Grant Westfield enters strategic training partnership with Festool

March 20, 2026

Grant Westfield, the UK manufacturer behind bathroom wall panel brands Multipanel and Naturepanel, has announced a new strategic partnership with professional power tool brand Festool, focused on strengthening installer training, development and engagement.

As part of the partnership, Grant Westfield will be working closely with Festool to produce a series of installer training videos filmed at Festool’s UK headquarters in Bury St Edmunds. The professional training environment will allow Grant Westfield to deliver high-quality, practical content using Festool tools alongside Grant Westfield products, reflecting real-world installation scenarios.

The partnership will also enable Grant Westfield to host in-person training sessions, demonstrations and discussions at Festool’s facilities, bringing together installers and merchant partners in a professional setting designed specifically for hands-on learning.

Elliott Fairlie, product & marketing director at Grant Westfield, commented: “This partnership with Festool is about raising standards and delivering meaningful training for installers. Festool shares our focus on quality, precision and professional workmanship, making them a natural partner as we continue to invest in the installer community. Using their facilities and tools allows us to create training content that genuinely reflects how our products are installed on site.”

The collaboration brings together Grant Westfield’s product expertise with Festool’s tooling and training knowledge, creating a platform for practical, installer-led education. Content produced through the partnership will support the launch of Grant Westfield’s new Installer Elite installer training platform, which is focused on building skills, sharing best practice and creating clear development pathways for both new and experienced installers.

By combining filmed training, in-person sessions and ongoing engagement, the partnership reinforces Grant Westfield’s long-term commitment to installers, extending support beyond products alone and into professional development and community building.

Further details on training content and installer events will be announced in due course.
For more information, visit www.grantwestfield.co.uk or call 0131 290 2862.

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Jiva Hill Resort – a haven of serenity

March 19, 2026

Located 10 kilometres from Geneva Airport, Jiva Hill Resort is a five-star Relais & Châteaux property set within a 123-acre estate in the Jura Mountains Nature Park. Positioned between open landscape and mountain views, the site is defined by its expansive greenery and low-density layout.

Accommodation is distributed across the park, which is primarily given over to leisure facilities. These include a nine-hole golf course with 18 tees, tennis courts, a waterski lake, restaurants, and a wellness area with indoor and outdoor pools.

The resort comprises 44 guest rooms, each with a private terrace, alongside four Jacuzzi lodges and two suites. Interiors pair exposed concrete surfaces with walnut detailing, softened by natural textiles in muted tones such as cream, copper and rust.

Bathrooms are fitted with stainless steel taps from CEA Design’s MILO360 and GIOTTO collections. Manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, the fittings reflect the project’s emphasis on durability and material integrity.

Technical characteristics:

MILO360 | bathroom collection

MIL35S

Wall-mounted mixer with spout in AISI 316L stainless steel satin finish.

MIL35S + MIL87S

Wall-mounted mixer with spout in AISI 316L stainless steel satin finish.

Rim mounted set of 2 mixers with cylindrical hand shower in AISI 316L stainless steel satin finish.

FREE IDEAS + GIOTTO | bathroom collection

FRE36S + GIO33S + GIO34S

Rim mounted pull-out hand shower with hose in Cromolux and draining drip system paired with two deck mounted shut-off valves in AISI 316L stainless steel satin finish.

www.ceadesign.it

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Inside kbb Birmingham: key highlights from a landmark 40th edition

March 19, 2026

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.

Marking its 40th anniversary, kbb Birmingham returned to the NEC this month with a vibrant and well-attended show floor, showcasing the latest innovations across the bathrooms, kitchens, and bedrooms sector. The four-day event brought together leading brands, retailers, designers and installers, offering a valuable opportunity to explore new product launches, evolving design trends and fresh commercial prospects.

Attracting close to 16,000 visitors, the exhibition featured over 320 exhibitors spanning 26 product categories. From furniture and surfaces to appliances, fittings and materials, the show delivered a comprehensive snapshot of the technologies and styles currently influencing the KBB market, while also fostering networking, collaboration and knowledge-sharing across the industry.

