Acquabella Akron® – the material revolutionising bathroom design

June 10, 2024

Acquabella’s Akron is a versatile and durable material, ideal for architects and interior designers aiming to create stand-out bathroom spaces. This innovative material combines aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, ensuring every bathroom renovation project stands out.

Akron® is a composite of high-quality mineral fillers and polyurethane. These materials undergo a process that combines and compacts to create a solid, reinforced mass, offering great impact resistance. It guarantees hydrolysis resistance properties, preventing damage when it comes into contact with water. Its surface is treated with a coating to ensure a total physical-chemical integration with the base. This coating provides excellent chemical and physical properties and does not emit air-polluting organic compounds, earning it the A+ certificate.

One of the standout benefits of Akron® is its durability. The combination of resin and high-quality mineral fillers makes it highly resistant to cracks and scratches. In the event of any damage, Akron® is easily repairable, significantly extending its lifespan.

Furthermore, Akron® ensures extra safety as it is 100% silica-free and boasts the highest level of anti-slip properties (Class 3). Its textured surface offers a robust grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls, making it particularly suitable for families with young children or elderly members.

Hygiene is another key aspect of Akron®. Its antibacterial properties prevent the growth of microorganisms and mould, thereby avoiding unpleasant odours and potential health issues. Additionally, as a non-porous and seamless material, Akron® does not accumulate dirt, making it incredibly easy to clean and maintain.

Akron® also offers design versatility as it is available in various shapes, sizes, and colours. Customisation possibilities are endless, with eight different textures ranging from the Slate texture to the modern Quiz texture, as well as a palette of over 2,000 colours, from neutral tones to vibrant hues. Akron® can be found in all of the company’s product lines, including shower trays, countertops, sinks, bathtubs, wall panels, and other accessories.

The quality of Akron® products has been recognised by numerous international juries, awarding accolades to products such as the Smart Quiz and Tempo Arabba shower trays, as well as the Opal Quiz and Noon Slate bathtubs.

To learn more about the advantages of Akron®, watch the new video and explore the full range of features this remarkable material offers.

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Kinedo expands the team in the north

June 10, 2024

Kinedo has appointed Scott Taylor as area sales manager for Kinedo in Scotland and North East. He will also be representing Saniflo in Scotland.

Scott, who formerly worked in sales and key accounts for a range of bathroom brands, including Jacuzzi, Heritage, Laufen and Ideal Standard, joined the team in April. Thanks to his extensive contacts in the industry, he is already working hard to increase awareness and displays of the innovative range of Kinedo products, including the range of cuttable trays, the new Kinewall wall panel range, the all-on-one shower cubicles and the range of walk-ins and enclosures. He also provides front-line service to merchants and specifiers for Saniflo products across Scotland.

Outside work, Scott’s time is taken up with an energetic 10-month-old Border Collie, and he is also gearing up to partake in a London to Paris bike ride for charity.

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Clerkenwell Design Week 2024

June 10, 2024

Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review.
Diane Larner launched both titles over 12 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.

Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) is a London-based free design festival that returned for its 13th edition in the EC1 neighbourhood. Organisers marked a record-breaking 20% increase in pre-registrations compared to 2023. The international design festival featured over 600 curated events, supported by more than 160 local showrooms and 300 exhibitors across 12+ venues.

At the event, architects, specifiers, interior designers, and the general public were invited to explore a diverse range of innovative furniture and lighting products, as well as the latest in kitchen and bathroom designs. Additionally, unique materials, decorative accessories, and more were showcased, providing something for everyone with an interest in contemporary design

Diane Larner attended the event and collated six inspirational bathroom highlights from the show.

SIX T O P P I C K S from CDW 2024

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Iris Ceramica showcases Bottega D’arte project

Bottega d’Arte combines traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, offering a refined solution for contemporary interiors.

Bathroom-Review-RAK-Ignot-Oval-Gold-Lifestyle

RAK-Ingot luxury washbasins: redefining bathroom elegance

RAK Ceramics launched the RAK-Ingot washbasins, offering a touch of elegance to bathrooms.

GRAFF Designs introduces two new collections

GRAFF Designs showcased its latest innovations at CDW 2024, unveiling two exquisite collections: the Wellness Shower Collection and the innovative Sensor Taps.

Duravit showcases Aurena Vanity Units

Architect and designer Antonio Citterio’s Aurena bathroom range for Duravit was showcased at CDW this year.

