Anything is possible
More than just a popular child's toy: introduced in 1959 by Ruth Handler, founder of Mattel, the Barbie doll was the first female play figure to be given a profession. It was accompanied by extensive sets that symbolised independence, joie de vivre and unlimited possibilities, whether for the dream house, the boat, the horse ranch, the camper or the extensive wardrobe with accessories. It was revolutionary for its time. In the years that followed, Mattel remained true to its motto ‘You can be anything’ by introducing black and Hispanic dolls, raising awareness of diversity and questioning the image that should be associated with Barbie: models of different body sizes and with visible impairments were juxtaposed with the stereotypical version.
Creating designs that encourage the search for new approaches is also what HEWI stands for. Since its foundation in 1929, HEWI has developed into a system provider for comprehensive solutions in the areas of architectural hardware, sanitary accessories and barrier-free products, and has been developing solutions based on the principles of universal design – modern and inclusive. The ‘Barbie™ x HEWI’ collection, which was unveiled for the first time this year at ISH, brings together two companies that create universal designs, promote independence and stimulate the imagination with versatile options. This also applies to hotel bathroom furnishings: easy-care, durable materials that support a pleasant atmosphere are particularly sought after for hotel bathrooms.
The ‘Barbie™ x HEWI’ collection provides the 477/801 series with a distinctive design aesthetic – inspired by Barbie’s iconic colour palette, which can be combined both monochromatically and with accents in black and white. The products are designed to be barrier-free and create accessibility across all age groups and physical limitations. "Mattel and Barbie's ideology of empowering girls, promoting their self-confidence and showing them what they can be in life is also reflected in HEWI's approach – especially in the area of barrier-free architecture. Our goal is to enable people to live their lives as independently and autonomously as possible, regardless of their personal situation,‘ says Christiane Küper, Head of Brand + Sales at HEWI. This forward-looking approach has been rewarded: the ’Barbie™ x HEWI" collection received a special mention from the Designplus Award by ISH, which is presented in collaboration with Stylepark.
Whether it's the wheelchair-accessible washbasin, the elegant grab rail, the practical soap dispenser or the universally understandable vacant/occupied sign for the door: HEWI has thought of every need in the bathroom and meets the highest standards. The ‘Barbie™ x HEWI’ collection fulfils the requirements for wellness, elegance and function in a hotel bathroom and fits in with any style – from hip to traditional. In the world of Barbie, there are no rooms that are purely functional: the fantasy world created for her has its own distinctive aesthetic with well-thought-out details that are intuitive to use. Thanks to the collaboration with HEWI, a bridge to reality is created that celebrates individuality. The soft pink colour scheme creates positive associations, has a calming effect and lifts the mood. The perfect fittings for truly dreamlike bathrooms. (am)
