The client’s brief was to transform a compact 55 sq.m. apartment in Kyiv’s Unit.Home complex into a highly functional and visually expansive space for a young couple. While working within the limitations of size, the goal was to maximise natural light, integrate smart storage solutions, and create a sense of calm, understated elegance.
The clients wanted the apartment to feel modern yet warm, with flexible living zones, high-quality materials, and a design that would stand the test of time both aesthetically and practically.
As the interior designer, Victoria Moshchynska's aim was to translate these priorities into a cohesive interior where every detail—furniture, lighting, textures—worked not only for comfort and function, but also for emotional resonance and visual harmony.
The design was inspired by the challenge of creating a sense of spaciousness, tranquillity, and individuality within a compact footprint — while responding to the character of its context. The apartment is located in Unit.Home, a newly developed residential district in Kyiv known for its contemporary architecture, thoughtful planning, and green surroundings.
I wanted the interior to reflect the overall spirit of the neighbourhood: modern, intelligent, and forward-looking — but at the same time to offer a deeply personal, warm and emotionally resonant atmosphere.
Natural oak wood set the tone, adding tactile warmth and continuity throughout the space. The glass partition between the bedroom and living area was used to maximise light and openness, while bespoke furniture and sculptural accents introduced personality and rhythm.
Inspired by the softness of European minimalism, I combined clean lines with rich textures and a refined palette — soft blue, deep burgundy, and warm neutrals — to ensure the home felt calm, inviting and unmistakably individual.
One of the main challenges was working within a limited budget while still delivering a high-end, custom look. The clients valued quality and aesthetics, but every design decision had to be cost-effective and efficient.
To overcome this, we collaborated closely with local manufacturers to develop bespoke solutions that were both budget-friendly and visually refined. For example, instead of using expensive wall cladding systems, we designed a more economical version of oak paneling that still achieved the warm, continuous effect we envisioned.
Another hurdle was the compact size of the apartment — just 55 sq.m. Every centimetre had to be carefully considered to maximise functionality without compromising on flow or visual harmony. Bespoke furniture, integrated storage, and multifunctional design elements were essential in resolving this constraint.
Ultimately, the success of the project came from a balance of creativity, technical precision, and clear communication — both within the design team and with the client.
The highlight of the project was the decision to wrap all the walls of the apartment in warm oak paneling — a bold move that initially raised concerns. The client was hesitant, worried that so much wood might make the space feel darker or heavier, especially given the apartment’s compact size.
However, the result was the exact opposite. The natural tone and vertical rhythm of the oak panels brought visual warmth and calm, creating a unified, elegant atmosphere that felt both contemporary and timeless.
This effect was further enhanced by the glass partition between the bedroom and living area, as well as the apartment’s tall windows, which allowed natural light to flow freely and interact beautifully with the wood throughout the day.
Convincing the client to trust this vision — and then seeing how much they embraced and loved the final result — was a truly rewarding moment for the entire team.
About Victoria Moshchynska Interior Design & Styling
Victoria Moshchynska is an award-winning interior designer with a refined contemporary approach and over 15 years of experience in the field. Since 2008, she has been creating stylish, functional, and personalized interiors for clients across various lifestyles. As an SBID Award winner, her work is recognized for its balance of elegance, comfort, and practicality. Victoria offers a full range of services, including full-cycle interior design projects, furnishing, decorating, renovation, and consulting. Her thoughtful use of materials, lighting, color, and layout transforms both empty homes and existing spaces into harmonious, curated environments tailored to the people who live in them.
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When x+why first got the keys to the Arding & Hobbs building in central Clapham, it was clear this was going to be a project like no other. Originally constructed in 1910 as a drapery and fabric store, this Grade II listed building has been a beloved local landmark for over a century.
Interaction were honoured to collaborate with x+why to transform this building into x+why’s newest coworking site and private members’ club, after it had sat vacant for five years. We worked alongside x+why’s talented design team in a detail and build role, helping to bring the flex space operator’s vision to life. Our shared mission with x+why was clear: create a high-end, intricately-detailed workspace and private members’ club that would honour the building’s heritage while fostering a new, vibrant community in Clapham.
