Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

The Innovation Awards Shortlist has been announced by kbb Birmingham, Europe’s biennial kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms event. With the show just around the corner, the awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate creative and ground-breaking solutions from brands in the sector. Visitors to the show can see the nnovations for themselves and even vote for their favourite in the ‘People’s Choice’ category. A panel of leading professionals and experts from the KBB sector will judge the final categories: the ‘Judges Choice Award’ and the ‘Sustainability Award’. Blum, a leading manufacturer of high-quality kitchen fittings, returns as a partner for the awards.

The brands that have made the shortlist include:

Woodio® UK – Woodio® Washbasin

Pictured top – Woodio® is the world’s first collection of 100% waterproof, solid wood composite washbasins for use in commercial interior schemes.

Space-Plug Limited – Space-Plug Evolution

Space-Plug Evolution is an adjustable spacer fixing that manufacturers can use to mimic the shortening of side panels. The solution saves material and makes smaller, lighter cabinets that installers can fit faster, easier and more accurately than ever before.

Rassam Innovations Ltd – Expand 2 Fit Furniture

Expand 2 Fit Furniture is a simple way of expanding storage structures such as wardrobes, kitchen units, sideboards, shelves, and cabinets to fit any space up to the millimetre.

Elica – LHOV

The LHOV establishes a new category in household appliances as a 3 in 1 solution that integrates hob, hood, and oven, making the best use of space in the home and a product that reshapes the cooking experience.

BORA Vertriebs GmbH & Co KG – BORA QVac – The built in vacuum sealer

The BORA QVac can be used to vacuum seal food for sous-vide cooking in the BORA X BO steam oven or a pan, marinating or simply to preserve food for longer.

Samsung – Less Microfiber™ Filter

The Less Microfiber™ Filter is an external washing machine filter designed to significantly reduce plastic microfiber emissions during laundry cycles.

Hidealoo – Hidealoo

Pictured below left, Hidealoo is a unique steel mechanism that works with any standard wall-hung ceramic pan and cistern and allows it to be rotated through 90 degrees, meaning it can be hidden within a cabinet or cavity space.

Ca’ Pietra – Reform Composite Stone

Reform is a durable blend of recycled stone materials available in three formats and up to twelve different colourways. It is made in a carbon-neutral factory and has up to 60% recycled content. The tile can be used indoor and out, on walls and floors.

Triton Showers – ENVi® Next Generation Electric Shower

Pictured below right, Triton’s ENVi® is a first-to-market electric shower concept, featuring a unique control panel that encourages more sustainable showering habits.

KBB Innovation Awards Shortlist Hidealoo

Novy – Designer Lighting Collection

The new lighting collection is designed by Matthijs Jansen and Jorg de Bont and each of the three models features touch-free Gesture Control. Energy-efficient and using integrated LED technology, the products are fully recyclable.

“The Innovation Awards are always a highlight of the show and this year we had more entries than ever before. The shortlist demonstrates a range of products and solutions that are creating a real impact – both in the industry and the home. We’re excited for visitors to vote for their favourite product and to congratulate the innovators that have pushed the boundaries of design,” commented Sam Fisher, Event Director, kbb Birmingham.

One of the judges for the awards and Architect and Interior Design Liaison at Blum, Amanda Hughes commented, “We believe strongly in supporting innovation within the industry through the kbb Innovation Awards. Blum develops ideas for the future, and by partnering with the awards, we can celebrate ideas that can make a difference across the KBB industry.”

Visit the NEC Birmingham from 3-6 March to see all shortlisted entries on display alongside over 320 exhibitors in the KBB sector. The show will culminate with an announcement of the Innovation Awards finalists live on the 6^th March. Register for your free kbb Birmingham visitor pass here.

For more information on the shortlisted entries, please visit the kbb Innovation Awards page here.

For all the latest news, check out kbb Birmingham’s new WhatsApp Channel where visitors can access the latest show news and on-site updates.

Mermaid Panels reveals 2024 bathroom design trends

Statement colours are set to join warm neutrals, cool tones and marble finishes in comprising the most popular bathroom trends requested of retailers and installers in 2024, according to bathroom wall panel specialist, Mermaid Panels.

While a new year is expected to bring a variety of new trends to bathroom designs, true bathroom staples like marble finishes are expected to remain in demand. Viewed as the perfect natural base, marble pairs with a plethora of colour palettes, particularly when used across bathroom walls and floors.

