Taking place on September 16th and 17th at the Queens Hotel in Leeds, the BMA says anticipation is mounting as industry leaders gear up for an insightful exploration of this year’s theme: “building growth.”
As 2024 is a crucial election year in the UK, the conference’s theme of ‘building growth’ takes on a profound significance. As the nation grapples with the housing crisis and seeks to stimulate economic expansion, the conference will serve as a vital forum for critical dialogue and strategic planning.
Tom Reynolds, BMA’s chief executive, comments: “We are delighted to welcome our sponsors onboard for the BMA Industry Conference 2024. Their unwavering support underscores the collective commitment of industry leaders to driving growth and navigating the evolving landscape of the bathroom manufacturing sector. Together, we look forward to engaging in meaningful discussions, forging strategic partnerships, and charting a course for sustained success.”
Neil Holloway, managing director, Wilson Brook, said: “We are proud to be gold sponsors of the BMA Annual Industry Conference 2024. We recognise the importance of bridging shared challenges and exploring growth opportunities. Through our sponsorship, we hope to contribute to meaningful conversations that inspire positive change and drive innovation across the sector.”
Jamie Lynch, business development manager at WRAS, added, “At WRAS, we are passionate about protecting public health by helping manufacturers demonstrate compliance with regulatory standards. By sponsoring the BMA Annual Industry Conference 2024, we aim to underscore the critical role that manufacturers play to protect and conserve precious water supplies both now and in the future. We look forward to engaging with industry peers and sharing insights that will help safeguard public health and drive industry best practices.”
Dave Mumford, managing director of R-TECH Materials, said: “As pioneers in product and materials testing, materials consultancy, failure investigation and expert witness, we are thrilled to support the BMA Annual Industry Conference 2024, again as gold sponsors.
“Our sponsorship reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting water fitting manufacturers on a wide range of issues, including performance, compliance and the investigation of materials performance issues and in-service failure, thus creating a more resilient and future-proof industry landscape.”
Attendees can look forward to enriching activities, including thought-provoking keynote talks from industry luminaries, engaging panel discussions, and ample networking opportunities with fellow professionals. The ‘building growth’ theme will thread through the event’s fabric, guiding conversations towards innovative solutions and collaborative initiatives.
For sponsors, speakers, and attendees alike, the BMA Industry Conference 2024 promises to be a landmark event, charting a course for growth and collective advancement within the bathroom manufacturing sector.
For more information and registration details, visit the official BMA Industry Conference website.
New research supports the concept of increasing water pressure to reduce water use, as explained by Tom Reynolds, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association.
What if I told you that boosting water pressure is the key to saving water and energy for many UK households? It might seem counterintuitive initially, but the compelling science behind this concept demands your attention.
We all want a satisfying flow of water in the shower. However, in low water pressure environments, consumers will likely take longer in the shower trying to rinse off shampoo or soap, inadvertently wasting water and energy. Believe it or not, this situation is more prevalent than you might think, but there’s a solution: increasing minimum water pressure in households.
Innovations in shower technology, such as boost functions and hyper-efficient showerheads, are designed to operate optimally at a pressure of 2-3 bar. Yet, these innovations struggle to deliver their full potential in many homes with poor mains or gravity pressure.
The underlying issue stems from underinvestment and ageing infrastructure in the water sector. However, this is where we need intervention, and the next government should step in with water companies to establish a minimum pressure of ideally 2-3 bar in all households.
Why the focus on water pressure? Recent research from the University of Surrey found that increased water pressure was strongly correlated with reduced water use, with consumption decreasing by up to 60% with high water pressure. Moreover, water consumption decreased as pressure increased for similar water flow rates, indicating a direct link between pressure and user behaviour.
Consider the potential: Britain spends billions annually on heating water for showers alone. By optimising water pressure, we can unlock significant energy savings, contributing to both environmental sustainability and cost savings for consumers. It’s a win-win situation.
While plumbers and installers play a crucial role in raising awareness of the importance of water pressure and fitting the correct products, designers also have a vital role. Armed with the knowledge and research supporting the need for increased pressure, they can help drive the adoption of more efficient solutions, ultimately bringing us closer to achieving government targets for reducing water consumption.
