WOLF retro DESIGN REVIEW. 9th April 2024
Still as timeless and mesmerizing as it was almost 20 years ago.
A retro review looks at products that are at least over ten years old from a present-day WOLF design perspective. While the technology and fashion of the period influence design, and are taken into consideration, great design ideas will transcend their eras to be timeless.
Interesting and factual information may be provided, but our review aims to deliver insight from the perspective of a designer’s mind and eyes.
The Scoop Bathtub in this review was installed in a 2012 WOLF Architects designed home.
Introduction
Product description
The Scoop bathtub was designed by Michael Schmidt, produced by Falper and launched in 2005. It was one of the most expensive bathtubs on the market at the time.
Price and Availability.
At the time of launch the Scoop was only available in white and retailed in Australia for around the $10,000 mark. They are still available today but with inflation they are presently around $15,000.
Additional information
In 2007 the Scoop won the RED DOT Design award.
Review
First impressions
The Scoop is a sculptural statement that is contemporary without being too radical. While common today, its composite material with mat finish was different and innovative when new. Even after 20 years it remains as cool and unique as it did at the time of launch.
The placement of this Scoop bathtub allows it to be admired as sculpture, which adds to the character of the space.
Product Design & Craftsmanship.
The Scoop is made of a composite material that Falper called Cristalplant. The overall shape is a rectangular oval formed by a one-inch thick Cristalplant shell. The material has the same consistency throughout and durable such that it has no further protective coating. This is important to note as there are many composite materials that are coated and reveal a different colour beneath if chipped, scuffed or even just polished or buffed.
The bathtub is formed as a single element with a ledge that scoops upwards into a ledge against the wall. We believe this was the inspiration for the name. It’s a novel feature that forms a useful ledge for placing things on.
This Scoop Bathtub specified by WOLF Architects was complimented with a floor standing spout and the mixer controls were cleverly hidden out of sight but within arm’s reach.
Function – Experience
With generous dimension (169x94x55cm) The Scoop is deep and able to accommodate two people.
Its thick edges are nice to hold and helpful for entering and exiting. According to some sources the Cristalplant holds water temperature better than most bathtubs and especially the more traditional steel tubs. The overflow consists of a simple slit towards the wall and drains within the shell so there are no visible pipes on the outside.
The drain/plug is relatively standard chrome protrusion, and we would have preferred it to be in a similar white to the shell and designed to sit flush with the bottom surface.
A push and pop up drain plug that is easy to accidental lay on and activate.
The caulking at the junction between bathtub and wall needs to be done by an experienced hand.
Desirability / Value for money
The fact that this bathtub is still available and being specified at the time of this review is testimony to its timeless design and enduring qualities. Having said that it is a Significant investment and considering most people don’t have baths daily, that equates to a relatively expensive bathing experience. Fortunately, the Scoop is also a work of art that can be appreciated and admired even when not in use.
The placement of a nearby towel rack (customized in width to the window), was well considered.
Interesting to note the alternative mounting of taps and spout on the scoop ledge
Later incarnations included two-tone designs with grey and black outer skins
The Scoop design extended to vanity basins.
WORD OF THE WOLF
In our opinion the Scoop remains contemporary, timeless, elegant and believe that it will continue to glow for many more years and to ultimately be a classic. The price is high considering the range of alternatives available today, so it’s considered more of a designer brand/name, though many will not appreciate that. If you have the spare cash to spend and love the look, there isn’t much else that exudes simplicity and artistry in a bathtub.
An award-winning bathtub in an award-winning House by WOLF Architects
WOLF DESIGN EXCELLENCE SCORE = 7.7
Disclaimer
The information in this review is intended for informational or educational purposes to provide readers an understanding of how something may be seen from a certain design perspective. In this case it is from the view point of WOLF DESIGNS. As design is subjective this review should only be considered as an independent opinion. Information further to being of an opinion is provided to the best of our knowledge based on our own research at the time of doing the review. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies or inconsistencies and reserve the right to change or update any content as appropriate.
The final responsibility of the design resides with the original manufacturer.