Duravit‘s ranges include a variety of harmonious, natural colours that allow architects and designers to create unique and calming bathroom spaces
Lush meadows, dense forests, rustling leaves – green symbolises nature and provides balance in a room. At the same time, green is more than just a colour: it has a positive effect on our mood and well-being, making it ideal for our own private feel-good oasis.
A bathroom with a green colour spectrum creates a relaxing, calming atmosphere. Bathroom objects, such as the wall design, or plants, can be combined with nature’s own colour palette and integrated into the bathroom in various ways. Blending with white vanity units or wooden elements within the bathroom furniture also creates a harmonious effect.
Facets of nature
Green is as versatile in the bathroom as it is in nature. Nuances across the colour spectrum have varying impact on the room’s atmosphere. Lighter tones, such as the soft Pale Green from the Sivida by Starck washing area range, bring the room to life and create elegant splashes of colour. In contrast, darker variations, such as the strong Blue Green of the Vitrium by Christian Werner range, exude elegance and provide striking highlights.
On top: The combination of Green and White creates interesting contrasts. The two-tone above-counter basin from the Sivida by Starck range with a Pale Green outer and White inner basin – or the other way round – is a particularly elegant variant.
Light colours: As shown in the picture at the top of the page, painted walls are a simple way to bring colour into the bathroom. Muted shades of Sage are perfect for creating an elegant impression. White bathroom objects like those from the Sivida by Starck washing-area range create contrasts and guarantee a harmonious overall picture.
Canvas: Patterned wallpapers can be used to create tasteful and unique bathrooms. Whether a guest toilet or main bathroom, the result is a real eyecatcher that transforms ordinary spaces into captivating visual experiences. The intricate patterns and vibrant colours add personality and charm to the bathroom.
Tone in tone: Washing-area combinations in matching colour shades make a statement in the bathroom. The exclusive Vitrium Colour Christian Werner concept in Blue Green provides appealing tone-on-tone solutions that elevates the aesthetic of any bathroom space. This sophisticated approach ensures a harmonious and cohesive look, transforming the bathroom into a stylish and serene retreat.
Tiles are a functional and aesthetic way of integrating green into the bathroom. For instance, emerald-green tiles combined with the white ME by Starck washbasin from Duravit create a luxurious and stylish ambience. Pictured below – Left.
Home jungle: Plants enhance the atmosphere and bring the bathroom to life. If the bathroom design is restrained in colour terms, for instance with the D-Neo bathroom range by Duravit, plants provide a perfect splash of colour. Plants such as ferns and philodendrons are especially well-suited to the humid climate in the bathroom. Pictured below – right.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, so does our desire to integrate these benefits into our homes. Today’s cutting-edge home products are crafted to enhance convenience, boasting advanced features and functionality that streamline our busy lifestyles. However, with such an influx of new technology, how do we balance the features we want with the amount of tech on display?
In recent years, the bathroom has transformed into a wellness space, providing a sanctuary away from the barrage of emails, social media, and messages. This shift has driven an increasing desire among homeowners to subtly incorporate technologies that provide comfort and convenience without making the environment feel overstimulating or “tech-heavy”.
Other areas, like the living room, have also seen a similar shift towards an analogue feel, with hidden TVs, ceiling speakers, and voice-activated controls gaining significant popularity.
Incorporating these innovations in the bathroom allows for a sleek, clutter-free aesthetic that delivers contemporary functionality, blending modernity with the timeless appeal of a serene space. As our desire for hidden tech grows, a strong trend has emerged in which homeowners are ‘masking’ technology for a more streamlined, relaxed living environment overall.
Lewis Neathey, leader, product management at LIXIL EMENA & GROHE UK, comments: “As the trend for spa bathrooms continues to grow, homeowners increasingly seek features that promote wellness and relaxation while being neatly and discreetly designed. Technologies that subtly offer added functionality are becoming integral to this experience, offering a moment of relaxation away from the digital noise of everyday life, while keeping the bathroom a more analogue feeling space.”
