For Rubinetterie Treemme, water is a source of inspiration, research and innovation. This was the spirit that prompted the establishment of the AD AQUAM workshop in 2024, in collaboration with POLI.design and the Design School of the Polytechnic University of Milan.
AD AQUAM is a pathway of education, sustainability and inclusion, conceived to turn ideas into actual design solutions able to reduce water and energy consumption and respect the environment.
For three years, students and young designers have had the opportunity to discuss these issues, guided by lecturers Matteo Ingaramo and Federico Elli, with the support of Emanuel Pacelli and Eugenia Chiara. Rubinetterie Treemme has brought its know-how to the table, following every step of the process with company visits, project reviews and constant operational support.
The 2026 edition represented the culmination of this three-year journey, with the installation AD AQUAM 2026 - REFLECTIONS displayed during Milano Design Week, in the Courtyard of Honour of Milan University, part of the INTERNI MATERIAE exhibition-event. The installation shaped a reflection on the role of water in contemporary design, bringing together visions, skills and new generations of designers.
During Milan Design Week, the winning project for 2026 was also announced. It is ERGO by Pierpaolo Accattoli, Giovanni Buffoni, Caterina Passaretti, Beatrice Tallarida, which stood out for its inclusive approach, originality and ability to combine innovation and sustainability.
The “Ergo” project was born to solve a paradox: why do shower aids have to be cold and unsightly? For those living with arthritis or reduced mobility, showering is often a challenge due to slippery knobs and a lack of handholds. That’s why a system was created for Rubinetterie Treemme that blends aesthetics with accessibility. Visually, “Ergo” is an elegant ladder-like structure, designed to provide safe and continuous support. Traditional knobs have been replaced with intuitive, easy-to-use controls, completely eliminating finger strain. The standout feature, however, is the hand shower: thanks to its hook shape, you simply 'wear' it on your hand without having to grip it tightly, and it hooks freely onto the structure. Safety meets inclusive design.
The work offered a creative interpretation of water-related themes, bringing on board the community and promoting practical, accessible solutions.
Three years of research, experimentation and sharing have made AD AQUAM a unique project for Rubinetterie Treemme, combining training and sustainable innovation.