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The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse: A Serene Retreat in Milan

As the world of design continues to evolve, Kohler has taken a bold step towards integrating nature with luxury at the highly anticipated Milan Design Week 2026. In collaboration with Richard Christiansen, the founder of Flamingo Estate, Kohler is proud to introduce the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse—a multi-sensory installation that invites visitors to immerse themselves in a harmonious blend of architecture, landscape, and tranquility.

A Vision Rooted in Nature

The exhibition will be showcased in the Courtyard of the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea during Fuorisalone. The centerpiece is a striking brutalist bathhouse that draws inspiration from the renowned bathhouse nestled in the California hills of Flamingo Estate. This installation presents a new interpretation of a Kohler freestanding enamel-coated cast iron bathtub, featuring a true metal cover that radiates elegance—showcasing a copper finish that enhances the aesthetics of the experience.

The bathhouse integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, rising from a field of wildflowers, symbolizing a design philosophy that embraces reciprocity with nature. The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse redefines bathing as a ritualistic retreat, where individuals can slow down, calm their minds, and heighten their awareness of light, water, and materials.

Architectural Innovation

At the heart of this tranquil space is the new Kohler Reverie bathtub, crafted from enamel-coated cast iron, showcasing architectural precision and elemental richness. Enhanced by various surface textures that evoke the essence of the environment, this tub becomes the radiant focal point of the area, capturing sunlight filtered through oversized stained glass windows. The walls of the bathhouse are adorned with 200 meticulously crafted Flamingo Estate candles, amplifying the ambient light and fostering an atmosphere conducive to peaceful reflection.

This copper-clad masterpiece embodies Kohler's 153 years of craftsmanship while boldly signaling a new chapter in material innovation. Traditional techniques of molding, welding, and hand-finishing meld with modern artistry, paving the way for the future of bath design.

The Pollinator Baths

Adding to the immersive experience are four unique pollinator baths, conceptualized by Christensen and designed by Kohler. These one-of-a-kind vessels—crafted in Kohler's historic foundry in Wisconsin—extend the narrative of the installation, highlighting the interplay between human craftsmanship and the natural world. They serve as sanctuaries for birds, bees, and other vital pollinators, reinforcing the shared belief between Kohler and Flamingo Estate that sustainable living thrives when design attunes itself to the rhythms and needs of nature.

A Partnership in Craftsmanship

The collaboration reflects a profound passion for craftsmanship, culture, and a lifestyle that values sustainability through simplicity and enduring well-being in communion with nature. The Flamingo Estate Bathhouse invites design enthusiasts and wellness seekers to experience the beauty and serenity of a space that pays homage to the environment.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the installation from April 21 to April 26, with hours varying throughout the week. The event at the Padiglione d'Arte Contemporanea in Milan promises to be an enlightening experience, emphasizing how innovative design can create a meaningful dialogue with Mother Nature.

In summation, the Flamingo Estate Bathhouse by Kohler represents a bold commitment to luxury that respects our natural world. As the design industry continues to push boundaries, Kohler's installation serves as a beacon of what can be achieved when creativity meets ecological awareness.