An announcement has been made that entries are now open for the inaugural Great KBB Run to be held on the weekend of 6th and 7th September this year.
Intended to be an annual event, the run aims to give those in the industry an event that promotes well-being and community, bringing together all sides of the sector for one big challenge.
Organised by Toby Griffin of KBB Support, this is a virtual run (or jog!), with entrants choosing to cover a distance of either 10km or a half-marathon in their locality, then posting the completed run via an app – such as Strava or Garmin – as evidence of their efforts.
The entry fee is only £20, and those who finish will be sent a Great KBB Run t-shirt; the profit will be donated to The Youth Sport Trust.
Although perfect for those who run alone, it is also hoped it will be a good team-building event for any company.
Duravit has begun work on its innovative ceramic plant in Matane, Canada, with operations set to begin in 2025. The foundation stone was laid in July 2023, and work is now in full swing in readiness for the go-live in 2025.
This state-of-the-art facility will house the world’s first electric roller kiln, powered by nearly 100% renewable energy. The new plant’s electric kiln technology will significantly reduce its carbon footprint, saving up to 10,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, alongside reducing transport-related emissions.
The production hall, covering 35,000 m², is almost complete and ready to accommodate these specially designed roller kilns. “We’re expecting the first toilet to roll out of the new facility in Canada in the third quarter of 2025,” said Christian Gilles, head of manufacturing in Matane, who has an extensive background in Duravit’s operations, having previously worked as Production Manager at the Hornberg facility.
The Matane site will combine cutting-edge automation and the latest technology to improve manufacturing efficiency. The electric roller kilns, developed in collaboration with Riedhammer, the world’s leading industrial kiln manufacturer, will be powered almost entirely by renewable hydroelectric energy. This will help reduce carbon emissions by up to 8,500 tonnes annually. Additionally, Duravit is investing in driverless transport systems and a modern die-casting process to enhance both production efficiency and product quality.
Christian Gilles, who has held a range of managerial roles at Duravit’s Bischwiller and Hornberg facilities, has relocated to Canada with his family to oversee the project. “Recruiting employees with the right skills for all of our vacant positions is definitely a challenge,” he remarked. With the new machines arriving in March 2025, the next phase involves installation and configuration, with the first of the two electric roller kilns set to go live in the third quarter of the year. This facility represents a major step in Duravit’s commitment to sustainable, high-quality ceramic production.
CRL Stone has extended its Quartz Collection with Cristallo Perla, a stunning new surface that offers a classic take on industrial-inspired design.
Timelessly elegant, CRL Stone’s new Cristallo Perla unites shades of grey to bring a touch of understated sophistication to interiors. With the fine grain of the quartz seamlessly complementing the long veining that runs through the surface, Cristallo Perla captures the enduring trend of quiet luxury while adding a touch of drama.
The latest addition to CRL Stone’s popular marble-effect Cristallo collection, renowned for its bold patterning and striking colours, Perla is perfect for those looking for worktops, splashbacks or feature walls to make an impactful visual impression.
Reimagining the trend for grey interiors, Cristallo Perla introduces warm, welcoming tones and an industrial vibe that adds character to classic or contemporary spaces. It provides a stylish, practical and durable alternative to marble and granite and makes the ultimate impression when used over large areas such as islands.
Ideal for high-impact public spaces as well as bathrooms and kitchens, this quartz surface offers designers scope to experiment with other urban materials, such as wood and metal, to create eye-catching, personalised interiors that will never date.
Incredibly versatile, Cristallo Perla is scratch, heat and stain resistant, while its non-porous design provides a hygienic, low-maintenance solution. Available in a polished finish, Cristallo Perla comes in a super jumbo 2010 x 3470mm slab measuring 20mm or 30mm thick and, like all CRL Quartz, it never needs to be sealed.
For more details, call CRL Stone on 01706 863600, or visit www.crlstone.co.uk
The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has announced that British brand Imperial Bathrooms has joined as its newest member.
Based in Aldridge, a town renowned for its clay and brick-making heritage, Imperial Bathrooms brings a wealth of expertise in producing hand-crafted bathroom products that celebrate sustainability, quality, and individuality.
Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the BMA, commented on the announcement: “Imperial Bathroom’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and sustainable practices aligns perfectly with the BMA’s mission to promote quality and innovation within the bathroom industry. By joining our association, they bring not only their heritage of British design but also a shared dedication to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers today. Their membership strengthens our collective voice, and we look forward to collaborating on advancing industry standards.”
