Most natural stone should be sealed before and after installation, and all of our restoration treatments include the application of a sealant. There is a lot of misconception about what this means for the stone, how it works and why it doesn’t give 100% protection. Here we explore the world of natural stone sealants.
Impregnating sealants penetrate the capillaries of the stone and protect from within. They can leave the stone with a natural, or colour-enhanced appearance, but always with the stone surface exposed.
Because 99% of natural stone is porous, this sealant is essentially designed to stop any spillages onto the stone penetrating the internal structure of the tile and causing damage or a deep set stain. There is a video on our YouTube channel which demonstrates the difference between water poured onto a sealed and an unsealed marble surface.
Accidents happen. Our clients have split everything from coffee machine descaler to limescale remover on their natural stone and it is always restorable. When stone has been properly sealed, the damage is usually only surface level. Take a look at our portfolio pages to see this in action.
Surface sealants form a physical barrier between the stone and the environment. Modern sealants are either wax or polymer-based, which can achieve matt, satin or gloss finishes to the stone. Such sealants however cannot be applied outdoors or in wet areas as they are affected by moisture. They are also ineffective if applied to a polished surface as they cannot penetrate the surface sufficiently to bond.
Surface sealants are usually used to create a shine to a tile that would otherwise be very dull. Riven slate, pillow edged limestone, tumbled travertine and other textured surfaces will be naturally matt finish. The texture and unevenness don’t allow these finishes to be polished mechanically, so a topical sealant is required if a satin or glossy sheen are required.
In other situations, such as terracotta, a surface sealant will also act to bind and consolidate a rough textured finish. This will mitigate the potential for the surface to flake apart or create dust by breaking down.
In practice, aside from the aesthetic changes these sealants can provide, apply them to textured stones will give another line of protection to staining. Rough textured and matt finish stone will be naturally more porous than honed and polished finishes. Applying a surface sealant on top of an impregnating sealant will provide a ‘sacrificial layer’. Any chemical spills will react with this sealant rather than the surface of the stone.
Contrary to popular belief, impregnating sealants themselves don’t degrade naturally over time. The pores and capillaries that were originally sealed will remain so. However, abrasion caused by foot-traffic will create and expose new pores and capillaries which will require additional sealant. Usually, the more people or pets in the property the more frequently the protection will need to be reapplied.
Impregnating sealants can also be denatured by high alkaline or acidic liquids. Chemical spills can cause damage to a stone surface but also render the previously applied sealant to become ineffective. This is why it is worth having the stone restored and resealed as soon as possible after a spillage has occurred. The damage from the initial accident won’t worsen but the exposed stone will be more vulnerable as a result.
Surface sealants on the other hand are designed to be a sacrificial layer. They aim to protect the stone surface from the external environment. This means that liquid spillages and abrasion will impact the sealant and not the stone surface. These sealants will also be impacted by repeated cleaning regimes. Over time, you can expect this sealant to degrade and it will need to be reapplied in order to keep the stone safe from internal damage and maintain the level of shine that they provide.
It is almost more important to look after the sealant as it is your stone – the two go hand in hand. Our Athena Aftercare guide, is designed to provide your clients with best practice when it comes to maintaining their stone. Following this guidance will ensure that the sealant can continue to do its job to protect any natural stone surface. For a PDF copy email [email protected]
About Athena Stonecare
Natural stone is an investment and we are committed to ensuring that its beauty endures. We specialise in working with marble, limestone, travertine, granite, and all types of natural stone, ensuring that stone will continue to be a beautifully sustainable feature within any property. As natural stone restoration experts we work with floors, worktops, shower walls, sinks and vanity units. The ongoing care of stone is important to us too and so we have developed a suite of advice and guidance on how to maintain the finish of any stone surface. This is distributed through stone suppliers across the UK and is also available to anyone who works with natural stone.
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CECOCECO, a pioneer in lighting and display industry, announces the launch of ArtMorph Mini and ArtMorph Edge, two groundbreaking additions to its ArtMorph product line. These new solutions offer enhanced flexibility, refined aesthetics, and seamless integration, setting a new standard in architectural design. Both innovations will be unveiled at NeoCon 2025, the premier event for commercial interior design.
Designed for versatility, ArtMorph Mini enhances the adaptability of the ArtMorph series with a compact form. Key features include: - Quarter-Size Form Factor (250x250mm) Designed to complement standard ArtMorph panels by filling spatial gaps and adapting to tighter or irregular layouts, enhancing overall spatial cohesion. - Independent Power System Allows for creative, non-rectangular compositions when combined with standard ArtMorph, supporting freeform layouts beyond the constraints of conventional grids. - High Surface Compatibility Shares the same thickness and material options as standard ArtMorph panels, ensuring seamless visual integration or enabling contrast for intentional design highlights. - Creative Accent Potential Use Mini to introduce playful, intricate patterns or distinctive visual zones within a unified installation—perfect for drawing attention or enhancing spatial rhythm.
