This is the motto under which the Melle-based fitted kitchen manufacturer invited visitors to its 2009 in-house exhibition. Focus of attention was the new tio whose slogan provided the motto for the exhibition. But it equally describes the other new developments and marketing activities that were presented to those attending. 

Concentrating on the essentials

With the tio rational has brought a kitchen onto the market that is absolutely in keeping with the times. Evolving as a European project within the Snaidero Group, of which rational is also a member, the concept has been developed by internal and external designers and creative minds who have closely examined current trends. What is described internationally with "simplify your life“, is put into practice for the kitchen by the tio. From buying-in materials through production to planning and fitting. Summarized in the core statement "all you need“, the tio offers everything required of a contemporary high-quality kitchen: modern design, personal freedom and flexibility as well as diverse functions. In outstanding quality and offering excellent value for money. And uncompromising in terms of the standards and requirements demanded by both the kitchen and customer. rational presented the tio in an exhibition that was in keeping with the concept of the kitchen entirely. As an independent brand, sales and distribution are carried out via a separate company.

Modern design

The minimalist design reflects the clear and functional shapes of the tio. Modern but at the same time comfortable and inviting. The architecture is succinctly sectionalized by the horizontal and vertical linework. Based on a modular system that is optimally suited to ergonomic designs, easy accessibility and the perfect use of space. Various reach-in recesses ensure convenient opening throughout the kitchen, thereby producing the handle-less aesthetics. Virtually invisible, these recesses are horizontally or vertically placed. On tall units this makes full-height doors with an unbroken doorline possible, resulting in a harmonious overall appearance. Slender side panels and worktops, no more than 13 mm thick, accentuate the well-balanced proportions. The trend colour white is offered in a choice of current materials. Melamine, soft lacquer and high gloss lacquer as well as pine veneer. Complemented by a combination of laminate with glass-look edge. Graphite in a high gloss lacquer finish is offered as an alternative colour. Worktops matching in colour and design are available in laminate, composite and granite. Core ash creates a warm, natural ambience throughout the entire kitchen. Fabrics and patterns for the seat cushions, specially created by the designer Ken Scott, underline the comfort factor of this kitchen and add to the unmistakably fresh and uncomplicated look.

Personal freedom

tio is based on a carefully thought-out system that radically simplifies the kitchen and considerably reduces the time needed for planning and implementation. With just a few variants and elements it offers freedom of design and infinite possibilities for personalization. What's more, it can be easily extended, converted and re-designed. Thus the tio is welcoming to new lifestyles and future generations. Matching tables, seating and shelving systems in core ash turn the tio into a comfortable living space and a kitchen that becomes the communication centre of the home.

Manifold functions

The tio allows diverse functions to be skilfully integrated. Fittings and accessories are both high quality and versatile. Intelligent solutions not only offer comfort and convenience but also multiple possibilities for use. Everything has been specially developed for the tio and is integral to the concept. Here core ash plays a key role. As a high quality, natural material for interior fittings that satisfy the most discerning of tastes. Many of the exemplary organization systems and functional elements can be used in both the core ash pull-outs or midway shelving. Wall shelving in the same material produces storage space in new areas. Shelving systems can even be extended to create sideboards and room-dividers. These are complemented by matching chairs, stools and practical accessories. The attractive aesthetics of the materials used are continued in the drawers and pull-outs. Even corner units with the "Le Mans pull-out system“ come in a decorative core ash finish. It goes without saying that drawers and pull-outs feature cushioned, convenient self-closing in the form of softmotion technology. On request, this feature can be supplied for all doors as well. Special elements in stainless steel integrate multiple functions in the midway area. From the espresso coffee machine to the container for fresh garden herbs.

Real added value

Great importance was attached to the responsible use of resources. This includes using water-based paints and lacquers as well as wood certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC). The carcase material complies with the strict CARB standards. With values that lie 50 % below the European E 1 standard. Energy-saving, long-life LEDs provide the lighting. A waste bin system is available to facilitate waste separation. Quality-monitored production ensures a consistently high quality, lasting value and longevity. Its concept, coupled with the many synergies available within the Snaidero Group, allows the tio to offer an excellent price-performance ratio that ensures true added value for the customer.

An extended offering

In addition to the tio, this year once again rational showed some further new developments to round off its offering in a purposeful way. This includes in particular rational's complete change-over from micro lacquer to soft lacquer. Introduction of these new water-based lacquers demonstrates rational's commitment to eco-friendly methods and materials in keeping with increased environmental awareness. A trend that is gaining in importance right across the globe, bringing with it ever higher standards and requirements. What's more the soft lacquers are characterized by new, flattering aesthetics that appeal not only to the eye but also to the sense of touch for a completely new tactile experience. Six new shades have been added to the range, giving customers a total of 20 tasteful colours to choose from. Suitable for achieving both bold accents and contrasts or harmonious combinations, rational also offers the new colours for its high gloss lacquer range. For the first time customers can now choose between soft or high gloss lacquers from a range of 18 identical colours. Thus, rational once again demonstrates its competence in this sector. Year after year in true trailblazer fashion, rational introduces high grade lacquers in contemporary shades which succeed in making unmistakable designs possible. At the exhibition rational presented 13 mm thick worktops. An added benefit of this is that all worktops now allow the flush fitting of sinks. Two factors that play a crucial role in design-oriented kitchens and are essential for modern-look aesthetics. What's more the variety of worktops has also been extended to include a number of new decorative finishes. Of course, rational has also shown that it is constantly developing its offering further by introducing new variants of interior fittings and units alongside innovative technical features. With interior pull-outs, in which now also the pull-out panel can be supplied in whitened or blackened glass, rational has once again upgraded its interior fittings. The colour and material concept of the interior fittings is thus being consistently pursued. Moreover, rational offers new variants in corner units with the "Le Mans pull-out system“, a revised waste bin system for waste separation and improved hardware technology for wall unit flaps. rational is backing up these new developments with a raft of marketing activities, designed to promote sales and offer its trade partners a completely future-safe range.