Wisely planned, today’s comfortable bathroom can become tomorrow’s age-appropriate or even accessible bathroom. Comfort, flexibility, and safety can coexist with sophisticated design and a welcoming atmosphere.
Therefore, it makes sense to think of the future during any bathroom renovation. There are an increasing number of people who wish to continue living autonomously in their homes as they grow older, or if they become disabled. Surveys suggest that the bathroom may be the most essential room in the house in terms of features suitable for older or disabled individuals.
Between necessity and free expression: accessible bathroom features
Guidelines on how to design an accessible bathroom exist in many countries. For example, in Germany, a bathroom in a public building must be DIN 18040 compliant to attract funding and be deemed accessible. The main requirement is sufficient space to move freely or manoeuvre a walking frame or wheelchair. It is also essential to remove or lower the heights of thresholds and access points.
Showers such as the Sustano and Tempano ranges from Duravit that are flush with the floor are crucial, and an accessible bathroom should be wheelchair-accessible beneath the washbasins, as is the case for models Duravit D-Code Vital, DuraStyle Vital, or Starck 3 Vital. And into the mix, contactless faucets such as Sensor 1 from Duravit, which make everyday life easier. Toilets with a raised sitting position and a projection of 700 mm enhance the quality of life for people with limited mobility.
Other essential elements for an accessible bathroom include grab bars and support rails, as well as non-slip floor covering. Doors should be wide enough and open outward, especially for wheelchair users. Bright lighting makes it easier to navigate.
Comfort that grows with you – multi-generational planning
However, relying solely on standards to manage this complex topic is insufficient. An assessment and future-oriented planning based on an individual’s needs is valid here, as a multi-generational bathroom with accessible elements can then be adapted to the users’ needs in later phases of life. It is designed to be welcoming and aesthetically appealing – a feel-good space that seamlessly integrates accessibility. As a comprehensive bathroom manufacturer, Duravit offers a range of design products that encompass both inclusive and attractive bathroom designs.
Universal design: when beauty knows no bounds
The principle of “universal design is geared toward the same approach: rooms should be designed to be accessible for everyone while still being aesthetically appealing, for greater inclusion and quality of life. Duravit offers a comprehensive product range that intelligently combines function, form, and emotional impact, supporting planners, architects, and private developers. After all, a beautiful bathroom knows no barriers.
*According to a representative study conducted by the German Sanitary
Industry Association (Vereinigung Deutsche Sanitärwirtschaft, VDS) in conjunction with the Forsa Institute, 95 per cent of respondents consider age-appropriate bathroom design to be important or very important in enabling autonomous living for older people. The fact that 66 per cent consider such features to be “very important”, with even 60 per cent of 18 to 29-year-olds agreeing with this opinion, deserves special mention.
(Source: Trends, Talks and new products – Accessible bathroom Campaign)
Classic British bathroom brand Thomas Crapper has revealed its autumn/winter 2025 collection – a refined edit of basins, washstands, WC suites and accessories that blend period detailing with contemporary practicality.
The Florin Suite – deco elegance
Leading the launch is Florin, a new basin and WC suite inspired by Art Deco architecture. Bold lines are softened by subtle curves, offering elegance with a touch of versatility. Customers can choose from a full pedestal, classic wall brackets or a wooden washstand for a tailored finish.
Versatile washstands
Thomas Crapper’s new washstands are designed to pair with the florin basin or a sit-on model. They come in two widths – 600mm and 1200mm – with a drawer or shelf option. Finish choices include natural oak, crisp white, and a handpicked palette of heritage paints, with tones echoing Farrow & Ball classics.
The Greenwich Suite
A pared-back update to the popular Marlborough range, Greenwich offers a more streamlined silhouette while keeping the brand’s timeless appeal. This accessible collection pairs seamlessly with the well-loved venerable wc pan, making it ideal for both renovations and new installations.
Compact wall-hung furniture in standout shades
New Bromley and Bentham wall-hung units add style to smaller spaces. Available in oak, forest green and indigo blue, each unit is colour-matched to its basin, creating a bold, unified look with compact proportions.
Brassware in four finishes for every style The Palais and Cruze tap collections now include monobloc and 3-hole deck mixers, alongside thermostatic shower options. Finishes include chrome, nickel, polished brass, and brushed brass, with a choice of lever or crosshead handles – ideal for both period homes and modern interiors.
