Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

96 Nyumba is the first electric-hybrid propulsion sailboat in the Southern Wind fleet. With naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design and interiors by Nauta Design, the 96-foot vessel combines advanced performance with a pared-back, design-led interior.

The interior layout is comfortable and inviting, following the classic design of sailing yachts this size, featuring the owner’s cabin at the bow, two guest quarters amidships, and the crew and galley areas at the aft. The main salon offers an open, bright space that has been customised to meet the clients’ needs. A fourth cabin features a cosy TV area, complete with a large sofa.

CEADESIGN_SOUTHERN-WIND-96-NYUMBA Shower

The bathrooms have been conceived as compact, spa-like environments that prioritise comfort and longevity – key considerations for extended time at sea. Specified throughout, CEADESIGN’s NEUTRA and FREE IDEAS collections introduce a precise, architectural language. Manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel -chosen for its durability in marine environments – the fittings are finished in a satin Black Diamond finish, offering a deep, matte aesthetic that complements the yacht’s restrained material palette.

Minimal in form, the deck-mounted mixers feature clean lines and swivelling spouts, optimising usability within compact footprints. In the shower areas, adjustable round heads with transparent silicone nozzles and integrated pressure regulation deliver a controlled, high-performance water experience, balancing efficiency with comfort.

CEADESIGN’s MILO360 collection is applied within the galley, finished in satin stainless steel to maintain continuity across the interior. Together, the specification reflects a holistic approach, where kitchen and bathroom design are treated with equal importance.

Photo Credit: Giuliano Sargentini (interiors), Rob Kamhoot (exteriors)

Retailers rank service and availability above product range, Tissino survey reveals

Bathroom retailers are placing increasing weight on service, stock availability and supplier reliability when choosing who to work with, according to new research from Tissino, highlighting a shift in priorities across the sector as operational pressures continue to shape day-to-day business.

Drawing on feedback from 130 customers, the survey found that customer service, stock availability and product quality are the three most important factors in supplier selection, standing apart clearly from other considerations across all retail formats. Showroom-based businesses, in particular, placed strong emphasis on dependable delivery, consistent support and access to a well-managed product range, reflecting the need for suppliers that can support both sales and installation with confidence.

While product remains essential, the findings point to a broader expectation that suppliers must now deliver a more complete and reliable service proposition, extending beyond design and specification into logistics, communication and aftersales support.

In response to these evolving expectations, Tissino has continued to invest across its operational infrastructure, focusing on improving consistency, responsiveness and ease of doing business for its retail partners. Recent developments include the introduction of a new warehouse to strengthen stock holding, alongside expanded warehouse teams and new delivery vehicles to support faster, more reliable fulfilment as demand increases.

Alongside physical investment, the business has enhanced its internal systems, with ongoing CRM development and the evolution of its retailer portal, designed to give customers easier access to resources, product information and support tools. Within the warehouse, new technology has been introduced, including a bespoke app to improve picking accuracy and stock visibility, helping to reduce errors and streamline processes at scale.

Further improvements have been made within Tissino’s parts operation, where new processes and infrastructure have been developed to ensure faster turnaround and greater clarity for retailers managing aftersales requirements, an area that continues to play an important role in long-term supplier relationships.

Edward Lewis, managing director at Tissino, says: “Retailers are under constant pressure to deliver projects smoothly, often across multiple sites and tight timelines, so the margin for disruption is very small. What matters most is having a supplier they can rely on to support them consistently, not just at the point of order, but right through to installation and beyond.

“A strong product offer will always be important, but it is the experience around that product that shapes long-term relationships. For us, it is about building a business that works in step with how our customers operate day to day, where reliability is embedded across every touchpoint and where trust is built over time through consistency.”

As expectations continue to evolve, the findings suggest that suppliers who invest in operational strength alongside product development will be best placed to support retailers in an increasingly demanding market.

Kiwa Watertec confirmed as Silver Sponsor for Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2026

The Bathroom Association has announced Kiwa Watertec as a Silver Sponsor for the Connect Conference 2026 this October at The Grand Hotel, Birmingham – marking its third consecutive year supporting the event and reinforcing its commitment to the bathroom sector.

