Bathroom Product Launches July 2006

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New Range Proves Popular for Adlington

Lancashire-based independent distributor Adlington Plumbing Supplies, part of the Unimer merchants co-operative, has launched a new range of sanitaryware.

The three-piece Shino suite comprises of back to wall or close coupled WC, bidet and two basin versions - either wall mounted with an integral semi-pedestal or freestanding as a 45cm vanity bowl on a light wood solid timber washstand.

Aimed at the independent retailer seeking distinctive sanitaryware, Shino seems to have already found its niche, with Adlington receiving a good number of orders for display from its sales network.

Shino's good looks are generated through use of repeating forms that run throughout all the pieces of sanitaryware.

The WC, basin and bidet share a distinctive conical motif created from a perfect circle that progressively widens towards the top. With a maximum diameter of just 45cm at the rim this feature also makes Shino suitable for smaller bathrooms and ensuites.

‘We've been delighted with the positive response to the Shino suite from our independent network,’ said Adlington Plumbing Supplies Director, Peter Ward.

‘We distribute to over 1,000 retailers within an area that stretches from North Wales right up to Carlisle and it's obviously important that we offer sanitaryware that has the vital 'wow factor' - Shino has just that!’

Adlington Plumbing Supplies is based at Grimeford Industrial Estate in Anderton and has been trading for the past 20 years, growing its retailer client base year on year.

For displaying stockists, please ring 01257 483333.


RAK Ceramics Launches Rondo, an Exclusive Designer Suite

RAK Ceramics has launched the latest bathroom suite designed by Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. Called Rondo, the suite features a close coupled or back to the wall WC and basin with full or 3/4 length pedestal.

Designed with the standard British bathroom firmly in mind, the company says that its appeal lies in its ability to create a visually stunning look through optimising space.

Initially unveiled to an enthusiastic audience at KBB 2006, Rondo is now available exclusively through RAK Ceramics' dealerships as the best value sanitaryware in their designer range.

The whole suite shares the same uncluttered minimalist lines, featuring a subtle blend of curves and straight edges. The WC has a projection of just 630mm in close-coupled mode and only 490mm in the back to wall model. This distinctive, neat style is carried over to the 600mm basin.

Highly compatible with the increasingly popular style of wall-mounted fillers, it features an impressively large bowl which extends to almost to the back of the unit. An alternative option is using deck-mounted single monoblock or twin taps in the back corners of the basin.

Here innovation typical of Rondo can be seen in the full or optional 3/4 pedestals which have been designed to hide the connections and flexi pipes provided with most brassware.

‘There's one inexcusable factor about Britain - our bathrooms tend to be rather small,’ says Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen.

‘I've been struck that simply because you don't have an enormous square footage, there should be no reason why sexy contemporary design should be denied. So in response, I've designed Rondo which is understated, neatly tailored and comfortably elegant, ideal for the British bathroom.'

Tel: 01730 815 507
Web: http://www.rakceramics.co.uk


Sorrento from HiB - the Bathroom Solution

A new design of bathroom furniture from specialist HiB offers the designer and builder practical solutions for creating individual results.

The rigid units are in a quality high gloss finish with perfectly matching accessories so that they can be installed as single free-standing items or combined for excellent effect.

HiB offers Sorrento in a wide variety of size options with different wash basins including a slab-top integrated basin that forms a seamless worktop to cap the storage base units. The internal storage has been intelligently designed with deep, wide drawers using elegant grey interiors to offset the white facades and fitted with dividing systems to store, for instance, folded towels and larger cosmetic or detergent containers. Even the base unit under the basin employs a special cutaway drawer to accommodate the plumbing yet still provide useful storage for cleaning materials - no space wasting pedestal.

There is also an integrated cistern unit to encase the area behind the toilet and integrate into the line of furniture if required.

Sorrento is designed to easily conceal all pipework with matching plinths. Wall units, mirrors, light pelmets, open shelves and stylish mirrors all combine to create contemporary effect with major practical advantages.

‘With the bathroom now receiving as much attention as the kitchen and bedroom have had, Sorrento gives the widest possible scope for design success,’ says the company.


SMALL+ is Beautiful

Ideal Standard, a provider of design-driven bathroom and kitchen solutions, recently announced the launch of SMALL+, a new range of bathroom products designed to cater to the growing market for stylish, small bathroom solutions.

Following the continued success of Ideal Standard's Space collection which provides functional and attractive solutions for those with limited space. SMALL+, is the bathroom solutions provider's next generation of space intelligent products for the bathroom.
Designed by award-winning Italian designer, Franco Bertoli, SMALL+ enables those with limited space to enjoy the latest designs in the bathroom.

