If you’re a UK-based interior designer looking to partner with an industry specialist who can cater to every aspect of your next big project, then FCI London should be your first choice.
Home to over 700 world-renowned furniture brands and with an end-to-end service geared towards creating exceptional homes, this innovative company is at the top of their game.
Founder and CEO, Firdaus Nagree, brings you his insights on the world of fine décor and why it’s an exciting time to be in this field.
Driven by a tactical mindset, Firdaus started his career as a strategy consultant for Accenture and began trading in property from the age of 21. With his entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for “doing” his path led him to other projects, affording him positions as an investor, board member and CEO for multiple concerns.
Along the way, his vision to expand his parent’s small furniture shop took flight, jettisoning the business into one of England’s stalwarts of fine contemporary design. Now an international concern with branches in the UAE, Nigeria and India, the original 5,000 sq ft shop is now a 30,000 sq ft, award-winning showroom – the largest in London.
With a focus on quality, FCI London offers a range of luxury, internationally recognised furniture that can be customised to suit your needs. And, with our finger on the pulse on new industry trends, our offerings are constantly expanding, bringing fresh innovations to our discerning clientele.
From picking out an elegant extendable dining table to finding a sofa in the right size and style, our highly qualified team of designers, showroom consultants, joiners, warehouse experts and installers is available to assist you every step of the way. So, everything is accessible to you under one roof.
One of our superpowers is relationship management. Yes, service is key, but every good design business offers that. The FCI London’s approach to adding value is through listening and understanding what a client thinks they want and then converting that brief into something that pushes the bar out a little further.
Comfort zones are there to be transcended and we’re in the business of breaking old habits, introducing new possibilities and expanding the boundaries of fine design.
We believe that people should be happy in their homes, so filling personal spaces with well-considered furnishings is a given. But on top of that, we have a technological edge. Everything we do is geared towards keeping up with developments that bring ease to your lifestyles, and we make sure that our partnerships with industry professionals includes them in the loop.
Our B2B offerings form an intrinsic part of our business and the affiliations we forge with qualified interior designers are important to us.
From worthwhile trade discounts to free consultations where we’ll help with things like conceptualising a wardrobe or finding accessories, we’re 100% on board with every project.
We also offer CPD training courses that cover integrated SMART home technology and the use of AI. So, whatever we do is geared towards helping them broaden their skill set and elevate their services. We even have a specially designed software package that will help them run their businesses efficiently.
Consider us the ally you need to get you up, running, and properly sustained.
Our expansion into the UAE has been extremely exciting, adding to our global presence and widening our skill set. It’s been a process that has involved dipping into our pool of expertise and allowing our outstanding team members to take the lead.
We’re lucky to have people who are on-board, diligent and understand exactly what we do and how we do it. So, despite the challenges of working in different time zones and with diverse cultures, we’re making it happen.
Integrating AI into our services has also been a significant achievement, allowing us to streamline our processes and facilitate an easier design journey for our clientele.
After the “safe” profiles that were fuelled by Covid, people are finally coming out of their shells and statement pieces, bold colours and out-of-the box designs are trending. Things like bubble sofas are big. And even utility areas are becoming playful parts of the home.
But the underlying truth of all design is that, while fads come and go, creating a timeless aesthetic that still embodies the ultimate in style will always be a priority if you’re investing your money well. So, embrace the expanding interest in retro themes, antiques and vintage chic, find materials that are durable and create something you can live with long-term.
Without a doubt, eco-friendliness is becoming a key factor in any design process. From ensuring that your resources are sustainably sourced to securing low-impact manufacturing, packaging, and transportation methodologies, we’re all responsible for realising positive change.
Aside from that, technology is big and will continue to influence our choices and evolve our expectations. We’re also seeing a move towards smaller living areas, making floor space prime real-estate. This will undoubtedly inspire new innovations that fit in with a more compact home.
At the end of the day, the evolution of design is all about finding new ways to elevate our lifestyles. And that’s the fun in it.
At FCI London, we’re always excited about what we do and expanding our business internationally gives us an opportunity to share our love for design with the world. But we’re also passionate about paying our success forward and are heavily involved in several CSR activities, supporting two NGOs that make a huge difference to the causes they serve. YUVA Unstoppable aims to transform the lives of underprivileged children by providing them with both food and sanitation in their school environments. WeForest works relentlessly to protect and sustain our woodlands, ensuring that our ecosystems are properly maintained. This contributes significantly towards our fight against global warming and preserves one of the biggest resources used in interior design. Both are extremely important to us, and we feel honoured to play a small part in their endeavours.
Being one of SBID’s accredited partners connects us to a wider group of industry professionals, all of whom are committed to upholding the highest level of industry standards.
Not only does this endorse FCI London’s credibility as a discerning, professional business but it also holds all members responsible for conserving a benchmark of excellence, guaranteeing our clients the best possible service across the full spectrum of our trade.
We are delighted to be a part of this esteemed network and find great value in the select opportunities that the SBID offers us.
