Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

KLUDI brand launched at Clerkenwell Design Week

May 27, 2025

Leading bathroom and tile manufacturer RAK Ceramics successfully launched the aspirational KLUDI brand into the UK market during Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, which took place from 20th to 22nd May.

Originally founded in Germany’s Sauerland region in 1926, KLUDI has earned a reputation for producing innovative, high-quality kitchen and bathroom fittings. Over nearly a century, the brand has become synonymous with design excellence and functional performance. With over 170 inventions, 100 patents, and 1,000 registered designs, KLUDI has received multiple international design accolades. In 2022, it was named one of Germany’s ‘Top Innovators’.

During Clerkenwell Design Week, KLUDI’s extensive product portfolio was showcased for the first time in the UK at the inspirational RAK Ceramics Design Hub, located at 100 St John Street, London. One of the largest showrooms in the area, the two-storey, 7,276 sq. ft space is a destination for architects, designers, and specifiers exploring the future of kitchen and bathroom design.

Across the three-day event, visitors experienced the depth and quality of the KLUDI range, which spans brassware, freestanding bathtubs, shower trays, sanitaryware, furniture, and accessories—offering a complete bathroom solution that combines form, function, and innovation.

In addition to the showcase, RAK Ceramics hosted a series of networking opportunities and interactive experiences, culminating in a celebratory closing party to mark the successful conclusion of the event and the official launch of KLUDI in the UK.

“Clerkenwell Design Week is always a highlight in our calendar, and we’re delighted to be taking part in it once again in 2025,” said Ben Bryden, Sales and Marketing Director at RAK Ceramics UK.

“Not only are we marking the third anniversary of our London Design Hub in 2025, but we’re also celebrating the UK launch of our premium KLUDI brand. Renowned for its beautiful, innovative, water-saving designs and durable materials, KLUDI has a rich history and heritage and we look forward to introducing the brand during Clerkenwell Design Week 2025.”

The RAK Ceramics Design Hub remains open for visitors year-round and continues to serve as a hub for design inspiration in the heart of Clerkenwell.

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

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BiKBBI announces name change to BIFIS

May 21, 2025

As it approaches its 20th Anniversary, the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) today announced that it will be changing its name—an evolutionary move that aligns with a number of exciting strategic initiatives planned for the Government-sanctioned organisation.

BiKBBI will be renamed The British Institute of Fitted Interiors Specialists (BIFIS), effective 1 October 2025. The new logo (pictured) will be rolled out over the coming months. A brand toolkit will be launched to allow stakeholders to prepare for the change.

CEO Damian Walters said: “The change of name is driven by several strategic factors, including the important work we continue to develop within the Fitted Interiors Apprenticeship and our leading role within the Fitted Interiors Construction & RMI Super Sector review.”

The name change will follow the implementation of some subtle but significant changes to the institute’s proposition for key stakeholders, following a period of extensive research.

Walters continued, “I offer my thanks to all of those stakeholders who supported our research and review project. Whilst the name will change, the organisation will remain our industry’s institute, and, therefore, the feedback received has been instrumental to the development of our proposition, ensuring that we continue to positively impact the industry.”

The institute’s name change to BIFIS will enable it to build upon almost two decades of impressive industry reputation and support ongoing ambitions, including increasing consumer awareness.

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Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten hire new business development manager

May 21, 2025

Sister companies, Frontline Bathrooms and Smiths Briten have appointed Gareth Sterry as business development manager. Gareth, who previously worked at Huws Gray for 12 years as kitchen and bathroom category manager, has joined at a pivotal time as the companies look to super charge their growth trajectory.

In his new role, Gareth will oversee the companies’ relationship with both retailers and merchants, working closely with the established area sales managers. He will also work closely with the senior leadership team, marketing and new product development to ensure the needs of customers are being met.

Darren Allison, Senior managing director at Frontline and Smiths, says: “Gareth has done a fantastic job at his previous employer, and when he applied for this role, I knew he had the skills and expertise to make a real impact.

“We have a huge amount of work to do to double our turnover by 2029, but hires such as Gareth are crucial to us hitting this target.”

Gareth adds: “Having worked at Huws Gray for over 12 years, I’ve got a strong working knowledge of both Frontline and Smiths already. Once it was announced that Darren was returning to the industry, as well as his plans for the business moving forward, it felt like an opportunity I couldn’t miss.

“There are so many exciting things happening at the business and I’m excited to get stuck in and help drive the plans forward with the rest of the team.”

