K&B products

Staff -- Interior Design, 1/1/2003 12:00:00 AM

Making a Splash

The European division of American Standard, Ideal-Standard, unveiled an innovative look at 100% Design in London. By harnessing the talent—and star power—of Australian designer Marc Newson and British architect David Chipperfield, the company produced several buzz-worthy collections. The Newson Bathroom Suite includes geometrically pure basins, baths, and bidets, plus a selection of brass hardware. Of note: a dual-control mixer with one handle to regulate water flow, another to set temperature. Chipperfield designed White, a range of ceramics, and Silver, a line of taps and mixers for the bath and kitchen. The refinement of both Chipperfield collections works equally well in contemporary and traditional settings, whether they be commercial or domestic. Newson Bathroom Suite, White, and Silver will be available in March in Europe; Newson Bathroom Suite will also debut stateside sometime later this year. Bathroom Works, National Avenue, Kingston Upon Hull HU5 4HS, U.K.; 44-1482-346-461; ideal-standard.co.uk. circle 354 American Standard, 1 Centennial Plaza, Piscataway, NJ 08855; 800-442-1902; americanstandard.com. circle 355

Smallbone of Devizes

Stop in the new London flagship to check out this company's recently introduced Classical kitchen. Its simple lines ensure lasting elegance; stainless-steel drawer fronts and shimmering Silestone work surfaces strike a contemporary note. 220 Brompton Road, London SW3 2BB, U.K.; 44-20-7581-9989; smallbone.co.uk. circle 356

Villeroy & Boch

Established in 1748, Villeroy & Boch has long been known for setting a well dressed table, but the company's bathroom, kitchen, and tile division has received less notice. With three European bath collections coming to the U.S. market, it's time for a closer look. The Asian-inspired Nagano line, for example, features a ceramic vanity unit contoured like a pagoda roof. 3 South Middlesex Avenue, Monroe, NJ 08831; 877-505-5350; villeroy-boch.com. circle 357

Waterworks

Architectural atelier Shelton, Mindel & Associates collaborated on the design of the Opus line of bathroom fittings and accessories, distinguished by its purity and sensuality. An example? Egg-shape crystal handles nest perfectly in the palm of your hand. 60 Backus Avenue, Danbury, CT 06810. 203-546-6000; waterworks.com. circle 358

Ann Sacks

Contrary to its name, the Celestial series of lavatories is sure to bring earthy elegance to the bath. All are carved from solid onyx, whose naturally occurring—hence unpredictable—swirls of color are coupled with a subtly warm luster. 8120 NE 33rd Drive, Portland, OR 97211; 800-278-8453; annsacks.com. circle 359

Poliform USA

Talk about minimalist. New to the Varenna collection, the Bacchus kitchen system by French designer Christian Liaigre is so streamlined that it dispenses with handles altogether. But the kitchen's high style doesn't put functionality on the back burner. A wide range of cabinets and components allows for a variety of installations. Luxurious materials such as wengé and Carrara marble add distinction. 150 East 58th Street, New York, NY 10155; 877-827-3662; poliformusa.com. circle 360

California Faucets

The Shower Wave reminds us of a high-tech sprinkler, with curvaceous styling complemented by functionality. The jet spray rotates a full 360 degrees for maximum flexibility. 5231 Argosy Drive, Huntington Beach, CA 92649; calfaucets.com. circle 361

Studio Becker

Known for luxury kitchens, this company recently developed an upscale line of bath fixtures and furnishings. We especially like the vessel sinks and the vanities. The former are made of Carrara marble, porcelain, or glass. The latter, though minimalist in look, boast added drawer depth, and their handles double as towel racks. 1030 Marina Village Parkway, Alameda, CA 94501; 510-865-1148; studiobecker.com. circle 362

Neo-Metro Collection

Stainless-steel fixtures definitely render a bath or kitchen modern. In the wrong hands, however, they can border on surgically sterile. We like this company's solution of bamboo accents, which endow the Cerine collection with a bit of Zen warmth. Additional woods available. P.O. Box 3527, City of Industry, CA 91744; 800-591-9050; neo-metro.com. circle 363