Flush plates with flair
Lever-style dual flush plates join the collection, echoing the brand’s attention to detail. Designed to work with concealed cisterns, they deliver both function and style.
Each piece in the AW25 launch reflects Thomas Crapper’s founding values: “devoted to quality, for lasting luxury”. From Victorian townhouses to bold country homes or refined modern settings, this new collection respects tradition while offering a fresh take on British bathroom design.
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 Reportfor 2025, luxury is now taking centre stage, with over one-third of homeowners choosing a statement bath. Thisrepresents 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
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: thePuro 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
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.”
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
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
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
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
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.
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Inspired by contemporary European aesthetics and built with precision and superior craftsmanship, Nôsa’s products are designed to transform the bathroom into a personal sanctuary, whether your style is minimalist, country chic or modern maximalist.
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.
Toilets have come a long way from being purely functional fixtures. Today’s sanitaryware is more innovative, sleeker, and packed with innovation, giving bathroom retailers and designers 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 benefits like integrated bidet functions, self-cleaning nozzles, heated seats, and automatic lids, they’re no longer reserved for luxury hotel suites; they’re a realistic upgrade for design-led bathrooms at home.
At the same time, powerful new flushing systems, such as VitrA’s Sonic Flush, are changing the conversation around water efficiency and performance. Instead of traditional flushing rims, these advanced systems channel water in a high-speed, spiral motion, reducing water use while delivering an even more powerful flush. Sonic Flush is also seven times quieter than an average toilet.
Rimless WCs have also gone mainstream, now seen as a benchmark for hygiene. The absence of a rim makes cleaning easier and prevents the build-up of germs, an increasingly important concern for today’s hygiene-conscious consumers. VitrA offers various rimless designs at different price points, including SmoothFlush and Rim-ex.
Wall-hung toilets are also increasing in demand for their minimal look and space-saving appeal, although there are still some myths to debunk about their strength and durability and concerns over concealing the product behind a wall and tiles. VitrA V-Fix frames can support up to 400kg, and, should access be needed, a plumber can simply remove the flush plate and access the cistern without needing to damage the wall.
Considering all of these, there is much more to choosing the right toilet than just the aesthetic design!
Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review. Diane Larner launched both titles over 12 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
Clerkenwell Design Week 2025 reaffirmed its place on the UK’s design calendar with a bold and vibrant display of creativity and innovation. Held across London’s iconic Clerkenwell district, this year’s festival saw over 43,000 visitors—an 11% increase on last year. Clerkenwell is said to be home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else in the world, and the three-day event brought together global brands, emerging talent, and design professionals from across the interiors spectrum. For the bathroom sector, Clerkenwell offered a unique platform to explore trend-led products in the heart of London’s design district.
Diane Larner attended the event and compiled six inspirational bathroom highlights.
Florim presented a selection of its most advanced and aesthetic-driven ceramic collections at its central London showroom during Clerkenwell Design Week.
The medieval London Charterhouse became the new focal point of Clerkenwell Design Week, hosting a vibrant mix of events, exhibitions, and immersive installations.
Marazzi marked its 90th anniversary with the unveiling of its newly renovated London showroom at 90/92 St. John Street, in the heart of Clerkenwell.
Jedd Barry
Jedd Barry, head of marketing, Clerkenwell Design Week
Clerkenwell Design Week continues to exceed expectations, and our 14th edition was undoubtedly the most ambitious yet. We welcomed over 43,000 visitors – an 11% increase on 2024 – and launched three new venues, including the historic Charterhouse and St Bartholomew the Great. These additions formed a vibrant new southern district, all of which received fantastic feedback and added even more depth to our already impressive line-up.
“For us, a clear highlight was Alex Chinneck’s surreal public artwork in Charterhouse Square – our boldest installation to date – which truly captivated our visitors while driving incredible engagement from the local community.
“Alongside more than 250 exhibitors, we saw a record 210 showroom partners take part across the Clerkenwell neighbourhood this year. Our talks programme, hosted at The Charterhouse for the first time, also brought together global voices to explore some of the most relevant and thought-provoking topics in design today.
“We very much look forward to welcoming everyone back from 19–21 May 2026!“
Ben Bryden, global specifications director, RAK Ceramics UK
As ever, Clerkenwell Design Week was a huge success for RAK Ceramics, and we had a fantastic few days welcoming a wide range of architects, designers and specifiers to the RAK Ceramics Design Hub. It proved the perfect platform to launch our aspirational KLUDI brand into the UK market and we were delighted with the response it received. Visitors were able to see the quality as well as the breadth and depth of the range alongside some of RAK Ceramics’ latest surface innovations.
