Laufen—Swiss manufacturer of ceramic-based bathroom products (or “sanitary ware,” as they have it) for more than a century, boasts some rather auspicious origins: “Keramik Holding AG Laufen was established on July 4th, 1892 in the canton of Basel, Switzerland because there was a hydroelectric power plant, natural clay deposits, as well as a railway junction.” The mention of Basel might resonate with our readers—companion exhibit host of December’s Design Miami/, the Basel fair is known for its alluring showcase of limited edition design synthesizing artistic sensibility and the functionally savvy.

Mimo Collection. Manufactured by Laufen.

In some measure, then, that explains the overwhelming appeal of Laufen’s Mimo bathroom collection, a winning assemblage of washbasins, toilets, showerbaths, and bidets. One look at this line suggests that innovation is in Basel’s very bones. Exploration of Mimo begins with its look: modeled on a motif of slightly asymmetrical rings, the collection features cabinetry with bold graphics, made to match the curvy contours of the basins, shelves, mirrors, and tubs. The result is a distinctive aesthetic suggesting both Miami in the age of Art Deco and L.A. at the dawn of 70s funkadelia. The color palette furthers both interpretations: while the inner surfaces remain a gleaming white, the outer surfaces are customizable in dashing pink and stark black. Thus, you may dress up your drain plug or basin base or toilet top just enough to say you’re not afraid of a little color.

But the aesthetic of Mimo is really just the beginning. Similar to other bathroom collections like Mondart and Versatile, Mimo has a modular aspect. All pieces come in multiple sizes, so whether you prefer the washbasin with pedestal, the floor-standing WC combo, or the wall-hung bidet, Mimo offers the right dimensions for your particular space (have a look at Mimo’s specs for further info.). And lest I forget, Mimo knows that there’s “no bathroom without water.” Hence, they task Swiss compatriots Similorgroup with providing single-cast shower faucets and basin mixers with joystick controls and water-saving Ecototal Cartridges. This functional final touch makes Mimo the complete package indeed, and Laufen says this well: “simply bubbling over with inspiration, a Mimo bathroom is vital and vibrant–-oozing intelligence, integrity, and wit. How much Mimo would you like?