"Interaction have been brilliant to work with on this landmark project. From the start, they took the time to understand the building’s history and our design intent, and they’ve done an exceptional job bringing that vision to life. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship are second to none, and they’ve been a real joy to collaborate with throughout." - Phil Nevin, CCO, x+why.
The finished space offers a blend of historic charm and modern functionality. On one side, a coworking area provides dedicated desks, 30 serviced offices, phone booths and podcast room, all designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes looking for flexible office space in one of London’s busiest neighbourhoods. Reflecting the demand for high-quality, characterful workspaces, the flex space was already 50% let before opening, surpassing projections and demonstrating the viability of investing in well-designed, heritage-led flexible spaces.
On the other, Clapham’s first private members’ club, The Arding Rooms, feels glamourous and luxurious. The space offers a restaurant, bar, bookable lounges and meeting rooms, as well as an events space including an auditorium and anteroom. Designed for a day-to-night transition, the club is bright and welcoming during the day, ready to transform into a moody, indulgent social space in the evenings – perfect for evening drinks.
This entire project is a celebration of detail, quality and heritage. We worked to enhance and compliment the building’s historic features, including its vast domed roof light, intricate mouldings, exposed brickwork and the iconic cupola – soon to be repurposed as a rooftop bar with views over Clapham and Wandsworth.
The design inspiration was ‘Faded Glamour’ – a layered elegance that hints at a grand past while feeling relaxed and unpolished. Think patinas, velvets, tarnished metals and aged finishes. Every detail has been chosen to make the space feel as if it’s been part of Clapham for a century – conjuring all the atmosphere of a vintage cigar lounge, only without the smoky haze.
Design choices were inspired by the subtle colours from the dome, with soft yellows, deep purples, blues and greens echoed in upholstery and finishes. A star motif from the dome now runs subtly through the building, appearing in drawer pulls, vintage mirrors and the bespoke banquette seating.
References to the building’s history as a drapery are woven throughout, including a poetry quote above the bar – ‘until the fabric speaks & the textile is the text’, embossed in gold-leaf. The bespoke aged oak herringbone flooring, chosen for its durability, ties seamlessly with the historic surroundings, each plank having been tumbled with stones to create a timeworn finish.
Artisan details bring a further layer of richness: a handmade mirror in the bar was crafted using traditional silver nitrate techniques, while gold-leafed handwritten signs from Bath-based Newbigin Signs guides visitors through the space. Lighting was integral to the design, creating a space that feels moody and welcoming simultaneously, with period-inspired feature lighting sourced from Jim Lawrence and Felix Lighting adding warmth and character throughout.
"Working precisely to x+why’s innovative design, the aim was to preserve the building’s rich heritage. It’s rare to work on a site with so much character, and we’ve taken great care to preserve those special architectural features while introducing a premium design that will inspire the community for years to come. It’s truly a unique workspace!" - Martha Gray, Creative Lead, Interaction.
In celebration of the building’s history, the meeting rooms are named after haberdashery terms. Styling pieces sourced from local markets and vintage stores echo the soft colours and star motif of the domed roof light, with the motif also appearing in bespoke joinery crafted by Berdalout. A traditionally-made, handcrafted mirror adorns the bar. Even the toilets carry a sense of indulgence, designed to capture the feel of glamorous days gone by.
About Interaction
Powered by principles. We’ve been designing and building some of the UK’s best workplaces since 1992. Throughout the years Interaction has worked to create workspaces which bring out the best in people and their business. We advocate for the types of workspace that are people-centric, sustainable and flexible; spaces designed to build communities and facilitate collaboration. With a design studio in Bath and a central London base, our creative crew work on a range of commercial projects, from bespoke office fit-outs to multi-million pound building refurbishments.
Award-winning interior design studio Kai Interiors is proud to announce the completion of its latest project, Guillam Coffee, located within the newly redeveloped and iconic London building, The Whiteley. Completed on 22 July 2025, this coffee space pays homage to the site’s historic past through a rich tapestry of textures, curves, and considered materiality.
