Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Ca’ Pietra confirms exclusive B&Q partnership with a capsule Portare collection

September 16, 2025

Ca’ Pietra has announced a new retail partnership with B&Q to launch a capsule Portare collection for B&Q – a curated edit of the brand’s design-led tiles developed exclusively for B&Q and tailored to the retailer’s customers. This B&Q-only capsule range includes 21 products, which will be exclusive to B&Q and will not be sold elsewhere. It is positioned as an entry route into the Ca’ Pietra world, distinct from the brand’s main collections offered through independent retailers.

The partnership is designed to broaden access without blurring channels. Portare for B&Q sits on its own pricing architecture and product edit for the DIY audience. At the same time, Ca’ Pietra’s independent showroom partners continue to offer the breadth and depth of the brand’s core ranges, specialist advice, and project-led service. This separation protects the value of the independent channel and ensures each route to market serves a clear customer need.

Steve McGuire, group managing director at Ca’ Pietra, says: “The Portare capsule collection for B&Q is about opening our design language to more homes, in a way that suits how B&Q customers like to shop. We have taken the attention to detail that defines Ca’ Pietra and distilled it into a collection that is simple to navigate in-store, easy to love, and works in real life, while remaining separate from the ranges our independent retailers curate in their showrooms.

“This edit has been created exclusively for B&Q, at a distinct entry-level price point, and will only ever be available through their stores and online. It is not a replication of our main portfolio but a tailored range that introduces the Ca’ Pietra aesthetic to a broader DIY audience. Our independent partners remain at the heart of our brand, continuing to offer the full depth of our collections, specialist advice, and the bespoke design experience that sets them apart.

“In practice, this means we are broadening awareness of Ca’ Pietra while protecting the integrity of our core ranges and the value of the independent showroom channel. By giving B&Q customers an accessible entry into our world, we are creating new demand and recognition that, over time, we believe will flow back into the independent network as homeowners look to take on larger, more ambitious projects.”

The B&Q range combines everyday foundation tiles with statement looks, spanning marble- and limestone-inspired designs, R10-rated indoor–outdoor porcelain for seamless transitions, decorative ceramics influenced by Moroccan courtyards and period motifs, geometric patterns and parquet-style terracotta effects. Clear in-store displays and point-of-sale guides will enable customers to compare, coordinate, and take away inspiration on the same day, with availability in selected B&Q stores nationwide and online.

Rollout of the new collection begins in September, with full national availability by mid-November 2025. Ca’ Pietra will continue to support its independent network with its existing collection, along with new and exciting launches planned for Q4.

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Ideal Standard introduces i.life E shower toilet

September 16, 2025

Making its debut at ISH 2025, Ideal Standard’s i.life E is a new, smartly designed shower toilet with a wide range of functions, designed to combine comfort and hygiene.

Ideal for both residential and hospitality settings, Life E offers intuitive comfort elements, including an integrated dryer with adjustable temperature, a night light for added convenience, and a durable, soft-close seat and lid. Additional features include front and rear wash with four spray modes, adjustable nozzle position, and customisable water pressure and temperature – each available in three settings.

Hygiene is a key focus, with practical features such as pre- and post-rinsing of the nozzle, a replaceable nozzle tip for added cleanliness, and a built-in descaling programme to prevent limescale build-up and enhance durability. The rimless wall-hung bowl further ensures effortless maintenance and optimal hygiene.

For added convenience, the sensor-integrated seat activates functions only when needed – a feature especially beneficial for families and hospitality environments. Furthermore, the intuitive remote control, with its large, easy-to-use buttons and light signals, ensures seamless operation for all users, including those new to shower toilets.

Accessible innovation for contemporary bathrooms

Featuring soft, rounded shapes, i.life E integrates into a variety of interior styles. The company claims to deliver reliable quality and an intuitive user experience, making it accessible to a broad audience.

“i.life E perfectly exemplifies how the combined expertise of Villeroy & Boch and Ideal Standard drives meaningful product innovation. As Ideal Standard’s first shower toilet, it brings together practical functionality and contemporary design while perfectly complementing the Villeroy & Boch ViClean portfolio. By drawing on Ideal Standard’s manufacturing expertise and Villeroy & Boch’s deep knowledge in this category, we have created a shower toilet that delivers reliable quality and a well-considered set of features – offering an enhanced experience at an accessible price point,” commented Sven Ullrich, executive vice president marketing, product management and R&D at Villeroy & Boch.

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Duravit & sieger design celebrate 40 years of enduring design

September 16, 2025

Duravit and sieger design are celebrating a partnership founded in 1985, when they worked on the award-winning joint bathroom range “Giamo”, which was setting new standards under the claim “Design conquers the bathroom”.

