This morning, with the perfect light streaming into the workshop, I thought it was a good time to show you our stainless steel medal up close. Genius LociIt's a simple object, but it took months to conceptualize down to the smallest detail. Nothing was left to chance!
So I wanted to talk to you about it calmly, explaining how it was designed and made.
Individual packaging of the medals
Regarding the packaging (developed in-house), we wanted something simple but well thought out. Each medal is individually wrapped to ensure it's well protected during shipping. There's a small area on the packaging to write the name of the place or project it's associated with. Inside, there are some explanations, and of course, the medal itself, neatly attached with two screws.
We also provide longer screws for wall installations, and a small back plate in case you want fix the medal to a lamppost, barrier or other vertical support. In short, we really tried to think of all the use cases.
The design, the material, the touch
La a medal is brushed stainless steel 316LNo mirror finish here: we chose stainless steel that captures the light well, without creating annoying reflections. It's more qualitative, more discreet too, while retaining that little "precious object" feel.
It is 1 mm thick, a guarantee of durability and quality. The cutting is done at laser by our partner Afiro, a sheltered workshop that does remarkable work, right down to the details: polishing, deburring... We wanted the medal to be pleasant to touch, even if it is installed in a public place, on a bench for example.
Hyper-precise laser marking
We do it ourselves laser marking, after months of research to achieve this result: It is not a print, but a deep laser marking, which remains visible even after years outdoors.
Each medal is unique: there is a QR code personalized in the center, which links to digital content related to the location. Below, a unique serial number. Around it, you can mark the name of your city, your project, or even a theme like "Heritage of..." or "Secrets of..."
You can also test the design with our Simulator.
A universal object, readable everywhere
We also wanted this medal to speak to everyone, regardless of language or culture. That's why we wrote the expression " "Secret of the places" translated into the 15 most spoken languages in the world.
But not with Google Translate. We used real native speakers for each language, so the meaning was culturally accurate. This isn't just a literal translation; it's a real exploration of how each culture expresses this strong connection between a place and its history.
A small exception to the rule: instead of Korean, we have integrated Lithuanian. Simply because our co-founder Egle is originally from Lithuania. A little personal touch!
A nod to the past, anchored in the present
The design of the medal had to appear qualitative, modern but also heritage. We wanted an object that evokes the geography, adventure, heritage. Like an invitation to discovery. Something that we can discover by chance and that makes us want to know what it hides.
And then, on the back, there is a simple little note:
“Designed and Made in Switzerland – Genius Loci ».
So, that's a quick overview of our medal. A discreet object, but full of meaning. If you come across one somewhere, don't hesitate to scan the QR code: you might stumble upon a wonderful story.
