THE KNOT DESIGNED BY AB CONCEPT FOR DORNBRACHT

International design studio AB Concept presents The Knot handle, developed for German fittings manufacturer Dornbracht and unveiled during Milan Design Week 2026. Reinterpreting the handles of Dornbracht’s Coya series through a contemporary lens, the new design draws inspiration from the traditional Chinese Ruyi knot, a timeless symbol of happiness, prosperity and harmonious balance.

Created by AB Concept founders Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, The Knot explores the intersection of cultural storytelling and contemporary craftsmanship. The design translates the symbolism of the Ruyi knot into an elegant sculptural form that integrates seamlessly with the soft, fluid language of the Coya collection, combining refined craftsmanship with a progressive concept that encourages users to embrace greater individuality.

As Ed Ng explains, “The starting point for my ideas was the Ruyi knot, an ancient Chinese symbol of good fortune that traditionally stands for continuity, stability, and happiness. Form and meaning are closely connected here: the intertwined cords form a symmetrical structure that has no beginning and no end. In this way, they convey a sense of infinity. For me, this offers a direct analogy to the natural, eternally renewing cycle of water. The Ruyi knot is thus a metaphor for something that is constantly in flux and connected to everything. For our Coya interpretation, I wanted to translate it into a sculptural tap handle.”

The distinctive handles of the Coya tap range have been reinterpreted in an extraordinary way for this collection. Characterised by four gently curved, symmetrically interwoven loops, the handle forms a refined cloverleaf silhouette centred around a precise square intersection. Every proportion has been carefully balanced to achieve visual harmony from every angle, while smooth transitions and ergonomic curves ensure both aesthetic elegance and tactile comfort.

Realising this intricate geometry called for an exceptionally meticulous manufacturing process, with each handle individually finished by hand to exacting standards of precision and craftsmanship. The uniform finishing of the delicate loops presented a particular challenge, overcome thanks to the extensive expertise of Dornbracht’s skilled workers in Germany. Each tap handle is brushed individually, with the finishing also applied entirely by hand, highlighting the exceptional level of craftsmanship behind the design.

As the second Atelier Edition, The Knot reflects Dornbracht’s ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of fittings design through artistic experimentation and master craftsmanship. Developed within the Dornbracht Atelier portfolio, the project embodies a shared vision between AB Concept and Dornbracht: elevating functional objects into expressive design pieces that celebrate creativity, cultural heritage and innovation.

ABOUT AB CONCEPT
​AB Concept is an interior architectural design studio founded in Hong Kong in 1999 by architect Terence Ngan and interior designer Ed Ng. Over 25 years, the studio has built a global portfolio of commercial and residential interiors, bringing clients’ values to life in physical spaces with soul. AB Concept works as creative partners with many of the world’s leading hospitality brands to create compelling interior environments that make people feel present in the moment. The studio also designs furniture, lighting and textiles that are distinctive in character and easy to use. AB Concept believes in the power of good design to shape human experience and enhance our quality of life. They describe their work as governed by mind, shaped by hand, guided by heart, resulting in projects with soul. Recent projects and collaborations include Akira Back Hong Kong, Four Seasons Hotel Hangzhou Centre, Spago at The St. Regis Shanghai on the Bund, and The Knot for Dornbracht. Ongoing projects include Rosewood Red Sea and Songtei Kyoto, Shangri-La Signatures.
​abconcept.net | @ab_concept