About FCI London
FCI was established in 1985 and has grown from a 5000 sq ft showroom to one of the largest designer furniture and lifestyle houses in the UK. We are an independently owned family business with deep roots in furniture design, manufacture and interiors. We have one of the largest contemporary furniture showrooms in the UK, displaying the most exclusive quality pieces from the world’s most exclusive quality designers.
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Pedrali, the leading Italian company that produces contemporary furniture for contract and residential, has recently inaugurated its new workspaces at the Headquarters in Mornico Al Serio (Bergamo). The project, named Pedrali Collaborative Space, was designed by the Milanese architectural firm Park Associati, which in 2022 oversaw the renovation and expansion of the company restaurant.
From the very name – Pedrali Collaborative Space – it is clear that the guiding principle behind the design was to create a contemporary, dynamic and flexible workspace, developed through the modulation of an innovative layout that focuses on the comfort of the people who use these spaces everyday.
The last few years have been rethinking the workspaces with new cross, hybrid areas that move away from the static nature of traditional offices. The modern workspace is no longer just a work area, but a community space that fosters company culture and encourages interaction, sharing, and collaboration. The result is a mix of functional areas that serve as a setting for Pedrali products which, placed inside a neutral container, are displayed and used in perfect harmony with the architectural volume thanks to the refined selection of models, fabrics and colours.
Within the Pedrali Collaborative Space well-being and innovation go hand in hand. The furnishings can be customised and equipped with high-end mechanisms capable of adapting to the user. This adaptability is not just about comfort but also about giving individuals full control and management of their workspace, improving emotional quality, stimulating creativity and teamwork, and responding to the demands of the digital age.
The evolution of work dynamics in recent years has led to a transformation of the workspaces into a place for social interaction, idea generation and community building. Its purpose is to facilitate collaboration, creativity, and learning. Fluidity and sharing are therefore identified as the key concepts that animate the 560 sqm of the Pedrali Collaborative Space, divided into three main areas: the contemporary workspace with multiple workstations, the meeting areas and the breakout rooms.
The terracotta-colour, a common thread linking the new workspaces to the company restaurant project, catches the attention of those who cross the threshold of the entrance to the workspaces building, whose access area is outlined by a double-height space, providing a sense of verticality thanks to the elegant and majestic presence of 25 Isotta pendant lamps by Basaglia Rota Nodari.
The smart office is characterised by 32 workstations spread over the entire floor, defined by the practical Arki-Table Adjustable Desk, which guarantees maximum comfort and ergonomics thanks to its heightadjustable top. The components of office furniture are evolving to achieve better performance, with the primary goal of enhancing people’s well-being. Through a mobile application installed on smartphones, users can save personalized settings for the Arki-table adjustable desk and set personal wellness goals, allowing for a combination of standing and sitting work.
A sound absorbing panel upholstered in fabric can divide the space between different workstations. Accompanying the Arki-Table adjustable Desk is Polar, designed by Jorge Pensi Design Studio, a task chair that ensures maximum customization in terms of ergonomics. Characterised by an organic form Polar is designed to adapt to the human body, ensuring the well-being of its users. A dynamic object with a clear identity, it can fit into a variety of settings such as workspaces and multipurpose spaces. The chair guarantees excellent comfort thanks to its weight-activated, synchro-tilt mechanism that is able to regulate the degree of tilting autonomously according to the user’s body weight. The backrest consists of an injected-moulded nylon frame with a breathable, flexible polyester mesh for a sense of transparency. The injection moulded polypropylene support at the lumbar area may be adjusted to the user’s needs. The seat, in polyurethane foam, can move via a special mechanism that allows its depth to be adjusted. Polar is available as a chair or armchair. The latter features minimalist armrests that can be adjusted in height, depth and width, and can be orientated to suit the user’s needs. The performance of the mechanisms makes the Polar armchair conform to type A of the UNI EN 1335-1:2020 standard, ensuring ergonomics principals and wellbeing in the work environments. Boxie, the wheeled storage system by Claudio Dondoli & Marco Pocci, completes the space.
During the working day, meetings are crucial moments that can affect the quality of projects, providing opportunities for enrichment and comparison. The Pedrali Collaborative Space hosts three well-organized meeting rooms, delimited by glass walls that harmoniously allow for dialogue while maintaining the privacy required by the context. In the central area, two rooms feature the linearity and rigour of the Arki-Table, surrounded by the Nym Soft armchairs by CMP Design in the first setting and the Laja armchairs, designed by Alessandro Busana, in the second – both with swivel bases. Elinor collection by Claudio Bellini characterises the third and last meeting area: the task armchair Elinor low back, with its dynamism, flexibility and attention to user’s well-being, synthesises the different attitudes and ways of experiencing the workspace of the future, is placed around the Elinor table, a multitasking product characterised by premium aesthetic credentials that meets the needs of a constantly-changing market. Elinor low back, characterised by a lower backrest and sinuous lines, is designed to seamlessly fit both in meeting rooms and executive offices. This task chair has an elegant height-adjustable base in die-cast aluminium. A weight-activated synchro-tilt mechanism integrated in the upholstered seat allows the tilting to be self-regulated according to the user’s body weight, ensuring that the back is kept in the most comfortable position. Other strong points of Elinor low back are its comfort and body hugging feeling, thanks to the polyurethane injected foam on both seat and back. A light, slimline, strong armrest in die-cast aluminium defines the base of the backrest with its fluid line, accentuating the attention to detail that characterises this collection.
