ISH Frankfurt 2025: The future of bathroom design

April 1, 2025

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.

ISH Frankfurt 2025 opened its doors to over 160,000 visitors from 150 countries in early March. It brought together manufacturers, industry leaders, designers, and innovators to showcase the latest trends in sustainable design, smart technologies, and eco-friendly solutions.

For the bathroom sector, water-saving innovation, twinned with resource efficiency, was billed as a key theme of this show. Many exhibitors unveiled products that prioritise energy and help users conserve water. The Future of Water section captured the spotlight, featuring new technologies designed to reduce consumption while maintaining high performance. From smart, connected systems to innovative water-saving features, ISH Frankfurt 2025 demonstrated how the bathroom sector is embracing a greener, more sustainable future.

Digital transformation embedded within the latest bathroom design highlighted the growing trend for smart, connected bathroom systems. Numerous exhibitors showcased innovations with digital and app controls and intelligent solutions designed to enhance daily living and accessibility.

Diane Larner attended the event and compiled six inspirational bathroom highlights.

SIX T O P P I C K S from ISH 2025

Bathroom-Review-Hansgrohe-Avalegra-AquaUnit.

hansgrohe reinvents the washbasin with Avalegra

hansgrohe showcased its new Avalegra AquaUnit. Said to be in an entirely new bathroom category because it includes washbasin and tap in one unit.

Leading the future at ISH: Jaquar’s vision for luxury & smart bath solutions

Jaquar’s dedication to pioneering design was evident in its latest innovations, which were unveiled at ISH 2025.

Bathroom-Review-Ideal-Standard-HydroTwist®-i.life-O-Collection

Ideal Standard unveils i.life O Collection at ISH 2025

Ideal Standard, part of the Villeroy & Boch Group’s Bathroom and Wellness Division, previewed its new i.life O collection at ISH 2025 in Frankfurt.

VitrA showcases bathroom design and innovation at ISH

VitrA showcased a range of new bathroom products, reinforcing its commitment to outstanding design and innovative technology.

Kaldewei excels at ISH with NUIO DUO designer bathtub

The high-end Zen Edition bathtub includes infrared heat, music and lighting, all of which are operated by an intuitive panel

Barbie™ x HEWI bathroom collection unveiled at ISH Frankfurt

Universal design has always been at the heart of HEWI’s philosophy.

Wolfgang Marzin, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Messe Frankfurt

The atmosphere at ISH 2025 was outstanding – the halls were buzzing, and the conversations were in-depth and forward-looking. The industry is ready and willing to shape the future. ISH has reaffirmed its status as the world’s leading trade fair: 72 per cent international exhibitors and 163,157 visitors speak for themselves.

“ISH 2025 has powerfully demonstrated that innovative solutions to meet basic needs have long been available. Our exhibitors have shown that the transition to a sustainable economy is not only vital, but already underway – despite the challenges we currently face. They are developing technologies that improve our daily lives while making them more sustainable.”

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Bathroom-Review-ISH-Frankfurt-2025-ish-forum

Ruth Davies, VitrA UK marketing director

Bathroom Review Ruth Davies, VitrA Marketing Manager

We were delighted to be at ISH for our 21^st year, showcasing our latest products and innovations. This year we presented a wide range of new products, including new sanitaryware, furniture, and brassware as well as V-Care smart toilets and the groundbreaking SonicFlush technology.

“Sustainability was also a key focus, with dedicated space highlighting our ethos. We showcased our recycled washbasin as well as our new recycled toilet seat, alongside the introduction of our SustaINdex system, which ranks our products based on their environmental and social impact, covering materials, production, transportation, and packaging. A huge thank you to everyone who visited us – it was fantastic to share our innovations and hear your feedback!”

About ISH Frankfurt

ISH Frankfurt is the world’s leading trade fair for bathroom, building, energy, and air-conditioning technologies, held biennially in Frankfurt, Germany. As a key event in the industry, it showcases the latest trends and innovations, offering a platform for manufacturers, designers, and experts to present groundbreaking solutions for the built environment. The fair is renowned for its focus on sustainability, smart technologies, and energy efficiency, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of bathroom and building services.

