Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

KEUCO AXESS – Keuco & Studio Porsche enhance accessibility

March 2, 2023

When Studio F. A. Porsche designed a range of accessible bathroom products for KEUCO, the result was something unique: German engineering meets premium interior design.

KEUCO AXESS, designed by Studio F. A. Porsche, has been created to deliver barrier-free bathrooms in hospitality, private and public sectors, e.g. high-quality healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes, hotels and spas. The design focuses on combining aesthetics and barrier-free functionality without making the special functions visually obvious.

Good design has to be honest
“It was our wish to meet the highest aesthetic demands and yet incorporate the specific needs of a barrier-free bathroom system. Our aim was to develop accessible bathroom products from a completely new perspective. Timeless, very clear, aesthetic forms, permanently perceived as beautiful, even after many years. Independent of the spirit of time and trends and at the same time, beyond anything known so far. Out ambition was to create something special, right down to the smallest detail, and making it technically possible. A combination of German engineering and top-quality implementation in every respect. “ Christian Schwamkrug, design director Studio F. A.
Porsche.

Accessibility meets design: for high-quality bathrooms across all sectors
KEUCO AXESS is a sustainable and cross-generational concept made from high-quality materials and ensures safe use of all areas of the bathroom – not only for the elderly and those currently in need of care or for those with a physical disability, but for all generations.

A barrier-free bathroom brings many advantages adding to the quality of life. Turning barrier-free bathrooms into ‘bathrooms’ for people of all ages and for all life situations is a solution adopted by more and more building owners in the project sector, as well as architects, planners and private individuals. Barrier-free increases the level of comfort and safety in the bathroom and adds to property value.

Elegance on the wall: a folding support rail like no other
Studio F. A. Porsche and KEUCO’s folding support rail is a highlight of the barrier-free KEUCO AXESS range. It looks nothing like folding support rails of the past as the visually appealing folding support rail stands uniquely flat against the wall when folded up.

When unfolded and exposed in the downward position, the KEUCO AXESS support rail is an elegant solution. It is available in three finishes: chrome, matt black or aluminium chrome and depending on the surface, a grip-friendly plastic inlay in black or white is seamlessly integrated. The plastic is significant as it makes it easy to grip and prevents slipping when supporting or holding on. There is an optional and retrofittable toilet paper holder which has a black or white roller stopper enabling it to colour match the design.

Two different projections in 700 and 850 mm offer perfect safety and support. The larger projection folding support rail is also suitable for larger wheelchair-accessible WCs. The optional and retrofittable radio WC flush actuator integrates aesthetically into the handle and is compatible with radio flush cisterns from common manufacturers via Bluetooth.

Despite the reduced design, stability is guaranteed with 115 kg load capacity: KEUCO AXESS folding support handles are TÜV tested and certified according to DIN standard.

The rail system – a beautiful design that provides support at the same time

The rail system and the grab rails of the KEUCO AXESS range are characterised by their elegant yet simplistic design. The versatile range provides support in the shower and bath, at the wash basin and the WC. Despite high stability when holding and supporting, this ergonomic design appears light, stylish, and un-cumbersome.

The grip surface at the front forms a smooth rectangular band – with flat surfaces and precise edges. At the back, the rail/grip system and handles are ergonomically shaped in a semicircle – for an optimised grip. This oval rounded back perfectly fits in the hand when grasping so it is not necessary to exert a great deal of force when holding on; ensuring a secure grip and a reliable hold.

The range of KEUCO AXESS grab rails ranges in lengths from 400 to 1000 mm. In the shower, the rail system can be flexibly adapted to suit on-site conditions. The shower rail also serves as a stable grab rail, always giving a feeling of safety. The shower slider can be unlocked and moved up or down simply by pressing on the back, and this can be done with one hand. The shower head can be turned in various positions, to the left and right in the holder and can be tilted up and down from any angle without any problems.

Safe, beautiful and comfortable: mobile seating in the bathroom

A stable seat is a plus for comfort in the bathroom. Taking a shower while sitting down is particularly comfortable. Keuco has supplemented its range of seats with the mobile KEUCO AXESS stool.

The design of the KEUCO AXESS stool, Design by Studio F. A. Porsche, is crafted to the highest standard: as minimalistic, as safe as possible, and as comfortable as possible. In an archetypical, timeless design, the stylish stool takes up little space in the bathroom and fits in any corner. With a load capacity of 150 kg, the KEUCO AXESS stool can be used in both private and public areas.

