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VitrA: Voyage collection with Arik Levy at CDW

VitrA_CDW

VitrA London is set to highlight its Voyage collection by multidisciplinary artist and designer, Arik Levy, during this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week (23 – 25 May 2023).

On Wednesday 24 May (18:00), an ‘in-conversation’ between Levy and VitrA’s Design Director, Erdem Akan, will also take place in the brand’s Clerkenwell showroom – moderated by design curator and journalist, Suzanne Trocmé. Levy will reflect on his career and significant work to date across art and design – while discussing his design process and inspiration for Voyage with Akan. FREE to attend, book now.

“We’re delighted to be part of Clerkenwell Design Week again this May – and bring both the Voyage collection and its creator, Arik Levy, to our showroom during the festival,” says Margaret Talbot, marketing manager – UK, VitrA.

“Voyage is one of the key collections in our current portfolio, offering multiple customisation opportunities to adapt to different bathroom settings and ensure maximum flexibility and choice for our A&D customers. The wall-hung quality of the whole collection also makes it exceptionally stylish, versatile and space-efficient.”

Inspired by his time living and working in Japan, Levy worked closely with VitrA’s in-house design team to create Voyage, a bathroom collection that allows both mind and body to relax.

“Taking time for ourselves in the bathroom each day can be extremely purifying,” says the designer. “Our daily habits are deep-rooted, but I hope Voyage can help us indulge ourselves and make time to enjoy our daily rituals.”

“My main aspiration was to start a process of discovery with a toolbox that enables each user to create a very different and individual set-up and layout. With flexibility and versatility at its core, Voyage adapts to their lifestyle and hygiene needs so they can curate a space for retreat, self-care and indulgence – with multiple configurations for various rituals.”

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KBB retailers urged to support the Unified Water Label

UWLA-water-saving-week

The Unified Water Label Association has urged KBB retailers to support the Unified Water Label and use the tools provided to promote it to customers as the industry celebrates Water Saving Week (15-19 May).

Hosted by WaterWise, Water Saving Week aims to promote best practice and the ways in which we can learn how to reduce our water usage, and why it’s important to do so.

UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill says, “KBB retailers have a wealth of tools readily available free of charge to help them embrace the ‘water efficiency’ message in the showroom.

“Retailers can demonstrate how much water different products use by inputting product data into the Water Calculator on the website, with more than 17,000 products currently registered, there is no shortage of products for retailers to promote.

“Changing behaviour is key to success, and retailers have a unique opportunity to bring this dialogue to their customers. They are on the front line, able to influence and educate consumers directly on how much water different products use, as well as the consequences of their actions and behaviour in the home once these products are purchased. 

“There is also a marketing pack for retailers which includes a range of tools, flyers, posters, social media posts and videos, with tips and advice on how to save water in the home.

“A guide to using the Unified Water Label in the showroom is also underway.  This will demonstrate how retailers can display the Unified Water Label whilst maintaining integrity of showroom design.”

“By supporting the Unified Water Label, a smart solution developed by the industry, retailers will be supporting manufacturers that have developed these products, which can help consumers use less water in the home. Together we can achieve greater visibility in the marketplace, and drive forward significant changes in attitudes to water and energy efficiency.”

More information is available from the UWLA website www.uwla.eu

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Bathed in blue by designer Ozge Caglayan

Bathed in blue Drummonds Ozge Caglayan

Built in the early 1800s, this property was bought by new owners in 2021 and interior designer Ozge Caglayan was tasked with giving the interior a new lease of life. One of the main focuses of the renovation was the master bathroom; the brief was to create a space with a modern English aesthetic that combined both classic and contemporary pieces. Known for their signature English style and artisanal approach, Drummonds was the perfect fit to meet this creative vision.