At the heart of the design concept lies the influence of The Whiteley’s legacy in textiles. The soft, wave-like forms throughout the space, from the microcement curved wall to the sweeping counter and bespoke tables, reflect the flowing movement of fabric. This visual narrative celebrates the craftsmanship once associated with the building while aligning with Guillam Coffee’s brand identity.
Daniela Canas, Interior Designer of Kai Interiors, says: "The brief was to create a warm, inviting space that subtly referenced the Whiteley’s past while representing the Guillam brand. A key element in our design was the integration of branding colours with luxurious walnut panelling, establishing an elegant balance between modern hospitality and historical homage. Bespoke furniture, custom lighting, and tactile finishes elevate the guest experience while remaining timeless and functional."
· A custom microcement curved wall crafted to mimic the flow of textiles · A bespoke curved counter and branch feature to anchor the bar area · Use of sustainable materials and handcrafted finishes throughout · Brand-led colour palette tied into an elegant walnut woodwork scheme
Guillam Coffee at The Whiteley is more than a café, it’s a thoughtfully designed destination that honours history while embracing the future of hospitality.
About KAI Interiors
KAI Interiors is an award-winning, female-led London and Sydney design company specialising in exceptional hospitality, residential, wellbeing, and workspace projects. Our innovative, open-minded approach fosters trusted relationships, enabling us to deeply understand clients’ needs. We craft unique, human-centric concepts that deliver beautiful, functional designs. We partner globally with hotels, restaurants, bars, and high-net-worth individuals seeking impressive, bespoke lifestyle experiences. Our seamless four-step process guides clients through concept, design, build, and styling. Founded over a decade ago by Michaela Reysenn, an F&B veteran, KAI consistently balances practicality and aesthetic beauty in award-winning projects under her leadership. Our Mission is designing inspiring spaces that cultivate authentic engagement and collective wellbeing, for a more socially connected world.
City Residence, a 3 bed, 2 bath pied-a-terre designed by Nora Chou, located within the heart of Hong Kong’s commercial district, turned tourist destination - Tsim Sha Tsui.
Chou's team completed a full gut out and refurbishment of the property with a boutique hotel inspired aesthetic. They created a space that allows for the client to detach from the activity of the city. The nature of the building being enclosed within the constructs of other high-rises, encouraged a design approach that evolved around creating a calm and restorative mood.
The process involved working with local skilled craftsman to create bespoke joinery and finishes as well as custom furnishings and doors. In particular, the feature of a custom metal encased glass door, unique to the property, separating the entertaining and resting spaces is one of Chou's favourite moments at City Residence.
Typical of Hong Kong properties and especially city dwelling in general, the layout of apartments tends to be more compact. As such, creating layered moments through customization became imperative in the design of the property.
For instance, integrating built-in storage solutions assisted with creating a seamlessness in each room, enhancing a calm and restorative mood. Utilising pocket doors also contributed to the general feeling of openness within smaller rooms.
The living area features a rug, ‘Spring Buds’ in Chou's hand-selected ‘Sunrise’ palette, from her rug collection exclusively designed for Silk Avenue. Available in bespoke sizes and colourways. Read this article here to discover Chou's process in designing 'Sky & Earth'.
About Nora Chou
Luxury Interior Designer with a focus on Residential and Hospitality Design. Working on projects internationally, Nora Chou offer interior design services including but not limited to project management, space planning, sourcing and creating designs that are custom to every project. Our approach in design is not to be restricted to a specific style. We find it is key to understand the varying lifestyles and preferred aesthetics of our clients before interpreting ideas into tailored spaces. It is our mission to create layered moments through design. Taking a collaborative hands-on approach with our clients is important to us. Combined with our tendencies to work with suppliers who are artisanal in nature, this allows us to incorporate a certain sensibility and distinctive detail to our projects.
In the centre of Thessaloniki, Greece, Square Design Interiors transformed a 25 sq.m. ground floor private garage into a 32 sq.m. modern micro-residence, expanding the usable space through the new design.
