Taps Archives

House of Piccadilly joins Virtual Worlds

October 31, 2022

A new brand to the market, the House of Piccadilly, has made its catalogue available on Virtual Worlds software.

House of Piccadilly offers a diverse range of colours, sizes and styles across its range of products, from radiators to mixer taps. The range is said to cover everything needed to create stunning bathroom designs, from composite stone baths and wash basins, to antique radiator valves. Al its products are imagined and made by plumbing and interior experts, combining an eye for artistry with years of experience in what works best.

“House of Piccadilly is all about celebrating originality, with a vision to develop a brand that is constantly evolving ahead of interiors trends,” explains managing director Harry Pashby. “As a new brand to the market we want to shake things up and provide customers with added value. Joining Virtual Worlds is an important part of this, enabling retailers to include our extra-special piece in their designs with ease, so their customer can enjoy homes that are extraordinary.

“Not only are the products out of the ordinary, but the price point is a key differentiator too. Working with its manufacturing partners, House of Piccadilly can provide the unique styles, varied colours and superior standard that consumers are seeing, at a more widely affordable price.”

Find out more about House of Piccadilly here and for more information visit www.virtualworlds.co.uk or call 01908 663848.

About Virtual Worlds

Virtual Worlds is a UK leader in innovation-led CAD technology for the KBB market. Since launching in 1998 it is said to be the first company to develop 3D design software for KBB retailers and, most recently, it has launched its new 4D Showroom Technology. Virtual Worlds is a division of Logicom Computer Services (UK) Ltd

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Duravit’s guide to buying taps with Best Match

October 28, 2022

Various decisions need to be taken before buying bathroom taps as the variety of ranges is wide. They differ mainly in design, function, and price, however, aspects such as durability and the economical usage of water and energy are becoming increasingly important. In the following article, Duravit explains how its latest options can accommodate today’s preferences and needs.

Timelessly modern versatility of design

Decisions on the installation of a new bathroom are primarily based on aesthetics, but it is worth noting that a bathroom tends to remain for around 15 years. Modern design is deeply rooted in Duravit’s DNA – product management, the internal development team, an international supplier network as well as external designers such as Philippe Starck, Kurt Merki Jr., Matteo Thun & Antonio Rodriguez, and Bertrand Lejoly collaborate to develop taps and shower sprays. Duravit offers a wide range of design variants for differing styles and holistic bathroom design. There is something for every budget, at a consistently high design quality, and with the durable, easy-to-clean surface options Chrome and Black Matt.

Tap applications for the whole bathroom

Duravit offers single-lever mixers in a range of sizes (S–XL) with an optimum height for all washbasins, from handrinse basins through washbowls. As a complete bathroom supplier, Duravit aspires to offer something for every part of the bathroom: from the washbasin through the shower and bathtub, as surface-mounted and flush-mounted versions.

The Duravit BlueBox®, a universal installation system for a range of tap designs (lever mixers or thermostats), is used for concealed installation. This allows the design decision to be taken even after the basic set has been installed.

Matching range of shower sprays

Shower sprays are the perfect addition in every area – whether in the shower or on the bathtub. Duravit’s optimized range of shower sprays offers something for everyone. Hand showers and showerheads are available from a range of price points and feature different spray modes and surfaces. Functions such as EasyClean for ease of cleaning or the Click! technology for changing spray mode at the push of a button enhance convenience and comfort. A range of designs, from the classic, wide-diameter hand shower through the minimalistic hand shower wand with a cylindrical or square design also guarantee that the optics will be just perfect.

As practical all-in-one-solutions, the shower systems work as a single-lever or thermostat variant and are ideal for renovation work as they do not require complex in-wall work.

Comfortable operation

Ergonomically designed handles that feel pleasant in the hand are a key feature in designing faucets that are comfortable and easy to use. This enables water quantity and temperature to be set exactly.

