Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

Königstone introduces bathroom surface solutions

September 28, 2026

KönigZero is a zero-silica engineered stone surface designed to offer a practical and refined solution for bathroom interiors. Combining durability with a non-porous surface, it is resistant to moisture, staining and the build-up of mould and bacteria, making it suited to spaces where hygiene and easy maintenance are key considerations.

The surface is also designed to withstand the demands of everyday bathroom use, including humidity and changes in temperature, without warping or degrading over time. Its consistent finish allows for a coordinated look across vanity tops, splashbacks and other bathroom features, creating a clean, cohesive aesthetic that works equally well in everyday and more luxurious interiors.

Ceramic surfaces offer another versatile option for bathroom design. Like engineered stone, ceramic is non-porous, making it resistant to water and easy to maintain in moisture-rich environments. Its slimmer profile also opens up further design possibilities, particularly for full-height wall cladding, where its relatively lightweight construction allows for large-format installations with minimal visual interruption.

Ceramic can also be used to clad furniture, including vanity units and bespoke cabinetry, helping to create a consistent finish across the bathroom. The result is a clean, contemporary aesthetic that combines practical performance with a considered approach to surface specification.

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VitrA Tiles 2027 Collections and New Technologies at Cersaie

September 27, 2026

VitrA Tiles showcased its 2027 collections at the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings at Cersaie 2026, held in Bologna, Italy, this month. The ceramic tile brand welcomed architects, interior designers, customers and industry professionals, presenting its Material Intelligence concept, The Code, alongside new developments in ceramic tile technology.

The Code: three ceramic surface collections

At the centre of the presentation was The Code, VitrA Tiles’ Material Intelligence concept, bringing together three distinct design languages – Resincode, Geocode and Metacode.

Developed with contemporary architecture and interior design in mind, the three collections translate the textures, tones and surface qualities of natural and industrial materials into ceramic tile. The ranges offer architects and designers different approaches to specifying surfaces, from the mineral character of concrete and the geological variation of natural stone to the aged appearance of metal.

Resincode takes inspiration from the porous, mineral-rich appearance of natural concrete, combining subtle tonal transitions with layered surface effects. Its minimalist and refined aesthetic makes the collection suited to contemporary architectural and interior schemes.

Geocode draws on the geological character of Spanish limestone, marble, quartzite and gneiss. Four surface typologies – Alba, Imperio, Rio and Merano – interpret the natural variation and detailing of stone through a contemporary ceramic format, providing options for architects and designers looking to introduce a natural stone aesthetic into a tile specification.

Metacode explores the character of industrial materials through three surfaces inspired by gold, iron and copper. Subtle tonal shifts and soft reflections recreate the appearance of patinated metal, bringing an industrial influence to contemporary interior schemes.

VitrA Tiles introduces new surface technologies

Alongside its 2027 tile collections, VitrA Tiles also showcased two technology developments at Cersaie 2026: V-Flex and V-Tone.

V-Flex incorporates Välinge’s Ceraloc® locking technology to provide an adhesive-free tile installation system. Specially developed side profiles allow the tiles to be mechanically connected, with VitrA Tiles reporting installation times of up to five times faster than conventional bonded applications.

The system is designed to provide accurate alignment and consistent grout lines, while individual tiles can be removed and replaced when required. This offers potential practical benefits for architectural and commercial projects where ease of maintenance and access to individual tiles are important, including retail, hospitality, offices, showrooms and other commercial environments. V-Flex also incorporates acoustic properties.

Meanwhile, V-Tone focuses on colour consistency within ceramic tile production. The technology is designed to maintain tonal consistency and visual continuity across different surfaces, helping architects and designers achieve greater consistency within a specified tile scheme. Integration of V-Tone technology into VitrA Tiles’ production lines is ongoing.

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Bathroom Association prepares for Connect Conference 2026

September 24, 2026

Preparations are gathering pace for the Bathroom Association’s Annual Connect Conference, which returns to The Grand Hotel, Birmingham, on Thursday 8 October 2026.

Bringing together the entire bathroom industry, the conference will provide a full day of insight, discussion and networking, followed by the Association’s Gala Dinner and the celebration of its Thirty-under-Thirty winners.

The theme for 2026 is ‘Stronger Together’, reflecting the importance of closer collaboration at a time when businesses across the sector are responding to economic uncertainty, changing consumer expectations, skills shortages, regulatory pressures and the need to improve environmental performance.

