David J. Haines (ed.)

WATER
ENJOYMENTMASTERS OF TECHNOLOGYMASTERS’ EDITIONVOLUME 5

David J. Haines (ed.)

Water
Enjoyment

Volume 5

MASTERS OF TECHNOLOGYEditorial

2

3

Dear Reader
The book you are holding represents a turning point in
GROHE’s history. After having had the honour ofmanaging the company for over a decade, in early2014 I was appointed to the Board of Managementof our parent company, the Lixil Group based inTokyo. As well as directing GROHE my new role
involves overseeing the 30,000 employees, 50
production sites and 150 offices which make up theentire Lixil Water Technology Group, covering manywell-known brands and companies such as American
Standard in North America as well as Joyou and Lixil/
Inax in Asia and the EMEA region.
Last year, I had the opportunity to work with GROHE’s
new CEO, Michael Rauterkus, and the rest of his teamas they repositioned the brand. It’s been an enormous
pleasure to witness GROHE’s reorientation towards its
technological roots and the strengthening of its
status as a leading developer and manufacturer ofboth fittings and complete bathroom and kitchensolutions. What really stands out upon closer
examination of GROHE’s new positioning strategy –the Masters of Technology concept – is how it
successfully combines not only the most advanced
digital (and non-digital) technologies, uncompromisingquality standards and sustainability considerations but
also an elegant and cutting-edge design ethos into aflawless whole.
GROHE is now the brand of choice for prominentarchitects and clients around the world, and our
premium products have won out over thecompetition, in the hotel sector for instance. The
iconic projects shown in this book make it easy to
see why. I hope you enjoy reading it.
David J. Haines
Chairman & CEO Grohe Group Sarl

45

Dear Reader
Water is not only the origin of all life on earth but alsoa source of delight. It rejuvenates and revives. It is
restorative and relaxing. It nurtures and purifies.
Water is a force of nature – and that means it does
not always bend to our will or needs.
Harnessing this unique element so that thewonderful effects of, say, a hot shower, gentle steam
bath or soothing soak in the tub are supplied on
demand calls for technology.
At GROHE, we are Masters of Technology. Ourpassion for water goes hand in hand with our
uncompromising German quality as well as ourinnovative drive, technical expertise, precisionengineering and dedication to timeless design.
As the GROHE Masters of Technology, we devise,develop, produce, cast, electroplate, assemble,
polish and coat. We combine genuine craftsmanshipwith subtle creativity to achieve incomparable results.
Our award-winning premium faucets and fittings havebeen shaping the industry for many decades now.
Anyone who uses GROHE products will feel thedifference, will feel the Pure Freude an Wasser –time and again. So it comes as no surprise that weare Europe’s largest and the world’s leading
supplier of sanitary fittings and bathroom solutions
under one brand.
Michael Rauterkus
CEO GROHE AG

67

CONTENTS
4
6
10

Editorial David J. Haines
Editorial Michael Rauterkus
Masters of Technology

EUROPECOMMERCIAL76

HOTELS
46
50
58
62
66
68
82
86
90
94
102
106
112
116
130
134

InterContinental
Davos, Switzerland
Stora Hotellet UmeåUmeå, Sweden
Vincci Gala
Barcelona, Spain
Klaus K Hotel, Sky Lofts
Helsinki, Finland
Rock Noir
La Salle Les Alpes, France
Agora Swiss Night Hotel
Geneva, Switzerland
Hilton London Hyde Park
London, UK
25 Hours Hotel Bikini
Berlin, Germany
Faralda Crane Hotel Amsterdam
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Clarion Post Hotel
Gothenburg, Sweden
Vesper Hotel
Noordwijk, Netherlands
Steigenberger Strandhotel and spa
Zingst, Germany
Martinhal
Sagres, Portugal
Ynyshir Hall
Powys, UK
Hotel Villa Saxe Eiffel
Paris, France
The London Edition
London, UK

110
120

72
126

Market Hall
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Oranda Village
Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia

162
168

Casa Rios
Santiago, Chile
The Lara
New York, USA
Vitacura House
Santiago, Chile
K2 Apartments
Chicago, USA

COMMERCIAL
196

World Trade Park
Jaipur, India

Middle East & Africa

Sports and leisure
HOTELS
80

TRANSPORT

Sochi F1
Sochi, Russia

210
156

Guarulhos Airport
São Paulo, Brazil

214

EDUCATION AND SCIENCE
226
54

Mariinsky II Theatre
St. Petersburg, Russia

230

Asia & Pacific

234

TRANSPORT
238
98
122

United Airlines First Class lounge
London, UK
Quantum Of The Seas
Papenburg, Germany

HOTELS
178
182
184

AMERICAS

188
192

HOTELS

142
146
152
164

8

158

172

138

RESIDENTIAL

Mercedes-Benz Sales Headquarters Germany
Berlin, Germany
Coca-Cola
Berlin, Germany
Haus der Philanthropie
Frankfurt, Germany

RESIDENTIAL

Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort
Antigua
MereCalgary, Canada
Hotel Tierra Patagonia
Patagonia, Chile
Hotel Secrets Puerto Los Cabos
San José del Cabo, Mexico
Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Spa®
British Columbia, Canada

204

Pullman Melbourne Albert Park
Melbourne, Australia
Meritus Pelangi
Langkawi, Malaysia
Shangri La Sentosa
Sentosa, Singapore
JW Marriott Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam
HiltonOsaka, Japan
Four Points
Jaipur, India

RESIDENTIAL
200

The SummaHong Kong

Yildiz Hotel
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Radisson Blu
Salwa, Kuwait
Steigenberger Aqua Magic
Hurghada, Egypt
Vogue Hotel
Bodrum, Turkey
CaveÜrgüp, Turkey
Carya Golf & Spa
Istanbul, Turkey

Sports and leisure218

HBZ Stadium
Al Ain, United Arab Emirates

TRANSPORT222

In Love
Istanbul, Turkey

240
294
304
311
324
327
328

GROHE History
Moments of truth
DesignInterview with Paul Flowers
Index
Photo Credits
Imprint

9

Masters of Technology

10

11

“The most curious thing
about the future is probably
the idea that our age will
eventually be called the good
old times”

Ernest Hemingway,
American writer12

13

Timeless beauty and quality that lasts a lifetime –this captures the essence of the GROHE Masters ofTechnology pledge. With unfailing regularity, ourexperts deliver on it with brilliant products andunmatched performance.
It started with Carl Nestler, a manufacturer anddeveloper of faucets for all kinds of tastes andpurposes. Ever since then, the Masters of Technology
have done more than continually change the worldof faucets – we have improved it.
Ongoing investment in research and development at
GROHE has led to the creation and launch of worldleading bathroom and kitchen innovations.
All GROHE products are defined by their exceptional
quality, with every component undergoing a seriesof stress tests – the toughest in the industry – toensure ease of use and perfect looks. Only when
they have passed with flying colours are they free tocarry the GROHE name out into the world.
Activities such as washing hands, showering andmaking coffee may seem rather banal to the rest ofus. But for the Masters of Technology at GROHE,
they represent a science unto themselves – one that
we passionately seek to perfect with the ultimate incare, precision and meticulous attention to detail. All
the while, we never lose sight of our goal – to share
the Pure Freude an Wasser.

1415

Melanie Papadias,
Master of Technology, listens to the hushof GROHE Whisper® water technology as she
tests it in the acoustics lab.

16

17

Manfred Kühn,
Master of Technology, transforms showering into a
spa experience with the GROHE Rainshower® head.

18

19

Theocharis Liolis,
Master of Technology, produces
unbeatable hardwearing faucet surfaces
with GROHE StarLight®.

20

21

Martin Weiss,
Master of Technology, tests the thermocouple in
the GROHE TurboStat® cartridge that reacts tochanges in water pressure on hot and cold supplies
to maintain a constant temperature and flow in theblink of any eye.

22

23

Ruurd van Leeuwen,
Master of Technology, tests the built-in GROHE
CoolTouch® technology, which ensures the shower
surface stays at a safe temperature despite the flowof hot water.

24

25

Georgios Vlachodimos,
Master of Technology, takes a sample of GROHE’s
own handmade brass, GROHE Zero®, that ensures
our faucets are virtually lead-free and its
composition has been proven to be more resistant
to corrosion.

26

27

Niklas Michel,
Master of Technology, tests and adjusts the water
hardness of GROHE Blue® for filtered, chilled andsparkling water straight from the faucet.

28

29

Michael Potthoff,
Master of Technology, uses a 3-D measuring tableto ensure that ceramic sanitaryware and faucets fit
together perfectly.

30

31

Silke Becker,
Master of Technology, measures the GROHE Red®’swater, which is heated to 100 °C in an instant. The
GROHE CoolTouch technology ensures the surface
is never too hot to handle despite the very hightemperature of the water.

32

33

Janika Taschies,
Master of Technology, uses a spectrometer tocheck that the test sample matches perfectly to theceramic coated with GROHE Hygiene.

34

35

Karoline Schönbrunn,
Master of Technology, uses the GROHE SPA app totest the many functions of the F-digital Deluxe
shower that allows the user to create a tailored spa
experience.

36

37

Jeannine Fischer,
Master of Technology, uses a force meter todetermine how little pressure is needed to operate
a lever fitted with SilkMove® technology.

38

39

Jan-Peter Tewes,
Master of Technology, sets the water jet’s
temperature, pressure and direction with the
GROHE Sensia® IGS remote control.

40

41

PROJECTS

4243

Europe

EUROPE
Finland 62
France 66 / 130
Germany 76 / 86 / 106 / 110 / 120 / 122
Netherlands 72 / 90 / 102
Portugal 112
Russia 54 / 80
Slovenia 126
Spain 58
Sweden 50 / 94
Switzerland 46 / 68
UK 82 / 98 / 116 / 134
44

45

DavosInterContinental
1

The distinctive, elliptically shaped Hotel DavosIntercontinental, nestled in the spectacular
Grau­bünden Alps at a height of 1,600 metres(5,249 feet), has a natural stone base. Green roofs
with Alpine herbs and flowers extend across thebuilding like a carpet. The Alpine surroundings arereflected inside the hotel, creating a warm
atmosphere and inspiring a sense of freedom andexclusive Alpine experiences.
The GROHE Allure fittings series in the bathrooms
meets the hotel’s high aesthetic standards. With
the clear simplicity of the square and the rectangle
as the basis, the fittings exploit the full potential of
the geometric shapes, playing with variations on
cylindrical bodies, arcs, and cubes that haveseductive silhouettes. Dazzling GROHE StarLight®
chrome surfaces ennoble all the accessories of the
GROHE Allure products.

2

46

1

In keeping with the architectural concept,
residences with fixed volumes areembedded in the landscape by the facades
and the exterior design. In this way, they
become components of the countryside
and are more compatible with theenvironment.

2

Due to the fact that the façades of thebuildings are buried in the ground, thelandscape flows over the residences,embeds them, and picks up on theadjoining elevations. The horizontal
structure enables the residences to be
combined flexibly without changing theappearance of the façade.

47

3

5

Oliver Hofmeister

Tarek Hegazy, AIA- SAR/MSA

Kathrin Matthiesen

Architect
Oliver Hofmeister
OIKIOS GmbH
Munich, Germany

Kathrin Matthiesen, cm-Design
Hamburg, Germany
andOIKIOS GmbH,
Munich, Germany

Date of completion
2013

Interior Design
Tarek Hegazy, Living Design AB
Brovägen 1
Stocksund, Sweden

ClientStilli Park AG

6

Number of rooms
216

Address
Baslerstrasse 9
Davos, Switzerland

4

48

3

GROHE Allure combines unmatched beauty
with high performance.

4

The Presidential Suite, one of 216 chicly
furnished rooms, commands a singular viewof the mountains and valley and impresses
with its extremely stylish ambience.

5	On the washbasins, the GROHE Allure
collections make use of geometric shapes
to create exquisite linear minimalisticarchitecture.
6

A significant lighting concept in the lobby
creates an atmosphere of Alpine chic.

49

Umeå
Stora Hotellet Umeå1

Stora Hotellet Umeå, situated in the Swedish townof Umeå, has an historically significant andmysterious maritime interior, whose concept
alludes to its surroundings, the wharf of the harbour
city. The hallways and salons of the old building areadorned with pictures of sea captains, reflecting
the spirit of a fascinating past. The interplay
between refinement and coarse materials – sail
cloths and foam next to velvet and champagne –creates a compelling symbiosis. The interior of thehotel has a maritime ambience, with treasures andbizarre elements, and strikes a balance between the
new and its historical legacy.
In keeping with the hotel’s special aura, the GROHE
Veris fittings line was chosen for the bathrooms,
harmonising objectivity and emotion. Exuding asensual minimalism, supple curves alternate withclear lines, creating a fascinating form corresponding
to the hotel’s extraordinary design concept.

2

50

51

3

5

4
1

In keeping with the atmosphere of thehotel, Gotthard’s restaurant has anhistorical aura. The menu features unique
dishes inspired by the sea, harbours, andother cultures.

2

The portrait shows Gotthard Zetterberg,
the hotel’s first managing director, after
whom the restaurant was named. It is
hanging in the hallway in front of thelibrary.

3

Alluding to puzzling maritime phenomena,
the Mystique room has a mysterious
atmosphere.

4

The striking design of the bathrooms is
accentuated by fittings from the GROHE
Veris line with a black colour scheme.

5

All of the elements of the hotel reflect thelong history of the maritime city Umeå.

Erik Nissen Johansen
Interior Design
Stylt Trampoli
Gothenburg, Sweden
Address
Storgatan 46,
903 26 Umeå, Sweden
Date of completion
2013
Number of rooms
82

52

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2

St. Petersburg
Mariinsky II Theatre1

For almost two centuries, the historic Mariinsky
Theatre has introduced a plethora of great artists tothe world. Now, directly across the Kryukov Canalfrom the original, the Mariinsky Theatre Second
Stage impresses with grand public enfolds andsuperb acoustics. A glowing onyx wall enwraps theauditorium and provides a beacon for the city. The
theatre company can now expand its repertoire withnew and innovative productions in one of the world’s
largest opera and ballet houses.
In the Mariinsky’s bathrooms, the Rainshower®
Cosmopolitan 210 showerhead offers a sensual
showering experience thanks to GROHE DreamSpray®
and GROHE EcoJoy® technology. In the sanitaryfacilities, the Concetto and Europlus faucet lines
boast a stylish design. Thanks to the GROHE
SilkMove® ceramic cartridge and the GROHEStarLight® chrome surface, the washbasins glistenwith elegance and sophistication. And Atrio
Thermostate and Europlus E infrared electronics
ensure perfect water flow and the utmost comfort at
all outlets.

Jack DiamondArchitect
Diamond Schmitt Architects
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Address
34 Dekabristov Street
St. Petersburg, Russia
Date of completion
2013
Area used
79,115 m²
54

55

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4

5

1

A magnificent glass façade is the tour deforce of the theatre’s outer façade.

2

The extensive building, which extends
over an area of 79,114 square metres(851,576 square feet), has seven storeys
above ground and three below. The
auditorium seats up to 2,000.

3

56

4

The public areas command a breathtaking
vista of the Kryukov Canal (built in 1865) at
Mariinsky I, while the rooftop amphitheatre
provides a spectacular view of the skyline.

5

The horseshoe-shaped auditorium is ideal
for intimacy, acoustics, sightlines, andaudience comfort.

In the two double-height lobbies, shiny
backlit onyx walls dominate theatmosphere.

57

2

BarcelonaVincci Gala1

The Hotel Vincci Gala, which pays homage to theartist Salvador Dalí and his wife Gala, is teemingwith contrast - between old and new, discreet andextravagant, elegant and informal. The colour gold
dominates the interior and recurs in various
materials and applications, both on the façade andinside the building.
The hotel’s organic shapes and architecture continue
in the bathrooms. The GROHE Essence basin mixer
has a dazzling, elegant design thanks to GROHEStarLight® technology. GROHE SilkMove® technology
facilitates operation of the ergonomically shaped lever.
The Grotherm 3000 thermostat reliably regulates thetemperature and water flow in the shower.

58

59

4

3

5

Miguel Jorda

Stefan Richter

Georg Martens

Carlos Mir

178 rooms extend over an area of 4,600
square metres (49,513 square feet).

2

An aluminium chain curtain in front of thebanisters melds the different storeys into asingle vertical space.  

3

The GROHE Essence faucet line enhances
the stylish design of the bathrooms.

4Gold and grey shades, in combination withindirect linear lighting, give the rooms anelegant ambience.

5

An organically shaped black Corianelement frames the opening of the hotel
bar and contrasts with the gold-coloured
wall cladding made expanded aluminium.  

Architect
TBI Architecture & Engineering
Barcelona, Spain
Address
Ronda de Sant Pere, 32
Barcelona, Spain
Date of completion
2014
ClientActiv-Group
Area used
4,600 m2
Number of rooms
78

60

61

Helsinki
Klaus K Hotel,
Sky Lofts
2

In central Helsinki, architects realised an extraordinary space concept in the Klaus K Sky
Lofts. An 80 square metre (861 square feet) roof terrace commands impressive vistas of
the city. The modern loft rooms and the bathroom boast a unique pre-programmed
lighting concept permitting two light-mood options. The rooms afford a view of the quiet
courtyard or Erottaja Square and have succinct interiors. The luxurious sky suites are
furnished with a cosy seating area and private access to the street. A large bathroom
provides a separate shower and bathtub.
All of the rooms are equipped with large rain showers. The bathrooms are adorned with
the GROHE Quadra fittings line for the utmost in comfort and an expressive design. An
integrated mousseur highlights the striking design of the washbasin and tub fittings,
while pure contours create a clear bathroom atmosphere. GROHE EcoJoy® technology
ensures both an aesthetic design and sustainable usage of the valuable resource water.

1

62

63

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3

4

Vertti Kivi
Interior Design
dSign Vertti Kivi & Co
Helsinki, Finland
Address
Bulevardi 2 – 4
Helsinki, Finland
Date of completion
2014
Number of suites
30

64

1

Some roofs have skylights and 4.5 metre(14.8 foot) high ceilings.

2

Large windows provide ample natural light.

3

The rooms are marked by an elevatedsleeping area.

4

The spacious bathrooms exude a quiet
elegance, accentuated by characteristic
light installations.

5

The GROHE Quadra one-hand washbasin
battery embodies a striking design.

65

La Salle Les Alpes
Rock Noir
1

2

The four-star Le Rock Noir hotel is ideally situated in
the attractive ski resort of Serre Chevalier. The hotel’s
32 rooms and suites offer the utmost comfort andboast a stylish design. Wood, velour, and fur embody
the traditional mountain style. But the rooms’ real
luxury is their design – cliff-like and avant-garde. The
harmonious combination of design, comfort, andstone reflects an innovative conception whose
leitmotifs were design and luxury. In addition, eachof the rooms has an impressive panoramic view overthe mountains.
Thanks to GROHE DreamSpray® technology, the
GROHE Ondus® 210 showerhead has a perfectspray pattern that offers a sensual showeringexperience. The dazzling GROHE StarLight® chrome
surface shines in a high-quality design with timelesselegance. The modern colour ‘velvet black’ adds
special emphasis that enhances the hotel’s
extraordinary design.

1

The natural authenticity of the rooms
harmonises with the contemporary décor.

2

The colour ‘velvet black’ creates pureelegance in the bathrooms.

3

GROHE fittings enrich the modern
bathrooms.

3

Interior Design
Didier Rivière
Address
Serre ChevalierPlace de l‘Aravet
05240 La Salle Les Alpes
FranceDate of completion
2013
Number of rooms
32

66

67

1

Lausanne
Agora Swiss
Night Hotel

With an innovative concept, the Agora Swiss Night
Hotel gives its guests the opportunity to experiencea quintessentially Swiss night. This idea runs throughthe rooms of the hotel in Lausanne like a red thread,
offering a contemporary and identity-conscious viewof Switzerland. The interior has a significant
atmosphere evoking a walk in the mountains.
Traditional materials alternate with modern andcustomised elements, creating a cosy and homey
atmosphere.
The recuperative aspect of the hotel is enhanced in
the bathrooms by the GROHE Tempesta Rainshower®
Next Generation shower system. The symbiosis ofoutstanding design and innovative technology offers
an incomparable, luxurious showering experience.
The dazzling, perfectly designed GROHE Essence
fittings enable extremely sensual water enjoyment.

68

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3

4

4
1

The outer façade is full of character. It
reflects contemporary Switzerland andis an eye-catcher due to its unique,idiosyncratic appearance.

2

The GROHE Tempesta Rainshower® Icon
and Rainshower® Solo hand and head
showers exhilarate body, mind, and soul.

3

The rooms have a stylish and elegant
chalet-like design.

4

The restaurant on the top floor commands
an awe-inspiring view of Lake Geneva.

Marc Hertrich, Nicolas Adnet
ArchitectDL - A Devanthéry &Lamunière Architectes
Geneva, Switzerland
Interior Design
Studio Marc Hertrich &Nicolas Adnet, Paris, France
Address
Agora Swiss Night Hotel
Avenue du Rond-Point 91006 Lausanne, Switzerland
Date of completion
2012
70

71

Rotterdam
Market Hall
1

The Netherland’s first indoor market hall, located in
Rotterdam’s former historic centre, has been
completed. Situated under a horseshoe shaped
arch, it has more than 90 stalls. The size andcolourful interior make the market hall unique, as
does the concept of a market combined with flats,
restaurants, and an underground parking garage.
To cover the market stalls, the architects turned thetwo residential towers and the market around,creating a large hall with two large openings
towards the city.
Tailored to the requirements of modern market halls,
GROHE Eurosmart Cosmopolitan has a hightechnological standard, as does GROHE EcoJoy®,
which ensures sustainable water consumption. The
GROHE Grohtherm 100 thermostat regulates thetemperature, while the GROHE Tempesta handshower impresses with pure comfort and an
aesthetically appealing design.

Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs, Natalie de Vries
Architect
MVRDVRotterdam, Netherlands
INBO
Amsterdam, Netherlands
AddressDs. Jan Scharpstraat 298
3011 GZ Rotterdam, Netherlands
Date of completion
2014
Used area
95,000 m2
72

73

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2

4
1	On the third to eleventh floors of thehorseshoe-shaped arch, there are 102
rental flats and 126 privately owned
apartments.

74

2

Grey natural stone, which is used forcobblestone pavement all over Rotterdam,
was chosen for the building’s façade
cladding to highlight the colourful interiorof the hall.

3

To let in as much light as possible, thearchitects opted for a cable net
construction at the opening. In this way,
the art work ‘The Horn of Plenty’ by artists
Arno Coenen and Iris Roskam, showing
colourful oversized images of market
produce, can even be admired from theoutside.

4

The building was designed to be as open as
possible to attract a large number of visitors.

75

1

BerlinMercedes-Benz
Sales Headquarters
Germany

Mercedes-Benz’ new corporate headquarters in
Berlin Friedrichshain is a modern office complex
epitomising transparency, sustainability, andfunctionality. The office building, consisting of aseven-storey low-rise and a 14-storey high-rise, has
an extremely modern and flexible work environment.
Clear shapes and high-quality materials make ittimeless yet well suited to the urban-planning
context. The building meets high environmental
standards, with around 1,000 square metres (10,764
square feet) of the roof containing greenery. Tripleinsulated glazing provides optimum insulation.
The modern zeitgeist of the building continues inthe bathrooms and the fluid profile of the GROHE
Essence fittings. The sanitary facilities have an
aesthetic design and offer employees great comfort.

76

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2

3

5

1

The glass façade reflects activity in thesurrounding area and affords a look inside.

2

The building has working space for 1,200
employees as well as areas accessible tothe public.

3

Light limestone from Portugal was laid in
the atrium and the stairwells.

4

In the façade of the building complex,
rectangular window surfaces arranged likewaves alternate with metallic panels that
ensure that ample light penetrates theoffice wings and the high-rise.

5

Thanks to GROHE StarLight® technology,
the comfortable, rotatable outlets of the
GROHE Essence washbasins have adazzling elegance.

Georg Gewers, Henry Pudewill
Architect
Gewers  Pudewill
Berlin, Germany
Address
Mühlenstraße 30
Berlin, Germany
Date of completion
2013
ClientCA Immo Deutschland GmbH

78

79

1

Sochi
Sochi F1
Completed in August 2014, the 260 million euro
Sochi Autodrom opened just two months later. The
world-famous Formula One circuit in the Russian cityof Sochi is approximately 6 kilometres (approximately
3.5 miles) long with seating for 61,000 spectators.
Echoing the high-tech racetrack, the Rainshower
Rustic 210 and Relexa 100 Trio shower head contain
GROHE DreamSpray® technology, which offers aperfect stream pattern and recuperative showering
enjoyment. GROHE Eurosmart washbasin fittings
dazzle in a cosmopolitan design and meet high usage2

needs thanks to GROHE SilkMove®. Additionally,
GROHE QuickFix® enables the fittings to be attachedquickly using current methods. The Euroeco Special
One Hand Safety Mixture washbasin ensures water
is discharged according to needs – which is very
important given the frequent use of the sanitaryfacilities – thanks to GROHE EcoJoy® water-saving
technology. The comfortable toilets are equippedwith assembly-friendly GROHE Rapid SL installation
systems, and GROHE Tectron Surf and Skate control
buttons provide state-of-the-art flushing technology.

3

Hermann Tilke
Architect
Tilke GmbH & Co. KG
Aachen, Germany
Interior Design
Denis Simachev
Moscow, Russia
Address
Krasnodar, Kirova st. 3
Sochi, Russia
Date of completion
2014
Length
5,853 km80

1

The architecture of the racetrack promotesinteresting Formula One races at thehighest technological standard.

2

The fast circuit has 19 bends and leads
through the Olympic Park.

3

In the race management department,
every part of the circuit is monitored on
Closed Circuit Television (CCTV).
81

1

LondonHiltonLondonHyde Park
Hilton London Hyde Park is situated in the heart of
London in a prime location with a view of the famouspark of the same name. In keeping with the hotel’s
tradition, the rooms boast an elegant classical design.
The interior exudes a warm and inviting atmospherereflecting traditional London charm. The hotel isclose to shopping arcades, green areas, public
transport, and numerous sights.
The GROHE Grandera™ faucet collection recalls
long-forgotten times and reflects the atmosphere of
the hotel. It combines quality and top-notch
artisanship with a penchant for detail. GROHEGrandera™ is distinguished by its stylish design,
which is full of character.

82

1

The Hilton Hyde Park Hotel is situated in
the heart of lively London, housed in an
historic listed Edwardian townhouse.

2

The classical design of the extremely
comfortable rooms is oriented to a soft,
discreet colour scheme, conjuring up acalm, relaxed atmosphere.

3

The washbasins are equipped with theelegant and dazzling GROHE Grandera basin
mixers to complement the elegant interiors.

4

The impressive GROHE Grandera
free-standing bath filler in the presidential
suite harmonises perfectly with theelegant look of the bathtub.

