Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Successful AGM for the Unified Water Label

January 4, 2023

The Unified Water Label Association held its AGM in Barcelona on Thursday 15 December, with members and supporters from all over Europe attending in person or taking part remotely.

UWLA President Carlos Velazquez was re-elected for a further term of office, as was Georg Taubert as UWLA VP, Timo Kopka head of marketing and Christian Taylor Hamlin, head of the technical committee.

Unified Water Label Association MD Yvonne Orgill updated the meeting on the scheme’s progress, highlighting recent growth and examples of how the Unified Water Label was increasingly being used as the bench criteria for government legislation such as the EU Taxonomy Directive.

Yvonne said, “Market transformation is happening and the UWLA is influencing at all levels. From grass roots level with young people in schools, through retailers, merchants and installers, to government bodies and associations.

“The scheme has attracted the support of 155-160 brands supported with a live database of over 14,300 individual products that is rapidly growing.

Carlos added, “We have made great progress but our challenge remains to continue to improve visibility of the label in the marketplace. We have a significant presence planned at ISH, the world’s leading trade fair for HVAC + Water, in Frankfurt from 13 to 17 March 2023.

“Next year will be an important year to build on the strong growth we have experienced so far. We have the products and the label, and we also have the solutions. Greater visibility in the marketplace will secure our success and leadership on water efficiency.”

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A question of compliance

January 4, 2023

Today we hear from Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, to understand why compliance is so important.

Adhering to regulations is essential to supplying water fittings in the UK and for connection to the water supply. Credible manufacturers do not see this as a burden and wholly welcome compliance and the emphasis it gives to high standards and safety.

The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, with a particular focus on the requirement of Regulation 4, is essential for anyone supplying taps, showers or other water fittings. The regulations require products to be of an appropriate standard and be suitable for the circumstances they are used for – often referred to as ‘Reg 4 compliant’.

This is important because it protects consumers’ water supply from contamination, either from materials or by water being pulled into the system (backflow or back-siphonage).

The BMA and its members are keen for everyone in the supply chain, from manufacturers, specifiers and developers to water undertakers, installers, and consumers, to understand Regulation 4 certification. Having that in place and correctly installing bathroom products will ensure the public is kept safe.

Installers have a legal responsibility to ensure installations comply with the water regulations, so for them, using approved certified products is a first step. For retailers, we urge them to seek out test declarations or Reg 4 certifications and ask questions of suppliers if that information is missing.

BMA members ensure their products comply with relevant safety rules by sending them for independent third-party testing or certification to verify claims. While this is not a strictly legal requirement, credible manufacturers embark on this immense effort at a significant cost so that customers have a guarantee that it meets the required standards.

However, confusion in the marketplace continues around the certification of products and demands for approvals from one specific test house are unnecessary.

While the Water Regulations Approval Scheme (WRAS) is the most well-known third-party certification for Reg 4 compliance, two other acceptable approval and certification schemes exist run by NSF (NSFreg4) and Kiwa UK (KUKreg4).

All these schemes provide the testing and certification demanded by Reg 4 and offer an equal level of assurance. Therefore, requesting certification from one specific organisation or another is unnecessary and can reinforce bottlenecks in the approvals system.

By highlighting this issue, we hope manufacturers’ supply chain partners will understand the variety of routes on offer to demonstrate compliance. This will result in high-efficiency products being launched far quicker, enabling customers to benefit from the critical energy and water savings sooner. A clear win-win for everyone, including the environment.

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Utopia’s new fleet hits the road

January 4, 2023

Utopia has announced it has just taken delivery of the first phase of its new fleet of delivery vehicles. Two vehicles in the instantly recognisable Utopia livery have now arrived at the company’s headquarters in Bilston, West Midlands, supplied by Keltruck, and will be joined by more in due course.

The new fleet will comprise nine Scania R320B4X2NA Highline Euro 6 vehicles with newly updated bodies in Utopia’s trademark vibrant blue. Each spacious cab is fully equipped with the latest technology, features and functionality. Developed to help operators increase their efficiency and performance while reducing environmental impact, the new vehicles have a 9 litre engine which is SCR only meaning they are more fuel efficient.

