KITCHENS
BATHROOMS
INTERIORS
A YEAR IN PRODUCTS
A selection of the latest must-spec innovations
FITTING TRIBUTE
Honouring fitted kitchen legend Neville Johnson
All the results from the industry’s most coveted accolades DESIGNERATI
Welcome...
to the December issue of designerati
IT’S ALWAYS OUR GREAT HONOUR to reveal the results of the designerati awards and this edition of the magazine proudly features all of the 2024 winners and finalists. The quality across all categories was once again superb, making for a stellar line-up of some of the best creative work from right across the kitchen and bathroom sector from the past year or so.
Right from the start – 23 years ago! – the aim of the awards was always about far more than back-slapping and a fancy night out. Its primary focus is to shine a light on some of the amazing work being done by designers and manufacturers in our sector and, especially, to inspire others to aim for the very highest standards of creativity, innovation, and client service. Our winners and finalists this year have done just that, so congratulations to them all.
Such is the volume and detail contained within so many of this year’s projects that we don’t have space to do them justice in just one issue of the magazine, so please do keep an eye out over the coming months – both in our printed pages and over at designerati.co.uk – for much more on many of our winners, finalists, and other brilliant projects submitted to this year’s awards.
We have some mighty grand plans for next year’s awards so watch this space for more on that very soon. In the meantime, do enjoy our awards special issue, and on behalf of the designerati team, may I take the opportunity to wish you a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year break.
Martin Allen-Smith Editor, designerati
EDITORIAL
Martin Allen-Smith, Editorial Director martin@designerati.co.uk
ADVERTISING
Clara Perry, Commercial Director clara@digitalsavvymedia.co.uk
MARKETING
Abby Sale, Marketing Apprentice abby@digitalsavvymedia.co.uk
ART DIRECTION & PRINT DESIGN
Creative Fabrik
SUBSCRIPTIONS
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December 2024 - Issue 284
6 SOURCE
Our round-up of the people, products, and places that matter from across K&B design, including the RIBA House of the Year, C.P. Hart’s collaboration with Matthew Williamson, plus a new golden finish from Dornbracht
11 DESIGNERATI AWARDS 2024
Full coverage of our annual awards event, celebrating the very best in design talent
12 KITCHEN DESIGN AWARDS
All the winners from our Super Luxe, Over £40k and Under £40k kitchen categories
20
MARK WILKINSON AWARD FOR LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Marking the long-standing industry contribution of designer Charlie Smallbone
22 BATHROOM
DESIGN AWARDS
The winners and finalists from across this year’s bathroom categories
28 BRITISH DESIGN & MANUFACTURING AWARD
Recognising the very best in homegrown design and craftsmanship
30
INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD
Surveying the very best in creative projects from outside the UK
32 SERVICES TO THE INDUSTRY AWARD
A look back on a life well-lived by the late Neville Johnson
38 NEW DESIGNER OF THE YEAR
Showcasing some of the very best new talent from across the kitchen and bathroom sector
40 PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARDS
All the gold winners from this year’s crop of new launches across kitchens, bathrooms, and materials
46
SHOWROOM OF THE YEAR
Celebrating some of the finest K&B show spaces
54 THE YEAR IN PRODUCTS
A look back at some of our new product highlights from the past 12 months
62 EXIT
Setting the colour tone for 2025 with Pantone’s Colour of the Year selection
Source
Urban Sanctuary
RIBA has named Six Columns by 31/44 Architects as the winner of RIBA House of the Year 2024, its annual award for the UK’s best new home.
ideas
Designed by Will Burges, Director of 31/44 Architects, as a family home for himself, his wife and two children, Six Columns cleverly occupies a tight urban plot in the leafy suburbs of Crystal Palace, South London. As the family occupy the building, they will continue to tinker with it, inside and out, allowing it to evolve to their changing needs over time.
Named after the six columns that form the main structure of the building, the twostorey, four-bedroom house echoes the proportions and materials of neighbouring terrace houses, while retaining its own individual character that references the designer’s broad architectural influences, such as the Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe or the Case Study houses in California.
The house is discrete and considerate to its neighbours but there are design flourishes that allow the project to carefully balance both conventional and contemporary features. The entrance hall serves as the central hub, connecting the home’s various zones, including a kitchen diner and a living room characterized by thick exposed pine walls that double as shelving units and serve as a showcase for the family’s collections and memories.
Muyiwa Oki, RIBA President, said: “Six Columns is a beautifully crafted family home that cleverly incorporates Brutalist references and creative flourishes while retaining a strong sense of suburban belonging. It shows what can be achieved when working with even the tightest of suburban sites, and its flexible, unfinished aesthetic offers a solution to futureproofed design: this is a home that can evolve with its occupants’ changing needs over time.”