This year’s conference theme, ‘Stronger Together’, reflects the Association’s focus on practical, forward-looking collaboration across the sector. From policy, standards, and skills to innovation and meeting customer needs, Connect Conference 2026 will explore how the bathroom industry can work more closely across the supply chain to build resilience, strengthen capability, and unlock growth.

Kiwa Watertec supports manufacturers in meeting legal, safety and performance standards for sanitary and plumbing products, helping to ensure market access, protect public health and build confidence in product quality. Its services include Water Regulation 4 compliance, TMV testing and certification, BS 6920 materials testing, as well as product evaluation and pre-compliance testing to streamline development and reduce costly redesigns.

This expertise reflects the ethos of ‘Stronger Together’. As the industry navigates tighter regulations, rising expectations and the need to innovate, partners like Kiwa Watertec play a vital role in enabling a more confident and consistent response.

Jonathan Price, business development manager at Kiwa Watertec, said: “We are delighted to continue our support for the Connect Conference as a Silver Sponsor for 2026. Having sponsored the event for three years now, we know firsthand the value it brings in connecting the industry and creating meaningful discussion around the issues that matter most. ”

Amy Kirk, marketing and events director at the Bathroom Association, said: “Kiwa Watertec’s continued support as a Silver Sponsor is hugely valued. This year’s theme is all about how we align across the supply chain, share expertise, and build a stronger future for the industry. Kiwa Watertec’s role in supporting compliance, quality, and confidence makes them a natural fit for that conversation.”

The Connect Conference 2026 will bring together manufacturers, the wider supply chain and industry partners for a day of keynote talks, discussion and networking, followed by an exclusive gala dinner. Confirmed keynote speakers include Jez Rose for the morning and Rob Law MBE for the afternoon. The event will also see the return of the charity raffle and auction, as well as the popular Thirty-under-Thirty Awards.

For more information and to book, please visit the official Connect Conference 2026 page.

Light & clarity define Ceralsio’s new Crystal Lux Blanco finish

Bright yet softly textured, Crystal Lux Blanco is a fresh addition to the Ceralsio ceramic surface collection from CRL Stone, offering a modern interpretation of white with a gently luminous quality.

With its clean base and subtle reflective effect, Crystal Lux Blanco introduces lightness to the kitchen and bathroom while maintaining a refined, elegant presence. The surface works particularly well in contemporary spaces where a sense of openness and clarity is essential. Paired with bold accents or layered neutrals, it brings versatility to a wide range of design schemes.

Crystal Lux Blanco is part of the Ceralsio range of high-performance ceramic surfaces, developed for demanding residential and commercial settings. Durable and non-porous, the material is highly resistant to stains, scratches, heat and UV exposure. Its colour and finish remain consistent over time, even in bright, sunlit areas or high-traffic zones.

Ideal for kitchen worktops, bathroom surfaces, splashbacks, flooring, wall cladding and outdoor kitchens, Crystal Lux Blanco offers a solution that is both easy to maintain and visually impactful.

Available in 12 mm thickness, it reflects the ongoing trend for slim, large-format materials that combine strength with style.

For more information and brochures call CRL Stone on 01706 863600, or visit www.crlstone.co.uk

Neolith strengthens global brand strategy with chief brand officer appointment

Neolith has appointed Nieves Contreras as chief brand officer (CBO), marking a significant step in the brand’s ongoing global evolution and reinforcing its commitment to a more cohesive and impactful identity.

The newly created role signals a strategic shift for the sintered stone specialist, as it looks to further align its brand, design and sustainability messaging across international markets.

Announced on 9 April 2026, the appointment sees Contreras bring more than two decades of experience in creative leadership and design strategy to the business. She will be responsible for driving the global integration of Neolith’s brand vision, overseeing communication, positioning and storytelling to ensure a consistent voice worldwide.

Driving a unified global vision

The introduction of a chief brand officer reflects Neolith’s focus on strengthening brand consistency while elevating its positioning within the premium architectural surfaces sector. The move also underlines the company’s ambition to connect product innovation with wider cultural, architectural and environmental narratives.