Corners should never disrupt a design narrative. ArtMorph Edge ensures smooth transitions across surfaces with the following features: - Patented Curved-Edge Design Engineered to eliminate hard panel breaks across 90° transitions, enabling immersive content flow around corners, columns, and wall junctions. - Effortless Plug-and-Play Setup Installs in just five minutes by drawing power and control directly from adjacent ArtMorph units—streamlining installation without extra cabling. - Surface and Thickness Match Precisely aligned in material finish and depth with standard ArtMorph and Mini, maintaining visual harmony across complex architectural forms. - Transforms Architectural Challenges Ideal for elevating underutilised spatial elements—like sterile corners or curved recesses—into elegant brand touchpoints or dynamic content zones.
The introduction of ArtMorph Mini and Edge marks a pivotal evolution of the ArtMorph ecosystem—completing the system with enhanced flexibility for complex spatial conditions. Both variants significantly expand what ArtMorph can achieve: filling in where standard panels can’t reach, leveraging underutilised spatial elements to enable greater creative expression, and transforming sharp corners into fluid visual transitions.
“ArtMorph Mini and Edge empower creators to think beyond traditional boundaries.” said Jason Lu, Founder of CECOCECO. “Whether it’s a compact niche or a challenging corner, every inch of a space can now contribute to a unified, captivating story. This is the future of experiential design.”
CECOCECO will showcase ArtMorph Mini and ArtMorph Edge at NeoCon 2025, held at The Mart in Chicago from June 9-11, 2025. This marks the first time CECOCECO presents the full ArtMorph ecosystem—including standard panels, Mini, and Edge—in one integrated showcase. As one of the most influential events in the commercial design industry, NeoCon provides the perfect stage for unveiling these innovations. Visitors to CECOCECO’s exhibit will experience firsthand how ArtMorph’s latest advancements enhance spatial aesthetics and immersive storytelling.
About CECOCECO
CECOCECO was created by a visionary team of pioneers from the heart of the lighting and display industry. Drawing upon years of experience from previous venture as founders of ROE Visual, alongside a deep-rooted passion for innovation, they are set to create products that will change how people perceive and interact with lights and visuals. Lighting and displays could transcend mere functionality and evolve into artistic expression. At CECOCECO, they envisioned a future where every space, whether it be a concert hall, a corporate office, or a retail store, could become a canvas for immersive and aweinspiring visual storytelling.
For early Summer 2025, Skopos will be releasing their new textured upholstery collection, Esme. Developed for the rigors of the contract world, Esme is a clever merger between an elegant boucle and a multi-tonal textured chenille check. Flame Retardant as standard, designed with a Stain and Soil Resistant finish, this collection helps to keep contract furniture looking good-as-new for an extended period.
Esme, is a mixture of Polyester and Cotton and pulls together complimentary tones and textures, providing a perfect Upholstery solution for designers to match with other elements within a scheme. Twisted fancy yarns complement a chenille texture, providing a subtle, yet elegant texture and tonal simplicity. Perfect for hospitality bedrooms, bar and lounge areas, or any contract spaces where a little extra protection is a benefit, Esme is offered in a broad palette of 20 Skus and comes with a halogen-free Crib 5 FR backing.
Hard-wearing, achieving 80,000 Martindale rubs, Esme retains its eye-catching appearance in the most demanding spaces. This new addition to the Skopos portfolio provides a furniture fabric solution suited to all commercial environments. A go-to option for furniture makers, end-users and designers alike, keeping interiors looking fresh and elegant. Esme provides a complimentary furniture solution alongside Skopos’ recently launched STUDIO print and works brilliantly alongside the Skopos velvet offer for a finish that shouts luxury.
Samples and shade-cards to show the full palette are available immediately from Skoposfabrics.com.
Skopos have recently been re-awarded Carbon Neutral status and are committed to providing sustainable solutions for contract interiors.
With over 50 years’ experience in textile innovation, Skopos have built up a wealth of design experience, providing flame retardant fabrics and key attributes that meet the needs of designers and end users alike.
ESME is available to order immediately with no minimums. Request loose samples via the website: skoposfabrics.com
About Skopos Fabrics Ltd
Skopos has over 50 year's experience of supplying innovative statement fabrics and soft furnishings into flagship hotels, marine interiors and other commercial spaces. Working globally with designers and specifiers, the Skopos brand thrives on innovation. Skopos fabrics deliver on style but also meet the needs of customers looking for technical assurance and key attributes, such as acoustic options, impervious upholstery fabrics, antimicrobial and blackout; providing a fabric-only, or made-to-measure and installation service. Accredited as a Carbon Neutral organisation in 2023, sustainable operations go hand in hand with the development of new recycled products and the use of local suppliers.
