Contemporary design: Cedral provides architectural solutions for stylish makeovers

Building Products Index Ltd Facade, Roofing Leave a Comment

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At Cedral, we build more beautiful homes. With a wealth of experience in fibre cement roofing and facade materials, Cedral offers a range of facades and slates to help bring your vision to life.

Discover the beauty of Cedral Facades

Elevate a building’s aesthetics with our exceptional fibre cement facades. Offering premium quality cladding, we provide the perfect blend of durability and sophistication. Cedral Facades offers four unique collections based on research into the latest colour trends.

With 2 styles across 21 colours and 2 finishes, Cedral offer unparalleled and stunning design options.

Discover the quality and innovation of Cedral Roofs

Cedral Roofs light-weight fibre cement slates are the ideal material for every project. Combining the benefits of modern slate technology with the look of a natural slate.

Offering a range of finishes to suit every project, our range of slates are available in a palette of colour options including our popular Blue-Black. Cedral slates are not only the perfect roofing material but can even be used on facades to create that unique full envelope look for complete continuity between roofs and facades.

20 Years Strong: Hawthorns Development Marks Milestone for Ford Windows and Eurocell

Building Products Index Ltd Doors, PVC-U, PVC-U, Windows Leave a Comment

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Manufacturer and installer of PVC-U windows and doors, Ford Windows, has reached a significant milestone in its partnership with Eurocell, celebrating 20 years working together, with a development in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, the latest key project the two have collaborated on.

The Hawthorns, a new build development by Barratt Homes North Midlands and David Wilson Homes East Midlands, comprises over 300 homes, with a variety of three and four-bedroom houses. Ford Windows provided a comprehensive range of over 3000 Eurocell’s Logik windows and 300 French Doors.

Eurocell’s Logik windows and French doors were chosen due to their excellent thermal efficiency credentials and compliance with the latest building regulations, ensuring the homes at The Hawthorns meet high standards of performance, both in terms of energy savings and design.

Since 2004, Ford Windows has relied on Eurocell’s expansive range of window styles and doors,  including casement windows, residential doors, and specialist profile systems as well as its leading technical knowledge and innovation in product development to help it grow its business.

Wesley Shackley, Operations Director at Ford Windows, reflects on the significance of the partnership in helping it deliver on key projects like The Hawthorns,

“The reliability and quality of Eurocell’s products have been central to our 20-year relationship. Their innovative approach has consistently supported us in delivering projects to a really high standard and helped us to meet the changing demands and best practise in the market.

“Its commitment to developing new products, features, and options and its technical knowledge, has helped us to not only meet demand from our customers, but help drive local trends too. The Hawthorns is another great example of our collaboration and we are optimistic about growth in the market in the coming years. Working alongside Eurocell puts us in a good position to take advantage of the anticipated uptick in project demand.”

Eurocell’s reputation for reliability stems from its rigorous product testing ensuring that it offers exceptional durability and long-term performance. Products are tested to PAS 24:2016, BS 6180:2011 Class 2, BS 4873:2016, BS 8529:2017, BS 7412:2007, EN 14351-1:2006 + A2:2016 and BS 6375-1:2015. Ford Windows has been able to consistently deliver on time and to specification, thanks to Eurocell’s dependable supply chain and product range.

Martin Benn, Head of New Build at Eurocell, emphasised the importance of anticipating the needs of partners like Ford Windows to ensure successful delivery on major new build projects.

 

He said:

“Our goal has always been to stay ahead of industry trends by anticipating the needs of our partners. Working with valued partners like Ford Windows for over 20 years is a testament to our commitment to being a long-term partner and we are proud to celebrate such milestones together.

“As the market prepares for renewed growth in the next 18 months, we remain optimistic and ready to support Ford Windows with innovative building solutions. We hope our support will help them take advantage of a growing new build and home improvement market in the next few years as confidence returns.”

If you have any questions or would like more information then please email: newbuild@eurocell.co.uk or call 0870 120 3003.

