was founded in 1918 as a manufacturer of raw materials for the enamel industry. Soon after they began bath tub production and introduced the first freestanding bath in Germany in 1934, followed by the first "seamless" baths made from a single sheet in 1957. These technologies have combined to create a modern line of bathroom fixtures that are luxurious, long lasting, and recyclable. Kaldewei stresses the longevity of their products which requires timeless design aesthetic as opposed to trend watching. Part of being sustainable is keeping the user from replacing the fixture, which Kaldewei is striving to achieve.

Classic Duo Oval. Designed by Kaldewei.

Kaldewei produces its own special enamel in combination with steel, both of which are recyclable. The enamel layer is fired for permanence at a temperature of more than 800°C. The resulting finish is hygienic, acid and impact-resistant, scratchproof and hard-wearing. Kaldewei states that “water forms beads and rolls off the surface of the bath, taking virtually all dirt and lime particles with it. The result is something to see: a bath that always looks like new, with very little effort.” I’ve seen a lot of rusting, chipped enamel tubs, which definitely feel less than hygienic.