Eco Design Archives

GROHE exhibited new Cradle to Cradle Certified® products at HIX

November 22, 2021

Showcasing its newly accredited Cradle to Cradle Certified® products, supplier of bathroom and kitchen fittings, GROHE, made its first industry exhibition appearance since the beginning of the pandemic at the HIX design show last month.

The globally recognised Cradle to Cradle (C2C) design approach was first developed in the 90s to drastically reduce waste and the drain on new resources. It is achieved by designing intelligent products, processes, and systems that look at the overall lifecycle of the product.

Whilst this concept differentiates between consumer goods (e.g. natural fibres or detergent), which are biodegradable, and service products (e.g. taps), that are broken down into their original materials, this approach means that C2C products can potentially be reused endlessly, enhancing typical recycling practices.

To achieve certification, products must attain a designated level of achievement within the following categories: material health, material reutilisation, renewable energy, water stewardship, and social fairness.

To date, four GROHE products have been Cradle to Cradle Certified at gold level: three taps – GROHE BauEdge S-Size, GROHE Eurosmart S-Size and GROHE Eurosmart Kitchen, as well as the GROHE Tempesta shower rail set. The certified products are four of GROHE’s best-sellers and are also affordable, cost-efficient fittings that make sustainable solutions accessible to hospitality projects of all scales and budgets.

“We were so pleased to finally be able to attend our first event following the onset of the pandemic,” says Ebru Bircan, Leader, Marketing Activation UK, LIXIL EMENA and GROHE UK.

“Continuing to pioneer sustainable solutions that combat the over-consumption of natural resources is an imperative part of GROHE’s sustainability strategy. We also intend to keep working with hotel brands to develop more ways in which hospitality and sustainability can come together seamlessly to leave a lasting impression on guests, whilst reducing the impact on our environment.”

Grohe Tempesta HIX event cradle to cradle — GROHE Tempesta 100 shower rail set – C2C Certified

More news and product stories from GROHE.

www.grohe.co.uk

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New Crystal aerator from Neoperl

August 20, 2021

The new CRYSTAL aerator from Neoperl, generates a clear laminar water stream from a tap or shower. Free of milky bubbles, often associated with water aerators, this crystal-clear water flow offers the benefit of being very quiet and splash-free, even when the water is falling from a great height.

This new range of Crystal retrofittable aerators offer optimal stream performance and comfort at flow rates of 15-25 litres per minute and are particularly useful in reducing the noise of running bath taps or showers. They reduce splashing too, so are very suitable for open showering situations where there may be more than one bather, as in a commercial shower or washroom. As the water stream stays compact, even when falling from a height of 2.5m, the water stays at temperature longer, effectively engulfing the bather in warm water.

Crystal aerator models are now available for shower heads, kitchen taps and bath taps and like most Neoperl retrofittable aerators can be simply inserted at the spout end of an existing tap, replacing any incumbent flow device, or in a shower, upstream of the outlet. For more advice on the correct model, please contact Neoperl UK on 01684-564869.

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GROHE Tempesta shower system maximises water & energy savings

June 28, 2021

All GROHE EcoJoy™ products are systematically designed to save water and energy so that precious resources are conserved. These products, equipped with water-saving technologies, offer the perfect water experience without the need to compromise. Reducing water and energy consumption goes hand in hand with convenience and attractive design. Less water, perfect flow.

GROH Tempesta Shower set — GROHE Tempesta 250 shower set (Cube design) with thermostat for wall mounting

Designed to be wall-mounted, this exposed shower system features a Tempesta 250 Cube head shower, a Tempesta Cosmopolitan 100 hand shower, thermostat, shower rail with 390mm swivable shower arm and gliding element to adjust the hand shower, plus a 1750mm Rotaflex Twistfree hose.

At 250mm the head shower creates a generous showering area and has an appealing slim profile. The spray pattern is the gentle, refreshing Rain Spray. There are 2 spray patterns to choose from on the 100mm hand shower – the soft Rain and the powerful, targeted Jet Spray. Both showers feature water-saving GROHE EcoJoy – limiting flow to 9.5l/min on the head shower and 5.7l/min on the hand shower – for reduced water consumption but the same great performance.

