Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

“Floating House” luxury bathroom is by Duravit

June 24, 2024

Proving that prefabricated buildings can go hand in hand with high-level and unique residential designs, studio F. A. Porsche, and Kärnten-based timber construction expert Griffner have created the “Floating House”

“The Floating House combines visionary design with forward-looking architecture and promises the last word in a healthy living environment,” said Griffner’s owner, Georg C. Niedersüß. The manufacturer of prefabricated structures uses only authentic, sustainable materials of the highest quality, such as glass and regionally sourced timber.

The consistent design philosophy is also reflected in the bathrooms, fitted out with the Duravit Qatego bathroom range, also designed by Studio F. A. Porsche.

Bathroom ensemble in a class of its own

A full-length glass door skillfully connects the light and airy master bathroom with the main bedroom. Marbled wall tiles and light wooden floors underscore the natural and calm ambience. The elegant washing-area solution from the Qatego series offers generous storage space thanks to the above-counter basin’s gentle shape and the vanity unit’s practical niche. The L-Cube series mirrors ensure optimum illumination, while the Wave faucet range and the Starck T accessories round off the washing area and create space for individual options.

Unmistakable Porsche design language

Continuous façade strips, along with black glass tiles surrounding the entire ground floor, epitomize the sophisticated aesthetics of the Floating House. As is typical for Studio F. A. Porsche’s focus is on functionality: a continuous light strip between the floors provides illumination, for instance, and gives the building the impression that it is floating. “For us, design is never just about aesthetics, but also always substance,” explained Thomas Hüttel, the studio’s design director. A range of design objects designed by Studio F. A. Porsche lends a finishing touch to the interior of the house and completes the overall impression of a thoroughly modern structure.
Infobox:

Price: from €6,500 per square meter
Minimum size: 180 square meters
More information at: www.griffner.com/floating-house
More Duravit Products:
Washbasins: Vitrium cast-mineral washbasin, c-bonded, with vanity unit
Mirrors: Zencha & L-Cube
Faucets: Wave XL, Tulum M, ShowerSystem Shelf 1050
Accessories: Starck T
Shower-toilet: SensoWash® Starck f Lite

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New Sanctuary marble additions from Scudo deliver luxury & style

June 24, 2024

Scudo recently introduced an exquisite collection of high-quality Sanctuary marble basins to their latest Scudo collection and have further additions planned for the rest of the year.

Marble has remained a mainstay in our homes for many years as a water-resistant, versatile, and luxurious metamorphic rock. Marble basins have become a top trend in bathroom design. Nothing says luxury and glamour like marble; it is a fantastic material to use in a bathroom, as it is versatile and hard-wearing.

Homeowners are now considering basins as the bathroom focal point, and marble can instantly elevate and provide luxury and sophistication to any space.

The Sanctuary range of marble pieces boasts extraordinary organic attributes like crystallisation and an array of hues and colours that meander through the slab to create delicate flowing hairline patterns and captivating instances of pitted deviations and fissures amidst the marbling.

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New addition to the STAGELINE furniture collection

June 24, 2024

KEUCO has introduced a new addition to its popular STAGELINE furniture collection – a vanity unit now available in 1400 mm and is ideal for two washbasins, providing twice as much space for families, couples and individuals who like additional room. With a second wash area, you not only have a practical solution, but the stylish washbasin adds a distinctive accent to the bathroom.

Available in two versions: without tap holes, if the preference is for wall spout fittings or with tap holes for two single-lever mixers. This, along with the option of black or white ceramic washbasins, gives flexibility in design, especially when combining them with different furniture styles.

With the STAGELINE collection, you can create a variety of design themes for the bathroom. The furniture takes centre stage, combining timeless, beautiful design with warmer accents. The visual highlight of the series is an open, illuminated storage shelf, perfect for showcasing decorative items and favourite products. The warm-white LED lighting (3000 kelvin) is controlled by a capacitive touch sensor on the furniture, and the shelf includes practical features, such as the socket integrated into the shelf and a USB and USB-C charging point. This is positioned in the middle so the connections can be conveniently accessed from both wash areas.