RIBA / architecture.com
31/44 Architects / 3144architects.com
Creative Collaboration
Bathroom retailer C.P. Hart has collaborated with designer Matthew Williamson on a new Mediterranean-inspired room set at its Waterloo showroom.
In the room set display, Williamson blends a selection of C.P. Hart’s bathroom ranges with his distinctive, handsourced items.
These include a vintage mouthblown Murano glass light hanging above IdeaGroup’s new Seven freestanding bath, a bespoke mirror overlooking Buto’s fluted Galiano vanity, and artwork carefully selected to mirror C.P. Hart’s Inclusion Classico tiles.
Williamson said: “Bathrooms often feel cold and clinical with functionality dominating aesthetics, so I envisioned a warm, inviting space that functions as well as delights.”
Yousef Mansuri, C.P. Hart’s Director of Design, added: “Creating this room set was a wonderfully collaborative process. Matthew brought a clear and inspiring vision to the project, and from there, we meticulously refined the details, thoughtfully selecting each product and finish to ensure they harmonise beautifully whilst retaining their standout appeal.”
C.P. Hart / cphart.co.uk Matthew Williamson Design / matthewwilliamson.com
Six Columns by 31/44 Architects
Golden Touch
Brassware manufacturer Dornbracht has added a new light gold option to its range of finishes.
Available in a glossy or brushed version, the new finish from Dornbracht can be selected for several of the fittings manufacturer’s design series, including Meta, IMO, and Lissé.
The brand says its light gold finish combines luxurious aesthetics with lightness and elegance for eye-catching accents in modern bathroom interiors. Light gold is the first specially developed PVD finish manufactured by Dornbracht. In 2023, the company invested more than €7m in a new energy-efficient production line. The technology complements electroplating and wet paint, or powder coating, and adds new colour schemes to the manufacturer’s selection of finishes Dornbracht / dornbracht.com
All the winners and finalists from the industry’s most coveted design honours… awards 2024
The designerati awards marked 22 years of celebrating excellence in kitchen & bathroom design with a memorable evening of networking glamour last month. The event, in association with headline sponsor Quooker, saw the UK’s leading kitchen and bathroom designers, architects, and manufacturers rewarded for their creative brilliance over the past year.
Hosted by comedian Justin Moorhouse, hundreds of leading figures from across the industry gathered for the event, which once again lived up to its reputation as the most important K&B networking event of the year.
All the results from this year’s awards feature in this issue, including all the very best kitchen and bathroom projects plus this year’s gold winners from the product innovation categories.
Many congratulations to all finalists and winners and huge thanks to each of our sponsors for making the awards possible. designerati awards / designeratiawards.co.uk
Super Luxe Kitchen Design of the Year
At the bigger budget end of the scale, a fine selection of projects gave our judges a tough task, but the winner was a creative fusion that resulted in a unique and imaginative space…
WINNER: Barty Rowland-Orme, Kitchens
by Holloways
This vintage industrial-style kitchen was designed with the company’s architectural salvage heritage and Shropshire roots in mind. The limitations of an unusual room shape were overcome with a masterfully cohesive design, featuring ink blue cabinetry trimmed with solid brass edging and brass recessed handles.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Barty Rowland-Orme and Johnny Grey
FINALISTS:
Sarah Eynon, Alistair Fleming Design
Natasha Wegrzyn / Kevin Robertson of Poggenpohl, & Jess Palmer / Mark Golding of GoldenMeanDesigns
Above: Finalist Sarah Eynon of Alistair Fleming Design
Above: Finalist project by Natasha Wegrzyn and Kevin Robertson of Poggenpohl, & Jess Palmer and Mark Golding of GoldenMeanDesigns
Above and below: The winning design by Barty Rowland-Orme of Kitchens by Holloways
14 Kitchen Designer of the Year
(Over £40,000)
One of the most hotly-contested of categories, the winner brought a touch of fine craft to a carefully composed project…
WINNER: Sarah Eynon, Alistair Fleming Design
This luxury white and bright handmade bespoke kitchen features a marble island and hidden door through to a boot room. Craftsmanship and modern luxury are the watchwords for Sarah’s design, which was part of a larger home renovation project, and sought to tap into the property’s traditional elements while introducing contemporary touches.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Sarah Eynon and Ross Stewart, UK Senior Sales Manager at Neolith
FINALISTS:
Jaye Garcia, The Myers Touch
Jamie Harding, Et Lorem
Above: Finalist Jaye Garcia, The Myers Touch
Above: Finalist Jamie Harding, Et Lorem
Above and below: Category winner
Sarah Eynon, Alistair Fleming Design
Kitchen Designer of the Year
(Under £40,000)
A diverse range of projects battled it out for this category, ultimately won by a scheme defined by rich material choices and a warm visual balance…
WINNER: Manuel Fusco, Point 5 Kitchens
In a kitchen that blends 20mm shaker natural oak with deep burgundy painted doors, Manuel’s scheme shows innovative design, ergonomic functionality, and stunning visual appeal for this lower-spend category. Design elements such as paneling extend beyond the confines of the kitchen, uniting all areas of the open-plan space.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Manuel Fusco and David Morris, UK Sales Manager at MHK
FINALISTS:
Tim Higham, Higham Furniture
Richard Hubble, Hubble Interiors
Above: Finalist Tim Higham, Higham Furniture
Above and below: The category-winning project by Manuel Fusco of Point 5 Kitchens
Above: Finalist Richard Hubble, Hubble Interiors
20 Mark Wilkinson Award for Lifetime Achievement
Kitchen design stalwart Charlie Smallbone has won this year’s honorary lifetime achievement award for his long and distinguished work in the sector
The Mark Wilkinson Award for Lifetime Achievement is named in memory of one of the industry’s finest designers whose impact on the kitchen and furniture industry still resonates today, some seven years after his passing.