PALCO’s CPD course: “An Introduction to Access Panels and Riser Doors”

Building Products Index Ltd Access Panels, riser doors Leave a Comment

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In the fast-moving world of architecture and construction, staying informed on the latest product innovations, compliance standards, and technical solutions is essential. That’s why Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is not just a regulatory box to tick – it’s a vital tool for delivering better buildings, improving design integration, and meeting client expectations.

PALCO, a leading supplier of access solutions, is proud to offer an online RIBA-approved CPD course designed specifically for architects and specifiers looking to deepen their understanding of access panels and riser doors – some of the most overlooked components in modern construction.

Why Access Panels Matter

Access panels serve a deceptively simple function: allowing building professionals, contractors, and maintenance teams to access concealed services such as pipework, electrical wiring, or HVAC systems.

From fire-rated panels to airtight, acoustic, or security-rated solutions, each type of panel is designed for specific performance requirements. Understanding when, where, and how to specify the right panel can dramatically affect the safety, aesthetics and functionality of a project.

What the CPD Covers

PALCO’s CPD course: “An Introduction to Access Panels and Riser Doors”, goes beyond the basics, providing comprehensive information about:

●  An overview of access panel and riser door types — including metal, plasterboard, plastic and specialist bespoke panels.

●  Insights into innovative solutions — exploring how these panels can address unique challenges for various building projects.

●  Performance attributes explained — covering fire resistance, acoustic performance, air tightness, security ratings, finishes, and compliance with British Standards.

●  Practical specification advice — helping architects avoid common mistakes when specifying and ensure that access panels integrate seamlessly into their designs.

●  Support provided — ask any questions via the training platform and receive a comprehensive answer back from our team.

This course provides educational value without bias, allowing you to walk away with valuable insights and objective knowledge to help you feel more confident while contributing to your annual CPD requirements.

Best of all, the course is fully online – allowing you to complete it from the comfort of your own home. Upon completion, your certificate will be issued automatically.

How to Book

Simply email our team on sales@palcouk.com for your login credentials, or contact us via the form on https://palcouk.com/cpd-training

Toupret offers quality and efficiency with its new range of Plasterboard Finishing Solutions

Building Products Index Ltd Filler Leave a Comment

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Taping and jointing is a method of plasterboard finishing that is increasingly becoming a staple in the construction industry; in large part due to the speed and efficiency of the technique, with much faster drying times than traditional plaster, whilst offering an excellent quality finish.

Ever the innovator, Toupret has spent the last 18 months getting under the skin of UK tapers and jointers, contractors and housebuilders to understand the frustrations on site and how to make it even easier, faster and more cost effective to tape, joint and finish plasterboard, all whilst delivering the highest quality finish the brand is famous for.

The result is Toupret’s Plasterboard Finishing Solutions – a range of products designed to support the system-approach for taping and jointing that professionals trust and rely upon; that’s a paper joint tape, powder joint filler, metal corner tape, adhesive scrim and ready to use finishing compound.

Toupret’s Joint Filler is available with a choice of 1-hour or 3-hour working times – a revolution for the industry. A longer working time means fewer batches need to be made on site, maximising the usage time and allowing bigger batches to be mixed up. For that reason, as well as 15kg bag, the 3-hour version is also available in a 25kg bag. Recognising how site workers also use the product, Joint Filler also adheres to painted surfaces, for those quick patching jobs.

Finish Filler is the true game-changer. It’s exceptionally easy to sand, making light work of joint work and giving a great finish, faster. There’s no bubbling with this product, so no need for any drywall sealer. That means one coat is all it takes, with no need to prime before painting. Toupret has even thought about the packaging, with a tall enough bucket to fit the loading pump for an automatic taper and extra space inside to add water and mix without making a mess.

Completing the system are Toupret’s jointing tapes and scrim. Their 150m paper Joint Tape has the exact dimensions to fit the automatic taper with no slipping and bending. And for corners, their 30m reinforced Metal Corner Tape is resistant to bending and with a central groove for ease of folding.

Finally, Toupret’s Adhesive Scrim is a 90m self-adhesive mesh tape that packs all the punch of an ultra-adhesive scrim but is white in colour so it’s easier to cover. It’s super strong and with reliable adhesion even in cold temperatures.

Toupret’s Plasterboard Finishing Solutions are available from all good stockists nationwide.

