Diane, Author at Bathroom Review

GROHE introduces Grohtherm Aqua Tiles for personalised shower design

April 16, 2026

GROHE has unveiled its latest innovation in wellness-led bathroom design with the launch of GROHE Grohtherm Aqua Tiles, a next-generation concealed thermostat ’tile-shaped’ control panel system that redefines the modern shower as a fully customisable, spa-inspired experience.

Designed to respond to the growing demand for personalised wellbeing at home, the system combines architectural minimalism with advanced shower control.

A minimalist approach to intelligent control

At the core of the system is a precision-engineered metal thermostat presented in a sleek horizontal format. The design is deliberately restrained, with recessed control buttons that sit flush within the surface and only extend when activated, reinforcing a clean, uninterrupted aesthetic.

This pared-back interface reflects a wider shift in bathroom design towards seamless integration, where technology enhances the space without visual disruption.

Fully customisable shower experiences

The Grohtherm Aqua Tiles system enables control of up to five different shower functions, allowing users to move effortlessly between head and hand showers, body sprays and a variety of spray patterns.

This flexibility transforms everyday showering into a tailored wellness ritual, adapting to individual preferences, moods and routines. Interchangeable cover plates further enhance this sense of personalisation, offering icon-based options that clearly communicate each function and can be configured to suit bespoke shower layouts.

The result is an intuitive user experience that prioritises clarity, accessibility and precision.

Designed for immersive wellbeing

The system can be paired with the GROHE Rainshower Aqua, engineered to deliver an enveloping water experience that brings a true spa atmosphere into the home. With adjustable positioning and generous proportions, it is designed to maximise comfort and relaxation.

Two distinct spray modes – from a gentle Rain setting to a more invigorating ActiveRain – allow users to shift seamlessly between calming and energising experiences. Complementing this, the hand shower offers multiple spray options, including massage-style and air-infused variations designed to support both relaxation and revitalisation.

Cohesive design and elevated finishes

Material consistency is central to the system’s design language, with high-quality metal components used throughout for a unified, premium feel. The refined detailing ensures the entire shower environment reads as a cohesive architectural feature rather than a collection of separate elements.

Available in finishes aligned with the broader GROHE palette – including contemporary tones such as Phantom Black – the system is designed to integrate seamlessly into a wide range of interior schemes, from minimalist residential bathrooms to high-end hospitality projects.

A new direction in bathroom wellbeing

Positioned within GROHE’s wider premium bathroom offering, including systems such as the GROHE Atrio Private Collection, the launch reflects a continued focus on holistic wellbeing and design-led innovation.

Rooted in the principle of Salus per Aquam – wellbeing through water – Grohtherm Aqua Tiles reinforces the bathroom’s evolving role as a personalised wellness environment, where precision engineering and emotional comfort come together.

As the boundaries between wellness, architecture and daily ritual continue to blur, GROHE’s latest launch signals a clear direction of travel: towards highly adaptable, design-led spaces that elevate the everyday.

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Isabel López Vilalta designs sensory bathroom for Kaldewei at Casa Decor

April 15, 2026

At Casa Decor 2026 in Madrid, Kaldewei unveils a refined bathroom installation designed by interior architect Isabel López Vilalta, presenting a calm, sensory interpretation of the bathroom as an architectural space for wellbeing, reflection and material clarity.

The project is conceived not as a literal narrative, but as an atmospheric spatial experience. Sculptural volumes, softened edges and a restrained material palette create a gradual unfolding of space, guiding visitors through a carefully controlled sequence that prioritises perception over immediate readability.

Bathroom elements are fully integrated into the architectural composition, with the NUIO DUO Zen Edition bath introducing a subtle multi-sensory dimension through heat, sound and light. Rather than functioning as standalone objects, the fixtures operate as part of the spatial and sensory system.

