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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a minimalist laundry service design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.

Whites sets the benchmark as a next-generation premium dry-cleaning and laundry service, known for its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of garment care. The design of the shop is pivotal in attracting customers and providing a comfortable and functional space. It plays a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere that reflects Whites’ commitment to excellence while ensuring customers feel at ease during their visits. The design embodies a refined and thoughtful approach creating Whites a modern and functional space that is both inviting and inspiring.

SBID Awards Category: Retail Design

Practice: 4SPACE Design

Project: Whites

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

4SPACE Design - Whites

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for Whites was to create a distinctive dry-cleaning and laundry service located within Dubai Hills Mall that defies conventional expectations. The aim was to design an environment that encourages visitors to embark on a conceptual exploration while utilizing garment care services.

4SPACE Design - Whites

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of Whites was inspired by a fusion of modernity, tranquility, and sustainability. The carefully curated color palette of pristine white and serene sky blue imparts a harmonious and open ambiance. The mesmerising epoxy flooring, with its gradient of blue, mirrors the transformative nature of Whites’ services. Sustainability was a driving inspiration, evident in the selection of state-of-the-art equipment and a commitment to minimising environmental impact.

4SPACE Design - Whites

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle our team overcame during the project was achieving the delicate balance between minimalism and functionality. Ensuring that every chosen element held significance and purpose while maintaining a clean and uncluttered space required meticulous design and planning.

4SPACE Design - Whites

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of our team’s journey with Whites was the creation of the main counter, a sophisticated blend of Corian and acrylic accents. This elegant centerpiece, illuminated by gentle, indirect lighting, symbolises the intimate connection between our knowledgeable staff and valued patrons.

4SPACE Design - Whites

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards driven by the exceptional standout of Whites’ design. The project’s unique combination of conceptual exploration, sustainability, and its transformative impact on the garment care experience we believe in the project’s unique standout.

4SPACE Design - Whites

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being chosen as an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards is a testament to the remarkable standout of Whites’ design. It reaffirms our commitment to innovative and purposeful design that leaves a lasting impression. This recognition elevates our reputation in the design community and underscores our dedication to sustainability and excellence, enhancing our appeal to potential clients and partners.

Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE Design

Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE Design.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an urban jungle club design by Harmony World Consultant & Design, click here to read it.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an urban jungle club design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Harmony World Consultant & Design.

HWCD design was commissioned to design interior space for The Catania Club Chengdu. The project is an exclusive multi-dimensional social space, with a greater emphasis on diversified and artistic design, presenting a new contemporary vertical living system. The club has created multiple spatial scenes in different fields, which are closely connected and also private, aiming to create a highly vertical and permeable life, work, and social scene.

SBID Awards Category: Club & Bar Design

Practice: Harmony World Consultant & Design

Project: The Catania Club Chengdu

Location: Chengdu, China

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu
Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

What was the client’s brief? 

The project is composed of two ultra high towers with a height of 222 meters, and is a landmark of the core city of Chengdu. This project is an exclusive multi-dimensional social space, with a greater emphasis on diversified and artistic design, presenting a new contemporary vertical living system. The club has created multiple spatial scenes in different fields, which are closely connected and also private, aiming to create a highly vertical and permeable life, work, and social scene.

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

What inspired the design of the project?

The entire space is themed with the theme of ‘Jungle Mystery’, presenting an exotic atmosphere, making people feel like they are in an adventurous world. The space is divided into six multi-functional areas, separated by arches, each step bringing a brand new scene. In a two-layer elevated space, curves are used as important visual clues to penetrate multiple spatial levels, breaking the square symmetry of horizontal and vertical planes, creating a transparent and varied visual and artistic picture.

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu
Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The design of this project is very different from that of ordinary luxury houses. It needs to pay more attention to diversified and artistic design, presenting a new vertical living system in the contemporary era. A number of space scenes in different fields are created in the space, which are closely connected and private, aiming to create a highly vertical and multi permeable life, work and social scene.

