Abode, distributor of kitchen taps, sinks & showering solutions has extended its iconic Kite Bathroom Collection basin, bath and shower brassware, with the addition of a new wall-mounted basin mixer in Antique Brass, dubbed the must-have metal for 2023.
Paul Illingworth, design manager at Abode explains, “With the emphasis on luxury continuing to define a large portion of the bathroom, we have a noted a rise in demand for warm metallic finishes with brass becoming the most desirable metal in 2023. Bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary interior styles, brass even in its raw state, has the ability to be paired with almost any material such as marble and porcelain through to concrete and wood.
Abode Kite Collection
“We are really excited to expand our bestselling Kite range to give interior designers and homeowners even more choices when it comes to creating a luxurious space with our premium high-specification collection.”
The Kite Bathroom Collection is handcrafted in Italy and inspired by the classic elegance of the Chesterfield sofa made popular in the Victorian era. The diamond embossed handles introduce a signature style across a complete range of basin, bath and shower brassware and cater for a growing appetite for original product innovations.
Leanne Adamson, marketing manager at Abode says “As brass continues to gain momentum in the marketplace, we are finding that the type of finishing techniques such as brushed or antique, and the authenticity of each precision-engineered component, are helping to keep this material fresh and modern in today’s bathroom space. Adding an extra layer of luxury, highly decorative brassware that naturally depicts vintage style references like the timeless checkerboard pattern, has become a great way to embrace authenticity for both the discerning homeowner and the exacting design professional.”
The new Kite wall-mounted Basin Mixer in Antique Brass is priced from £299 including vat and is available to buy from 1st March 2023.
Sophisticated by design, the 2-hole wall-mounted model measures 240mm x 65mm with a spout reach of 175-210mm and 5-years warranty for added peace of mind and quality assurance.
Other models in the collection include a Kite Basin Mixer H193mm, Kite Tall Basin Mixer H333mm, Kite Deck-mounted Bath Panel Valves (pair), Kite Concealed Thermostatic Shower Valve (2 Exit), and complementary shower heads & arms, bath & basin clicker wastes and overflows.
When we use water, we tend to forget about the existential value it has and that it is not an infinite source that we can take for granted. That is why GROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, will dedicate its GROHE X Summit “Caring for Water” from March 7th.
Societies all over the world are facing numerous challenges such as water scarcity and climate change, that require knowledge-sharing, new ideas and innovative approaches combined with a large dose of pragmatism. During the GROHE X Summit, the brand will highlight the relevance and value of water within society by bringing the industry together to demonstrate that it needs an entire ecosystem to make positive change happen globally.
“We will look at water in the context of the key trends that shape our industry and the future of living: urbanisation, sustainability, as well as health and wellbeing. We will ask ourselves, what does the future of living look like in a world that seems to spin faster than ever before? How can we contribute to more sustainable buildings? And, finally, what potential does water have as a new mindfulness experience,” says Jonas Brennwald, leader, LIXIL EMENA.
The GROHE X Summit invites participants to join the discussion in various formats. From practiceoriented masterclasses, thought-provoking panel discussions, to inspiring keynotes and fact snacks, the GROHE X digital experience hub caters to the diverse needs of the entire ecosystem the brand is looking to engage. The programme will be complemented by showcases of new GROHE products and technologies, providing the best possible support for a sustainable tomorrow.
GROHE is pleased to announce the following selection of confirmed speakers and guests: • Elina Hiltunen, The Futures Agency, will demonstrate how we can develop scenarios that show us future possibilities and suggest potential pathways. • Børge Ousland, Norwegian adventurer and polar explorer, will share with us how he observes climate change and its effects during his expeditions. • Beth Healey, researcher for the European Space Agency, will present her findings on humanity’s dependence on water. • Thomas Rau, founder of Turntoo and RAU architects; Anne-Vera Deinhammer, director for circular cities & regions, Circular Economy Forum Austria; and Gerhard Sturm, leader commercial development, LIXIL EMENA, will discuss how we need to build for a sustainable tomorrow. • Tina Norden, Principal, Conran and Partners; Rhael “LionHeart” Cape, Spoken Word Artist; Dr. Alan Dilani, founder, International Academy for Design and Health; and Karl Lennon, leader projects channel A&D, LIXIL EMENA, will look at the healing power of architecture.