“The proposal does not unfold as an explicit narrative scene, but rather as an enveloping atmosphere. The sculptural volumetry reorganises the space from a contemporary perspective, creating a subtle contrast between architectural precision and the warmth of the materials. The result is a serene environment that invites visitors to pause and reflect,” says Isabel López Vilalta.

Movement through the installation is deliberately slow and intuitive. Layered planes reveal themselves progressively, encouraging a more mindful engagement with light, proportion and surface. A suspended mirror becomes a key spatial device, shifting viewpoints and subtly expanding the perception of the interior.

Light plays a central role in shaping atmosphere, working in dialogue with materials to define and soften architectural edges. Translucent textiles and a muted tonal range introduce warmth and intimacy, balancing precision with tactility. The result is a composed environment that feels both structured and emotionally open.

“The intention was not to impose an image, rather to craft an emotion,” adds ILV*, continuing: “We wanted visitors to be guided by the space, to move through it without haste, and to understand it through perception, not only through sight.”

The installation also reflects an ongoing collaboration with Kaldewei, developed through a wider project in San Sebastián where the studio, alongside architect Ignacio Quemada, is converting a former theatre into a hotel. That process informed bespoke terracotta tones and material references that appear within the Casa Decor installation.

The project reflects Kaldewei’s focus on steel enamel as a durable, circular and precise material language, reinforcing ideas of longevity and responsible design. Importantly, the installation has been conceived for reuse and will be relocated to Kaldewei’s showroom in Germany after Casa Decor, extending its lifecycle and supporting a more sustainable approach to exhibition design.

Casa-Decor-2026-Space-Kaldewei-by-ILV-Isabel-Lopez-Vilalta

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Clerkenwell Design Week 2026 to launch city-wide installations & expanded awards programme

April 15, 2026

Clerkenwell Design Week 2026 will return to London’s EC1 district from 19–21 May 2026, celebrating its 15th edition with a new programme of large-scale public installations and an expanded awards scheme.

Organised by Media 10, the global design festival will introduce Design Interventions – a curated series of site-specific structures installed ברח Clerkenwell’s streets, parks and venues. The initiative follows an open call to emerging and established designers and architects, with selected proposals set to activate the neighbourhood through interactive and immersive experiences.

Design Interventions animate Clerkenwell

The installations are designed to encourage public engagement while exploring material innovation and the built environment. Many will function as temporary gathering points, inviting visitors to sit, reflect and connect.

Among the selected works is Fountain of Technicolour Beads by Hong Kong studio One Bite Design, which will be installed on Clerkenwell Green. The terrazzo-based structure addresses colour vision deficiency through an immersive spatial experience.

Nearby, architectural practice StudioFolk will present The Crinkle-Crankle Bench beside St James’ Church Clerkenwell. Formed from natural stone bricks, the half-crescent seating installation references traditional serpentine wall forms.

At Haberdashers’ Hall, a “living” installation titled The Pulse of Becoming will evolve over the course of the festival. Created by graduates Musab Umair, Amruta Ramesh Pullawar and Sharath Binu John, the piece incorporates chia seeds embedded within sculptural forms that gradually sprout, symbolising cycles of life and regeneration.

Expanded CDW Awards launch with Design Milk

A key highlight for 2026 is the expanded CDW Awards, presented in partnership with Design Milk. Taking place on 19 May at Haberdashers’ Hall, the awards will recognise not only standout products across furniture, lighting and materials, but also the individuals and studios driving innovation in the industry.

New categories will spotlight “disruptors, dreamers and doers”, reflecting a broader focus on creative impact and forward-thinking design.

New venues across historic Clerkenwell

The 2026 edition will introduce several new venues, including the Museum of the Order of St John at St John’s Gate. The historic site will host INTERIORS FROM SPAIN, a contemporary design showcase produced by Disegno.

Other additions include Material Source Studio and Workplace on the Square, located near The Zetter Hotel, focusing on materials innovation and workplace design respectively.

