Breathing Life into Designs
Behind the scenes of design
In order for a Villeroy & Boch design to fully come alive, a great deal of work must first take place. A comprehensive new collection requires a lead time of up to two years, during which research, development, and production takes place. For an example, take a look at the My Nature bathroom collection, whose inspired design achieved the recognition of the Red Dot Award.
Transforming research into creative ideas
Working with the Marketing and Product Management teams, the Creative Director must identify contemporary global trends. Design inspiration then comes from such diverse sources as exhibitions or the company’s own museum and archive. In the case of My Nature, inspiration was drawn from the countryside surrounding headquarters. The challenge of linking current trends with timeless designs is consistently mastered by Villeroy & Boch.
From design language to form and function
Once an overall design theme is chosen, corresponding design language, materials, and colors must be decided upon. This brainstorming process can include a moodboard, which is a visual representation of the design and product, from which key concepts emerge. For My Nature, this lead to such design elements as an airy and simple yet functional, curved form as well as a natural chestnut color and wood material.
From Styrofoam model to ceramic product
The processes that occur from conception to production are quite remarkable, and reveal the expertise and craftsmanship behind every collection. To transfer the design from the model to a finished product, the ceramic is exposed to all elements – earth, water, air and fire. However, no design is too abstract for Villeroy & Boch Product Developers, who achieved even the filigree form of the My Nature washbasin.