Luxuriously simple, Steininger Designers proves that less is more when it comes to timeless kitchen design
Culturally rich but also inspired by its stunning natural surroundings, Austrian design has become synonymous with an understated, natural beauty but also with a touch of luxury.
This landlocked country has absorbed the diverse heritages of its surrounding neighbours, mixing the influences of fervidly fashionable Italy and the complex history of Eastern Europe with German ingenuity to produce its own unique culture, combining traditional craft with cutting-edge design.
This built-in revolving herb bed is made of stainless steel. (c)steininger.designers gmbh
It’s no surprise then that Austria’s design industry is a well-balanced blend of tradition and innovation, where the quality of craftsmanship is paramount and cutting-edge designs are in abundance.
One innovative company that embodies all these qualities is Steininger Designers.
This monolithic design proves to be ideal for island living. ©steininger.designers gmbh
Pure, clean-lined and unashamedly modern, Martin Steininger’s world-class kitchen designs are chiefly influenced by Austria’s breathtakingly beautiful and rugged alpine landscape.
I find that I’m most inspired when I’m surrounded by nature, as it keeps my mind clear,’ explains Steininger, who often has his best ideas when jogging in the countryside, or while traveling. ‘Very often we don’t need to create something complicated; instead we take our lead from nature, where things are already perfect, and apply that to the product.
Steininger’s design inspiration is clearly evident in his kitchen collection, which is chiefly made out of both natural and composite stone.
A kitchen archipelago from the ROCK collection, designed by Martin Steininger and Alberto Minotti. ©steininger.designers gmbh
One of his key pieces is the artful ROCK design, which highlights the beauty of Maya Black natural stone.
The secret to this timeless kitchen design is the minimalist principles mixed with the raw, primitive nature of the rock.
The units can be cleverly configured to create one bold monolithic island solution, or used as standalone blocks.
More of an art installation than a conventional kitchen, this pared-back design would suit an ultra-contemporary open-plan space, as ROCK is a flexible kitchen that can be adapted and evolved over time.
Design has always been in Steininger’s blood – even as a child he was interested in kitchen design at an early age. While Steininger felt compelled to take over the family business started by his grandfather, he wanted to take it in a different direction.
Skilled craftsmanship and working with traditional materials wasn’t enough, so he started experimenting with new production techniques to create refined, modern pieces that still reflect the skilled artistry that his grandfather introduced him to.
Influenced by the likes of Italian industrial designer Achille Castiglioni and the master of minimalism Donald Judd, Steininger has added his own style to the mix that is simple, minimalistic and monochrome – a look that is now prevalent in contemporary Austrian design.