Meanwhile, returning venues such as St Bartholomew the Great will once again host the Church of Design. The medieval building will feature installations including CONFLUENCE, an origami-inspired suspended structure by Fung+Bedford, alongside exhibitions from international brands such as Roche Bobois, DEDON and MAGIS.

The Conversations at Clerkenwell talks programme will also return, curated by Katie Richardson and sponsored by Dulux, featuring discussions on key topics shaping contemporary design.

Lighting, installations and international brands

The House of Detention will again host the Light exhibition, showcasing global lighting brands. Visitors will be welcomed by Loom Light, a 3D-printed installation created by MIMStudios in collaboration with AI Build and SEAM Design.

Across Clerkenwell, a mix of historic and contemporary venues – including Old Sessions House and The Charterhouse – will host exhibitions spanning furniture, surfaces, textiles and product design.

Confirmed exhibitors include String Furniture, Moroso, Dornbracht and Vincent Sheppard, alongside national showcases from Austria, Denmark and Italy.

Digital-first visitor experience

For 2026, the festival will introduce a new digital app, replacing printed guides. The platform will allow visitors to navigate venues, plan itineraries and access exhibitor information in real time.

Clerkenwell Design Week 2026 takes place across EC1, London, from 19–21 May, with installations, exhibitions and talks programme spread throughout the district. Registration is now open via the official festival website.

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Bette Ultra Space expands range with 20 new sizes

April 15, 2026

Bette is expanding the Bette Ultra Space shower tray range with 20 additional sizes. This further increases the scope for customised bathroom planning, in both new builds and refurbishments. From compact layouts to spacious walk-in solutions, BetteUltra Space can now be tailored even more precisely to different room concepts.

BetteUltra Space combines minimalist design with a clear technical advantage. In combination with the BetteCompact+ drain set, it can be installed with a minimum installation height of just 90 mm. According to Bette, no other shower tray solution meets standards at this level. This opens up new possibilities, particularly in challenging installation scenarios, such as in existing properties, where installation heights are low, or wherever a shower area needs to be integrated in a particularly elegant and comfortable manner.

A particular benefit lies in the well-thought-out geometry of the shower surface. It guides the water safely and cleanly to the drain, even with the extremely flat design. The result is a minimalist shower area that not only appears light and spacious but also functions reliably in everyday use. The low installation height is thus not a compromise, but a genuine gain in comfort. The wall-adjacent drain on the narrow side also creates a pleasant, continuous standing area and enhances the clean architectural aesthetic.

In terms of design, BetteUltra Space offers additional freedom thanks to its wide range of colours, with over 30 options. This allows the shower tray to be subtly and harmoniously matched to the adjacent floor covering or deliberately styled as a contrast. Made from glazed titanium steel, it also impresses with a seamless, hygienic and particularly easy-to-clean surface. Compared to tiled showers, it can be cleaned more quickly and easily, a noticeable advantage in daily use. Bette offers a 30-year guarantee on the flawless quality of this robust material.

BetteUltra Space also sets a clear example when it comes to sustainability. The material is based on the natural raw materials glass, water and steel, and stands for durability and recyclability.

The shower tray is also available with Seal+ as an option. The pre-assembled seal facilitates standard-compliant installation and simplifies coordination between the plumber and the tiler. This ensures safety on site and makes installation even more efficient.

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Southern Wind 96 Nyumba brings spa-led bathroom design aboard hybrid sailing yacht

April 14, 2026

96 Nyumba is the first electric-hybrid propulsion sailboat in the Southern Wind fleet. With naval architecture by Farr Yacht Design and interiors by Nauta Design, the 96-foot vessel combines advanced performance with a pared-back, design-led interior.

The interior layout is comfortable and inviting, following the classic design of sailing yachts this size, featuring the owner’s cabin at the bow, two guest quarters amidships, and the crew and galley areas at the aft. The main salon offers an open, bright space that has been customised to meet the clients’ needs. A fourth cabin features a cosy TV area, complete with a large sofa.

