If you think that using metal in the kitchen will create a cold and clinical look, then it's definitely time to think again. In the right hands, metal is actually one of the most flexible materials around and can be used to bring a wholly warm and inviting vibe. And unlocking the natural beauty of metallic finishes is both the passion and speciality of Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio.
By hand ageing and patinating everything from copper and brass to zinc and stainless steel, Charlie and his team of artisans craft unique kitchen designs. What they have in common, however, is these are simply beautiful kitchens in which to cook, gather and spend time.
Here are the three wildly different but equally luxurious kitchens created from stainless steel, copper and zinc...
The Oxford kitchen is proof positive that cool and masculine stainless steel can-in the right hands - be made to radiate warmth. The brushed effect on the cabinetry softens the feel and appearance of the metal, which is here further elevated by aged brass accents. Charlie was tasked with matching the metals to the La Cornue range cooker, which was done meticulously by hand, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship. Teamed with a Carrara marble, English walnut and fluted glass, the overall effect is breathtakingly luxurious.
The brief for the Cotswolds kitchen was to create a design of contrasting textures. To meet this, Charlie chose planks of crown oak for the furniture, which provides a tactile difference with the stainless-steel appliances. For further contrast in the open-plan space, he designed a breakfast and drinks cupboard, clad in patinated Verdigris copper. This showcases the natural variation that occurs when copper ages with all the resulting colour and pattern creating a striking focal point in the dining area of the room.
The owner of this Edwardian villa in the New Forest definitely didn't want a classic kitchen and tasked Charlie with creating something a world away from the standard Shaker. His response was to team beautiful book-matched walnut veneer with hand-patinated zinc panels. The zinc panels are edged in the same walnut and the cupboards feature aged-brass handles. The zinc helps to make a focal point not only of the island, but also the breakfast cupboard behind - and has been used to clad the fridge-freezer in the corner, bringing the whole design together.
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
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Taking inspiration from its water side setting, the Riverside project, designed by Katharine Pooley, is a luxurious pied-a-terre situated in the historical walls of the City of London. With a grand view of the Thames, the designs' textures and shades echo the movement and light that emanates from the changing tides of the river. Reflective materials, a muted and aerial inspired colour palette and bleached timbers mirror the waterside locale.
Across the design, I layered complementary dual tones throughout: gold and silver, semi-gloss weave and matte, deep blues and silvery hues - all evoking the shimmering interplay of light and texture found along the river’s edge. When designing the entrance hall, we were looking for finishes that would lighten and brighten the space as much as possible due to its internal positioning away from the vast windows in the main living areas. Textured silk wallpaper was selected for its subtle way of reflecting light. A grass cloth weave on a metallic background was specified for the panels within the coat cupboard doors, while very pale aerial, silver-toned blue was realised for the painted surfaces. A focal point is the ‘bird of paradise’ handles on the cupboard which further reflect life near the water.
When designing the living room I drew deeply from the apartment’s external setting with views that stretch toward the Thames and across to Shakespeare’s Globe. A glacial palette of soft blues and watery silvers was chosen to echo the light-play on the river, while every material and finish was selected to bounce and throw light back into the room.
An abalone-pearl-inset side table further captures the shifting colours of the sun as it dances across surfaces, echoed by the mix of metal accents and visible hardware throughout. The chandelier is detailed with baubles and reed-like forms and evokes the effervescence of rising tide bubbles. The curtains are trimmed with a pearl edging - a nod to the theatrical costumes worn on stage at the Globe visible just beyond the windows.
Furniture selections support both form and function - swivel chairs offer flexibility and I positioned them to easily face either inward or outward towards the terrace. Bespoke upholstery and a pebble inspired side table sits beautifully atop a raised-pile rug. Together, these elements create a serene interior where water, light, and location are continuously reflected and reinterpreted.
A quietly layered rhythm defines the bedroom below. Nature inspired-details and tones are used to create a calm retreat from the energy of the city beyond the windows. A verdant sectional headboard frames the bed and is flanked by panels of wallpaper. Hanging pendants are found above each bedside table, which themselves are bespoke pieces crafted with soft radial curves. They include discreet pull-out trays, perfect for resting small treasures or a morning cup of coffee. The curtains are finished with a bauble trim along the leading edges, adding a playful tactile note, while sheer layers help to diffuse the sharper lines of the metropolitan view outside.