In her new role, Contreras will lead the development of a unified brand strategy designed to enhance Neolith’s presence across key markets, while reinforcing its reputation for innovation, design excellence and sustainability.

Walter Ceglia, CEO of Neolith, said: “Nieves joining Neolith marks a key step in our evolution as a global brand. Her experience in creative leadership and strategic transformation will be instrumental in bringing together our vision for brand, design, innovation, and sustainability into a strong and consistent narrative across international markets. The diversification of our markets—both geographically and across products and segments—will also play an essential role in strengthening our positioning and supporting our future growth.”

Extensive international expertise

Contreras joins Neolith from Lladró, where she spent eight years leading brand strategy and creative direction as Director of the Creativity Department, alongside serving on the company’s executive committee. Her career also includes experience with international design studios such as Elium Studio in Paris, as well as active involvement in academic and cultural design initiatives.

She is currently undertaking a doctorate in Design at the Universitat Politècnica de València and serves on the board of trustees of the Design Foundation of the Region of Valencia. In addition, she holds an international certification in boards of directors and good governance.

Commenting on her new position, Contreras said: “Neolith represents a contemporary vision of architecture and living spaces, where technical excellence and sustainability come together with design and culture. I take on this new challenge with the aim of strengthening a global brand that is consistent, inspiring, and closely connected with architects, designers, and specifiers around the world.”

Supporting long-term growth

The appointment comes as Neolith continues to expand across key global regions, including the UK, Europe, North America, Australia and China. With a presence in more than 100 countries, the company remains focused on delivering high-performance, sustainable surface solutions for residential and commercial applications.

As Neolith enters this new phase, the creation of the CBO role underlines its ambition to further strengthen its global footprint while shaping a more unified and design-led brand narrative.

Duravit serves premium brand experience at Porsche Tennis Grand Prix

As the tournament’s official main partner, the event offers the designer bathroom supplier an opportunity to showcase its brand, raise awareness of its product offering and position itself in a premium setting.

Presence as main partner in internationally visible elite sport
Promotion of brand awareness at the event via brand experience area at Porsche Village, interactive formats and an attractive competition
VIP program offering insights into the brand and production beyond the tournament days

A strong line-up of competitors ensures that this year’s Porsche Tennis Grand Prix will once again be in the media spotlight and a focus of attention among the international tennis community. As the tournament’s official main partner, Duravit will be represented at the event, seizing the opportunity to boost its brand presence against the backdrop of the elite sporting world.

Platform to enhance brand reach and positioning

As a top-flight sports event, the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix tournament attracts a correspondingly high level of attention in the media, making it an appropriate platform for premium brands. The Porsche sports car awarded to the winner each year is a defining feature which adds an extra touch of glamor to the event and underscores its exclusive character.

This provides Duravit with a setting conducive to boosting visibility and brand positioning. The company uses the tournament’s reach to consolidate its brand among a sports-oriented public and to further heighten its profile in the premium segment.

Premium experience to forge emotional affinity with the brand

Duravit is offering a special program for international guests attending the event. This covers Center Court seats, access to hospitality areas and selected meet and greets with players.

Visits to the Porsche Museum, the Duravit factory in Hornberg and the showroom will also be on offer, allowing visitors to extend their stay after the tournament and gain insights into the brand and the designer bathroom manufacturer’s production processes.

On show at Porsche Village

At Porsche Village, Duravit will be on show with a broad-ranging presentation of the brand and products, offering visitors a vivid and contemporary brand experience. The experience area will showcase the brand world in a cuttingedge setting featuring interactive elements. A photo booth will generate additional social media coverage, while a competition and the Duravit theme day featuring a sporting challenge will boost interaction.

Saniflo returns to the Installer Show 2026

Saniflo is confirmed for the Installer Show 2026, taking place at the NEC. The brand will be on stand 4F22, Hall 4, adjacent to the Bathroom Association Theatre, offering visitors a comprehensive showcase of its latest bathroom and plumbing solutions.

The Saniflo side of the stand will feature a working display demonstrating the efficiency of lifting stations, alongside a range of domestic and commercial pumps, macerators, and condensate and submersible pumps. Visitors can explore the new Clearwater range, including the Saniboost Smart, a variable-speed mains boosting pump delivering high pressure and high flow rates for mains-fed water systems.