CEADESIGN_SOUTHERN-WIND-96-NYUMBA Shower

The bathrooms have been conceived as compact, spa-like environments that prioritise comfort and longevity – key considerations for extended time at sea. Specified throughout, CEADESIGN’s NEUTRA and FREE IDEAS collections introduce a precise, architectural language. Manufactured from AISI 316L stainless steel -chosen for its durability in marine environments – the fittings are finished in a satin Black Diamond finish, offering a deep, matte aesthetic that complements the yacht’s restrained material palette.

Minimal in form, the deck-mounted mixers feature clean lines and swivelling spouts, optimising usability within compact footprints. In the shower areas, adjustable round heads with transparent silicone nozzles and integrated pressure regulation deliver a controlled, high-performance water experience, balancing efficiency with comfort.

CEADESIGN’s MILO360 collection is applied within the galley, finished in satin stainless steel to maintain continuity across the interior. Together, the specification reflects a holistic approach, where kitchen and bathroom design are treated with equal importance.

Photo Credit: Giuliano Sargentini (interiors), Rob Kamhoot (exteriors)

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Retailers rank service and availability above product range, Tissino survey reveals

April 14, 2026

Bathroom retailers are placing increasing weight on service, stock availability and supplier reliability when choosing who to work with, according to new research from Tissino, highlighting a shift in priorities across the sector as operational pressures continue to shape day-to-day business.

Drawing on feedback from 130 customers, the survey found that customer service, stock availability and product quality are the three most important factors in supplier selection, standing apart clearly from other considerations across all retail formats. Showroom-based businesses, in particular, placed strong emphasis on dependable delivery, consistent support and access to a well-managed product range, reflecting the need for suppliers that can support both sales and installation with confidence.

While product remains essential, the findings point to a broader expectation that suppliers must now deliver a more complete and reliable service proposition, extending beyond design and specification into logistics, communication and aftersales support.

In response to these evolving expectations, Tissino has continued to invest across its operational infrastructure, focusing on improving consistency, responsiveness and ease of doing business for its retail partners. Recent developments include the introduction of a new warehouse to strengthen stock holding, alongside expanded warehouse teams and new delivery vehicles to support faster, more reliable fulfilment as demand increases.

Alongside physical investment, the business has enhanced its internal systems, with ongoing CRM development and the evolution of its retailer portal, designed to give customers easier access to resources, product information and support tools. Within the warehouse, new technology has been introduced, including a bespoke app to improve picking accuracy and stock visibility, helping to reduce errors and streamline processes at scale.

Further improvements have been made within Tissino’s parts operation, where new processes and infrastructure have been developed to ensure faster turnaround and greater clarity for retailers managing aftersales requirements, an area that continues to play an important role in long-term supplier relationships.

Edward Lewis, managing director at Tissino, says: “Retailers are under constant pressure to deliver projects smoothly, often across multiple sites and tight timelines, so the margin for disruption is very small. What matters most is having a supplier they can rely on to support them consistently, not just at the point of order, but right through to installation and beyond.

“A strong product offer will always be important, but it is the experience around that product that shapes long-term relationships. For us, it is about building a business that works in step with how our customers operate day to day, where reliability is embedded across every touchpoint and where trust is built over time through consistency.”

As expectations continue to evolve, the findings suggest that suppliers who invest in operational strength alongside product development will be best placed to support retailers in an increasingly demanding market.

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Kiwa Watertec confirmed as Silver Sponsor for Bathroom Association’s Connect Conference 2026

April 14, 2026

The Bathroom Association has announced Kiwa Watertec as a Silver Sponsor for the Connect Conference 2026 this October at The Grand Hotel, Birmingham – marking its third consecutive year supporting the event and reinforcing its commitment to the bathroom sector.

