Dezeen promotion: German bathroom and kitchen manufacturer Grohe has used 3D printing to reimagine two of its popular tap styles.
The Atrio Icon 3D and Allure Brilliant Icon 3D taps have been crafted using 3D metal-printing, with both models made up of around 4,700 layers of steel that are each 0.06 millimetres thick.
The designs are based on the appearance of Grohe's existing Atrio and Allure Brilliant ranges.
Grohe's Atrio Icon 3D is made from 4,700 layers of 3D metal-printed steel
Grohe is the first leading sanitary company in Europe to employ the use of 3D printing manufacturing techniques and is hoping it will "redefine the possibilities" of creating unique bathroom fittings better suited to customers' varying tastes.
The German manufacturer also thinks that the 3D metal-printing process will result in a more efficient use of materials and thus more refined tap designs.
"This production method offers the option to design faucets in small quantities according to the wishes of our customers. There are no limits set for individual personalisation," explained Michael Seum, vice president of design at Grohe.
The Allure Brilliant Icon 3D is designed to "suspend belief"
The Atrio Icon 3D model features a thin, curved spout with a subtle groove running down the middle, while the Allure Brilliant Icon 3D is more angular in shape and has an entirely hollow centre.
"We wanted to sort of suspend belief, to take elements away from [the product...