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Bathroom accessories – dress to impress

Ritmonio Elementa

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.

In this feature, we consider some of the options available to architects and designers, from crafty solutions that hide the accessories we would rather not see, to designs that add finesse to future-proofing.

Alternative endings

Bathroom accessories Ritmonio Elementa
Ritmonio ELEMENTA

Planning accessories early on in the project is a safe way to ensure design clarity and continuity; however, this is not always foolproof, as change is inevitable in design evolution. Even the firmest of resolutions are subject to revision, which will impact each aspect, from surfaces to accessories. Selecting a range with a variety of finishes is one way to ensure leeway at any stage of the game.

Bathroom Accessories HiB Atto range
HiB Atto Range

Ash Chilver, sales director at HiB, agrees: “Perhaps the most notable development of bathroom accessories over the years is the rise in popularity of alternative finishes. Though still a staple choice, chrome is no longer the only option and many designers and consumers are opting for alternatives such as black and brushed metals to enhance their overall look. This trend is set to continue with further options currently being developed.”

Options such as HiB’s Atto range are available in chrome, black and brushed brass finishes, offering versatility applicable to various trends. Pieces in the range can be matched with brassware and mirrors with the same finish, creating a consistent style throughout the space.

Ritmonio’s ELEMENTA collection (pictured very top and above) has also been created to deliver a ‘made-to-measure’ approach for design flexibility. Available in 19 finishes and various materials, including stainless steel and acrylic stone, the clean design means individual elements can be combined to create unique compositions for countless types of accessories.

Geo style

Scavolini Jemoetrica collection

Selecting products that will outlive current trends is key to creating design with longevity. Accessories that stand the test of time may be considered in terms of shape and colour. One option is to build in geometric styling; this centuries-old style plays well with a wide range of surroundings delivering elegance and flair.

James Sketch, country manager of KEUCO UK agrees: “Now more than ever before project managers and specifiers are looking for elements that have a practical aspect, and a design style that will last, and ensures the bathroom maintains a contemporary look for many years to come.”

Scavolini’s Jemoetrica collection (pictured above) is a perfect example of this. Created in collaboration with world-renowned designer Luca Nichetto it is heavily influenced by three iconic 20th-century designs: Ellsworth Kelly’s Sculpture for a Large Wall, Gio Ponti’s multifunctional wall units and Donald Judd’s three-dimensional structures. The wall panel accommodates a series of holes onto which shelves, containers and small accessories can be attached and moved as required. 

Keuco REVA
Keuco REVA
Keuco REVA

Another alternative is KEUCO’s REVA accessories series; the collection has been crafted as a clear geometric shape – ideal for various styles and living environments, regardless of fashion trends.

Attention to detail

Bathroom Accessories
KEUCO REVA Shower Shelf

However necessary (and beautifully designed) accessories are, they must work hard to look good. Creating clean lines and an uncluttered feel can be difficult once you add shelving and accompaniments.

One way to combat this is to build in recesses or to include accessories that hide away. A squeegee will always be a little awkward, yet, KEUCO’s shower shelf (pictured above) has a hidden extra that remedies the problem – a glass squeegee is invisibly integrated into the design, a detail that is both creative and practical. 

Unidrain’s REFRAME collection is also packed full of cleverly engineered designs. It has been created with keen attention to detail to guarantee the ultimate user experience. For example, the newly launched soap dispenser has a robust construction with a non-slip base which keeps it upright and stable, but the most noble design feature is the angled nozzle.  This has been crafted to dispense a specifically measured quantity of soap and due to the angle, the soap lands in your hand and not on the washbasin.

The comprehensive collection includes a towel bar, hooks, toilet roll holder and more.

Bathroom Accessories
Unidrain REFRAME Collection

The power of touch

HiB support bar
HiB Accessories
HiB foldable shower seat
HiBshower shelf

Bathroom accessories are, by default, hands-on, and we know haptics play a significant role in our sense of well-being. This makes shape and texture a key consideration when planning accessories and is especially pertinent to future-proofing or accessible design; for example, a supportive, comfortable grab rail will deliver a heightened sense of safety.

HiB’s multigenerational accessories are an excellent option for families with many age groups living under one roof. Careful planning early on in the project is key when building an accessible design; products such as foldable shower seats can be a stylish but practical solution that aids mobility and access without imposing on the available space.

For the latest kitchen design features – visit Kitchens Review

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Unidrain introduces a new addition to Reframe

Unidrain Reframe

Undrain has expanded its award-winning Reframe Collection of bathroom accessories with the launch of an exclusive new designer soap dispenser.   The carefully considered design has been created with keen attention to detail to guarantee the ultimate user experience.

