INDUSTRY VIEWS
INDUSTRY VIEWS
Workcentre Sinks: enhancing
workflow in the modern kitchen As kitchens evolve into multifunctional living spaces, retailers are increasingly looking for design solutions that combine practicality, aesthetics and wellbeing. The modern workcentre sink reflects this shift, transforming the traditional sink area into a highly efficient preparation zone that supports cooking, entertaining and everyday family life. Today’s consumers expect kitchens to work harder while maintaining a calm, streamlined
appearance. Integrated accessories, flexible installation options and deeper bowl configurations all contribute to smoother workflow and improved organisation, helping to maximise space without compromising on style. Hygiene, durability and sustainability also remain key considerations, with homeowners seeking materials that are easy to maintain and built to last. For retailers, the workcentre sink presents an opportunity to add value by demonstrating how
thoughtful design can improve the user experience. By focusing on functionality alongside aesthetics, retailers can help customers create kitchens that support efficiency, comfort and beautifully integrated living every day.
Comment by Chris Gallagher, Sales Director, Franke UK
Why longevity is the new luxury
Kitchen and bathroom design is shifting away from trends. Homeowners are prioritising materials that offer lasting value, visual appeal, durability and ease of maintenance. Both financially and environmentally, customers are more conscious of cost and are therefore updating their interiors less. Porcelain and
ceramic tiles meet these expectations with ease. In high-traffic areas like bathrooms and kitchens, their water, stain and scratch- resistant properties make them perfectly suited. Built to last, tiles reduce the need for replacement over time, contributing to more responsible design choices. Unlike wood and stone, porcelain and ceramic tiles don’t require
Comment by María D Arráez, Director, Tile of Spain UK
specialist treatment or upkeep, maintaining their appearance with minimal care. Alongside, advances in design innovation and manufacturing have expanded the array of designs, patterns, sizes and colours to choose from. Real luxury isn’t about constantly updating your interior – it’s about
choosing quality-made materials that can stand the test of time, without compromising on design.
Seeing continued demand for practical upgrades
The UK bathroom market remains cautious, but refurbishment is still moving where the specification is clear and the product reduces risk on site. Retailers and installers are seeing continued demand for practical upgrades: easier access, simple cleaning, better use of space and a more contemporary bathroom finish. Flush to floor installation sits firmly in that direction. A flush shower area opens
up smaller rooms, works well in replacement bathrooms and answers the growing need for future-proof, low-threshold solutions. For the trade, however, it is only a good sale when the build-up is right: secure installation, correct slope, reliable drainage and a surface that will stand up to daily use. That is where glazed titanium-steel makes sense. Bette shower surfaces give the
look of a tiled wetroom, but with a factory-finished, non-porous surface that is durable, hygienic and straightforward to maintain. In today’s market, that matters for every type of project and budget.
Comment by Markus Maedje, Head of International Sales / Member of the Executive Board, Bette GmbH & Co. KG
4 BKU JULY 2026
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