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Synergy Architecture + Interiors transforms former film location into tropical retreat

Synergy-Architecture-Villa_Del_Sol_project-Duravit

Synergy Architecture + Interiors has transformed a former Indian film location in Chennai into Villa Del Sol, a private holiday home that combines the character of the original property with a tropical, contemporary interior.

The house, which previously provided a backdrop for Tamil film and television productions, has been remodelled for Nanditha Vikram’s family. The project retained key original features while adapting the property and grounds to meet the needs of a modern family home.

Villa_Del_Sol_Phosart Studio

During the renovation, the design team uncovered solid teak beneath several layers of paint, revealing its original warm honey tone. Aged Mangalore roof tiles and original floor tiles were also retained, helping to preserve the character of the property. Ecru walls, terracotta tones and lush green accents form the basis of the interior palette, while large openings bring natural light into the rooms and strengthen the connection with the surrounding gardens.

Responding to the tropical climate

The grounds were redesigned to address the risk of flooding in Chennai. Additional soil was introduced, slope gradients were reworked and a new drainage system was installed. Pathways, dense planting, a swimming pool and seating areas provide structure to the landscape while creating a closer relationship between the house and garden.

A veranda runs around the property, providing a transition between the interior and exterior. As well as protecting the communal areas from sun and rain, it helps channel the sea breeze through the house.

Villa_Del_Sol_Phosart-Studio

Inside, latticed timber doors separate the living and dining areas while maintaining the property’s open-plan feel. Detailed lintels continue the latticework motif throughout the interiors. At the entrance, two columns reference traditional thinnai – raised platforms found on southern Indian homes that provide a shaded place to sit.

Consistent bathroom design

In the bathrooms, Synergy Architecture + Interiors specified Cape Cod above-counter basins and DuraStyle wall-mounted toilets by Duravit. The combination is used throughout the property to create a consistent design thread between the individual spaces, while allowing each bathroom to develop its own colour palette.

Grey IPS surfaces provide a common backdrop, complemented in the en suites by deep blue, rich green and cream tiles. In the guest WC, black pendant lighting and a round mirror introduce graphic contrast against the grey finish.

The result is a renovation that retains the architectural character and cultural references of the original property while adapting it for contemporary family life and the demands of its tropical coastal setting.

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Bathrooms2GO adds space-saving options to Tuscany Range

PJH_New-TUSCANY-CLOAKROOM

Bathrooms2GO by PJH has added compact basin options to its popular Tuscany Sanitaryware range, offering a practical solution for cloakrooms, ensuites and smaller bathrooms. The new additions give retailers, merchants and installers greater flexibility when specifying space-saving solutions, combining compact dimensions with the style of the wider Tuscany collection.

The expanded range comprises 550mm and 450mm Tuscany basins with semi pedestals, alomgside a 450mm Tuscany cloakroom basin with bottle trap. The latter is available with a choice of Chrome, Brushed Brass or Black bottle trap with coordinating overflow rings.

The 550mm Basin with Semi Pedestal, measuring W550 x H435 x D400mm, offers a generously proportioned basin in a streamlined format, while the smaller 450mm Basin with Semi Pedestal, measuring W450 x H435 x D400mm, provides a more compact alternative for smaller bathroom layouts.

Measuring W450 x H150 x D380 mm, the 550mm basin with semi-pedestal provides a generous wash space while maintaining a compact footprint. The 450mm version also measuring H435 x D400mm offers a more compact option for smaller layouts.

Julie Lockwood, product manager, Bathrooms2GO, comments; “By extending the Tuscany range with these practical new basin options, we are giving retailers, merchants and installers more design flexibility when specifying for smaller spaces. The different sized, semi-pedestal designs and coordinating finish choices make it easier than ever to select the best stylish solution for compact rooms, while retaining the highly competitive proposition that Bathrooms2GO is known for.”                                                                                                                                                                           …

The new basins join the existing Tuscany Sanitaryware Range within the Bathrooms2GO Collection, which includes full-pedestal basins, a close coupled WC and a back to wall WC. The Tuscany ceramic range is also backed by a PJH Lifetime Guarantee.