The list of past winners of our Lifetime Achievement Award really is a remarkable roll call of industry giants. It includes names such as Robin Levien, Johnny Grey, Karim Rashid, Marc Newson, Matteo Thun, Zaha Hadid, Sieger Design, Arik Levy, Dick Powell & Richard Seymour, Roberto Palomba, and Phillippe Starck.
This year’s winner, Charlie Smallbone, began his working life buying, renovating, and selling antique furniture from a modest base in Wiltshire, alongside Graham Clark and Mark Wilkinson. It was a business that was ticking along nicely when a client approached them to ask them to create an entire kitchen in the style of the furniture they were selling.
Despite no prior kitchenmaking experience, they set about the task and created what was revolutionary at the time –designing doors and drawers to sit within a framed structure, and using reclaimed timber throughout the kitchen fascias. This ‘in-frame’ style would of course become the dominating design theme for British kitchens for many years to come.
Charlie Smallbone, winner of the 2024 Mark Wilkinson Award for Lifetime Achievement
From this initial project, grew an entire business focusing on kitchens, going on to create a new painted kitchen concept that would become the company’s best seller for the next 30 years.
After the company was sold in 1988, he moved into the tile and stone sector, acquiring Paris Ceramics, before several other major business deals saw his empire grow.
The 2008 banking crisis changed things however, and in 2009, having sold his business, he refocused on his true passion of design which had, by his own admission, been somewhat forced out of his schedule by the demands of running a large company.
Working with business partner Damian Lawrance, he started Rock & Bone, working on high-end residential projects. This helped him to re-engage in detailed design work and form his own, defined design philosophy.
That was followed by the creation of Ledbury Studio, which is based on collaboration with workshops and artisans specialising in unusual and carefully crafted materials. These finishes, styles and textures form the basis of his project designs today.
Bringing 50 years of furniture design experience to bear, he continues to create innovative kitchen schemes that aim to shape future design directions. Ledbury Studio / ledburystudio.com
designerati Editor Martin Allen-Smith presents Charlie Smallbone with the Mark Wilkinson Award for Lifetime Achievement
22
Super Luxe Bathroom Design of the Year
Sleek styling and creative visions of luxury define the finalists in this selection of high-end bathroom projects…
WINNER: Pippa Paton, Pippa Paton Design
The brief was to design a highly functional yet luxurious space, with architectural features befitting a 19th century manor house and a palette reflecting the client’s Swedish heritage. Pippa’s design includes stand-out features such as textured marble in the shower and bespoke curved vanities.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Pippa Paton and Juan Pillay, Group Marketing Director at category sponsor Bathroom Brands
FINALISTS:
Carla Braun, Day True
Ami Wheatland, Sovereign Bathrooms Winchester
Above: Carla Braun, Day True
Below: Ami Wheatland, Sovereign Bathrooms Winchester
Above: The category-winning project by Pippa Paton
Bathroom Designer of the Year (Over £15,000)
A complex design made to look simple clinched top prize in this highly competitive category…
WINNER: Muhammad Ahmed, ROCCIA
Elegance and practicality were the aim in this sanctuary for relaxation while incorporating the latest in bathroom technology. Clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and a harmonious palette of white and natural tones combine with a high-end specification to create a fresh and eyecatching design.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Muhammad Ahmed and awards judge Barrie Cutchie
FINALISTS:
Mark Fowdon, Studio One South West
Sophie Harrold, Simply Bathrooms
Above: Sophie Harrold, Simply Bathrooms
Above and below: category winner Muhammad Ahmed, ROCCIA
Above: Mark Fowdon, Studio One South West
Bathroom Designer of the Year (Under
£15,000)
Creative space solutions were among the key designs in the under £15k category…
WINNER: Alison Evans, Obsidian Interiors
Materials, natural light, and full functionality were threaded together in this bathroom for a new-build home. Neutral tones were combined with brushed brass elements and other close attention to detail for minimalist style but with maximum impact.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse with Alison Evans and Tom Reynolds, Chief Executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association
FINALISTS:
Sponsored by
Babette & Dorian Bowen, Project One
Adam Wollerton, Bathroom & Kitchen Eleven
Above: Adam Wollerton, Bathroom & Kitchen Eleven
Above: Babette & Dorian Bowen, Project One Above and below: category winner Alison Evans, Obsidian Interiors
British Design & Manufacturing Award
Among an exceptionally high-level of finalists, fine craftsmanship and a bold design vision were the key characteristics of this year’s winning project…
WINNER: Paul Welburn, Roundhouse Design
This project saw the transformation of a barn into a practical yet captivating bespoke kitchen with a statement island, and a highly practical back kitchen, all using sustainable materials, and cohesive design. The end result carefully balances everyday family use with plenty of scope for entertaining friends and family.
