Neuer Zollhof

Understated bathroom design meets an architectural work of art: the composition of the “Neue Zollhof”, designed by American architect Frank O. Gehry, resembles a monumental sculpture and has a lasting impact on Düsseldorf's skyline along the banks of the Rhine. Each of the three separate but interconnected buildings differs in terms of size and materials used but they all have the principle of asymmetry in common. The curved lines give the buildings an extremely dynamic feel, almost as if they were dancing. During the course of the renovation work conducted in 2014, Duravit design moved into the silvery “House B” with the DuraStyle series, thus complementing the striking architecture with deliberately understated bathroom design.

The ensemble comprising a red, a white and a central, silver-coloured building was constructed between 1998 and 1999 on the grounds of the former customs house. Gehry’s typical deconstructivist style is particularly apparent in the details: the ensemble is defined by abstract forms and asymmetries, unusual angles and irregular façades, together with prominent window frames. The individuality of each building is highlighted by a unique façade. The silver-coloured stainless steel cladding of the central house acts as a connecting element in which the neighbouring buildings are reflected. Inside this “House B”, individuality takes centre stage: 90-degree angles or straight walls are a rarity; rooms have triangular, rhomboid or even trapezoidal floor plans. With their straight-line styling, the extra-slim DuraStyle toilets add a simple elegance to the bathrooms of the unusual building.

DuraStyle emerged out of the holistic approach adopted by bathroom outfitter Duravit and designer Matteo Thun. They focused on the overlap between product design, architecture and interior design. The visual lightness of the bathroom series comes into its own in the interaction with modern architecture. Thanks to the large variety of different models and good value for money, the series is ideal for the project sector.