PJH has supplied the Plumbing and Bathroom Faculty of Dumfries and Galloway College with a range of its Bathrooms2GO basins with pedestals and WCs, supporting the College’s continued investment in high-quality, practical training for plumbing and bathroom students.
The donation forms part of the College’s wider workshop reconfiguration project and reflects PJH’s commitment, as a proud BIFIS Corporate Sponsor, to supporting education, training and the development of future installers across the KBB sector. The upgraded facilities are designed to ensure students are learning with modern, industry-standard products that mirror those they will encounter in real-world installations.
The updated facilities will support students across a range of plumbing and heating qualifications and apprenticeship pathways, helping them build practical trade skills alongside classroom learning.
Sally Hough, multi-channel marketing manager at PJH, said: “We are delighted to support Dumfries and Galloway College as it continues to invest in high-quality training for the plumbing and bathroom sector. Practical, hands-on experience is essential in helping students develop confidence and competence, and we’re pleased that our own Bathrooms2GO products will play a role in that journey.
“As a leading UK supplier and a BIFIS Corporate Sponsor, we recognise the importance of working closely with education providers to support standards, professionalism and long-term career pathways within the industry. Installation plays a vital role in the overall customer experience, and this partnership helps strengthen the link between training and real-world practice.”
Keith Davidson, Plumbing Lecturer within Sustainable Construction at Dumfries and Galloway College, said: “We are extremely grateful for PJH’s support. Having access to the latest bathroom products makes a real difference to our students, allowing them to train with equipment that reflects what they will encounter in industry. It’s a valuable addition to our workshops and enhances the quality of training we can provide.”
PJH looks forward to seeing the refreshed workshop in use and to supporting further initiatives that help equip the next generation of plumbing and bathroom professionals.
For further PJH information or to order Bathrooms2GO products, visit the PJH Partners Portal, www.partners.pjh.uk, or contact the PJH Sales Team at sales@pjh.uk / T: 0345 450 8932.
Bathrooms to Love by PJH has added to its collection of classic bathroom designs with the elegant new Dion modular furniture range, a beautiful floor-standing family offering practical storage solutions for the period-inspired bathroom (see the video here: Dion by BTL).
Available in three flawless matt shades, Matt White, Matt Anthracite and Matt Misty Blue, Dion stylishly blends the old with the new, mixing traditional design with contemporary craftmanship.
The range comprises of two floor-standing basin units (650mm and 800mm wide) and one floor-standing midi-boy unit (470mm wide). The generously sized inset ceramic basin features a graceful upstand design and an integrated overflow. The basin cabinet below follows the same classically styled aesthetics with slender tapered legs and shaker detail to the drawer fascia. A deep drawer and handy open shelf below provide plenty of storage space to keep bathrooms tidy and organised.
The matching midi-boy unit follows the same timeless design cues, offering a spacious cupboard with removable, smoked glass shelf, and another open shelf below (1107mm height). All Dion units feature high quality fixtures, luxurious soft-close drawers and doors, and are highly durable for busy bathroom spaces.
As well as the three colour finish choices, the personalisation theme continues with a wide choice of handles such as the chrome Deco Knob (as shown), oak or walnut Dome handles, and a further range of designs in matt black, brushed brass, brushed bronze and chrome.
Commented Julie Lockwood, furniture product manager, Bathrooms to Love by PJH: “There will always be a steady demand for the classically-styled bathroom. It is enduring and will always stand the test of time, representing a sound investment for any homeowner, safe in the knowledge that elegance and tradition will never go out of fashion.
“The grandeur and theatre of nostalgic bathroom furniture style – like our new Dion range, continues to evoke sophistication and class, and is a look set to remain ever-popular.”
Dion teams up perfectly with the old-fashioned charm of the traditional Sherbourne ceramic range from Bathrooms to Love, which includes a wide choice of options, including high level, low level, close coupled and back-to-wall WC’s – as pictured here with the Matt White and Matt Anthracite Dion units.
Part of the new Bathrooms to Love 2026 Collection, Dion is now available for ordering via PJH’s Partners Portal, on an efficient next-day delivery service, to store or customer address.
