Manuel Dreesmann - Leather And Lace

Speaking to SID, designer Manuel Dreesmann opens up about the philosophy behind his Barcelona-based atelier, where traditional craftsmanship meets minimalist precision. Fusing the rigor of German design with the warmth of Mediterranean sensibility, Manuel-Dreesmann is quietly redefining the landscape of modern luxury—one meticulously stitched leather piece at a time. The result is a brand rooted in longevity, intentionality, and care—where every product tells its own story through age and use.

What inspired you to start Manuel-Dreesmann and focus on handcrafted leather goods?

The inspiration for starting Manuel Dreesmann – Atelier Madre came from a desire to create

meaningful, lasting products. My background in design and marketing gave me the tools to understand

both the technical and emotional sides of product creation. I started with small leather goods, teaching

myself the craft step by step, and quickly became captivated by the process.

The decision to focus on handcrafted leather goods was born from the belief that products should be

both functional and lasting. I wanted to create pieces that people could connect with—items that grow

more beautiful over time and reflect the care and thought that went into their creation.

Your products are known for their minimalist design and timeless aesthetic. How would you

describe your design philosophy?

Our design philosophy is rooted in simplicity and intention. We combine the clean lines and precision of

German minimalism with the warmth and playfulness of Spanish design. This balance creates products

that are both practical and full of character.

Every detail, from the structure to the stitching, is carefully considered to ensure it serves a purpose. We

avoid excessive decoration and focus instead on timeless forms that let the materials and

craftsmanship shine. The goal is to create products that feel contemporary yet never go out of style.

Designer Manuel Dreesmann

Sustainability is a key aspect of your brand. Can you tell us more about the sustainable practices you’ve implemented in your production process?

Sustainability is integral to our ethos. We source our leather locally from tanneries in Igualada, Barcelona, known for producing some of the finest vegetable-tanned leather on the market. This method is more environmentally friendly, avoiding harmful chemicals and enhancing the natural qualities of the leather. By working with a single type of leather across our collection, we maximize material efficiency and reduce waste. Our production process is entirely in-house, from design to shipping, allowing us to maintain high ethical standards and minimise our environmental footprint.

You only source premium leather and materials from local suppliers in Barcelona. How important is

material quality to you, and what goes into selecting the perfect leather?

Material quality is essential to our work. Leather is the foundation of our products, so it must meet the

highest standards for both durability and tactile appeal. We exclusively use full-grain, vegetable-tanned

leather, which retains the natural fiber structure, ensuring strength and a unique patina that develops

with use.

(Continues) Sourcing locally from tanneries in Igualada allows us to personally select hides with minimal

imperfections while reducing transportation. These close relationships ensure we’re always working with

materials that reflect the level of quality we promise to our customers. For us, the leather is not just a

material—it’s a crucial element that defines the product’s longevity and character.

The brand operates on a direct-to-customer model, with products shipped directly from your workshop. Why did you choose this approach, and how does it benefit your customers?

The direct-to-customer model allows us to maintain complete control over every aspect of our process, from design to delivery. By eliminating intermediaries, we can ensure that our products reach customers at a fair price without compromising on quality.

This model also fosters a closer connection between us and our customers. When you purchase from us, you’re not just buying a product—you’re engaging with the story and craft behind it. Each piece is made to order, allowing for a personal touch and reducing waste. It’s a slower, more intentional way of doing business, but one that aligns with our values.

As a brand that focuses on timeless design rather than trends, what do you hope your customers will experience with Manuel-Dreesmann products over time?

We hope our customers see our products as lifelong companions—pieces that grow more beautiful as

they age. Leather has a unique ability to develop character over time, and we design with that in mind.

Our goal is to create items that are not only functional but also carry personal meaning. Over the years,

these products will show the marks of their journey, becoming a reflection of their owner’s life. It’s about

building a connection with something that lasts, something you’ll want to keep and cherish, not replace.

This focus on longevity and timelessness is our way of encouraging thoughtful consumption, offering

products that age with pride and remain relevant through the years. MD

For more information please visit www.manuel-dreesmann.com