Register now to secure your spot at this year’s GROHE X Summit “Caring for Water” and get first-hand insights into how GROHE is looking to tackle future challenges around the element that is nothing less than existential.
Kelda Showers has announced it is working with Cala Homes, one of the UK’s leading new home developers, at its new development in Inchcolm Green. The series of contemporary detached and semi-detached homes are within the sought-after location of Aberdour in Fife, close to Silversands beach.
Cala’s show home main bedroom en-suite has been fitted with a BubbleSpa Exposed Mixer Shower System, featuring Kelda’s unique 3D BubbleRain spray form which creates large droplets, filled with air, that fall softly on the body for a relaxing spa-like shower. The showerhead is surrounded by an intelligent LED lighting system which when illuminated offers three different visual effect options; stream, chain and drops.
BubbleSpa showers incorporate Air-Powered technology meaning it uses a lot less water than a standard mixer shower. Using less water means less energy (generated hot water) and therefore fewer carbon emissions.
The Lowther – Inchcolm Green – Aberdour – CALA Homes (East)
From April Kevin Gates is to move from the role as UK managing director to a European business development director position and Mike Burton will step up as operational site director alongside Chris Neath who has been promoted to director of sales, to lead the UK business.
Kevin Gates has been working as the MD for Neoperl UK since 2016. The business has seen some great developments under his leadership, including embedding 5S and lean principles on the site and lots of investment in staff training. UK sales have also grown during this time despite having to lead the business through a challenging time during the Covid-19 pandemic. Kevin believes he will be ably replaced in the day to day running of the business by Mike Burton and Chris Neath who together bring 32 years of service and experience with this specialist product manufacturer.
Mike Burton joined the business in 2000 as a Toolmaking apprentice and has worked across many disciplines from toolroom leader, engineering manager to his current role as operations manager where he has been for 5 years. There is little he doesn’t know about this technical business, that still makes its own tools for the flow regulators it manufactures and distributes globally.
Chris Neath is a specialist in sales having joined Neoperl UK in sales administration in 2013. He is very well known and respected across the markets and customers they sell to and has been head of sales for the business since July 2022.
Final word from Kevin Gates, “Neoperl UK is in a strong position in the market and whilst I may be spending my time focussing on business development projects across Europe and Globally, I will still be based in the UK. It’s time for Mike and Chris to step up and bring their ideas and values to the day to day running of the business and I am confident it will continue to thrive with their energy, knowledge and skill set.
Midlands-based worktop and decorative surface distributor Blackheath Products will become an Employee Owned Trust (EOT) during March 2023.
Blackheath Products holds over £7.5million of worktops, decorative laminates and solid surfaces, which it distributes to kitchen and bathroom retailers, merchants, shopfitters and furniture manufacturers across the UK and Ireland.
Privately-owned by the same family for over four generations, the company has an annual turnover of over £24m, and employs around 60 staff members.
Managing director of Blackheath Products Mark Murphy said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for all of us at Blackheath Products.
“The Foster family has owned the business for over 90 years and their decision to transition the company to an Employee Owned Trust is driven by a passion to keep jobs in the West Midlands and continue to grow as an independent business.
“Our focus is now on our shared, exciting future, with everyone working creatively together to develop new products and services to support our customers and suppliers.”
Ian Foster, whose family owned Blackheath Products, said: “For over four generations, my family has worked with so many amazing colleagues.
“It is a privilege to be able to repay their contribution by offering all current employees the opportunity to make it their own business, within an Employee Owned Trust.”
The UK Government introduced the scheme in September 2014 to encourage more companies to structure their businesses in a similar way to ‘the John Lewis model’, EOT’s enable employee ownership through the award of indirect holdings.
Following an EOT, all employees gain an indirect stake in the company. The move is designed to benefit from greater employee engagement, more innovation, and improved business performance.
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.
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.”
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.”
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.
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 hot tubIdeal Standard Atelier Collections Conca Bath
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.
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
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
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
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.
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 Motu
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