Due to its typical association with a hefty price tag, in addition to the challenges of maintaining the finish, homeowners often rule out marble as a viable option for their design. However, marble-finish bathroom panels can put retailers and installers in a position to offer this type of luxurious look for those customers working to a budget. As they are easy to cut, size and install, bathroom wall panels are an obvious choice for 2024 designs.

Owing to their ability to create a multi-dimensional design inspired by the natural world, warm neutrals are set for popularity in the coming year. Accompanied by earthy hues, which can provide a neutral base to be built upon, both create an inviting bathroom space that moves away from traditional white, minimalist designs.

“As we look forward, offering on-trend products that retailers and installers are confident will sell will be crucial to navigating what could be a challenging market in the new year,” commented Elliott Fairlie, product lead at Mermaid. “Bathroom wall panels are a popular, cost-effective alternative that will no doubt appeal to those looking to upgrade their bathroom on a budget in 2024.”

Cool tones are similarly anticipated to remain in style throughout 2024. Bathroom wall panel finishes like slate, grey stone and Swedish cedar are great options for retailers and installers looking to offer a cool, calm and collected design.

Households wanting to create a vibrant bathroom design are expected to opt for bold and bright colours and patterns, in addition to panels that mimic the effect of tiles, such as Abruzzo. With the colder months going nowhere, bright hues like Aqua and Mist are perfect to combat dark and dreary days.

Elliott continued: “Following Dulux’s announcement of Sweet Embrace as its colour of the year, retailers and installers should expect a heightened demand for blush pinks across the entire home, including the bathroom, in 2024.

“Bathroom wall panels allow retailers to cater for those customers looking to achieve a daring design without long-term commitment. With that being said, it’s important to opt for panels that will stand the test of time, such as those offered by Mermaid, that provide peace of mind with a 15-year guarantee.”

Discover how to best recreate 2024 trends with bathroom wall panelling here.

Abode introduce two new 2024 Brochures

Award-winning designer and distributor of kitchen and bathroom solutions has launched two new brochures in January 2024:

Leanne Adamson, marketing manager at Abode says, “We are thrilled to present our latest innovations across two new brochures, which are individually designed to serve both the client and design specialist. Simply visit our website, and customers can either select the brochure icon to view online, download as a PDF or alternatively, receive a hard copy in the post. Our one true aim as a dedicated sink and tap manufacturer is to support the home interiors market with a continued stream of informative and reader-friendly product resources for the kitchen so our products continue to play an integral role in the UK home.”

Homeowners

New 2024 Kitchen Sink & Tap Brochure: 320-page full colour brochure of premium kitchen sinks and taps by Abode, which are consistent with the latest home design trends and lifestyle preferences in 2024. From the latest micro and mega sink designs in premium grade stainless steel, SiOForm® granite and the finest fireclay ceramic, through to its iconic range of Pronteau instant hot water taps, Aquifier and Swich® filtered water solutions, and broad mix of contemporary and traditional kitchen taps, Abode is able to create new opportunities to streamline, simplify and synchronise the UK washzone and kitchen space.

Allowing homeowners to discover the full range of premium sinks and taps by Abode, the new Kitchen Sink & Tap Brochure is designed to enhance the customer experience and influence the creation of original kitchen interiors that are distinct and beautifully refined. This new catalogue includes:

KITCHEN SINKS: Stainless Steel, Granite, Ceramic – Undermount, Inset & Apron incl. wastes and overflows

Click the links to access the brochures:

Kitchen Sink & Tap Brochure – view/download here: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/953384454/
Specification Brochure – view/download here: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/755699015/

Unified Water Label partners with Installer Show 2024

The 2024 show takes place at the NEC on 25-27 June and show organisers, Lyrical Communications are expecting more than 20,000 visitors.

New for 2024, Installer Kitchens & Bathrooms will showcase the role technology and innovation play in shaping the kitchens and bathrooms of the future, to a dedicated audience of installers, specifiers, designers, developers, manufacturers and retailers.

UWLA MD Yvonne Orgill said, “I am delighted to be partnering with the successful Installer show once again. The event provides the ideal platform for us to promote our water efficiency message.

“Installers have a crucial role to play in influencing consumer choice by promoting products that carry the UWL. The outstanding growth we have seen in the use of the UWL, presents installers with a huge selection of innovative products that are designed to use water wisely, without compromising on quality. Installers do not have to compromise on design or performance when selecting environmentally friendly products to promote to their customers. These products can be sourced easily from our database of almost 17,000 products.

“Many of Europe’s most well-known and well respected brands offer bathroom products that carry the UWL, providing significant choice to the consumer.

