Kitchen Product Launches September 2006

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The Julien Collection, from the Nexus Portfolio, Astracast

Astracast has launched a new range of hand finished stainless steel undermount sinks called Julien, offered within the Nexus portfolio.

The Julien 3100 undermount sink has hidden drawers inside the bowl that smoothly open when pressed gently. The compartments can hold washing up sponges, brushes and soap keeping them off the kitchen worktop and out of the sink, reducing mess and the risk of spreading germs. Any water left on these items drips through the mesh at the bottom into the waste.

The Julien range is made from high-grade stainless steel and is available in numerous sizes and configurations. Some of the undermount bowls have curved sidewalls that slope into the bowl. The 3250 single bowl undermount has straight sides but rounded corners to make cleaning the bowl easier. The sink fits neatly over a 400mm base unit, so even those with the smallest of kitchens can still own the best quality products.

For further details on Astracast's Nexus Portfolio, or to find a supplier, please contact Astracast on 01924 351 245 or visit http://www.astracast.co.uk.


New Solaris 100 Sink Model

The Solaris 100 single bowl model is the latest addition to Carron Phoenix's ceramic portfolio.

Solaris offers a traditional style sink with a raised, softly moulded perimeter that combines a neat design touch with a practical edge to retain water on the draining board.

The spacious single bowl measures 360mm x 378mm and comes with chrome overflow and waste. Without stinting on the sink and drainer areas, the Solaris fits into a 500mm cabinet which makes for handy space planning.

Says Neil Clark, sales & marketing manager:
‘The Solaris 100 is a versatile ceramic sink, with good design proportions and space advantages.’

Solaris is available in the 100 single bowl model and the Solaris 150 one and half bowl which suits a standard 600mm cabinet. The sinks are made from high quality, kiln - fired ceramic with a bright white lustrous finish.

Tel: 01324 638 321
Web: http://www.carron.com


Chalon UK Ltd Announces the Launch of Designed & Crafted - The New Handmade Kitchen Range for Property Developers

Chalon UK Ltd, designer and manufacturer of hand crafted kitchens and freestanding furniture, has announced the launch of a new kitchen solution for property developers. Called Chalon Designed & Crafted, the company is billing it as 'the new handmade kitchen range tailored exclusively for high-end property developments.'

With over 25 years experience in designing and building traditional but innovative kitchens, this new range from Chalon has been created with prestigious developments in mind. It marks the first steps the company have taken into the contract / commercial market. Jason Coombs, Chalon's new Commercial Sales Manager, states that ‘the thinking behind the new range is best encapsulated by a recent quote I came across in a Sunday newspaper from the managing director of a property developer who stated: 'One of the negatives about modern developments is that you can visit over 100 new kitchens in 100 new homes and every one will be the same. I am afraid that is laziness on the part of the industry. Standards have to be improved...' This is the mantra for Chalon Designed & Crafted,’ Jason says.

To date, the main emphasis in the build-up to launch has been on building several new displays, which each showcase the potential of these new kitchens to great effect. With the range only just coming to market, there is the chance for early adopters to steal a march and indeed arrange a private viewing.

Taking advantage of the variety of media now available, a wide array of promotional materials have been produced to tempt property developers to review Chalon Design & Crafted. These include professional photo shoots and a short, sophisticated DVD, as well as the freshly updated website and new brochure.

‘The launch of Designed & Crafted is something I have been looking forward to announcing eagerly,’ says Jason. ‘Providing a handcrafted kitchen, combined with the build quality Chalon is renowned for, will allow developers to really add value and originality to their developments. Quite simply, there is nothing else out there like it,’ he says. ‘The fact that we have already developed an impressive prospect list without the need for any pro-active marketing is further confirmation of the potential of this range.’

Future Chalon developments
This year promises to continue to be a busy one for Chalon after the successful launch of the new contract range. With the company’s consumer showrooms recently updated, a relaunched website and a range of freestanding bathroom furniture in the pipeline, all coming on top of record sales in 2005.