As with the wider Bathrooms2GO Collection, by PJH, the new Tuscany products are supported by extensive stock availability, next-day delivery direct to store or home and PJH’s ‘First Choice’ customer service promise, helping trade customers keep bathroom projects moving with dependable supply and turnaround.

For further PJH information or to order Bathrooms2GO products, visit the PJH Partners Portal, www.partners.pjh.uk, or contact the PJH Sales Team at sales@pjh.uk / T: 0345 450 8932.

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Victoria + Albert introduces new sculptural Podium basin

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Victoria + Albert’s in-house UK design team has developed a new floorstanding Podium basin model for its recently launched Kerid collection. Available in either a gloss or velvety matt finish, the new Kerid podium basin can also be specified in any of 200 RAL exterior colours.

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The minimalist podium basin features a sleek, one-piece form with a chamfered base detail, echoing the Kerid soaking bath, to create a subtle ‘floating’ effect. All finishes are multi-layered using a special catalysed paint and hand-polished between applications to achieve a deep lustre and long-lasting durability.

Developed 30 years ago, Victoria + Albert’s proprietary material, Quarrycast™, is crafted from a blend of Volcanic Limestone™ and high-performance resins. The material is exceptionally strong and durable – twice as hard as acrylic, with no creaking or flexing.  Scratch-, stain-, and UV-resistant, the material is also a natural insulator and easy to maintain.

Made to last, Victoria + Albert basins benefit from a 25-year consumer guarantee.

About the Kerid Collection

The Kerid Collection from Victoria + Albert reimagines bathing as a restorative wellness ritual. At the heart of the collection is the Kerid soaking bath. Compact yet immersive, it is designed for both hot soaking and cold plunging. At just 1350mm long, the bath fits comfortably in modest bathrooms and outdoor spaces, while its elevated sides (700–850mm) create a cocooning full-body experience. A raised seat within the base ensures comfort, and a slim, angled rim naturally supports the neck and head.

The bath is complemented by an optional step, as well as two basin options, creating a cohesive design story for contemporary bathrooms and wellness-focused spaces.

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Frontline Bathrooms removes plastic from Aqua glass packaging

Frontline Bathrooms

Frontline Bathrooms has removed plastic from the packaging used across its entire Aqua glass collection in a move to accelerate environmental improvements during 2026. It represents the first stage of a broader review of packaging throughout the company’s bathroom portfolio.

The new packaging replacies plastic components across Frontline’s shower enclosures and glass products. The environmentally responsible alternatives are part of Frontline Bathrooms’ sustainability strategy, which is organised around four pillars: People, Planet, Products and Principles. The framework covers company’s operations and products, as well as employee development, responsible sourcing and support for suppliers working to improve their own sustainability credentials.

Alongside the Aqua glass packaging change, Frontline has reported reductions across its wider group operations. Group-wide waste has fallen by 10%, while 98% of all waste generated has been diverted from landfill.

The company has also installed energy-efficient LED lighting throughout its warehouses, which along with better working practices has resulted in annual reductions of 31% in both electricity and heating consumption.

Darren Allison, managing director at Frontline Bathrooms, says: “Packaging may not be the most obvious part of a bathroom product, but it is an area where suppliers can make an immediate difference at scale. Removing plastic from every enclosure pack across the Aqua glass collection gives us a meaningful starting point for a much wider packaging programme.

“We have also seen how relatively straightforward operational changes can deliver substantial results. Installing LED lighting, looking more closely at how our warehouses use energy and involving employees in reducing unnecessary consumption have helped us achieve a 31% reduction in both electricity and heating.

“We are not presenting this as a finished piece of work. It is about making practical improvements now, measuring the results and using what we learn to shape the next stage.”

Frontline Bathrooms is also increasing its focus on products that can help households reduce water or energy use without compromising on bathroom design.

The company expanded its brassware portfolio during 2026, including the introduction of its award-winning Aqua Mineral Flute collection with cold-start technology.

Cold-start brassware helps to prevent a boiler from being activated unnecessarily when only cold water is required. By reducing the unintended use of hot water during everyday tasks, the technology can help households lower energy consumption and associated costs.