“We will have a host of FREE information and marketing tools for installers at the show and look forward to engaging with them.”

www.uwla.eu

Custom Design kbb specialist ceases to trade – 300 showroom items for sale

Approximately 300 items from kitchen, bathroom and bedroom specialist Custom Design in Bishop Auckland are currently up for sale via two online auctions, with the bids closing from 12pm on Thursday, February 1.

Asset advisory firm Walker Singleton, who are hosting the online auction, has invited bids on the company’s stock and operational equipment following the appointment of joint administrators.

The first auction includes showroom contents such as new and display kitchens and appliances by NEFF, Bosch and Elica, from double ovens to fridge freezers and dishwashers. It also includes bathroom stock such as freestanding baths, heated towel rails alongside fitted bedroom displays.

Interested parties are able to bid for products online now until the auction closes from 12pm on Thursday, February 1

The second auction consists of the contents of the joinery workshop, including a SCM edgebander, Altendorf panel saws, and woodworking machinery and stocks. The auction closes at 12pm on Friday, February 2.

In total there are 301 items from Custom Design now currently up for sale by online auctions. All of the lots can be viewed here.

Walker Singleton will be holding an appointment-only view day at Custom Design’s showroom on Wednesday, January 31 from 10am until 2pm, the day before the auction closes.

Walker Singleton associate director, Luke Hartshorn, commented: “The wide range of equipment and stock available will appeal to a multitude of buyers, from kitchen, bathroom and bedroom fitters through to those looking for a new oven or other domestic appliance and furnishings.

“We would recommend anyone interested in taking part in the auction to view the lots and see for themselves the breadth and standard of items available.”

For further information on the online auction and to view the lots, search ‘Walker Singleton Custom Design online auction’.

ovre.design® Studio transforms suite at Hotel Baia del Mar

Studio ovre.design®, an artistic designer specialist in luxury hospitality, has recently renovated the Junior Suite design at the Hotel Baia del Mar. Strategically positioned by the Jesolo seafront, Hotel Baia del Mar is a 4 stars superior boutique-hotel with an elegant and chic ambiance, and authentic excellence in hospitality.

The core of the concept revolves around creating distinctive suites, by transforming them into experiential havens overlooking the sea. Between the fourth and fifth floors of the building, the Junior Suites stand aims to provide guests with an elegant stay.

The entrance immediately reveals a sophisticated combination of contemporary design elements. The design had to focus on the well-being of the individual by reorganizing the setup in terms of space.

The real showpiece of the suites is the private sauna, separated by a glass door to give the impression of space and lightness. A window overlooks the sea, offering a panoramic view and creating a connection with nature. The wellness area extends to the terrace with an outdoor bathtub.

The finishing touches and the materials used are of the highest quality. A contemporary boiserie (wood panel) with a semi-transparent glass wall and frosted glass separates the sauna and the bathroom area from the other areas of the suite, creating a visual division that strikes a balance between intimacy and spaciousness.

The living area is modern and characterized by a boiserie extending on the vertical side and converging with the roof, giving a sophisticated style to the suite. The chromatic harmony of the materials, textures and presence of a perfectly integrated bar. The interior is defined by soft and bright colours in contrast to the vibrant furniture’s vibrant red. Except for the armchairs, the furniture is custom designed by ovre.design® Studio

BiKBBI confirms line-up for annual conference

The British Institute of KBB Installation (BiKBBI) has announced the itinerary for its highly anticipated annual conference, scheduled to take place at the QEII Conference Centre in Westminster on Tuesday 6 February 2024. The event, which is sponsored by Quooker and Senstec, is set to bring together professionals, industry leaders and experts from the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector for a day of insightful discussions, networking opportunities and knowledge-sharing.

Themed “Driving industry change through collaboration”, the 2024 conference will explore the power of collaborative working in shaping the future of the KBB installation industry, recognising BiKBBI’s ambition to foster collaboration within the sector in order to drive positive change, innovation, and growth.

Hannah Prevett (pictured), Deputy Editor of The Times Enterprise Network, will return for a second year as conference host, bringing a wealth of business insight, knowledge and experience to the role of facilitator for the event, which promises a programme of engaging discussions and thought-provoking presentations.

Keynote speakers on the day include Fergus Harradence, deputy director of Infrastructure, Construction & Rail at the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) who will provide an update on the UK Government’s 2024 predictions on the home improvement sector, and Emily Wallace, CEO of the Trade Association Forum (TAF), will delve deeper into how collaborative industries unlock greater opportunity to thrive.

