Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

How a toilet can boost wellbeing from Duravit

March 6, 2026

Clear design language combines with modern technology

The toilet is a firm fixture of our everyday life that we tend not to pay much attention to – yet comfort, cleanliness, and design significantly impact wellbeing in the bathroom. This is precisely where the ME by Starck Hero Edition comes into its own: designed by Philippe Starck, the wall-mounted toilet pairs aesthetic minimalism with modern technology and shows how good design can enhance a product that plays such a fundamental role in the bathroom.

Systematic cleanliness

The Hero Edition is designed to stay cleaner for longer and be easier to clean. The rimless design prevents deposits and the highly smooth ceramic surface significantly reduces build-up of residue. The pared-down interior design simplifies the layout and guarantees easy access to all surfaces.

Quiet, thorough, and efficient

A good flush does not draw attention to itself: the Hero Edition is as quiet as it is thorough – even with low water consumption. Saving resources without compromising hygiene.

Design that upgrades the everyday

Philippe Starck is a by-word for clean lines and functional elegance. The ME by Starck Hero Edition takes the same approach: a minimalist, contemporary design that is at home in any bathroom yet also exudes a touch of class. The ergonomically shaped seat ensures a pleasant level of comfort.

Sustainability in daily use

Less water, fewer cleaning products, durable materials: the Hero Edition shows that sustainability need not be complicated. Solutions that save resources in daily use while ensuring reliability are what counts.

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House of Rohl and Aqualisa preview new launches at kbb Birmingham

March 5, 2026

House of Rohl UK, comprising Perrin & Rowe, Shaws of Darwen and Victoria + Albert, alongside Aqualisa, showcased a series of new product launches at KBB Birmingham, held from 1–4 March 2026.

Taking one of the largest stands at the show (Stand D68, Hall 20), the group presented several innovations as part of the exhibition’s 40th anniversary edition. Highlights included the new Aqualisa S Range smart digital shower collection (available April), the Victoria + Albert Lussari built-in baths (available March), and the Victoria + Albert Vetralla back-to-wall basins (available July).

With a combined sales team and enhanced marketing support, House of Rohl UK offered distributors, retailers and showrooms a single source for premium kitchen and bathroom fittings. The stand also incorporated a hospitality space featuring Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong, Juliet, Phoenician and Provence 3-in-1 instant hot taps, while a dedicated heritage zone celebrated the history and craftsmanship of the House of Rohl brands.

A key highlight was the launch of the Aqualisa S Range, the brand’s next generation of smart digital showers. Visitors experienced working demonstrations on the stand, with Aqualisa experts explaining the connected features, intuitive controls and simplified installation.

Developed following extensive customer research, the S Range was designed to deliver a highly personalised showering experience while remaining simple and intuitive to use. The design combines a distinctive aesthetic with familiar dials and buttons, ensuring technology is seamlessly integrated without overcomplicating operation.

Each member of the household can create their own personalised shower routine through the Aqualisa app. Showers can be started via a wireless remote, smartphone or smart speaker, and the illuminated dial indicates when the water has reached the desired temperature.

At the heart of the system is the Aqualisa SmartValve™, which measures water temperature ten times per second to maintain consistent performance and eliminate hot or cold fluctuations. The smart valve can also be installed up to 10 metres away from the shower, offering installers greater flexibility.

With smart home technology now commonplace in UK households, Aqualisa believes digital showering is approaching a tipping point for wider adoption, with the S Range designed to make the benefits of connected showering accessible to a broader market.

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KBIS 2026 concludes with record attendance

March 5, 2026

The Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) concluded its 2026 edition following three days of product introductions, demonstrations, networking, and educational programming held February 17–19 at the Orange County Convention Center. Owned by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and produced by Emerald Expositions, KBIS is North America’s largest trade show dedicated to the kitchen and bath industry. The co-location of KBIS and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)’s International Builders’ Show (IBS) creates Design & Construction Week (DCW).