Allison continues: “A great deal of household energy can be used through small actions that people barely notice, such as turning on a basin tap and activating the hot-water system even when hot water is not needed. Cold-start technology addresses that without asking the customer to change the way they use their bathroom.

“That is the direction we want future product development to take. Environmental improvements have to work in real homes, remain accessible to customers and make sense for retailers and installers.”

Frontline Bathrooms is now exploring how sustainability can be incorporated into further product categories for 2027.

Projects currently at an early stage of development include more water-efficient shower kits and brassware, electric towel rails with improved energy controls, high-performance flushing technology and toilets designed to reduce water consumption.

The latest developments will form the basis of Frontline Bathrooms’ ongoing sustainability programme, with further packaging, operational and product updates expected as individual projects are completed.

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

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Kaldewei specified for design-led refurbishment of Ardbeg House on Islay

Kaldewei Islay hotel Bathroom

Kaldewei has supplied baths and shower trays for the refurbishment of Ardbeg House, a 12-bedroom boutique hotel on the Isle of Islay that reopened in autumn 2025 following a multi-million-pound transformation.

Formerly The Islay Hotel, the property has been redesigned in collaboration with Russell Sage Studio to create an immersive hospitality destination inspired by Islay’s landscape, folklore and the 200-year heritage of the Ardbeg Distillery.

Specified throughout the guest bathrooms, Kaldewei’s steel enamel baths and shower trays were selected for their combination of architectural design, durability and sustainability, supporting the project’s long-term operational and environmental objectives.

Design inspired by Islay

Working with more than 20 Scottish artisans, Russell Sage Studio has created interiors that celebrate the island’s history and character. Each of the 12 guest rooms draws on a different local narrative, referencing themes including smugglers, sea creatures, ancient legends and Islay’s dramatic coastline.

Bespoke features include a reception installation created from a retired whisky still and a boat-shaped chandelier incorporating green Ardbeg bottles, while natural materials and layered textures reflect the island’s rugged landscape. This design language extends into the bathrooms, where the specification was intended to complement the hotel’s distinctive interiors without compromising performance.

Bathroom specification

The project required bathroom products capable of meeting the demands of a premium hospitality environment while maintaining a consistent design aesthetic across individually themed guest rooms.

Kaldewei’s steel enamel baths and shower trays were specified for their clean-lined appearance, hard-wearing surface and ease of maintenance. Manufactured from recyclable steel enamel, the products also aligned with the sustainability ambitions of the refurbishment.

In the marble bathrooms, baths and shower trays in warm grey and matt black finishes were chosen to integrate with the varied interior schemes while providing a durable solution suited to high guest occupancy.

Adam Teal, country manager at Kaldewei UK, said: “Being part of the Ardbeg House project is a genuine privilege for Kaldewei. Seeing our steel enamel baths and showers integrated into such imaginative interiors is incredibly rewarding. Ardbeg House sets a new benchmark for experiential hospitality, and we’re proud to play a role in shaping the guest experience.”

Designed as an extension of each bedroom’s individual story, the bathrooms combine sculptural forms with generous bathing and showering spaces to create a restorative environment for guests visiting the island.

A new benchmark for design-led whisky tourism

Ardbeg House is set to become a flagship destination for all travellers, whether new to whisky or a seasoned expert, offering guests a full Ardbeg Distillery tour with every stay, a nightly “Whisky Hour,” access to two exclusive bottlings, and dining spaces that celebrate modern Scottish cuisine — including a courtyard grill inspired by Ardbeg’s signature smoky character.

Alongside accommodation, Ardbeg House offers distillery experiences, whisky tastings and dining concepts centred on Scottish produce, positioning the hotel as a destination for whisky tourism.

The project demonstrates how carefully specified bathroom products can contribute to the wider design narrative of a hospitality scheme, while meeting the durability, maintenance and sustainability requirements expected within boutique hotel environments.