Imperial has long been celebrated for its unparalleled quality, from ceramic ware carrying a lifetime guarantee to furniture crafted from sustainable timbers.
Neil Gore, managing director of Imperial Bathrooms expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Joining the BMA is a natural step for us as a company that values collaboration and excellence. As proud custodians of British craftsmanship, we hope to contribute our perspective on preserving traditional skills while embracing sustainability and innovation. Being part of this association is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded companies and help shape the future of our industry.”
Imperial Bathrooms membership reflects a shared commitment to advancing best practices and ensuring that high-quality, sustainable products remain at the forefront of the market.
SANIPEX GROUP’s luxury brand BAGNODESIGN is presenting its latest finish innovation: the PVD Soft Burgundy. Offering a modern twist on the popular trend for brushed metallic brassware, this exquisite finish opens up a world of design possibilities.
Available across two of BAGNODESIGN’s most sought-after brassware ranges, Mezzanine and Vitesse, the PVD Soft Burgundy finish brings an understated sense of luxury to any bathroom. Ideal for those seeking to infuse their space with a touch of refined elegance, this rich, sophisticated hue is the perfect choice for both traditional and contemporary settings.
The PVD Soft Burgundy finish harmonises beautifully with trending materials such as stone and timber, making it the perfect match for creating a spa-inspired, calming bathroom environment. The finish’s warm tones help create an atmosphere of tranquillity, effortlessly elevating the space with quiet luxury.
part of the growing preference for premium, subtle finishes, BAGNODESIGN’s PVD Soft Burgundy not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of a bathroom but also offers remarkable durability. Resistant to tarnishing, corrosion, and fingerprints, this easy-to-maintain finish ensures your brassware remains looking pristine. The finish comes with a 10-year guarantee, providing peace of mind that it will retain its beauty and functionality for years to come.
For more information, contact Sanipex Group on 01924 233977 or visit www.bagnodesign.it.
The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has welcomed Leopard Co, a full-service, independent marketing agency, as its newest affiliate member. Specialising in a range of marketing communications, Leopard Co brings a wealth of experience and fresh insight to the BMA community.
Founded in 2022 through the merger of Big Cat and spottydog communications, Leopard Co has quickly become a recognised leader in crafting purposeful, results-driven marketing strategies. With a strong presence across various sectors, including Home & Property, Health & Wellbeing, and Business-to-Business, the agency is well-placed to support the bathroom industry.
Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the BMA, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying: “Leopard Co’s impressive track record in delivering innovative marketing solutions and their dedication to developing young talent through initiatives like the Talent Spot programme aligns perfectly with the BMA’s values. Their expertise will undoubtedly provide value to our members, helping us further elevate the industry’s profile and engagement with key stakeholders.”
Rachel Roberts, Co-founder and CEO of Leopard Co, shared her excitement about the new affiliation: “Having worked with clients in the bathroom sector for over twenty years, we are thrilled to join the BMA as an associate member. Our commitment to delivering marketing that drives tangible results and fosters measurable behavioural change is something we’re passionate about. We also value the BMA’s emphasis on nurturing young talent, and we’re eager to contribute to and learn from this dynamic community.”
Leopard Co’s new status as an affiliate member of the BMA marks a significant step forward in fostering collaboration and innovation within the bathroom industry. With a shared commitment to excellence, this partnership promises exciting advancements for the sector.
Manufacturer of high-quality tiles, RAK Ceramics,has expanded its Signature Collection with the introduction of the exquisite new Pontino range.
With travertine tiles making a strong comeback in interior design, the Pontino collection perfectly captures this timeless trend while bringing it into the modern era. Emulating the natural elegance of travertine, Pontino tiles combine the organic beauty of the stone with the durability and convenience of porcelain, making them ideal for commercial spaces such as hotels, as well as adding a touch of sophistication to kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas.
Thanks to their scratch and stain resistance, along with their ease of maintenance, Pontino tiles are both practical and stylish. Available in large-format sizes of 135x305cm and 120x280cm with thicknesses of 14.5mm and 6mm, respectively, as well as a 60x120cm option, these tiles offer exceptional versatility. Suitable for a wide range of applications, from walls and floors to countertops and furniture, they are perfect for both residential and commercial projects.
The Pontino range is crafted using advanced Sync Effect digital technology, which enables the creation of ultra-realistic patterns that reflect the rich textures and tones of travertine. Available in two sophisticated colours—Ivory and Light Grey—these tiles are designed to complement both classic and contemporary interiors.