Pyramid Roof Lanterns: Eye-Catching Centrepiece. Daylight-Catching Solution.

Building Products Index Ltd Rooflights Leave a Comment

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The Brett Martin Pyramid Roof Lantern, available from Rooflights & Skylights, brings striking symmetry, exceptional thermal efficiency, and rapid installation to contemporary flat roof designs. With its square footprint and clean, pitched form, this lantern delivers evenly distributed natural light – while also serving as a dramatic architectural focal point, both inside and out. It’s ideal for residential, commercial, and public spaces – including atriums, stairwells, or central reception areas – where daylight performance and visual impact are equally critical.

Manufactured by Brett Martin with slender aluminium profiles, precision-cast ridge detailing, and neat sight lines, this rooflight offers architects a crisp, minimalist aesthetic, while providing contractors with a robust, installation-friendly solution. Available in three standard sizes – 1000 x 1000mm, 1500 x 1500mm and 2000 x 2000mm – with bespoke options typically delivered in 15–17 days, it mounts directly to a weathered builder’s upstand for a seamless fit and swift installation.

Key Benefits

  • Balanced daylighting: Pyramid geometry offers even natural light distribution across square-plan spaces.
  • Slim frame design: Clean lines and minimal visual obstruction suit both contemporary and heritage buildings.
  • Fast, clean installation: No need for site-applied silicone except at the roof junction.
  • Safety built-in: Laminated inner pane protects occupants in the unlikely event of a breakage.
  • High thermal performance: Thermally broken frame and Low-E double glazing reduce heat loss.
  • Rapid delivery: Standard sizes delivered in just 3–5 days, helping meet tight project schedules.
  • 10-year warranty: Long-term assurance for specifiers and building owners.

Specifications

  • Sizes: Standard – 1000x1000mm, 1500x1500mm, and 2000x2000mm. Bespoke sizes available (typical lead time 15–17 days).
  • Glazing: Clear or blue self-cleaning solar-control glass as standard; optional aqua and neutral solar-control finishes available.
  • Frame finishes: Powder-coated, both internally and externally, in a combination of three colours – RAL 7016 anthracite grey, RAL 9010 white, or RAL 9005 black.
  • Installation: Direct to weathered builder’s upstand; precision-engineered for efficient site installation.

Click for more info: https://www.rooflights-skylights.co.uk/brett-martin-roof-lantern-pyramid/

Design for the future

Building Products Index Ltd Tile backer boards Leave a Comment

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Complying to current and future legislation, making buildings future-proof and carbon-neutral is a key concern for architects and clients today. Innovative solutions that last the lifetime of the building and reduce the pressure on the planet are now taking centre stage. However, these are not always new technologies or products – while some solutions directly tackle specific challenges, others are more systemic, helping to create the conditions under which all other solutions can be adopted at a greater scale and pace. Implementing complementary innovations together can provide far more significant outcomes than implementing them in isolation.

Protecting the fabric of the building with reliable waterproofing has always been vital, but now, NHBC’s Technical Guidance 9.2/06 ‘Substrates for tiling bath and shower enclosures, wet rooms and bathroom pods’ reinforces this. In essence, any new home whose foundations begin on or after 1st January 2025 in the UK, must comply with this guidance if an NHBC warranty is to be provided.

In short, magnesium oxide boards must not be used, and in wet rooms or bathrooms with power shower, there are strict requirements; only tile backerboards that hold technical approvals acceptable by NHBC can be used.

Critically, whatever the subsurface, all tanking solutions must have appropriate 3rd party certificates such as a European Technical Assessment (ETA) and the tile, adhesive and grout should be compatible with the selected waterproofing system.

Does your new build project have a bathroom or a wet room? wedi has you covered.

100% waterproof and directly tileable XPS boards and shower formers manufactured by wedi hold all required certificates to comply with NHBC’s new guidance; from Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) and A+ VOC label, through the European Technical Approval (ETA), to CE, UKCA and UKNI markings. Furthermore they also comply with Building Regulations section M4(2) and M4(3).

