An Interview with COCOON Designer

Tim Derhaag, COCOON Designer Shares His Vision on Maison Collection

COCOON designer Tim Derhaag shares his insights into the design philosophy and concept behind the Maison tapware collection, explaining his focus on simplicity and essentiality for a line that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Can you tell us about your design philosophy and the concept behind the Maison tapware collection that you created for COCOON?

T.D.– I believe in creating designs that are minimal yet magical, where the focus is on the basics and universal appeal. With the Maison collection, I wanted to design something that was simple and essential, while still being recognizable and functional.

How did you come up with the concept for the Maison collection?

T.D.– The concept for the Maison collection came from my exploration of the essential elements of a tap. I wanted to create something that was universal, so I focused on the circle as the main shape. When something is placed on the circle, it becomes a lever, and when a line is added to the circle, it becomes a valve. This concept formed the basis for the design of the Maison collection.

What was the inspiration behind the design?

T.D.– I drew inspiration from a 1970’s family-owned stereo amplifier that I still keep in the back of my studio. Thus, the radial-brushed circular tap mixers in stainless steel evoke the stereo’s knobs.

How did you approach the design of the spout for the Maison collection?

T.D.– When designing the spout, I wanted to maintain the minimal and essential aesthetic of the collection. I explored both straight and round options. The radial brush finish was chosen to add visual interest and to align with the overall design philosophy of the collection, while reminiscing on vintage stereo knobs.

What is the significance of the name ‘Maison’ for the collection?

T.D.– The name Maison was chosen because it represents the house collection for COCOON. It signifies that the Maison collection is the foundation upon which other designs can be built. It is meant to be essential, sturdy, and well-designed, providing a tool for architects and homeowners to create their own unique spaces.

How does the Maison collection fit into your overall design philosophy?

T.D.–The Maison collection aligns perfectly with my design philosophy of creating designs that are simple, essential, and universal. It is a tool that supports the rest of the collection and allows individuals to project their own style and personality onto their spaces. It is about providing a well-designed foundation that enhances the lives of those who use it.

About COCOON Designer, Tim Derhaag:

Tim Derhaag is a Dutch designer born in 1974. He graduated from Art EZ Arnhem in 1997 and went on to complete his studies at the Royal College of Art in 1999.

That same year, he started his career by designing a cocktail bar in London, collaborating with Jasper Morrison. In 2001,he established the Tim Derhaag Design Studio, which is currently located in Maastrich.

Tim started a notable collaboration with the Italian lighting company Flos in 2004. His 45 outdoor lighting collection was presented in Milan and received a nomination for the Compasso d’Oro award in 2008. In 2009, Tim showcased the Fool Moon lamp during Euroluce in Milan. Nowadays, he continues to collaborate with Flos in the Netherlands.

In his facet as an interior designer, he has worked on hospitality projects in Maastricht and The Hague, fashion retail concepts, and private residences. His work has been recognized by the Best New Hotel Concept award in 2009 and the Dutch Hotel Award in 2011. Among his current projects, he collaborates as the lead product designer for Ofyr, a Dutch outdoor cooking brand.

Maison is conceived as COCOON’s house collection and a tool to complement the rest of the brand’s product portfolio.  It offers an essential and archetypal take on tapware that aims for universality”

See the new collection, Maison by COCOON – *NOW* on display at our newly expanded COCOON Beverly Hills Showroom.