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Baths, Basins & WCs: Sanitaryware that delivers luxury & longevity

July 3, 2025

Features by Diane Larner, founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review.
Diane Larner launched both titles over 15 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industries ever since, publishing regular features across both sectors.

In the contemporary bathroom, functionality is just the starting point. According to the latest Houzz Design Trends Report for 2025, luxury is now taking centre stage, with over one-third of homeowners choosing a statement bath. This represents a staggering 53% increase in searches for ‘freestanding bath‘ – highlighting the demand for products that deliver a distinctive and captivating aesthetic.

In addition, as architects and designers prioritise sustainability and durability, the composition of bathroom fixtures is evolving. From natural materials to standout design, sanitaryware is no longer a hidden necessity; it has become the visual anchor of bathroom design.

In this feature, Diane Larner examines the latest products to hit the market – from considered design with sustainable credentials to built-in technology and designer aesthetics.

Pure at heart

Bathroom-Review-Kaldewei_PuroNext_AWmatt- — Kaldewei **Puro Next** Bathtub

Longevity and sustainability trends have not only been driven by consumer awareness but by an indirect, yet undoubtedly impactful regulatory shift away from quick-to-replace, short-lived products.

Benefitting from this demand, steel enamel has experienced a resurgence in popularity. Its resilience cannot be overstated; glazed steel is impact- and scratch-resistant, making it a popular choice for busy hotel bathrooms, spas, and premium residential design.

Furthermore, steel enamel surfaces are valued for their anti-slip properties, making them a safer option for environments where moisture and water are constant factors. The built-in texture enhances grip in wet conditions, meeting safety requirements for commercial and institutional use. Unlike other materials that may degrade or lose their anti-slip effectiveness over time, steel enamel is said to maintain its surface integrity and is expected to last for decades.

Adam Teal, Kaldewei UK head of sales, explains: “Both multigenerational living and future proofing the home are becoming important elements in many bathroom refurbishment plans. Consumers are looking for style and safety within their bathroom design, especially when it comes to baths and showers.

“Anti-slip surfaces are a key aspect; however, they want a product that will not discolour or decrease in effectiveness with age. They require a long-lasting anti-slip solution that is hygienic, easy to clean, yet practical and aesthetically appealing. “

Kaldewei has launched the next chapter in its Puro bathtub series: the Puro Next. This refreshed model features a streamlined design that combines elegance and practicality. Engineered for comfort and manufactured with durable, easy-to-clean materials, the Puro Next is available in six sizes, ranging from 160 x 70 cm to 190 x 90 cm. The series offers a wide range of bathroom solutions for various floor plans, and finishes such as Invisible Grip or Anti-Slip can be requested as an additional option.

Natural leaders

Bathroom-Review-vermont-olive-freestanding-stone-bath- — Nôsa **Vermont Olive Freestanding Stone Bath**

As trends demonstrate a clear shift towards nature-inspired products, designers are embracing contours and finishes that deliver a tactile, grounded feel. Combining smooth curves with compelling texture ensures spaces feel both modern and inviting. This approach favours materials and colours that create a calm, spa-like atmosphere, transforming everyday bathrooms into personal retreats.

Lauren Hudson, marketing assistant at Nôsa, agrees: “This season, bathroom trends are all about balance -organic shapes, raw textures, and tonal contrast. Think stone basins, matte black toilets, and statement freestanding baths that create spa-like serenity at home.”

Bathroom-Review-Nosa-Vermont-Freestanding-Stone-Bath sanitaryware

Inspired by contemporary European aesthetics and manufactured with premium materials, Nôsa’s products are intended to transform the bathroom into a personal sanctuary, whether the style is minimalist, country chic, or modern maximalist.

Notable pieces from Nôsa’s latest lines include the Vermont Olive Freestanding Stone Bath, a stunning centrepiece in a rich, earthy green that evokes the calm of nature. For refined wash spaces, the Fiore Pietra Grey Marble Countertop Basin from the OpusArtis™ Collection (pictured above left) blends the heritage of Egyptian stone with Italian artistry, bringing timeless luxury into everyday use.