At ISH, global leaders gather to explore cutting-edge products and share insights on the future of water management, digital transformation, and eco-friendly design. The event plays a pivotal role in shaping industry standards and promotes the adoption of green technologies that enhance both functionality and sustainability. With its forward-thinking approach, ISH continues to be the premier destination for discovering the innovations that will define the future of living and working spaces.

ISH will be back on the 15th -19th March 2027

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Pitchfest returns to InstallerSHOW 2025 – bigger, bolder, and ready to impress!

April 1, 2025

The BMA has announced the return of Pitchfest at InstallerSHOW 2025, which will take place at the NEC Birmingham from June 24-26. As part of the BMA theatre programme, this high-energy competition offers a unique opportunity for bathroom innovators to showcase their latest products and ideas to a live audience of bathroom installers.

For those familiar with Dragon’s Den, Pitchfest offers a similar fast-paced pitch format but with a twist—it’s all about the latest in bathroom tech, from taps and showers to advanced toilet solutions. It’s a platform where bathroom product developers can pitch their ideas head-to-head, with one crowned the Pitchfest Champion at the end of the show.

How Pitchfest Works:

Two Heats:

Heat 1: June 24 at 3:15 PM
Heat 2: June 25 at 10:15 AM

Each heat will feature six quick-fire pitches, with competitors given just five minutes to present their products – no slides, no screens, just the pitch and whatever props they can bring. Once the pitches are completed, the installer audience will vote for their favourite, with the top three from each heat advancing to the grand final.

To add to the excitement, voters will be entered into a draw to win an iPad Air, courtesy of Leopard Co.

The Final Showdown – June 26 at 2:00 PM:
Six finalists will compete in the ultimate pitch-off, with the winner chosen by the installer audience. The victorious pitch will not only earn Pitchfest Champion bragging rights but also a 10-week sprint marketing campaign with Leopard Co, worth £7,000.

With only 12 pitching slots available, it’s first come, first served. Those who don’t make the cut will be placed on a reserve list, so interested parties are encouraged to sign up quickly. To secure a slot, email Amy Kirk today.

Hosted by BMA Chief Executive Tom Reynolds, each session promises to be a dynamic, no-nonsense event – no slides, no fluff, just straight-to-the-point pitches. Props are encouraged, and innovation is a must.

“We were blown away by the energy and innovation at last year’s Pitchfest – the crowd, the ideas, and the engagement were fantastic,” said Tom Reynolds.

“This year, we’re taking it to the next level.”

Pitchfest offers a rare chance for bathroom product innovators to showcase their creations directly to the professionals who matter most. Whether pitching or watching, it’s an event no one in the industry will want to miss.

Sponsorship Opportunities:

For those looking to elevate their brand presence further at InstallerSHOW 2025, there are also exclusive sponsorship opportunities available for two high-profile speakers in the BMA theatre area.

To learn more, contact Tom Reynolds directly. Please note that these opportunities are available on a first come, first served basis.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make your mark at InstallerSHOW 2025.

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Bathrooms to Love unveils Spring/Summer 2025 Collection

April 1, 2025

PJH’s Bathrooms to Love brand introduces an exciting range of new products and dealer support with its Spring/Summer 2025 Collection.

The 356-page Bathrooms to Love brochure (view here) showcases the expanded collection, featuring hundreds of new products in a contemporary layout, fresh photography, and more detailed bathroom planning tools. Following customer feedback, product codes for the entire range are now listed on each product page for easier navigation.

This launch is supported by various sales and marketing materials, including new point-of-sale displays, social media promotion, product videos, website updates, consumer PR activity, virtual reality sales tools, and PJH’s trusted ‘First Choice’ service promise.

Three new fitted furniture ranges – Cara, Edin, and Abbey – are central to this launch, offering greater flexibility and a wider range of colour, finish, and unit sizes. These new collections give designers more freedom to create bespoke, practical bathroom designs.

In addition to the new furniture, the collection also features new vessel basins and one-piece basin worktops, blending style and functionality. These new pieces, ranging from classic to modern, are expected to be popular with customers.

