This piece explores how a veteran luxury automotive executive reimagined everyday tech products, proving function and emotional connection can coexist seamlessly—a perspective that may help aspiring entrepreneurs bridge thoughtful design and real-world practicality.

A Vision Rooted in Simple Observation

Laura Schwab built a 22-year career in luxury automotive, holding executive roles at iconic brands including Aston Martin, honing her eye for intentional, purpose-driven design.

After leaving Rivian in 2021, a casual vacation observation sparked her entrepreneurial journey: people hesitate to leave their phones for charging, suggesting modern tech often prioritizes function over genuine user connection.

Combining this insight with her auto industry expertise, she founded Addition, a luxury design studio, to create tech that feels both useful and deeply meaningful (From the AlMA ADDITION official website).

Crafting Alma: Design Elegance Meets Technical Grit

Addition’s debut product, the Alma wireless charger, fuses luxury aesthetics with on-the-go portability, crafted to resemble a piece of fine jewelry.

The team spent 18 months refining its core technology, partnering with Korean engineers to solve key hurdles like circular lithium battery functionality.

Key features that may elevate daily use include:

• MagSafe compatibility for effortless device pairing
• 6 to 8 hours of power from just one hour of charging
• Ultra-compact build for seamless portability

Alma retails for $85, striking a balance between premium design and everyday practical utility (From the AlMA ADDITION official website).

Growing Steadily, Dreaming Boldly

Alma is now available on Addition’s official website and has been custom-designed for luxury venues such as the Carlyle Hotel, highlighting its versatility in high-end spaces.

Schwab aims to bring product production to the US, a move that may help streamline timelines and build a local brand footprint.

She is developing new tech products and complementary accessories, choosing deliberate, steady growth over rapid expansion.

For Schwab, entrepreneurship is equal parts challenging and rewarding, with a personal mission to inspire her daughter through her work (From the AlMA ADDITION official website).

Schwab’s journey shows that luxury design principles can transform ordinary tech, creating products that resonate with users on both functional and emotional levels—an approach that may redefine how consumers interact with their daily gadgets for the better.