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.
Hot off the press for 2023, HiB has launched a new Trends Guide revealing the latest bathroom interior styles.
As well as providing inspiration and guidance on how to approach interior design, the booklet also highlights how to make the best use of the bathroom space.
Discover more about the Petrichor trend, which explores earthy tones and organic materials, or Retrospective Future, which champions pushing boundaries and innovation through textures and technology. There’s also Mono Mineral which uses a muted palette and structured lines to create a honed, tactile effect and Vellichor which celebrates nostalgia and decadence for a luxurious feel.
Steve Kaye, marketing director at HiB said: “Interior trends are always evolving, so keeping an eye on what is going to be the next big thing is important if you’re creating a new bathroom. Our design team has their finger on the pulse with emerging fashions, bringing together our predictions for the new year. The four trends we’ve highlighted for 2023 offer the next generation of some familiar styles as well as some new themes to explore.”
Leading global sanitaryware and kitchen fitting manufacturer, GROHE has identified three leading macro-trends that will shape the interior landscape, alongside accompanying microtrends such as colours, textures, materials, and shape.
Here, Patrick Speck, leader LIXIL global design EMENA, who is responsible for GROHE’s design, dives deeper into how urbanisation, a desire to be sustainable, and health and wellbeing are impacting design trends in the home.
A deep understanding of how consumers want to live and what they expect from their homes is key to creating human-centric, purpose-driven solutions. Only with consumer-centric thinking can brands and manufacturers develop innovations that seamlessly integrate and enhance the way we move through everyday life.
Urbanisation
Densification in the urban landscape has led to a rethinking of design concepts, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of big cities without compromising on comfort. In addition, communal spaces such as co-living and co-working areas have emerged.
Sustainability
2023’s consumer is more aware than ever of the consequences their actions are having on our planet, coupled with the global cost of living crisis and the rising costs of household bills, it’s expected that many will be favouring brands and products that offer conscious consumption, resource-saving credentials and value for money.
Health & Wellbeing
In the hospitality sector, we see the borders of the bedroom and bathroom dissolving, likewise with the kitchen and living room in the residential sector. These once purely functional rooms are no longer but are instead becoming integrated living spaces, where individual style and emotional connection are prioritised when it comes to design.
As a result, throughout 2023 we expect functional fittings such as taps, ceramics, and showers to demonstrate significant attention to detail as they are more on show. Here, coloured brassware and ceramics in bold shape and colours will increase in demand as homeowners seek out products that will portray their individuality.
When it comes to colour, homeowners will prioritise colours that offer optimism and joy such as neutrals, bright metallics and pastels. The power of colour continues to grow in importance, and the notion of calm, kind, and restorative colour is a core theme as wellness and health are prioritised.
RAK-Plano countertop surfaces from RAK Ceramics have been named Best Surface of the Year, at the recent KBB Focus Awards 2022. In what has quickly become an important date in the kbb calendar, industry professionals gathered at The Brewery, London, where the top brands and products were recognised.
RAK Ceramics was awarded for its innovative RAK-Plano – a surface that combines elegance, durability and functionality in the modern bathroom.
Designed to be combined with the manufacturer’s design-led RAK-Joy and RAK-Joy Uno furniture, the surface is available in three TECHWOOD finishes and in the brand’s innovative matt white RAKSOLID material. RAK-Plano is a one-piece vanity top, without joints that can be drilled and cut (if necessary) directly on-site. This gives designers complete freedom in positioning the washbasin and mixer.
Commenting on the KBB Focus Award, sales and marketing director for RAK Ceramics in the UK, Ben Bryden, said: “RAK-Plano is a surface that offers bathroom designers an awful lot, both in terms of style and function. It has been very well received since its launch to the market, with this award topping off what has been a very successful year.”
Distributor PJH has launched its Bathrooms to Love BOND, a unique initiative that aims to protect the independent retailer from online pricing competition.The initiative ispart of its growth strategy, of which the independent retailer is an important part.
Bathrooms to Love BOND, which stands for Brand assurance, Online price protection, New and exclusive product ranges, and Display and showroom support, helps to not only protect the Bathrooms to Love brand, but provides online price protection by preventing Bathrooms to Love products from being sold ‘like-for-like’ via e-commerce websites at reduced RRPs.
The Bathrooms to Love BOND commits PJH to protect and invest in the Bathrooms to Love brand and provides online price protection by preventing Bathrooms to Love products from being sold via e-commerce websites at reduced RRP’s.
TheBathrooms to Love BOND will also provide independent retailers with regular new product launches as well as offer the best display and showroom support. This includes Augmented Reality (AR), which facilitates greater product understanding by allowing products to be viewed in customer’s own spaces – all part of PJH’s 5-star First Choice Service.