Rather than viewing these as separate challenges for different parts of the market, the conference will consider how knowledge and experience can be shared more effectively across the bathroom supply chain.

The daytime programme will open with award-winning author, broadcaster and keynote speaker Jez Rose. Drawing on research into nature, behaviour and wellbeing, Rose will examine how small changes can significantly affect performance, resilience and the way teams work together.

Rebecca Larkin, head of construction research at the Construction Products Association, will assess the economic and construction outlook. Her session will help place current market conditions into context and consider the factors likely to shape business confidence and activity.

Dr Vanessa Brady OBE, founder and CEO of the Society of British and International Interior Design, will explore the changing relationship between design, product development and consumer expectations. With more than 30 years of experience across interior design, construction and procurement, Brady will consider the trends influencing bathroom specification and the opportunities created when designers, manufacturers and the wider supply chain work more closely together.

Skills and competence will form another important part of the programme. An industry panel featuring Steve Collinge, Managing Director of Insights Retail Group, will discuss the shortage of skilled installers and plumbers and its wider consequences for capacity, costs, quality, compliance and consumer confidence.

The final main session will come from entrepreneur Rob Law MBE, best known for creating the Trunki ride-on suitcase. Law will draw on his experience of turning an early setback on BBC’s Dragons’ Den into an international product success, sharing lessons around resilience, innovation, manufacturing and understanding the needs of the end user.

Daphne Doody-Green, CEO of the Bathroom Association, said: “The challenges and opportunities facing the bathroom sector are increasingly interconnected. Our annual conference gives us the chance to bring different parts of the industry together, hear perspectives we may not encounter in our everyday roles and have constructive conversations about where we go next.

“The speaker programme will provide plenty to think about, but the value of the day will also come from the conversations around it. Strong professional relationships help businesses share knowledge, find new opportunities and respond more effectively to common challenges.”

Dedicated networking time will allow delegates to continue the discussions prompted by the programme, reconnect with industry colleagues and establish new relationships across the wider sector.

Following the conference, the Bathroom Association’s Gala Dinner will provide a more informal conclusion to the day. The evening will include the Association’s charity raffle in aid of CRASH, and will also provide a platform to recognise its Thirty-under-Thirty winners of 2026.

The awards celebrate younger professionals who are already making a meaningful contribution to their organisations and the wider bathroom industry. Their recognition will place future talent at the heart of an evening celebrating the people, businesses and relationships that support the sector.

Comedian Alun Cochrane will host the evening, co-presenter of The Frank Skinner Show on Absolute Radio, winner of the Chortle Awards for Best Breakthrough Act and Best Compere, and nominee for the Perrier Best Newcomer Award. He has appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival multiple times and appears as a regular panellist on Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Mock the Week, Have I Got News for You, and 8 Out of 10 Cats.

Amy Kirk, marketing and events director at the Bathroom Association, added: “We want the Connect Conference to feel relevant, welcoming and genuinely useful. The programme moves across economic insight, design, people, skills and manufacturing, giving delegates a broad view of the issues shaping the industry.

“The Grand Hotel was extremely well received last year, and we are looking forward to returning. Availability for overnight accommodation at the hotel has now sold out, proving its popularity. However, as we’re in the city centre, there are plenty of alternative options available nearby.”

Further details about the programme and delegate packages are available on the Association’s Connect Conference website.

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Bathrooms to Love by PJH expands Washbowl Collection

September 24, 2026

Bathrooms to Love by PJH has expanded its statement Washbowl Collection with three new luxury models, Yoko, Jenna, and Penny. The launch extends the current washbowl range to over 25 designs.

Designed to complement its modular and fitted Bathrooms to Love furniture, the basins add new shapes and finishes in white ceramic to offer more choice for bathroom schemes. A choice of furniture worktops, wall-mounted or tall basin mixer taps are also available from the company’s brassware category.

The round Yoko Washbowl (pictured left) features a textured fluted design and measure a diameter of 400mm with a height of 140mm. Jenna features a fine-edged oval shape at 520mm (W) x 140mm (H) x 320mm(D), and Penny (pictured top) is rounded with a pedestal base and has a diameter of 310mm with a height of 150mm. All the new bowls offer a durable design, and require an unslotted waste.

