WC Archives

The smart bathroom: Intelligent design to future-proof & delight

November 2, 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.

According to Greenmatch, approximately 39% of UK households embraced home technology in 2024. Furthermore, the UK smart home market reached a staggering £3.1 billion in 2025, a 7% increase from 2023. As expected, water and energy conservation are leading the march, but consumers are also in the midst of a love affair with technology that enhances convenience and efficiency.

For house builders, developers and the design community, the smart money is on smart technology. Incorporating cutting-edge smart-home features into new builds can significantly boost property value. Homeowners, too, are reaping rewards – studies show a potential increase in property value of up to 5%*, a noteworthy margin in the highly competitive UK real estate market.

In this feature, Diane Larner examines the latest products to reach the market – from intelligent WC’s and showers to next-gen lighting and mirror solutions.

Connect & reflect

Bathroom-Review-Luka-Cabinet-smart-mirror- — Sensio Luka Smart Mirror

The integration of smart bathroom technology is a game-changer for architects and designers, as it requires the creation of spaces that are seamlessly connected, enhancing functionality and elevating the overall user experience. As today’s consumers continue to embrace the ‘Age of Alexa’, smart-enabled devices have become an integral part of everyday life. Put simply, the way we interact with our homes has undergone a transformation in recent years.

Karl Hallam, head of marketing at Sensio Lighting, explains, “Home automation is nothing new. It’s been around for almost 10 years now. What has changed is our behaviour and attitude towards smart-enabled homes.

“Smart technology and devices are far more mainstream. At Sensio Lighting, we’ve seen a demand shift in recent years, with our smart-enabled products almost doubling in sales. Lighting is no longer just on/off, with users now expecting to change between task and ambience lighting with simple voice command or home automation. This industry shift is exciting to be a part of, especially in an innovative, design-led business.”

The Luka Smart Mirror is more than just a mirror; it serves as a hands-free portal to a connected world. This mirror seamlessly integrates Amazon’s Alexa into your bathroom routine, with integrated LED lighting and touch-sensitive controls. The Luka Smart Mirror is also available as a bathroom cabinet and is designed in the UK, sold exclusively from Sensio.

The smart choice

Bathroom-Review-_Design_Technology_SensoWash — Duravit SensoWash

Smart toilets are truly making their mark in the world of bathroom innovation and intelligent technology. The once-humble loo is now a frontrunner in bathroom technology, offering an array of features that deliver wellness and accessibility – think heated seats, bidet functions, self-cleaning capabilities, night lights, and even app integration.

On top of all that luxury, many smart toilets are designed with sustainability in mind. From an environmental perspective, they help conserve water thanks to adjustable flush settings and water-efficient systems. It’s a win-win for both comfort and the environment.

Martin Carroll, managing director, Duravit UK, agrees, “Smart toilets are redefining bathroom design – combining hygiene, sustainability, and tech-driven comfort. With features like touchless operation, personalised wash settings, and minimal water use, they offer a more efficient, eco-conscious alternative to traditional fixtures. Integrated dryers and rimless flushing enhance cleanliness, while app connectivity and user profiles bring a new level of convenience.

“Once a luxury, they’re now a smart lifestyle choice – meeting rising demand for wellness, design innovation, and connected living in residential and hospitality spaces.”

The Duravit SensoWash® range can be controlled via an app on your mobile. Engineered for comfort and connectivity, it offers intuitive features that elevate everyday routines from user-ID recognition to activate personalised wash settings (Rearwash, Ladywash, Comfortwash) to programmable seat heating.

Look on the light side

Bathroom-Review-Zuma — ZUMA LED Lights with speakers

Installing ambient lighting in the bathroom space helps promote a sense of well-being, whilst delivering a touch of luxury. The latest tech-driven innovations are designed to seamlessly blend aesthetics and functionality, delivering an immersive experience alongside sophisticated illumination.

Zuma manufactures LED lights with integrated premium speakers that can be installed flush into your ceiling. The Zuma app includes ambient lighting controls with intensity and colour options. Zuma also lets users tune into their circadian rhythm with an added light feature that tracks the sun throughout the day. The system also streams music, podcasts, and audiobooks, and it has an IP65 rating to ensure safety in the bathroom.