The exclusive partnership with Fibo is expanded, with a stylish new range of wall panels added to the collection, providing even more options for retailers. This introduces a new product category for Bathrooms to Love.

The launch also includes the new Roda & Nancy brassware ranges and more metallic finishes for existing brassware, ensuring consistency across the main finishes: Brushed Brass, Brushed Bronze, matte black, and Chrome. Two new shower packs, Cosmic and Aurora, are also part of the release and are available in square and round designs.

New additions to the bathing category include the elegant Houston bath with a thin-edged design, fluted glass bath screens, and L-shaped glass bath screens, all available in four sleek metallic finishes.

Kim Cooper, PJH’s Head of Marketing & Product, said: “This is one of our largest bathroom launches ever, as we continue to invest in our Bathrooms to Love brand, which evolves constantly as we respond to customer feedback and market trends. As always, the new Collection is packaged with comprehensive sales tools to support our valued partnership with our nationwide network of stockists.”

The new Bathrooms to Love Collection is now available to order via PJH’s Partners Portal™ website and is supported by PJH’s Next Day Delivery service (to 93% of postcodes).

Further information:

Bathrooms to Love by PJH: T: 0800 8 77 88 99 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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hansgrohe reinvents the washbasin with Avalegra

April 1, 2025

At ISH 2025, hansgrohe showcased its new bathroom product, the Avalegra AquaUnit. Said to be in an entirely new bathroom category, the basin represents the interplay of washbasin and tap in one unit. The AquaUnit combines familiar and new elements in a sophisticated and unprecedented way.

However, the most obvious innovation is not the combination of two products, but the way in which Avalegra presents the element of water, with two variations – flowing classically from top to bottom, like a waterfall; and also taking the opposite route – bubbling up from below like a crystal-clear spring.

New ways of experiencing water

With the aim of making daily routines at the washbasin as natural, comfortable and enjoyable as possible, Avalegra is leading the way. In addition to a curved, slim and swivelling spout, Avalegra has an integrated shower spray. This allows water to be experienced at the washbasin in a completely new and refreshing way. Like an inviting gesture, water comes towards the user from the centre of the control element in a parabolic shape. The integrated pressure limiter reduces water consumption to five litres per minute, supporting the sustainable use of water. In both cases, water is then gently collected from the Solid Surface washbasin.

One piece of design

All the operating elements of the Avalegra AquaUnit are combined in a single functional unit. The integrated spray disk takes centre stage. The handles on the right control the water volume, spray type and temperature and favourite temperatures are simply set for the next use.

The surface of the control unit is available in five FinishPlus colours: Chrome, Matt Black, Brushed Black Chrome, Brushed Bronze and Polished Gold Optic.

The matt white washbasin made of Solid Surface material is durable, scratch-resistant and non-porous which prevents deposits and is easy to clean. and easy to clean. If a scratch does occur, it can simply be polished away, to ensure that Avalegra remains a visual highlight in any bathroom.

Tradition meets modernity

Whilst Avalegra is pioneering revolutionary design in the bathroom, the installation is not any different: thanks to pre-assembled components, installation is just as quick and easy as with any other washbasin with a tap. With its elegant design language, the AquaUnit harmonises perfectly with other hansgrohe innovations such as the Raindance Alive shower product line or the furniture from the Xevolos series.

hansgrohe. Life is waterful.

hansgrohe stands for holistic bathroom experiences that combine water- and energy-saving technologies, intelligent functions and long-lasting quality. With timeless and innovative premium products, the brand supports a sustainable lifestyle and transforms daily water routines into extraordinary experiences.

Driven by a unique pioneering spirit, hansgrohe, together with its long-standing partner PHOENIX, creates living environments and product solutions for bathrooms and kitchens that enrich everyday life with more design, comfort and enjoyment. Within the internationally active Hansgrohe Group, the premium brand hansgrohe manufactures, markets and distributes showers, shower systems, bathroom and kitchen faucets, bathroom accessories, furniture, sanitary ceramics and kitchen sinks worldwide under the hansgrohe brand.

Find out more about the hansgrohe brand.

