100% Design proved to be somewhat of a surprise to us when we dropped in to visit: not only was it twice as big as last year, it also seemed to contain a lot more from the kitchen and bathroom industries. The co-located 100% Detail also proved an eye opener, although it has to be said that there were a few companies who were facing the prospect of a big hole in their marketing budget with little to show for it. For those of you who missed it, we have a roundup of some of the launches from the KBB market, and a few pictures to provide a flavour of the event.
Wonderful
tap but too expensive to produce in its current design, the 'Concept'
from Perrin & Rowe nonetheless proved of great interest to kitchen
and bathroom designers looking for that extra bit of design flexibility.
In showing this prototype, P&R amply demonstrated its core competence
in engineering - and solid UK manufacturing pedigree. Of the opinion (perhaps
not unsurprisingly) that the tap is the most important single appliance,
MD Greg Rowe issued a warning that buyers 'don't always get what they
pay for: for the same price as one of our taps you get half the engineering'
he said.
Formica,
still enjoying its comeback in the kitchen and general interior design
markets, sponsored the construction of the 100% Detail bar. The design
(pictured above) is called 'God is in the Detail'. Formica laminate is
used throughout, with digital printing techniques for the bar tops, benches
and tables. The witty three day installation enjoyed 'the rich world of
high renaissance religious iconography. Cherubs, the last supper and soaring
heavenly spaces, a time when God was celebrated in every detail',
MHS
Radiators exhibited a number of new designs, including the Motus, pictured
above, which along with the new Hot Box Towel Warmer proved a big hit
for visiting interior designers, and hotel chain specifiers. As a first
time exhibitor, the company was happy that it had pitched the right products
at the right price to get maximum interest from the market
Never
mind the width, feel the quality: visitors to the Rossana stand get touchy-feely,
bearing out the company philosophy, which considers the kitchen as 'the
continuation of the 'living'space of the house, a place of a sober and
sophisticated elegance, thought for cooking but also a meeting space opened
to socialisation'.
Sissons
new Xinox Sanitaryware: Smart-Looking and Vandal-Proof
Stainless
steel sanitaryware manufacturer W&G Sissons revealed the Xinox range
of WCs and hand basins.
Xinox has been created by professional designers with an eye for detail
whose brief was to create a sanitaryware range for disceming people with
high expectations of hygiene, design and aesthetics. The result is a stylish
washroom concept, ideal for high quality restaurants, bars, theatres and
hotels.
Head of Marketing Paul Markwell explains: 'The exhibition gave us the
perfect opportunity to showcase this innovative range of designer sanitaryware,
created for top-end commercial applications. A great deal of research
has gone into designing this unique range, which is both practical and
hygienic as well as having a strong style element.'
It was also the first time the 'inox Plus' surface has been used in a
commercial application, which means the stainless steel does not show
fingerprints or other surface marks. This finish makes the products low
maintenance and the Xinox range retains its attractive appearance even
longer.
Tel: 01246 450255
Web: http://www.sissons.co.uk
Dornbracht
MEM: Sounds Pretentious- Looks Great!
What
comes after form? What value and significance do things need in a time
when perfect form and functionality are taken for granted? These are the
questions Dornbracht, the international manufacturer of quality designer
fittings, accessories and interiors, asked itself at the beginning of
its latest development. Together with Sieger Design and the agency Meiré
and Meiré, they came up with an answer: MEM.
MEM
represents an ongoing process that caters for the personal needs of each
and every one of us. As a form of holistic bathroom architecture, MEM
was exhibited for the first time in the UK at 100% Design, Earls Court
2, 25-28 September. MEM fittings represent a new, minimalist aesthetic:
the flat wide spout, from which water cascades, without aeration, like
that of the flow from a natural spring.
MEM attempts to create a new understanding of the intangible values in
life and in the bathroom. 'If we want to feel ourselves again, then we
must be able to experience ourselves in an individualised environment',
said Andreas Dornbracht, Dornbracht's managing director. The consequence:
freely combinable fittings and modules within the MEM range that enable
the creation of a personal area for individual rituals and moods.
MEM fittings represent a new sphere of elemental fitting aesthetics with
their flat, broad spouts. The design is deliberately understated to blend
well with the given architectural environment. It gives water itself the
leading role by virtue of the
deliberate decision not to equip any of the fittings with an aerator and
thereby recaptures it's force. The fitting conceals the complex technology
with which it is equipped in favour of a primeval encounter with water
itself.