Trending insights
In a recent “Behind the bathroom door” study conducted by the Bathrooms Manufacturers Association, a survey of 48 UK residents revealed that nearly half (48%) of the participants preferred their bathroom as a tranquil sanctuary free from distractions. Additionally, 37% regarded their bathrooms as practical spaces to get clean quickly. Only 13% expressed a desire for more technology in their bathrooms, and this preference was primarily for enhancing comfort and relaxation. Desired tech features included playing music or setting mood lighting rather than incorporating external information such as weather forecasts or traffic updates.
There was also interest in features that enabled users to understand their water usage in the bathroom and products that helped them save water without sacrificing comfort or product performance. This is not surprising, as a 2023 study conducted by YouGov commissioned by GROHE found that 67% of people surveyed noted that they are conscious of their environmental impact when showering / bathing.
How to incorporate ‘Tech-Masking’ in the bathroom
From water-saving taps to app-controlled showers and toilets, ‘Tech-Masking’ is all about enjoying modern comforts and the convenience of technology without it being obvious to the naked eye or detracting from the room’s relaxation factor.
Combining all the benefits of this trend with our increasing need to futureproof within the UK, shower toilets are just one of many new solutions that have come to market incorporating this design approach.
GROHE’s new Sensia Pro shower toilet presents as a standard wall-hung WC in a sleek Alpine White finish, however, is full of integrated technology and is conveniently operated by a remote control. Offering two self-cleaning spray heads, that can be adjusted in position, intensity, and temperature, along with providing oscillating and massage spray options and a warm air dryer function, users are taken to the next level of personal care and hygiene. The shower toilet also has an automatic open-close function for the seat and lid and a night light to guide users, enhancing user convenience further.
Elsewhere in the bathroom, showering has become a ritual that brings happiness into our daily lives; however, that happiness is different for every user, just like the features that can contribute to it. In a 2024 European survey conducted by GROHE, it was found that in addition to cleansing, 64% of respondents associate showering with relaxation, followed by wellness (41%) and me-time (40%). As shower designs evolve to cater to more requirements, the integrated technology is expanding, covering everything from safety features such as temperature limiters to hidden filters that enhance skin and hair.
PJH’s Bathrooms to Love brand has launched a new premium modular furniture range called ‘PUSH,’ which includes this flawless STORM BLUE family. Finished in a luxurious matt lacquer, PUSH replaces the previous ‘Perla’ range, a new and improved furniture family featuring additional USPs perfect for the discerning customer.
The PUSHollection – named after its soft-close push-to-open doors and drawers – offers several new customisable options, making it the ideal choice for helping to create individual looks. Basin units are available in a wall-hung design, but if a floor-standing look is desired, optional decorative and elegant legs are available (as shown).
In addition, the units feature a beautiful, chamfered edge design. Combined with a sleek handleless form, the range is effortlessly stylish and perfect for contemporary bathroom spaces.
Other unit choices include a wall-hung midi-boy unit and a floor-standing WC unit – which can be teamed with any of the back-to-wall WC toilets from the Bathrooms to Love collection.
The PUSH basin drawer units are also available in various configurations. Choose from units with a thin-edge, inset white ceramic basin (as shown), units with a colour–matched worktop – so add a choice of washbowl -and twin basin four-drawered units. With basin unit sizes ranging from 600mm to 1200mm, there’s a unit suitable for all sizes of bathrooms.
In addition to this beautiful Matt Storm Blue finish, there is a Matt Clay and a Matt Cotton, all with luxury grey linen-effect internals. The chosen colour schemes and textures embrace this season’s Bathrooms to Love theme- ‘Nature’s Palette’ – inspired by natural shades and textures.
Now in stock and available to order from PJH, this stunning new PUSH range in Matt Storm Blue comes with competitive display deals, product swatches and a package of showroom support – including QR codes with AR links, as well as this engaging new video: PUSH by BTL
Supported with Next Day Delivery (to 93% of UK postcodes), including the opportunity to deliver to store or home, PUSH can be ordered via PJH’s Partners Portal™ e-commerce website.
