German Design Award: Balcoon wows expert jury

Precise, geometric ceramic shapes, clear lines, and a warm, natural world of color are what characterize Balcoon, the bathroom range designed by Patricia Urquiola for Duravit. The collection combines a restrained, easy-to-interpret design language with a new openness for color in the bathroom – and impressed the jury of the German Design Award 2025 in the process.
For Urquiola, everything centered around a consciously simple and direct approach: “The brief was for a design that clearly sets itself apart in the medium price segment – with a pure, direct formal language and an inherent dignity,” she said, describing her approach. Two elementary geometries formed the starting point – a cubic body and a cylindrical washbasin that run through the entire range. The clean shapes are enhanced by the new ceramic color Clay Terra Matt, whose earthy terracotta shade lends the objects depth and artisanal charm.

Jury’s decision

The jury emphasized the harmonious combination of natural colors and clear geometry that makes Balcoon a stand-out solution for modern bathroom architecture. In particular, the tonality of Clay Terra Matt was considered to lend the ceramics and furniture a warm, authentic presence. The range was deemed to satisfy exacting requirements in terms of aesthetics and function and to impress with its subtle elegance and variability.

Continuation of the partnership

Duravit and Patricia Urquiola are set to continue their joint design journey and are already working on a new project for the Fuori Salone 2026, which is due to kick off in Milan on April 21, 2026.