Key features of the soap dispenser are its robust construction and non-slip base which keeps it upright and stable, but the most noble design feature is the angled nozzle.  This has been crafted to dispense a specifically measured quantity of soap and due to the angle, the soap lands in your hand and not on the washbasin.

It’s intelligent details such as this that are the hallmark of the entire Reframe Collection which incorporates an additional nine designer bathroom accessories.

Unidrain reframe

Soap Shelf & Shower Wiper – magnets are hidden in the wall mounting, which ensure the safe and discrete storage of the silicone blade wiper, whilst the shelf above provides a platform for all your showering essentials.  Both items are also available as individual units, making it ideal for an extensive range of projects.

Corner Shelf – corners; in reality tend to not be an exact 90-degree angle.   The beauty of the corner shelf is that is both visual and practical as it adapts to the specific shape and dimensions of the individual corner.  The shelf has an anti-slip barrier to ensure shower essentials do not slip when the shelf is wet, whilst discreet grooves enable excess water to drain away easily.

Towel Bar – place alongside your bath, shower, or washbasin, with its unique mounting design this bar keeps towels stylishly in situ.

Hooks – discrete and effective, these perfectly shaped hooks will prevent towels and garments from slipping.

Toilet Paper Holder – this keeps the roll in place with a magnetic removable part with carefully optimised friction properties, ensuring that the paper rolls off perfectly. This holder is reversible and can be positioned for your convenience.   An additional element is the spare toilet paper holder, which can be positioned alongside ensuring all needs are met.

Toilet Brush – Sleek design, hygienic functionality.  The toilet brush holder has an anti-drip function and for additional cleanliness an easily exchangeable brush head.

The 200 ml soap dispenser is 13.3 cm high and 7.7 cm in circumference, it is available as both a countertop model and a wall-mounted version, and like the other designs in the bathroom series, it is available in brushed stainless steel, polished stainless steel, as well as PVD-coated brass, black and copper.

The Reframe Collection is an exclusive high-quality Danish design bathroom accessory series, inspired by Scandinavian minimalism and quality, the Reframe Collection reimagines and develops well-known products to achieve the finest functionality in the bathroom.

“With the introduction of a new soap dispenser, the Reframe Collection is now even sharper. As an architect, plumber, or interior designer advising customers on their new bathrooms, you may want to suggest the Reframe Collection as a supplement to their line drains,” explains International Sales Manager René Risom.

Unidrain
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GROHE’s easy WC: new upgrades for SOLIDO All In ONE

GROHE_Solido-all-in-1_Essence-Cerami

For many DIY enthusiasts, upgrading their own home is an enjoyable pastime, taking time to create their perfect space. When it comes to designing our homes, the stakes are often high, especially when it comes to our functional rooms such as the bathroom.

Planning a new bathroom is not just about creating your very own oasis of well-being, it’s also about ensuring that the products match, fit and function perfectly. Making a conscious product selection is key for ultimate comfort, design harmony and long-lasting quality. That’s why many tend to hesitate when it comes to the more complex changes – such as installing a new toilet.

New bundle concept

The brand-new, bundle concept GROHE SOLIDO ALL IN ONE is a user-friendly alternative that means consumers no longer have to spend time on choosing individual products, but instead can buy smartly and have peace of mind. Once a GROHE WC design has been chosen, the ideal combination of high-quality products and installation components is pulled together by GROHE in just one box, ready for installation.

Making the ideal look possible

GROHE SOLIDO ALL IN ONE makes it easy for consumers to choose the right WC model to suit all
preferences. No matter if it’s a classic or modern look, basic level or luxurious comfort – the ready-to-install packages are available in different design variants to meet the highest of standards.

Consumers can choose from four designs that include best sellers and beloved classics such as Bau, Euro, Start Edge and Essence. Consumers also have freedom of choice with regard to preferred features, for example, a quiet flush and hygienic functions. Multiple product options, including all the important parts of a WC set, will ensure the consumer’s choice is a perfect match for all their style and functional requirements.

The perfect WC is more than just a look…

…it is a big component of people’s everyday lives. Nowadays, aspects such as hygiene and sustainability matter when it comes to choosing the right product for the home. The value of hygiene in the bathroom in particular has never been more important, and wall-hung WCs enhance this further. Thanks to their space-saving positioning they allow easy cleaning, with limited fixtures and streamlined fittings.

