Design London returned last month (21 – 24 September 2022) as the largest contemporary design fair of the London Design Festival. Located at Magazine London in the newest design district, Greenwich Peninsula, the show’s second edition reported a total of 12,686 visitors – from both the UK and overseas – over the course of four days. The organisers have also announced the 2023 dates which are set to be 20 – 23 September.
Marlon Cera-Marle, Director of Design at Media 10, said, “We’re very pleased with what we achieved this year – not only because this was only our second edition, but also because there was a real sense of excitement and optimism from our industry as a whole, seeing products and reconnecting with our peers in person.”
Cera-Marle added, “This year we could not be prouder of our visitor numbers, and the quality of our overall programme. We also witnessed some of the most prominent, industry-wide issues being addressed at our show, from sustainability to waste and material innovation.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported us in the last 12 months and made Design London another tremendous success. With my team, I very much look forward to planning our 2023 edition and welcoming the global design communities to our capital once again.”
Doubling its floor space with an additional exhibition area named the Showground, this year’s Design London presented over 150 exhibitors from around the world. These ranged from global brands including Adidas, HAY, Artemide, Karaca and L.Ercolani, to independent names such as Dare Studio, Wewood, OMK 1965, Christian Watson, Paul Kelley and Jonathan Coles.
The Relais Castello di Casiglio in Erba is a fascinating structure that speaks through its 700 years of history. It’s a true jewel located in a strategic position not far from Lake Como with its most famous destinations: Cernobbio, Tremezzo with Villa Carlotta, Bellagio with Villa Melzi, Lenno with Villa Balbianello and Varenna with Villa Monastero.
Relais Castello di Casiglio
The renovation of the 29 rooms of this ancient manor helped enhance all its charm, while at the same time re-evaluating its history and traditions. Concreta, the Valtellinese interior contractor with headquarters in Postalesio helped realise this project by architect Francesco Venzi. The intervention involved: 19 Standard rooms, 13 Superior rooms, 10 Classic Junior Suites, 3 Junior Suite SPA with private sauna in the room and 1 ‘Tower’ Suite in the Castle tower.
Concreta presented the first proposals for the renovation work in March 2021, modifying them according to the particular needs that gradually emerged while working on a singular structure like this castle, which was previously used as a hotel. The time span between the proposal and completion was about a year.
The main challenge in the project for Castello di Casiglio was to rethink and redesign 29 rooms out of 46 in total, in a structure that had unique specificities.
From a logistical point of view, the castle was completely different from a newly built hotel, in which hundreds of rooms can be configured in a repetitive and serial logic. Also following the specific request of the client, the peculiarity of this project was to create different rooms, not so much in the constructive logic but rather in the type of details.
The owner of the structure asked to diversify the rooms of the castle, taking into account the different typologies offered (standard, superior, junior etc …) by ‘shaping’ the furnishings within the irregular spaces typical of a structure like this, while respecting the architectural structural elements such as plasters, stones, wooden ceilings rather than plastered ceilings, existing fireplaces and terracotta floors, without however using different styles.
The answer was to develop a common path by function using the same architectural language and with the same design line. Each room has the specificities required by a structure of this type but, while maintaining identical materials, treatments and finishes, some details have been highlighted by varying the colour (such as the seat fabrics or the paintings), the model or the typology (for example of curtains and objects) as well as the size and shape of some fixed furnishings.
As architect Francesco Venzi states: ” We have also chosen to use a different wallpaper for each room, according to the type of rooms or the light, with the aim of differentiating the perception of the spaces designed in a common matrix, without creating contrast between the different settings. The idea that inspired this design path was for the customer – so that when he returned to the hotel the following year, and stay in a different room – the feeling of being in an environment that is not consistent with the previous one, but at the same time recognizing the same atmosphere.”
In this context, the role of lighting was crucial. The interiors of the castle are a succession of unusual and embracing settings and here the lighting project was fundamental in bringing out the design.
Architect Venzi had thought of a lighting layout capable of enhancing the design of the rooms and the architecture of the spaces, designing lamps specifically for this project or simply using LED systems chosen from mass production, modelled according to the space requirements; both solutions were built or supplied by Concreta partners with the right know-how in this sector.