As built originally, the garage had direct access to the street. So, an entry hallway was created to lead into the compact, modern residence that expands in two levels.
An internal balcony and a bespoke designed bookcase developing in full height, connect the two levels. The kitchen and living room areas are on the ground level, while the bespoke staircase with the hidden storage areas lead to the bedroom and bathroom upstairs.
The owner of the property wished to change the use of the garage into a micro-residence equipped with modern life amenities, where the user, most likely the owner himself, would decompress from the chaotic city scenery.
The brief described the creation of an internal balcony and a floor to ceiling bookcase rising dramatically all through the two levels. Furthermore, the new facade should blend into the neighbourhood environment, while expressing a fresh and new approach to the safety and privacy of the user.
The main constraint was the limited space and that was the wheel of creativity, at the same time.
Iron was one of the main materials used, in some cases acting as a structural component, coated in plasterboard and painted white to create the sense of continuity within the interior areas. In other cases, iron made design components were coloured to be integrated in the overall design, like the white metal ladder of the bookcase or the beige metal safety railings of the facade.
Warm oak wood was matched with sleek surfaces of white lacquer, offering a timeless result: the modern kitchen with the numerous hidden storage areas, the staircase providing storage and integration of the home appliances, the dramatic bespoke bookcase.
The wood-like warmth was also introduced on the floor surfaces through carefully selected tiles, as well as on the shower wall and floor.
This feeling of simplicity and warmth was extended outwards, to the facade of the micro-residence, blending harmonically with the surrounding environment. The colours and the materials of the facade project home serenity and warmth.
The challenge that the design sought to address was to make the most from the less; in other words, the task was to utilise and transform a garage into a modern and fully functional permanent ‘micro-residence’.
In a small space, every possible surface that can evolve and create additional rooms is particularly significant. Through the design, usable space was added to the upper level. The original garage area had a loft of approximately 6 square meters. An additional space of 7 square meters was added, creating a bedroom, a work area and a bathroom on the upper level.
The ‘micro-residence’ concept addresses the worldwide housing problem, where the lack of functional and compact residences is pervasive. The rapid growth of short-term rental housing, especially in city centres, makes the need for smart solutions, such as the one created through the design, even more pressing.
Another major advantage of the project is the smaller energy footprint as the space heats up and cools down faster due to its size and design. This feature follows the global approach to social, economic, and environmental planning that balances the social and economic needs of present and future human generations with the imperative of preventing undue damage to the natural environment.
We are very happy to share that our studio received the international Big SEE Architecture Award 2025, during the Big Architecture festival in beautiful Portoroz by the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia, for our Garage Transformation into a Micro-Residence project.
About Square Design Interiors
We work on our projects with great passion and dedication, structuring and following a personal approach. The process of our work balances a highly creative perspective with driven project coordination. The finished environments we create are complete spaces designed effectively for the interaction of people within them and the creation of life-long experiences and wonderful memories. We work closely with our clients and form strong ties, as most of our clients have become repeat customers and eventually good friends. Our studio is located in Thessaloniki, Greece and we work globally.
Marmo were delighted to be commissioned once again by their long-standing shopfitting partner to deliver the decorative finishes for one of Aesop’s newest retail stores, located at Westfield Stratford City, London. This follows their previous collaboration on Aesop’s Islington store, reinforcing a strong, ongoing relationship with the globally respected skincare brand and their design team.
The design specification for the Westfield Stratford store called for application of coarse-finish Microcement, selected for both aesthetic quality and high-performance properties. The finish was applied across nearly every surface—walls, ceilings, flooring, a central structural column, and complex bespoke joinery, including custom sink units and precision-cut display fixtures.
Following a thorough sampling and approval process with the architect and main contractor, two contrasting yet complementary tones were selected: a warm custom terracotta red and a soft earth-toned beige. Both shades align with Aesop’s signature organic colour palette, ensuring harmony with the brand’s global retail identity.