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Living La Dolce Vita – Ideal Standard’s new range celebrates all things Italian

The new range has been designed by chief design officer Roberto Palomba and has been inspired by its famous namesake expression – the sweet life.

VitrA introduces the world’s first 100% recycled ceramic washbasin

Made using broken and discarded ceramics, along with other waste materials, VitrA’s ceramic washbasin was on display at CDW 2024.

Bathroom-Review-CDW-Jedd-Barry. — Jedd Barry

Jedd Barry, head of marketing & design

This year’s Clerkenwell Design Week was a highly memorable and successful edition. Thousands of architects and designers braved the rain on the opening two days to explore more exhibition venues, more showrooms, more installations and brand activations dotted around the historic area than ever before. Despite the rain, visitor numbers increased by 3% and feedback from both visitors and brands involved has been overwhelmingly positive, which drives our ambition to continue growing CDW in 2025 and beyond.

We’d like to thank all stakeholders involved in making CDW what it is and helping to cement its position as the UK’s leading design festival. The A&D community come together to deliver three days of inspiring design-led content and for that I am thrilled.

Bathroom-Review-Clerkenwell-Design-Week-2024

Ben Bryden, sales and marketing director, RAK Ceramics UK

Clerkenwell Design Week never disappoints. This year’s event was as bustling as ever and it’s become a highlight of the RAK Ceramics calendar. From champagne and cocktails to creative workshops and a vibrant Arabian Nights themed closing party, the Design Hub was buzzing with activity throughout the week.

It’s a great opportunity for us to showcase our latest products, of course, but also importantly a time to network and for the design community to come together and feel inspired.

About CDW

Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) is an annual event held in London’s Clerkenwell district, renowned as a creative hub for design professionals. The festival typically spans several days and encompasses various exhibitions, installations, talks, and workshops across multiple venues.

CDW attracts architects, interior designers, product designers, manufacturers, and design enthusiasts worldwide, offering a platform to showcase their latest work, exchange ideas, and explore emerging trends in design. With a focus on craftsmanship, innovation and sustainability, CDW celebrates the ingenuity of the design industry whilst fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.

Bathroom Review and Kitchens Review are proud media partners for this event.

CDW will be back 20-22 May 2025

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Iris Ceramica showcases Bottega D’arte project

June 10, 2024

Iris Ceramica’s Bottega d’Arte line elevates the look of ceramic cladding thanks to a focus on craftsmanship and high-end design. This collection highlights the brand’s dedication to its heritage by using red clay, a material integral to the Iris Ceramica Group’s identity.

By combining traditional production techniques with modern aesthetics, Bottega d’Arte delivers a refined solution for contemporary interiors. The process involves blending technological expertise with artisanal experience to create innovative ceramic cladding solutions. Its red clay processing techniques impart a handmade quality to the material, resulting in a visually stunning material that brings an artistic elegance.

Available in a single 15×15 cm size, Bottega d’Arte offers five unique finishes: TerreLustrate, TerreLucide (also available in a 7.5×15 cm brick format), TerreCotte, TerreCotte Oro, and TerreLucide Oro. These finishes highlight the natural beauty of red clay and provide a versatile range for designers.

The colour palette of Bottega d’Arte is divided into three families:

Natural: Highlights the opacity of colours with a satin feel, enhancing subtle shades.
Shiny and Reflective: This creates a soft, shiny effect, accentuating intense chromatic variations.
Polished: Features pearly iridescent reflections that illuminate and brighten the material.

Five finishes are available in a single 15x15cm size to demonstrate the charm and beauty of red clay: TerreLustrate, TerreLucide (also available in the 7.5×15 cm brick format), TerreCotte, TerreCotte Oro and TerreLucide Oro.

The very name Bottega d’Arte (literally ‘art workshop’) reveals its significance – referring, on the one hand, to the Art and Crafts movement of William Morris, who fought to give the so-called “minor arts” the same dignity as the so-called “fine arts”, and on the other to an intimate relationship with production, as in a Renaissance workshop; not simply an experimentation laboratory, but rather a space in which truly timeless works come to life.

Bottega d’Arte captures the attention of designers as a style and elegance trendsetter, on a par with haute couture fashion houses.

Iris Ceramica

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RAK-Ingot luxury washbasins: redefining bathroom elegance

June 7, 2024

Sanitaryware and surfaces brand RAK Ceramics launched the RAK-Ingot washbasins, offering a touch of elegance to bathrooms. These washbasins feature sleek shapes and luxurious finishes, making them a versatile addition to any modern bathroom design.