Using renowned, waterproof XPS tilebacker boards to waterproof floor and wall surfaces in wet rooms and bathrooms, not only reduces installation steps and hence minimises the risk of failure, but together with clever accessories and interlocking XPS components such as floor-level shower elements, benches, niches and ready-to-use partition walls, also provides a floor-to-ceiling, systemised waterproofing solution. When installed correctly, they last the lifetime of the building in which they are installed.

Since September 2021, wedi has been part of the Ardex Group and therefore compatible grouts and adhesives can also be provided under one comprehensive, 10-year product warranty. One manufacturer, one responsibility – everything under the tiles, from a single source – so that architects can stay focused on the design.

Product characteristics such as 133kg/m2 vertical weight-load capability make the wedi building board a universal solution for all types of tiles, natural stone and slab coverings. Regardless of the selected tile format/size, in conjunction with reinforcement plates, they hold larger items such as floating washbasins, doors and radiators, meaning that multifunctional partition walls can also be created quickly and easily, ready-to-tile the next day.

Another advantage is the low U-value of 0.036 W/mK, that contributes to the thermal insulation of the room from the inside, therefore contributing to the energy efficiency of the home. This makes them perfect to use beneath under-tile-heating (UTH) systems of all kinds.

In 2025, compliance with the Future Homes Standard will become mandatory; all new homes built from this year are to be future-proofed with low carbon heating and world-leading levels of energy efficiency. Carbon emissions should be reduced to 75-80% less than previously accepted.

Whilst wedi XPS elements do not directly tackle such challenges, they create the conditions, under which other solutions can be adopted easier and faster. By cutting back on installation steps, such as tanking or priming for example, they reduce the required interfaces on site and hence accelerate the project progress. What’s more, used as a waterproof insulation beneath heating systems, they prevent heat-escape and hence improve heating systems’ response time by up to a staggering 70%!

At the forefront of innovation since 1983, wedi is doing everything possible to support energy-efficient, future-proof bathrooms. The current rise of heat pump operated water heating systems prompted the development of the wedi PreLine building board for example. The factory-cut precise grooves greatly reduce the risk of the pipe runs being accidentally damaged as well as ensure the even placement of pipes as close to the surface as possible. It is equally suited to floor or wall applications.

Furthermore, wedi also offers a multitude of floor-level shower elements in different formats -whether it be linear or point drainage, a standard, rectangular or a round, maybe a shell-shape with matching free-standing walls, the wedi Fundo range has the right product for your project. Why not check out the newest member of the range? The Fundo Flex provides an entirely new concept for shower design – it fully adapts to requirements, allowing for an exacting design without the drawbacks. Drain location as a prime concern in shower design? It is now a thing of the past.

www.wedi.net

Seek expert advice to avoid costly project delays

Building Products Index Ltd Brick slip cladding, Cladding Leave a Comment

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Ensuring the correct materials are delivered on time is crucial for keeping projects on schedule. However, progress on-site can still be delayed if design and installation details have not been thoroughly planned. Richard Haines, director of Eurobrick Systems, has seen this happen many times, and it often leads to an increase in on-site costs.

Eurobrick is the UK’s longest-established supplier of brick slip cladding systems, having been in business since 1990. Its estimating and technical team have a wealth of experience which enables them to offer effective design reviews, comprehensive take-offs and accurate estimates, providing an invaluable service during project planning.

Richard Haines commented, “Providing us with intended design details at an early stage gives us a chance to identify any proposals which could present difficulties in practice. Our experience across all sectors means we can offer assistance to overcome such issues, often leading to savings in material cost, as well as smoother progress during installation on site. Our input at the design and specification stages can offer real value.”

As well as providing a review of details and estimating, Eurobrick also provide training for installers and technical support at all stages of a project. This comprehensive service has enabled some of Eurobrick’s clients to undertake ambitious projects using brick slips. Here are just a few of them…

Marks & Spencer’s Brixton

This Brixton store is a landmark location for M&S as it was their first London branch which opened in 1903. A recent major refurbishment required significant technical input and materials planning/management from Eurobrick. The M&S design team wanted to re-instate a brick finish to the original railway arches. Following detailed consultation, Eurobrick supplied six large bespoke brick slip arch soffits and six rowlock arches as well as its I-Clad system and specially cut brick slips for installation. Find out more here.