The stool is particularly stable and resilient as the discretely outward-facing legs with anti-slip ensure a secure standing position, whilst being easy to reposition using one hand.

The softly roughened, non-slip surface of the seat has a pleasant feel and is easy to clean. The seat is slightly curved inwards and features a small hole in the middle which allows water to drain off directly in the shower. The mobile stool with a white or black seat can be harmoniously integrated into the bathroom or shower area.

With a white seat, you can choose between chrome or aluminium legs; with a black seat, the legs are also black. All versions are robust, durable and easy to clean.

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Utopia completes £500,000 investment

March 1, 2023

With the addition of a new Morbidelli UX200 drilling machine in December, now fully operational, Utopia has recently completed its latest round of investment in new machinery at its Wolverhampton Headquarters. This new machine is the fourth to be commissioned in the last twelve months and represents capital investment of £500,000.

The four new machines provide additional capacity for the business and, in certain cases, replace older models with new technology. Specifically, the new Morbidelli UX200 drilling machine reduces machining time by 50% and in some cases 80%, while a Homag BHX and a new Homag Drillteq ABD offer further improved quality, flexibility and capacity. The fourth new machine is a Sandtech Sanding Denibbing machine which allows the preparation of all panel sizes including smaller pieces ready for finishing.

Commenting on the new machinery, Jonathan Phelps, plant and process engineering manager at Utopia says, “Investing in the very latest technology not only ensures we are manufacturing to the highest standards but also gives us a competitive edge. In addition, we want to ensure we are manufacturing in the most environmentally friendly way, along with providing the best possible working conditions for our workforce. We are delighted with the new investments and the support we have had from our supply partners.”

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Caravan site extended with Sanifos underground pumps

March 1, 2023

Saniflo UK, a leading designer and manufacturer of pumps and macerators, has completed its latest leisure project providing Sanifos underground pumps to Welltrough Hall Farm in Cheshire.

The installation allows the 270-acre working farm to extend its well-equipped caravan park and glamping business to include facilities for an additional five touring caravans or motorhomes with permanent drain facilities to simplify the discharge of black and grey water waste. It will also take the waste from seven existing pitches. The Sanifos 610 has twin pumps and a vortex discharge system which pumps black and grey wastewater approximately 100 metres and 6 metres up a hillside to the existing sewer mains.

Welltrough Hall Farm boasts stunning views over the farm and the countryside beyond. The site, which was established in 2016, offers a peaceful setting with excellent facilities and close proximity to tourist attractions, including Jodrell Bank Telescope, Tatton Park, Redesmere Lake, Little Moreton Hall, Arley Hall and Gardens, as well as a picturesque walk to the local pub. Farm owner Nick Wilkinson decided to extend the site thanks to the continued rise of staycations and glamping in the UK, which has created additional demand from customers looking to stay in unusual locations.

To research the options for more reliable and discreet drainage, Nick, who also owns a glamping site adjacent to the caravan park, attended the annual Glamping Show in September 2022 and learned how Saniflo could help him turn his dream into a reality. Partner company, Glampsan, was able to recommend a Saniflo underground lifting station as a solution and a technical representative from Saniflo duly visited the site to confirm the solution and the most efficient installation. Nick, who installed the unit himself, is looking forward to welcoming more guests than ever and is pleased that the Sanifos has created an unobtrusive drainage system for the plots.

Amanda Mills, Saniflo UK marketing manager, says: “Saniflo has helped many farming businesses diversify into leisure, and it continues to be an area of growth for us and the British leisure industry. We’ve helped resolve lots of unusual and some very quirky plumbing challenges, and it’s safe to say that we always find solutions for any plumbing and drainage challenges. If you have the water supply, we have a suitable drainage solution when mains drainage is not an option.”

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A sanctuary of escapism

March 1, 2023

Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association explains the importance of building a haven of tranquillity following his recent visit to KBIS in Las Vegas.

Creating a sanctuary in the home has never been more important in our increasingly frenetic world. The bathroom is a high-activity area, and while it provides for our personal hygiene, it should also be a place of wellness that allows you to unwind from the pressures of life. Bathroom designers, therefore, have a unique opportunity to create this haven by incorporating innovative products and thoughtful design.

