Hansgrohe, Laufen, Kaldewei…..the trade names read like a who’s who in international bathroom design. These and many more, including Kudos, Mira, Twyfords and Hansa, are just some of the top brands on display at Advanced Ceramics palatial showroom in Fenton Barns retail village, near North Berwick.

Advanced Ceramics is a family business, run by husband-and-wife-team David and Yvonne Souness. Yvonne is the ‘face’ of the business; her experience, CAD (computer aided design) skills, creative flair and attention to detail and planning are what turn ideas into stunningly beautiful bathrooms. A former tax specialist, David prefers to be behind the scenes where he is responsible for administration and accounts. The team also includes Andrew (installation specialist) and Gary (showroom Manager), who between them have over 40 years experience in the bathroom trade, so you can be assured of receiving the benefit of their knowledge and experience.

What began as a tile only showroom has evolved over the years to incorporate every aspect of bathroom supply and installation. Currently, the showroom displays 15 bathrooms, all very different in style – and that’s excluding stand-alone furniture collections, tiles (ceramic, porcelain, stone, slate, glass and more), mirrors, towel rails, shower components (glass doors, trays etc), lighting, taps ….collectively it’s a spectacle that has often been described as ‘an oasis in the desert’.

Re-fitting a bathroom can be a logistical nightmare, whether you are looking to pull it together yourself, or have it fully installed, Advanced Ceramics can assist in the decision-making process. Their experience and knowledge of what is available – and achievable – can turn your dream a reality. "Customers often have set ideas and expectations as to how a room can be done," says Yvonne. "Our job is to discuss their needs and aspirations and deliver options the customer may not have thought of or even realised were possible." Service like this has resulted in many testimonials, for example: ‘Thank you for making my mum’s wish come true – the bathroom is fantastic and easy to look after’ (from the daughter of Mrs Warren, who had difficulty getting other companies to understand her needs.

A home survey service is available and Yvonne carries out the house calls. "During a visit I’ll take measurements and have a chat about likes and dislikes," she says. "This gives me the opportunity to see how the bathroom can be designed to work effectively and look good too."

The combination of having their own installation team plus local sub-contractors who work with them, gives Advanced Ceramics flexibility in the service they can provide, which includes a full floor-to-ceiling installation service – including plumbing, tiling, plastering, electrical and joinery work. This takes the headache out of co-ordinating all the parts to come together. Alternatively, if you have your own trades in place, goods can be provided on a supply only basis. Whichever route you choose to follow, the level of service is always the same – guaranteed.

Prices are competitive and the ethos of the company is based on fulfilling customer needs and expectations. Being an independent family business not tied to one of two major suppliers also ensures customers get the widest possible choice of products from quality British and international bathroom manufacturers. As a result, most of their business comes from personal recommendations.

Buying a new bathroom is not something the average person does very often, so prepare to be dazzled by the latest styles and materials available – to say nothing of the technological advances made in the last few years. But the difference a luxurious new bathroom can make to your life (as well as adding value to your property) is immeasurable.