One of the First Sketches - 2023
This sketch was created in 2023 during my studies in Basel. Out of simple frustration – that conventional water bottles are too round, too bulky, and impractical – the idea of a flat, side-fillable water bottle first emerged.
What began as a drawing on paper became the foundation of SideFill.
The World's First Water Bottle – SideFill
From this initial sketch, SideFill gradually evolved – a drinking bottle consistently designed for everyday use.
Flat instead of round. Practical instead of bulky.
The side-filling mechanism allows for easy refilling – even under small faucets. At the same time, the flat design ensures that SideFill fits into bags where conventional bottles have no place.
Made from 100% stainless steel, SideFill is durable, hygienic, and completely plastic-free.
But we didn't want to stop there. For us, sustainability means more than just the right material.
That's why with every SideFill sold, we protect a part of the rainforest in Peru to preserve endangered habitats in the long term.
In 2023, SideFill was patented as a "world first in water bottles."
Today, we are passionately working on our mission:
To develop products that sustainably simplify everyday life.
(Nicolas Alt)
THE FIRST 3D MODEL
From the first sketch, a model emerged - and from an idea, a concretely developable product. With the first 3D design, SideFill took on a clear form. The flat design, the side filling, and the fundamental proportions were technically implemented here and tested for their function in everyday use.
In several iterations, details were refined, edges adjusted, and the interplay of form and function optimized. The goal from the outset was to develop a water bottle that not only looks different but truly impresses in daily use.
This first 3D model marked the decisive step from idea to product development and formed the basis for all subsequent versions of SideFill. Just 11 months after the first sketch, the sale of the first SideFill Edition could finally begin.
Appearance on "Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz" (Swiss Shark Tank)
After the development phase and numerous iterations, SideFill was presented to a broad audience for the first time in 2025 – during its appearance on Die Höhle der Löwen Schweiz (The Swiss Dragon's Den).
In addition to public feedback, a crucial partnership also emerged there:
During the show, we were able to gain Mr. Brack as an important distribution partner for SideFill.
This collaboration marked another milestone in the development of SideFill and confirmed that our product not only convinces in everyday use but also has great potential from a sales perspective.