Diane Larner attended the exhibition and shares six standout highlights from this year’s event.

SIX T O P P I C K S from kbb Birmingham 2026

HiB returns to kbb Birmingham with ‘Wall of Mirrors’

HiB’s brought to life an evolved product direction with 96 new mirrors and cabinets, many of which appeared on a standout ‘Wall of Mirrors’.

REHAU highlights bathroom surface & edgeband excellence at kbb Birmingham

REHAU showcased its latest surface and edgeband innovations, inspiring bathroom designers specifying premium materials.

House of Rohl and Aqualisa preview new launches at kbb Birmingham

House of Rohl UK, comprising Perrin & Rowe, Shaws of Darwen and Victoria + Albert, alongside Aqualisa, showcased a series of new product launches.

acquabella-plato-ducha-livo-slate-panel-slate-banera-round-lavab

Acquabella showcases design and functionality with its new products

Acquabella welcomed visitors to the Acquabella Boutique: an elegant space inspired by the sophisticated interiors of contemporary ateliers.

VitrA unveils V-Care 3 & hosts networking brunch

VitrA hosted a networking brunch on the Take 5 area of kbb Birmingham and unveiled its latest V-Care 3 range to visitors.

BAGNODESIGN makes kbb Birmingham debut with new luxury collections

BAGNODESIGN made its first appearance at kbb Birmingham this March – using the platform to spotlight a curated selection of new and existing collections.

Informa-Sales-Director-Jon-Johnston — **Jon Johnston**

Jon Johnston, kbb sales director

The 40th edition of kbb Birmingham was very special, with such a strong legacy to celebrate. Four decades of inspiring conversations, deep industry relationships and kbb Birmingham’s role as a cornerstone of the KBB industry felt particularly resonant this year. We’re hugely appreciative of the support from visitors, exhibitors and partners who have helped shape the show into what it is today.

“The 2026 show delivered everything from show‑stopping stand design and a breadth of innovation, to four days of genuinely meaningful discussions between visitors and exhibitors who clearly care about the future of the industry. One of the aspects we’re most proud of is the diversity of product on display and the stories behind them, with exhibitors from over 20 countries and a growing European presence that continues to strengthen the show. Many international brands clearly recognise the value of kbb Birmingham as a direct route to engaging with UK high‑street studios and independent retailers. It was a reminder that while the KBB industry continues to evolve, quality, innovation and human connection remain at its core.”

Michael Bennett, head of commercialisation for House of Rohl and Aqualisa

Aqualisa-Michael-Bennet-Head-of-Commercialisation

kbb Birmingham has been a fantastic show for all of our brands. The energy across the halls has been incredibly positive, and our stand had a real buzz and was consistently busy across all four days. It’s been a brilliant platform to showcase House of Rohl and Aqualisa’s latest innovations, connect with both longstanding partners and new customers, and have meaningful conversations about the future of the sector.

“What’s really stood out this year is the quality of the leads, the depth of the conversations, and the level of press attendance. We’ve met with highly engaged visitors who are genuinely looking to do business, as well as key members of the media who are passionate about sharing innovation and design stories from the show. It’s been a hugely valuable and successful few days for our teams.”

About kbb Birmingham

kbb Birmingham is the UK’s leading trade exhibition for the kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms sector, held at the NEC Birmingham and established in 1986. Taking place every two years, the event brings together manufacturers, retailers, designers, installers and developers to showcase the latest product innovations, materials and technologies shaping the KBB market. Featuring hundreds of exhibiting brands and attracting thousands of industry professionals, it serves as a key platform for sourcing new products, discovering emerging design trends and gaining valuable business insight, while also providing important opportunities for networking and collaboration across the industry.

kbb Birmingham will return March 5–8, 2028

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Villeroy & Boch reports stable performance in 2025 despite market pressures

March 19, 2026

Villeroy & Boch has reported a resilient set of results for 2025, with group revenue increasing by 1.8% to €1,447 million, supported by acquisitions in what the company describes as a challenging trading environment. Operating EBIT remained stable at €97.8 million.

