d line’s move into barrier-free is about enabling people, and as with many of the products we design, our leap into this important new area started with a need. We realised that, with 10 per cent of the Western population suffering from a disability and with the global population living longer, our energies could be put into products that, while being attractive, could make life easier and better for all.

Our barrier-free range serves both the disabled community and helps the elderly remain in their homes in a way that is discreet and understated.

Extensive user testing has shown a great need for products in this category that look good, so we have created them with features such as user-friendly operation; different colour options for easy detection by the visually impaired; and warmth to their touch to avoid causing pain to arthritis sufferers.