The shower system delivers water at a constant temperature with no nasty surprises, thanks to GROHE’s TurboStat technology makes sure that the water is a constant temperature with no unpleasant fluctuations. The GROHE SafeStop override button is set at 38°C to prevent scalding and keep the whole family protected. And the GROHE SafeStop Plus temperature limiter can be set to limit to 43°C for an extra level of safety. Switch between head and hand shower and adjust the volume, all via one handle, with the AquaDimmer function.

www.grohe.co.uk

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New GROHE Plus supports energy and water-saving initiatives

June 21, 2021

The new digitally advanced GROHE Plus basin taps offer users the possibility to accurately control the water temperature and includes a visual colour marker to encourage users to avoid wasting energy.

Using the principle of “nudging”, a concept from behavioural economics, users are made aware when hot water is flowing unnecessarily which in turn encourages users to avoid wasting energy. This design approach promotes responsible use of the valuable resource of water and saves energy at the same time.

The eco-friendly functionality of GROHE Plus is reinforced by its accessible Eco Spray setting. To switch from the standard spray to the more refined Eco Spray of just four litres per minute users can simply swipe their hand over the lit icon on top of the spout to activate the sensor-controlled system which will change the water flow. The GROHE Plus collection also skillfully combines round and square elements, this makes the range a real statement for every modern bathroom, both in terms of sustainability and design.

Progressive design for elegant features in the bathroom
The dynamic design language of GROHE Plus is inspired by the arc, which symbolises both strength and lightness. Combining circular shapes with the crisp, clean lines of a cube, GROHE Plus creates an exciting architectural silhouette. At the same time, the design supports ergonomic comfort and invites interaction. The 90-degree swivel spout also increases the user-friendliness and caters for a variety of different interactions and uses.

The combination of cubic and organic shapes not only distinguishes GROHE Plus aesthetically but also makes the tap collection the perfect counterpart to both square and round ceramic lines such as GROHE Essence or GROHE Cube – all according to personal interior design style. To complete the harmonious overall look of the bathroom, the two-tone surface of GROHE Plus’ LED display made of chrome and high-quality acrylic glass in MoonWhite can also be found in several of GROHE’s shower collections too, such as the GROHE SmartControl thermostat and GROHE Rainshower SmartActive head showers.

In addition to the new digitally-enhanced models, the GROHE Plus collection includes a wide range of classic single-lever mixers in different sizes and with additional functions such as a pull-out spout, wall-mounted 2-hole basin mixers, taps for shower and bathtub, and a visually striking freestanding bathtub option. For even greater design freedom that meets the growing demand for personalised style in the bathroom, GROHE Plus is available in Chrome, SuperSteel and Brushed Hard Graphite finishes, the latter of which is accompanied by a black LED display.

RRP from £699.00

Learn more about GROHE’s sustainable technologies by visiting GROHE X.

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Cascade Smart Lime Clean retrofit tap from Neoperl

April 13, 2021

The Cascade, Smart Lime Clean (SLC), retrofit tap aerator from Neoperl has been created to ensure a long-lasting quality flow stream, whilst protecting the tap from limescale build-up.

The Cascade SLC is available in many sizes to suit most basin, bath and kitchen taps. It is a low-cost, precision-made device that fits into the end of a tap and can be easily retrofitted. Most taps today come with some form of stream control that after use gathers calcium deposits restricting the flow of water. The beauty of the Cascade SLC is that it does not need to be removed for cleaning, the limescale can simply be rubbed away with a finger ensuring the tap stream remains straight and soft.

It is available in various flow rates and can be purchased with an integral flow control too with pressure compensating (PC) technology, helping to reduce the amount of water used. It can deliver either an aerated or laminar flow stream, the latter being a requirement for some commercial environments. Cascade can also be purchased with an adjustable stream angle (SSR) which allows the tilting plate at the spout to be angled between 6-10 degrees. Cascade is a really affordable, easy to retrofit solution, that saves water too.

For more information visit www.neoperl.net

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Ritmonio DOT316 Round Taps – perfect for hospitality

March 9, 2021

The Ritmonio DOT316 round taps range is manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel, delivering both functionality and aesthetics for hospitality venues.

DOT316 Round takes its name from the perfect and harmonious geometries of the archetypal circle shape, which in this new version is reflected in both the body and the spout of the tap, for a simply sophisticated bathroom. A great alternative to the straight lines of DOT316, DOT316 offers a new option for those who love more delicate and sinuous lines.