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RAK Ceramics at CDW 2025 with latest tile collections

April 1, 2025

RAK Ceramics, a leading manufacturer of bathroom and tile solutions, will return to Clerkenwell Design Week in 2025 to reveal its newest surface innovations and latest tile trends. From May 20th to 22nd, design professionals can visit the RAK Ceramics Design Hub, a 7,276 sq ft showroom at 100 St John Street, London, to explore a range of groundbreaking porcelain tiles.

New marble-effect tiles

Bathroom-Review-RAK-Ceramics-Rain-Marble-Ambiance

Among the exciting new collections is the Rapolano Marble range, featuring luxurious marble-effect tiles in Beige, Light Beige, White, and Grey. With sizes up to 80 x 80cm, these tiles offer timeless elegance for both residential and commercial projects. Additionally, RAK Ceramics will showcase its bold new Rain Marble tiles, available in three sizes (135 x 305cm, 120 x 260cm, and 60 x 120cm) with dramatic veining, perfect for creating statement walls and floors.

RAK Ceramics will also present the Crystal White Collection, inspired by the purity of white marble. These tiles come in sizes from 90 x 180cm to 60 x 120cm, bringing a luxurious atmosphere to any space. Complementing the marble-inspired offerings, the Iceland White range captures natural stone’s timeless beauty with an 8-size selection, including 90 x 180cm tiles for large installations.

New concrete-effect tiles

In addition to marble-effect designs, RAK Ceramics will highlight its new concrete-effect tiles. The Creative Concrete range introduces a refined industrial look, offering warm stone textures and versatile colours, including Dark Grey, Grey, White, and Beige. Available in sizes from 120 x 120cm to 30 x 30cm, these tiles are ideal for both indoor and outdoor spaces. For a minimalist aesthetic, the Opificio range provides a variety of sizes and colours, including Anthracite and Sand, which are perfect for seamless transitions between interior and exterior areas.

Designers looking to create a minimalist vibe can embrace the trend for bold, concrete-effect tiles with RAK Ceramics’ new Opificio range. With four colours of Anthracite, Grey, Light Grey and Sand to choose from, these porcelain tiles come in 10 sizes from 10 x 10cm to a jumbo 120 x 280cm and can be used inside and out.

New stone-effect tiles

Bathroom-Review-RAK_Cersaie24_Moon-Stone_Payprus-Wood

RAK Ceramics will also unveil the Moonstone collection, a stone-effect tile range perfect for creating serene, spa-like environments. Available in White, Beige, Grey, and Dark Grey, these tiles come in four sizes, ranging from 30 x 60cm to 100 x 100cm, suitable for both residential and commercial use.

Visit the RAK Ceramics Design Hub in the heart of London’s design district for a closer look at these innovative tiles and experience the latest trends shaping the future of surface design.

Contact:RAK Ceramics UK, 01730 237850
www.rakceramics.com/uk/

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Leading the future at ISH: Jaquar’s vision for luxury & smart bath solutions

April 1, 2025

At ISH Frankfurt, Jaquar World delivered an impressive, immersive experience in bath and lighting solutions. Said to be a global force in redefining modern living, Jaquar World excels in an industry where competition is relentless, thanks to its dedication to pushing the boundaries of design, technology, and eco-friendly solutions.

With each passing year, Jaquar continues to shape industry standards and elevate contemporary lifestyles—proving that authentic leadership lies in pursuing excellence, one breakthrough at a time.

Innovations at ISH 2025

Jaquar’s dedication to pioneering design was evident in its latest innovations, which were unveiled at ISH 2025. The brand continues to lead with three groundbreaking products that blend luxury, wellness, and intelligent design.

CryoSpa

CryoSpa (pictured top) is engineered for recovery, offering athletes and wellness enthusiasts a cold therapy experience at home. With precise temperature control and ergonomic design, it boosts circulation, relieves muscle tension, and reduces stress for an enhanced wellness routine.

