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Pop culture meets architecture: The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection

When the first Barbie doll was introduced in 1959, she broke with the prevailing idea of a toy world where girls primarily played with baby dolls and imitated motherhood. Suddenly, they were presented with an adult, independent woman as a play companion—opening up the possibility of imagining themselves in any role they could dream of. Over the decades, Barbie became a pop culture icon who represents diversity and inclusion—embodied through different careers, skin tones, and physical abilities. She has come to symbolize self-determination and a world where differences don’t divide, but enrich.

HEWI shares this belief and translates it into architecture. The 477/801 range, established in the 1970s, is considered a design classic—from sanitary accessories to accessible products. It sets standards for durability, clear design language, and uncompromising functionality. At its core is the principle of Universal Design: creating products that can be used intuitively and safely by all people—regardless of age, physical condition, or life situation.

The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection brings together the visions of both brands: it combines the inclusive spirit of a global icon with the design and functional precision of an architectural classic. The result is a range of products that promote independence while meeting the highest aesthetic standards.

Four Areas of Application

The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection demonstrates its strengths across a variety of settings – from hospitality to healthcare, from children’s bathrooms to maternity care.

1. Boutique Hotel

In the world of Barbie, a hotel bathroom is never just a functional space – it's an opportunity for travel, design and personality to come together. Inspired by the Barbie DreamHouse^TM – sometimes minimalist like a Californian bungalow, sometimes playful like a city villa, but always an expression of creativity and diversity – the Barbie™ × HEWI collection offers exceptional versatility.

A hotel thrives on its ability to make guests from all backgrounds feel comfortable and included. At the same time, it acts as a stage for modern architecture and timeless design inspiration.

The products in the collection integrate seamlessly into a wide range of hotel environments – from urban lofts to elegant boutique hotels – combining lasting functionality with a sense of lightness.

2. Maternity Care

What might a maternity ward look like when designed by a woman who truly understands the vulnerability of the moments surrounding birth? It would be warm, respectful, and inherently safe – a space where safety doesn’t need explanation. As a symbol of self-determination, Barbie embodies this very mindset – in a world where possibilities are limitless, girls can not only become mothers but also doctors welcoming the newborn.

The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection follows the principles of healing architecture – using design deliberately to support both physical and emotional wellbeing. Here, pink is not playful but acts as a gentle shield, offering calm. Clear forms and low-barrier features provide reassurance in moments when every detail matters.

The 477/801 range meets the strict hygienic requirements of maternity wards while maintaining a warm, inviting atmosphere. These are spaces built on trust – where comfort and professionalism coexist. Exactly as envisioned by someone who knows what truly matters in those defining moments.

3. Comfort Bathroom

Barbie has accompanied generations – always evolving, always in tune with the realities of the time. What began as a toy is now a symbol of independence and the freedom to shape one’s own life. That same independence is a key factor in everyday quality of life.

Over time, the requirements for a bathroom change: freedom of movement, clear structures, and reliable support features become increasingly important. The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection proves that good design and functional adaptation are not mutually exclusive – and that high standards in aesthetics aren’t defined by age.

The 477/801 range, a design icon in accessible environments for decades, now merges ist timeless design language with the unmistakable color world of Barbie. The result is a product range that meets the functional demands of care and residential spaces while maintaining a strong design identity.

Low-barrier products support safe gripping, sitting, and standing. They are designed for long-term use in both private and professional care settings. This allows people with a wide range of physical needs – whether at home, in assisted living, or in a care facility – to benefit from bathroom designs that empower individual autonomy.

4. Children's Bathroom

For many, the first encounter with Barbie happens in childhood – as a playtime friend and as a figure that suggests the world is full of possibilities. This sense of lightness and curiosity flows directly into the design of bathrooms for educational and childcare environments.

In kindergartens, pediatric wards, or children’s clinics, the bathroom is more than just a place to wash hands or brush teeth. It becomes part of a learning environment – a space where children engage in everyday routines, try things out, and interact with others. When architecture and interior design are tailored to a child’s perspective, the bathroom becomes a safe place for discovery, learning, and shared experiences.

The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection combines the playful charm of an iconic childhood figure with the clean design language of the 477/801 range. Pink accents create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, while low-barrier elements promote independence. These are spaces that embody inclusivity and encourage a child’s natural drive to explore.

Design with Purpose

The Barbie™ × HEWI Collection includes around 40 products – including soap dispensers, towel holders, and accessible design elements. They meet the highest standards of quality and durability. From elegant pale pink tones to sophisticated combinations of pale pink, white, and black, the collection proves that design can do more – functional, emotional, and inclusive all at once.

Mattel

Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox®, Monster High®, MEGA® and Polly Pocket®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world's leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit us at mattel.com.

HEWI Heinrich Wilke GmbH

Since its foundation in 1929, HEWI has developed into a system provider for comprehensive solutions in the areas of building hardware, sanitary accessories, and accessible products. Over the past 95 years, the company has grown to become a leader in the field of accessibility and a recognised expert in system design. In line with Universal Design, the focus for HEWI is on people’s individual needs.