The RAK-Ingot washbasins are available in four distinct shapes: oval, rectangle, round, and square. The square basin measures 400x400x10mm, the circle measures 360x360x110mm, the oval measures 550x350x115mm, and the rectangle measures 500x350x100mm. These varied dimensions ensure they fit seamlessly into a wide range of bathroom layouts.

The hallmark of the RAK-Ingot washbasins is their exquisite finishes, available in three stunning options: Matt Black, Brushed Nickel, and Brushed Brass. Each finish exudes luxury and refinement, adding a touch of opulence to any bathroom space. These finishes are meticulously crafted to complement the current trend for metallics and unique textures in contemporary bathroom design, allowing homeowners and designers to create truly bespoke spaces.

The RAK-Ingot washbasins are engineered for seamless integration with RAK Ceramics accessories, mirrors, and taps. This holistic approach to bathroom design ensures a harmonious aesthetic, elevating the overall bathing experience.

The RAK-Ingot range extends to stainless steel Recessed Niches in Black, Brushed Brass, and Brushed Nickel finishes. Available in various sizes including 30×30, 30×60, 30×60 with 1 dividing shelf, 30×120, and 30×120 with 2 dividing shelves, these niches provide practical storage solutions while effortlessly complementing the RAK-Ingot washbasins.

Contact:
RAK Ceramics UK
01730 237850
www.rakceramics.com/uk/

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GRAFF Designs introduces two new collections

June 6, 2024

Luxury manufacturer GRAFF Designs showcased its latest innovations at CDW 2024, unveiling two exquisite collections: the Wellness Shower Collection and the innovative Sensor Taps.

During the exhibition, visitors could immerse themselves in GRAFF’s product portfolio, which included the debut of its new Wellness Sanctuary Shower Collection. This luxurious range, drawing inspiration from the majestic downpours of the rainforest, introduced a novel offering to the UK market, blending innovative spray technologies with a touch of aesthetic elegance. Equipped with advanced push-button controls, enhanced water modes, and adjustable functional showerheads, this contemporary collection marked the dawn of a new era in showering experiences.

In addition, GRAFF unveiled its Sensor Tap collection, specifically tailored for the discerning UK market. Featuring state-of-the-art sensor technology, these bathroom mixers were meticulously crafted to cater to the rigorous demands of public restrooms, offering hygienic and intuitive hands-free operation. Characterised by sleek modern silhouettes, these designs seamlessly integrated elevated functional sensor technology with captivating aesthetics. The collection boasted GRAFF’s full spectrum of handcrafted finishes, ensuring a perfect match for any interior style.

GRAFF’s captivating designs are supported by the use of the highest-quality materials, a rich heritage of European craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Expertly pairing water-saving technology with versatile, minimalist design, the new sensor taps lead GRAFF’s mission for a greener future.

Commenting on the show, GRAFF’s CEO Ziggy Kulig states, “We are excited to be exhibiting again at Clerkenwell Design Week. We are honoured to meet industry professionals from all over the world and share the beauty of GRAFF with them. We relish the opportunity to present ourselves as the market leaders in luxury brassware.”

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Established in 1982, GRAFF embarked on a mission to redefine the bathroom experience through avant-garde products that epitomised innovation, quality, and unmatched functionality. These core values have remained steadfast pillars of GRAFF’s philosophy, known as ‘The Art of Bath’. Over the years, GRAFF has maintained its commitment to excellence, producing brassware solutions for residential developments, hospitality establishments, and dining venues worldwide. Each GRAFF shower, mixer, and accessory is meticulously crafted to elevate the luxurious bathing ritual. With a dedication to unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail, GRAFF continues to set the standard for sophistication and indulgence in bathroom fixtures

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Duravit showcases Aurena Vanity Units

June 6, 2024

Architect and designer Antonio Citterio’s Aurena bathroom range for Duravit was showcased at CDW 2024. The range seamlessly integrates balanced proportions with function, offering efficient washing-area solutions to include basins, bathtubs, toilets, bidets, and mirrors.

“The idea was to structure surfaces and create a sense of order that positively influences the quality of the overall room,” Citterio explains.

The Golden Ratio is regarded as a formula for aesthetic harmony in architecture. For Duravit’s new Aurena series, Antonio Citterio has created a perfectly proportioned washing area, where he uniformly divides the wet and dry areas.

