"bathroom sink"

What has been the true impact of 12 months of remote working on UK office staff? A recent YouGov poll by bathroom designer and manufacturer Geberit shows a workforce missing their colleagues and longing for a return to face-to-face meetings. With more than half of us missing the work-life balance that the office offers, its findings also reveal very little resistance from staff when faced with the prospect of a return to the office. Here, Sophie Weston, channel marketing manager at Geberit, reveals more about its insight and the impact of hygiene in the office moving forward – especially the washroom.

M&E contractor ‘The All Group’ designed 2.5km RAYCHEM of HWAT-M self-regulating cables in a single pipe hot water system throughout the hotel. Controlled by RAYCHEM HWAT-ECO smart controllers, the system provided the benefits of energy efficiency plus savings in material costs, labour and space. Pipe freeze protection was delivered using 5.5 km of RAYCHEM WinterGard, controlled with RAYCHEM RAYSTAT-ECO-10. Underfloor heating was installed in the bedrooms, using RAYCHEM T2Red with T2Reflecta. In addition, RAYCHEM T2Quicknet 160 was installed in the en-suite bathrooms and the hotel’s luxurious spa.

Crown Trade products are providing the University of East London with a trusted route to transform student accommodation for the new academic year under a comprehensive redecoration programme. Crown Trade Steracryl Mould Inhibiting Matt Paint, Crown Trade Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt and Crown Trade Fastflow Quick Dry Gloss are all being applied as part of the refurbishment of 57 dormitories and associated kitchen areas at the university’s Docklands Campus. Consisting of an individual bedroom and private bathroom, the dormitories - part of the Redbridge Student Accommodation - are in the transition from term time to summer school programmes.

The mild, wet autumnal weather can provide the ideal conditions for mould and mildew to thrive but Crown Trade’s range of Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting paints offers the solution. Ideal for damp-prone areas including bathrooms and kitchens, as well as for use in void properties, Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting paint range offers long lasting protection from unsightly and unhygienic mould. Available in a choice of matt and acrylic eggshell, the range benefits from built in fungicide that prevents mould growth on the paint film. Highly resistant to stains, it can be repeatedly cleaned.

F. Ball products have been used to install floorcoverings in a waterside residential development at Swansea Marina. Stopgap 1200 Pro high-performance levelling compound was used to create a smooth base ready for the receipt of floorcoverings. Contractors then used Styccobond F44 acrylic adhesive to install oak-effect Polyflor vinyl sheet in the kitchens and bathrooms, as well as to install purple Polyflor vinyl sheet floorcoverings in the building’s corridors, stairways and other communal areas. Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive was used to install Polyflor wood-effect vinyl planks in the living areas of each of the apartments.

In an ambitious 12-month building project, the property was stripped to its ground-floor walls with a first-floor being completely reconstructed as a spectacular rectangular wooden box, with raw Accoya boards used for external cladding & fine sawn boards for internal decoration. Around 8 cubic metres of Accoya was used for both the external and internal cladding, supplied by Accoya distributor James Latham. Taking just over a year to complete, the renovation project has created a five-bedroom and four bathroom home for the Treasurers and their two children, delivered on a budget of less than £175,000.

Adare Manor is a romantic Victorian mansion in County Limerick, Ireland, set within 840 acres of pristine Irish parkland. The hotel recently re-opened after an extensive refurbishment, positioning Adare Manor as one of Ireland’s finest country hotels.Inspired by Gothic architecture, rooms and suites have been carefully designed for indulgence and relaxation, with historic art and furnishings, marble en-suite bathrooms and beautiful views from every window.The Toulouse bath in our bespoke Anthracite painted finish has been specified for a number of suites.Photography: Jack Hardy

Kimpton Fitzroy London is a Grade II listed landmark building in London’s literary neighbourhood of Bloomsbury. The hotel re-opened in Spring 2018, with interiors by renowned design firm, Tara Bernerd and Partners, that restore the historic hotel to its original grandeur.In the most distinctive and desirable rooms in the hotel, four-poster beds overlook ceramic and marble bathrooms, that offer a mix of walk-in shower stalls and roll-top baths. The traditional York has been specified in these suites, chosen for its luxurious look and feel and sheer comfort.Design: Anna SpiroDesign: Anna Spiro

Cembrit, leading cladding and building board specialist has launched Unipan, a versatile tile backing board which is ideally suited for internal ‘wet’ applications. Unipan is lightweight, tough, and stable, and offers a solid base for tiling through its excellent adhesion properties. The boards are manufactured from a material that is a mix of cement and aggregate, which also contains polystyrene beading to reduce the weight of the board allowing for easy on-site manoeuvrability and quick installation. Unipan features flat, reinforced tapered edges that are specifically designed for a good join, which is critical in wet applications such as bathrooms.

