Author

Diane

Browsing

The Bathroom Association is celebrating as City Plumbing, one of the UK’s most respected and wide-reaching plumbing and heating merchants, has officially joined the Association.

As the first major national merchant to become a member of the Bathroom Association, City Plumbing’s decision marks a powerful endorsement of the Association’s broadened vision to unite the whole bathroom supply chain, from manufacturers and merchants to retailers, designers, and installers.

Daphne Doody-Green, chief executive of the association, commented: “City Plumbing’s decision to join the Association is hugely symbolic. It’s a signal that our new, more inclusive direction is not just timely, it’s necessary. With over 350 branches, award-winning showrooms, and a frontline connection to customers across the UK, City Plumbing brings a vital perspective to our work. This partnership is proof that by collaborating across the whole supply chain, we can tackle shared challenges, accelerate innovation, and make bathrooms better, for people and for the planet.”

City-Plumbing-Joins-Bathroom-Association

City Plumbing, part of the Highbourne Group, employs over 3,000 colleagues and operates nine businesses across the trade, home improvement, and DIY markets. Known for providing expert advice and a comprehensive range of plumbing, heating and bathroom products, the business is a cornerstone of the UK’s bathroom retail ecosystem.

With most of its branches housing state-of-the-art bathroom showrooms, City Plumbing plays a pivotal role in shaping consumer choice and supporting trade professionals with product selection, design expertise, and fast access to essential stock.

Steve Smith, managing director – Bathroom at City Plumbing, said: “We’re proud to be the first merchant partner to join the Bathroom Association. Their direction aligns with our values of being customer-first and creating the future. By adding our voice to this influential community,  we’re committing to a shared goal: creating a better, more connected bathroom industry where innovation thrives, and challenges are solved collectively.”

Collaboration in action

City Plumbing’s membership opens the door to greater representation and sharper insights at the heart of the sector. From influencing government policy to enhancing product compliance and promoting sustainability, the Association and its newest member will collaborate to champion high standards and drive market growth.

“Our vision is clear,” added Green. “We’re building a platform where merchants, manufacturers, installers, and retailers can share knowledge, shape standards, and drive change together. City Plumbing joining us in this journey shows we’re on the right track.”

This partnership demonstrates what’s possible when businesses across the spectrum come together with a shared purpose: to make bathrooms better for everyone.

UK manufacturer of showering spaces, Lakes, has expanded its Wave Collection with two new colour additions – Gunmetal and Brushed Nickel. Launched in June 2022, the Wave Collection has become a cornerstone of the Lakes portfolio, recognised for its precision engineering, installer-friendly design and commercial versatility.

The introduction of these new finishes reflects Lakes’ continued commitment to staying at the forefront of trends within the showering market, making contemporary design choices more accessible across a wider range of products.

The range expansion follows a successful 2025 for Lakes, which the company says saw it become the first bathroom manufacturer in the world to achieve B Corporation certification, recognising its verified commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, customer care and employee wellbeing.

In addition, Lakes launched the extensive ROKU® Collection, featuring seven new bathscreens and two ranges of high-quality shower trays, while adding even more design options to its Flagship Modular Walk-In range. Beyond product development, the senior management team was strengthened with several key appointments to drive further growth.

Mike Gahir, managing director at Lakes Showering Spaces, said: “The Wave Collection is a great example of how we take emerging design trends and engineer them into products that are practical, reliable and commercially viable.

“Our approach to expanding our product portfolio has always been to listen closely to the market and act quickly, but adding new finishes is just one part of a much wider strategy.

“In the last few years, Lakes has looked to disrupt the market with bold product additions, strengthened our service proposition, improved availability across our collections and, as the company says, achieved B Corp certification.”

Gahir added that the addition of Gunmetal and Brushed Nickel to the Wave Collection aligns with broader bathroom and interior trends, allowing merchants, retailers and installers to offer a trusted product for more projects than ever.

Engineered with 8mm glass, the Wave Collection strikes an ideal balance between strength, durability and ease of installation. The range includes hinged, quadrant, slider and bi-fold doors, along with a side panel compatible with hinged, slider and bi-fold configurations.

