Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

PORCELANOSA Group launches new collections

February 7, 2022

The Spanish multinational has revealed its new collections with more natural finishes and technological solutions.

“Our investment in R&D&I and ongoing dialogue with architects and interior designers have led us to explore new material formulas and uses, meaning we’re placing a priority on the quality and practicality of each product, rather than the merely aesthetic”, states a company representative.

Porcelnosa’s seven main showrooms will house new room schemes to demonstrate the use of materials in the months to come.

Solidker, the full-body porcelain of the future

Porcelnosa claim Solidiker porcelain is the first full-body solution that uses the same raw material from the surface through the whole of the tile body, and benefits from an extremely low level of water absorption (≤ 0.2%).

The Dakota and Seattle series are floor tiles made for large-scale projects. The customisable design comes in three neutral tones (Grey, Sand and Black) and various formats (120 cm x 120 cm and 59.6 cm x 120 cm), and is inspired by ultra-sophisticated quartzite. The collection will elevate the look of the room and make it safer too, thanks to the relief and non-slip properties.

The neutral colours of Seattle tiles – Grey, Sand and Topo – combined with the cement textures and balanced colour palette, will lend a sense of style to spaces.

For bathrooms Noken has introduced sensory designs with the Finish Studio aesthetic, compatible with Essence C Compact washbasins in nine colours, signature Lignage taps designed by architect Ramón Esteve, winner of the Best Design Award at the 2019 IF Design Awards, Lounge toilets with a new matte black and white look, and Round pieces in a brushed gold finish.

In the furnishings category, the company presents its Forma collection with vibrant new finishes such as Merlot red, Forest green and Almond beige.

Aiming to promote the efficient use of energy and natural resources, the company has designed touchless flushes and taps (Round). with sensors and I-Smart technology that enable users to tailor the amount of water and soap they use.

For Porcelanosa’s latest kitchen designs visit www.kitchens-review.co.uk

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Get ready to raise the bar

February 7, 2022

Bathroom Manufacturers Association chief executive, Tom Reynolds explains why water efficiency and decarbonisation are intricately linked, and what this means for a sustainable future.

“The relationship between water efficiency and decarbonisation is gaining attention like never before.
When Environment Secretary George Eustice published a statement to parliament setting out plans to reduce domestic water consumption in July last year, there was a collective sharp intake of breath.

“An estimated 6% of the UK’s carbon impact is linked to the management of water resources. Furthermore, after space heating, water heating is the next most carbon-intensive operation in the home, so if the country is to meet its net-zero ambitions, change needs to happen.

“As a sector, bathroom manufacturers are innovating and designing to meet this new focus on water efficiency. What can be done to speed up the process of launching new water technologies, and can we encourage more homeowners to prioritise water savings when they pick a new bathroom?

“These are the issues being addressed at BMA’s upcoming Sustainability Forum, on Monday 7 March, Suite 28, NEC Birmingham. Now in its third year, the Forum has covered an extensive range of topics, with expert speakers giving their insights and pressing for action from both policymakers and the industry itself.

“The next meeting of the open forum, taking place alongside KBB Birmingham, will be about consolidation. Giving the full picture of the environmental policies affecting our sector right now and in the immediate future. Speakers include Eirini Passia, Consultant for ICF, BEIS research partners, Dr Nathan Richardson, Waterwise, and Justine Bullock, Co-Creator, The Tap End.

“We will also host a joint networking lunch with BMF Kitchen and Bathroom Forum.

“Climate change is already putting pressure on the natural environment in the UK and impacting on our water resources.

“Extreme weather events, unpredictable water availability and changes in water cycle patterns globally mean we must become more efficient with this precious natural resource. In 2019, BMA members decided that sustainability is a strategic priority for the association and that led to the creation of this open forum. It provides manufacturers, designers, retailers and architects an opportunity to hear from thought-leaders and exchange ideas to help the whole sector raise the bar.

“This is the fifth meeting of the forum, and as usual, it is attracting a top-notch speaking panel to lead discussions on a broad-ranging agenda. It is open to anyone connected to the bathroom sector with an interest in sustainability.”

The forum is free to BMA members and is £39+VAT for non-members.

Book your place here.