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our team used a lot of arch cutting and arc modeling in the design of the space, creating the feeling of medieval Europe and European art museums. Precious Taihu stone works of art can be seen at the entrance, showing the elegant taste of residents. The elevator hall continues the arc shape used in the lobby space, and also uses rare red copper metal plate splicing, making the whole space more luxurious and grand. The metal handcrafted brushed panel with light leaking lighting design creates a feeling of mysterious urban jungle.

The design inspiration of the coffee bar comes from London Mondrian Hotel, which uses animal patterned furniture shapes and fabric fabrics, and integrates rich animal and plant elements, forming a echo with the garden landscape. It is worth mentioning that the design inspiration of the bar area came from the glorious period of the ancient Roman Empire, which was dominated by gold and turquoise gold, and often used gold, silver, copper and other metal elements to express luxury, power and dignity. On this basis, we have adopted the combination of gold and blue gold to create the bar counter in the bar area to create a luxurious and noble atmosphere. The inverted triangle metal wine rack wall is a highlight of the bar area, which not only echoes the grandeur and magnificence of the bar, but also has its own unique beauty and practicality.

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu
Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As one of the most prestigious awards in the world, SBID has attracted the attention and participation of many internationally renowned designers with its strict selection criteria. From a professional perspective, SBID focuses on exploring, summarising and exploring the latest trends in the field of design. It also has high standards and requirements for the design works participating in the awards. Every year, authoritative experts in the industry assess the technical content and aesthetic creativity of the entries, and is committed to commendation, reward and publicity of various excellent designs.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

The SBID Design Award has a very high competitiveness and influence in the international design industry. Being shortlisted for the SBID Design Award is not only a recognition of designers’ professional ability, but also a recognition of their design achievements in the world.

Harmony World Consultant & Design - The Catania Club Chengdu

Questions answered by Hongjun Lin, Managing Director of Harmony World Consultant & Design.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a captivating, Japanese inspired bar design by LW Design, click here to read it.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a captivating, Japanese inspired bar design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, LW Design.

Reminiscent of the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo, 7 Tales is a speakeasy cocktail bar where guests can experience urban Japan with a New York twist. An illustration of a man wandering through an archway into the unknown leads through a large pivot entrance door. Confused yet intrigued guests are transported into a small chamber entirely clad in mirrors; a second door opens, and suddenly, kanpai!, a flurry of colour, energy and mystery engulfs them. A glowing lacquered orange bar carved out of solid oak panels takes centre stage as they enter a nostalgic and mesmerising world of debauchery.

SBID Awards Category: Club & Bar Design

Practice: LW Design

Project: Seven Tales

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

LW Design - Seven Tales
LW Design - Seven Tales

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for 7 Tales was to create a speakeasy cocktail bar that captures the vibrant nightlife of Tokyo with a New York twist. The bar was intended to be reminiscent of an ‘Izakaya-styled speakeasy,’ providing guests with an immersive experience of urban Japan. The design was expected to be playful, innovative, and inspired by Japanese culture, offering a unique approach to mixed drinks and a lively atmosphere that would appeal to guests into the early hours of the morning. Access was to remain through City Social restaurant on the 43rd floor of Grosvenor House, and the goal was to establish a nightlife hotspot on the 44th floor.

LW Design - Seven Tales

What inspired the design of the project?

The dynamic culture of Tokyo nightlife and Japanese aesthetics inspired the design of 7 Tales. The concept aimed to blend traditional elements with a modern twist, drawing from various 1960s and 70s movements, including the Golden Age movement and Art Deco. The goal was to create a mesmerising world of debauchery that transports guests into a realm of energy, color, and mystery. The graffiti-style artwork on the walls and ceilings, referencing Japan’s cultural zeitgeist, along with the fusion of street art and traditional elements, brought a captivating and unique visual identity to the space.

LW Design - Seven Tales
LW Design - Seven Tales

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle the team had to overcome was the installation of the intricate ceiling graffiti while managing and maintaining the integrity of all the MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) fixtures. The technical challenge of coordinating the artwork with the necessary technical elements required careful planning and execution to ensure seamless integration.

LW Design - Seven Tales

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of 7 Tales for the team was successfully creating a dynamic and immersive atmosphere that combined traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design elements. The focal point of the Negroni gaming table, where guests engaged in a unique dice game to determine their drink of the night, added an interactive and engaging dimension to the bar experience.

