KOHLER x SR_A Defy The Traditional Design And Performance Of A Bathroom Faucet. On View At at Design Miami/ 2023

KOHLER x SR_A Create Limited-Edition Faucet to Launch at Design Miami/ 2023.

In the world of design, innovation often springs from the unlikeliest of partnerships. This year, at Design Miami/ 2023, a groundbreaking collaboration between Kohler, the British artist and designer Dr. Samuel Ross, and his industrial design studio SR_A is set to take the design world by storm. The result? The limited-edition Kohler x SR_A Formation 01 faucet, a striking embodiment of form, function, and fearless creativity.

Breaking the Mold

The Kohler x SR_A Formation 01 faucet challenges conventions in the world of bathroom fixtures. Its design marries bold angles with an industrial Haptic Orange color that defies the traditional aesthetics of a faucet. This collaboration represents more than just a product; it is a celebration of Samuel Ross’s avant-garde artistic approach and Kohler’s 150-year legacy of innovation and craftsmanship, resulting in a new design language for water solutions.

David Kohler, Chair, and CEO of Kohler, explains the significance of this partnership, stating, “Throughout our history, we have operated on the leading edge of innovation, creativity, and bold leadership – attributes that align with the approach of Samuel and SR_A. The Kohler x SR_A Formation 01 faucet is the first tangible execution in our partnership and an experience unlike anything we have seen in the industry.”

Materials: Pushing Boundaries

The Formation 01 faucet is not just a functional fixture; it’s a sculptural masterpiece crafted from Neolast, an exclusive material developed by Kohler. This innovative material allows for the dramatic expression of form, introducing a new design language for shape and color. Mounted on an escutcheon plate made from Kohler’s signature cast iron, Formation 01 seamlessly combines forward-looking design with timeless industrial aesthetics.

Forms: A Delicate Balance

Kohler’s advanced engineering has resulted in a custom water channel that facilitates water delivery through the faucet’s sharp angles. Achieving this fluid dynamics required precise pressure control to ensure that the water flow aligns with the faucet’s design vision. The rocker-style handle completes the ultra-modern aesthetic of the piece, making it not just functional but visually captivating.

Colors: A Vibrant Legacy

The choice of industrial Haptic Orange hue pays homage to Kohler’s legacy of color leadership, with a nod to the iconic 1967 debut of “Tiger Lily” in their bathroom line. This color, blended with Ross’s signature style, adds a bold and captivating element to the Formation 01 faucet, making it a statement piece in any bathroom.

An Object of Interpretation

Formation 01’s high visibility and arresting form make it a centerpiece in any space. Abstract in its nature, the faucet encourages interpretation, allowing users to infuse their own meaning and style into their daily interactions with it.

Dr. Samuel Ross elaborates on the deeper philosophy behind this collaboration, saying, “We engage with faucets daily, developing a perspective on this act is a generational contribution to a form and function study, related to developing new expectations for water solutions for future generations.”

A Glimpse of the Future

The Formation 01 faucet will make its debut at Kohler’s booth at Design Miami/ (Dec. 6-10, 2023) and will be available for purchase in December. Leading up to its launch, visitors to the Kohler x SR_A website can experience the faucet through an augmented reality filter, allowing them to visualize how this extraordinary piece will fit into their own spaces.

This collaboration is just the beginning. Kohler and SR_A have exciting plans for their multi-year partnership, with more unveilings and brand experiences set to ignite inspiration throughout 2023 and 2024.