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3

4

Interior Design
Hilton Worldwide,
International Operations Centre
London, UK
Address
129 Bayswater Rd
London, UK
Date of renovation
2014
Number of rooms
132
Grace Kelly

84

Charlotte Philip85

1Berlin25 Hours
Hotel
Bikini
The extraordinary location of the 25 Hours Hotel
Bikini Berlin inspired the design team during thecreation of the interior, which attests to an integrated
and individual design concept. With an urban jungle
theme, it bridges the gap between nature andculture. Half of the guest rooms afford a view of themonkey and elephant house of the Berlin zoo andhave a warmer design scheme with natural
materials and colours. The other half commands aview of Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church. Theserooms are more urban, in keeping with Berlin’s
more hard-edged, creative side.
In the bathrooms, the minimalistically designed
GROHE Euphoria shower system picks up on the
hotel’s urban lifestyle. The modern colour ‘velvet
black’ accentuates the hotel’s individualistic
character. The perfect water stream resulting frommodern GROHE DreamSpray® technology offers asensual shower experience.

86

2

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3

LTR: Tina Bunyaprasit, Dirk Borchering,
Janis Nachtigall, Werner Aissslinger
ArchitectPaul Schwebes andHans Schoszberger, 1957
Interior Design
Studio Aisslinger
Berlin, Germany
Address
Budapester Str. 40
Berlin, Germany
Number of rooms
149

1

The tenth floor, commanding aphenomenal 360-degree panorama,
houses NENI Berlin with its eclectic
eastern Mediterranean cuisine.

2	On the third floor, the loft-like reception
area with reception, a kiosk, the hotel’s
own bakery, and many nooks has arelaxed, communicative atmosphere.
3

Even the work rooms have a relaxedatmosphere, with architecture that
expresses dynamism and freedom.

4

With 149 rooms, the 25 Hours Hotel Bikini
is a freestanding small high-rise. Locatedat the so-called Elephant Gate of Berlin
Zoo, it forms an integrative platform.

4

reception

blesscornerofficegestalten kiosk

bakerymeeting

worklabs

loungenewscorner

dj corner

88
BAUHERR:
Bayerische Hausbau GmbH & Co.KG
Niederlassung Berlin
Hardenbergplatz 2

Alle Maße sind am Bau zu prüfen.
Bei Abweichungen ist Rücksprache
zu halten.
PHASE:

studio aisslinger
heidestrasse 46-52
10557 berlin
DARSTELLUNG:

tel +49 (0)30 315 05 400
fax +49 (0)30 315 05 401
studio@aisslinger.de
PROJEKT:89

Amsterdam
Faralda Crane
Hotel Amsterdam
1This unique hotel building, integrated into a harbour
crane, is an extraordinary remnant of industrial
culture. Guests are offered an extravagant experiencein exclusive accommodation commanding amagnificent view of Amsterdam. Forty-fife metres(147 feet) above the ground, the Mystique Suiteboasts seductive colours, sumptuous fabrics, highend materials, and extraordinary designer furniture.
Below this suite is the Secret Suite, whose design
features lively colours and abstract shapes, creating
an oriental ambience. An abundance of pillows
conjures up the Arabian Nights, and exotic lamps
and a freestanding bathtub with elegantly curved
feet instil a cosy atmosphere.
In the bathrooms, the GROHE Allure faucet line
meets the Crane Hotel’s extremely high design andquality standards. The GROHE Rainshower® F
Series shower system not only goes with theaesthetics of the design, but also provides a pure
showering experience with perfect stream patterns.
From the bathrooms, guests have a breathtaking
views of Amsterdam.

90

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4

Edwin Kornmann Rudi
Owner / Design & Project
Responsible
Edwin Kornmann Rudi
Main Contractor
Talsma Scheepswerf
Franeker, Netherlands
Interior Design & Architect
Heidi Much Houses
Edward van Vliet
IAA Architecten GmbH
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Address
NDSM Plein 78, 1033 WB
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Venue
3 rooms and a
TV broadcasting studio
3

92

1

The old harbour crane is part of the NDSM
shipyard. Ample glass surfaces, combinedwith red-painted steel, accentuate thestature of the industrial crane.

2

Due to an additional ceiling in the cranedriver’s cabin, this luxury suite has a livingroom and a separate sleeping area. The
other two suites are housed in containers
above and below the former crane cabin.

3

The innovative Grohtherm 3000
thermostat and GROHE Euphoria
Cosmopolitan hand shower are integrated
into the shower. The interplay between
them offers a comfortable and sensual
showering experience.

4

The bathtub, which has a panoramic view
through the high windows, is the absolute
highlight of the suite. The freestanding
GROHE Allure bathtub outlet with a swivel
spout and the integrated Sena handshower enhance the sensory appeal of the
spa and wellness area.

93

Gothenburg
Clarion Post Hotel
1

2

Clarion Hotel Post in Gothenburg, Sweden, is theresult of a complex project to convert the main post
office into a modern hotel building. A completely
new kind of business hotel in a top location on
Drottningtorget, it is a popular and trendy central
meeting place for a changing clientele and a livingroom for a new generation of Gothenburg residents
who identify with the city’s new image.
The hotel’s modern flair extends to the rooms
boasting the precisely executed design of the
GROHE Concetto faucet line. The parallel lines ofthe lever and outlet create a harmonious profile andhave a modern appearance. A luxurious GROHEStarLight® chrome finish ennobles the washbasins.
In addition, GROHE SilkMove® technology allows
for easy operation and water control. The Grohtherm
2000 with Ecojoy technology reduces valuable
water consumption, and with its elegant look it
complements the design of the bathroom.

94

95

3

Architect
Ernst Torulf, 1925
Interior Design
Semrén & Månsson
Gothenburg, Sweden
Address
Drottningtorget 10
Gothenburg, Sweden
Date of completion
2012
Number of rooms
500
Used area
40,000 m2

4

96

1

The impressive architecture of the former
post office building exudes historic charm.

2

The Post Bar is a living room for the city,a meeting point for hotel guests andGothenburg residents alike.

3

Dark, warm colours, coupled with modern
furniture offer a cosy, homey atmosphere.

4

The rooms are imbued with a stylish
elegance that creates a cosy ambience. An
HD flat-screen TV and a large workspaceprovide superlative business comfort.

97

LondonUnited Airlines FirstClass lounge
1

The United Airlines First Class and Club Lounge
crowns the Queen’s Terminal (T2) at London
Heathrow. The extensive, sophisticated lounge area
reflects Heathrow’s significance as an airport withworldwide air connections. Situated in an area
between Terminal 1 and 4 that serves 17 flights a day,it offer the Terminals’ customers the highest service
standards and luxurious furnishings. The seatingareas are conducive to relaxation and ideallyequipped for work needs.
The luxurious atmosphere of the lounge extends tothe private bathroom and shower areas thanks to the
comfort of GROHE products. Accessories such as theRainshower® shower and the Relexa hand shower
cater to easy and convenient handling. The GROHE
Rapido T thermostat and the GROHE Atrio thermostat
with an integrated two-way diverter for bathtub or
shower ensure controlled use of water.

Felicity Hurling
Architect and Interior
Design (UK)
Felicity Hurling, 3DReid
London, UK
Architect and Interior
Design (USA)
Solomon Cordwell Buenz
Chicago, USA
Address
Heathrow Airport
Terminal 2
98

99

2

3

4

5

100

1

The highlights of the club lounge are
the long, curved bar and the room-highwindows affording a view of the airfield.
Aviation topics are visually addressed by
vintage graphics.

2

The elegant design of the GROHE handshower adheres to sensual minimalistic
guidelines.

3

The core of the lounge area design line isan oversized clock in the Big Ben style.

4

Thanks to a variable adjustable temperature
limiter, the infrared electronics of the
GROHE Eurosmart CE provide forsustainable and regulated water regulation.

5

GROHE head showers offer relaxing
showering pleasure.

101

2

Noordwijk
Vesper Hotel1

An inspired mix of classic hotel elegance with
distinctly contemporary energy and glamour, theVesper Hotel overlooks the ever-changing North Sea
and is situated in the most beautiful and exclusive
surroundings of Noordwijk. Impeccable service,craftsmanship and a feeling of peace and calm takecentre stage here. Vesper promises that beauty is in
the details, because leisure is much more thanrelaxation; leisure is an art.

102

A pure feeling of recuperation is created by the
GROHE Rainshower® F-Series ceiling shower andthe modern light and music modules. The innovativetechnology is maximised by GROHE F-digital Deluxe
products. GROHE Euroeco Special fittings shine on
the washbasins. Additionally, the GROHE Sena handshower and the Euphora shower system ensure
absolute showering comfort. GROHE Lineare fittings
provide for high-end design in the bathtubs.

103

4

3

5

1

Thanks to its design, the hotel is a havenof relaxation that appeals to all the senses.

2

The harmonious colour scheme produces
a lively flair.

3

The rooms are imbued with an elegant
vintage style.

4

The GROHE F-digital Deluxe ceilingshower and the Sena hand shower offer
extraordinary showering experiences in a
special light, music and steam ambience.

5

The GROHE Atrio One Hand bathtub
battery enhances the design of thefreestanding bathtub.

Interior Design
Bart Akkerhuis
Studio Akkerhuis
Paris, France
Address
Koningin Astrid Boulevard 46
Noordwijk, Netherlands
Number of rooms
27
Bart Akkerhuis

104

105

Zingst
Steigenberger
Strandhotel and spa
1This four-star plus domicile, situated on the 270
metre (886 feet) long Zingst Sea Bridge, exemplifies
subtle and extraordinary luxury. The picturesquetown centre is 50 metres (164 feet) away. The
architecture, garden layout, and interior design of theSteigenberger Strandhotel and Spa create aharmonious total work of art that combines relaxedliving style with expressive elegance. The interior
boasts natural and high-quality materials, including
marble, sandstone, bronze, coral, and seashells.
Baltic Sea motifs imbue all areas with a maritime flair.
The pure elegance of the hotel continues in thebathrooms with the harmonious design of the
GROHE Essence fittings line. Cylindrical shapes anda fluid profile express a timeless style. GROHE
SilkMove® technology couples easy operation witha high-quality look.

106

1

Taking up the classical bathroomarchitecture of the Baltic, the architectureof the new building features gables, pillars,transom windows, reliefs, and a rustic
stone wall finish.

2

The sauna and spa area is part of a uniquelight-flooded wellness pavilion that extends
over an area of 1.400 square metres(15,069 square feet).

3

Striking GROHE Essence fittings dazzle on
the washbasins, ennobling the design ofthe bathrooms.

4

The rooms are characterized by a coherent
colour and shape scheme that alludes tothe natural surroundings. There are nuancesin white, green, mud colour, sand colour,and coral red.

107

2

Anne Maria Jagdfeld
Interior Design
jagdfeld design KG
Berlin, Germany
Address
Seestraße 60
18374 Zingst, Germany
Hotel facilities
117 rooms and 6 suites, twoof them in the „Kapitänshaus“
3

108

4

109

1

BerlinCoca-Cola1

The colour of the façades changes in fivestages around a clear signal red,brightening or darkening by two nuances.

2

The company’s hallmark colour is also a
fixed component of the interior design.

3

The toilet flushing system harmonises withthe overall look. The GROHE Skate
Cosmopolitan cover plate – in white at the
Coca-Cola headquarters – is available indifferent colours and surface materials
that perfectly reflect the style of thesurrounding building.

Coca-Cola’s new German headquarters is situated in the middle of theMedia Spree in Berlin, next to media companies such as MTV/Viva.
The side of the seven-storey building facing the Spree is completely
glazed with gallery-like balconies and fixed sun protection. The threeother facades have conspicuous cladding consisting of glazed ceramicelements in different shades of red. In keeping with the open-spaceconcept, the office areas are primarily open-plan.

Sergei Tchoban
Architect
nps tchoban voss
Sergei Tchoban, Architekt BDA
Berlin, Germany

The headquarters’ modern design is accentuated by the elegant
GROHE Essence fittings series. On the washbasins, GROHE SilkMove®
technology guarantees effortless operation of the ergonomicallyshaped lever.

Address
Stralauer Allee 4
Berlin, Germany
Date of completion
2013
ClientHOCHTIEF
Projektentwicklung GmbH
Area usedapprox. 10,300 m2

2

110

3

111

Sagres
Martinhal

1

The luxurious Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel is in aparadisiacal location, in the middle of the pristineWest Algarve. Near the historic, well-preserved
fishing village of Sagres, it has a view of a magnificent
white beach. The exclusive holiday complex, with 37
rooms as well as comfortable houses and villas,provides for a picturesque stay. The symbiosis
between five-star luxury and family-oriented
hospitality in sublime natural surroundings is aperfect concept. The culinary delights served in therestaurant are also in keeping with this theme,
incorporating traditional food, spices, and specialities
from local providers and producers.

The hotel’s elegant, restrained design has also been
implemented in the bathrooms. The GROHE Essence
faucet line impresses due to its stylish design andpure comfort. The cylindrical shape creates a fluid
profile that dazzles. In addition, GROHE StarLight®
technology enables the pivot spout to shine inexquisite splendour.

2

1

1

Situated on the edge of a national park,
the building’s architectural design is inharmony the natural coastal landscape.

2	One of the resort’s five pools with astunning view of the beach.

112

113

4

Architect
Conran and Partners
London and Brighton, UK
Interior Design
Michael Sodeau
London, UK
Address
Quinta do Martinhal
Apartado 54
Sagres, Portugal
Date of completion
2010
Number of rooms
168

3

114

5

3

The interior has a modern, homey lounge
atmosphere. Natural materials typical of
the country, including wood, cork, andstone, were used for the furniture.

4

Green and earth tones accentuate thestylish natural ambience of the rooms.

5

The GROHE Essence basin mixer,
featuring SilkMove® technology, provides
pure comfort in the rooms.

115

PowysYnyshirHall
1

Ynyshir Hall is located in an enchanting natural
setting full of serene beauty. The owners Joan and
Rob Reen designed the interior of this impressive
hotel themselves. The ten splendidly furnishedrooms have a discreet elegance and luxurious
comfort. All of the suites, some with living rooms,
have imposing bathrooms. The rooms, mixing
traditional and carefully chosen elements, were
furnished with selected details and named after
famous artists. For his work of art, Rob Reen was
inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding
countryside.
The sensual minimalism of the GROHE Veris fittingsline in the bathrooms not only provides for purerecuperative enjoyment, but the design also
embodies a balanced symbiosis of objectivity andemotion. Sinuous curves alternate with clear lines,
creating fascinating, timeless forms that resonate
with the charm of the property. The GROHE Veristhermostat regulates the water temperature making
each showering experience pure enjoyment.

116

117

2

Joan Reen
Interior Design
Joan Reen
Address
Eglwysfach, Machynlleth
Powys SY20 8TA, UK
Number of rooms
10
3

118

4

1

The estate is in an idyllic location between
the mountains and the sea. Parts of the halldate back to the 15th century. The 1,000
hectares surrounding the property are abird sanctuary.

2

The spacious and luxurious bathrooms
have a walk-in shower, freestanding
bathtub, and floor heating.

3

The luxurious Chagall Suite includes aliving room with a fireplace, an outdoor
area, and a spacious bathroom. The rooms
afford a magnificent view of the garden andthe mountains.

4

The extravagant design and the colour
scheme of the bathrooms offer a special
spa experience. The GROHE Veris
washbasin mixer accentuates thebathroom’s expressive design.

119Hamburg
Haus derPhilanthropie
2

3

For the rooms of the globally active Plan International
Deutschland e.V. children’s aid organisation in
Hamburg, a new office concept was developed thatmakes the spaces more open, more team-oriented,
and more efficient. With the aim of promoting
teamwork among employees, the Munich-based
interior design office designfunktion used an open
space concept as the architectural basis. Due to thecomplete opening of the space, zones that wereused only as ancillary rooms, because they were notwell lit due to the room’s great depth and the shadefrom an adjacent building, are now flooded with light.
For each continent on which Plan is active, adistinctive colour scheme was chosen, with which
the materials, wall colours, carpeting, and acoustic
textiles were coordinated and which accentuates thewhite, anthracite, and grey tones of the office areas.
This colour differentiation gives the building
personality and individuality and at the same time isa practical guidance system.
The GROHE Essence fittings line is used in thesanitary facilities. The cartridge with GROHE
SilkMove® technology minimises friction, enabling
the amount of water and temperature to be adjusted
precisely and easily for a long period of time,
reducing wear and tear to an absolute minimum.
Additionally, the GROHE Essence design is marked
by elegant minimalism.

Architectschneider+schumacher
Frankfurt, Germany
Interior Design
designfunktion
Munich, Germany
schneider+schumacher
Frankfurt, Germany

1

Address
Bramfelder Str. 70
Hamburg, Germany

120

1

The innovative technology of GROHE
Essence fittings guarantees easy
operation. The GROHE single-lever mixers
contain user-friendly technology.

2

Due to the opening of the spaces andenergy-efficient LED lighting, even areas
deep in the space can be used.

3

The architects generously opened theentrance area creating a direct link to the
new conference and cafeteria area.

121

Papenburg
Quantum Of The Seas
1

The cruise ship Quantum of the Seas has set
standards of luxury and boasts groundbreaking
innovations, new experiences and extraordinary
activities. The extravagant concept includes the
RipCord by iFly, which enables guests toexperience the thrill of skydiving on the sea for the
first time, and the miraculous North Star, on which
guests can rise to a height of 90 metres (295) feetabove sea level in a jewel-shaped glass capsule.
The largest interior activity space on the seas
offers SeaPlex, autoscooter, and roller skating.
The cruise ship’s luxurious standards are accentuatedin the bathrooms by the GROHE Allure line. Cylindricalbodies emanating from square and rectangularrosettes produce a minimalistic character and perfectproportions for an extremely elegant design. Stateof-the-art technology corresponds to the innovativetechnological standard of the ship.

122

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2

4
1

The ship is in the Quantum class, part of
the fleet of the international cruise line
Royal Caribbean International, sails to morethan 290 destinations in 71 countries.

2

The Royal Loft Suite offers pure luxury
extending over two decks, and has awhirlpool on the balcony to boot.

3

The cruise ship realises a symbiosis
between comfort, thrilling leisure activities,
and innovative technology.

4

The overall design of the ship surfaces ischaracterised by luxurious elegance.

5

The stylish bathrooms are equipped withGROHE Allure for pure elegance andcomfort on board.

Wharf
Meyer Werft
Papenburg, Germany
Interior Design
5+design
Hollywood, USA
Date of completion
2014
Passengers
4.905

5

3

124

125

Rogaška Slatina
Oranda Village
1

Oranda Village is a place where tradition and luxury
merge. On a hill, five houses and ten luxury flats
cater to recuperation in an idyllic haven of solitude,
while a high standard and an elegant design resultin breathtaking living areas. The generously laid out
architecture enables guests to revel in pure nature.
The spacious apartments encompass 120 square
metres (1,292 square feet) and each has two
bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large living room area,
and a fully furnished kitchen. Their terraces afford a
direct view of a spectacular natural setting. Thermal
water, crystal glass, and rolling vineyards
characterise the spa town of Rogaška Slatina, which
offers recuperation and enjoyment.
In addition to boasting a high-quality design, thekitchens are highly user-friendly, and culinary
delights can be concocted conveniently in the flats.
EasyTouch technology enables one to operate thelever easily and practically with the back of one’s
hand, wrist, or forearm without leaving traces on
the fittings. The hygienic technology is concealed
inside, preserving the elegant design.

126

127

2

1

The comfortable houses are embedded ina spectacular natural setting.

2

Luxuriously appointed kitchens andstate-of-the-art technology harmonisewith a luxurious design.

3

The modern GROHE products are balm tothe soul.

4

The bathrooms exude elegance andmaximise sensual recuperation.

3

4

Architect
AB objekt d.o.o.
Boštjan Matul,
Dominik Sagadin
Slovenske Konjice, Slovenia
Interior Design
AB objekt d.o.o.
Boštjan Matul,
Dominik Sagadin
Slovenske Konjice, Slovenia
Address
Cvetlicni hrib, 3250 Rogaška
Rogaška Slatina, Slovenia
Date of completion
2014

128

129

ParisHotel Villa Saxe Eiffel
1

Hotel Villa Saxe Eiffel is situated in a romantic
setting between the Eiffel Tower and Montparnassein the heart of Paris’s Left Bank. The hotel was
designed to be a secluded haven catering torelaxation, removed from the bustle of the city,
nestled within greenery. By means of architecturalinterventions, the old building was converted into amodern hotel. Contemporary use of materials andcolour elicits warmth, peace, and harmony, creatinga soothing interior.
In the bathrooms, stylish design harmonises
with pure comfort. GROHE Lineare ennobles
the washbasins, while GROHE Tempesta Neu
Cosmopolitan and Silverflex Accessoires enhance
the aesthetics of the showers. The choice ofdifferent colours for the GROHE Icon showerheads
varies the design, while the innovative technologyof the GROHE Rapid SL installation systems ensuressustainable usage of the resource water.

Laure Zucconi

Arnaud Basselier

Architect
Laure Zucconi, DZ Architecture
Paris, France
andArnaud Basselier
Basselier Jarzaguet Architectes
Paris, France
Address
9 Villa de Saxe
Paris, France
Date of completion
2014
Number of rooms
48
130

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4

1

Behind the bold Corten steel façade is aninviting reception area teeming withcharacter.

2

Silver and gold shades define the interior
colour scheme.

3

Incorporating contemporary colours andmaterials, the interiors of the lounge exude
warmth, serenity, and harmony producing
a calming effect.

4

The GROHE Rainshower® Icon 150 handshower offers a luxurious showeringexperience thanks to several innovativetechnologies.

5

The entire interior and room furnishings
elicit a sense of pure wellbeing.

5

3

132

133

LondonThe London
Edition2

The historic interior of the London Edition Hotel was restored based on its
former grandeur and carefully juxtaposed with selected modern andcontemporary pieces. A stylish symbiosis between luxurious lifestyle,tradition, and elements creating warmth produces a charismatic and highly
discerning atmosphere. The interior concept, thought out down to the lastdetail, combines groundbreaking innovation and sophisticated design.
The GROHE Euphoria Cosmopolitan Stick hand shower combines a
wealth of extraordinary technologies for luxurious showeringexperiences with discreet design. SpeedClean nozzles create a perfect
look. While GROHE DreamSpray® technology produces an efficiently
distributed stream pattern that stimulates all the senses, GROHE
CoolTouch® guarantees protection from scalding. Additionally, GROHE
EcoJoy® ensures economical water usage. GROHE Essence fittingsadorn the washbasins.

Interior Design
Ian Schrager Company
New York, USA
in collaboration with
Yabu Pushelberg
New York, USA
Address
10 Berners Street
London, UK
Number of rooms
173

1

1	More than 173 unique rooms and suites
are equipped with oak parquet flooring
and walnut and light oak panelled walls.
2

134

Innovative and stylish GROHE products
ennoble the design of the bathrooms andmeet the hotel’s comfort requirements.

135

Americas

AMERICAS
Antigua 138
Brazil 156
Canada 142 / 164
Chile 146 / 158 / 168
Mexico 152
USA 162 / 172

136

137

1

Antigua Jumby Bay,A Rosewood
ResortPalace-like villas crown the Jumby Bay, A Rosewood
Resort. The newest and largest beachfront home,
Lazy Lizard, epitomises top-class luxury. The house
is a break-taking haven and a paradisiacal idyll
commanding a panoramic view of the white sandbeach. A luxurious mix of Caribbean and Asianarchitecture, the five-hectare property has eightpavilions, a spectacular free-form swimming pool, aswimming pavilion, bedroom suites in separate
pavilions, and suites with an inspiring views of the sea.
The six bedrooms have exquisite en-suite bathrooms
with spacious tubs. The bathrooms are equippedwith GROHE Arden fittings, which boast magnificent
yet minimalistic elegance.

138

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4

ArchitectAndrew Goodenough Architect
Antigua, West Indies
Interior Design
Miami-based IDC
Miami, USA
Address
Jumby Bay Island
St John's, Antigua
Number of rooms
40

3

5

1

The property has the spirit of a tropicalplace of refuge in a romantic English
colonial style.

2	Open-air living rooms provide anunobstructed view of the spectacularsurroundings.

140

3

The resort’s croquet lawn is located next
to the Estate House restaurant.

4

The entire property coalesces with thebreathtaking vastness of the sea.

5

The lagoon shaped Infinity Pool gives theillusion of blending seamlessly into the
Caribbean Sea. An ideal place foruninterrupted sunbathing and relaxation.

141

Winnipeg
Mere

Distinguished by its refreshing architecture, theMere Hotel is ideally situated near all of Winnipeg’s
important cultural sights. The hotel has a striking
outer façade with a characteristic artistic design.
The interior design concept embodies balanced
minimalism. The rooms are extremely simple yet
still inspiring and fascinating.

To offer a high standard of comfort and purerecuperative pleasure, the bathrooms are equippedwith rain showers. Accentuating the hotel’s modern
architecture, the GROHE Eurosmart Cosmopolitan
fittings reflects core values of minimalism. A fresh
formal idiom is in line with the building’s designconcept. In addition to the high aesthetic standard,
innovative technologies cater to user-oriented
operation and need-based water delivery.

1

142

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2

David Penner
ArchitectDavid Penner Architect
Winnipeg, CanadaandHarry Haid
Arccadd Architecture Inc.
Winnipeg, Canada
Interior Design
Walker Lawson Interior
Design Inc.
Calgary, Canada
Developer
Sunstone Winnipeg
Address
333 Waterfront Drive
Winnipeg, Canada
Number of rooms
67

3

144

1

Embedded in a beautiful park, thischaracterful building has an ideal locationin Winnipeg.

267 elegant rooms boast exceptionalcomfort.

3

Striking furniture creates outstanding
design in the rooms. 40-inch flat-screen
TVs maximise the comfort.

4

For an elegant design, the bathrooms areequipped with the GROHE Eurosmart
Cosmopolitan fittings.

145

2

Patagonia
Hotel Tierra
Patagonia

Documenting its imposing surroundings, this hotel
is situated at the entrance to Torres del Paine
National Park on the shore of Lake Sarmiento in
Patagonia, Chile. The building’s form fuses with themeta­physical countryside, creating a breathtaking
symbiosis. It looks like the fossil of a prehistoric
animal stranded on the lake’s shore. The building,anchored to the ground with stone embankments,
is clad in Lenga wood, giving it the appearance of atypical old wooden house.

In harmony with nature, the hotel’s interior concept
continues in the bathrooms. Wooden panelling
creates a union with the natural surroundings and arelaxing spa feeling. This aesthetic design isenhanced by GROHE Essence fittings for thewashbasin.

1

146

147

3

148

149

4

7

5
1

The hotel is embedded in the countryside
the way the island’s residents are deeply
rooted in the region’s culture andtraditions.

2

Influenced by the indigenous Tehuelche
people, the hotel was built using natural
materials from the region.

3

Situated on a bluff, the building looks likeit rose from the earth.

4

Inside, wood-clad walls emanate warmth,
safety, and protection, creating a casualambience.

5

With its fluid profile, GROHE Essencecorrelates perfectly with the attractive
washbasins.

6

The wooden panelling in the bathrooms
creates a natural and pleasantatmosphere.

7

The furniture and textiles, made by Chilean
artisans, boast high-quality workmanship.

