In 2023, Marmo were invited to supply and install the Venetian Plaster finishes for the Louis Vuitton store in Heathrow’s Terminal 3. This was an exciting opportunity for us, and one of our most bespoke projects to date.
For this project, the client was specifying Venetian Plaster as an alternative to wallpaper, due to the strict fire regulations in place at Heathrow Airport. We were therefore tasked with creating Venetian Plaster finishes to replicate several wallpaper samples provided by the client, utilising innovative tools and application techniques in order to meet the project’s unique design requirements.
One of the finishes specified for the store ceiling was an adaptation of Louis Vuitton’s signature monogram canvas. This was a complex effect to replicate, requiring a custom stencil, a bespoke colour match, and application of two contrasting Venetian Plaster finishes, our Marmorino Spatula and Pitted Venetian Plaster.
Alongside this stencilled design, we created a several other bespoke samples including a glossy wave finish, a raked finish, a brushed metallic finish, and a finish replicating the effect of embossed metal, each specified for various wall areas and accent panels throughout the store.
Our works were phased over three months, from June to September 2023. The accent panels were delivered to our workshop in Epsom to be coated, whilst the remainder of the works were completed on site during night shifts. The ceiling design was particularly labour-intensive, involving the application of 175 sheets of vinyl stencil and the manual removal of 72,000 vinyl petals! The team worked tirelessly to meet tight deadlines, and the final phase of the installation was completed whilst the store was open and trading. Despite facing significant challenges, this was a hugely rewarding project to be involved with, and the results were remarkable.
As we reflect on this extraordinary project, we are reminded of what a privilege it is to collaborate with iconic brands like Louis Vuitton, and we look forward to many more successful partnerships in the future.
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.
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In a remarkable transformation during the course of 2023, the owners of a Victorian-era apartment in Cadogan Square, London undertook the ambitious project of merging two separate dwellings into a single, stylish residence. With busy lifestyles involving frequent international travel, they recognised the importance of a healthy routine in order to maintain peak physical condition, and enlisted the expertise of Paragon Studio, based in Bath, UK, to design a gym space that would seamlessly blend sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality.
The challenge was substantial, as the designated gym area was formerly a living room situated in the corner of the building so optimising space and functionality was paramount. Ben Walter, Account Manager at Paragon Studio, commented on the project's scope, noting, "This was an ambitious project; the gym was previously a living room! It’s located in the corner of the building and now enjoys a dual aspect view. The client sought a calm and modern space to exercise in and was encouraged by our extensive and diverse use of natural materials."
Paragon Studio's brief involved not only designing a stylish and modern gym but also ensuring practicality and space efficiency. The team designed and created their first triple wall storage unit, innovatively engineered to hold both dumbbells and kettlebells, addressing the need to save space wherever possible and maximise the gym's floor space.
The triple wall storage unit has since become a staple in the Paragon Studio range, providing a vertical, stylish storage solution for many of their popular equipment pieces as well as creating a visual talking point. The studio's commitment to sustainability extended beyond design aesthetics, as they carefully selected low-impact machines to minimise noise and disturbance to other residences within the building.
The newly designed gym boasts a curated selection of high-quality equipment, including a 10-pair set of Paragon Studio’s award-winning Diabolo Dumbbells. These stunning free weights offer unparalleled levels of customisation and were the result of eight years of experience in the prime property and superyacht sectors, researching what makes the perfect dumbbell. Having recently conducted a full Lifecycle Analysis (LCA), they have also been certified as the world’s first Carbon Negative dumbbells, with all emissions annually offset plus ten per cent.
Alongside the dumbbells, the gym also includes four Paragon kettlebells, a TRX system, an exquisite leather Paragon Studio designer punch bag with matching boxing gloves, leather medicine balls, a Concept2 rowing machine, an adjustable bench, and various yoga accessories crafted from environmentally sourced and biodegradable cork. Not only does cork provide strong structural support whilst working out, it also maintains its natural warmth and provides a naturally non-slip surface. A NoHrd Slim Beam, in oak, completes the Knightsbridge gym with a smart and compact cable training facility. The cleverly curated use of natural oak, stainless steel, and leather throughout the space has created a luxurious and cohesive feel to the gym's aesthetic.
From the initial commissioning of the design brief to the completed installation, the entire project was realised within a remarkable four-month timeframe. The finished gym stands as a testament to the seamless integration of beauty and functionality, offering a blueprint for creating a home gym that is both visually stunning and fully equipped for a comprehensive workout experience.
About Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors
Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors is a specialist wellness design for the superyacht and prime property sectors. Their experienced team have an unrivalled understanding of the complexities of gym and space design, both on land and at sea. This, together with a vast experience in the health and wellness industry, helps create an unbeatable service.
Pedrali, the leading Italian company that produces contemporary furniture for contract and residential, has recently inaugurated its new workspaces at the Headquarters in Mornico Al Serio (Bergamo). The project, named Pedrali Collaborative Space, was designed by the Milanese architectural firm Park Associati, which in 2022 oversaw the renovation and expansion of the company restaurant.
From the very name - Pedrali Collaborative Space - it is clear that the guiding principle behind the design was to create a contemporary, dynamic and flexible workspace, developed through the modulation of an innovative layout that focuses on the comfort of the people who use these spaces everyday.
The last few years have been rethinking the workspaces with new cross, hybrid areas that move away from the static nature of traditional offices. The modern workspace is no longer just a work area, but a community space that fosters company culture and encourages interaction, sharing, and collaboration. The result is a mix of functional areas that serve as a setting for Pedrali products which, placed inside a neutral container, are displayed and used in perfect harmony with the architectural volume thanks to the refined selection of models, fabrics and colours.
Within the Pedrali Collaborative Space well-being and innovation go hand in hand. The furnishings can be customised and equipped with high-end mechanisms capable of adapting to the user. This adaptability is not just about comfort but also about giving individuals full control and management of their workspace, improving emotional quality, stimulating creativity and teamwork, and responding to the demands of the digital age.
The evolution of work dynamics in recent years has led to a transformation of the workspaces into a place for social interaction, idea generation and community building. Its purpose is to facilitate collaboration, creativity, and learning. Fluidity and sharing are therefore identified as the key concepts that animate the 560 sqm of the Pedrali Collaborative Space, divided into three main areas: the contemporary workspace with multiple workstations, the meeting areas and the breakout rooms.
The terracotta-colour, a common thread linking the new workspaces to the company restaurant project, catches the attention of those who cross the threshold of the entrance to the workspaces building, whose access area is outlined by a double-height space, providing a sense of verticality thanks to the elegant and majestic presence of 25 Isotta pendant lamps by Basaglia Rota Nodari.
The smart office is characterised by 32 workstations spread over the entire floor, defined by the practical Arki-Table Adjustable Desk, which guarantees maximum comfort and ergonomics thanks to its heightadjustable top. The components of office furniture are evolving to achieve better performance, with the primary goal of enhancing people's well-being. Through a mobile application installed on smartphones, users can save personalized settings for the Arki-table adjustable desk and set personal wellness goals, allowing for a combination of standing and sitting work.
A sound absorbing panel upholstered in fabric can divide the space between different workstations. Accompanying the Arki-Table adjustable Desk is Polar, designed by Jorge Pensi Design Studio, a task chair that ensures maximum customization in terms of ergonomics. Characterised by an organic form Polar is designed to adapt to the human body, ensuring the well-being of its users. A dynamic object with a clear identity, it can fit into a variety of settings such as workspaces and multipurpose spaces. The chair guarantees excellent comfort thanks to its weight-activated, synchro-tilt mechanism that is able to regulate the degree of tilting autonomously according to the user’s body weight. The backrest consists of an injected-moulded nylon frame with a breathable, flexible polyester mesh for a sense of transparency. The injection moulded polypropylene support at the lumbar area may be adjusted to the user's needs. The seat, in polyurethane foam, can move via a special mechanism that allows its depth to be adjusted. Polar is available as a chair or armchair. The latter features minimalist armrests that can be adjusted in height, depth and width, and can be orientated to suit the user’s needs. The performance of the mechanisms makes the Polar armchair conform to type A of the UNI EN 1335-1:2020 standard, ensuring ergonomics principals and wellbeing in the work environments. Boxie, the wheeled storage system by Claudio Dondoli & Marco Pocci, completes the space.