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Roca Group launches global corporate venturing fund to invest 25 million in startups

February 7, 2022

Roca Group has launched a corporate venturing fund endowed with 25 million euros. The company will Invest in start-ups and entrepreneurial projects that develop their activity in priority areas for the company.

Through this fund, called Roca Group Ventures, the company plans to allocate between 0.5 and 2 million euros per project, to finance those initiatives that demonstrate the greatest potential. Roca Group estimates that, within five years, the investment portfolio will comprise of between 10 and 15 companies.

For the launch of Roca Group Ventures, Roca Group will work with Alantra, a financial services and asset management firm specialising in investments and operations of this kind. Alantra will advise the fund in the deal flow process.

Roca Group Ventures will also support Roca Group’s commitment to sustainability, as through this fund the company will prioritise start-ups that focus on environmentally friendly practices, extending its green strategy to all the projects it works with.

Four areas of development and innovation

Roca Group defined four business areas of interest in the search of opportunities: wellness and smart bathrooms; new businesses and materials; energy efficiency and rationalisation of water consumption; and, lastly, operational excellence in its industrial processes.

Regarding wellness and smart bathrooms, the company will seek technological resources that, through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and connectivity, improve the usability of devices; contribute to the development of eco-friendly products; and also to the development of products that generate spaces for relaxation.

In terms of new businesses and new materials, Roca Group Ventures will focus on disruptive solutions based on technology with a wide margin for growth, as well as on new materials for both construction and the manufacturing of new products.

In the field of energy efficiency and rationalisation of water consumption, the group will identify and develop products and services that contribute to the generation of connected and sustainable homes, with a special focus on the reduction of water usage.

Finally, with the aim of increasing operational excellence, technologies such as AI, 3D printing, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain or embeddable platforms, will also be of interest to the fund.

Albert Magrans, CEO of Roca Group, explained that Roca Group Ventures seeks to “generate a hybrid entrepreneurial model that combines the advantages of a large company (resources, scale, knowledge, experience, marketing) with the innovation, technology, motivation, agility and talent of a startup”. Roca Group Ventures will be a global fund seeking to invest in startups all over the world.

Roca Group will appoint an executive figure from the organisation to act as Ventures Head, coordinating the collaboration with different specialists and managers of the company, accelerators, incubators and other partners to facilitate the identification and development of projects.

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Duravit No.1 – a complete bathroom range on a budget

February 2, 2022

The new Duravit No.1 complete bathroom series is a compact and comprehensive product range designed for the entry-level segment.

This is an ideal collection for a first-time buyer bathroom through to the hotel and the project sector: all products have been created to enhance the quality of daily life.

Duravit No.1 opens up a whole host of combination options, creating the perfect foundation for a range of bathroom plans and designs.

Washbasins

Washbasins in the budget price range are usually circular. Duravit’s planning-friendly rectangular dimensions feature a narrow design on the side edge to produce a large inner basis. Washbasins and handrinse basins can be combined with pedestals, semi-pedestals, or vanity units. In addition, furniture and built-in washbasins are available.

Practical furniture

There is a minimal overhang from the washbasin to the bathroom furniture, which underlines the modernity of the Duravit No.1 design, as does the recessed grip; pleasant to the touch this is “seamlessly” integrated into the décor fronts.

Available in White Matt or Graphite Matt, the furniture has been designed to enable easy retrofitting at a later stage.

Vanity units with a hinged door are available for the handrinse basins (450 and 500 mm) and furniture with a pull-out compartment; on request, an additional and practical internal drawer can be selected for the washbasins (550, 600, 650 and 800 mm). A semi-tall cabinet provides generous storage options. Matching mirrors and mirrored cabinets have long-lasting and energy-saving LED lighting. All furniture is supplied pre-assembled and fully adjusted, enabling quick and convenient final installation.

Universal taps

The Duravit No.1 tap range has a harmonious design with an upward-facing handle. The washbasin mixers feature long-lasting ceramic cartridges, subtly integrated aerators, and sustainable product features such as FreshStart (energy-saving cold-water start) or MinusFlow (throughput limited to 3.5 l/min).

Comfortable bathtubs

The trapezoid built-in bathtub is made from sanitary acrylic and is available in three sizes, with the option of left or right corner versions. The bathtub provides a luxurious bathing experience with a comparatively low filling volume even on smaller floor plans. Rectangular built-in bathtubs in all standard sizes complete the range; the 1800 x 800 mm model is available as a two-seater.