True to Aesop’s design philosophy—“to work with what already exists... to weave ourselves into the fabric of place and add something of merit rather than impose a discordant presence”—the most visually striking element is the structural column. This architectural feature, wrapped in the custom terracotta Microcement, anchors the space both vertically and aesthetically, providing a strong visual connection between floor and ceiling.
Microcement was the ideal material for this project, offering not only a refined, natural aesthetic but also exceptional durability, full waterproofing, and resistance to oils and fragrances—crucial in a high-traffic retail environment. Its versatility and seamless application across multiple substrates ensured a clean and coherent finish across even the most intricate surfaces, including units with delicate integrated cut-outs.
This latest commission builds upon our previous work with Aesop, including the coarse Microcement wall finishes in Islington, matched to Farrow & Ball’s “Dimity No. 2008,” and the 2024 Salone del Mobile installation in Milan, for which we completed 16 large-format wall panels in Microcement. We are proud to contribute to the evolution of Aesop’s unique retail spaces through innovative use of decorative Microcement finishes.
As specialist Microcement contractors based in London and Surrey, we have built a strong reputation for delivering high-end decorative surface finishes across both residential and commercial sectors. This latest collaboration with Aesop adds to our growing portfolio of Microcement and polished plaster installations, delivered both nationwide and internationally. Our expertise extends far beyond retail environments—Microcement is a highly versatile, seamless, and waterproof finish that is ideally suited for a wide range of applications including bathrooms, wet rooms, showers, spa areas, and swimming pools, as well as bespoke elements such as furniture and joinery. Whether working on a luxury private residence in Surrey, a hospitality space in central London, or a flagship retail concept abroad, we bring the same level of craftsmanship, precision, and design sensitivity to every project.
About Marmo Surface Finishes
Marmo Surface Finishes are a renowned polished plaster company specialising in Venetian Polished Plaster interior applications and Decorative surface finishes, predominantly operating throughout London and Surrey as well as the U.K's major cities. Our experience spans all sectors such as hi-end residential and commercial projects including retail environments, restaurants, bars and office interior spaces. We work alongside some of London's and the U.K's major construction companies as well as award winning interior designers and architects creating stunning Venetian Polished Plaster interiors that we are extremely proud of. Our work speaks for itself.
The Royale Residence Villa project, designed by DM Projects, aims to create a luxurious Moroccan-style private retreat near Bali's Pandawa Beach. The design criteria focus on blending traditional Moroccan aesthetics with modern amenities, ensuring panoramic ocean views and high-end facilities such as private gyms, saunas, and spas for each villa.
The external appearance showcases authentic Moroccan architecture, characterised by intricate tile work, arched doorways, and ornate detailing. Each villa is complemented by lush garden facilities, featuring native Balinese flora to create a tranquil oasis that harmoniously blends with the environment.
Royale Residence is designed for discerning investors, high-net-worth individuals, and business professionals seeking an exclusive retreat in Bali. Positioned in a prime location, this villa offers the perfect balance of luxury, privacy, and investment potential.
Offering an exclusive, serene environment that appeals to affluent individuals seeking a unique and opulent living experience in Bali. Challenges include harmonising Moroccan architectural elements with the tropical Balinese environment and ensuring the integration of luxury features without compromising the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The private pool at Royale Residence offers a secluded retreat, surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Designed for both relaxation and recreation, the pool area features elegant sun loungers, shaded pergolas, and intricate architectural details that enhance its serene ambiance.
The rooftop terrace of Royale Residence is an elevated retreat designed for relaxation, entertainment, and breathtaking views. Featuring elegant sun loungers, a shaded pergola, and lush greenery, this space seamlessly blends comfort with natural beauty.
The grand staircase and classical architectural elements create a sophisticated ambiance, while thoughtfully placed seating areas offer an intimate retreat. Whether for sunbathing, alfresco dining, or quiet evenings under the stars, the rooftop embodies refined luxury and exclusivity.