The old bathroom failed to take full advantage of the space and didn’t allow for the inclusion of a shower. Ozge reconfigured the layout, removing the existing integrated bath and replacing it with a classic, freestanding design. Situated by the large sash window, it acts as the centrepiece of the room, stealing space from the adjoining bedroom allowed for the addition of a spa-style walk-in shower.   

Backed by a beautiful de Gournay floral wallcovering, the Double Crake vanity with an Arabescato marble top provides ample space for two with additional storage space on the shelf below.

Every detail of the scheme is carefully thought through to achieve cohesion; the same shade of blue is used on both the wall cabinets and the bath, having been custom matched with the blue tones found in the wallcovering. A brushed brass finish is used throughout, from the basin and bath taps, shower and vanity stand to the mirrors and wall-mounted towel rail, whilst large scale marble-effect ceramic wall and floor tiles echo the marble of the vanity.

Drummonds’ Products

  • Serpentine bath with a painted exterior | from £4290
  • Coll bath & shower mixer with floor standing legs | from £2730
  • Double Crake vanity with Arabescato marble | from £10,992
  • Coll Lever 3 hole basin mixer | from £1290
  • The Chessleton shower plate thermos & 2 way | from £1896
  • The Chessleton on/off 2-way shower diverter | from £702
  • Grand 250mm shower rose with wall-mounted shower arm | from £804
  • The Derwent Mirror | from £1560
  • Bath rack | from £612
  • Bottle rack | from £324
  • 4-bar wall-mounted heated towel radiator | from £2934
  • Single glass shelf | from £378
  • Single Derwent light with fluted shade | from £618
  • Single Dalby light with fluted shade | £492

Interior designer: Ozge Caglayan Studio

ozgecaglayanstudio.com   

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Ideal Standard to debut new collections at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023  

Ideal_standard_clerkenwell_design_week

At Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, Ideal Standard is unveiling a plethora of new design-led ranges at its London Design and Specification Centre (LDSC), including additions to the manufacturer’s premium Atelier Collections.   

Between 23rd and 25th May, London will welcome designers and architects from across the world for the highly regarded design event. During the week, Ideal Standard’s LDSC will host a series of interactive design sessions and networking events, including a drop-in pottery workshop and an evening party to celebrate its new Gusto kitchen tap range.  

Gusto (pictured very bottom) marks Ideal Standard’s latest expansion into the kitchen market, but it won’t be the only new product on display. Continuing its partnership with design powerhouse Palomba Serafini Associati, Ideal Standard will also be showcasing its sustainable Alu+ shower (below left) offering and the new contemporary glossy grey finish for its popular i.life collection, with additional products introduced for the i.life B range (below R).   

Launching in October 2023, this year’s highlight will be the minimalist Solos range (picture below), characterised by its sleek lines and defined edges. Part of the design-led Atelier Collections, the innovative and visually-striking collection features a unique combination of both basin and fitting, as well as a range of sophisticated showering solutions. These upcoming additions will provide visitors with an exclusive look at what’s to come from Ideal Standard over the next 12 months. 

Ideal_standard_solos
Ideal_standard_solos

As well as exploring the latest products, visitors will also be able to take part in a drop-in pottery workshop with London based ceramics studio, Social Pottery, and contribute to the creation of a ceramic tile display, between 2-4 pm on Wednesday 24th May. The display will enable each visitor to leave their mark at Clerkenwell via the community-driven exhibit.    

What’s more, attendees are invited to visit the Gusto bar – designed around Ideal Standard’s new kitchen mixer tap range – for a refreshing beverage or evening cocktail. The LDSC will also host a party and live DJ on Thursday 25th May.   

Yiota Toumba, senior designer at Ideal Standard, said: “Clerkenwell is one of the most important design events of the calendar, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the showroom and explore the latest trends in the industry.  

“It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our new solutions, as well as highlight how we are integrating sustainability into products with ranges like Alu+. We’re also excited to discuss our new ESG report, as well as how sustainability is influencing the future of design.  