On top of this, features such as the strong GROHE Triple Vortex flush supports hygiene by cleansing every corner of the bowl, limiting the chances for bacteria to thrive. As people’s conscious decisions are reflected in their interior design choices, the search for sustainable products does not end with the WC itself. The GROHE dual flush system in GROHE’s air flush plates reduces water consumption by up to 50%, helping to support sustainable lifestyle choices.

GROHE Solido All in One

Click the link for more news from GROHE.

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Duravit UK appoints a new head of projects

Simon Brown Head of Projects

Duravit has appointed Simon Brown to the position of head of projects. Having been with the company for five years as a project manager, Simon will be responsible for the strategy & growth of Duravit’s project sector within the UK and Ireland.

The role includes management of the project pipeline, the ongoing development of Duravit’s project partners, and the positioning of the Duravit brand as the leading bathroom supplier within the A&D community.

Martin Carroll, managing director of Duravit UK comments: “Simon has proved himself to be a very valuable member of the Duravit team and I am delighted that he will be driving our development of the project market forward and strengthening further the strong relationships we have with our project partners.

In addition, Simon’s technical expertise and knowledge of industry legislation will ensure that the Duravit Group is always compliant where necessary on crucial topics such as water regulations and certification.

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Harrison Bathrooms tours the UK

Harrison Bathrooms

Scudo, the Leeds based distribution arm of Harrison Bathrooms is taking their fabulous range of new showers, faucets, mirrors, cabinets and bathroom furniture in a travelling showroom, on tour around the UK.

As part of the tour, the travelling showroom is visiting valued customers to present new products and offers, as well as introducing Scudo to potential new retailers, buying groups and merchants.

The travelling showroom is equipped with the latest comprehensive range of Scudo products, efficiently presented to aid buying selection and display decisions, and can be scheduled to suit retailer need.

For more information or to book a tour please contact www.scudo.co.uk

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RAK Ceramics receives Special Jury Prize at TecnAwards 2022

RAK Ceramics

RAK Ceramics PJSC (Ticker: RAKCEC: Abu Dhabi), one of the world’s largest ceramics brands, today announced it was awarded the Special Jury Prize at the TecnAwards 2022 in Rimini, Italy.

The ACIMAC, Associazione Costruttori Italiani Macchine Attrezzature per Ceramica (Association of Italian Manufacturers of Machinery and Equipment for Ceramics), awarded RAK Ceramics the Special Jury Prize for its outstanding work in marketing and brand strategy.

Paolo Lamberti, Chairman of ACIMAC said, “RAK Ceramics stands out as the multi-product multinational company with the best marketing and brand awareness strategy in the ceramic tile, sanitaryware, and tableware industries, which is part of a strong business model that has proven to be able to create value by focusing on innovation in every aspect of the business.”

The TecnAwards 2022 award ceremony was held on Tuesday 27th September at the Rimini Expo Centre in the “Future Arena” Conference Area and was part of Tecna 2022 Inaugural Conference “How to Make the Future: Visions and Challenges”, where Abdallah Massaad, Group CEO of RAK Ceramics, was honoured as a guest speaker. Commenting on the occasion, he said, “RAK Ceramics is a success story that has grown from a ceramics producer to a global lifestyle brand in a relatively short period of time. This success has been achieved through the vision and unwavering support of our stakeholders, sustained investment in manufacturing technologies, and the hard work of our employees. I’d like to thank everyone at RAK Ceramics. I’m honoured to accept this award on their behalf.”

Mr Massaad added, “Thank you to ACIMAC for recognising organisations like ours. Your contributions are critical to the success of businesses like RAK Ceramics and the industry as a whole. We will continue to grow for many years to come with your support.”

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Kaldewei sets sail with new generation solar-powered vessels

Silent-Yachts

In October 2022, this latest generation, which includes the first electric yachts will set sail. Kaldewei is bringing its LUXSTAINABILITY concept from the sanitary mainland to the seven seas for the first time with its washbowls made of recyclable steel enamel.

The collaboration between the German bathroom manufacturer and the shipbuilding company is said to be sustainable in the truest sense of the word, as both are said to share high standards when it comes to ecologically responsible products. The vessels from SILENT-YACHTS are solar-powered and electric which gives them the ability to cruise and operate with zero emission.

Silent-Yachts
Silent-Yachts

Kaldewei and SILENT-YACHTS affirm buyers have two partners who both consistently place sustainability and CO2 savings at the focus of their actions. In Autumn 2021 Kaldewei produced the first premium products from CO2-reduced bluemint® Steel. For this family business, Luxstainability means nothing less than the combination of individual luxury and sustainability. The expression marks a forward-looking strategy within the entire Kaldewei production. From the company’s point of view, both aspects are decisive factors for contemporary bathroom design, which is now being used for the first time in modern shipbuilding.