For further stockist support information, from POS to swatches and attractive display deals, contact PJH now (see below).
Kitchen & Bath Industry Show® (KBIS) 2026 is gearing up for its return to Orlando, Florida next month as the global kitchen and bathroom industry prepares for one of its most anticipated events of the year.
As North America’s largest kitchen and bath trade show, KBIS 2026 will once again bring together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, builders, and designers from around the world, providing a forward-looking platform focused on innovation, design excellence and industry collaboration.
Co-located with Design & Construction Week® (DCW), KBIS 2026 is preparing to showcase thousands of new products and solutions across appliances, cabinetry, surfaces, fixtures, smart technology and sustainable design. The event will spotlight both established global brands and emerging names shaping the future of residential and commercial interiors.
Industry prepares for innovation and insight
“Our KBIS community is dynamic and diverse, bringing together voices and visions from across the country and around the world,” said Bill Darcy, global president & CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “That’s why we’re especially excited for Orlando 2026 – Florida is a thriving East Coast design hub to many of our members and known for its distinctive take on architecture, interior design, and whole-home inspiration. This show will mark a bold step forward, spotlighting global design innovators, expanding our continuing education offerings well beyond kitchen and bath, and cultivating a professional network that’s second to none. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Sunshine State!”
About KBIS
The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is North America’s largest and most prestigious trade show dedicated to kitchen and bath design. This immersive event brings together 650 exhibitors showcasing the latest products, trends, and technologies in nearly 500,000 square feet of exhibit space. Whether you’re searching for inspiration, networking opportunities, or cutting-edge solutions, KBIS is the must-attend event for all design industry professionals.
Features by Diane Larner, founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review. Diane Larner launched both titles over 15 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industries ever since, publishing regular features across both sectors.
Bathrooms have evolved into restful retreats, with bathroom furniture playing a central role for designers, retailers and specifiers alike. 2026 interior trends will continue to celebrate visual appeal with durability, reflecting client requests for spaces that feel calm, considered and seamlessly connected to modern living.
Diane Larner examines the latest products to reach the market, from tactile opulence to clever storage solutions.
Classic bathroom furniture with a contemporary edge
Signature by Atlanta
Creating a nostalgic, bygone feel to the bathroom – without appearing clunky or outdated – is best achieved by combining traditional styling with bold, contemporary colour schemes. Incorporating useful storage combined with modern, durable features, such as minimalist sinks and taps, also helps lend a clean, streamlined feel.
Atlanta Bathrooms’ design-led Signature Collection is exclusive to displaying retailers and features the Herrington series of traditionally styled painted vanity units. Complemented by coordinating sanitaryware, countertops, and brassware, the collection is showcased in a dedicated Signature brochure.
Following the successful launch last October, Atlanta Bathrooms has reported an exceptional response from retailers, designers, and homeowners across the UK.
Tactile bathroom furniture & sensory style
Utopia Bathrooms HeyU Collection
Opulence and indulgence are influencing design outcomes for 2026. Global trends suggest a focus on colours and materials that deliver rich, earthy tones, combined with sumptuous gold or jewel-like accents. According to Interior Design Trends 2026: What’s Next in Luxury UK Homes, we can expect to see saturated colours such as jade greens and petrol blues, as well as rich reds – think ochre and clay – to step forcibly into the spotlight. Add in texture and contrast – such as sleek gold handles or hammered metal – and you have a multisensory space that appeals to today’s consumers.
Richard Shore, head of product design at Utopia, agrees, “Expect to see earthy greens, moody blues, warm neutrals, fiery terracottas and rich jewel tones coming through. These colours work to highlight an increasingly textural design landscape. Simple linear and fluted textures are becoming the entry point into a broader world of tactile finishes, where geometric forms blend with organic surfaces. This shift is breaking away from traditional patterning and opening up almost limitless combinations of texture and colour. In addition, sustainability and genuine durability will shape bathroom trends more than ever.”
HeyU, Utopia’s most versatile modular range, combines an inspired fusion of texture, colour and creativity, all designed and manufactured at Utopia’s headquarters in the West Midlands.