“KBIS 2026 was, by every measure, an incredible success and a reflection of the remarkable vitality of the kitchen and bath industry,” said Bill Darcy, global president and CEO of NKBA | KBIS. “As shared at our annual State of the Association meeting, the industry is poised for a strong outlook, and the consistent feedback we received from attendees was that KBIS reignited enthusiasm for the future and provided meaningful connections that will help their businesses grow. As KBIS continues to evolve and expand, it’s bringing even greater, lasting value to our members from around the world. KBIS is the can’t-miss event for the global kitchen, bath and home industry.”

DCW 2026 By-the-Numbers

117,000 registrants
2,250 exhibitors
1,150,000 NSF

“KBIS 2026 once again proved why it is the must-attend event in the industry,” said Brian Pagel, executive vice President, Emerald, which produces KBIS. “From breakthrough product launches on the show floor to the innovation recognized through the Best of KBIS and Innovation Hour winners, this year’s exhibitors showcased the strength and evolution shaping the industry. The debut of Kitchen & Bath Canada and our executive peer-to-peer networks event, DesignPoint, speaks to the industry’s continued growth and our commitment to expanding our reach while creating meaningful opportunities for brands and buyers alike.”

The strong performance was reflected across the show floor, where exhibitors debuted new products and technologies with demonstrations and interactive displays, drawing steady crowds throughout the three-day event. Platinum sponsors Midea introduced the Top Control Dishwasher with STRAWash™, while Brio showcased the 740i Nugget Ice Maker, and ZLINE revealed The Marino Collection. Gold Sponsors Kichler unveiled the Mikale ceramic shade, and TOTO launched the Aurora™ WASHLET+ S7A One-Piece Bidet Toilet.

In its inaugural year, the Homeworthy x KBIS LIVE Studio sponsored by GE Appliances’ House of Brands extended the KBIS experience beyond the show floor, featuring live interviews streamed online for a broader audience. “What an exciting year to be the first partner to launch this effort with Homeworthy!” said Mary Putman, Vice president of marketing & brand at GE Appliances, a Haier Company. “There are so many great brands at this show and extending the trends, innovation and inspiration to a broader audience was a valuable experience for GE Appliances. Showcasing our Design District House of Brands allowed us to share our broad expertise with the designers and builders we value beyond the show floor.”

Next year, KBIS and Design & Construction Week will be held February 2-4, 2027, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada and will once again co-locate with the International Builders’ Show.

About the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is the not-for-profit trade association that owns the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS), the largest kitchen and bath show in North America. With nearly 55,000 members in all segments of the kitchen and bath design and remodeling industry, NKBA has educated and advised the industry since it was founded in 1963. The NKBA’s mission is to inspire and support the kitchen and bath industry through community, events, learning, and professional certifications. For more information, visit www.nkba.org or call 1-800-THE-NKBA (843-6522).

KBIS® and NKBA® are registered trademarks of the National Kitchen & Bath Association.

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Ca’ Pietra expands National Trust collection with Abbey and Lacock

March 5, 2026

Ca’ Pietra has added two new floor ranges, Abbey and Lacock, to its National Trust collection, extending the offer for retailers looking to balance heritage aesthetics with practical specification. The collection continues to draw on familiar British interior references, particularly materials and layouts historically used in kitchens, pantries and bathrooms, while providing formats suited to modern installation expectations.

Abbey (Pictured above and below left) is a small-format porcelain designed to replicate the softened appearance of aged stone floors without the servicing requirements associated with natural material. A subtly textured surface and replicated tumbled edges allow retailers to present a traditional look in projects where durability and ease of maintenance are key selling points, particularly in family kitchens and high-use circulation spaces.

From a merchandising perspective the range offers flexibility. The 25 x 25cm squares in Dove and Ivory can be sold individually or combined for a chequerboard floor, while the 3.8 x 38cm brick format produces a parquet layout that introduces pattern through installation rather than strong colour contrast. Because the tiles are porcelain and do not require sealing, the product provides a straightforward specification for customers wanting heritage styling without ongoing treatment.