The investment in the new delivery fleet is just part of Utopia’s commitment to excellence in all areas of company operation. As Dave Conn, Joint Managing Director, comments “Our new vehicles and their highly trained drivers are ambassadors for our brand. Their bold presence on the nation’s roads reinforces our position as a premium quality British brand, proud to be manufacturing in the UK. We consistently receive positive feedback about the delivery of our products in pristine

condition and the helpful can-do attitude of our drivers. This new investment is vitally important as part of our wider ongoing customer service promise and delivery proposition.”

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Roca launches Tenet – a new affordable bathroom furniture collection

January 2, 2023

Why sacrifice style for an affordable price tag? With the new Tenet collection by Roca, you can have both. Compatible with pieces from Roca’s other ranges and designed to suit bathrooms of all sizes and styles, the new collection of handleless vanity units is both simple in style and flexible in use.

Here, Natalie Bird, brand manager for Roca, reveals three more reasons why Tenet is a welcome addition to the Roca family.

Reason One: Five different finishes
Tenet vanity units come in a choice of five glossy and wood finishes. “Pick a glossy finish in white or grey to catch and reflect light, making your bathroom feel roomier,” says Natalie.

Alternatively, choose between three wood-effect finishes: Nordic ash, city oak and walnut. “A wood look never fails to create an inviting contrast to all the shiny surfaces that come as standard in the bathroom,” Natalie adds.

Reason two: Versatile design

The Tenet vanity unit is 460mm deep and comes in a variety of widths to suit different storage needs. Sizes range from 600mm to 1200mm, with two, three, four or six drawers complete with built-in organisers to keep all your toiletries tidy yet close to hand. There’s also the option to have two doors instead of drawers – a convenient way to store taller bottles upright. Those wanting to boost the feeling of openness should choose a wall-hung Tenet vanity as exposing more of the floor gives the illusion of a bigger bathroom. What’s more, freeing up floorspace makes cleaning easier too.

A word of caution: “Wall-hung vanities require a little thought around concealing the waste pipe,” says Natalie. This is easy to do but needs to happen before fitting to avoid sudden changes at the end of the project.

If you prefer the look of a floor-standing unit, need extra storage space or your plumbing lends itself better to this style, the Tenet collection includes a three-drawer option that is sold with legs. “This still needs to be fixed to the wall but may offer a more practical solution for family or main bathrooms,” explains Natalie.

Reason three: Modern handleless look

“The beauty of a handleless design is that you can choose any finish for your brassware without the worry that it doesn’t match the handles on your vanity,” says Natalie. To complete the look, matching column- and wall-unit storage solutions are also available in Roca’s Extra range, giving you the option of a coordinated suite.

Stockist: 01530 830080 or uk.roca.com/where-to-buy-showrooms

Main image (top): Tenet vanity unity in walnut with two soft-close drawers and integrated basin, 800mm wide, £688, with Luna mirror with ambient LED light, ⌀800mm, £336.

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Hansgrohe Rebris: modern design in two variants

January 2, 2023

Sometimes changing one small detail is enough to make a big impact. Rebris is the new line of mixers from hansgrohe that gives a wide range of design options. The sleek, modern design comes in two varieties: one with soft curves, and the other with clean, precise lines.

The full range is available in Chrome and Matt Black finishes. In terms of efficiency, Rebris includes EcoSmart+ technology and limits the flow rate to 4 l/min. CoolStart technology also saves energy, as hot water is only added when it’s needed.

Download the brochure here.

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Hyatt expands luxury portfolio with Hotel Flüela in Switzerland

January 2, 2023

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) has announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a franchise agreement with Davos Luxury Properties AG for Hotel Flüela.

Currently operating on an unbranded basis, the 50-room luxury hotel is expected to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand in 2023 after an extensive refurbishment. The agreement demonstrates Hyatt’s commitment to the continued and significant growth of its luxury brands in Europe, as well as an ongoing commitment to offer unique, story-worthy experiences to guests and World of Hyatt members.