“We believe that when it comes to yachting, sustainability goes beyond the solar-electric powertrain. We know that it takes a comprehensive approach in all areas for our passion really to work hand in hand with nature. For this reason, we base our approach on three pillars: Design, material and operations,” says designer Juliana Miguel, who is the creative lead at SILENT-YACHTS.

Their design team is enthusiastic about steel enamel and the modern Kaldewei washbasins. With its slender design, Miena skilfully adds accents to every bathroom, even on the high seas, and turns the bathroom into a place of retreat into a real area of well-being. The recyclable and durable steel enamel material makes the washbowls an easy-care, durable jewel that can withstand constant use or particularly salty air.

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The Duravit Group strengthens Global Project Business Team

Matt Oakley Duravit

Duravit has appointed Matt Oakley to the position of international specification manager.

Located within the UK and responsible for the ongoing development of the Duravit brand within international projects, Matt will work closely with Architects and Interior Design Practices who specify on a global basis. Having held similar positions at Dornbracht & Vado, Matt has experience in this area.

Toni El Kadi, head of Global Project Business comments: “Having Matt as part of our global project business team is a major advantage given his previous experience with international projects and his ability to collaborate successfully with specifiers in key design hubs such as London. I am thrilled to have him onboard.”

Martin Carroll, managing director of Duravit UK comments: “We are delighted to welcome Matt to work alongside our UK Projects Team, to help develop and strengthen our relationships with key specifiers who are based in London, the architectural hub for global development.”

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Ensuring accessories are a priority can make all the difference to bathroom design

Have you ever planned to decorate a room in your house and ended up purchasing accessories and soft furnishings before you’ve even dealt with the painting or fitted the flooring? Despite these fundamentals parts of a room renovation taking priority, the things that often bring us most joy are the extra touches that amplify our personalities and tastes.

Bathroom accessories can often play a huge part in the success of a desired look or scheme. HiB is a firm believer that those finishing touches can make all the difference and they need to be considered right from the initial design stage.

From choosing the materials and finishes and how the items will complement the overall look, to how they’ll be used by each member of the household, decisions need to be made early on how accessories can be used to maximise the functionality and flair of the bathroom.

Options such as HiB’s Atto range are available in chrome, black and brushed brass finishes, offering versatility applicable to a range of trends. Pieces in the range can be matched with brassware and mirrors with the same finish, creating a consistent style throughout the space.

Shape and texture need to be considered too, as accessories are often the main touch points in a space, that we interact with every day. Choosing tactile options such as a grab bar with grip not only improve safety but can enhance the overall attention to detail.

Multigenerational accessories are a great option for families that have many age groups living under one roof. Products such as foldable Shower Seats with support leg can be a stylish but practical solution that aids mobility and access without imposing on the available space.

To see HiB’s complete range of accessories and get inspiration for your next bathroom design, visit https://www.hib.co.uk/product-category/products/bathroom-accessories/

HiB Accessories
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Conserve water with a Neoperl PCW

Neoperl PCW Flow Regulators

There has never been a more critical time to conserve water and with baths and showers accounting for 34%* of water used in the home it’s an important area to focus upon.  Pressure Compensating Washers (PCW), also known as Flow Regulators, are designed to save water when showering.  They are retrofittable products that can be easily installed by replacing the incumbent washer with a ½” PCW, and they are available in various flow rates.

Altering the flow rate in a valve shower has long been the domain of a plumbing installer. Still, with drought conditions across the country, it is fast becoming a consideration of bathroom designers, retailers, and consumers to reduce water usage and energy bills. Heating water uses 20%* of a typical home gas bill and with energy prices soaring Neoperl water conserving products are increasing in popularity.

Neoperl produces PCW’s for valve showers in their Malvern factory. The PCW-01 for shower hoses and PCW-02 for shower handles and wall-mounted taps, are both available with different colour coded flow rates. Neoperl offer standard pressure regulators for 1-10 bar and their Dual-Core products assist with low-pressure situations.

A standard European shower uses 18 litres of water per minute and yet a very comfortable shower can be achieved with a flow of 8-12 litres per minute, that’s a minimum saving of 42 litres of water per 7-minute shower.  It is a quick, inexpensive win and it’s time that everyone questioned their usage. 

*Waterwise

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