Our client designed and built a spectacular contemporary new home. He decided to include a sauna to complement his level deck central bathtub in the master bathroom. The brief was to create a light modern cabin with clean low iron glazing to the main facia. The space allocated was wide but shallow and the challenge was to achieve a cabin which appeared spacious and comfortable for the two occupants to enjoy together. We chose a free standing, multi- climate heater around which carefully designed bespoke benching was constructed in smooth blond Aspen to match the deep horizontal wall boards.

Newton contractor Rymill Property Developments were approached by the owner of an old vineyard in Hampshire, in order to redevelop the site. As well as building an immaculate four-bedroom, four-bathroom Georgianhouse for the client, Rymill also took on the task of creating 3 brand new, modern properties, all with basements built into the existing sloping site. The large, partially retained basement areas would all house a stairwell, plantroom, storage room, cinema room, zen room, two ensuite double bedrooms and a garden room, and so required a completely dry internal environment.

AbleStay Holiday HomeFor anyone considering accessible accommodation in London, you may be interested to hear more about AbleStay, London’s first accessible holiday home situated near Worcester Park, South West London. The house is fully adapted for wheelchair access and has a bright open plan kitchen, dining and living area.The AbleStay mission is to deliver fully accessible and adapted holiday homes in cities across the UK, providing families with confidence their accommodation will provide a perfect and beautiful environment for their stay.Freedom by Symphony KitchenDesigned by Adam Thomas Consultancy, and Tara Neil kitchen Retailer, the AbleStay house features our Freedom by Symphony Kitchen and has various universal and accessible design features ensuring a safe, practical and stylish kitchen space.A rise and fall adjustable height worktop with integrated waterfall edge to limit spillages. Visitors to the holiday home can set a safe and convenient height to use the Induction hob, sink and front mounted tap, which is all situated on the same run of worktop. The full length of the rise and fall worktop also provides open leg space and a shallow sink bowl providing full accessibility for wheelchair access.There is a pull-out accessible larder, eliminating the need to bend and reach down into the back of cupboards to find cooking items. Instead, all items are within reach and clearly visible so are easy to find quickly and safely.  Two Luxurious Slide&Hide® Neff ovens have been installed featuring doors which can be hidden beneath when using the oven. Accessible oven housings also position the ovens at a comfortable height and have the benefit of heatproof shelfs, so food can be transferred out of the oven straight onto the resting shelves; allowing hot dishes to cool before transferring to the worktop space.Founder of AbleStay Freedom by Symphony are thrilled to have worked on such an exciting project with Charles Van Berckel, founder of AbleStay: “the support provided by Adam Thomas and the team at Symphony enabled us to provide a truly beautiful and functional kitchen for wheelchair users. Without their kind and generous support it would never have been possible”

Crossley Webb Contracts Ltd have specialised in providing exceptional quality interior refurbishments and fit-outs for the past 16 years. They were tasked to fully refurbish 14 hotel rooms and bathrooms located at the Bannatyne Hotel Durham. They required a product that was quick to install but equally had a desirable look.CWC specified Bushboard Nuance wall panels, Bushboard’s Nuance is a unique wall panelling system that is 100% waterproof, extrusion free and can be installed in a matter of hours offering a wide choice of stunning designs and textures to create any bathroom the client wishes.OBSERVATIONS‘Bushboard were recommended to CWC through a regular client and after thoroughly researching the product we decided to use it due to it’s practicality.It is the ideal product for refurbishment and fit-out projects as working to tight deadlines means we need to have the flexibility for quick installation. Nuance meets this requirement perfectly.’Bushboard panels can be tailored and installed in a matter of hours. In Bushboard’s time trials, Nuance was up to six times faster to install than traditional tiles. For a project Nuance is perfect to cut down the disruption.OUTCOMECWC specified Driftwood, this decor is printed in life-like proportion and enhanced by a realistic texture, mirroring the beauty of real wood.‘We loved working with the product and our clients think the overall finish looks outstanding. The product is hard wearing and easy to install, along with a great modern and stylish look.We will definitely use Nuance panels again on future projects.’For more information about the Bushboard products, request a RIBA CPD,

This showroom is not your average showroom. As well as being a place to showcase their bathroom products, it’s also used as a meeting place for architects and designers alike to come together to share and exchange knowledge and insights. The Roca Gallery, London, also hosts exhibitions and events around a variety of topics including architecture, design, and sustainability.Roca is a bathroom manufacturer and supplier that originally started out selling cast iron radiators in 1917. The first Roca Gallery was opened in 2009 in Barcelona and is what they call their ‘commitment to society’ providing a ‘brand experience’ like no other. Other galleries around the world include Madrid, Lisbon, Shanghai and Beijing – with each one individually designed to suit the cultural and historic surroundings.The Roca London Gallery was designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and is full of rich history and innovative culture throughout it’s 1100m2 floor space. A prominent theme of the design is the movement of water with ripples on the façade and a sculpted interior. There’s over 200 unique concrete panels and 1209 bespoke porcelain floor tiles which meant that our access panels also needed to be bespoke to compliment this design.Our concealed frame doors, Arriva & Innova were essential to the design, in order to create a smooth, undisturbed flow throughout the space. The doors also feature bespoke designs, such as curved cut-outs in the doors for the handle, mirroring the curved design that can be seen across the project. The Via access panels were also required to be bespoke, with some needing to be abstract shapes, while others had to fit with the curvature of the wall.

