides up to 6 to 8 more hours of battery life! A premium feature turns on fast charging when you tap a second Alma charger on your phone. Choosing a central location transforms convenience into a huge user experience asset. Additionally, Alma is MagSafe compatible, making it easy to use with Apple devices.
The versatility of Alma goes well beyond Alma’s aesthetic appeal though, since it can be made in any color or design imaginable. Retailing at $85, it not only meets the demand for functionality, but for personal style as well. Schwab sees a whole range of products bearing the Addition brand. Alma will act as the flagship item and lead to many derivatives in the near future.
Before embarking on this new path, Schwab left his imprint in the automotive industry. He played a role, as president of Aston Martin in the Americas. She worked as an executive at three foreign luxury-car manufacturers. Following the end of her tenure at Rivian, Schwab left the automotive industry in 2021. When it came time for college, Kristi made the decision to pursue her love of design and innovation.
I find myself talking about cars every single day. Everything that I learned in auto, all of the people I have worked with, have led me to this place,” Schwab said. Her experience in the automotive industry and her passions have equipped her with a remarkable perspective and skill set. She’s put those skills to work in her new business.
Addition’s design talent is second to none, in large part thanks to Schwab’s business partner, Robert Louey. They think about how their products solve specific problems or needs in a functional way. Simultaneously, they need those products to strongly connect with the customer through compelling designs. Schwab emphasizes the importance of quality in her work, stating, “We get it right when we get it right. I’ve never been afforded that in my life.”
Addition’s dedication to custom design is clear in its partnerships with high-end lifestyle brands. For instance, Schwab has been involved in creating tailored designs for specific companies, including The Carlyle hotel in New York City. This new approach lays the groundwork to put her vision into practice. Her mission is to transform ordinary products into luxury goods, with high-quality design and craftsmanship.
As Addition plans to branch out from furniture and objects into a broader product atlas, Schwab is still intent on being rigorous about quality and design evolution. It’s hard to understate her incredible transition from the auto industry into the design sector. This adventure is the culmination of Sara’s interests in tech, aesthetics, and design.
