About bathroom basins

About bathroom basins

by | Sep 18, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Inspiration

We recently surveyed our Members about their bathroom basin preferences. As we hoped it would, the survey proved that there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution when it comes to vanity vessels. Basins have varying aesthetic and practical values, and all come with a list of pros and cons. In this feature, we’re breaking down the basins our Members use most often.

Above bench basins took the lion’s share of votes for favourite basins: the sculptural values of a well-made basin can add a sense of drama to a space (as perfectly demonstrated in this award-winner by Darren Genner CKD Au).

New South Wales member, Cate Liedtke, selected an above counter basin to cleverly replicate the vanity detailing in this super-smart bathroom.

Under bench basins took second place, with designers citing a long list of pros for the classic sink selection: ease of cleaning, optimum bench space and – most notably – flexibility and control of bench heights make the under bench basin a stayer. This beautiful bathroom (by NSW designer, Tameka Moffat) illustrates all of these qualities.

The under-counter basin in this bathroom (by Melbourne’s Teresa Kleeman) allowed a family-friendly bench height, well-placed wall taps and ample bench space.

Inset basins prove the perfect in-between for many of our members. The additional vertical volume offered by an inset basin adds the element of drama we like in above bench basins, without complicating the overall height of the vanity and mirror above. This beautiful space by New South Wales member, Sari Munro, is an excellent example.

His and her inset basins suit the country styling of this Adelaide Hills beauty, designed by Janine Izzo.

Integrated basins are an excellent solution for many applications. With their ultra-streamlined appearance and absolute ease of cleaning, the integrated basin was a popular choice amongst KBDi members. Melbourne’s Kia Howat (GIA Bathrooms & Kitchens) chose a solid surface integrated basin for this stylish space, and it works a treat.

Brisbane’s Darren James CKD Au, CBD Au (Darren James Interiors) made a striking statement with this custom stone vanity top. The seamlessly integrated basin allowed the palette and patterning of the Chambord Grey limestone to take centre stage.

A semi-recessed basin is an ideal solution for a bathroom with size constraints. WA designer, Kerrie Richardson CBD Au (Lux Interiors) had limited space to play with in this powder room, but a semi-recessed basin saved the day.

We’d love to know why you lean towards (or avoid) particular basins. Share your wisdom in the comments below.

Features and benefits of solid surfaces

Features and benefits of solid surfaces

by | Jun 19, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Kitchen Design, Knowledge and Know How, Laundry Design

As we look for ways to impress and service our clients, it’s essential to be informed about the features, benefits and design considerations of a wide range of products. With an in-depth knowledge of surfaces and materials, you’ll be better placed to extend your design potential in kitchen and bathroom design. In our new Design Bulletins, we’re helping you build a bank of references to start your material investigations. In this month’s product highlight bulletin, we’ve partnered with Austaron Surfaces to outline the features and benefits of Staron® Solid Surfaces.

The Bulletin summarises how solid surfaces can be used in all kinds of kitchen and bathroom applications. It outlines the key considerations you need to make when designing with solid surfaces, including support and structural requirements, designing with pattern and selecting colours. Most importantly, this handy cheat-sheet sets out the compliance and warranties associated with the product, making it an invaluable resource for all good designers.

Members can access this Design Bulletin (along with our full suite of Technical and Business Bulletins) in our exclusive Members Portal. Simply click on the Members Portal tab at the top of your screen and log in to your account. (If you’ve not yet registered for an account, this process is straightforward: simply complete the details where prompted and we’ll set you up.)

Not yet a KBDi Member but keen to learn more? Complete the form below and we’ll be in touch.

KBDi Video Conference | Producing A+ Plans

KBDi Video Conference | Producing A+ Plans

by | Apr 30, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Business, Design Software, Kitchen Design, Video Conferences

Thursday | 11 June 2020 | 4pm AEST

Having worked in cabinetmaking, design and drafting for over a decade, Aaron Meyer (Meyer Vision) has experience at both ends of the concept to construction journey. Aaron knows how clear and concise technical drawings can eliminate design fails and avoid on-site hassles, and he’s eager to share his top tips for producing plan sets that meet and exceed Australian Standards.