With its 700 years of history, the structure of the Castello di Casiglio is itself rich in fascinating and characterizing details, with exposed stone walls, ceilings with exposed beams, terracotta floors and important furnishings. This made it unnecessary to add other important building elements or colours, it was preferred to emphasize the venue through a stimulating comparison between past and present in a constant dialogue among new elements of furniture, existing floors in terracotta, stone and wood.
The same wood was used both for the new floors and for the construction of the furniture. Everything was made to measure by the Concreta, creating a muted material with a chromatic contrast that fully respects the history of the manor.
Fabrics play a leading role in creating the charm of the settings. Matching furniture and materials were used, which differ only in some details, while curtains have been adapted from time to time to blend with the structure of the rooms.
Castello di Casiglio is 4 km from the Villa d’Este Golf Club. and an ideal location for meetings, conferences, team building activities, weddings or events. Romantic or themed dinners are served in the new Lècru Restaurant, located in the oldest part of the castle and also open to external customers.
Metal, gratings, drains, black, silver, brushed steel and brass are not on your average shopping list but if you are looking for a ‘softer’ industrial silhouette for your bathroom this could be just the inspiration you need.
The 1950s saw the start of the industrial design movement; beginning in New York where large warehouses were re-invented and became the ultimate in spacious, stylish avant-garde living. Iron beams, naked brick and bare wooden floors, the look went initially from open plan living through to specific rooms first to the kitchen and now industrial design has found a new home for inspiration in the bathroom.
The focus is on strong, tough materials, less sleek and shiny, more brushed metal, brass, copper, steel or even black. Other elements that are synonymous with this look are aged woods with a slightly tarnished look and polished cement.
Fusion Studio TIFF File
Industrial design is based on contrast, a mixture of light and shade combining textures and tone in fixtures and fittings, for some this can be a little too harsh.
So, you may decide to opt for a soft industrial style; still using some of the key characteristics of an industrial bathroom but toning them down. A bare brick or cement wall might be too much but using a darker design style and including brushed metallic elements may be more acceptable.
One way of introducing darker tones is with a black frame shower screen, such as Unidrain’s GlassLine. The colour is perfect adding just the right touch of industrial style; as the black frame itself hints at the large, framed windows in a New York apartment.
The black framed GlassLine shower screen is 10mm of clear tempered glass, available in three sizes it can be mounted to the left or right and is installed discreetly and securely without any visible display of fixings, screws, fittings, or joins. The screen is lowered into the Undrain uniquely designed ShowerLine drain located under the bathroom flooring, before being attached to the wall, creating a secure, stable, and watertight showering space.
The black frame sits against the wall covering any edges and generating a smooth finish. For an additional industrial touch install the screen with Unidrain’s colour coordinated black HighLine frame and panel.
Metals are a key factor in industrial style, but getting the right finish is essential. Smooth, shiny metals such as chrome don’t offer the rugged and raw look needed for an industrial bathroom, copper and brushed brass finishes have a slightly warmer tone and suggest a more rustic look.
This different shade can be introduced both in the shower drain and, in the accessories used in the bathroom, from towel hooks and shower shelves to toilet roll holders and toilet brushes. All are part of the Reframe Collection and add a hint of colour to a room which could otherwise be quite dark.
Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review. Diane Larner launched both titles over 12 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
In this feature, we consider some of the options available to architects and designers, from crafty solutions that hide the accessories we would rather not see, to designs that add finesse to future-proofing.
Alternative endings
Ritmonio ELEMENTA
Planning accessories early on in the project is a safe way to ensure design clarity and continuity; however, this is not always foolproof, as change is inevitable in design evolution. Even the firmest of resolutions are subject to revision, which will impact each aspect, from surfaces to accessories. Selecting a range with a variety of finishes is one way to ensure leeway at any stage of the game.
HiB Atto Range
Ash Chilver, sales director at HiB, agrees: “Perhaps the most notable development of bathroom accessories over the years is the rise in popularity of alternative finishes. Though still a staple choice, chrome is no longer the only option and many designers and consumers are opting for alternatives such as black and brushed metals to enhance their overall look. This trend is set to continue with further options currently being developed.”