With a typical UK bathroom being no larger than a king-size bed*, Ideal Standard understands that small spaces demand a solution that accommodates a wide variety of bathroom products. The key to this collection's design is in the short projection of each piece. Although generous in width, SMALL+ basins have a projection of just 425mm, compared to the average projection which is between 450-470mm. The WC bowls take up just 615mm of space in the room, compared to an average of 655mm.

Commenting on his design, Bertoli says: ‘We have seen many changes in the way people live today and in the demands they place on the use of space. People want functional and attractive bathrooms, even if the size is limited. With the SMALL+ collection, I have been able to create simple yet beautiful, original designs with a fun, young fresh look and feel. These are designs that really fit contemporary needs.’

The SMALL+ collection is composed of various products including bathroom porcelain, washbasins, toilets and showers that can be mixed and matched to maximise the use of space. A range of furnishings such as shelving units and bathroom cabinets, form an integral part of the collection and have been designed to provide intelligent storage solutions. The twin WC and bidet, not only provides a design statement, but also offers even the smallest of bathrooms the option of a bidet.

Ideal Standard's UK Marketing Manager Brian Grey adds: ‘Since the launch of the highly successful Space suite in the UK, Ideal Standard has had a track record of designing successful innovative products for best utilising space in the bathroom. Whilst Space delivers exactly what the majority of homeowners need, SMALL+ takes space saving to a new level, offering customers a bathroom suite with small dimensions but a big presence’.

Tel: 01482 346461
Web: http://www.ideal-standard.co.uk


The Basin Catwalk

Crosswater says that it is now synonymous with catwalk-style bathroom products.

The new Watercolour basins can be used on different types of support systems. The colours will add to any bathroom design scheme.

Pictured is the freestanding basin system with a double arm; the ensemble costs £2394 as does the model with a single arm/half curve.

Complementary brackets and valves are available and retail at £75 and £69 respectively.

For details of your local stockist, please visit http://www.crosswater.co.uk.


Broughtons Makes a Splash with New Aquos Bathrooms

Distributor of kitchens and bathrooms, Broughton Crangrove has launched its Aquos bathroom range, from the company's own bathroom brand, Broughtons.

Aquos is a comprehensive range of bathroom solutions offering both traditional and contemporary designs. The range comprises five bathroom suites; Oslo, Athens, Paris, Vienna and Cairo (pictured), all of which are simply designed with a European flavour, to add a touch of class to any bathroom, at an affordable price. All the suites are available in elegant white, with chrome brassware.

The Aquos range also features a collection of baths some of which feature Armour Plus. This is an optional extra, which offers four layers of material to guarantee a super-strong acrylic bath.

In addition, several of the suites in the Aquos range are available as cloakroom options that are also perfect for the smaller or en-suite bathroom, back to wall, semi pedestal options. A range of towel warmers and accessories are also available to complement each suite.

Broughton Crangrove's Commercial Director, Allan Nutter, says: ‘The Aquos range offers retailers the opportunity to stock a comprehensive range exclusively from Broughtons, with the peace of mind this brand offers, as well as added value and profit for the retailer. It is well priced, in the middle of the market and offers reliability to the retailer, while giving that all important affordability to the consumer.’

A key feature of the Aquos range is the 'Total Install' concept, making all products quick and simple to install. The Broughtons Aquos range is supported with a full-colour brochure and includes a 10-point 'step-by-step' guide to bathroom planning to help the retailer every step of the way. Broughtons has also set up a mobile road show that will be taking product to retailers throughout the UK. Allan Nutter explains, 'This new initiative enables retailers to see, feel and touch the product first hand without the expense of time and effort travelling to see this eclectic new range.
Retailers can set up an appointment at a convenient time to suit themselves via their Area Sales Manager, to provide the one-to-one sales support and advice.’ In addition Broughtons also offers next day delivery to all major conurbations in the UK.
More products are due to be added to the portfolio in the autumn, which will include additional suites and mirrors.

For further information and to place an order telephone the national sales office on 0870 60 60 601.


A Square Deal from RAK Ceramics with the Launch of Arcadia

The latest in a range of new RAK Ceramics products being launched this year is the bathroom suite Arcadia.

Neo-classical in style, as its name suggests, Arcadia was inspired by the clean lines of Greek architecture and features three cubist pieces of sanitaryware: an inset basin, bidet and back to the wall WC. Seamless and streamlined, the company says that Arcadia has been designed as the perfect suite for those seeking contemporary minimalism at a competitive price point.

The Arcadia basin measures 60cm by 40cm and is designed to be inset within bespoke bathroom furniture. RAK Ceramics' own polished porcelain slabs are an ideal countertop material to achieve this, as demonstrated at this year's KBB with a series of displays in contrasting salt and pepper, plain and marble effect finishes.

