#Italy #Milan #Kohler #Flamingo Estate #Milan Design Week

The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler

During the illustrious Milan Design Week 2026, Kohler Co. partnered with Richard Christiansen, the visionary behind Flamingo Estate, to unveil an extraordinary installation entitled "The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler." This immersive experiential display invites visitors to step into a world where the elements of architecture, landscape, and tranquility blend into a cohesive sensory experience.

Set against the backdrop of the contemporary art pavilion in Milan, this installation not only pushes the boundaries of design but also promotes a reflective and rejuvenating space. By merging bold, brutalist architecture with the natural beauty of wildflowers, the installation creates a unique interaction between the built environment and the ecological system. This bathhouse draws inspiration from the actual bath found at the Flamingo Estate in California, unfolding a narrative that intertwines human artistry with nature’s offerings.

The structure, measuring approximately 247 square feet, features aged metals and raw materials, crowned with plaster textures reminiscent of mineral surfaces. Iconic stained glass windows designed by Milanese artist Samuele Dossena allow light to pour in, casting intricate patterns on the earthy terracotta surfaces within. Candles from Flamingo Estate, placed along the walls, further enhance the serene and restorative atmosphere.

Richard Christiansen articulates, "The bathhouse embodies the contemplation of ritual, nature, and the quiet power of materials. We envisioned a space where wildflowers, water, and light create a sensory experience that reconnects us with the rhythm of the earth.” This collaboration with Kohler has brought his vision to life through masterful craftsmanship, creating an environment that inspires people to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world.

Upon entering the bathhouse, visitors are greeted by the centerpiece of the installation: the new Reverie, a stunning freestanding enameled cast iron bathtub, accentuated with a true metal copper shroud. This design feature not only enhances the visual appeal but also signifies Kohler's commitment to sustainable craftsmanship, as it is made from a minimum of 80% recycled material. The use of copper in tub design marks an innovative milestone for Kohler, marrying tradition and contemporary aesthetics.

David Kohler, the president and CEO of Kohler Co., emphasized the importance of design in their operations, stating, "Design has always been at the core of what we do at Kohler. It serves as a bridge between tradition and innovation, ensuring continuous growth through a deep understanding of materials and craftsmanship. Collaborating with Richard Christiansen and Flamingo Estate for Milan Design Week allows us to inspire people through art and design."

The garden surrounding the bathhouse features four unique sculptural pollinator baths, a concept envisioned by Christiansen and crafted by Kohler in their historic foundry in Wisconsin. These installations serve as shelters for birds, bees, and other pollinators, exemplifying the symbiosis between human craftsmanship and nature. Michael Seum, VP of Design at Kohler Co., noted, “Through the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse, we sought to explore the relationships between architecture and ecology, and how design can create nurturing moments not just for people, but for our surrounding environment.”

In essence, the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler elevates bathing into a regenerative experience, transforming it into a ritualistic space that slows the body, calms the mind, and sharpens the awareness of light, water, and materials. By integrating architecture, craftsmanship, and ecology, this installation reflects the shared vision of Kohler and Flamingo Estate—an understanding that true wellness originates from stronger connections to nature.

Additionally, special candles created by Flamingo Estate for this installation, including the Pollinator Candle and accompanying Pollinator Bath Soap Brick, invite visitors to immerse themselves in the experience further. Inspired by a stroll through blooming Milan, these products capture the essence of the city’s floral abundance, much like the wild linden blossoms gracing the streets in early summer.

The installation is open to the public from April 21 to April 26 at the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea in Milan, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience this interplay of art and nature within contemporary design. Don't miss out on this enchanting encounter with innovative architectural creativity, where every detail invites contemplation and connection.

For more details and insights from the installation, observe the press release and imagery provided by Kohler.