Matteo De Lise, General Manager at Unox Casa, has given his insights into the industry.
Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. It was created to bring the performance of the greatest Michelin-starred kitchens into the world’s most exclusive private homes. SuperOven is the first oven to integrate cutting-edge professional technology with iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance.
Unox Casa was born from a bold ambition: to bring the power and precision of the world’s finest professional kitchens into private luxury homes. Backed by more than 30 years of UNOX leadership in the restaurant industry, it reimagines culinary excellence for the residential setting.
The idea took shape during the pandemic, when the desire for professional-grade appliances at home intensified. Inspired by UNOX founders’ personal experiences - and by dinner guests who frequently asked how to recreate restaurant-level cooking at home - SuperOven was born. It represents the world’s first professional oven designed specifically for luxury living, fusing elite performance with iconic Italian craftsmanship.
More than an appliance, SuperOven is a design statement. Available in two models - Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Model 1S, a compact single-chamber version- it merges professional-grade performance with sculptural elegance, turning the oven into a centrepiece rather than a background element. Unlike traditional appliances that recede quietly into the kitchen, SuperOven stands out with intention thanks to its recognisable aesthetic, striking lines, and finishes that transform it into a jewel of contemporary living, a diamond set into architecture.
Its refined and iconic Italian design allows it to effortlessly integrate into a variety of interior styles - from minimalist and contemporary to industrial or high-tech environments. More than fitting in, it enhances each project by bringing depth, sophistication, and the powerful allure of technology made art. Furthermore, the variety of finishes and installation options (flush, cantilevered, or freestanding) enable a high degree of customisation, empowering designers and homeowners alike to create kitchens that reflect their unique style, vision and personality.
In every home, the kitchen is more than just a functional space: it is the beating heart, a place of connection, creativity, and expression. Within it, the oven is a cornerstone: the silent ally around which rituals and memories are built.
At Unox Casa, we bring a new dimension to this central element through the advanced technology embedded in SuperOven. This innovation transforms the cooking experience, allowing users to express their culinary vision without being bound by technical complexity. The oven’s user-friendly digital control panel allows activation of over 400 automatic cooking programmes, for which all it takes is to select the type of food and the desired result and the oven automatically determines the settings, adapting them to the amount of food being cooked. The oven itself becomes a guide for homeowners - adapting, suggesting, and supporting each step of the cooking process.
This means clients are free to focus on what truly matters: enjoying time, experimenting with flavours and colours, and living the kitchen not as a task, but as a pleasure. Our sector redefines luxury not just through design and materials, but by giving time and creativity to those who live the home.
We believe that every home tells a story, and our mission is to ensure the kitchen becomes one of its most compelling chapters. That’s why we created the Design Concierge: a dedicated service tailored to the unique needs of interior designers and architects.
Our team of experts works closely with design professionals from the earliest stages of a project, offering 360-degree bespoke support - from technical guidance to aesthetic consultation. Whether it’s selecting finishes, defining installation details, or seamlessly integrating SuperOven into a custom kitchen concept, we ensure the product enhances the space both visually and functionally.
Through this collaborative approach, Unox Casa doesn’t merely adapt to a design - it elevates it. SuperOven becomes a sculptural and technological centrepiece that embodies the designer’s vision and enriches the client’s daily experience. Ultimately, it’s about reimagining the kitchen around those who live it, delivering true excellence in every detail.
One of the most significant milestones of the past year has been the global expansion of Unox Casa into new, strategically relevant markets. From our official launch in Turkey, to new openings in many Latin American countries, and a growing presence in the United Arab Emirates, the brand continues to affirm its international vision.
In particular, the debut in the US market during Art Basel marked a major achievement, underscored by SuperOven Model 1S - Black Edition receiving the prestigious Good Design Award. This recognition celebrates not only the product’s technological innovation but also its sculptural elegance - a perfect expression of Italian design excellence.
These new openings reflect our commitment to bringing our iconic lifestyle, Starred Living, to the world’s most discerning homes. Each new market represents an opportunity to build meaningful connections with local design communities and to inspire new ways of living the kitchen as a space of beauty, performance, and creativity.
One of the most prominent trends among our clients today is the desire for kitchen spaces that embody both clarity and purpose: environments that are at once minimalist, multifunctional, and emotionally meaningful. Clients are increasingly seeking orderly, elegant spaces that serve as true gathering points, hubs for family life and social connection.