The takeaway is clear: increasing minimum water pressure can lead to significant household water and energy savings. It’s time for the entire bathroom industry to collaborate and prioritise the call for adequate water pressure. If we do nothing, many consumers risk feeling disappointed in adopting water-saving designs, continuing the wasted water and energy cycle.
Following the recent launch of its new Bathrooms2GO Collection, distributor PJH has now introduced a handy brochure stand, perfect for trade counters or bathroom showrooms, to hold its Bathrooms2GO brochures.
Featuring the same distinctive blue and red colours of the Bathrooms2GO brand, this trade counter stand can hold up to 50 of the eye-catching A4 brochures from PJH. The stand keeps trade counters neat and tidy, and the 36-page take-away brochure is easily accessible to customers.
Launched towards the end of last year, Bathrooms2GO by PJH offers an affordable and complete range of popular bathroom products ready ‘2GO’ as soon as required by customers. It’s been designed as a concise and ‘easy to shop’ collection with industry-leading deals and savings, complete with the usual first-class customer service and delivery benefits from PJH.
PJH has just unveiled its Spring/Summer Bathrooms2GO brochure, which, together with the new brochure stand, can easily be ordered via PJH’s online Partners Portal or via its sales team. The latest brochure, which includes product RRP’s (incl. VAT), comes packed with highly competitive offers, full suite deals, and even a ‘Free Mirror’ promotion when ordering the ‘Volta’ furniture range (as displayed on the front cover).
Being ready ‘To Go’, customers can expect an efficient Next Day Delivery service from PJH – either to the store or the end-consumer’s home address, thanks to excellent stock-holding levels across PJH’s 355,000 sq.ft. distribution network throughout the UK, and a vast fleet of over 130 vehicles.
The Bathrooms2GO range includes the latest on-trend product styles throughout the full portfolio of bathroom categories: sanitaryware, furniture, baths, enclosures, showers, brassware, heating and mirrors. In addition, the succinct range offers good choices for customising bathroom designs, such as chrome, matte black or brushed brass finishes, as well as white gloss, grey gloss, anthracite, and oak options for bathroom furniture.
For further information or to order the new Bathrooms2GO brochure stand as well as Bathrooms2GO brochures, visit the PJH Partners Portal, www.partners.pjh.uk or contact PJH at sales@pjh.uk / T: 0800 8 77 88 99.
Luxury bathroom brand BAGNODESIGN from SANIPEX GROUP has scooped the double at this year’s Ideal Home Bathroom Awards, winning in the Best Use of Colour category and being Highly Commended for Best Bathroom Tap.
Celebrating the best in bathrooms this year, the expert judging panel of editors selected the deserving winners from across the bathroom world, with BAGNODESIGN coming out on top in two categories.
Winning Best Use of Colour, BAGNODESIGN Monroe washbasins wowed the awards judges with their eight striking colours and edgy, eye-catching detail. Colour in the bathroom is big news right now and the Monroe collection taps into this movement, encouraging consumers to mix materials and add personalisation in a playful yet stylish way.
The washbasins can be chosen in metallic finishes, including Gold, Matt Gold, Copper, Platinum, and Platinum Matt. And for those who want to add a pop of colour to the bathroom, the basin also comes in a choice of Blue, Green or Pearl.
There was also an accolade in the Ideal Home Bathroom Awards 2024 for the BAGNODESIGN Orology brassware collection, which was highly commended in the category of Best Bathroom Tap. The high-class bathroom mixers are sleek and contemporary, boasting a sense of understated luxury.
With flexibility and functionality at its core, the Orology collection comes in five beautiful finishes, including PVD Gold, Anthracite, Chrome, Brushed Nickel, and Soft Bronze.
It’s safe to say pink was one of the colours of 2023, and it looks like bright hues in the home are here to stay! The prominence of pink suggests a broader shift towards vibrant shades in interior design, particularly in home decor. This trend appears to have enduring appeal, indicating that bold colours are becoming a staple.
By adding a classic basin – such as the Marlborough cloakroom basin from Thomas Crapper (pictured) – the homeowner can be sure that their bathroom will stand the test of time where colour trends are forever changing.
The two-hole cloakroom basin, which measures just 515 x 265mm, will bring a sense of understated luxury and opulence to the home while allowing colour to be added around it.