Bold as brass

Bathroom-Review-Waterline-Copper-Bath-Tub-with-Nickel-Interior-Lifestyle- — Waterline Copper Bath Tub with Nickel Interior

Luxurious copper and brass baths offer a distinct advantage when creating high-end, bespoke interiors. Their rich, decadent finishes, combined with artisanal craftsmanship, bring an enduring sophistication that enhances the design. These statement pieces not only deliver functionality but also serve as a sculptural centrepiece.

“Copper baths are a real statement in a bathroom, and many retailers use them in window displays to draw attention to their design offering and bring people in. The look is timeless and stylish, and one that many people are accustomed to seeing in high-end boutique hotels,” comments Michael Marriott, CEO at Waterline.

The new collection of brass and copper baths from Waterline is handcrafted from 100% 16-gauge copper and brass. These stunning baths combine timeless elegance with accessible prices, making high-end luxury more attainable than ever.

Staying smart

V-Care-Prime-from-www.VitrA — VitrA **V-Care**

Toilets have evolved far beyond their basic utility, now serving as a sophisticated, design-led feature. As smart technology options increase, we are seeing features such as self-cleaning nozzles and heated seats integrated as standard. These latest benefits are designed to offer consumers an experience once reserved for high-end hotels. For bathroom designers, the shift presents a valuable opportunity to educate clients and promote smart sanitaryware as a realistic and desirable upgrade.

Ruth Davies, marketing director at VitrA, agrees: “Toilets have come a long way from being purely functional fixtures. Today’s sanitaryware is more innovative, sleeker, and packed with technology, giving retailers a valuable opportunity to educate and upsell.”

Smart toilets, such as the VitrA V-Care range, are making advanced hygiene and comfort accessible to more households. With a host of benefits, including integrated bidet functions, app control, a night-light, and an automatic lid, they’re no longer reserved for luxury hotel suites but serve as a realistic upgrade for design-led bathrooms at home.

Designer chic

Bathroom-Review-Duravit-Feature — A **Bertrand-Lejoly** design for Duravit

The influence of the visionary designer is increasingly sought after in bathroom design as consumers and specifiers favour products bearing the hallmark of a design house or a particular designer. Signature pieces heighten the look to deliver curated style, craftsmanship, and personality. The result is a space where innovation meets artistry, and every detail reflects a considered, design-led approach that resonates long after installation.

Duravit frequently collaborates with a diverse array of renowned designers, blending forward-thinking expertise with visionary aesthetics to create bathroom collections that set new standards.

Pictured above is Bertrand Lejoly’s symmetrical, moss-green space featuring the D-Neo range. His design emphasises serenity and precision, resulting in a refined sanctuary that meets the highest standards of design and convenience.

Sensory sanctuaries

Bathroom-Review-BC-Designs-freestanding-Bath — BC Designs **Metal Roll Top Baths**

The feel of a smooth or textured surface turns the everyday act of bathing into a sensory ritual. For designers, material choices are more than just a matter of visual success – they determine how a space is experienced. Designing with touch in mind means creating bathrooms that soothe, support, and connect with users.

BC Designs offers a range of baths that balance texture with form, from its signature metal roll-top baths, which bring drama and depth to the bathroom space, to its latest Sculptura bath – a striking new addition to its Acrymite range with unique abstract geometry that adds a sculptural presence to any bathroom (pictured below left).

In addition, BC Designs’ exclusive Cian® material (pictured bottom right) allows for bold, sculptural shapes with a smooth, tactile finish. Cian® is a solid surface material made from high-quality raw ingredients, offering durability, heat retention, and a luxurious feel. Available in classic white or one of eight ColourKast shades – including Gunmetal, Satin Rose, and Khaki Green – it opens up new possibilities for personalisation.

Bathroom-Review-BC-Designs-Butter-Yelllow-Textured-Bath

Bathroom-Review-Wivenhoe-Bath BC Designs Sanitaryware

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Waterline introduces luxe brass and copper baths – luxury made affordable

July 2, 2025

A new collection of brass and copper baths from Waterline is bringing unparalleled luxury into the home at an exceptional value. Handcrafted from 100% 16-gauge copper and brass, these stunning baths combine timeless elegance with unbeatable prices, making high-end luxury more accessible than ever.

