The top cantilevered rim of the freestanding oval bathtub in the "BetteSuno" collection can serve as a shelf and grab rail.
Photo: Bette

STYLEPARK BETTE
Flexible Archetype

With “BetteSuno” Barber Osgerby have designed a bathroom collection for Bette that combines sculptural design with creative flexibility.

by Alexander Russ | 8/7/2023

“BetteSuno” is the name of the new collection that Barber Osgerby have developed in collaboration with bathroom specialist Bette. It encompasses two different washstands and a bathtub that are made of glazed titanium steel and will be available from October 2023. Thanks to the choice of material, the individual bathroom items are precise, smooth and even. Simultaneously, they impress with an appearance that is both sculptural and delicately refined. This makes for a wide range of creative options such that “BetteSuno” can be incorporated easily into various bathrooms – whether in the hotel or hospitality sector or in your own home.

For example, the “BetteSuno” washbasin bowl is suitable for the washrooms of in bars or restaurants. Thanks to its precisely worked underside it blends almost seamlessly with the supporting material, be it wood, stone or another surface. “The collection has an attractive artisan feel to it and its sculptural qualities are emphasized by the circular and conical shapes,” comments designer Edward Barber on the finished products. The washbasins are made in a single piece using glazed titanium steel: Their round shape lends them an archetypal character that is varied through subtle differences. One example of this is the shape of the washbasin which has an inner diameter of 340 millimeters and in all variants tapers conically towards the outlet. “The shape invites you to look twice, and its precision is achieved thanks to special techniques and the use of enameled steel that is far superior to sanitary ceramics,” says Jay Osgerby, explaining the technical and formal approach the designer took.

Creative process for the "BetteSuno" collection by Barber Osgerby for Bette
Photo: Michael Sinclar

There is a choice between the variant of a washbasin bowl and a version with a washbasin standing at a height of 865 millimeters above the ground. In the latter the washbasin juts out over a delicate and conically-shaped pedestal, which creates an impression of lightness and makes the basin appear to be suspended. The pedestal itself is also crafted from glazed titanium steel. Not only does it make a natural addition to the design language of the collection, it is also well thought-out: For example, it conceals the siphon, the inlet and outlet, as well as the necessary mountings. What’s more it takes up little space in the bathroom and as it has an integrated tap bank, standard washbasin fittings can be used.

The freestanding oval bathtub measuring 1800 x 800 millimeters is a real eyecatcher. Here, again, Barber Osgerby was inspired by archetypes, which is expressed amongst other things in an outward cantilevered rim. As the latter is flat it can be used as a head and armrest while bathing, or for depositing shampoo, soap and other bathroom utensils. Furthermore, it doubles as a grip when standing up or sitting down. It slopes inwards at each end, provides a spacious sitting area and an outlet at its center. Taken together these individual elements make for a high degree of comfort for one or two bathers. Initially, the bathtub and washbasins will be available in glossy white and matt white with additional colors planned. In addition, other variants of the washbasins will also be added over time.