Robust yet lightweight frames ensure long-lasting performance while remaining easy to handle on site, even in confined spaces. This installer-focused design reduces fitting time while delivering a product built to exceed UK standards for quality and reliability.

Like all Lakes enclosures, the Wave Collection features easy-to-clean AllClear® technology on both sides of the glass and is backed by a genuine no-quibble lifetime guarantee.

The new Gunmetal and Brushed Nickel finishes are stocked now and available through Lakes’ national network of merchants and retailers.

To find out more about Lakes, visit www.lakesshoweringspaces.com.

Premium bathroom manufacturer Kaldewei will present Bubbles of Time during Fuorisalone 2026, transforming the historic Palazzo Crespi into an immersive design installation exploring time, materiality and contemporary bathroom architecture.

Developed with Milan-based design studio Parasite 2.0 and curated by Forgotten Architecture, the exhibition unfolds across the ground-floor and basement foyers of the building, creating a layered spatial narrative that combines iconic Kaldewei products with new innovations and visionary perspectives.

A central feature of the installation is a reinterpretation of the Meisterstück Classic Duo Oval, one of Kaldewei’s most recognisable freestanding bathtubs. Presented within a theatrical setting of floating forms, light and reflections, the products appear as fleeting moments within a continuous flow of time.

Parasite 2.0’s scenography draws inspiration from the architectural legacy of Piero Portaluppi. “Portaluppi’s bathroom design makes us constantly wonder whether something is about to happen,” explain Stefano Colombo, Eugenio Cosentino and Luca Marullo Viola of Parasite 2.0. “From a Hitchcock thriller to a romantic comedy with Grace Kelly – in Portaluppi’s hands, bathrooms become the perfect stage.”

Designed in the 1920s by Portaluppi, Palazzo Crespi is considered a landmark of Italian modernism. The architect’s holistic approach – combining structure, materiality and atmosphere – provides the conceptual framework for the installation.

Through Bubbles of Time, Kaldewei positions its products not simply as bathroom fixtures but as enduring architectural elements designed to last for generations. The installation reflects on how durable materials, thoughtful design and technological innovation continue to shape the future of bathroom design while honouring its heritage.

Bubbles of Time programme
Location: Palazzo Crespi, Corso Giacomo Matteotti 1, Milan

Exhibition: 20–26 April 2026 | 11:00am–7:00pm
Press preview: 19 April 2026 | 4:00–8:00pm (registration required)
Opening event: 20 April 2026 | 5:00–11:00pm (registration required)
Talk: 21 April 2026 | 7:00pm (registration required)

Award-winning kitchen and bathroom brand Abode made a strong impression at Kbb Birmingham 2026, showcasing its new boiling water tap collection, innovative product designs, and coordinated finishes across trend-focused kitchen and bathroom spaces.

Bathroom display

Abode opened its stand with a dedicated bathroom zone, showcasing the FOCUS 60 collection, including the CAVA and IOX basins, new Gunmetal brassware, UNO showering solutions, mirrors, and accessories. Supported by distribution partner PJH, the display included a colourful vanity unit and freestanding bath with Fibo UK panels, demonstrating how the brand’s bathroom products combine style and functionality.

Four trend-focused kitchen environments

Abode’s Stand P80 was buzzing with UK visitors exploring the latest kitchen innovations. The display featured four style-led areas – Traditional, Scandi/Japandi, Contemporary, and Personalised – each designed to show how products from a single brand can be combined seamlessly across kitchens of any size or style.

Curated by Abode, the stand included exclusive product demonstrations, insights into the Accumulate rewards programme, and practical examples of how customers can create coordinated solutions for kitchens and bathrooms.

Highlighting next-generation boiling water taps

Leanne Stansfield, digital & marketing director at Abode, explained: “Our stand was built around four key style trends, with different product pairings illustrating how complete kitchen and bathroom solutions can be achieved with Abode. Visitors also experienced the relaunch of our boiling water tap collection, featuring the new PB3X boiler and five new tap designs: Persona, Arkitect, Oxbury, Organico, and Scandi-X.”

