Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Thomas Crapper’s Harwood basin adds contrast to berry-toned bathroom schemes

August 20, 2026

As autumn/winter approaches, deeper shades of blackberry, damson, mulberry and plum are bringing richer colour to bathroom schemes. Used across walls and other surfaces, these saturated tones can create an immersive look, while crisp white sanitaryware provides contrast and helps balance the overall scheme.

Thomas Crapper’s Harwood Basin is particularly suited to colour-drenched schemes, with its strong rectangular silhouette and generous proportions. Handcrafted by artisans in Britain from Devonshire fireclay, the basin takes inspiration from the traditional butler sinks, reinterpreted in a more compact format for contemporary bathrooms and cloakrooms.

Its white glaze provides definition and creates contrast against darker wall colours. At the same time, brass wall-mounted taps, such as the Thomas Crapper 1920 Cross-head or Lever Three Tap Hole Wall Mixer, can introduce a complementary metallic accent. In more classic schemes, it sits comfortably alongside panelling, patterned floors and decorative details, but is equally at home within immersive contemporary spaces.

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Grohe expands customisation options with Allure Gravity tap collection

August 20, 2026

GROHE has expanded its GROHE SPA portfolio with Allure Gravity, a new tap collection offering designers and architects a range of customisation options across finishes, materials and configurations.

The collection combines a slim, square silhouette with interchangeable cover plates in Caesarstone quartz, black or white glass, and coloured glass with a mirror effect. The cover plates can be easily changed, allowing the appearance of the tap to be adapted to different bathroom schemes.

“GROHE Allure Gravity gives designers, architects and their clients the freedom to bring their bathroom visions to life,” says Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design, EMENA. “The collection offers a wide range of combinations, with cover plates in premium materials, a curated selection of colours and finishes, and different tap styles.”

Multiple configurations and finishes

Available in multiple sizes and across the GROHE Colours Collection, including Phantom Black and Satin, Allure Gravity is offered in a choice of configurations. These include a one-hand mixer, three-hole mixer and tray mixer.

The tray mixer takes a different approach to the conventional tap design, incorporating the water outlet into a tray that also provides a functional shelf. Matching designs across the range of draw-off points allow the different elements to be coordinated throughout the bathroom.

GROHE Allure Gravity will be available from October 2026.

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Saniflo Saniboost Smart fixes pressure issue in Dublin property

August 20, 2026

The new Saniboost Smart booster pump is already proving its value in Ireland, helping to address low water pressure in parts of Dublin.

In the latest installation, Jacks Pumps fitted the system in a large domestic dwelling in the city, featuring a basement, two upper stories and six bathrooms. The property had previously suffered from poor water flow, with multiple showers and taps running simultaneously, resulting in little more than a trickle, despite the presence of a fixed, constant-speed cold-water booster pump.

Jack Phelps, owner of Jacks Pumps – a pump repair specialist servicing customers across Ireland– was brought in to identify a solution. Working with Saniflo’s Dublin team and local merchant Davies Ltd, he suggested replacing the existing pump with a new Saniboost Smart.

Phelps Saniflow Saniboost Smart water pump

The Saniboost Smart has one inlet and one outlet. Cold water from the storage tank enters the pump, and the discharge pipe splits into two: one supplies the cold-water outlets, including taps and the WC, while the second feeds directly to the combi boiler. This boiler heats the water before the pressurised hot water supply is distributed to the showers and hot water outlets.

Phelps set the Saniboost Smart to deliver a constant pressure of 3.5 bar, resolving the water pressure issue across the whole property. The compact booster pump also provides enough pressure to maintain consistent flow when multiple outlets are in use, meeting the requirements of both the installer and homeowner.

“My customer can now run multiple showers and taps with no drop in water pressure. With the Saniboost Smart, it is even possible to make the pressure higher or lower with just the push of a button. It is really easy to install and commission for any qualified plumber, and I am definitely going to be using this in other installations,” says Phelps.