Durable bathroom furniture for long-term performance
Rehau Rauvisio Bathroom Furniture Collection
Creating durable bathroom furniture means specifying products that combine functionality with longevity. High-quality surface materials that are low‑maintenance, hygienic, and robust enough to resist moisture and everyday wear ensure long-term performance.
In line with the latest trends, a high-gloss finish and the capacity to create bespoke pieces for all shapes and sizes offer additional advantages to architects and designers. These elements offer greater versatility since they can be tailored to unique project needs.
Monika Skotarczak, marketing & communications lead for the interior solutions UK, comments, “The evolution of the bathroom is increasingly driven by material choice. Beyond fittings and finishes, surfaces now define how a space performs, endures and ultimately feels. In both residential and commercial bathrooms, users look for long-lasting solutions that use robust, dependable materials able to maintain their appearance through many years of intensive, high-traffic use.”
Developed by REHAU, the RAUVISIO crystal collection is an elegant alternative to real glass, delivering the same visual brilliance with superior everyday practicality. Introduced this year, the new RAUVISIO crystal pure collection combines a refined, glass-like appearance with outstanding performance credentials.
Shaker style bathroom furniture
Shaker-style furniture is renowned for its timeless elegance, thanks to its clean lines and recessed panels, which create a calm, classic backdrop. Fitted bathroom furniture with customisable designs also makes it easier to optimise space and meet client requirements.
Hayley Bowman – marketing manager, for Harrison Bathrooms, agrees, “Fitted bathroom furniture has become popular mainly due to its space-saving functionality. Many homes feature compact bathrooms, and fitted units offer effective storage solutions that help reduce clutter. These slimline options preserve floor space and can be designed to fit around basins and toilets, creating a coordinated appearance. Additionally, fitted furniture enhances the bathroom’s overall texture. While Shaker units are typically associated with kitchens, their straight clean lines emphasise craftsmanship, and they are now increasingly used in bathrooms, adding a classic, versatile touch.”
Harrison Bathrooms has announced the launch of its refreshed and expanded Scudo Fitted Furniture Collection, designed to offer retailers a simplified, design-led and great-value fitted solution that meets growing demand across the UK market.
Built-in storage blends style with practicality. For homeowners, these nifty solutions help retain a polished brochure-worthy appeal by delivering a clean, clutter-free environment post-installation. For architects, they offer the opportunity to create fluid, functional layouts that don’t sacrifice style. With seamless integrations, built-in storage also has the added advantage of making smaller bathrooms feel larger and more organised.
Space-smart bathroom furniture & storage
Ideal Standard i.life furniture Collection
Decluttering has been shown to provide benefits for emotional well-being – according to Psychology Today, “Several studies show a correlation between disorganisation, clutter, and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and stress.”* Building in bathroom storage offers a considered solution, especially for busy family homes, where multiple users may use the same space.
Yiota Toumba, senior designer at Villeroy & Boch, explains, “Bathroom furniture is becoming more versatile, with storage solutions designed to suit every kind of space. In family bathrooms, we’re seeing larger vanity units with deep drawers and clever partitions to keep everything tidy. For ensuites and smaller spaces, slimline designs and modular units are key – they maximise functionality without overwhelming the room.”
Ideal Standard’s i.life furniture collections meet the demands of modern living, offering smart storage solutions and stylish vanity units for bathrooms of every size. Space-saving is the priority – making it an ideal choice for retailers working with homeowners who have limited space, such as ensuites or cloakroom bathrooms.
Tailored bathroom furniture for bespoke interiors
Bathroom to Love Elements Seville – Downstairs Bathroom
Designing spaces that reflect individual taste is easier than ever, thanks to a wide array of colours, shapes and finishes offered by manufacturers. This flexibility means householders can create personalised environments, in which cabinetry and fixture details are tailored to individual needs. With so many differing styles on the market, from bold to muted, or retro to modern, the potential to create a home that works for clients on a bespoke level is helpful to bathroom professionals.
Julie Lockwood, furniture product manager, Bathrooms to Love by PJH, explains, “Furniture design has evolved significantly over the past decade in response to the changing role of the bathroom and continued product innovation. Furniture’s dual role – bathroom storage space as well as stunning aesthetics – has inspired its design evolution, helping to create one of the largest choices of options for all. An entire spectrum of colours, textures, materials, and unit shapes and sizes means the customer can create a personalised space that is practical yet luxurious.”