The kitchen is no longer a backstage area; it is a central stage, where functionality must be paired with refined aesthetics. This means clean lines, hidden technologies, and intuitive layouts that promote efficient movement between appliances and support a seamless daily experience.
In this evolving landscape, SuperOven becomes a silent ally in everyday life, simplifying the preparation of extraordinary meals and inviting everyone, from expert cooks to curious children, to participate in the pleasure of creating together. It’s technology that brings people closer, making the kitchen not just efficient, but truly alive.
In the year ahead, the interior design industry is poised to deepen its focus on digitally empowered living, where technology becomes an invisible yet essential presence in the home. As robotic and intelligent systems take on more daily tasks, domestic spaces will evolve to become cleaner, more intuitive, and inherently minimalist - not just in form, but in function. We foresee a continued rise in designs that embrace ‘quiet’ luxury, expressed through a refined blend of natural and synthetic materials, tactile surfaces, and sculptural elements that awaken the senses.
Within this evolution, the kitchen remains the soul of the home - a space for gathering, creativity, and daily rituals. Here, SuperOven emerges as a natural protagonist, perfectly embodying the balance between technological intelligence and timeless beauty. It frees time, streamlines routines, and above all, brings people together through the shared joy of culinary exploration. Objects of design become real enablers of togetherness, where innovation serves the rituals that truly matter.
We’re particularly excited about the recent launch of the Unox Casa App: a bold step forward in kitchen digitalisation and a perfect embodiment of our vision for the home of the future. As daily life becomes increasingly shaped by smart technologies, people are seeking tools that offer not just automation, but meaningful, intuitive experiences. The Unox Casa App responds to this shift by transforming the SuperOven into a fully connected companion, capable of empowering users wherever they are.
More than just remote control, the App offers a personalised culinary ecosystem. From real-time monitoring of cooking and cleaning cycles to the ability to create and send custom cooking programmes remotely, every detail is designed to simplify routines while unleashing creative freedom. The “Cook Like a Chef” section, a curated library of recipes developed by our own chefs and Michelin-starred partners, turns the App into an endless source of inspiration, like a digital culinary atelier.
Becoming an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is both an honour and a meaningful affirmation of our commitment to design excellence. It reflects our dedication to forging deep connections with the UK interior design community, and to supporting professionals who shape the most refined and forward-thinking living environments.
This partnership, which comes at a moment of meaningful growth in the UK, is a new opportunity for dialogue and collaboration – a chance to inspire and be inspired by visionary designers. Being part of SBID allows us to contribute to a shared our idea of the kitchen of the future, where every design choice enhances the lives of those who inhabit the space. For Unox Casa, it is another step in our journey to elevate luxury living to a new starred level.
About Unox Casa
Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. Created to bring Michelin-level performance to private homes, it introduces SuperOven: a fusion of cutting-edge professional tech and iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance. The SuperOven collection includes Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Red Dot Award winner Model 1S, featuring a single chamber. SuperOven enables cooking methods not found in traditional ovens such as grilling, steaming, smoking and many more. Its intuitive digital panel boasts over 400 automatic cooking programmes adjusting settings based on food quantity. The oven also cleans itself automatically using water and an eco-friendly, patented detergent.
Kicking off its 2025 Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) schedule, Tuesday 20th May between 3pm and 7pm, will see Hansgrohe open its doors for an afternoon packed with advice and inspiration - all dedicated to those wanting to make the most of a career in design.
Hosted in its refreshed Water Studio in Clerkenwell - a space where inspiration aligns perfectly with innovation - attendees will have the chance to explore the very latest from Hansgrohe, experience a taste of its German Black Forest HQ base thanks to the Botanical Boys, and network with experts from the sector.
Students, people new to the sector through to those hoping to make even more of their design passion, are all welcome to sign up and join in.
Hansgrohe’s dedicated event at Clerkenwell Design Week provides the ideal location to gain valuable advice from experts and peers alike and has a host of highlights to get involved with.
Setting the challenge to budding designers, the event will see the launch of the 2025 AXOR Emerging Talent Design Competition.
Open to current interior design students and those who have graduated within the past three years, it aims to inspire the next generation of creative interior design talent and help shape the future of luxury bathrooms and follows the success of the inaugural year in 2024, which drew high calibre entries and recognition from across the industry.
Prizes include a trip to Schiltach, Germany - the home of AXOR and hansgrohe - plus a year-long pass to the Festival of Hospitality.
The afternoon event will also Include valuable portfolio advice delivered by leading architects from the area, followed by a networking session led by business development experts, Always Thinking.
Hansgrohe is renowned for working with designers, and the day will be rounded off by a keynote interview with Tolù Adẹ̀kọ́ of Adeko & Co, hosted by Hamish Kilburn of Kilburn Communications.