Perfect persona

Bathroom-Review-Aqualisa-Quartz-Touch-System-Lifestyle — Aqualisa Quartz Shower Range

The UK bathroom industry accounts for a significant share of domestic water use, with bathrooms alone estimated to use 30-40% of a household’s total water use. Recent innovations in smart shower technology allow homeowners to monitor and calculate their water usage, providing an opportunity for developers to incorporate these technologies into new builds. And, the latest personalisation features mean users can create individual profiles for each family member, adding safety and convenience at the touch of a button.

Nigel Palmer, head of communications marketing at Aqualisa, comments, “The smart home is now part of everyday life, yet many people don’t realise how quickly this technology is transforming the bathroom. Smart showers are bringing precision, personalisation and sustainability together, offering greater control over water use and energy consumption. With features like app connectivity, voice activation and usage monitoring, smart bathrooms are enhancing comfort and convenience while supporting more efficient, environmentally responsible living. It’s an exciting evolution for both homeowners and the industry.”

Aqualisa’s latest smart showers deliver precision, personalisation and safety. The industry-leading Quartz range is simpler than ever to use, featuring an updated app that lets each household member create an individual shower profile. It can be voice-activated via Alexa or Google Assistant, or operated using a remote control, ensuring water is always at the desired temperature and flow rate.

END

Visit the Bathroom Review features page for more like this. Alternatively, if Kitchens are your thing, please visit our sister site, Kitchens Review

* Smart Home Technologies

Keep Reading

Villeroy & Boch expands shower toilet range with Supreo, Supreo Select, and Tivo

October 23, 2025

Villeroy & Boch has introduced three new models to its shower toilet range: Supreo, Supreo Select, and Tivo. These new additions are designed to fit any bathroom style and offer advanced features for comfort and hygiene.

Supreo and Supreo Select: premium hygiene and comfort

The Supreo shower toilet excels in hygiene, while the Supreo Select version adds extra comfort features. Both models offer various flow modes, automatic flushing, fresh water cleaning for the shower attachment, UV-light disinfection, odour control with a stone filter, and air purification through an ionizer – ideal for windowless bathrooms.

athroom-Review-Villeroy-Boch-Supreo-Supreo-Select-and-Tivo

Both models also include a gentle HarmonicWave 2.0 shower jet, a patented SupremeDry dryer with low airflow, and ambient lighting for added atmosphere. The Supreo Select consists of a heated seat, eco mode, and automatic lid opening. Available in White Alpine and Pure Black, these models will enhance any premium bathroom with their sleek design.

Tivo: smart hygiene and comfort

The Tivo shower toilet combines all essential shower toilet functions with added comfort, like individually adjustable shower and dryer settings, a heated seat, odour extraction, usage recognition, and a nightlight. Its modern, universal design, combined with Villeroy & Boch’s high-quality finish, makes it a great choice for those seeking both hygiene and comfort. Tivo is also a practical solution for elderly users, helping them maintain independence and ease in daily routines.

Keep Reading

Introducing DuraFlush® – powerful, quiet, and water-saving from Duravit

October 17, 2025

Duravit has introduced its new DuraFlush® rotary flush technology, setting new hygiene standards while maximising efficiency. First featured in the ME by Starck Hero Edition wall-mounted toilet, this innovative system delivers a powerful and splash-free flush, even with reduced water volumes of 1.2/0.8 or 1.1/0.5 gallons (4.5/3 L or 4/2 L). This breakthrough technology ensures thorough flushing while contributing to water conservation.

Bathroom-Review-Duravit-water-saving-WC-DuraFlush

The optimised rimless bowl design ensures thorough cleaning across the entire surface of the toilet bowl. DuraFlush® also helps to reduce build-up, making cleaning easier – for improved hygiene, easy maintenance, and greater sustainability. The whisper-quiet flushing action makes it possible for the whole household to enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep uninterrupted.