On show at 100% Design were a 3 hole basin mixer, a 2 hole single lever
basin mixer and a cascade spout. Additional aspects of the MEM range,
including handshower fittings, tissue holders, towel bar and integrated
shelf are currently in development and like the rest of the MEM collection
will be available in 2004.
Web: http:www.dornbracht.com
Perrin
& Rowe and Aqualisa make a Splash with Quartz
Perrin
& Rowe, the British bathroom and kitchen brassware brand made a splash
at its first 100% Design...with a little help from Aqualisa. The exhibition
was chosen to launch the 'Perrin & Rowe/Aqualisa Quartz' showering
system, a product that despite the show's other high profile exhibitors,
was completely exclusive to the Perrin & Rowe stand.
Belonging
amongst the next generation of showers, the Quartz system, launched by
Aqualisa two years ago, is an electronically controlled shower that can
be pre-programmed to a certain temperature, and which can be remotely
switched on or off from an entirely different location - bedroom, dressing
room...or even a landing. An illuminated ring on the in-shower part of
the Quartz flashes until the desired water temperature has been achieved,
and for peace of mind, the Quartz's micro-processor, which is located
well away from the shower, and sometimes even the bathroom (Aqualisa suggest
the airing cupboard and loft as ideal places for the processor to be situated),
ensures that hot and cold water are blended with perfect accuracy - meaning
that for children or the vulnerable, showering is safe and without risk
of scalding or temperature imbalances.
The ultimate in fuss-free, walk-in, walk-out showers; sales of the award-winning
Quartz have rocketed. Now stylised by Perrin & Rowe, and bearing the
brand's discreet, insignia, the Quartz should find favour with discerning
consumers and high-end specifiers alike.
Brand namesake, Greg Rowe comments,
'For the time-poor, design-conscious consumer, the Quartz system has all
the answers. It's minimalist, convenient, good-looking and completely
hassle-free - you can switch the shower on remotely, make a coffee, and
then - when the shower tells you the water has reachedyour preferred temperature
-you step in.'
Meanwhile, Martyn Denny, Aqualisa's Commercial Director says,
The Quartz has been incredibly successful, but we wanted to widen its
appeal by working with the Perrin & Rowe design team to realise an
interpretation ofthe Quartz that would encourage high-end specifiers and
consumers sourcing luxury fittings from the very top end of the market
to also consider the system.'
'Visitors to The Perrin & Rowe stand were able to use the remote control
to switch a 'live' Perrin & Rowe/Aqualisa Quartz system on and off
- and once seen, it's hard not to be converted!' concluded Greg Rowe.
The Perrin & Rowe/Aqualisa Quartz showering system will be available
towards late 2003 - early 2004.
Tel: 01708 526361
Web: http://www.perrinandrowe.com
Aestus
Launches 'funky and innovative' Collection Inox
100%
Design was the launch pad for Aestus' new collection of radiators. 'Collection
Inox' is a range of stainless steel radiators featuring funky and innovative
designs that are suitable for all areas of the home. The collection comprises
six models; Foglia, Line, Vision, Rio, Touch and Vetro, with a choice
of polished or satin finishes for most of the designs.
The collection has been created by two well-known ltalian designers: Mariano
Moroni and Paola Pinnavaia. Moroni designed Line, Vision, Rio, Touch and
Vetro, whilst Foglia was the brainchild of Pinnavaia. The designs focus
on contemporary styling combined with organic shapes, resulting in a collection
of radiators that break the boundaries of traditional radiator design.
By going beyond pure functionality, Moroni and Pinnavaia have created
radiators that have become works of art and sculptures in their own right.
Foglia
The cutting edge design of the Foglia, meaning leaf, captures the innocent
beauty of nature. A polished stainless steel tube sweeps vertically through
the middle of the radiator whilst further tubes branch off in opposite
directions on either side, forming an effect reminiscent of veins in a
leaf.
The
Foglia, winner of the LD Magazine Annual besign Award (New York 2001),
should attract the attention of architects and interior designers. Foglia
is available in two sizes; 2100mm x 790mm and 1765mm x 570mm.
Line
The puristic Line radiator is perfect for contemporary interiors. Line
is manufactured from stainless steel with a satin finish, and is available
with an optional mirror and shelving, making the design even more functional.
The abstract shape of the mirror resembles a 'splash' of water, whilst
the shelving forms a wave effect. Line measures 2000mm x 805mm.
Vision
The funky Vision radiator is a trendy new addition to Aestus' product
portfolio. Vision is perfect for all living areas of the home, its centrally
positioned mirror is particularly suited to a bedroom or hallway environment.
Two shelves, available as an optional extra, provide aplace to display
ornaments.