6

Cazú Zegers
Architect
Cazú Zegers Arquitectura
Vitacura, Santiago, Chile
Associated Architects
Rodrigo Ferrer
Roberto Benavente
Interior Design
Carolina del Piano
Alexandra Edwards
Address
Lago Sarmiento, Torres delPaine, XII Región, Chile
Area used
4,990 m2

150

151

Los Cabos
Hotel Secrets
Puerto Los Cabos

1

Marked by boundless luxury, the Hotel Secrets
Puerto Los Cabos on the Pacific coast is an idyllicoasis of breaktaking splendour. Five hundredexquisite rooms, each with a king-size bed, abathroom with a Jacuzzi, and a terrace or balcony
cleverly matched to the interior, all meet highaesthetic demands.
To pick up on the luxurious character of the hotel,
numerous GROHE products were installed in thebathrooms. The GROHE BauClassic Washbasin
One Hand Mixer enhances the design of thefreestanding bathtubs. The exceedingly elegant
GROHE Seabury central thermostat ensures reliabletemperature control, while GROHE Rainshower
Cosmopolitan head showers and Tempesta 100 Trio
hand showers offer sensual showering experiences.

152

153

2

Architect
HKS, Inc.
Dallas, USA
Interior Design
Zyman & Zyman
Mexico-City, Mexico
Address
Av. Paseo de los Pescadores
S/N, La Playita
San José del Cabo, Mexico
Date of completion
2013
ClientPulso Inmobiliario
Arq. Juan Carlos Rodero
Construction Director
Arq. Enrique Villanueva
Development Director
Arq. Jorge Bastidas
Construction Manager
Lomas de Chapultepec
Mexico-City, Mexico
Number of rooms
500
Area used
58,000 m2
3

154

1

Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa
Resort has won several awards.

2

The interior and the setting have an
extremely sensual aura.

3

The bathrooms display grandiose eleganceskilfully provided by GROHE design.

4

The sublime building is tastefully situatedin a secluded setting.

4

155

2

São Paulo
Guarulhos Airport
Terminal 3 of Guarulhos Airport in São Paulo iscrowned by the new Star Alliance Lounge.
Encompassing an area of more than 1,350 square
meters (14,531 square feet), the lounge canaccommodate up to 295 people. Located on amezzanine level, it affords a view of the atrium andthe airport apron. The use of wood, rope, natural
fibres, and ceramic creates a cosy atmosphere in a
sophisticated interior. Primarily indigenous Brazilian
materials were used for the special handmade
furniture.
1

156

The GROHE BauClassic fittings series on thewashbasins embodies modern zeitgeist withtraditional aesthetics and 21st-century technology.
GROHE Eurosmart CE infrared electronics for thebasins and the Atrio thermostat with an integrated
two-way diverter guarantee resource-saving usageof water thanks to state-of-the-art sustainable
technologies. The GROHE Ondus hand shower
permits comfortable showering experiences.

Architectbiselli + katchborianarquitetos associados
Sao Paulo, Brazil
AddressRod. Hélio Smidt
São Paulo, Brazil
Date of completion
2014
Area used
13,774,100 m2

3

1

The design of the lounge has a living room
atmosphere and a cosmopolitan flair.

2

All of the sitting areas have individual appeal.

3

In keeping with the special Star Alliance
Lounge concept, local accents and aromas
have been combined with global branding
elements.

157

Santiago
Casa Rios

1

158

The imposing building is situated halfway up a cliff
in an impressive natural setting, with a privileged
view of the mountains and a golf course. The roofs
were conceived as terraces commanding excellent
vistas. Only one material was used to erect thebuilding, exposed concrete, with titanium dioxide
added to make it lighter. The garden, on an elevatedplatform, affords a view of the golf course but
cannot be seen itself, ensuring guests' privacy.

In keeping with the innovative design, GROHE
Eurostyle fittings create a modern look whileboasting myriad features. The clearly structured
contours are enhanced by the GROHE StarLight®
chrome surface. GROHE SilkMove® technology
ensures that the equipment is user-friendly andeasy to operate.

2

159

3

4

5

6

Gonzalo Mardones Viviani
Architect
Gonzalo Mardones Arquitecto
Santiago, Chile
Address
Valle Escondido
Lo Barnechea
Santiago, Chile
Date of completion
2013

160

1

The open side of the building faces thegarden and the terrace and is protectedfrom the sun.

2

The use of substrates, which were dubbed
the sixth façade, is present in the rooms
that are open, illuminating and ventilating
the extension of the foundations.

3

Artificial grass, attached to rafters,
produces an airbed that protects thebuilding from the sun.

4

The entire interior is white to brighten
things up.

5

The roofs were laid out with artificial grass.

6	One surface of the building is enclosed bywalls and faces the street.

161

1

2

New York
The Lara

Architect
SLCE Architects
New York, USA
Address
113 Nassau Street
New York, USA
Date of completion
2013
Units
168

2

3

Encompassing an area of more than 10,000 square
metres (107,639 square feet), this imposing tower
embodies an extraordinary lifestyle thanks to theinnovative residential units as well the Nassau Club@ The Lara. Light, spacious studio, one- and twobedroom apartments offer space for modern living.
With a breathtaking roof terrace, the Nassau Club
commands magnificent views, while a fitness centre
and boxing studio, a highly modern media room,barbecue stations, an indoor and outdoor lounge
area, as well as a sculpture garden, provide anextensive leisure and enjoyment offer.
GROHE fittings accentuate the innovative zeitgeist of
the residential and recreational complex. In thebathrooms, the aesthetic design of the user-friendly
GROHE Essence line is impressive. The washbasin
fittings in the kitchens are crowned by GROHE Minta.
User-oriented EasyTouch technology enables thewater flow to be turned on and off without leaving
traces on the surface of the fitting when cooking.
The technology was concealed inside to preserve theattractive design.

162

1

An elegant retro style ennobles the interiorof the flats.

2

The elegant kitchen cabinets are made ofGerman zebrawood.

3

The bathrooms are equipped with the
comfortable GROHE Essence fittings line.

163Victoria
Delta Victoria
Ocean Pointe
Resort and Spa®
1

2

The charming Delta hotel in Victoria, the capital of
the Canadian province of British Columbia, featuresa fresh design concept that reflects its inviting
atmosphere. Situated on the city’s Inner Harbour,with excellent traffic connections to the downtown
area, the interior design relies on selected elementsthat evoke a special flair. Fresh, modern, versatile
ModeRoom™ guest rooms give the hotel adistinctive style.
With the focus on modern architectural design, thebathrooms have been equipped with the GROHE
Eurosmart Cosmopolitan fittings series. Alluding toa dynamic design concept, the angled transition
from the fitting to the operating lever boasts a fresh
visual idiom. The oval-shaped handle, which is
directed slightly upwards at an angle of 7°, caters toeasy handling, while the GROHE EcoJoy®
technology is particularly efficient when it comes toconserving water.

164

165

3

4
1

The ideal location close to cultural
attractions, restaurants, and shopping
areas guarantees a wide range ofexperiences.

2

To reflect the zeitgeist, the accentuating
materials and wall cladding were conceived
to be convertible.

3

GROHE Eurosmart Cosmopolitan washbasin
fittings ennoble a modern design.

4

TheModeRoom™ guest rooms are basedon a fuchsia, orange, or green animatedcolour scheme.

5

The rooms are extremely cosy andsaturated with natural light.

5

Randa Tukan
Architect
HOK Architects
Toronto, Canada
Interior Design
HOK Design Team
Toronto, Canada
Address
100 Harbour Road
Victoria, British Columbia
CanadaDate of completion
2014
ClientDelta Hotels and Resorts
Number of rooms
240
166

167

2

Santiago
Vitacura House
This private domicile is situated on a hill in the
fashionable Vitacura residential area, commanding
an extraordinary view of the South American
metropolis Santiago and of snowy Andean peaks.
Viewed from the outside, the building with its naturalstone façade looks dark and sober. Taking a few
steps down to the entrance, you feel like you areentering a cave. While the exterior is matter-of-fact
and straight-lined, it exudes a warm and friendly
atmosphere, created by natural materials such aswood, natural stone, and marble.

In addition to pools and water basins on the terraces,
the architect has put special emphasis on special
water enjoyment in the bathrooms. Marble withstriking structures and colour contrasts yields anelegant design that is maximised in the mainbathroom by the GROHE Allure Brilliant line. With
its extraordinary design vocabulary, it looks like apolished diamond, making an expressive statementin this luxury bathroom. Additionally, it meets thehighest modern standards with GROHE EcoJoy®
water-saving technology.

1

168

169

4

3

5

Architect
Christian de Groote Arquitectos
Christian de Groote
Camila del Fierro C.
Santiago, Chile
Address
Vitacura, Santiago, Chile
Date of completion
2013
Area used
1,300 m2

1

The architects have given free rein to theircreativity while adhering to formal
principles of contemporary architecture.

4

The guest bedroom is equipped with adesign icon from the GROHE SPA® range:
GROHE Ondus®. Its minimalistic style andthe colour 'velvet black' go perfectly withthe dark marble aesthetics of the room.

5

The clear, minimalistic lines of thebathroom design conjure up opulent
elegance complemented by the GROHE
Allure Brilliant basin mixer.

2	Oversized windows and clever skylights
make the rooms bright and transparent.
3	On a higher level, a terrace provides aspectacular panorama of the city andmajestic mountains.

170

171

1

ChicagoK2 Apartments
2K2 at K Station is a new large luxury apartment
tower located in Chicago’s dynamic Fulton River
district. It houses 496 residential units geared to theneeds of different lifestyles. With seven different
apartment models, the prize-winning designers
demonstrate their vision of how urban life can beimbued with luxury. Each model was customised
and geared to a certain market segment, for singles
or couples, to demonstrate the wide range oflifestyle possibilities at K2.
The luxury and lifestyle character of the modern
residential project is reflected by GROHE productswith a high standard of aesthetics and comfort. The
GROHE Concetto fittings series impresses withcylindrical shapes that create a modern look. Theinterplay between precisely executed lines, angles,
and curves yields a harmonious profile. On top of
that, GROHE SilkMove® technology facilitates water
regulation.

172

173

4

3

5

Brian Kidd
AIA, LEED AP BD+C
Project Architect
Pappageorge
Haymes Partners
Chicago Illinois, USA
Interior Design
Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill
Architecture LLP
Chicago Illinois, USA
Address
365 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60661, USA

1

The elegant K2 tower caters to luxurious
lifestyles.

4

The apartments offer an awe-inspiring
view of Chicago’s skyline.

2	K2 is a major architectural project delivered
by Pappageorge Haymes Partners.

5

The floor plan for the corridors on the 33rd
floor. The residential tower houses units
ranging from efficiently furnished studios
to opulent two bedroom penthouses.

3

174

With an environment-friendly, intelligent
design, the flats uniquely combine a warm
elegant style with streamlined modern
aesthetics.

175

Asia & Pacific

ASIA & PACIFIC
Australia 178
Hong Kong 200
India 196 / 204
Japan 192
Malaysia 182
Singapore 184
Vietnamm 188

176

177

Melbourne
Pullman Melbourne
Albert Park
1

After a recent refurbishment, the Pullman Melbourne
Albert Park has become a part of Australia’s largest
growing five-star brand. With a direct view of the
Formula One Grand Prix circuit and 31 event spaces,
the hotel occupies a fantastic location and is one of
the largest hotel-based event venues in Melbourne.
Designed and created with the business traveller inmind, Pullman Melbourne Albert Park features
Windows Restaurant, the Atrium Lounge, Espresso
Bar, a fully equipped Fit Lounge, indoor swimming
pool, spa, and sauna.
Given the high standard of comfort, it was only
natural that GROHE BauEdge products were used
for the washbasins and showers. The consistentemployment of diamond shapes creates a modern
silhouette, while the lever handle with a 7˚ angle isdesigned for comfortable usage.

2

178

179

3

1

As part of a dramatic transformation of thehotel, the rooms were designed in acontemporary colour scheme with gold,
red, and chocolate, as well as withtechnical knowhow that meets the needsof business travellers.

2

The outstanding comfort of the GROHE
fittings enables smooth handling.

3

The lobby’s new look impresses guests
when they arrive, with a design catering tobusiness needs and to relaxation as a calm
retreat.

4

The Pullman Executive Lounge, ahallmark of every Pullman hotel, meetsdemanding standards with cosy plushsofas and LED TVs.

5

The clear cylindrical profile and thebevelled edges of the GROHE Tempesta
Neu Cosmopolitan hand shower are theideal choice for a modern architectural
bathroom.

54Interior Design
Meriem Hall Designs
Singapore
Address
65 Queens Rd
Albert Park VIC 3004
Melbourne, Australia
Date of completion
1970
Number of rooms
169

180

181

2

Pulau Langkawi
Meritus Pelangi
1

Lei Siew Hong, Nashzelima Bte Ngadmin and
Mak Sook Har
Interior Design
Blu Water Studio Sdn Bhd
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Address
Pantai Cenang,
Langkawi, Malaysia
Date of completion
2012
Number of rooms352
3

In the style of a traditional Malaysian village, theMeritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, situated on
famous Cenang Beach, is a dreamy paradise in a
tropical landscape. The rooms were built on stilts ingroups of one- and two-storey wooden houses.
Their spacious verandas look out over thesurrounding gardens.

182

The GROHE New Tempesta hand showers in thebathrooms cater to pure recuperation. Two spraypatterns and GROHE DreamSpray® offer luxurious
showering experiences. The design fits any
contemporary bathroom environment, while GROHE
EcoJoy® provides need-oriented water delivery.

1

The rooms and suites boast exciting andstylish interiors.

2

The GROHE New Tempesta hand shower
contains the voluminous, air-enhanced
GROHE RainO² jet.

3

In a quiet location, the Meritus Club
Lounge offers exclusivity, comfort, andpersonal service.

183

Singapore
Shangri La Sentosa

Situated right on the beach of Singapore, ShangriLa Rasa Sentosa Resort & Spa boasts opulent
luxury in a an idyllic location. It is a fascinating
haven of pure relaxation. The rooms command aview of the South China Sea and lush landscaped
gardens. Extraordinary comfort in the tropics
meets comfortable accommodation amidst anatural landscape.

Tailored to sensual pleasure, the GROHE Euphoria
110 Massage shower set brings body, mind, andspirit into harmony. With varying kinds of streams,
GROHE
DreamSpray®
technology
promotes
luxurious showering enjoyment, while the GROHE
SprayDimmer ensures controlled water flow. Elegant
GROHE Eurodisc fittings glisten on the washbasins.

1

184

185

2

3

Architect
RSP Architects
Planners & Engineers
Singapore
Interior Design
Design Bube (2011)
Stade, Germany
Leo Designers (1993)
Singapore
Address
101 Siloso Road, Sentosa
Singapore
ClientShangri-La Hotels

41This magnificent hotel is embedded in a
beautiful garden lagoon.

2

The Sentosa Suite, an exclusive
presidential suite, maximises the feeling ofpure luxury with an indoor Jacuzzi and aview of the sea.

3

The long glass windows and terraces of
the Deluxe Garden rooms afford a view of
the resort’s tropical vegetation.

4

The Panorama Suite, generously equippedwith a living room and a bedroom as wellas an extensive terrace, offers apanoramic view.

Number of rooms
454

186

187

1

Hanoi
JW Marriott
Hanoi

Located in the new central business district ofHanoi, the JW Marriott Hanoi consists of 450
comfortable rooms, 17 event rooms including twocolumn-free ballrooms. The hotel offers a wide
selection of authentic Vietnamese and Asian
treatments in its nine private spa rooms. The fitness
by JW has weight and cardio machines, a yoga
studio, as well as a sauna and steam room for workout and relaxation. The expressive architecture andauthentic service offer a perfect setting for regionaland global meetings.
In terms of sanitary facilities, GROHE Eurocube
washbasin and bathtub fittings ennoble the hotel’scosmopolitan design. The GROHE Rainshower®
Allure 230 head shower and the Euphoria
Cosmopolitan Stick hand shower offer sensual water
enjoyment, while GROHE Talentofill equipment,
Rapid SL for wall-mounted WCS, and Tectron Skate
actuator plates enable regulated and sustainableusage of water.

188

1

Quiet luxury is combined with a warmly
authentic and relaxed atmosphere in thecompelling architecture and a flawlessinterior.

2

The use of GROHE products enhances theaesthetic design of the bathrooms.

3

The elegant, stylish design of the guest
room is marked by wooden floors andfloor-to-ceiling windows.

4

In a modern atmosphere, the JW Café
restaurant offers attractive views of thelake and serves authentic cuisine from
Vietnam, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Canton.

189

4

2

3

Wing-Shun Leung
ArchitectWing-Shun Leung, BA (Hons).
Dip Arch. ARB. AssociateInterior DesignPeter Silling & Associates
Hotel Interior Design Ltd.
Hong Kong, China
andCarlos Zapata Studios NY
New York, USA
Address
No 8 Do Duc Duc Road
Hanoi, Vietnam
Date of completion
2013
Number of rooms
450
190

191

OsakaHilton1

The impressive Hilton Osaka hotel is situated in aprime spot of the city. In addition to the top location,
16 event rooms, the Sakura ballroom, which canaccommodate up to 1,000 people, and rooms withwork spaces are ideal facilities for international
meetings, exhibitions, and galas. The exquisite Italiancuisine served in the Windows of the World
restaurant on the 35th floor, with a magnificent viewof Osaka, tickles the palate, while the Genji restaurant
features classical Japanese food.
The GROHE products in the bathrooms perfectly
meet the hotel’s comfort requirements. The GROHE
Grohtherm 2000 thermostat enables regulated andsustainable usage of the valuable resource that iswater. The GROHE Rainshower® 210 shower system
employs the ultimate technological knowhow. A
head shower, the Sena fixed shower head, fourswivel side showers, and GROHE DreamSpray®
technology promote sensual showering enjoyment,
while GROHE CoolTouch® offers reliable protection
from scalding.

192

1

Situated in the heart of the lively business,
shopping, and entertainment district ofOsaka, the imposing hotel building is in an
ideal location.

2

The spacious, stylish rooms command asuperb view of the city.

3

The lighting and the design with Japanese
accents create an especially elegant
ambience.

193

3

2

Architect
William B. Tabler Architects
New York, USA
Address
530-0001, Osaka, 8-8
Umeda 1-Chome
Kita-Ku, Japan
ClientHilton World Wide
Number of rooms
525

194

195

JaipurWorld Trade Park
1

Geared to the fast-paced transformations of thebusiness world, Jaipur World Trade Park is a platformthat brings international trade, leisure pursuits, andbusiness activities into harmony. Additionally, thiscomprehensive trade complex serves as aspringboard for companies on a national level.
The expectation of innovative state-of-the-art
technology is met in the sanitary facilities throughthe use of GROHE products. The GROHE Skate
Cosmopolitan cover plate contains EcoJoy®
technology as well as a double flush and start-andstop operation, which guarantee sustainable use ofwater.

Anoop Bartaria

ArchitectAnoop Bartaria
Sincere Architects
Jaipur, India
Address
J.L.N Marg, D-Block
Malviya Nagar
Jaipur, India
Date of completion
2012
196

197

3

2

198

1

The expressive architecture internalises
zeitgeist, innovation, and a claim to dynamic
development in the business sector.

2

An elegant design defines contemporary
lifestyle.

3

Extensive business and retail areas arebrought into perfect interplay in thisbuilding.

199

1Hong Kong
The Summa
The impressive Summa consists of modern and comfortable living spaces in Sai Ying Pun,a district of Hong Kong. The development combines intelligent living concepts with anexceedingly elegant design and interior. The flats command an exclusive view of Victoria
Harbour. The kitchens have a sleek design, while Miele appliances ensure a high standardof comfort.
Like a diamond, the GROHE Allure Brilliant fittings line impresses with its extraordinary
details. Faceted levels and surprising little nooks characterise an innovative design
around the washbasins and bathtubs. The jewel-like character is maximised by theexpressive design of the GROHE Sinfonia 3 battery holes washbasin and the bathtub
battery. The curved design and the clever star handles create a majestic look.

2

200

201

3

5

Architect
Yu Lin Keung
T. K. Tsui & Associates Limited
Hong Kong
Design Architect
Gary Chang
EDGE Design Institute Ltd.
Hong Kong

1

The building’s outer façade has aninnovative and highly modern look.

2

In addition to the living spaces, a luxurious
pool is a haven for relaxation.

3

The open kitchen in studio has anextremely charismatic design due to theunique structures of the GROHE K7
one-hand washbasin battery, while the
SpeedClean rinsing spray ensures
comfortable operation.

4

The lounge of the clubhouse: Both anaesthetic and modern design.

5

The spacious showers optimise sensual
water enjoyment.

6

The clear contours of the GROHE Allure
Brilliant fittings add a touch of elegance tothe washbasins.

Interior Design
Antonio Cheung
CAL Interiors
Address
23 Hing Hon Road
Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
Date of completion
2014
ClientVickon Limited
Number of rooms
168

4

6

202

203

JaipurFour Points
2

Four Points by Sheraton, Jaipur (owned by Duet
India Hotels) reflects a perfect, modern Indian flair
in its interiors. Situated in the heart of the pink cityand linked to all important transportation hubs, thehotel has a fully equipped business centre and acomfortable 369 square metre (3,972 square foot)conference area that caters to extended businessstays. For those wanting more leisure pursuits thehotel has a fitness centre and outdoor pool area aswell as a relaxing spa and steam baths. The rooms
are extremely comfortable, among other worldclass amenities, thanks to Four Points by Sheraton
Four Comfort Beds™.

GROHE Eurostyle picks up on the hotel’s comfortable,
relaxing design, modern GROHE EcoJoy® technology
ensures water is delivered according to needs. The
cosmopolitan design is in keeping with the hotel’sinnovative zeitgeist, elegant design of the GROHE
Chiara shower mixer, which harmonises with the
GROHE Tempesta hand shower to provide exquisite
showering pleasure.

1

3

204

205

4

5

6

Interior Design
Ritu Bhatia
Total Integrated Design(India) Pvt. Ltd.
Gurgaon, India
Address
City Square, Vasundhara
Colony, Tonk Road, Jaipur
Rajasthan 302018, India
Owner
Duet India Hotels
Number of rooms
114

1

The rooms have breathtaking views of thecity’s skyline or the majestic Aravali Hills.

2

The extremely stylish design of the family
lounge is marked by local cultural influences.

3

The splendid hotel bar offers a choiceof international drinks and a special
snack menu.

4	One hundred and fourteen comfortable
and aesthetically designed rooms andsuites offer relaxation after a day of work.

206

5

The GROHE Tempesta hand shower offers
comfortable water enjoyment.

6

The distinctive Aravali ballroom is theperfect place for large conferences andsocial occasions.

207

Middle East & Africa

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA
Egypt 226
Kuwait 214
Turkey 222 / 230 / 234 / 238
Turkmenistan 210
United Arab Emiratess 218
208

209

1

2

Ashgabat
Yildiz Hotel
Situated in an impressive setting, the five-star Hotel
Yildiz is a harmonious combination of modern
luxury, a stylish interior, and classical elegance.
Rising 107 metres (350 feet), the 24-storey dropshaped building is the tallest hotel in Turkmenistan.
One hundred and fifty-five elegant rooms and suites
offer great comfort coupled with an extremely
stylish design. Catering to sensual recuperation andpure relaxation, a magnificent wellness area,equippedwithstate-of-the-art
technology,
encompasses an area of 2,500 square metres(26,910 square feet). Exquisite restaurants and a
hotel bar permit extraordinary sensory experiences
in a perfectly designed atmosphere.

210

To reinforce the recuperative aspect in a sublime
ambience, the bathrooms have been equipped with
the GROHE Allure fittings line. Cylindrical bodies
have a minimalistic character and perfect proportions,while cutting-edge technologies deliver unmatchedperformance in line with the standards of the hotel
complex.

211

5

3

1	More than 14,000 square metres (150,694
square feet) of glass were used to erect
the expressive building.
27,000 square metres (290,625 square feet)of tiles were laid to create the sublimely
elegant interior.

3

The hotel’s extensive wellness area
includes two indoor swimming pools.

4

The panoramic restaurant on the 18th
floor, which affords a magnificent view ofthe skyline, serves exquisite culinary
delights.

5

The bar on the 19th floor has an extremely
elegant interior.

4

Tarek Hegazy, AIA- SAR/MSA
Interior Design
Living Design AB
Brovägen 1, 18276 Stocksund
SwedenAddressStr. 2002/5 17 Bagtyyarlyk
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Date of completion
2013

212

Number of rooms
155

213

SalwaRadisson Blu
1

The Radisson Blu hotel is situated on the magnificent
shores of the Arabian Gulf. A total of 191 rooms anda 300 metre (984 foot) long private beach offer pure
luxury. The Viking Club, a 500 square metre (5,382
square foot) long fitness area, several restaurants,
and state-of-the-art conference facilities cater todiverse leisure options and provide businesstravellers with ample comfort.
The GROHE Tectron actuator plates offer luxurious
surfaces and innovative technology, which makes
the bathrooms more economical due to the reduced
water consumption, ensure integrated spraying
surfaces, and provide for a pleasant ambience inthe bathroom. The GROHE Tempesta hand showers
are user-friendly and boast a contemporary design.

214

215

4
2

2

Hachem Achmar

George Abi-Hannah

Architect
SSH Design
Safat, Kuwait
Address
Al Bida Road, Al Ta’awn
Street, Salwa 13122, Kuwait
Date of completion
2013
Number of rooms
191

3

5

1

The hotel’s atmosphere reflects a diverse
mixture of cultures, a characteristic of Kuwait.

2

The double deck terrace of the Sky
Lounge on the roor offers a panoramicview of the sea.

3216

The NY Mansion House Executive Suiteon the third floor reflects the atmosphereof a sophisticated uptown mansion withrich colours, structured surfaces, andsynthetic fur.

4

GROHE Eurodisc bathroom fittings create
lightness for the look and for operation of
the lever at the washbasin.

5

Al Bustan Restaurant offers numerous
specialities in an exquisite interior.

217

Al Ain
HBZ
Stadium

1

With its innovative design, Hazza Bin Zayed footballstadium is an architectural gem. Rooted in theregion’s hot and dry climate, it is one of the mostimpressive and technologically advanced sports
venues in the United Arab Emirates. The designconcept is based on a parametric construction,
making it the first roof to protect spectators fromthe sun. The result is an open, passively cooled
stadium with an intimate and appealing atmosphere.
In an area of 45,000 square metres (484,375 squarefeet), the HBZ has 25,000 seats and rises to a heightof 50 metres (164 feet). Distributed over sevenlevels, it is one of the most modern and distinctive
sports stadiums in the Middle East.
In the HBZ’s sanitary facilities, low-maintenance andflexible GROHE Rapid SL installation systems ensure
the toilets flush reliably. The universal programme isversatile. It can be used for individual or series
installation, can be installed in front of a massive wall,or in front of or in stud walls, and is especially suitablefor use in stadium sanitary facilities.

218

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2

Dipesh Patel
Architect
Pattern Design Ltd.London, UK
Address
Hamdan Bin Mohammad St.,Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
Date of completion
2014
ClientAl Ain FC
Used area
45,000 m2

3

220

1

The inspired design of the outer façade
consists of 600 fabric panels withindependently controlled LED lights.

