From clunky to chic: The evolution of switchboard design
Switchboards have now become style statements, evolving to match the sophisticated aesthetics of today’s homes and the growing demand for safety and functionality.
Think back to the switchboard in your childhood home. Chances are, it was a bulky plastic board, rectangle, off-white or yellowed with age, with stiff switches that made a loud "click" when pressed.
Now, compare that to the sleek, touch-sensitive panels and minimalist modular designs found in modern apartments. The transformation is remarkable.
Once overlooked as purely functional, switchboards have evolved into stylish, safety-first features that complement contemporary interiors.
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In the past, switchboards were all about function, if they worked, no one cared how they looked. Early designs were plain, often with exposed screws and stiff switches, and safety features were minimal. If they discoloured or aged poorly, people simply accepted it.
For homeowners in the 1980s and early '90s, durability was the priority. Switchboards were seen as technical components, hidden away and serving a basic purpose. But as interior design became more important, expectations changed. People started wanting more than just functionality — they wanted switchboards that matched their homes' aesthetics.
"About 50% of high-end homeowners are choosing smart controls, like sensor-based lighting, mobile app controls and centralised systems, to make daily tasks easier. While they can be a bit pricey, the convenience they offer is undeniable."
Aesthetics and safety take centre stage
By the late '90s and early 2000s, better-designed switchboards entered the market. Sleeker panels with hidden screws gave homes a more polished look, and safety also improved, with fire-resistant materials, better wiring and circuit protection.
Switchboards were no longer just a necessity; they became an integral part of interior design. The rise of modular furniture and false ceilings encouraged homeowners and builders to rethink how electrical fittings fit into modern spaces.
With increasing attention to home interiors, modular switchboards gained popularity. Brands introduced matte finishes, metallic borders, and minimalist designs to match high-end apartments and commercial spaces.
Switchboards are no longer hidden in corners, they're design statements. Many modern apartments in Dhaka feature black or glass-finish switchboards that blend seamlessly into the décor. The Superstar Glamour Series is a prime example of how far we've come; from clunky old switches to elegant, customisable options that feel premium to the touch.
Rehnuma Tasnim Sheefa, principal architect of Parti.studio, highlights this shift, "People now prefer sleek, minimalistic designs. Brands are responding by designing switches that blend seamlessly with the walls—wider and bigger switches that create a flushed-out look. The old-school piano-style switches are now outdated in luxury home designs."
Even placement has evolved. In restaurants and retail stores, switchboards are placed below eye level or hidden inside walls to avoid disrupting aesthetics. But in homes, they're positioned at an accessible height of three to four feet and designed to match interior colour schemes.
For specific spaces like bedside areas or work desks, switchboards can even be hidden inside compartments for a cleaner look. And for luxury homeowners, digital and automated systems are becoming increasingly popular.
"Around 50% of high-end homeowners are opting for smart controls," Sheefa adds. "Sensor-based lighting, mobile app controls, and centralised systems are making everyday tasks more convenient. It's a bit expensive, but the ease of use is undeniable."
Why switchboard design matters
Switchboards might seem like minor details, but they play a huge role in the overall functionality and safety of a home. As our living spaces become more sophisticated, it's only natural that these components evolve too.
Modern switchboards are no longer just about turning the lights on and off — they are an essential part of a safe, stylish, and smart home. Safety comes first, with fire-resistant materials, improved wiring, and shockproof features that significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents.
But functionality doesn't mean compromising on aesthetics. Unlike the bulky, outdated panels of the past, modern switchboards are designed to seamlessly blend into your interiors, complementing your home's look rather than disrupting it.
With features like Wi-Fi-enabled switches, dimmers, and built-in USB ports that make daily life easier. Premium materials ensure that you won't have to deal with cracked panels or yellowing plastic over time.
The market and the future
As urbanisation continues, the demand for switchboards is growing. During my visit to Nawabpur, the country's largest wholesale market for household fixtures, I noticed this trend firsthand.
Rafique, a wholesale shop owner in Nawabpur, Dhaka's go-to hub for electrical components shares his insights on the current market trends,
"Among local brands, Superstar, RFL Click, and Walton are the most popular. Superstar's four-switch sockets retail for Tk470-Tk480, making it a top choice. RFL Click follows closely but is priced slightly higher at Tk490-Tk520."
However, Chinese brands dominate the market due to their affordability and design appeal, making them a popular choice for developers. But lower prices often come with reduced reliability.
As more people invest in high-end apartments and stylish interiors, the demand for durable and technologically advanced switchboards will only rise. Superstar's collaborations with global brands like Kawamura Electric (Japan) and Federal Electric (Turkey) help maintain international quality standards.
Sheefa points out that while budget influences choice, durability is just as crucial. "Most people prefer foreign brands because they tend to last longer. But local brands are catching up in terms of design and quality."
International brands like Tocco, Lonon, Nupami, and Art DNA, sourced from France, Germany, Singapore, Vietnam, and China are widely available in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, local names like Walton, Click, Superstar, Jamuna, Transtec, and Vision continue to make their mark.