The itinerary also includes panel discussions, presentations and workshops from a range of presenters and businesses including BiKBBI patron Stephen Metcalfe MP, AMA Research, eBay, Triton Showers, the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, the Ministry of Defence and BiKBBI Diversity Ambassador, Rt. Hon Stuart Lawrence. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insight into industry trends, technological advancements, and best practices, as well as participate in interactive sessions aimed at enhancing collaboration within the KBB installation community. Wing Commander Calvin Bailey MBE, Commanding Officer of 70 Squadron RAF will also share his knowledge on leadership and teamwork, as well as anecdotes of his life experiences as a Royal Air Force Detachment Commander.

‘We are excited to bring together professionals from across the KBB industry at the BiKBBI Annual Conference 2024’ commented BiKBBI director of marketing & communications, Michelle Daniels. ‘This event provides a unique platform for collaboration, enabling attendees to exchange ideas, share experiences, and collectively contribute to the advancement of our industry. We are confident that the content of the conference will inspire meaningful partnerships and drive positive change within the sector.’

Registration for the BiKBBI Annual Conference 2024 is by invitation only, however limited delegate availability is available, with those interested advised to contact leon.rowland@bikbbi.org.uk for more information.

ProofVision introduces enhanced bathroom televisions

ProofVision has upgraded its premium bathroom television range with WebOS-powered Smart TV functionality. The new feature is in addition to built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, full HD TV tuner and Freeview HD. This improvement offers user-friendly access to countless apps, including Netflix, Apple TV+, Disney+ and Amazon Prime, as well as constant updates for a seamless and easy-to-control viewing experience.

The premium ProofVision bathroom televisions boast a 1080p HD display and built-in vibration speakers for a crystal-clear picture and high-quality sound. Combining a sleek and modern design with a range of advanced features to enhance viewing, the waterproof and dustproof TVs are designed for use in high-moisture environments and can withstand humidity, meaning users don’t need to worry about steam or splashing water.

Available in a range of screen sizes, from 19 to 43 inches, to suit compact spaces and spa-style bathrooms, and three finishes (black, white and mirrored), the enhanced ProofVision televisions are now available for designers to specify within their bathroom renovation projects. The innovative models, which also benefit from a heated screen to minimise misting and condensation, can be seamlessly embedded into the bathroom wall for a sleek appearance. What’s more, the mirrored version will blend and integrate completely into any bathroom, as when it is not being used it reverts to a bathroom mirror, making the technology near invisible.

The new ProofVision models come complete with two remote controls, an ultra-slim, splash-proofremote control and a brand new non-waterproof magic remote control that allows for an easy set-up and offers voice control too. For peace of mind, the splash-proofremote control can withstand damage if accidentally submerged in water, enabling users to adjust the volume, change channels and much more from the comfort of their bath or shower.

Will Uttley, managing director, ProofVision, says: “At ProofVision, we have enhanced our collection of bathroom televisions to provide consumers with a superior streaming, listening or watching experience from the comfort of their bath or shower. With an average of 9,000 UK Google searches per month for ‘bathroom TV’¹, retailers should consider discussing entertainment options with their customers when designing their bathroom renovation plans. Our models are seamlessly embedded within the wall, offering a sleek solution to complement the modernisation of our homes.”

Key features and benefits of the upgraded ProofVision 24” Smart Bathroom TV (PVB24MW):

The ultimate addition to any bathroom, shower, spa or indoor swimming pool, as well as for use in other wet environments
WebOS-powered Smart TV functionality with built-in Wi-Fi offers a user-friendly interface, extensive app support and regular updates for a seamless and easy-to-control viewing experience
HD 1080p display and built-in vibration speakers for crystal-clear picture and high-quality sound
Freeview HD delivers sharper picture quality and more channel choices for free
Waterproof and dustproof, with an IP65 rating²
Designed to be seamlessly embedded into the bathroom wall for a sleek appearance
Intuitive interface makes it easy for users to access their favourite apps and channels
Equipped with various inputs including HDMI, USB and Wi-Fi
Easy to operate and simple to install
Heated screen to minimise misting and condensation
Comes complete with two remote controls. An ultra-slim, splash-proof remote control², enabling users to adjust the volume, change channels and much more from the comfort of their bath or shower. The brand new non-waterproof magic remote control allows for an easy set-up and offers voice control
24” screen with LG LED panels. Screen sizes of 19”, 27”, 32” and 43” are also available
The PVB24MW model has a mirror finish. A 24” model with a black finish (PVB24BW) and a 24” model with a white finish (PVB24WW) are also available
Comes with a two-year standard warranty for added peace of mind
Front fascia dimensions: H 396 mm x W 594 mm x D 5 mm
Recess dimensions: H 379 mm x W 577 mm x D 51 mm

