GROHE unveils universal solution of concealed shower installations

800 577 Hamish Kilburn
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GROHE Rapido SmartBox is now compatable with more than 170 different GROHE trim designs…

Since its initial launch in 2017, the GROHE Rapido SmartBox in combination with the SmartControl Concealed trim sets has ensured the easy installation and premium performance of concealed shower systems, helping to support the trend for minimalist interiors in both residential and commercial projects. With its “push, turn, shower” functions, it offers individual and intuitive control combined with a space-saving and slim design.

Now, the Rapido Smartbox can be used as a universal shower solution thanks to its compatibility with more than 170 different GROHE trim designs, offering architects, designers, specifiers and installers freedom of planning and efficient installation when working on projects. Plus, with an installation depth of only 75mm, the GROHE Rapido SmartBox fits into every kind of wall, even particularly narrow ones. Furthermore, its recent successful WRAS accreditation pays testament to its high standards when it comes to compliance with water regulations. The esteemed approval by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme also enables the Rapido Smartbox to be specified by housebuilders for property development.

The Rapido Smartbox now matches perfectly with three different styles of trim set; two-handle thermostats, single-lever mixers and the SmartControl Concealed, all of which are available in an array of colours, finishes, shapes and sizes. All three styles offer varying functionalities, aesthetics and price points, catering for all projects regardless of space, size and budget.

Rapido Smartbox: Efficient, universal installation

The extensive range of trim set designs which allows greater freedom over aesthetic and functionality for customers is made possible by the exciting innovations that lie behind the wall within the Rapido Smartbox. With three outlets, the Rapido Smartbox facilitates a wider range of showering options, for which previously two rough-ins would have been required. This helps to make the complexity of concealed showering more accessible for both installers and customers alike. In addition, the GROHE Rapido SmartBox makes adapters dispensable as it has ½ inch outlets to which all standard tubes can be connected. Designed with easy installation in mind, the Smartbox is equipped with inlets that connect from below, allowing a direct connection to the hot and cold water supply. Therefore the use of 90-degree fittings is eliminated.

This innovative shower mechanism also provides many other benefits for installers including:
• Subsequent adjustment of the trim set by six degrees post-installation to perfectly align with tiles and joints is possible thanks to long holes in the unit.
• Optional service stops for retrofit allow installers to gain complete access over the water supply in just a few steps. During maintenance, each of the Smartcontrol or Smartbox fittings can be closed directly and separately.
• The GROHE Rapido SmartBox can be retrofitted with a safety protection against backflow and meets the EU standard 1717 when installed with an integrated bath-fill and overflow unit.
• Easy on-site installation is made possible thanks to the helpful brass outlets which allow connection to the pipes to be installed with the use of a pipe wrench. This means mounting can be carried out quickly and easily on-site and a bench vice is not necessary.

SmartControl Concealed: Ultra-thin design for additional space in the shower

For bathrooms where space is extremely limited, GROHE offers a particularly “slim” solution: GROHE SmartControl Concealed in combination with the new GROHE Rapido SmartBox. The installation of the behind-the-wall technology combined with the ultra-slim design of the trim which projects just 43 mm from the surface of the wall, creates a minimalist look and gives the feeling of additional space in the shower. SmartControl Concealed is controlled using intuitive push-and-turn technology to individually select the preferred shower spray type and control water volume. Each shower trim, available in a round or square design, can operate up to three functions from head shower to hand shower and bath filler to body jets, for a truly customised shower that meets the demands of each individual bathroom’s needs. In addition, several styles are available: a classic Chrome finish or a discreet, elegant MoonWhite acrylic glass design. The SmartControl shower mixer trim is also available in SuperSteel and Brushed Hard Graphite and as of May 2019, there will be seven other metallic finishes on offer, complete with GROHE’s unique PVD coating which provides long-lasting colour and durability.

Two-handle thermostats: Simple operation delivers precise control

The new two-handle thermostats have been designed to offer convenient temperature and water flow control, using the same iconic visual icons as the SmartControl. They are compact, space-saving and combine precise performance with a slim, minimalist design. GROHE thermostats excel in delivering ease of operation, safety, comfort and above all, a relaxing shower experience. Equipped with leading technology, the GROHE TurboStat thermostat reacts within fractions of a second to pressure and temperature fluctuations. The mixing ratio of cold and hot water is continuously adjusted so that the temperature selected remains constant. Both head shower and hand shower can be controlled by intuitive rotation of the Aquadimmer handle, the upper control on the trim set. Turning the upper control slightly to the left will activate the hand shower, and by simply continuing to turn to the left, the water flow and power of the spray will increase. When the head shower is required, simply switch the control to the right and once again, increase volume by continuing to turn.
The two-handle thermostats are newly available in a slimmer profile, with only 43mm projection from the wall, and are offered in both round and square designs. In addition to the single-function models, models with two functions are now available, with clear pictograms used to indicate head and hand shower or shower and bath filler.

Single-lever mixers: Comfortable and simple operation for unlimited showering pleasure

GROHE single-lever mixers are designed for functionality and offer a stylish, sleek look that will prove popular with consumers. The latest additions to the range now make three-way functionality a reality, where only single and two-way systems were possible before. Users can now choose from three different types of spray pattern using the upper button on the mixer; from a powerful jet spray, to a relaxing rainshower or a practical hand shower. Meanwhile, the lower handle provides comfortable and intuitive temperature and water control. The trim sets, which have been designed to match all GROHE brassware ranges to ensure coordinated design in bathroom projects, are easy to install thanks to GROHE QuickFix, which reduces fitting time by up to 50 per cent.

Hamish Kilburn / 27.02.2019

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