Linework Architects imaginative use of architectural glass rooflights was key to transforming this period north London property. Lineworks director, Robert Haworth collaborated with Glazing Vision with the objective of delivering natural daylight and a touch of glamour to some tricky spaces whilst maintaining privacy where needed.The design brief for the project called for an ultra-minimalist final finish, so it was important that all of the glazing featured minimal framework and a clean integration with the building fabric itself.Glazing Visions philosophy of minimum framework, maximum daylight was the preferred solution and met all of the design requirements, providing enough flexibility to tackle the various challenges that the scheme presented. The property comprises of three stories with a mixture of extensions added to increase usable living space, the problem with this is that some of these areas can be starved of natural daylight, making them gloomy and uninviting, in order to combat this, several types of rooflight needed to be specified to tackle each of the areas.Beginning on the ground floor, a wrap around extension has been created featuring a modern and contemporary kitchen dining area leading on to the garden. A large set of sliding glass doors provides natural daylight and access to the outdoor space, but their effectiveness at delivering enough daylight is limited as you go deeper into the building where it would begin to feel darker and more claustrophobic.To address this, a Glazing Vision modular rooflight system measuring over six metres in length runs along the entire length of the extension, this unit is fixed structurally to the original wall of the building creating the feeling of a ‘glass roof’ when transitioning from the original building to the new. Manufacturing the unit in three sections allowed it to be successfully maneuvered on site without the use for an expensive crane and the structural silicone joints between the sections maintained the frameless appearance needed to compliment the minimalist interior.“All three rooflights were quite tricky to install because the property was a terraced house and there was no ability to use a crane. Somehow the team got them in!” Robert Haworth, Director, Linework Architects.The creation of a second storey extension was essential to provide a large family bathroom space, but this meant that the stairwell leading to it was another area potentially starved of natural daylight. Installing a rooflight overhead was a logical solution, but this was complicated by the position of the stairwell being located beneath two opposing pitched roofs. An off the shelf solution would not be acceptable as any rooflight installed above would need to be designed to accommodate this tricky detail.As rooflight specialists, Glazing Vision were able to design and manufacture a custom shaped fixed Flushglaze unit specifically for this part of the building.Therefore maximising the amount of overhead glazing and thus lighting the stairwell sufficiently so that it can be used safely without the need for artificial lighting. Perhaps one of the most quirky and inventive parts of this renovation is the use of glazing in the bathroom, the client had specified a large walk-in shower area which was easily achievable given the space available but would have resulted in the shower being located in a dark corner of the room necessitating the use of artificial lighting. Natural daylight is critical when attempting to achieve a minimalist scheme, so Linework Architects wanted to ensure that this element was carried through to all corners of the building.“We were trying to make a really exceptional bathroom space, so we decided to use the Eaves Rooflight, and play with the glass transparencies.” Robert Haworth, Director, Linework Architects.The resulting installation delivers a floor to ceiling vertical glass window section which transitions into the roof seamlessly with no additional framework, this creative solution provides a unique design element to the bathroom and the much-needed daylight to open up the space. Being a bathroom, privacy also had to be addressed, particularly in the shower area! Glazing Vision recommended the use of opaque satin etched glass which provides enough translucency to allow light to permeate, but also presents a frosted glass finish sparing the blushes of anyone using the shower.Taking around five months to complete, this was not a straightforward scheme to deliver, however the end result can be considered transformative. Linework Architects uncompromising and inventive use of glass rooflights has proved incredibly successful in this project and contributed greatly to the feeling of light, air, and space in this minimalist haven.

Multi-level stainless steel sinks and worktops, from GEC Anderson, have been installed in the new activity and education space within the renovated Beaney Centre in Canterbury in order to provide an inclusive washing area for all ages and abilities.The Beaney Centre has been home to one of Canterburys main museums and its library since 1899, and is a focus for cultural and heritage activities. This major refurbishment project has restored and enlarged an important heritage building, providing a fully accessible and attractive facility for visitors and the local community.The specification for stainless steel was a result of discussions with the client, Canterbury County Council, in which it was clear that a high quality and durable surface was needed for the education space which, with a full programme of activities lined up, would be in constant use.Architect Paul Martin from Sidell Gibson said “We have had good experience with using GECA for their bespoke surfaces and were therefore happy to specify them again.”