In response to the growing demand for more colour and unit options, Bathrooms to Love by PJH has added two new flawless hues to its popular modular furniture range, ELEMENTS, as well as a new slim cloakroom basin unit and WC unit, for its 2026 Collection.
END
Visit the Bathroom Review features pagefor more like this. Alternatively, if Kitchens are your thing, please visit our sister site, Kitchens Review
Ideal Standard’s i.life furniture collections are designed to meet the demands of modern living, offering smart storage solutions and stylish vanity units for bathrooms of every size.
Space-saving is the priority with the i.life S collection, making it an ideal choice for retailers working with homeowners who have limited space, such as ensuites or cloak room bathrooms. With soft-square profiles and slim dimensions, plus vanity units in widths from 50cm to 80cm and three depth options, there’s plenty of flexibility in the collection too, with columns and open side units adding additional options for tight spaces.
Minimalism takes centre stage with i.life A, adding another string to the bow of a retailer’s portfolio. It’s a great option for homeowners looking for a clean, contemporary aesthetic with its smooth, rounded lines. Again, flexibility is the name of the game with multiple vanity sizes and configurations, complemented by matching columns and side units, ideal for creating a cohesive, understated look.
For design-led projects, i.life B introduces a softer, organic feel with gentle curves and refined styling. Homeowners prioritising elegance will find this range appealing, while retailers can highlight the collection’s coordinated storage options for a premium finish.
Across all three collections, there’s plenty of personalisation options too. With seven durable finishes including Matt White, Matt Carbon Grey and Natural Oak and two handle styles, retailers can offer an aesthetic that matches the customers’ desire while balancing functionality with style. Whether it’s maximising space in a small ensuite or adding a premium touch to a family bathroom, i.life offers versatile solutions that make everyday living easier while elevating the overall aesthetic.
About Villeroy & Boch Group´s Bathroom & Wellness Division
The Villeroy & Boch Group is one of the global leaders in premium dining and lifestyle, as well as bathroom and wellness products. Founded in 1748 and headquartered in Mettlach, Germany, the company stands for innovation, design and quality. The Group has more than 12.000 employees and is present in over 125 countries worldwide.
MERLYN and VADO have announced a strategic collaboration for KBB 2026, where they will present a total bathroom solution on a joint 140 m2 exhibition stand. The collaborative space will guide visitors through five beautifully designed bathrooms.
Both part of Norcros plc, MERLYN and VADO will combine their expertise to present a comprehensive, design-led bathroom solution. The partnership brings together MERLYN’s specialist knowledge in premium shower enclosures and trays, with VADO’s expertise in brassware, accessories and furniture. Demonstrating how coordinated specification can deliver a cohesive total bathroom offering for retailers, designers and specifiers.
Our research shows that KBB retailers are increasingly seeking integrated solutions that optimise resources and deliver greater efficiency.
The shared exhibition stands, designed by Jo Love will be the largest to date and feature five distinct bathrooms, each with a themed daily ritual showcasing fully integrated bathroom offerings. By pairing MERLYN showering solutions with VADO products throughout, the stand demonstrates how complementary ranges work together to deliver consistency in design, performance and finish across the bathroom.
Through a considered use of colour, form, lighting and materials, the stand positions the bathroom as a space shaped by intentional design and everyday rituals, reinforcing MERLYN and VADO’s shared commitment to quality, innovation and design-led, sustainable solutions for the UK market.
Designed as a flowing, guided layout, the stand will include clear sightlines between each bathroom and a welcoming social space in the form of a central ritual lounge, creating a focal point for meetings and discussion. Additional elements include dedicated brand meeting areas, hospitality and takeaway ritual journals, enabling visitors to explore the concept further and translate inspiration into real-world projects beyond the show.
Smiths Briten has launched a brand-new website, representing a major investment in the company’s long-term growth and commitment to improving customer service across its nationwide network of retailers and merchants.