Our team of interior designers and architects considers the surrounding environment an essential factor in crafting residential spaces. We have achieved a sense of balance by addressing the inerrant contrasts of central city life - its dynamic energy and fast pace - with the serenity of nearby nature. Through careful consideration of textures, tones, and natural materials, we bridged these opposing forces to craft a home that provides both a vibrant connection to urban living and a peaceful retreat.
About Katharine Pooley London
Recently named ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, ‘International Designer of the Year in Asia’ and ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Katharine Pooley has in a short space of time become one of Europe's leading designers. Her portfolio encompasses a multitude of interior styles and architectural genres and her design ethos is one of luxurious eclecticism. No two projects are ever alike, but they are universally beautiful and timeless.
In the heart of Dubai, Villa Adele embodies luxury and craftsmanship thanks to the expertise of Palazzo Morelli, which supervised every phase of the project, from contracting to development, procurement and selection of materials. The project involved a complete renovation, transforming the villa into a modern residence with a classic character, where design, quality and research into materials blend in perfect harmony.
Refined marbles such as Irish Green, Lilac with details in Amethyst and Panda White, embellished with burnished brass finishes, define the interiors. The spectacular entrance is characterised by a walnut staircase and a custom-made Italamp chandelier in cherry, olivine and transparent glass. In the bathrooms, marble is combined with precious inlays, Cielo sanitary ware, Boca do Lobo and Gessi faucets.
Palazzo Morelli is the creator of custom-made furnishings of extraordinary workmanship, such as the walnut root wood kitchen with green marble cladding and brass shelves. The TV unit and the bookcase, finished entirely in brass, combine aesthetics and functionality, while designer furnishings such as those by Capital, Visionnaire and Poliform define the rooms with refinement and balance.
Villa Adele is the authentic expression of Italian savoir-faire, where luxury translates into perfect harmony between materials, exclusive design and craftsmanship. A tailor-made residence that enhances the value of aesthetic research and timeless quality.
Developer and contractor: Palazzo Morelli Procurement and custom finishes: Lato Home Design Development & Project Management: Zero2Cento Concept design: Arch. Debora Laganà Photography: Anique Ahmed
About Palazzo Morelli
Palazzo Morelli is an Italian finishing contractor specializing in high-end interiors, offering high-quality fit-out and procurement services, with a wide range of premier international brands and bespoke furniture, artisanally crafted in our own labs. Founded in Umbria, Palazzo Morelli passionately merges traditional craftsmanship with advanced techniques, led by a dedicated team of architects, designers, project managers and artisans. With projects across Italy, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, Palazzo Morelli adapts to different cultural contexts while maintaining its distinctive commitment to detail and fine materials. The company promotes open communication with clients and fuses creativity and practicality to build spaces where style and functionality coexist. This philosophy guarantees in-depth research into materials, constant attention to detail and authentic Made in Italy excellence.
For years, minimalism has reigned supreme, with its muted tones, clean lines, and decluttered spaces. Over the last year, the pendulum started to swing in the opposite direction, welcoming the bold, the vibrant, and the unapologetically expressive. Maximalism is taking centre stage, offering a fresh perspective on interior design that prioritises personality, texture, and layers of visual interest.
Cheryl Herweg from Changing Spaces Interior Design says “Maximalism Design is not clutter but rather about curated abundance. It encourages the use of vibrant hues, luxurious textures, and diverse influences resulting in spaces feeling dynamic and personal.”
She says that some of the key elements of Maximalism Design include:
- Bold colours and patterns Embracing a rich vibrant colour palette and dynamic patterns, from florals to geometric designs, adding a layering of different motifs to create a sophisticated and expressive space. - Statement pieces and collectibles Maximalism thrives on storytelling. Mixing vintage and contemporary pieces, cultural influences, and artistic statements. - Layering and texture Plush fabrics and textiles, ornate furniture, and a variety of materials add depth and warmth to the space. - Mixing styles with confidence Unlike rigid design rules, Maximalism allows you to blend different styles seamlessly. Pair antique furniture with modern accents or combine global influences for a well-travelled aesthetic. - Floor-to-ceiling expression From wallpapered ceilings to bold rugs, maximalism encourages the use of every surface. Statement lighting, gallery walls filled with artwork, dramatic drapery, and intricate mouldings further enhance the layered look.