It’s an exciting time for RAK Ceramics UK as we’re marking our 25th anniversary this year and Clerkenwell Design Week gave us the chance to continue our celebrations while strengthening our long-term collaborative partnerships with the design community.”
About CDW
Clerkenwell Design Week is the UK’s leading independent design festival, celebrating creativity across architecture, interiors, and product design. Held annually in London’s historic Clerkenwell district, the event draws an international audience of designers, specifiers, and industry professionals, all eager to explore the latest developments in material innovation, surface design, and functional aesthetics. With its vibrant mix of showroom collaborations, curated exhibitions, and public installations, the festival provides a vital platform for design-led dialogue and cross-sector inspiration.
The ME by Starck Hero Edition from Duravit is a forward-thinking, wall-hung toilet that brings together minimalist design, advanced technology, and genuine everyday practicality. Designed in collaboration with Philippe Starck, this model meets the high expectations of UK homeowners, designers, and installers alike.
Its centrepiece is the DuraFlush rotational flush system. Using just 4/2 litres per flush, it delivers powerful, splash-free performance across the entire bowl. The rimless, sloped design ensures thorough cleaning with every flush and drastically reduces the need for scrubbing. It’s also impressively quiet—ideal for night-time use.
Duravit’s new DuraShield glaze takes hygiene to the next level. This innovative, antibacterial finish eliminates 99.99% of bacteria within 24 hours, thanks to metal-ion technology. The smooth, pore-free surface prevents the build-up of dirt and limescale, helping maintain a cleaner, fresher toilet for longer, with less reliance on harsh chemicals.
Ease of installation is another highlight. The DuraFix Pro system enables quick, secure, one-person fitting from above, eliminating the need for visible screws or caps. It’s a clean solution for modern bathrooms, whether in new builds or refurbishments. The ergonomic seat is designed for comfort and features a fast-release mechanism for straightforward cleaning and maintenance.
Available in White or White Satin Matt finishes, the ME by Starck Hero Edition is a considered, sustainable choice. It comes with a lifetime guarantee and is made entirely of ceramic, with no plastic components. This is a premium fixture that delivers high performance, long-term value, and contemporary style.
Perfect for design-led bathrooms across the UK, the Hero Edition sets a new standard in wall-hung toilet design.
Features by Diane Larner founder and editor of Bathroom Review & Kitchens Review. Diane Larner launched both titles over 12 years ago and has been writing about the bathroom and kitchen interior design industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
ISH Frankfurt 2025 opened its doors to over 160,000 visitors from 150 countries in early March. It brought together manufacturers, industry leaders, designers, and innovators to showcase the latest trends in sustainable design, smart technologies, and eco-friendly solutions.
For the bathroom sector, water-saving innovation, twinned with resource efficiency, was billed as a key theme of this show. Many exhibitors unveiled products that prioritise energy and help users conserve water. The Future of Water section captured the spotlight, featuring new technologies designed to reduce consumption while maintaining high performance. From smart, connected systems to innovative water-saving features, ISH Frankfurt 2025 demonstrated how the bathroom sector is embracing a greener, more sustainable future.
Digital transformation embedded within the latest bathroom design highlighted the growing trend forsmart, connected bathroom systems. Numerous exhibitors showcased innovations with digital and app controls and intelligent solutions designed to enhance daily living and accessibility.
Diane Larner attended the event and compiled six inspirational bathroom highlights.
Universal design has always been at the heart of HEWI’s philosophy.
Wolfgang Marzin
Wolfgang Marzin, president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Messe Frankfurt
The atmosphere at ISH 2025 was outstanding – the halls were buzzing, and the conversations were in-depth and forward-looking. The industry is ready and willing to shape the future. ISH has reaffirmed its status as the world’s leading trade fair: 72 per cent international exhibitors and 163,157 visitors speak for themselves.
“ISH 2025 has powerfully demonstrated that innovative solutions to meet basic needs have long been available. Our exhibitors have shown that the transition to a sustainable economy is not only vital, but already underway – despite the challenges we currently face. They are developing technologies that improve our daily lives while making them more sustainable.”
Ruth Davies, VitrA UK marketing director
We were delighted to be at ISH for our 21st year, showcasing our latest products and innovations. This year we presented a wide range of new products, including new sanitaryware, furniture, and brassware as well as V-Care smart toilets and the groundbreaking SonicFlush technology.
