The Designplus Awards by ISH deepened its recognition of a growing trend for barrier-free bathroom design by offering a special mention.
Two standout companies, Bette GmbH & Co. KG and burgbad GmbH, have been awarded Designplus Awards by ISH for their innovative products that enhance accessibility in bathroom design. Additionally, HEWI Heinrich Wilke GmbH received a special mention for its contributions to barrier-free bathroom solutions. All three brands are shaping the future of inclusive bathroom design, focusing on the seamless integration of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability to meet the growing demand for accessible spaces.
Bette GmbH & Co. KG: BetteSuno Collection
Bette GmbH & Co. KG impressed the jury with its BetteSuno collection, a collaboration with renowned designers Barber Osgerby. The collection translates lightness and elegance into minimalist bathroom design, featuring baths and washbasins that blend seamlessly with high-end bathroom architecture. Made from glazed titanium steel, the BetteSuno products are not only visually striking but also durable, lightweight, and designed to offer an enhanced experience for all users. The focus on accessibility makes BetteSuno suitable for inclusive environments, where ease of use is critical without sacrificing style.
What sets BetteSuno apart is its attention to both aesthetics and functionality, particularly for people with mobility challenges. The products’ smooth, scratch-resistant surfaces, combined with the structural strength of titanium steel, make them ideal for heavy-duty use, while their thin, lightweight nature ensures they can be easily installed in both new and renovated bathroom spaces. Each item in the collection serves a dual purpose—enhancing the bathroom’s visual appeal while offering practical, barrier-free access to everyday necessities.
Beyond accessibility, Bette’s commitment to sustainability plays a major role in the design. Their use of natural materials, combined with an innovative enameling process, guarantees longevity and environmental responsibility. BetteSuno’s products are also thermally conductive and chemical-resistant, ensuring they remain energy-efficient and safe over decades of use. This blend of inclusive design and sustainability positions BetteSuno as a pioneering collection in both functionality and environmental consciousness.
burgbad GmbH: CleanFlow and CleanFlow+ Systems
burgbad GmbH received recognition for their groundbreaking CleanFlow and CleanFlow+ systems, which simplify drainage technology while improving hygiene and functionality. Designed with barrier-free bathrooms in mind, the CleanFlow system redefines the traditional siphon by raising the odor barrier closer to the washbasin, which not only keeps the bathroom air cleaner but also makes maintenance easier. By eliminating common problems such as clogs and odors, burgbad’s system enhances the bathroom experience for users who require easy access and simple cleaning routines.
A key innovation is the CleanFlow+ closing valve, which adds an extra layer of safety by preventing water overflow. This feature is especially valuable for countertop washbasins, which often lack traditional overflow holes. With the push-to-open function, CleanFlow+ automatically releases water when it reaches a certain level, reducing the risk of accidents in barrier-free bathrooms. This feature also makes it an ideal solution for families or individuals with limited mobility, as it simplifies water management and minimizes the risk of damage.
The sustainability of burgbad’s solution is another major advantage. By using fewer cleaning agents and simplifying the overall cleaning process, the CleanFlow system reduces the need for harsh chemicals, contributing to a healthier, more eco-friendly bathroom environment. The system’s plug-and-play installation further minimizes waste by simplifying the process for installers, ensuring that the siphon remains accessible and easy to service even after installation. With its combination of functionality, sustainability, and accessibility, the CleanFlow system is a valuable contribution to modern bathroom design.
Bette GmbH & Co. KG and burgbad GmbH have demonstrated that bathroom design can be inclusive, functional, and beautiful all at once. By integrating these innovative solutions into bathroom spaces, these brands offer new opportunities for creating environments that cater to the diverse needs of users while maintaining a focus on environmental responsibility.
Special Mention: HEWI Heinrich Wilke GmbH
HEWI Heinrich Wilke GmbH received a special mention for its innovative use of the PVD process to create new, environmentally friendly surfaces in barrier-free bathroom design. These surfaces, available in luxurious metallic tones like brass, bronze, and gold, offer architects and designers maximum flexibility to personalize contemporary bathrooms. Whether in hotels, public buildings, hospitals, or private homes, HEWI’s sanitary systems and accessories combine elegance with functionality, transforming everyday spaces into personalized oases of well-being.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, HEWI’s PVD surfaces are designed with durability in mind. They are corrosion-resistant, making them ideal for high-humidity environments such as bathrooms. The surfaces also boast scratch resistance and hardness, ensuring long-lasting performance.
With a range of four new standard colors and eight special hues, HEWI’s offerings expand the creative possibilities for accessible bathroom planning, allowing designers to create sanitary spaces that blend seamlessly with surrounding architecture while maintaining accessibility standards.
HEWI’s dedication to quality craftsmanship and precision is evident in its production processes. With nearly a century of experience, HEWI has grown to become a leader in the field of accessibility, prioritizing Universal Design to meet the individual needs of people. Their innovative approach to surfaces not only enhances the aesthetic value of sanitary spaces but also reinforces HEWI’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability in modern bathroom design.