Interiors that feature Maximalism Design are characterised by their fearless approach to design. Herweg says that a masterfully crafted maximalism space maintains a sense of cohesion through thoughtful curation and strategic layering.
“We have found that clients who appreciate history, culture, and storytelling through design, prefer a Maximalism Design in their homes,” says Herweg, “allowing them to separate from restrictive norms and embrace their tastes for us to create a visually captivating and immersive space for them.” She says that there is still a need for balance, the space is after all still being designed to come together in a stylish and prestigious way. This is done by incorporating a unifying colour scheme, ensuring a sense of flow between elements, and selecting statement pieces with intention.
Herweg concludes, “Maximalism Design is more than just an aesthetic – it is a philosophy that encourages self-expression, creativity and the celebration of life’s richness.” As the design world continues to evolve, maximalism stands as a testament to the power of bold choices and uninhibited creativity.
Images from Changing Spaces Interior Design’s recently completed La Dique project in St Francis Bay, incorporating Maximalism Design.
About Changing Spaces Interior Design
Changing Spaces offers a complete, professional turnkey service utilising top class specialists in each area. Their personal involvement throughout your project is spearheaded by world-class designer Cheryl Herweg. This allows for a thorough insight into the client’s lifestyle and ensures a stunning end result – a totally personal blueprint – that is your unique space. We understand that each client is unique and has their own style and requirements. This ensures that we create absolutely anything that our clients desire or dream of. It is of paramount importance to Cheryl and her team that our relationships with our clients consist of mutual trust, understanding and transparency. Clear and constant communication is key. The personal nature of interior design demands this, and because we always focus on these factors, we ensure that your project is very rewarding and stress free.
In recent years, our approach to well-being has undergone a significant transformation. Mental health has become a central focus in home design, with saunas emerging as powerful tools for psychological restoration. Drawing from biophilic design principles that connect us with natural elements, these amenities offer more than mere luxury—they provide essential spaces for mental rejuvenation.
The traditional sauna experience has been strategically elevated through the incorporation of natural aromatic elements, particularly eucalyptus oils and the rich, grounding scent of teak wood. Scientifically validated, eucalyptus oil offers remarkable psychological benefits. Its compound 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) has been shown to reduce cortisol stress levels by up to 27%, interacting with neurotransmitter receptors to stimulate dopamine and serotonin production—providing a natural mechanism for mood enhancement and mental clarity.
Teak wood's complex fragrance adds sensory depth, releasing a warm, slightly sweet aroma that mimics ancient forests, triggering a primal sense of safety and relaxation.
Saunas provide a powerful convergence of physical detoxification and mental relaxation. The heat experience promotes circulation, eliminates toxins through perspiration, and soothes muscle tension. This physical relief directly contributes to mental calm, creating a virtuous cycle of well-being.
Eucalyptus oil amplifies these benefits by: - Supporting respiratory health through antimicrobial properties - Counterbalancing intense heat with a cooling sensation - Reducing inflammation and mental tension
Enhanced by thoughtful lighting and strategic aromatherapy, the sauna transforms from a simple heat chamber into a holistic healing sanctuary. As essential oils diffuse, they create a microclimate of healing—eucalyptus oil penetrating deeply to offer respiratory and mental clarity, while teak wood's aroma provides a grounding counterpoint.
Inspired by ancient Greek elemental philosophy, the sauna design integrates Himalayan salt walls with the transformative power of fire, creating a sophisticated therapeutic environment that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The Himalayan salt wall becomes a dynamic healing element when heated, releasing negative ions that offer significant health benefits. Scientific research demonstrates these ions can: - Neutralise stress-associated positive ions - Enhance serotonin production - Improve air quality - Reduce respiratory inflammation
When warmed, the salt wall activates its inherent mineralogical properties, creating a microclimate that mimics natural salt caves. The fire element, conceptualized in ancient philosophy as a force of revitalization, transforms from mere heat into a sophisticated healing mechanism.
