Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Schluter®-Systems Peel & Stick technology is ready for any sticky situation

October 28, 2024

It is widely known that uncoupling membranes have become popular among installers who aim to provide their customers with durable and stable flooring solutions. However, recent advancements in product development are simplifying the installation process and solving problems that have led to countless call-backs in the past. Schlüter®-Systems’ Peel & Stick technology is heralding a revolution in the marketplace.

The latest addition to the range is an advancement to Schlüter’s original DITRA. The new DITRA Peel & Stick maintains the renowned uncoupling, waterproofing, load-distribution, and vapour pressure equalisation properties of the original DITRA, bringing with it simple, clean, and quick installation. Peel & Stick is also available for the manufacturer’s electric and hydronic underfloor heating (UFH) offering.

While the usual provisos for installation regarding the substrate needing to be clean, dust-free, rigid and load-bearing remain the same, Peel & Stick presents the ideal answer to carrying out installations over the ubiquitous ‘green chipboard,’ which tiling adhesive simply will not adhere to. The advantages of being more straightforward to use make the product more accessible within the construction industry, with bathroom fitters or builders able to install the membrane. With no tiling adhesive needed, the installation process is cleaner and quicker, saving time on mixing, spreading or waiting for the tile adhesive to dry.

Schlüter’s Peel & Stick membranes make light work of installing uncoupling and underfloor heating. The only tool required for laying the Peel & Stick, cut-back stud structure with fleece backing is a craft knife, instead of having to mix up and spread tiling adhesive. Crucially, it is possible to reposition the membrane repeatedly, with the material only bonding to a substrate when pressure is applied. Walking on immediately after installation is also possible, reducing the risk of breaking the tile adhesive’s bond.

In addition to appealing to tiling contractors, the speed, simplicity, and versatility of the Peel & Stick range are gaining interest from small builders, bathroom specialists, and DIY enthusiasts. There is also a clear opportunity for offsite, particularly bathroom pod manufacturers, who increasingly rely on multi-skilling their workforce.

Product manager for Schlüter^®-Systems Andrew Saxon comments: “Widening our range of Peel & Stick solutions offers installers greater choice and can deliver a significant number of advantages over utilising tiling adhesive. It’s quicker, cleaner, and less physically demanding overall, so they can achieve much higher rates of progress.

“Schlüter^®-Systems DITRA-HEAT and the recently launched BEKOTE-THERM are also something which we are promoting strongly through our distributors and to all the installers who attend our Coalville showroom, that opened earlier this year – to undertake training. We normally run two sessions a week with attendance this year project to total more than 800.”

The 4mm electric cables or water pipes push-fit into the studded, fleece-backed membrane, which acts as both an insulating carrier and an uncoupling layer to help distribute stresses within the build-up, reducing the risk of tiles cracking. The two Schlüter^®-Systems UFH options also offer sound transmission reduction of up to 13 dB.

In general, under-tile heating is viewed as an ideal means of providing targeted heating within new and additional or refurbished bathrooms and features widely in top-end residential developments. Convenient and economic, instead of encountering a cold and unwelcoming surface beneath bare feet, a correctly installed UFH system can deliver controllable warmth, creating a regulated temperature within the room space itself.

The Peel & Stick membranes range offers the ideal solution for dealing with troublesome substrates and avoiding damage to tiles. They can be combined with other products in the Schlüter-Systems range to ensure lasting tile and stone installations.

For further information, call 01530 813396 or visit https://www.schluter.co.uk/

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Kaldewei shower surfaces deliver luxury and safety

October 28, 2024

When it comes to shower surfaces, experience counts, and Kaldewei has spent over 100 years manufacturing, designing, and crafting high-quality sanitaryware and shower surfaces.

All Kaldewei products are manufactured and distributed from their head office in Ahlen, Germany. The shower surfaces are uniquely crafted from a single sheet of steel and then coated with Kaldewei steel enamel; this ensures that every product remains 100% recyclable and carries a 30-year guarantee.

When selecting a shower, the size of the bathroom is key, as it determines how large the shower surface can be. This must be taken into consideration with the room’s layout, which enables the optimum shape of the shower surface to be selected. Kaldewei offers shower trays for rooms of all sizes, the smallest of which is 75cm x 70cm, with the largest going up to 180cm x 100cm or 150cm x 150cm square.

It follows that a large, rectangular bathroom is ideal for a large, rectangular shower surface, whilst a quarter-circle or pentagonal shower will work in a small, angled bathroom, and Kaldewei’s range of products enables them to provide luxurious, excellent quality products for projects from hotels to homes.