The sophisticated all-in-one solution was said to be ahead of its time in the industry. More than 25 bathroom projects have been completed since then – all of them designed to make the bathroom more functional as well as a setting that enhances the quality of life. Among the milestones is the Happy D. range (1999) – a modern archetype whose original design has been carefully refined over the years, and which remains a success to this day.

Christian and Michael Sieger succeeded their father as managers of the design company in 2003, seamlessly continuing the partnership with Duravit. “A bathroom product must still work after 15 years – on both a technical and design level,” Christian Sieger stresses. “Design should never be a fad, it must be enduring.”

The latest fruit of this collaboration was presented at ISH 2025: the new edition of the successful D-Code line. Originally launched in 2007, this range has undergone a comprehensive revamp – with a clear focus on
functionality, timeless design and accordingly greater consideration to storage space and the integration of furniture.

“People spend more time in the bathroom today. It needs more structure, more means of keeping everything well organized – without compromising on design in any way,” says Michael Sieger.

For Duravit CEO Stephan Tahy, the long-standing partnership is more than a successful business strategy: “We share a common stance with sieger design. Good design must be long-lasting, functional and accessible – particularly in the bathroom, where products remain in use for many years. Together, we create solutions that are in tune with the zeitgeist while also challenging the status quo.”

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Waterline confirms late-stage investment talks & reaffirms Crown Imperial supply

September 11, 2025

Waterline has confirmed it is in late-stage, exclusive discussions with a third party regarding a potential financial investment into the business.

The distributor stressed that, while discussions continue, it remains fully committed to delivering the same dependable service it has provided to customers for more than 40 years.

Waterline also confirmed it will continue to accept and fulfil orders for Crown Imperial products, underlining that both businesses remain operational and dedicated to ensuring consistency and product availability following recent miscommunications.

In a joint statement, Waterline and Crown Imperial thanked customers and retail partners for their understanding and ongoing support, adding that this confidence strengthens their shared commitment to supporting British businesses and the wider KBB industry.

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Schlüter-Systems helps create a bathroom dream for registered installer

September 10, 2025

Schlüter-Systems has announced the completion of an en-suite project by Schlüter Registered Installer Chris Halifax, founder of CTH Creations, who chose the company’s solutions for his own home renovation in Holmfirth, West Yorkshire.

Halifax has built a strong reputation for his attention to detail in every project he undertakes, and regularly shares updates on social media – gaining thousands of followers who admire his craftsmanship. He describes his work as creating “unique, one-off designs that transform dreams into reality with the highest standards.”

With a large portfolio of complete high-quality bathroom projects, Halifax recently turned his focus to his own property, adding an extension to the side and rear of the cottage to double its size and include a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Having used Schlüter-Systems products for over three years, he says he didn’t think twice when it came to specifying them for his own home: “I always go for the best quality products, and Schlüter’s reliability and ease of installation stands out to me.”

In his new en-suite, Chris incorporated a range of Schlüter products, including Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT surface heating throughout the entire floor and shower area, eliminating any cold spots. He also installed heated towel rails and robe hooks on two wall sections, adding the extra comfort of warm towels and robes. For ease and efficiency, Chris opted for the Peel & Stick version of DITRA-HEAT, which he says is “super easy to install and saves time.” This self-adhesive membrane simplifies installation by eliminating the need for additional adhesive, offering a cleaner, faster setup – ideal for renovation projects or tight timelines.

To ensure the en-suite was fully protected, Halifax also used the Schlüter-KERDI waterproofing system, which creates a reliable waterproof barrier beneath the tiles – essential for long-lasting performance and peace of mind in moisture-prone areas.

While electric underfloor heating can be costly to run, he recommends setting a schedule for when the space is actually being used: “You’re not in the bathroom all day, so I run mine from 5:30 am to 9 am in the morning and again from 6 pm to 11 pm in the evening. I keep the temperature at 19°C, and it costs me around £20 a week. With the Schlüter thermostats, I can monitor energy use and cost, so there are no surprises on the bills.”

Halifax also incorporated Schlüter’s modern LED lighting technology with the LIPROTEC system, using prefabricated niches fitted with extra LED strips to illuminate both shelves. He also created a striking effect by running LIPROTEC lighting around the base of the walls.

When asked why he consistently chooses Schlüter products, Chris says, “Quality is key, of course, but the people behind the brand matter just as much. The Schlüter team has always given me excellent support – they’re knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to help whenever I have questions.”

After several years of planning and work, Chris calls the en-suite “our dream come true. Every detail has been carefully designed and executed.”

Looking ahead, he’s excited to tackle the main bathroom next, promising even more innovative ideas that will challenge and expand his skills.