The same pump has also just been installed in a Dublin city pub, which now has a constant supply of hot water to feed the ever-busy glass washer.

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Villeroy & Boch earns second EcoVadis Platinum Medal

August 20, 2026

Villeroy & Boch has been awarded an EcoVadis Platinum Medal for the second year running, further improving its sustainability rating to 94 out of 100 points.

The Mettlach-based ceramics and fittings manufacturer has increased its score by nine points compared with the previous year, placing it once again among the top 1% of companies assessed by EvoVadis. The result also places Villeroy & Boch among the highest-rated companies in its industry.

Sustainability performance is assessed across four areas – environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement – based on independently verifiable evidence. Villpery & Boch improved its performance across four categories compared with the previous year, reflecting progress across the Group, from global procurement to factory production processes. The company’s climate targets have also recently been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

“For us, sustainability is a strategic value driver,” says chief financial officer Dr Markus Warncke. “Receiving the Platinum award once again and our further improvement in the ranking show that consistent ESG management pays off, both environmentally and economically. Particularly in a challenging economic environment, we are committed to responsible business practices in the long term. By consistently pursuing our climate targets, we are positioning ourselves for the future.”

Less CO₂, more recycled material: the figures behind the progress

Environment: Villeroy & Boch reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 34.5 per cent since 2021. In 2025 alone, almost 9,500 tonnes of CO₂e were saved through new power purchase agreements (PPAs) and increased solar power generation at its Torgau facility in Germany and its Hódmezővásárhely facility in Hungary.

Resource efficiency is also addressed through product development; for example, the ALU+ range of fittings is manufactured from 100 per cent recycled aluminium. Water-saving technologies are another focus, with TwistFlush and AquaReduct designed to reduce water consumption in everyday use. According to Villeroy & Boch, TwistFlush can save a four-person household up to 19,700 litres of water per year.

The company is also working towards its ‘Zero Waste to Landfill’ target by reducing waste from its recycling production. Unfired scrap is returned directly to the manufacturing process, whilst other residual materials are recycled externally, helping to reduce the use of primary resources and increase the proportion of materials kept within the circular economy.

Labour and human rights: Villeroy & Boch has continued to strengthen its approach to employee wellbeing, diversity and flexible working. Some 87 per cent of the workforce across 19 sites now work under ISO 45001 certification and health and safety systems, exceeding the Group’s target of 80 per cent.

In 2025, the Executive Board also introduced a Group-wide diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policy and signed the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles. The company aims to increase the proportion of women in management positions from 41% to 50% by 2028.

Flexible working is also supported through a global policy allowing employees outside production to work remotely for up p to 40 per cent of their working time. In Germany, a lifetime working hours account has been in place since January 2025.

Ethics: Villeroy & Boch has increased its focus on corruption prevention, with 97% of employees in higher-risk areas, such as procurement and sales and marketing, completing relevant training in 2025. The company reported zero confirmed cases throughout the year. This led to no cases of corruption since it was implemented.

An anonymous whistleblowing scheme is also available to employees, suppliers, and other external partners, providing a confidential channel for reporting concerns. and partners.

Sustainable procurement: 86% of the procurement volume is now subject to the Group’s own Code of Conduct, exceeding its own 84% target. In spring 2025, Villeroy & Boch also systematically analysed all its global suppliers for human rights and environmental risks, as required by the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG).

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Ceralsio adds Soft Black ceramic surface to its collection

August 20, 2026

CRL Stone has added a Soft Black finish to its Ceralsio ceramic surface collection, bringing a deep, uniform tone and natural finish to the collection.

Designed for contemporary kitchen and bathroom schemes, Soft Black can be used across large surface areas to create a seamless look, making it suitable for minimalist interiors and applications where a more streamlined aesthetic is required.

