In the realm of high-fidelity audio, form and function have long danced in the background, rarely stepping into the spotlight together. However, for Laurent Salles, founder and creative director of Paris-based Horizon System, that tension is precisely where the poetry lies. His brand blends sonic purity with sculptural design, crafting precision-built furniture and objects that elevate both sound and space.
When asked what led him to found Horizon System, Laurent shares:
“I started Horizon System out of a personal need, to design objects that would elevate my listening experience and highlight the extraordinary nature of audio hardware. It began with early ideas shared with the design studio Perron et Frère, which led to the development of initial prototypes. That quickly sparked the desire to build a more holistic approach, one that combines a distinct design language with a clear brand identity. The project started taking shape in 2022 and officially launched in June 2024. Horizon System operates at the intersection of hi-fi culture, modularity, minimal design, and precision fabrication.”
His work has continued to evolve through hands-on exploration and collaboration. Laurent reflects:
“Horizon System pieces are conceived as both functional tools and sculptural forms, always with acoustic performance in mind. Collaborations with hi-fi brands help me push the boundaries of function, allowing each design to adapt to new contexts and needs. This evolution is made possible through my collaboration with Perron et Frère. Together, we develop a collection that meets the needs of audiophiles while also expanding into immersive sound installations and professional commissions. Each new context brings specific constraints that actively shape the ongoing evolution of Horizon System’s design language.”
His design and production philosophy is anchored in intentionality, high quality, and the pursuit of a refined auditory and spatial experience:
“Horizon System has redefined the high-fidelity listening space through a collection of minimalist furniture and objects that offer logistical, aesthetic, and acoustic solutions. Each piece is meticulously designed and crafted in collaboration with the award-winning design studio Perron et Frères, ensuring exceptional quality and precision. Tailored for both professionals and audiophiles, our custom-made products are built from noble, durable materials, creating a unique sanctuary for sound. All pieces are numbered, made in France, and assembled in Paris. Beyond the collection, Horizon System is also a visual universe, shaped through collaborations with photographers, graphic designers, filmmakers, and 3D artists.”
https://horizon-system.com
At Milan Design Week 2025, for DEORON – Elevating Objects, Horizon System presented several precision-crafted pieces. Laurent explains the concept and the collaboration:
“The pieces presented at Milan were designed to complement the sound installation developed in collaboration with Matéo Garcia and Thuono Audio. Together, these pieces created an analogue hi-fi experience where sculptural design perfectly meets sonic vision. They included:
SURFACE F2: A custom, modular, and minimalist storage solution made from premium 8mm-thick aluminum.
RECORD B1: A vinyl crate. Crafted from two folded anodized aluminum plates, designed for practical and elegant vinyl storage.
ATLAS SK2: Precision-crafted caster base made from a single anodized aluminum plate. These caster boards are purpose-built to transport up to three fully loaded RECORD B1 crates smoothly and effortlessly.”
Asked about his design process and what sets his approach apart, Laurent shares:
“I carry into my design practice what I learned in art school: taking notes, archiving references, and connecting influences to shape each idea. Whether it’s a new Horizon System piece or a custom commission, the process always begins with sketches and scenario-building to develop early concepts before sharing them with the designer. High-quality materials are essential, primarily anodized aluminum and solid oak for their acoustic and visual properties. I also integrate agile methods such as 3D printing to prototype technical details on a small scale. Every step, from cutting to anodizing to final assembly, is handled with great care.”
Looking ahead, the future of Horizon System remains deeply tied to both innovation and custom collaboration:
“I’m continuing to develop custom pieces for audiophile clients, as well as new objects for the hi-fi world. Right now, I’m working on a fully modular setup for a new concept store opening in Barcelona this September. Each piece is designed to adapt to the space’s evolving needs. New collaborations with hi-fi and design brands are also in progress, and several new pieces are currently in development. I’m excited to share more soon.”
He concludes with a thought that encapsulates the heart of his work:
“At the core of Horizon System is the idea of listening—not just to sound, but to spaces, to thoughtful aesthetics and objects, to people, and to what connects them. Being part of this new era of hi-fi is exciting, and working with passionate people makes it even more rewarding.”
This feature is part of an ongoing editorial series spotlighting the designers behind DEORON – Elevating Objects at Milan Design Week 2025.