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Saniflo launches new range of Grease Traps for hospitality sector

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From portable and mobile applications through to large-scale commercial and hospitality installations, Saniflo now offers a comprehensive and updated range of grease traps and separators designed to remove fats, oils and grease (FOG) from wastewater before they enter the drainage system.

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The Water Industry Act 1991, Section 11, makes it an offence to discharge anything into a public sewer that could obstruct flow or damage the sewer system and FOG is specifically recognised as a major cause of blockages and fatbergs. Using a grease trap or separator eliminates FOG solidification in pipework – helping to prevent blockages, reduce costly maintenance, eliminate unpleasant odours and reduce environmental pollution. Installation of a correctly specified grease trap enables commercials businesses to be fully compliant with the regulations.

Saniflo has a range of solutions for every catering scenario.

Sanigrease T24

A compact, lightweight grease trap designed for temporary or mobile applications where space is limited.  Weighing just 4kgs, it is manufactured from durable polyethylene and can be installed under a sink and intended for daily emptying. It features a total volume of 24 litres and sludge trap volume of 8 litres and is ideal for:

  • Food trucks and mobile catering units
  • Pop-up kitchens
  • Temporary catering facilities
  • Mobile dishwashing stations
  • Small commercial food preparation areas

Sanigrease T Series

A hygienic stainless-steel grease trap range designed for installation beneath restaurant and commercial kitchen sinks. With 4 units in the range that are denominated according to covers served, the T40, for example, is designed for up to 40 covers and has 39 litres capacity, whilst the largest T100 serves up to 100 covers and has a 82 litre capacity. The corrosion resistant units are mounted on feet for easy cleaning and are suitable for permanent kitchen installations. With fast maintenance access for quick servicing, the T Series is suitable for:

  • Restaurants
  • Cafés
  • Commercial kitchens
  • Hospitality venues
  • Catering operations with under-sink installation requirements

Sanigrease S Series

A larger-capacity grease separator range designed specifically for busy commercial kitchens requiring higher grease-handling capabilities. The range consists of five nominal sizes, the NS2 to the NS15 with sludge trap volumes from 200-1500 litres, separator volumes from 450 – 1800 Litres and total volumes from 650 – 3300 litres.  Manufactured from rotationally moulded recyclable polyethylene for above ground installation, the width of the unit ensures it can easily fit through standard internal door sizes for ease of access and quick installation. The S Series is available in various capacities for:

  • Large restaurants
  • Hotel kitchens
  • Commercial catering facilities
  • Schools and universities
  • Care homes
  • Food production and preparation facilities

Sanigrease SU Series

An underground grease separator system for larger commercial applications, the Sanigrease SU range comprises 5 models – SU 1, SU 1.5, SU 2, SU 3 and SU 4, with volumes from 340 litres to 1500 litres. Each robust rotomoulded recyclable polyethylene tank features an integrated sludge trap and reinforced pedestrian-rated access cover, as well as optional alarm monitoring. Ideal for discreet installation, the SU Series is perfect for:

  • Large restaurants
  • Hotels
  • Food manufacturing facilities
  • Commercial developments
  • New-build hospitality projects
  • Sites requiring underground grease management solutions

For more information or for flow rate calculations for your hospitality premises, the technical team at Saniflo is available to answer any questions during working hours.

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Grant Westfield strengthens sales team

Michelle-McNairn

Wall panel manufacturer, Grant Westfield, has announced two key changes to its sales team. In a sideways move, Michelle McNairn has taken on the position of specification sales director. She has over 30 years’ industry experience and has worked for Grant Westfield for the last 10 years, most recently as regional sales director – North. During her time with the company, she has also held the positions of business development manager and had of Sales.

McNairn said: “Grant Westfield has earned its position as the UK market leader through exceptional merchant and showroom partnerships. Our ambition is for the specification function to complement that success by creating value through innovation, sustainability and smarter solutions to generate long-term demand that benefits our key customers, merchant partners and the wider business.

David-McKenzie

Replacing Michelle as regional sales director – North is David McKenzie, who has been promoted from his position as key account manager – North.

McKenzie has worked in the building materials industry for over 15 years, having started his career as a joiner and carpenter. He has worked for Grant Westfield for 5 years, joining the company as a Business Development Manager.