Vision is available in one size measuring 1600mm x 1060mm and is manufactured
from satin finished stainless steel.
Rio
The delicate design of the Rio radiator provides subtle elegance to contemporary
surroundings. Rio offers all the style and beauty you would expect from
ltalian design.
Rio comprises twelve vertical tubes, reminiscent of fine silver thread.
The tubes, although straight at the top and bottom on the radiator, undulate
in the centre, offering an attractive design aspect. Rio is manufactured
from stainless steel and is available in a choice of polished or satin
finishes.
Touch
The distinctive panelled designed of the Touch radiator makes it particularly
suitable for use in well-used areas of the home such as the kitchen or
hallway or for use in an office environment.
Touch comprises seven horizontal panels spaced at intervals along two
vertical struts. A convenient shelf, which sits above the radiator, is
available as an optional extra, priced at £100.00. An extra valve
set is also available at £162.00.
Manufactured from stainless steel, Touch is available in one size, measuring
1653mm x1005mm.
Vetro
The exotic shape of the Vetro adds beauty and interest to any area of
the home. Particulary suited for use within a bedroom or hallway, the
Vetro offers far more than purely the functional aspect of heating the
room. Two mirrors either side of the heating elements are perfect for
dressing whilst the optional shelves offer handy storage space for drying
off towels, or even displaying an Object d'Art.
The sweeping curve of the Vetro emanates a feeling of serenity. The mirror
to the left of the heating elements is cut diagonally across the top whilst
the mirror to the right is cut on the diagonal across the base offering
yet another distinctive design aspect.
Vetro is manufactured from stainless steel, its satin finish offers a
fresh, contemporary feel. Choose from two sizes of 1580 x 1005mm or 1580
x 1125mm.
Collection lnox radiators are compatible with all water circuits.
Tel: 01902 632 256
Email: mailto:sales@aestus-radiators.com
Web: http://www.aestus-radiators.com
Bisque
Springs through Hoops with the Zanzibar Collection
Bisque
made an impact with a range of designer radiators which combine style
and performance. Bisque's products are also now available world-wide.
100%
Design has always been a highlight for Bisque, which says it is known
for show-stopping displays as well as cutting edge products. The exhibition
has launched several Bisque designs such as the Hot Spring and Hot Hoop
radiators by Paul Priestman and the Zanzibar collection.
The 2003 stand - designed by Bisque Artistic Director and Chairman Paul
Draper - incorporated a display of the new Svelte space-saving range and
new products including:
• Petrus: space-saving, vertical contours in gleaming chrome
• Louvre: the latest in towel radiators, made from oval chrome
tubing
• Vertebra: a preview of this feature towel radiator design
for 2004
• Valves: new ranges of thermostatic and manual valves
Also on display were Bisque's signature designs, such as:
• Towel-radiators: the definitive accessory for any bathroom
or kitchen
• Classics: Bisque's most popular design in a range of sizes
and colours
• Flow Form: award-winning industrial chic for the urban interior
Tel: 020 7328 2225
For UK stockists call: 01225 478500
Web: http://www.bisque.co.uk
Export enquiries: Bisque Export Tel: +44 (0) 20 7328 2321
Email: mailto:info@bisque-exports.com
Web: http://www.bisque-exports.com
Nature
and Technology Forge Water Droplet
Nature
provided the inspiration for the new contemporary brassware range launched
by Water Front but technology provided the solutions to manufacturing
it.
Designed for Water Front by lnterior Designer Mark Humphrey, the mh1 range
is based on the simplicity of a water droplet and each piece of the collection
takes on this attractive natural form. The full collection has been three
years in development and includes single and tower basin mixers, and deck
and wall-mounted taps for basin or bath, all finished in a mixeage of
polished and satin chrome.
Chris Wilson, Managing Director of Water Front, said: 'It's a little ironic
that we've had to be so innovative in our manufacturing in order to accommodate
the simplicity of Mark's design, but the final result is wonderful and
has been well worth all the challenges.'
CP Hart has gained a year's exclusive distribution rights for the mh1
range, which will be available through all C.P. Hart showrooms nationwide.
Tel: 0121 520 5346
Email: mailto:waterfront@bt.connect.com
Web: http://www.waterfrontbathrooms.com
The
English Seaside Brought Inside
The
new range of tiles produced by ceramicist Anne Barrell captures the bittersweet
melancholia of the English seaside. Piers, promenades, beaches, fish and
chip shops, flags and Victorian tiling are evoked in the hand glazed and
printed ranges.