Manufactured ceramic and compacted at a pressure of 4,000 kg/m² before being sintered at over 1200°C, Ceralsio is designed to provide a durable, non-porous material. It is resistant to staining, scratches, heat, UV exposure and general wear, making it suitable for applications including kitchen and bathroom countertops, wall cladding, flooring, media walls, outdoor kitchens and facades.

The surface is designed to maintain its colour and texture when exposed to sunlight or extreme temperatures. Full Digital printing technology is used to create the individual surface finishes, with each slab featuring a unique pattern.

Available in 12 mm and 20 mm thickness options, Ceralsio is suitable for projects requiring thinner profile surfaces without compromising on durability.

Soft Black is available as part of the Ceralsio collection for both residential and commercial applications.

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

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She’s electric… Bathrooms to Love launches smart electric radiator range

August 19, 2026

Bathrooms to Love, by PJH, has expanded its heating portfolio with a new range of design-led Electric Towel Rails, offering independent heating control in a range of finishes.

The electric models can be operated separately from the main central heating system, providing warm, dry towels and additional heat. Supplied with a pre-fitted heating element and thermostat control, the new towel rails provide targeted heating whilst complementing a range of bathroom schemes.

The collection comprises the Trend Electric Square Ladder and Tivor Electric Straight Ladder, both available in Chrome, Matt Black and Brushed Brass. The flat-fronted Trend is available in 500 x 1200mm, while the Tivor is offered in three sizes: 500 x 800mm, 500 x 1200mm and 500 x 1600mm. Heat outputs range from 250W to 750W, depending on model, size, and finish, giving retailers and installers options for different bathroom spaces and heating needs.

The integrated thermostat technology provides precise control of the towel rail, while a 12/24-hour timer lets usersprogramme heating for specific periods. A two-hour boost function provides extra warmth outside scheduled periods, while a Baby Care setting maintains a lower surface temperature. A Key Lock function prevents settings being changed accidentally.

The thermostat also monitors room temperature and adjusts the heat to the selected level. The built-in thermostat is also available in three metallic finishes for stylish coordination.

Tanna Molyneux, product manager, PJH, said: “Electric radiators offer a number of benefits over gas central heating systems. Easier to install, they do not require any pipework, offering flexible installation. With intelligent functionality, the range provides greater control, flexibility and efficiency – and they also contribute to the overall design of the space with sleek contemporary looks.”

Now available, the new Bathrooms to Love Electric Radiators can be ordered via PJH’s Partners Portal™ for next-day nationwide delivery to store or home. Thr range is also available for viewing on the Bathrooms to Love website or within the latest brochure here: BTL 2026

Further information:

Bathrooms to Love by PJH: T: 0345 450 8932 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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SONAS Bathrooms returns as Gold Sponsor for Connect Conference 2026

August 14, 2026

The Bathroom Association has announced that SONAS Bathrooms will be a Gold Sponsor of Connect Conference 2026 for a second year, taking place on Thursday 8 October at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham.

The Association’s flagship annual event will bring manufacturers, distributors, retailers, suppliers and industry partners together for a day of ideas, insight and connection under the theme ‘Stronger Together’.

SONAS Bathrooms is a long-established bathroom brand supplying retailers and merchants across the UK and Ireland. Known for its dependable service and wide range of high-quality, sustainable bathroom products, the business works closely with independent retailers to provide bathroom solutions that combine practicality, comfort and style across both residential and commercial projects.

Their continuing support as a Gold Sponsor reflects the principles behind this year’s conference theme. Successful partnerships between manufacturers, distributors and retailers are essential to creating a resilient bathroom market, responding to changing consumer expectations and ensuring businesses throughout the supply chain can grow with confidence.

The company has placed retailer relationships at the heart of its approach, supporting customers not only through its product portfolio but through service, reliability and a detailed understanding of the challenges faced by bathroom showrooms and merchants.

Further showcasing this commitment, SONAS have recently opened a UK distribution centre in Redditch, solidifying the investment in the UK market and bringing its products closer than ever to UK customers.