Making it the perfect building block for a high-end bathroom, the basin also maximises brassware options with a choice of one or two tap holes, along with no tap holes for deck or wall mounted fillers. The basin's cubist styling cues are carried over to the bidet and back to the wall WC. Both of these share a distinctive 38cm wide base, whose perfectly parallel side faces are softened by a gently curved relief feature.

‘We're very excited with the Arcadia, it has such a strong, angular style,’ said RAK Ceramics Managing Director, Rob Jull. ‘The prototype was first unveiled at KBB 2006 and was met with a tremendously enthusiastic response. Not only does Arcadia look great, its highly competitive pricing makes a winning package.’

Tel: 01730 815507
Web: http://www.rakceramics.co.uk


Take it Easy with Haro

'EasyFix' and 'FastFix' are simple systems available on Haro WC seats that reduce fixing time. Stay washers are also included which even out unevenness and spacer rings prevent any possible axle play.

The 'Take-Off Hinge' from Haro is another optional extra that makes a difference. This hinge makes perfect hygiene a reality - with just one simple action the WC seat can be removed for cleaning.

Finally, 'SoftClose' is a design extra which is ideal for families with young children, big kids or the elderly. Just a touch of the fingertip brings the lid down softly and reliably.

‘Haro WC Seats combine quality, attractive design, top-of-the-range materials and perfect workmanship. Its Design Department manages to combine design skills with maximum practicality and comfort. Time and again, Haro succeeds in applying the latest design trends to its extremely functional seat models,’ says the company.

Haro Sanitary is part of the Hamberger group, the largest manufacturer of hard plastic seats in Europe and Germany's largest WC manufacturer overall.

Haro WC seats are available from leading retailer PJH Group. Tel: 01204 707070.

Web: http://www.haro-sanitary.com


Duravit Extends its Washbasin Programme

'Vero has made a name for itself among aficionados of design and architecture,’ says Duravit. ‘The basic rectangular shape of the original washbasins: pure, planning-friendly and versatile remains a winner.’

In 2006, to further improve planning versatility Duravit has launched new models at both ends of the size spectrum: to take centre stage in the largest space through to accommodating the most compact corner. New furniture washbasins in widths of 85, 105 and 125 cm offer plenty of freedom of movement and generous surrounds. These are joined by a new 50cm wash bowl and a built-in undercounter basin that can be combined with any countertop you choose. When partnered with the Fogo or X-Large consoles and vanity units, the result is plenty of storage space and a perfectly coordinated bathroom.

Three new 50, 45 and 25 cm slimline handrinse basins are a solution for private bathrooms or cloakrooms where space is at a premium and will blend in with all styles of architecture. The smooth, easy-clean surfaces also make Vero a suitable choice for the public and semi-public sector.

The original 60cm Vero models are still available today as either wall-mounted with or without integrated splash-back, and as a console basin or with a chrome frame. Further models introduced in 2005 were rectangular console basins measuring 50, 80 and 100 cm wide and between 38 and 47 cm deep.


Whirlpool Baths from Ideal Standard - A New Level of Luxury in Bathing

Ideal Standard, a provider of design-driven bathroom and kitchen solutions, recently announced a new and improved portfolio of whirlpool systems and baths available in the UK and Ireland.

The extensive new range includes quality whirlpool baths, with a choice of three whirlpool systems available on a selection of baths and an exclusive designer whirlpool bath with all the best features. In addition, whirlpool options are now available on a wide variety of baths, in terms of shapes and sizes, such as the double-ended Aqua Duo bath and some of the most popular baths, including the Alto bath.

The whirlpool collection now includes the new Ideal Standard patented systems Supreme Wellness and Twin Plus that use high pressure, flat jets purposely designed with a smooth surface for extra comfort and easy cleaning. The minimalist design of these jets is exclusive to Ideal Standard and gives a modern, stylish look to the whirlpool baths.

Collection Highlights:

Ideal Standard now offers three whirlpool systems: Basic, Twin Plus and Supreme Wellness. The Basic system is simple to use, easy to maintain, with six jets and adjustable jet volume and direction and offers a solution for consumers desiring a touch of affordable luxury. The Basic system is available on the Velox bath.

The luxurious Twin Plus system has a touch sensitive keypad with up to ten flat whirlpool jets and up to 11 air spa jets on the base. It also includes settings such as Ozone Therapy which enriches the mixture of air and water in the bath. This is a naturally occurring purified steriliser that is great for the skin. A Venturi function varies the amount of air into the whirlpool, creating a rolling or wave pattern for varied stimulation. A function circulating disinfectant and water around the pipes ensures the highest level of hygiene is maintained in the system. In addition to this, an underwater LED light, water level sensor and a pop up waste allowing for water to be sucked through the waste into the system to recycle the water.