Each bath is meticulously hand-forged, ensuring a unique and sophisticated look that will only get better with age. As the natural copper develops a distinctive patina over time, it enhances the bath’s authentic, aged charm. Copper’s remarkable ability to conduct heat means that the entire surface of the tub warms up to match the water temperature, turning every soak into a truly indulgent experience.

The collection includes a Brass Bath Tub, a Nickel Plated Bath Tub, and a Copper Bath Tub with a Nickel Interior, all sized at 1650 x 750mm, along with matching bath wastes. To complete the luxurious bathroom setup, complementary brassware and shower sets are also available.

With this launch, Waterline continues to push the boundaries of accessible luxury, ensuring that premium craftsmanship can be enjoyed by a broader market. The baths are competitively priced at £5,985, allowing more homeowners to experience the perfect blend of style, quality, and affordability.

For more information, visit www.waterline.co.uk or call 03330 149 149.

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BC Designs deliver aesthetics, drama, and style to the bathroom

July 2, 2025

BC Designs has built a reputation as one of the UK’s leading bath makers, known for creating statement pieces that sit at the heart of the bathroom. Their belief is simple but powerful: the bath is the centrepiece of the room. It’s where the day ends, where ritual meets relaxation, and where form and function come together in harmony. Their collection is defined by timeless silhouettes, rich materiality, and thoughtful innovation, with each bath designed to be a focal point, not an afterthought.

Their signature metal roll top baths bring drama and depth to the bathroom space. Handcrafted using traditional techniques, each piece is made from copper, brass, nickel or tin, with finishes that develop a unique patina over time. Whether polished to a high shine or softened with a painted exterior, these roll-top and boat baths are built to stand out, and to last, backed by a 10-year guarantee.

Innovation is equally important. BC Designs’ exclusive Cian® material allows for bold, sculptural shapes with a smooth, tactile finish. Cian® is a solid surface material made from high-quality raw ingredients, offering durability, heat retention and a luxurious feel. Available in classic white or one of eight ColourKast shades – including Gunmetal, Satin Rose and Khaki Green – it opens up new possibilities for personalisation.

For those seeking a seamless, contemporary look, the Acrymite® collection offers a minimalist take on the freestanding bath. Made from double-skinned acrylic with no visible joins or gel coat, Acrymite® baths are easy to clean, beautifully formed and carry a 10-year guarantee. This range includes the painted boat bath, BC Designs most famous and well-known bath.

BC Designs also offers a full range of ceramic and Cian® basins to complement their bath styles, allowing for a cohesive, design-led approach to bathroom specification.

Bathroom-Review-Wivenhoe-Bath BC Designs

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Enhance your space: Luxurious basins, baths, and WCs by Nôsa

July 1, 2025

Inspired by contemporary European aesthetics and manufactured with premium materials, Nôsa’s products are designed to transform the bathroom into a personal sanctuary, whether your style is minimalist, country chic, or modern maximalist.

Lauren Hudson, marketing assistant at Nôsa, explains, “This season, bathroom trends are all about balance—organic shapes, raw textures, and tonal contrast. Think stone basins, matte black toilets, and statement freestanding baths that create spa-like serenity at home.”

Standout pieces from Nôsa’s latest line include the Vermont Olive Freestanding Stone Bath (pictured below), a stunning centrepiece in a rich, earthy green that evokes the calm of nature. For those drawn to high-tech materials, the Senna Carbon Fibre Freestanding Bath offers ultra-modern sleekness with an architectural edge.

For refined wash spaces, the Fiore Pietra Grey Marble Countertop Basin from the OpusArtis™ Collection (pictured below), blends the heritage of Egyptian stone with Italian artistry, bringing timeless luxury into everyday use.

Nôsa’s Faro Matt Black Wall Hung Rimless Toilet delivers bold, space-saving elegance. At the same time, the Faro Matt White Back to Wall Rimless Toilet with Brushed Gold Flush Plate elevates contemporary bathrooms with its minimalist silhouette and refined hardware.

Every element is designed with precision, beauty, and lasting impact in mind. Whether you’re undertaking a complete renovation or refreshing a guest suite, Nôsa’s bespoke design service helps homeowners, interior designers, and architects bring their vision to life.

