Mereway Bathrooms has launched Bathroom Colore, an extensive new range of finishes, basins, and accessories for bathrooms with personality.
Designed with flexibility at the forefront the new range has an easy four-step ordering process, the exclusive new range has 64 new colourways, available to sample with free swatches when ordering. From Goldfish Orange to Reed Green the new colour offering has something for everyone. Bathroom Colore offers quality and stylish bathroom furniture, the dimensional accuracy of the basins, the Arco and Simplicity structure a totally hygienic and water-tight construction and vary in sizes to suit any space.
Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW), the UK’s leading design festival, returns to London between 23 – 25 May 2023 with the exciting addition of Design London.
“With the global design community descending on London in May, Clerkenwell Design Week is the perfect new home for Design London,” says Marlon Cera-Marle, design division director of Media10.
“Amalgamating Design London (which was formerly held in Greenwich in September) into the programme of events further bolsters the experience of Clerkenwell Design Week, as the most anticipated design destination after Milan.”
The 12th edition will again take place in the heart of Clerkenwell – historically a melting pot of craftsmen and makers, and now home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else in the world. The 2023 festival is set to offer the biggest programme to date – with more than 600 events taking place across the EC1 neighbourhood.
Bathroom specialist Aqualisa has introduced the eVOLVE range: a brand new line-up of electric showers designed for safer showering, environmentally-friendly performance and exceptional value.
Sleek and stylish in design, the eVOLVE showers will complement any bathroom interior or décor, with a choice of Arctic White, Space Grey or Midnight Black with a satin silver trim. Three power options (8.5kW, 9.5kW or 10.5kW) allow homeowners to select the model to suit their individual needs.
Energy efficient
A-rated for energy efficiency, these versatile units feature easy-to-use dials and deliver instant, energising showers with no demand on the home’s stored hot water. Providing full control over both temperature and power, eVOLVE only consumes the energy and water flow selected by the user, allowing families to minimise usage of both. And during the warmer months of the year, when the inlet supply is hotter, users will experience even greater benefits as less energy is required to heat the water.
Temperature protection
Engineered for safety and durability, each model is equipped with an over temperature protection system, so the water will always remain at the desired heat level and never exceed 50°C. A digital display clearly shows the temperature at all times, and Aqualisa has built in a low pressure indicator to alert the user should the water pressure fall. Furthermore, Aqualisa’s innovative five-second phased shut-down technology minimises the risk of limescale build-up, helping to extend the life of the product.
Each eVOLVE shower comes with a high quality Flow handset featuring three spray patterns and rub-clean nozzles, and a 1,500mm chrome-plated stainless steel hose.
Easy installation
Flexible and easy to fit, the Aqualisa eVOLVE incorporates eight water and electric entry points for effortless installation, allowing straightforward replacement of any existing Aqualisa electric shower and many other brands. A two year parts and labour guarantee affords extra peace of mind.
Joe Brawn, head of product management at Aqualisa, commented, “Electric showers now account for approximately 45% of the total UK shower market, and are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the control, water- and energy-saving efficiencies they bring. With no hot water source required, they only heat up the water the user needs, taking water from the mains cold supply rather than from stored hot water tanks. Thanks to its innovative new design, the eVOLVE shower range now ensures even further control over energy and water consumption, delivered in an attractive and stylish form factor that will blend in with any modern or classic bathroom interior.”
The Aqualisa eVOLVE line-up is BEAB and CE certified, with WRAS approval pending after launch.
Availability and pricing The new Aqualisa eVOLVE range is available now. For pricing and more information, trade partners can contact their Aqualisa representative or the Aqualisa Customer Support Team on 01959 560020 or 01 864 3363 (Republic of Ireland).
The architecture start-up Vagabundo is young, environmentally conscious, and modern, founded in 2020 with the aim was to create sustainable living spaces with a long-life span. The KALDEWEI MIENA washbasin and the floor-level KALDEWEI SUPERPLAN ZERO shower surface created by designer Werner Aisslinger both feature in the bathrooms of the Tiny Houses.
What do we really need – to live and to live in? Vagabundo founders Luca Knipp, Michael Leitner and Andreas Mullner, found the answer to this question in their mobile Tiny House.
The young entrepreneurs want to redefine living in a small space: less space paves the way for freedom to live. They have created a maximum living space over two floors with a minimum ecological footprint using regional materials such as wood and resource-saving production to protect the environment.
Vagabundo Tiny HouseVagabundo Tiny House
The two corporate philosophies formed a “perfect match” from the start, and this stance fits perfectly with KALDEWEI’s design and sustainability standards along with the material advantages of recyclable steel enamel, which the bathroom manufacturer has ‘almost’ perfected over the years.