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

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Tissino accelerates retailer-first service with upgrades to online portal

September 10, 2025

Bathroom manufacturer, Tissino, has expanded its online trade portal with a suite of new tools designed to remove friction from day-to-day retailing. The update is part of the brand’s ongoing investment in customer service.

The enhanced portal now brings marketing assets, ordering support and account admin together in one place. A new Retailer Resources section gives customers immediate access to product imagery for websites and print, the ability to order point-of-sale materials and samples, and a ready-to-use content bank of pre-made social posts to speed up local marketing. Practical account features have also been extended, with trade partners now able to view statements, download invoices and browse an outlet area for discontinued product offers.

Helen Ray-Dennett, head of marketing at Tissino, says: “Our investment into our online portal is first and foremost about supporting our customers and partners. When imagery, POS, samples and content are easy to find and simple to order, stores can concentrate on serving customers and closing sales. The same applies to statements and invoices. Putting these essentials behind one login is a straightforward way to support growth across our network.”

The release builds on a year of focused investment in the service side of the business, with digital self-serve tools prioritised alongside the team’s established phone and email support. By consolidating marketing resources and account admin inside the portal, Tissino aims to reduce back-and-forth requests, shorten lead times on collateral, and help retailers keep product presentation consistent across channels.

The updates are live and available to all Tissino trade customers. Retailers can log in to access the new features immediately; new partners can request access through their usual Tissino contact.

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Multipanel takes a walk on the wild side at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

September 9, 2025

Waterproof wall panel brand Multipanel, from Grant Westfield, has been chosen by Yorkshire Wildlife Park as the preferred surface solution for its new Tailored Animal House.

First opened in 2009, Yorkshire Wildlife Park has grown into a leading conservation and welfare centre, home to some of the world’s most endangered animals. When planning a purpose-built animal house for its cheetahs, the park required materials that were not only waterproof and hygienic, but also exceptionally strong, durable and scratch-resistant – capable of withstanding the demands of the big cats’ claws.

David Milburn, head of construction at Yorkshire Wildlife Park, said: “Since this was the first animal house of its kind built using second-hand containers with high thermal values, it was crucial to get everything right to prevent overheating in the summer and maintain a temperature of 22°C in the winter. The park needed a high-quality, durable wall panel that could be securely fixed to 12.5mm plywood. After evaluating various options, Multipanel was the ideal solution. Its tongue-and-groove connection provided the strength and resilience required to house a cheetah and Multipanel’s flush-fit prevented the cheetahs from causing harm.”

All the panels within Multipanel’s collection are engineered to join seamlessly together to form an almost invisible, waterproof seal thanks to its unique Hydrolock® tongue and groove system, which ensures quick installation and a smooth, flawless finish.

As well as being incredibly durable, the panels also benefit from being easy to clean and maintain, which was vital for Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

David continued: “Although our previous supplier was practical, we sought a new product that maintained the same durability while offering a less clinical appearance. We saved roughly around 25-30% on standard boards, and 12-16% on colours by opting for Multipanel. Additionally, Multipanel reduced installation time by half!”

The Arctic Stone panels, supplied and installed by G3, are from Multipanel’s Contemporary Collection. They feature a highly textured décor that replicates the look of slabs of grey stone and provides the perfect nature-inspired backdrop for the Cheetah House.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park has been so impressed by the quality, durability, reduced installation times and savings that it made by specifying Multipanel for its Cheetah House that it has committed to using the brand for future refurbishments and new enclosures.

Harry Simmonds, specification manager at Grant Westfield, said: “We’re thrilled that Multipanel was able to provide the perfect solution for the Cheetah House at Yorkshire Wildlife Park and we look forward to working with them in the future.”

For more information, please visit: www.grantwestfield.co.uk or call 0131 337 6262.

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Naturepanel introduces characterful Shiplap range to decorative wall panel collection

September 9, 2025

Wall panel brand Naturepanel has launched its latest collection, Shiplap – a versatile range designed to bring character and depth to interiors. Inspired by classic timber cladding, the wide-slat panels create a timeless look that can evoke either rustic country charm or a fresh New England coastal style.

The new range is available in seven decors:

Three solid colours – Grained Alpine White, Grained Angora Grey and Grained Stone Green
Four woodgrains – Beige Grey Lorenzo Oak, Bleached Cuneo Oak, Brown Cuneo Oak and Warmia Walnut

Each 2400mm-high panel measures 598mm wide and features Naturepanel’s Hydrolock tongue-and-groove edge, ensuring a seamless join and a completely waterproof finish.