This design bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding, creating an atmosphere that simultaneously warms the body, purifies the respiratory system, and uplifts the spirit—embodying a holistic approach to wellness.
Saunas transcend individual healing by addressing the social dimension of mental health. Larger spaces become safe, informal environments for reconnecting with friends and family, fostering conversation and bonding away from everyday distractions.
Studio Anqet's vision of wellness design emerges as a transformative approach in this sauna project, embodying a holistic philosophy that transcends traditional architectural boundaries. Founded on the principle that physical spaces profoundly impact mental and emotional well-being, the studio has carefully crafted an environment that is more than a mere functional area—it is a therapeutic landscape.
The design philosophy reflects a deep understanding of biophilic principles, where natural elements are not simply decorative but integral to the healing process. By selecting materials like teak wood, Himalayan salt and incorporating therapeutic essential oils, Studio Anqet demonstrates a commitment to creating spaces that actively contribute to human wellness. The sauna becomes a testament to their belief that design can be a powerful tool for psychological restoration.
Each design choice—from the strategic placement of lighting to the careful selection of aromatic elements—is intentional. The studio's approach goes beyond aesthetic considerations, viewing the space as a living, breathing ecosystem designed to support mental health, reduce stress, and promote a sense of connection with natural rhythms.
By integrating natural elements—earth (wood), fire (heat & warm lighting), and sophisticated aromatherapy—modern saunas create a balanced environment that resonates with our innate need for nature connection. They are no longer mere rooms, but carefully crafted ecosystems designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.
About Studio Anqet
Studio Anqet is a well-established multi award winning design studio providing interiors, landscape and architectural design services. At Studio Anqet, we believe that impeccable design has the power to improve lives. Our bespoke interiors & landscapes are conceived to uplift, inspire and delight. Guided by our clients’ aspirations, we breathe life into personal visions – turning houses into incredible homes and buildings into beautiful sanctuaries. We see possibilities others may not, finding beauty in the everyday and solutions where none seem to exist. This spirit runs through everything we create. Studio Anqet’s identity is shaped by our agility, persistence, and personal touch. We are Industry trailblazers committed to wellness-centric design and sustainable practices. Our work is a tribute to both our Egyptian namesake – the goddess of the Nile River – and the new life we help cultivate every day.
Ledbury Studio has elevated stainless steel from industrial to indulgent, marrying it with the warmth of aged brass, the richness of English walnut and the timeless elegance of Carrara marble. The result? A breathtakingly luxurious kitchen that exudes sophistication and charm.
The client's vision was nothing short of enchanting: a kitchen that radiated warmth and femininity, while remaining effortlessly practical for hosting. She also already had her heart set on a La Cornue range cooker. As such, Ledbury Studio founder Charlie Smallbone curated a scheme of brushed stainless-steel cabinetry softened by the opulence of aged brass accents. The bespoke finishes were meticulously hand-matched to the range, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship.
At the heart of the kitchen, a spectacular island commands attention, offering both a generous seating area for drinks or casual dining and plenty of prep space. The Carrara marble worktop is strikingly bisected by a strip of English walnut, visually defining the breakfast bar while adding warmth to the design. In addition, the marble is framed with patinated brass corner detailing, reminiscent of an elegant jewellery box.
Under the breakfast bar, the island is clad in a single sheet of hand-distressed brass, its rich patina lending texture and depth. On the working side, stainless steel drawers gleam with bespoke brass handles, while brass-framed steel panels at each end create a sleek, cohesive finish. Suspended above, a perfectly positioned pendant stylishly illuminates the island.
Storage is seamlessly integrated into the fabric of this exquisite kitchen. To the left of the La Cornue range, built-in shelving provides a refined yet highly functional display, while to the right, a seamlessly integrated fridge is discreetly concealed behind bespoke stainless-steel cabinetry. Underneath, a double sink - sculpted from Carrara marble - makes a striking focal point and is usefully flanked by twin dishwashers.
On the opposite side, a row of fluted glass wall cabinets, elegantly framed in brass, offers both practical storage and a touch of glamour. A thoughtful finishing touch: a brushed stainless-steel frame encasing the brass details subtly links the wall units to the base units, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic.