Company Notes:
Established in 1978, Chalon UK Limited, based in Hambridge, Somerset, is a UK specialist in handmade freestanding kitchen furniture. The company is recognised by The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers for the skill and mastery of its craftsmen. Showrooms in Edinburgh, Harrogate, London, Hambridge and Dublin, and a network of agents throughout the world.

For more information, or to request company literature please contact:
Tel: 01458 254610
Email: barney@chalon.com
Web: http://www.chalon.com


Bringing Unique Depth And Dimension To The Kitchen

Following the success of the innovative, ultra-low profile Laser sink, Franke has developed a new one and a half bowl option.

Like its predecessor, the new LSX 651 incorporates the revolutionary new Slimfix(r) system which anchors the sink firmly to the work surface without the need for traditional fixing clips, fixing rails or screws. The sink is simply dropped into the prepared cut-out and the unique one-way 'Swiss Grips'(r) under the rim hold the sink firmly in place.

From a visual perspective, the Slimfix(r) technology employed in the Laser LSX 651 has enabled Franke to radically reduce the width, depth and profile of the outer rim, resulting in a sink which is virtually flush with the worktop and which has bigger, deeper bowls and drainer than standard one and a half bowl inset sinks.

Another considerable advantage of the LSX 651 is that, although it has a larger bowl than most conventional sinks, it conveniently fits into a 600mm cabinet to make efficient use of space.

Additional accessories for the LSX 651 are a Stainless Steel strainer bowl and a sliding glass preparation platter. The sink is also available as a Designer Pack with the Eiger tap and, at an extra cost, purchasers of the Designer Pack have the option of upgrading to a stunning Gotthard tap with single lever handle.

The Laser LSX 651 is available in either left or right hand drainer format and has two 90mm wastes which can be adapted to take a waste disposal unit.

For further information, contact Franke on 0161 436 6280 or visit www.franke.co.uk

Euroset Sink Suits Disabled Needs

Carron Phoenix has introduced the Euroset sink in a move to respond to the needs of the disabled market. Precision made from premium grade, 18/10 stainless steel, the Euroset offers the proportions ideally suited to a disabled user. It measures 435mm wide, so fits well into the narrower worksurfaces required for a wheelchair user. The bowl size is generous at 370mm x 340 but all importantly has a shallower depth of 155mm allowing the user to reach into it comfortably.

Says Neil Clark, sales & marketing manager:
'As a sink manufacturer, our portfolio must be designed to offer diversity. Not just in materials, styles and prices but in meeting the needs of sink users. The Disability Discrimination Act has focused attention on the needs of the disabled market and Euroset is a high quality stainless steel sink, designed with disabled considerations in mind.'

Euroset fits into a standard 500mm cabinet size and can be combined with a single lever tap such as Osprey.

Euroset is included in Carron Phoenix's new Developer Range of sinks, taps and accessories which features sink & tap products geared to the needs of the housebuilder sector, as well as the social housing sector with its 1244 Heavy Duty range.

For more information on Carron Phoenix's sink and tap products, call 01324 638 321 or log on at www.carron.com

JJO plc Adds Shaker Style Sentia Cream to Entry Level eco Range

J&J Ormerod plc (JJO plc) has added the shaker style Sentia Cream kitchen to its entry level range, eco. Cream is becoming one of the most highly sought after colourways, and this combined with the shaker feel, makes the Sentia Cream kitchen a classic combination.

With its clean lines and traditional feel, Sentia Cream would not look out of place in a modern apartment or a traditional cottage. The door has a matt finish, creating a sophisticated look that is both practical and functional. The eco Sentia Cream kitchen can be enhanced using the full collection of Colonial accessories as additional extras, including shelf lights, halogen downlights, and a choice of more than 100 different handles to create a look that suits all tastes and surroundings.

The eco kitchen range was launched to underpin JJO plc's quality kitchen range Colonial, to offer builders' merchants and kitchen retailers a budget kitchen in order to win back sales from the small to medium sized builder who had turned to the big sheds. JJO plc has seen sales of its eco kitchens go from strength-to-strength, and is predicting it to become its brand leader by the end of the year as sales growth exceeds 400 per cent of target to-date.