LW Design - Seven Tales

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

LW entered the SBID Awards to showcase the innovative and captivating design of 7 Tales, highlighting their ability to merge different design influences into a cohesive and visually striking concept. The unique approach to storytelling through artwork and the successful execution of the speakeasy’s atmosphere made it a strong contender for recognition within the design industry.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held great significance for designer’s Pooja Shah-Mulani, Jesper Axel Petersen, and LW Design. The recognition affirmed their design expertise and ability to overcome technical challenges while delivering a visually stunning and immersive space. Being a finalist reinforced their reputation in the design community, validating their creativity and commitment to pushing design boundaries.

Pooja Shah Mulani, Partner and Design Director at LW Design

Questions answered by Pooja Shah Mulani, Partner and Design Director at LW Design.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a natural, tree top villa design by Kimble Roden Architects, click here to read it.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a natural, tree top villa design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Kimble Roden Architects.

Kimble Roden were engaged to design 25 luxury holiday homes in an exceptional location. Hall Wood Forest, near Looe in Cornwall, is an ancient woodland with steep slopes and undulating ground conditions, requiring a very considered and sensitive approach. The solution was to create tree top villas on stilts, designed to become an intrinsic part of the landscape, promoting a relationship between the inhabitants and their natural surroundings whilst minimising their impact on the environment. The interiors of the villas are sympathetic to the external landscape, using timber panelling, natural stone and a palette that reflects the forest.

SBID Awards Category: CGI & Visualisation

Practice: Kimble Roden Architects

Project: Hall Wood Forest

Location: Cornwall, United Kingdom

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

What was the client’s brief? 

Our brief was to obtain planning permission for 25 luxury holiday homes set in a unique site – a woodland valley in Cornwall. The homes were to range from 3 to 4 bed dwellings that responded to the uniqueness of the context. The site is an ancient woodland with steep slopes, that required minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The aim was to seamlessly blend leisure, luxury and relaxation into the fabric of these homes, utilising the natural attributes of the site to enhance the experience.

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

What inspired the design of the project?

Our response to the project brief was to develop the concept of the dwellings as structures that embraced and respected the forest setting. We developed the concept of treetop villas built on stilts, allowing the dwellings to be immersed in the natural environment. By making the decision to elevate the homes, it became essential to consider the external spaces as much as the internal to enhance the sense of connection with the surrounding forest and capitalize on the uniqueness of the setting by bringing the outside in.

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The planning constraints we faced when designing were considerable and required our careful response. We had to really consider the impact on the ecology of the site (the trees, the fauna, the site conditions) and limit light pollution from the dwellings. This led to a greater articulation of each space – vertical slot windows were indented deep into the buildings plan to illuminate the central circulation along with the balconies deep overhang and the timber shutters. Every space has access to glimpses of the forest, each framed in different ways with balconies and horizontal and vertical slot windows; the interior layouts of these rooms were then orientated to around these focal points.

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing our designs come to life with the CGI images was definitely a highlight and helped us develop each space and its relationship with the forest. And of course achieving a successful planning decision was also a highlight!

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Entering the SBID Awards was an opportunity to showcase our work in the context of a professional environment – we are proud to SBID accredited and this gave us the chance to promote the great work SBID does and gives us a stage to further promote our achievements.

Kimble Roden Architects - Hall Wood Forest

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

We have really enjoyed the positive interaction we have received from our clients, professional network and followers, especially on social media. It has given us the platform to reach out to a new audience and highlight the professional interior design service we offer alongside our role as architects.

Edwina Kimble and Emma Roden, Founders of Kimble Roden Architects

Questions answered by Edwina Kimble, Director at Kimble Roden Architects & Interior Designers.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a soft and elegant kitchen design by Poggenpohl Hampstead, click here to read it.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a soft and elegant kitchen design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Poggenpohl Hampstead.

Poggenpohl Hampstead were commissioned to design, specify and install a luxury kitchen into a family home in Essex.

SBID Awards Category: KBB Design

Practice: Poggenpohl Hampstead

Project: Poggenpohl Hampstead – Collins

Location: Essex, United Kingdom

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins
Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

What was the client’s brief? 