Gabi Schupp, chair of the management board of the Villeroy & Boch Group said, “For us, 2025 was all about strategic realignment. We have consistently honed our brand positioning while further strengthening our profitability. The acquisition of Ideal Standard has made us significantly more resilient in an economic environment that remains challenging. As a result, we were able to hold our own despite a general reluctance to spend and a weak construction sector.”

Bathroom & Wellness sees acquisition-led growth

The Bathroom & Wellness division – the group’s largest segment – recorded a 2.3% increase in revenue to €1,124.5 million, slightly ahead of the previous year despite continued softness in the construction sector. On a currency-adjusted basis, growth reached 3.4%.

EMEA delivered positive performance, while Asia Pacific and the Americas declined. Growth was led by taps, shower systems and sanitary ceramics, with new product development playing a key role. Highlights included ALU+ (manufactured from recycled aluminium), Vortex flushing technology, and ranges such as i.life, Architectura and Antao. Operating EBIT for the division held steady at €65.2 million.

Dining & Lifestyle holds steady in subdued retail climate

The Dining & Lifestyle division reported revenue of €319.8 million, up 1.0% (excluding licence sales), despite continued pressure on consumer spending.

A strong fourth quarter and new launches, including the Fleur collection, supported performance. Regionally, Asia Pacific and the Americas saw growth, while EMEA declined slightly. Notably, stationary retail partners delivered a 9.4% increase in sales, underlining the ongoing importance of bricks-and-mortar channels. Operating EBIT rose to €32.6 million.

Continued investment and dividend proposal

The group invested €45.8 million across the year in production facilities, retail infrastructure and intangible assets, reflecting an ongoing focus on operational efficiency and brand development.

A dividend of €0.80 per ordinary share and €0.85 per preference share will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting on 8 May 2026.

Cautious outlook for 2026

Looking ahead, Villeroy & Boch expects 2026 to remain challenging, citing geopolitical uncertainty such as the conflict in the Gulf, and continued market volatility. The group forecasts a mid- to high-single-digit percentage decline in sales, with operating EBIT expected to be between €75 million and €85 million.

The disposal of the Northern European operations of the Gustavsberg and Vatette brands (effective 1 October 2025) will impact year-on-year comparisons, with sales and EBIT in the first three quarters expected to fall below 2025 levels.

The business also expects ongoing pressure from integration costs and production realignment, while continuing to invest up to €50 million, including the rollout of SAP S/4HANA.

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HiB returns to kbb Birmingham with ‘Wall of Mirrors’

March 19, 2026

After nearly 15 years away, hib. returned to kbb Birmingham with a presence that was confident, creative and firmly customer-focused. Across the four-day show, the brand’s refined identity and evolved product direction were brought to life through 96 new mirrors and cabinets, many of which appeared on a standout ‘Wall of Mirrors’. From statement large-format designs to new shapes and finishes, the collection reinforced hib.’s reputation for innovation – fitting for the brand that pioneered the first steam-free mirror.

The timing was equally significant. Landing just ahead of the first anniversary of hib.’s April 2025 rebrand, the show marked a natural milestone moment – a reflection of how far the business has come in 12 months, and a clear signal of where it’s heading next.

“kbb Birmingham was a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with customers and industry peers,” said Rob Ginsberg, CEO of hib.. “We saw an incredible level of engagement on the stand, with our wall of mirrors drawing real attention and sparking great conversations. It’s always valuable to be part of events like this that bring the industry together and give us a chance to showcase how hib. continues to innovate.”

Overall, kbb Birmingham delivered exactly what hib. set out to achieve: high engagement, meaningful conversations and strong interest in a broadened, design-led range – setting the tone for the next phase of growth.