For more information, please get in touch with RAK Ceramics UK, Tel: 01730 237850 Website: www.rakceramics.com/uk/
The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has welcomed growth measures outlined by Chancellor Rachel Reeves in her speech on January 29 at Siemens Healthineers in Oxfordshire. A raft of measures aimed at kick-starting economic growth represents a welcome change in tone from the Government, with commitments towards modernised infrastructure, scientific innovation, and private-sector-led expansion.
Of particular relevance to bathroom manufacturers is a pledge to unlock £7.9bn in investment over the next five years to modernise the UK’s water supply. The BMA has often warned that a push for water efficiency in the home needs to be matched by infrastructure investment.
Additionally, it was announced that objections to major projects in Cambridge would be removed, boosting the currently subdued market for new-build housing and commercial premises. As suppliers in these construction subsectors, this will be welcome news for bathroom manufacturers.
Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the BMA, said: “Rachel Reeve’s announcements on water infrastructure won’t lead the headlines, but they represent a significant step forward. A modern and resilient water supply is crucial for sustainable development and our members’ products to function. These investments will help ensure the UK’s ability to meet growing demand.
“Furthermore, a more streamlined approach to planning and infrastructure development is vital for our industry. Unlocking stalled housing projects not only stimulates economic growth but also ensures demand for essential home fixtures, including bathroom products. The government’s commitment to cutting red tape and expediting projects is a step in the right direction.”
However, Reynolds also highlighted that previous policy decisions by the Chancellor could hinder growth in the bathroom industry. “Medium-sized family firms are the unsung heroes of the British economy,” he said, “the cliff-edge removal of Business Property Relief will lead to less investment by these companies, or worse, a fire sale to pay off IHT. BMA, along with other organisations, is urging the Treasury to take a softer approach to removal of the relief.”
“In summary, we welcome this vision for a revitalised UK economy and stand ready to support the government in ensuring these commitments translate into tangible progress. By modernising infrastructure, fostering innovation, and embracing private-sector partnerships, the UK is taking significant steps toward securing its economic future.”
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 industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
Combining utility with space-saving design is key when it comes to creating a modern bathroom space. Functionality and aesthetics must go hand in hand as consumers favour everything from sleek, minimalistic vanities to practical modular storage systems; the winning formula is to balance good looks with efficiency and durability.
In addition, today’s consumers wish the bathroom to function as a personal retreat where style and customisation come together to create spa-like luxury. In this case, the selection of bathroom furniture is fundamental to the overall design since it greatly impacts the mood and tone of the space.
Julie Lockwood, furniture product manager for Bathrooms to Love by PJH, agrees. “As we continue to spend more time at home, the desire to create warm, cosy, and inviting spaces is set to evolve further and become more refined during 2025. In the bathroom, this translates into a growing preference for spa-inspired spaces that promote well-being and relaxation. Luxury, opulence and sophistication remain key influences in bathroom furniture design. Consumers aspire to bespoke designs that showcase standout features, reflecting their individuality, such as statement vanity units and basins.”
True colours
VITRIUM by Christian Werner for Duravit
Colour significantly influences the temperament of a new design; in recent times, the shift to darker, bolder shades adds depth, character, and an indulgent sense of luxury. These moody tones perfectly complement natural texture, as well as highlighting details such as metallic accents, evoking a sense of warmth while creating a contemporary aesthetic.
Martin Carroll, MD for Duravit UK, explains, “Colour and texture continue to play a key role in bathroom furniture design. The careful use of colour can transform a space; it all depends on the chosen tone. Incorporating different textures, from smooth surfaces to tactile finishes, further enhances the finished aesthetic.”
VITRIUMby Christian Werner for Duravit brings a bold splash of colour into the bathroom. The new series includes vanity units and a tall cabinet, working with matching washbasins, toilets and bathtubs from other series.
Ahead of the curve
Utopia ChicModular Collection
Curvy or sculpted elements add a touch of artistry to the bathroom, and when combined with textured surfaces, they create visual interest and a sense of elegance. Sculpted furniture, in particular, delivers an architectural style that turns everyday bathroom fixtures into works of art. The result is a space that feels luxurious and on-trend.
Richard Shore, head of product design at Utopia Furniture Ltd, outlines the growing popularity of curated design, confirming, “2025 will be the year when the home once again becomes our hero. Project home will be bold and ambitious, with colour, curves and texture as the defining trends. Texture will embolden furniture, accent walls, and define accessories with a confidence not seen before.”
Beautiful by design, Chic is Utopia’s brand-new modular collection. Stylish and elegant, it’s the perfect fusion of form and function, featuring delicate sculpted shapes and sensational colour options. With countless different variations possible, Chic can be built to suit individual preferences and budgets.