“With our tiny houses, it was clear to us from the start that we had to ensure that the houses had a long lifespan. After all, what’s the point in buying a miniature house if it doesn’t last as long as a normal house?” Luca Knipp, Vagabundo’s architect, describes the start-up’s idea.
Vagabundo’s Tiny House
Using local production avoids long delivery routes and because the house stands on supports, the floor does not have to be sealed, as is often the case in the construction industry.
“We paid attention to every small adjustment screw that could have an impact on the ecological footprint. As a young company, we designed our business processes to be as climate- friendly as possible right from the start and thus meet important standards,” emphasises Michael Leitner, the industrial engineer responsible for project management at Vagabundo.
In addition, all greenhouse gas emissions that cannot be avoided or that can be saved elsewhere are compensated for. Maximum transparency in the traceability of raw materials is also of utmost importance to the young start-up.
Inspired by nature the Luv bathroom range, designed by Cecilie Manz features organic forms and matte lacquers and glazes in soft shades that exude a sense of well-being.Today we hear how the pieces work together to deliver Nordic minimalism with timeless elegance.
Tailored design options Whether minimalist or elegant – the design language of the series allows individually tailored design options to be brought to life. Below we show how the design style has been interpreted in various ways, for example in the projects Twelve Senses Retreat, Walzmühle site loft houses, Strandridergården, Burghotel Falkenstein, and Villa Copenhagen.
Although these projects could not be more different, what unites them is the aspiration to deliver an outstanding quality of design that offers the residents and guests a unique living experience. The pared-down elegance of the Luv bathroom range is the foundation of the characteristic style of the individual design projects.
Sheer cosiness The ambience of Luv engenders a sense of well-being, which the Danish designer Cecilie Manz describes as “sheer cosiness”. “Natural, uncomplicated, and unobtrusive” – this feeling is enhanced by the generation of colours she designed exclusively for Duravit with matte lacquers and glazes in soft shades.
Inspired by nature “There’s a piece of nature within Luv”, Cecilie Manz. The aesthetic of a pebble partly inspired the range smoothed to a round shape by sea currents and the sand. Gentle forms follow a stringent geometry.
Twelve Senses Retreat Pictured top, the freestanding Luv bathtub blends perfectly into the minimalistic, welcoming atmosphere of the Twelve Senses Retreat designer hotel in Encinitas, southern California. Image: Mandy Oliver Photography
Loft houses on the site of the former “Walzmühle” mill The design and construction by Mia Kepenek and her team (Kepenek GmbH) has breathed new life into the former factory hall in the form of eight generously proportioned, expressively styled lofts, each fitted with Duravit products from the Luv series.
In addition to the freestanding model, Luv bathtubs are also available as a back-to-wall or corner version. The Luv above-counter basins for double washing areas create a consistent and harmonious overall picture.
Image: Luca Zanier
Strandridergården Oval above-counter basins combined with console tables and striking oval bathtubs: Luv products were fitted throughout the Strandridergården building in Copenhagen as an ideal match to the classically modern interior.
The Luv vanity unit with quartz console and the illuminated mirror enhance the exquisite style of the building.
Villa Copenhagen Villa Copenhagen is an extraordinary hotel created by the Nordic Choice hotel group created in the Danish capital. The freestanding bathtub is an excellent match to the building’s stylish ambience.
Burghotel Falkenstein: The gourmet hotel impresses thanks to its extraordinary location, distinguished cuisine and sophisticated interior design – which in the bathroom includes a freestanding bathtub and breathtaking views.
Following the sad passing at the end of last year of Liz Green, one of Utopia’s original founding members, the company has announced that it has set up The Liz Green Charity Fund in her memory.
The new fund will benefit two national cancer charities, Cancer Research UK and Macmillan Cancer Support, as well as the local charities that Utopia supports throughout the year.
Introducing the fund, Ian Hall, Joint MD and also Liz’s brother, said “We will never forget Liz, either personally or professionally. Liz made such a tremendous impact on the Utopia business we see this as a positive way for us to honour her memory and help those charities dear to her. Sadly, Liz suffered from cancer so we are particularly keen to help fund the fight against it. We always hold a variety of fund-raising events throughout each year and it makes sense to bring them together under one banner.”
So far, the business and staff have together donated £1,450 which has been split between the two charities.
Donations in Liz’s memory are most welcome and can be pledged via the two links below.
Abode, designer and distributor of kitchen and bathroom solutions, is further supporting customers with its latest catalogue now live on four KBB business management systems; EQ, Compusoft, KBB Connect and TruBlue.
Providing instant access to the exclusive range of sinks and taps by Abode, independent retailers can now employ one if not all, of the four end-to-end solutions now offering the latest Abode catalogues.