KALDEWEI_Superplan_detail-shower-surfaces.

In addition to their in-house team, Kaldewei works with leading designers such as Werner Aisslinger to create an extensive range of shower surfaces, including nine different floor-level shower surfaces, such as the Cayonoplan, Conoflat, Nexsys, and Superplan Plus.

These surfaces are perfect for multigenerational families and accessible living. With over 25 colours to choose from, the shower tray can be perfectly matched to the bathtub and washbasins in the room.

For any project, safety is key, and this year saw the introduction of Kaldewei’s Invisible Grip, a totally transparent surface that prevents slipping on the shiniest of shower surfaces. It works on the glossiest of their steel enamel surfaces and has no impact on the feeling underfoot, nor is the hold diminished when using soap, shower gel, shampoo or simply when there is contact with water as the invisible micro-structuring of the enamel continues to provide a particularly strong grip underfoot.

www.kaldewei.co.uk

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HEWI expands Iconic Range 801 with WARM TOUCH Edition

October 28, 2024

In a significant advancement for barrier-free sanitary solutions, HEWI has announced that its renowned Range 801 is now available in the WARM TOUCH edition. The classic among barrier-free hygienic products is also available as a warm-to-the-touch alternative to chrome products.

Nobody likes to hold on to cold support rails, especially not in the bathroom or an accessible toilet. In particular, people with a heightened sensitivity to cold find it unpleasant to touch cold surfaces. That’s why HEWI, the pioneer of barrier-free sanitary equipment, has gone one step further and given the products in its classic design, the 801 range, an elegant chrome look – with a pleasantly temperate surface.

The name WARM TOUCH, therefore, says it all, as the support rails and the shower and bath handrails have the warm, tactile properties of polyamide and, thanks to the special coating, the elegant look of a chrome surface, elegance with the comfort factor.

For over 50 years, HEWI’s System 801 has set the benchmark for sanitary equipment, being the first barrier-free range in the industry. Today, it continues to offer top-tier, accessible sanitary solutions characterised by durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

In developing the WARM TOUCH edition, HEWI has prioritised the needs of both users and caregivers. The coating and colour selection are thoughtfully designed within the framework of universal design, catering to the diverse requirements of all individuals. This focus is particularly beneficial for people with limited mobility, who gain enhanced security and confidence through the ergonomic round tube design of washbasin, WC, and shower support systems.

Pleasantly warm, elegant and easy to care for

The high-quality chrome-look coating of the WARM TOUCH edition not only imparts a sophisticated appearance to the polyamide products but also ensures exceptional durability and ease of cleaning. These features are crucial for environments such as professional nursing care, the hospitality industry, and private homes. Additionally, the comfort of a pleasantly warm surface can significantly benefit individuals with rheumatic conditions and other sensitivities.

For more information about HEWI’s WARM TOUCH edition and the Range 801, please visit HEWI

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Utopia staff are in the pink

October 25, 2024

Employees at Utopia were delighted to support the charity Breast Cancer Now last Friday, 18 October, by sporting pink garments to work on Wear It Pink Day. Many staff members raided their wardrobes, and a whole range of pink clothing was displayed at the company’s Wolverhampton headquarters.

This was the latest fund-raising effort by the company, which supports a range of local and national charities. Helen Clark, Head of Marketing at Utopia, said, “Who doesn’t enjoy the opportunity to dress up for a good cause? Cancer charities are particularly dear to our heart at Utopia as a number of employees have been affected, including our own Liz Green, so we’re delighted to take any opportunity to support them.”

www.utopiagroup.com

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ProPlanet UK Ltd joins the BMA as an affiliate member

October 25, 2024

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has welcomed ProPlanet UK Ltd., a leading IT software company specialising in Product Information Management (PIM), ETIM Classification and Product Data Services, as its newest affiliate member.

Founded in 2000, Proplanet are PIM specialists and co-founders of ETIM with extensive experience in helping manufacturers, merchants, and retailers streamline their product data, workflow, and communication processes.

Proplanet’s PIM is an easy-to-use, flexible, fully customisable PIM solution that allows manufacturers to manage, organise, enrich, and distribute detailed product information directly to marketing channels, all from a single, centralised platform. This technology is crucial in today’s digital era, where precise and effective communication of product information across various channels is essential for maintaining competitiveness.

Tom Reynolds, the BMA’s chief executive, highlighted the importance of ProPlanet Ltd joining the association: “Having ProPlanet on board strengthens the BMA’s ability to support our members as they navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Their expertise and knowledge offer manufacturers the tools to enhance their e-commerce capabilities and ensure product information accuracy across all platforms. This will play a key role in improving efficiency and driving innovation within the industry.”

