HIX Preview: Laufen focusses on connectivity and creativity

Using the concept of ‘A new era of connectivity’, Laufen recognises that connectivity goes beyond designing ‘smart’ bathroom products. It is about creating a space that connects with the people who use it. At HIX 2023, Laufen intends to explore this connectivity through emotionally intelligent, human-centric bathroom designs that will enrich the user experience for any hotel guest.

For the first time in the UK, Laufen will be presenting elements of its new MEDA collection,  part of a series of solutions for hotel bathrooms. Created by Swiss designer Peter Wirz for the bathroom brand, MEDA perfectly embodies the functionality and attention to detail that is reminiscent of Swiss design. The washbasins, for example, have right angles and straight lines on the outside, but inside feature softly rounded corners. This makes them both pleasing to the eye and easy to clean.

Another highlight of the collection, is that its wall-mounted WC is the first model to incorporate the new Silent Flush technology from Laufen. This technology utilises vortex flushing to create a powerful whirlpool action that effectively removes waste from the bowl. Silent Flush consumes less water than traditional flushing systems and, as the name implies, it operates virtually silently. This is a perfect solution for hotel bedrooms, as guests are less likely to disturb their partner if using the bathroom in the middle of the night. MEDA’s complete collection of ceramics, baths, brassware and furniture will be launched in the UK and Ireland in Q1 2024.

Laufen has a long and successful partnership with German designer Konstantin Grcic, who created the iconic circular Val bath among other designs. Now, they have joined forces again to design a new version of the Val bath that harnesses the power of light and colour to promote well-being and bring chromotherapy – traditionally offered by hotel spas – into the guest bathroom to enhance the user’s experience.

The redesigned model, which will be on display at HIX, has a translucent structure, through which an LED panel projects different light settings according to mood. By using the remote control, the bather can easily select from nine different pre-set moods, such as desert, ocean and forest, or adjust the intensity and colour of the light according to their preference.

Show visitors will also have the rare opportunity to view a product in development, as Laufen presents the prototype of its new shower system. Designed in collaboration with Andreas Dimitriadis of Platinum Design, the shower system offers the ultimate spa experience to hotel guests thanks to a 12-inch touchscreen display, which is integrated into the shower for the first time. Guests can use the touchscreen to easily select their preferred temperature, pressure and flow of water and choice of shower head. The screen sits within a horizontal wall panel containing a display of tile lights and an illuminated storage niche. What’s more, developers are planning an option for hotel operators that would allow them to display information on the screen.

HIX 2023 takes place 16-17 November at London’s Business Design Centre, Islington, where you will find Laufen at Stand 6.

Laufen is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.

Main image credit: Laufen