That commitment makes SONAS a natural partner for Connect Conference 2026, where delegates will explore how the industry can share expertise, strengthen commercial relationships and work collectively to address the opportunities and pressures shaping the sector.

Ger Fahy, chief commercial officer at Sonas Bathrooms, commented: “We are proud to once again be a Gold Sponsor of the Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2026.

“Our relationships with retailers and merchants are central to everything we do. We believe that listening to our partners, delivering consistently and developing products that meet the needs of both retailers and consumers are fundamental to long-term success.

“The ‘Stronger Together’ theme captures that approach perfectly. The Conference provides an important opportunity for the industry to exchange ideas, deepen relationships and consider how we can collectively build a stronger and more successful bathroom sector.”

Amy Kirk, marketing and events director at the Bathroom Association, said: “We are thrilled to welcome SONAS as a Gold Sponsor of Connect Conference 2026 for the second year. Their support will help us bring the wider industry together and create the conversations and connections needed to move the sector forward.

“The company’s partnership-led approach strongly reflects our ‘Stronger Together’ theme, and we look forward to welcoming the SONAS team to Birmingham again in October.”

Connect Conference 2026 will include keynote presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities involving businesses from throughout the bathroom supply chain.

Confirmed keynote speakers include Jez Rose, who will deliver the morning keynote; Rebecca Larkin, Head of Construction Research, CPA, who will deliver an economic analysis; and entrepreneur and Trunki founder Rob Law MBE, who will speak during the afternoon programme.

The daytime conference will be followed by an exclusive gala dinner at the Grand Hotel, offering further opportunities for delegates, sponsors and Association members to connect.

For further information, the full agenda, and to book tickets, visit the Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2026 website.

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Villeroy & Boch expands Antao collection with Antao Earth

August 14, 2026

Villeroy & Boch has expanded its Antao collection with Antao Earth, a new range of surface-mounted washbasins designed by Cologne-based studio KASCHKASCH. Each basin is finished with a hand-applied Artisan Glaze, creating subtle variations in colour and texture that give every piece an individual appearance.

The organic form of Antao Earth is based on the existing Antao collection and takes its inspiration from the shape of a dewdrop. KASCHKASCH founders Florian Kallus and Sebastian Schneider developed the silhouette through the iterative process of photography, simplifying and translating forms into three dimensions before refining them further.

“It’s not a question of minimalism in its proper sense”, says Schneider. “It was more condensing design into its very essence” – the result is a timeless form that makes an impact but isn’t overpowering.

Artisan Glaze: Every washbasin a unique piece

The key feature of Antao Earth is the new Artisan Glaze. It is applied by hand and when fired, develops a chemical dynamic: The result is a surface that changes with light and water – an authentic feature of the craftsmanship.

The new technique was developed with Villeroy & Boch’s glazing lab in Mettlach. The development process placed significant demands on the material and the glaze needed to deliver a handcrafted, sculptural appearance while meeting the exacting standards required for large-scale production.

“The challenge here lay in combining an emotionally appealing, highly tactile experience with full everyday functionality”, comments Florian Kallus. Sebastian Schneider goes on to explain, “The physical complexity in the kiln is enormous. To extend such a structure to an entire basin in a controlled and reproducible manner calls for maximum precision at the interface between design and high-end ceramics technology.”

A homage to nature

The Antao Earth colour palette is based on natural landscapes and features three carefully designed hues of Sand, Terra and Smoke which are designed to reflect the variety and depth found in nature. The special Artisan Glaze results in individual textures that interact with these hues to give surfaces a vital, authentic radiance. Inspired by natural landscapes, the shade Sand creates a light welcoming look that evokes a feeling of calm. A stronger, earthy accent is set by Terra, which was directly inspired by the elemental structured surface of the Earth and reflects a deep, unmistakable bond with nature in the bathroom. Completing the palette is Smoke, a contemporary shade that reveals layers of depth as light moves across its surface.