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Frontline Bathrooms introduces Mineral Flute brassware collection

March 19, 2026

Frontline Bathrooms has expanded its brassware portfolio with the launch of the Mineral Flute collection, a new range of textured taps and fittings designed to respond to growing demand for surface detail within bathroom design.

The collection is characterised by a fluted brass body that introduces texture directly into the casting of the tap, creating a distinctive surface while maintaining a clean, contemporary silhouette. The detailing is integrated into the structure of the brassware rather than applied as a secondary treatment, providing a consistent finish across the range.

Mineral Flute has been developed to provide specification flexibility across a wide range of bathroom schemes. The collection is available in multiple finishes including chrome, matt black, brushed brass, gunmetal and brushed bronze, allowing retailers and designers to match fittings to both cooler and warmer interior palettes.

The range includes basin mixers, wall-mounted basin mixers, bath fillers and floorstanding bath shower mixers, enabling a coordinated brassware specification across basin and bathing zones.

All products in the range are manufactured from solid brass and are fitted with ceramic disc cartridges to support smooth operation and long-term durability. The brassware body is covered by a lifetime guarantee, while the internal cartridges carry a five-year warranty.

Selected finishes within the Mineral Flute collection are produced using PVD coating technology to increase resistance to scratching and tarnishing in everyday use. Many models also carry WRAS approval, confirming compliance with UK water regulations.

The launch forms part of Frontline Bathrooms’ ongoing expansion of its Aqua brassware portfolio, with the Mineral Flute collection designed to offer retailers and installers a textured alternative within contemporary bathroom brassware.

For further information visit

www.frontlinebathrooms.co.uk

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Keep glass clean & clear with CRL’s next generation Surface Protection Solutions

March 19, 2026

Sleek and stylish, glass has become the material of the moment due to its practical and visual appeal, and now it’s easier than ever to keep it looking clean and clear thanks to CRL’s ground-breaking surface protection solutions.

Unlike other glass coatings on the market, CRL 6K Surface Protection uses next-generation Nano technology to create a hydrophobic, water repellent coating that reduces grease, dirt and limescale build-up to create an easy-clean surface that requires minimal maintenance.

Perfect for use on a wide range of glass installations from shower screens, canopies and railings to balustrades and conservatories, 6K is a cost-effective, natural silica dioxide based solution that can be easily applied in two simple stages. Pre-Clean prepares the surface and ensures it is in optimal condition before 6K Protect is applied. It is simply polished into the surface to provide immediate, long-lasting protection.

Equally easy to use by spraying and polishing, CRL’s TPC Surface Protector is a cost-effective water -and stain-repellent polymer coating designed to protect a variety of surfaces from glass, porcelain, ceramics, and plastics to polished metals, fibreglass and marble. It makes surfaces easier to maintain and reduces costly cleaning, repairs and replacements.

For further information call 01706 863600, email crl@crlaurence.co.uk, or visit www.crlaurence.co.uk

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Flair Showers launches BABY AYO reduced-height wetroom system for compact and loft bathrooms

March 19, 2026

Flair Showers has expanded its wetroom portfolio with the launch of BABY AYO, a reduced-height shower screen system designed for compact bathrooms and loft conversions.

Building on the design language of its AYO wetroom range and BABY ILI enclosures, the new collection stands at 1800mm high, offering a practical solution for spaces with restricted or sloping ceilings. As demand for space-efficient bathroom design continues to rise, particularly in attic renovations, the lower profile allows specifiers greater flexibility when planning contemporary wetroom layouts.

The modular system combines pared-back detailing with robust materials. Panels are manufactured from 8mm toughened safety glass, certified to EN12150 standards, and treated with a Clearvue hydrophobic coating to minimise limescale and grime build-up. Ultra-clear seals and concealed internal fixings maintain a clean, architectural aesthetic, supporting the growing trend for spa-inspired bathrooms in smaller footprints.