Smiths Briten and Frontline Bathrooms operate as sister brands, each with its own distinct offer yet closely connected through shared leadership and aligned values. With the same Managing Director overseeing both businesses, there is a strong synergy in their approach to product innovation, customer service, and market support. This connection allows them to collaborate seamlessly behind the scenes, ensuring consistency, expertise, and a comprehensive offering across the bathroom and plumbing sectors, while maintaining the individuality that makes each brand unique.

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New Art Deco Glamour for Bathrooms to Love

May 21, 2025

Taking inspiration from the modernist Art Deco design movement, Bathrooms to Love, by PJH, has expanded its Washbowl collection with the launch of the ‘Deco’ feature basin.

Guaranteed to make a bold design statement in any bathroom space, the Deco Washbowl combines an oval-shaped form with a clean geometrical Art Deco-inspired pattern to the front. Its smooth, flawless finish in white makes it the perfect partner to many of the basin units in the Bathrooms to Love furniture collection.

Made from a highly durable material that is both hardwearing yet adaptable enough to be crafted into such a refined shape, Deco is manufactured from a high-quality mix of stone and resin—crushed dolomite rock, to be exact. Rock, in combination with the resin, gives irreplaceable hardness and flexibility, but above all, it ensures impact resistance and longevity.

Furthermore, Deco is a highly sustainable product. It is manufactured using environmentally friendly processes and 100% green energy from renewable resources. All materials used are natural and recyclable. Packaging is also eco-friendly and completely recyclable.

The perfect centrepiece for any bathroom project, the Deco Washbowl can be a focal point. Its striking, symmetrical design can dictate the theme of the bathroom space, coordinating with other geometric lines and angles.

Commented Julie Lockwood, bathroom product manager, PJH: “Art Deco inspiration is making a strong comeback this year in bathroom design. The contemporary use of bold geometric patterns and luxurious materials is a style that results in a glamourous and opulent look – especially when it starts with a statement basin such as our new Deco washbowl.”

Measuring in at W460 x H150 x D332mm, with a Lifetime Guarantee, the Deco Washbowl can be easily complemented with one of the many basin mixer taps from Bathrooms to Love, in a choice of brushed brass, brushed bronze, matt black or chrome, along with a matching slotted waste.

The new Deco Washbowl is ideal for showroom displays and is now available for ordering via the PJH Partners Portal. With a next-day delivery service to store or home, it is also available for display. Speak to your Regional PJH Sales Manager about display deals and the new range of showroom sales support currently available.

Further information:

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

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Abode welcomes Malcolm Ash from Norcros SA

May 21, 2025

Bathroom and kitchen brand Abode is welcoming Malcolm Ash as a Merchandiser on a secondment from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Malcolm joined Abode on 31^st March 2025, and is based at the company’s solar-powered headquarters in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. His work placement entails a 12-month secondment and as Merchandiser, Malcolm will ensure the Abode brand is represented as expected in all partners stores across the UK. He actively visits key customers nationwide, enhancing and preserving product displays following volume footfall, as well as liaising with and supporting their staff as needed. Malcolm is a key member of the sales team within the groups South African business so brings with him a wealth of experience. Malcolm has settled in as a member of the Abode family and has enjoyed taking in the beautiful sights Yorkshire has to offer.

Matthew Pitt, managing director at Abode says, “Forming connections is central to Norcros and the careers of our people can benefit greatly from the international dimension of our operations. Transferring skills between the different businesses like this introduces new perspectives that can really strengthen our business, making it more than the sum of its parts.”

To help Malcolm quickly feel like one of the family, the Marketing Team caught up with him to find out more about his previous experience, professional goals, and career aspirations following his time at Abode:

What is your experience up to now? I bring with me over 15 years of experience in my role from South Africa. Every day presents a new learning curve and fresh challenges, which continues to push me to grow and adapt. Throughout my journey, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for teamwork and support, knowing I can always rely on my colleagues when needed. I approach each day with an open mind, always eager to learn, develop, and exceed customer expectations.

What does your workday look like? Besides travelling and admiring the beauty of the country, my workday is all about careful planning and building strong connections. Before the week starts, I carefully plan my routes to optimize efficiency and make the most of my time on the road. I visit stores to offer my assistance from a merchandising point of view, ensuring everything looks its best and meets our standards. Most importantly, I focus on forging strong relationships with store teams, putting a friendly, approachable face to the Abode brand.

