We’re absolutely delighted to announce that we’ve just opened our new showroom in the heart of Munich. Our first location in Germany, we’ve been working with #AD100 interior designer Sebastian Zenker on the concept for the stunning space right on Gärtnerplatz. Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate the opening of this new space with us at our cocktail in April – you can find out more about the event here.

Our local team is welcoming private and professional clients from Monday to Saturday and is looking forward to introducing our lights and story to our visitors. We've sat down with Sebastian to talk about his inspirations for our Munich space, what surprised him about Original BTC and how he achieved a look and feel that's equally bold and calm.

Original BTC x Sebastian Zenker

How would you describe the style of Original BTC? 
I see Original BTC products as timeless classics with a modern twist. With their clean lines, they offer reinterpretations of traditional industrial products. And their style combines the best of both worlds: the simplicity and functionality of traditional industrial designs with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. It's this balance between the past and the future that makes Original BTC's style so unique.

What themes have inspired the interior concept of the Original BTC showroom? 
As this is the first Original BTC space in Germany, we wanted to create an interior appealing to German, Swiss and Austrian visitors. We also felt it was important to create a sense of cosiness in the showroom that subtly reflects the Alpine region.

Throughout the design process and collaboration with Original BTC, we constantly drew inspiration from the tradition and artisanry in the local area – similarly to Original BTC in England. The clear lines and timeless elegance of Original BTC products harmonises perfectly with our concept, while design details and material choices establish a connection to the Alpine environment.

Can you tell us about the selection of materials and colours in the new showroom and how they contribute to the overall look?
We selected all materials and colours with the overall ambition to achieve a contemporary and inviting environment: The combination of warm wood with various shades of green and black reflects classic Alpine themes, creating an intimate atmosphere. 

The warm wood adds naturalness and warmth, while the green tones induce freshness and a connection to nature. The black emphasises the elegance and modernity of Original BTC products. Thanks to this slight contrast the overall atmosphere feels very harmonious.

Were there any special architectural or design elements in the new showroom for Original BTC that helped convey the company's brand message or create a memorable atmosphere? 
Our main focus is to showcase the product, which is why walls and ceilings are kept in neutral colours. However, we want the store to be memorable to customers and to draw people in who just walk by.

Therefore, we opted for a striking, wide-striped floor that conveys elegance and modernity, perfectly aligning with the brand message of Original BTC. This combination of subtle walls and a striking floor creates a memorable look that invites visitors to explore the store and discover the products.

How do you see the British DNA of Original BTC reflected in German interiors?
The lights from Original BTC fit perfectly into our interiors in terms of their quality and simplicity. Particularly in classic, sustainable residential construction, they are a great addition. The British DNA of Original BTC brings a fascinating fusion of timeless elegance and practical functionality to German interiors.

Germans love for quality and durability is reflected in the high-quality materials and careful artisanry of Original BTC lights. Their classic design seamlessly integrates into the aesthetics of many German interiors, which emphasise timeless elegance and restraint. 
The British origin and German preferences merge into a harmonious unity that enriches the home culture of both countries.

Have you previously incorporated Original BTC products into your projects, and if so, in which ones?
We have specified Original BTC products for many of our projects. Recently, we had the opportunity to rethink the idea of a traditional French bistro, the "Petit Fritz," in Munich. We've chosen the Pillar Wall Light to take centre stage here – a perfect fit. In general, we have used Original BTC lights in various other projects, including modern apartments, boutique hotels, and creative workspaces. They always help us to achieve a special atmosphere.

Do you have any favourite Original BTC products?
I love the Pillar Wall Light, the Walter Table Light, and the London Table Light. The Pillar is so elegant and versatile and perfect for illuminating hallways, staircases, or as ambient light in living spaces. The Walter Table Light feels so timeless and I feel it's such a perfect combo of functionality and style. I makes a wonderful focal point on any desk or side table. And finally, the London Table Light encapsulates an intriguing blend of tradition and modernity.

Learn more about Sebastian Zenker Interiors here.