Options such as HiB’s Atto range are available in chrome, black and brushed brass finishes, offering versatility applicable to various trends. Pieces in the range can be matched with brassware and mirrors with the same finish, creating a consistent style throughout the space.
Ritmonio’s ELEMENTA collection (pictured very top and above) has also been created to deliver a ‘made-to-measure’ approach for design flexibility. Available in 19 finishes and various materials, including stainless steel and acrylic stone, the clean design means individual elements can be combined to create unique compositions for countless types of accessories.
Geo style
Scavolini Jemoetrica collection
Selecting products that will outlive current trends is key to creating design with longevity. Accessories that stand the test of time may be considered in terms of shape and colour. One option is to build in geometric styling; this centuries-old style plays well with a wide range of surroundings delivering elegance and flair.
James Sketch, country manager of KEUCO UK agrees: “Now more than ever before project managers and specifiers are looking for elements that have a practical aspect, and a design style that will last, and ensures the bathroom maintains a contemporary look for many years to come.”
Scavolini’s Jemoetrica collection(pictured above) is a perfect example of this. Created in collaboration with world-renowned designer Luca Nichetto it is heavily influenced by three iconic 20th-century designs: Ellsworth Kelly’s Sculpture for a Large Wall, Gio Ponti’s multifunctional wall units and Donald Judd’s three-dimensional structures. The wall panel accommodates a series of holes onto which shelves, containers and small accessories can be attached and moved as required.
Keuco REVAKeuco REVAKeuco REVA
Another alternative is KEUCO’s REVA accessories series; the collection has been crafted as a clear geometric shape – ideal for various styles and living environments, regardless of fashion trends.
Attention to detail
KEUCO REVA Shower Shelf
However necessary (and beautifully designed) accessories are, they must work hard to look good. Creating clean lines and an uncluttered feel can be difficult once you add shelving and accompaniments.
One way to combat this is to build in recesses or to include accessories that hide away. A squeegee will always be a little awkward, yet, KEUCO’s shower shelf (pictured above) has a hidden extra that remedies the problem – a glass squeegee is invisibly integrated into the design, a detail that is both creative and practical.
Unidrain’s REFRAME collection is also packed full of cleverly engineered designs. It has been created with keen attention to detail to guarantee the ultimate user experience. For example, the newly launched soap dispenser has a robust construction with a non-slip base which keeps it upright and stable, but the most noble design feature is the angled nozzle. This has been crafted to dispense a specifically measured quantity of soap and due to the angle, the soap lands in your hand and not on the washbasin.
HiB support barHiB foldable shower seatHiBshower shelf
Bathroom accessories are, by default, hands-on, and we know haptics play a significant role in our sense of well-being. This makes shape and texture a key consideration when planning accessories and is especially pertinent to future-proofing or accessible design; for example, a supportive, comfortable grab rail will deliver a heightened sense of safety.
HiB’s multigenerational accessories are an excellent option for families with many age groups living under one roof. Careful planning early on in the project is key when building an accessible design; products such as foldable shower seats can be a stylish but practical solution that aids mobility and access without imposing on the available space.
For the latest kitchen design features – visit Kitchens Review
Undrain has expanded its award-winning Reframe Collection of bathroom accessories with the launch of an exclusive new designer soap dispenser. The carefully considered design has been created with keen attention to detail to guarantee the ultimate user experience.
Key features of the soap dispenser are its robust construction and non-slip base which keeps it upright and stable, but the most noble design feature is the angled nozzle. This has been crafted to dispense a specifically measured quantity of soap and due to the angle, the soap lands in your hand and not on the washbasin.
It’s intelligent details such as this that are the hallmark of the entire Reframe Collection which incorporates an additional nine designer bathroom accessories.
Soap Shelf & Shower Wiper – magnets are hidden in the wall mounting, which ensure the safe and discrete storage of the silicone blade wiper, whilst the shelf above provides a platform for all your showering essentials. Both items are also available as individual units, making it ideal for an extensive range of projects.
Corner Shelf – corners; in reality tend to not be an exact 90-degree angle. The beauty of the corner shelf is that is both visual and practical as it adapts to the specific shape and dimensions of the individual corner. The shelf has an anti-slip barrier to ensure shower essentials do not slip when the shelf is wet, whilst discreet grooves enable excess water to drain away easily.