Anne visits locations around the UK and takes her own photographs. The
images are then digitally manipulated on a computer and screen-printed
onto the final pieces. A palette of colours and tints - aqua blues, lime
greens, candy pinks - make the surfaces highly tactile and as Anne mixes
her own glazes the range is completely unique.
Individual tiles are available and these can be used as coaster sets,
framed wall pieces or mixed with plain tiles. Features for architectural
spaces can be commissioned and the tiles are hardwearing and water resistant.
Prices range from £30 to £70+.
Anne was born in Southend and she is based at the prestigious Cockpit
Studios in central London. She trained at the Chelsea College of Art.
Tel +00 44 (0)20 7722 0649
Email: mailto:annebarrellceramics@hotmail.com
Web: http://www.hiddenart.com
Web: http://www.cockpitarts.com
Draks Launches New Aluminium Framed Sliding Doors
Draks
provides solutions for windows and internal spaces with a range of screens,
shutters, blinds and room dividers in a variety of styles and finishes.
Draks launched a range of new Aluminium framed Sliding Doors with Opaque
infills. The opaque acrylic comes as standard and creates translucence
which provides light and privacy. Alternatively a range of different infills
such as laminated clear glass, tinted glass, toughened float glass, clear
or sandblasted glass, mirror with safety backing and veneered wood are
available.
Draks sliding doors offer solutions for dividing room spaces or as closet
doors. Sliding and moveable screens are becoming an integrated feature
of contemporary planning where space is at a premium. Draks offers a variety
of different styles, infills and finishes to satisfy many design requests.
Draks Canto inspired wood framed sliding doors were also on show.
Tel: 01869 232989
Email: mailto:info@draksonline.co.uk
Web: http://www.draksonline.co.uk
Boffi
Presents 'Case System 2.3' and 'Zone' Kitchen Systems
Boffi
introduced the Piero Lissoni designed Case System 2.3 kitchen and the
Zone kitchen system with Alternative Plans. Case System 2.3 is Boffi's
newest and most advanced kitchen. The company says that its sophisticated
and elegant design, created by Piero Lissoni, places the Case System 2.3
at the top-end of Boffi's range and is the result of extensive research.
This kitchen combines the desire for purer and cleaner lines, presenting
a 'flush front' with no extruding handles and is a system suitable for
both residential and smaller commercial spaces.
To
maintain an image of absolute minimalism the handle has been integrated
into the doors where it remains invisible and the system employs the 'Blu
Motion' seal mechanism as standard on all doors and drawers, which allows
the moving parts to advance and recede smoothly and silently.
The stainless steel worktop rests on a light, aluminium frame, creating
a void between base and top. lntegrated hobs and sinks are low profile
and steel moulded. The kitchen modules are available in a wider range
of finishes and colours: in stainless steel; bleached, extra-bleached,
dark-dyed or graphite grey oak veneers; in Setasil or Mat+ (a matt sealed
lacquer finish, exclusive to Boffi) in the Boffi colour palette; in coloured
and polished polyester, or in white Pral, a high-tech composite material.
This design introduces a base module that appears to be suspended in air,
to 'float' this suspension is achieved by the inclusion of a built-in
L-shaped steel joint. Supported on one side by a low open-faced module
and fixed to the floor (behind a regular base unit) on the other, the
units appear weightless. Whilst fulfilling all practical necessities this
modular entity contradicts all the traditional ideas of a kitchen.
At 100% Design, the kitchen was shown with the ultra-slim Flat Kap extractor
hood by Wolfgang Tolk Pictured here, with the Case System 2.3, is the
new Ceiling extractor hood. Designed by Piero Lissoni as a low profile
single unit or ceiling fixed extractor, the hood features washable filters
in stainless steel or anodised aluminium. These filters are designed to
be easily removable by hand and fit into a standard dishwasher. The hood
also employs a powerful extractor fan, which processes a significantly
greater volume of air than standard. Ceiling is finished in scotch-brite
stainless steel, black or white tempered glass or in Pral for an ultra-chic
contemporary look.
Zone is a modular kitchen storage system, a hidden or secret kitchen in
a cupboard. The matt or glossy co-planar sliding or folding doors run
from ceiling to floor in a wall of modern elegance. They come together
to form a seamless flat surface, which conceals kitchen appliances and
existing storage elements, effectively shutting away evidence of the standard
kitchen and providing the apotheosis of minimalist living.
The system is designed to work with existing electrical appliances and/or
units and contains aluminium drawers and sliding shelves. The doors and
side panels are available finished in setasil, Mat+ and polyester, extrableached,
graphite grey, bleached and dark oak veneer. Recessed handles are executed
in brushed stainless steel. Hobs remain outside the contained space detined
by Zone.