(Pictured left to
Awards
right)
host Justin Moorhouse with Paul Welburn and Ben Algate, Director of Sales & Operations at category sponsor Quest Joinery
FINALISTS:
Al Bruce, Olive & Barr
Charlie Smallbone, Ledbury Studio
Above: Finalist Al Bruce, Olive & Barr
Above and below: Category winner
Paul Welburn, Roundhouse Design
Above: Finalist Charlie Smallbone, Ledbury Studio
30 International Design Award
Bold projects from outside of the UK were considered for our international category, won this year by a sublime beachside project…
WINNER: Davinia Sutton, Detail by Davinia Sutton
The clients requested a design that would sit centre stage to the volume of the living zone and would also encompass a ‘modern beach house aesthetic’ with a touch of glamour. Davinia’s solution included bold use of grey marble for the island, blended with timber elements alongside other examples of clever detailing.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse, with Martin Godden, Sales Director at Fisher & Paykel, who accepted the award on Davinia Sutton’s behalf, alongside awards judge Simon Hamilton
FINALISTS:
Alina Cuchiliuc, Cube Dentro
Celia Visser, Celia Visser Design
Above: Finalist Alina Cuchiliuc, Cube Dentro
Above and below: Category winning project by Davinia Sutton
Above: Finalist Celia Visser, Celia Visser Design
Services to the Industry Award
Awarded posthumously to a kitchen business titan who was one of the founding fathers of fitted kitchens, this year’s industry honour marked the huge achievements of the unique Neville Johnson
The Services to the Industry honour is reserved for an individual whose efforts in the sector extend way beyond the norm in terms of the wider impact that their work has had on the industry. This year’s winner was something of a pioneer; a self-made businessman whose hard work and tenacity saw him achieve huge success in this industry.
Neville Johnson began his kitchen career selling Formica worktops from his garage, before steadily building things up with stores and factories across the UK under the Kitchen Queen brand.
After successfully floating this business on the stock market, he then set up his eponymous company in 1987, specialising in fitted kitchens, expanding to
offer bespoke fitted furniture to corporate and commercial clients. By 1991, he had moved into another niche, offering luxury fitted furniture, offices and
bedrooms in prime residential properties. Staircases also followed as another specialist string to the business bow. His business acumen extended
beyond this sector too, with his passion for cars coming to fruition as a classic car dealer later in life, before retirement at the age of 73. A hugely well-connected and successful businessman across more than 30-years, he was also a quietly charitable man with countless examples of work for various foundations and charities in his local area and beyond.
The decision to make this award was taken earlier this year, but sadly, Neville Johnson passed away in September. In recognition of a life of hard work, innovation, and bold determination in the kitchen industry like very few others, designerati presented the award posthumously, accepted at the awards event by his son Stephen Johnson and daughter Shelley Stoll.
designerati Editor Martin Allen-Smith, with Shelley Stoll and Stephen Johnson
Neville Johnson with Prince Philip on a visit to the company’s showroom in Manchester
34 designerati awards 2024 photo gallery
Kitchen design icon Johnny Grey
GESSI’s Sam Brown
The team from AGA Rangemaster
Clara Perry, Managing Director of Digital Savvy Media & Events, organisers of the designerati awards
Sophie and Neil Harrold, winners of this year’s Specifier of the Year Award
The team from Simon Acres Group
Stephen Johnson and Shelley Stoll receive the Services to the Industry Award on behalf of Neville Johnson, from designerati’s Clara Perry and Martin Allen-Smith
Charlie Smallbone, Ledbury Studio with Scott Paton, Pippa Paton Design
Martin Allen-Smith, Editor of designerati
Simon Hamilton, a design and brand director and one of this year’s awards judges
Jonathan Wing (centre), Managing Director Designate at KCA, and team
New Designer of the Year
Celebrating emerging creative talent with less than three years’ experience working in the design sector…
WINNER: Sam Coventry, Kitchen Connection of Ascot
The client sought kitchen styling to match her newly decorated open-plan space. Sam’s response features natural umbra furniture, black accents, timber finishes, and optimized storage, in a scheme that deftly balances functionality with a warm and welcoming aesthetic.