2

An outstanding characteristic is thethree-tiered seating, which enables
spectators to have a special sporting
experience.

3

The HBZ is a masterpiece of technology
and awe-inspiring design.

4

The stadium has four dressing rooms.

4221Istanbul
In Love

The luxury yacht was built by the shipbuilding
company Su Marine Yachts. To enable the cabin toabsorb large quantities of natural light, large
windows were installed . These create a relaxing
feeling and at the same time are a direct link to thescenery outside. The aim of the interior design was
to engender a special living atmosphere.

The high-quality, extremely elegant GROHE Lineare
fittings line maximises the yacht’s luxury. Clear
contours and clean lines create a contemporary
look. The uniqueness of the washbasin mixer isaccentuated by the rectangular profile of the handle
and spout.

1

222

223

3

Shipyard
Su Marine
Istanbul, Turkey
Interior Design
Jean Guy Verges
ShoreLine,
Arcachon, France
Date of completion
2014
Length Overall
35.6 m
2

4

224

1

The yacht is 35.6 metres (116 feet) long.
The mainsail measures 174 square metres.

2

The singular GROHE Lineare fittings line
adds elegance to the washbasins.

3

The materials used are wood, stone, textile
fibres like silk, and a mixture of different
natural structures.

4

The colour scheme is marked by light andmedium shades, natural earth tones, dark
and medium wood nuances, and stone
finishes.

225

1

Hurghada
Steigenberger
Aqua Magic226

The five-star Steigenberger Aqua Magic Resort,with its a unique certified Aqua Park, offers a mixof relaxation and activity. Various pools, diverse
sports facilities, including a nine-hole golf course,
and comfortable wellness areas offer plenty ofoptions for unwinding. The hotel has 703 rooms
and suites, with 294 comfortable family rooms
that cater specifically to the needs of families andafford plenty of privacy.

Corresponding to the resort‘s passionate
commitment to water, the bathrooms are equippedwith GROHE BauEdge fittings, which are easy tooperate and thus ideal for families with smallchildren. Additionally, the modern silhouette on thewashbasins and bathtubs creates a stylish design.
GROHE Tempesta Neu hand showers fit the hotel’scontemporary flair, while a shockproof silicone ringaround the spray plates of the hand shower
effectively protects the shower cabin and bathtub.

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Architect
Arcadia Design Architects
Huelva, Spain
Interior Design
R & A Design Team
Cairo, Egypt
Address
Yussif Afifi Road
84111 Hurghada, Egypt
Number of rooms
703
3

228

4

1

Situated on the Red Sea, this family resort
offers unique water experiences.

3

GROHE BauEdge fittings are easy tooperate and therefore very family friendly.

2

The exhilarating Aqua Park contains
several giant slides, a 450 metre (1,476
feet) long ‘velvet black’, and a separate
water park for children.

4

Located right on the sea, the Magic Blue
Beach Restaurant & Bar serves delicious
food and has a jaw-dropping view.

229

Bodrum
Vogue Hotel1

The vast Vogue Hotel in Bodrum is a paradise forrecuperation, enjoyment, and leisure pursuits, witha tasteful, luxurious ambience. The Wonder Vogue
amusement park, a world in itself, makes the hotel
truly unique. In the park, covering an area of 3,000
square metres (32,292 square feet), children canchoose from a wide variety of professions thanks toan innovative educational concept, and get theirfirst experiences of adult life. The culinary delights
served in the hotel’s diverse restaurants tickle thepalate, while an extensive pool landscape offers
pure water enjoyment.
The splendid design of the GROHE Sinfonia fittings
series creates a luxurious ambience in thebathrooms. An elegant cross-shaped handle andgold and chrome colours give a regal look to thewashbasins and bathtubs. The GROHE Euphoria
110 Massage hand shower with three stream
patterns and DreamSpray® technology promote
sensual showering experiences.

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5

3

4

Architect
M-OFIS Architects
Istanbul, Turkey
Address
Kaynar Mevkii,
Torba - Bodrum, Turkey
Number of rooms
438

232

1

The building is embedded in a stunninglagoon.

2

The washbasins in the luxurious
bathrooms are equipped with the elegant
and comfortable GROHE Eurocube fittings
series.

3	Room-high windows let in abundant light.
Selected details enhance the ambience.
4

The villas have large living rooms whose
furnishings have a characteristic flair.

5

The hotel lobby has an impressive aura
thanks to the integration of local cultural
influences.

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Ürgüp
Cave

An exciting symbiosis of tradition and comfort, theYunak buildings have an extraordinary flair. The
seven cave houses have 40 rooms dating back to
the 5th and 6th centuries. Each of these unique
cave spaces has a characteristic style yet is in
keeping with the local atmosphere. The entrances
to the rooms, designed in an Ottoman style, consistof narrow corridors and stone steps. In the mansion,
which was built out of cut stones, there is a music
room, a computer room, and a DVD room.
To pick up on the characteristic aura of the houses,
the GROHE Sinfonia fittings line was chosen for thebathrooms. The opulent splendour of the elegant
chrome surfaces, a curved silhouette, andsophisticated cross-shaped handles capture thecharm of a past era, in keeping with the overalldesign of the property.

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4

5

Architect
Petek Mimarlik
Istanbul, Turkey
Address
Yunak Mahallesi 50400
Ürgüp, Turkey
Number of rooms
40

3

236

1

The Yunak houses conjure up a mysterious
historical atmosphere yet offer pure comfort.

2

The cosy sitting rooms are the perfectplace to relax.

3

The edges of the beds are adorned withhandmade lace. Old wooden chests,
antique wardrobes, and Ottoman-style
blankets hark back to the past, creating anauthentic atmosphere.

4

The cave rooms are furnished with oldbrass beds.

5

The bathrooms are equipped with classical
Mugla marble, finely wrought mirrors,
ceramic Chartwell washbasins, and Italianfittings.

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Belek
Carya Golf & Spa
1

3

Nestled in a picturesque pine forest, the Carya Golf
Club offers a relaxing spa experience. Encompassing
an area of 178,000 square metres, the hotel
combines impeccable architecture, in harmony
with the calming green of the golf course, and theintoxicating blue of the Mediterranean Sea. Tailoredto high recuperative demands, the wide range of
products and the wellness concept of the 4,500
square metre (48,438 square feet), two-storey luxury
spa centre bring body, mind, and spirit into sync.
The golf course, built in the style of a traditional
English heath and situated on gentle sand hills,
offers a dreamy nature experience.

238

Pure recuperative enjoyment is maximised byinnovative GROHE shower systems. The GROHE
Euphoria Cosmopolitan head shower and GROHE
Tempesta Neu provide for sensual showering
pleasure. Innovative technologies such as GROHE
DreamSpray® and GROHE RainO2 guarantee
comfortable water enjoyment.

Architect
Profil Mimarlik, Mert Yanpal
Istanbul, Turkey
Interior Design
Arketipo Design, Murat Denizalti
Istanbul, Turkey
Address
Kadriye Region, Belek, Turkey
Date of completion
2008
Used area
970,000 m2

1

The stylish, comfortable rooms andfreestanding course-fronted villas makefor a relaxing stay.

2

The lobby has a dignified ambience
teeming with elegance.

3

Taking up core values of minimalism,
GROHE Eurocosmo washbasin mixers,
at an angle of 7˚, have a diamond-shaped
lever geared to comfortable usage.
239

GROHE History
Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich, Economic and Business History

240

241

“WHOEVER WISHES TO
READ THE FUTURE HAS TO
LEAF THROUGH THE PAST”
André Malraux,
French author, director and politician

242

243

Retracing the technological rootsof GROHE

I. Introduction
A company’s technological roots and the experiencebased knowledge that it acquires often date further
back than its formation. At GROHE, these aspects
go back to 1873 when the Carl Nestler fittings
factory in Lahr was established, becoming part of
GROHE in 1956.
Carl Nestler was a pioneer in the fittings field and his
company became later the originator of thermostat
technology that is of central relevance for a firm thatjustifiably presents itself as Masters of Technology.
A company’s technological expertise and culture ofinnovation, its innovative potential and technologicalcompetence stem from a variety of sources. In
addition to know-how, which is forged in thecompany’s own laboratories and R&D departments,
the factors that also play a part are outsourced skills
and manufacturing under licence, exchange ofexperience and knowledge derived from customers
and suppliers, patents belonging to rival firms and,not least of all, the expertise and technical culture offirms which are taken over. The task of retracing andidentifying these varying influences and elements in
accruing the inventory of knowledge within acompany, and in particular, of assessing theirrespective importance during different phases and,thus, preparing a kind of historic timeline of acompany’s technical knowledge has scarcely beenaccomplished up until now on a systematic basis.
In researching a company’s technological DNA, it
should first be noted that (incorrect) assumptions areoften made about extant knowledge with regard to
Carl Nestler

the company’s technological expertise andcapabilities, virtually without any basis in fact. In
reality, technical knowledge is accrued over decades,a process that involves interruptions and is anything
but linear; this process is shaped by setbacks,
learning curves, as well as by leaps ahead inknowledge and innovation. The history of technology
and innovation is littered with abundant examples oftechnological traditions that have fallen by thewayside, knowledge that has been resurrected or
linked with new contexts or combined with newfoundinsights. Consequently, the simple view of linear,continuous corporate development and hencetechnical progress has long since been refuted
historically.1 Key figures in this process areentrepreneurs with acumen as inventors, individual
engineers and technicians; that said, the practicalskills of master craftsman and skilled workers also
play a part. In addition, the establishment of researchand development laboratories represents a new stage
in the scientific nurturing of the respective industries.
Know-how is fostered via customer contacts,
competition and patent strategies, and, not least,
from a significant body of tacit knowledge, i.e.
expertise which is not readily disclosed and difficult
to grasp, ways of dealing with knowledge, traditionsof having the “desire to seek knowledge”. Technicalculture as part of the corporate culture often plays adefining role in shaping a company.2
Like other companies, the GROHE company heritage
can be traced back to the 19th century as aconsequence of its external growth throughtakeovers and acquisitions. The oldest traceable
origin and longest line of experience dates back to1817 and to the founding of the firm Eichelberg.

1	See Ulrich Wengenroth, Hans Hof (eds.): Innovationsforschung. Ansätze, Methoden, Grenzen und Perspektiven. Hamburg: Lit, 2007; 2nd ed. 2010,
Hartmut Berghoff, Moderne Unternehmensgeschichte, Paderborn 2004, in particular p. 271 ff., Christian Kleinschmidt, Technik und Wirtschaft im
19. und 20. Jahrhundert, Munich 2007 and especially Joachim Radkau, Technik in Deutschland. Vom 18. Jahrhundert bis heute, Frankfurt 2008.
2	See Alexander Schug, History Marketing. Ein Leitfaden zum Umgang mit Geschichte in Unternehmen, Bielefeld 2003.

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in heavy industry and became involved in large-scaleand heavy duty valve production for steam boilers,
hydro-power and electricity power stations (slides,
hydrants and throttle valves), as well as (specialpurpose) valves that were in demand for majorindustry (e.g. pipelines for the chemicals industry).
These businesses grew out of the mechanicalengineering industry and were often operated inconnection with pump manufacturing. Leading namesin this area were AMAG-Hilpert AG from Nuremberg
which was established in 1854 and then absorbed
into the KSB Group (Klein, Schanzlin & Becker AG,
Frankenthal) in 1934, or the Polte Valve and Machine
Factory which was founded in Magdeburg in 1885.
A distinction must be made between this and thesanitary goods industry, i.e. manufacturers of sanitary
ceramics, baths and kitchen sinks which, like Villeroy& Boch (1748) or Duravit (1817), had already come tothe fore by the end of the 17th century or the early
18th century. The technical and product-based
assimilation and integration of all areas of sanitarytechnology only occurred more recently, although
clear specialisation still prevailed. The heating andventilation industry developed against the same
backdrop, once again emerging within firms alreadyexisting in the sector, often from installation trade
firms like those of Johann Vaillant in 1874 and his
invention of the gas geyser, which in turn generated
renewed demand for suitable fittings.3

II. The history of Eichelberg
The sanitary fittings industry is a complex andheterogeneous sector with numerous different
development strands. Knowledge of these isimportant, however, if we are to classify thedevelopment of Eichelberg and of GROHE withhistorical accuracy.
The sanitary fittings industry only emerged in the late
19th century in step with the development of urban
expansion and the development of major towns andcities as well as the municipal supply of gas, steam
and water during the high industrialisation period.
This sector was extremely specialised andheterogeneous, and predominantly influenced byskilled craftsmen. From the outset, it was heavily
export-driven. Unlike many other sectors of German
industry that emerged during the course ofGermany’s industrialisation, from day one thesanitary fitting manufacturers produced not only forthe domestic market, but also made substantial
volumes for foreign markets (within Europe), in
particular England, France and the Netherlands. The
firms generally employed fewer than 100 workers.
Some manufacturers only made heating fittings,
while some specialised exclusively in sanitary orbathroom fittings. Alongside these manufacturersof lightweight and small fittings, the sector
produced some companies that were early pioneers3	On the subject of the development of sanitary technology, see Max Knauff et al. Koch-, Spül-, Wasch- und Bade-Einrichtungen. Entwässerung
und Reinigung der Gebäude, Ableitung des Haus-, Dach- und Hofwassers, Aborte und Pissoirs, Entfernung der Fäcalstoffe aus den Gebäuden;Part 3: Die Hochbau-Constructionen; Vol. 5). Bergsträsser, Darmstadt 1892.
4	For further information about the development of the bronze goods industry and the economic history of the region of Iserlohn, with repeated ref­erences
to Eichelberg, see Hagen Chamber of Commerce (ed.), Geschichte der Industrie im Märkischen Sauerlande. Vol. III: District of Iserlohn, Hagen 1908,
Richard Müller, Die Bronzewarenindustrie in Iserlohn, Diss. Wurzburg 1922, Ludwig Kirchhoff, Die Entwicklung der Iserlohner Industrie unterbesonderer Berücksichtigung der Einwirkungen der Standortfaktoren auf die Entwicklung, Diss. Frankfurt 1923, Quellen zur Wirtschaftsgeschichte
Iserlohns, Dortmund 1987, as well as Hanswerner Hildenbrand, Die Iserlohner Industrie. Vom Panzerhemd zur Ankerkette, Iserlohn 1983.
246

The fittings industry was regionally very dispersed,
although obvious centres and regions existed withparticularly high concentrations of large numbers ofsimilar firms, most notably in the area around
Iserlohn in the Märkisches Sauerland district inNorth Rhine-Westphalia. This was not only the cradleof the industry; in later years, it also became the“capital of the German sanitary fittings industry”
and remains so to this day. In addition, there werealso a number of important fittings manufacturers
in Berlin, Leipzig and Magdeburg. In order tounderstand the strategic features of Iserlohn as abusiness location and the reasons for its development
into a kind of “brass fittings industry valley”, we mustrefer back to the period “pre fittings” and to thedevelopment of the bronze goods industry.4
Thanks to the existence of zinc-rich minerals in thesoil, a metal-processing brass industry emerged there
as far back as the 18th century. Cast iron goods andbrass plate from Iserlohn had set the quality standard
in the metalworking industry for decades, alongwith brass wire from Augsburg.5

The skilled metalworker (or as he was known in thejargon of the day, the “armourer”) Hermann Dietrich
Eichelberg founded a brass factory in Iserlohn in 1817,
inspired by technical process innovation and basic
switchover to the recovery of brass in the same year.
He had succeeded in isolating zinc in a purely
metallic state, which now for the first time enabled
him to create copper and zinc mixtures, calculatedwith precision. This opened the door to creating
new alloys with a correspondingly higher level ofquality. A wide spectrum of possible applications
opened up for these specific composition metals,and H.D. Eichelberg seized the opportunity.6
The ensuing developments in the decades leading up
to the end of the 1880s were equally turbulent andmarked by change. Aided by family money (his wife’s
dowry) as well as an extensive bank loan, there wasinitially rapid growth in the manufacture of pressedbronze goods, in particular following the death of thefounder and under the commercial guidance of hisson, Carl Eichelberg. In the 19th century, Iserlohn based
bronze goods makers acquired a reputation aroundthe world as suppliers of numerous products to adorn
cabinets, candlesticks and other interior household
fittings for the well-educated and well-off. They faced
strong competition from the bronze goods industry inFrance and Great Britain, although they quickly stoodout thanks to the flexible way in which they adapted
to keep pace with rapidly changing fashion trends,
as well as through their high quality. Eichelberg was
one of the leading lights in this development and, as
the third largest business in Iserlohn by 1850, now
employed some 120 workers.7
In order to make itself immune to fluctuations in the
supply of metal commodities, Eichelberg undertooka backward integration and founded a rolling mill of
its own in the neighbouring town of Menden in 1857.
It went on to supply semi-finished products to themaster works. The high-quality brass sheets andsheets of different types of alloys were soon also
being successfully exported and delivered to otherbronze goods makers. Employing the very latest
techniques in printing and stamping, Eichelberg
quickly expanded its standing in the market for bronze
goods and also managed to secure a whole array ofawards and medals at international exhibitions.
The company had long since progressed frommanufacturing rather simple brass goods to producing
more complex creations which were challenging to
make and which, in some cases, were artistically morevaluable, such as candlesticks, petroleum lamps andornate window work. However, the decline in sales of5	See Josef Bersch, Lexikon der Metall-Technik. Handbuch für alle Gewerbetreibenden und Künstler auf metallurgischen Gebiete. Vienna, Hartleben,(1899), keyword “brass fitting”, as well as Friedrich Hartmann: Das Verzinnen, Verzinken, Vernickeln, Verstählen, Verbleien und das Überziehen vonMetallen mit anderen Metallen überhaupt. Eine Darstellung praktischer Methoden zur Anfertigung aller Metallüberzüge aus Zinn, Zink, Blei(= Chemisch-technische Bibliothek; Vol. 76). Hartleben, Vienna 1881.
6	Refer here to the detailed, albeit only fragmentary printed description of the early history of Eichelberg through to the end of the 1880s, which has beenpreserved without any publication date, in: Iserlohn City Archives, Collection F 20, No. 72, p. 6.
7	See ibid., p. 11.
247

Letterhead from the year 1895, as well as viewof the factory in around 1900.

classical brass goods set in towards the end of the1860s, whereas new business opportunities appearedwith the emergence of gaslight and candelabras
manufactured for this purpose, including the firstpipeline valves. A change therefore took place in thestrategic direction of the business in the 1870s at thebehest of Ernst Eichelberg, who was now part of thethird generation to run the business. However, thisdevelopment was suddenly halted. This was because
the company’s very existence was almost brought toan end in the 1880s as a result of multiple crises.
Firstly, Eichelberg had acted as guarantor for a supplierin 1881 for a very large sum of money and, following
the latter’s bankruptcy, was faced with heavy payment
obligations. Then, Carl (1882) and Ernst Eichelberg(1885) died shortly after one another, ultimately also
followed in 1888 by his widow Caroline Eichelberg,
who had continued to manage the company following
their deaths. The ensuing inheritance disputes resulted
in a separation of the two companies, i.e. the rollingmill in Menden and the headquarters in Iserlohn. H.D.
Eichelberg passed over to August Breuer, thecompany’s general manager with power of attorney
for many years, who ultimately made the strategic
switch towards the manufacture of brass fittings. The
first sanitary fittings were produced in the 1890s, inaddition to the simple gas fittings which were
presumably already in production.8 Manufacturing
was duly adapted and modernised in 1895, and thecompany moved into new factory premises.

8	See ibid., p. 25 ff., as well as “Chronik der Firma H.D. Eichelberg & Co. GmbH, Iserlohn” which was written by the former managing director of
Eichelberg to mark the forthcoming anniversary, Gerdsmeier, p. 21, in: Iserlohn City Archives, Collection F 20, No. 71.
9	See the anniversary publication “175 Jahre H.D. Eichelberg & Co. GmbH” from 1992, in: loc. cit., Collection F 20, No. 72.

While Eichelberg may not have been the firstmetalworking business in the region, it soon grew to
become one of the most important brass-working
companies. It was also the only early factory to makethe strategic switch to the fledgling production of brassfittings, initially for gas lighting, but then also in hydroand, thus, sanitary applications. Eichelberg was not themost successful and most important fittings
manufacturer in the Iserlohn region; others, such as
Kissing & Möllmann which was formed in 1826, weremore successful around the turn of the century eventhough they entered the brass fittings business later
than Eichelberg and were also formed at a later date.
Most notably, however, this company did not survive
the upheaval in the sector in the late 1970s.
Consequently, Eichelberg was justifiably able to callitself the “oldest manufacturer of sanitary fittings”
when it marked its 175th anniversary in 1992.9 The
press also used to refer to it as “Germany’s oldest
fittings factory” without this claim ever having beendisputed, doing so for the very first time back in 1974
just before the company relocated to its new premises.10

which brought with it a core workforce of highly
skilled workers, such as master craftsman. Secondly,
a strong focus on the needs of the customer andflexibility in adapting production to meet rapidlychanging customer requirements and demands. And,not least of all, experience selling its own products on
a variety of different foreign markets. In addition, there
was ultimately also competition with its neighbouring
metalworking enterprises that had also moved into
the brass fittings industry; this encouraged thecompany to embrace high performance, quality andinnovation.12 They were all essential preconditions for
ensuring rapid entry into the brass fittings industry as
well as its successful activities in that sector, things
which other “latecomers” struggled to acquire andwere compelled to buy in through outsourced
services. While Eichelberg should, in theory, have had
a competitive edge over its rivals thanks to theknowledge acquired through its experience, thecompany failed to put this to good use and benefit
from it, initially due to mistakes in company
management.

Consequently, it was the experienced brass-working
manufacturers, such as Eichelberg, who took the step
into the production of brass fittings in the final third of
the 19th century. Over the years and decades, Eichel­berg thus amassed extensive know-how about thevarious raw materials and very different ways ofprocessing them. The company had to master the artof manufacturing from copper, zinc and lead in theirvery different proportions and alloys (brass andbronze, in some cases further distinguished in termsof leaded bronze and what is known as red brass) andof processing the metal plates recovered from thisthrough casting, stamping, punching, forging andbending (i.e. all the various forms of thermal andmechanical metalworking) in order to manufacturehigh-quality products from these materials. Highquality luxury goods such as candlesticks, living room
light fittings and other decorative items for the home,such as furniture fittings and curtain poles also
required precision surface treatment such as polishing,
grinding and dying.11 Therefore, this period from thelate 17th and early 18th centuries through to aroundthe 1860s and the dawn of industrialisation inGermany marked a pivotal phase in the pre-history of
the fittings industry. During this period, Eichelberg
acquired extensive know-how in the context of themetalworking traditions of the region and of the firm’s
location in the local town in three different respects:
Firstly, metallurgical knowledge and know-how aboutmaterials, as well as skills in the wide-ranging and atthat time very latest processes of working with nonferrous metals and various alloying technologies,

There were three central waves of foundation anddevelopment for the fittings industry in Germany:Firstly, the years of advanced industrialisation during
the German Empire between 1871 and 1913. During
this period, a considerable number of long-standing
non-ferrous metalworking factories, metal foundries
and metal goods factories, small iron works and onetime bronze goods makers like Eichelberg were
gradually incorporated into the emerging sanitary
fittings business, which appeared to be a lucrative
prospect. Besides that, new direct fittingsbusinesses were also being set up for the first timeby individual entrepreneurs and craftsmen, such as
by Carl Nestler in Lahr in 1873, Aqua Butzke in Berlinin 1873, Marx & Mor­schütz in the Thuringian town of
Herzberg in 1900, and also by Hans Grohe in 1901,
as well as by Berckenhoff & Paschedag in 1911 and
by Carl Eggemann, also in 1911. This includes theworkshop of the Rost Brothers in Leipzig, which was
reorganised in 1910 as “Deutsche Armaturenfabrik
Leipzig”, Richard und Max Rost (DAL); that said, thiswas also an exception to a degree because it had first
operated as a metal foundry in the fittings sector as
far back as 1853 and was the “oldest special factory
for bath faucets”. At that time, the market for sanitary
fittings was increasingly being shaped, first of all, by
the homes of well-to-do private individuals, wherebathrooms and modern water supplies were
becoming increasingly common, and secondly andprincipally by hotels (for example, the Ritz Hotels
were pioneers in equipping their rooms with highquality standards of sanitation) and by public baths

10	See articles in the editions of IKZ dated 21 April 1973 and 16 May 1992, in: Iserlohn City Archives, Newspaper Collection, basement level 2.
11	Also refer to the portrait of 28 firms and companies in: Albert Krammer, Die Armaturen- und Metallindustrie des Kreises Iserlohn, Düsseldorf 1951,
as well as Heinz Röttgermann, Die Entwicklung der Industrie im Wirtschaftsraum Menden (Sauerland) und ihre Probleme seit Beginn des
19. Jahrhunderts, Düsseldorf 1939.
12	In 1861 there were around 28 copper, bronze and brass factories in the Iserlohn area, employing a total of 1,442 workers; by 1908 this number had
risen to 69 businesses with over 2,500 employees, although this also included a series of wire-drawing works and other metal foundries which were
not involved in the brass fittings sector. See Hildenbrand, p. 43 and Voye, Hagen Chamber of Trade, p. 80 f.

248

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(“the People’s Bath Movement”). Eichelberg played apart in the budding brass fittings industry, although
it was not especially focused on this at the start. It
was only a sub-area within its business activities
which were still diversified.
The second major wave of new businesses, which saw
a series of new entrants to the fittings market, which
by now was growing apace, coupled with a rapid risein the fittings industry overall, took place after the FirstWorld War in 1918/19, buoyed by the inflationary
economy of the Weimar Republic and the homebuilding programmes of the Weimar welfare state.
Enterprises like Eichelberg developed from being
specialist manufacturers to carrying the full range of

products, with over a thousand individual items anda broad range of manufacture. A second boost to
sanitary fittings businesses within this greater wave
took place in the early 1930s.13 This was when theGerman brass fittings industry really blossomed forthe first time, enjoying success on foreign markets
and leading the way technically. At this time (1919)
the General Association (later to become the State
Association) of the German Fittings Industry
emerged as an association and cartel organisation inwhich Eichelberg was one of the leading member
firms. The Leipzig Exhibition was an important“showcase” and central presentation platform for thesector. In spring 1922, the “Haus­­
tech­
ni­
sche
Rundschau” trade journal wrote, “the German fittings

13	Also refer to Walter Thummernicht, Die Sanitärtechnik, in: Haustechnische Rundschau 35 (1930), pp. 298-299.

industry, whose importance and scale was hitherto
unknown to the general public until recently and which
was readily looked down upon as a small industrial
group of lesser importance has become increasingly
well-known and recognised in wider circles thanks to
its shared appearance, which has become more
extensive, ever bigger and more impressive year on
year, in a special hall at the Leipzig Exhibition.”14
During this period, it had taken substantial new
knowledge of materials and processes to keep pacewith the competition. Most notably, electroplating
techniques for nickel plating (dating back to the 1880s)
and chrome plating (from the 1920s), as well as themodern “press casting process”, which is a much

more cost-efficient means of production than anythingthat went before, supplemented in the early 1930s by
injection moulding for the non-cutting shaping ofcopper and zinc alloys. Eichelberg mastered theseprocesses which, at that time, were new and modern.15
In the wake of further financial difficulties on the eve of
the First World War and the reorganisation from apartnership to a private limited company (GmbH) in
1914, as well as of the take-over by Vereinigte Deutsche
Nickelwerke AG (VDN) in 1921, Eichelberg not only
continued to focus on the fittings business, but also
strengthened it further by developing the company
into a “full range supplier”. The order book for 1922
contains numerous orders and supplies of main gas

14	See Haustechnische Rundschau 27 (1922), p. 342. See also “The display by the General Association of the German Fittings Industry at the 1922 Autumn
Exhibition in Leipzig”, in: ibid., 28 (1923), p. 56. DAL, Richard & Max Rost was specifically named among the exhibitors.
15	See letter from the management of Eichelberg to Vereinigte Deutsche Nickelwerke AG dated 19 March 1921, in: Iserlohn City Archives,
Collection F 20, No. 43.
16	See Iserlohn City Archives, Collection F 20, No. 114.