With an enviable location on the South Bank of the River Thames, Park Plaza London Riverbank is ideal travellers from near and far to central London. Those travelling for leisure return again and again thanks to the prime central location, heated indoor swimming pool, enticing dining options and elegantly spacious rooms.Licata Building Systems was involved with the development of this project, providing several Licata systems, such as waterproofing and flooring systems. Licata waterproofing systems were used throughout the modern bathrooms and swimming pool facility. Licata resin flooring created a sleek and modern finish throughout public area of the hotel.

Franke Products were chosen for a ground breaking transformation of the disused Bute Mill facility for Youthscape: a charity who works with young people across Luton. Franke’s Xinox stainless steel accessories were chosen for the bathrooms, which included soap dispensers, paper towel dispensers, waste bins and a hand dryer as well as touch free options. “Product quality and uniqueness were factors in deciding which suppliers to choose for this prestigious project. A brand like Franke ensured we would get the best quality that would last for years, and still look good too!” commented Chris Curtis Chief Executive of Youthscape.

Mirrors from the wide range of stainless steel products offered by GEC Anderson have been included within a striking new facility developed for the young people of East Manchester, enhancing both the aesthetics and the safe operation of the building. The £6.6milion HideOut Youth Zone, built by Domis Construction on the old Gorston baths site in the Hyde district of the city, is based upon the successful OnSide Youth Zones 21st Century Youth Facility Model. The development of the centre, which is expected to attract some 1,600 young people each week, was supported by local philanthropist, Fred Done, and Manchester City Council.  In total, 16 of the 1000 x 500 mm highly polished, 1mm thick stainless steel mirrors were supplied for both the general and accessible washroom areas. Widely used in public toilets and sports facilities, the mirrors’ tough, unbreakable nature will both enhance long term maintenance implications and negate the injury risk presented by glass alternatives. Lisa McFarlane, a Director at the Manchester based lead consultants, Seven Architecture, commented: “We were keen to design a truly iconic building for the young people of East Manchester; to give them a real sense of pride and ownership. It’s fantastic to see so much support for the scheme. This is the second Youth Zone we have been involved in designing in the region, with another due to get under way soon in Warrington.  With this being a design and build project, the final specification lies with the main contractor, but stainless steel was preferred for the mirrors as a health and safety consideration, basically being a robust but attractive material.”Since its formation in 1962, GEC Anderson has built its reputation for the supply of top end stainless steel sinks and sanitaryware on a combination of innovative design, top quality materials and expert craftsmanship. In addition to the company’s Decimetric system of cabinets, sinks, drainers and other equipment - widely specified for sectors including health and catering - the company’s custom engineered solutions have been selected for some of the country’s top sports, entertainment and leisure destinations. Adam Farricker, Chief Executive of HideOut Youth Zone expressed his enthusiasm for the outcome saying: “A huge thank you to all of HideOut’s supporters for believing in this charity and for having the vision and determination to make it happen for Manchester’s young people. Their generous support will make a huge difference to the lives of young people and the wider community in East Manchester.”

Made-to-measure stainless steel worktops, by GEC Anderson, were recently specified by Munkenbeck and Partners at the highly desirable city space known as 55 Gee Street, Clerkenwell.The funky, new build, mixed-use development comprises offices, shops and six, high-end apartments. Four flats have two bedrooms, a two bedroom duplex occupies ground and basement levels whilst the 150 m penthouse has three bedrooms. Previously the site was occupied by a building belonging to Her Majesty’s Stationery Office.Outside, the distinctive street facade resembles a Jenga block game, made up of extruded airbricks, randomly assembled. The bricks allow natural cross ventilation through the wall without having to make the glass panels move.Inside, the contemporary living spaces are high tech and high quality. Concrete, wood, stainless steel and glass dominate the open, elegant and functional spaces. The continuous and expansive stainless steel worksurfaces blend-in perfectly within their neutral and effortless surroundings. Formed in one piece, the GEC Anderson custom stainless steel worktops include integral sink bowls and edge detailing. Full height splashbacks are included to alcove worktops whilst the striking penthouse kitchen includes a stainless steel island element.Stainless steel worktops and splashbacks still are often associated with only commercial kitchens. However, discerning specifiers have always recognised stainless steel as an interesting, practical and versatile worktop material for residential kitchens. GEC Anderson, with its high quality, brushed satin, stainless steel worktops has helped to promote the popularity of stainless steel within this environment, since the early Sixties.Alfred Munkenbeck, Munkenbeck and Partners, chose GEC Anderson worktops because they could be made in one piece, to the exact size and shape required and with the desired edge profiles, sink bowls and details. The highly specific requirements and details are matched by the quality, appearance, design honesty, integrity and practicality demanded by the apartment settings.GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops and splashbacks are made to order in any shape or size, with seamless finish and no visible joins or junctions. The Touch kitchen units, from OIKOS, were supplied by Eurobath Trading UK. A full measuring and installation service was provided by GEC Anderson for main contractor, Morgan Sindall.