What do you hope to gain from Abode? I hope to gain opportunities for continued growth and development, both personally and professionally. I’m excited to expand my skills, learn new approaches, and contribute to a team that values innovation and customer satisfaction. So far, my key takeaways are that every day brings new opportunities to learn and grow, especially when working alongside talented and supportive colleagues. I’ve realized the importance of staying adaptable and open-minded to meet challenges head-on and consistently exceed customer expectations.

What is your favourite aspect of British design/manufacture? My favourite aspect of British design and manufacture is the vintage finishes of Abode products. They give me the impression that we are trendsetters combining timeless style with quality craftsmanship. It’s a unique blend that stands out in the market and really resonates with customers who appreciate both elegance and durability.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? My biggest career hope is to continue growing into a leadership role where I can mentor others and help shape the future of the industry in South Africa. I aspire to be someone who not only delivers results but also inspires and supports my colleagues to reach their full potential. I envision myself continuing to learn and adapt, staying at the forefront of industry trends while making a meaningful impact on both the business and the customers we serve.

Established in 2002, Abode is an award-winning designer and distributor of market leading kitchen taps, sinks, boiling water taps, and bathroom solutions. With core values centred on passion, design innovation and assurance, Abode is dedicated to bringing UK homeowners best-in-class designs with unique features, special finishes and the latest technology.

Norcros, is the UK’s number one bathroom brand, with operations largely in the UK, supported by their South Africa operations. Based in the UK, Norcros is headquartered in Wilmslow, Cheshire and operates under six brands, which includes Abode, Triton Showers, Vado, Croydex, Merlyn Showering, and Grant Westfield.

For further information on Abode products, please contact: t 01226 283 434 | e info@abodedesigns.co.uk | w www.abodedesigns.co.uk

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Utopia partners with KBSA as corporate member

May 21, 2025

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the UK bathroom industry, Utopia has announced it has become a corporate member of the KBSA. Having been at the forefront of the bathroom furniture sector for almost forty years, Utopia shares many of the same aims of the KBSA, such as promoting professionalism, innovative design, and premium-quality craftsmanship, all supported by exceptional service. Utopia is particularly proud to design and manufacture its award-winning bathroom furniture collections in the UK.

Gary Matthews, Utopia’s sales director, comments, “We are delighted to be joining the KBSA as a corporate member. As well as supporting the overall development of the bathroom sector in general and the independent K&B showroom in particular, one of our key objectives is to contribute to the conversation in the bathroom category offering our insight as a leading manufacturer. At the same time, we are looking forward to driving our own growth plans by strengthening our existing relationships within the membership as well as forging new ones.”

Richard Hibbert, KBSA Chair, said “It is important for the Association to continue to recruit the industry’s major manufacturers, distributors and service providers as they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Association that is essential for a prosperous independent sector. The continued prosperity of this sector is of course of vital importance to all members alike.”

Utopia Furniture Ltd, 01902 406402

www.utopiagroup.com

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Hyperion Tiles launches decorative waterproof wall panels

May 19, 2025

Hyperion Tiles, a leading UK tile and flooring specialist, has launched a cutting-edge collection of waterproof wall panels, designed to offer a stylish and practical solution for high-moisture spaces such as bathrooms, kitchens, wet rooms and indoor leisure areas.

This new range of grout-free panels combines modern aesthetics with long-term durability. Made from eco-conscious acrylic and Dibond® materials, the panels are 100% waterproof and mould-resistant and available in eight size options, starting from 800 x 2440 x 3mm. Prices begin at £677.75 per panel.

Available in 14 curated collections—ranging from Animal & Nature, Marble and Stone to Pop Art & Graffiti, Wood and Metal—these decorative waterproof wall panels offer over 450 striking design options. Customers can also personalise panels with custom photography, quotes or branding to create a bespoke finish for residential or commercial projects.

Richard Skeoch, director at Hyperion Tiles, explains: “These waterproof panels have been designed to stand the test of time, but what makes them really special is that these grout-free wall panels offer you a seamless aesthetic. At Hyperion Tiles, we are committed to innovation and practicality in interior design, and these panels don’t just look good; they are built to last and work with any room style.”

