marcel wanders reinterprets neoclassicism with the new classic bathroom collection by LAUFEN

marcel wanders studio proves that the swiss sanitary ware brand’s revolutionary saphirkeramik material can be used to reinterpret classical styles as well as realize completely new forms. the new classic collection he designed for LAUFEN reveals a suite of bathroom furnishings, including washstands, washbasin bowls, toilets, a bidet and bathtub, mirrors and accessories as well as furniture pieces. each item unites the designer’s world renowned flair and creativity with the manufacturer’s new material in forms that are reminiscent but actually brand new.

‘for the first time, the ultra-modern saphirkeramik has been molded into a classic and iconic form,’ claims marcel wanders. ‘this lightweight yet resilient material gave us the unique opportunity to celebrate the beauty of fine porcelain with our elegant, soft lines.’

all images courtesy of LAUFEN

the new classic collection by LAUFEN reflects marcel wanders studio’s take on neoclassicism. classic forms embrace a modern sense of style and functionality, which remains consistently focused on indulgence, intimacy, humanity and everyday utility whilst recalling the poetry and romance of bygone times. this is only made possible thanks to the brand’s saphirkermik material, which produces ultra-thin yet ultra-strong forms. soft, gentle feminine curves, which are reminiscent of the opening sepals of a flower, are distinguished alongside angular, masculine elements. this creates a highly distinctive presence that is lavished with surface tension.

complementing the bathroom pieces, marcel wanders studio has also designed a premium set of faucets, which are influenced by the monumental porticos from the roman empire. their streamlined, conical silhouette feature distinctive groves that flow into graceful curves. there is also a dividing line below the slender handle and slim spouts. the washstands, bathtub, shower and bidet are paired with polished chrome faucets, whilst there is also the option for a wall faucet with two knobs installed directly to the wall – the system is ingeniously concealed behind.

the neoclassical collection assembles a very broad and versatile range of product offerings to fit all bathrooms and needs. the countertop washbasin has a width of 600, 800 or 1200mm, a 500mm wide hand washbasin, and a 550mm wide washbasin bowl crater. the bathtub, with dimensions of 1900 x 900 x 580mm, supports long soaks with an ergonomic, back-friendly form created from the skin-soothing sentec material. the collection also includes wall-hung bidet and rimless toilet bowls, encompassing wall-hung, floor-standing and close-coupled options. these offerings help create enchanting bathrooms for any interior design style.

as equally distinctive as the bathroom pieces, the new classic collection by LAUFEN also offers a set of furnishing pieces that accentuates its contemporary theme yet is also highly practical. for example, the molded door panels add an extra classical touch to the interior space. these pieces include vanity units for both countertops, washbasins and bowls, which can be made from a walnut finish. a roomy, tall cabinet is also available in dark real oak veneer, gloss white and matt grey coatings. a range of sculptural accessories – also made from saphirakeramik – complete the collection. these vary from a wall-mounted shelf and soap dish to a toilet brush holder and even an elegant oval mirror. these result create a balance between the delicate organic aesthetics of the ceramic and the rigorous geometry of the accompanying furniture.