Lacock (pictured below) sits alongside Abbey as the natural stone option within the same design language. The tumbled limestone is described as a softer interpretation of a heritage finish, with eased edges and visible fossil character that gives variation across the floor. The material is offered in a 60 x 60cm format and a random flagstone layout, allowing retailers to present either a more ordered or more relaxed installation depending on the project style.

As a genuine limestone, Lacock requires sealing, making it suitable for customers specifically seeking natural material and prepared for associated care. Positioned next to the porcelain Abbey range, it gives showrooms a clear upsell pathway from low maintenance heritage look through to authentic stone.

Product formats

Abbey porcelain square Dove 25 x 25 x 0.9cm
Abbey porcelain square Ivory 25 x 25 x 0.9cm
Abbey porcelain parquet blend 3.8 x 38 x 0.9cm

Lacock limestone tumbled 60 x 60 x 2.0cm
Lacock limestone tumbled 60 x random x 2.0cm

Visit www.capietra.com for more information.

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Tissino strengthens South West sales team with appointment of Adam Ireland

March 5, 2026

Tissino Bathrooms has appointed Adam Ireland as regional sales manager for the South West, strengthening its regional sales structure as the business continues to invest in long-term support for independent retailers, merchants and specification-led customers.

Ireland joins Tissino with more than eighteen years’ experience in the building materials and surface finishes sector, bringing detailed knowledge of the UK KBB landscape shaped by senior sales and business development roles across bathrooms, tiles and wall panel systems. His career includes ten years at Topps Tiles Plc in a business development role, followed by senior regional positions at Multipanel, Mermaid Panels and RECO Surfaces, where he was responsible for driving sales growth across the South West.

In his new role, Ireland will focus on supporting Tissino’s customers throughout the region, working closely with retail and trade partners to strengthen relationships, develop new opportunities and provide informed, consistent support. He will also work closely with Tissino’s internal teams to ensure a joined-up approach between sales, product and customer support.

Commenting on the appointment, Frazer Lewis, sales director at Tissino, said: “Adam brings a level of regional knowledge and market understanding that is invaluable in today’s trading environment. The South West is an important region for Tissino, with a strong network of independent retailers and project-led customers, and Adam’s experience allows us to support those partners more closely and more consistently. His appointment reflects our continued investment in people who understand the realities of the KBB trade and can help customers grow in a sustainable, informed way.”

Adam Ireland added: “Tissino has built a strong reputation for really looking after its customers, as well as technical integrity and thoughtful product development, which is what attracted me to the business. The South West has a diverse mix of independent retailers and specification-led customers, and my focus is on working collaboratively to support retail performance, deliver practical solutions and contribute to long-term growth across the region.”

Ireland’s appointment forms part of Tissino’s wider commitment to strengthening its regional sales presence as demand grows for well-designed, dependable bathroom solutions supported by knowledgeable, accessible sales teams.

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Acquabella showcases design and functionality with its new products

March 2, 2026

Acquabella showcased its vision of the contemporary bathroom at Kbb Birmingham through a carefully curated, experiential exhibition concept, designed to highlight design, materials and customisation as the core pillars of its products. The brand, which has exhibited at the event since 2014, presented its latest innovations from a 90.25 sqm stand.

At Acquabella, the shower space is conceived as an place where design, materials and user experience coexist in perfect balance. This is why the new shower trays are born from a thoughtful reflection on form, the movement of water and the way these elements integrate into the contemporary bathroom. Livo Slate and Acqua Zero are two distinct proposals, united by the same philosophy: transforming functionality into a design statement.

Livo Slate: circular balance

The Livo Slate shower tray stands out for its refined, architectural design. Its surface, finished in Slate texture, realistically recreates the appearance of natural slate stone, bringing character, authenticity and a pleasant tactile sensation.