During the working day, meetings are crucial moments that can affect the quality of projects, providing opportunities for enrichment and comparison. The Pedrali Collaborative Space hosts three well-organized meeting rooms, delimited by glass walls that harmoniously allow for dialogue while maintaining the privacy required by the context. In the central area, two rooms feature the linearity and rigour of the Arki-Table, surrounded by the Nym Soft armchairs by CMP Design in the first setting and the Laja armchairs, designed by Alessandro Busana, in the second - both with swivel bases. Elinor collection by Claudio Bellini characterises the third and last meeting area: the task armchair Elinor low back, with its dynamism, flexibility and attention to user’s well-being, synthesises the different attitudes and ways of experiencing the workspace of the future, is placed around the Elinor table, a multitasking product characterised by premium aesthetic credentials that meets the needs of a constantly-changing market. Elinor low back, characterised by a lower backrest and sinuous lines, is designed to seamlessly fit both in meeting rooms and executive offices. This task chair has an elegant height-adjustable base in die-cast aluminium. A weight-activated synchro-tilt mechanism integrated in the upholstered seat allows the tilting to be self-regulated according to the user’s body weight, ensuring that the back is kept in the most comfortable position. Other strong points of Elinor low back are its comfort and body hugging feeling, thanks to the polyurethane injected foam on both seat and back. A light, slimline, strong armrest in die-cast aluminium defines the base of the backrest with its fluid line, accentuating the attention to detail that characterises this collection.
Ypsilon Connect by Jorge Pensi Design Studio is a standout feature in all three spaces. This elegant and functional free standing, sound absorbing space divider offers extensive customisation possibilities, defining new layouts and managing spaces more effectively, adapting workspaces to corporate training or meeting room situations. On each side of the panel it is possible to add accessories such as whiteboards, shelves, coat hangers or, thanks to a special provision for the passage of sockets, enable the attachment of a screen.
To promote social interaction, the demand for breakout areas has grown, providing spaces for relaxation or breaks with colleagues. Toa table by Robin Rizzini, lightweight and minimalist, is characterised by a solid die-cast aluminium frame in a fluid geometric design, suitable to support large sized tops. Moreover, being endlessly modular in length and width, it’s the perfect choice for workspaces, shaping different settings such as “light” offices and executive rooms. Inside the Pedrali Collaborative Space, surrounded by Nemea chairs by CMP Design, Toa presents itself as a large convivial table with the dual function of a break or informal meeting space.
A more intimate area is provided by Buddyhub by Busetti Garuti Redaelli, a functional and efficient furnishing element, characterised by a wrap-around, sound absorbing panel, available in two heights, that envelops the seat in a sort of enclosed niche. Buddyhub is available as an armchair or sofa, and can be used as a quiet, sound-proofed temporary workstation. It is created to meet the needs of open spaces typical of a contemporary working environment. It is also possible to place two units opposite each other and to join them by means of a panel, thus creating a four-seat box suitable for an informal meeting, a phone booth or a break out area. The functionality of this element is further enhanced by the possibility of adding sockets both to the armchair and box versions, so as to be able to connect a charger. In this case, it is also possible to provide for a screen holder, a peninsula table or a shelf. The soft lines and clean design of the Buddy coffee tables by Busetti Garuti Redaelli add the finishing touches to the space.
In the Pedrali Collaborative Space special attention was paid to selected materials. The staircase ramps and the handrails are covered in natural oak, the same material used for the entire flooring of the workspace, which is floating and radiant with wooden square tiles. Another relevant issue in an open-plan workspace is the sound insulation. Running along the entire perimeter of the architectural structure - both along the glass and masonry walls - is a system of acoustic curtains. These curtains not only serve to soundproof the space but also allow for the management of natural light, creating a harmonious atmosphere and contributing to the perception of a neutral and homogeneous envelope. Also on the ceiling, a system of sound absorbing panels on tracks fosters concentration by creating an acoustically protected workspace.
Energy efficiency is a relevant focus in the project by Park Associati. First of all, a conspicuous thermal and acoustic insulation has been applied to the ceiling of the space to be heated. Secondly, a structurally integrated radiant system has been installed in the floating floor, providing both winter heating and summer cooling. This system is coupled with controlled mechanical ventilation for air exchange and summer dehumidification. The necessary thermal and cooling energy is produced by a heat pump with high seasonal efficiency. With a view to constantly improving the company in the wake of sustainability, the energy required to power these new workspaces is also generated by photovoltaic panels installed on the factories.
Inside the Pedrali Headquarters in Mornico al Serio, the Pedrali Collaborative Space stands for a place for exchanges and comparisons where well-being and comfort blend seamlessly with the fluidity and openness of the spaces: the same spaces that, every day, host everyday scenes from the Pedrali community.
About Pedrali
Pedrali is an Italian company that produces contemporary chairs, tables, furnishings and lamps for contract and residential. The collection is the result of a careful and accurate research aimed to create functional and versatile industrial design products made of metal, plastic materials, wood as well as upholstery. Furniture exclusively manufactured in Italy through a design process which combines tradition and innovation, engineering excellence and creative brilliance. The “100% Made in Italy” philosophy becomes real through the internal production in the headquarters of Mornico al Serio (Bergamo), where the automated warehouse designed by architect Cino Zucchi is based, and in the wooden furniture factory in Manzano (Udine).