DuraFlush® at a glance:

Powerful rotary flush
Deep-cleaning action with reduced water consumption
Flush volumes of 1.6/0.8, 1.2/0.8 or 1.1/0.5 gallons (6/3, 4,5/3 or 4/2 L)
Especially quiet flushing action
Optimised bowl shape with a uniform, rimless design
Easier to keep clean
100 % ceramic, no plastic

www.duravit.co.uk

More news and product information from Duravit

Keep Reading

Discover the bathroom of the future: Comfort & cleanliness, from Duravit

October 10, 2025

The bathroom has been more than just a functional space for a long time: it’s a sanctuary, an oasis of well-being, and a technological wonder combined into one. With solutions that blend seamlessly into your designs and make everyday life easier, the bathroom of the future is already here.

The spa-inspired toilet

At first it looks like a classic toilet, but it’s actually a technological marvel: Duravit’s SensoWash family of shower toilets combines state-of-the-art hygiene technology with intuitive operation and elegant design. With features such as RearWash, a warm air dryer, odour extraction, UV disinfection, seat heating, and night light, it brings a whole new level of comfort. Water-based cleaning is thorough yet gentle at the same time—making it perfect for delicate skin. The individually adjustable shower jet provides a comfortable experience and an unmatched feeling of freshness, all the while saving toilet paper too. The timeless design allows intelligent technology to stay concealed in the background.

Bathroom-Review-Bathroom-of-the-Future_Design_

Sustainably refreshed

When it comes to taps, the harmony between eco-friendly technologies and exceptional comfort is evident. The Shower System Shelf 1050 meets demanding sustainability standards while also providing an enjoyable shower experience. With the MinusFlow version, the handheld shower wand reduces water consumption by up to 40 per cent, while the overhead shower can save up to 60 per cent, without compromising on your shower experience. In addition, the integrated HeatLock anti-scalding protection feature provides extra safety. Cleaning the showerheads is especially easy due to the EasyClean feature, as lime and dirt can be removed with your finger— without the need for any harsh cleaning agents. These well-designed features encourage responsible water use and help reduce ongoing costs.

Bathroom-Review-_Design_Technology_ShowerShelf.

Long-lasting protection

Today’s modern bathroom solutions focus on design and comfort as well as intelligent finishes that make it noticeably easier to maintain high levels of hygiene. The new 2-in-1 DuraShield® glaze provides ceramic finishes with lasting protection against bacteria, dirt, and limescale. Positively charged metal ions create an invisible protective barrier that wipes out 99.99% of bacteria within just 24 hours. Its ultra-smooth finish makes water and dirt simply roll off keeping everything fresh for longer, with no extra cleaning required.

Bathroom-Review-_Design_Technology_DuraShield

Invisible power for cleanliness you can see

The DuraFlush® rotary flushing system delivers even greater efficiency: inside the ME by Starck Hero Edition, a spiral-shaped water vortex ensures thorough, splash-free cleaning—even with a reduced water consumption of only 4/2 liters (about 1 or 0.5 gallons). The technology works unobtrusively behind the scenes and goes entirely unnoticed: clean, quiet, and effective—even during nighttime use. Front and center is the ME by Starck toilet, with its universal design.

Keep Reading

Duravit’s Danish design meets boutique comfort at Color Hotel Skagen

October 6, 2025

The Color Hotel Skagen has opened a new wing featuring Duravit’s minimalist Luv and ME by Starck ranges. Designed by Arkitema Architects and inspired by Skagen’s dune landscape, the 32-room boutique hotel features state-of-the-art rooms, a restaurant with regional cuisine, a wellness area with sauna and outdoor pool, plus a wide range of leisure activities.

Bathroom-Review-Referenz_Color_Hotel_-©-Color-Hotel-Skagen_

Constructed to deliver new spaces for relaxation and togetherness, its two new wings draw inspiration from the landscape, lending the building a clean architectural style. The hotel is situated where the North Sea meets the Baltic and is the largest hotel in the city.

The robust and energy-efficient building features dark formwork, combined with warm wood accents. Large windows offer stunning views of the dune landscape and are offset by balconies that complement the clean architectural language, lending transparency and lightness to the design. This approach is carried through into the interior, where the bathrooms combine serenity with natural materials. Duravit’s bathroom solutions complete the holistic concept.