Navia

Navia by Artize, designed by Matteo Thun and Antonio Rodriguez, is a perfect blend of elegance, innovation, and intuitive functionality, redefining how we experience water. Designed for those who appreciate effortless sophistication, Navia’s sensor-based operation brings a seamless and touch-free experience, ensuring ultimate convenience and hygiene. With a sleek, minimalistic design and intelligent water flow control, it enhances aesthetics and promotes sustainability by optimising water usage. Whether in homes, luxury hotels, or wellness spaces, Navia transforms everyday interactions with water into an experience of pure refinement, where technology and artistry come together in perfect harmony.

Cloud

Bathroom-Review-Jaquar-Environment_Revised

More than just a shower, Jaquar Cloud creates an immersive spa-like experience. With precision temperature control, ambient lighting, and variable water pressure settings, it’s designed for those who seek relaxation and rejuvenation at the touch of a button. The Hybrid Touch Shower feature seamlessly blends digital and manual controls, allowing you to personalise your shower experience with ease and convenience.

Discover More

For more information, visit www.jaquar.org.uk or follow us on Instagram: @jaquarworld_uk

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Tissino strengthens its team with new hires and promotions

March 31, 2025

Bathroom manufacturer Tissino has strengthened its marketing and product development department by hiring Katie Taylor (pictured top) as digital marketing manager and promoting Richard Eaton to senior product manager.

Katie has previously worked at companies including AO and technology company, VGC, in marketing roles and brings a wealth of experience. Her new role will focus on the company’s digital channels and supporting the wider marketing function.

Richard’s promotion to senior product manager recognises his role in developing and launching several new ranges and products that have been well received by bathroom retailers. Having worked in the bathroom product space for nearly 10 years, Richard will now play a primary role in the product development function.

Tissino has also hired Janceal Tero (pictured below) in an internal sales role. She will support retailers with a range of activities, including ordering and ensuring they are up to date with all new product launches.

With ambitious growth plans for 2025 and beyond, the hires and promotions will ensure that Tissino is well placed to continue supporting both the brand and retailers with the continued launch of new trend-led products.

Edward Lewis, managing director at Tissino, says: “It is an exciting time at Tissino as we experience continued growth. Our marketing and product development teams work closely together, and the result has been new incentives and ranges that retailers really have bought into.

“Katie’s hire and Richard’s promotion will strengthen our work in these areas even further and we are very much excited for what 2025 has in store.”

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The latest trends in accessible bathrooms by Fitzroy of London

March 31, 2025

In an era where inclusivity and comfort are essential, accessible bathroom designs have evolved to meet the needs of all users, no matter their age or ability. Fitzroy of London, a leading supplier of innovative and accessible bathroom solutions, unveils the latest trends shaping the future of accessible bathroom designs in hotels, hospitality and residential settings. These trends are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing, ensuring that every bathroom can be a sanctuary of style, safety and accessibility.

Bathroom-Review-Universal-bathroom-design-Fitzroy-of-London

Universal design is a growing trend in bathroom design, and it’s becoming an essential aspect of any modern bathroom. The focus is on creating spaces that are accessible, functional and comfortable for people of all abilities and ages, ensuring that everyone can use the bathroom with ease and dignity. Inclusive design is also no longer solely about functionality; it also takes beauty and aesthetics into consideration, with many designers creating bathrooms that don’t look institutional or sterile.

Bathroom-Review-Level-Access-Fitzroy-of-London

Stylish grab-rails and supportive accessories

Incorporating stylish grab rails and supportive accessories is another increasingly popular trend in bathroom design. No longer clinical-looking, grab bars are now available in sleek finishes, such as matt black and brushed brass, which instantly complement contemporary interiors and, when not being used for accessibility purposes, can double up as a stylish towel rack. With designers making conscious decisions to incorporate these elements into their designs, bathrooms are becoming more inclusive, safer and visually appealing for all users.

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Level-access showers, including zero-thresholds

Level-access showers, including zero-threshold showers, are a key trend in modern bathrooms, offering a barrier-free entry that enhances safety and convenience. Fitzroy of London eliminates steps or raised edges, allows easy wheelchair access, and reduces the risk of tripping. Combining modern aesthetics with functionality, zero-threshold showers create a spacious and seamless look, making them an ideal choice for both accessibility and contemporary bathroom design. Shower seats can be designed to blend seamlessly into the overall design. Non-slip flooring is also imperative for the safety of all users, but particularly those who have difficulty standing.