Other
Boffi products on display included Piero Lissoni's Station kitchen chain,
produced in oak veneered or lacquered wood finish with chromium plated
tube framing. The Station collection also includes a small armchair and
stool. Bantam, a table featuring naturally anodised aluminium table-top
with solid legs, is designed by Beat Karrer.
Boffi kitchen and bathroom products are available from Alternative Plans.
at either 9 Hester Road, Battersea Bridge, London SW11 4AN or at the new
showroom at 160-162 Notting Hill Gate, London W1 1 3QG.
Tel +39 0362 5341
Hot
Additions to Radiating Style - Radiators of Distinction
Radiating
Style introduced the UK Trax range and showcased its eclectic Avant Garde
collection.
Exclusive to Radiating Style, the following models are additions to the
existing collection and the company says they are at the cutting edge
with their inspirational designs.
The
sleek and sophisticated, Flat provides definition to any flat space;
it is priced from £495.00 (plus VAT). The Mister, with its
dual purpose function, carries a compact mirror as well as being an efficient
source of heat with its compact coils. The retail value of the Mister
is from £990.00 (plus VAT). The eye catching Sole is intricate
in design making it a suitable decorative wall feature. It is available
as a half model (£1651.00 plus VAT) or as a complete sphere (£3203.00
plus VAT). All three models are available in metallic shades which are
exclusive to Radiating Style.
Radiating Style also launched the GL Star at this year's show. Coated
with an aluminum polish, this vertical radiator will add warmth and a
focal point to any room.
The Avant Garde range by Radiating Style enhances the fact that
radiators are now taking on a new dimension in the home. The Integras
is an example of this developing trend. With its optional drying rack,
this model is not only practical but also pleasing to the eye.
Cinier incorporates modem sculpture and historical imagery to create
radiators that resemble 'works of art'. The Cinier collection is made
from Olycale stone - reconstituted stone which has the benefit of being
a natural material that is an efficient conductor of heat, durable and
is also aesthetically pleasing. All Cinier radiators are made to order
and are available in a horizontal version if required.
Web: http://www.radiatingstyle.com
Formica:
90 Years Old but 100% Trendy
Formica
exhibited for the first time its new laminate - Formica® Blackboard.
The new Formica® Solid Surfacing range was also on show. Formica®
Solid Surfacing is a flexible and hard-wearing decorative surface with
the appearance of marble and stone, but with seamless joins and hygienic
properties. It was used on the countertop at the Formica stand to great
effect.
Visitors entering the Formica stand saw an array of colour and texture.
A mixture of woodgrain, metal effects and other laminates from the Formica
Limited product range covered all surfaces of the stand including fumiture,
counters, floor and walls. Formica® laminate fits into modern interiors
and the stand offered a taste of what can be achieved using these versatile
surfacing materials.
Formica celebrates 90 years of innovation and manufacture this year and
the stand at 100% Design reflected the development of this interior design
icon.
Such is the versatility of Formica® laminate that several other exhibitors
used it in the construction and manufacture of their products. For example,
the 100% Detail Bar, sponsored by Formica , was decked out in pure white
Formica® laminate and Formica® Impress created using digital printing
techniques.
Tel: 0191 259 3000
Samuel
Heath exhibited at 100% Design for the first time and showed an extensive
range of tap and shower fittings, bathroom accessories, door and window
fittings and door closers.
According to Bill Lancashire, Samuel Heath's Marketing Director, 'We feel
that the exhibition allowed us to showcase our collections directly to
interior designers and other specifiers, one of our most important markets.
At Samuel Heath we are dedicated to providing our customers with products
that combine state-of-the-art technology and craftsmanship with innovative
and inspiring design.'
Showcased at 100% Design was Samuel Heath's Xenon™ collection including
a full range of taps and showers to complement the existing Xenon™
Accessories range. Made from solid brass and finished in a choice of either
polished chrome or satin nickel, the Xenon™ collection combines craftsmanship,
reliability and design.
The technology behind the Xenon™ single lever taps involves both
the single lever basin and bidet taps utilising state-of-the-art ceramic
cartridges, which enable them to be used with both low and high-pressure
water systems. In addition, quarter-turn ceramic disc valves are a feature
of the other basin and bath taps, all of which are suitable for low and
high-pressure systems.
'The complete Samuel Heath collection on showcase at 100% Design reflected
the moment when innovative technology and stylish design blended seamlessly
into one.' says the company.
Tel: 0121 766 4200
Email: mailto:info@samuel-heath.com