Beyond the kitchen, there is a stylish dining area featuring custom banquette seating and a showstopping round table crafted from book-matched walnut. Then, framing the French doors to the garden, twin storage cupboards - clad in Ledbury Studio's signature 'Choppy Water' carved oak with brass detailing - offer both beauty and function. One serves as a discreet cocktail cabinet, complete with pocket doors and a mirrored back, while the other is a fully equipped larder cupboard.
"This kitchen is a true reflection of Ledbury Studio's dedication to innovative materials and meticulous craftsmanship," says Charlie Smallbone. "The blend of glamour and practicality is seamless, creating a space that is as stunning as it is functional. And what better testament to its success than the client hosting a 50-guest gathering just one week after installation - effortlessly entertaining in her spectacular new kitchen!"
Bristol’s Totterdown neighbourhood has long been a favourite corner of this ever-surprising, vibrant and ferociously independent city, known for its steep hills, Edwardian terraces and higgedly-piggedly streets bursting with character.
As one of Bristol’s more bohemian quarters, it’s a hotbed of creativity and charm. When Hannah Redden was commissioned to transform the basement living room of a Totterdown family home, I knew it was a real opportunity to get creative. As such, I positively leapt at the chance to help it shine, confident in the knowledge I could apply my skills to truly bring out the owners’ character in this subterranean space. After all, what is interior design for if not ensuring your personality is reflected in the rooms where we spend our time?
Upon visiting the basement living room in need of a thorough design solution, the issue at hand was clear: it simply lacked the soul, colour and personality the individuals who lived there had in spades. While the remainder of the home managed to express that essence of being - with copious artwork hanging on the walls and plenty of vibrancy to be found - the basement room with its open-plan kitchen was a little neglected, a little gloomy.
It’s a common situation with basement rooms, even ones with as much potential as this one - there’s something about a lack of natural light that leads spaces to be forgotten, left as an afterthought, or a project that never truly gets underway. I was delighted that this family, who clearly had a deep love for design and creativity, had taken the initiative to really make the most of what could be an absolutely thrilling addition to any home.
Indeed, the homeowners had plenty of good ideas to get this project underway. During my initial fact finding, I was told they were keen on a bohemian look and feel - ‘urban modern’ and ‘a bit Scandi’ were mentioned, as well as a real love for green tones ranging from deep forest greens to pale turquoise hues.
As always, the first job was to get to know what made this family tick. Spending some time with a client, asking the right questions, picking up on those visual cues and getting under the surface of what their hopes and aspirations for a space might be, is a real secret weapon in the interior designer’s arsenal. This family was more than happy to show me their favourite artworks, discuss colours and flick through mood boards and other forms of inspiration, taking an active role in the all-important early stages of the process.
My plan was to introduce more natural light into the space (despite being a basement, the room benefited from a bay front and sizable window), and then apply light, neutral colours and various features to transform a gloomy basement into a cosy, family-friendly and fully functional and practical aspect of the home.
Simply put, the task was to create an underappreciated space into a striking one that is full of life, and where the family of four could enjoy spending time and finding inspiration. By introducing additional shelving into the alcoves, I maximised the space in which the family could showcase ornaments, decorations and artwork. This also allowed the antique stove and flue to become a central feature of the room, further highlighted by the addition of original artwork above it.
Bringing colour into this space was absolutely vital to introduce that characterful, urbane vibe the homeowners were seeking. After some deliberation, we decided to go forwards with Hague Blue for the lower walls and Arsenic Green for above the picture rail and extending onto the ceiling. I was delighted with these choices, not least because the deep, rich tone of Hague Blue on the lower walls creates a grounding effect, adding depth and intimacy to the space. Countering this, the vibrant Arsenic Green draws the eye upwards, making the room feel more dynamic and uplifting.
A sense of creating a real sanctuary was achieved by leaning into the cosy potential of this basement room. I proposed using the ceiling itself as a ‘fifth wall’, and by incorporating colour into the ceiling, we were able to not only introduce an intriguing and bold design element, we also created a cohesive, enveloping feel to the space. This approach brought vibrancy and balance to the basement, but also succeeded in highlighting the stunning architectural features of the room, with the picture rail becoming a real standout and allowing for a sense of playfulness.