Each 2400mm-high, 598mm-wide panel features Naturepanel’s Hydrolock tongue-and-groove edge, creating a seamless join and a fully waterproof finish. A subtle etched shadow line enhances the authentic timber look – colour-matched on solid options for a uniform effect, and finished in graphite grey on woodgrain panels to highlight the natural detail.

Like all panels within the award-winning Naturepanel range, Shiplap panels are made in Britain, FSC-certified (FSC® C128180) and 100% recyclable. Suitable for use throughout all areas of the home, including bathrooms, kitchens and shower cubicles, panels benefit from being easy to clean and 100% waterproof, are quick and easy to install and come with the added assurance of a 30-year warranty.

Find your nearest Naturepanel showroom and order samples with free delivery at www.naturepanel.co.uk or call 0131 290 286.

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Bathrooms to Love unveils new RefleXion Slate Shower Tray range

September 9, 2025

Bathrooms to Love by PJH has enhanced its shower tray category with the addition of the new RefleXion Slate Shower Tray range. Featuring a sleek, hidden integrated waste for a minimalist look, the new trays boast a textured slate-effect surface that mimics natural stone for a luxurious look and feel.

Made from 100% natural stone resin, the gel-coated slate-like finish makes for a safe, slip-resistant surface that is both durable and resistant to scratches and stains.

Available in three natural slate-effect colours, Grey, Black and White (as well as a new Latte shade to be added in October), the low-profile range stands at just 30mm in height, making it perfect for wetroom and walk-in shower enclosure projects. The flush-fitted integrated linear waste is both practical and stylish, ensuring a seamless finish for a designer-inspired look.

With a tested flow rate of over 26 litres per minute, drainage is highly efficient, reducing the potential for blockages and standing water, and ensuring ease of use, convenience, and minimal maintenance.

Available in five rectangular sizes in each of the three slate-effect colours, tray dimensions range from the smallest at 1000mm x 800mm, to the largest at 1700mm x 800mm.

Bathroom-Review-BTL-PJH-New-RefleXion-Slate-Tray-Black

Tanna Molyneux, product manager, Bathrooms to Love by PJH commented: “Our new RefleXion Slate Tray range is perfect for stylish, multi-generational homes, as it combines ease of accessibility, hygiene and safety with spa-like aesthetics through its seamless design and tactile natural stone-effect finish.

“Stylish, minimalist looks are as important for shower trays as they are for all bathroom product categories. Our new range offers a truly sleek design for contemporary showering spaces.”

With a 10-Year Guarantee, the new Slate Shower Tray range from Bathrooms to Love is available for next-day delivery to your store or home address by ordering via the PJH Partners Portal. For further information on the new range, display deals or Bathrooms to Love showroom sales support, speak to your Regional PJH Sales Manager now.

For further information contact: Bathrooms to Love by PJH: T: 0800 8 77 88 99 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten appoint senior marketing consultant

September 9, 2025

Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten have strengthened their leadership team with the appointment of Hayley Simmons as senior marketing consultant – a move designed to accelerate the businesses’ brand and marketing strategies in line with ambitious growth targets over the next three to five years.

Simmons brings more than 15 years’ experience in the KBB and home improvement sector, with a proven track record of uniting brand, marketing, product and commercial disciplines into results-driven strategies. As founder of KBB Marketing, she has worked extensively with national and independent retailers, distributors and manufacturers, supporting them with brand positioning, campaign delivery and product development aligned to wider commercial objectives.

In her new part-time role with Frontline and Smiths Briten, Simmons will first review the businesses’ current marketing activity before developing a long-term framework to underpin sustained growth. This will include strengthening brand identity and messaging, and ensuring marketing activity is fully integrated with product development and commercial decision-making.

Commenting on the appointment, Darren Allison, managing director of Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten, said: “Hayley’s arrival marks an important step in our growth journey. Her breadth of experience and proven ability to connect brand strategy with commercial and product insight will give us the tools we need to not only grow, but to do so in a way that is meaningful and sustainable. This is about building solid foundations that allow us to expand our reach, strengthen our relationships with retailers and merchants, and ultimately deliver more for our customers.”

Simmons adds: “What drew me to working with Frontline and Smiths Briten is the scale of their ambition and the opportunity to make a real impact by bringing together all the elements that drive growth. Marketing cannot sit in isolation; it has to work hand in hand with brand, product and commercial planning. I’m excited to be working with the teams to create a strategy that not only supports the businesses today, but also positions them strongly for the years ahead.”

Frontline Bathrooms, based in Featherstone, and Smiths Briten, based in Bolton, continue to invest in operations, logistics and customer service as they set the foundations for long-term expansion. The appointment of Hayley Simmons is the latest step in ensuring the brands are equipped with the expertise and structure needed to deliver on those ambitions.

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