Situated in the heart of Davos Dorf, home to one of Switzerland’s largest ski resorts and the World Economic Forum, Hotel Flüela has played an integral role in the town’s transformation from remote Alpine village to the globally recognized business and lifestyle destination it is today. In 1868, the property’s pioneering founder Andreas Gredig reimagined his father’s inn to open the first hotel in Davos as Hotel Flüela. The astounding 155-year history of this hotel is intertwined with that of its guests – ski enthusiasts, world dignitaries and explorers who have experienced traditional Swiss hospitality at Hotel Flüela over the last century.

“Today’s announcement signals Hyatt’s commitment to delivering on our ambitious growth plans for our luxury portfolio across Europe, bringing our diverse brands to some of the region’s most sought-after destinations, says Briana Swift, director of development, Western Europe, Hyatt. “Hotel Flüela is a beloved landmark, intrinsically linked to the international acclaim Davos holds. It will be a perfect addition to The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, inspiring guests to discover their own stories amongst the town’s rich history.”

With thousands of business and leisure travelers visiting Davos each year, Hotel Flüela is enviably positioned to ensure guests make the most of their stay. Located directly opposite the Davos train station, the hotel is also a two minute walk from the vast slopes of the legendary Parsenn ski resort. Guests will be able to enjoy one of 49 elegantly designed guestrooms, taking in the impressive vistas of the surrounding snow-topped mountains.

“It’s a pleasure to work alongside Hyatt for this next step in Hotel Flüela’s impressive history,” says Jamie Negus, General Manager, Hotel Flüela “We look forward to combining our expertise with Hyatt’s in theluxury hospitality space to position Hotel Flüela as the hotel of choice for the many high-end travelers looking for world-class service and elevated experiences whilst visiting Davos.”

The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand is a distinct collection of extraordinary and inspiring properties, encouraging guests to experience one-of-a-kind stays in some of the world’s most celebrated destinations. Hotel Fluela is set to be the second Swiss property to join The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand, and will join the previously announced hotel in development in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which is expected to open in winter 2023.

Other Hyatt European properties within The Unbound Collection by Hyatt brand include: Hôtel Reisen in Sweden, The Wellem in Germany, Il Tournabuoni Hotel in Italy, Hôtel du Louvre, Hôtel du Palais Biarritz and Hôtel Martinez in France, La Zambra in Spain, Magma Resort Santorini in Greece, Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest in Hungary, Great Scotland Yard Hotel in the United Kingdom. In addition, Grand Hansa Hotel, in Helsinki, Finland, is expected to open in 2023.

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Duravit gains five accolades at the German Design Award 2023

December 29, 2022

Bathroom manufacturer Duravit was crowned “Winner” three times, received two “Special Mentions”, and won one “Gold” award in the categories “Excellent Product Design” and “Excellent Communications Design”.

“Winner”: Duravit’s striking tap series, individually configurable shower tray, and tap brochure

The iconic shapes and elegance of the Tulum tap series by Philippe Starck were crowned “Winner” at the German Design Award, as was Sustano, the first recyclable shower tray. The elegant, calm design language of the shower tray impressed the illustrious judging panel.

The tap brochure, containing the bathroom manufacturer’s range of taps and shower heads together with options to combine them with existing bathroom ranges, took the title “Winner” in “Communications Design”.

“Special Mention”: Communications campaign and event

Duravit received a “Special Mention” in the “Excellent Communications Design – Integrated Campaigns and Advertising” category for its excellent communications campaign for the complete bathroom series Duravit No.1.

The Duravit Design Days 2022, a digital event where the company presented the innovations for 2022, also received a “Special Mention”.

“Gold”: Zencha complete bathroom series
“Gold” – the highest accolade of all – was awarded to the bathroom series by designer Sebastian Herkner in collaboration with Duravit for outstanding design quality in the category “Excellent Product Design – Bath and Wellness”.

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Ideal Standard introduces new additions to Atelier Collections

December 26, 2022

Ideal Standard has added to its award-winning Atelier Collections with new beautifully crafted additions to Extra, Calla and Tipo-Z.

