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KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-newssince 2002
15th March 2019

 

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International News
Products

VitrA launches Equal - a new bathroom collection created in collaboration with Italian architect & designer Claudio Bellini

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Pursuing its longstanding tradition of working with acclaimed international designers, leading bathroom brand VitrA announces its latest collaboration with celebrated architect and designer, Claudio Bellini.

Launched at ISH this year Equal explores the fusion between the organic shapes found in nature with the architectural lines present in an urban environment.
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ViClean-I 100 combines purism with technology and comfort

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ViClean-I 100 from Villeroy & Boch sets a new standard in the design of shower toilets. It looks just like a conventional toilet, as the technology has been integrated into the ceramic and not the seat.

ViClean-I 100 boasts clear lines and a minimalist look, accentuated by the ultra-flat toilet seat. Add to that the intuitive use and convenient shower functions and the new ViClean-I 100 becomes a subtle centerpiece in any purist bathroom.
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LDL to offer L&S Italian lighting range

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L&S, the Italian lighting specialist, is the latest addition to the LDL portfolio of premium furniture component brands. Established over 40 years ago, L&S is an internationally renowned pioneer of high-tech lighting solutions for the home.

LDL is delighted to be the official UK distributor and to represent such a well-established and innovative brand.
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KBSA says rise in induction hobs is changing dominance of gas in the kitchen

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The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association responded to the Committee on Climate Change's 'UK housing: Fit for the future?' report - published last week, by reporting that gas is losing its dominance in the kitchen in favour of induction for cooking.
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XSquare bathroom furniture range secures Duravit the iF Design Award 2019

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Duravit was among the winners at this year's iF Design Award; for the XSquare bathroom furniture series, created by Duravit in conjunction with the designer Kurt Merki Jr.

The XSquare furniture range is both impressive and striking, with contemporary, elegant style. The quadrant-shaped chrome profile which edges the furniture emphasises its characteristic design. On the floor-standing model, the transition from the body of the furniture to the base is absolutely seamless.
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Industrial design on tap with new Hex range

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Abode is often at the forefront of the latest kitchen trends and tapping into the burgeoning trend for industrial elements in kitchen design, Abode has launched Hex.
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Nuance now on ArtiCad

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The complete range of Bushboard Nuance waterproof bathroom panels is now available on the ArtiCAD design system. Designers will be able to show Nuance panels in 'real life' settings - and the picture can be changed in seconds so that customers can see alternatives.

"We are delighted that the Nuance range is now available on ArtiCAD," comments Paul Findlay, product sales manager for Nuance. "The ArtiCAD system means that consumers and specifiers can get a clear view of how the panels will look in any bathroom - and allows retailers to present different options for those who have problems making a buying decision."
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New Infinity: a design to suit bathrooms of any size or shape

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New from Crosswater, the Infinity enclosure collection is designed to offer the ultimate in-shower experience for everyday use. Available in a choice of enclosure styles including quadrant, pivot door, single slider and walk-in, the collection is designed for installation in bathrooms of any size or shape.

As with all of Crosswater's products, quality and long-lasting durability come as standard across the range of Infinity shower enclosures. Surrounded by a contemporary polished stainless steel frame, 8mm toughened glass offers a superior power shower-proof surface that will withstand the daily wear-and-tear of multi-person use.
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Introducing Köngistone: Feel at home

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Taking its name from the German word for 'king', Königstone was created in 2005 with the aim of providing quartz products of the highest quality for use as surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms.
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New space saving cooling from Amica

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Perfect for a kitchen where space is short or as a replacement for an older appliance, Amica's new FC2093 larder fridge is just 55cm wide compared to the usual 60cm. There is a strong replacement market for 55cm fridges for both consumers looking for extra storage and this size is also popular in social housing.