Towel Bar – place alongside your bath, shower, or washbasin, with its unique mounting design this bar keeps towels stylishly in situ.
Hooks – discrete and effective, these perfectly shaped hooks will prevent towels and garments from slipping.
Toilet Paper Holder – this keeps the roll in place with a magnetic removable part with carefully optimised friction properties, ensuring that the paper rolls off perfectly. This holder is reversible and can be positioned for your convenience. An additional element is the spare toilet paper holder, which can be positioned alongside ensuring all needs are met.
Toilet Brush – Sleek design, hygienic functionality. The toilet brush holder has an anti-drip function and for additional cleanliness an easily exchangeable brush head.
The 200 ml soap dispenser is 13.3 cm high and 7.7 cm in circumference, it is available as both a countertop model and a wall-mounted version, and like the other designs in the bathroom series, it is available in brushed stainless steel, polished stainless steel, as well as PVD-coated brass, black and copper.
The Reframe Collection is an exclusive high-quality Danish design bathroom accessory series, inspired by Scandinavian minimalism and quality, the Reframe Collection reimagines and develops well-known products to achieve the finest functionality in the bathroom.
“With the introduction of a new soap dispenser, the Reframe Collection is now even sharper. As an architect, plumber, or interior designer advising customers on their new bathrooms, you may want to suggest the Reframe Collection as a supplement to their line drains,” explains International Sales Manager René Risom.
For many DIY enthusiasts, upgrading their own home is an enjoyable pastime, taking time to create their perfect space. When it comes to designing our homes, the stakes are often high, especially when it comes to our functional rooms such as the bathroom.
Planning a new bathroom is not just about creating your very own oasis of well-being, it’s also about ensuring that the products match, fit and function perfectly. Making a conscious product selection is key for ultimate comfort, design harmony and long-lasting quality. That’s why many tend to hesitate when it comes to the more complex changes – such as installing a new toilet.
New bundle concept
The brand-new, bundle concept GROHE SOLIDO ALL IN ONE is a user-friendly alternative that means consumers no longer have to spend time on choosing individual products, but instead can buy smartly and have peace of mind. Once a GROHE WC design has been chosen, the ideal combination of high-quality products and installation components is pulled together by GROHE in just one box, ready for installation.
Making the ideal look possible
GROHE SOLIDO ALL IN ONE makes it easy for consumers to choose the right WC model to suit all preferences. No matter if it’s a classic or modern look, basic level or luxurious comfort – the ready-to-install packages are available in different design variants to meet the highest of standards.
Consumers can choose from four designs that include best sellers and beloved classics such as Bau, Euro, Start Edge and Essence. Consumers also have freedom of choice with regard to preferred features, for example, a quiet flush and hygienic functions. Multiple product options, including all the important parts of a WC set, will ensure the consumer’s choice is a perfect match for all their style and functional requirements.
The perfect WC is more than just a look…
…it is a big component of people’s everyday lives. Nowadays, aspects such as hygiene and sustainability matter when it comes to choosing the right product for the home. The value of hygiene in the bathroom in particular has never been more important, and wall-hung WCs enhance this further. Thanks to their space-saving positioning they allow easy cleaning, with limited fixtures and streamlined fittings.
On top of this, features such as the strong GROHE Triple Vortex flush supports hygiene by cleansing every corner of the bowl, limiting the chances for bacteria to thrive. As people’s conscious decisions are reflected in their interior design choices, the search for sustainable products does not end with the WC itself. The GROHE dual flush system in GROHE’s air flush plates reduces water consumption by up to 50%, helping to support sustainable lifestyle choices.
Duravit has appointed Simon Brown to the position of head of projects. Having been with the company for five years as a project manager, Simon will be responsible for the strategy & growth of Duravit’s project sector within the UK and Ireland.
The role includes management of the project pipeline, the ongoing development of Duravit’s project partners, and the positioning of the Duravit brand as the leading bathroom supplier within the A&D community.
Martin Carroll, managing director of Duravit UK comments: “Simon has proved himself to be a very valuable member of the Duravit team and I am delighted that he will be driving our development of the project market forward and strengthening further the strong relationships we have with our project partners.