“At Nôsa, we believe a bathroom should be more than functional—it should be an immersive experience in design and craftsmanship. Our collections are curated to inspire, blending heritage materials with modern aesthetics to create spaces that are both timeless and transformative,” comments Sam McDermid, Nosa brand manager.

Click the link to explore Nôsa’s luxury bathroom collection today.

Bathroom-Review-Nosa-Faro-Polished-White-Wall-Hung-Rimless-Toilet

Nosa-bathroom-vermont-olive-freestanding-stone-bath-1700mm

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Kaldewei launches Puro Next – a new era for the iconic bathtub series

July 1, 2025

Kaldewei is launching the next chapter in its Puro bathtub series: the Puro Next. This refreshed model showcases a streamlined, contemporary design that blends elegance with practicality. Engineered for comfort and manufactured with durable, easy-to-clean materials, the Puro Next brings a sense of accessible luxury to a broad audience – from young couples and growing families to discerning mature homeowners.

The revamped Puro – the Puro Next series offers three options to cater for various needs: The Kaldewei Puro Next single-seater bathtub provides comfort for individual bathers thanks to a generous lying surface, the Kaldewei Puro Next Duo has ergonomic backrests at both ends enabling bathing for two should you so wish, and the Kaldewei Puro Next Combi combines relaxed bathing and refreshing showering in one product with a secure standing surface.

Available in six sizes, ranging from 160 x 70 cm to 190 x 90 cm, the series offers a wide range of bathroom solutions for various floor plans, enabling flexible and creative bathroom planning.

There are no compromises when it comes to the surface either: The tub made of glazed steel is impact and scratch resistant, does not discolour and remains impeccable even under heavy use; as shown by the extensive use in busy hotel bathrooms and private bathing oases.

Modern Design: Sleek and Safety

A highlight of the Kaldewei Puro Next is its extra-flat tub edge, with a height of only 10 mm. This dimension enhances its elegant appearance. The precise radii and low edge enable seamless integration of the Kaldewei Puro Next into a tiled surface. A generous floor length and the ergonomic back slope with a softly tapered neck area ensure a comfortable lying position. At the same time, the ideal entry height and optional grips make it perfect for use at every stage of life.

The glazed surface creates a refined appearance and also allows the tub to shine again quickly and effortlessly after each bath. Additionally, surface finishes such as Invisible Grip or Antislip can be requested to provide extra slip resistance in the Kaldewei Puro Next bathtub.

The newly updated Puro bathtub series shows the contemporary evolution of one of its most popular product families. With a refined, flat tub edge and a sleek, modern aesthetic, the redesigned Puro combines timeless elegance with exceptional comfort and ease of maintenance. It is engineered to meet the needs of all generations.

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Roca launches Sal and Noya: Two elegant, practical acrylic Baths

June 10, 2025

Roca is introducing Sal and Noya – two new acrylic baths that combine elegant design, functional features, and everyday practicality. Crafted from durable, lightweight acrylic, these models offer a compact footprint, long-lasting performance, and installation flexibility – all at a competitive price, especially when compared to composite alternatives.

Designed to fit seamlessly in any space

With clean lines and minimalist profiles, Sal (a back-to-wall model) and Noya (a freestanding bath) are designed to integrate effortlessly into a wide variety of interiors. Noya features a gently contoured oval shape for an organic, spa-like ambience, while Sal presents a more architectural, rectangular silhouette. The back-to-wall format of Sal sits flush against the wall, saving valuable floor space without compromising the freestanding look.

Both baths measure just 1650 x 750mm – smaller than a standard drop-in single or double-ended acrylic bath with panels, making them ideal for compact bathrooms or multifunctional family spaces where freestanding options are often not considered. Their 5 mm–thick bath walls also help maximise internal bathing space within a compact footprint.

Manufactured from high-quality acrylic reinforced with fibreglass, Sal and Noya are significantly lighter than traditional composite alternatives. This makes them easier to install, particularly in upstairs bathrooms or when retrofitting, while still offering strength and durability.