The fridge is 1235mm high so there's an impressive 204 litres of cooled storage space - perfect for fresh foods. It has four shelves, a roomy salad crisper, four spacious door balconies and has an A+ energy rating.
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Practical, adaptable Evolve - top choice for Nest Kitchens' community project

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Good habits start young - which is why top-rated Bramhope primary school in Bramhope, Leeds, is introducing hands-on cooking lessons for its pupils. When the company heard of the project, Harrogate-based Nest Kitchens, which specialises in bespoke furniture, decided it would like to be involved.
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Unidrain: an exact fit for Copenhagen's Luxury Hotel Herman K

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Unidrain's HighLine drain and Reframe Collection of bathroom accessories were selected for all the Ahead Award-winning Hotel Herman K's designer bathrooms.
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45-litre cooling perfect second-tier option for retailers

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A small 45-litre refrigerator makes the ideal second-tier cooling option for retailers interested in this growing segment of the appliance market according to Canada's Danby Appliances.

The brand which launched with Exertis late last year is now unveiling a retro-inspired compact countertop refrigerator as it's second product for the UK and European markets.
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Welcome to the

KBzine 

 

With we Brits being a nation of DIYers, a survey I received this week from WRAS, the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme, made me realise how little many of us really know about ensuring that what we do doesn't only look good and do the job, but that it meets legal requirements too.

WRAS reminds us that to safeguard our drinking water, UK water regulations and byelaws require - for most types of plumbing work - the designer, installer, owner or occupier to obtain their local water supplier's consent first. I had no idea about much of this myself, but having looked into it, I can certainly understand why the regulations are in place!

According to the findings, 60% of homeowners are unaware that they must inform their water company if installing specific water fixtures. For example, 62% said they didn't know whether they had to inform their water company if installing a large bath (one holding more than 230-litres) and some 60% are unaware that they're legally required to tell their water company if they're installing a bidet which features an ascending spray or flexible hose - since, if these are installed incorrectly, they risk contaminating the drinking water.

Indeed, there's a long list of plumbing works (see more at www.wras.co.uk) that must be notified in advance and the regulations apply to homeowners, businesses, landlords and tenants and to many types of domestic and commercial plumbing - from building houses or extending business premises to everyday work. Consent takes a maximum of 10 working days and costs nothing and in many cases, the water supplier will simply need a description of the planned work and the contact details of those undertaking it, so it's not too difficult or time consuming.

WRAS recommends employing a WaterSafe approved plumber who's familiar with the regulations and these words made me wonder, how many professional fitters will be switched on enough to use WRAS's information in their marketing campaigns, and how many retailers are aware enough of the regulations to be able to advise customers that they really need to know what they're doing if they're planning to fit their own kitchens and bathrooms.

Yours,

Jan Hobbs

 

 


This Week's News

BMA marks World Plumbing Day by calling for more education on water efficiency

* BMA-World-Plumbing-Day.jpgThe Bathroom Manufacturers Association, called for more education on water efficiency to mark World Plumbing Day (11 March).

Initiated by the World Plumbing Council, the day brought together the international plumbing community to promote the link between good quality plumbing, health, environmental sustainability and - increasingly - economic prosperity.
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Free up kitchen space with Fonda hob/extractor combination from Blanco by Gutmann

* Blanco-Fonda-hob-extractor.jpgThe future of clean air in the kitchen has taken a leap forward with the ingenious Fonda hood from the Blanco by Gutmann portfolio. Combined with a stunning hob, the Fonda is a clever, space-saving, downdraft extraction system with an installation height of just 8cm.

Perfect for small or large kitchen design schemes and flexible in terms of installation and location, the Fonda sits quietly and discreetly in a streamlined, functional space.
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SMWF celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with award presented by MP

* SMWF-Nat-App-Week.jpgSmallbone & Mark Wilkinson Furniture has marked National Apprenticeship Week with an inaugural apprenticeship award. Rt Hon Claire Perry, Member of Parliament for the Devizes Constituency, presented the award to Kyle Smith (pictured right with runners-up) at a ceremony held at the Smallbone workshop in Devizes last week.