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faucets and faucets destined for Amsterdam andBrussels, as well as various brass fittings for hospitals.16
The 1924 catalogue, which is 40 pages long andcontains over 2,000 individual parts and products,
demonstrates the extensive production range from
Eichelberg, making it one of Germany’s leading
manufacturers of brass fittings, with a workforce ofaround 300.17 In addition to all of the fittings for water,
gas and steam, including kettle faucets, pneumatic
couplings, heating regulation faucets and garden
fittings, the company also offered a full range of brassfittings for sanitary installations, washbasins and bathequipment from cisterns to bath tub valves to showers.
One of its product segments was developed for special
purpose fittings for Holland alone. Far from just being

simple “classical fittings”, Eichelberg products
represented complex fittings systems created throughthe composition of precision components.
Eichelberg marketed itself as a manufacturer of quality
and brand name items bearing its registered trademark.
In addition, the company also manufactured stacked
fittings up to 1925, i.e. simple fittings of all kinds whichwere not as susceptible to the fluctuations of economic
activity as was the trade in high-quality sanitary fittings.
However, in the second half of the 1920s, the company
switched solely to the sale of trademark items.18 The
years spent within the network of the diversified
Deutsche Nickel-Werke company not only meant
financial security for Eichelberg and a steady flow of

the latest knowledge about commodities andmaterials, it also benefited from lucrative orders suchas for the complete sanitary fittings equipment for aluxury ocean cruiser, which VDN was to kit out withnickel-plated bathtubs.19 The 1938 catalogue, which
was labelled in three languages, i.e. German, English
and French, impressively demonstrated not only thecontinued extent of the range of products, it also
showed off the company’s own technical developmentsthat were protected as utility models (DRGM or“German Reich Registered Design”).20 With everythingfrom drainage sets and shower fittings to washbasin
faucets and bath mixer faucets as well as faucets,
Eichelberg covered the full range of water plumbing
and sanitary products.

All fittings were equipped with modern cover parts,
which did not rise, preventing loosening, despite yearsof use. In addition, Eichelberg guaranteed that its
fittings were absolutely leak-proof. The shower fittings
were also equipped with specially developed nonreturn valves to prevent backflow and safeguards toprotect against drops in pressure in the supply line.
There can be no doubt that Eichelberg was one of themost important players in the German fittings industry
and had business links with a whole host of companies
via its supplier relationships and other business
partnerships, including with Berkenhoff & Paschedag,
as well as Hans Grohe.21

17	The catalogue in: loc. cit., No. 23-I.

19	See the anniversary publication “175 Jahre H.D. Eichelberg & Co. GmbH” from 1992, in: loc. cit., No. 72.

18	See the letter from the management of Eichelberg to the director of VDN, Mr Fleitmann, dated 8 February 1939, in: Iserlohn City Archives,
Collection F 20, No. 57.

20	The catalogue in: loc. cit., No. 23-I.
21	See the extract from the business journals of Eichelberg from the 1920s and 1930s, in: Anniversary publication “175 Jahre H.D. Eichelberg & Co.
GmbH” from 1992, in: loc. cit., Collection F 20, No. 72.

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The German fittings industry enjoyed a third
upturn in the 1950s and 1960s. The problems
entailed in sourcing raw materials, the strong
integration into the armaments and war economy
during the Nazi period forcing an extensive
departurefromthecompany’sclassical
programme of peacetime production, as well as
the associated dismantling by the Allied occupying
forces which affected many fittings manufacturers,
Eichelberg included, resulted in considerable
difficulties during the years of the “Economic
Miracle”. Nevertheless, the Iserlohn region quickly
rejustified its reputation as the heartland of theGerman fittings industry. The enterprises which
had been linked to one another for decades andwhich had forged contacts through supplier
relationships and the pooling of specialist skills,
including the likes of Berkenhoff & Paschedag orFriedrich Grohe and Eichelberg, now went into
direct competition with one another. Eichelberg
quickly found its feet again despite the ongoingdismantling and the initial considerable difficulties
in sourcing raw materials. By as early as the 1951
catalogue, the range of sanitary fittings was
virtually complete again, and included single holetaps, which were being manufactured for the firsttime. The 1958 catalogue also explicitly advertised
the claim “Tradition guarantees quality. Eichelberg
since 1817.” In the course of the mechanisation
and automation of production, this catalogue

exhibited new design and quality developments in
the range of fittings that, like the range of “twohandled fittings”, was later developed further tocreate the Classica range.22
The 1963 catalogue, which was over 100 pages long,
finally featured all the designs of cover parts, drainage
valves, basin fittings, sink fittings, washing installationand toilet fittings, bath filler and shower fittings, special
low-pressure fittings for coal and oil-fired bath water
heaters, as well as electric boilers, flush-mounted andshower cubicle fittings, as well as hospital and bidet
fittings. And the company was also alreadyadvertising its own design lines (“Perfekta”).23

By 1960, Eichelberg had already taken part in theInternational Sanitary and Heating Systems Fair (ISH)in Frankfurt, which was being held for the first time
and was called the “Fachausstellung Sanitär- undHei­z­ungstechnik”, and had re-established many of its
foreign contacts, particularly in France, Belgium, Italy
and Greece. It took part in the world-leading Batimat
fair for the building industry in Paris in 1967, where
there were also exhibits by the sanitary and heating
systems technology sector. At the same time, it also
started to establish its own sales network in France
through Lyon-based Eurosanit. By the 1970s, exports
accounted for 40 % of turnover. During those years,
Eichelberg also successfully switched from classicaltwo-handled fittings in chrome to single-lever mixers

22	To find out more about the immediate post-war years, refer to the 1992 compilation of the memoirs and recollections of the people who were then themost important “minds” at Eichelberg in: loc. cit., F 20, No. 71.
23	The 1951 and 1963 catalogues, in: Iserlohn City Archives, Collection F 20, No. 23-II.

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and high-end ranges of fittings with a variety offinishes and colours. As a result, it also made its firstmove into the US market. It began initial
manufacturing of single-lever mixers in 1975, andfirst started to produce coloured finishes in 1978.
1989 saw an advancement of the cartridge principle,
which had been developed by Grohe-Moen in the late
1950s and had revolutionised the sanitary fittingsindustry, coupled with the ceramic sealing that had
been developed by the US aerospace industry. The
so-called Eichelberg cartridge or Permasoft cartridge
was an important development for the company.
Safeguarded and protected by numerous patents, themixing cartridge was characterised by three special
features: the ease of action due to the grease
reservoir in the ceramic discs, the mixing angle of 145

degrees enabling sensitive temperature regulation
without jumps in temperature, as well as the lownoise design due to the favourable flow.24
The sector experienced a fourth phase in its
development in the late 1980s and 1990s when manytransitional businesses went under or were takenover as a result of globalisation and international
competition, including Eichelberg’s one-timecompetitor, Armaturenfabrik Kissing & Möllmann,
which had had to cease production back in the early
1980s. Only a few fittings companies, such asFriedrich Grohe and Hansgrohe, continued to expand.
However, they too lost their images as family-run
businesses during those years and ultimately became
part of large international sanitary fittings groups.

24	See the anniversary publication “175 Jahre H.D. Eichelberg & Co. GmbH” from 1992, in: loc. cit., Collection F 20, No. 72.

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Deutsche Armaturenfabrik Leipzig (DAL),
Rost Brothers

III. Conclusion

I. Foreword

Although GROHE was not founded until 1948, its
technological expertise and the continuous evolutionof its innovation capability stretch back considerably
further. Therefore, the “technological DNA” is a great
deal older. One of those origins steeped in knowledgebased tradition stem from the history of the company
Armaturenfabrik H.D. Eichelberg. First of all, its
technologicalandcommercial
development
demonstrates the strong threads of continuity thatrun through the production of fittings, how it is rooted
in expertise, and the benefit of experience from the“pre fittings” days. An accumulation of knowledge
about product and process technology created aplatform in the long term for competitiveness andinnovation. And this is demonstrated by the ups anddowns in development, between commercial successand pioneering technology, punctuated by businesscrises,reorganisations,forcedproduction
restructuring and dismantling. Eichelberg not only
blossomed as one of the leading lights of the Iserlohn
bronze goods industry in the first half of the 19th
century, but experienced golden periods particularlyin the 1920s and 1930s, as well as in the 1960s and1970s. With GROHE’s take-over of Eichelberg in
1991, the 10 years or more of integration into thegroup by 2003 and the absorption of the Eichelberg
production facilities into GROHE’s Menden plant, thecompany’s technological and corporate roots, as wellas the explicit and implicit knowledge that comesfrom experience, can be traced right back to the startof the 19th century.

The DAL Group Georg Rost & Söhne GmbH that was
taken over by GROHE in 1994 (which had over 1,000
employees and a turnover of DM 224 million at thetime) must surely be the most innovative and the mostresearch and development-driven acquisition of anyof the companies purchased during the history of
GROHE. It is worth noting that this corporate group ismade up of different individual companies which, inturn, are significant operations in their own right, andwhose company histories go back a long way in somecases. Despite undergoing numerous changes in legal
form and trading names over the years, the former
Deutsche Armaturenfabrik Leipzig (DAL) Richard &Max Rost remains at the core of the process.1
In addition, there is Berlin-based Aqua Butzke AG, a
traditional company from the sanitary fittings sector
which was also founded in 1873. It had already takenover two fittings factories, Carl Sandmann GmbH,
Berlin in 1983 and a year later Carl Eggemann GmbH,
Iserlohn (which dates back to 1911). The majority
shareholding in Aqua Butzke AG had been taken overby DAL/Rost in 1989 and integrated into Rost Holding
GmbH. The Rost Group also included Walter Rotter
GmbH, a sanitary wholesaler in which Rost had
acquired a majority stake in 1997. The overall process
was a reflection of the then intensive concentration
movements and merger & acquisition activities within
the German sanitary fittings sector in the course of a
new wave of internationalisation and globalisation.
GROHE sold off Aqua Butzke and Rotter again in 2005.
1	The company was registered on 10/11/1947; a further entry was made at the Commercial Register Court on 31/7/1948. The company initially traded asa limited partnership (Rost & Söhne, then ultimately as Georg Rost & Söhne, Armaturenfabrik KG). Following the departure of Mr Georg Rost and theestablishment of a GmbH as a general partner, the company was then converted into a GmbH & Co. KG. (DAL-Georg Rost & Söhne, SanitärArmaturenGmbH). According to the trade register, this change was reported in the notification of 27/12/1977, effective from 24/11/1977. The company was thenderegistered due to a form-change deregistration effective from 31/12/1994. Its successor was Rost & Co. GmbH, which changed into die DAL GmbH& Co. KG on 15/03/2004. This company was deregistered on 31/12/2009 due to the restructuring of the DAL Group and became GROHEDAL
Sanitärsysteme GmbH. According to information about trade registration data from the Regulatory Authority/Office of Internal Affairs of Porta
Westfalica Town Council, email to the author on 08/12/2014.

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II. 1863 to 1945
In 1863, two brothers, Bruno and Julius Rost in
Leipzig, founded a brass foundry under the name“Gebrüder Rost”, Rost Brothers. It manufactured
utility and decorative objects made from yellow
copper/zinc alloys (brass). The formation of thebusiness signalled a form of specialisation awayfrom the red brass and belt-maker trade which had
already been in existence for a long time. Brass
foundry workers cast small brass objects in sandmoulds; these objects were then polished, ground,trimmed or gold-plated. The typical products include
the likes of mortars, door handles, small lights,
figures, door fittings, bells and clips, as well as
simple brass fittings.2

In 1910, the sons of the two craftsmen, Max andRichard Rost restructured the business and established
new premises in Leipzig, trading as “Deutsche
Armaturenfabrik Leipzig (DAL), Richard & Max
Rost”.3 It is not readily apparent whether theestablishment of the business in 1910 was a new
venture undertaken by the (initially two of a total ofthree) sons, who wished to be independent of theirfather’s business.4 Nonetheless, the company Rost
Brothers had become fully engaged in the new
fittings sector by the 1880s with its wide portfolio of
products and had specialised in this area. The oldest
preserved document, an advertising leaflet from
1912/13, shows awards and medals from 1884, 1897
and 1910, such as from the Saxony-Thuringia Industry
and Trade Exhibition in Leipzig in 1897. And its
advertising claim is “Oldest special factory for bathfaucets locally”.

2	See Johann Heinrich Moritz von Poppe: Technologisches Universal-Handbuch für das gewerbtreibende Deutschland, oder Handwerks- undFabrikenkunde mit allen in den verschiedenen technischen Gewerben vorkommenden Arbeiten, Mitteln, Vortheilen, Werkzeugen und Maschinen: In
faßlicher alphabetischer Darstellung. (Technological universal handbook for business owners in Germany, or for trade and factory customers with all thework, means, benefits, tools and machines occurring in the various technical trades: In easy-to-grasp, alphabetical order.) In two volumes, here: Volume
A-N, Stuttgart, 1837.

In actual fact, a whole range of high-grade andcomplex bath fittings (to be fitted to water heaters,
walls or bath tubs), basin faucets and mixer faucets
was presented, for which own brand names or
product lines (Borussia, Harmonia, Colibri, Viktoria)
had also been created, as had different supply anddrainage technology (Triton, Aegir, Columbia). The
company made reference in its advertising to
specific innovations that it had developed, such as
single-handled safety valves with a fixed lettering
plate (“indicates immediately when the fitting is open
or closed”) and self-closing pressure valves with the
products’ specific robustness and functional
capability (“we do not use springs, spindles, helicalthreads or diaphragms in our mixers”) and also hadthese developments protected under patent andutility model law. Another striking feature was theintegration of thermometers to display the precise

temperature on bath mixers. The labelling of the
products shown (for instance, Fig. 5051) also indicatesthat this is only an extract from a much more
extensive catalogue of fittings.
There can be no doubt that the Rost Brothers wereamong the leading fittings manufacturers in Germany
at the time, in terms of both their technology andtheir marketing practices. In particular, the company
demonstrated a clear focus on research anddevelopment right from the outset, which became
ingrained in the tradition of the company and evenbecame part of the culture of the company throughout
all the upheaval and changes – personified by theengineer Richard Rost. He had been engaged in thedevelopment of “toilet flush valves” since around
1910, and unveiled his revolutionary innovation, theDAL flush valve, for the first time in 1914.

4	It indicates that DAL’s company anniversary related to its foundation in 1910, and the anniversary publication about the past history and line of continuity
contains the following rather cryptic sentence: “On 1 July 1910, Deutsche Armaturenfabrik Leipzig (DAL) was founded from the brass foundry “Gebrüder
Rost” that had been in existence since 1863.” Loc. cit., p. 1.

3	In this regard and in respect of the following, refer to the 70-page company portrait “DAL an der Porta Westfalica”, 1980, p. 9 f., as well as the shortcommemorative publication to mark the 75th anniversary of the company, 75 Jahre DAL Sanitärarmaturen Georg Rost & Söhne, 1910–1985, p. 1 ff.

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The DAL flush valve was designed with a piston stroke
part and a piston leather cuff, featuring design
elements that have stood the test of time and beenretained for decades. However, the flush valve did
not enjoy any great commercial success until the
1920s because of the outbreak of war. The big sellers
in the early years were therefore chiefly mixer
faucets for coal-fired bath water heaters. DAL
possessed an extensive production range, including
small brass fittings and accessories. Richard Rost
also constantly experimented on improving
production processes, in this case casting processes,
in order to enhance product quality. The trade of brasscasting which was still commonplace at the turn ofthe century was no longer suitable for large-scaleindustrial production with consistent quality
standards. DAL therefore went into the production of
hot-pressed parts with a high standard of quality forthe first time in 1913.5
A clear division of duties existed within the company:as an engineer, Richard Rost was responsible fordevelopment and production, while Max Rost, as abusinessman, attended to all administrative andfinancial affairs. However, the latter died just a few
weeks after the outbreak of the First World War; hewas replaced by the third brother, Georg Rost, who
had not been involved up to that point, but now
became a partner and commercial manager of thecompany. The company saw a sharp upturn in its
fortunes after the end of the war, not least of all due tothe large-scale housing programme being implemented
by the Weimar welfare state and the large housingdevelopments being built. DAL/Rost was among themost important exhibitors from the emerging fittingsindustry in Germany to appear at the internationallyacclaimed spring and autumn exhibitions in Leipzig.6
At the same time, the inflationary economy of theimmediate post-war years, 1918/19 to 1923, buoyedbusiness, even abroad. Commercial relations wereforged with Denmark, Holland and Belgium. The
market penetration of the DAL flush valve was at odds,

however, with the obsolete regulations and water
pipeline networks of the municipal water works. Inview of the high levels of attrition as a result of leaks incisterns of up to 3 million cbm per annum within thearea of the Stuttgart Waterworks alone, local authority
suppliers increasingly favoured the flush valve
technology from DAL. A successful large-scale trial of
DAL for the Stuttgart Waterworks during themodernisation of the toilet flush system then prompted
the major breakthrough.
At the end of the 1920s, Richard Rost then managed
to develop a further decisive innovation for the DAL
flush system, i.e. the invention of the piston nozzle. As
a result, the flush valve control element was relocatedinside the flush valve system in place of the flush
duration setting screw which had previously beenaccessible from the outside and which was known tocause problems; the flushing volume could now be
regulated automatically. The DAL Automatic Flush wasborn. Considerable obstacles nonetheless initiallyremained to its rapid commercial success, mostnotably the massive reductions in state and local
authority social and housing measures, as well as the
emerging global economic crisis. Even so, the 1930
product catalogue showed a greater range of fittingsof all kinds than ever before (“From the basement tothe attic – DAL fittings”), and with its protectedtrademark, DAL, as a manufacturer of brand nameitems in the high-quality product segment, held its
own among the market leaders in the then brassfittings sector in terms of sales.
The 39-page catalogue was published as a fourlanguage edition (German, English, French andSpanish), presenting a range of fittings with everythingfrom complex bath/shower mixers to washbasin
faucets and faucets. There were four different models
and designs of the robust bath/shower mixer with its
function lever and DAL change-over mechanism
alone. The company also marketed a single-handled
safety shower mixer and the DAL universal fitting.

5	See anniversary publication 1985, p. 2.
6	See “The display by the General Association of the German Fittings Industry at the 1922 Autumn Exhibition in Leipzig”, in: Haustechnische Rundschau
28 (1923), p. 56.

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DAL catalogue No.
15 from 1930

Richard Rost went on to achieve further
advancements in process and production
technology. The hot-pressing process using sandmould casting had been extended to the full rangeof DAL fittings by that time. Differing from many
low-price manufacturers of simple “standard
fittings”, the DAL fittings no longer featured a single
piece of cast brass (down to the outlet pipe). A little
later he managed to develop green-sand casting, a
process that DAL/Rost had protected and whichgave it a competitive edge over its rivals for many
years.7 In green-sand casting, the molten cast iron ispoured into moulds which are still naturally moist(green mould). This process is only possible withthin-walled, smaller moulds in which the gases canescape quickly through the sand. The surfaces of themould are dusted with charcoal powder to preventthe sand from burning into the cast piece. In greensand casting, the cast piece is created with a rough,hard casting skin. Therefore, the finishing (smoothing
and polishing) involved greater effort although thequality of the cast was higher and, most importantly,
the production costs were also considerably lower.

volume and classical production range, particularlyin the area of toilet fittings, unlike most otherfittings manufacturers. That said, the forcedchanges to the materials used which had started
back in 1936 (changing from brass to zinc,aluminium and in some cases also to iron and steel)
had brought about considerable changes in terms
of product quality and production processes.8 At
the same time, however, manufacturing or castingprocesses were also being modernised further withthe emergence of iron chill and pressure-castingprocesses, as well as zinc die-casting. Part of thefactory was destroyed at the end of the war and, in
addition, dismantling and dispossession took placefollowing occupation by the Soviet army and the“eastern zone” was split off from the rest ofGermany. Georg Rost ultimately fled to the westernzones in 1947 accompanied by his two sons,Joachim and Konrad.

With the economy stabilising, the ongoingmodernisation of housing for an initial period andthe emerging boom as a result of the armaments
sector, DAL experienced a renewed upturn in
fortunes. This was a period of growth in thecompany’s development despite the death ofRichard Rost in 1936, leaving Georg Rost tocontinue to run the company on his own. DAL had
a workforce of 600 workers on the eve of theSecond World War. DAL enjoyed an excellent
reputation as a manufacturer of quality fittings on
the sanitary fittings market both at home andabroad, and was regarded as one of the biggest
suppliers. Up to that point, it had manufactured
and sold a total of around 1 million flush valves. The
war also marked an interruption in DAL’s
progression, however, even though it managed tomaintain at least some of its peacetime production
7	See DAL anniversary publication 1985, p. 4.
8	See Franz Petrak, Werkstoffsparen (Saving materials), Issue 10: Armaturen (Fittings), VDI-Verlag Berlin 1942, in particular p. 54 ff. There is evidently alarger collection pertaining to DAL/Rost during the Nazi period (which has not been processed yet) in Collection 21033 of the Reichsbank Headquarters
Leipzig with branch offices of the Main State Archive in Dresden.

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The DAL hydro laboratory
in 1963 and 1980

Joachim Rost in1968 and excerpts
from newspaper
reports about theplanned factory
expansion or newbuild

III. Refounding and reconstruction:
1946 to 1985
The company was re-established in the Lerbeck
district of Porta Westfalica on 1 July 1947, initially
serving as a repair business for DAL customers in
the western part of Germany. Production resumed in1950 with the acquisition of new machinery and theconstruction of a new factory.9 Unlike in previous
decades, Georg Rost now concentrated fully on thearea of toilet flush mechanisms and advanced thedevelopment of the DAL flush valve. By 1957 thecompany had already built up a workforce of 120
workers, and 2.5 million DAL flush valves had been
manufactured and sold.10
9	See DAL an der Porta Westfalica, 1980, p. 22 ff.

The company had also resumed exports. DAL had
created international business links again, mostnotably in Belgium, Holland, Austria and Norway.
The real breakthrough came in 1958 when DAL flush
valves were installed in two Hilton hotels in Berlinand Cairo. In the same year, DAL exhibited at theWorld Expo in Brussels. It also presented its wares
three years later, in 1961, at the industrial exhibitionin Sydney. Many further appearances followed atinternational sanitary, construction and architecture
exhibitions, enabling the DAL flush valve business togo global. Georg Rost died in 1965, and his son
Joachim Rost took on the management of thecompany on his own as the sole partner.

With the upturn in fortunes during the years of what
was known as the “Economic Miracle”, when DAL
and the sanitary fittings industry benefited mostnotably from the housing economy, the need also
arose to engage in new research and development
activities. Completely new flash valves had to be
developed for high-tank installations, which were notin common use in Europe, and which involved
completely different water pressure conditions andconnection dimensions. Together with the 23 different
models of DAL flush valves which came onto themarket in a rapid sequence during the first half of the
1950s, including special models with foot control andsurface-mounted or flush-mounted versions, DAL wassoon able to boast an extremely wide range of theseproducts and, as a specialist in toilet fittings, became
the market leader in the segment. However, the actual
impetus to establish basic research, in a specially builthydro laboratory among other things, was promptedby technical requirements imposed upon the industry
by the government in the early 1960s in the form of
new DIN standards, particularly with regard to noise
control in buildings. The infamous DIN 4109 was awatershed for the sector for a decade, from 1962 to
1972. “Seldom had an industrial standard caused an
entire sector to hold its breath for almost a decade;however, seldom had an industry standard posed sucha risk to the existence of part of the sector as DIN 4109
“Noise control in buildings” did for many years.”11

DAL overcame this industry crisis with ease, mostnotably because it had been able to come up withnew technical and design developments in its flush
valve back in 1960 with a view towards minimisingnoise (for example, the acclaimed DAL flush valve
668.03.000 “Kreuzeck”). In this regard, the DAL
Getefo sound damper was brought onto the market
in 1966 as a means of restrictive noise control,
enabling conventional flush valves to comply withthe stringent DIN standard. It was not until 1970 thatthey then managed to bring the first DAL flush valve
with integrated preventive sound protection onto themarketfollowing
intensive
researchanddevelopment efforts; it satisfied the high technicalrequirements of the noise control standards without
the need for any additional accessories.
In 1965 it also took the strategic decision to market
itself as a complete supplier of toilet fittings and, in
addition to the flush valves, also started to
manufacture its own cisterns. It used new plastic
technology for the first time and acquired thenecessary expertise as a precondition for employing
the new production technology. This was promptedby the increasing problem of extremely different
water pressure conditions in the rapidly developing
housing sector and the associated deficits in watersupply technology, whether in new housingdevelopments on the outskirts of cities or in high-rise

11	DAL an der Porta Westfalica, 1980, p. 41.

10	Loc. cit., p. 29.

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Timeline of DAL product development,
1910 to 1985

buildings. DAL was able to respond to these market
challenges by unveiling a complete toilet flushingsystem from a single source. Since the sanitary
fittings market was increasingly saturated, thecompany had to adjust to new, considerably tightercompetitive conditions. This led to a further decisionin 1970, in anticipation of market developments, toundertake new research and development activities
with electronics in mind. The aim was to invent an
automated DAL flush system. The DAL electronic
flusher then set new benchmarks in the sector.
Consequently, it embarked upon new technologies
and new markets in 1972. In 1975, Joachim Rost
received an order from the government of the GDR
to take on the production of flush valves for theformer Leipzig factory, which was now acting aspart of a larger brass fitting state-owned
conglomerate. Given the fact that his predecessors
had been dispossessed of this factory, the orderpresumably gave him particular satisfaction. By 1980,
over a million GDR plastic flush valves had beendelivered by DAL from Porta Westfalica to East
Berlin.12 For DAL, this softened the industry crisis

which erupted following the difficulties that thebuilding sector had encountered in the 1970s, which
hit the sanitary fittings industry particularly hard. At
the same time, DAL also expanded its internationalpresence and entered into a joint venture with a
Brazilian sanitary fittings factory, DOCOL S.A., in
1976. DAL America was founded in 1985.
The company undertook a further strategic rethink in
the 1980s. It launched a completely new and modern,water-saving washbasin and shower fittings range
under the product names DALomix and DALomat.
DAL had once again become a complete supplier ofsanitary fittings after some 70 years, and succeeded incompleting the range of fittings available in the area ofsanitary self-closing fittings. The company employed aworkforce of 350 in 1983/84. At the end of the 1980s,
Joachim Rost, now assisted in the running of thecompany by his son-in-law, Karl Ludwig Rost, embarked
upon a new growth strategy which led to the acquisitionof the majority investments in AquaButzke andEggemann, and the Rost Group emerged under theumbrella of a newly created holding company.