Commenting on his promotion, McKenzie said: “I’m excited about inheriting an ambitious team of Business Development Managers, whose passion for the business and the products we supply is clear to see.

“My key priorities are spending time with my team to understand how they work and meeting their customers as I look to build strong relationships internally and externally.”

Michael Dobson, Grant Westfield’s sales manager, said: “At the heart of our success are our people and these appointments reflect our commitment to recognising talent, creating opportunities for growth and investing in the future of our business.”

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

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NKBA research highlights evolving KBB landscape as consumer priorities continue to shift

Bathroom-Review-NKBA-KBIS-Annual-Bathroom-Trends-Report

The kitchen and bathroom sector continues to face a challenging trading environment, with rising costs, consumer caution and slower project activity impacting businesses globally, according to the latest research from the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA).

While the data focuses on the US market, the findings offer insight into wider trends affecting mature KBB markets, including the UK, where affordability concerns, pressure on household spending and changing consumer priorities continue to influence renovation decisions.

A slowdown in growth

The latest NKBA/John Burns Kitchen & Bath Market Index (KBMI) report found that industry activity softened in the second quarter of 2026, with businesses reporting flatter sales conditions and a more cautious outlook. The overall KBMI score fell to 52.7 out of 100, remaining above the threshold for expansion but reflecting slower momentum across the sector.

Consumer uncertainty and affordability pressures were identified as key factors affecting demand, with homeowners increasingly looking for ways to manage budgets and, in some cases, moving towards lower price points.

However, the report also highlights areas of resilience, with near-term expectations improving as businesses anticipate stronger activity ahead. Manufacturing was the strongest-performing segment in the latest quarter, while renovation and remodelling activity continues to provide opportunities as homeowners choose to improve existing properties rather than move.

Renovation remains a key opportunity

The findings reflect a broader shift in consumer behaviour across the kitchen and bathroom market, with investment increasingly focused on upgrading existing homes. This trend is particularly relevant for the UK sector, where refurbishment, specification and design-led projects remain important drivers of demand.

For manufacturers, designers and suppliers, the research underlines the importance of responding to a more considered consumer – one that is seeking durability, value and products that combine long-term performance with strong design appeal.

Despite ongoing uncertainty, the NKBA outlook suggests that confidence is gradually returning, with businesses adapting strategies to navigate changing market conditions and identify new opportunities.

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Villeroy & Boch reveals impact of challenging market conditions on Bathroom & Wellness

Villeroy Boch hit by market slowdown

Villeroy & Boch AG has described its financial position for the first half of 2026 as satisfactory, despite continued geopolitical uncertainty and a challenging market environment.

The group recorded revenue of €635.8 million, down 12.4% compared to  €725.8 million in the same period last year. Adjusted for currency effects and for the sale of its Northern European brands Gustavsberg and Vatette on 1 October 2025, the decline was 7.4%.

However, the group recorded positive momentum in its order book, which increased to €49.5 million compared with the end of 2025, reaching €199.9 million.

Operating EBIT stood at €34.5 million, compared with €47.8 million the previous year, reflecting the impact of the divestment and ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Persian Gulf. 

Group result was €6.8 million below zero, compared with a profit of +€13.8 million the previous year, largely due to non-cash exceptional tax effects.  

Bathroom & Wellness: Results impacted by portfolio restructuring and geopolitical tensions 

Villeroy & Boch Bathroom & Wellness Division was impacted by portfolio restructuring and ongoing geopolitical tensions, with revenue reaching €504.4 million for the first half of the year, down 15.5% year on year.  Adjusted for portfolio and currency effects, the decline was 9.4%.

The company said the reduction was largely linked to the disposal of its Northern European Gustavsberg and Vatette brands, alongside challenging market conditions. Revenue across EMEA fell by 14.5%, although markets including Italy, Bulgaria and Hungary recorded growth.

Performance in APAC and the Americas was more challenging, with revenue declining by 21.3% against a backdrop of weaker construction activity. Operating EBIT for the division stood at €29.5 million, compared with €43 million in the previous year.