To create a luxurious kitchen space showcasing Gaggenau appliances, featuring a soft and elegant colour scheme, and incorporating high-quality, durable countertops. The kitchen should provide a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, creating a comfortable and visually pleasing environment for cooking, entertaining, and daily activities.

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

What inspired the design of the project?

It was important to have discussions with the client and view their previous kitchen for touchpoints on things they really loved and wanted to retain. We then wanted to frame the views through the large arched windows, and not disturb the eye with use of wall cabinets. The use of full height cabinetry in a metallic champagne coloured aluminium allowed dynamic colour shifts to the area throughout the day as the material has wonderful refracting properties of light.

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins
Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The bridged sink countertop in front of the arched window. We worked with the countertop supplier to not only ensure the weight was considered, but also that pipework for water inlet/ waste outlets had routes and access for servicing. Additionally the height was carefully planned to ensure the waste trap was not visible from inside or outside the kitchen at varying levels.

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The flexibility and freedom permitted by the client, the end result has a lot of technical aspects which tested the team to achieve something which covered all the client requirements whilst retaining a kitchen which can withstand daily use. The client was very happy, which ultimately is the goal of any project and this has already led to multiple referral clients.

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins
Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have often entered the SBID awards as they are a prestigious, trusted, and recognised company viewed by many industry professionals. With the client’s permission we wanted to showcase our work to a wider audience and demonstrate the journey Poggenpohl has been on. The company ethos, design flexibility and material libraries have rapidly increased in the 12 years I have been part of the team, and we are proud to have a product which is exquisitely engineered to last for decades.

Poggenpohl Hampstead - Collins

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

We were thrilled that the judges felt the kitchen merited being a finalist, and hope the public vote reflects this too. As the Poggenpohl brand continues to grow in diversity of design, it is our intention to showcase our finished work more regularly via professional and prestigious avenues such as SBID.

James Kalozois, Studio Manager at Poggenpohl Hampstead

Questions answered by James Kalozois, Studio Manager at Poggenpohl Hampstead.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a secretive, Art Deco-inspired bar design by LW Design, click here to read it.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a secretive, Art Deco-inspired bar design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, LW Design.

LW Design were tasked to design a unique bar hiding in plain sight, a prerogative of an authentic speakeasy bar. The near impossible-to-find entrance, lavish and decadent styling, and secretive-vibe inside-outside lounge make Blind Tiger, Dubai the most sought-after evening venue. Any credible speakeasy has a discreet frontage and no discernible entrance. Blind Tiger is no different. Slightly hidden and tucked away, the bar and lounge have unexpected views across the beautiful Turtle Lagoon and the turtle rehabilitation project.

SBID Awards Category: Club & Bar Design

Practice: LW Design

Project: Blind Tiger

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

LW Design - Blind Tiger
LW Design - Blind Tiger

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for Blind Tiger was to design a unique bar that embodies the essence of an authentic speakeasy, hidden in plain sight. The directive was to create a space reminiscent of a secretive drinking den from the Prohibition era, characterized by rich, indulgent surroundings and an atmosphere of clandestine intrigue, fun, and mischief.

LW Design - Blind Tiger

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of Blind Tiger was inspired by the concept of paying homage to the ‘Queens of Speakeasies.’ The space was envisioned as a tribute to this era, blending Art Deco-inspired detailing with a vintage vibe. The goal was to create a luxurious and decadent atmosphere that captures the essence of the Prohibition era, with deep blue wall panels, chinoiserie-style wallpaper, antique ceiling mirrors, and meticulously crafted joinery and furniture.

LW Design - Blind Tiger
LW Design - Blind Tiger

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

One of the toughest hurdles the team at LW Design overcame during the Blind Tiger project was the need to execute the design and interiors within a short timeframe and a tight budget. Despite these constraints, the team was committed to maintaining the sophisticated and glamorous detailing expected of the Prohibition era. They had to ensure that the design’s authenticity and opulence were not compromised by the budget limitations.