Ypsilon Connect by Jorge Pensi Design Studio is a standout feature in all three spaces. This elegant and functional free standing, sound absorbing space divider offers extensive customisation possibilities, defining new layouts and managing spaces more effectively, adapting workspaces to corporate training or meeting room situations. On each side of the panel it is possible to add accessories such as whiteboards, shelves, coat hangers or, thanks to a special provision for the passage of sockets, enable the attachment of a screen.
To promote social interaction, the demand for breakout areas has grown, providing spaces for relaxation or breaks with colleagues. Toa table by Robin Rizzini, lightweight and minimalist, is characterised by a solid die-cast aluminium frame in a fluid geometric design, suitable to support large sized tops. Moreover, being endlessly modular in length and width, it’s the perfect choice for workspaces, shaping different settings such as “light” offices and executive rooms. Inside the Pedrali Collaborative Space, surrounded by Nemea chairs by CMP Design, Toa presents itself as a large convivial table with the dual function of a break or informal meeting space.
A more intimate area is provided by Buddyhub by Busetti Garuti Redaelli, a functional and efficient furnishing element, characterised by a wrap-around, sound absorbing panel, available in two heights, that envelops the seat in a sort of enclosed niche. Buddyhub is available as an armchair or sofa, and can be used as a quiet, sound-proofed temporary workstation. It is created to meet the needs of open spaces typical of a contemporary working environment. It is also possible to place two units opposite each other and to join them by means of a panel, thus creating a four-seat box suitable for an informal meeting, a phone booth or a break out area. The functionality of this element is further enhanced by the possibility of adding sockets both to the armchair and box versions, so as to be able to connect a charger. In this case, it is also possible to provide for a screen holder, a peninsula table or a shelf. The soft lines and clean design of the Buddy coffee tables by Busetti Garuti Redaelli add the finishing touches to the space.
In the Pedrali Collaborative Space special attention was paid to selected materials. The staircase ramps and the handrails are covered in natural oak, the same material used for the entire flooring of the workspace, which is floating and radiant with wooden square tiles. Another relevant issue in an open-plan workspace is the sound insulation. Running along the entire perimeter of the architectural structure – both along the glass and masonry walls – is a system of acoustic curtains. These curtains not only serve to soundproof the space but also allow for the management of natural light, creating a harmonious atmosphere and contributing to the perception of a neutral and homogeneous envelope. Also on the ceiling, a system of sound absorbing panels on tracks fosters concentration by creating an acoustically protected workspace.
Energy efficiency is a relevant focus in the project by Park Associati. First of all, a conspicuous thermal and acoustic insulation has been applied to the ceiling of the space to be heated. Secondly, a structurally integrated radiant system has been installed in the floating floor, providing both winter heating and summer cooling. This system is coupled with controlled mechanical ventilation for air exchange and summer dehumidification. The necessary thermal and cooling energy is produced by a heat pump with high seasonal efficiency. With a view to constantly improving the company in the wake of sustainability, the energy required to power these new workspaces is also generated by photovoltaic panels installed on the factories.
Inside the Pedrali Headquarters in Mornico al Serio, the Pedrali Collaborative Space stands for a place for exchanges and comparisons where well-being and comfort blend seamlessly with the fluidity and openness of the spaces: the same spaces that, every day, host everyday scenes from the Pedrali community.
About Pedrali
Pedrali is an Italian company that produces contemporary chairs, tables, furnishings and lamps for contract and residential. The collection is the result of a careful and accurate research aimed to create functional and versatile industrial design products made of metal, plastic materials, wood as well as upholstery. Furniture exclusively manufactured in Italy through a design process which combines tradition and innovation, engineering excellence and creative brilliance. The “100% Made in Italy” philosophy becomes real through the internal production in the headquarters of Mornico al Serio (Bergamo), where the automated warehouse designed by architect Cino Zucchi is based, and in the wooden furniture factory in Manzano (Udine).
Amin Goliri, Senior Interior Designer at Alkafaa Engineering Consultant has given his insights into the industry.
Greeting to all of you, my name is Amin Goliri, I am from South Sudan, an Interior designer with more than ten years’ experience in Residential and Commercial interior design; especially interior design for office space, Professional in Architectural interior concept design and 3D modelling using design software’s site supervision experiences of over ten years. More than four years’ experience in Architectural photography. Recently I had a master degree in Art Design from Harbin University in China. Now I am working in UAE with Alkafaa Engineering Consultant as Senior Interior Designer.
In the beginning, I thank God for the talent of the interior designer. The designer’s profession or working as an interior designer in my personal opinion is a message and a humanitarian service that we provide to society as a whole, because the nature of our work as designers is to create the interior space and coordinate the interior elements so that a person can carry out his activity comfortably within the space.
In fact, all the elements and stages of design are very important to me, but if we want to be specific, I think that the initial stages of the interior design process are among the most enjoyable things I enjoy, especially the stage of collecting ideas and initial drawings.
The past year has included many beautiful years that have passed me through beautiful professional events, but there is what I call the most wonderful, which is the design of a new residence for newlyweds inside their parents’ house. The challenge was that the area of the apartment was very small, but despite that, I was able to provide all their basic requirements inside the apartment.
I think that all projects are preferable to me, whether they are residential, commercial, or administrative, but to be honest, I always lean toward administrative projects (office design), for two basic reasons. The first reason is because this is what I specialise in. The second reason is that you are dealing with constant variables during the design stages and the speed of completion.
I believe that all aspects of the work in the interior design process are not without difficulties, but if we study each stage well there will be no problem, but if we want to determine the most difficult stage, it is the implementation stage, for sure.
There are many things I wish I knew, but the most important of them is the moment I discovered that the design process requires a very long time to think deeply about the sequence of tasks, and it also requires a lot of mental effort to imagine the design and materials required for the project.
If I had the opportunity to offer advice to designers, I think I would tell them that we are one of the pillars of civil service for a society, and our job is to make human life better within the environment in which they live, so we must always develop ourselves better so that we can carry out these mighty tasks.
Being an interior designer, I have witnessed the technological development and the speed of the business market, especially in the field of modern technology, industry, modern technology for building materials, etc. I believe that in the coming years, the field of interior design will be more developed and will provide the best modern technologies and innovative solutions for all types of engineering projects.
In fact, it is an indescribable feeling, but I will try to summarise it in a simple way. Firstly, being a certified interior designer is the biggest dream that has come true in my professional career. Secondly, I believe that my membership in the association is the gateway to reaching the international level in the field of interior design. Thirdly, my membership means gaining new experiences at the hands of great designers in the field.
About ALKAFAA ENGINEERING CONSULTANT
Alkafaa was established to provide engineering consultancy services at a high level of quality based on practical experience spanning more than 15 years with designing more than 500 projects in Fujairah. Alkafaa works on the use of the latest technologies in architectural design and project management, which are implementation of the lean principles, and the Project Management Institute (PMI) in supervising of projects.
Damien Breitner, Flagship Store Manager at Calligaris has given his insights into the industry.
Calligaris collections combine the excellence, functionality and elegance of Made in Italy design. We focus on the importance of living spaces as intimate and personal containers; furnishings that enrich the spaces of everyday life are able to instil harmony, beauty and elegance in the home a unique and personal place. At Calligaris, we believe that furniture should be as functional as it is elegant. When it comes to contemporary design for real life, Calligaris is where you’ll always feel at home.
Italian design since 1923, Calligaris was born in Manzano as a small craft workshop founded by Antonio Calligaris for the production of the Marocca chair, which was characterised by a wooden frame and straw seat, a typical artefact of the area. From the 1970s the family businesses developed in a more industrial sense becoming a leader in a geographical area known worldwide as the “chair district”, and began to lay the foundations for the conquest of other markets. The first catalogue appears and the export begins. From this moment Calligaris started distributing its products to the final consumers through local dealers both in the Italian and European territories. In 2008 it opened the first Flagship Store in Milan, which is followed by the ones in Paris and London.
It creates a sense of home and belonging to the interiors. We know that every space and home-maker’s needs are different, so we offer a wide range of products and made-to-order options to make sure you find what you like. Whether it’s a dining area with an extendable table that is always ready to welcome friends and family, the comforting call of the sofa, the dreamy prospect of your bed at the end of a long day, the home working area where ideas and inspiration can flow freely, when it comes to contemporary design for real life, Calligaris is where you’ll always feel at home.
At Calligaris, we believe that furniture should be as functional as it is elegant. Innovative design should be engineered to offer real-life solutions and essential comfort. Even after 100 years of experience in the industry, we continue to experiment with materials and finishes. We believe in quality. We choose top-range materials, we research new formulations to offer the finest performances and durability, and we submit our products to rigorous test sequences to obtain the necessary certifications in accordance with the highest standards.
Pioneer of introducing ceramic as a material to the tabletop experience for more than 20 years, our well-known ceramic table tops are the best example of practicality. Calligaris ceramics are obtained by coupling a porcelain stoneware slab with a tempered float glass. The result is a surface with exceptional scratch, shock, stain, thermal and chemical resistance features. It is easy to clean and hygienic, does not absorb liquids and does not release harmful substances. After all, our ability to embrace change is perhaps the most enduring characteristic of the Calligaris brand.
The Calligaris Trade Department, based in our London Flagship Store, provides the trade network with the best knowledge and experience of our brand. Designers have the opportunity to open a trade account with us, enjoying exclusive offers and special prices. They have access to an exhaustive list of catalogues, pricelists and digital files to incorporate into their projects. While the interior design client could spend weeks ordering swatches and samples online or in stores, we will easily provide them with fabrics, and leather samples to look through. The greatest ideas are often the result of collaborated work, for this reason, for every project, Calligaris offers its 100 years of experience to support and provide the best furniture advice to the industry. Because ideas are never enough.
Calligaris turns 100! A hundred-year journey that has turned what was originally a small chair manufacturer into the large international production reality that it is today. From the first seat weaving machine to the production of furniture and furnishings that make every home a warm and welcoming place. Calligaris stands out for its commitment to craftsmanship, adding touches of elegance and sophistication to its homes.
On the occasion of its 100th anniversary, Calligaris returns to impress with a new collection able to combine excellence, functionality and elegance of Made in Italy design. The original collaboration with Pininfarina has been renewed. The new Orbital table pushes even further the passion for innovation, harmony and beauty without losing its winning aesthetic and functional characteristics. The new Orbital is the result of a process of rationalisation of the lines that have made the shapes even lighter and contemporary despite a widening of the surface of the top with the aim of enhancing the uniqueness of the mechanism. Definitively 2023 has been a year of great success for Calligaris.
Times are changing, and grey is no longer the darling of the design world. Instead, warmer and bolder colour schemes have taken over. The reason for this shift is simple: people are tired of the lifeless, cold feeling that grey can evoke. They want spaces that feel welcoming and inviting. Warm shades like terracotta, rust, and mustard create a cosy atmosphere, while bold hues like emerald green and deep blue add a touch of drama.
Lighting trends generally imply that the big light era is over, and that wall and floor lamps are the most important now. They create different shadows and corners in the room, offering you different atmospheres to relax, enhancing communication, and relations. Nowadays, it’s all about mixing and matching different styles and colours to create a unique and personalised look for your room. The space that perfectly reflects your style.
Interior design has drastically evolved over the past decades. This evolution reflects how homes have changed to accommodate families’ needs and preferences. While many of today’s most popular interior design elements have roots in mid-century style, innovations continue. Sustainability, technology integration, maximising small spaces, and versatility for remote work are currently inspiring trends. Interior design will continue evolving as lifestyles, demographics, and technologies advance. No matter the decade, effective design always stems from understanding human behavior and optimizing homes to support occupants’ lifestyles and well-being.
As part of the Calligaris family, we are determined to make a difference on the issue of sustainability. The Greenbow – our sustainable agenda program aims to structure and organize corporate activities dedicated to this theme by acting on two fronts: on the Product, creating green furnishings, composed of natural and recycled materials and thinking about circularity, and on the Company system, for a sustainable approach to product development, production and distribution.
With Greenbow, Calligaris Group wants to give substance to sustainability initiatives: “We do not immediately promise you 100% green in everything, but certainly 100% commitment and transparency to make our contribution to a sustainable future”.
For us, the SBID Accreditation represents the benchmark for professional standards, knowledge & experience across the industry. As a globally recognised marque of achievement, the SBID accreditation signifies the highest level of professional competence, along with a commitment to upholding industry standards. Being part of the membership network provides us with an extensive community of interior design professionals operating across the commercial and residential sectors, throughout the UK and beyond, enhancing our trade network and gaining access to exclusive opportunities.
About Calligaris
Four distinct product ranges, each with its own design ethos, form the new 300 strong collection launch at Arteriors. Spanning across furniture, lighting, accessory and wall décor designs which seamlessly merge the boundaries of art and interiors. Combining inspiration sourced as much from the natural world as from the history of art and architecture, items are designed to reinterpret classic forms for a modern, luxury clientele.
Refined Geometry: A selection of products which borrow inspiration in shape from Classical architecture, with sweeping curves and arches, and triangular detailing reminiscent of temple tympanums. Use of materials including sumptuously-smooth leather and elaborately detailed wood veneers fashions a mid-century look which is proving timeless.
Deep Luxe: Luxury in its truest form is presented through plush materials and extravagant, yet understated details which take inspiration from sophisticated European interiors. Rich velvet textures, subtle golden detailing on furniture and accessories, and magnificent statement lighting all bestow elegance.
Material Contrasts: Designs selected to sit beautifully as pieces of art in their own right create spectacular contradictions when placed together. Mixed materials form a juxtaposition of the man-made and natural, with finely machined metals, imperfect natural woods, high-sheen resins and organic ceramics.
Artisanal Modern: Timeless design with a polished twist is central to this collection. Expressive detailing and thoughtful shapes bring a fresh perspective to designs inspired by the early 20th century – traditional winged-back armchairs, art-deco inspired desks, and opulent chandeliers recall a familiar yet innovative aesthetic, each design combining artisanal and traditional techniques.
Highlights from the collection presented within Arteriors’ new showroom at Chelsea Harbour’s Design Centre.
About Arteriors
Arteriors began 35 years ago as a boutique accessories company and has evolved into a global force in the design industry. With premier lighting, furniture and accessories, Arteriors redefines interior spaces through unexpected creativity and meticulous craftsmanship.
Liang & Eimil, a name synonymous with sophistication and innovation in the world of interior furnishings, proudly introduces its latest triumph—the all-new Chair and Table Collection. With a decade of unrivaled expertise in crafting exquisite furniture, Liang & Eimil once again elevates interior design to new heights with this stunning addition to their repertoire.
Crafted to perfection, the Chair and Table Collection is a testament to Liang & Eimil’s unwavering commitment to blending style, comfort, and functionality. This collection features an array of modern yet timeless pieces, each designed to seamlessly integrate into a variety of interior aesthetics.
Armchairs in Neutral Shades with Solid Wooden Legs: Embrace understated elegance with our armchairs, available in a palette of neutral shades. The addition of solid wooden legs infuses warmth and sophistication into any space.
Dining Chairs with Versatile Leg Options: Choose from dining chairs with solid wooden legs for a classic touch or steel legs for a modern twist. This versatility allows you to create a dining area that perfectly suits your style.
Bar Stools with Backrest: Our bar stools provide not only comfort but also support with their backrest design. Elevate your kitchen or bar area with these stylish and functional seating solutions.
Faux Marble Side Tables and Coffee Tables: The collection introduces a range of faux marble side tables and coffee tables with glass tops. These eye-catching pieces effortlessly combine luxury and practicality.
Upholstery in Neutral Shades and Autumnal Colors: The chair upholstery is available in a selection of neutral shades for a timeless look. For those seeking a touch of autumnal warmth, explore hues of rust orange and ochre that evoke the spirit of the season.
In addition to the Chair and Table Collection launch, Liang & Eimil is thrilled to announce two exciting developments:
Decorex Exhibition: Some of the exquisite pieces from our new collection will be proudly exhibited at Decorex in London Olympia this October on stand C33. This prestigious event is a must-visit for design enthusiasts and industry professionals. Explore our latest offerings in person and be captivated by the beauty of Liang & Eimil’s craftsmanship.
New Showroom in Shoreditch: We are delighted to unveil our new showroom in the heart of the vibrant design district in Shoreditch. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from Liverpool Street station, this showroom promises to be a convenient and accessible hub for all your interior design needs. Join us as we celebrate the opening in October, and immerse yourself in the world of style and sophistication. The showroom will be located at 4 Ravey Street, London, EC2A 4QP. Opening times are Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm.
The Chair and Table Collection from Liang & Eimil is more than just furniture; it is a testament to the brand’s commitment to impeccable craftsmanship and design excellence. Each piece is crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that it not only enhances your living space but also stands the test of time.
Whether you are an interior design professional seeking to impress your clients or a homeowner looking to elevate your living space, Liang & Eimil’s Chair and Table Collection offers the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality.
About Liang & Eimil
Liang & Eimil, a British brand that specialises in furnishing design for the residential and hospitality sectors, believes in making ordinary moments remarkable. Renowned for producing expertly crafted furniture, lighting and accessories, they take pride in offering innovative solutions that can be tailored to any interior design aesthetic.
Following insight shared by Arteriors’ London showroom team, who have spoken with their luxury designer clientele and delved into sales data from our Spring Summer season so far, material of choice for high-end interiors falls into four distinct categories. Across all product types, from furniture and lighting to wall décor and accessories, designers are choosing either textural ceramics, high-gloss lacquer finishes, woven naturals, or classic antique brass. The collection of best-selling designs showcases the favourite materials being used to add a sense of luxury to residential and commercial specifications around the globe.
To introduce colour into projects, sleek lacquer is a brilliantly bold option that creates drama and fun within a space. Particularly striking on larger items such as accent tables, the high-shine finish catches the light beautifully, showcasing the depth and richness of each tone. We’re seeing predominantly bright primary colours selected as designers and their clients experiment more with different tones, using furniture as a vehicle to usher in a palette of joyous colour.
With designers increasingly striving to form connections to nature within their projects, a host of neutral ceramic accessories and products which incorporate natural materials remain high-performers. A palette of beige and earth tones, pared with the soothing organic shape of ceramic lamp bases and beautiful vases, and mixed woven naturals used on seating and table designs, helps to imbue a sense of the harmony and serenity of the outside world.
Brass is the material which most epitomises versatility and sits within modern schemes as successfully as in more traditional spaces. Favoured as the perfect material for lighting designs, we’ve worked with our design team and used brass across all ranges, hero-ing the material on larger furniture as well as on those smaller decorative pieces. This season sees a distinct mottled finish to provide visual texture and an antiqued look favoured to bring warmth into décor.
Products from the SS23 collection available to view within Arteriors’ Chelsea Harbour showroom, and a showroom team on hand to answer any questions you may have.
There is no substitute for the beauty of bespoke. In fact, bespoke home design allows you to get exactly what you want, without compromise. Size, style, shape and colour can all be customised to create individual pieces that fit perfectly within your home, enhance your lifestyle and complement your personality. That’s because truly bespoke design embraces every fine detail. Therefore, no element is too big, small, or unimportant to make a difference. In visual terms, a unique bespoke space can be made to feel just how you want it to, using cabinetry, colour, lighting, wall coverings and window dressings.
Attention to detail “Attention to detail always matters, and especially in bespoke home design,” confirms our director Mark Taylor. “With bespoke home design you can achieve an exact fit to the concept or ideas put forward. A bespoke interior stands out because it is unique, and can be very personal in a visual or practical way. For example, a study, kitchen, or utility room designed around your specific needs can make life so much easier.”
Home design elements to consider There are a number of factors to consider when choosing the different elements of any bespoke home design. “How bespoke you can go is usually led by budget,” notes Mark. “But if you have any areas earmarked for built-in furniture, it is much easier to [do justice] to this sort of space with a bespoke furniture fitting.”. He emphasises: “Dictating exactly what the required piece should look like – and what goes into it – means you can have exactly what you want.”
Full-room renovations Bespoke home design can be harnessed to transform entire rooms, or smaller, specific areas within a certain space. “With bespoke kitchens, for example, there are no limits in terms of what you can achieve. This is apart from the limitations of the space you are working within, and the budget you are working to,” Mark observes. Everything else is up for negotiation. “Available options include changing the door style and shape, work surface detail, height, and most importantly fitting everything into the space you have.”
Personalising smaller spaces In fact, bespoke home design helps to bring your vision to life. If you can imagine it, we can create it, and that applies just as much to furniture as it does to cabinetry and joinery. “With upholstered seating, for example, you may want something that fits exactly within a space,” notes Mark. “Or you may require a certain shape or size to create a specific look. So, bespoke home design can provide a great sense of personal creation and uniqueness, which all help to make a truly personalised space.”
Introducing technology to your home design Smart homes with connected devices can provide additional comfort and luxury in a bespoke setting. In fact, integrating technology into the home has become a key concern for bespoke interior design. So, we keep up-to-date with the latest design software and look at ways in which this can be advantageous to you and your home. At Mark Taylor Design, we can design intelligent homes, which will integrate innovative tech, to create an entertainment hub as the home is no longer just a living space.
Putting systems in place We tend to work with clients who don’t want unsightly hi-tech equipment to be the main feature throughout their home. Mark explains: “Our secret is to keep your environment soft and welcoming by hiding some technology from view where possible. However, beautiful tech, such as B&O speakers, which resemble works of art, can also become an integral part of the room’s design, which will enhance its overall vibe.”
Technology continues to advance at great pace where speakers can be plastered within your walls so they are hidden from view. Voice recognition apps allow you to operate your heating and lighting and you can set your dishwasher to switch on in advance via a Smartphone from a remote location. You can pre-programme autonomous vacuum cleaners and mowers, making housework and gardening less stressful and time-consuming.
Hi-tech lighting control Lighting is one of the most crucial elements, which will add atmosphere to a room and Mark explains: “Lighting control can alter the mood of a room with a verbal instruction or via a Smartphone. You can create party vibes or add interest to a child’s bedroom with colour-changing lights. You can also change the warmth of your light without the need to change any bulbs.”
The importance of lighting design As mentioned, the role of lighting within bespoke home design cannot be overstated. “We have learned a lot about lighting over the past few years, by attending lectures with specialist lighting companies, and working with lighting experts,” Mark reveals. “Lighting is recognised more, and we know that it changes our moods, and can be used really effectively to enhance the spaces we live in.”. “Principally we look at light temperature, using mainly warm lighting in people’s homes. We also consider the direction of lighting, and the intensity, which can be controlled by dimmer switches.”
Practical home design elements and aesthetic finishes We believe the best bespoke home design combines practical benefits with appealing aesthetics. In other words, think about what you need, what you’d like, and how everything should look. After all, different lifestyles require different priorities. For example, at Mark Taylor Design, we can customise home office furniture to hold everything from lever-arch files to printers. We can also design hall units to accommodate coats, school bags and hockey sticks. Kitchen cupboards can incorporate concealed storage space to maintain a clean, clutter-free look. In fact, bespoke design is all about making life easier – and easier means different things to different clients.
Making less to mean more Bespoke home design tends not to shout. Often its objective is to help elements blend in, not stand out. What you don’t notice can be just as important – and finer details play a key role. In size terms, it’s a small element, but the right brassware, for example, can make a big difference when coordinating metallics in the kitchen. “Keeping handles small and discreet will ensure they won’t detract from and overpower furniture doors,” notes Mark.
Being creative with colour Colour impacts, influences and enhances bespoke home design. “In all our projects, we allocate time to achieve the right colour combinations,” Mark confirms. “This involves mood boards, and usually site visits to check that the colours, fabrics and textures we have chosen work in natural light”. Bright or contrasting colours can really make a space pop, as can combining different colours and textures. However, colour minimalism can also make a serious style statement. “Using one colour on the skirting, walls and furniture within a space really makes any detail stand out,” Mark explains.
Adding texture Texture is key in interior design in terms of adding dimension and comfort to a room. After all, the way in which a surface or material looks or feels and layering the look can help to add depth to a space. Mark notes: “Texture adds another dimension, beyond colour and space. It provides a way to cast positive shadows to accentuate corners or to reflect light in a different way. Texture will add visual interest and will drive the eye to various parts of the wall or surface. Finally, in larger space it does more and works harder than flat colour.”
Versatile functionality in home design Both ambient, accent and task lighting have a key role to play. “For ambient lighting, we might create a background light from ceilings or LED strips running around a room,” Mark explains. “Accent lighting aims to highlight areas or items such as paintings, bookcases, pieces of sculpture or joinery”. “As its name suggests, task lighting helps to highlight an area where you carry out specific tasks, such as a kitchen work surface.” Mark concludes: “When you turn off task lighting, ambient lighting can take over, which will help to make the area feel softer. This is especially relevant when you use a space for different activities, or at various times of the day and night.”