The new platform brings together a host of upgraded features designed to make doing business with Smiths Briten easier, faster and more intuitive. From streamlined navigation and improved branding through to a comprehensive downloads area, the site has been developed to support customers at every stage of their journey.
Retail partners will now benefit from a dedicated live stock portal – following the success of a similar system introduced by sister brand Frontline Bathrooms – giving instant access to stock levels, pricing and product details in real time. The site also provides direct links to all Smiths Briten brands, a section for promotional discount vouchers to support display investment, and high-quality imagery to enhance merchandising and marketing activity. The website will remain non-transactional to protect Smiths customers.
Speaking about the launch, Darren Allison, managing director at Smiths Briten, says: “This new website represents a major step forward for Smiths Briten and forms part of our wider commitment to delivering a seamless, service-led experience for our trade partners. We have invested heavily in both technology and design to ensure the platform truly reflects the needs of our customers, from improved navigation and faster access to resources, to live stock visibility that helps retailers plan and order with confidence.
“Our goal has always been to make it as easy as possible for customers to work with us, whether that means downloading specification sheets, checking availability, or exploring our full portfolio of brands. The new site not only looks and feels more modern, but it also functions in a way that saves our customers valuable time each day. This investment ensures that as Smiths Briten continues to grow, we are supporting that growth with digital systems that are as reliable and forward-thinking as the products we supply.
“Following the successful rollout of a new live stock portal for Frontline Bathrooms, we have taken the same technology and tailored it to the specific needs of Smiths Briten’s customers. The feedback from our partners is that easy access to accurate stock information and downloadable assets makes a real difference to how they serve their own customers.
“We are also investing in much stronger visual content, including better product imagery and brand integration, alongside commercial tools such as discount vouchers to support display installation. Everything we have built is about making the customer journey smoother, faster, and more rewarding.
“As well as showcasing our current brands, we continue to seek other brands to join us as we grow.”
The launch marks another milestone in Smiths Briten’s growth strategy as it continues to expand its product offering, digital infrastructure and customer support across the UK market.
kbb Birmingham 2026 is set to showcase the latest innovations shaping the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom industry from over 320 exhibitors at the NEC from 1-4 March 2026.
The event expects an audience of over 15,000 visitors over the four days. This year, the spotlight is on future-forward design, where sustainability, smart technology, and personalisation converge to meet evolving lifestyle needs.
Bathroom exhibitor highlights:
Sustainability, material innovation and smart functionality are shaping the future of bathroom design. At kbb Birmingham, Frascio (C64) will unveil its latest sensor tap technology, powered by running water rather than electricity or batteries, offering a low-maintenance and eco-conscious solution for modern bathrooms.
Layered textures and multifunctional design take centre stage at Clearwater (M110). The brand will showcase new sink innovations alongside British-made ceramic designs, reflecting growing demand for versatility, tactile surfaces and flexible layouts.
Natural materials continue to gain momentum, with Woodio (C72) redefining bathroom design through waterproof wood-based solutions. Combining Nordic design with sustainable innovation, the range delivers a lower-carbon alternative to traditional ceramics without compromising durability.
Affordable luxury is also in focus, as VR Bathrooms (D80) introduces waterproof woodgrain vanity units in warm, contemporary finishes, designed to combine practicality with refined aesthetics.
Other bathroom exhibitors include Laguna Bathrooms (F55), Croydex (D64), Showerwall (D54), Vado (E65), Merlyn Showers (E65), Aqualisa (D68), Whitebirk Sink Company (C86), Innowin (Q60) and Disbain (SP2).
Kitchen exhibitor highlights:
Quiet luxury will dominate kitchen design in 2026, with clean lines, natural materials and Japandi-inspired simplicity shaping modern interiors. At kbb Birmingham, Sachsenküchen (N70) brings this trend to life with refined cabinetry, tactile ceramic surfaces and integrated lighting and storage solutions designed for contemporary living.
Natural finishes continue to influence kitchen design, with Rotpunkt (Q90) showcasing a mix of wood and metallic surfaces that add depth and character. The brand’s latest collections highlight Scandinavian influences, industrial accents and textured detailing for design-led spaces.