Georg Lörz, Management Board Member for Bathroom & Wellness, said the acquisition of Ideal Standard would help strengthen Villeroy & Boch’s position over the medium and long term, particularly during periods of market uncertainty.

Dining & Lifestyle delivers resilient performance

Outside of Bathroom & Wellness, Villeroy & Boch’s Dining & Lifestyle division remained broadly stable, reporting revenue of €130 million, compared with €130.4 million the previous year. Growth in e-commerce helped offset softer performance in some regions, with online revenue increasing by 16.1%.

Operating EBIT for the division increased slightly to €5 million, supported by new product launches and digital growth.

Group confirms 2026 outlook

Despite continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty, Villeroy & Boch has maintained its full-year 2026 forecast, with operating EBIT expected to reach €75 million.

The company said the impact of the Gustavsberg and Vatette disposal would continue to affect year-on-year comparisons, particularly during the third quarter. However, it highlighted its order book and stable Dining & Lifestyle performance as indicators of underlying business strength.

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In Compliance and IAPMO confirmed as silver sponsors for Connect Conference 2026

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The Bathroom Association has announced that In Compliance and IAPMO will jointly serve as silver sponsors of the annual Connect Conference 2026.

Their sponsorship follows the recent announcement that In Compliance has joined the IAPMO family, bringing together complementary expertise in international product compliance and global market access.

This year’s conference theme, ‘Stronger Together’, explores how greater collaboration across the bathroom sector can strengthen perseverance, support sustainable growth and deliver better outcomes for businesses and their customers.

The new relationship between In Compliance and IAPMO reflects that theme in practice. By combining their knowledge and capabilities, the two organisations aim to provide manufacturers with more comprehensive support as they navigate increasingly complex international standards, regulatory requirements and certification pathways.

Founded and led by managing director Jutta Emge-Degenhardt, In Compliance is a German-based consultancy specialising in international product approvals for plumbing products, systems and components, particularly those that come into contact with drinking water.

The business helps manufacturers understand and meet regulatory requirements across multiple jurisdictions, covering product standards, approval and certification routes, and strategies for accessing international markets.

IAPMO provides expertise in standards development, product testing and certification, helping manufacturers demonstrate that their products meet applicable safety, quality and performance requirements. The addition of In Compliance establishes a broader and more structured global consulting capability alongside IAPMO’s existing services, while maintaining the appropriate independence between advisory and certification activities.

Jutta Emge-Degenhardt, managing director of In Compliance, said: “We are delighted to again support the Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference alongside IAPMO. Manufacturers are increasingly required to navigate complex and differing regulatory frameworks when bringing products to international markets.

“By sharing our knowledge and working collaboratively, we can help businesses better understand those requirements and identify the most appropriate routes to product approval and market access.”

John Watson, executive vice president at IAPMO, said: “We are proud to support the annual Connect Conference 2026. Bringing ourselves and In Compliance together enables us to offer manufacturers an even stronger combination of technical, regulatory and market expertise.

“The conference theme closely reflects our belief that shared knowledge is essential in helping manufacturers navigate complex markets with confidence, and we look forward to connecting with like-minded delegates in October.”

Amy Kirk, Marketing and Events Director at the Bathroom Association, said: “We are delighted to welcome IAPMO and In Compliance as Silver Sponsors of Connect Conference 2026. Both organisations provide valuable expertise and their new relationship is a strong example of how collaboration can best serve an international community.”

Connect Conference 2026 will feature a programme of keynote presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities. Jez Rose will deliver the morning keynote address; Rebecca Larkin, Head of Construction Research at CPA, will deliver an economic update; and entrepreneur and Trunki founder Rob Law MBE will take to the stage as the afternoon keynote speaker.

The daytime conference will be followed by an exclusive gala dinner at the Grand Hotel, including the presentation of the 2026 Thirty-under-Thirty Awards.

The conference will take place on Thursday 8 October at the Grand Hotel, Birmingham, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers and industry partners for a day of insight, discussion and valuable connections.

For further information and to book tickets, visit the Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2026 website.

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