The surface made entirely of ceramic offers the option of an integrated or above-the-counter basin; the dry area has integrated dividers, which are precise and elegant, making it a perfect way to store bathroom accessories. The counter is supported by an aluminium profile frame with a stainless steel finish, and there are options to have either open storage with aluminium shelving or closed with a double drawer. The vanity can be wall-mounted or placed on a metal frame with graceful legs.

Citteroio’s designs for matching bathtubs, toilets, bidet, and a mirror create a stylish and balanced concept. The integrated bathtub is made from the new cast-mineral material DuroCast Smooth, whilst the back-to-wall models and free-standing bathtub are made from DuroCast Plus. The chamfered edge at the rim of each bathtub provides an elegant finish, and the wall-standing variant features a storage box that forms a connecting element between the organically shaped bathtub and the wall. It has been designed in keeping with the washbasin vanity tops.

The soft geometry is echoed in the oval mirror of the Aurena series, which has a hidden illumination strip laid behind its frame in White.

www.duravit.co.uk

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Kbsa announces finalists of Designer Awards 2024

June 6, 2024

The trade association for independent KBB retailers, the Kbsa, has announced the finalists of its 2024 Kbsa Designer Awards.

Awards will be presented across seven categories, with winners announced at a ceremony at Belfry Hotel and Resort, West Midlands, on October 9, following the KBB Industry Conference.

They will be selected by an independent judging panel, which includes senior designer at Bulthaup Ainhoa Bilbao, customer engagement Andrea Hillier, director of The Myers Touch Keith Myers and managing director of Jones Britain Dan Stronge.

Kitchen Designer of the Year up to £25k

Elizabeth Pantling-Jones- Lima Kitchens
Michelle Pickstock- Callerton Kitchens & Interiors
Francis Russell- Callerton Kitchens & Interiors
Nathan Damarell- KF Kitchens
Andreya Ciampa- Lima kitchens
Adam Bomok- cu_cucine

Kitchen Designer of the Year £25k-£50k

Liam Butler- Butler Interiors- three entries shortlisted
Alistair Glover- Alexander
Marzena Moks Rodriguez- Urban Myth
Hollie Clark- Bauen Design

Kitchen Designer of the Year over £50k

Jaye Tidbury- The Myers Touch
Charlotte Jewkes- KC Design House
Victoria Otty- Diane Berry Kitchens
Carissa Snelling-Doe- Nicholas Anthony
Licia Di Pasquale- Bauen Design
Joanna Geddes-Campbell- Kitchens by JS Geddes

Bathroom Designer of the Year

Ami Wheatland- Sovereign Bathrooms Winchester
George Green- Nicholas Anthony
Nicola Whyte- KI Bathroom Interiors
Hazel Di Pasquale- Bauen Design
Martin Flanders- Alexander
Bilal Patel- Dezign Studio

Young Designer of the Year

Andreya Ciampa- Lima Kitchens- three entries shortlisted
Alistair Glover- Alexander
Sophie Owen– Qudaus Living

Kitchen Concept Designer of the year

Lauren Goodbrand- Kitchens International
Annie Mitchell – Diane Berry Kitchens
David Allen – Diane Berry Kitchens
Liam Butler– Butler Interiors
Sophie Askew- Butler Interiors
Ashley Chapman – Kitchens International

Bedroom Designer of the Year

Mike Hughes – Mike Hughes Kitchens & Bedrooms- two entries shortlisted
Alice Hartland- Vesta Space Ltd
Alistair Glover- Alexander

Kbsa national chair Richard Hibbert said, “What an amazing year we have had this year. The standard of entries was higher than ever, making our judges’ task extremely difficult. We wish all of our finalists good luck.

“Winners will be announced at the Kbsa Designer Awards dinner which follows the KBB Industry conference on Wednesday 09 October, at the Belfry Hotel and Resort, West Midlands.”

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Duravit selected for Zaha Hadid’s Iconic One Thousand Museum, Miami

June 4, 2024

Elevating the Miami skyline, the One Thousand Museum, a visionary creation by Zaha Hadid, stands as the pinnacle of opulence among a collection of five high-rise marvels. Strategically situated at 1000 Biscayne Boulevard, adjacent to Museum Park, this architectural gem embodies a fusion of avant-garde design and natural elements, a hallmark of Hadid’s illustrious career

Bathroom-Review-Zaha-Hadid-One-Thousand-Museum

At the heart of this 216-meter-tall icon lies its defining feature: a mesmerising white concrete exoskeleton that gracefully embraces the structure, juxtaposing against the crystalline facade in a stunning display of architectural harmony. Chris Lepine, project manager at Zaha Hadid Architects, describes it as a design marvel, seamlessly blending structural integrity with architectural fluidity, resulting in a captivating visual spectacle.

