Interior Design Fair
Budapest Sportarena
2024. S/EPTEMBER 20-21-22.
Hardly any other premium brand with a worldwide reputation can look back on 275 years of comparable history and lasting success.
In the world of exquisite craftsmanship and refined aesthetics, few brands can boast a heritage as rich and illustrious as Villeroy & Boch. As the iconic brand reaches its remarkable 275th birthday, it is an occasion to celebrate the enduring legacy of this renowned German manufacturer of luxury ceramics and tableware. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global symbol of elegance, Villeroy & Boch has captivated generations with its exceptional designs and unwavering commitment to quality. Let us embark on a journey through time to explore the remarkable story of Villeroy & Boch and its enduring influence on the world of design!
275 years of Villeroy & Boch, that is both a legacy and a mission for the future. Frank Göring, CEO
The story of Villeroy & Boch began in the small town of Audun-le-Tiche, France, in 1748. François Boch, a royal cannonball maker, established the foundations of the company by opening a pottery workshop with his children, creating clay pots, ceramic tableware, tiles and brighter earthenware that resemble expensive porcelain. In 1767, the Boch family opened a manufactory in Septfontaines, Luxemburg, kicking off the early industrial mass production of their wares. The iconic Brindille motif was born here a few years later in 1770, and that small blue floral tendril remained with us ever since.
The Boch family’s dedication to innovation and artistic excellence quickly set them apart, catching the attention of Nicolas Villeroy, a businessman from nearby Luxembourg. Recognizing the potential for collaboration, a partnership between Nicolas and Jean-François Boch was formed, giving birth to the brand we know today.
In the early years, Villeroy & Boch gained recognition for its groundbreaking techniques, pushing the boundaries of ceramic production. The introduction of innovative materials and manufacturing processes allowed the company to create exquisite and durable products that were highly sought after. Notably, Villeroy & Boch’s mastery of fine porcelain brought a new level of sophistication to the table, captivating the aristocracy and royalty across Europe.
One of the key factors behind Villeroy & Boch’s longevity is its ability to create designs that transcend trends and time periods. From its early ornate and baroque-inspired pieces to the sleek and minimalist designs of today, the brand has continually adapted to evolving tastes while maintaining its core values of elegance and craftsmanship. Villeroy & Boch’s collaborations with renowned artists and designers have yielded iconic collections, merging art with functionality and setting new standards for aesthetic excellence.
In the middle of the 19th century, Eugen Boch had the idea of creating an industrially manufactured floor covering, based on Roman floor mosaics, which was to be both attractive and offer good value for money. What began as five-by-five centimeters rhombi were gradually developed into tiles of varying sizes and outstanding quality. These became the “Mettlach tiles,” which could then be produced on an industrial scale in the large Mettlach factory. The Mettlach tiles were installed in the most prestigious interiors, like the royal train cabin of Russian Tsar Nicholas II, and even on the floor of the Titanic. Some of the original tiles can even be found today in historic locations. For example, on the floor of the Cologne Cathedral and on the walls of the Holland Tunnel, the link between Manhattan island and New Jersey.
Beyond its tableware and ceramic creations, Villeroy & Boch has left an indelible mark on the world of architecture and interior design. From grand palaces to luxurious hotels and fine dining establishments, the brand’s tiles and bathroom fittings have adorned prestigious spaces worldwide. Its commitment to quality and timeless design has made Villeroy & Boch a trusted partner for architects and designers seeking to create spaces of unparalleled beauty and sophistication.
Famous personalities, including artists such as Helmut Newton and Keith Haring and design legends such as Luigi Colani romp through the company’s history. To mark its anniversary, Villeroy & Boch provides exciting, humorous and sometimes surprising insights behind the scenes of the company and its history in "275 Stories".
Villeroy & Boch manufactured washbasins, even for emperors and kings. As bathrooms became affordable to more and more households, the brand harnessed their technological advances in mass production to create large quantities of bathroom ceramics and appliances in greater variety. In 1975 Villeroy & Boch started to collaborate with Luigi Colani to transform the bathroom from a functional space to a sanctuary of well-being.
Luigi Colani, known for his futuristic and organic design philosophy, brought his visionary approach to the table, infusing Villeroy & Boch’s products with a distinct blend of art and functionality. This collaboration marked a turning point for the brand, introducing a bold new aesthetic that resonated with design enthusiasts around the world. Colani’s design language, characterized by fluid curves, ergonomic shapes, and organic inspirations, seamlessly merged with Villeroy & Boch’s commitment to timeless grace. The result was a collection that not only challenged conventional design norms, but also embodied a harmonious balance between form and function.
La Boule, introduced in 1971, revolutionized the concept of a table centerpiece. Its distinctive spherical shape, crafted from high-quality porcelain, instantly captivates the eye and adds a touch of elegance to any space. The minimalist design, free from excessive ornamentation, allows the purity of the form to take center stage. Designed by Helen von Boch, this exceptional piece showcases the harmonious fusion of art and functionality: the levels of the globe are in fact the pieces of dinnerware, plates and bowls.
The limited edition anniversary products combine the celebrated roots with a contemporary look. For example, in this special range you can find La Boule Paradiso and Birthday cake Paradiso, birthday mugs and limited centerpieces, available only in the anniversary year 2023.
The Homage to Hommage is a fresh, monochrome interpretation of the Hommage bathroom in the new ceramic color of Pure Black. The Château Septfontaines porcelain tableware collection features the castle of Septfontaines in Luxembourg, where Villeroy & Boch’s 275-year history began. The Brindille Kitchen Sink features the ever-so-familiar blue branches on a geometrical body.
True treasures, indeed.
As Villeroy & Boch embarks on its 275th year, the brand continues to lead the way in sustainable practices and technological advancements. With a deep respect for nature and a commitment to reducing its environmental impact, the company integrates eco-friendly practices into every stage of production. From utilizing renewable energy sources to implementing water and waste management systems, Villeroy & Boch sets an example for the industry and future generations.
As we celebrate Villeroy & Boch’s incredible milestone, we can only imagine the remarkable designs and innovations that lie ahead. With a steadfast dedication to excellence and a heritage deeply rooted in tradition, the brand’s future promises to be as inspiring as its past. Villeroy & Boch’s timeless elegance will undoubtedly continue to grace the tables and spaces of discerning individuals around the world, enchanting them for centuries to come.
Villeroy & Boch’s 275th birthday is a momentous occasion, marking a legacy of unparalleled artistry and design. From its humble beginnings to becoming an internationally acclaimed brand, Villeroy & Boch has consistently embodied elegance, quality, and innovation. With a history spanning nearly three centuries, the company has left an indelible mark on the world of ceramics, tableware, and design. As we toast to Villeroy & Boch’s achievements, we celebrate not only a brand but a testament to the enduring power of creativity and craftsmanship. Here’s to 275 years of timeless beauty and the anticipation of a future filled with continued brilliance. We say farewell with the words of Constantin von Boch:
It was an indescribable experience for me, as a member of the 9th generation of the Boch Family, that we could celebrate the 275th anniversary of Villeroy & Boch at a location where our brand has been present for more than 100 years.
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