The Marlborough basin is available in a choice of white or antique white and retails at £465, including VAT.
Thomas Crapper & Co. is a renowned British manufacturer specialising in high-quality bathroom fixtures and fittings. Established in the late 19th century by Thomas Crapper himself, the company has since become synonymous with excellence in bathroom design and craftsmanship. With a commitment to both tradition and innovation, Thomas Crapper continues to produce a wide range of products, from classic toilets and basins to modern fixtures that blend timeless aesthetics with contemporary functionality. Their dedication to quality materials and meticulous attention to detail has earned them a reputation as a trusted provider of premium bathroom solutions, serving both residential and commercial clients worldwide. Today, Thomas Crapper remains a prestigious name in the industry, reflecting a legacy of excellence that spans over a century.
Utopia has won the Best Modern Bathroom Range category in the Ideal Home Best Bathroom Awards 2024 with its new Qube Collection.
Qube is a stunning range of wall-mounted, fitted, and freestanding bathroom furniture that offers contemporary chic to suit all budgets. It’s a versatile collection of beautifully designed elements that can be combined to create unique, personalised bathroom solutions that are as good looking as they are practical.
Helen Clark, head of marketing at Utopia, explains further “With new Qube we are offering a beautiful, on-trend bathroom solution at an extremely affordable price point. In effect, it’s that designer look for less and, crucially, available on a very quick turn round too. Storage, so essential in any bathroom, has never been so stylish. Winning this prestigious award is welcome confirmation that Qube offers a stunning contemporary design solution for each and every bathroom, no matter how big or small.”
West Vancouver, Canada, is the location of McLeod Bovell Studio’s latest architectural masterpiece, “Liminal House,” which seamlessly blends modern design with natural surroundings and showcases Lapitec sintered stone as a key element in its interior aesthetics.
Situated in the picturesque West Vancouver area, “Liminal House” serves as a transitional haven between urban living and the rugged Canadian coastline. The design ethos revolves around exploration and discovery, evident in its asymmetrical volumes, panoramic views, and seamless integration with nature.
The house is built on three floors covering a total of about 1.000 square meters. At the base, including the garage, the office and technical areas, there is space for the SPA and the exhibition room for the owners’ classic car collection. The living area unfolds on the main floor, on an open floor plan that minimises architectural barriers. The suites and other rooms, totaling six, are located on the highest level to enjoy the panoramic views of the surroundings fully.
One of the standout features of “Liminal House” is its extensive use of Lapitec sintered stone for both interior flooring and kitchen cladding. This innovative material, produced in Italy, offers unparalleled technical qualities, including strength, hygiene, and resistance to harsh weather conditions.
The kitchen, a focal point of the residence, showcases Lapitec sintered stone in Grigio Cemento colour with a Lithos finish, providing a sleek and durable surface that complements the surrounding architectural elements. The material’s non-porous surface and natural composition ensure both safety and longevity, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas or those exposed to the effects of the wind, UV rays and salt.
This material, produced in Italy through a patented process, is 100% natural and possesses advanced technical qualities for strength and hygiene. It is free from inks and petroleum derivates and is completely devoid of crystalline silica, ensuring safety for the health of those who work with and use it.
Beyond its functional benefits, Lapitec sintered stone adds a touch of sophistication to “Liminal House,” enhancing its contemporary aesthetic while harmonizing with other materials such as concrete, Accoya wood, and aluminium used throughout the structure.
Kaldewei, alongside the Frankfurt-based interior label e15 and British designer Bethan Laura Wood, invited guests to Casa Flash Art in Palazzo Durini at Fuorisalone 2024 in Milan.
The bathroom manufacturer showcased the new ‘e15 for Kaldewei collection’ designed by Stefan Diez. The furniture of the new collection is crafted from solid European oak. Stools and benches, a footboard, a towel holder, and a bathtub bridge made of oiled oak serve various functions. They are complemented by accessories made of soft, water-repellent leather. A clever and practical feature is that the bag and towel loop can be magnetically attached to the edge of the steel enamel tub. The warm and natural surfaces of the e15 for Kaldewei collection complement the iconic Kaldewei products made of glazed titanium steel, offered in a unique colour palette.
