This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated entertaining space by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Amy Hunt Interiors.
Amy Hunt Interior Design was commissioned to create a Mayfair-inspired bar and entertaining space in an underutilized annexe. Amy Hunt Interiors expertly coordinated the entire project, delivering design concepts, mood boards, lighting and electrical plans, bespoke joinery design and installation, and sourcing and supplying all FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) for this Oxted, Surrey Annexe refurb.
Category: Residential Budget Up To £50,000
Design Practice: Amy Hunt Interiors
Project Title: Oxted Surrey: Annexe Refurb
Project Location: Oxted, United Kingdom
Design Practice Location: Oxted, United Kingdom
The client wanted to transform their tired and uninspiring annexe into a sophisticated entertaining space, drawing inspiration from the exclusive bars of Mayfair. The goal was to create a luxurious yet inviting home bar where they could host many a gathering, dance under the disco ball, but also to enjoy it as a family. They wanted a design that balanced modern elegance with subtle traditional undertones while incorporating smart storage solutions.
The design was heavily influenced by the client’s fond memories of nights out in Mayfair. We aimed to capture the refined glamour of high-end London bars through rich, moody colours, luxe materials, and atmospheric lighting. The copper-topped bar, upholstered finishes, and hidden bar integration within the storage unit all contributed to the sophisticated, club-like ambiance. The lighting design played a crucial role, allowing the space to shift from a cosy lounge to a vibrant party setting.
One of the biggest challenges was designing and constructing the statement storage and bar unit. Not only did it need to house the client’s existing items, but it also had to integrate a secret central door leading to the garage—without compromising aesthetics or functionality. Additionally, working within a tight 8-week deadline to coordinate joinery, lighting, and upholstery installations required meticulous planning and execution. Despite these challenges, we delivered the project ahead of schedule.
The moment the lighting was installed, and the disco ball was illuminated, the space truly came to life. Seeing the client’s reaction to the final transformation was incredibly rewarding. The success of the bespoke bar unit, with its copper top and upholstered details, was another highlight—it became the perfect focal point for the room.
This project was a bold and creative transformation and it’s not often you get asked to design a party room! The level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and ability to capture the essence of a Mayfair bar in a countryside home made it a standout design we are really proud of. Entering the SBID Awards allowed us to showcase our expertise and celebrate the innovation and problem-solving that went into the project.
Being an SBID Award Finalist is a fantastic recognition of our dedication to delivering unique, high-quality interiors. It has elevated our profile within the industry and reinforced our passion for creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful. The acknowledgment has also been incredibly meaningful to Amy Hunt Interior Design but also meaningful to my clients too, further inspiring us to push creative boundaries in future projects.
Questions answered by Amy Hunt, Director of Amy Hunt Interiors.
We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!
If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a modern Scandinavian styled house design by Pia Design, click here to read it.
Amy Hunt, Director of Amy Hunt Interior Design has given her insights into the industry.
After earning an MSc in Occupational Therapy, I pursued interior design training at the KLC School of Design. My background in occupational therapy has given me unique insights into how our surroundings impact our daily lives, both functionally but also mentally. This understanding inspired me to venture into interior design, where I discovered that small changes to our spaces can significantly enhance our well-being.
I’ve always had a passion for interiors. My university friends used to laugh at how I would rearrange my bedroom each term, but I’ve always been fascinated by the transformative power of redesigning spaces.
I love the beginning of a new project - the moment when you dive into the brief, formulate your design analysis, and start gathering ideas. There's something incredibly satisfying about starting with a blank canvas and creating something unique for each client.
When I first qualified, I worked for another fabulous designer who handled some amazing projects. I remember visiting a large project site and thinking, "I want to have a project like this under my own name one day." Last year, I experienced a pinch-me moment when I walked through the door of a large project I had won.
I enjoy working on all types of projects. I believe it's important to always push yourself and step outside of your comfort zone to become a better designer. So, suppose it’s the projects I learn from the most that are my favourite.
For me it’s when I have a lot of work on and trying to keep the balance between that and being a mother.
Designer’s block is real, and that's okay!
Trust your gut - it's very rarely wrong.
As designers, I think we will need to create designs with smaller budgets, making it essential to become more resourceful and prioritise sustainability.
Being part of the SBID means you are part of a community. As a small company, it can sometimes feel like being on an island, but SBID membership connects you with a supportive network. It also holds you accountable for your professional development. Working on your own CPD helps you become a better designer, continually enhancing your skills and expertise.
About Amy Hunt Interiors
Nestled between Surrey and South West London, Amy Hunt Interior Design Studio manages residential projects from design to completion. Amy believes our surroundings impact how we function and feel. She doesn't follow trends but tailors designs to each client's brief, whether modern, traditional, simple, or vibrant, aiming to create timeless, beautiful homes. As a graduate in Interior Design from the prestigious KLC School of Design, and with experience working for other design companies, Amy proudly launched Amy Hunt Interior Design in 2019. With a MSc in Occupational Therapy, Amy understands how environments affect our lives and strives to create functional, welcoming spaces her clients are excited to return to.
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