(Pictured
Awards
category
left to right)
host Justin Moorhouse,
winner Sam Coventry, with Simon Taylor, Managing Director at Simon Taylor Furniture
FINALISTS:
Rhyanne Khetia, Obsidian Interiors
Lois Riley, Mowlem & Co
Above: Finalist Rhyanne Khetia, Obsidian Interiors
Above and below: Category winner Sam Coventry, Kitchen Connection of Ascot
Above: Finalist Lois Riley of Mowlem & Co
40 Product Innovation Awards
Celebrating the most innovative new products from across the kitchen and bathroom sector…
KITCHEN PRODUCT
GOLD WINNERS
BlackSteel by LIEBHERR
KMDA7876 Matt Black Induction Hob by MIELE
Prato Workstation Sink by RANGEMASTER
Blast Chiller by SMEG
Westin 360 HEPA Recirculation Technology by WESTIN
HydroTap Celsius Plus All-In-One Pull-Out by ZIP WATER
BlackSteel by LIEBHERR
HydroTap Celsius Plus All-In-One Pull-Out by ZIP WATER
Westin 360 HEPA Recirculation Technology by WESTIN
KMDA7876 Matt Black Induction Hob by MIELE
Prato Workstation Sink by RANGEMASTER
Blast Chiller by SMEG
Nara by BAGNODESIGN
Tambour by CROSSWATER
Aquahalo by DORNBRACHT
Ventaglio by GESSI
Incanto Arte by GRAFF
EauZone Arch Wet Room Panel by MATKI
Nara by BAGNODESIGN
EauZone Arch Wet Room Panel by MATKI
Incanto Arte by GRAFF
Tambour by CROSSWATER
Aquahalo by DORNBRACHT
Ventaglio by GESSI
Zenith by BUSHBOARD
Mineral Surfaces by CAESARSTONE
SilestoneXM by COSENTINO
Quadrato by CRL
twO by LAMINAM
Calacatta Roma by NEOLITH
Zenith by BUSHBOARD
Calacatta Roma by NEOLITH
twO by LAMINAM
Mineral Surfaces by CAESARSTONE
SilestoneXM by COSENTINO
Quadrato by CRL
Editor’s Choice Award
The editorial team’s choice of design, product or place worthy of special recognition this year…
WINNER: The Fisher & Paykel London Experience Centre
This year’s special Editor’s Award went to Fisher & Paykel’s hugely impressive space on London’s Wigmore Street. It manages to embrace local references within the interior scheme, with the use of wood to reflect the trees found in some of London’s nearby parks, as well as deep brown glazed tiles, inspired by the subterranean network of brickclad waterways that intersect the site.
All this is intertwined with the distinctive New Zealand heritage of this appliance brand, with guests greeted with a ceremonial Kawakawa tea revered among Maori. And the interiors demonstrate the brand’s design ethos through its ‘social kitchen’ space as well as in-house chefs showcasing its approach to food care and cooking.
This is a standout show space that sets the standard for subtle-yet-distinctive styling and expertly reflects the design ethos of the company and its products.
(pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse, with Fisher & Paykel’s UK Head of Marketing Catherine Balderson, and Head of Product Jo Jackson, with designerati Editor Martin Allen-Smith
Showroom of the Year
The best in showrooms from across the K&B sector, with a diverse range of brands and spaces shortlisted…
WINNER: Poggenpohl by South West Design, Bath
The beautiful new independent South West Design showroom just outside Bath in Somerset is a stunning industrial-scale space with operational displays showcasing furniture by the Poggenpohl brand. Modern and classic styles are showcased, along with working appliances and an extensive sample room featuring surface and lighting choices.