Key features of the new wall and floor panel collections include:

Waterproof and mould resistant – ideal for wet areas including kitchens, bathrooms and indoor pools
Grout-free installation – offering a clean, seamless aesthetic with reduced maintenance
Customisable designs – choose from a wide range of colours, sizes and patterns, or add quotes and personalised images
Built for durability – easy to clean and resistant to scratches and chips, with optional acoustic insulation
Versatile design – suitable for a variety of interiors, from bold and artistic to natural and minimalist

Hyperion Tiles also offers more than 15,000 tile designs in a variety of colours, patterns, textures, finishes, shapes and sizes. The company’s wider portfolio includes designer paint, luxury wall coverings, statement bathroom accessories and premium flooring, from engineered wood to luxury vinyl tiles (LVT).

Bathroom-Review-Hyperion-Tiles-Decorative-Walll-Panels

To view the full range of decorative floor and wall panels, visit: www.hyperiontiles.co.uk

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Drummonds unveils new iteration of classic shower controls

May 19, 2025

Drummonds has unveiled a new iteration of its traditional shower controls, updating the Dalby and Colll collections. Established as a restorer of antique bathroom pieces, Drummonds has been manufacturing in its own foundry for nearly three decades, preserving the authenticity of original Victorian forms while introducing subtle innovations.

The new Dalby Concealed Shower controls include a thermostatic valve, on/off control, and a two-way shower diverter. They can be purchased separately or as a complete shower plate set. The Coll shower fittings adapt classic Edwardian lever handles into elegant concealed controls, with a thermostatic valve, on/off control, and two-way diverter.

Creative director James Lentaigne comments: “The Dalby surface-mounted shower is a continuation of the earliest nineteenth-century designs, which featured external pipework and robust valve controls adapted from nautical and manufacturing machinery. Characterful and charming, they are a piece of British interiors history and bring an eye-catching structure to any bathroom scheme, available in all nine of our unique brass finishes. “With our classic collections, we tread a considered line between remaining authentic to the original forms and evolving with new options for today’s designers. We wanted to retain that character while adapting it for modern bathrooms with a more subtle aesthetic. ”

Previous adaptations include monobloc taps in the Coll and Mull collections, and the Rother back-to-wall toilet pan, translate to Victorian forms into contemporary formats. This evolution is made possible by the peerless skill of Drummonds’ artisans, who preserve traditional casting techniques for cast iron, china, and brass. The brass foundry, in particular, is a world leader in the art of lost-wax casting, producing intricate forms with exceptional precision. Famed for its cast-iron baths, Drummonds has also become renowned for its shower offering, and most notably, the inimitable freestanding shower collection. The updated Coll and Dalby collections will be available to order from May 2025 in all nine of Drummond’s signature brassware finishes.

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Sustainability with impact from Duravit

May 19, 2025

With its durable products, documented environmental performance and efficient manufacturing processes, Duravit offers dependable solutions for sustainable architecture.

Currently durability, resource-efficiency, and transparent product information are essential requirements in architecture. Key to the realisation of sustainable construction projects are dependable materials, transparent environmental standards, and responsible partners. When it comes to planning sustainable buildings, Duravit’s product range impresses both in terms of design, but also its sustainable qualities – which are documented, certified, and manufactured with the future in mind.

Certified transparency for sustainable planning

Environmental product declarations (EPDs) mean that Duravit can provide substantive information about the environmental impact of its products. The EPDs document the entire lifecycle – from sourcing raw materials through production and use right up to disposal – and enables sound decision-making at the planning stage. They comply with the standards ISO 14025 and EN 15804, are audited by independent institutions while also serving as a solid foundation for integration into common building certifications such as LEED, or BREEAM.

Through this process, Duravit is able to create maximum transparency for product selection and planning certainty for the realisation of sustainable concepts.

Sustainability starts with the material

The basis of any long-lasting product is the material. Duravit’s sanitary ceramic is based on natural raw materials such as kaolin, clay, quartz, and feldspar – formed, glazed, and fired at over 1,200°C. This produces robust, hygienic surfaces that are easy to clean and have a long useful life – ideal for projects in private buildings as well as properties with heavy footfall. A further benefit for planners is the lifetime guarantee on many ceramic parts and the long-term spare-part availability meaning that sustainable use is ensured for years to come. Sanitary acrylic and the DuroCast® mineral material round off the portfolio with durable, recyclable options.

Resource-efficient production

Duravit sets standards in production – with energy-efficient manufacturing processes, systematic recycling of materials, and ongoing optimisation of the carbon footprint. The complete bathroom manufacturer produces many ceramic products each day at its Hornberg site. Adhering to strict quality standards keeps the reject quota particularly low.