Of course, light also had an important role to play. The voiles on the window allow for additional light to enter the basement room, and introducing characterful lighting fixtures - a fun, unusual overhead lampshade and the pre-existing standing lamp the family were keen to keep - meant the space maintained a cosy ambience once the natural light had faded.
The result of the project was injecting the basement room not only with a quirky character and cosiness befitting the family home, but also with a heightened sense of functionality and practicality. This was no longer an additional room beneath the house - a place where items were stored, and very little else happened - it was a vibrant and valued feature of the property, where the family could cook, eat, and relax in a private, comfortable and intimate space.
About Hannah Redden Interiors
I’m Hannah; an interior and textile designer with a passion for colour, texture and reinvention. With decades of design experience, I create practical, beautiful spaces which enhance my clients’ experience of living. In other words; inspiring interiors that work in the real world. I provide a professional, personalised interiors service; with each project a collaborative partnership between myself and my client. From a straight-forward consultation to mastering a bold living room colour scheme or helping you translate your ideas for your dream kitchen into reality, I can guide you to concepts and solutions more creative and striking than you ever imagined. I want to encourage confidence in your interior design decisions – helping you to build a home you will enjoy for years to come.
The owners of the latest Ledbury Studio project were undertaking a complete renovation of their home when they approached Charlie Smallbone and team to design this elegant open-plan kitchen. For this space, their primary goal was to create a kitchen and dining area that could serve as a versatile room for the entire family to cook, dine and spend time in together.
“This kitchen was designed to be both beautiful and practical,” explains Charlie. “The use of different materials and textures creates a dynamic and engaging space, while the layout ensures it meets the needs of a busy family. The combination of metal, marble and quartzite adds depth and interest, making it a room that is not only functional but also a joy to be in.”
The clients wanted a neutral palette, so Charlie selected painted cabinets with a single panel design in Ash White. But then to prevent the solid fronts from overwhelming the space, he added ribbed glass wall cabinets into the mix, bringing an element of lightness and texture that breaks up the uniformity and enhances visual interest.
Various metallic elements throughout the kitchen add Charlie’s signature wow factor. Aged brass handles and kickplates enhance the cabinetry, while the spice rack features delicate brass rails. The kitchen taps are also brass, as are the fittings on the trio of pendants hung over the island. These touches of brass not only add a luxurious feel but also provide a cohesive look to the kitchen.
The central island is another talking point of the space thanks to its reeded surround and stunning Diamond Quartzite top. Home to the kitchen sink as well as a breakfast bar for casual dining, this eye-catching island serves as both a functional workspace and a social centrepiece. The same Diamond Quartzite is used for the adjacent worktop and splashback, elegantly tying all the kitchen elements together and ensuring a harmonious flow throughout.
In contrast to the Ash White cabinets and cool quartzite, the coffee-making station and tall refrigeration cupboards are clad in sheets of zinc that have been aged and patinated. The zinc adds a touch of industrial chic, juxtaposing beautifully with the kitchen’s otherwise polished aesthetic. This contrast both highlights this functional section of the kitchen and adds depth to the overall design.
A walk-in pantry was a must-have addition for the clients, creating convenient storage for the family's food. Given their passion for cooking, Charlie also integrated a floor-to-ceiling book rack into the design, which is stylishly framed in marble and provides ample space for their collection of cookbooks.
Designed by 4SPACE, Moli by SHI tells a tale as old as time, weaving traditional Chinese architecture with modern extravagance. The name “Moli” meaning "jasmine" in Chinese, carries profound symbolism associated with purity, grace, and elegance, immersing visitors in a feeling of opulence and sophistication right from arrival.
Upon entering the restaurant, guests encounter traditional architectural elements reminiscent of a Chinese temple. Greeted by two guardian lion statues right at the reception, the statues set the tone for the immersive cultural experience that awaits.
Walls adorned with classic carvings create a mesmerising backdrop, while plush banquettes featuring intricate Chinese artwork set the stage for a lavish dining experience. The central floor illuminates with a subtle glow as night descends, creating a magical atmosphere for refined dinners.