Removing the ‘like-for-like’ price differentiation common between e-commerce sites and retail showrooms, PJH has introduced ‘Your Label’, an innovative and industry leading solution that allows retailers the ability to sell the Bathrooms To Love product range online via their own e-commerce website, with PJH providing the ability for the e-commerce customer to add unique product names, codes and product information. Your Label will even apply retailers’ own product names and codes on the packaging label as well as deliver the product direct to customer homes, for a completely seamless retail solution.
Speaking about Bathrooms to Love BOND and the‘Your Label’ solution, Brett Jenkinson, head of retail customer experience, PJH, said: “Being able to support our ‘bricks & mortar’ retail customers against the challenge of on-line pricing is important for PJH, and pivotal to our continuous goal of providing a First Choice Service.Bathrooms to Love BOND, together withYour Label underlines this commitment to our independent bathroom retailers, helping them differentiate their product offering and therefore protecting them against on-line price discounting.
“Your Label’ supports this differentiation, allowing e-commerce customers to take advantage of the vast and always on-trend Bathrooms to Love collection, but to offer it to their customers with their own unique range and product names, and also with our end-to-end 5-star customer support including sourcing, picking, packing and delivery direct to the customer’s home.”
Bathrooms to Love BOND and ‘Your Label’ are available to new and existing PJH customers and will be supported by PJH’s class leading Partners Portal™ web site. This allows retailers the ability to manage transactions and view order history as well as access support materials such as product information, photography, and the tools to order, track and arrange ‘Next Day’ deliveries to 91% of UK post codes.
Brett added: “PJH prides itself on working with its many different customer types by providing solutions that are mutually beneficial – part of our ‘together we’re better’ strategy, and our Bathrooms to Love BOND and ‘Your Label’ initiatives reinforce this commitment to support the shared goal of growing sales.”
To find out more about the Bathrooms to Love BOND and‘Your Label’ solutions contact PJH on: – Tel: 0800 8 77 88 99 or visit the e-commerce site: www.partners.pjh.uk
VitrA Bathrooms has launched an online training module for retailers and specifiers for its comprehensive range of shower toilets – V-Care and Aquacare.
Margaret Talbot, marketing manager for VitrA, explains, “In Japan and much of the East, shower toilets are an everyday, popular product. Yet market sales and awareness are both low here in the UK.”
VitrA offers visually aesthetic and cost-effective shower toilets and was keen to understand consumer hesitation. Working with Trend Monitor, VitrA Bathrooms, based in Oxfordshire, commissioned a comprehensive piece of research to understand the drivers and hurdles for the sales of shower toilets in the UK.
The research showed that, out of 16,740 people, only 0.01% had a shower toilet in their home – clearly illustrating that there is little awareness of the product in the market.
“96% of bathroom purchasers were not offered a shower toilet as part of their bathroom design. Yet 77% of respondents who had used a shower toilet said they would consider one for a bathroom or cloakroom. These findings indicate there is enormous potential for shower toilet sales.” Margaret explains.
Secondary research, which targeted consumers within the AB socio-economic groups who had bought and installed a new bathroom or cloakroom within the past three years, showed that 38% of homeowners hadn’t heard the term ‘shower toilet’. A further 74% had never used one. This demonstrates the opportunities available to educate, with consumers having little idea of a shower toilet, how it works, or the vast range of benefits.
VitrA’s research also showed that there are two primary buying personas. Firstly, those aged 50+ with limited mobility who have been alerted to the benefits of shower toilets by a hospital therapist. Secondly, those aged 30-50 who are more affluent and well-travelled and have used a shower toilet before and appreciated the health and well-being benefits. Both groups showed that promoting the benefits of a shower toilet instead of the features is more effective. Price point was a common barrier in the research, particularly when factoring in installation costs. Many only suggest a shower toilet to those with a renovation budget of over £10,000.
Nonetheless, with increasing consumer interest in hygiene, sustainability, wellness and smart products, there is enormous potential for the shower toilets market. Globally it is expected to reach USD 6.78 Billion by 2027, an increase of 1.85 billion (Source – Blue Weave Consulting).
To help its retailers communicate the numerous benefits of shower toilets and washing with water, VitrA has launched an online training tool. The tool educates retailers on using the product and its myriad benefits and features. The training module is hosted on the VitrA Academy, VitrA’s platform for different training modules.
Margaret Talbot explains, “Shower toilets offer a huge growth potential for retailers in the UK. Just like with dishwashers in the kitchen 30 years ago, consumers feel shower toilets are a costly, unessential luxury. Today, many households would not consider a home without a dishwasher – it’s no longer a luxury but a hygienic, environmentally-sound decision. Similarly, over time the shower toilet will become a UK bathroom must-have as it has in many countries worldwide.
“This research has added to our understanding of opportunities and challenges. Our shower toilets are feature-rich and price-competitive; our training academy is designed to support our retailers in understanding and communicating the benefits.”
