Where Beauty Meets Sustainability
A cosmetics manufacturer makes its mark with a striking entrance at its new headquarters
For the Babor Beauty Group's new production and logistics facility in Eschweiler, the Meerbusch-based firm engels architektur developed an interior design concept for the central reception building and adjoining office structure. The Aachen-based family business has long championed sustainable practices and uncompromising quality—values fully reflected in this project. Here, natural elements, contemporary design, and exceptional material quality converge to create a cohesive whole.
The ground floor's showstopper is a water basin crowned by a suspended constellation of delicate, luminous ampoules—both the visual heart and gathering space of the building. This composition carries symbolic weight: water lies at the heart of cosmetics, while the glowing vessels evoke rain dancing across a surface. The foyer strikes a careful balance between clarity and drama. An open welcome zone greets visitors at the entrance, establishing immediate orientation. Premium materials like wooden slats are deployed with restraint and precision, channeling focus toward the central installation. In the highlight zone, opposites create dialogue: the fragile ampoule constellation speaks to the delicacy of the products, while a bold, sweeping wall rises protectively around it. Circular forms echo throughout—a deliberate thread running from architecture through to interior design. The luminaire installation and water basin were refined and realized in collaboration with FSP Architects.
Sustainability shaped every material choice. The continuous cast floor combines quartz, marble particles, and plant-based oil—fully recyclable and certified Cradle to Cradle and EPD. The reception counter is fashioned from rice husk panels, a resource-conscious wood alternative that transforms a rice industry by-product into purpose. Lighting systems punctuate the upper-floor restaurant. In the conference room, sustainability takes on another dimension through intelligent reuse: luminaires from a previous Düsseldorf project were given new life here. Restored and reimagined, they stand as testament to thoughtful resource stewardship and the quiet beauty of extending a product's journey.
Photos:
FSP Group
www.fsp-gruppe.de
(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 04|25)
A Cinematic Vision
Where an Aging Dwelling Becomes Design Statement
Distinctly Renewed
A home in northern Cologne rediscovers itself through thoughtful renovation
Before the Next Flood
A historic residence in Mechernich—restored with heritage sensitivity and future-proofed against climate risk
One Space, Four Lives
Historic charm meets contemporary design: a protected villa thoughtfully complemented by custom new homes.