In addition, Simon’s technical expertise and knowledge of industry legislation will ensure that the Duravit Group is always compliant where necessary on crucial topics such as water regulations and certification.
Scudo, the Leeds based distribution arm of Harrison Bathrooms is taking their fabulous range of new showers, faucets, mirrors, cabinets and bathroom furniture in a travelling showroom, on tour around the UK.
As part of the tour, the travelling showroom is visiting valued customers to present new products and offers, as well as introducing Scudo to potential new retailers, buying groups and merchants.
The travelling showroom is equipped with the latest comprehensive range of Scudo products, efficiently presented to aid buying selection and display decisions, and can be scheduled to suit retailer need.
For more information or to book a tour please contact www.scudo.co.uk
RAK Ceramics PJSC (Ticker: RAKCEC: Abu Dhabi), one of the world’s largest ceramics brands, today announced it was awarded the Special Jury Prize at the TecnAwards 2022 in Rimini, Italy.
The ACIMAC, Associazione Costruttori Italiani Macchine Attrezzature per Ceramica (Association of Italian Manufacturers of Machinery and Equipment for Ceramics), awarded RAK Ceramics the Special Jury Prize for its outstanding work in marketing and brand strategy.
Paolo Lamberti, Chairman of ACIMAC said, “RAK Ceramics stands out as the multi-product multinational company with the best marketing and brand awareness strategy in the ceramic tile, sanitaryware, and tableware industries, which is part of a strong business model that has proven to be able to create value by focusing on innovation in every aspect of the business.”
The TecnAwards 2022 award ceremony was held on Tuesday 27th September at the Rimini Expo Centre in the “Future Arena” Conference Area and was part of Tecna 2022 Inaugural Conference “How to Make the Future: Visions and Challenges”, where Abdallah Massaad, Group CEO of RAK Ceramics, was honoured as a guest speaker. Commenting on the occasion, he said, “RAK Ceramics is a success story that has grown from a ceramics producer to a global lifestyle brand in a relatively short period of time. This success has been achieved through the vision and unwavering support of our stakeholders, sustained investment in manufacturing technologies, and the hard work of our employees. I’d like to thank everyone at RAK Ceramics. I’m honoured to accept this award on their behalf.”
Mr Massaad added, “Thank you to ACIMAC for recognising organisations like ours. Your contributions are critical to the success of businesses like RAK Ceramics and the industry as a whole. We will continue to grow for many years to come with your support.”
In October 2022, this latest generation, which includes the first electric yachts will set sail. Kaldewei is bringing its LUXSTAINABILITY concept from the sanitary mainland to the seven seas for the first time with its washbowls made of recyclable steel enamel.
The collaboration between the German bathroom manufacturer and the shipbuilding company is said to be sustainable in the truest sense of the word, as both are said to share high standards when it comes to ecologically responsible products. The vessels from SILENT-YACHTS are solar-powered and electric which gives them the ability to cruise and operate with zero emission.
Kaldewei and SILENT-YACHTS affirm buyers have two partners who both consistently place sustainability and CO2 savings at the focus of their actions. In Autumn 2021 Kaldewei produced the first premium products from CO2-reduced bluemint® Steel. For this family business, Luxstainability means nothing less than the combination of individual luxury and sustainability. The expression marks a forward-looking strategy within the entire Kaldewei production. From the company’s point of view, both aspects are decisive factors for contemporary bathroom design, which is now being used for the first time in modern shipbuilding.
“We believe that when it comes to yachting, sustainability goes beyond the solar-electric powertrain. We know that it takes a comprehensive approach in all areas for our passion really to work hand in hand with nature. For this reason, we base our approach on three pillars: Design, material and operations,” says designer Juliana Miguel, who is the creative lead at SILENT-YACHTS.
Their design team is enthusiastic about steel enamel and the modern Kaldewei washbasins. With its slender design, Miena skilfully adds accents to every bathroom, even on the high seas, and turns the bathroom into a place of retreat into a real area of well-being. The recyclable and durable steel enamel material makes the washbowls an easy-care, durable jewel that can withstand constant use or particularly salty air.