DOT316 Round features ‘rotative’ controls that enhance this design that is so distinctive of the collection. The collection also maintains water-saving features, to meet the needs of all users.

Available in brushed black and brushed champagne stainless steel, DOT316 Round offers a touch of modernity and greater freedom when planning and designing.

A new balance between shape and functionality, DOT316 responds to new interior design trends.

Technical Features:

This series is among Ritmonio’s products with water-saving features, characterized by the ECO water flow – delivering less than 9 l/m – it is designed to encourage consumers to use environmental resources responsibly.

www.ritmonio.it

About Ritmonio

Ritmonio has manufactured safety valves and brass, copper, aluminium and stainless steel components for 70 yrs. In addition, the Bath and Shower Division produces designer taps and fittings for bathrooms. By combining fine craftsmanship, design and production skills, Ritmonio creates exclusive and authentic Made in Italy products that are functional yet stylish and eco-friendly.

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VASCO expands radiator range with Wi-Fi capability

March 1, 2021

VASCO is expanding its range of electric heating solutions, to include an updated Wi-Fi-controlled electric radiator, the Niva, together with a hybrid version of the designer radiator the Niva Mix.

Electric radiators are the perfect partner for new ‘green’ builds and renovations; especially when
combined with the installation of ground source heat pumps or solar panels.

The newly upgraded Niva range of electric radiators are easily controlled you can choose from a radio frequency version, which is not connected to your home internet and comes with a compliant thermostat as standard.

The electric radiator also has a VASCO Climate Control app (you will need the E-Volve Wi-Fi control version), this and the control unit can be ordered separately. The compact Wi-Fi module uses Bluetooth to communicate with a small temperature sensor located in the same room as the radiator. A third version, which allows you to control the radiator with your home automation system, is also available.

The Niva is a dry thermal panel electric radiator and does not contain any water; it heats up very quickly as it uses VASCO’s new infrared technology to generate a comfortable, radiant heat.

The upgraded electric Niva allows you to control and limit the radiator’s surface temperature, which is an extremely practical feature in rooms where safety is paramount, such as nurseries, it is far lighter than a water-filled radiator making it much easier to install based on a plug-and-play principle.

Niva Mix: hybrid radiator available in 2 sizes
The VASCO Niva Mix is an exciting new hybrid radiator. It is an ideal solution as it offers two options: it can be connected to a hydronic central heating system or run on electricity. This makes the Niva Mix hybrid radiator perfect for areas that need to heat up quickly when the central heating system is switched off, such as bathrooms.

The minimalist, sleek and stylish electric Niva and Niva Mix radiators are available in an extensive range of colours that will work with any interior.

Wide range of accessories
All VASCO accessories that are suitable for the hydronic Niva radiators are also available for the upgraded electric Niva and the Niva Mix.

About Vasco – www.vasco.eu
Vasco offers a wide range of innovative and sustainable total solutions in the field of heating, ventilation and cooling for an optimal indoor climate. For example, Vasco delivers high-quality and internationally acclaimed design radiators that are characterized by a combination of top design and functionality. The quality brands for panel radiators are Superia in Belgium and Brugman in Germany, France, Poland and the Netherlands. In addition to radiators, Vasco is also an important player in the field of ventilation and underfloor heating. Vasco radiators are guaranteed with a quality guarantee for a period of 10 years on waterproofness and lacquer. The production companies are located in Belgium, the Netherlands and Poland. Vasco, headquartered in Dilsen (BE), has approx. 500 employees and is part of the Swiss Arbonia Group.

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Saving water is easy with a Neoperl flow control device

February 19, 2021

Flow regulators are devices that control the flow of water through our household appliances. They are manufactured here in the UK by Neoperl and are made in hundreds of sizes that can now be retro-fitted to taps and showers throughout the home, so everyone can now do their bit to save water and the energy that heats it.

Most taps will already include a flow control device at the end of the spout and it’s often only when in situ that one can identify whether the flow is too strong. We’ve all experienced a splashing cloakroom tap for instance where the flow is too fast for a smaller basin. Now the incumbent device can be easily removed and replaced with one that reduces the flow to a comfortable level. The same with showers, a valve shower often delivers far too much water and even a slight reduction adds up to a substantial water saving over the year.