“So, if you’re interested in seeing the latest additions to our offering, fancy a drink, or want to take part in the fantastic events we’re putting on, be sure to come down to the showroom.”  

To sign up for the drop-in pottery workshop on 24th May, visit: https://www.idealspec.co.uk/events/clerkenwell-design-week-drop-in-pottery-workshop_47.html?eventtype=bathroom  

To register for the evening party on the 25th May, visit: https://www.idealspec.co.uk/events/clerkenwell-design-week-party_48.html?eventtype=bathroom 

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Take your pick from hundreds of showroom events at CDW

With less than two weeks to go, the buzz around CDW is really starting to build. More than 160 local showrooms are getting ready to welcome the design community through their doors and with over 600 curated events taking place, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

With everything from workshops to product launches, exclusive previews, lego building, coffee tasting, talks and much more, there really is something for everyone.

Don’t forget to stop by a party or two and raise a glass for what’s set to be CDW’s most ambitious edition to date. Click the link to view the full showroom programme here.

Don’t forget you will need a CDW badge to attend showroom events.
Claim your free CDW visitor badge here.

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Kaldewei clocks up awards & nominations

KALDEWEI_MEISTERSTUCK-Oyo

Kaldewei has won an Award in Ideal Home magazine and have been shortlisted for the new Bathroom category in the Mixology Awards.

“We are delighted that Ideal Home magazine selected Kaldewei as the sustainability winner of their 2023 Bathroom Awards” said Adam Teal, sales director Kaldewei UK, “Sustainability has always been at the very core of the company, their ethos is based on a circular economy, creating a stylish, green, product that can have a long and useful life, then be recycled and used to create other practical products, so this award is perfect for Kaldewei.”

The OYO DUO bathtub, designed exclusively by Stefan Diez for Kaldewei won the One Small Step for sustainability award. “Made from recyclable material, this eco bath is a clear winner” said deputy editor, Ginevra Beneditti.

In addition the OYO DUO has also been shortlisted for the prestigious Mixology Awards,winners to be announced in June.

Kaldewei, located in Westphalia, at the heart of Germany , is a family run company that started manufacturing sustainable sanitaryware over 100 years ago. The company has always had an environmental conscience and the OYO DUO from Kaldewei’s “LUXSTAINABILITY®” world is crafted from 100% recyclable Kaldewei steel enamel and demonstrates how a beautiful product can combine luxury and sustainability in an extremely successful way.

The double-walled bathtub was inspired by Japanese porcelain and the designer Stefan Diez ensured that each of the components can be returned to the material cycle at some point in the future without any problems.

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The Shower Lab: ‘Back to the future’ Dichroic shower spaces

Shower-Lab-Diochronic

Evoking the past whilst forming the future is the strong trend message from The Shower Lab with its brand new range of Dichroic glass enclosures.  

The beauty of the Dichroic glass shower space takes its cue from 4th Century Greek and Roman culture but is harnassed beautifully in 21st Century bathroom design with this stunning adaptation.

The shifting colour structures of Dichroic glass deliver a timeless yet ultra-modern look, perfect for the style-savvy Pinterest-loving consumer.

For information on becoming a Shower Lab stockist/retailer please contact info@theshowerlab.com

www.theshowerlab.com.

Basin is from Kast Concrete. www.kastconcretebasins.com

More news from The Shower Lab

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MyLife Bathrooms joins ArtiCAD Supplier Partnership Programme

MyLife-Bathrooms- joins-ArtiCAD-Supplier-Partnership- Programme


Bathroom manufacturer, MyLife, has joined the ArtiCAD Supplier Partnership Programme with its portfolio of over 1,000 items ranging from ceramics, furniture, brassware, and mirrors, to heated towel rails and accessories.

The company’s headquarters and main distribution hub is based in Newry, Northern Ireland with regional centres in Wishaw, Scotland and Hailsham, England, serving more than 500 customers across the UK and Ireland.