LW Design - Blind Tiger

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the Blind Tiger project for the team was successfully transforming the original executive club lounge of Jumeirah Al Naseem into a sophisticated, glamorous, and playful speakeasy bar. The combination of the near-impossible-to-find entrance, lavish styling, and secretive ambiance created a sought-after evening venue that captured the spirit of the Prohibition era.

LW Design - Blind Tiger
LW Design - Blind Tiger

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The team entered the SBID Awards to showcase the exceptional design and execution of Blind Tiger. The project’s unique concept, meticulous attention to detail, and successful transformation of the space made it a strong contender for recognition within the design industry.

LW Design - Blind Tiger

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held significant meaning for LW Design and their business. It validated their dedication to design excellence and their ability to overcome challenges such as tight budgets and time constraints while delivering a stunning and authentic result. The recognition from the awards highlighted their expertise and creativity, enhancing their reputation within the design community and among potential clients.

Rachel Kidd, Partner and Design Director at LW Design

Questions answered by Rachel Kidd, Partner and Design Director at LW Design.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a modern and multipurpose public space design by KLID, click here to read it.

Consult by FD were appointed to renovate this city apartment in central London, Angel N1.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

Our clients approached us during the whirlwind of purchasing their new/old apartment tucked away from the bustling streets of central London.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

Having previously rented the same home in former years they returned to buy it already armed with a vision and understanding of how it can be transformed to better suit their lifestyles.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

As the purchase ambled on, we got busy behind the scenes developing the brief, especially lots of bespoke joinery to best serve our busy clients and their space.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

After assembling our dream renovation team, and suppliers, our clients got the keys and we got busy project managing the build.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

We’re super pleased with the results and can confidently vouch that the new layouts and details make it feel like a haven.

Kasia Fiszer Photography
Kasia Fiszer Photography

Step inside the bathroom and the verdant green wall tiles will have you thinking you’re in Morocco.

About Consult by FD

Our studio provides detailed and unique design solutions for a range of different project types, offering a flexible list of services to take your individual projects from concept to completion. We champion style, sustainability and comfort with a collaborative approach that responds to your brief, taste and personality, making sure we design the best spaces for you.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Carmelina Dalton, Founder and Creative Director at KEMSI has given her insights into the industry.

What’s the background of KEMSI?

KEMSI is a high-end design practice focusing on residential and boutique commercial properties throughout the UK and Europe. We inspire, design and curate human experiences, enabling our clients to imagine spaces based on how they would like to feel within them.

Projects have ranged from London townhouses to detached period and modern residences both domestically and abroad, through to commercial spaces in prime London Mayfair and hotels abroad.

Founded by Creative Director Carmelina Dalton, who leads all design projects supported by passionate and creative designers. Careful consideration of every step in the design process, from initial concept to completion, indicates a thorough and client-focused approach. Managing every detail to the highest standards ensures that KEMSI delivers on quality and, ultimately, client satisfaction.

The aim of our practice is to curate spaces that are beautiful and aspirational, with an ever-underlying emphasis on the human experience.

HIGHGATE

Why did you want to work in the interior design profession?

Growing up in Australia, I was surrounded by family members working in the construction industry. From a very young age, I enjoyed designing each room of the house as my family moved around in search of the perfect family home to build and enjoy. I was incredibly fortunate to have an insight into what it was like to work in this industry long before I began my career, as I grew up surrounded by it. With my eyes wide open, I pursued my lifelong passion for interior design in my later years and entered the design world.

MAYFAIR

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

Meeting new people is one of the most enjoyable aspects of my profession! I love designing and crafting each space based on my clients’ desires. I can envision a space before it is created, and every project should be unique and tailored to each client’s specific requirements. Adapting to their needs is crucial to creating exceptional built environments.

MAYFAIR

What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year?

Being invited to be a guest speaker at London Design Week 2023 to share insights about all things business, strategy, marketing, industry expectations and how to turn your passion into a career. It was great to be sat alongside other leading interior designers.

FRANCE

What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why?

I enjoy working on residential and commercial projects as they offer unique and different challenges. However, what I find most rewarding about residential projects is the opportunity to transform my clients’ living spaces completely. In fact, I remember a time when a client was moved to tears of happiness after seeing the finished result. This is the most meaningful testimonial I could receive.