To provide high quality instantaneous hot water, the developers were persuaded to move away from a conventional recirculation system to the higher efficiency single-pipe solution, using nVent RAYCHEM HWAT-M self regulating cable and the unique nVent RAYCHEM RayClic connection system. In addition, nVent RAYCHEM T2Red and T2Reflecta underfloor heating was used in the main living areas. The self-regulating cable could provide very responsive heating without overheating, thus avoiding damage to the high quality wooden flooring. Underfloor heating was also used in the bathrooms, using nVent RAYCHEM T2Quicknet. All fully integrated with the BMS to avoid individual controllers.

Location: Canary Wharf, LondonMain Contractor: Canary Wharf Contractors LtdWood Wharf B2 is a modular construction project located on the edge of Blackwall Basin, Canary Wharf.All 279 serviced apartments were manufactured at their specialist construction site, fitted with kitchens and bathrooms and even furniture — before being transported to the site and craned into position.OBEX supplied fire-classified membranes that have been developed specifically for modular construction, including the 0400FR Class B Modular Roofing Membrane, as well as the 0223FR Class A2/W2 Breather Membrane.Storeys: 21Apartments: 279OBEX Fire-Rated products required: 4

Akari Care, a nationwide residential care home provider, enlisted Crown to create a uniform refurbishment programme for its extensive portfolio of properties last year. Crown Paints Colour Service created six new dementia friendly colour schemes include mauve, pink, turquoise, natural, green, citrus and terracotta. Ideal for high-traffic areas, Crown Trade Clean Extreme Stain Resistant Scrubbable Matt was specified for all walls in the corridor, lounge and bedroom areas while Crown Trade Clean Extreme Mould Inhibiting Scrubbable Matt was specified for the bathrooms. Crown Trade Clean Extreme Antibacterial Durable Acrylic Eggshell will be used in the kitchens.

"Book your luxury stay." The message to visitors to the Hôtel du Golf website is clear, inviting them to a charming hotel nestled in a sea of ​​green, far from the hustle and bustle of the city centre but close to the pleasures of Deauville, a refined and elite location on the Côte Fleurie in Normandy.Part of the Barrière five-star chain, the Hôtel du Golf has just completed three years of renovations that involved a modernization of its rooms, suites and restaurants.The hotel's aristocratic architecture is complemented by a decidedly contemporary interior design, the signature of an iconic style Made in Normandy: huge sculptures of apples and horses, Chesterfield furniture and Scottish tartans are just some of the most visible features that decorate the rooms.The decor blends with the materials of floor and wall tiles in a symphony of taste and originality, establishing themselves as an exceptional combo for an environment that not only seeks to be refined, but also different and impactful. The majesty of a typically French architecture is enhanced by the particular charm of Atlas Concorde porcelain floor tiles and white body wall tiles used to furnish the bathrooms.Here, lush and captivating nature becomes inspiration for a cutting-edge project that recalls the material essence of stone and its wealth of details. In an enveloping and evocative atmosphere, Atlas Concorde ceramic tiles interpret Luserna stone and quartzitein a new way, giving the spaces a mix of irrepressible earthiness and delicate natural character. Surfaces with intense colours and textures obtained thanks to the most modern and sophisticated ceramic technologies become key components of a vigorous architecture, in harmony with the distinct and personalized character of all the rooms of the French Hotel.The collection chosen for the floors and walls of the bathrooms is the Trust series in the light silver colour and in 30x30 cm and 30x60 cm formats.

It was the pretty garden and view of the house from the driveway that first drew retired couple Melanie and Phil to what is now their much-loved home of ten years.The property has four bedrooms and two bathrooms and, though it sits within a conservation area, it is not listed. The house was originally three dwellings, each with an entrance door at the front and staircases behind the fireplaces. In the 1970s the houses were converted to a single dwelling and an extension was added at the back to house a single staircase, hall, landing and main bathroom. When the couple bought the house, it had old single glazed windows and doors, some of which were rotten. Since moving in Melanie did their best to persevere with the old glazing because it suited the cottage, but in the end decided to update it earlier this year. The couple wanted a solution that fitted with the character and age of Long Cottage, but also wanted it to feel cosier, warmer and more energy efficient. They decided on triple glazed Rationel windows and doors. They chose Rationel FORMAPLUS alu-clad triple glazed windows and doors in two finishes – cream for the outside and white inside. ‘We liked the fact they were maintenance free, but had the look of wooden units to tie in with the character of the cottage and the surrounding village properties,’ says Phil.While energy efficiency was a key reason for choosing triple glazing, they also wanted to reduce noise as much as possible – Brize Norton airbase is nearby. The couple are especially pleased with the windows in the bedrooms – which now meet industry safety standards for evacuation in case of a fire – and in the sitting room.‘The sitting room is in an end gable next to the road,’ says Melanie, ‘and the new triple-glazed unit has made it so much quieter and cosier than it was before.’

GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops were included in a recent Cornwall kitchen refurbishment, designed and installed by George Robinson Kitchens who produce hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, near Penzance. For homeowners, Mr. & Mrs. Bull, the choice of materials was pivotal to the design of their home kitchen, particularly, as their long-term plan is to use the space as a cookery school. Stainless steel was therefore a key element and was chosen not only for its visual properties and low lifetime cost but also for its ability to withstand heavy usage, to be heat resistant and to remain germ-free. From a visual perspective, the work surfaces make up a significant proportion of the colour and texture in the room. In this Georgian property in Cornwall, the materials and textures chosen make for an eclectic yet functional space. The inherent durability and unsurpassed hygienic properties of the brushed stainless steel elements from GEC Anderson will make it perform extremely well as a professional kitchen. The Tulip wood and Oak wood with its different painted finishes together with the white Silestone quartz top on the central island top provides a striking contrast to the stainless steel in one corner, giving a light and pleasant, contemporary, feel.The L-shaped brushed satin stainless steel worktop and integral sink is made to measure and benefits from being manufactured in one continuous piece thus maximising the use of space in the corner in which it is situated. Furthermore, with no joins at the sink bowl, edges and upstands, the surface remains germ free as well as being free of visual clutter and noise. One side of the L-shape includes a generously sized (500x400mm) single bowl and draining area, whilst the other, provides useful and practical work surface. A 100mm high, integral, back upstand was also specified, providing a neat, practical and watertight junction to walls.Owner Dr Matt Bull says, “My wife and I liked the toughness of the stainless steel and the fact that it can take hot and cold, doesn't stain, reflects light and provides an hygienic surface that is easy to clean. Stainless steel also gains character as it ages, where many surfaces will deteriorate, so that’s a real bonus.” He added, “We struggled to find anyone locally who could manufacture the stainless steel elements of the kitchen to a sufficiently high standard. The neatness of the welding and the configuration of the shape, drainer recess etc. were key to what GEC Anderson could offer.”GEC Anderson stainless steel worktops are supplied fully sound deadened, plastic protected 

Studio facilities for a community of hardworking contemporary artists need to be durable and easy to maintain yet aesthetically pleasing, so architects Caruso St John specified made-to-measure stainless steel sinktops from GEC Anderson as part of the £2.25 million redevelopment of the Spike Island art complex on Bristol’s harbourside. GEC Anderson stainless steel sinktops were also specified for the IT suite tea-point, artists’ and visitors’ toilets and baby-change areas. Spike Island, a former tea packing warehouse, has housed local artists’ studios since the 1990s when it replaced the earlier Artspace venture. It has grown to become a national centre for the research and development of contemporary visual arts – including painting, sculpture and print-making – with 70 affordable long-let studios and a series of spaces for more commercial cultural industries, such as design studios. The redevelopment, just completed, includes a welcoming entrance, while the new café is Spike Island’s first shared social space. In addition, studio spaces have been improved and the vast exhibition galleries are among the UK’s most impressive. Caruso St John project architect Rod Heyes says: “When it came to specifying the big washing out sinks, we needed something reliable that would still clean up and look good after the artists had poured plaster, paint and various chemicals over them. We have used GEC Anderson products on several other projects and they are our default supplier for stainless steel. We are impressed by the quality of their products as well as their design detailing.”GEC Anderson Managing Director Martin Tye says “Quality stainless steel is a highly versatile material that can be deployed very effectively in applications across the spectrum from workshops to designer kitchens. Stainless steel is also ultimately durable and hygienic. “Spike Island may prove to be one of the tougher environments for GEC Anderson sinks, but with a modest amount of care these sinktops will still perform well and look good after many years.”With creativity uppermost in the minds of Spike Island’s tenants, their surrounding facilities and those also provided for the visiting public were selected for functionality, aesthetics and durability. The Spike Island specification includes made-to-measure stainless steel sinktops all with integrally welded bowls. Within the metal work space, extra large Le70 (700 x 500 x 300mm) bowls, were specified. The baby-change area includes an 800mm wide surface. All sinktops are made from satin finish domestic grade stainless steel.

