Infinite design: Norbert Wangen’s newest kitchen model, ’Forever’

last updated 12 October 2022

Norbert Wangen’s newest kitchen model – ’Forever’ – exemplifies his compact, versatile and magnificently minimalist style

(Image credit: TBC)

Compact, versatile and magnificently minimalist, Norbert Wangen's freestanding kitchens have led the field for two decades. His newest launch, which is part of his own line, takes these qualities to new heights.

Christened 'Forever', the kitchen has a defiantly simple appearance. When not in use, it resembles a cuboid block, without a fixture in sight. Only when the kitchen top – a sleek, polished slab – is slid out do we see a sink and cooking range, both of which have been reduced to the simplest geometric forms. The sides come in a choice of two materials: jet black Corian or a square-patterned, reflective steel.

Elegantly proportioned and skillfully finished, 'Forever' is a perfect addition to any modernist home. And because of the amount of handiwork that goes into production, the model will only available in limited quantities – no doubt adding to its allure.

The kitchen is on display at the showroom of interior designer Roland Woborsky, a friend of Wangen's. For the occasion, this slick, lofty space near Vienna's Belvedere palace has been fitted with a new wall installation, entitled 'Scala'. Inspired by Periaktos – a technique developed by ancient Greeks to change theatre scenes – the Swiss stage designer Ingrid Erb created a system of revolving prisms, with different materials on each of their three surfaces. One is upholstered in bright fabric, another painted with climactic swirls of grey and blue in a nod to Caspar David Friedrich's Monk by the Sea, and the final one veneered in ebony.

The panels undulate to offer contrasting visual and tactile experiences, adding just the right amount of drama to Woborsky's space. Against this constantly changing backdrop, the 'Forever' kitchen stands serene and timeless, as befits its name.

Norbert Wangen's kitchen — When the kitchen is not in use, it resembles a cuboid block, without a single fixture in sight

Norbert Wangen's kitchen side views — The unit sides are available in a choice of two materials: jet black Corian or a square-patterned, reflective steel

Kitchen unit slab slide out — Only when the kitchen top – a sleek, polished slab – is slid out do we see a sink and cooking range, both of which have been reduced to the simplest geometric forms

Norbert Wangen kitchen unit — The kitchen is on display at the Vienna showroom of interior designer Roland Woborsky, a friend of Wangen’s

kitchen unit close up — ’Forever’ is labour intensive to produce, so will be made as a limited edition

INFORMATION

For more information, visit the Norbert Wangen website

ADDRESS

Roland Woborsky
Favoritenstraße 26
1040 Vienna

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TF Chan is a former editor of Wallpaper* (2020-23), where he was responsible for the monthly print magazine, planning, commissioning, editing and writing long-lead content across all pillars. He also played a leading role in multi-channel editorial franchises, such as Wallpaper’s annual Design Awards, Guest Editor takeovers and Next Generation series. He aims to create world-class, visually-driven content while championing diversity, international representation and social impact. TF joined Wallpaper* as an intern in January 2013, and served as its commissioning editor from 2017-20, winning a 30 under 30 New Talent Award from the Professional Publishers’ Association. Born and raised in Hong Kong, he holds an undergraduate degree in history from Princeton University.