Refreshments will be available throughout the session before rounding off with a host of pizza treats.
Those interested in joining simply need to register via LinkedIn, click here to register.
Other activities will be happening at the Black Forest inspired Water Studio through the week. Highlights include:
Wednesday 21st May • Bath Salt Making with Hackney Herbal (11 AM–1 PM): Guests can participate in a relaxing, hands-on workshop creating bespoke bath salts using herbs and essential oils. Ice cream and Pimm’s will also be served.
Thursday 22nd May • The Legendary Design Party (5 PM–8 PM): Celebrate the close of CDW with authentic German street food, cocktails, music from DJ Anna, and captivating entertainment, all hosted in the transformed Water Studio.
For further information on Hansgrohe’s Clerkenwell schedule, click here.
About Hansgrohe UK
With its brands AXOR and hansgrohe, the Hansgrohe Group, based in Schiltach/Southern Germany, enjoys a reputation as a leader in innovation, design and quality within the bath and kitchen industry. Founded in 1901 in the Black Forest, the company gives water form and function with its taps, showerheads and shower systems. In combination with sanitary ceramics and bathroom furniture, the company offers individual design options for holistic bathroom experiences. The Hansgrohe Group stands for long-lasting quality products and for responsibility towards people and the environment. As part of its sustainability strategy, Hansgrohe is equipping all water-bearing products with water-saving technologies by 2030.
GRAFF, the luxury bath and kitchen fixture manufacturer, unveils the Riva Wall Mount Shower, a stunning new addition to its Riva collection.
Like the Riva Scala, this wall-mounted shower draws inspiration from the meticulously crafted dashboards of European luxury cars and yachts, evoking the thrill of driving a high-performance sports car or cruising along the breathtaking Mediterranean coastline. This exceptional shower system combines luxury, elegance, and a superior sensory experience, setting a new benchmark for bathroom design.
The Riva Wall Mount Shower features a sleek, cylindrical-shaped showerhead that swivels effortlessly, its intricate knurled patterns adding a touch of sophistication. Designed for ultimate personalisation, the shower offers a variety of options to ensure an experience that aligns with each individual's unique vision and preferences. The showerhead is adjustable up to 15 degrees in any direction, providing tailored comfort for every user.
Ziggy Kulig, GRAFF’s Founder and CEO, explains, “Our passion for bringing dream spaces to life defines Riva showers. The Riva Wall Mount shower is designed for tailoring to the individual’s vision, offering choices comprising the highest levels of quality, design, and engineering, to complement and enhance interiors across the style spectrum.”
Available in both traditional and contemporary designs, the Riva Wall Mount Shower offers shower plates in a range of configurations. Traditional models feature knurled control knobs, while contemporary versions incorporate flat push-button controls paired with a knurled temperature control knob. The collection also includes round contemporary plates and square options that blend both push-button and traditional knobs.
The shower comes equipped with four distinct spray functions - Shower, 4-Spray, 6-Jet, and Cascade - to elevate the overall wellness experience. Additionally, an optional LED fixture is available, further enhancing the collection with a soft, ambient glow.
For a refined touch, the collection also includes four decorative editions: Plaine, Fluted, Knurled, and Oblique, each adding its own unique flair to the design.
Featuring versatile styles for the customized wellness space, Riva shower plates can be mixed and matched for a seamless aesthetic. With 26 meticulously handcrafted finishes to choose from, including stunning two-tone pairings such as Polished 24K Gold with Architectural Black, each component ensures a luxurious and customised shower experience.
About GRAFF
GRAFF’s luxury taps and shower collections elevate the bath space with designs that are both timeless and cutting-edge, complementing endless architectural and interior styles. Available in 21 luxury finishes such as Brushed Brass, Polished Nickel, and 24K Gold, and with a choice of three Tuscan marble inserts, GRAFF basin mixer or shower controls offer bespoke and unique customisation possibilities. Backed by a rich heritage of European artisanship, GRAFF products transform the bath space into a masterpiece of tranquillity, wellness, and spa like experience. With a focus on design, sustainability, and high technology, GRAFF caters to the senses with features such as chromotherapy, bringing bath and shower experiences to luxurious heights.
Cosentino, global leaders in the production of sustainable surfaces for architecture and design, expands its bathroom portfolio with the launch of Zoe TOP. A new model of bathroom sink by Silestone® with Integrity Technology that allows the seamless integration of basin and countertop for total visual continuity.
Responding to trends that seek organic and curved shapes with soft lines, Zoe TOP is a refined expression of form and function. Made from a single, uninterrupted piece, it eliminates visible joins; a unique feature that enhances both the visual purity, practical performance and everyday maintenance of the basin. Highly resistant to stains, scratches and chemicals, this design also contributes to the product’s long-term durability, making Zoe TOP the smart and reliable solution.
