LAUFEN space berlin by konstantin grcic experiments with artistic expression

the LAUFEN space berlin, designed by konstantin grcic, fosters experimentation and prompts new dialogue. the new concept, located in charlottenburg within the german capital, invites visitors to enjoy an entertaining experience of bathroom fixtures. it is much more than just a curation of product collections; the space itself becomes a venue for events, talks and video installations. it is the latest collaboration between the swiss brand and german designer, who was one of the first to develop a collection – val – by using their innovative SaphirKeramik material.

all images courtesy of LAUFEN. photos by gerhardt kellermann unless stated

space is not a matter of shop size; space is about depth. the LAUFEN space berlin challenges this philosophy in its approach to culture, similar to how art galleries evoke a greater sense of depth through their displays. in this instance, the new platform transforms a former antique shop to become an interdisciplinary area that targets its social responsibilities. at its heart, though, the items on display are showcased in unique scenarios and accompanied with unexpected visuals.

‘the DNA of the LAUFEN space essentially consists of three elements: the archive, the LED wall – a virtual extension of the real space, a kind of window that affords deeper insights into the LAUFEN world – and the freely configurable area. this free area initiates a dialogue with art, architecture, design and film – and, in the broader sense, with the public,’ explains designer konstantin grcic.

an oversized industrial racking unit acts as a decisive element that not only responds to the typical features of an old-fashioned berlin shop but also creates rooms within. 12m long and over 3m high, the dominant element serves as an archive of their variety of collections. it reminds viewers of LAUFEN’s industrial process as well as their perfection of design and craftsmanship through diversity. a metal wall structure, opposite the archive, challenges the inflexible nature of normal bathroom exhibitions. here, products can be inserted and removed on the rack, washbasins and toilets can be combined, and faucets can be swapped at will. architects and interior designers are given unprecedented options for sampling.

an LED wall, measuring six square meters, attracts the attention of passers-by in charlottenburg district of berlin. it is embedded into an entirely black reflective box, which further opens up the showroom space and draws more observers deeper into the LAUFEN cosmos. the screen adds a virtual dimension where it can conjure up different atmospheres through its video showings.

the LAUFEN space berlin also holds an enormous free area – the third and final element of the spatial design by konstantin grcic – that extends the public space into the interior. the fluid, multifunctional environment allows a variety of usages for displays, events and more cultural exhibitions. it enables quick, fast and flexible configurations to match needs – or the evolving safety demands of society – even in an old-fashioned store with limited area on first impression.

‘we were interested in dialogue, not prestige. that was the idea for this setting. there are images that take shape: atmosphere, architecture, moods, light and color, artificiality. the images are not so precisely defined, and they don’t have to be exact in ever detail – often, they are merely intimations,’ concludes konstantin grcic about LAUFEN space berlin.

showroom info:

name: LAUFEN space berlin

designer: konstantin grcic

location: kantstrasse 29, 10623, berlin, germany