poggenpohl transforms kitchens into luminous sculptures with ‘gravity of light’ exhibits

poggenpohl’s ‘gravity of light' exhibition reinterprets the iconic +MODO kitchen series, defying gravity through the use of surface lighting technology.

lisa kostyra May 15, 2024 4 min

Poggenpohl reinvents kitchens for today’s digital world

At Milan Design Week 2024, Poggenpohl captivated visitors with an exploration of the interplay between gravity and light, evolving the concept of the modern kitchen for today’s digital world. Titled ‘Gravity of Light,’ the exhibition transcended mere functionality, presenting the kitchen as an independent sculpture. The showcase featured three studies of the iconic +MODO series, reinterpreted by designer Jorge Pensi and Bernd Kußmaul GmbH.

poggenpohl transforms kitchens into luminous sculptures with ‘gravity of light’ exhibits - 1 — Poggenpohl presents ‘Gravity of Light’ exhibits at Milan Design Week 2024

all images courtesy of Poggenpohl

poggenpohl’s artistic vision showcased with ‘gravity of light’

Founded in 1892, the brand‘s mission from the outset has been to elevate kitchen spaces. Over 130 years, Poggenpohl has evolved from a modest carpentry business into a global leader in luxurious German kitchen manufacturing, renowned for marrying architectural principles with pioneering design and precision craftsmanship. With the introduction of the ‘Gravity of Light’ exhibits, the kitchen brand continues to create extraordinary culinary experiences, for this occasion with an artistic expression that engages with the fundamental forces of gravity and light.

poggenpohl transforms kitchens into luminous sculptures with ‘gravity of light’ exhibits - 2 — three studies of the +MODO series, designed by Jorge Pensi, artistically engage with fundamental forces of gravity and light

kitchen design emotionalised through the use of light

Inside the historic Palazzo Landriani, Poggenpohl transformed the +MODO kitchen series into luminous sculptural objects, through the use of surface lighting technology, developed exclusively for the exhibition. The internally illuminated worktops made of natural stone with dark veins that allow the light to shine through adapt to individual preferences by changing the color and intensity of the light. The kitchen counter’s foundation out of a filigree metal framework creates the illusion of weightlessness, accentuated by the expansive countertop that appears to float, while pull-out trays and a single central cabinet element contribute to the airy aesthetic.

‘Poggenpohl has understood how to create a design that radiates lightness and freshness. It’s about showing more than hiding – a homage to those who enjoy presenting their treasures. The +MODO kitchen is the perfect combination of design, form, and functionality, with wonderful hidden details and technology that you can feel but not see,’ states Jorge Pensi, designer of the +MODO kitchen series.

poggenpohl transforms kitchens into luminous sculptures with ‘gravity of light’ exhibits - 3 — Poggenpohl stages the kitchen not merely as a functional object, but rather as an independent sculpture

In addition, Poggenpohl curated a display in the Palazzo’s reading room, showcasing an interpretation of +MODO by German manufacturer Bernd Kußmaul GmbH. Renowned for their expertise in technical customizations, especially in luxury sports car, yacht, and jet design. Drawing from these industries, the object’s aesthetic and materials are influenced, presenting a polished aluminum worktop with trays featuring a blue flocked surface, illuminated by built-in spotlights in the steel frame.