This year’s conference theme, ‘Stronger Together’, reflects the Association’s focus on practical, forward-looking collaboration across the sector. From policy, standards, and skills to innovation and meeting customer needs, Connect Conference 2026 will explore how the bathroom industry can work more closely across the supply chain to build resilience, strengthen capability, and unlock growth.

Kiwa Watertec supports manufacturers in meeting legal, safety and performance standards for sanitary and plumbing products, helping to ensure market access, protect public health and build confidence in product quality. Its services include Water Regulation 4 compliance, TMV testing and certification, BS 6920 materials testing, as well as product evaluation and pre-compliance testing to streamline development and reduce costly redesigns.

This expertise reflects the ethos of ‘Stronger Together’. As the industry navigates tighter regulations, rising expectations and the need to innovate, partners like Kiwa Watertec play a vital role in enabling a more confident and consistent response.

Jonathan Price, business development manager at Kiwa Watertec, said: “We are delighted to continue our support for the Connect Conference as a Silver Sponsor for 2026. Having sponsored the event for three years now, we know firsthand the value it brings in connecting the industry and creating meaningful discussion around the issues that matter most. ”

Amy Kirk, marketing and events director at the Bathroom Association, said: “Kiwa Watertec’s continued support as a Silver Sponsor is hugely valued. This year’s theme is all about how we align across the supply chain, share expertise, and build a stronger future for the industry. Kiwa Watertec’s role in supporting compliance, quality, and confidence makes them a natural fit for that conversation.”

The Connect Conference 2026 will bring together manufacturers, the wider supply chain and industry partners for a day of keynote talks, discussion and networking, followed by an exclusive gala dinner. Confirmed keynote speakers include Jez Rose for the morning and Rob Law MBE for the afternoon. The event will also see the return of the charity raffle and auction, as well as the popular Thirty-under-Thirty Awards.

For more information and to book, please visit the official Connect Conference 2026 page.

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Light & clarity define Ceralsio’s new Crystal Lux Blanco finish

April 14, 2026

Bright yet softly textured, Crystal Lux Blanco is a fresh addition to the Ceralsio ceramic surface collection from CRL Stone, offering a modern interpretation of white with a gently luminous quality.

With its clean base and subtle reflective effect, Crystal Lux Blanco introduces lightness to the kitchen and bathroom while maintaining a refined, elegant presence. The surface works particularly well in contemporary spaces where a sense of openness and clarity is essential. Paired with bold accents or layered neutrals, it brings versatility to a wide range of design schemes.

Crystal Lux Blanco is part of the Ceralsio range of high-performance ceramic surfaces, developed for demanding residential and commercial settings. Durable and non-porous, the material is highly resistant to stains, scratches, heat and UV exposure. Its colour and finish remain consistent over time, even in bright, sunlit areas or high-traffic zones.

Ideal for kitchen worktops, bathroom surfaces, splashbacks, flooring, wall cladding and outdoor kitchens, Crystal Lux Blanco offers a solution that is both easy to maintain and visually impactful.

Available in 12 mm thickness, it reflects the ongoing trend for slim, large-format materials that combine strength with style.

For more information and brochures call CRL Stone on 01706 863600, or visit www.crlstone.co.uk

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Neolith strengthens global brand strategy with chief brand officer appointment

April 9, 2026

Neolith has appointed Nieves Contreras as chief brand officer (CBO), marking a significant step in the brand’s ongoing global evolution and reinforcing its commitment to a more cohesive and impactful identity.

The newly created role signals a strategic shift for the sintered stone specialist, as it looks to further align its brand, design and sustainability messaging across international markets.

Announced on 9 April 2026, the appointment sees Contreras bring more than two decades of experience in creative leadership and design strategy to the business. She will be responsible for driving the global integration of Neolith’s brand vision, overseeing communication, positioning and storytelling to ensure a consistent voice worldwide.