Julie Lockwood, product manager, Bathrooms to Love, said: “Demand for statement vessel basins remains high, as they create an interesting focal point to the bathroom, adding character and style. Twin vanity units, even more so. The additional designs give customers even more choice and join an already exciting line-up of sculptural shapes, colours and finishes. From Art Deco to Marble-effects, Matt Indigo to Latte, and elliptical shapes to mini space-saving bowls, choose from ceramic or resin for a designer-inspired look.”

As featured in the current 2026 Bathrooms to Love brochure (See it Here), the new ceramic washbowls come with a Lifetime Guarantee and are available to order via the PJH Partners Portal™ on a Next-day Delivery service. For further information, including showroom POS and attractive display deals, contact PJH.

For further information, contact Bathrooms to Love by PJH: T: 0345 450 8932 / www.partners.pjh.uk / www.bathroomstolove.uk

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Grant Westfield expands regional sales team

September 23, 2026

Grant Westfield, a leading wall panel manufacturer, has strengthened its regional sales team with the appointment of two new business development managers.

Wayne Morgan (pictured top) has joined the business as business development manager for Wales, bringing a wealth of experience across sales, business development, operations and customer relationships.

Prior to joining Grant Westfield, Morgan spent seven years as sales and operations manager for an independent home improvements retail business, where he managed a range of projects for high-end customers, including a project with designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, which is due to feature in his upcoming Netflix documentary.

Commenting on his new role, Morgan said: “Although I have only been with Grant Westfield for a short time, I have already noticed the real passion, confidence and pride that people across the business have in the company, products and processes. This has been really encouraging and is something I am excited to be part of.

Also joining the sales team is Chris Waites (pictured below), who has been appointed as Business Development Manager for the North of England.

Waites joins from Woodstock Trading Co., where he held the position of area sales manager. He brings a strong customer-focused approach to his new role and is looking forward to developing relationships with Grant Westfield’s customers across the region.

Waites said: “I am excited about getting in front of our customers and building up relationships that are beneficial for both us and our customers.

I am a big believer in customer service and strongly agree with the phrase ‘people buy from people’. My key priority is to offer the best service possible to my customers and to build relationships which will then make Grant Westfield their go-to supplier.”

Michael Dobson, Grant Westfield’s sales director, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Wayne and Chris to the Grant Westfield sales team. Both bring valuable experience and a strong customer-focused approach, which will be a real asset as we continue to strengthen our relationships with customers across Wales and the North of England.”

For more information, please visit: www.grantwestfield.co.uk or call 0131 337 6262.

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Kinedo set to make a statement at HIX

September 23, 2026

After its inaugural year exhibiting at the HIX show in 2025, bathroom brand Kinedo is taking a space again in 2026 at the exhibition’s new home at ExceL in London.

With a range of products suited to the hotel sector, the company will be displaying a selection of walk-in showers, cuttable shower trays and Kinewall statement wall panels, including the new Signature range.

For designers and hoteliers who are looking for a bathroom with a difference, the new Kinedo Signature collection is a set of bold patterns that truly create a standout space. Imagine a Highland Cow in a Highland Hotel, a Peacock in a Manor House Hotel or a Lion in, well, any room that merits a bit of fun and adventure. These animal-inspired panels join the funky giraffe that debuted at HIX last year and extend a range of other show-stopping designs.

Kinedo’s parent company is SFA Saniflo and the stand team will also be able to discuss how Saniflo’s world-renowned pumps and macerators can work in conjunction with Kinedo products for installations in awkward spaces. Designed to facilitate the discharge of water waste from bathrooms where there is no existing pipe infrastructure or no gravity drainage, such as lofts and basements, Saniflo products are able to convert redundant space into revenue generating rooms.

The team is looking forward to welcoming customers old and new onto stand J65.

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VIMAR signs major partnership with Marriott International

September 23, 2026

Vimar has signed a partnership agreement with Marriott International to supply products and solutions across the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) markets. This agreement strengthens the company’s positioning within international premium hospitality, consolidating its role as a key technological partner for the respected hotel chain.

The partnership involves the supply of wiring devices and accessories designed to ensure full design coherence across all visible devices within the guest rooms. For Marriott, the approach assists in meeting its project standards of quality, reliability and sustainability, which it considers a key target regardless of the architectural context or the specific requirements of its diverse brands.