Designed to complement the existing Antao collection, Antao Earth offers designers and homeowners greater flexibility when creating cohesive bathroom schemes.

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Grant Westfield invests in sales team with two new promotions

August 14, 2026

Grant Westfield, manufacturer of Multipanel and Naturepanel, has strengthened its sales team with two more promotions as the company continues to expand its business.

Kin Wickes, who is Grant Westfield’s new key accounts manager – North, has worked for the company for three years and previously held the position of business development manager.

In her new role, Wickes will focus on building long-standing relationships with current and prospective customers. She will also be responsible for identifying new opportunities for growth.

Commenting on her promotion, Kim Wickes said: “I’m looking forward to taking on new challenges, building strong relationships with Key Accounts and colleagues whilst developing my skills and making an impact.Also taking on a new role within Grant Westfield is William Prime, who has been promoted from his position as business development manager Southeast to technical sales manager.

Prime, who joined the company in 2021, will play a pivotal role in developing Grant Westfield’s Installer Elite programme. He said: “I’m most excited about getting closer to our installers and building the Installer Elite programme.

“My key priority is to increase specification opportunities through trial installations and training sessions. I’ll also be supporting technical and installation in the US, as well as industry and customer events.”

Michael Dobson, Grant Westfield’s sales manager, said: “Kim and William are valued members of the Grant Westfield team and great assets to the company. We’re delighted to see their hard work recognised with these well-deserved promotions.”

For more information, please visit: www.grantwestfield.co.uk or call 0131 337 6262.

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PJH & Fibo sales growth leads to range expansion

August 13, 2026

PJH has expanded its choice of Fibo kitchen and bathroom wall panels following continued sales growth since becoming the brand’s sole UK distribution partner in February 2025.

Year-on-year sales of the Fibo collection through PJH increased by 40% in July, with the distributor now stocking over 300 SKU’s, compared with 225 when the partnership began.

The expanded range includes Fibo’s waterproof wall panel systems for kitchens and bathrooms, with availability across England, Scotland and Wales through PJH’s distribution network.

The partnership has also enabled retailers, installers and merchants to access next-day delivery to store or home, supporting faster ordering and installation of the Fibo collection.

Over the past year, the partnership expanded to include Fibo kitchen wall panels and splashback designs alongside further additions to the bathroom collections. In the Spring, PJH added new wall panel designs to both its Bathrooms to Love and Bathrooms2GO brands, offering customers an even better choice of the latest on-trend wall panel designs, profiles and accessories. Designs incllude Pebble Granite, Arctic Onyx and Rustic Granite.

Commenting on the growth, Tanna Molyneux, product manager at PJH, said: “Working alongside the Fibo team has been incredibly rewarding, with the relationship built on trust, shared goals and a mutual commitment to supporting customers throughout the UK. The latest design-led wall panel systems, such as those from Fibo, are fast becoming a popular choice in bathroom and kitchen projects. Fibo’s comprehensive choice of premium finishes is outstanding, making them a fantastic, easy-to-install, alternative to tiles.”

Jenny Gibson, head of new business development at Fibo, added: “Since PJH became our UK distribution partner in early 2025, the growth we’ve achieved together has been a real testament to what the right partnership can deliver. PJH’s nationwide reach and next-day delivery service has made it easier than ever for retailers, installers and merchants across England, Scotland and Wales to specify and fit Fibo’s waterproof wall panels. Expanding into kitchens and introducing our new stone-inspired designs is a direct response to that rising demand for a faster, low-maintenance alternative to tiling. We’re incredibly proud of what this partnership continues to achieve, and look forward to building on that momentum together.”

Fibo’s waterproof panel systems are manufactured in Norway and backed by a 25-year warranty. The panels feature a 7-layer birch core, durable laminate surface, and Fibo’s patented Aqualock click system, enabling installers to complete projects significantly faster than conventional tiling while achieving a clean, virtually seamless finish.

For more information about the Fibo range available through PJH, contact PJH: T: 0345 450 8932 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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