Cosentino has introduced the Dekton Pietra Edition, a contemporary collection inspired by iconic Mediterranean stones. This launch follows the successful 2023 debut of Dekton® Pietra Kode, envisioned by renowned designer and architect Daniel Germani. The new Pietra Kode designs will be available in the UK starting 11 July 2024.
The ultra-compact Dekton Pietra Edition collection replicates the intricate details of traditional stones like Travertine, Ceppo Di Gré, Piasentina, and Campaspero, while offering enhanced realism and durability to meet the demands of modern architecture and interior design.
“Pietra Edition is the new journey to the origin of timeless and Mediterranean architecture already started with Pietra Kode,” said Daniel Germani.
“I am proud to continue my collaboration with Cosentino to bring the designs of Pietra Edition to designers, architects, and homeowners as a surface that is both timeless and innovative.”
Featuring Dekton’s TSP technology, the carbon-neutral Dekton® Pietra Edition introduces a technological layer to iconic natural stones with six serene designs. The collection pays homage to the enduring elegance of Mediterranean natural stones while elevating their design.
Pietra Edition’s palette of six styles includes four distinct stone textures, such as the newly introduced Piasentina and Campaspero:
Trevi: With a cream base and a parallel pattern of irregular grey and blue veins, this design is inspired by the timeless beauty of Roman silver Travertine.
Ava: Drawing inspiration from Ceppo di Gré, a stone from the Lombardy region, Ava features a rough yet warm design, perfect for Mediterranean-style projects.
Adia: This design offers a versatile finish with a silky appearance. Its cream tone and soft white lines elevate any design project.
Nebu: Recreating the depth of Roman Travertine, Nebu’s unique irregularities bring a timeless charm to any space.
Polar: Inspired by Spanish stone Campaspero, Polar features a hyper-realistic pattern with beige tones, greyish and cream veins, small inlays, and fossils.
Sandik: This design embodies the traditional elegance of Campaspero with a softer finish, featuring a cream background and subtle grey tones, ideal for outdoor applications.
At the heart of Flair Showers’ innovation lies the award-winning ETO and ILI ranges from the Harmony Collections, which have inspired the new Flair PRO Essential Collections.
Launched in the UK in March 2024, the ETO and ILI ranges feature Flair’s patented Click Fit Assembly System, ensuring superior structural integrity and ease of installation. These premium shower solutions have earned the brand a Good Design Award, a global mark of design excellence. The new Verve PRO range, part of the Flair PRO Essential Collections, leverages the Click Fit PRO system, transforming what was once a two-person job into a quick, single-person assembly.
Click Fit PRO is a revolutionary screw-free assembly system designed for the Verve PRO shower doors. Installers can effortlessly assemble the shower door frame onto the tray with vertical and horizontal profiles aligned. A secure screw-free joint is formed by sliding the pre-assembled Click Fit PRO bracket into place and snapping the hook into the access port. This user-friendly system eliminates the need for screws, reducing installation time and the requirement for multiple installers and extensive space.
Ronan O’Grady, lead product designer at Flair Showers, says: “Based upon our research and understanding the needs of trade professionals and installers at Flair, we have engineered a brand new assembly system to offer time and effort-saving benefits. Our brand new Click Fit PRO mechanism, a key feature of the Flair PRO Verve shower doors, will offer installers the quality and innovation of our Harmony Collections range with the benefit of a more affordable price point. With a simple two-step installation, high-quality components and various showering solutions, we are confident that installers will love and trust Flair PRO.”
Flair displayed enclosures from its ETO and ILI ranges at InstallerSHOW, highlighting to trade professionals the varied offerings that Flair provides. Designed with young families in mind, ILI offers durability, simplicity and an aesthetically pleasing, high-quality design. Flair showcased its 1950 mm high Brushed Brass ILI slider door on stand 4D20. Also showcased to installers visiting the exhibition was the soon-to-launch, elegant and on-trend Brushed Bronze finish of the ETO collection. Available in various enclosure styles, created to suit homes with busy bathrooms, the Flair ETO shower enclosures benefit from several innovative features designed to enhance the experience of the end-user and bathroom installer.