Acrylic also provides excellent resistance to cracking, meaning these baths remain in top condition for longer. The modern construction allows for slimmer walls, giving Noya a refined, elegant edge. With compact dimensions, both models require less water per fill than larger freestanding baths – ideal for eco-conscious households seeking sustainable luxury.

Practical Features with Style

Sal and Noya feature a central drain and an integrated overflow system with a discreet slim slot. This maintains their clean, contemporary look and simplifies cleaning, helping keep them pristine for years.

Sal also includes a cleverly integrated shelf – perfect for homes where wall-mounted taps aren’t feasible, whether due to structural restrictions, rental conditions or aesthetic preferences. This design allows for deck-mounted taps, enabling quick and low-disruption installation, and helps reduce overall costs.

Above: Noya freestanding acrylic bath, priced £1,884.

Premium design, accessible price

As cost-effective alternatives to Roca’s premium Stonex® composite baths, Sal and Noya deliver the brand’s renowned craftsmanship, comfort and style – at a more affordable price point. Noya is priced at £1,884 and Sal at £1,920, with both models backed by a 25-year product guarantee.

“With their sleek styling, innovative features and long-lasting performance, Sal and Noya offer a new standard in everyday luxury,” says Natalie Bird, brand marketing manager at Roca. “We designed these baths to meet the real needs of modern homes – whether that’s easier installation, more sustainable water usage or simply beautiful design that doesn’t cost the earth. It’s all about making luxury feel more accessible, without compromising on quality.”

Noya freestanding acrylic bath, 1650 x 750mm, £1,884

Sal back-to-wall acrylic bath, 1650 x 750mm, £1,920

Stockist: 01530 830080 or uk.roca.com/where-to-buy-showrooms

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BC Designs launches the Wivenhoe Bath

June 3, 2025

Responding to increasing demand for softer, design-led bathroom aesthetics, BC Designs has unveiled the Wivenhoe – a new freestanding bath that blends timeless form with modern functionality.

Cast from BC Designs Cian® solid surface material, the Wivenhoe bath offers a beautifully smooth, high-gloss finish that feels as good as it looks. Non-porous and easy to maintain, the material is both durable and practical, making it ideal for everyday use without compromising on style. Available in either polished white or silk matte, the Wivenhoe is a fantastic choice that will sit comfortably in both classic and contemporary settings, pairing just as easily with warm metallics and textured stone as it does with minimalist monochrome palettes.

Measuring 1800mm, this generously sized double-ended bath features sloping sides for comfort, making it ideal for solo or shared bathing. With a capacity of 180 litres, the Wivenhoe delivers a deep, luxurious soak, all while maintaining a refined silhouette that suits both spacious and compact bathrooms.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the Wivenhoe is compatible with both floor-standing and wall-mounted taps, allowing homeowners and designers to exercise complete creative control over the final look. As with all BC Designs baths, it comes with a 10-year manufacturer’s guarantee.

For more information, visit www.bcdesigns.co.uk

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BC Designs unveils the Sculptura Bath

April 3, 2025

Renowned bath maker BC Designs has launched the Sculptura bath, a striking new addition to its Acrymite range. Designed to bring a bold yet timeless aesthetic to modern bathrooms, the bath’s unique abstract geometry adds a sculptural presence to any bathroom while maintaining a refined elegance that won’t date over time.

Crafted in a high-quality gloss white Acrymite finish, Sculptura is not just a bath—it’s a centrepiece. Made from reinforced acrylic panels seamlessly joined to create a one-piece appearance, the patented Acrymite material retains room heat for a comfortable and warm bathing experience, as well as being resistant to deterioration.

Measuring 1690mm in length, it boasts a generously deep bathing space, ensuring a luxurious and immersive soak.

Adam Smith, National Sales Manager at BC Designs, says: “With Sculptura, we wanted to push the boundaries of modern bath design while keeping it practical and accessible.

“Launching as part of the Acrymite range, it offers retailers with a more affordable and distinct bath, that they would otherwise expect as part of our Cian Collection. It has been designed to be a real showstopper and unique within our industry.”

Bathroom-Review-BC-Designs-Sculptura-bath.

Bath size: 1690mm length

10-year guarantee for domestic use.