Thermostat faucets for the shower and bathtub are available as an alternative to single-lever mixers: the advantage of these is that they can be set to the desired temperature, which ensures constant water temperature and irons out fluctuations in pressure.

Sustainable economy functions

The Duravit taps and shower sprays use intelligent technologies to offer concrete economic benefits. In the centre position, energy-saving washbasin faucets with a FreshStart function only produce cold water to start with. Hot water is only added when the handle is deliberately moved to the left. This reduces energy requirements and lowers energy costs and CO2 emissions as hot water is only used in situations where it is needed. Cold water is perfectly adequate for washing hands, cleaning teeth, and watering plants.

With a flow rate of 5.5 l/minute, all Duravit washbasin taps are sparing in their consumption of hot water and energy. The MinusFlow taps are more sparing still, with a flow rate limited to 3.5 l/minute. The AirPlus technology additionally adds air to the water jet, creating a gentle, voluminous stream.

There are also enormous potential savings for water and energy especially when it comes to showering: Compared to standard showers, Duravit MinusFlow hand showers have a reduced flow rate of up to 40%, rising to as much as 60% on the showerheads (MinusFlow showerheads = 9 L/minute, standard hand showers 15 l/minute, standard showerheads 25 l/minute).

Quality and guarantee

Duravit uses high-quality materials for all taps and reliable ceramic cartridges for a long service life. Before launch, the taps are subjected to stringent tests such as washing comfort and splashing behaviour. This guarantees the Duravit Best Match: A configurator developed in-house by Duravit that helps users find the best combination of taps and ceramics for any washing area: www.duravit.com/bestmatch Duravit offers a voluntary five-year guarantee on all taps and shower sprays. Spare parts are kept available for a whole 15 years after each product line is discontinued.

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Riobel launches GS bathroom tap in the UK

August 23, 2022

Riobel is expanding its brassware collection in the UK by introducing its latest bathroom tap collection, the GS. An attractive addition to any bathroom, the beauty of the GS lies in the simplicity of its form.

Already launched in Riobel’s native Canada, the GS is part of a product portfolio that spans contemporary kitchen and bathroom taps with a range of matching accessories. The GS is one of four stylish new taps in the Riobel bathroom collection, with additional taps due to launch throughout the latter half of 2022.

The GS collection is an example of Riobel’s mastery of geometric forms. Its elegant simplicity makes it suitable for a wide range of bathroom design styles. Available in a Black or Chrome finish, it is an asset to any bathroom.

The GS collection boasts geometry with sleek lines to create a modern aesthetic for bathrooms with a contemporary feel. The GS series is meant for both minimalist décor and transitional styles, as its organic shape complements both beautifully.

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TOTO presents two new automatic taps with ECO CAP technology

August 17, 2022

TOTO’s two new award-winning automatic taps feature its new ECO CAP technology to reduce water consumption.

Perfect for residential and hospitality bathrooms, these collections were both recognised with the international Red Dot Award and Green Design Award for outstanding design. Available in a wide range of different versions, there is a perfect tap for every washbasin – from self-rim and undercounter washbasins to furniture washbasins and vessels.

The round and square tap collections each have five different versions – all of which are touch-free and use very little water. One special feature of TOTO’s touch-free tap is the SELF POWER technology, which can also be called an integrated “hydropower plant”: One of the smallest sensors in the world is installed in the spout, registering people’s hand movements to activate the flow of water. A second technology is also at work inside the faucet: A generator converts the energy from the flow of water to power the microsensor.

Water-saving technology creates a pleasantly full stream of water

Another new technology is TOTO’s ECO CAP, which adds air to the water to reduce consumption and create a comfortable sensation: The stream of water feels very gentle and full, but the tap only uses two litres.