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse, Anthony Barker and Simon Brown from Poggenpohl by South West Design, and Damian Walters, CEO at the British Institute of KBB Installation
FINALISTS:
Kitchens Etc Design Studio, Norfolk
Leicht Contracts, London
Sponsored by
Ripples Tunbridge Wells
Above: Kitchens Etc Design Studio
Above and left: Category winner Bath-based Poggenpohl by South West Design
Above: Leicht Contracts, London Below: Ripples Tunbridge Wells
Specifier of the Year
With finalists nominated by key industry manufacturers, a category created to recognise designers who go above and beyond to source and select the very best products for their projects
WINNER: Neil & Sophie Harrold, Simply Bathrooms
Through extensive face-to-face time with clients, Neil and Sophie work hard on understanding every requirement before bringing their extensive supplier relationships to bear on a project. As well as partnering with major players in the bathroom sector, they have worked hard to incorporate emerging brands into their designs.
Sponsored by
FINALISTS:
Martin Jones, Cwtch Haus
Samuel Payne, Ornate Kitchens & Interiors
(Pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse, Neil & Sophie Harrold, and Andy Noble, Managing Director at category sponsors CDUK
Above: Finalist Martin Jones, Cwtch Haus
Above: Finalist Samuel Payne, Ornate Kitchens & Interiors
50 Brand Achievement of the Year
Highlighting the often unseen achievements of some of the businesses in the K&B sector, this category showcases brands which demonstrate new ideas, a progressive approach, and set about making a difference
WINNER: CDUK – Vita Nova
A creative take-back and repurposing scheme for waste generated by the surface materials industry in the UK, Vita Nova is aimed at reducing the 450 tonnes of solid surface materials that find their way into landfill sites annually. It allows waste material, off-cuts, samples, and end-of-life installations to be returned and recycled to create new high-quality surface products.
Awards host Justin Moorhouse (second from left) with the CDUK team, and (right) Jane Stratton-Hillier, Regional Sales Manager UK & Ireland at category sponsors, Buster + Punch
FINALISTS:
Abode in the Community
With support given to various organisations in its local community in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, Abode has also taken part in national charity campaigns too, enabling employees to volunteer and raise funds for a range of causes including the local Bluebell Wood Hospice, Alzheimers UK, the Barnsley food bank and Macmillan Cancer Support.
Rotpunkt Mission Zero Emissions
Kitchen brand Rotpunkt has focused on delivering green solutions throughout its supply chain from the factory floor to the end users’ experience in the showroom, rethinking processes and monitoring consumer habits.
Among the initiatives has been the development of BioBoard, a sustainable alternative to traditional chipboards, which consists of up to 90% recycled wood.
Simon Acres – Bridging the Skills Gap
Recruitment consultant Simon Acres Group has been engaged in a wide range of activities aimed at bridging the skills gap in the KBB industry through apprenticeships.
Hosting events, collaborating with industry leaders, and actively promoting apprenticeship initiatives, the company maintains a pursuit for change in the industry aimed at solving the skills shortage.
Above: Rotpunkt Mission Zero Emissions
Below: Simon Acres - Bridging the Skills Gap
Sponsored by
Above: Abode in the Community
Innovation in Sustainability Award
A brand new category to recognise forward-thinking sustainability initiatives…
WINNER: ReCrafted by DORNBRACHT
German brassware brand Dornbracht introduced its ReCrafted offering earlier this year, which it says offers a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to a new product. The refurbished fitting range aims to give some of its key designs a second life. The process sees each tap go through a full range of ‘remanufacturing’ processes, including decoating, polishing and re-finishing, lasering, assembling and packaging, each one done by hand at the company’s production facility in Iserlohn, Germany.
It says the integration of refurbishment into existing production processes is based on years of experience, with its Dornbracht x-tra service having already spent more than 70 years implementing individual customer requests, which often also include renovating the fittings.
Stefan Gesing, CEO of Dornbracht, said: “When our customers buy a ReCrafted fitting, not only are they giving timeless icons a new home, they are also showing environmental awareness. The focus is on retaining the value of the products and minimising the use of resources. This is only possible because our durable classic designs have lasting aesthetic appeal.”
(pictured left to right) Awards host Justin Moorhouse, Arif Bhaluani, Retail and Projects Manager at Dornbracht, with Helen Lord of awards sustainability partner Rehome
The Dornbracht ReCrafted scheme sees each tap go through a full range of ‘remanufacturing’ processes by hand, including decoating, polishing and re-finishing, lasering, assembling and packaging
Sponsored by
WE’VE PICKED OUT A FEW INNOVATIVE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PAST YEAR’S NEW KITCHEN AND BATHROOM PRODUCT LAUNCHES…
THE YEAR IN
twO by LAMINAM
Global designer and producer of sustainable, large sized natural porcelain surfaces, Laminam, has raised the creative bar with its latest sub-brand launch of ultrathin, lightweight and sustainable surfaces, twO by Laminam.