Stansfield noted that the Persona Boiling Water Tap has been praised for its customisable design, with a wide choice of finishes and interchangeable handle packs. The compact PB3X boiler was particularly well-received, allowing installation alongside a traditional Belfast sink while still leaving storage space in a standard 60mm base unit.

Traditional kitchen display

The Traditional zone showcased the Oxbury boiling water tap in Antique Brass, alongside Oxbury mixer taps in Dark Bronze and Polished Nickel finishes. Paired with Abode’s ceramic sinks – including the signature Belfast Sink and Sandon models – the display demonstrated how traditional British style can blend with modern functionality.

Personalised kitchen display

In the Personalised area, visitors explored the Persona boiling water tap and Ornate mixer tap ranges, featuring fluted dual-lever handles. These were paired with Abode’s reversible Optima Belfast sink in Taupe Grey, offering a fluted surface on one side and a smooth finish on the other. Accessories, matching wastes, and overflows completed the look, showing how vertical grooves and complementary finishes can tie a kitchen together.

Contemporary kitchen display

The Contemporary space introduced the Arkitect boiling & filtered water tap, with bold sculptural form and a two-stage safety handle. Displayed in the new Gunmetal finish with a KOTO PVD Black sink, the setup was complemented by the LINARO granite sink collection in Pure Black, Matt White, and Grey. The area also previewed the Arkitect Flex Pro Spray in Matt Black, a professional-style pull-around tap with boiling and filtered water capabilities.

Scandi/Japandi kitchen display

The Scandi/Japandi area celebrated Nordic warmth and Japanese minimalism, featuring the Organico boiling water tap with Beechwood handles and optional filtered cold water. Abode’s award-winning Scandi-X tap was also on display, highlighting solid metal levers and advanced boiler technology alongside the Synchronist sink collection and accessories.

With multigenerational living on the rise, bathrooms are increasingly being designed to support the needs of the whole household, from young children to older relatives. Creating a space that balances style, safety and everyday practicality is key, allowing everyone to use the bathroom comfortably and independently while ensuring the design stands the test of time.

Prioritise accessibility and ease of use.

A well-designed multigenerational bathroom should be easy to navigate for all users. Walk-in showers with low or level access are a practical choice, reducing the need to step over high bath edges and making showering safer and more convenient for both children and older adults. Pairing this with thermostatic shower controls helps maintain a consistent water temperature, reducing the risk of scalding.

Similarly, lever-style taps or single-lever mixers are often easier to operate than traditional crosshead taps, particularly for those with reduced grip strength.

Prioritise-accessibility-and-ease-of-use.

Bathrooms used by multiple generations often experience heavier daily use, so selecting durable materials and high-quality brassware is essential. Robust finishes, easy-clean surfaces and reliable fixtures help ensure that the space remains functional and looking its best over time.

Opting for coordinated fittings and accessories can also create a cohesive design scheme while maintaining practicality throughout the space.

Choose-durable-ease-of-use-materials
Incorporate safety features

Safety features do not have to mean compromising on aesthetics. Non-slip flooring, well-positioned lighting and discreet support features such as integrated grab rails can be incorporated seamlessly into modern bathroom designs.

Adjustable or handheld shower heads are another practical addition, offering flexibility for users of different heights and mobility levels while making tasks such as bathing children or cleaning the shower area easier.

By carefully considering the needs of everyone in the household, homeowners can create a bathroom that works for today while adapting to changing lifestyles in the future.

Incorporate-safety-features

Jeevan Seth, CEO of JTP, comments: “Multigenerational living is becoming increasingly common, which means bathrooms need to be more versatile than ever. By choosing well-designed fittings and focusing on accessibility, durability and ease of use, it’s possible to create a bathroom that works beautifully for every member of the household while still delivering a stylish, contemporary finish.”