The Zoe TOP offers thoughtful customisation, with four design options:
- Zoe TOP: A stylish and minimalist sink with organic lines, which instantly enhances the concept of bathroom design. - Zoe TOP + Basa: Customised Zoe TOP model with a base of straight lines at just the right height to subtly and proportionally lift the sink on the bathroom counter. - Zoe TOP Bao: Variant with a rounded finish that results in a soft and harmonious touch for the sink and the bathroom as a whole. - Zoe TOP Bao + Basa Round: Elevate this variant of the model with a base of rounded edges.
All options are available in three prominent Silestone® colours – choose between Desert Silver, a sophisticated grey with subtle veins; Blanco Zeus, the perfect choice for a bright and timeless bathroom; and Calacatta Gold, which brings the luxury and elegance of marble with the resistance and durability of Silestone.
Installation is quick and hassle-free, with the Zoe TOP ready to fit seamlessly into existing design plans and bathroom schemes, optimizing timings and guaranteeing a flawless result.
Being able to now specify basins in the same design as countertops, splashbacks, shower trays and wall cladding, further elevates the bathroom space as a true place of well-being, a place of calm and sanctuary.
Zoe TOP is more than just a surface, it’s a design-led solution that combines beauty, innovation and practicality in one timeless piece.
“What really sets it apart is its ability to integrate and be customised to seamlessly work with other Silestone elements as a seamless piece, allowing for a cohesive, design-led space that doesn’t compromise on durability.
Available in three distinctive shades, our flawless bright Blanco Zeus; elegantly veined grey Desert Silver, or more luxurious marble finish of Calacatta Gold, the ZOE Top can be easily combined with other Cosentino brand solutions for visual continuity.” - Katie Parry-Stone, Cosentino UK Retail Expert
About Cosentino
Cosentino Group is a global, Spanish, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of design and architecture. It works together with its clients and partners to provide with solutions that offer design and value, and inspire the life of many people. This objective is possible thanks to pioneering and leading brands in their respective segments such as Silestone®, Dekton® or Sensa by Cosentino®. Technologically advanced surfaces that allow the creation of unique environments and designs for the home and public spaces.
At ISH 2025, the world’s leading trade fair for water and energy technologies, bathroom design took centre stage for an exchange of ideas and innovations. Roca, a global leader in bathroom solutions, unveiled a series of new and reimagined products that encapsulate the key trends emerging from the event.
“This year’s ISH has highlighted a shift towards bathrooms that blend aesthetics, functionality and sustainability,” says Natalie Bird, Brand Marketing Manager at Roca. “From moody metallics to smart technology, the industry is moving towards designs that enhance both lifestyle and well-being. Roca is proud to be at the forefront of this evolution, offering products that resonate with contemporary living needs.”
One of the most striking trends at ISH 2025 was moody metallics, bringing depth, drama and a refined sense of luxury to modern bathrooms. Moving beyond traditional chrome, these darker, brushed and matt metallic finishes create an intimate yet sophisticated ambience.
Designed by Stefan Diez, Roca’s Kay brassware collection epitomises this trend. Inspired by anchor mounting points, Kay introduces fluidity and strength – its oval-shaped operating lever adding a touch of softness to the otherwise angular design, while the sculptural form makes a bold visual impact. Available in six curated finishes – Chrome, Matt Black, Matt White, Brushed Brass, Brushed Graphite and Stainless Steel – the Kay collection offers versatility while enhancing the moody aesthetic that defines modern elegance.
Another key trend is soft geometrics, where pieces combine angular forms and curved elements, creating a wholly balanced design. The Kay mixer, mentioned above, is a good example, by bringing sharpness and softness into balance and redefining squarish design, as is the reimagined Meridian collection.
Designed by Altherr Désile Park (ADP) and led by Jeanette Altherr, Meridian draws inspiration from Mediterranean architecture. The basin is rectangular in shape, but it contains a softly curved oval bowl within, to create an overall form that is light and flowing. The basins can be either be paired with a steel frame or a vanity unity – but in both cases, the straight lines are softened by the delicate contours. Storage solutions such as metal boxes and drawers ensure a clutter-free space, while a natural palette of White, Black and warm Beige wood tones reinforces the collection’s organic appeal.
Reflecting a growing movement towards wellness-focused design, Japanese soaking tubs emerged as a standout trend at ISH 2025. Inspired by the traditional Ofuro, these deep, space-efficient tubs prioritise full-body immersion and relaxation, making them ideal for urban homes and spa-like retreats.