According to Vimar, the partnership with Marriott underscores its ability to support major global hospitality players with reliable, innovative solutions and sophisticated design. It adds that the alliance further confirms the company’s status as a preferred partner for high-end projects and as a global ambassador for Italian quality.

www.vimar.com

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Thomas Crapper brings a British bathroom classic Back into focus

September 23, 2026

As compact cloakrooms become increasingly design-conscious spaces, traditional bathroom details are finding new relevance. Thomas Crapper is bringing its Bentham Cloakroom Basin back into the spotlight, highlighting how a heritage-inspired design can work within the proportions and practical demands of contemporary interiors.

Originally developed as a compact alternative to a traditional fireclay sink, the Bentham combines the visual weight and craftsmanship associated with classic British bathroom design with a shallow 250mm projection. At 570mm wide, its proportions make it particularly suited to cloakrooms and ensuites where space is limited but design impact remains important.

Handmade in Britain using Devonshire fireclay, the basin is fired and hand glazed by skilled artisans. Its substantial construction gives it the presence of a traditional ceramic piece, while a choice of White, Indigo Blue and Forest Green finishes allows designers to take the design in either a more classic or contemporary direction.

The Bentham’s asymmetric configuration also brings a practical consideration to its traditional form. Available with either a left- or right-hand tap hole, the basin incorporates a generous ledge on the opposite side for soap, hand wash and everyday bathroom essentials — providing useful surface space without requiring additional shelving.

With its combination of British craftsmanship, heritage character and space-conscious proportions, the Bentham illustrates the renewed potential of traditional bathroom design within contemporary residential schemes.

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BC Designs launches new Plazia freestanding bath

September 22, 2026

BC Designs has expanded its freestanding bath collection with the launch of Plazia, a generously proportioned acrylic bath designed to bring a strong focal point to contemporary bathroom schemes.

Measuring 800mm wide by 1780mm long, Plazia is one of the largest baths within the BC Designs portfolio, offering a 266-litre capacity and a wide, deep-edged profile. Its softly rounded form keeps the overall design simple, while its scale gives designers and retailers an option for customers keen to ensure the bath is the more dominant feature in the room.

Plazia is manufactured from Acrymite®, BC Designs’ seamless acrylic material, creating the appearance of a smooth, one-piece bath without the considerable weight associated with some solid-surface alternatives. Despite its size, the bath weighs just 38kg, helping to combine a substantial look with more practical installation and handling considerations.

Colour customisation also forms part of the offer. Plazia is available in Gloss White as standard, while its exterior can be finished through BC Designs’ Painted for You service. Customers can select shades from Little Greene, Farrow & Ball, or Fenwick & Tilbrook, specify a RAL or British Standard colour, or make use of BC Designs’ digital colour-matching service.

The flexibility gives retailers another way to personalise a freestanding bath specification, whether matching Plazia closely with surrounding furniture and finishes or using the bath itself to introduce a contrasting colour into the scheme.

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

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Cosentino expands Dekton portfolio with Artik Nodes

September 22, 2026

Cosentino has expanded its Dekton® portfolio with the launch of Artik Nodes: Artik Nodes, a new collection inspired by the mineral landscapes of the Arctic.

The collection draws on the contrast between ice and rock, with intersecting lines and organic patterns creating a distinctive geological effect.

Available in three colourways, Artik Nodes combines graphic depth with more subtle, tactile finishes.

Designed for both residential and commercial interiors, the collection offers a versatile surface for contemporary architectural schemes.

Three mineral-inspired colourways

Artik Nodes is available in three colourways, each offering a different interpretation of the collection’s mineral aesthetic.

Borealis is an ivory white with a delicate pink undertone and irregular sand-coloured veining, creating a light and understated finish.

Kobuk features a rich taupe-brown background crossed by fine, light veins, giving the surface a warmer and more dramatic character.

Nordal is a light pearl grey with fine diagonal veining and subtle copper undertones. Its varying pattern density creates a soft, ice-like appearance.

Designed for performance

Available in 0.8, 1.2 and 2cm thicknesses, Artik Nodes is designed to combine aesthetics with the performance expected from Dekton®.

The surface is highly resistant to UV rays, fire and heat, scratches, stains and thermal shock, while its near-zero porosity makes it suitable for a range of interior and exterior applications.

The collection can be used for worktops, flooring and wall cladding, providing a durable and versatile surface for both residential and commercial projects.

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