1. Introduction to Norman Foster and Foster and Partners

Norman Foster, born in Manchester in 1935, studied architecture at Manchester University and Yale University. He founded Foster Associates in 1967, now known as Foster and Partners. The firm has earned over 220 awards and won 50 national and international competitions. Notable projects include Hong Kong International Airport, the German Parliament (Reichstag) in Berlin, the Great Court at the British Museum, and the Millennium Bridge in London.

Foster has received prestigious honors such as the RIBA Royal Gold Medal (1983), the French Academy of Architecture Gold Medal (1991), the AIA Gold Medal (1994), and the Pritzker Architecture Prize (1999). In 1999, he was also granted a Life Peerage by the British Crown.

2. Design Philosophy and Approach

Since its inception over thirty years ago, Foster and Partners has prioritized quality, believing that the quality of our surroundings directly impacts the quality of life in workplaces, homes, and public spaces. Their architectural approach emphasizes the social dimension, recognizing that architecture addresses both spiritual and material human needs.

The studio maintains consistent values regardless of project scale, paying meticulous attention to every detail—from furniture to door handles and taps—because these elements shape daily human interaction with the environment. The focus is on design quality, functionality, and manufacturing excellence.

3. Collaboration with Stella and Product Features

For the new Commerzbank Headquarters in Frankfurt, Foster’s studio collaborated with Stella to specify plumbing fixtures that align with Stella’s hallmark qualities:

• Ergonomics: Control handles are designed for easy grip and smooth operation, perfectly following the mixer’s movement for effortless adjustment.
• Safety: Compact forms without sharp protrusions ensure user safety.
• Performance: The design allows smooth water flow, resulting in low noise and efficient delivery.
• Quality: High-grade materials and finishes convey superior craftsmanship, consistent with Stella’s standards.

Finishes available for the Foster series include satin chrome and polished chrome, applied over a thick nickel base layer to ensure durability and a premium final appearance. Stella’s finish quality is recognized as a benchmark in the industry.

4. Technical Details of the Mixing Mechanism

The mixing mechanism used across the Foster series is a proprietary Stella design developed over 20 years. It features:

• Two ceramic seats housed in a non-stick, calcification-resistant block.
• A ceramic disk controlled by a lever pivoting on a ball joint.
• Minimal friction between disk and seats, enabling smooth, continuous movement.
• Single-handle operation that allows opening, closing, and precise adjustment of water flow and temperature with exceptional ease and fluidity.

5. Product Range and Finishes

The Foster series includes various mixer models, each available in satin chrome and polished chrome finishes:

• Foster 3224: Single-hole wash basin mixer.
• Foster 3267: Exposed tub and shower mixer with automatic diverter.
• Foster 3292: Concealed shower mixer.
• Foster 3230: Single-hole sink mixer with high swinging spout.
• Foster 3604: Single-hole bidet mixer with directional aerator.

6. Manufacturer Information

Rubinetterie Stella S.p.A., established in 1882, is the manufacturer of the Foster series. Their factory and head office are located in Novara, Italy, with a showroom in Milan. Contact details include email ([email protected]), telephone, fax, and website (www.rubinetteriestella.it).