The perfect tap for every washbasin

Each of these faucet collections – square and round – is available in three heights and two different wall spout lengths. The perfect tap is available for all types of washbasins – from self-rim and undercounter washbasins to furniture washbasins and counter basins and vessels. The two collections impressed the judges for the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2022 in February 2022: The design experts praised the “minimalistic design approach” and “expressiveness”, recognising the collections as winners. These two touch-free faucet collections also won the Green Good Design Award 2021. The “harmony of the design with its surroundings” played a role in the award, as well as the factor of “user-friendliness”.

Touch-free in the bathroom – TOTO taps, shower toilets and more

Society’s experiences with the pandemic over the past few years have sensitised people in a variety of different respects, especially when it comes to hygiene. Cleanliness is important whenever several people use the same bathroom. The fewer surfaces people have to touch, the more comfortable. Touch-free faucets and hand dryers were once found exclusively in public washrooms but are increasingly found in private homes today. In addition to its touch-free taps, TOTO offers a number of other products that help elevate hygiene: shower toilets with automatic flush (WASHLET™), automatic soap dispensers, hand dryers and washbasins with especial dirt-resistant ceramic surfaces.

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KEUCO Black Selection

June 7, 2022

The new collection of black matt bathroom products made by KEUCO is designed to be both elegant and extravagant.

The new Black Selection offers fittings and accessories in a uniform black matt, including matching handles on mirror cabinets. The contrast of the matt black with light tones is particularly powerful and creates a perfectly staged setting in terms of interior design.

The unique feature provided by IXMO enables several functions to be grouped together in one area
creating a clean, chic, minimalist appearance, as only a limited number of the fitting elements are required on the wall. In combination with the extensive range of black matt shower accessories, such as an overhead shower, a hand shower with matching hose, the most desirable shower solutions can become a reality.

The design elements of IXMO in matt black continues through to the washbasin. Available in three styles: Flat, Soft or Pure IXMO provides washbasin fittings to suit different living styles, either as single-lever mixers or wall-mounted fittings. Also in the range is a touch-free IXMO sensor fitting for the washbasin. The entire bathroom can be styled with black matt accents, as the fittings are also available to match the bidet.

Black Selection accessories
Accessories can add a special touch especially when it comes to bathroom design, high-quality bathroom accessories are now part of a harmonious overall picture. The ROYAL MODULAR 2.0 mirror cabinet is now available with a black matt finish, and with matt black elements from KEUCO’s PLAN and REVA collections complete the picture, whether it be the shower basket, cosmetic mirror, lotion dispenser or toilet paper holder.

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Aqualisa introduces Downtown™ taps range in matt black

April 21, 2022

British bathroom specialist Aqualisa has introduced a range of matt black models to its premium Downtown™ taps collection. With a refined and contemporary finish, the matt black Downtown taps make a bold and punchy impact, adding contrast to any modern interior, and continuing the ongoing industrial trend for black bathroom brassware.

Each tap features an angular, soft square lever style with ultra-smooth movement, allowing precise and effortless operation. The matt black surface is both easy to clean and scratch-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity. Available from the end of April 2022, the new line-up includes a small and large pillar mixer tap, a deck-mounted bath filler and a bath shower mixer.

Aqualisa Downtown Matt Black Small and Large Pillar Mixer Taps
Available in small (130mm) and large (147mm) sizes, these elegant basin mixer taps are equipped with an integrated aerator for a softer, non-splash flow. Suitable for both high and low-pressure water systems, each model is machined from high-quality brass with a zinc handle, and comes with a matching, flush-finish metal click clack waste.

Bathroom_Review_Aqualisa_Downtown_Matt_Black_Deck_filler

Aqualisa Downtown Matt Black Deck-Mounted Bath Filler
Engineered to the same soft square design as the individual pillar taps, the Downtown deck-mounted bath filler incorporates dual levers for hot and cold water. Engineered from brass with zinc handles, this durable bath filler can be used with high and low pressure systems, and thermostatic technology ensures a safe temperature for family bathrooms.