Sustainability, safety and innovation are an important part of the project. The Royale Residence has features that improve the safety, security, accessibility and wellbeing of the occupants: - Security and CCTV: Utilisation of state-of-the-art video surveillance systems. Availability of professional security guards for round the clock security. - Safe Zones: Designation of safe areas and evacuation routes. Use of safes for guests' valuables. - Access Control: Restricting entry to registered visitors only. Entrance to the complex is strictly through the reception desk. - Fire Safety: Installing fire extinguishing equipment and smoke detectors. - Emergency Assistance: Organisation of medical service for emergency cases. Safety instructions and contact numbers for guests. - Hospitality and Service: Trained staff ready to provide high quality service. Feedback systems to improve service quality.
To ensure that the villa is stable and functions for many years, bringing only joy and comfortable life to its owners, we equipped the project with the following equipment:
- Smart Home: Premium, Smart Home Systems Personalised for the way you live offers the unparalleled convenience of controlling your lighting, climate, entertainment, and security from a single control. - Climate control HVAC system: Our energy-efficient HVAC systems are designed to minimise your carbon footprint, allowing you to live a greener lifestyle. - Energy saving and ecology: Natural insulation and ventilation that ensures a dry micro climate in the villa during the rainy season, which prevents the formation of fungi and mold. Waste management by arrangement with the garbage collection company. The area has moderate winds from the west during the dry season and from the south east during the wet season, which keeps a mild micro climate indoors and outdoors.
- Water filtration for villas: Follows technological developments, especially in water treatment and reverse osmosis systems. Provide solutions for clean water needs for customers by paying attention to various aspects such as environmentally friendly technology. - Recycling: Composting organic waste for fertilizer and reducing pressure on landfills for every our villa. Say Goodbye to Food Waste. It's time to rethink recycling. Our powerful technology, sleek design and easy operation make the FoodCycler a game-changer in your kitchen. - Waste sorting bins in every single kitchen: Waste can become new resources. Our chosen series helps to sort different materials into different bins, a simple action and the first step towards giving waste a new life.
- Solar panels: Professional lithium battery storage solar system. - Sustainable water conservation sanitary: Hybrid ecology system ultra-powerful water conservation. Flushes waste completely every time no matter where the toilet is located. Hybrid ecology system combines two Innovative water streams-one from the plumbing system and one from a small tank inside the toilet-to maximise flushing efficiency. Using minimal water, Hybrid ecology system is so effective at removing waste that a second flush is never required. What's more, the flushing power remains strong regardless of how high up in a building the toilet is located.
Energy efficiency and eco-friendly measures encompass advanced lighting systems, climate control solutions, water conservation practices, and comprehensive recycling programs. The design prioritises sustainability without compromising luxury.
About DM Projects
At DM Interior Design, our philosophy revolves around the belief that every space has the potential to inspire, uplift, and enhance everyday life. We approach each project with a deep commitment to balancing beauty and functionality, creating environments that are both aesthetically striking and practically suited to the needs of those who inhabit them. Our designs are rooted in timeless elegance, yet we remain at the forefront of innovation, blending classic principles with modern sensibilities. We believe that great design should not only be visually appealing but also sustainable, fostering a connection with nature and promoting well-being through the use of eco-friendly materials and practices.
The Royale Residence Villa project aims to create a luxurious Moroccan-style private retreat in Bali.
The interior design, by DM Projects, highlights luxurious fixtures and fittings, such as handcrafted Moroccan lanterns, custom-designed furniture, and premium materials like marble and exotic woods.
Rich wooden details, custom ceiling patterns, and refined textiles enhance the space, while natural light connects indoor and outdoor living. Every element is designed to inspire, offering a perfect balance of comfort and prestige.
A seamless blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication, the living room of Royale Residence exudes timeless luxury. Grand chandeliers, arched windows, and handcrafted furnishings create a warm yet opulent ambiance.
The kitchen and dining area of Royale Residence combine functionality with refined aesthetics. The kitchen is designed for both professional-level cooking and intimate gatherings, featuring custom cabinetry, high-end appliances, and ambient lighting that enhances its warm and inviting atmosphere.