Bathrooms featuring the Diametro35 brassware collection by Ritmonio bring understated luxury and contemporary elegance to the OHLIVE Beach Villa, an exclusive coastal retreat in Skiathos designed by 3H Architects.

Contemporary bathrooms defined by Diametro35

Within the private bathrooms of OHLIVE Beach Villa, the Diametro35 collection by Ritmonio has been specified in a polished chrome finish, introducing a refined design detail that complements the villa’s minimalist interior scheme.

Known for its clean lines and versatile aesthetic, the Diametro35 series integrates seamlessly into the bathrooms, combining discreet functionality with distinctive character. The chrome finish enhances the calm, contemporary palette of the interiors while adding a touch of timeless elegance.

The result is a bathroom environment that supports the overall mood of the residence – one centred on relaxation, comfort and wellbeing.

Ritmonio_OHLIVE-Beach-Villa_Pics-Courtesy-of-3H-Architects
Ritmonio brassware brings timeless elegance

Located on Ligaries Beach in Skiathos, overlooking the Aegean Sea, the OHLIVE Beach Villa is a refined summer residence designed by 3H Architects.

Nestled within an ancient olive grove and surrounded by a protected nature reserve, the property accommodates up to eight guests and offers a secluded retreat where architecture and landscape are carefully balanced.

The villa’s elegant design centres on the geometry of a white cube, creating a minimalist architectural language that blends effortlessly with the surrounding Mediterranean scenery.

A luxury villa designed for privacy and relaxation

Outdoor spaces play a central role in the project’s design concept. A large terrace opens towards panoramic sea views and features a variety of lounge areas equipped with hammocks and sun loungers.

An L-shaped infinity pool anchors the outdoor environment, reinforcing the villa’s connection with the surrounding coastline. Adjacent spaces include a fully equipped outdoor kitchen with dining area and a comfortable lounge featuring a home theatre and fireplace – ideal for relaxed evenings overlooking the sea.

Indoor–outdoor living with panoramic sea views

Outdoor living is integral to the project’s design. A large terrace provides sweeping views across the sea and features a series of relaxed lounge spaces complete with hammocks and sun loungers.

An L-shaped infinity pool further enhances the connection between architecture and landscape, while an outdoor kitchen and dining area provide space for entertaining. Inside, a comfortable living area with home theatre and fireplace offers a setting for quieter evenings.

Ritmonio_OHLIVE-Beach-Villa_Pics-Courtesy-of-3H-Architect
Serene bedrooms with private terraces

A staircase leads to the ground floor where the sleeping quarters are arranged. The villa features two master bedrooms and two junior bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom and direct access to private terraces.

Across the interiors, natural light, neutral tones and carefully considered materials create a calm and welcoming atmosphere – allowing the Ritmonio brassware to integrate naturally within the design.

Together, the architecture, interiors and bathroom specification form a harmonious blend of luxury, privacy and nature, offering guests an authentic experience of comfort and relaxation on the Greek island.

Ritmonio_OHLIVE-Beach-Villa_Pics

Leading distributor PJH is celebrating its exclusive distribution partnership with Norwegian wall panel specialist Fibo.

Since the partnership was established in March 2025, PJH has worked closely with the Fibo team to expand access to its innovative waterproof wall panel systems across England, Scotland and Wales. Through PJH’s extensive distribution network, customers can now benefit from fast nationwide next-day delivery, making the Fibo range easier to order, specify and install than ever before.

The partnership combines Fibo’s design-led wall panel technology with PJH’s nationwide logistics infrastructure, giving retailers, installers and merchants access to a comprehensive portfolio of more than 200 SKUs, including wall panels, profiles and accessories.

Fibo’s waterproof panel systems are designed as a modern alternative to traditional tiling. Manufactured in Norway and backed by a 25-year warranty, the panels feature a durable laminate surface and Fibo’s patented Aqualock click system, enabling installers to complete projects significantly faster than conventional tiling while achieving a clean, virtually seamless finish.

Alongside their practical performance, the range offers an ever-growing choice of high-quality, authentic finishes and textures, from Fibo’s distinctive varied tile effect designs to a wide selection of marble-inspired décors and contemporary surfaces, giving retailers and installers the flexibility to create both classic and modern interiors without the complexity of traditional tiling.