Created by Ludovica and Roberto Palomba, the collections combine classic features with modern technology and innovative design.

Extra (pictured top) features geometric-inspired design, with square basins that have clearly defined edges. Perfect for all spaces and sizes, the end result is truly impressive.

Calla balances classic features and subtle, contemporary touches – the perfect addition to any premium bathroom design.

Tipo-Z has been cast as a single piece of ceramic, with no gap between basin and pedestal, creating a sleek, fluent form.

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Orology: contemporary, cosmopolitan & crafted to perfection

December 22, 2022

BAGNODESIGN, the trend-leading luxury bathroom brand from Sanipex Group, introduces Orology, a collection of high-class bathroom mixers that are sleek and contemporary.

Combining trend with tactility, Orology uniquely draws inspiration from stylish watch bezels, with its versatile features offering a sense of understated luxury, allowing variations and combinations to maintain timeless contemporary elegance.

With flexibility and functionality at its core, the Orology brassware collection comes in five stunning finishes to offer the ultimate luxury of choice in bathroom design. The versatile options include PVD Gold, Anthracite, Chrome, Brushed Nickel, and Soft Bronze, each adding individual perspective and depth to the finish.

The PVD Gold sets an example for achieved luxury aesthetics, blended with glamour and style, while the Anthracite hits notes of dark, moody, sporty, and functional. Chrome and Brushed Nickel combine contemporary luxury with understated elegance, while the Soft Bronze finish offers an industrial chic look, all of which are unmatched in quality and finesse.

Offering much more than mixers for your bathroom, BAGNODESIGN also presents a diverse selection of furniture options to match each finish, including stylish terrazzo, matt black, alpine and marble integrated basins, stylewood grain furniture, and statuario tops. The Orology range comes with complete solutions for vanity units showcasing the fluted design, additional bathroom accessories, bathtubs, and sleek shower heads that spoil you for choice.

For more details, contact Sanipex Group on 01924 233977 or visit www.bagnodesign.it

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GROHE’s support of LIXIL & UNICEF “Make a Splash!” provides improved sanitation

December 22, 2022

Accessing the bathroom to use the toilet or to wash our hands is something most of us do every day without a second thought. Sadly, 1.69 billion people around the world lack access to basic sanitation, while 494 million individuals practice open defecation regularly and 30% of the world’s population do not have access to handwashing facilities with soap and water at home.

Last year, GROHE ran its “Energy for Life” campaign across 13 countries in Europe including the UK, the Middle East and North Africa, contributing 1€ for every eligible shower system and thermostat sold to support UNICEF and LIXIL’s “Make a Splash!” partnership. The total of 1.2 million euros collected was applied directly to partnership activities, supporting the underserved communities of Nigeria and Indonesia gain access to basic and safely managed sanitation and hygiene.

“At LIXIL, we are proud of our global partnership with UNICEF and GROHE’s ‘Energy for Life’ campaign. It will support the immediate and long-lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in Nigeria and Indonesia, where issues like open defecation and unsafe sanitation are a bitter reality for the majority of the population. Water is at the core of our business, and as a global leader, we are aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goal 6. We are committed to share our expertise and drive change for the better – to make access to clean water and sanitation a reality for everyone, everywhere”, says Jonas Brennwald, leader LIXIL EMENA.

“Improved sanitation and hygiene are important, especially for children in Nigeria, as this reduces the
risk of childhood diseases that can impede their overall wellbeing, learning and growth. Here at UNICEF,
we are grateful that the support from GROHE will not only help to scale access to safely managed
sanitation to more children and households but will also help contribute to the achievement of an open
defecation free Nigeria,’’ states Jane Bevan, chief of WASH, UNICEF Nigeria.

“Making sanitation services more affordable and accessible can save children’s lives and improve their health, education and economic opportunities,” says Maniza Zaman, UNICEF Representative in Indonesia.

“Our partnership with GROHE and LIXIL will bring together government partners, entrepreneurs, suppliers and financial institutions to help accelerate access to safely managed sanitation for millions of people, allowing many more children to live and thrive in a clean and healthy environment.”

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