As part of the Ohtake collection, Roca introduces a new Stonex® Japanese soaking tub designed by Rodrigo Ohtake. Paying tribute to his late father, Ruy Ohtake, who collaborated on the original collection, Rodrigo’s design recreates a traditional bath in a modern composite material. Featuring an integrated seat for a cocoon-like bathing experience, the tub is complemented by sustainable soy resin accessories, including a multifunctional entry step that doubles as a stool, reinforcing both functionality and eco-conscious design.
The bathroom sector continues to be transformed by smart technology, with smart WCs still gaining prominence at ISH 2025. Consumers are increasingly prioritising hygiene, comfort and efficiency, driving the adoption of intelligent toilets that integrate cutting-edge technology.
Roca’s new In-Wash Vorea WC represents the pinnacle of this trend. It features Coanda Effect drying with three air pressure levels, plus Airtech, which mixes air with water for a better washing experience. Other features include a heated seat and a self-cleaning UVlight nozzle that eliminates 99.99% of bacteria.
The In-Wash Vorea can be controlled via the Roca Connect app (which also provides real-time data on water usage and maintenance alerts), the remote control or integrated control panel. It is also available as an In-Tank version, where the tank is integrated into the bowl for a sleek and spacesaving solution.
About Roca London Gallery
Roca have more than 100 years experience of designing bathroom products and kitchen solutions with the aim of increasing peoples quality of life through continuous innovation in the production of sanitary ceramics.
House of Rohl is delighted to once again be part of one of the most anticipated events on the international design calendar, WOW!house at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour from 3 June – 3 July. For its fourth consecutive installation, House of Rohl has collaborated with global, luxury interior and architectural design firm, 1508 London to create a distinctive and emotive Primary Bathroom that explores three guiding design principles – Reflection, Ritual and Reverie.
Built within the Design Avenue, WOW!house is a one-of-a-kind showhouse stretching 600 sqm2 with 22 full-size rooms and outdoor spaces to be explored - each uniquely designed by world-class interior designers, working in collaboration with globally recognised design brands and incredible suppliers.
“WOW!house is now firmly established as one of the highlights of London's design calendar, attracting global interest. House of Rohl is extremely proud to have participated every year since its inception, presenting exciting and highly original bathroom spaces in partnership with acclaimed design practices. 1508 London were top of the list of practices we most wanted to work with, and so we are thrilled that they have taken the project on for 2025. We immediately fell in love with their concept, and can't wait to unveil the completed bathroom, with our award-winning Seros bath as the centrepiece, in June.” Nigel Palmer, Head of Communications Marketing for House of Rohl
Nestled like a hidden gem within the bustle of everyday life, the Principal Bathroom has been designed to be an oasis of serenity, where the hum of the outside world fades into a whisper. A place to reflect, refocus and unwind.
Capturing the ancient rituals of bathing, showering and cleansing. The Principal Bathroom reveals itself and its more intimate, mysterious atmospheres as day turns to night. Light and shadow play across the room, across surfaces through watery reflections and metallic accents.
Recalling cultural and historical stories, which bring meaning to the experience. Creating a feeling of being a traveller of the world, discovering another way of seeing the world. Inspired by traditional hammams, tactile materials such as plaster walls, intriguing floor pattern and artisanal furniture selections create a unique character.
1508’s inspiration for House of Rohl’s Primary Bathroom stems from its global perspective on design, focusing on the themes of ritual and wellbeing with the aim to create a space that fosters exploration and personal rejuvenation, encouraging a mindful engagement with one’s surroundings. The thoughtful curation of light and shadow, combined with a tactile material palette, evokes a sense of intimacy and discovery. The layering of subtle and bold design elements adds depth and intrigue, creating a continuously unfolding experience for visitors, all of which celebrate the rituals of a bathroom.
Key products from House of Rohl’s portfolio include the sculptural Victoria + Albert Seros freestanding bath developed with renowned British sculptor, Sophie-Elizabeth Thompson, which embody the energy and movement of water. Brassware from Perrin & Rowe’s Langbourne collection have also been specified. The strategic placement of brassware and carefully curated materials will create an interplay of light, reflection, and texture, fostering a unique and memorable experience.
“We've worked with House of Rohl on a number of successful projects, having found that we share the same essential values: attention to detail, exceptional craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for storytelling.” Ailsa Connery, Regional Director and Design Principal for Europe at 1508 London.
The design will also incorporate key pieces and bespoke elements from Artisans of Devizes, Bert Frank, Clayworks, Tom Faulkner, Charles Burnand, Porta Romana, Anka Bespoke, Atelier Alain Ellouz, Atelier 001, Novacastrin, Coral Stephens, Christy and Britannicus Stone. Commissioned artworks by Carl Koch of Paynes Grey have also been specified crafted from thousands of individually rolled, cut, dipped, and assembled ceramic tiles.