The importance of creating a health and wellness environment was one of my key takeaways from the recent KBIS event held in Las Vegas. It has been a growing focus for bathroom brands over the past few years, reflecting the view that consumers now want bathrooms also to be ‘wellness hubs’ or ‘retreats’, where they can relax and unwind from their hectic lifestyles.

Creating a haven of tranquillity is easier than ever as manufacturers have invested enormous resources into innovative product development alongside beautiful design elements and materials. The surge in the adoption of bathroom furniture utilising natural materials and the trend toward colour are also helping to develop a spa-like environment.

Consideration of the shower experience is probably high on anyone’s bathroom project list. The modern bathroom can offer various features to enhance the shower experience, from steam showers to jets. A sanctuary bathroom should include an innovative spa shower, combining aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and chromotherapy (using coloured lights in the bath or shower), and a vast array of products are available on the market.

Lighting plays an essential role in creating a sanctuary. At KBIS, circadian rhythm lighting was also available and something to consider in a wellness strategy. By creating an equilibrium between natural and artificial lighting, the bathroom can be optimised to improve the sleep quality we get each night. This holistic approach positively impacts physical health and encourages a mental reset that helps reduce anxiety and depression and improves overall well-being. In addition, soft, warm lighting can be achieved with dimmers or built-in LED lights.

Finally, consideration should be directed to controlling the sanctuary atmosphere created. Smart home devices are making our homes more efficient and cheaper to run, but they also allow for a more personalised experience. Smart technology in the bathroom adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing you to adjust temperatures and lights with a few simple taps.

Creating a sanctuary in the home is becoming increasingly important as we seek ways to escape from the pressures of modern-day living. With thoughtful design and innovative products, bathroom designers can create an oasis of well-being that allows users to unwind and relax.

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Hospitality design – luxury, efficiency & sustainability

February 27, 2023

Ellie Clow has worked in journalism for over ten years, specialising in B2B and trade journalism. She has written for financial publications and several leading KBB titles.

Guests want to experience luxury in a hotel, and the bathroom plays an unassuming role. Clean, sleek and functional – if one of these key features is absent, an experience can be subpar, which is why the choice of fixtures is so important. Guests want good-looking bathrooms that feel more luxurious than home, with fixtures that are easy to understand and can be backed up by sustainable, water and energy-saving credentials.

“There are few places where bathroom design is more important than in a hotel,” says Anil Madan, non-residential marketing manager at Ideal Standard UK and Armitage Shanks. “Whether it’s a high-traffic front-of-house washroom or a spa-like in-room ensuite, these spaces have the power to give customers an experience they will remember.”

Spa-style bathing

Novellini Divina Outdoor Spa — Novellini Divina Outdoor hot tub

Ideal Standard Atelier Collection — Novellini Divina Outdoor hot tub

Designing bathroom spaces for the hospitality sector requires a fine balance of function with aesthetics. Products should look and feel luxurious without feeling complicated to use.

“To truly create a calming and luxurious bathroom, making the most of the space is vital,” notes Ideal Standard’s Madan. “Although large fixtures like freestanding baths take up floor space, they also give an added ‘wow factor’ to a room – like the new Conca bath, from the Atelier Collections.”

Novellini’s spa baths (pictured top and above) are the ultimate in luxurious spa-style bathing experiences, featuring hydromassage and a range of features that allow users to tailor their bathing for optimal wellbeing. The brand’s visually stunning Divina series – which includes the Divina Outdoor hot tub – is available in four different versions: Hydro Air, Whirlpool, Hydro Plus and Natural Air.

Small and sleek

VitrA_ArchiPlan_Hospitality_Design — VitrA ArchiPlan Range

However, not all hotel bathrooms have the space for statement pieces like spa baths, but that doesn’t mean they have to skimp on design or style. VitrA’s ArchiPlan collection is a modern, minimalist range of products that are ideal for hotel bathrooms on the smaller side, thanks to its narrow-width options. ArchiPlan basins can be wall-mounted or mounted in cabinetry to make best use of all space, while the cabinets’ elegant cut-out holes in favour of door handles add to the contemporary simplicity of the design while maximising available space.

Made from eco-friendly and recyclable plywood, the range is hard-wearing and durable with a moisture-resistant finish, making it a long-lasting choice for a high-traffic area. ArchiPlan bathroom furniture is available in neutral and timeless matte colours—white, black and taupe. The range includes wall-hung units in a range of sizes with storage and open shelving options.

