Throughout history, the symbiotic relationship between nature and culture has significantly influenced art, fashion, and architecture. Aiming to unravel the various dimensions in which nature can serve as a wellspring of inspiration, Milan Design Week was centered around “Materia Natura”. Embracing this theme, the world’s largest annual design event serves as an ideal stage for GROHE SPA, the premium sub-brand of GROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings. The word SPA originally comes from the first letters of “Salus per aquam”, which is the founding concept behind GROHE SPA.
Celebrating the transformative power of water at the impressive Palazzo Reale near the Duomo in Milan, Italy, GROHE showcased carefully curated bathroom solutions that epitomize new luxury and bespoke quality in a holistic installation.
A tribute to nature and history
Based on the concept of “Aquatecture” – the fusion of water and architecture – the GROHE SPA installation in the courtyard of Palazzo Reale unveils a series of spaces that elevate the significance and importance of water in architecture, and the health and well-being benefits this infusion brings. Conceived by the in-house LIXIL Global Design and Brand Identity team, the “Aquatecture” installation pays tribute to the history of the building, interwoven with the contemporary GROHE SPA “Salus per aquam” concept. Inspired by the former courtyard garden and in synergy with Milan Design Week’s theme “Materia Natura”, it thoughtfully blends nature and architecture to create immersive spaces that reflect the essence of GROHE SPA. These carefully curated spaces echo the former garden, creating sensual areas to reflect, revitalize, and energize.
“Through our installation at Palazzo Reale, we reflect the intricate bond between nature and human creativity, intertwining the rich history of the royal palace with the modern ethos of GROHE SPA. Inviting visitors on a sensory journey to deeply experience ‘Salus per aquam’, our ‘Aquatecture’ spaces exhibit the powerful connection of water in architecture. They stand not only as showcases but as inspiration for architects and designers, encouraging collaboration and experimentation,” explains Patrick Speck, Leader, LIXIL Global Design EMENA.
Redefining spa luxury across four tiers
Each “Aquatecture” space represents one of the four tiers that bring GROHE SPA to life. Visitors embark on their immersive journey at the fourth tier that shows industry-leading products to create the ultimate home spa hideaway. Shower solutions like GROHE Rainshower Aqua and the F-Digital Deluxe modules combine timeless elegance with modern technology, using light, steam, sound and smell to delight the senses. In addition, the GROHE Atrio Outdoor Shower provides a refreshing and rejuvenating experience, enabling a stronger connection to nature and the tranquility this brings. Transitioning to the third tier, the spotlight is on the GROHE Colors Collection with the new Satin finish. Offering a luxurious touch and expanded design choices for a personalized look, the new finish is available for GROHE Allure and GROHE Atrio, as well as matching showers and accessories in the colors Satin Steel and Satin Graphite.
The highlight of the second tier is the new GROHE Allure Gravity, available from May 2025. Blending a slim square silhouette with boundless avenues for customization, the faucet line comes with exchangeable cover plates expertly crafted from glass, mirror or Caesarstone mineral surfaces. GROHE is partnering with Caesarstone, the global pioneer of premium countertop surfaces, to craft cover plates from the brand’s durable surfaces in timeless designs. Culminating the exhibition, the first tier is comprised of the conceptual GROHE Icon 3D collection: The 3D metal-printed products redefine what is possible, while taking sustainable product design with ultimate customization options to a new level.
Discovering GROHE SPA
Architects, designers, and visitors experienced the installation and GROHE SPA firsthand at the Palazzo Reale, last April 16-21, 2024 where GROHE also hosted a series of “Aqua Talks” with eminent designers and architects in the installation.
Visit GROHE SPA’s landing page to learn more about these talks and the brand’s presence at Milan Design Week.
Follow GROHE on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube and LIXIL Global Design on Instagram.