With an impressive international portfolio, 1508 London has worked on Carlton Tower Jumeirah, Mandarin Oriental Residences Beverly Hills, The OWO Residences with Raffles, Chelsea Barracks, One Grosvenor Square, and Park Hyatt Residences. Private residential projects throughout London include The OWO, Park Modern, Nine Elms, Chelsea Barracks and Whiteley. Current projects include Cipriani Residences Miami, Baccarat Hotel and Residences in the Maldives and Dubai, Four Seasons Mauritius, Mr. C Residences Dubai along with a number of private residential projects worldwide.
“It feels serendipitous to be part of WOW!house 2025, as it coincides with our 15th anniversary. This event is a fantastic platform to stand alongside other industry leaders, as well as world renowned suppliers, showcasing our design philosophy and celebrating the art of craftsmanship and design. WOW!house is not just an exhibition; it is a celebration of community and collaboration, and we cannot wait to be part of it.” Ailsa Connery, Regional Director and Design Principal for Europe at 1508 London.
About Perrin & Rowe
The World's finest range of bathroom and kitchen fittings. Perrin & Rowe is a British-based brassware manufacturer with an unrivaled reputation internationally – bringing together traditional craftsmanship and manufacturing methods with precision engineering. Perrin & Rowe is a distinctive member of the House of Rohl.
Neutral kitchen design never goes out of fashion – after all, timelessness is its USP! Yet subtle seasonal shifts and emerging trends continuously infuse fresh vitality into this classic look, ensuring that neutral kitchen cabinets remain both modern and relevant in homes of all styles. For 2025, Roundhouse designers are anticipating a move away from cool neutrals – pure whites and greys – towards warmer, more inviting neutral kitchen colour schemes.
First spotted at the Milan Furniture Fair and now firmly evident across the interiors landscape, we’re talking about pale browns, soft beiges and warm taupes. Still timeless and easy on the eye, the new neutrals trend is all about incorporating earthy colours that bring a sense of nature indoors, instilling a sense of calm and balance into contemporary kitchens. What’s not to love? Here’s how to bring this refreshing trend into your kitchen.
One of the easiest ways to work the earthy neutrals trend in kitchens is by integrating natural materials like wood and stone. Timber toned cabinetry, worktops, and open shelving in warm, natural finishes can dramatically shift the ambient temperature of a neutral kitchen. Similarly, stone elements – whether they are marble-inspired quartz or natural stone splashbacks – will help reinforce the connection to outdoors. Patinated metallic finishes in warm copper tones dial into the terracotta trend, without disrupting the serene atmosphere of a soothing neutral scheme.
Embracing earthy neutrals is about more than the colour of the walls or cabinets, it’s about creating a layered, tactile energy that tunes into all the senses. Textures play a pivotal role in this interior design philosophy – think woven textiles, rustic timber and burnished metals. Even with a neutral palette that deliberately lacks strong colour contrasts, you can shake things up a little just by mixing up matte and gloss finishes. This dynamic interplay of textures will add depth and subtle friction that feels sophisticated. Don’t overlook the effects of light and shadow on textural surfaces – they can dramatically enhance depth, highlight movement, and bring your kitchen’s design details to life throughout the day.
While earthy neutrals provide a relaxed foundation, that doesn’t mean brighter colours are banned. Modern neutral palettes tend to be in warmer tones, which makes them so easy to elevate with the strategic use of colour accents. The key is to go for subtle colour pops, nothing that overpowers. Roundhouse designers recommend allowing around 20% of the palette for accent colour if you want to keep the balance firmly neutral. Accessories, such as ceramic vases, patterned cushions, window treatments or art that incorporate colours inspired by nature are all great choices. For more permanent accent colours, try kitchen splashbacks in burnished copper, or a two-tone kitchen with pale perimeter cabinets and an island in deep green or soft sage. Aim for accent colours that tie in beautifully with the overall warm, earthy theme, providing contrast while still harmonising with your core neutral shades.
The importance of lighting cannot be overemphasised when planning an earthy neutral palette. Above all, you need to avoid a chilly atmosphere, so aim for light bulbs with colour rendition in the range of 2700K-3000K, which will provide a warm, white light that complements soft neutrals like stone and greige. Also try to plan in as much natural light as possible to highlight the depth and variety of a neutral palette throughout the day. Large-scale architectural glazing is ideal, while skylights and roof lanterns are also a popular way to flood a neutral kitchen with light.
The new neutrals trend in kitchens is about more than just a switch in colour – it’s a shift towards creating spaces that nurture, comfort, and inspire. For more ideas and inspiration, why not head to one of our showrooms and chat to our design team?
About Roundhouse Design Ltd
Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.
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