“Sustainability was also a key focus, with dedicated space highlighting our ethos. We showcased our recycled washbasin as well as our new recycled toilet seat, alongside the introduction of our SustaINdex system, which ranks our products based on their environmental and social impact, covering materials, production, transportation, and packaging. A huge thank you to everyone who visited us – it was fantastic to share our innovations and hear your feedback!”
About ISH Frankfurt
ISH Frankfurt is the world’s leading trade fair for bathroom, building, energy, and air-conditioning technologies, held biennially in Frankfurt, Germany. As a key event in the industry, it showcases the latest trends and innovations, offering a platform for manufacturers, designers, and experts to present groundbreaking solutions for the built environment. The fair is renowned for its focus on sustainability, smart technologies, and energy efficiency, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to stay ahead in the evolving world of bathroom and building services.
At ISH, global leaders gather to explore cutting-edge products and share insights on the future of water management, digital transformation, and eco-friendly design. The event plays a pivotal role in shaping industry standards and promotes the adoption of green technologies that enhance both functionality and sustainability. With its forward-thinking approach, ISH continues to be the premier destination for discovering the innovations that will define the future of living and working spaces.
The eco-cistem™ is a pioneering toilet cistern designed to revolutionise water conservation. It flushes with grey condensate water from air conditioning units, providing an innovative solution to reduce freshwater consumption. Already installed in numerous commercial hotels and office buildings, the eco-cistem™ is delivering substantial water savings.
This advanced cistern is specifically engineered to capture and reuse condensate water – typically wasted and sent to the drain – by redirecting it to the toilet cistern for flushing.
The eco-cistem™ unit features a unique, patented 18-litre, twin-chamber design. It can store up to 12 litres of ‘free’ condensate grey water, with the remaining six litres dedicated to flushing. The system prioritises using grey water, only drawing fresh water when no condensate is available, ensuring optimal flush performance without any compromise.
Condensate production from air conditioning units varies, but even in the UK, the demand for air conditioning is growing due to climate change and increasingly thermally efficient buildings. For instance, a small 1.75kW air conditioning unit can generate over 1 litre of condensate per hour. An eco-cistem™ installation will yield significant freshwater savings even in this scenario.
The eco-cistem™ has been designed and manufactured in the UK and is suitable for various projects, including hotels, apartments and office blocks. It has been created as a concealed installation and, at 485mm high x 476mm wide x 195mm deep in size, can fit in all standard service voids. It is simple to install for wall or frame-mounted WCs and has adjustable flush volumes between 3.5 and 6 litres to suit different regions worldwide. It has undergone testing and received WRAS approval, ensuring compliance with UK Water Supply Regulations.
Additionally, it has passed the AB Air Gap test conducted by KIWA, achieving Category 5 compliance. The cistern is also eligible for BREEAM points under WAT 01 for water consumption and can earn up to six points in LEED’s water efficiency.
In 2023, Paul Crossley was appointed managing director of eco-cistem™ to refine the product design and branding, streamline the UK manufacturing process, and establish several test sites to measure water savings and gain the required accreditations. The development work has now been completed, successful case studies have been conducted, and the product is currently in stock and ready for distribution.
Manufactured in the UK, the eco-cistem™ is ideal for hotels, apartments, and office blocks. Its compact size (485mm high x 476mm wide x 195mm deep) allows for easy installation within standard service voids, whether wall or frame-mounted. The cistern offers adjustable flush volumes between 3.5 and 6 litres, catering to diverse regional needs. It has been tested and certified with WRAS approval for UK Water Supply Regulations and achieved Category 5 compliance in the AB Air Gap test by KIWA. The eco-cistem™ also qualifies for BREEAM points under WAT 01 for water consumption.
eco-cistem™ is the world’s most environmentally friendly toilet cistern. More at https://ecocistem.co.uk/
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 industry ever since, publishing regular features across the two sectors.
Inclusive design is becoming more accepted in general bathroom projects. It ensures that buildings not only meet accessibility requirements but also creates a welcoming environment that caters to the needs of all users. In today’s world, it makes sense to deliver accessible spaces that serve all physical abilities, including mobility challenges, sensory impairments, and age-related conditions.