Cool and colourful

Bathroom Review_Novellini_Shower_tary_Hospitality — Novellini slate effect shower tray

The hospitality sector is looking for minimalist, contemporary and low-maintenance bathroom designs. Wetrooms are favoured for their sleek design and accessibility, and for enclosures, Novellini notes that its low-profile, slate-effect shower trays are in high demand.

Finishes such as brushed nickel, brushed brass, polished gold and rose gold are desired for fittings and enclosure metalwork to tie spaces together cohesively. Says Novellini UK sales director Stuart West: “We have seen demand grow for more outlandish designs and vibrant colours with an ‘anything goes’ free-thinking attitude to design.”

Ideal Standard’s Madan agrees: “We’re now seeing an increase of coloured fixtures, fittings and ceramics making a comeback in high-level and premium bathroom design.”

Summer rain

Bathroom_Review_Hospitality_design — Grohe Rainshower SmartActive 310 shower

“Alongside sustainability, wellness and health continue to be topics of importance when it comes to hotel bathroom design, and what both guests and designers are looking for when it comes to luxurious, spa-inspired spaces,” says Paul Bailey, leader of product management at Lixil EMENA and Grohe UK.

“A rainfall style showerhead offers a modern, eye-catching aesthetic whilst still offering luxurious functionality, and can provide additional features too such as a choice of multiple spray patterns so users can alter their experience according to mood.”

Grohe’s Rainshower SmartActive 310 shower offers a choice of two spray options that can be switched between or combined—the Grohe PureRain spray which feels like soft summer rain, and the Grohe ActiveRain pattern, which provides a stronger massaging spray.

The product’s StarLight chrome finish is long-lasting, to keep it looking new and attractive through heavy use, and the showerhead is available in an array of finishes to support designers with specification. Grohe’s super-insulated Inner WaterGuide directs hot water away from the surface, preventing them from overheating and making the product safer for guests.

Sustainable spa experience

Bathroom_Review_Hospitality_Design_Methven — Methven Kiri shower handset

Water efficiency underpins everything in bathroom design, and this is especially important for the hospitality sector – not just to bring peace of mind to customers, but to be as cost-effective as possible.

As a BMA Sustainability Awards finalist, Methven offers shower and tapware products that can reduce carbon footprints, save thousands of litres of water and allow hotels to make financial savings.

Its award-winning Methven Satinjet uses twin-jet technology to create optimum water droplet size and pressure with over 300,000 droplets per second, resulting in an immersive, full-body shower sensation.

The brand’s Kiri and Kiri MK2 showerhead designs (pictured above) are also ideal for hotels, with a choice of chrome and contemporary graphite finishes, while the range also features the Kiri Low Flow which reduces the standard 8l/min flow to 5.5l/min to offer high performance without compromise for end users.

Motu (below) is a comprehensive collection of basin mixers, bath fillers, bath shower mixers, wall-mounted basin mixers and bath fillers that are also designed to suit a variety of specifications.

Methven_collection_Hospitality_Design — Methven Motu

For the latest kitchen design features – visit Kitchens Review

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PJH invests in new 10,000 sq. ft distribution centre

February 27, 2023

PJH, a leading KBB distributor, has announced its investment in a new and greatly enlarged Thirsk Distribution Centre, more than doubling the capacity of the site it replaces to over 10,000 sq.ft.

The move to the new larger Thirsk Distribution Centre was prompted by PJH’s rapid and continued growth. As well as much greater capacity, the Thirsk site benefits from excellent access onto the A168 dual carriageway, which is approximately 1 mile away, which in turn leads to the A19 and A1(M), making it ideally located for serving PJH customers in the Northeast.

Speaking about the new distribution site Richard George, CEO of PJH said: “The new Thirsk Distribution Centre is another significant investment for PJH and supports further the growth in our National Logistics infrastructure that provides Next Day deliveries for our customers. It increases our total number of Distribution Centres to 7 and our overall warehouse footprint to 355,000 square feet. It is great news for our business and another demonstration of our commitment to being our Customers FIRST CHOICE.”

Investment in this new modern regional distribution centre, with its improved logistics, capacity and stock holding,also lowers PJH’s carbon footprint through a more regionally deployed fleet and reduced delivery miles. It also forms part of PJH’s continued investment programme in its distribution capabilities and growth, in order to keep exceeding changing customer demands and maintain the highest service levels.