At KEMSI, it is crucial to incorporate my residential approach into all commercial projects. One of the most exciting projects I have worked on this year is the creative direction of a hotel abroad. Practical commercial projects are about more than just furnishings and objects. They involve designing environments that prioritise the human experience, comfort, and functionality of the people who will use them. When brand experience is combined with creative direction, spaces become more than just physical structures – they become areas where people can come together and connect.

FRANCE

What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design?

As designers, it is our responsibility is to ensure that the spaces we create are practical, beautiful and can be executed as planned. However, during the construction phase, there may be unexpected challenges that arise. In such situations, finding solutions and solving problems collaboratively with clients and all teams involved is crucial to achieve successful results.

KEMSI

What do you wish you knew before working in the field?

Working in the design industry can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding time and the ability to switch off. While inspiration can be found everywhere, being passionate about the work can be exhausting, as the brain always works. Juggling family life and running a practice can also be a struggle, but essential time management skills can help achieve balance and ensure you spend quality time with your loved ones.

KEMSI

What would it be if you could give one tip to aspiring designers?

It takes time and perseverance. Things don’t happen overnight. Don’t give up and continue to grow your networks.

KEMSI

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

In the interior design industry, we are all shifting our focus towards being more environmentally conscious and mindful of our decisions. It’s becoming increasingly important to purchase items that are made to last or to repurpose quality pieces instead of throwing them away.

In the field of design and construction, more and more people are looking for ways to manage their properties in an environmentally sustainable manner. This involves adopting eco-friendly practices, using renewable energy sources, and opting for sustainable materials to reduce waste and minimize our impact on the environment.

RITSON

What does being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer mean to you?

Being accredited by the SBID means our company adheres to the highest technical standards. As part of a community of experts in our field, we work to the highest calibre, ensuring our clients can trust us to deliver their projects. In addition, it provides an opportunity to collaborate and share insights with our community.

Carmelina Dalton, Founder and Creative Director at KEMSI

About KEMSI

KEMSI is a high-end design practice focusing on residential and boutique commercial properties throughout the UK and Europe. We inspire, design and curate human experiences, enabling our clients to imagine spaces based on how they would like to feel within them. Projects have ranged from London townhouses to detached period and modern residences both domestically and abroad, through to commercial spaces in prime London Mayfair and hotels abroad.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern and multipurpose public space design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, KLID.

This is an urban public space in Chengdu, the project is located in public transport hubs. The designer wanted to reduce the sense of apathy between people, and they can read, talk, drink a coffee. The space meets various functions for leisure and communication, or immerse in the world of reading.

SBID Awards Category: Public Space

Practice: KLID

Project: Dancing Ribbon

Location: Chengdu, China

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

What was the client’s brief? 

This is an urban public space. The project is located in an important location with multiple public transport hubs. We want to create an iconic public space where fast moving people want to stay. Function setting: Public hall, Ladder square, Reading, Cafe, Parent-child learning.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

What inspired the design of the project?

For the surrounding group of people, the public space is the link that connects the surrounding group lives. The space is inspired by dancing ribbons. The dancing ribbon not only serves as a link between the upper and lower levels, but also symbolises the rhythm and vitality of the city.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The project is located in the TOD plan of Changgongyan, Tianfu New District, Chengdu. Guided by public transport, TOD(Transit-Oriented-Development)project has lots of mixed functions such as commerce, office, residence, rail transit, etc., becomes an indispensable urban unit in contemporary life. We wanted to create a place for people to stop, have a cup of coffee and read a book in the urban nodes where people are moving fast. Break the strangeness between people and increase the interaction between people.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The main function of this case is to socialise. The space can meet various functions for leisure and communication, or immerse in the world of reading alone, or the ladder square of cultural salon activities. People stay, communicate and gather here. We used lightweight aluminum, which is used to make metal panels that are light and hard enough to make ribbons. The dancing ribbon not only serves as a link between the upper and lower levels, but also symbolises the rhythm and vitality of the city.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon
KLID - Dancing Ribbon

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The reason we decided to participate in the SBID Awards is because we have a deep passion for design, and we also wanted to challenge our creativity and skills. This competition provides a platform for showcasing our work, and we hope to use this opportunity to absorb more design inspiration, engage with other talented designers, and receive feedback from professionals in the field. We believe that taking part in this competition will help us continuously improve, not only in terms of design but also in areas such as problem-solving, teamwork, and time management.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an Award Finalist for our interior design project has been an incredibly rewarding experience for both me and my business. It signifies a validation of our creative vision and the hard work we’ve put into crafting unique and impactful spaces. The recognition from such a prestigious international award has boosted our confidence and reinforced our commitment to pushing the boundaries of design innovation.