For more information on the brand new Flair PRO Essential Collections or the Flair Showers Harmony Collections, please contact sales@flairshowers.co.uk or visit the website www.flairshowers.co.uk
Some installers shy away from a challenge, but others embrace finding solutions to seemingly impossible situations.
Lee Hammond is one such installer. He runs his own business, Hammond & Holmes Kitchens & Bathrooms, in Eccleston. His customer in Wigan was looking to create a downstairs cloakroom in a hallway cupboard adjacent to the stairs as part of wider renovations to the property.
Two contractors had already viewed the job and declared it impossible. Step forward, Lee, with his problem-solving skills, and he soon realised that all he needed was a Saniflo. A macerator pump could pump the waste up into the ceiling above, along the kitchen ceiling and into the central internal soil stack. Whilst plumbing in the small-bore pipework to take the waste away from the WC, Lee plumbed pipes for hot and cold water to go back the other away, along with heating pipes to plumb in a towel rail.
After discussing the variety of options in the Saniflo range with his customer, it was agreed that the perfect unit for the converted space was a Sanicompact. This compact, cistern-less WC from Saniflo has an integrated macerator and also takes the waste from a basin; it is the perfect cloakroom solution. The unit’s small footprint, along with its modern looks and exceptionally efficient and quiet operation, ensures it is practical yet unobtrusive.
“The Sanicompact was the ideal solution for this small space. It has no cistern and just requires a water outlet and electricity to operate. I could even fit a concealed drawer and storage unit under the adjacent stairs as, without the cistern, I had the space to do it. The Sanicompact offered a clean, uncluttered look in a compact spot, and since installation a few months ago, it has worked perfectly. The customer is over the moon with it.”
Even more amazingly, this was Lee’s first ever Saniflo installation, and he found it so simple to install that he’s since recommended Saniflo solutions to other customers who want to turn unused space into cloakrooms and en-suites;
“Since installing the Sanicompact, I have been called out to fix three more Saniflo units. They seem to last forever and only require attention when something inappropriate for a macerator has been put down the loo. They are so useful for projects that require a solution when gravity drainage is not available, as in the case of my Sanicompact customer. I do see myself doing a lot more projects using them.”
Ca’ Pietra’s new collection, called Earthenware, is inspired by Italian pottery sold on the streets of villages on the Amalfi Coast.
Renowned for its vibrant colours, Amfli pottery is notable for its intricate designs, which reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The style often features bright blues and yellows, inspired by the Mediterranean Sea and the warm Italian sun.
Brought to life in five shades and replicating the texture of pottery through its matt finish, Earthenware is available in five colours: soft white, pottery, terracotta, coral, and linen, shades that are on-trend as we approach 2025.
Working individually or paired together, Earthenware tile is a thin rectangle shape, so it can be used to create vertical, horizontal, or unique patterns on interior walls and floors.
The tile Size is 5cm x 25cm x 1.2cm; it is available in a matt finish
Saniflo will exhibit at both PHEX South, Olympia, from 11-12 September and PHEX North, Old Trafford Stadium, Manchester, from 9 – 10th October.
Located at stands B22 at Olympia and B79 at Old Trafford, Saniflo will display a comprehensive selection of market-leading domestic macerators, condensate pumps, and lifting stations. In addition, the recently launched Sanisub 800 Rainkit will be on display at PHEX, Olympia.
David Cook will be attending the show for the first time in his new capacity as Managing Director for Saniflo and along with the team is looking forward to welcoming visitors at both events;
“The PHEX show gives us a great opportunity to meet and talk to customers new and old who specify and install our products. We work with all customers to provide solutions for all types of projects from single bathrooms to multiple bathroom applications.