Imperial War Museum

This impressive three-storey building was a modular construction finished with Eurobrick’s P-Clad brick slip rainscreen system. The design included brick soffits and cills and brick slips and headers cut to different thicknesses to create a relief effect. This level of complexity required Eurobrick to carry out a detailed take-off to provide an accurate estimate. Eurobrick was responsible for the ordering of bespoke materials and components and ensuring that these were supplied on time. Find out more here.

Scala Court

This mixed-use residential development had an interesting design with triangular oriel type windows spanning the first and second floors. Achieving this design was only possible using a brick slip system. Eurobrick’s experienced estimators reviewed the plans and provided a detailed breakdown of the numbers of specially cut stretcher and corner brick slips that would be required in addition to its P-Clad system. P-Clad is lightweight compared to traditionally constructed masonry which made the distinctive window design details possible. You can find out more here.

The versatility of brick slips has been proven time and again over the years. If you have a complex project and would like some help finding solutions for particular brick finishes or bespoke detailing then Eurobrick have the expertise to help. You can contact Eurobrick at info@eurobrick.co.uk, call 0117 971 7117 or visit their website at www.eurobrick.co.uk for more information.

Wavin Launches Dedicated Installer Network

Building Products Index Ltd Heating, underfloor heating Leave a Comment

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Leading drainage and plumbing manufacturer Wavin, has launched a brand new Installer Network providing practical and technical support for underfloor heating, ventilation, and heat recovery installers.

The Wavin Installer Network (WIN) is a free to join initiative that enables installers to gain access to expert guidance, bespoke training, and priority technical support.

WIN members will receive a dedicated Wavin support expert to assist with project requirements, technical solutions, and on-site support. Additional benefits include promotional opportunities through Wavin’s marketing channels and branded workwear.

Installers listed on WIN will also benefit from increased visibility, as homeowners and developers can search for accredited professionals in their area through the platform.

Martyn Neil, Business Development Manager for Indoor Climate Solutions at Wavin said: ‘The launch of the Wain Installer Network marks a significant step in making sustainable, energy-efficient solutions more accessible – through helping the trade. By joining the WIN, installers can expand their market through bespoke training and enhance their skills and knowledge, while also benefitting from recognition and promotion as a trusted Wavin partner’.

Wavin are committed to helping professional installers and developers deliver the energy-efficient and lower-carbon homes demanded by our net-zero commitments and by the Future Homes and Buildings Standards.

Case Study: Newcastle United Football Club enhances fans’ experience with Stannah escalators

Building Products Index Ltd Escalator Leave a Comment

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Newcastle United Football Club, a cherished home for generations of fans since 1892, has introduced two new escalators as part of a refurbishment of its on-site merchandising outlet.

Through close collaboration with Newcastle United Football Club, the Stannah Major Projects team designed and delivered a bespoke escalator system, offering seamless transportation and significantly enhancing user experience.

Open seven days a week, the club’s refurbishment plans aim to celebrate and preserve its rich history and heritage while showcasing its widest range of football kits and merchandise, introduced as part of its £30 million partnership with Adidas.

The works

The project entailed a full refurbishment of the club’s shop following a £30m deal with Adidas as NUFC’s official kit supplier. This included removing the existing escalator, and designing and installing two new escalators to integrate with the updated layout.

Stannah Lift Services worked alongside 442 Design, a leading interior design company, to ensure the new escalators would seamlessly integrate into the architectural framework. Together, they identified necessary structural changes, including adjustments to the pit area to address conflicts between the stadiums’ structural supports and the original layout.

Stannah also carried out a detailed evaluation of the existing escalator and its surrounding infrastructure to find the best and safest removal solution. While the client liaised and initiated the removal with the demolition company, Stannah removed key components, such as the steps and drive unit, to facilitate easier manoeuvring of the escalator sections.

The challenge

The client set a tight budget and a strict timescale in order for the work to be completed in a timely manner and offer value to NUFC fans. To address this, Stannah provided detailed guidance on an escalatorlution that met the building and shop layout requirements while balancing cost and efficiency.