Calm tones, clean shapes in the bathroom

Light natural stone tiles in greige and sand emphasise the Scandinavian character of the building. The bathtubs and above-counter basins from the Luv range combine homely warmth with clean forms. The wall-mounted toilets and vanity units from the ME by Starck range are a perfect match for this interior.

Space to arrive

The clean design continues in the rooms. Bright tones, ample daylight, and natural materials create a tranquil environment. Upholstered beds, rattan and fabric seating, and well-placed details, such as lamps and plants, help create a tranquil retreat that combines state-of-the-art- art comfort with the individual flair of a boutique hotel.

Keep Reading

Innovative design for the accessible bathroom

October 2, 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.

Accessible bathroom design represents a growing trend as architects strive to create spaces that are barrier-free, visually compelling, and future-ready. In addition, manufacturers are promoting design-led aesthetics that ensure the sector is no longer limited to bland institutional looks, but deliver stunning, adaptable designs that create a compelling focal point.

Advancements in technology also mean today’s inclusive bathrooms offer architects an opportunity to merge inclusivity with innovation, addressing the needs of an ageing population alongside everyday bathroom design.

In this feature, Diane Larner examines the latest products to reach the market – from touchless taps to slip-resistant surfaces.

The Magic Touch

Bathroom-Review-Gosfield-accessible-design — Fitzroy of London Gosfield Collection

According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people globally experience significant disability.* This represents 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in 6 of us. Rule 101 of accessible bathroom design is to specify products that are safe and easy to use. With this in mind, touchless taps with thermostatic controls are a desirable solution for preventing accidents and limiting the spread of disease. For hoteliers, housebuilders and the healthcare sectors, these fittings not only enhance hygiene and accessibility standards but also improve the user experience. Additionally, integrated sensors add an extra layer of safety, helping washrooms meet water-saving and compliance demands while delivering a clean, modern look.

Fitzroy of London’s head of product, Mark Shepherd, agrees, “There are a variety of innovations that we are seeing when it comes to the luxury bathroom environment. Thermostatic precision, enabled by modern valve technology, ensures the consistent delivery of water temperature, helping to prevent scalding or cold-water shock when there is a significant change in the incoming water pressure.

“There has also been a significant increase in the demand for touchless activation, whether it’s using infrared sensors on toilet cisterns or taps, or through voice activation and smart home application integration.”

The Gosfield Collection by Fitzroy of London features advanced infrared sensor taps, along with precise control over water flow and temperature, ensuring comfort and safety in both residential and commercial settings. All products are WRAS-approved and Regulation 4 certified, meeting stringent requirements for water efficiency and compliance.

The collection includes beautifully crafted deck and wall-mounted taps, contemporary handheld and overhead shower solutions, shower arms, and precise shower mixers.

Staying Grounded

Bathroom-Review-Kaldewei-Invisible-Grip — Kaldewei Invisible Grip

Incorporating a practical anti-slip shower floor into projects is a simple, forward-thinking solution that delivers safety and aesthetics without compromising looks. Anti-slip solutions are an ideal strategy when providing long-term support for clients as they improve durability, reduce liability risks, and contribute to a safer, more inclusive environment in hospitality and healthcare. It is all about fostering a sense of comfort and safety.

Adam Teal – country manager Kaldewei UK, explains, “When creating and crafting products that enable accessibility within the bathroom space, the design must also consider the dignity and autonomy of the end user. By doing this you can transform a daily ritual into an assertion of care, as well as making a positive design statement about inclusivity. In addition, this should not be about compliance; it’s about crafting spaces where everyone feels supported and empowered to move freely and safely.”

Kaldewei’s Invisible Grip is certified to quality class C for wet barefoot areas (DIN EN 16165), making it particularly suitable for barrier-free bathroom planning. It’s a solution that speaks to both the practical and emotional needs of users, ensuring that safety doesn’t feel clinical and that design remains aspirational.

According to Kaldewei, when designing with both safety and style in mind, Kaldewei’s Invisible Grip is a quiet revolution. It proves that accessible living can be beautiful, and that the future of bathroom design lies in seamless integration, not compromise.