Commenting on the anniversary, Kim Cooper, product and marketing director at PJH, said: “We’re extremely proud to mark the first year of our partnership with Fibo. Working alongside their team has been incredibly rewarding, with the relationship built on trust, shared goals and a mutual commitment to supporting customers across the UK.

“Combining Fibo’s innovative wall panel systems with PJH’s national distribution capabilities has allowed us to make the range more accessible than ever. With next-day delivery and reliable coverage nationwide, we’re helping retailers and installers deliver high-quality bathroom and kitchen solutions quickly and efficiently.”

Chris Bugg, ssales director at Fibo commented: “At Fibo, we’re passionate about delivering innovative wall panel systems that simplify installation while achieving a premium finish. Partnering with PJH has allowed us to support more retailers and installers across the UK with reliable supply, fast delivery and a comprehensive product range. The first year has been a great success, and we’re looking forward to building on that together.”

Over the past year, the partnership has also expanded beyond bathrooms with the introduction of Fibo kitchen wall panels, offering a contemporary collection of splashback designs that complement modern kitchen interiors.

With demand continuing to grow for stylish, waterproof wall panel systems as an alternative to tiles, PJH is looking forward to building on the success of the first year and continuing to strengthen the collaboration in the months ahead.

For more information about the Fibo range available through PJH, contact PJH: T: 0345 450 8932 / www.partners.pjh.uk  / www.bathroomstolove.uk

LAUFEN’s three new accessories collections, NIARA, HALI and NIXIE, are designed to bring the refined, uncluttered feel of luxury hotels into everyday homes.

Making a design statement

NIARA (pictured top), LAUFEN’s premium accessories collection features towel rails, soap dispensers, tumblers and hooks that have soft, rounded forms. The NIARA collection is available in six colour finishes, Chrome, Brushed Inox, Polished Rose Gold, Brushed Rose Gold, Matt Pale Gold and Titanium Matt Black. It has been developed to coordinate seamlessly with LAUFEN’s VITREON Steel basins, allowing homeowners to create a bathroom that truly reflects their personal style, from warm metallic tones to cooler contemporary finishes.

Nixie-Bathroom-Accessories-collection-from-Laufen.
HALI & NIXIE: two approaches, one mindset

HALI (below) is offered exclusively in Chrome and features slim proportions and discreet detailing. For a more flexible approach, NIXIE *above) delivers minimalist design in three finishes: Chrome, Matt White and Matt Black. Tested for everyday wear and fixed with precision screw fittings, it’s a practical choice with strong visual impact.

How to choose bathroom accessories like a professional

Bathroom accessories were once chosen at the very last minute, but that mindset has shifted. According to Natalie Bird, brand marketing manager at LAUFEN, people now see accessories as an integral part of the overall bathroom design, with small decisions having a surprisingly big impact on how the space feels day to day. “One of the most important things is consistency,” Natalie says.

“Matching your metals makes a space feel intentional. If your taps are brushed brass or matt black, your accessories should follow suit. Coordinating finishes remove the guesswork and help pull a scheme together effortlessly.”

Installation is another detail that’s often overlooked. Wall-mounted accessories need to be planned early, before tiling begins, but the result is cleaner lines, easier cleaning and a more refined finish overall. “It’s also important to design around real life,” continues Natalie.

“Thinking about who uses the bathroom, how many towels need hanging and how robust the pieces need to be will shape better decisions. Family bathrooms benefit from durable, easy-to-clean designs, while ensuites or guest bathrooms can afford to be more design-led.”

Hali-Bathroom-Accessories-from-Laufen

NIARA, HALI and NIXIE are available now through LAUFEN dealers and showrooms.

Stockist: 01530 510007 or laufen.co.uk/point-of-sales

kbb Birmingham, the UK’s leading kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms exhibition, has marked its 40th anniversary with a dynamic edition at the NEC from 1–4 March. The four-day event welcomed almost 16,000 visitors, including retailers, designers, developers and installers, exploring displays from 320 exhibitors across 26 categories.