Aqualisa Downtown Matt Black Bath Shower Mixer
Adding the convenience of a high-performance 65mm hand shower, this stylish shower mixer features a thermostatic brass body, zinc handles, a 1.25m matt black smooth hose and wall-mounted handset holder. The hand shower is equipped with rub-clean jets for easy maintenance. This unit is also suitable for high and low water pressure systems.

Aqualisa Midas™ 220 in Black with Downtown Taps Combination
In addition to the individual models, the Downtown large pillar tap will also be available as a combination with the Aqualisa Midas 220 in Black mixer shower, with a choice of overhead shower column and adjustable head, adjustable shower only or bath shower mixer.

All models in the Aqualisa Downtown collection are quick and efficient to install, with the reassurance of Aqualisa’s long-standing reputation for reliable and trusted bathroom solutions that are built to last. The full range is WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) approved, and each product carries a five year manufacturer’s warranty after registration, plus the backing of Aqualisa’s in-house sales and service support teams.

For further details on the Aqualisa Downtown taps range – also available in chrome – please visit: https://www.aqualisa.co.uk/products/type/bathroom-taps/downtown-taps.html

Pricing and availability
The Aqualisa Downtown Matt Black collection will be available from the end of April 2022. For pricing and more information, trade partners can contact their Aqualisa representative or the Aqualisa Customer Support Team on 01959 560020 or 01 864 3363 (Ireland).

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VitrA launches Root Brassware Range

March 2, 2022

International Bathroom brand VitrA has launched Root, a comprehensive collection of brassware with over 130 SKUs including basin, shower, and bath mixers, all in four different finishes. Two different design choices are available – Root Round and Root Square.

Every product is available in chrome, gold, copper, and brushed nickel. The hardwearing colour is applied using an advanced VitrA process that gives a resilient and beautiful finish.

The versatile range includes deck-mounted or built-in basin mixers in a range of sizes including compact, standard, and tall. The range also includes several bath and shower mixer options, including deck-mounted and floor-standing bath mixers and a range of built-in shower mixers, diverters, and spouts – complemented by wastes and bottle-traps as required.

Root Medium built in copper — Root Round – built-in – copper

The bath and shower mixers in the range are compatible with VitrA’s V-Box concealed thermostatic valve.

Root brassware features an exclusively designed flow regulator and the collection’s Unified Water Label certified mixers reduce water usage by 60% even in the lowest consumption category (5 litres/minute water flow). The basin mixer cartridge with heat regulator and flow rate control provides extra savings in both energy and water consumption. Being able to control the amount of water and energy used helps to conserve natural resources and reduce heating bills.

“We believe that Root brassware will be a great success in the UK market, says Margaret Talbot, VitrA Marketing Manager for UK and Europe. “The Root range is elegant and stylish, and the sheer breadth affords retailers maximum design potential. The Root collection will be joined by new bathroom furniture later in the year – a range like the brassware that will be comprehensive, striking, and hardwearing.”

Root Medium Rounc basin mixer — Root Round medium monobloc basin mixer shown in chrome.

Pictured Top: Root Square deck mounted mixer in brushed nickel

www.VitrA.co.uk

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Grohe launches fourth generation Eurosmart brassware

January 17, 2022

The upgraded Eurosmart range from Grohe promises optimal comfort, contemporary design, and easy installation. New features include a redesigned Loop Lever improving grip for those with mobility needs, models with extra-long levers to allow ‘elbow taps’ for health sector workers, and safe stop technology for residential settings.

“Eurosmart evolves with every generation, which is crucial if you want to bring meaningful products to the market. Our environment is constantly transforming, and we need to react to changing needs with new product solutions“, says Jonas Brennwald, Leader LIXIL EMENA and Co-CEO, GROHE AG.