The architect has created a connection with the outdoors in, utilising large fixed rooflights from Glazing Vision to bring daylight into the house and frame the surroundings.‘The most beautiful spot in the Netherlands’; that is the description of this country house in the marina ‘t Raboes according to the owners. Located on the Eemmeer, a place in the middle of nature, and away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The architect has created a connection with the outdoors in, utilising large fixed skylights from Glazing Vision to bring daylight into the house and frame the surroundings.Bringing in daylight with large minimalist skylights was a key requirement for the architect. The horizontal application of large glass surfaces demands a lot from the design and after many discussions, the architect was confident that Glazing Vision was the rooflight manufacturer that could implement what they had in mind.No framework in sight. Insulated glass with excellent insulation values. Glass that blends seamlessly into the architect’s design. A way to bring the outdoor feeling inside.Three multipart skylights have made this architectural vision become a reality.The back-to-back angles fit in very well with the rest of the modern contemporary interiors. To make it possible to darken the rooms, Glazing Vision has applied custom-made sun protection from Topshade.At the spot where the river Eem flows into the Eemmeer, architect De Kort van Schaik designed the country residence ‘t Raboes. The clients wanted to create a place where they could fully experience nature, but also withdraw from the hustle and bustle of the city.The house consists of three parts, connected by three covered terraces. Concrete walls and floors which blend seamlessly into the environment and large windows that frame the polder landscape.All energy on ‘t Raboes is generated locally. The solar cells on the roof of the marina building supply electricity. A heat pump that uses the surface water of the Eemmeer provides heating for the house and swimming pool.In the living areas, wood stoves have been used, all which use wood from their own grounds, providing readily available extra heating capacity.A beautiful contrast is created by the yellow epoxy bathroom furniture, designed by Sabine Marcelis. A piece of furniture consisting of a bath, wash bath and shower stands as a free-standing sculpture in the concrete bathroom. The skylight forms a completely frameless glass roof, which gives you the feeling of being outside even more.Sabine Marcelis states that she has designed her dream bathroom. The subtle rotation of the furniture gives you a fantastic view of the landscape from the bath.Taken aback by this stunning property, the architectural press has been impressed with all aspects of the design. De Volkskrant gives the Huis op ‘t Raboes five stars. “The Rotterdam architectural firm De Kort Van Schaik designed a house in which you live with the elements and at the same time are protected against them, thanks to a thick concrete coat.”

The Park Plaza Hotel, Hercules House is positioned just south of Westminster Bridge overlooking the River Thames with spectacular views across London. The hotel provides high-end dining and premium facilities such as the spa, sauna and swimming pool. Within walking distance of London’s most famous attractions inclduing the London Eye, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and the London Aquarium, Hercules House is the ideal place to stay in the Capital. Licata Building Systems was involved with the development of this project, providing several Licata systems, such as waterproofing and flooring systems. Licata waterproofing systems were used throughout the modern bathrooms and swimming pool facility. Licata resin flooring created a sleek and finish throughout public area of the hotel. 

Stainless steel splashbacks, by GEC Anderson, were recently deployed in an apartment kitchen, overlooking London’s Hampstead Heath. The specification was a little challenging due to the shape and size of the required pieces. In particular, the curved corner within the kitchen gave the project very much a one-off feel. Rather than merely being an internal feature, the curve follows the outer form of the brick building.The subtle blend of colours exudes calmness but does not appear cold. This is probably due to the lighting as well as the contrasting colours in the adjacent spaces, notably, the red bench seating but also the dark bookshelf that also follows the curvature of the room.The stainless steel splashbacks were made to measure, to precisely suit the design and requirements and were produced in GEC Anderson’s standard brushed satin finish. Measuring and installation was also undertaken by GEC Anderson.GEC Anderson (founded in 1962) specialise in purpose made stainless steel sinks, worktops, cabinets, shelving and splahsbacks. Their products have been specified in a great number and variety of projects, ranging from residential kitchens to commercial and public spaces, including health, education, infrastructure, retail, offices and the arts.

ObjectiveSaving Graces Interiors, an interior design company based in Dundee, Scotland, offer a truly bespoke interior design service with a focus on creating beautiful spaces that reflect the personalities and lives of their clients.Working with Piperdam Golf & Leisure to refurbish 8 lodges for luxury getaways, Saving Graces Interior Designer, Antonia Burnett, chose the Bushboard Nuance range for the shower enclosure areas.Observation‘When I started working with Piperdam I needed to find a bathroom wall panel that was not only robust but also attractive. I spent a lot of time researching and when I landed on the Bushboard website I could see that the designs were miles ahead of the competition.’Nuance is a unique, 100% waterproof, extrusion-free panelling system that can installed in a matter of hours. Whether the project look is traditional or contemporary, the designs and textures have been carefully selected to include plain décor, as well as stunning marble and stone designs, and on trend woods.OutcomeAntonia decided to use Silver Travertine, a beautiful timeless design to suit any style of bathroom and work with a variety of paint colours. ‘As an interior designer I need a supplier that is reliable, affordable and who provides good quality products, Bushboard ticks all the boxes.’‘Rebecca Checketts, Business Specification Coordinator was extremely helpful in explaining the benefits of using Nuance and arranging next day samples.’‘Installation was quick and very straight forward and Bushboard have been on hand from start to finish. I am absolutely delighted with the end result and we will certainly specify Nuance again.’For more information about the Nuance range and other Bushboard products, to request a RIBA CPD, download an NBS specification or to order samples visit www.bushboard.co.uk