Helping to manage, control and improve the capacity for UK customers to design and specify the latest products for the kitchen and bathroom, Leanne Adamson, marketing manager at Abode explains, “We decided to go live with our latest product catalogue on four new platforms – EQ, Compusoft, KBB Connect and TruBlue – so we can uplevel retail support and adapt to the next generation of KBB business management solutions.
“We are 100% committed to supporting and growing our UK network and by focusing on elevating the customer journey, we hope our retail customers can ultimately improve efficiencies to provide their customers with exactly what they want.”
Remodeling the kitchen and bathroom continues to offer a greater increase in property value over cost and so products which deliver the right balance of form and function continue to win out and serve the needs of today’s home and lifestyle. In fact, the Abode 2022 market report indicates that despite the global dip in the housing market, the renovation sector is set to remain buoyant as homeowners seek to invest in their properties and make improvements up to 2024-25.
So, where can retailers access the latest innovations by Abode, and what does each platform offer?
Price, manage and order in one system: Efficient business Management, this intelligent system makes pricing complex component based kitchens and bathrooms easy, able to calculate exact quotes in minutes via the ‘Largest KBB catalogue database in the UK’.
Powering sales by simplifying complexity: Specialist visual CPQ Software for kitchens, bathrooms and furniture design to give UK retailers direct access to trusted KBB brands in order to configure, price, quote (CPQ) and close future projects.
Work faster and smarter: An online quoting, ordering and project management services, which provides real-time pricing data direct from leading KBB suppliers, plus financial processing, goods management, remedial tracking and much more!
Where solutions develop: the next generation in kbb business management solutions, TruBlue helps price and quote for all of the products in your range, backed up by up-to-date catalogue data from major industry manufacturers and suppliers. This platform is set go live in Q1, 2023.
Kaldewei received the German Design Award 2023 for the freestanding OYO DUO bath. The design created by the Munich design studio Diez Office was presented to the public for the first time at the Salone del Mobile in spring 2022. the bathtub from Kaldewei’s LUXSTAINABILITY® world shows how perfectly luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.
The OYO DUO combines organic design with uncompromisingly durable materials. The double-walled bathtub, was inspired by Japanese porcelain design, and is comprised of 100 percent steel enamel. The recyclable and sustainable concept of the Meisterstück convinced the expert jury of the German Design Council, which has been presenting the German Design Award annually since 2012. With its global spectrum and its international appeal, it is one of the most respected awards in the design landscape across all sectors. Kaldewei received the award for the OYO DUO in the “Excellent Product Design” category.
“Winning the German Design Award is a wonderful confirmation of how worthwhile it is to make the designers’ vision a reality. The courage and performance of the Kaldewei team is also honoured, as is the fine design by Diez Office,” sums up Christian Büttner, director of innovation and portfolio at Kaldewei.
A novelty is that the award-winning MEISTERSTÜCK OYO DUO is available for the first time in selected colours from Kaldewei’s Coordinated Colours Collection. It can be ordered in two sizes as of now.
Shower specialist Aqualisa has expanded its premium Mian shower collection with the introduction of six new models designed specifically for the housebuilder, contract and hospitality sectors.
With a choice of contemporary square or round styling, plus single outlet, dual outlet and bath shower mixer options, each model features a high-quality chrome finish, brass body and metal handles with cool touch surface technology, and a temperature override for added safety.
The Mian range is engineered to exceptional standards, is fully compliant with Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) quality criteria, and is backed by the Aqualisa five year guarantee on registration.
Options available from mid-January 2023:
300BAR – Mian round cool touch single outlet bar valve (110mm multi-mode adjustable handset)
300RSC – Mian round cool touch dual outlet bar valve (110mm multi-mode adjustable handset and 200mm drencher head)
300SBAR – Mian square cool touch single outlet bar valve (65mm square single mode adjustable handset)
300SSC – Mian square cool touch dual outlet bar valve (65mm square single mode adjustable handset and 200mm drencher head)
300LBAR – Mian round cool touch single outlet bar valve with lever handles (110mm round multi-mode adjustable handset)
These durable, high-performance systems include fast-fix brackets for straightforward installation in any bathroom, wet room or shower room setting. Each handset has been designed with soft-rub nozzles to ensure quick and simple cleaning and maintenance, while the adjustable height telescopic shower column and flexible 1.5m chrome-plated, stainless steel hose make operation effortless for all users. The dual outlet models feature an integral diverter to switch easily between the adjustable shower head and the generous overhead drenched.
Versatile and convenient, the Mian mixer shower range offers optimum performance with controlled flow, and is compatible with all UK water systems. Each model incorporates a brass body and metal handles for a high-end look and feel.