Demand for boiling water taps continues to rise as homeowners prioritise integrated appliances and clutter-free worktops. British manufacturer QETTLE (S98) will showcase its mechanical boiling tap technology, delivering true 100°C boiling water without electronics or complex servicing, alongside a new integrated rinse feature.
As kitchens become increasingly connected, AVINTAGE (J110) is expanding the role of built-in refrigeration. The brand will present innovations in wine and food storage, combining connectivity, smart control and seamless integration to support modern cooking habits.
Timeless design and everyday functionality define the latest collection from Nolte Kitchens (L80). The 2026 range focuses on minimalist styling, authentic materials and durable surfaces, with both modern and classic influences. Nolte will also host live cooking demonstrations during the show.
Other kitchen exhibitors include Abode (P80), Nobilia (Q80), Smeg (S110), Quooker (L90), InSinkErator (J82), Transformad (P110), Kesseböhmer (K84), Caledonia Kitchens (G100), Bidbury & Co (C86), Servicanto (SP1), Lamello (W70) and Rubio Monocoat (S62).
From 1–4 March 2026 at the NEC, explore over 320 exhibitors across over 25 different product categories and discover the trends shaping the future of kitchen and bathroom design. Don’t miss your chance to experience the latest products, technologies, and creative ideas first-hand.
NKBA will host a dozen editors from Europe and South America on a guided KBIS experience as part of the International Media Tour in Orlando, FL, Feb. 16 to 19. It is the largest such tour ever organised by NKBA.
Journalists hailing from the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Brazil will attend KBIS 2026, which is owned by NKBA and is the largest and most comprehensive trade show in North America dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design and remodeling. The expo, held in the Orange County Convention Center, features a wide array of brands and manufacturers in the sector, as well as networking and educational opportunities.
Through the NKBA Global Connect international business membership program, editors will visit a curated selection of Global Connect exhibiting members and learn about North American brands, design directions, market trends, and business nuances throughout KBIS, so they can report to their home markets. Editors will attend sessions designed to help international companies explore a foray into the U.S. and Canada or strengthen and expand their opportunities in the region.
This exclusive NKBA program brings the global kitchen and bath community together through a vibrant exchange of information, market insights, product development, and go-to-market strategies to help international companies with business opportunities in the North American market.
• Javier Gómez, Editor in Chief, Cocina Integral, Spain. Javier is based in Barcelona and heads up the editorial team for the official media outlet of the Spanish Kitchen Manufacturers Association.
• Emma Hedges, Editor, KBB Focus, UK. Emma has logged more than 25 years covering design and interiors across a broad range of national newspapers, trade and consumer publications, specializing in the kitchens and bathrooms sector, including as former editor of Essential Kitchen & Bathroom Business magazine.
• Gabriele Mühlen, Editorial Director, möbel kultur, Germany. Gabriele brings more than two decades of experience in international media and brand development, including editor in chief positions and executive management roles at global outlets such as Bauer Media Group and Hubert Burda Media, and founded GMC Gabriele Mühlen Consult, where she advises brands, publishers, and associations on strategic communication, brand positioning, organizational leadership, and media transformation.
• Diane Larner, Founder, Kitchen Review & Bathroom Review, UK. Diane specialises in news, trends, and product innovation within the kitchen and bathroom industry and has extensive experience covering major international trade shows, including ISH Frankfurt and KBB Birmingham.
• Roberta Mutti, Editor in Chief, The Design Week Guide, Italy. Roberta is a journalist, author, and consultant whose work bridges the worlds of architecture, design, and media. She wrote the bilingual volume “Storia del Fuorisalone” (“History of Milan Design Week”), which traces the evolution of the iconic urban design event and the cultural phenomenon of Milan’s creative industries, and currently leads The Design Week Guide dedicated to design-focused events around the world.
• Natalia Ramalho, Editor and Founder, The Luxe Resident, UK. The Luxe Resident is a global luxury publication dedicated to interior design, hospitality, and lifestyle. Natalia curates and produces editorial features that spotlight exceptional interiors, design innovation, and the brands and creatives shaping the future of luxury living.