The dining area is a statement of elegance, with a grand table set beneath intricate chandeliers that cast a soft glow over the space. Large arched windows frame the tropical surroundings, creating an indoor-outdoor connection. Every detail, from handcrafted chairs to the sophisticated table setting, contributes to an experience of timeless luxury and effortless sophistication.
The bedroom of Royale Residence is a sanctuary of serenity and refined luxury. Inspired by timeless elegance, it features handcrafted wooden accents, intricate ceiling designs, and warm ambient lighting that enhance the intimate atmosphere. This bedroom embodies timeless elegance, blending classic craftsmanship with modern comfort. Intricately carved wooden furniture, warm earthy tones, and luxurious textiles create an inviting and tranquil ambiance. Designed for both relaxation and aesthetic harmony, this bedroom is a sanctuary of comfort and style.
The villa is complemented by lush facilities. The interior design highlights luxurious fixtures and fittings, such as handcrafted Moroccan lanterns, custom-designed furniture made by teak wood implemented by local professionals with fully hand carving, and premium materials like imported Tukish marble and exotic woods such as Iron wood and Bengkirei wood.
The floor is covered with cement glazed tiles made by Balinese craftsmen specifically for this villa. The colours, tones, and patterns on the tiles are exclusive to this villa and its colour scheme. The use of space emphasises openness and fluidity, with strategic lighting enhancing the ambiance and functionality of each area.
Rich textiles, plush furnishings, and traditional patterns evoke a sense of heritage and sophistication. Large arched windows invite natural light, seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor experience.
As the esports industry continues to surge in popularity across the UK and worldwide, the need for high-performance, immersive environments is growing. These are not just places for gaming-they are cultural hubs, event venues, and digital stages. Designing such spaces requires more than technical know-how; it demands a deep understanding of how competitive gaming works and how players, spectators, and streamers interact with their environment.
Yuliya Forrest, founder of Yuliya Forrest Interior Design LTD, brings over 18 years of international experience in commercial interior design to this fast-evolving sector. With a portfolio that spans immersive hospitality spaces and dynamic commercial venues, she brings a narrative approach to every project-especially when the space itself is part of the entertainment.
Her largest and most ambitious esports-related project to date is Eclipse, a next-generation cyber arena located in Moscow. With over 1,000 square metres of programmable space, Eclipse raises the bar for competitive gaming venues in Eastern Europe. Every design decision was tailored to enhance performance, audience flow, and a fully immersive visual experience.
"Designing a cyber arena isn't just about placing gaming desks and LED lights," Yuliya explains. "It's about creating a functional, flexible space that supports both casual use and high-pressure international tournaments."
With esports tournaments becoming more complex and regulated, venues must meet strict requirements: lighting quality, power load capacity, seating orientation, camera access, and acoustic treatment. Yuliya began the Eclipse project with detailed research-visiting other arenas, gathering user feedback, and analyzing floor plans from an operational perspective.
The resulting space includes: - 100+ high-performance gaming stations - Multiple VIP lounges and private gaming rooms - A PlayStation and console zone - Flexible modular areas for championship events - Streamers' room
Due to budget prioritisation towards advanced hardware, the interior design had to be sharp, functional, and efficient. Yuliya's solution? A blend of dark, performance-enhancing surfaces with signature LED lighting that curves across walls and ceilings, echoing the flow of circuitry. The lighting enhances mood, guides spatial movement, and brings a distinctly futuristic character to the space.
Walls were transformed into narrative surfaces. Yuliya curated a series of bold, themed murals in collaboration with urban artists-not as decoration, but as world-building elements. Each zone has its own character, supporting both casual immersion and high-energy tournaments. Her curated use of lighting and visuals allows each visitor to feel part of the action, whether they're playing or watching.
Despite its size, Eclipse was managed almost entirely remotely. Thanks to strategically placed cameras and constant digital coordination with the local team, Yuliya directed the project with minimal site visits. It is a clear example of how digital project management is transforming commercial interior delivery.
"You don't need to be physically present every day if your workflow is structured and your communication is solid," she notes. "It allowed me to focus on precision and keep the project moving quickly."