Bathroom-Review-Contrasting-Colours-Fitzroy

Bathroom Review Multigenerational living

Contrasting colours & textures

Accessible bathrooms were once merely an afterthought when it came to their style and appearance, with most designers only focusing on their functionality. Whilst this plays an integral role, designers are beginning to prioritise the style and aesthetics of the space too. Whether in a residential, commercial or hospitality environment, bold contrasts and textured elements are known for improving the visual clarity for users with low vision, whilst glossy finishes will help to create depth and interest.

Adjustable & smart features

The rise of adjustable and customisable features in today’s bathrooms will help enhance comfort, independence, and style for all users. Removable grab rails, shower seats and showerheads, height-adjustable worktops, sinks, and mirrors can cater to various mobility needs and bring flexibility to a design space. Smart, hands-free taps and shower controls also offer both functionality and subtle elegance whilst prioritising hygienic practises and inclusivity. With bathroom designs evolving with changing needs, it is possible to maintain a modern and sophisticated aesthetic which works for all.

Fitzroy of London is at the forefront of designing innovative, functional bathrooms for today’s modern world. With expertise in accessible design and multigenerational living solutions, the company creates spaces which are aesthetically pleasing whilst honouring individual needs

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Ideal Standard unveils i.life O Collection at ISH 2025

March 28, 2025

Ideal Standard, part of the Villeroy & Boch Group’s Bathroom and Wellness Division, previewed its new i.life O collection at ISH 2025 in Frankfurt. Designed by Roberto Palomba, i.life O expands on the existing i.life A, B, and S ranges, offering toilets, bidets, and vessel basins. It combines modern aesthetics with functional design, featuring soft, flowing curves that seamlessly integrate into various interiors. It pairs perfectly with Ideal Standard’s new Ceralife O mixer taps.

Central to the collection was HydroTwist®, a technology that channeled water into a powerful vortex, using just 4.5 litres to provide an efficient, residue-free clean in one flush. Its rimless design ensured easy cleaning, while the smooth shape allowed for a quick wipe-down. The vessel basins, available in round and oval shapes, brought a spa-like feel to the bathroom, with options that suited smaller worktops.

i.life O also reflects Ideal Standard’s commitment to sustainability. HydroTwist® reduced water consumption and minimized detergent use, while the company recycled about 70% of its ceramic waste and focused on decarbonisation in production.

Roberto Palomba said, “The round shape symbolizes harmony and balance, and i.life O reinterpreted this timeless form with a modern touch for contemporary bathrooms.”

Sven Ullrich, executive VP of marketing at Villeroy & Boch, added, “The i.life O range showcased how our combined expertise drove innovation, transforming TwistFlush® into HydroTwist® for outstanding performance and hygiene.”

The i.life O collection is set to launch in July 2025.

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VitrA showcases bathroom design and innovation at ISH

March 28, 2025

At ISH 2025, VitrA showcased a range of new bathroom products, reinforcing its commitment to outstanding design and innovative technology. Among the highlights was the latest evolution of the V-Care Smart Toilet range, set to expand further in 2026 with three new models: V-Care Base, Core, and Prime.

Building on the success of VitrA’s existing V-Care range, these additional models introduce a good, better, and best tiered approach, offering increasing levels of functionality. Designed with a softer, more rounded aesthetic, the new V-Care combine cutting-edge features, user-centric design, and luxurious comfort.

All models include front and rear wash, adjustable water temperature, and pressure control, as well as a premium Duroplast seat, ensuring long-lasting durability. The Core and Prime models offer additional comfort with a warm air dryer, heated seat, and ambient lighting within the bowl. The Prime model offers the most advanced features, including an auto open and close seat and UVC cleaning for enhanced hygiene.

A standout new feature across the range is smart app integration, allowing users to control their V-Care toilet via voice command and personalise settings. The app’s customisable personas enable users to pre-set their preferred water temperature, pressure, and other settings, ensuring a tailored experience with every use.

With this latest expansion, VitrA continues to lead in smart bathroom innovation, making advanced hygiene and convenience more accessible than ever.

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