IV. The DAL Group within the GROHE network– strategic and technological importanceWith the acquisition of the Rost Group in 1994, GROHE
took over a healthy company which was focused justas much on expansion as it was on innovation. In
particular, this enabled it to strategically close thegap in its product portfolio with DAL’s existing
progression in competence and innovation in thearea of toilet sanitary fittings. The acquisition of DAL
also heralded, or could even be said to have represented
the impetus for a fundamentally new strategic direction
for GROHE. With a new product philosophy andapplying a new claim of “GROHE Water
Technology”, the umbrella brand of the same namehas been developed covering a widely diversified
product range comprising well thought-out fittings
concepts, installation and flush systems, andcomplex systems for the control and treatment ofwater. Four different ranges of brands have now
been developed and are managed under this umbrella:
GROHEart, a distinctive range of fittings of an
exceptional design for the exclusive bathroom.

GROHETEC, a functional range of fittings for the
kitchen and bathroom, as well as professional fittings
for hospitals and doctors’ practices, etc. A range ofwater-saving, contemporary installation and flushingsystems for the bathroom presented under thename GROHEDAL. And finally GROHEAQUA, thesystems specialist for centrally controlled,
electronic water management with durable fittings
which are both long-lasting and energy-saving.
GROHE’s refocus following the successful integrationof the DAL/Rost Group formed the basis for growthin the 1990s and the new millennium, during which
the company secured and expanded its standing as amarket leader in Europe.

12	See DAL anniversary publication 1985, p. 8.

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A company’s changing faces:from the Carl Nestler brass foundry
and sanitaryware factory in Lahr(1873 – 1956) to GROHE Thermostat GmbH& Co KG (1956 – 2000), and finally, to
the GROHE Group’s Showers andShower Systems Division at its Lahrpro­duction site

I. Foreword

II. Developments between 1873 and 1945

Friedrich Grohe’s buy-out of the Carl Nestler
sanitaryware factory back in 1956 represented not
only the company’s first acquisition and hence thestarting point for its external growth, but also thefirst time it had expanded its presence beyond the
Iserlohn region. This was a somewhat risky movefrom the perspective of business strategy, since on
the one hand it provided the company with theknow-how and means to move into what was then
the new and promising field of thermostat
technology for plumbing fittings, but on the other
hand the Carl Nestler company was in financial
straits. The history of Nestler is far from a successstory, marked as it was by crises and tragedies
within the Nestler family and their negative
repercussions for commercial policy. However, thischapter in GROHE’s history was (and still is) an
extremely important element of the corporate
cultural identity of its Lahr site, particularly as ameans of differentiation from the distant Hemer
headquarters and a trump card in the ongoingcompetition between the two in matters of
production and development.

The story starts with a small brass foundry set up by
Carl Nestler in the wash cellar of his home in 1873. We
know a great deal about Nestler’s time as anapprentice, journeyman and fledgling entrepreneur
from his own writings1; born in 1847, he trained as adecorative metalworker (a craftsman who worked andshaped metals into practical and decorative objects,
typically including technical apparatus, furniture
fittings, light fixtures, decorative church fittings andtableware, tower crestings, railings and gates). After
fighting in the Franco-Prussian war of 1870/71, he
initially served as an apprentice in a number ofdifferent foundries, acquiring a great deal of technicalexpertise in the process2. Nestler returned to Lahrafter his years as an apprentice and journeyman at his
father’s behest in 1873, procured various pieces ofequipment and a lathe (with great difficulty, because
the rapid industrial expansion in progress at the time
meant that such machines were scarce), and set up asmall foundry in the basement of his home, building
the smelting furnace and drying oven himself with thehelp of a brickmason. According to Nestler’s memoriesof the time, “The first faucets were made for breweries,[and] since I handled everything with the greatest ofcare, nothing was wasted or miscast. Three people
were needed for casting, and so my father and a day
labourer helped me.”3
The company’s production facilities were initiallylimited to a mere 12 moulding boxes for brewery
faucets and a casting furnace with a smelting
capacity of 30 kg. Nestler’s operations differed fromother brass foundries at the time in that he focusedfrom the outset on the manufacture of large-scaleindustrial fittings, in particular cask spouts forbreweries, as well as a range of small cast fittings fordomestic and artisanal use.
The company rapidly expanded its range to include
other drain faucets and the associated small andlightweight plumbing and sanitary fittings, with the end
result that the company soon became known to thegeneral public as “Hahnen-Nestler [Nestler Faucets]”,(not least as a way of distinguishing it from othercompanies owned by members of the many-branched
Nestler family, selling products such as cardboard/paper and slide rules).

1	Cf. Carl Nestler’s chronicle of the years 1870–1935, dated 3.10.1935, 8 typed pages, in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant (theoriginal is held by the Nestler family).
2	His stopping points were Mainz (a candelabra factory and the Krause gas fittings and foundry), followed by Deutsches Wasserwerk [German Waterworks]
in Frankfurt/Hoechst, the Justus Braun foundry in Nuremberg, the Kirchmayer sprayer factory and the Royal Art Foundry in Munich. Nestler’s last stop was
Vienna, where he visited the International Exposition held in 1873 and briefly worked at the Knaust sprayer factory. Cf. ibid, pp. 2-4.
3	Ibid, p. 7.

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There can be no question that the company did
indeed enjoy rapid initial success; surviving
letterheads dated 1907, 1914 and 1923 testify not
only to the expansion of the company’s premises
but also to the broad and diverse range of all typesof fittings which the company now offered, and inparticular the prizes awarded for these products, forexample at the Karlsruhe trade fairs in 1877 and1892 and the Strasbourg exhibition in 18954.
Nestler also exhibited his products at the Upper Rhine
trade fair held in Freiburg im Breisgau in 1887,
advertising himself as a manufacturer of faucets
and valves for water, steam and gas pipes, air, wineand beer pumps, filling devices for breweries, column
faucets for large stoves, mixer faucets for bathingfacilities and toilet flushes, with in-house nickel-plating
facilities5. A Nestler catalogue thought to date fromthe 1890s supplies striking evidence of the company’s
extensive product range, still featuring both lightweightand industrial fittings.

This portfolio of products is all the more impressive
since the company had been hit by a crisis in 1882
which it barely survived. Just like Eichelberg, Nestler
was forced to stand surety for a third party, putting
up DM 100,000 (a huge amount at the time) for his
son-in-law Reinbold6. The money was only finallydrummed up and the debt settled in 1887 with thehelp of the whole family and a moratorium ofcreditors, and in particular an inheritance by
Nestler’s wife. The next crisis followed in 1897,
when Carl Nestler suffered a breakdown “due to animmense and sustained workload without respite”
and was forced to abandon his managerial duties forweeks on end, leaving his eldest son, Carl August, totake up the reins ever more frequently. In 1903 thelatter was awarded power of attorney, and in 1905
the company’s legal form was changed to that of ageneral partnership [offene Handelsgesellschaft,
OHG], with Carl August as a personally liable
partner. This general partnership was dissolved on
1 January 1911, and Carl August was appointed sole
shareholder. Carl Nestler and his wife were to someextent unwilling accomplices in this hand-over, which

took place only after Carl August threatened to set up
a rival company of his own together with his
brothers if his parents failed to comply7. The factory
was expanded and modernised again in 1909, giving
us an insight into Nestler’s high standards when it
came to product quality8.
According to a letter he wrote to the District Office,“By building this, my fifth foundry, I hope to achieve
what I may dare to call the pinnacle of perfection inthis industry, a claim founded on 45 years ofextensive experience in the field and inspections ofmany other factories.”9 The acquisition of two
crucible furnaces with a capacity of 70 kg eachmeant that the company’s casting capacities had
mushroomed to almost five times more than when
it was first set up, and state-of-the-art manufacturing
facilities had also been procured, in particular two
modern turret lathes costing DM 6,000 each.
Notwithstanding the upheavals of the period between
1882 and 1911, the years leading up to the outbreakof the First World War can surely be considered theheyday of the company, which could boast abalance sheet healthy enough for Carl Nestler andhis wife to make plans for their sons, “to work
together and use the accrued capital to expand thecompany until it is one of the biggest in Germany.”10
Undaunted by the soaring inflation rates whichprevailed immediately after the war in the 1920s,
Carl Nestler Junior appears to have succeeded inmoving a great deal closer to this goal, assisted by his
brother Christian who had by now joined him inrunning the company. In a special supplement to the
Freiburger Zeitung published in spring 1927 anddevoted to Lahr as an industrial hotspot, the Nestler
sanitaryware factory was described as a supremely
modern, well-run company, with a “highly efficient
metal foundry” containing “state-of-the-art machines”
arranged on the basis of modern considerations ofcommercial rationality and constantly adjusted toincorporate the latest developments.”11 The article
goes on to say that, “The factory currently specialises
in the manufacture of ‘Baden-style industrial valves’, inwidespread use for the construction of municipal
water pipes […]. The newly designed straight-way

4	The Lahr City Archives hold two substantial files of correspondence between Nestler and the municipality concerning the construction/expansion of his
factory, dated 1892 and 1898, in: Lahr City Archives, District Office No. 1583.
5
Cf. extract from the 1887 exhibition catalogue in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant.

8	Cf. in this respect the records held by the Lahr City Archives, District Office No. 1586.

6	Quoted by Carl Nestler’s wife, Mina Nestler, in an account written in February 1929 “On the history of the Nestler company”, five typed pages, here p. 2,
in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant (the original is held by the Nestler family).7	Ibid, p. 3.

10	On the history of the Nestler company”, p. 4, in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant.

9	Letter dated 7.1.1909 in: ibid.

11	Special supplement to the Freiburger Zeitung, spring 1927, in: Lahr archive, shelf No. 105, No. 18.
7	Ibid, p. 3.

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water valves and garden sprayers are also particularly
noteworthy. The bulk of production is accounted forby all the standard brass faucets for water or gas
pipes [...] The company supplies all of its products ineither gunmetal or phosphor bronze, with fine nickel
or copper platings also available. The catalogue
contains several hundred different model types, not tomention the different size options, and any sanitary
fitting can be supplied upon request.”12 At the sametime, however, the company had largely streamlined its
product range due to increasing levels ofstandardisation within the industry. The sanitaryware
was manufactured using a modern assembly line
system, moving from moulding, casting and various
processing stages (filing, sandjet cleaning, boring,
thread screwing, polishing) through to assembly of theentire product, before pressure tests were carried out
at around 20 to 25 bar (water pipe pressures at thetime were generally in the region of 3.5 to 12 bar); “The12	Ibid.

company’s guiding principle is a firm belief in quality.”
Its customer base comprised mainly plumbers andprofessional fitters, but the company also exported
its goods. The article concluded with the words that,“This first-class large enterprise has been a firm
fixture within the wider Baden region for many years,
and outperforms all of its rivals.”
Not long after this article was published, however,disaster struck. Carl August died in May 1927 at theage of 49, an event followed only shortly afterwards
by the death of the 27-year-old Christian Nestler inlate November 1928. The company suddenly founditself without a manager, and the founder Carl Nestler
was too old to step in himself, having reached theripe old age of 81 by this time. “[These] happenings
put paid to all of our plans,” was the resigned
conclusion drawn by their mother, Mina Nestler, in
her account dated February 1929.13

Our knowledge of subsequent developments is ske­t­chy. Another son was granted power of attorney forthe company along with Hans Nestler, but after thedeath of Carl Nestler Junior the company passed into
the ownership of his widow, Frieda Nestler, who
appears to have continued at the helm together withher daughter, Ruth Nestler. In late June 1933 thecompany’s name was changed to “Carl Nestler
Armaturenfabrik GmbH”. Rudolf Nestler (the fourth
son of Albert Nestler who was the owner of thecompany manufacturing slide rules) was appointed
manager with a view to assisting Ruth Nestler, who
had taken over management of the sanitaryware
factory at the age of only 24. Rudolf Nestler resigned
from this role in 1938, however, which meant that sole
responsibility for the company was once again heldby Ruth Nestler. She remained in control of the
120-strong company through­out the era of National
Socialism and the Second World War14, following thedeath of its founder, Carl Nestler, two years earlier on
21 May 193615. The scope and breadth of Nestler’s
1934 catalogue, featuring the striking logo it had bythen acquired, remain an indication that thecompany and its manufacturing operations enjoyedsubstantial success well into the 1930s16.
The company’s product range included simple fittingsand covers through to large industrial fittings,
incorporating almost all segments of the market: firefighting fittings, gardenware, faucets for gas andsteam pipes (i.e. heating systems) as well as
sanitaryware, including third-party products sold forcommission, as shown by the picture of the DAL
toilet flush valve. Explicit reference is also made to thedifferent designs and finishing standards available: a
20 % supplement was charged for gunmetal, 10 % for
nickel plating and 20 % again for the then novel
manufacturing process of chrome plating.

13	On the history of the Nestler company”, p. 5, in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant.
14	Cf. Die Firmenleitung im Spiegel des Handelsregisters [Managerial Practices as Reflected in the Companies Register], in: ibid.
15	One of Carl Nestler’s grandchildren, the engineer Kurt Barho, founded what was initially a wholesale shop for metal and technical rubber goods as early
as 1930 in the nearby Zell am Harmersbach, “on the advice of his grandfather”. It eventually developed into a small sanitaryware factory.
16	A Nestler gardenware catalogue was also published in 1938. This included a letter addressed to the company’s dealers, bemoaning what must havebeen frequent instances of confusion between Carl Nestler and Otto Nestler GmbH, a Cologne-based wholesaler. The letter and the catalogue are heldby the author.

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III. The Grohe take-over and subsequentdevelopments
The forced switch to arms production and the major
problems involved in procuring raw materials, which
persisted well into the post-war period, took a heavy
toll on the company. It proved impossible to bounceback fully, even after the Second World War. In
March 1949 its manager, Ruth Nestler, married theengineer Ewald Kuckuck, who subsequently joined
the company alongside her and was granted sole
power of attorney. Attempts to turn around thefirm’s financial fortunes were focused on a constantsearch for new products which could bemanufactured under license. Bells were cast,telescope masts produced and many projects
launched which failed to deliver enduring success17,
such as the “Robicalor”, an electric instantaneous
heater brought to market by Nestler (its sole German
manufacturer) in 1952 under a licence issued by theBasel-based Swiss inventor, Intreal AG.

Praised as the “safest, most durable and most userfriendly hot water faucet design the world has everseen”, the product was apparently expected to meetwith great market success. There is no denying thepractical benefits and technical advances offered incomparison to traditional electric boilers, and inparticular the gas-operated instantaneous heaters orcoal-fired water heaters which were in widespread use
at the time. Yet the “Robicalor” never did become a top
seller, and it is clear from the comprehensive but
fragmented product range in Nestler’s 1952 cataloguethat the company was positioning itself not just as asanitaryware manufacturer, but also as a metal foundry
and equipment engineering company18.
The catalogue featured adverts not only for a relatively
large range of fittings (for water, gas, garden, steam,sanitary and special purposes) and the instantaneous
heater referred to above, but also for “Nestler’s electricalhousehold washing machine”. Only one product (alsomanufactured under a Swiss patent, DPA No. 901395)
proved lucrative and attracted interest from other players

in the sanitaryware industry, including Friedrich Grohe;the “Skala-Therm”, an automatic mixing valve withintegrated thermostat, later to become known as the“Lahrer thermostat” or “Volksthermostat [the people’s
thermostat]”. The first thermostat housings were cast by
an external supplier in Karlsruhe to begin with, andregularly transported to Lahr by train in two suitcases19.
The “Skala-Therm” operated by means of the thermal
expansion of a bellows pipe filled with a liquidcharacterised by a very high coefficient of expansion.
The mixed water was forced to flow along the entire
length of the thermostat, where an extremely rapid
reaction took place, i.e. the desired pre-set temperature
for the mixed water was achieved immediately. A 12page “Skala-Therm primer” published on the subject
explained the innovative product in detail to sales
representatives and plumbers20. Other thermostats atthe time were designed to use bi-metal technology,
including those which GROHE was simultaneously
developing. The disadvantage of all previous fluid
regulators was that they responded too slowly or too

imprecisely. The design of the “Skala-Therm”, also
advertised as an “intelligent mixing valve”, ensured that
it worked to a high degree of precision in terms oftemperature within seconds. As a result, it became theonly mixing valve used in colour photo laboratories,
which required absolute temperature accuracy due tothe extreme sensitivity of the films being developed.
Customers were also promised that the mixing valve
would remain limescale-free. All of these factors thus
contributed to Friedrich Grohe’s purchase of the Lahrbased company.
When Friedrich Grohe took over Nestler on 26 October
1956 (soon renaming it Grohe Thermostat GmbH), thecompany had 135 employees. Gottfried Weigel was
initially appointed manager, but was replaced in May
1959 by Friedrich Grohe Junior, Grohe’s son, withFriedrich Grohe himself taking up an additional
managerial role in May 1963. The new production site
was gradually increased in size, modernised andexpanded to manufacture products other thanthermostats.

17	As per the recollections of the then plant manager, Horst Hempel, in 1973 on the occasion of the company party held in Lahr on 6.10.1973 to mark the100th anniversary of sanitaryware production in Lahr, in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant. Cf. also Grohe Report 5 (1973), a
special issue to mark the 100th anniversary of the production site in: ibid.
18	1952 Nestler catalogue in: Deutsches Museum archive, company correspondence section, including a multi-page Robicalor advertising prospectus.

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In 1960 production started in a newly constructed
plant which housed casting, mechanical working andgrinding facilities, and a new automated lathe turning
hall was built in 1970. The 1970s saw major
investments flowing into Lahr, including first andforemost the new automated grinding andelectroplating hall constructed in 1973. Fifty tonnesof brass were used every day that year to produce
between 800 and 900 thermostats, 15,000 fittings andaround 50,000 moulded, ground, polished andchrome-plated handles. The central smeltery andfoundry was built in 1978, as well as a “Life-Testing
Laboratory” which represented a milestone in termsof basic research within the fittings and sanitaryware
industry. The company also embarked upon the
manufacture of colour fittings that year, and started
to manufacture showers in 1979. The opening of
the colour division in 1989, which heralded the startof the manufacture of high-quality fittings for the new
GROHEart range, was a further landmark for thecompany’s development, and the first GROHETechnical School was established in Lahr in 1993. By
1991, 25,000 complete fittings were manufactured
every day by a workforce that had grown to 1,600
employees. An additional 13,000 showers were
produced daily as of 1998. Between 1998 and2000/2001, Lahr saw the development and use of
new surface technologies (PVD and matt chrome)
and the establishment of the Showers and Shower
Systems Division.
Nestler’s technological roots reach right back to thebeginnings of the sanitaryware industry in the 1870s
and 1880s. However, a broader perspective reveals
that the actual manufacturing know-how for thecompany’s core product (the automatic mixing valve)
was of much more recent vintage and primarilybought in, as was the case for Eichelberg and DAL/
Rost. Nevertheless, the factory in Lahr became part of
GROHE’s “technical DNA” since it signified awholescale move into the area of thermostaticallyregulated plumbing fittings. This field was still fresh
territory at the time, but soon came to be dominatedby GROHE in the spirit of a technical trailblazer. This
achievement was made possible by experts in brass
metal who had been trained in the art of invention andpossessed a wealth of knowledge in the field.

Friedrich Grohe AG – innovation cycles
and technical development phases,
1936 to 2014

I. Foreword
The focus in the next section will move from thevarious turning points and eras in the company’s
development, whether from a company law
perspective in terms of ownership (i.e. the first phase
covering the company’s foundation and management
between 1936/1948 and 1998 (GROHE as a familyrun company), the period between 1998 and 2014
(when GROHE was owned by financial investors), andfinally from 2014 onwards (GROHE as part of theJapanese Lixil Group), or from the viewpoint ofchanging company policies and strategies (expansion
and internationalisation, the caesura of the ITT buyout
and the second wave of globalisation, the expansion
and conversion of specialist firms into comprehensive
and system suppliers in the 1990s along with thewave of globalisation) to rest solely on technicaldevelopments, technological procedures andinnovation cycles (product and process innovations).
GROHE was more heavily invested in technology,
research and development from its very inception.
“GROHE technology” often functioned as a gamechanging benchmark forming the basis for GROHE’s
status as a technological frontrunner. The sanitaryware
industry is characterised by closer links between
technology and society than almost any other industry,or in other words the interdependency between
standards, behaviour and attitudes not only to thebody and personal hygiene but also to the functionality(or ascribed functionality) of sanitary fittings, theemotions associated with their use and the overall“experience”. This applies mainly (but not exclusively)
to the bathroom, leading to a revolution in bathroom
and bathing practices, the best example of which, atthe latest since the start of the new millennium, is thesignificance of the Ritz and other luxury hotels as
pacesetters and the first place where most people
experience modern sanitaryware technologies anddesign. This meant that design assumed ever greater
importance from the 1960s onwards if not earlier, anddevelopments within the industry were henceforthmarked by the close interdependency of technology
and design.

19	Cf. the recollections of the then plant manager, Horst Hempel, in 1973 on the occasion of the company party held in Lahr on 6.10.1973 to mark the100th anniversary of the sanitaryware factory in Lahr, in: Nestler family history/Grohe-Nestler history file, Lahr plant.
20	Cf. the primer in: ibid.

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The design department
in 1951

II. The early days from 1936 to the 1950s –more similarities than differences, or: earlymoves to capture markets and expand
At the age of 34, Friedrich Grohe could already boast a
wealth of knowledge and experience when he took thehelm at the Berkenhoff & Paschedag ironmongery andsanitaryware factory in 1936. After completing his
apprenticeship in the ironworking and fittings trade, hegained additional practical experience during spells
abroad and joined his father’s company in 1926 (atwhich time it employed 75 workers paid on an hourly
basis and 4 salaried workers). He played a key role inintroducing the latest brass die casting techniques andthe relevant new machinery and production processes21.
As early as August 1934 (rather than in 1936, as is often
mistakenly claimed), Friedrich Grohe left the company
after it became apparent that his father would hand overownership to his elder stepbrother, Hans22. Grohe thenbecame a proxy holder at Berkenhoff & Paschedag(B&P), going on to assume a managerial role two years
later and, only a few months afterwards (probably not
until early 1937) taking over the entire company bybuying it for RM 65,000. B&P was an innovative
company founded by the inventor, entrepreneur andsole owner Friedrich Paschedag in 1933, and focusing
exclusively on the manufacture of sanitaryware. In
December 1928, for example, Paschedag was granted apatent for a “faucet handle with a letter plate of delicate
material and an axial fixing screw”, followed by anotherpatent in December 1932 for a “pipe interrupter for theventilation of domestic water pipes”23.
This was a significant, original invention, featuring a
non-return valve to prevent the back siphoning ofwastewater. Previous complex designs had required
many different components and were correspondingly
expensive; Paschedag’s interrupter was installed
directly inside rather than outside the pipeline, thusachieving a much simpler fitting which – mostimportantly of all – took up less space. Finally, in March
1933, Paschedag applied for utility model protection fora hot and cold water take-off mixer faucet, again with adesign that was both simpler and sturdier. Friedrich
Paschedag died suddenly on 19 March 1934, however,before he could reap the benefits of his company’s new21	Cf. Ein Unternehmen macht Geschichte [A company makes history], Hansgrohe 1901–1994, p. 6.

280

strategic direction. Unable to cope with the company
she had inherited, his widow found herself in urgent
need of assistance. She found it in the person ofFriedrich Grohe, who henceforth adopted a dynamic
approach to managing the company. With 70
employees and an annual turnover of RM 650,000 at
the time of the take-over by GROHE, B&P was onlyaround half as large as the Schiltach-based Hans
Grohe, but was nevertheless a key player on the
Iserlohn sanitaryware scene. The new catalogue
appeared as early as 1938, following further
modernisation and specialisation in the manufacture ofsanitaryware and shower fittings.
Business boomed, with the number of employees
doubling to 150 by 193924. Right from the start,
GROHE’s commercial policy was founded on a strategy
of top-quality product manufacturing. However thisproved unsustainable, at the latest following theoutbreak of war and the challenges this brought interms of a lack of raw materials, substitution ofmaterials, mandatory “simplifications” and uniform
fittings and, last but not least, a switch to war production.

B&P appears to have emerged from the war period
comparatively unscathed overall, since the company
already had 200 employees in 1946, 450 in 1951/52
and as many as 600 in 1954. Friedrich Grohe, who hadrenamed the company25 in his own honour in 1948,
had thus far outstripped his father’s Schiltach-based
company.
As early as 1951, GROHE was positioning itself as asupremely modern company, using state-of-the-art
process and product technologies (gravity die
casting, electro-chrome plating, modern lathes) andrunning its own design department – a developmentfocused company which was once again
manufacturing
top-quality
fittings.
GROHE’scommitment to its customers has survived thedecades: “Made in Germany is a synonym for
precision. Precision is a synonym for GROHE.”
Overtaking all of its competitors in a German fittingsindustry which was struggling to regain its previous
vigour, GROHE moved into foreign markets not only
as an exporter but also to set up a subsidiary (Cobra

22 Cf. ibid.

24	Cf. in this respect the details given in the press release issued on 28.8.1954 to mark 50 years of Grohe, in: History of the Grohe Family and the Historyof the Company. Presented by the management of the Grohe Group on the 70th birthday of Friedrich Grohe, Hemer, September 1974
(hectograph; 67 pages), here p. 49.

23	Patent and utility model protection documents in: Grohe Patent Division, Hemer plant.

25	In 1951 there were only 242 hourly-paid and salaried workers.

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Brassware Ltd., which was established as a
production site in South Africa in 1951, with thenumber of employees rising rapidly from 50 in 1951
to 250 in 1954)26.
As early as the mid-1950s, GROHE was again able
to present a broad spectrum of all types ofsanitaryware in its catalogue. Products ranged fromshower fittings, bathroom mixer faucets, kitchen mixer
faucets and urinal fittings to bath filler mixers, and an
explicit commitment to “GROHE Quality” throughstate-of-the-art manufacturing procedures featured on
its opening pages.

well as single-hole mixer faucets and wall-mounted
and flush-mounted fittings, representing the verylatest in product development. A further striking
feature is that certain ranges or product lines (Brillant,
Caro and Stratos) already featured handles produced
in a variety of materials (metal, plastic and porcelain,in assorted colours). Technical details such as the
GROHE swivel spouts with an “indestructible rubber
surround seal and effortless ease of movement” andcomplex three- or four-way mixer faucets are evidence
that the company was technologically well ahead ofits competitors in the sanitaryware industry.