Regardless of the prevalent water pressure, a flow regulator maintains a consistent water stream at the chosen flow rate. A typical flow regulator consists of three components, a housing, a seating area and a precision-ring. The flow is determined by the interaction between the seating area and the o-ring. As water flows through the device at a higher or lower pressure, the shape of the o-ring changes to restrict or release the flow of water.

This is demonstrated in an easy to understand way at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TktKkFck2cM&list=PLxg7O65GE0aJwYMVzOu1QJ13kP5zp2Q2B

As a spokesperson for Neoperl tell us, now is the time to look at both our own homes and advise your clients on this easy water-saving win.

“As clients spend more time working from home and adding home improvements in abundance, why not take the opportunity to talk with them about saving water too? Especially as we are all spending so much more time washing our hands resulting in many thousands more litres of water being washed down the plughole.

“It’s a really affordable solution to retro-fit a flow regulator, most consumers could do it themselves with a little advice. They simply need to be aware that flow regulators exist, obtain the right advice as to which regulator to fit to retain adequate performance and purchase a simple tool to fit it.”

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Mikado saves water with clever eye-catching design

October 5, 2020

The award-winning Mikado aerator from Neoperl certainly does its bit when it comes to saving water. This clever device, which can be retrofitted to a bathroom tap, reduces the flow of water to just over a litre a minute, that’s at least a 65% saving on an average tap.

Its eye-catching flow creates a grid-like spray pattern formed by individual water jets, clearly demonstrating that a practical solution can also produce a beautiful design. It’s a perfect solution for a cloakroom or bathroom where the bowl is rarely filled and is predominantly used for hand washing.

The Mikado, which won a Red Dot award on launch, offers three attractive water stream patterns from slim, close-meshed to expansive and all offer integrated PCA* technology enabling a virtually consistent flow rate from 1.3 litres per minute, regardless of pressure fluctuations. With less water being used through the tap, the energy needed to heat it is saved as well.

Retrofitting an aerator is very simple. The water supply can be left on and It requires a special tool from Neoperl to remove the incumbent aerator or stream straightener affixed to the end of most modern taps. The new Mikado is then simply screwed back in to the holder.

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Planet-friendly bathroom design

May 26, 2020

Checking labels and understanding how products are created is increasingly important to today’s consumer. According to the Ethical Consumer the total UK ethical consumer market was just £11.2bn in 1999, but almost four times that today, at £41.1bn. The report also reveals that ‘green home’ spending has increased eight-fold, from over 1bn 20 years ago to in excess of 10 bn last year.

When it comes to bathroom design, consumers want to know products are manufactured sustainably without leaving a negative legacy on the world. As Kaldewei’s Adam Teal tells us “Today’s consumer is more aware of the environmental impact being placed on the planet, especially the effects of plastics on our environment and oceans.”

VitrA’s *Suit L basin mixer shown in copper saves water and energy – shown with Equal bathroom furniture.*

The good news for the bathroom industry is we are not short of responsible manufacturers, with many already ahead of the game. For example, Vitra’s Blue Life approach to production and design is central to all group activities. Manufacturing plants are equipped with specifically designed recycling systems to reduce raw materials, and power consumption and products are designed and developed to promote resource and energy conservation.

Kaldewei (pictured top) has been awarded an Environmental Product Declaration and is also a member of the US Green Building Council LEED.

All Kaldewei steel enamel bathroom solutions are 100% recyclable and Kaldewei avoids the use of colour additives in production. In 2017, Kaldewei won a Green Good Design Award – one of the world’s most prestigious sustainability awards.

Bette’s baths, shower trays and washbasins are made from glazed titanium-steel.

Bette has invested in energy-efficient manufacturing and creates 2/3 of its own energy requirements. Its baths, shower trays and washbasins are made from glazed titanium-steel, which uses only natural materials in its production, and they are so durable that they come with a 30-year warranty. When Bette products do, eventually, reach the end of their life, they are also 100% recyclable.

Planet-friendly bathroom design Novellini — Novellini

Novellini’s products are designed and manufactured to meet the latest European standards in terms of quality, safety and environmental friendliness. The adoption of low environmental impact production processes, the total control on toxic substances and significant energy savings, are the answers to the problems of a world in constant evolution.

Together, these eco-aware brands deliver a comprehensive portfolio of products, making green design easier to execute than you might think.

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