Sales and Marketing Director Suzanne Wells Adgar from Proplanet shared their perspective on joining the BMA: “We are very excited to collaborate with the BMA and its members. By joining the association, we aim to bring our industry knowledge and PIM and ETIM expertise to members, helping them optimise their product information processes.

“Through our PIM solution, businesses can take full advantage of online marketing and e-commerce opportunities while ensuring consistency and control over their product data information. Our Proplanet Product Data Services will also provide BMA members with access to an additional external data resource, of which they can tap into when required to help complete and harness the full potential of their valuable product data information. We look forward to working with the BMA’s network to drive digital transformation across the industry.”

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Utopia adds new colours to its Roseberry timber bathroom furniture range

October 25, 2024

An exciting combination of bold colour and heritage shades marks the latest stage in the evolution of Roseberry, Utopia’s premium painted timber collection of fitted, wall-mounted and freestanding bathroom furniture.

Joining the existing Roseberry palette are six brand new, carefully selected colours, including rich, vibrant Royal Mulberry, Highland Green and Midnight Blue, and three subtle, more traditional shades – Natural Limestone, Wild Mushroom and Pistachio Green.

Rich Shore, Head of Product Design at Utopia, comments “The consumer is now much more confident about the use of colour and prepared to embrace strong shades to create dramatic focal points in the bathroom. These six new colourways are right on trend.”

Expanding on this, Helen Clark, Utopia’s head of marketing, says, “Initially, Roseberry was positioned very much as a premium range targeting that classic look of traditional, hand-painted timber furniture, but we soon saw that it had far greater appeal. Extending our colour palette yet again to include on-trend shades massively extends the design scope of this range, and we are seeing some very exciting, contemporary bathroom designs featuring Roseberry.”

Now offered in a total of twelve shades, the Roseberry Collection is designed and manufactured in the UK, using responsibly sourced timber and painted to order in-house using state of the art facilities.

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KEUCO expands KEUCO PLAN Collection with new thermostatic bathtub mixer

October 23, 2024

KEUCO has launched a new addition to its PLAN collection: the PLAN blue thermostatic bathtub mixer. This wall-mounted solution combines timeless, contemporary design with functionality, making it a perfect fit for various bathroom styles.

Designed for new builds and renovations, the PLAN blue mixer discreetly conceals water supply connections behind two round decor discs. The handles on either side allow users to easily adjust the water temperature and flow rate.

Safety is paramount, as the mixer features a temperature block set at 38 °C to minimise scalding risks. The centrally positioned spout and conveniently located shower hose connection enhance usability.

The slender design of the PLAN blue series complements existing thermostatic shower mixers and is further supported by a wide range of accessories for bathtubs, showers, and washbasins. Available in classic chrome or bold matt black, these options cater to diverse design needs, making them suitable for modern bathrooms in hotels, healthcare facilities, and private residences.

www.keuco.com

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Ideal Standard hosts exclusive event with George Clarke at its Clerkenwell showroom

October 22, 2024

Bathroom manufacturer Ideal Standard recently hosted an insightful discussion on bathroom design and specification, featuring TV presenter and architect George Clarke, at its London Design and Specification Centre on 16 October.

This exclusive media event allowed attendees to engage directly with George, delving into key topics in interior design and his recent home renovation experiences.

Throughout the day, the conversations highlighted the critical role of sustainability in bathroom design. Participants explored how bathroom products can transcend mere water conservation and be crafted to endure both physically and aesthetically. The discussions also focused on how designers can weave these essential themes into their new projects and renovations.

Sustainability has always been at the core of George’s philosophy, significantly influencing his work and product choices. “The ability to specify high-quality products that evolve proven design concepts rather than trend-led items that need replacing frequently reduces the carbon footprint of raw material usage, manufacturing emissions and transport.” This commitment to durability and excellence is a hallmark of Ideal Standard’s Atelier Collection.

With a shared dedication to enduring, quality products, George Clarke incorporated several Ideal Standard items into his recent home renovation, including the minimalist Conca furniture, Linda X basin and bath.

Attendees were also given the chance to get hands-on with the latest ranges on display at Ideal Standard’s showroom, including the most recent edition to the design-led Atelier Collections – the Italian lifestyle inspired La Dolce Vita® range – created by internationally renowned designer, Roberto Palomba.