Kinedo will be presenting its latest Kinewall shower panels, alongside walk-in showers and design-led cuttable trays that are growing in popularity with specifiers and homeowners alike.

Saniflo is also participating in the £10k giveaway challenge run by Mapped Out Media, with cards available to be stamped at the stand’s front desk.

The Saniflo and Kinedo sales teams look forward to welcoming both new and returning customers, providing expert advice and showcasing products designed to meet the latest trends in bathrooms, kitchens, and plumbing.

VitrA launches nationwide mobile showroom tour

Bathroom brand VitrA is set to take its latest product launches directly to customers with a month-long UK roadshow, travelling the country in a custom-built mobile showroom.

Running from 14 April to 14 May, the VitrA On The Road tour will visit locations nationwide, offering architects, designers and retailers the opportunity to explore new collections and technologies in an immersive, hands-on environment.

Housed within a bespoke trailer, the travelling showroom has been designed to bring VitrA’s product portfolio closer to its audience, enabling visitors to engage directly with the brand’s latest innovations and meet members of the VitrA team.

Among the highlights is the debut of the V-Care 3 smart toilet range, which integrates advanced hygiene features with enhanced comfort and intelligent functionality. The product reflects a growing demand for technology-led bathroom solutions that prioritise wellbeing and user experience.

Each stop on the tour will provide an informal setting for industry professionals to discover new products, ask questions and gain insight into VitrA’s design and development approach.

The initiative forms part of VitrA’s wider strategy to strengthen engagement with the UK KBB sector, offering a more accessible and interactive way to experience its latest launches beyond the traditional showroom setting.

Visitors can view the full tour schedule and register their interest via the VitrA website.

JTP strengthens sales team with new appointments

Bathroom brand JTP has announced two key additions to its growing sales team which it says is part of its ongoing commitment to strengthening customer relationships and supporting continued business growth across the UK.

Bobby Pearson joins as south east area sales manager, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in the bathroom industry. Starting his career in a showroom before moving into trade sales, Bobby has previously held roles with Salamander Pumps, Novelini and Aqualisa. In his new role, he will focus on developing relationships with merchants and installers across the region.

Commenting on his appointment, Pearson said: “I’m excited to join JTP, a brand known for its stylish, high-quality bathroom products. My first few weeks have been really positive, taking over from Keith following his retirement after 40 years in the industry. It’s great to see customers enthusiastic about building new relationships with both JTP and myself.”

Also joining the business is David Whiteside, who takes on the role of specification manager for the South, West and South Wales. Whiteside will focus on driving specification opportunities across large-scale residential and commercial projects, working closely with key decision-makers including housebuilders, contractors, architects and design practices. He will also ensure JTP products are specified at the earliest stages of project planning, helping to secure volume opportunities and streamline supply through merchant partners.

Speaking about his new role, Whiteside said: “My focus will be on engaging with those responsible for specifying bathroom products across a wide range of developments, from new-build housing to large residential refurbishments and hotel projects. With over 200,000 new homes built annually across England and Wales, there is a significant opportunity to ensure JTP products are considered and specified from the outset.”

These appointments reflect JTP’s continued investment in its people and infrastructure, ensuring the business is well-positioned to support its customers and partners while capitalising on growth opportunities within the sector.

Duravit AG appoints new CEO

As part of the company’s strategic realignment, Michael Demmer, CTPO and member of the Executive Board, is assuming the role of interim CEO effective immediately, thereby ensuring the seamless continuation of all relevant processes, projects, and strategic initiatives.

With this step, Duravit AG is aligning itself even more consistently with the needs of customers and markets and strengthening its focus on the core brand with its timeless bathroom solutions.

“I will continue to develop Duravit AG with a clear strategy that puts people first and consistently strengthens the core brand,” says Michael Demmer. “In doing so, we will focus even more strongly on customers and markets in the future and continue to uphold the values that have always defined Duravit: timeless design, craftsmanship excellence, and first-class quality.”

This announcement follows news earlier this week that Duravit AG and Stephan Patrick Tahy have ended their collaboration by mutual agreement.