We are sitting on a bench not far from the Ocus bike stand. An understated object that has become a new addition to the mmcité urban furniture family and has also received the Red Dot Design Award 2026. We spoke with its designer, Iveta Krmíčková, about why cycling infrastructure needs a different approach today, how a product that is almost invisible comes into being, and why even a small detail can elevate public space.
Iveta, Ocus feels very minimalist and natural. How did the initial idea for this product emerge?
From the very beginning, I approached the bike stand differently. My aim was to challenge the stereotype that cycling infrastructure must be robust and visually heavy. We wanted to create an object that is almost invisible when empty, yet completely confident and functional the moment a cyclist arrives. At the same time, we were looking for a solution that would help cities create parking capacity even in narrow streets or on busy pavements without creating barriers for pedestrians.
Urban cycling is evolving rapidly. How did you reflect this dynamic in the design?
A bicycle is no longer merely a means of transport. For many people, it is an expression of identity and an investment in their lifestyle. My goal was to create a solution that responds to this value. Ocus was developed as an answer to the need for safe and stable bicycle parking that treats the bicycle with respect. It is an individual standalone element that can flexibly adapt even to spatially challenging locations where conventional row bike racks are not the ideal solution.
What was the greatest challenge during the design process?
At mmcité, we always strive to find a balance between visual purity and manufacturing possibilities. This principle was reflected in the design of Ocus as well. The entire design is based on a single continuous piece of bent steel tubing. The proportions of its diameter and the individual bending radii were crucial throughout the design process. Another important milestone was the development of the horizontal brace. It reinforces the structure while also serving as a practical stop that stabilises the bicycle as a whole.
In your opinion, what makes Ocus different from conventional bicycle stands?
With standard bike stands, there is often the concern that the bicycle may fall over or that sensitive parts may become scratched or damaged – whether the frame, components, or spokes. With Ocus, our objective was to eliminate these shortcomings. Thanks to its carefully considered geometry, the bicycle is intuitively guided into the correct position and firmly stabilised without any contact with the spokes or unnecessary stress on components. The integrated stops also help keep the bicycle stable in both directions, something that owners of heavier e‑bikes will particularly appreciate.
Where do you envision the ideal environment for Ocus?
We designed Ocus to blend naturally into various types of urban environments. It performs equally well in front of office buildings, schools, cafés, or newly revitalised public spaces where attention to detail and environmental quality matter. At the same time, I can easily imagine it in historic streets or in places where space is limited. In such locations, it is especially important that cycling infrastructure does not appear cumbersome or become an unnecessary obstacle. We wanted to create a stand that would not dominate public space but instead become a natural part of it.
Alongside Ocus, you also designed the Rider bicycle stand and the Trot scooter stand. Do you see differences between designing infrastructure for bicycles and scooters?
Designing infrastructure for bicycles and scooters differs fundamentally because each mode of transport has distinct geometry, stability requirements, and locking methods. A scooter is relatively tall in its upper section, which means it requires more precise support and securing at the top to achieve good stability. On the other hand, it is significantly less demanding in terms of space. Where a bicycle requires room for wide handlebars and pedals, several scooters can be parked in the same area, as they are narrower and allow for denser arrangement.
What aspects of cycling infrastructure do you think cities still underestimate?
Cities continue to underestimate both the capacity of bicycle parking facilities and their proper placement. Another key issue remains the poor connectivity of cycling routes. As a result, cyclists are often forced to enter confusing and potentially dangerous urban junctions, particularly in city centres.
Your product, Ocus, received the Red Dot Award 2026. What does this recognition mean to you?
For me, it confirms that even an apparently utilitarian product can embody high-quality design and innovation, and that detail has the power to influence the overall culture of a city. On a personal level, it is naturally a great joy as well. It is my first Red Dot Award, so it is also a strong motivation for future work.