Laura McShane, marketing manager, MyLife Bathrooms: “We were already familiar with the ArtiCAD Pro Software but took the decision to join the Partnership Programme following demand from our network of retail customers. With this new partnership we hope to develop increased awareness of our products amongst the ArtiCAD customer base and to make our portfolio as easily accessible to them as possible”.

“Planning a bathroom renovation or a self-build is a challenge. Visual software such as ArtiCAD is so important to help our customers showcase MyLife products in a real-life setting to the homeowner. It also reinforces to our customers that we support what they do in a retail environment by making our catalogue available to them.”

Commenting on trends in bathroom design, Laura McShane said, “Colour is huge. Consumers are becoming bolder in their choices. Standard chrome fittings are making way to industrial inspired finishes such as gun metals and brushed brass. Homeowners increasingly opt for pops of colour, and we saw considerable demand for sage green and matt black bathroom furniture, so we launched both colours across three of our furniture ranges at the start of this year”.

Discover MyLife’s latest collection today by visiting www.mylifebathrooms.com

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Kohler Mira acquires waste water heat recovery specialist

Kohler_mira-acquires-waste-water-heat-recovery-specialist

Parent company of Mira Showers, Kohler Mira has acquired specialist in waste water heat recovery products Recoup Energy Solutions.

According to Kohler Mira, it forms a corner stone of the company’s vision to pioneer and develop sustainable products.

The acquisition will expand Kohler Mira’s offering in an area which is growing as new build developers look to achieve the Government-set Part L targets and consumers look to save energy and money.

Based in Norfolk and founded in 2011, Recoup is a distributor of certified waste water heat recovery systems in the UK and supplies house builders with its products.

Managing Director of Kohler Mira Emma Foster said: “The acquisition of Recoup Energy Solutions is an exciting and important step in our strategic plan to offer our customers a larger suite of exceptional, sustainable products and further reinforces our commitment to pioneering environmentally friendly change through our products and services.

With over 10 years’ experience in Waste Water Heat Recovery products, Recoup has developed a strong reputation in its field, as Mira has for showering, and its portfolio of products will complement our existing business – we are extremely excited to bring Recoup into the Mira family, and can’t wait to see where this takes us.”

 Co-founder of Recoup Energy Solutions Kieron Dudley added: “Mira Showers is one of the most recognised and trusted consumer brands in the UK showering market and we are delighted to join forces with them to deliver effective and sustainable products that benefit customers and the environment simultaneously.

“We were very impressed with Mira’s history of bringing innovation to the bathroom industry to improve their customers’ showering experience in a more sustainable way and look forward to working together to develop these further.”

It follows on from Kohler Mira’s opening a multi-million distribution centre in Worcester last year.

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Utopia celebrates apprenticeship success

Utipia_Chlor_Powell_IT

Chloe Powell, one of Utopia’s most recent apprentices, has successfully completed her apprenticeship and become a permanent member of staff at the company.

Under the apprenticeship scheme Chloe joined Utopia two years ago as an IT junior apprentice, attending Dudley College of Technology for one day each week. Having recently passed her final examinations with flying colours, Chloe is now a full time IT administrator at Utopia.

Welcoming Chloe as a permanent member of the Utopia family, Amanda Shepherd, finance director overseeing the IT function, says: “We are very keen to invest in the next generation of young talent and the apprenticeship scheme gives us the perfect opportunity to do that, combining formal qualifications and invaluable work experience.

“Chloe has demonstrated a real drive to understand the business, has worked exceptionally well with the team and actively contributed to the department. We are delighted to have her as a full time member of staff.  Many congratulations, Chloe, we wish you a very successful career ahead of you.”

Chloe comments “I have really enjoyed my two year apprenticeship with Utopia. Working in a busy and progressive IT department was ideal ‘hands-on’ experience while I studied for my examinations. Now, I am delighted to have both a formal qualification and a full time position at Utopia.”  

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