Jon Johnston, kbb Birmingham sales director, commented: “What an incredible celebration of our industry this special, 40th edition has been. A huge thank you to all our colleagues in the KBB community, whose support made this year’s event such an outstanding success. We were delighted to have welcomed such a strong mix of returning exhibitors, new brands making their debuts, together with a diverse international representation from over 20 countries, all showcasing the very best in KBB design and innovation.”

Show-stopping stands

The kbb Birmingham 2026 Stand Awards were announced on day one, recognising creative use of space and materials. Winners included:

Best Kitchen over 30sqm – Rotpunkt

Best Kitchen under 30sqm – Daniel George Kitchens

Best Bathroom over 30sqm – Ca’Pietra

Best Bathroom under 30sqm – Bonavit

Matt Phillips, head of UK operations at Rotpunkt, said: “2026 marked our 14th consecutive year at kbb Birmingham. The show is a fantastic networking environment, and winning Best Kitchen Stand is a proud achievement for the brand and our new 2026 collection.”

innovation in focus

House of Rohl UK and Aqualisa returned with smart showers, Victoria + Albert’s Lussari baths, and Vetralla basins. Michael Bennett, head of commercialisation, said: “kbb Birmingham has been a brilliant platform to showcase our latest innovations and connect with both new and longstanding partners.”

inSinkErator highlighted its COMPOST CADDY EASY strategy and instant hot water taps, alongside the LEDefense sink flange. Ashley Munden, managing director EMEA, said: “This year’s event was full of energy and provided a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the industry… it is a key moment in our calendar which we look forward to each time it comes around.”

2026 Innovation Awards

The People’s Choice Award went to Sensio Lighting’s Affinity Magnetic Track Lighting System. The Judge’s Choice was Flova UK’s DripFree® Rainshower. The Sustainability Award was won by Finsa for its Fimapan Bio BDecor. Ben Hughes, UK sales director at Finsa, commented: “Topping it all off by winning the Sustainability prize was a truly proud moment for the Finsa team.”

Forty rubber ducks were hidden across the show floor to celebrate four decades, offering visitors prizes from Ca’Pietra, Smeg, Bidbury & Co, Rangemaster, Abode and more. Sam Fisher, kbb Birmingham event director, also presented the inaugural Andy Bishop Award posthumously. He said: “I’m so proud to be celebrating four decades of kbb Birmingham as the industry’s meeting place… the stands reflected the creativity and dedication of our exhibitors and partners.”

kbb Birmingham returns to the NEC from 5–8 March 2028.

Surface manufacturer Cosentino has launched a new Cosentino City showroom in Manchester, creating a dedicated space for architects, designers and specifiers to explore materials, collaborate and develop projects.

Situated close to Manchester Victoria station and the city’s Green Quarter, the showroom has been created to strengthen connections within the regional design community while making Cosentino’s surface collections more accessible to professionals across the North of England.

Covering 208sqm, the Cosentino City Manchester space includes a working Atelier, an extensive sample library and interactive digital slab displays, allowing visitors to view and compare materials in an environment designed to support specification and project development.

The showroom highlights Cosentino’s leading surface brands, including Dekton, Sensa and Silestone. By bringing together designers, architects and specifiers, the space is intended to provide a setting for networking, industry events and creative collaboration.

Commenting on the new showroom opening, Cosentino UK regional director Paul Gidley states: “The opening of our new Manchester showroom marks an exciting new chapter for Cosentino. We are incredibly proud to open here, right at the heart of one of the UK’s most exciting and fast-growing design communities. Manchester has long been a centre for culture, innovation and creativity and our new showroom is testament to Cosentino’s commitment to supporting and investing in the North. By establishing this dynamic hub, we’re not only bringing our world-class surfaces and expertise closer to designers and architects in the region, but we’re also creating a collaborative space where ideas can thrive and the local design community can continue to flourish.”

Cosentino-opens-new-Manchester-Showroom