happarel bikes develops reflective coating for nighttime visibility

happarel bikes develops reflective coating for nighttime visibility 
all images courtesy of happarel bikes 

‘happarel bicycles’ was founded by product designers/ cycling enthusiasts eberhard schilling and antoine capeyron. the duo started the company with a strong environmental mindset, and the aim to create bicycle frames, accessories, and apparel sustainably, using as many up-cycling processes as possible. in 2012, the ‘happarel’ team took on the always-present challenge of road-visibility. a series of reflective decals and stickers were produced, and more than three years of development later, the idea has been extended to include a full line of customizable bike frames.

with (left) and without (right) reflective paint 

working closely with one of germany’s largest reflective-material manufacturers — ‘happarel’ is based in berlin — a unique material was secured. the custom formula is anti-corrosive, highly weather-resistant, and is finished with a thick varnish to protect from scratches and surface damage. each coating is guaranteed for seven years, after which it starts to lose its optimal reflecting properties.

each ‘happarel bicycle’ is built from the ground up by schilling and capeyron in-direct cooperation with the customer. so far, the company has been largely focused on revitalizing used bikes, but regardless of if the frame is built by request or brought back from the dead, it is fitted specifically to the rider. patrons are able to choose from a large range of colors, including customizable logos, text, and components. all reflective coatings are applied by hand in the shop. after a few pop-up shops and small permanent installations, ‘happarel’ now has a permanent home at urbanstr 71, in berlin, germany. 

reflective paint 

croco paint scheme 

‘happarel bikes’ 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom