Paul Hernon has developed Vertebrae®, a vertical bathroom that will fit into just 2.2 square metres of floorspace. Vertebrae can be installed retrospectively as a compact extra bathroom in an existing home, or can be incorporated into the design of a new build.
Paul had spotted the potential and need for such a product when he worked as an architectural technician, undertaking detailed drawings on commercial projects and house extensions. He saw that a product that saved bathroom floorspace, and was easy to install and maintain, would be an asset for a new apartment, an existing home or hotel.
Vertebrae fits onto the ceiling and floor in a wet room, with the units rotating out for use. The four units consist of a toilet, basin, shower, and a storage area. All of these components can be folded up when not in use. A pre-production prototype has already been installed, tested and been working for three years.
Paul joined the Regional Talent Engines programme in 2023. He says: “The grants will put me in a strong position to turn my prototype into a real product that consumers can buy. In addition, the mentors and coaches, who have been especially chosen, will help me understand and overcome the obstacles ahead, rather than fear them.”
Paul has ordered the tooling to make the production parts and these will be assembled into the finished units ready for launch. These units will be sold direct to domestic market consumers and for developers to use in construction markets. The aim now is to acquire additional investment in order to scale the product for additional markets such as healthcare.