As well as Sentia Cream, the eco range encompasses a further 11 tasteful new kitchen designs in four colourways, all of which are available on a standard carcass. The range offers more than 50 different units and an excellent choice of drawer pack widths for optimal use of kitchen storage space. Retail prices for the Sentia Cream kitchen start from £55 incl. VAT for a 300mm base unit, and £85 incl. VAT for a 1000mm sink/base unit, as well as JJO plc's generous trade discounts available.

The eco range delivers JJO plc's leading edge design without compromising on the quality associated with the company's Colonial brand. With a strong position at the forefront of the UK's kitchen design industry, JJO plc places a special focus on customer service and support, and all national deliveries of the eco range are guaranteed within 24-48 hours.

JJO plc is a corporate member of the KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialist Association), a long term member of ASFI (Association of Suppliers to the Furniture Industry) and a supporter of FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association).

For further information please contact JJO plc directly on 01706 877877, or alternatively email Natalie Peters at npeters@jjoplc.com and visit JJO plc at www.jjoplc.com

Kitchens Move to the Dark Side, says Burbidge

Across Europe, kitchen trend setters are moving to the dark side - favouring dark browns and black rather than bright or pale colours. Whether used throughout the kitchen or combined with lighter colours, the word in cutting edge kitchen fashion is definitely 'Dark'.

Predicting this move towards darker colours in the kitchen, leading UK manufacturer Burbidge is already seeing significant demand for its recently launched black gloss and dark walnut kitchens.

Its ultra contemporary black gloss Mezzo design has already proved immensely popular since its launch in February, particularly with young, stylish couples who are used to setting, rather than following, fashion trends. The high gloss flat frontals that reflect the light, combined with ultra chic aluminium inset handles make this a kitchen that will definitely be noticed in any home.

Ben Burbidge, managing director comments: 'Mezzo is a kitchen that's designed to be noticed. It's a highly stylish, yet cost-competitive kitchen, which has made it very appealing to young style conscious consumers.'

Dark is proving just as popular with top end consumers. 'Our black walnut kitchens are also proving to be a great success. Innovative consumers who want an ultra contemporary dark kitchen, but who also appreciate the beauty of a natural wood finish, are finding the chocolate brown colour of dark walnut and its distinctive graining appealing.'

Burbidge's Ravello kitchen is one such design that's seen high demand since its launch earlier in the year. The dark colouring and exotic patterning of black walnut is displayed to maximum effect on smooth veneer slab doors which, for added impact, can be complemented with highly reflective black gloss slab doors. A chunky brushed chrome bar handle accentuates the streamlined appearance of this design.

Another popular design is Burbidge's Amalfi kitchen which combines cream coloured high gloss flat frontals with black walnut accessories. 'With Amalfi, it's the contrast in colour as well as texture - between the high gloss frontals and the walnut accessories - that consumers are finding desirable,' says Ben Burbidge.

'Only a few years ago, dark kitchens were a definite design no no. Now, however, consumers - whether at the top end of the market or bottom end - are clearly embracing the concept of dark kitchens wholeheartedly and at Burbidge we believe this is a trend that's set to continue for some time'.
Burbidge is the longest established, leading UK kitchen frontals and accessories manufacturer. The company's products can be viewed in realistic rooms sets in its showroom in Coventry.

Please call 024 7667 1600 for further information.

http://www.burbidge.co.uk/

DK - in the Lead of Distribution

DK Distribution is a supplier of quality kitchen products to customers nationwide and short delivery cycles.

As the UK's independent furniture sector not only continues to grow, it also increasingly requires more diverse products, choice and fast, reliable service. DK Distribution says that it is in a position to provide all of these from a widening portfolio of products and fully equipped transport fleet.

DK Distribution's products include a large range of quality constructed and colour co-ordinated carcasses with advanced Blum fittings and matched to mainstream board colours, patterns and DK's own door collection.

This year new doors included styles in shaker and sculptured oyster finishes, The main products were Athens, Washington, Calgary, Reno and the Paris design. All doors are matched with a full range of accessories and architectural mouldings.