Hewi product manager Florian Haude agrees, “Accessible design is increasingly becoming the standard in architecture and product design. The focus is particularly on universal design, which makes products and rooms accessible to all people, regardless of their abilities. For example, floor-level showers are not only practical for people with limited mobility but also offer comfort and safety for all age groups. Combined with non-slip surfaces, grab rails and shower seats, an accessible bathroom becomes the norm, combining functionality and aesthetics.”
Easy elegance
Ideal Standard
According to the World Health Organization, over one billion people—about 15% of the global population—live with some disability*, and one in five people are 65 or over. Creating beautiful, inclusive spaces ensures everyone can experience the same level of comfort and enjoyment which makes it a win-win for developers.
Ideal Standard’s senior designer Yiota Toumba comments, “Building or upgrading bathrooms to be more accessible and comfortable for elderly or less mobile residents is one of the most impactful steps developers and housing managers can take. This will both greatly improve quality of life for residents and increase a property’s value.”
Ideal Standard seamlessly blends stylish design with thoughtful functionality. Its Concept Freedom range, designed in collaboration with Studio Levien, offers considerate features for users with mobility impairments. For example, the collection includes wall-hung, back-to-wall, and close-coupled WCs that are 25% higher than average, reducing knee pressure and improving comfort.
Axess all areas
KEUCO AXESS
Accessible showers also ensure safety and comfort for all users. Key features include barrier-free entry, which allows easy access for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Adjustable showerheads, grab bars, and non-slip flooring enhance safety, while a shower seat offers a convenient resting option. By integrating inclusive design, these product lines ensure accessibility is seamlessly integrated into everyday life.
Several companies are leading the way in this area, offering a wide range of products to ensure safety and comfort. KEUCO is one such brand. As the demand for barrier-free bathroom concepts continues to grow, so has KEUCO’s product offering. Its ranges support physical disabilities and comprise highly functional but beautifully designed products that ensure comfort and safety in the bathroom.
KEUCO’s ranges include ergonomically designed PLAN CARE shower products, IXMO shower fittings, including shower rails and railing systems, KEUCO AXESS (pictured above and top), and a sustainable and cross-generational wetroom rail system that can be flexibly adapted to suit any space.
Accessible accessories
HEWI Tilting Mirror
Thanks to growing innovation in the industry, accessible design is not limited to the shower or bath. A growing range of products means inclusivity is easily accommodated in every aspect of the bathroom. Adaptive accessories play a vital role in ensuring usability for all; for example, mirrors placed at accessible heights help individuals in wheelchairs or with limited mobility use them easily.
As an expert in barrier-free sanitary solutions, HEWI has introduced an exciting addition to its product lineup: the motorised tilting mirror. This new model offers extra ease and functionality – the tilt function can be adjusted with precision up to a 28° angle, all controlled wirelessly via a sleek wall switch.
Freshen up
TOTO NEOREST WX
Shower toilets offer significant benefits when it comes to accessible design. These toilets provide a hygienic, gentler and more effective cleaning method than traditional toilet paper. These options are especially beneficial for individuals with limited mobility, sensitive skin or arthritis. The latest models have been designed to let users adjust water pressure and temperature – this helps promote independence and reduces the need for assistance. Thanks to their ergonomic design, comfort is enhanced, and water-saving features make them an environmentally responsible choice. If designers wish to prioritise inclusivity, shower toilets offer a practical solution.
Kazuki Osugi, general manager of TOTO UK, explains the importance of new technology, “If people lose strength and mobility, things like going to the toilet can become very difficult. It’s an unpleasant experience to feel helpless in such intimate moments – especially for people who wish to live self-determined lives with dignity. Designing an appropriate bathroom is an important step to keep people going to the toilet as long as possible without assistance. A TOTO WASHLET bidet toilet with various features is a great solution for hospitality environments.”
TOTO’s NEOREST WX features the latest WASHLET technology. This new design cleverly conceals advanced features while maintaining a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. The NEOREST WX is one of TOTO’s premium offerings, showcasing the brand’s commitment to luxury, hygiene, and comfort.
Child’s play
HEWI
Using colour in residences where children with disabilities and special needs are cared for can promote a positive and supportive environment. Colours influence mood, behaviour, and cognitive function, helping create spaces that are calming, stimulating, or comforting, depending on the child’s needs.
HEWI’s products for children are not only designed in uplifting colours but also meet a variety of requirements: They are safe, easy to use, and robust. In addition, they are easy to clean and hygienic. Products used in cots, nurseries, kindergartens, or schools must withstand high loads over the long term. HEWI products for children meet all these requirements.
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