Design Berlin: Quality Pipes from Thuringia
Design Berlin pipes are widely available in Germany, as distribution is handled by its parent company, Planta Tabakmanufaktur, whose products can be found in specialized tobacco shops everywhere.
The brand was founded in 1948 by Hubert Hartmann as Pfeifenstudio Hartmann in Berlin. Its first employees came from Ruhla, the former center of German pipe production in Thuringia. The initial products were very affordable, small "Mutz" or shag pipes with nylon mouthpieces, primarily used for smoking fine-cut tobacco. In 1954, Lothar Schirwitz joined the company, gradually shifting the focus to higher-quality pipes inspired by Danish design.
Design Berlin Pipes Over the Years
High-quality briarwood was sourced from Greece, which, when properly aged, offered a superior smoking experience compared to other wood types. In 1975, the brand was renamed DB Design Berlin, and following market trends, the 9-mm filter chamber became increasingly common in pipes. Lothar Schirwitz was not only a highly active manager but also an innovative freehand pipe maker, though he never sought to put himself in the spotlight.
The Turning Point
In the early 1980s, the company was acquired by Dr. Manfred Obermann’s Planta Tabakmanufaktur, which aimed to leverage synergies in tobacco sales.
This helped DB pipes gain recognition and popularity abroad. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the former production facilities of VEB Pfeifen und Holzerzeugnisse Bad Liebenstein (HOWAL) were acquired, and production was moved to Schweina, into the former premises of C. S. Reich. Before World War II, Reich was Germany’s largest pipe factory. Lothar Schirwitz succeeded Rudolf Apelt, who had since shifted his focus to producing freehand pipes.
Today
Currently, Martin Schmalz oversees production, with 12 employees working in the factory. The annual production is approximately 30,000 pipes, making DB the second-largest pipe manufacturer in Germany, after Vauen. DB thus continues the long-standing pipe-making tradition in Thuringia, preserving an important piece of German industrial heritage.
Distinctive DB Pipes
Design Berlin pipes feature a unique double smoke channel in the mouthpiece, designed to keep the smoke pleasantly cool and create turbulence. The designs range from classic to innovative, with models like the "Globe" being emblematic of the brand. In addition to series pipes, freehand pipes are also produced.
All pipes are equipped with acrylic mouthpieces and feature a 9-mm filter chamber. The company excels in various surface treatments, offering smooth stained, lacquered, sandblasted, and intricately rusticated pipes. Especially popular among pipe smokers are special editions like Holger Danske, NOS Unikat Special, and the distinctive Limited Edition "Le Cœur de la France," known for its elegance.
Design Berlin Pipes and Their Special Features
Another highlight is a state-of-the-art laser engraving machine used to mark the pipes, allowing for the production of private-label pipes for numerous retailers. The manufacturer has extensive expertise in silver processing, making genuine Silver Spigot pipes available at highly affordable prices. We highly recommend DB pipes to smokers looking for reliable everyday companions as well as exceptional, highly unique pieces. Design Berlin offers pipes in all price ranges, making them attractive for both beginners and experienced pipe smokers alike.