In technological terms, the company’s range ofsanitaryware featured the cone-lift covers developedback in 1950 for mechanical water volume control, as

Advertisement from 1951

26	Cf. in this respect the details provided in the press release issued on 28.8.1954 to mark 50 years of Grohe, in: History of the Grohe Family and the Historyof the Company. Presented by the management of the Grohe Group on the 70th birthday of Friedrich Grohe, Hemer, September 1974 (hectograph; 67
pages), here p. 49.

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III. The 1960s and 1970s – the end of the“classical fittings” era or: GROHE’s
reinvention of the faucet and the company’srole in pioneering an increasingly scientificapproach within the sanitaryware industry
The 1960s saw GROHE ushering out the “classicalfittings” era with its market launch of the single-lever
faucet. It became a “single-lever pioneer” not just inGermany but throughout all of Europe and effectively
brought about the reinvention of the faucet. The
single-lever faucet presented by GROHE in 1962 was
the outcome of a long process of innovation anddevelopment that had started back in 1937 withwork carried out by the American Alfred Moen. It
was only in 1947 that the faucets were massproduced and commercialised in the USA, however,and even the GROHE/Moen single-lever faucet of1962 still had many technical flaws.

The single-lever faucet is a mechanical mixer faucet
with a lever which can be used to adjust both the flowrate and the temperature of mixed water rapidly andas desired, a result initially achieved through thereciprocal displacement of rubber discs fitted on the hot
and cold water flow openings.
Mixer valves fitted with thermostats allowing watertemperature and flow rate to be controlled
independently of each other represented a second
major innovation. This meant that pre-set
temperatures remained constant regardless of anypressure or temperature variations on the hot orcold water side. Non-return valves or backflow
preventers were also installed in hot and cold water
pipes, and work was carried out at the Hemer site on
bi-metal controlled thermostats in parallel to thedevelopments made at Lahr in the field of liquidcontrolled thermostat technologies.

The definitive victory of concealed supply fittings, withthe actual mixer faucets as the only visible functional
components, marked the third major development andentailed multiple new designs and redesigns.
The fourth major innovation was the company’s
adoption of plastics as a novel procedural andmaterials technology, providing an entirely new sourceof know-how to complement its decades ofexperience in the field of non-ferrous metals. Plastic
pistons were installed in mixer faucets and at
various locations in fittings systems, and plastic wasa central component in Grohe’s biggest seller of the
1960s – the bathroom mixer faucet “Atlanta”, whichfeatured a patent-protected piston switching systemwith a nylon double cone operating as a seal incertain configurations, a low-maintenance white
plastic hose and a white detachable showerhead
made from unbreakable polyamide.

Reducing the levels of noise emitted by sanitary
fittings presented a fifth major challenge. The
significance of DIN 4109 for the sanitaryware
industry as a whole has already been explained using
the example of DAL/Rost. The low-noise
performances required for structural engineering
purposes meant that GROHE too was forced toundertake intensive R&D efforts, with the company’s
catalogues describing the test-certified low noise levelsof GROHE’s fittings in some detail. The DIN
requirements brought about the rapid adoption of amore scientific approach by the fittings industry andentailed intensive in-house R&D work, a task atwhich GROHE excelled27.
Like DAL, GROHE set up its first test laboratories in theearly 1960s. These R&D structures were thensystematically expanded by hiring employees who
were qualified highly enough not merely to understand27	Cf. contemporary witness interviews and expert forums held in Iserlohn and Lahr with Mr Lipowski, Mr Gransow, Mr Staufer, Mr Jäckel, Mr Erny,
Mr Bläsi and Mr Olbrich in December 2014.

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Extracts from BAM test certificates issued in1967 for low-noise performancebut also to harness the highly complicated physicalprocesses which take place inside fittings, involving avariety of dynamically changing pressures,
temperatures and throughput speeds and a range ofdifferent materials28. Plastics and polymers expertise
was now called for in addition to metallurgical knowhow, since solutions needed to be found to the
problems faced by the company in connection withthe complex (and difficult to execute) processes
involved in producing coloured plastic surfaces, therefinement of GROHE’s revolutionary cartridge
technology within single-lever faucets, implementationof the latest electroplating techniques on large-scale
production lines or the use of ceramics in new, lowwear sealing components to replace the previous
rubber designs. The establishment of the “Life-Testing
Laboratory” in Lahr, where GROHE products would
henceforth be tested for their durability, heralded theintroduction of wholly new quality standards for theindustry29. At the same time, the use of electronics andnovel high-tech solutions such as ultrasound, infrared
and radar revolutionised the sector and led to theautomation of sanitary fittings and their touch-free
operation. Write-ups of experiments carried out in the
1970s reveal just a few of the many topics occupying
the GROHE technicians and engineers of the time.
A fresh interest in ergonomic sanitaryware design also
threw up entirely new issues during this period.
Distinctive solutions were supplied in the shape of theEuromix single-lever faucet introduced in 1971 or the“Relexa” showerhead, the first ergonomically designed
model of its kind, which came onto the market in 1979.
The company’s first forays into the field of showers
and shower systems in 1979 also called for freshknow-how in many cases, but ground-breaking
innovations were soon the order of the day here too
thanks to the rapid work of GROHE’s R&D structures30.

15% of Grohe’s employees (almost 500 out of a total 3,300) were technicians and engineers by 1973, when the company posted a turnover of DM 370 million.
28	29	In the early 1970s, Grohe developed the first cover with an extended service life of 500,000 load cycles. “Grohe quality” also became a benchmark in theUSA, where the Grohe durability test was incorporated into the US ASME quality standards, exerting a major influence over the North American fittings
standard.

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A not insignificant corollary of this rapid rate of growth
was an expansion of production capacities (hence thetake-over of the Menden-based tool factory Schmöle& Co. in 1965). The company also continued topursue its acquisition-based strategy of accessing
foreign markets. In 1965 it purchased the Viennabased fittings factory Lang & Co. (known as“Sternarmaturen”) with the aim of capturing theEastern European market, and the establishment of anumber of new distributors also allowed GROHE toexpand its market presence, heralding the company’s
second wave of internationalisation31.

30	The DIN standardisation of an “intrinsically safe fitting” (intrinsically safe against the backflow of wastewater into the drinking water system) also
determined the quality and functionality of sanitary fittings, and led to the development of sanitary fittings with integrated backflow preventers.
31	The most significant Grohe products of the 1970s included the Atlanta and Stratos bath mixer faucets, the Gracia washstand mixer faucet, the Euromix
single-lever washstand and kitchen mixer faucets, the Grohmix bath mixer faucets and Grohe Comforta water technology, as well as bathroom
accessories (“Crystal Princesse”). Cf. History of the Grohe Family and the History of the Company. Presented by the management of the Grohe Group on
the 70th birthday of Friedrich Grohe, Hemer, September 1974 (hectograph; 67 pages), here p. 45.

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A brief digression on Hans Grohe andFriedrich Grohe – the period during whichfamily and company history merged(1956 to 1974)
Effectively, we know nothing as yet about the period
between 1961 and late 1974, during which Friedrich
Grohe was sole manager of the company Hans Grohe,in terms of its implications for the corporate policy andcommercial strategy of the two companies.
Their histories had actually converged as early as 19
December 1956, when Friedrich Grohe was appointed
limited partner at the Hans Grohe company (alongside
Klaus Grohe, amongst others). Friendly relations
existed between the companies at this time, and theyshared a feeling of belonging together based on theirownership by a single family of shareholders, albeit
one with many branches. A large party was held forboth companies in Schiltach in late May 1958, and thetwo companies exhibited their products on the same
stand for the first time at the ISH in Frankfurt in May
1960. The early and unexpected death of Hans Grohe

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Junior (appointed manager in 1953) in September
1960 introduced a new layer of complexity into
relations on both a family and a managerial level. Hans
Grohe became a GmbH & Co KG [limited partnershipwith a limited liability company as general partner]. Its
limited partners included Klaus Grohe, Friedrich Groheand Heinz Mathauer, son of Helene Mathauer née
Grohe on the Grohe side of the family, Anita Chini, Isa
Diem, Rita Frey, Roswitha Steuerer, Johannes Groheand Dieter Grohe on the Alpirsbach side, and themother Liesel Hermann/Seitz, née Grohe, Elisabeth
Michelotti and Gertrud Hellfritz on the Seitz side.
Friedrich Grohe was appointed sole manager of Hans
Grohe, in addition to his managerial role at his own
firm, Friedrich Grohe. The product ranges weredifferentiated on the basis of the time-honoured (andpresumably unwritten) principle whereby Hans Groheproduced, so to speak, everything below thewashstand as well as showers and wall rails, while
Friedrich Grohe concentrated on everything above thewashstand, i.e. supply fittings. Both companies
shared the same distribution channels.

Klaus Grohe joined the company’s administration andelectronic data processing division in 1968, before
being appointed sales manager and granted powerof attorney in January 1969. Friedrich Grohe’s sale ofa 51 % majority stake of his Hemer-based company
to the multinational US conglomerate ITT shortly
beforehand in 1968 undoubtedly marked a turning
point, but has not yet been examined in any detail.
According to the Hansgrohe company history
published in 1994, “Outsiders were now involved indecisions relating to differentiation of the Hans Groheand Friedrich Grohe product ranges, and this resulted
in a growing gulf between the companies.” Thecompany Friedrich Grohe did indeed make a moveinto the shower and shower fittings sector, which
was seen by those in Schiltach as a breach of theirunwritten rules of market and product separation (atleast retrospectively; reliable sources would need tobe consulted to establish whether this was also theview taken at the time). This should however beviewed in the context of the general trend towards
convergence in terms of both sanitary fittings andstrategic planning which prevailed within the sector

as a whole, i.e. the move away from sanitary fittings
specialists towards suppliers providing entire ranges
and systems in order to gain access to new growthareas. The fact also remains that Friedrich Grohecontinued to hold sole managerial responsibility atHans Grohe for a further six years, only handing over
the reins to Heinz Mathauer in January 1975. Klaus
Grohe was then appointed to a second managerialrole in July of that year, later gaining sole responsibility
after Mathauer stepped down in 1977. The final ties
with Friedrich Grohe under company law and interms of share ownership were only cut after the heirsof Friedrich Grohe (who died in late March 1983) soldthe family’s remaining shares to the US-based Masco
Group on 1 January 1985 (giving it an initial stake in
Hansgrohe of 27 %).

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IV. The 1980s and 90s: from the technology ofsanitary fittings to “GROHE Water
Technology”

pressures. Thermostats also began to reduce in size,
and the first remote-control digital shower
thermostat was developed in the 1990s.

There can be little doubt that the increasingly
scientific approach adopted by the sanitaryware
industry led to a sharp upturn in the rate ofinnovation. Many products were now systematicallyrefined (which entailed high and increasing R&D
outlay in both financial and personnel terms), butgenuine innovations continued to emerge inindividual market and product segments. Touch-freecontrols for plumbing fittings based on ultrasoundor radar sensors now became standard, and in thelate 1980s GROHE succeeded in manufacturing thefirst touch-free urinal and washstand controls using
a battery-operated infrared sensor. Development of
the patented Carbodur technology, i.e. a ceramic
cartridge with dual-disc technology and long-termsmoothness of action thanks to an integrated
lubricant reservoir, represented the main innovation
during this period. The surface-ground and extremely
hard ceramic discs formed an adhesive seal, and theapprox. 0.006 mm accuracy of the surface grinding
meant that neither impurities nor drops of water
could penetrate between the discs. Cartridge
technology attracted a particularly large number ofrefinements and innovations during this period,
such as special mixer faucets featuring a patented
safety mixer cartridge system with ceramic sealing
components, a temperature limiter and volume
adjuster. A patented wax component was also
developed as a further control solution for the
purposes of thermostat technology, as well as
special thermostats for high flow rates and low

Further innovations in the shower industry included
the invention of the “anti-limescale shower” (Relexa
Plus) and the limescale-free shower head(“SpeedClean technology” with the Grohe “oneclick” system and Twist Free to prevent twisting of
the shower hose). The main problem faced in termsof shower lifespans had been the differing levels ofwater hardness in the various regions/German
Länder, meaning that in some cases showers would
become blocked up with limescale and unusable
after a year or even a few months. Use of the elastic
material Silimer to manufacture conical sprays andwater outlets eradicated limescale almost entirely,
and meant that it was quick and easy to remove any
that did build up. At the same time, the shower as asanitary fitting underwent rapid expansion in termsof functionality, being used not only for personal
hygiene purposes but also for refreshment,
relaxation and massage. This led to the developmentof special showers for fitness use (waterfall showers
for saunas etc.), and overhead and side showers in
addition to traditional showerheads. Intensive R&D
work at GROHE resulted in the development of avariety of stable spray patterns which could be
adjusted and combined to provide different
functionalities and meet different requirements (sixdifferent sprays including normal full spray, normalring spray, champagne spray, pulse spray, laminarspray and TurboJet spray)32. The development of the
double-shell hand shower was a further revolution inthis field.

32	Cf. Master File, Company History/Training Materials, Chapter 4.1. Technology, Showers. Legionnaire’s disease, an illness caused by the inhalation ofbacteria carried by water, became a global problem in the late 1970s. In cooperation with the Hygiene Institute of the University of Innsbruck, Grohesubsequently developed low-aerosol showers to prevent the inhalation of water containing bacteria.

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The patent-protected “Aquadimmer”, used tosimultaneously control the flow and volume of waterand its take-off point, was also invented during thisperiod. It combined shut-off, volume control andswitching devices in a single component, improving
reliability compared to previous products and using
only one connection. Four new product lines (Europlus,
Eurotrend, Eurowing and Eurodisc) were also
introduced between 1987 and 1993, with a variety ofcolours, contemporary designs and technologicalenhancements such as pull-out rinsing sprays andautomatic switching systems for kitchen fittings.
Ecological issues and environmentally friendly
technologies which tackled the issue of saving waterand energy in the sanitaryware industry (low-flush
toilets etc.) also became big news during this period.
The same trend was apparent in terms of
manufacturing and processes (environmentallyfriendly lubricants and the reuse of metal chips andother material residues, for example, with theestablishment of the central smeltery at the Lahrplant representing a milestone in this respect, but
alsoenergy-efficientcomponent
casting
procedures). Innovations in the sanitaryware
industry thus also reflected the changes in market
structure and demand which had resulted from ashift in social values and the associated search forinnovative technical solutions. In response to thesetrends, GROHE developed a new product line called“Euroeco” in 1996, featuring flush-mounted units
manufactured exclusively from low-dezincifying
brass which reduced corrosion in aggressive waterconditions and unfavourable operating environments
to a minimum.

A further factor affecting developments within the
sector was that sanitary installations, and inparticular bathrooms, were now viewed in terms of
their changing functionality in the user’s lifecycleand designed accordingly. “The bathroom as a
succession of life stages” entailed a wholly new wayof thinking and working for the industry as a whole33.
The late 1990s was also the period when GROHE fell
into step with the growing technologicalconvergence of segments within the sanitaryware
market. These segments had previously been clearlydelineated in many respects. Following its
strategically planned take-over of a number offittings manufacturers (Eichelberg, DAL/Rost andHerzberger Armaturen), GROHE evolved from asanitary fittings specialist into “GROHE Water
Technology”, a comprehensive supplier of sanitaryte­ch­­nology products and complex systems for water
control and treatment, delivering an ever greaternumber of after-sales, consultancy and otherservices instead of concentrating merely on
manufacturing and sales. These developments
resulted in the idea of an umbrella company housing
four different brands (GROHEart, GROHETEC,GROHEDAL and GROHEAQUA).

33	Cf. Hansgrohe (ed.), Badewonnen. Gestern-Heute-Morgen [The Joy of Bathing. Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow], Schiltach 1993, p. 162.

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FACTS ABOUT GROHEFUTURE WITH INNOVATION,TECHNOLOGY IN ACTIONGROHE has introduced many landmark products tothe market. As far back as 1956 GROHE transformed
the domestic bathing and showering experience byintroducing thermostat technology to the private home.
More recently, GROHE once again revolutionised theway we take showers with F-digital Deluxe – at the292

touch of a button we can now enjoy sound, steam
and music as part of the experience. But the future
is even more exciting. Our award-winning in-house
Design Team is already hard at work drawing up
innovative new GROHE bathroom concepts.

1983
THE SHOWER MASSAGE
Relexor, the first shower andmassage system on the market,
is introduced.

1994 – PRESSURE BALANCE VALVE
1995 – FIGHTING LIMESCALEGROHE offers the pressure balance valve in the US.
GROHE SpeedClean, which helps combat the buildup of
limescale on shower nozzles, is brought to the market
first by GROHE, a true shower innovation.

1890
Industrial production offaucets is started by Eichelberg
in Iserlohn

1914 AUTOMATIC FLUSH VALVE
Richard Rost (DAL) invents
the automatic fl ush valve.

1948
The pioneering Atlanta twohandle faucet is launched.

2003
THE 360° SHOWER HEAD
The Movario hand shower,
which has a unique 360°
Rotahead, can be used as ahead shower or body spray.

2004
The first advanced two-handle
technology faucet. A twohandle mixer with the comfort
of a one-hand mixer.

2008
DIGITAL REVOLUTIONGROHE Ondus® creates a newlevel of luxury in the bathroom.
With a faucet of the finger thedigital interface delivers the perfectwater temperature every time.

1956
HOME THERMOSTATSGROHE transforms the homebathroom with the launch ofthermostats onto the domestic
market.

1957
GROHE is the first sanitarycompany to boost its customer
service by starting training
programs for wholesalers andinstallers.

1968
GOING GLOBAL
The popular GROHE one-handmixer is introduced to aworldwide market.

2009
ADDING SPARKLE
The pioneering GROHE Blue®
is launched. No need to carryheavy bottles; water is delivered
chilled, filtered and sparklingstraight from the faucet.

2010
TURNING UP THE HEATGROHE Red™ hits the market.
And that means instant boilingwater directly from the kitchenfaucet.

2011
DIGITAL CONVENIENCEGROHE Digital, which
incorporates wireless technology
and push-button operation,transforms the market.

1973
GROHE launches one-handmixers for the kitchen and adds
an extractable spray.

1979
ERGONOMIC HAND SHOWERSGROHE brings the hand shower
into the modern era with thelaunch of the Relexa range, thefirst ergonomic model on themarket.

1983
PULL-OUT SPRAYSGROHE launches the Ladylux
range, the first pull-out spray
kitchen faucet in the US.

2012
POWER&SOUL®
GROHE introduces the mostinnovative shower in the world:
Power&Soul®. It has One-Click
Showering and the innovative
Bokoma spray.

2013
Docking station for Apple iPod
touch 4G* with integrated electronics for data communication2014
Launch of new Eurodisc Joy with
filigree joystick. A reinterpretionof a well-known classic faucet.

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MOMENTS OF TRUTH

294

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The Masters of Technology at GROHE refer to theexperience of innovative quality – the point at which
product benefits come to life for people – as momentsof truth. At that very instant when GROHE buyers firstcome into contact with their new purchase, the wholelabour of love – from R&D through manufacturing to
the finishing touches – suddenly finds expression as
sheer delight in users’ eyes.
GROHE moments of truth are about convenience,
enjoyment, durability and, last but not least, conserving
resources.

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GROHE SilkMove®
Only GROHE faucets operate with an action so smooth
we have dubbed it SilkMove®. Naturally, they alsooffer delicately precise control of water flow andtemperature to match. SilkMove® cartridge discs are
made from a space-proven ceramic alloy with Teflon®
technology so that working a mixer lever is effortlessly
easy – and re­mains that way for decades to come. In
fact, in a comprehensive battery of mechanical wear
tests conducted by the German Technical Inspection
Agency, TÜV, our high-tech cartridges produced inhouse at GROHE outstripped all products from bigname international manufacturers.

298

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GROHE Zero®
The GROHE Zero® alloy represents a groundbreaking
90 % reduction of the lead content in the brass usedin our faucets. This means there’s much less chanceof it finding its way into drinking water. The lead is
replaced by harmless metals such as copper.
Drawing on years of experience and expertise in the
production process coupled with the unique
technical advantages of operating our own smelting
plant, our development of the GROHE Zero® alloy isushering in a new era in the production of faucets.

300

GROHE TurboStat®
Within fractions of a second, the revolutionary GROHE
TurboStat® technology adjusts water temperature to
the preferred level and keeps it that way throughout
the shower. Thanks to their highly sophisticated,precision-engineered cartridges, our thermostats react
to sudden changes in water pressure twice as fastand even more accurately than before. That makes
for a temperature control system that is not only
extremely reliable but also incredibly convenient.

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GROHE CoolTouch®
With GROHE CoolTouch®, safety is the highest
priority. This technology prevents the surface of our
fittings reaching high temperatures. Which meansno more danger of burns or scalding. By designing ourthermostats to include an innovative coolingchannel, we have created a barrier between theheated water and the outer surface – so it’s never
too hot to handle. GROHE CoolTouch® works for theentire faucet housing, including wall couplings.

302

GROHE StarLight®
GROHE faucets should look as beautiful after
decades of use as they did in the showroom. This
is why, at GROHE, our quality surfaces are madeto last. StarLight® technology uses physical vapour
deposition (PVD) to create metal coatings that are
three times harder and ten times more scratch
resistant as well as chemical vapour deposition(CVD) that increases those figures to five times
and 100 times respectively.

303

Design

304

305

“Everything we design
carefully and objectively
considers the experience
we intend to create”

Paul Flowers,
Senior Vice President Design at GROHE

306

307

About GROHE Design

At GROHE, design is about more than just aesthetic
trappings. It is a hallmark of quality and stands for theperfect interplay of form and function. Three signatureelements give our products a consistent look andfeel. These visual cues add up to a distinctive design
idiom, ensuring that GROHE fittings are instinctively
recognised at first glance.
Rings signal a product’s function, often providing
clues as to its intended purpose and giving users aframe of reference.
Many mixer levers and spouts are set at an angleof 7 degrees, prompting users to interact with thefaucet.

308

Lozenges symbolise the GROHE design philosophyof sensual minimalism and invite people to use
the product.
As an important pillar of the GROHE strategy, design
is guided by the principle of direct, open, simple
interaction. The focus is very much on meetingcustomers’ needs.
For GROHE customers, this translates into thepleasure they feel every day when using our products.
It’s an experience the GROHE team shares each time
we receive recognition for our uncompromisingpassion for quality – such as our many best-of-the-best
awards and the Red Dot Design Team award.

309

Interview with Paul Flowers, Vice
President of Design for GROHE Groupby Patric Zingg, design journalist

Patric Zingg: What is your design philosophy
in general?
Paul Flowers: Good design goes beyond pure form
and function. A product should be designed in sucha way that it encourages an emotional connection with
its user. Our goal is to create products whichcustomers enjoy using, can be used intuitively andare sustainable. You never grow tired of seeing good
design because it never ceases to surprise you.
Patric: And what inspires you and your team?
Paul: Personally, I draw inspiration from the widest
possible range of sources from people I meet during
my travels, from nature, from exhibitions, trade fairs
and galleries, to name but a few. We also continue tobe inspired by the evolution of society and user
engagement with our products. A large majority ofthe products we produce each year are inspired byconsumers and their preferences. Whether driven by
specific consumer insights or societal trends, wefollow a user-centric design process, which ensures
everything we do is relevant and useful.
Patric: At GROHE, design is more than just an
aesthetic element – it’s one of the Strategic
Pillars. Could you please tell us a little about
the relevance of design within the company?
Paul: It is key to understand that design iseverywhere; every single manufactured object isdesign. Now for me, design is not art. I love andcollect art, I paint, yet that is completely subjective
and a form of self-expression. Design is really about
understanding people, their behaviour and theirneeds. I try to assess how a new design can berelevant for the company, how it ultimately increases
the value of the brand, and how it can improve

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people’s lives. As a designer, I see myself as astoryteller. All of our products, every single detail,every form, every radius, is telling a story. And if weare really good at our job, we develop a product thattells the consumer a great and relevant story.
Patric: Every product has a design of its own.
Does that mean that they all tell different
stories, or are they all part of the GROHE
design story?
Paul: Our role at the GROHE Design Studio is toensure coherent and intuitive design. To facilitatesuch a process, my team and I have developed arange of strategic tools that help us to communicate
consistently. First, there is the style segmentation
with its three major styles. We have the “authentic”
style, which is a combination of aesthetics from thepast together with today’s technology. The“contemporary” style is designed for consumers
who appreciate established quality and style, withharmonious and soft flowing lines – a conventional
aesthetic. And then there is the “cosmopolitan” stylefor consumers who are confident and positive about
the future. This style has an urban, modern feel andit is often in this category that trends are born.
Another creative tool is our brand DNA. It consists ofthree signature elements, which resonate the design
language unique to GROHE – the body language ofour products. They allow our customers to intuitively
identify a Grohe product at a glance. The “ring” serves
to highlight the purpose of a product and in this way
to intuitively guide the user. The “7 degrees” angle forthe lever or spout invites interaction with our products
since it makes them look like they are stretching
towards the user. Finally, “the lozenge” symbolises
our philosophy of sensual minimalism, which
combines simplicity and emotion.

311

Lastly, we have three simple values that define ourdesign, forming the nucleus of our philosophy.
“Easy”, which ensures everything we do from thewebsite to the packaging is simple and intuitive.
Then we have “human”, a total commitment to theperson, with designs that are inviting, approachable
and facilitate interaction. Finally, there is “performance”,
the optimum balance between function, technology
and efficiency – also known as beauty with reason.
Patric: The three design values, “easy”,“human” and “performance”, are easy to
grasp. And the ring and the lozenge assignature elements are also simple and clear.
But why seven degrees? Is it the resultof major research initiatives?
Paul: As far as the seven degrees angle goes, people
often ask me why seven? Why not eight or six?
When I look to six, seven and eight, all of the angles
are relevant. Yet the reason why I took seven is this:
if I look at the profile of a faucet it resembles thenumber 7. That is actually simple to remember, very
symbolic and clear.
Patric: What can you tell us about the designof the GROHE brand universe as a whole?
Paul: Each GROHE brand plays its own role in fillinga gap. GROHE Professional is by definition for
professionals such as installers, planners andarchitects. GROHE addresses contemporary anddemanding consumers. Joyou is for a younger,
nomadic audience while GROHE Spa offers highend solutions serving top hotels, real estate projects
and the affordable consumer luxury segment. Besides

312

providing the right products for market demands, weneed to have different brands because it is very
difficult for any single one to have that elasticity. In
this way, we alleviate a certain pressure on eachbrand’s role.
Patric: So basically, each brand is developed
to occupy a unique positioning and possess aunique set of characteristics. Yet, combined,
the brands cover the entire market
segmentation and fulfil the overall GROHE
design values.
Paul: Exactly. Each brand speaks to a different
person or a different group. So, for example,
GROHE Professional is designed for the professional
plumber, and the range includes mostly productsthat are installed behind the wall. Then, for the frontend, users can select how to cover the pipes withdesign products from the GROHE collection. Whether
cosmopolitan, contemporary or authentic products,
it is up to their personal taste.
Patric: So, GROHE is a design-centredcompany…
Paul: Yes. But GROHE’s foundation is also quality,
technology and sustainability, which are strong
cultural aspects of the German DNA. Our job as
designers is to find out how we can blend thecompany’s foundation into an enhanced brandexperience. And what makes our products really goodand relevant for the consumers. That is our goal.