Years of technical research and pioneering application knowhow have raised the quality in terms of beauty, sustainability and technological innovation. The thinnest surfaces in the world are also the lightest, while maintaining all the technical performance of Laminam’s larger slabs. The new surfaces also bring with them a sense of ease which ranges from flexibility to ease of cutting, use on site, and transportation.
Combining the foundations of classic Italian architecture
with the inherent beauty of natural stone, twO by Laminam’s porcelain surfaces are UV and temperature resistant as well as ultra-durable and hardwearing, making them an ideal surface solution for kitchen wall and furniture cladding.
Laminam has also put sustainability at the core of its strategic development vision, translating it into revolutionary surfaces created with recycled and entirely recyclable materials. twO by Laminam reflects this aim throughout the various phases of the value chain, from procurement of materials and
production, through to transport to the homeowner.
Over 70% of contributions to the company carbon footprint will be reduced thanks to this lighter and less voluminous product, making it an attractive choice for sustainably minded projects. The remarkably slim thickness also allows for optimisation of the entire lifecycle of the product: the firing phase is faster and performed using electric kilns powered by the company’s solar PV system, while transportation emissions are reduced thanks to the significantly lower overall weight.
Laminam / laminam.com
PRODUCTS
BlackSteel by LIEBHERR
Awarded Gold at the designerati awards, Liebherr’s BlackSteel range aims to set a new standard in kitchen innovation and design.
BlackSteel reimagines the classic stainless-steel finish with a striking cross-ground texture. This unique transverse polished surface aims to offer a seamless, on trend aesthetic while providing practical benefits like reduced fingerprint visibility and scratch resistance, ensuring long-lasting durability in busy kitchens.
The BlackSteel range includes six models, all designed to enhance food freshness and energy efficiency. Liebherr’s BioFresh technology creates the ideal climate to keep food fresh for longer, while HydroBreeze
introduces a fine mist every 90 minutes, preserving the crispness and quality of fruits and vegetables.
Style meets innovation with features such as OpenStage drawers, inspired by delicatessen displays. These soft-telescopic, glass-fronted drawers provide clear visibility and easy access. Additionally, select models include a plumbed IceMaker, capable of producing up to 1.3 kg of ice daily, perfect for entertaining.
Liebherr’s BlackSteel appliances are designed to save energy and reduce food waste, with advanced sensor systems that optimise cooling performance. This not only protects the environment but also helps reduce electricity bills, offering sustainability without performance compromise.
Liebherr / liebherr.com
A Gold winner at this year’s designerati awards, the HydroTap Celsius Plus with pull out hose from Zip Water features a snag-proof hose management system which allows for smooth, effortless extension and retraction, eliminating the frustrations of traditional pullout taps. Operation is easy
with a simple press of a button on the intuitive touchpad with antimicrobial protection for enhanced hygiene.
It also offers boiling, chilled and sparkling, plus hot and cold functionality all in one tap, making it ideal whether cooking, drinking, or entertaining. This all-in-one functionality provides instant access to every type of drinking water with improved delivery of sparkling water.
The tap offers advanced filtration for pure-tasting water thanks to a 6-in-1 filtration which
reduces some of the most harmful contaminants in drinking water, including cryptosporidium, lead and microplastics, making the purchase of single use plastic water bottles a thing of the past. Zip also prides itself on its aftercare and a 4.6 excellent rating on Trustpilot. The brand says its Celsius Plus with All-inOne Pull Out extendable spray hose sets a new benchmark, offering consumers a sustainable and stylish way to enjoy water at its best.
Zip Water / home.zipwater.co.uk
HydroTap Celsius Plus All-in-One Pull-Out by ZIP WATER
Quadrato by CRL
CRL unveiled its cutting-edge Quadrato Shower System in 2024 and its style, versatility and ease of installation quickly made it a firm favourite with specifiers, installers and consumers alike. A design-led solution that takes the trend for frame-style and Art Deco-inspired shower screens to the next level, the Quadrato Shower System aims to provide designers with the ability to transform bathrooms into extraordinary spaces.
Offering a sophisticated and customisable look, the striking grid effect on CRL’s Quadrato Shower System is created by slim, elegant, flat metal bars, which introduce character and an industrial-chic touch to contemporary bathrooms. They are complemented by colourco-ordinating U-channels and corner profiles to provide a stylishly cohesive design.
Consumers can choose from four finishes: bright anodized; bright gold anodized; satin brass; and matte black. These highquality finishes are resistant to wear and corrosion and will maintain their beauty and functionality over time.
With fixed, sliding and hinged panels available in left- or righthand configurations, the Quadrato shower system can accommodate any design, making it suitable for all projects and spaces from family bathrooms and ensuites to master bedrooms.
