Kohler Unveils Flamingo Estate Bathhouse as a Wellness Oasis at Milan Design Week 2026

Kohler's Oasis of Wellness at Milan Design Week 2026

Kohler, a titan in the design and innovation sector, has strategically joined forces with Richard Christiansen, the visionary founder of Flamingo Estate, to launch an exceptional installation during the renowned Milan Design Week 2026. This initiative unveils the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse, which promises an enchanting experience that merges the elements of architecture, nature, and tranquility into an immersive retreat for all who visit.

Positioned in the vibrant courtyard of the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea during Fuorisalone, this stunning installation draws inspiration from the iconic bathhouse nestled atop the hills of California’s Flamingo Estate. Designed with bold, brutalist aesthetics, it features a striking new iteration of Kohler's famed freestanding cast-iron bathtub adorned with a beautiful copper enclosure. The entire setup is a testament to craftsmanship and innovation, seamlessly integrating into its natural surroundings rather than imposing upon them.

As visitors approach the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse, they are greeted by an atmosphere that is both calming and invigorating. Shades of aged metals and raw surfaces are thoughtfully employed in its design, evoking the sense that the installation has grown organically from the landscape, enhancing the experience of contemplation and rejuvenation.

At the heart of this installation lies the Kohler Reverie bathtub, crafted from enameled cast iron and encased in genuine copper. This centerpiece not only exemplifies architectural precision but also redefines the language of design by combining traditional materials with modern artistic approaches. The warm surfaces of the bathtub reflect the sunlight that filters through expansive stained glass windows, creating a radiant ambiance that engages the senses.

To deepen the aura of serenity, 200 candles from Flamingo Estate adorn the walls of the bathhouse, casting a gentle glow and enriching the peaceful atmosphere. This interplay of light and design symbolizes Kohler's 153-year legacy of craftsmanship while marking a bold new chapter in innovative material use. By handcrafting techniques such as forming, welding, and finishing, Kohler aims to shape the future of bath design, showcasing the seamless bond between historical techniques and contemporary aesthetics.

Adding to the immersive experience, the wild garden surrounding the bathhouse features four unique pollinator baths— each a creative concept by Christiansen and designed by Kohler. These singular structures, cast in Kohler's historic foundry in Wisconsin, serve as sanctuaries for birds, bees, and other pollinators, demonstrating the continued narrative of mutualism between human craftsmanship and the natural world. The commitment to sustainable materials and actions that support biodiversity reflects both Kohler’s and Flamingo Estate’s belief that wellness and responsible living emerge when design honors the rhythms and rich intelligence of nature.

This collaborative and engaging space exemplifies a passion for craftsmanship, culture, and a lifestyle that embraces sustainability while grounded in the comforts and pleasures of nature. The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler will be showcased in Milan at the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea, located at Via Palestro 14, 20121 Milan, Italy. The installation will be open to the public from Tuesday, April 21, to Sunday, April 26, with designated hours each day: Tuesday from 12 PM to 7 PM; Wednesday from 12 PM to 4 PM and 8 PM to 10 PM; Thursday through Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM; and Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM.

For high-resolution images and additional information, please refer to the press kit provided.

About Kohler Co.

Founded in 1873 and based in Kohler, Wisconsin, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in designing products that promote graceful, healthy, and sustainable living. The company specializes in manufacturing high-end kitchen and bath products, luxury cabinetry, tiles, and lighting—all while being invested in wellness solutions and luxurious hotel experiences. Kohler is also dedicated to advancing sustainable living through its platform, "Innovation for Good," which aims to address critical issues such as access to clean water and safe sanitation, driving transformative products and services for communities in need.

About Flamingo Estate

Established in the 1940s on the heights of Los Angeles, Flamingo Estate has evolved from a hedonistic enclave into a tranquil celebration of nature’s pleasures. Hosted by Richard Christiansen, the estate continues its traditions by nurturing the wildest and most precious gifts of Mother Nature, celebrating the essence of earthly wellness. With a focus on sourcing rare ingredients from over 125 farms and collaborators, Flamingo Estate champions a return to raw, natural materials while maintaining an appreciation for traceability and ethical sourcing. This dedication to nurturing daily rituals is driven by the philosophy that Mother Nature is the ultimate luxury.