Developed by the Tesseraux + Partner design agency in Potsdam, KEUCO’s comprehensive STAGELINE furniture series is characterised by modern linearity and straightforward elegance with a tone-in-tone look. The glass fronts and furniture bodies are the same colour, exuding an aura of calm and harmony.

Even fans of white and anthracite will find a match, whether brilliant lustre or velvety matt; the furniture’s glass fronts bring a touch of elegance to the bathroom.

Filigree glass fronts with no handles

With attention to detail, the STAGELINE furniture collection features a protruding glass front at the top that serves as a handle for opening and closing drawers, equipped with soft-close functionality, closing gently and quietly.

The vanity unit is perfect for those who appreciate tidiness. With the drawer and optional interior set, intelligent and optimum use of space in the cabinet is assured. For clever storage space organisation, the interior set can be arranged flexibly from four different sizes, and the dark and practical liner mat provides a slip-resistant surface.

More STAGELINE furniture

For those who need extra storage, STAGELINE offers three additional furniture products: a tall unit and a medium single-door or double-door unit. The tall unit has an aura of refinement with its illuminated shelf compartment in the middle. Bottles, jars or decorative elements can be spotlighted here, too, just as in the vanity unit. All cabinets incorporate soft-close hinges for gentle closing and premium, easy-to-care-for glass shelves inside. Combining these with other fittings and accessories from KEUCO ensures versatile and multi-faceted bathroom design options.

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Silver sponsor announced for BMA Industry Conference 2024

June 21, 2024

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has revealed the silver sponsor for its eagerly anticipated Industry Conference 2024

Affiliate BMA member EazyStock, a global leader in cloud-based supply chain optimisation and purchasing software, has secured its silver sponsorship status for the BMA Industry Conference 2024.

Taking place on September 16th and 17th at the iconic Queens Hotel in Leeds, excitement is building as bathroom industry leaders gear up for an exploration of this year’s theme: “building growth.”

If the polls are to be believed, the UK could have a new government in power by the time the conference begins. Whatever party is in power, the conference’s theme of ‘building growth’ takes on a profound significance as the country hopes to solve the housing crisis to ‘get Britain building’ and stimulate economic growth.

Recognising the conference’s role in analysing the sector’s trajectory, industry stakeholders are keen to participate in discussions to enable growth amidst shifting policies and a growing economy.

Tom Reynolds, BMA’s Chief Executive, comments: “I’m pleased EazyStock are our silver sponsor this year. Their knowledge and expertise have been invaluable for our members, outlining how advanced management software systems improve efficiency. As the country embraces renewed optimism, success and growth in our sector are assured, so managing business operations is even more crucial.”

Peter Drakeley, EazyStock managing director said: “We are proud to be the silver sponsor of the BMA Industry Conference this year. Through our sponsorship, we hope to contribute to the growth across the sector and enable manufacturers to achieve their strategic goals.

“We look forward to engaging with the delegates, sharing ideas, and introducing them to our unique approach to managing growth.”

The conference promises to reflect on the political shifts of the summer and actively engage with the crucial question of how to foster growth collectively. By providing thought-provoking keynote talks from industry experts and engaging panel discussions, the conference will shine a light on the growth potential of the bathroom manufacturing sector.

For more information and registration details, visit the official BMA Industry Conference website.

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Le Chic delivers regency flair for luxury Bridgerton-inspired interiors

June 20, 2024

This week marks the release of Bridgerton Season Three, Part Two, inspiring a welcome return to Regency-inspired, high-opulence interiors. Cosentino’s Le Chic collection is perfectly positioned to bring a touch of period flair to the home.

Crafted from premium minerals and recycled materials, the collection promises longevity from installation, assuring a beautiful and durable surface. For a modern twist on Regency design, look to Victorian Silver, a polished finish with silver and dark grey veining; Parisian Bleu, a rich blue finish with fine ochre veining; and Eclectic Pearl, a delicately veined finish with metallic accents. The collection is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices, with applications as varied as backsplashes, worktops, walls, and flooring, imbuing homes with the captivating allure of history.