Stannah faced other challenges as logistics were disrupted due to conflicts impacting the Suez Canal, which made it unsafe and inaccessible for ships to pass through. As a result, logistic companies were forced to reroute deliveries around the Cape of Good Hope, causing significant delays in the delivery of materials. To mitigate further delays and to meet the store opening deadline, Stannah increased on-site labour resources to ensure the installation, commissioning and testing proceeded as planned.

The integration of the new escalators also demanded technical precision to address structural modifications to ensure the installation aligned seamlessly with the architectural framework and complied with rigorous safety standards. Extensive testing was conducted by Stannah’s engineers to confirm the escalators’ safety and performance, ensuring they met the BS115 standard.

Stannah provided comprehensive training on escalator operation, maintenance and safety to the building management team and store staff, providing all the skills and knowledge needed to manage and operate the systems efficiently.

The escalator solution

Stannah proposed the installation of two new A2C escalators to improve traffic flow between the ground and shop’s mezzanine levels, ensuring seamless access and greater convenience for users.

With a high-quality design, the escalators’ design focused on minimising friction, vibration and noise, delivering a smooth and quiet ride capable of efficiently managing increased foot traffic during peak periods.

To maximise energy efficiency and to provide flexibility on how the client would like to use the escalators, Stannah provided features such as stop-and-start technology and reduced speed operation so they can choose the correct operational philosophy to suit their current or future requirements. Star/delta bypass was also provided which provides redundancy in case of VVVF inverter failure.

Stannah’s A2C escalator package is a reliable solution for commercial, retail, hotel and office environments. With a rise of 3.0 to 15.8 metres and speeds ranging from 0.5 to 0.75 metres per second, these escalators are finished with a glass balustrade and natural anodised aluminium handrail guide frames for a modern and durable design.

Ryan Robson, Head of Projects, at Newcastle United Football Club, said: “The new escalators are a step forward to improving the efficiency of foot traffic around the NUFC. Stannah’s expertise and attention to detail throughout the process, from design to installation, were incredible. Their ability to deliver a solution tailored to our needs and manage challenges swiftly has been beneficial to the completion of this project.”

John Metcalfe, Project Delivery Manager at Stannah Lifts, said: “This project was an exciting opportunity to showcase our expertise in delivering tailored escalator solutions that seamlessly integrate into unique architectural environments. By collaborating closely with the client, we were able to address their specific requirements for increased foot traffic, while incorporating energy-saving features like the VVVF drive system.”

All of Stannah’s escalators are fully compliant with the latest British Standards, including BS5656 and BS115, and are equipped with the latest passenger safety features.

Find out more information on escalators and moving walkways or contact Stannah for a range of lift products and services at www.stannahlifts.co.uk.

Kinedo Launches Stylish New Solutions for Contemporary Bathrooms

Building Products Index Ltd Bathrooms, Showers Leave a Comment

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Kinedo continues to innovate in bathroom design with the launch of three exciting product updates – the elegant Kinediva cuttable shower tray, refreshed Kinewall decorative wall panels, and a new collection of walk-in enclosures.

Perfect for both new builds and renovations, the new Kinediva tray is available in 17 sizes and three matt finishes – marine blue, beige and white – with a sleek 35mm profile and colour-matched waste cover. It’s cuttable on all four sides and can be installed flush, on the floor or on raised feet. With anti-slip coating and up to 24l/min drainage, Kinediva combines beauty, durability and accessibility.

Kinedo has also expanded its Kinewall range with bold new designs, including Pebble Grey, Bronze Marble, and statement patterns like Giraffe and Frangipani. Lightweight, easy to cut, and quick to install, these grout-free, waterproof panels are ideal for high-moisture areas and come with a 10-year warranty.

Finally, Kinedo’s updated Solo walk-in enclosures feature the striking Solo Design + range, available in five frame finishes and six glass styles – including fluted and patterned glass options for added privacy and impact. All panels are treated with anti-limescale protection and designed for flexible left/right installation.

Together, these new additions provide comprehensive, stylish bathroom solutions from a single trusted supplier.

 www.kinedo.co.uk