Designs

What is a model?

If you've designed a two- or three-dimensional product, you can protect it by registering it. The experienced trademark and design attorneys at Vriesendorp & Gaade have the expertise to assist you with your design registration, both within the Benelux and internationally.

Which trademark attorney
suits you best?

We are happy to assist you with clear and practical advice regarding design protection in the Benelux and abroad, as well as your portfolio management. If desired, we can handle the entire application process for you: from the initial consultation to the final registration of the design in the Benelux, Europe, and internationally, through our worldwide network of agents. During our initial consultation, we can usually provide a good assessment of the route to obtaining design rights in the relevant jurisdictions.

Two- and three-dimensional designs

You can protect the visual characteristics of your product with design rights (design rights for short). Both two-dimensional designs (patterns and designs on wallpaper and textiles, etc.) and three-dimensional designs (for example, the design of household appliances, toys, packaging materials, furniture, etc.) are eligible. A requirement is that the design be new and have individual character. Excluded from design protection are those elements necessary to achieve a technical effect.

How do I get protection for my design?

A design can be registered with the designated official government agency in the Benelux, Europe, or internationally. There are several ways to register a design abroad. You can choose a national design registration, but there are also international agreements that allow you to obtain design protection in multiple countries simultaneously with a single application. Examples include international registration and the European design registration (Community design). Such a registration is often more cost-effective than filing separate national registrations.

Registration and disclosure
In the Benelux, a design can be validly registered within one year of publication. However, to avoid disputes about ownership, it is recommended to register the design as soon as possible, preferably before publication. After all, as soon as you have published the design, there is already a risk of copying.

Want to know more?

If you would like to know more about our working methods and what we can do for you, please download our brochure or contact us. contact Contact us for a no-obligation introductory meeting at your location or at one of our branches.