A separate Mian square single outlet concealed kit pack is available for a more discreet fitting.
Glenn Payne, director of sales – specification at Aqualisa, commented, “Recognised for its superior build quality, the Mian range has been established in the housebuilding and hospitality sectors for some time. This new updated collection combines all the durability and reliability of previous models with the added benefits of cool touch surface technology and elegant modern styling, making these showers perfect for a wide variety of domestic or commercial installations.”
The Mian range is supported by Aqualisa’s dedicated Contract and Specification Customer Care Team, with nationwide coverage from trained and approved on-site service engineers.
Pricing and availability The new Aqualisa Mian collection is available now. For pricing and more information on how Aqualisa can assist with individual project requirements, specifiers can contact their Aqualisa representative or the Aqualisa Customer Support Team on 01959 560020 or 01 864 3363 (Republic of Ireland).
KBB Birmingham has published a round-up of TheKBB Trends Report 2023 detailing the most cutting-edge design ideas we can expect to see in the coming year.
As the two most hardworking rooms in our homes, getting the most out of kitchen and bathroom designs is a high priority for designers and consumers alike. This is why keeping on top of the current trends can not only help ensure our homes continue to look stylish but will also make them as functional as possible, thanks to the latest technology. Designs in kitchens and bathrooms often overlap, and this year is no different. With the impact on the environment and the rising cost of living at the forefront of everyone’s minds, we’re seeing a shift in how we design, buy and style both of these spaces. Here, we’ve rounded up our top five trends that will prove popular for kitchens and bathrooms in 2023…
Sustainable style
Ways in which we can make kitchens and bathrooms more sustainable, are certainly a hot topic at the moment. From furniture makers to appliance manufacturers, brands of all sizes are finding new and innovative ways to keep carbon footprints down and to meet sustainability targets. While previously eco-friendly additions have come with a higher price tag, we see sustainability credentials becoming a staple requirement across the board in kitchen and bathroom design for 2023 and beyond. The likes of The Used Kitchen Company have been pioneers in this movement by recycling kitchens, and there are many new products being made in a sustainable way, too. Alusplash, for example, offers a range of kitchen splashback panels made from recycled aluminium. It’s an easy to clean and fire resistant, stylish alternative to glass, acrylic and tiles.
Back to black
The thought of black kitchens and bathrooms used to only conjure up stark and contemporary schemes, but now dark and moody tones are popping up in a variety of different settings. Matt-black brassware and sanitaryware was a rising trend last year and is now a readily available finish in both spaces, but in 2023 we anticipate darker tones carrying through to other design elements.
“Black and dark-wood cabinetry is hugely popular and is no longer reserved for sleek, handleless designs,” says Richard Hibbert, owner of KSL Sudbury and chairman of UK Home Specialists Association the KBSA.
“Shades such as charcoal can work just as well on a more traditional Shaker-style front, as the design details help to add a little more depth and interest. Layering black on black in this way will create a modern, sophisticated look,” he adds.
Energy efficiency
With household bills rising dramatically, it’s never been more important to introduce water and energy-efficient technology into our homes.
“Our industry can support homeowners to reduce their energy and water consumption. We need to communicate that clearly, and continue to improve the efficiency of bathroom products,” says Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA).
“Sustainability is a core focus for us and we are, amongst other initiatives, encouraging retailers and manufacturers to use the Unified Water Label to help consumers make informed choices.”
As we see more products that use less water, such as multifunctional hot taps and flow-limiting showerheads, become available at affordable price points in 2023, positive progress will continue to be made in this area.
Mix-and-match metals
From classic chrome to luxurious-looking brass, different metallic finishes have come and gone in popularity over the last few years. In 2023, however, consumers should embrace a mix of their favourites. No need to stick to just copper or gold, a mix-and-match approach in a kitchen or bathroom can provide a stylish look. For the kitchen, this could mean appliances and taps are in a different finish to cabinet handles, helping to make either, a standout feature. Similarly in the bathroom, brassware in the shower could look different to the vanity, creating different zones. There’s no hard and fast rule to this creative style.
Breath of fresh air
Changes in the way we live often bring about the need for new, innovative products and designs and a clear example of this is the shift towards open-plan living that has happened over the past few years. With multifunctional, dynamic layouts that encompass both cooking and living now preferred in most homes, hobs with integrated ventilation are quickly moving to the top of many consumer’s kitchen wishlists. A design spearheaded by BORA, integrated cooktop extractor systems can significantly help to control steam, fumes and odours from cooking. Brands such as Siemens, Fisher & Paykel, Gaggenau and Falmec have developed powerful and innovative designs in this area too, so expect to see more options to become available this year.