The water flow and the waste cover create a dialogue between two circular forms that evoke elements of contemporary architecture, where geometry plays a leading role. The circular grille, available in stainless steel or black finish, introduces a subtle contrast with the Slate texture, reinforcing the design without disrupting its visual harmony.

Acqua Zero: design born from a drop

Acqua Zero represents the most poetic and minimalist expression of shower design. Its conceptual origin lies in a simple yet evocative image: the precise moment when a drop falls onto water and creates ripples that expand naturally.

The shower tray surface, finished in Zero microtexture, conveys a clean and elegant aesthetic. Around the circular grille integrated into the Akron® material, gentle concentric waves appear, adding movement and visual depth while maintaining a refined sobriety.

A unique and distinctive shower tray in essence, whose design has been recognised with the iF Design Award 2026.

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VitrA unveils V-Care 3 & hosts networking brunch

March 1, 2026

Exhibition partner VitrA hosted a networking brunch on the Take 5 area of Kbb Birmingham, and unveiled its latest V-Care 3 range to visitors. The new range of smart toilets is designed to bring intelligent hygiene, elevated comfort and seamless design to today’s bathrooms. Available exclusively through independent retailers, the collection combines advanced cleansing technology with intuitive controls and a refined aesthetic, offering a premium smart bathroom solution for modern living.

The range includes three models – V-Care 3 Base, V-Care 3 Core and V-Care 3 Prime – each offering a different level of comfort, control and personalisation. Across the collection, a new vortex flush system delivers powerful yet quiet performance while supporting water efficiency.

Designed to integrate effortlessly into contemporary bathroom schemes, the V-Care 3 range delivers the full benefits of smart functionality without the overtly technical appearance traditionally associated with smart toilets. With its sleek, understated design, the collection blends beautifully with modern sanitaryware, proving that advanced technology and elegant design can work hand in hand.

Available in both wall-hung and back-to-wall formats, V-Care 3 offers flexibility across a wide range of bathroom layouts. From compact refurbishments to high-end design projects, the collection provides retailers with a versatile, design-led smart toilet solution that meets the growing demand for enhanced hygiene and everyday comfort.

At the heart of V-Care 3 is a suite of intelligent features designed to transform the daily bathroom experience. Depending on the model, users can enjoy personalised wash and dry settings, microbubble washing technology, UV-C cleaning and an integrated air purifier. Additional smart features include automatic seat and lid opening, intuitive side-panel controls, a remote control and a next-generation mobile app, allowing users to tailor their experience with ease.

Bringing together advanced hygiene technology, intelligent engineering and contemporary design, V-Care 3 represents an exciting new chapter in VitrA’s smart bathroom innovation.

Ruth Davies, marketing director at VitrA UK, comments: “The V-Care 3 smart toilets reflect VitrA’s commitment to setting higher standards for cleanliness, precision and comfort. The advanced hygiene solutions and intelligent design and engineering enhance wellness and lasting quality.”

www.vitra.co.uk/v-care-3/

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BAGNODESIGN makes kbb Birmingham debut with new luxury collections

March 1, 2026

BAGNODESIGN made its first appearance at kbb Birmingham this March, with parent company SANIPEX GROUP using the platform to spotlight a curated selection of new and existing collections aimed at the premium sector.

Central to the display were the recently introduced Carlyle (pictured top) and Fonteyn ranges (pictured left), both conceived to offer fully coordinated bathroom schemes with a strong, unified design identity. Targeted at retailers and designers working on high-end projects, the collections demonstrated how considered detailing and consistent styling can streamline specification while elevating the overall aesthetic. Fonteyn referenced mid-century influences, while Carlyle channelled a more contemporary take on classic luxury, drawing inspiration from upscale hospitality environments.