Transforming Small Spaces with Rooflights.In the heart of the English countryside, you’ll find lots of quintessential cottages, often with thatched roofs, just like something you’d find on a postcard. Whilst these cottages are beautiful on the outside, they often lack light and space on the inside.This was the issue a homeowner in Salisbury, Wiltshire ran into when it came to renovating an ensuite shower room in a cottage. The space runs the length of the adjoining bedroom but due to the size of the property, it’s only a few feet wide. The other problem was, it was incredibly dark, with no existing windows or the wall space to install them. The homeowner would need to put their thinking cap on, because this challenge would be the focus of their renovation. Natural light was a top priority to create the bright and airy ensuite space the homeowner imagined for their renovation.With the room not having the wall space to install vertical windows, and because it was in the eaves of the building, there were no floors above it. Thinking creatively, the homeowner opted to use the ceiling space and install rooflights to allow an abundance of natural light to flood into the small space. However, this wasn’t as straightforward as you may think because of the very nature of the homeowner’s quintessential cottage nestled in the English countryside. Being a Grade 2 listed building, planning permission is strict and so the homeowner needed to find the right rooflights that would be in keeping with the property and not upset its overall aesthetic.The Planning Officers themselves were able to help the homeowner with their renovation, pointing them in the direction of the Rooflight Company’s Conservation Rooflight, the Victorian-style rooflight, engineered to modern specification.With their advice, two CR10-2 rooflights were installed to the ensuite bathroom. The finished result is the beautifully light and airy ensuite bathroom that the homeowner had envisioned from the inside, and a period Salisbury cottage still quintessential from the outside.

Based in North East Lincolnshire, St Andrew’s Hospice provides palliative and end of life care for adults and children. The hospice delivers a wide range of services including counselling, complementary therapies, lymphoedema clinics, physiotherapy and bereavement support.In order to enhance the quality and variety of care they provide for younger patients, plans were put forward for St Andrew’s Hospice to refurbish their Andy’s Children Unit.Needing specialist support with the design, installation and sourcing of equipment, St Andrew's got in touch with Innova for their expertise in loose furniture and bespoke hoisting solutions.Innova supported the project with a number of different hoisting options, including AirGlide 360 tracking with a AirRise 200 hoist unit, to facilitate an H-frame (X-Y) below hung overhead ceiling track hoisting system in one of their bathrooms.

When it comes to choosing where to live during university, students expect much more than a just a room with a bed, bathroom and kitchen. Instead, now more than ever they want an accommodation that offers added comfort and includes additional facilities such as wellbeing spaces, gyms and even smart technology suites.Students are also recognising the importance of living sustainably and choosing a building that offers lower living costs and more environmentally friendly solutions, as well as having great curb appeal.So, in order to attract this new generation of students to the University of Exeter’s new East Park building, architects Stride Treglown designed the high quality student accommodation using bespoke rainscreen cladding panels from Proteus Facades as the central visual element.

The DoubleTree by Hilton (Liboa ) is based in a former iron factory from the 20th century, and for that reason, the project is like an “urban retreat”, according to its interior designer . The building is connected with its environment through its large windows, where our Z-BOX roller shades, configured with a blackout fabric offer maximum privacy to the guests . As a complement, Premium Plus roller shades with Polyscreen ® 350 in Ebony color offer the best alternative during the day, conserving both systems the design and the views . 2010 Best Interior Design of Europe (European & Africa Awards); 2010 Best Interior Design of Portugal (European Awards); 2008 Best Interior Design for Bedrooms & Bathrooms by the European Hotel Design Awards; 2008 Andrew Martin Best Design Award

The Stage is a prestigious, high-rise, mixed-use development in the bustling heart of Shoreditch on the site where the Curtain Theatre stood between 1577 and 1624. Considered to be one of the longest-standing Shakespearean playhouses, the historical remains will form the backdrop of a magnificent collection of residential, commercial and entertainment space, along with public parks, bars and restaurants.Galliard Homes are delivering the scheme and have appointed CJ O’Shea as the main contractor.They selected a black colour palette for the bathrooms which demanded a bold, contemporary design. Towelrads worked to the exact specification requirements supplying the Kensington model with a bold, square bar design in black finish.The radiators have been installed as electric-only towel warmers with SMART thermostatic heating elements in matching black controls, which enables temperature adjustment and a boosted power mode.