Whether you’re an architect designing a Regency-inspired home or a designer seeking to add historical charm to a modern space, Le Chic ensures your bathroom exudes all the luxury and refinement of the Regency period.

Katie Parry-Stone, Retail Expert at Cosentino UK, comments: “Veined surfaces can add interest, depth and layers to an otherwise flat surface, and the delicate pattern can be incorporated for designs that are characterful and intricate to introduce a touch of sparkle and glamour on countertops or splashbacks. Cosentino’s Le Chic collection features intricately patterned marble surfaces that bring modern yet timeless design to the home.”

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Ideal Standard launch latest addition to Atelier Collections – La Dolce Vita

June 20, 2024

Leading bathroom manufacturer Ideal Standard is launching its new La Dolce Vita® range, the latest addition to its design-led Atelier Collections. The range has been designed by chief design officer Roberto Palomba and has been inspired by its famous namesake expression – the sweet life.

Roberto Palomba said about the collection: “With this new range, I aimed to reinterpret La Dolce Vita. The phrase conjures a lifestyle where there is time to savour the beauty in small things; in the everyday. La Dolce Vita® creates a tactile, expressive space whose sensuality sparks inspiration and dreams, where new ideas are born. It was important to me to capture this essence and bring it to life in every detail of this collection.”

La Dolce Vita® features solutions for the entire bathroom, from vanities and vessels, toilets, bidets and bathtubs to mixer taps, shower products and accessories. What’s more, the new range is compatible with Ideal Standard’s wider product portfolio, thanks to the company’s Singular™ philosophy, meaning designers and customers can indulge in whatever suits their vision.

Launching alongside La Dolce Vita®, Ideal Standard’s Finesse furniture series complements the range but is compatible with many other collections, offering endless possibilities for designers and homeowners. Finesse features a modern design with subtle, recessed handles and a choice of four matt colours and two wood finishes, with one, two or four-drawer options, open shelving, and a variety of depths to fit different room sizes and ceramic collections. Sustainability was a key consideration during development, which is why the entire range is crafted from Chain of Custody-certified wood sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Aesthetically, La Dolce Vita’s beauty balances geometric forms and shapes inspired by nature. The tapered and curved edges of the ceramic vanities and toilets elegantly set them apart, while the deep, flower-shaped vessel basins are eye-catching in both square and round designs. The accompanying vanities are available in six sizes, including standout asymmetric models with a practical storage surface. As a statement piece, the freestanding bathtub commands the space in any bathroom but still echoes the understated elegance of a relaxed Italian lifestyle.

Fittings and accessories align with the design ethos, featuring basin mixers, vessel mixers, wall-mounted models, and bath and shower mixers, all sharing the same design DNA. Available in classic chrome or Ideal Standard’s sophisticated PVD colours: brushed gold, magnetic grey, and silver storm.

La Dolce Vita excels not only in style but also in innovative technology. WCs feature either AquaBlade® technology or RimLS+® on wall-hung bowls, providing excellent flushing performance and improved hygiene. The toilets are designed to flush efficiently with low water usage, only using 4L for a full flush. EcoFlow regulators in the taps and shower products further reduce water consumption, promoting sustainability. Additionally, the FirmaFlow® ceramic cartridge in the taps ensures durability, while PVD technology enhances the hard-wearing and scratch-resistant nature of the coloured fittings and accessories.

La Dolce Vita and Finesse will be available as of June 2024. To find out more about the collection, please visit: https://www.idealstandard.co.uk/products/collections/la-dolce-vita

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BMA joins Construction Inclusion Coalition to address EDI

June 19, 2024

The BMA has announced it’s joined the Construction Inclusion Coalition (CIC), an initiative launched by leading organisations in the sector to tackle a lack of diversity.