For more information, visit www.bcdesigns.co.uk

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Kaldewei Nuio Duo designer bathtub enhances bathroom experience

March 14, 2025

The Kaldewei Nuio Duo designer bathtub combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek design, offering a premium bathing experience. Featuring infrared heat, ambient lighting, music, and intuitive controls, the Zen Edition of the Nuio Duo is engineered to promote relaxation and holistic regeneration.

Designed by Stefan Diez, the tub’s minimalist, sculptural lines integrate seamlessly into any bathroom, making it an eye-catching centrepiece. Its ergonomic shape, with generous dimensions and targeted back and shoulder support, enhances comfort, ensuring a truly relaxing experience. The Kaldewei Heat Wave feature offers adjustable infrared radiant heat, which soothes muscles and bones, providing physical relief while encouraging emotional relaxation. The synergy of heat and water creates a calming atmosphere, allowing users to unwind fully.

In addition to the Heat Wave, the Zen Edition includes Sound Wave and customizable lighting, offering a full sensory experience. The lighting features a wide colour spectrum, and the sound integration lets users enjoy their preferred music, adding to the feeling of tranquillity. All settings, such as water temperature, lighting, and sound, are easily controlled via an elegant LCD display with an intuitive slider, making adjustments effortless.

The Kaldewei Nuio Duo is built from durable, sustainable materials, ensuring longevity and reliability. Its combination of innovative features and modern aesthetics makes it suitable for both luxury and everyday bathroom spaces. The user-friendly design allows for easy operation, and its sculptural presence enhances the overall bathroom décor.

The Kaldewei Nuio Duo is more than just a bathtub – it’s a complete experience that blends luxury, technology, and design, offering a new standard in bathroom comfort and style. Whether upgrading a bathroom or creating a luxury retreat, the Kaldewei Nuio Duo is the perfect choice.

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Harmonious design from Duravit elevates renovation

March 3, 2025

Duravit’s bathroom design solutions, combining Scandinavian minimalism with Japanese-inspired Zen aesthetics, have been used to enhance the renovation of Villa Schjøtt in Bergen, Norway. The villa, designed by the renowned Geir Grung in the 1960s, has undergone a sensitive refurbishment led by Michelsens to retain its architectural heritage while embracing modern living standards.

Innovative design with Duravit’s Zencha, ME by Starck, and C.1 collections

athroom-Review-Duravit-Villa_Schjott_Bathroom-Design-C_Terje_Arntsen-sm-

Villa Schjøtt’s five bathrooms showcase the harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics with Duravit’s Zencha, ME by Starck, and C.1 product ranges. The master bathroom features a striking Zencha freestanding bathtub, while Zencha above-counter basins and matching vanity units create a stylish, consistent look across the other bathrooms. The ME by Starck wall-mounted toilets complement the contemporary design, and Duravit’s hand-held and overhead showers ensure a clean, streamlined aesthetic.

Quality meets sustainability

Designed by Grung, the villa’s emphasis on clear geometric lines, large glass panels, and an open-plan design seamlessly connects interior and exterior spaces. In this renovation, Michelsens have embraced the villa’s iconic materials, such as concrete, glass, and wood, to retain its timeless elegance. Indirect lighting enhances the transition between the materials, while large glass panels allow natural daylight to flood the interiors. The bathrooms’ designs echo this philosophy, offering a calm, Zen-like atmosphere that aligns perfectly with the villa’s architectural vision.

Duravit’s commitment to excellence

The bathroom solutions chosen for Villa Schjøtt exemplify Duravit’s commitment to creating stylish, functional, and sustainable bathroom designs. The Zencha collection’s minimalist design principles, combined with high-quality functionality, make it the ideal choice for high-end residential renovations. Duravit’s extensive range offers products that are as visually striking as they are durable, elevating the design of any bathroom.

Duravit products featured:

Zencha above-counter basins, vanity units, freestanding bathtub
C.1 single-lever washbasin mixer, wall-mounted/floor-standing
ME by Starck wall-mounted toilet
Shower thermostats
Hand-held and overhead showers

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For further details on Duravit’s premium bathroom collections, visit Duravit

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