Alongside these newer introductions, the stand incorporated a broader portfolio of ranges, including Studio 316 (pictured bellow) and Beach House, reinforcing the brand’s versatility across different design styles. Studio 316, in particular, highlighted a balance between refined design and practical performance, offering a solution that combines durability with a more accessible luxury positioning.

Brassware formed a key part of the presentation, with a dedicated display showcasing mixers from collections such as Bristol, Orology and M-Line. A wide spectrum of finishes was also on show, enabling visitors to explore different tonal options and material expressions, from softer metallics through to darker, more contemporary shades.

Across the four-day event, the brand’s presence focused on engaging with retailers and designers, offering a closer look at its product direction while emphasising flexibility, finish choice and cohesive design across the bathroom space.

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VitrA unveils new Glora and Sareta furniture ranges

March 1, 2026

VitrA is launching two new furniture collections – Glora and Sareta – featuring a soft and expressive palette with details, colours and contours that set the tone for modern bathroom design. Glora is defined by its sculpted shape and illuminated curves, which are paired with refined natural tones, while Sareta is crafted with versatility in a broader colour palette to suit a range of contemporary bathroom styles.

Designed to bring ease to daily routines and make efficient use of space, Glora and Sareta are minimalist wall-hung furniture ranges with seamless handleless cabinetry. These new designs introduce a softer aesthetic while creating a more spacious, uninterrupted flow within the bathroom.

Glora embodies sophistication with considered detailing and smooth matt textures and finishes, including Matt White, Matt Taupe and Matt Stone Grey. From a warm-lit countertop bowl to the generously sized drawers with organised internal storage, the design balances wellbeing with effortless everyday functionality.

Sareta sets the tone for a clean and harmonious bathroom and the accessibly priced range is available in both Round and Square styles. There are six colour finishes, including High Gloss White, Matt White, Matt Graphite, Matt Green, Matt Terracotta and Maple Oak. Combined with soft matt textures, the earthy terracotta, deep green and warm neutrals bring a sense of balance to the range.

Ruth Davies, marketing director at VitrA UK, comments: “Glora and Sareta are timeless furniture ranges that also tap into key design directions and colour trends. The rising demand for minimalist, wall-hung furniture with seamless fronts and gently rounded forms is met in these designs, demonstrating our dedication to providing accessible, design-led bathroom solutions.”

Prices for the Glora range start from £2,400 and from £525 for the Sareta range. Both ranges are part of VitrA’s Vitality Collection, the protected product ranges exclusively for VitrA’s Vitality Partner Retailers.

The-new-VitrA_Glora_bathroom-furniture-range

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Tissino introduces Deluna mirror with Eclipse glass technology

March 1, 2026

Tissino has unveiled Deluna, a new illuminated bathroom mirror that combines sculptural form with advanced lighting control, designed to meet the growing demand for mirrors that balance aesthetics with technical performance.

Available in both square and rectangular formats across five sizes, Deluna features an organic silhouette that softens modern bathroom schemes while maintaining a clean, architectural presence. At the centre of the design is Tissino’s Eclipse glass technology, which allows the front-lit LED band to disappear completely when switched off, leaving a seamless glass surface with no visible hardware or lighting detail.

Lighting functionality is multi-layered, giving users the ability to switch between front lighting, back lighting or a combination of both, depending on task or time of day. Colour temperature can be adjusted from cool white through to warm light, ranging from 6500K down to 2700K, alongside variable brightness control down to twenty percent output for softer ambient settings. Separate touch controls manage lighting and the integrated demister, supporting everyday usability.

Deluna is IP44 rated, operates on a standard 240V power supply and has been designed for quick, straightforward installation, making it suitable for both residential and contract settings. A three-year guarantee is supplied as standard.

Deluna mirror sizes as follows:

· 600 x 600mm square

· 800 x 800mm square

· 1000 x 650mm rectangular

· 1200 x 700mm rectangular

· 1400 x 740mm rectangular

For more information, visit www.tissino.co.uk

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