DK also offer a comprehensive range of sinks and taps with the associated accessories.

Tel: 0161 230 0700


Galley Matrix adds New Franke Sink to Portfolio

Not only does Galley Matrix supply all Franke sinks boxed to ensure that they arrive with its customers in perfect condition, the company continues to add practical and stylish new ones to its range.

The latest to join the Galley Matrix portfolio is the Laser sink by Franke. With a three dimensional appearance and ultra slim edge it is both contemporary and elegant.

And its neat, near-seamless smooth profile delivers hygiene benefits making it easy to clean. It comes in two designs, either a one and a half or single bowl configuration with the durability, hygiene and stain resistance expected of a premium brand, afforded by the quality of the 18:10 stainless steel. Available with optional accessories including a sliding glass preparation platter and a stainless steel strainer bowl.

Distinctively different and aesthetically pleasing in appearance it delivers premium benefits for the time challenged installer too, and is easy to fit using the new SLIMFIX system. It is simply installed by pushing into the cut-out with no additional under sink fixing required.

Richard Houghton explains: ‘In this crowded and competitive market, to be successful, we have to satisfy everyone from the manufacturer to the needs of the installer, the retailer and the end user. Franke is an exemplary brand with a fine heritage. It really is important for the retailer to have the latest on display. There is nothing better for a customer than to be able to touch and feel the product before purchase and experience the key differentiators of a premium brand. And now the retailer knows that the product will arrive at the point of sale in good condition with our new secure packaging.’

Galley Matrix delivers all Franke sinks in the new-boxed format, to maximise protection, from the company’s fully stocked warehouse and to the majority of UK conurbations in 24 hours.

For more information on the latest incentives from Galley Matrix or a catalogue contact your Area Sales Manager or Galley Matrix at the National Sales Office on 0870 60 60 601.


Reginox Launches New Range of Granite Sinks

Reginox UK has launched a new range of granite sinks featuring two design-led models - the RG X10 and the RG X15.

The sinks blend soft curves with square edges to give an overall contemporary and stylish look and are available in a choice of six colours including Black, Cameo, Green, Sand, Titanium and White. The RG X10 has a single bowl and drainer and measures 862mm x 502mm, whilst the RG X15 has a one and a half bowl and drainer and measures 1002mm x 502mm. Both models feature a modern top-fixing stainless steel overflow.

The sinks are manufactured from Cristalite Granite, a composition of granite and synthetic resins, which has the hardness of natural stone combined with the flexibility and smoothness of modern acrylic. The result is a surface that is virtually impossible to scratch, highly resistant to impact damage and can withstand hot pans of up to 230oC.

Reginox's new granite sinks feature 90mm basket strainer wastes and are supplied complete with waste, overflow, fitting and plumbing kit. Retail prices start from £239.99.

Tel: 01260 280033
Email: sales@reginox.co.uk
Web: http://www.reginox.co.uk


Dramatic Design at Dream Prices

Proving that design flair is achievable across its portfolio, Keller’s Elba kitchen is situated at the lower end of its price band, yet has all the aesthetic and build qualities that are the Holland-based manufacturer’s hallmark.

Shown in a contrast of masculine Basalt Grey and pure White laminate, the door is finely textured for a subtle and tactile matt finish and edged all round with matching 1.5mm thick ABS edge band. A timber finish is also achievable with a choice of more than eight wood-look laminates, including walnut, dark cherry, white oak and birch and pear. Elba also comes in a selection of seven high gloss laminates including the latest red and black.

Sleek, flat-fronted doors come in a variety of sizes, allowing wall units that sweep up to the ceiling, 1,510mm-tall midway units to create banks of storage, and wide pan drawers that are impressively spacious. While the total choice of cabinetry reaches into the thousands, it’s the choice of handle that lends this design its distinct look. The inset handles pictured are pre-drilled in the factory for ease of installation and provide just one of several design styles to choose from.

Keller Kitchens is currently searching for new retailers in locations throughout the UK and offers area exclusivity and great display deals as well as hassle-free ordering, delivery and dealer support.