The award was established to nurture the next generation of furniture makers and is open to all apprentices undertaking the apprenticeship programme with SMWF.
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'Ask the Evolve experts': Bushboard publishes FAQ guide to solid core worksurfaces

* Evolve-Crystal-black.jpgSolid core laminate worksurfaces are fairly new to the UK market but with their slim lines and robust qualities are quickly proving to be a top choice for kitchens. To help installers, retailers and the consumer, Bushboard has published a helpful e-zine packed with information on its Evolve slimline solid core laminate surfaces.
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Beko launches AutoDose Connected Dishwasher

* Beko-AutoDose.jpgIn what is believed to be a European first, Beko is launching one of its most highly anticipated products to date - the AutoDose Connected Dishwasher - perfect for those who sometimes forget to switch on the dishwasher or buy detergent!
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Karonia updates Mistral worktop brochure

* new-MISTRAL-brochure.jpgKaronia Surfaces has refreshed its Mistral consumer brochure for 2019. Available now, the updated brochure features the four new colours introduced to the range last year along with more lifestyle images showcasing the work carried out by retailers and installers throughout the UK.

The brochure explores the unlimited creative potential of this versatile surface through a series of inspirational images and highlights the practical features and benefits of the completely solid 25mm format.
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LDL to be plastic-free by 2020

* LDL-baler.jpgLDL, the UK's leading component distributor, has announced its commitment to removing all plastics from its packaging by the end of 2019.
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Wilsonart Inspired by Benchmarx Supplier Event

* Wilsonart-Stand.jpgWilsonart UK, part of the world's largest producer of laminate worktop and panelling products, has enjoyed three days at Inspire - the supplier event hosted by Benchmarx, the kitchen and joinery arm of Travis Perkins.

The Benchmarx Inspire Event, held at ANEC, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire from 5th - 8th March, showcases products, services and innovation from its catalogue of suppliers of which Wilsonart and its worktop brands is one.
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Circular reflection

* Circular-reflection.jpgSensio has expanded its collection of circular mirrors with three new designs. Como, Aria and Luna join Orla; all rounded mirrors boasting various LED lighting features.
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New Dealer Inspiration brochure from Blanco is beautifully illustrated

* Blanco-New-Dealer-Inspiration.jpgBlanco UK's new brochure, Dealer Inspiration Range, offers retailers a detailed and beautifully illustrated guide to Blanco's sinks, taps, cooker hoods, hobs and accessories.
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Altecnic appoints Product Development Manager in the UK

* Altecnic-appoints.jpgBritain's quality hydronic solutions supplier Altecnic, has welcomed new product development manager Stephanie Allchurch to the team. Previously, Steph was technical manager with a leading manufacturer and has a rich 16-year track record in the industry.

She will play a key role spearheading the development of Altecnic's product offering across the UK whilst also expanding the company's portfolio offer.
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Jan Hobbs
Publishing Editor
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1372 811 307 
Mobile: 07980 288 373

 

 

 

 

John Austen
Publishing Director
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1580 755 863
Mobile: 07766 707 888
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Recent News

BMA announces date and venue for 2019 Conference

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The Bathroom Manufacturers Association has announced the date and venue for the 2019 Bathroom & Kitchen Business Conference: 7th and 8th October at the Carden Park Resort, Chester.
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Entries now open for KBSA Designer Awards 2019

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The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association's Designer Awards 2019 are now open for entries. And if you're not yet a full Association member it doesn't mean you're excluded. New members as well as KBB retailers in the processes of applying for membership also have the opportunity to enter.
more


Unified Water Label can help combat climate change

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The Unified Water Label can make a contribution towards combating climate change, says Bathroom Manufacturers Association CEO Yvonne Orgill.

Yvonne called for the industry to support the UWL, in response to the Committee on Climate Change's 'UK housing: Fit for the future?' recently published report.
more


Marketing

Smeg UK announces super Spring offer for its retailers

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Coinciding with the key buying time for kitchens, Smeg will be introducing an incredible new offer exclusive to its retailers this Spring. From 1st March until 30th April 2019, Smeg stockists will be able to offer a free slow juicer for every Victoria range cooker purchased.
more



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