Keeping an eye on trends is key when it comes to product development, which is why HiB's latest collections are all perfect for bathrooms with a smaller footprint – Joanne Cowley, product development manager at HiB, explains.
Q: Tell us about the new collections – what do they consist of?
A: This season’s launch features 13 new ranges, with small bathrooms and cloakrooms being a particular focus for us. The ongoing trend of utilising more compact spaces in the home inspired us to develop innovative space-saving solutions that are both practical and complementary to myriad bathroom designs. Our Cayla range of mirrored cabinets is perfect for en suites and cloakrooms with limited space as it only has a depth of 10cm.
Unique design is also at the heart of the launch. We’ve introduced the Bastille range that is the perfect blend of style and substance, we’ve combined modern functionality with a distinctive mesh texture that is sure to elevate any space. It’s important that the collection catered to consumer needs, so ensuring sophisticated aesthetics and offering even more versatility with finishes and colour choices on popular ranges – such as our Tranquil furniture – was vital.
Q: Why have you launched them now?
A: Timing is everything, and we needed to act on the trends we were noticing coming through the industry. Utilising statement pieces and maximalist design is picking up speed now and so shapes are key – the new collection includes a variety of soft shapes and arches that bring a more dynamic look to the bathroom.
Q: How do they differ from previous collections?
A: Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at HiB, but we’ve introduced a lot of new and exciting materials, finishes and sizes for this launch. We’ve never had a corner cabinet in a range before, which are the ideal space-saving solution. As well as that, using mesh, Black Chrome finishes and featuring bronze on mirrors isn’t something we’ve explored previously, until now.
Q: Are they in response to any particular trends?
A: Mesh and shapes. Bolder and more adventurous interior design is slowly creeping up on the industry, and we wanted this new collection to respond to that shift in aesthetic, whilst still cultivating products that are elegant and tasteful.
Q: Is there any particular aesthetic theme running through them?
A: Offering an assortment of products that cater to a variety of different consumers is important, so there is no particular aesthetic running across the whole collection. On one hand, we have made changes to core products by offering different design options but, we have also developed a range of some innovative furniture and sanitaryware in response to certain trends that we hadn’t explored before.
Q: What do they offer retailers and designers?
A: The new ranges offer plenty of benefits! The mirrors and mirrored cabinets include larger heated pads than ones currently available, these help to reduce condensation and preserves the quality of the mirror, so it doesn’t degrade as quickly over time. Whilst some demisting mirrors are already available, HiB’s larger pad covers more surface area. We also offer the option to now mix mirror finishes with brassware. This will give our consumers the opportunity to really tie their bathroom together, so it truly feels complete.
Q: What support is HiB offering retailers with the latest collections?
A: We have a dedicated sales team who support retailers on an individual basis; from POS and displays to brochures and social media, we can tailor our support to individual needs. We also offer an in-house Design Installation service where we work with retailers to design and install a showroom display of our latest collections.
Q: Are you currently looking to grow your retailer network?
A: We want to make sure that our retailer network is convenient for customers to be able to shop near to their home and location is of paramount importance. If there are retailers who service our customer demographics, that we are not currently working with, then we would certainly consider expanding our network.
Q: How optimistic are you feeling about the market looking ahead?
A: The bathroom market has faced challenges with the cost-of-living crisis and supply chain issues, however all indications from market reports seem to be positive and through continuously monitoring and responding to developing trends and ensuring our products meet the evolving needs of our customers, we are optimistic about the future.