Comprising 62 stories, One Thousand Museum offers 83 impeccably appointed luxury residences, each meticulously crafted to the highest standards. Beyond its architectural splendour, residents are treated to panoramic vistas of Miami’s dynamic skyline, Biscayne Bay, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.

Entirely in keeping with Hadid’s innovative vision, the luxury bathrooms of the One Thousand Museum are fitted out with high-quality sanitary ceramics from Duravit. Ranges, including DuraStyle, Starck 3, and Starck 2, bring the modern ambience to the fore. In the marble-lined main bathrooms, for example, the sleek, pared-down forms of the Starck 3 integrated washbasins emphasize the refined aesthetic, while the high-end guest bathrooms are graced by Starck 2 wall-mounted toilets

As the epitome of luxury living, One Thousand Museum stands as a testament to unparalleled elegance and sophistication, accentuated by the inclusion of Duravit luxury fittings, ensuring a seamless blend of style and functionality in every detail.

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Discover sustainable building solutions at ISH 2025

June 4, 2024

Sustainable development within the built environment entails safeguarding water, minimising emissions, harnessing renewable energy sources, and optimizing their utilization. At ISH 2025, experts from the sanitation, heating, and air-conditioning sector will unveil solutions for sustainable and modern building services technology aligning with these principles.

The world’s trade fair for HVAC + Water serves as the global hub for the sanitation, heating, and air-conditioning trade and industry, welcoming specialists such as planners, engineers, retailers, architects, interior architects, and designers. ISH, held in Frankfurt, offers a platform to explore the latest innovations, gain insights, and expand professional networks.

“Our first interim assessment after the early bird price expired shows that over 2,000 companies have already indicated that they want to participate in the forthcoming ISH. They include numerous leading national and international brands from the sanitation, heating and air-conditioning sectors,” says a delighted Stefan Seitz, head of ISH brand management.

Under the theme ‘Solutions for a Sustainable Future,’ ISH 2025 spotlights the pivotal factors driving the sanitation, heating, and air-conditioning sector. Focus areas include environmentally friendly and efficient heat generation, water conservation, and ensuring hygienic air quality. The trade fair organization has tailored eight thematic solution fields to cater to visitors’ diverse needs and interests precisely.

The evolution of the sanitary and HVAC sector is mirrored by ISH’s innovative approach. A revamped concept featuring eight solution fields will guide visitors through the fair in 2025, ensuring ease of navigation. Source: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH / Jochen Günther

A sneak peek at ISH 2025 reveals a layout designed to cater to participants’ interests with eight new solution fields. The hall layout will align with these fields to facilitate seamless navigation during the event. Here’s a preview of the new concept and key players:

Solutions for Bathrooms: Halls 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, 4.1, 5.0, 5.1, and the Forum will showcase bathroom solutions for diverse settings, from residential to commercial. Leading brands like Duravit and Grohe will present their products, ensuring a comprehensive display of sanitary installations.

Solutions for Installation: Hall 6.1 will feature modern tools and fastening materials essential for efficient installation processes in the sanitation, heating, and air-conditioning sector. Top brands include Adolf Würth and Novopress.

Solutions for Water-bearing Systems: Exhibitors in Halls 4.0 and 6.0 will present intelligent water management systems and heating solutions, emphasizing environmental sustainability. Leading brands such as Grünbeck and Viega will showcase their innovations.

Solutions for Heat Generation: Hall 9.1 and 11.0 will spotlight efficient heat generation technologies, including biomass and heat pump systems, offered by brands like BHT Windhager and Vaillant.

Solutions for Intelligent Building Management: Hall 11.1 will feature systems for energy management and building automation presented by leading brands such as Belimo and Siemens.

Indoor Air Solutions: Hall 8 will showcase ventilation and air-conditioning systems for various environments, ensuring high indoor air quality. Notable exhibitors include Helios and Systemair.

Software Solutions: For the first time, Hall 8 will host software solution exhibitors, offering planning software for building services and construction.

Solutions for Sanitary and HVAC Production: Component suppliers will be directly assigned to relevant solution fields, streamlining access to high-quality components for sanitation, heating, and air conditioning systems.

Focus on Young Talent: A dedicated space for innovative startups will provide opportunities for networking and market entry, fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

For a comprehensive overview of all solution fields, associated applications, events, and registration details, visit the ISH website at ish.messefrankfurt.

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