• Antonia Pozo Comas, Journalist, IM Cocinas y Baños magazine; media coordinator for Publimas Digital publishing house, Spain. Antonia, based in Barcelona, currently serves as media coordinator for the publishing group, providing an overarching view of editorial operations and reinforcing the company’s commitment to high-quality, sector-driven communication in specialized business journalism.
• Martin Allen-Smith, Editor, Digital Savvy Media, Colchester, UK. Martin has been writing about kitchen and bathroom design for almost 20 years and oversees all editorial content of kitchen and bathroom design magazine designerati, runs the judging process for the annual designerati awards, and edits The Installer, a UK publication for K&B installation professionals.
• Matteo Lirosi, Journalist, FIRSTOnline, Italy. Matteo joined FIRSTOnline in 2021, initially focusing on social media management and digital communication, and now covers technology, innovation, cybersecurity, and current affairs, with a strong focus on their economic and strategic implications.
• Susanne Koglin, Editor in Chief, Moebelnews, Germany. Susanne has worked in advertising, as a business coach, and in B2B journalism throughout her career, covering the kitchen and furniture sectors for more than 20 years. She joined Moebelnews in 2016 as a freelancer and was named editor in chief in 2022.
• Laura Naito, Global Editor and reporter for Casa e Jardim, Brazil. Laura writes about art, architecture, decoration and design and is based in São Paulo, Brazil.
• Camila Santos, Assistant Design Editor, Casa Vogue, Brazil. Camila is a journalist specializing in digital communication and social media. She has been part of the Casa Vogue Brasil team for over five years, where she works as Assistant Design Editor, focusing on the production and curation of content related to the sector.
Global Connect programming includes daily presentations and discussions in the NKBA Booth (#S25058) in South Hall, international country-sponsored pavilions, spotlight presentations, and more. Learn more here.
About NKBA Global Connect
The NKBA Global Connect mission is to connect and grow the kitchen and bath industry around the world through an international membership program. The initiative equips international companies with the support and professional community access they need to thrive in North America by providing market intelligence, brand-positioning guidance, and connections to key North American audiences. By combining NKBA’s expert marketing execution with access to a diverse and influential member network, we help businesses increase visibility, build meaningful relationships, and generate strong market demand, ultimately accelerating their success in the lucrative and competitive $228 billion North American market.
BC Designs has launched three new additions to its Cian bath collection for bricks-and-mortar bathroom retailers. The showroom-exclusive launch recognises the need for margin protection and in-store expertise.
The new Westmere, Cavendish, and Highcroft baths will not be available to online-only sellers – a move that BC Designs says recognises the value of face-to-face specification, product knowledge and design-led selling that bricks-and-mortar retailers continue to provide.
All three designs sit within the established Cian range, BC Designs’ proprietary solid surface material known for its smooth finish, durability and suitability for contemporary and classic bathroom schemes alike, allowing retailers to offer sculptural freestanding baths that feel distinctive, premium and confidently specified, while remaining practical for everyday use and straightforward installation.
By restricting availability of Westmere, Cavendish and Highcroft to physical showrooms, BC Designs is giving retail partners:
A tangible point of difference on the shop floor
Protecting them from direct online price comparison
Enabling meaningful conversations with customers around material quality, design intent and long-term performance
Commenting on the launch, Adam Smith, national sales manager at BC Designs, says: “Independent bathroom retailers remain absolutely central to how we do business, and this launch is a very deliberate statement of support for the showroom network. Westmere, Cavendish and Highcroft have been developed exclusively for bricks-and-mortar partners to ensure they can offer products that customers cannot simply find online, compare on price and purchase without guidance.
“Physical retailers invest heavily in displays, product knowledge and the time it takes to help customers make confident, well-informed decisions, and we believe that level of expertise deserves genuine protection. By keeping these Cian baths off online platforms, we are helping our partners safeguard margins while also giving them something distinctive to build meaningful conversations around design, material quality and long-term performance.”
This launch also signals the start of a wider programme of retailer-first product development, with BC Designs confirming that further exclusive lines are already in progress and will be rolled out to bricks-and-mortar partners over the coming months, strengthening the proposition for showrooms looking to stand apart in an increasingly competitive market.