With depths of 40 or 46 cm, the bathtubs are comfortable whether sitting or lying. The bathing experience can be further enhanced by the optional whirl function with its beneficial massage effect. Bathtub handles, can be ordered separately and are installed at the factory, improving safety.

Successful toilet standards

The Duravit No.1 toilet range features Duravit’s Rimless® flushing technology and the successful DuraStyle Basic toilets, plus a wall-mounted toilet for children.

Bidets and urinals complete the product range. Simple, practicable, and stylish: Duravit No.1 has everything that a contemporary bathroom needs, optimum quality at an unbeatable price. This is reflected in its new lifetime guarantee, which Duravit offers on all the ceramic elements in the range for selected countries.

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Hib unveils new Platform illuminated bathroom mirror

February 2, 2022

The new Platform mirror from product supplier HiB is available in three sizes and benefits from precision LED lighting and an integrated toothbrush charger.

The precision LED lighting is positioned around the edge of the surface, making it ideal for practical use. The unique design of its illuminated glass shelf also offers ample opportunities for storage and access to essentials. This combined with the integrated electric toothbrush charger, which fits most major toothbrush brands, plus the wireless phone charger and removable anti-slip mat, makes the Platform mirror innovative and highly versatile as a bathroom product.

Available in three sizes, 50cm, 60cm and 80cm wide, the Platform mirror also features a heated pad which reduces condensation on the mirror’s surface. Hygiene and cleanliness are also considered, with all the mirror’s advanced features operated using a touch-free sensor switch under the shelf.

Ash Chilver, HiB Sales Director said: “The new Platform mirror is a fantastic example of great design and practical use. The addition of a wireless phone charger and electric toothbrush charger within the glass shelf adds a new and versatile feature to the product that is unlike anything else we have in the range. It has a sleek, minimalist charm and with the three different sizes, it will look fantastic in any bathroom.”

For more information about the Platform mirror and other products that have recently been launched by HiB visit https://www.hib.co.uk/

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REHAU presents ‘seamless’ style at kbb 2022

January 31, 2022

Leading polymer innovator REHAU returns to KBB this year with a holistic approach to its surfaces, edge band and tambour door collection, to support the world’s new blended way of living and working.

For the first time, REHAU will display its latest RAUVISIO noir monotonic matte surface in a full kitchen display. With Real Homes having already coined matt black kitchen units as the number one 2022 kitchen trend, this is something around which REHAU is already receiving much interest.

The range is fully integrated, so it runs seamlessly from kitchen front to worktop, to edgeband, to tambour door. It is this holistic approach that sets REHAU apart at KBB this year, as the one-and-only edgeband originator that can provide all solutions in one holistic approach via distributor Waivis.

Having won seven prestigious design awards in 2021, REHAU is a well-established provider of furniture solutions that suit residential and commercial interiors. Awards include Red Dot, Iconic, Interzum and German Design, with noble matt scooping three of the seven accolades.

With blue set to be the colour of the year symbolizing change according to Pantone, REHAU will also be unveiling two brand-new colours within its RAUVISIO crystal glass laminate surface range. These include Laguna, a modern light blue based on Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, and Atlantico, a modern dark blue based on the Atlantic Ocean.

Another KBB-first for REHAU will be the display of its RAUVISIO fino metallic surface in bronze. This is a unique finish that further demonstrates the capability and versatility of the REHAU range.

REHAU’s latest innovations in edgebanding will also be available to see, including the sustainable edgeband lines. The two new product lines RAUKANTEX eco and RAUKANTEX evo impressively demonstrate how sustainability can be applied to furniture edgebands.

Notably, RAUKANTEX eco is composed of 50% post-industrial recycled material equal to conventional PP edgebands in terms of design, quality and processing. RAUKANTEX evo is based on renewable raw materials, the use of which creates no additional demand for crude oil.

Scott Williams, National Sales Manager says: “Our research has proven how much customers value being able to physically see and feel our products. This helps them explore the quality of our range and appreciate why we’ve won awards. REHAU has also seen various product updates since the 2020 KBB show, which makes this exhibition the ideal place for sector professionals to discover first-hand what can be achieved by partnering with us. We’re very proud of everything we’ve achieved at REHAU.”