A fresh impetus for economic growth and housebuilding could result in greater opportunities for our sector. Tom Reynolds, Chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, describes how these efforts tie in with their annual conference for 2024
In the wake of the 2024 UK general election, our new Labour Government has taken on the challenge of kickstarting economic growth and getting ‘Britain building again.’ Central to this effort is the ambitious promise to build 1.5 million homes over the next parliamentary term. If the government’s plans come to fruition, this initiative could herald significant opportunities for designers, architects, and the wider bathroom sector.
The upcoming BMA Industry Conference, themed “Building Growth,” is perfectly timed to address these pivotal developments. Scheduled for September 16th and 17th at the Queens Hotel in Leeds, the conference will explore how our industry can align with national priorities to drive economic and housebuilding growth.
We are honoured to have Oliver Heath as our keynote speaker. An industry-recognised expert in biophilic design and sustainable architectural and interior design, Oliver creates human-centred spaces that enhance occupant well-being through a connection to nature. His session will offer invaluable insights into integrating these principles into bathroom design, aligning with broader trends in sustainable and health-focused architecture.
The conference will feature various expert speakers, starting with Jo Salter, a renowned Motivational Speaker. Jo will set the tone with her session on ‘The Growth Mindset,’ encouraging innovation and proactive thinking crucial for navigating a competitive market. Following her, Mohammed Chaudhri, Experian’s Chief Economist and Director of Market Intelligence, will present ‘The Economic Outlook.’ Mohammed’s expertise will provide a grounded perspective on the feasibility of growth under the current economic conditions.
A major highlight will be “The Big Debate,” which will focus on what we can do to get Britain building and the role of bathroom manufacturers. This panel discussion will be a dynamic forum for industry leaders to share strategies for boosting housing development, emphasising the critical link between a robust housing market and a thriving bathroom sector.
The Labour Government’s promise to construct 1.5 million homes represents a significant opportunity for designers, architects, and the entire bathroom sector. Increased building activity not only drives demand for bathroom products but also spurs innovation and collaboration across the entire supply chain. This surge could lead to advancements in design, sustainability, and technology within the industry.
I encourage you to book your delegate places early for this insightful and inspiring event. Join us at the Queens Hotel in Leeds to network with industry peers, learn from leading experts, and explore how we can support the new government’s ambitious building targets. Together, we can contribute to a brighter, more prosperous future for the bathroom sector and the broader architectural landscape.
Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review. Diane Larner launched both titles over 14 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
Current trends in bathroom design continue to highlight luxury, sustainability, and wellness. Achieving a cohesive look depends on the compatibility of each component, with sanitaryware needing to be both practical and visually pleasing. Today’s consumers are looking for products that combine hygiene, durability and style with a dash of personality. As these trends gain momentum, the demand for harmonised yet customisable bathroom solutions continues to rise.
Juan Luna, design manager at Acquabella, agrees, “Consumers are seeking baths and basins that offer both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Materials like natural, high-quality resins are trending thanks to their durability, antibacterial treatment, easy maintenance and eco-friendliness. Customisable options and unique finishes are also in high demand, allowing homeowners to create personalised spaces that reflect their style and personality”.
Colour me happy
Acquabella Acquasolid collection
The design landscape has shifted from a one-size-fits-all solution to bespoke schemes that reflect individual preferences. The focus on personalisation enhances the visual magnetism of the bathroom, making these spaces more than just functional areas – they become individual retreats catering to style and comfort.
As consumers continue to explore new possibilities, the potential to structure a bathroom that truly mirrors the user’s personality has become a hallmark of contemporary design. This personalisation trend leverages an expressive use of colour and materials, resulting in customisation.
Ashley Sinclair, specification and design manager at Sanipex Group, comments: ‘Current trends in bath, basin, and WC design emphasise personalised design, blending bold colours, unique finishes, and new materials. These trends offer designers creative freedom to craft spaces that reflect users’ styles and personalities, enhancing both comfort and style.’
In response to the demand for design freedom, Aquabella’s Noon bathtub can be designed in more than 2000 colours. It features a slate texture that gives it a sophisticated and natural look. The tubs are perfectly matched with the sleek Acquasolid collection (pictured above), which comprises basins and worktops (Tai, Kivu, and Tana series).