Crafted from premium materials, CRL says its durable Quadrato shower system guarantees long-lasting performance and is designed for simple and straightforward installation. CRL’s corner profiles and colour-coordinating U-channels streamline the installation process, enabling a flawless finish with minimal effort. CRL / crlaurence.co.uk
Aurena by DURAVIT
Antonio Citterio’s first collaboration with Duravit was inspired by the Golden Ratio. The result is the Aurena bathroom range, which exudes timeless elegance. Ceramic in White or Black meets brushed stainless steel and a wide range of furniture finishes to create a versatile all-rounder which is equally well suited for use in private or guest bathrooms as in signature properties such as hotels, medical offices, or office and restaurant restrooms. Duravit / duravit.co.uk
Seros by VICTORIA + ALBERT
Bath manufacturer Victoria + Albert launched Seros, a bath and basin collection developed with British sculptor, SophieElizabeth Thompson. Unveiled for the first time in April at Salone del Mobile in Milan. The design brought Thompson’s signature organic and fluid creative style to bear on the form of the bath to give it a striking sculptured, asymmetric form.
Victoria + Albert / vandabaths.com
Tendo by ALAPE
Tendo is characterised by its slim lines and unusual angled position. Made from durable enamel-glazed steel, the basin is available in Brilliant White and Matt Black.
Alape / alape.com
by next125
Kitchen brand next125 united design and architecture with Fireplace, a collaboration with architect Francis Kéré that aims to highlight sustainability, the environment and nature.
The centre of the design is a kitchen cube made from bronze-coloured mirror glass with natural stone worktops and offset by deep onyx black veneered oak units. The bronze mirror finish on the island aims to add sophistication with its reflective surface that transforms light. The minimalistic design belies a comprehensive approach to functionality, as the unit accommodates a full suite of appliances and storage options.
Next125 / next125.com
Fireplace
S2 by SIEMATIC
German kitchen brand SieMatic showcased its new generation handleless SieMatic S2 range earlier this year. The design aims to deliver both the visible and invisible through attention to detail on both the interior and exterior elements. With simple movements, closed pieces of furniture are transformed into decorative shelves, hobs are hidden below sliding countertops, appliances are stashed within cabinets, or entire kitchen
segments are concealed behind sliding folding doors.
Rotating cabinet elements and flat drawers within S2 recess channels can be integrated invisibly, while the combination of matt aluminium titanium, oak hazel brown, ceramic storm gris, fishbone veneer and contrasting velvet matt black for the recess channels, cabinets and plinths provides the visual spark though materials and colours.
SieMatic / siematic.com
e15 by KALDEWEI
German bathroom manufacturer Kaldewei collaborated with industrial designer Stefan Diez and interior label e15 on a new collection of furniture and accessories. The furniture in the new collection is made from solid European oak and includes a stool and bench, a footboard, a towel rail and a bathtub bridge.
The warm and natural surfaces of the e15 collection were created to complement Kaldewei’s bath range, including the freestanding Meisterstück Oyo Duo bathtub made of glazed titanium steel. Kaldewei / kaldewei.co.uk
by EGGERSMANN
German kitchen brand Eggersmann presented its bronzed brass-embellished Skywalk this year. The design aims to break up the monolithic character of classic kitchen islands, making island elements made of solid natural stone appear to float thanks to a central structural element which provides both stability and space to accommodate some of the essential components.
A striking diagonal shift between the island elements elevates the design still further and ensures each configuration of the kitchen can be unique.
Eggersmann / eggersmann.com
Bora Cool by BORA
Appliance brand BORA added refrigeration and freezer functionality to its product range with the launch of four cooling systems. The range includes four BORA Cool systems – a refrigerator, refrigerator with 4-star freezer compartment, and the refrigerator-freezer with and without ice maker, as well as the BORA Freeze, a freezer with ice maker. All of these built-in appliances feature all black metal features and a grey interior colour scheme. BORA / bora.com
Skywalk
One last thing to inspire…
Colour matching system specialist Pantone has chosen to highlight Mocha Mousse as its Colour of the Year for 2025, which it describes as “an evocative soft brown that transports our senses into the pleasure and deliciousness”.
Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director at the Pantone Color Institute, said: “Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence; sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, it extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”
The colour brand suggests there is a growing movement to align ourselves more closely with the natural world. Characterized by its organic nature, it says the selection of PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse aims to embrace this and find harmony and balance between the demands of modernity and the beauty of artful creation.
Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Colour Institute, added: “The everlasting search for harmony filters through into every aspect of our lives including our relationships, the work we do, our social connections and the natural environment that surrounds us. Harmony brings feelings of contentment, inspiring a positive state of inner peace, calm, and balance as well as being tuned in with the world around us. With that in mind, for the 2025 Colour of the Year we look to a colour that reaches into our desire for comfort and wellness, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.”
Pantone / pantone.com