To discover the new La Dolce Vita® range and Atelier Collections, visit: https://www.idealstandard.co.uk/

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Kudos introduces SIONA semi frameless walk-in panels

October 21, 2024

Introducing SIONA, the latest Kudos 8mm semi-frameless shower panel and enclosure collection. Made in Britain, the range includes pivot and sliding doors, as well as walk-in panels in both chrome and matt black profile finishes. Each panel proudly stands at 2 metres in height, has Lifeshield protection for easy cleaning and is backed by the Kudos Lifetime Guarantee.

Siona is positioned neatly between the Divera 6mm and Ultimate 8mm ranges as part of the Kudos Core Collection. All the glass panels in the new Siona collection are 8mm toughened glass; the pivot doors feature a quality barrel hinge mechanism, the slider doors a double roller ensuring a smooth sliding action, and all come complete with concealed fittings and crystal-clear seals.

The Siona Walk-In range features 8 popular panel sizes from 700mm to 1400mm in width and they can all be installed on the KStone or Connect2 shower trays from Kudos or on a wetroom floor like Aqua4Ma. Two deflector panels complement the design offering either a foldaway or hinged action and designed to control any overspray. The sliding door can be used to create corner, recess and 3-sided enclosures up to 1500mm wide, and the pivot door comes in sizes ranging from 800mm to 1400mm and is ideal for the larger bathroom.

Kudos is a showering product brand that trades as RONAL Bathrooms UK. The Kudos brand is designed and manufactured in the UK, producing shower products at their Cumbria facility since 1999. The Kudos portfolio includes shower enclosures, shower trays, over-bath screens, and wet-room solutions that are sold via KBB showrooms and merchants across the UK. Visit their website kudosshowers.co.uk, call them on 01539 564040 or email info@kudosshowers.co.uk

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Avocado green returns: how hospitality design influences home interiors

October 21, 2024

Recent research from Wickes, the home improvement retailer, reveals that avocado-green bathrooms are making a comeback.

Alexandra Alventosa Garcia, design coordinator at Pure Fitout, comments: “Bars and restaurants often act as the inspiration for many consumers’ homes. They are ahead of the interior design curve and embrace their creative freedom and bold experimentation. Their emphasis on creating memorable experiences drives innovation, which has now crossed over into UK homes.”

Alventosa Garcia continues, “Interior designers push the boundaries to be memorable and make a lasting impression on their visitors. Bars, restaurants, and retail spaces are highly stylised to create unique atmospheres that reflect their brand, culture, or dining experience. Designers’ experimentation with materials and colours has also crossed over into our homes, with terrazzo basins becoming increasingly popular.”

She highlights that “as trendsetters, hospitality spaces inspire residential design, and these avant-garde ideas have now filtered into home interiors.”

Traditionally, homes have been designed with a focus on neutrality and adaptability for everyday living. Consumers have often been cautious in their choices, with many believing that bold bathroom designs could adversely affect their property’s value. However, it appears that homeowners are now more willing to embrace daring designs. Pure Fitout’s bathroom basin brand, Synk, reports a remarkable doubling of sales for 70s-style basins in the past quarter alone.

Claire McCann, general manager at Synk, adds: “There’s been a significant surge in interest in colours such as burnt orange, sunshine yellow, tuscan red, mocha, and terracotta, as people begin to experiment more. Bold colours and rich, earthy tones are making a comeback. These hues are being increasingly featured in bathrooms and kitchens, including in tiles, cabinetry, and accents.”

She continues, “Materials such as concrete are gaining popularity over ceramic, allowing for greater colour customisation. Brass fixtures and gold accents are also returning to style, taking market share from stainless steel alternatives. Darker woods like teak, walnut, and rattan are being used in vanities and cabinets rather than the more traditional white units or lighter wood tones.”

According to McCann, “These new trends combine nostalgic elements of the 1970s with modern technology and functionality to create bathrooms that feel stylish and inviting while evoking memories of past eras. We hope this expression and experimentation is here to stay.”

About Pure Fitout
Pure Fitout delivers elite fitout projects encompassing all elements of design, construction, and support services, with specialist bespoke joinery and metalwork capabilities in-house. Established in Belfast in 2015, the firm operates from a 50,000 sq ft manufacturing plant, focusing on continuous capital reinvestment and skills training in the latest technologies and machinery. Pure Fitout’s project portfolio includes the award-winning restoration of Dublin’s Stella Theatre.

About Synk
Synk is Ireland’s leading expert in the design and manufacture of bespoke concrete basins, sinks, and bathtubs. With over 20 years of experience, they specialise in handmade products using Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) and conventional wet cast techniques. Synk offers a vast range of customisable designs, working closely with architects, designers, and fitout specialists for both residential and commercial projects. All products are crafted in their Ireland-based workshop, ensuring superior quality and control at every stage of production.

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