Life’s a beach
Beach House by BAGNODESIGN
The continued fusion of natural elements into the bathroom results in organic, serene spaces that evoke a sense of tranquillity. This trend blends materials like wood, stone, teak, and bamboo with earthy colour palettes and textures. By integrating features such as natural light, plants, or stone, designers can easily create a restful, calming environment. This approach enhances the aesthetic appeal of bathrooms and promotes a soothing and restorative experience.
Michael Marriott, CEO of Waterline, advises, ‘Bathroom trends are all about creating a calming, wellness-focused space. Soft, soothing colours like sage green, gentle blues, and warm neutrals are in vogue, making the bathroom feel like a retreat. Think about incorporating features that enhance user well-being, like rainfall showerheads, natural elements and wooden accents.’
One example of this is Beach House by BAGNODESIGN. The collection features light, gentle hues that mimic the outdoor bathrooms of private Maldivian villas. The complete range includes shower columns and furniture that coordinate with the stylish BAGNOQUARTZ basins and bathtubs pictured above.
Flushed with love
VitrA ‘s QuantumFlush
Whilst we ask our baths and basins to toe the line regarding wellness, we have lower expectations of the humble WC, yet a noisy loo can undo all the good work. According to Weber, research shows that when exposed to noise, our stress levels are raised, which can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure. Children also find the sound battleground overwhelming, especially in public bathrooms. With this in mind, VitrA has launched one of the quietest loos in the world. It also tops the charts regarding cleaning power, operating 120% more effectively than standard rimless toilets.
“Ruth Davies, VitrA’s marketing director, explains, ‘In today’s increasingly home-centred lifestyle, the bathroom has evolved into a space for relaxation. Factors such as hygiene and well-being are crucial considerations when making the bathroom feel like a living space. Choose products that prioritise both hygiene and tranquillity, such as basins and toilets with anti-bacterial glazes that minimise the spread of germs and silent flushing systems that maintain a peaceful atmosphere. These choices not only enhance the bathroom’s functionality but also create a serene environment.“
VitrA ‘s new QuantumFlush boasts superior toilet flushing technology that is seven times quieter than a traditional toilet. It delivers twice the cleaning power and is also specifically designed to enhance water efficiency, using the same 3 or 6 litres of water as a standard dual flush.
Free & easy
Bathrooms to Love Striata Fluted Bath
Freestanding baths are popular since they deliver drama and elegance, which elevates the bathroom aesthetic. Beyond looks, freestanding baths can be more flexible in placement, allowing for creative layouts that maximise space. These baths often come in various shapes and sizes, catering to all tastes and preferences. They are also typically easier to install than built-in options, reducing time and increasing build efficiency. Overall, freestanding baths combine sophistication, versatility, and practicality, making them a desirable choice for traditional and modern bathrooms.
Tanna Molyneux, product manager of Bathrooms to Love by PJH, agrees, “A freestanding bath undeniably adds luxury and glamour to any bathroom, serving as an impressive focal point and making a bold design statement. With many styles now available, covering all price points, the choice of designs is wider than ever.”
PJH’s Bathrooms to Love bath collection includes a comprehensive choice of styles and specifications for all bathroom projects. The freestanding bath range is a popular choice for consumers looking to add a touch of luxury to a bathroom space, and designs include classic and contemporary models.
A complete collection
Waterline Bathroom Collection
Creating a cohesive design is simpler when selecting from a single supplier. Numerous benefits include consistency in looks and quality, which helps create a put-together feel throughout the space. Working with one supplier also simplifies the purchasing process, streamlining communication and coordination and saving time and effort.
The new Waterline Bathroom Collection features a wide range of products that cater to contemporary and traditional tastes. The sanitaryware features square and round themes, while the furniture pieces are available in contemporary and traditional styles. Developed in close collaboration with industry experts, the range includes everything from furniture, WCs, and flushing systems to brassware, basins, shower trays and enclosures, baths, heating solutions, flooring, and mirrors.
WaterlineWaterline
Picture at the very top – Bathrooms to Love
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