Driving a unified global vision

The introduction of a chief brand officer reflects Neolith’s focus on strengthening brand consistency while elevating its positioning within the premium architectural surfaces sector. The move also underlines the company’s ambition to connect product innovation with wider cultural, architectural and environmental narratives.

In her new role, Contreras will lead the development of a unified brand strategy designed to enhance Neolith’s presence across key markets, while reinforcing its reputation for innovation, design excellence and sustainability.

Walter Ceglia, CEO of Neolith, said: “Nieves joining Neolith marks a key step in our evolution as a global brand. Her experience in creative leadership and strategic transformation will be instrumental in bringing together our vision for brand, design, innovation, and sustainability into a strong and consistent narrative across international markets. The diversification of our markets—both geographically and across products and segments—will also play an essential role in strengthening our positioning and supporting our future growth.”

Extensive international expertise

Contreras joins Neolith from Lladró, where she spent eight years leading brand strategy and creative direction as Director of the Creativity Department, alongside serving on the company’s executive committee. Her career also includes experience with international design studios such as Elium Studio in Paris, as well as active involvement in academic and cultural design initiatives.

She is currently undertaking a doctorate in Design at the Universitat Politècnica de València and serves on the board of trustees of the Design Foundation of the Region of Valencia. In addition, she holds an international certification in boards of directors and good governance.

Commenting on her new position, Contreras said: “Neolith represents a contemporary vision of architecture and living spaces, where technical excellence and sustainability come together with design and culture. I take on this new challenge with the aim of strengthening a global brand that is consistent, inspiring, and closely connected with architects, designers, and specifiers around the world.”

Supporting long-term growth

The appointment comes as Neolith continues to expand across key global regions, including the UK, Europe, North America, Australia and China. With a presence in more than 100 countries, the company remains focused on delivering high-performance, sustainable surface solutions for residential and commercial applications.

As Neolith enters this new phase, the creation of the CBO role underlines its ambition to further strengthen its global footprint while shaping a more unified and design-led brand narrative.

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Duravit serves premium brand experience at Porsche Tennis Grand Prix

April 9, 2026

As the tournament’s official main partner, the event offers the designer bathroom supplier an opportunity to showcase its brand, raise awareness of its product offering and position itself in a premium setting.

Presence as main partner in internationally visible elite sport
Promotion of brand awareness at the event via brand experience area at Porsche Village, interactive formats and an attractive competition
VIP program offering insights into the brand and production beyond the tournament days

A strong line-up of competitors ensures that this year’s Porsche Tennis Grand Prix will once again be in the media spotlight and a focus of attention among the international tennis community. As the tournament’s official main partner, Duravit will be represented at the event, seizing the opportunity to boost its brand presence against the backdrop of the elite sporting world.

Platform to enhance brand reach and positioning

As a top-flight sports event, the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix tournament attracts a correspondingly high level of attention in the media, making it an appropriate platform for premium brands. The Porsche sports car awarded to the winner each year is a defining feature which adds an extra touch of glamor to the event and underscores its exclusive character.

This provides Duravit with a setting conducive to boosting visibility and brand positioning. The company uses the tournament’s reach to consolidate its brand among a sports-oriented public and to further heighten its profile in the premium segment.

Premium experience to forge emotional affinity with the brand

Duravit is offering a special program for international guests attending the event. This covers Center Court seats, access to hospitality areas and selected meet and greets with players.

Visits to the Porsche Museum, the Duravit factory in Hornberg and the showroom will also be on offer, allowing visitors to extend their stay after the tournament and gain insights into the brand and the designer bathroom manufacturer’s production processes.

On show at Porsche Village

At Porsche Village, Duravit will be on show with a broad-ranging presentation of the brand and products, offering visitors a vivid and contemporary brand experience. The experience area will showcase the brand world in a cuttingedge setting featuring interactive elements. A photo booth will generate additional social media coverage, while a competition and the Duravit theme day featuring a sporting challenge will boost interaction.

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