Eclipse's success quickly led to the launch of a second location, built using the same conceptual framework. Today, both spaces form the foundation of a fast-growing esports venue franchise. Yuliya contributed to the visual continuity and spatial logic of the second arena, ensuring brand coherence while adapting the layout to a new location.
With the UK now showing increased interest in esports infrastructure, Yuliya sees a timely opportunity for design innovation: "The UK creative and tech scenes are converging rapidly, and esports venues are part of that shift. These spaces deserve thoughtful design that elevates the player experience and amplifies the cultural value of gaming"
As esports becomes more mainstream in the UK, the demand for versatile, high-performance environments will only grow. Yuliya Forrest continues to position herself as a pioneer in this field, offering a unique blend of aesthetic vision, technical understanding, and cultural fluency. Whether for private gaming lounges, public venues, or large-scale arenas, her approach brings together storytelling, strategy, and striking visuals.
About Yuliya Forrest Interior Design
Yuliya Forrest Interior Design is a studio based in Scotland, UK. Since 2006, Yuliya has been creating thoughtful and well-resolved interiors that combine functionality, comfort, and visual identity. While her portfolio spans residential, hospitality, and commercial projects, Yuliya is especially passionate about shaping distinctive spaces for businesses. Her work is rooted in a refined European sensibility, brought to life through a clear technical understanding and a strong artistic vision. With qualifications in both Fine Arts and Civil Engineering, Yuliya leads every project personally — from concept to completion — ensuring each detail is both beautiful and buildable. Her designs are known for their clarity, thoughtful planning, and atmosphere. The studio currently focuses on projects throughout the UK, while also maintaining a track record of international work across Europe and the Middle East. Clients value the studio’s flexible, hands-on approach and ability to translate brand and lifestyle into authentic, engaging interiors.
The clients, a family of four with three children, bought two neighbouring apartments with common floor area 300m2. The main task was to connect apartments, reorganise the space including individual bedrooms for each of the three children, a room and kitchen for the staff, and a private area for the parents.
The head of the family is a professional cyclist, so it was also essential to create a well-equipped home gym.
The clients are active people who travel often and have a well-developed visual sensibility. They frequently visit London and are drawn to English classics as well as American style. Their preferences blended harmoniously with the approach of AIYA Bureau, which favours a contemporary aesthetic mixed with classical elements. Modern furniture, lighting, and decor were combined with traditional details like ornate cornices, herringbone parquet flooring, and refined door frames.
One standout feature of the apartment is its deep-set windows. For the reveals, the designers created classic-style wood paneling, with the frames extending up into the decorative cornice. Curtains were avoided to keep the space light and airy, and wooden blinds were used instead. The combination of decorative molding, woodwork, and blinds gives the space a distinctive and individual character.
The apartment is divided into three main zones. The first is the formal area: the kitchen-dining room and a spacious living room are placed symmetrically and connected by a wide opening, forming an enfilade. Between them, a small hallway houses a guest bathroom and a technical space with storage and refrigerators. The second large zone is the parents’ suite, and the third is dedicated to the children: three bedrooms for the boys of different ages, a shared children’s bathroom, a guest room, a technical area, and a staff room. This part of the apartment has a separate entrance.
What makes this interior particularly impressive is its cohesiveness. Across all 3000m2s, a consistent palette of materials, style, and colours is maintained: cool wall tones are balanced by the warmth of the flooring. Even the children’s rooms are fully integrated into the overall concept. Every detail has been carefully considered and refined.
About AIYA Bureau
In AIYA Bureau, we always stand for a good balance of aesthetics and functionality, the designer's vision and the client's individuality. For clients with the highest standards, we create stylish, timeless interiors filled with natural materials, featuring a calm, nature-inspired palette, and equipped with the latest technologies. Additionally, we are passionate about art and have strong relationships with the best art galleries in different countries. Carefully curated art pieces are the final touch in almost every AIYA Bureau project. Global operations are important for us. Recently, we have set our expertise in the UK, Europe, Russia, and the UAE, which are now our main focus areas. But we are excited to start a new project anywhere in the world.
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