About Mark Taylor Design
Mark Taylor Design is a British manufacturer of superlative bespoke furniture, cabinetry and specialist joinery, working in Central London and the Home Counties.
As a team, sofa.com always find it interesting to look back at the successes of the year so far, delving into the data to look at what clients are seeking when it comes to luxury design.
Material of choice:
The past few years had seen an increase in sales of upholstered seating and bedroom furniture in colourful fabrics. However, 2023 so far sees a shift, as neutral tones overtake to reign supreme once again. Comprising the largest percentage of sales, two beautifully cool-toned beiges share the top spot – Pumice house basket weave, and Cashew viscose linen.
A palette which has always been well-suited to high-end hotel and residential design, this move to a more muted, modest scheme sits in line with a wider consumer trend seen this year – minimaluxe, or quiet minimalism. A focus on a few pared-back hues used together to create a streamlined aesthetic. Often you’ll notice that it is no longer colour that is used to showcase personality – the detail is all in the unique shapely elements of furniture, or the texture of the fabric selected.
Furniture Shape and design:
Sales of furniture with multifunctional features have increased year on year. The flexibility of modular furniture allows us to rearrange and reshuffle to accommodate extra guests, to adapt for entertaining purposes, or to allow increased space for stretching out and relaxing.
The top preforming sofa first debuted in 2009 and has continued to hold the top spot – and for good reason. The timeless shape, and ever-expanding offering of configurations allows Bluebell to sit equally as perfectly within contemporary specifications as traditional schemes. Another classic which has hurdled a few other contenders and is now situated at second place, is our Otto. Sleek lines, yet unbelievable comfort make this the ideal option for all settings.
Sofa.com have been lucky enough this summer to work on a number of hotel redesigns, and are pleased that the focus on creating bedroom furniture that is both designed to last yet has elements of key trends is popular within the hospitality sector as much as with residential shoppers. Sales of beds and mattresses in particular sit at 50% up on last year’s figures.
The sofa.com design and trade teams continue to work together ceaselessly to ensure new products are created in response to the needs of our customers, building on successes, adapting to meet any challenges and always bespoke.
About sofa.com
Passionate about outstanding interiors, sofa.com offers a diverse and design led collection of made-to-order sofas, armchairs, beds, footstools and home accessories. With an extensive range of styles and over 100 fabrics to choose from, as well as the option to upholster in your own fabric, the customisable nature of sofa.com’s products make each piece easily adaptable to any interior style – perfect for interior designers and specifiers looking for stand-out pieces for upcoming projects.
Oxley’s furniture have been displaying their outdoor furniture at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for 30 years, demonstrating the company moto of sustainable luxury. Each piece of furniture they have ever made in all those years has been made from 100% recycled aluminium and the company is currently re-recycling furniture that it sold at its first appearance at the show back in 1993.
For this year’s stand Oxley’s have teamed up with JAB International® to promote their wonderful outdoor fabrics complimenting their luxury furniture. Over the summer months Oxley’s Furniture will be displayed at JAB’s London showroom in the Chelsea Harbour, beautifully paired with JAB outdoor fabrics for the cushions.
To further this collaboration between the two companies, Oxley’s will also be promoting JAB carpets. The purely elegant carpets generate fluent transitions between indoors and outdoors, creating a homely atmosphere on terraces, gardens and pool areas.
Simon Hudson, Managing Director of Oxley’s Furniture said: “This is the first time we have worked so closely with one of the world’s eminent outdoor fabric houses. We have put together a display that demonstrates what can be achieved when outdoor luxury fabrics and outdoor luxury furniture work in harmony”.
The RHS are committed to improving their sustainability practice, something that Oxley’s strongly backs. Sustainability is at the core of Oxley’s as a business. By using recycled aluminium, Oxley’s saves 95% of the energy needed to create new aluminium, and due to it being infinitely recyclable it can be used over and over again and won’t lose its quality.
To further their sustainable efforts, Oxley’s offers a unique buy back guarantee that allows customers to buy the furniture they want completely risk free. Once Oxley’s customers have owned their furniture for 12 months, Oxley’s will buy it back for half the original purchase price for the next 10 years. This is a wonderful example of a company working in a truly circular way and taking responsibility for the whole lifecycle of their products.
Oxley’s are delighted to be exhibiting at The RHS Chelsea Flower Show for another year. Please go and find them on stand SR132 and try out their luxuriously sustainable outdoor furniture.
For more information about Oxley’s please visit www.oxleys.com or contact them via [email protected] or 01386 701 894.
Cover image: Scroll sofa double set
About Oxley’s Furniture
Oxley’s Furniture is an English manufacturing company, based in the Cotswolds, that has been producing bespoke, luxury aluminium outdoor furniture for 30 years. All Oxley’s furniture is made to order from recycled aluminium, we manufacture outdoor furniture in the most sustainable way possible. Our aim has always been to produce timelessly elegant, luxury outdoor furniture that will last for generations.
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