Bath[o]philia
Kaldewei and e15 showcased its new collection of furniture and accessories at itsdesign metropolis location, hosted by the Italian art magazine Flash Art. The setting, ideal for groundbreaking bathroom installations, saw Kaldewei merge sustainability and meditative aspects to create “Bath[o]philia,” inspired by the positivist concept of “Biophilia” by German philosopher Erich Fromm. This term combines the ancient Greek words “Bios” for life and “Philia” for love.
Stefan Diez is responsible for the design language and works for both premium brands. The design series by Bethan Laura Wood was equally impressive, transforming glazed bathroom objects into true works of art.
The concept is based on Fromm’s “passionate love for life and all living things”. It is translated into “Bathophilia” – with the bath as a retreat for moments full of harmony, devotion, and aesthetic enjoyment. With “Bath[o]philia” at Fuorisalone, Kaldewei created an intimate sanctuary, an oasis of calm amidst the pulsating centre of Milan.
Guests of Casa Flash Art were offered a further highlight: “Avocado Dreams,” British designer Bethan Laura Wood created a complete bathroom edition, including a bathtub, shower area, and washbasin for Kaldewei. These objects, made of noble steel enamel and decorated with almost psychedelic patterns by Wood, are true art pieces – initially seeming more suited for an art gallery than a private sanctuary. The shimmering colour palette and swirling patterns underscore the passionate love for the living and thus perfectly fit Kaldewei’s Bath[o]philia concept
Utopia has appointed industry expert Gary Matthews as sales director. Gary has over 30 years’ experience in the industry, having held senior roles with leading brands such as Grohe, Ideal Standard and, more recently, Duravit where he was sales director.
Commenting on the new appointment, Dave Conn, joint managing director at Utopia, said “Gary is the perfect choice to head up our sales team. He knows the industry very well and is well placed to build on our already strong position at the forefront of the bathroom sector. With his wealth of experience and network of key contacts, Gary will be able to hit the ground running in his new role at Utopia.”
Gary comments “Utopia is such a pioneering, dynamic force in the industry, I am absolutely delighted to be part of the team taking the company forward. Knowing many of Utopia’s retail partners already is a massive advantage and I look forward to building on these relationships as well as forging new business opportunities for Utopia.”
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.
Shower rooms are rapidly gaining popularity over traditional bathrooms thanks to their sleek design, efficiency, and versatility. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, consumers prioritise functionality and convenience; a shower room provides this. According to a Houzz UK Bathroom Trends Study, almost three-quarters of homeowners upgraded their showers (74%), with more than two-thirds increasing their shower size during renovations (68%). These increases were not insubstantial; almost a third enlarged the shower by more than half its original size (32%).
For those with limited space, fitting a bathtub requires more floor space, whereas shower rooms work well with a compact footprint, rendering them ideal for smaller homes or urban dwellings where space is at a premium. Additionally, shower rooms can be customised to suit individual preferences, with options ranging from minimalist walk-in showers to luxurious spa-like enclosures. In our April round-up, Diane Larner explores the latest products to hit the market.
Expand your horizons
Shower trays
Despite the prevalence of smaller bathroom spaces in new construction, the demand for luxurious yet practical bathroom solutions continues to rise; spacious bathroom areas deliver on this preference, but how do you cater to a generous aesthetic whilst transcending limitations imposed by square footage? Larger, flatter shower trays that emulate the feel of a wetroom are emerging as a crafty solution. Balancing form and function whilst offering a more expansive option, larger formats help designers redefine the boundaries of bathroom design whilst embracing a seamless fusion of utility and aesthetics.
Sven Rensinghoff, head of marketing at Bette, agrees, “There’s a growing demand for larger, flatter and flush-to-floor shower trays that give the look of a wet room, without any worries about water leakage, and with a shower floor that is easy to clean. There’s also a growing demand for shower trays that coordinate with flooring to help make the room appear larger. We are seeing more customers adding colour into the bathroom to increase the feeling of cosiness and to aid relaxation. While white is still the most popular choice, the use of darker colours is increasing in popularity to create a cosy and relaxing interior space in which to switch off from the stresses of the outside world.”
Bette shower trays come in 70 sizes, so there is no need to compromise on the perfect size. They are strong and stable, even in the largest 2000 x 900mm and 1800 x 1000mm dimensions, and come in floor level and above floor options, with central or side wastes.
