Raphael’s Refugium — Sculptural Loft Living Meets LAUFEN Bathroom Design

In the Austrian city of Graz, a former office space has been transformed into a minimalist sanctuary known as Raphael’s Refugium. Designed by LOVE architecture and urbanism, the 224 m² loft redefines urban living through an open, sculptural approach where architecture, design and art merge seamlessly.

The project preserves the generous height and volume of the original loft, avoiding rigid partitions. Instead, two sweeping structural curves introduce rhythm and fluidity, while dual curtains – one translucent white, the other deep red – allow the space to adapt from openness to intimacy. A pragmatic service wall conceals technical functions, enabling a clean, uninterrupted spatial experience. 

Large sliding and folding doors extend the living area onto a terrace, and the continuity of the microcement flooring reinforces the visual link between inside and outside. Light, movement and colour define a setting where living becomes performative.

Within this fluid architecture, the bathroom emerges as an integral part of the spatial composition. Rather than a separate room, it becomes a sculptural element – a space for reflection and ritual. LAUFEN’s contribution centres on bespoke bathroom pieces crafted to echo the geometry and elegance of the architecture. 

A freestanding washbasin from the LAUFEN BESPOKE programme anchors the space with quiet authority, while the VAL freestanding bathtub, made from Sentec, offers a refined counterpoint with its soft contours and tactile finish. The composition is completed with minimalist fittings from Kartell • LAUFEN, ensuring harmony across all elements. 

The dialogue between architecture and product design is palpable throughout Raphael’s Refugium. The restrained colour palette, dominated by white, grey and black, enhances the play of shadow and reflection, while the sculptural bathroom objects stand as works of functional art. 

Here, LAUFEN’s design philosophy—merging innovation, craftsmanship and Swiss precision—finds a perfect resonance. The result is a home that transcends categories: part residence, part gallery, entirely refined.