The Supreme Wellness system has all Twin Plus features plus an extra massage function. This function can be activated with or without water and is available on the WWW bath only. The WWW is the ultimate in luxury combining design with maximum relaxation, a must for those looking for something stylish and unusual.

Sharyn Coleman, Ideal Standard UK's Commercial Manager for Acrylics and Wellness comments: 'This new whirlpool collection reflects the growing demand for wellness products in the market. Our objective is to make wellness accessible to all sectors of the market and with such a broad range of products available it accommodates a wider spectrum of budgets.'

'The bathroom has undergone an incredible transformation over the past century, taking an increasingly central role in the home as a source of sanctuary and relaxation. Because of this the market for wellness products in the home has been on the rise, and the demand for whirlpool baths has grown.

'Ideal Standard has responded to the demand for wellness in the home by producing an extensive range of whirlpools that is accessible to all ends of the market, from quality budget whirlpool baths to high end grand luxury baths with all the best features.'

Tel: 01482 346461
Web: http://www.ideal-standard.co.uk


Save Space in Style

The new Zaar sanitaryware range from Heritage Bathrooms has space saving elements to ensure you can source a suite to suit your bathroom - whatever its size.

'Flexibility' is Zaar's crowning glory. With its clean, modern lines and angular appeal, the new Zaar range will look good in any bathroom. Depicted in two different suite settings - Zaar and Zaar Ensuite - the range has a wide selection of basin sizes to accommodate both standard and small bathrooms.

Keeping small bathrooms in mind, the Zaar Offset Corner Basin is especially designed to make the most of every spare inch of available space. Tucked snugly into the corner, the Zaar Offset Corner Basin features a large basin capacity, especially considering the minimal space it uses, and incorporates a handy shelf for toothpaste and soap.

If a corner basin doesn't suit your bathroom layout, Zaar also includes a short-projection Cloakroom Basin that will help ease the traffic flow in a small space. Coordinating elements, bearing Zaar's flagship angular styling, include an almost sculptural close-coupled WC.

Suite prices start from around £1685 incl. VAT, and it is pictured with Heritage's angular Torre brassware range. The Zaar off-set retails from £159 plus £79 for the pedestal.

Tel: 0117 9633333
Web: http://www.heritagebathrooms.com


Small is Beautiful

Crosswater says that as design is at the heart of all Crosswater products, it is no surprise that the new Mini range has not compromised style for size.


The Kusasi and Cutie portfolios provide solutions for the smallest of spaces and sanitaryware items. The basin monoblocs in both styles have no integral pop-up waste and are only 137mm in height. The monoblocs retail at around £129 while the Kusasi basin pillar taps retail at £105 for the pair.

For more information, please visit http://www.crosswater.co.uk to find your local retailer.


Imperial Bathrooms Further Extends Cast-Iron Bath Range

Imperial Bathrooms’ range of traditional cast-iron and bateau-style baths has been further extended with the introduction of three new hand-crafted, hand-finished roll top contemporary offerings. These double-ended models - Dorchester, Carlton and Langham - combine classic cast-iron elegance with modern design.

While having the curved symmetry and generous proportions of the classic cast-iron bath, it is the contemporary-style feet of these latest models that provide a striking contrast. Whereas Dorchester (below left) features chrome tubular feet, Carlton is defined by its square feet, also in chrome.

 

Alternatively, Langham (above right) is set on wooden cradles that are available in a choice of three finishes: light beech, natural oak and unfinished oak. 1800mm x 800mm in size, all three models are suitable for both small and large bathroom settings.

As with all Imperial Bathrooms’ cast-iron baths, these latest models are unlike many other ranges, as each bath has already had all casting imperfections removed and comes supplied primed and ready for individual decoration to complete the bespoke look. Manufactured to the highest quality standards, each bath also comes complete with a 20-year guarantee.

Commenting on this latest range extension, Imperial Bathrooms’ Managing Director, Antonio Garrido said: 'The success of our existing cast-iron range is testimony to the growing popularity of traditional bathroom designs. In launching these three latest models, we aim to extend the appeal of this period design to the more modern, contemporary bathroom and successfully bring together the harmonious fusion of the Modern and the Classical.'

He continued: 'Our entire cast-iron range has been named after some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, and as these baths are the embodiment of style and indulgence, they serve to echo this theme.'

To complement its cast-iron bath collection, the company is currently extending its ranges of sanitaryware, accessories, brassware and hand-crafted furniture. Other products in the Imperial Bathroom range include whirlpools, spas, tiles, stone and marble bowls, and showers.

For further information on Imperial Bathrooms’ product range visit http://www.imperial-bathrooms.com or contact the customer services team on 0870 60 61 62 3 for a copy of the 2006 Design Guide.


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