Launched in September 2023, the CIC was established by CEOs at leading organisations, including Bristan Group, Highbourne Group, Knauf, Travis Perkins, Ibstock PLC, the Builders Merchants Federation, and the Construction Leadership Council, to raise sector standards on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).

As an Associate Member, the BMA will join a network of like-minded organisations, working together to foster collaboration and share knowledge and resources across the industry with co-created solutions that will make a difference.

The construction sector has one of the most rapidly ageing workforces in the UK, with research showing that close to a million construction workers – around a third of the UK’s total workforce, are set to retire in the next ten years. Despite this, the industry is currently only made up of 15% women and 6% from ethnic minority backgrounds and faces challenges attracting and recruiting from a diverse pool of talent.

Tom Reynolds, the BMA’s Chief Executive, remarked:

“We know that the bathroom manufacturing sector will see an increase in demand with the reduction in inflation and the expectation of interest rate cuts allowing consumers greater discretionary spending. However, we also know that the sector has struggled to attract and retain its talent. Encouraging and highlighting our sector’s huge opportunities in line with EDI principles will ensure we have the diverse talent required for exponential growth.

“We are committed to the CIC’s Built on Better Pledge and will collaborate within the sector, highlighting EDI for our mutual benefit.”

CIC Chairperson and Toolstation Managing Director Angela Rushforth says:

“There is no doubt that the future of our industry is at risk if we don’t create an environment where all our colleagues feel safe, empowered and confident. I want all young women to see the construction sector as I do – full of opportunity.

“We aren’t attracting and retaining from a diverse pool of talent because many think the construction sector is not for them. There are industry-wide challenges that require industry-wide solutions, which is why the Construction Inclusion Coalition has been set up to improve equity, diversity and inclusion. We are calling on businesses across the sector – no matter how big or small – to join our Coalition and commit to taking action in their organisations.”

Alongside Coalition Partners, the BMA is urging businesses across the industry to join the initiative and take the Built on Better Pledge, covering seven areas members commit to working on.

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Ideal Standard power the next generation of apprentices at Installer SHOW

June 17, 2024

Ideal Standard is set to deliver a number of fully-funded apprenticeships to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during Installer Show 2024.

Through the apprenticeships, those selected will receive fully accredited installation qualifications for the installer trade, with training delivered by a CIPHE-recognised training provider.

In addition to fully funding the apprenticeships, Ideal Standard will provide 1-1 support to the SMEs throughout the process, assisting not just with recruitment but all training and onboarding of the apprentice – while providing on-the-job support from its team of service engineers.

SMEs and apprentices will be able to visit Ideal Standard’s UK sites and receive factory tours, providing a valuable look into the manufacturing of Ideal Standard’s ceramic ranges, how the business works, and the full supply chain process.

Businesses can enter the giveaway by completing a short quiz and application form or by signing up at Ideal Standard’s stand, 4F13, with entry open to companies wanting to sign up an apprentice for an industry-specific qualification.

One winner will be announced on days one and two of the Installer Show during the ‘Bathrooms and Beers’ sessions at the BMA theatre starting at 4.00 pm, with a third winner will be announced at the BMA theatre at 3.00 pm on day three. A panel of judges made up of Ideal Standard and Bathroom Manufacturers Association representatives will review and select the fortunate companies.

Jo Edwards, Channel Director, Residential and Trade: “Apprentices and SMEs are the backbone of the installation and plumbing sector, and we want to ensure the next generation of installers have the investment they need to flourish.

“It’s key for us to work closely with SMEs and installers to support the sector, understand current trends and ways of working, and make a real difference.”

Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association added: “Apprenticeship initiatives like this are vital to helping the KBB and installation industry become more attractive to young people across the UK.

“The extra steps Ideal Standard is taking to support apprentices and SMEs with access to its manufacturing plants and on-the-job support are key to futureproofing the industry and attracting new and diverse talent.”