From large industrial businesses to independent joiners, REHAU is experienced in providing furniture to customers on a global scale. Having acquired its subsidiary distribution partner, Waivis, 15 years ago, REHAU is perfectly positioned to service smaller businesses around the country too.

Scott adds: “When it comes to attending the KBB show this year, we are most looking forward to being able to engage with our loyal customers, as well as having the opportunity to introduce the brand to any newcomers as well.”

REHAU can be found at booth R114 from 6-9 March at the NEC in Birmingham.

For more information, visit: https://rehauregistration.co.uk/kbb-2022/

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kbb Birmingham exhibitor highlights

January 31, 2022

Europe’s largest dedicated kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms exhibition, kbb Birmingham will see over 200 industry exhibitors, including some of the world’s leading manufacturers, take to the floor of the NEC from 6-9 March to reveal their latest product innovations.

“Brands from across the industry come together for our biennial event, to proudly demonstrate their latest products, some of which are launched exclusively at kbb” comments Andy Bishop, Creative Director, kbb Birmingham. “Visitors will be able to meet with global brands such as Samsung Electronics UK, BORA and Rotpunkt Kuche and experience what the industry has to offer face-to-face.”

Exhibitor highlights – bathroom sector:

Seen for the very first time in the UK, Roca will be showing its latest bathroom collection, Ona, a high-performance range inspired by the Mediterranean Sea. The new collection stands out for its versatility, wide range and timeless design with soft shapes and geometric lines.

Acquabella will showcase its new Tempo Arabba made-to-measure shower trays – a new high-definition, textile-finish product that simulates natural hand-woven fibres, blending with the stone finish, for a beautiful minimalist appearance.

In keeping with the theme of ‘nature’, Ca’ Pietra will be revealing a beautiful new addition to its National Trust Tile Collection, with the designs paying homage to the natural beauty of British streams, marshes and wetlands for an impactful, calming, and organic bathroom interior.

Swiss bathroom manufacturer, Laufen will be launching for the first time in the UK its new Lua collection. A range of stunning bathroom sanitaryware and furniture, with beautifully sculpted oval shapes by Laufen designer, Toan Nguyen.

In partnership with Cosentino, Dansani will be launching a range of Silestone basins, available in six finishes to complement its exquisite Calidris range of bathroom furniture.

Exhibitor highlights – kitchen sector:

Market-leading boiling water taps design and manufacture, Quooker, will launch its new and improved Quooker CUBE – an accessory that delivers filtered, chilled and sparkling water and reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles by providing carbonated water more responsibly.

Global polymer company, REHAU, will display for the first time its latest RAUVISIO noir monotonic matte surface in a full kitchen display. With a holistic approach, the range is fully integrated, so it runs seamlessly from kitchen front, to worktop, to edgeband to tambour door – synonymous with the popular invisible kitchen trend.

Kitchen Furniture company, Villeroy, will have the UK launch of its striking new Carrè Signature kitchen furniture collection, complete with the distinctive ‘Mettlacher Platte’ embossed design. The Company will also partner with German pioneers of cooking technology ‘Küppersbusch’, to showcase its new appliance collection.

The CDA Group will be launching its touch-free, gesture-controlled kitchen extraction and a new range of large cavity ovens with additional self-cleaning functionality across the range.

Exhibitor highlights – materials sector:

UK distributor of tiles, mosaics, outdoor porcelain and flooring, Verona, will be launching its range of porcelain patterned tiles, designed in house and are exclusive to Verona.

Quartz surface manufacturers, Quartzforms, will be presenting ‘Forest’, a creative range of expressive, delicately textured luminous slabs inspired by nature in new colours to convey the charm of nature.

Wood-based panelling experts, Finsa, will present its new collection; 12 Twenty Specialist Surfaces – a selection of decors and finishes carefully chosen to enhance the value of melamine as a decorative material. The specials include high gloss, coloured core and ultramatt options to add depth and texture to furniture projects.

kbb Birmingham will feature over 200 exhibitors across 26 different product categories. The event expects an audience of over 12,000 visitors over the four days, attracting senior decision-makers from the retail and contract sector.

For more information on kbb Birmingham, to exhibit or to register to attend, please visit www.kbb.co.uk.