Part of the premium Harmony Collections, BABY AYO is available in three finishes – Silver, Matte Black and Brushed Brass – all applied using PVD technology for enhanced durability and colour consistency across components.

Designed with versatility in mind, the collection includes fixed panels ranging from 700mm to 1400mm, alongside T-pieces, 300mm rotating panels, recessed channels and a range of stabilising bars, including angled, ceiling-mounted and L-shaped options. All panels are reversible, enabling multiple wetroom configurations across both tray and floor-level installations.

For projects requiring a tray, Flair Showers also offers its Gemstone Slate Textured Trays. With a minimal height of 25–30mm, anti-slip properties and four colour options – Onyx Black, Graphite Black, Flint Grey and White – the trays are designed to integrate seamlessly with contemporary bathroom schemes. Both square and linear waste options are available, with chrome or colour-matched grilles.

BABY AYO is backed by a 20-year guarantee and has been tested for durability, stability and water retention, ensuring compliance with industry standards and long-term performance.

Ronán O’Grady, lead product designer at Flair Showers, said the launch responds to increasing demand for solutions tailored to compact and awkward spaces: “We are seeing a clear shift towards bathroom designs that maximise smaller footprints, including rooms with low or angled ceilings. BABY AYO allows our retail partners to deliver a premium wetroom experience without compromising on design or performance.”

Information on the collection is included in the 2026 Harmony Collections brochure, available in print and digital formats via Flair Showers – www.flairshowers.co.uk

Flair-Showers-BABY-AYO-Wetroom-Panel-Brushed-Brass

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Drummonds unveils Hudson Collection in collaboration with Pembrooke & Ives

March 18, 2026

Drummonds has introduced the Hudson Collection, a new brassware range developed in collaboration with New York-based design studio Pembrooke & Ives. The collection brings together British manufacturing heritage and a contemporary American design sensibility, with a focus on proportion, materiality and longevity.

The partnership evolved over several years, beginning shortly after Drummonds established its New York showroom. Creative Director James Lentaigne and Pembrooke & Ives founder Andrew Sheinman found common ground in a shared interest in the physical and architectural qualities of plumbing – from weight and tactility to its role within interior space.

Named after the Hudson River, the collection references the city both brands now operate from, despite their British roots. Its design language balances precision with restraint: angular cross-head handles provide a defined, architectural expression, while lever options introduce a more understated alternative. Across the range, crisp geometry is softened by subtle curves, creating a sense of equilibrium and adaptability.

The cross-head handle is designed as a central feature, with a sculptural, almost monolithic quality that reflects Drummonds’ established approach to brassware. In contrast, the spout adopts a more fluid form, introducing a gentle curvature that offsets the collection’s sharper lines.

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KEUCO at Milan Design Week 2026 – a vitruvian approach to contemporary design

March 18, 2026

From 20–26 April, Milan Design Week returns to transform the city once again—and this year, KEUCO will take a prominent place in the heart of the Brera Design District. KEUCO is inviting visitors to discover their installation at Corso Garibaldi 34, where it will join forces with two complementary German brands: Gira, specialists in sustainable smart switches and home technology, and TRILUX, leaders in intelligent, future‑ready lighting systems.

Together, the three brands present a shared vision inspired by the enduring architectural principles of Vitruvius: firmitas (durability), utilitas (functionality), and venustas (beauty). These values—still defining “good design” today—are reflected in every detail of the collections on display. All three brands proudly stand #VITRUVapproved.

At the centre of KEUCO’s presentation is the sensual and sophisticated EDITION 400 collection. Its fittings and accessories balance soft, organic contours with precise linearity, creating a distinctive oval signature. With finishes ranging from deep matt black to warm brushed brass, EDITION 400 brings tactile elegance and contemporary refinement to the modern bathroom.

Visitors will also be able to explore other KEUCO highlights, including the iconic I-look mirror series and AXESS, our inclusive design solution developed exclusively with Studio F. A. Porsche.

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