The interior of the space showcases a captivating architectural feature deeply rooted in Chinese tradition—the Dougong system. Originating from ancient Chinese construction techniques, Dougong represents a distinctive method of interlocking wooden brackets that provide structural support within a building's framework. This intricate and time-honoured element is prominently featured in the columns, contributing to the structural integrity of the space and its aesthetic appeal.
The restaurant’s wall cladding is a testament to the meticulous artistry and cultural richness inherent in Chinese craftsmanship. Adorned with wood engravings, the surface becomes a canvas that elegantly tells a visual narrative, with each intricately carved detail capturing the essence of tradition and the enduring legacy of Chinese culture.
Above, the ceiling features prominently hanging light features shaped in jasmine flowers, providing gentle and ambient lighting, further emphasising the essence of Moli.
A metallic bead curtain flows into the space, merging the walls with the ceiling, gracefully mimicking the fluid movements of a dragon, as it weaves through the restaurant space and around the columns, starting from the entrance toward the end and grinding the guest gracefully through the space.
In crafting the design concept, careful consideration was given to the selection of furniture; each piece was crafted to the small. The chosen furniture complements but actively implicates and portrays the underlying concept, seamlessly blending functionality with the rich cultural narrative.
The seating arrangements and furniture are expertly crafted with a nod to traditional Chinese woodworking techniques. They are adorned with jacquard velvet fabric that presents an interpretation midway between a figurative depiction of magical tigers and the Chinese mythological realms.
About 4SPACE
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.
The Nursery Inn, on Green Lane in Stockport, is a pub with history. Built by Hydes Brewery in 1939, it is one of the few remaining inter-wars, (built between World War 1 and World War 2), pubs and retains its original layout and many original features. To recognise its historic significance CAMRA campaigned for the site to become a listed building and The Nursery was given a grade II listing in 2011 to protect this significant part of UK heritage.
Whilst a triumph for the protection of this historical site, the new Listed status created hurdles to ensuring that the pub could adapt to modern customer expectations and remain a viable business concern for its ongoing owners, Hydes Brewery. After previous failed attempts at achieving listed building consent for refurbishment works, MGI were appointed to develop detailed drawings and specifications to accompany a listed building application that would satisfy both the conservation officer and the client. After a hard-fought battle, listed building consent was granted, and the rejuvenation of the Nursery Inn could begin.
Throughout the design process, our designers took great care to ensure that the historic fabric, fixtures and fittings of the site were retained and protected wherever possible, such as the original wall tiling and terrazzo flooring throughout the WC facilities, lighting, bar serveries , fixed seating, wall panelling and the separate entrance to the “vault” bar.
New Finishes and fixtures were chosen to complement and enhance the original elements of the site with concerted effort to specify finishes that harked back to the décor of the late 1930’s but with more modern elements sensitively worked into the project to appeal to the modern customer base.
The biggest obstacle in achieving listed building approval was the proposal to move one of the existing serveries forward from its original position so as to be visible to customers entering the site, enabling staff to greet them as they enter. The Client`s appointed contractors WHB construction carefully removed the servery section in one piece and formed new end panel and over bar sections that faithfully reproduced the original materials and design. New back fittings were formed in the same manner.
Wall finishes specified were a mixture of heritage paint colours and Arts & Crafts design wall papers, with faux leather upholstery and floral prints utilised to tie the scheme together.
We at MGI are immensely proud of what has been achieved by the whole design and construction team on this project and are extremely confident in The Nursery Inn’s success as an ongoing business.
About MGI Partners
MGI Partners are an award-winning Interior design practice with decades of experience within the hospitality and commercial sectors. Our talented team have honed their skills and specialist industry knowledge to provide beautiful, commercially viable design solutions that meet our client`s specific brief and can be delivered no matter how challenging the project or budget spend is. We always put our clients first and love to work in close collaboration, to guide them through the design and construction processes to ensure we create spaces that their customers will love and want to return to again and again. With a range of services including surveying, site analysis, interior design, Visualisation, Statutory applications, branding and project management we tailor our offer to meet each client`s specific requirements.
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