Space & Time

Bathroom-Review-Ideal-Standard-Concept-Freedom — Ideal Standard Concept Freedom Range

Accessible design is no longer simply a box-ticking exercise in hospitality and healthcare; considered choices such as barrier-free flooring and wheelchair-friendly sanitaryware help to deliver a seamless spatial experience. Incorporating ample room for manoeuvre at the planning stage ensures users benefit from generous clearance around sinks, WCs, and the shower room. When architects and designers prioritise space as a core design element, the result is a bathroom that supports independence, as well as the needs of caregivers.

Ideal Standard’s Yiota Toumba, senior designer at Villeroy & Boch, agrees: “Accessible and inclusive bathrooms no longer mean compromising on style. Thoughtful layouts, wall-mounted basins, walk-in showers, and lever taps ensure safety, comfort, and ease of use for everyone.”

Ideal Standard’s Concept Freedom range, in collaboration with the renowned Studio Levien, features clever design elements that make it easier for those with mobility impairments to use. Wall-hung, back-to-wall, and close-coupled WCs include a design that is 25 per cent higher than average. This reduces pressure on users’ knees and helps to improve the user experience for those with mobility issues. The collection also features shower seats and chrome grab rails, giving a contemporary finish which enhances the overall design.

Love Language

Bathroom-Review-Keuco-Axess. — KEUCO AXESS Collection

Specifying products that are both beautifully designed and functional ensures the bathroom space fosters trust and emotional well-being, as well as a sense of comfort. High aesthetics, coupled with a welcoming design that celebrates diversity, help attract a broader customer base and increase profitability for hoteliers.

James Sketch – KEUCO UK country manager, comments: “Accessibility in the bathroom is not a trend, it’s a design imperative. When creating the bathroom, every element and fixture must be created to anticipate diversity. Although essential for practical purposes the products should be crafted with elegance and precision. True inclusivity means intuitive use without compromise: adaptive heights, tactile clarity.”

Developed in collaboration with the legendary Studio F. A. Porsche, the KEUCO AXESS collection brings a new aesthetic language to inclusive bathroom design. From the folding support rail and modular shower system to discreet grab rails and a freestanding stool, every element is pared back to its essentials, streamlined, sculptural, and purposefully unobtrusive. The result is a suite of products that integrate seamlessly into high-end hospitality, healthcare, and residential environments, without ever compromising on style.

Showered with Love

Grohe Sensia Pro LIXIL Dow Jones Index Sustainability — GROHE Sensia Pro

Shower toilets are the icing on the cake when it comes to inclusive planning. The latest ranges combine cleansing and drying functions, adjustable nozzles, and night lights, elevating hygeine standards whilst promoting greater user independence and a sense of wellbeing.

Lewis Neathey, leader, marketing & product management UK at GROHE UK, LIXIL Europe, agrees: “In both healthcare and hotel settings, shower toilets deliver exceptional benefits by combining hygiene, comfort, sustainability, and a luxurious experience. Cleansing with water is an age-old tradition that is still favoured in many parts of the world; however, shower toilets bring this natural form of cleaning into the 21st century with features promoting improved personal hygiene, accessibility, app connectivity, and personalisation.”

GROHE has expanded its shower toilet offering with the new entry-level product, GROHE Sensia Pro. Designed to meet consumers’ hygiene needs in one streamlined solution, shower toilets combine the benefits of a regular toilet with those of a bidet.

END

Visit the Bathroom Review features page for more like this. Alternatively, if Kitchens are your thing, please visit our sister site, Kitchens Review

*World Health Organization

Keep Reading

A design for life – accessible bathrooms from Duravit

July 9, 2025

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.

Bathroom-Review-Duravit-barrierfree_bathroom

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.

Bathroom-Review-Duravit-barrierfree_accessible-bathroom

*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)

Keep Reading

Thomas Crapper unveils new collection: tradition meets timeless style

July 7, 2025

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.

Keep Reading

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

END

Visit the Bathroom Review features page for more like this. Alternatively, if Kitchens are your thing, please visit our sister site, Kitchens Review

Keep Reading

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

July 1, 2025

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.

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

Keep Reading