Laufen 2025: "VOLTA"

The unusual shape of the basin is the result of intensive research into movement and rhythm: the gently sloping inner surfaces of the round washbasin create a gentle whirlpool – a vortex – that allows the water to be enjoyed for longer, thus promoting awareness of the need to use this precious resource sustainably. At the same time, the controlled movement of the water through the basin makes cleaning easier. At its center is a drain that is accessible from above, thus opening up additional space below the basin. Thanks to the large opening, a classic siphon is not absolutely necessary. Since the water flow can also be directed from an opening at the top of the ramp, the minimalist aesthetics can be impressively showcased.

“Volta” impressively shows the high precision with which Laufen’s sapphire ceramic is processed. The production of the washbasin is also a symbol of technological change in every respect: the collection is the first product to embody the possibilities of the world’s first electric tunnel kiln for sanitary ceramics – a development that redefines the millennia-old process of firing. At the emission-free factory in Gmunden, the power of the sun is converted into energy to produce ceramics in a CO₂-neutral way. With this combination of sustainable production and poetic form, Laufen opens up new perspectives for design. “The new technology has given us the opportunity to create a new experience in terms of sustainable design. The final product should express this. It's our job as designers to support the leaders in our industry who are ready for change in terms of resource conservation.
Design can accelerate the establishment of new ideas. The concept and the new technology form a good unit.,” said Yves Béhar in an interview.