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Westin Hotels & Resorts makes its debut with Westin London City

January 31, 2022

Westin Hotels & Resorts has made its highly anticipated debut in the UK with the opening of The Westin London City, marking Marriott International’s 1,000^th hotel to open in EMEA.

Spread across 370sqm., the hotel’s Heavenly™ Spaby Westin features a 12-metre indoor pool, which has been delicately positioned around the archaeological remains of the Huggin Hill Bathhouse below, once one of the principal public buildings of a Roman town.

Owned by 4C Hotel Group and managed by RBH, the 222-guestroom hotel offers a prime riverfront location on the north bank of the River Thames.

Combining meaningful wellness with contemporary design, the hotel answers to the growing global demand for well-being among travellers.

The Westin London City embodies the brand’s six pillars of well-being – Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. Guests are encouraged to explore the local area with the renowned RunWESTIN™ programme offering specially created running routes that will take advantage of the Thames Path connecting Embankment and the Tower of London.

Embodying the brand’s Let’s Rise mantra, The Westin London City empowers guests to take back control of their routine by prioritising their wellness while travelling.

Dining options include Hithe & Seek, a riverside bar that invites guests to enjoy unobstructed views across the river to the Tate Modern and beyond, as well as an all-day dining restaurant, Mosaic, offering nutritious recipes with local and international favourites.

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Introducing AQUA4MA EVOLUTION

January 28, 2022

UK shower products manufacturer Kudos has launched Aqua4ma Evolution. Backed by a lifetime guarantee, it’s quick and easy to install, saving time and money on installation.

The Kudos Aqua4Ma wet-room system was initially introduced to the market in 2010. Aqua4Ma Evolution introduces additional features to this successful system that comprise a number of wet-room components that includes a choice of centre or end waste. The 25mm deep shower decks are individually CNC machined from a solid block of closed-cell extruded waterproof PVC.

The centre waste option comes in 7 sizes from 1000x900mm to 2000x900mm and the end waste shower deck is 1340x1000mm, although all can be trimmed to suit a particular installation. There’s a choice of waste pack finishes in polished silver or matt black and a selection of floor and wall panels in 7mm, 15mm or 25mm thicknesses, the latter specifically allowing the creation of structural features such as seats and shelving.

Aqua4Ma shower decks can be fitted directly to a wooden or solid floor or to a raised plinth. The joints are solvent welded together with a solvent paste to provide a one-piece permanent waterproof barrier that’s guaranteed for life. These unique decks can be used on their own within a showering area, or they can be coupled with floor, skirting and wall panels to provide totally watertight room protection.

A key feature of this Aqua4Ma wet-room system is that it is suitable for immediate finishing with tiles, vinyl or micro-cement. Early wetroom systems would take at least two days to install, simply because many of the membrane solutions required 24 hours to become waterproof. The closed-cell extruded PVC panels with solvent welding joints in the Aqua4Ma system allows fitting and tiling within the day. The robust panels also allow tiles to be removed and replaced without compromising the waterproof integrity of the system.

Kudos was established as a UK manufacturer of shower products in 1999. Their product portfolio includes shower enclosures, shower trays, over-bath screens and wet-room solutions sold via bathroom showrooms and merchants across the UK.

Check them out at kudosshowers.co.uk, call them on 01539 564040 or email marketing@kudosshowers.co.uk

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Virtual Worlds to unveil Version 8 at kbb Birmingham

January 27, 2022

Virtual Worlds is set to unveil its Pro version 8 to stand visitors at kbb Birmingham. The much-anticipated update brings light, shadow, reflection and texture to Virtual Worlds CAD software. Designs are created in a real-time rendered scene so retailers can instantly visualise material and light editing effects.

Virtual Worlds Pro V8 will be on general release from mid-2022 but new and existing Virtual Worlds users visiting stand G80 during KBB Birmingham will receive immediate access. Throughout the show Virtual Worlds will be demonstrating the latest version of Virtual Worlds 4D Theatre featuring new improved functionality.

Virtual Worlds technology offers consumers the chance to fully experience their design in immersive virtual reality by opening cupboards, turning on the shower, and seeing the different options at the touch of a button.

The company says visitors to Stand G80 will also see new improvements and features added to One Price, learn about Virtual Brochures and can try out Virtual Worlds Augmented Reality.

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