WHEN TIME BECOMES MATERIAL at Basel Social Club

During the Milan Design Week 2026, LAUFEN presented When Time Becomes Material, an installation conceived as an experiential space shaped by a simple idea: to understand time not as something abstract, but as something we can sense - something that takes form through the objects and routines of everyday life. Set within a cylindrical wooden structure, the installation unfolded as a calm and contained environment where visitors were invited to reflect with questions like Can design make time visible? and Will happiness find me?  

At the centre stands a sculptural seating object by Simon Stanislawski, a former student of Grcic at the HfbK Hamburg. Made from recycled mattress foam and saturated in a deep Yves Klein blue, it appears almost unfamiliar—like something not entirely of this world. Its presence introduces a subtle tension, suggesting a connection between past, present, and future. 

Within this atmosphere the second second collaboration between LAUFEN and Konstantin Grcic is introduced as a a new chapter in the exploration of Saphirkeramik - LAUFEN's signature ultra-thin and very resistant ceramic material. PAR, a new bathroom collection by designer Konstantin Grcic, is designed for people in later life, experienced users who value simplicity and comfort. In this context, the bathroom becomes a quiet companion: adapting over time, with solutions already in place when they are needed. Not intrusive, but present. Not demanding attention, but gently supportive.   

The collection brings together ceramics, accessories, furniture and FIL, a new line of faucets. Each element follows a clear and consistent language: simple forms, precise lines, and a sense of restraint. The name PAR – meaning equal, balanced – expresses this approach, conveying empathy, respect and a quiet sense of dignity. 

The ceramics of PAR are produced in the world’s first electric tunnel kiln for sanitary ceramics production in Gmunden. Operating since November 2023, after four years of development, the new electric kiln not only marks a major milestone in sustainability, but it also opens a new era of design possibilities. It is the result of the collaboration with the German Keramischer Ofenbau, a world technological leader in the production of kilns for ceramics. LAUFEN has achieved Cradle to Cradle Certified® Circularity at the Bronze level for its ceramic products manufactured in Gmunden, Austria.  

 

When Time Becomes Material, an exhibition curated by Konstantin Grcic 

Basel Social Club 

June 14 – 20, 2026 

Viaduktstrasse 31–35 
Basel, Switzerland