“Right now, a global health crisis is forcing the world to rethink hygiene standards. Therefore, we have developed a hybrid version of Eurosmart, which combines hygiene-enhancing touchless and manual operation. Another example are the lever variants, which reflect the complexity of different living situations and the fact that every consumer has different requirements. Long levers simplify the daily work of doctors, while loop levers are perfect for children, the elderly and those with reduced or limited mobility.

“Eurosmart is the perfect proof that innovation is not limited to new lines. Innovating in a relevant way also means reinventing core products. Only these human-centric solutions enable us to create better homes.”

Eurosmart Loop Lever

The Eurosmart Loop lever simplifies gripping thanks to the cut-out centre – ideal for those with limited or reduced motor skills and for care homes, allowing everyone to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.

Extra long levers

Models with extra-long levers are are ideal for serving the health sector. Doctors and health professionals are able to operate the tap with their elbow, minimising contact with surfaces. The different lever variants directly relate to people’s lifestyles and needs and are a perfect reflection of GROHE’s human-centric design approach.

Anti-scald safe stop

To make things even more convenient, especially for households with children and older generations, the Eurosmart line is now also equipped with a new safe stop technology. Thanks to an integrated thermostat, the temperature can be limited to help reduce the risk of scalding.

Water & energy saving

Water and energy-saving technologies integrated in the Eurosmart range support growing efforts to achieve a more sustainable lifestyle. GROHE EcoJoy, for example, reduces water flow while enriching the water with air, ensuring a voluminous flow while saving valuable resources at the same time .

The Eurosmart range has also been updated for the kitchen with a refreshed contemporary look; from models with pull-out hoses to unique wall-mounted taps for the ultimate space-saving around the sink area.

More news from Grohe.

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AirPower by Hansgrohe: an indulgent shower with reduced water consumption

December 20, 2021

According to Hansgrohe, AirPower is a unique shower experience that ncreases the enjoyment of the shower whilst reducing water consumption. The innovative technology AirPower enriches each water droplet with air to produce plump droplets creating a velvety touch on the skin.

Hansgrohe recognises water is a valuable resource, extensive time and research has gone into establishing AirPower technology to help reduce water consumption. When using the shower, air is sucked in through the spray disc that stirs up the water. Enriched with fresh air, the droplets are noticeably lighter, creating more enjoyable showers whilst helping save both water and energy.

Showers

AirPower technology is featured in a vast range of Hansgrohe products including collections Raindance, Vernis, Vivenis and Croma through basin taps, overhead and hand showers and shower systems.

Wash basins

With AirPower, the basin taps from Hansgrohe encourage them to work reliably by adding volume to every droplet of water whilst noticeably reducing splashing. The soft water droplets make for a pleasurable washing experience, whether that’s washing hands, washing hair or caring for children’s sensitive skin.

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Hansgrohe’s latest innovations take the stage at HIX

December 8, 2021

Hansgrohe presented its latest ranges, including Pulsify, RainDrain, Finoris, Vivenis, AddStoris and AXOR One. For some of these products, HIX represented the first time they were available for viewing at an event in the UK.

Hansgrohe comprised its brands AXOR and hansgrohe, to showcase its latest innovations in bathroom design. With working water displays and its latest products on show, visitors were welcomed to the stand. As one of the founding sponsors of HIX 2021, Hansgrohe sponsored the talk, ‘Quietness with Attitude’, in partnership with Hotel Designs at the event.

Jay Phillips, Managing Director at Hansgrohe UK comments: ‘Designing for wellness has never been more important. The mental and physical health impact of the last 18 months has opened up important conversations around personal and corporate wellbeing, so much so that designers and architects need to work increasingly harder to create spaces that calm, rejuvenate and cocoon its users.

“Whether through applying biophilic principles, using clever lighting and layouts, or simply harnessing the restorative power of water when it comes to bathroom planning, good design has the power to transform the guest experience. Hansgrohe, with its brands AXOR and hansgrohe, is delighted to be sponsoring this event where such an important topic is top of the agenda.’

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