NEWS & INSIGHTS

At Trojan, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. For 50 years, we’ve been designing and manufacturing quality bathing solutions right here in the UK. This year, we’re proud to introduce our latest breakthrough – the Living Showers range, featuring the revolutionary ‘Bath Out Shower In’ (BOSI®) system. 

Developed in partnership with RBT Bathrooms after five years of research and refinement, the Living Showers range represents a new chapter in accessible, stylish, and independent bathing. As a bath and shower manufacturer, it’s the next evolution of our trusted Bathe Easy collection, and one that’s designed to truly transform how people experience their bathrooms. 

To delve deeper into the journey behind the BOSI®, we sat down with Robert Bolton, the designer and inventor behind the Living Showers concept, discussing his inspiration, challenges, and what this innovation means for the future of adaptive bathing. 

After leaving school, I began a five-year engineering apprenticeship in production engineering, which gave me a great grounding in manufacturing. From there, I moved into design, becoming a draftsman before joining bathroom company, Fordham Plastics, as a development engineer. That’s where my journey into the world of bathrooms began. 

In 1983, my business partner and I started Bronte Whirlpools, where we patented several unique innovations, including the Maxi-Drain V-shaped venturi, which has since become an industry standard. I bought out my partner in 1999 and continued running the business until I sold it in 2024.  

Five years before that, I founded RBT Bathrooms to focus on developing the Living Showers range. By the time Bronte was sold, the BOSI® prototypes were ready, and I approached David Mosley at Trojan to collaborate. It’s proved an excellent partnership – and we’re now at the exciting stage of launching the BOSI® to market. 

It actually started back in 2008 at KBB, when I noticed that every shower cubicle looked the same – none of them seemed to consider the bather’s needs. I knew then that if I were to design something, it had to be different. Fast forward to 2019, and with the growing demand for accessible bathing solutions, the timing felt right. That’s when the BOSI® – the ‘Bath Out Shower In’ system – really took shape. 

This type of project is one you keep coming back to. Over time, you see the market evolve, identify new needs, and keep refining ideas.  

In 2020, with an ageing population and increased focus on independence at home, I knew it was time to go full steam ahead. The motivation came naturally, every challenge revealed a new solution, and that’s what drives an engineer at heart. 

I’m getting older myself, and like many, I still want a modern, stylish bathroom. I began the challenges that come with age or reduced mobility and showering. 

From there, I mapped out the most ergonomic positions for every component of a shower. That process meant function and form developed together – the result is the BOSI®. It isn’t “style over function”; it’s style with function.

The tapered seat is a small but powerful detail. It lets users sit comfortably into the corner, which is typically a wasted space, without compromising the standing area. As it’s securely, built-in, it feels like part of the shower rather than an afterthought.  

For those with mobility needs, it’s a feature that brings real peace of mind, and for others, it’s simply more convenient and comfortable. 

Absolutely. One key innovation is the integrated shower valve and head, which allows for easier installation and enables users to shower at a 45-degree angle, making the best use of space.  

Even the shelf positioning was carefully considered; having everything within easy reach enhances both comfort and safety. It’s probably the first shower that truly embraces ergonomic design from the ground up. 

Working with Trojan and Mantaleda meant we could take the BOSI® concept and make it production- and installation-friendly. Their experience in manufacturing accessible bathing solutions helped to refine everything; from the non-slip tray finish to the modular structure that allows a one-day installation. 

From the start, we wanted everything to be included. The modular design and factory-fitted components make installation simple and consistent, with minimal disruption.  

Installers only need to make a few quick connections to pre-plumbed fittings, which saves time and ensures reliability. 

Because the installer experience directly affects the homeowner’s experience. If we make the process easier for installers, they can deliver a consistent, high-quality result every time. Everyone wins; the professional, the homeowner, and the brand. 

Originally, the BOSI® was designed for individuals who needed a little extra support to remain independent. But it’s evolved into something much broader. Its modern aesthetic and functional features benefit everyone – from young children to older adults.  

Whether it’s offering a safe seat for a toddler, a practical spot for personal grooming, or support for someone with reduced mobility, it’s a shower that grows with your family.

It means everything. I’m at the stage in life where I understand the challenges that come with aging – both personally and through caring for loved ones. Designing a product that helps people maintain dignity, comfort, and confidence is deeply rewarding.  

Experience teaches you what truly matters, and that’s what shaped the BOSI®.

Immensely proud. People are living longer, and being able to stay in their own homes makes such a difference to wellbeing. Knowing that a British-designed and manufactured product can help people do that, and do it beautifully, is incredibly fulfilling. 

The BOSI® is just the beginning. We’ll continue to evolve the range and explore new ways to improve independence and accessibility.  

I have a few other designs in the pipeline that I believe could change the bathroom market again -so yes, watch this space!  

As the population grows and ages, the accessible bathing market is becoming increasingly important. And with over 16.1 million people in the UK reporting a disability in the 2022/2023 financial year, the Living Showers range, and the unique BOSI® system, provide an easy-to-install, modern solution that caters to a diverse range of needs.  

In Trojan’s 50th year, we’re proud to continue our legacy of innovation as a shower manufacturer and continue to offer products that empower people to live independently, comfortably, and with confidence. 

With five shower solutions that prioritise accessibility, safety, and style, the Living Showers collection represents the next step in our mission to remove barriers to bathing for everyone. 

Learn more about the BOSI® Bath Out Shower In system and how it can future-proof any bathroom.