For information on how to become a Keller retailer, please call +31 6 30 69 79 30 or, for a brochure which illustrates the entire range, call 0161 962 6939 or visit http://www.kellereurope.com.


Divine New Canterbury Design from Burbidge

As its name suggests, the new Canterbury Pippy Oak kitchen from Burbidge offers quintessential English country house styling with cathedral-inspired design touches.

The golden-coloured solid oak framed doors have a rounded inside profile and an English Pippy Oak centre panel with highly visible graining that's an appealing characteristic of this exclusive wood. To accompany the solid wood frontals are a framed glass door with eye-catching, heavily textured 'bobble' glass as well as a highly distinctive carved feature door. The carved feature door has a solid oak panel, with a centre panel carved in a design reminiscent of intricate cathedral windows.

An extensive collection of matching golden-coloured Oak accessories are available to complement the door and drawer fronts including an overmantle, plate rack, tongue & groove side panel, light pelmet, and gun barrel pilaster. As with all Burbidge kitchens, the Canterbury range of accessories has been developed to provide kitchen designers with as much flexibility as possible. Combinations of accessories can be used to produce open end units, display shelving and central island units, for example.

For the finishing touches, Burbidge has introduced two new handles to accompany the Canterbury kitchen; an iron bar handle (as pictured) and a more traditional-style iron cup handle.

Ben Burbidge, Managing Director, comments: 'This is a classic English Country kitchen that we believe will stand the test of time. With Canterbury we've combined elegant English design with the extremely popular woods, which offers longevity in terms of design appeal. By using the highly desirable Pippy Oak moderately as a feature of the kitchen, rather than the primary material, consumers get a taste of this highly exclusive wood, but won't find it too cost-prohibitive, nor too fussy.'

Burbidge is a UK kitchen frontals and accessories manufacturer. The company's products can be viewed in realistic rooms sets in its showroom in Coventry. Please call 024 7667 1600 for further information.

http://www.burbidge.co.uk


Apple Picks the Cream of the Crop

PJH Group's premier kitchen brand, Apple Studios has launched a range of four new furniture collections, including the Marano kitchen. Manufactured to a high specification in terms of design and function, all four new ranges represent the latest looks for 2006 and span both the ultra modern and classic kitchen markets.

Following the current trend in horizontal wood grain, the new Marano kitchen is a light oak veneered slab door with a distinctive horizontal close grain effect finish. The warmth of the Marano door combines well with coordinated metallic accessories, such as the brushed aluminium handle, the metallic plinth and the metallic framed frosted glass doors. Also shown in Marano is Apple Studio's new 25mm oak veneered divider - also serving as a practical shelving unit - which can be coordinated with any similar oak kitchens in the Apple Collection.

Apple continues to consider those homeowners with small or awkward sized kitchens, with a comprehensive choice of carcase sizes and accessories, including the introduction of a new super slim 300mm pull-out larder unit; a stylish new wire wine rack system; and a new magic corner which now allows all sections to spin out, and not just the one.

For further information on the new range of kitchens from Apple Studios from the PJH Group, call 01204 707070 or visit http://www.pjhgroup.com


Arcos - Brilliant Value from Schmidt

France's premier kitchen maker Schmidt says that it presents superb value with its stylish Arcos range.

Not only does Arcos offer quality with high performance rigid carcasses and 19mm thick doors, but also versatility with 32 different finishes in both uni-colours and woodgrains.

The Arcos style pictured here is the Moro Oak finish in a horizontal grain veneer and stylish handle choice (optional). The furniture in the kitchen pictured is offered at just £4,000, (wall units and island unit including shelving).

The image also shows Schmidt's new Italian designed offset 1800mm cooker hood. The flue can be either on the left or right hand side, this hood is £1004.

To further accentuate the value of this kitchen - and all Schmidt kitchens - it is fully fitted with full extension Blum Tandembox drawer. All the drawers have integrated Blumotion soft close and special units like the highly popular Space Corner for revolutionising the use of space in corner units are available.

Tel: 01622 812123
Web: http://www.schmidt-kitchens.com


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