The addition of the new larger Thirsk site now increases PJH’s total UK distribution space to 355,000 sq. ft.

For further information on PJH, visit www.pjh.uk, www.partners.pjh.uk or call, T: 0800 8 77 88 99.

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Methven’s collection delivers efficiency and performance

February 27, 2023

First impressions count when it comes to guest satisfaction, and one of the first things they do upon entering their room is to inspect the bathroom.

Guests’ expectations for a luxurious stay mean hotels and spas must balance style, performance, and functionality carefully.

Methven’s extensive collection not only looks great, is priced competitively, comes with a lifetime guarantee, and is WRAS approved. The collections also exceed UK water-saving rules and regulations, giving you peace of mind, your guests can enjoy the performance without compromise at a price that is right for you.

While efficiency, performance and cost have always been a tricky trio to balance, Methven says their specification team is available to help match the requirements of hotel or spa refurbishment projects.

For more information visit https://uk.methven.com/specifiers/hosptiality-sector.

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Grohe Rainshower SmartActive 310 Head shower

February 27, 2023

For those who enjoy gentle, relaxing showers but who also want the power to cleanse deeply and revitalize, the Grohe Rainshower 310 SmartActive provides both. It offers a choice of two spray options – PureRain Spray and ActiveRain – so users can switch between or combine together for the ultimate luxury.

The Grohe PureRain spray, encloses like soft summer rain, while the Grohe ActiveRain pattern has the power to rinse out shampoo as well as giving a stimulating head, neck, and back massage.

The round 310mm head shower is ceiling-mounted on a 142mm arm for complete coverage and optimum ease of use, while Grohe DreamSpray technology means the flow from all of the shower’s nozzles will be perfectly adjusted.

The long-lasting Grohe StarLight chrome finish will maintain its flawless looks long into the future, and to support designers with specification the showerhead is available in an array of Grohe finishes, such as Chrome, Cool Sunset, Warm Sunrise, and Hard Graphite. The head shower is also available in either a square or rounded design for further personalisation.

With safety in mind, a super-insulated Inner WaterGuide directs hot water away from surfaces, preventing them from overheating and allowing the lustrous chrome finish to last even longer.

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Imperial management team combine resources

February 27, 2023

Imperial Bathrooms is ensuring the continuation of ‘business as usual’ following a successful buyout by IBC Products Limited, as it went into administration on 30^th January 2023.

Neil Gore, previous managing director of 8-yrs led the bid, choosing to return to the role following a 3-yr sabbatical from Imperial. Neil is joined by fellow directors James Stevenson, Kevin Johnson, and Robin Wright and together, they have formed IBC Products to solidify future business operations and protect the Imperial name and product offer.

“I am confident we can ensure the company’s sustainability and quickly return to high levels of success” says Neil Gore, managing director.

“Our one aim is to re-establish the Imperial brand as a highly regarded and trusted name in the bathroom industry, serving our customers with quality British designs and lead times, as originally founded.”

Robin Wright, returning operations director responsible for managing sales, customer service and despatch comments, “We are fortunate to all have first-hand experience of Imperial, and fully understand our brand quality and what that means to both our retail partners and the end user.”

Kevin Johnson, supply chain director adds, “We are excited to announce we will be introducing a new range of products in 2023, with the new Fradley Collection launching in February. This, along with our latest suppliers will bring new life to the brand and put us in a strong position to show our commitment to change over the next 12 months, confidently and quickly.”

James Stevenson adds “We want to show our customers that as a brand and business, we have the courage to innovate and adapt to the everchanging retail landscape. We strongly believe in leaning into change and are confident we can successfully navigate the current economic climate in the months ahead. Thank you to every customer that continues to tell our story, you are crucial to the long-term survival and growth of our business.”

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Utopia releases stunning new brochures

February 22, 2023

Utopia is presenting its latest range literature featuring inspiring photography, showcasing both brand new products and also existing products in exciting new ways.

As last year, Utopia’s extensive product range is split into three dedicated brochures for ease of use – The Fitted Furniture Collection, The Modular Furniture Collection and The Roseberry Collection.

Helen Clark, head of marketing at Utopia, comments “With so many different collections and a whole series of new products for 2023, having three separate brochures is the ideal way to present our ranges. Through our stunning imagery, we aim to offer beautiful and inspiring solutions for every type of British bathroom.

All brochures may be viewed online at www.utopiagroup.com with the option to download too.

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