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ABOUT DESIGNING PROJECTSPatric: And what makes a design
a “good design”?
Paul: Good design removes the superfluous andfocuses on the notion of the elements. It shouldheighten the experience and intuitively guide the user.
Patric: Are new technologies importantin GROHE’s design?
Paul: New technologies are paramount only if theyenhance the user’s experience. Ultimately, the goal isto reach a perfect balance between technology,
quality, design and sustainability. We acquire newtechnologies with the aim of improving the user’s
experience in a meaningful way, and not the otherway around.
Patric: And how do you know what theright balance is, what people want?
Paul: We spend lots of time out there putting
questions to users and partners. We meet witharchitects and try to understand their needs in termsof performance. When we go into the field, we areantennae receiving information. In addition, what I
am also trying to do is to flush out as many studies
and data as possible. Attempting to assess what thenext big thing is, what is happening outside ourindustry and what this means in terms of thebathroom experience.

314

Patric: Assessing the trends?
Paul: Not really. We are aiming to identify what
tomorrow’s behaviour will be and how we cananticipate it by providing products that can guide andfacilitate the transition. It is a rather long-term quest.
At GROHE, we design and develop products formore than 130 countries. We have to understandthe culture of each market and assess cross-cultural
opportunities. In parallel, we also have to identify theroot of tomorrow’s conduct and sense if it isephemeral or here to stay. The risk with a trend isthat by the time you are on the market, it has moved
on to another.
Patric: Basically, you have a scientificapproach to design.
Paul: Yes. Every single piece of information absorbed
has to be analysed, structured and verbalised. I
remember my own mentor saying, “in addition tohaving emotional skills and the ability to make senseof the environment, you have to be everything else:a psychologist, a marketer, be good with numbers,
understand the impacts of any decision, be able toexpress a message, communicate with engineers,
understand the science of material, etc.” Hence,
yes, design is also a science.

315

Patric: That sounds serious…
Paul: It does take a little of the poetry out of it, that’strue. Don’t get me wrong, though, the very core is still
about an emotional connection through the creativity
and aesthetic.
Patric: And how big is the influence
from other departments?
Paul: We maintain a daily exchange of information
with other company departments such asengineering and marketing. This ongoing dialogue
with the development department ensures that ourdesigns also promise a great experience in terms of
the look, feel and the handling of the products. Close
contact with marketing allows us to effectively
communicate our designs and our intentions so that
our customers can experience the optimum benefit
from the products.
I think that being open to others’ suggestions is a very
important part of the culture of the company. It is
about respect. You need to listen to everyone, thesales people, the marketing specialists, the engineers,
but also read carefully into the feedback from endusers or architects. At the end of the day, we are very
fortunate to be able to lean on all this informationfrom the various departments. The key, though, is toremember that everything we do at GROHE is tostrengthen the consumer’s experience through strong
brand values. The essence of a great designer is tounderstand, simplify and rationalise all this data andcome up with a good and unique product.
Patric: What is the usual process for a
new project?
Paul: The process is rather classic. It starts with thecreation of a briefing. Based on that, we develop the
project and make sure we remain consistent with theinitial goal. For us designers, it is key to obtain 3D
prototypes as fast as possible. It is essential because
our ideas end up being in direct interaction with theend-users. Having a 3D model helps us check that thedesigns and product briefing are aligned – size,
handling, look, touch and feel, performance, etc. All
these aspects are under consideration during thedesign quality review.
Patric: Does this design quality review process
also include people from other departments?
Paul: The design quality review is internal to thedesign team and is about the quality of the design316– the functions and the benefits. Does the productpossess the requested functions and does it answer
the needs? Is it adding to or improving the consumer’s
experience? These are the questions that we haveto answer for ourselves.

ABOUT THE GROHE Design TEAM

Patric: Do you develop products for the world
or for a specific country?
Paul: For the most part, we develop products with a“glocal” approach. A specificity can be locally relevant
even for a global product. In whatever we do, we try
to be relevant. In this context, we aim to be culturally
pertinent as markets have different requirements,
preferences or even dimensions.
Patric: At a time when everything is being
developed keeping in view a global market,
how important can local taste be?
Paul: The role of media has increased greatly and has
given consumers access beyond internationalboundaries. This has brought the world onto a single
platform. Everybody gets the same information,
whether it is about technology or trends. So, globally,
things are coming together. Therefore, when we
design anything, we design a range that is acceptableinternationally. But yes, when it comes to matchingwith local taste, we use small elements that differ
across regions. For instance, gold – not yellow but awarmer rose gold – is quite popular in India. Similarly,
Americans ask for nickel, while Europeans prefersilver and titanium-like materials. So when we develop
a design, we keep these little details in mind.

Patric: Now, tell me a little about the people
behind the scenes. Those men and womensurrounding you, making these good designs
a reality. GROHE works with a design teamof its own. What are the benefits?
Paul: As the in-house design team, we make surethat our work always accords with the GROHE brandDNA. We can draw on a substantial pool ofaccumulated inside knowledge, meaning that every
new collection benefits from the experience gained
during previous projects.
Patric: How many people are in your team?
Paul: Seventeen people. And yes, they are a great team.
Patric: Wouldn’t it be easier to work alone?
I assume that all the members of your teamhave their own opinion, which probably makes
it more difficult to reach an agreement.
Paul: Working alone may have its benefits for somebut I am a firm believer in the positive influence of
teamwork. I call this process “creative sparring”. I
want my team to be as varied as the customers who
we design our products for – i.e. men and women,
young and experienced colleagues, people ofdifferent nationalities and with different abilities.

Patric: And how is the team organised?
By brand?
Paul: I tend to select designers according to the
product, their experience and the passion they have forit. Overall, though, the team is organised by projectand not by brand. Yet, to keep the excitement, I also
spread them around to nurture their curiosity for
new projects.
Patric: And what are the criteria for working
with the GROHE Design Team?
Paul: We hire skill sets, based on work andexperience, and we look at the human aspect aswell. We also hire young designers straight fromuniversity, knowing that they are quite possibly
going to leave us after two to three years. But it is a
corporate responsibility to give younger designers afirst chance. And we benefit from their enthusiasm
and fresh perspectives. It is about having the rightteam balance.
Patric: Is an “International team” a wish?
Paul: I like the concept of it. More importantly, though,I like to have a team that reflects the values of thecompany. Nationality, age and gender are all
secondary as long as there is this vital hunger forknowledge and a real passion.

317

318

Patric: Do you also work with external
designers?

Patric: Sometimes, though, companies likeusing external resources to get to new ideas…

Paul: When I joined the group in 2005, we took thestrategic decision to create an in-house designcompetence. For consistency reasons, every single
thing is done internally. And consistency is extremely
important to further improve the brand experience.
Even more importantly, we also wanted to evolve toa “creative culture” that could harvest creativity
within the company, not just from our design teambut throughout the organisation.

Paul: I often have these discussions and, quite
candidly, I believe that the source of good ideas isirrelevant as regards the “location”. Instrumental tothe development of good objects is the curiosity adesigner shows. In any case, both models work –probably. I would argue, though, that having aninternal team turns a designer into an expert, whowill be focused on the industry’s subtleties , as well
as being more efficient thanks to constant contact
with all internal resources such as the engineers or
R&D team.

319

ABOUT PAUL FLOWERS

Born in London in 1972; graduated from theuniversity of Northumbria (Newcastle) with a firstclass honours degree. During his diverse international
career he has worked for companies ranging fromsmall prestigious London design studios to some of
the largest organisations in the world, including FM(UK), IBM (UK), Electrolux (Italy), Philips (Netherlands).
In November 2005 he was appointed Vice Presidentof Design for GROHE (Germany).
During his productive career he has accumulated aplethora of prestigious international design awards
including ID Magazine 1999 and 2000, Good
Industrial Design Award 2001 followed by various red
dot product awards from 2005 to 2014 including five
“best of the best” in 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 and2014 and red dot communication awards in 2011
and 2013, numerous iF product awards from 2005
to 2014, iF China 2006, 2007 and 2010, iF
communication award 2008, 2009 and 2012, iF
Material award 2011, Good Design 2006, 2008 and2010 to 2013 and Green Good Design 2010 to 2014,
Perspective Award Hong Kong 2011 and 2013. He
was awarded the Good Design Japan 2006 trophyand from 2010 to 2013, Prix du Design 2008, JanusAward France 2008, Manufacturer Award 2008,
Grand Design award UK 2009, IDEA Bronze in 2010,
D&AD 2007 and 2010, the I.D. Annual Design Award
2010, Interior Innovation award 2011, the Designplus in 2005, 2007 and 2011, Designer-Kitchen andBathroom Magazine 2008 and 2012 Gold Award,

320

European Consumers Choice in 2010 and 2011,
German Design Iconic Award “best of the best” 2014
and in 2011 the highest accolade of the red dot
design award, the “Design Team of the Year
2011/2012”.
In 2008 Paul Flowers was included on the prestigious“40 under 40” list established by the European
Centre of Architecture, Art, Design and Urban
Studies, which recognises the top 40 European
creative talents under the age of 40.
His portfolio includes TVs for Philips, e.g. Plasma TV,
Design Line TV; cooking devices for Electrolux, e.g.
Concept Plan, Concept Stack; refrigerators forElectrolux: Range and Lighthouse, GROHE Ondus,
digital bathroom, Rain-showers, Workflow furniture.
In his current position as Global Senior Vice Presidentof Design, Paul Flowers provides creative strategic
direction for the GROHE brand worldwide.

321

Index
Photo Credits
Imprint322

323

Indexby architects
C
3DReidWest End House, 11 Hills Place
London, W1F 7SE, UK
Tel +44.345.271.6100
marketing@3dreid.com · www.dreid.com
5+design
1024 North Orange Drive, Suite 215
Hollywood, CA 90038, USA
Tel +1.323.308.3558
msalahuddin@5plusdesign.com · www.5plusdesign.com

A
AB Objekt
Ljubljanska cesta 3a
3000 Celje, Slovenia
info@ab-objekt.si · www.ab-objekt.si
Adrian Smith Tel + Gordon Gill Architecture LLP
111 West Monroe, Suite 2300. Chicago IL 60603, USA
Tel+1.312.920.1888
info@smithgill.com · www.smithgill.com
Andrew Goodenough Architect
Ordnance Lane, English Harbour
West Indies, Antigua and Barbuda
Tel +1.268.460.1489
info@andrewgoodenough.com
www.andrewgoodenough.com
Arcadia Design Architects
Calle Rico 13, 1st Floor. 21001. Huelva, Spain
Tel +34 959 282693
arcadia@arcadiadesign.net · www.arcadiadesign.net
Arccadd Architecture Inc
109 – 340 Waterfront Drive
Winnipeg, Canada MB  R3B 0M3
Tel +1.204.772.6011
info@arccadd.com · www.arccadd.com
Arketipo Design
Yavuz Sultan Selim Mahallesi Abdül Ezel Pasa Caddesi
Hangar Binası No:25 34083
Balat / Fatih / Istanbul, Turkey
Tel +90.212.225.58.22
info@arketipodesign.com · www.arketipodesign.com

Carlos Zapata Studios
520 Broadway, 8th Floor New York, NY 10012, USA
Tel +1.212.966.9292
mkoff@cz-studio.com · www.cz-studio.com
Cazú Zegers Arquitectura
Pedro de Villagra 2351, Vitacura, Santiago, Chile
Tel +56.02.2952.7330 · cazuzegers@gmail.com
cazu@cazuzegers.cl · www.cazuzegers.cl
Charlotte Philip, Hilton Worldwide
Christian de Groote Arquitectos Ltda.
Camila del Fierro C. Arquitecto
Merced 22 of 801, Santiago, Chile
Tel +56.2.2633.0351 · cdelfierroarq@terra.cl
cm-DESIGN
Friesenweg 5G
22763 Hamburg, Germany
Tel +49.40.431.796.40
mail@cm-design.info · www.cm-design.info
Conran and Partners
London and Brighton
Tel +44.20.7403 8899
cp@conran.com · www.conran.com

DDavid Penner Architect
120 Yale Ave, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3M 0L7
Tel +1.204.475.8978
d.penner@mts.net · www.davidpennerarchitect.ca
Denis Simachev
Nizhny Susalny pereulok 5, bld. 5A
105064, Moscow, Russia
Tel +7.495.926.78.98
studio@simachev.com · www.denissimachev.com
Design Bube
Staufenstraße 15, 21683 Stade, Germany
Tel +49.4141.54.46.93
info@bube-design.com · www.bube-design.com

J
DZ Architecture
Despagne Gaëtane
33, rue d‘Antrain 35000 Rennes, France
Tel +33.9.51.94.06.29
gaetane.despagne@dzarchi.com · www.dzarchi.com
Laure Zucconi, 16, rue Raynouard 75016 Paris, France
Tel +33.1.45.20.03.52
laure.zucconi@dzarchi.com · www.dzarchi.com

E
EDGE Design Institute Ltd
Suite 1604, Eastern Harbour Centre
28 Hoi Chak Street, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
Tel +852.2802.6212
edgeltd@netvigator.com · www.edgedesign.com.hk
Edward van Vliet
Nieuwpoortkade 2-A 1055 RX Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tel +31.20.606.0766 · www.edwardvanvliet.com

G
Gewers Pudewill GmbH
Schlesische Straße 27, 10997 Berlin, Germany
Tel +49.30.69.59.880.0
info@gewers-pudewill.com · www.gewers-pudewill.com
Gonzalo Mardones Arquitecto
Av. Del Valle Nº 869 Of. 01, Ciudad Empresarial
Huechuraba, Santiago, Chile
Tel +56.2.949.3081 · www.gonzalomardonesv.cl
Grace Kelly, Hilton Worldwide

H
HKS, Inc.
350 N Saint Paul St, Suite, 100, Dallas TX 75201-4240
Tel +1.214.969.5599
webmaster@hksinc.com · www.hksinc.com
HOK Architects
205 Catherine Street, Suite 101
Ottawa, Ontario K2P 1C3 Canada
Tel +1.613.226.9650
ottawa@hok.com · www.hok.com

I

Basselier Jarzaguet Architectes
24 Rue Feydeau, 75002 Paris, France
Tel +33.1.49.27.03.81
contact@bjarchitectes.fr · www.bjarchitectes.fr

designfunktion
Leopoldstraße 121, 80804 München, Germany
Tel +49.89.306.307.0
info@designfunktion.de · www.designfunktion.de

IAA Architecten GmbH
M.H. Tromplaan 55, 7513 AB Enschede, Netherlands
Tel +31.6.55.800.659
info@iaa-architecten.nl · www.iaa-architecten.nl

B

Diamond Schmitt Architects
384 Adelaide St. W. suite 300 Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Tel +1.416 862-8800 · info@dsai.ca · www.dsai.ca

Ian Schrager Company
818 Greenwich Street New York NY 10014, USA
Tel +1.212.796.8400 · www.ianschragercompany.com

DL - A Devanthéry &Lamunière Architectes s.a.
Rue Gourgas 5, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
Tel +41.22.307.01.30 · mail@dl-a.ch · www.dl-a.ch

INBO
Gaasterlandstraat 5,Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tel +31.20 421 24 22
amsterdam@inbo.com · www.inbo.com

biselli Tel + katchborian arquitetos associados
Rua Dr. Sodré,117, Vila Olímpia - São Paulo / SP
Cep.: 04535 110, Brazil
Tel +55.11.3845.5145
bkweb@bkweb.com.br · www.bkweb.com.br
Blu Water StudioE-2-1, Block E, Second Floor,
Megan Avenue 1, 189, Jalan Tun Razak
50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel +603.2163.4689
bluw@bluwaterstudio.com · www.bluwaterstudio.com

324

CAL Interiors
Antonio Cheung

dSign Vertti Kivi & Co
Kalevankatu 31 A 10, 00100 Helsinki, Finland
Tel +358.40.5240149
joonas.heinonen@dsign.fi · www.dsign.fi

jagdfeld design GmbHAnne Maria Jagdfeld
Quartier 206, Friederichstr. 71, 10117 Berlin, Germany
Tel +030.20.94.67.50
info@amjdesign.com · www.hucke-design.com
Jaime Beriestain
Carrer Pau Claris, 167, 08037 Barcelona, Spain
Tel +34.93.301.69.89
jaime@beriestain.com · www.beriestain.com

L
Leo Designers Pte Ltd
166B Rochor Road Bugis Village #00 – 00
Singapore 188441
Tel +65.62727371 · leo@lidgintl.com
Living Design
Living design Stockholm
Brovägen 1 · SE- 182 76 Stocksund, Sweden
Tel +46.8.755.17.65
info@livingdesign.com · www.livingdesign.com

M
M-OFIS ArchitectsÖzden Sokak No:26 D:7, Etiler, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel +90.212.287.64.50
info@m-ofis.com.tr · www.m-ofis.com.tr
Miami-based IDC
4912 72nd Avenue, Miami, Florida 33155, USA
Tel +305 665 1616, mail@idcdesignconcepts.com
www.idcdesignconcepts.com
Michael Sodeau
27 Hoxton Street London N1 6NH, UK
Tel +44.20.7033.0444
info@michaelsodeau.com · www.michaelsodeau.com
MVRDV
Dunantstraat 10, 3024 BC Rotterdam, Netherlands
Tel +31.10.477.2860
office@mvrdv.com · www.mvrdv.com

N
nps tchoban voss
Rosenthaler Straße 40 – 41, Hackesche Höfe
10178 Berlin, Germany
Tel +49.30.28.39.20.0
berlin@npstv.de · www.npstv.deO
OIKIOS GmbH
Tumblingerstraße 13, 80337 Munich, Germany
Tel +49.89.898994890
office@oikios.de www.oikios.de

PPappageorge Haymes Partners
640 North LaSalle Street Suite 400
Chicago Illinois 60654, USA
Tel +1.312.337.3344
info@pappageorgehaymes.com
www.pappageorgehaymes.com

325

Photo credits
Pattern Design Ltd.
22 – 25 Eastcastle Street, London W1W 8DF, UK
Tel +44.20.7993.9400
info@pattern-architects.com · www.pattern-architects.com

Studio Akkerhuis
5 Passage de l‘Ancre, 75003 Paris, France
Tel + 33.1.71.76.32.87
paris@studioakkerhuis.com · www.studioakkerhuis.com

Petek Mimarlik
Fenerbahçe Mh. Haci Mehmet Sk. Onur Apt. No:9 D:10
Selamiçesme - Kadıköy Istanbul, Turkey
Tel +90.216.478.50.40.41
info@petekmimarlik.com · www.petekmimarlik.com

Studio Marc Hertrich & Nicolas Adnet
5 Passage Piver, 75011 Paris, France
Tel +33.1.43.14.00.00
contact@studiomhna.com · www.studiomhna.com

Peter Silling & Associates
Hotel Interior Design Ltd.
28 Hennessy Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Tel +852.2523.9000
silling@hotelinteriordesign.com.hk
www.hotelspeconline.com
Profil Mimarlik
Tas Mektep Sokak Mutlu Apt. NO: 65
Kat: 1 Daýre: 1 PK:34738, Erenköy / Istanbul, Turkey
Tel +90.216.386.53.55
profilmimarlik@gmail.com · www.profilmimarlik.com

Sschneider+schumacher
Poststraße 20a, 60329 Frankfurt, Germany
Tel +49.69.256.262.62
office@schneider-schumacher.de
www.schneider-schumacher.deSemrén & Månsson
Storgatan 26, 411 38 Gothenburg, Sweden
Tel +46.31.743.02.00
kontoret@semren-mansson.se · www.semren-mansson.se
ShoreLine
Jean Guy Verges, Villa Joana
19 Rue Francois Dumora
33120 Arcachon, France
Sincere Architects
42, Lal Singh Judo Colony, Near Jaipuria
Hospital, Tonk Road, Jaipur - 302 018, India
Tel : +91.141.2552584, 2721695
www.sincerearchitects.com
SLCE Architects
1359 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, USA
Tel +1.212.979.8400
info@slcearch.com · www.slcearch.com
Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB)
625 N. Michigan Avenue
Suite 800 Chicago, Illinois, 60611 USA
Tel +1.312.896.1100
inquiries@scb.com · www.scb.com
SP Architects Planners & Engineers
15 Scotts Road #07 – 00,
Thong Teck Building, Singapore 228218
Tel +65.6737.7544 · rspsing@rsp.sg · www.rsp.com.sg
Studio Aisslinger
Heidestraße 46 – 52, 10557 Berlin, Germany
Tel +49.30.315.05.400
studio@aisslinger.de · www.aisslinger.de326

Stylt Trampoli
Västra Hamngatan 11
SE-411 17 Gothenburg, Sweden
Tel +46.31.708.68.00
info@stylt.se · www.stylt.se

A

K

AM Resort, 152 1, 154 2, 3, 155 4Andersen, Morten, 146 2, 151 7

Klaus K Hotel, 62 1, 2, 64 3, 4, 65 5,
Koenig, Nikolas, 134 1, 135 2

B

L

Baralhé, Antoine, 71 Portrait
Blach, José Hevia, 48 1, 49 2, 60 3, 4, 5Bononcini, Marinella, 99 Portrait
Brian Gould Photography, 136, 142 1, 144 2, 3, 145 4

Leeny, Richard, 98 1, 100 2, 3, 4, 5
Lemke, Stephan, 86 1, 88 2, 3, 89 Portrait, 4Lozar, Matej, 126 1, 126 2, 3, 4
Lund, Hamilton, 178 1, 179 2, 180 3, 4, 181 5
Lung, Geoff, 176, 188 1, 190 2, 3, 4CChevojon, Yoan, 66 1, 2, 3
Choice Hotels International, 94 1, 95 2, 96 3, 4
Christophe BIELSA - Photographe, 132 2

M
Macro, Alex, 84 4
Meuser, Philipp, 111 Portrait

T
T.K. Tsui & Associates Limited
3rd Floor, Hing Lung Commercial Building
68 – 74 Bonham Strand
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Tel +852.2541.8000
tktsui@tktsui.com · www.tktsui.com

DO

Daria Scagliola & Stijn Brakkee, 72 1, 74 2, 4, 75 3
Dickert, Kevin, 172 1
digitalnatives.nl, 102 1, 103 2, 104 3, 105 4, 5
Dotan, Donna, 162 1, 2, 163 3

onthepaper.net, 202 3, 203 5, 6P

Tilke GmbH & Co. KG
Krefelder Straße 147, 52070 Aachen, Germany
Tel +49.241.9134.0 · mailbox@tilke.de · www.tilke.deEPappageorge Haymes Partners, 173 2, 174 3, 175 5
Plexman, Matthew, 167 Portrait
Puga, Gonzalo, 151 Portrait

TBI Architecture & Engineering
Rambla de Catalunya, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
Tel +34 933 042 435 · info@tb-i.eu · www.tb-i.eu

FTotal Integrated Design (India) Pvt. Ltd.
108, Qutab Plaza DLF Phase 1
Gurgaon 122002-09 Haryna, India
Tel +91.124.438.1225
tidindia@tidindia.com · www.tidinternational.com

W
Walker Lawson Design Inc
Suite 203, 735 12Avenue SW
Calgary, AB T2R 1J7, Canada
Te +1.403.232.6022 · www.walkerlawson.com

Eakin, William, 145 Portrait

Fahn, Ted, 156 1, 157 2, 3
Fassbind Hotels, 68 1, 70 2, 3, 4
Fotoburo Raphaël Drent, 91 1, 92, 2, 3, 93 4

H
H.Lin Ho Photography, 184 1, 186 2, 3, 4Hesse, Udo, 79 Portrait
HG Esch, Hennef - Stadt Blankenberg, 76 1, 78 3, 4, 5
Hilton Hotels & Resorts, 44, 82 1, 84 2, 85 3
Huthmacher, Werner, 110 1, 2, 120 1, 2, 121 3

I
IC360 Images, Tschetter, James, 175 4

William B. Tabler Architects
158 West 29th Street, New York, NY 10001, USA
Tel +1.212.563.6960
contact@williamtabler.com
www.williamtabler.com

J
JoChui, 200 1
Johansen, Erik Nissen, 50 1, 52 3, 4, 53 5, Portrait

R
Robert Ayres Photography, 116 1, 122 1, 124 2, 3
Royal Caribbean International, 116 1, 118 2, 3 119 4

S
Saieh, Nicolas, 158 1, 159 2, 160 3, 4, 161 5, 6
Sochiautodrome, 80 1, 2, 81 3
Steigenberger Hotels AG, 106 1, 108 2, 3, 4, 226 1, 228 2, 3, 4Supper, Rene, 48 Kathrin Matthiesen PortraitT
The Delta Hotels, Ltd. (Property of), 164 1, 165 2, 166 3, 4, 5
Thuysbaert, Paul, 214 1, 216 2, 3, 217 4, 5,Vvan der Hoek, Allard, 73 Portrait
Vergara, Pía, 146 1, 150 4, 5, 6
Verges, Jean Guy, 224 Portrait
VIEW; Gilbert, Dennis, 208, 218 1, 220 Portrait, 2, 3, 221 4
Vogel, Thilo, 81 PortraitY
Yabu Pushelberg
by George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg
88 Prince Street 2nd Floor
New York, NY 10012, USA
Tel +1.212.226.0808
infonyc@yabupushelberg.com
www.yabupushelberg.com

Z
Zyman & Zyman
Mexico-City, Mexico
Tel +55.5290.1888
contacto@zyman-zyman.com
www.zyman-zyman.com

327

IMPRINT

Concept: David J. Haines, Michael Rauterkus(GROHE AG), Jan-Peter Tewes, Paul Flowers,
Henrik John, Ingo Kabutz (stylus publishing),
Peter Marti (Marti Communications)If you are designing a project that you think would
be suitable for publishing on our App or in our
printed Water Enjoyment publication, please send a
short description of the project including details of
the GROHE products used and any images available
with your contact detail to this email address:
projectenquiries@grohe.com,

Project Management: Jan Shepherd &Daniel Wellmann

For more information about GROHE and our productranges visit our website: www.grohe.com

First Edition March 2015
Editor: David J. Haines

Lead Image Editor: Timo Wojciechowski
Lead Researchers: Jan Shepherd & Daniel Wellmann
Researchers: Rikard van Rheinberg & Nicole Weber

Download the GROHE App now!
Get lots more content on a wide range of iconic
projects with the GROHE Water Enjoyment App.
Download from iTunes now.

Art Direction / Creative Direction: Zafar Hadafmand
Design assistance GROHE: Marcel Chilla
GROHE Historian and text:
Prof. Dr. Paul Erker
Ludwig-Maximilians-University of Munich,Economic and Business History
Text: Katharina Piszczan & Ros Anderson
All of the information in this volume has been
compiled to the best of the editors´ knowledge. It isbased on the information provided to the publisher
by the architects´ and designers´ offices and excludes
any liability. The publisher assumes no responsibility
for its accuracy or completeness including copyright
discrepancies and refers to the specified sources(architects´ and designers´ offices). All rights to thephotographs are property of the photographer(please refer to the picture).

328

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