The company is currently building a new plant in Canada which is due to come on stream at the end of 2025 and promises almost entirely climate-neutral manufacturing. At the Schenkenzell site, Duravit’s bathroom furniture production is PEFCcertified (PEFC/04-31-2357) and uses wood from sustainably managed forests. Wood waste from production is used to generate heat.

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New-look Abode website now live

May 19, 2025

Abode, a bathroom and kitchen solutions brand, has revealed a new-look website with fresh, new content, greater product choice, and a smart, user-friendly interface.

Live now at www.abodedesigns.co.uk, the new-look Abode website includes various innovative features and benefits to improve the overall user experience and engage online visitors for longer. The website will undergo further updates, as this is only Phase 1 of the company’s planned redevelopment.

Leanne Stansfield, marketing manager at Abode says, “We are really excited to develop the company’s digital footprint so we can ensure that our online identity reflects our brand evolution and more importantly, today’s consumer who demands the very best omnichannel experiences. Enhancing our digital presence is key to our onward strategy, so we are keen to share our vision of providing a more immersive and intuitive online experience to our network of retail customers and suppliers. With a view to increase user dwell times by delivering high-quality products and an exceptional customer service, our new-look website is aimed at building stronger relationships with our customers before they make an online purchase or arrange a design consultation with one of our UK retailers.”

The reimagined Abode website includes the following key highlights:

FRESH NEW-LOOK: A streamlined, minimalist look and feel ensures web users can enjoy a smooth online journey throughout the site, freely exploring signature designs and product innovations by Abode at their own pace. Clear, accessible product information and aspirational lifestyle photography all help convey the company’s unique product offer for the kitchen and bathroom, which will become an online destination for UK customers seeking quality design and lasting innovation.

The new-look website reflects the evolution of the Abode brand, and paints a clear picture of why the company exists for its customers by touching on design and innovation, quality and service, environmental sustainability, community engagement, and the value of its people.

ENHANCED FUNCTIONALITY: Presenting a user-friendly format across all devices and platforms, the new Abode website is fully responsive so customers can browse confidently. Simply click on the horizontal navigation bar for all kitchen and bathroom products, or use the handy search icon to explore the entire site. All sink and tap solutions listed on the website are now driven by Abode’s NEW product information management (PIM) system, which provides real-time product updates and enhanced stock information, all with 48-hour delivery times. Visitors can create an online customer account to make repeat purchases faster and simpler than ever before.

SMART PRODUCT FILTERS: Explore the complete range of kitchen and bathroom taps, kitchen sinks, boiling water and filtered water taps, bathroom basins, showering, and accessories with ease. Abode designs are categorised so online visitors can easily explore all the different products by function/type, finish, shape, size, style, material, and finish. In addition to product categories, Abode has also introduced finish examples, which show the available options for each kitchen and/or bathroom product to demonstrate the look of your new sink or tap. Web users can also benefit from ‘Abode Recommends’, a new product feature that delivers search results based on personal preferences such as Antique Brass; Kitchen Taps; Price.

LATEST DESIGN INSPIRATION: Packed with the latest trends, customer reviews, real-home projects, design guides, lifestyle blog posts, and shoppable products, Abode’s renewed website offers the perfect blend of style and functionality for the kitchen and bathroom. Featuring the latest designer tips, interior styles, and product recommendations from the leading experts at Abode, visitors are spoilt for choice when gathering inspiration for their next kitchen or bathroom project. Online customers can also check out the company’s live Instagram feed, as well as sign-up with their email address to receive the digital newsletter straight to their inbox and be the first to know about the latest products and company news.

INTEGRATED CUSTOMER SUPPORT: The friendly customer service team is only a phone call or email away and now, UK customers can also make use of the new online support page, which includes frequently asked questions, product care, facility to order samples, and access/register product warranties. Customers can also shop for tap spares and consumables such as water filters, and even create a Wishlist by registering for a free Abode Account. Finding your nearest Abode stockist just got easier too thanks to the fully updated retailer locator, where you enter the postcode to call up contact information for local suppliers near you. Customers can also get up close and personal with a selection of Abode Approved Partners who reveal who they are, what they do, and where to find them!

If you’re a UK retailer interested in becoming an Approved Partner, then please contact a member from the Abode Sales Team today on 01226 283 434 (option 3).

For further information on Abode products, please contact:

t 01226 283 434 | e info@abodedesigns.co.uk | w www.abodedesigns.co.uk

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