AN INDUSTRY NEWS ROUND-UP FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2023. International bathroom trends for 2023

“In March 2023, the ISH in Frankfurt will become the biggest bathroom showroom on the planet,” claims German Bathroom Sector Association Managing Director Jens J Wischmann. He is, of course, talking about the international trade fair for HVAC and water, which takes place from 13-17 March.

The Sustainable Bathroom will be among the four top trends on show, combining water- and energy-saving products, eco-friendly production, sustainable materials, lasting design and zero waste.

Other trends include the Tiny Bathroom for urban homes, which is prompting innovative bathroom solutions for small spaces. “Its distinguishing characteristics are a simple aesthetic, new scaleddown product categories, smart solutions, comfort and convenience, as well as a high degree of customisation,” says ISH, adding that tiny bathrooms call for meticulous planning and workmanship.

The Wellbeing Bathroom is also trending, with homeowners wanting to turn their bathroom into a private spa for time out and a bit of luxury. Bathtubs, whirlpools, saunas or programmable showers are all part of this trend, along with therapeutic lighting products and multimedia features. “A bathroom for wellbeing is a place where all the senses come alive—with water as the key element,” says ISH.

The fourth trend is for the Emotional Bathroom, as a feel-good, lifestyle space based on colour, light and sensory appeal created through the sanitaryware and behind-the-wall programmable technology.

Reduction In Pgdb Disciplinary And Offences Levy

The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB) has advised that it has reviewed the disciplinary and offences levy and decided to reduce it by $25 to $275 per practitioner in the 2023/24 licensing year.

It has been able to do this, it says, because the Covid pandemic saw the number of complaints almost halve— and there was also a 12% increase in tradespeople finishing their qualifications and becoming registered with the Board, so the numbers of practitioners paying the levy increased.

The PGDB will also absorb the 2.4% credit card bank surcharge on all licence, registration and disciplinary levy payments, rather than passing the cost on. The levy funds all investigations and disciplinary actions resulting from complaints.

It’s time to renew your practising licence with the PGDB for the 2023/24 licensing year, starting 1 April. Do it online at www.pgdb.co.nz