To find out more about the apprenticeships and fill in the quiz, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3XHTKLJ

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HiB’s Warren Ginsberg awarded MBE in King’s Honours List 2024

June 15, 2024

As part of this year’s Kings Honours, HiB’s Chairman, Warren Ginsberg, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to home improvements. This prestigious recognition celebrates Warren’s outstanding contributions to the bathroom industry and his commitment to the development of home improvements over the decades.

Warren has been a pivotal figure in the bathroom industry for over five decades. As a salesperson, he started his career at Garfield Glass in London and advanced to become sales director, overseeing operations in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, and France. During his tenure, he significantly contributed to the company’s growth, securing major accounts such as B&Q and introducing innovative products like the Garfield Glass-Mirrorwall range. Warren also established relationships with leading DIY retailers across the UK, including Texas HomeCare, Marley Retail, and Homebase.

Following the sale of Garfield Glass in 1990, Warren founded his own company, launching HiB in 1991. What began as a small business run from his kitchen table with his wife Carole’s support has grown into a market leader known for its innovative products and outstanding customer service. HiB, operating from Inspire House in Tamworth with additional offices in London, received The Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation in 2020. Warren’s visionary leadership has driven the company’s success, which is marked by his commitment to quality and passion for creating functional, aesthetically pleasing bathroom products.

Throughout his working life, Warren has played a huge part in the development of bathroom interiors and is a renowned and respected figure in the sector. His efforts have not only positioned HiB as a forward-thinking company but have also set new standards in the industry. Among his many successes, Warren led the adaption of the heated pad as a tool for reducing condensation on mirror and cabinet surfaces. This innovation sparked an industry-wide change that has now spread to a manufacturing standard across bathroom mirrors around the globe and remains a key feature to this day. For more information about Warren’s role in the development of heated pad technology.

Over recent years, Warren has encouraged and supported a number of technological advances, including the introduction of colour temperature-changing illumination, USB and toothbrushing charging technology and wireless power solutions for illumination in bathroom cabinet mirrored doors. All of these innovations, along with Warren’s passion for forging new relationships with customers, developing the export market for HiB and eagerness to drive sales and grow the business, are among the reasons why he has been celebrated as one of this year’s worthy MBE recipients.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this MBE for dedication to home improvement,” said Warren Ginsberg. “It’s a culmination of a lifetime’s work and a wonderful acknowledgement of not only my efforts but those of the HiB team. We’ve always strived to push the boundaries of innovation and sustainability, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved. I’m excited for the future as we continue to lead the way in bringing innovative new products to the UK bathroom industry.

Warren’s son and HiB’s CEO Robert Ginsberg expressed his congratulations. He said: “My father’s contribution to the industry and our company has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership and vision over such a long time have driven HiB forward, and this MBE is a well-deserved recognition of his achievements. We are immensely proud of Warren and grateful for his continued commitment to excellence.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Warren is known for his charitable work and his enthusiasm for helping others. His commitment to giving back has inspired many within HiB and the broader industry.

For more information about HiB, visit www.hib.co.uk.

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Cyncly appoints new training & onboarding manager

June 14, 2024

Leading software and content solutions brand Cyncly has announced the appointment of Rebecca Ellison as the new training and onboarding manager for the NEME (Northern Europe and Middle East) region. Rebecca brings over a decade of experience in customer support and training from her previous roles at Compusoft.

Rebecca joined Compusoft in February 2012 as a support administrator, where she quickly demonstrated her capabilities and was promoted to Support Manager. In September 2021, she transitioned to the training department, where she excelled in enhancing customer skills and software use.

In her new role at Cyncly, Rebecca will lead a team of training and onboarding specialists, along with several training and onboarding consultants. Together, they will deliver comprehensive training programs for Winner Flex, EQ, Innoplus, and Winner Bizz across the NEME regions. Rebecca and her team of experienced trainers will collaborate to ensure customers maximise the potential of Cyncly’s software solutions.

“I am thrilled to be working with a team dedicated to improving our customers’ skill sets,” said Rebecca. “My goal is to ensure our customers receive the best possible training and support, enabling them to get the very best out of Cyncly software.”

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