This accolade has not only brought heightened visibility to our business but has also opened doors to new opportunities for collaborations and projects. The acknowledgment as a finalist on an international stage has provided us with a platform to showcase our expertise and design philosophy to a global audience, further establishing our brand as a symbol of quality and excellence in the field of interior design.

KLID - Dancing Ribbon

Questions answered by Kris Lin, Interior Designer at KLID.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a neutral and biophilic salon design by Cocoon & Bauer, click here to read it.

Agora, a unique cocktail bar and social club situated in the Edition Hotel in downtown Dubai, is quietly making its mark by offering a serene blend of sophistication and comfort. Designed by 4SPACE, a respected architecture and interior design firm, Agora takes inspiration from the ancient Greek concept of a gathering place and marketplace.

4SPACE Design - Agora
4SPACE Design - Agora

Agora represents a noteworthy transformation, drawing influence from the charm of the Gatsby era and the timeless allure of ancient Greece. The primary aim was to create an atmosphere of depth, luxury, and tranquillity, resulting in a venue that is truly exceptional while remaining warmly inviting.

4SPACE Design - Agora

Agora’s concept seamlessly integrates two sources of inspiration: the extravagant world of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and the classical elegance of ancient Greek architecture. It offers a haven where guests can momentarily escape their daily lives and immerse themselves in a world of sophistication and opulence, promising a sensory experience with a difference.

4SPACE Design - Agora
4SPACE Design - Agora

Each detail of Agora’s interior design has been carefully considered to ensure both aesthetics and comfort. The space features bespoke furniture, meticulously crafted to provide the utmost comfort for our guests.

Agora’s colour palette is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of luxury and timelessness. It includes forest green fabrics for a touch of mystery and richness, subtle copper accents to add warmth and elegance, and Indian green marble tabletops that infuse the space with classical beauty and timeless grandeur.

4SPACE Design - Agora

Agora’s ceiling is adorned with captivating wallpaper cladding, adding a contemporary and artistic touch to the space. The existing floor, embellished with a striking black marble mosaic, exudes timeless elegance, perfectly complementing the dark colour palette and preserving a sense of luxury.

Agora’s standout feature is the stunning bead curtain hanging from the ceiling. These carefully arranged and suspended beads serve as a dynamic visual centrepiece, adding an element of intrigue and movement to the space and encouraging patrons to engage with the design on a sensory level.

4SPACE Design - Agora
4SPACE Design - Agora

Bespoke pendant lights throughout the space create a warm and inviting ambiance, ideal for relaxation and socialisation.

Agora is defined by its exceptional use of custom-made furniture, including cylindrical chairs and elegant bar chairs. These pieces elevate the ambiance, enhancing sophistication and luxury without ostentation.

4SPACE Design - Agora

In the outdoor area, Agora introduces delicate curtain beads to infuse playfulness and intrigue. Suspended pampas grass arrangements from the open-air ceiling add texture, softness, and a soothing ambiance to the outdoor space.

About 4SPACE Design

4SPACE is committed to high quality of work and superior care in all aspects of our business. One of the Top 20 interior design firms in the Middle East in reference to the Commercial Interior Design Magazine published last February 2019. Led by major partners Amjad Hourieh and Firas Alsahin, our company has become one of the region’s most respected firms, with more than 20 years of industry experience. We have helped create environments that inspire and impact users by providing the local industry with our extensive practical knowledge, be it for retail, hospitality and commercial spaces, or residential and living spaces. Our mission is to achieve success through delivering quality service steered by our passion for excellence, to define the region’s industry practices and to create market benchmarks of international standards.

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