Get into the groove
Tissino Stratto Bathroom Furniture Collection
Sally Bettison, product manager for Tissino, agrees with Shore and Carroll, “Colour and texture is big news in the bathroom as we head into 2025, and we are seeing a shift in the colour hues and shades we are choosing. Reassuring and calming warm neutrals have replaced cool, stark whites to the point that we are being adventurous with deeper and richer shades, including terracotta.”
Bettison adds, “Fluted and reeded furniture brings the texture by the bucket load. Add colour into the mix, and you’ve got a stunning trend-focused vanity unit that will transform your bathroom with multiple trends in one.”
Stratto,the new bathroom furniture collectionfrom Tissino, is a trend-led range of wall-hung vanity units in various sizes and hues. Featuring clean lines, a sophisticated textured fluted finish, and practical storage, the collection has been designed to be a focal point of any bathroom space.
Pushing the boundaries
Bathrooms to Love ‘Push’ Collection
Tactile furniture, whether designed with bold handles or seamless drawers, help to engage the senses. This adds comfort and visual appeal that also encourages users to engage more intimately with the space. These dopamine-boosting elements play a key role in neuro-responsive design since they help create a relaxing and uplifting feel. Alongside texture, there is also something extremely satisfying about drawer handles that function intuitively, delivering a subtle but impactful detail to the design.
The latest push-to-open technology eliminates the need for manual handles and provides ease of use whilst fostering a sense of convenience. One example is the new modular furniture family in PJH’s Bathrooms to Love Collection, which includes its premium range Push, an exceptional design that combines flexible storage with thoughtful attention to detail.
Luxurious throughout, the Push range – named after its push-to-open drawers and doors – is available in wall-hung vanity and midi-boy units, featuring a beautiful, chamfered edge detail. Its sleek, handleless form makes it an effortlessly stylish furniture choice, perfect for contemporary bathroom spaces.
Boutique style
Thomas Crapper
Hotel design is all about creating a sensational space with maximum visual impact, and since today’s homeowners are quick to embrace the latest trends, the boundaries of hotel versus residential design are more fluid and interconnected than ever before.
Thomas Crapper is all about quality, colour and technical expertise. The iconic brand is well known for cisterns, which can be customised with colours and script, and 2024 saw the team introduce complementary coloured furniture portfolios. Its latest designs bring a touch of luxury that effortlessly complements both residential and hospitality settings.
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Bathroom furniture is one of the most important elements in any bathroom project, providing all-important storage space, uniting all parts of the bathroom, and setting a design theme. Innovation and design within this category continues to evolve at pace, which is why Bathrooms to Love launches new furniture ranges every six months. One of the latest modular furniture families in PJH’s Bathrooms to Love Collection includes this premium range called ‘Push’, stylishly combining flexible storage with a fine attention to detail and finish.
Luxurious throughout its design, the Push range – named after its push-to-open drawers and doors – is available in wall-hung vanity and midi-boy units, featuring a beautiful, chamfered edge detail. Its sleek, handleless form makes it an effortlessly stylish furniture choice, perfect for contemporary bathroom spaces.
Influenced by the ongoing ‘Natural’ interiors trend, taking inspiration from nature, Push comes in three super flawless, matt lacquered finishes: Matt Clay, Matt Storm Blue and Matt Cotton. The choice of colours makes it perfect for teaming with other au-natural materials and textures, such as marble, terrazzo flooring, natural wood panelling and green foliage, helping to create a tranquil, spa-inspired space.
The stunning Push family also offers a number of customisable options, helping customers to personalise their bathroom designs. Choose from wall-hung or floor-standing options – by opting for elegant, decorative legs on the vanity units. And the basin units come in a range of configurations to suit different tastes or room sizes. Choose from units with an integrated thin edge white ceramic basin; units with a colour-matched worktop – so add a choice of vessel basin; or twin basin four-drawered units for larger bathrooms. Drawers are deep and spacious to keep toiletries hidden, and the wall-hung midi-boy units include practical shelving for more handy storage.
To complete the range, a coordinating, floor-standing WC unit can be teamed with any back-to-wall WC toilets from Bathrooms to Love.
All drawer and door units are fitted with Hettich soft-close, push-to-open fixtures for smooth gliding action and longevity.
Available for next-day delivery from PJH (to store or home address), Push comes with competitive display deals, product swatches and a showroom support package. Order via PJH’s Partners Portal website or call the Contact Centre. See the video here: PUSH by BTL