You’ll also hear from KBDi Corporate Partners, PYTHA 3D CAD, during this session. Pytha’s tech team will be on hand to answer any queries you have about the software, and you’ll learn what they’re doing to support their existing customers during this challenging time.

Pytha

About the Presenter

Aaron Meyer entered the industry as a cabinetmaking apprentice in 2009. He loved his time on the tools, but was soon drawn to the technology used by his Adelaide employers, Workspace. He became proficient in PYTHA 3D CAD, and developed a great appreciation for the practical attributes of this concept-to-completion software. 

A move to Brisbane in 2016 allowed Aaron some new opportunities in a high-end design studio, and it was in this workplace that Aaron’s proficiency in producing high quality plans and outstanding 3D renders was taken to a whole new level. With a keen interest in design and an excellent eye for detail, Aaron is keen to share his knowledge with KBDi Members.

Watch the recording


Whoops, this video is for members only. If you have a membership, please log in. If not, you can definitely get access! Become a KBDi Member here.

Jolie handles are the details that make the design

Jolie handles are the details that make the design

by | Apr 23, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Kitchen Design, New Bathroom Products, New Kitchen Products

‘The details are not the details. They make the design’.
Charles Eames

This quotation sits front and centre in the office of Two Tease director, Kevin Tuersley, and is a perfect reflection of the quality hardware on display in his adjoining showroom. The Crows Nest studio is home to a stunning range of cabinet and architectural hardware, and designers with a great appreciation for ‘the details’ will be awed when they step inside.

The ‘Jolie’ range of cabinet handles will catch the attention of kitchen, bathroom and furniture designers.

The brand was developed by two design-savvy visionaries who saw a gaping hole in the handle market for unique, high-end hardware.

Belgian, Ben Evens and Dutchman, Ferry van Herwijnen, combined their industry experience and passion for design to bring an exceptional solid brass range to the market. Their commitment to quality is evident at every stage of production: each piece is created using traditional sand-casting methods with the highest standard of precision machinery, at the hands of world-class artisans. Products are cast and forged, milled and drilled, pitted and lacquered under the watchful eye of the Jolie team, and identified with the ‘J’ insignia.

With finishes like Old Silver, Aged Bronze, Secret Aged Gold and – of course – a timeless Black, and a comprehensive suite of architectural collections, you’re sure to find the perfect ‘jewels’ to crown your interior designs.

Most importantly, you’ll know that your stock will be immediately available from the well-stocked Sydney showroom, or airfreighted directly from Belgium within seven to ten days.

Kevin is eager to welcome KBDi designers to his Crows Nest studio. Contact Two Tease today to arrange your personal viewing.

Powder Room Clearances

Powder Room Clearances

by | Mar 6, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Knowledge and Know How

As the name would suggest, powder rooms traditionally had more to do with powdering than toileting. In eighteenth-century homes, the powder room or closet was the small space dedicated to refreshing one’s wig. When wigs fell out of fashion, the powder room became a convenient place for guests to ‘powder their noses’ and attend to their appearance. The powder chair was eventually replaced with a chamber pot and wash basin, bringing it closer to today’s definition of a powder room:

A small compartment housing a toilet and basin, generally located within close proximity to the main living areas of a home.

Powder rooms are becoming increasingly popular in Australian homes, and offer a nice opportunity for designers to have some fun with a space that is both functional and decorative. In this bulletin, we’re outlining the clearances recommended in this (often) small space, and highlighting NCC requirements associated with sanitary compartments.

Request for Technical Bulletin

Request for Technical Bulletin

Power outlets and switches in bathrooms

Power outlets and switches in bathrooms

by | Feb 7, 2020 | Bathroom Design, Knowledge and Know How, Laundry Design

Power and water can be a dangerous combination, and their relative proximity is a critical consideration to be made when designing bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. In this technical bulletin, we’ll break down the relevant legislation and outline where power outlets, switches and luminaires should be avoided in residential bathrooms. Request your copy by submitting the form below.

Request for Technical Bulletin

Request for Technical Bulletin