Sleek & chic
Shower enclosures
If preferences lean toward a shower enclosure, selecting a design that optimises room space whilst delivering accessibility is key. Various options are available to the market, from bi-fold doors to quadrant enclosures, each delivering unique benefits tailored to diverse needs.
Shower enclosure manufacturers often cite easy installation as a benefit and suggest enclosures can be more cost-effective than traditional custom-built designs. With an array of design options, from sleek minimalist styles to bold statement pieces, shower enclosures align with today’s design trends, helping elevate style while maximising functionality.
The new Divera collection from Kudos Showers offers a comprehensive and design-led modular showering solution where many of the components can be used to create a number of different enclosures. Its side panels and fixing kits are universally designed for use with any of the door types in the range. Easy to install, the comprehensive collection includes sliding, bi-fold, hinged and quadrant enclosure door options, along with wet room panels, side panels and accessories.
The company also offers a reassuring check-list of support and customer service; as Nick Granville, Kudos’s sales & marketing director, explains, “Choosing a local, reliable shower enclosure supplier that offers quality, deliverable product guarantees, and a speedy backup service instils confidence in both the retailer and the consumer. As a result of recent market challenges, such as Brexit, COVID-19, and continual economic uncertainty, service levels in the showering market have been inconsistent. The importance of supporting local manufacturers like Kudos has, therefore, been elevated.
“British manufacturers that offer a comprehensive range of products, all at price points and with flexible design options, and hold in-depth stock in the UK, have become leading contenders in the showering supply chain.”
Style icon
Thermostatic showers
Thermostatic showers offer a raft of benefits for designers, including safety features, built-in water conservation and customisable options such as adjustable spray settings. Exposed mixers are also easy to integrate into various project styles thanks to a sleek and modern aesthetic that complements most bathrooms. Beyond their visual appeal, thermostatic showers enhance user satisfaction by maintaining consistent water temperatures, minimising the risk of scalding. These showers also feature ergonomic handles and intuitive controls, enhancing usability and accessibility for all ages and abilities.
A perfect example is the PLAN blue series of fittings from KEUCO; the range now incorporates an exposed thermostatic shower mixer. The two new on-wall shower fittings have been created to complement the extensive PLAN blue range with either a thermostat shower mixer or a combination with an integrated head and hand shower.
A thoughtfully designed shower can also ensure the new space is multi-generational, adding value and longevity to the property. James Sketch, country manager at Keuco UK, agrees: “By considering who will be using the shower in years to come, designers can include elements that ensure the shower is adaptable and can be adjusted to cater for different heights, from small children to those who need to sit whilst showering. It is also important to ensure there is room for a grab rail within the showering space. These small details can lead to significant savings in the long term, as the shower can continue to be used with minor adjustments for years to come.”
Big style for small spaces
Shower doors
Designing for small or awkward spaces such as an attic or en-suite presents a unique challenge for designers and architects, but also offers an opportunity for innovation and creativity. The latest trends in compact bathroom design include clever solutions such as utilising a recessed space or integrating space-saving corner showers.
Amongst a raft of brand-new design-led products, Flair has recently unveiled a new range of shower doors; BABY ILI is a specially designed solution for attic bathrooms and spaces with height restrictions. Standing at 1800 mm high, BABY ILI ensures that even in tight spaces, retailers can offer their customers a stunning shower enclosure, enhancing their daily showering experience.
Panel power
Decorative wall panels
Wood panelling in bathrooms has emerged as a notable trend this year, bringing warmth, texture, and a touch of natural beauty to the bathroom space. Departing from traditional tiled walls, modern bathrooms embrace the versatility and charm of wood panelling to create inviting and spa-like sanctuaries. Whether used to accentuate a feature wall or to cover an entire surface, wood panelling adds depth and character. Furthermore, advancements in material technology have made wood panelling in bathrooms more practical than ever, with moisture-resistant options that are durable and easy to maintain.
Pictured above and below, Kinewall by Kinedo is a new range of decorative bathroom wall panels that can transform not just a shower space but a whole bathroom, cloakroom or utility room. Said to offer a revolution in materials, a revelation in designs and a remarkably simple installation process, Kinewall offers an abundance of choices to create the perfect bathroom with over 70 unique patterns, styles, and colours.
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