For more information on the upgraded bathroom TVs from ProofVision, please contact sales@proofvision.co.uk or visit the website: https://www.proofvision.co.uk/

Ridged Radiance: The new EVO ridged basins by JTP

The new JTP EVO ridged basins are available across four popular and contemporary colourways, from Brushed Brass and Brushed Black to Matt Black and Brushed Bronze.

A bathroom basin should be functional, but it should also be aesthetically pleasing and eye-catching. Featuring a bold ridged linear design, JTP wanted to create a product that was unique and would serve as a focal point to the bathroom.

A basin should contribute to the overall aesthetics of a space and the new EVO collection of basins perfectly defines that. Whether partnered with neutral hues for a natural warmth, or with darker colour palettes for a dramatic statement, the basins create a striking statement within bathrooms of all styles and sizes.

With many homeowners desiring a spa-like experience in their bathrooms, opting for a basin with the ‘wow’ factor can contribute to this style. The EVO basin collection complements a contemporary space particularly well, but with homeowners of traditional spaces increasingly embracing bolder designs, the collection can also work for other styles of home.

“At JTP there is no compromise on manufacturing. The process starts from the design stage, where only top raw materials and parts are used in their products. We manufacture products with the consumer in mind – so whatever the style of design, ultimate quality comes as standard.” comments Jeevan Seth, CEO, JTP

Roper Rhodes marks sustainability milestone

January 23, 2024

Roper Rhodes, a leading bathroom furniture manufacturer, has been awarded an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for its Meridian Isocore Bath Panel. This achievement underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

EPDs, or Environmental Product Declarations, are comprehensive and standardized documents that quantify a product’s environmental impact. Developed through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, these reports evaluate various impact categories, including CO2 emissions, across the product’s lifecycle. This assessment spans from the extraction of raw materials, transportation, and manufacturing processes to its application, end-of-life usage, and potential for recycling.

This development aligns with the growing relevance of EPDs as critical tools in setting industry benchmarks for sustainability and regulatory compliance and aids informed decision-making for customers and partners. Through this achievement, Roper Rhodes demonstrates its role in promoting sustainable practices and maintaining transparency in product manufacturing.

The UK Government has committed to reducing UK Carbon emissions to net zero by 2050 though a legally binding amendment to the Climate Change Act. Meeting this goal requires housebuilders, specifiers and architects to rapidly address the embodied carbon associated with projects and emphasises the need for credible and verifiable EPD for all construction products.

“We are thrilled to receive the EPD for our Isocore Bath Panels. This is not just a milestone for Roper Rhodes but a testament to our long-term commitment to environmental sustainability. Our customers can now choose our products with even greater confidence, knowing that at Roper Rhodes we are working actively towards reducing our environmental and climate impact.” comments Nadia Provenza, sustainability manager at Roper Rhodes

About Isocore Bath Panels

The Meridian Isocore Bath Panel represents a revolutionary advancement in bathroom design, offering a high-performance alternative to traditional MDF and chipboard panels. Manufactured from the innovative Isocore material, this bath panel excels in environments with frequent water exposure, making it an ideal choice for bathroom installations.

Key Features:

100% Waterproof: Fully waterproof Isocore material ensures no degradation even with continuous moisture exposure
Anti-Mould: Isocore offers superior protection against mould and fungi growth.
Easy and Quick Installation: Installation is straightforward, requiring no full sealing or re-sealing after cutting, significantly reducing installation time.
Lightweight Design: Isocore is 30% lighter than MDF, with a density of 535 kg/m³ compared to MDF’s 700 kg/m³, simplifying transport and handling.
Non-Toxic and Safe: Compliant with REACH standards, containing no SVHC substances, and safe to cut using standard woodworking tools.
Fire Resistant: Achieves a Class C fire rating according to EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009, offering enhanced fire resistance compared to standard MDF panels.

About Roper Rhodes

Roper Rhodes Ltd is one of the UK’s primary suppliers of bathroom furniture and bathroom products. Over forty years of experience goes into creating each and every one of our products. Functional, stylish and seamlessly put together, our range incorporates contemporary and classic designs. Our development programme ensures we are continually updating our product range to reflect changes in style.