Ledbury Studio has reached new heights with its latest project – all the way to the 15th floor, to be precise. This stylish contemporary penthouse, located in Malta, boasts breath-taking views over the island thanks to floor-to-ceiling glazing that opens onto three expansive outdoor terraces with sitting and dining areas. There’s even room for a swimming pool!
Creating a kitchen and bar area that would perfectly complement this luxurious setting was no small undertaking – but Charlie Smallbone rose to the challenge! Here, he tells us how the design as a whole came together.
“The couple who own the apartment have grown-up children with families of their own, so they wanted it to be a space where they could all gather. When they acquired the property, it was an empty shell, giving them the freedom to design a fully open-plan space. In the resulting layout, spaces flow effortlessly into each other – from a comfortable living room, to a kitchen and dining area, and finally to a bar with additional seating. My brief was to design furniture that would contribute to that feeling of openness by creating linked but distinct areas where the family could socialise and enjoy everything from dinners to casual snacks and drinks.”
“The kitchen comprises a generous island that serves as the centrepiece, backed by a single row of cupboards that provide space for storage, appliances and a breakfast cupboard. Our challenge was that the kitchen is located in the middle of the space without any walls to work with. Therefore, all components had to be freestanding and are visible from every angle, including from above when walking up the stairs.”
“To address this, we clad the backs in a mixture of beautiful materials that look good wherever you stand in the space. On the back of the breakfast cupboard is polished fluted stainless steel. Meanwhile, the microwave section of the tall cupboard features a screen made from wooden slats with backlit opaque glass slivers, and the fridge-freezer is backed in polished mica panels.”
“Yes, the island is quite large – measuring almost 5 metres by 1.5 metres! But when you’re designing for a space of such huge proportions, with 10-metre-high ceilings, an average-sized island would look all wrong. You have to work with the scale of the building to ensure the island is proportional. We then added to the drama with a waterfall worktop of Mont Blanc quartzite, which ‘flows’ over the end. On the front, we added eye-catching polished mica panels and a liquid metal kicker. All the materials on the island both look great and are easy to clean, making them practical choices that combine to create a truly show-stopping piece.”
“The island’s size also means that we could accommodate many of the working elements of the kitchen within it, as well as generous bar seating. It features a hob with integrated extraction, sink with Quooker boiling-water tap, plus a 900cm-wide built-under oven, a dishwasher and plenty of storage to keep the kitchen clutter free.”
“The tall cupboard includes a large cabinet with pocket doors, which cleverly hide prep space, storage and additional sink all in one area, so any cooking detritus can be concealed as needed. There is further storage above and below the microwave oven and a fridge-freezer to the left. We grounded this large piece of furniture in the room with timeless black palm veneer for the fronts, with a stained oak frame that is the same shade as the oak ceiling.”
“The idea behind the breakfast cupboard was to create a standalone piece that was completely different from everything else in the kitchen. As such, it is made of stainless steel with liquid bronze pocket doors that slide back to offer full access. Inside, there are polished stainless steel and walnut drawers, as well as a countertop made of practical Mont Blanc quartzite, which adds to the modern elegance of the piece.”
“To tie the bar’s design to that of the kitchen, we once again used black palm for the base cabinets and the same bronze handles. We then harnessed our signature use of metal to create hammered pewter fronts for the wine cabinets. To add a dash of theatre to the space, we chose crystal quartzite for the worktop and framing, both of which are lit from underneath to create a stunning effect at night!”
“I have to say that I love the funky bar table! It’s shaped like a shield with a centre section in onyx that is lit from underneath, with black and white marble and a leather armrest around the outside. The blackened steel legs hide all the electric components of the design. Sitting at that table, having a drink from the bar, and enjoying those views, it doesn't get any better than that!”
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.
Harkin Walker were appointed by the Covered Wagon to redesign their popular desi restaurant near Moseley. The brief was to create a wow factor, increase the number of covers and zone different areas for dining, drinking and meeting. The existing restaurant was bland, uninviting and desperately needed a refresh.
Space planning was key in order to maximise covers and we utilised unused spaces around the bar with fixed seating, plus removing sections of false walls to allow for more tables. We added in various sections of fixed seating to break up the space and add softer, more comfortable seating areas. It was also essential that the circulation space was not compromised as this is a very busy restaurant. The layout has been vastly improved with better use of space whilst increasing the number of covers by around 30 people.
The finishes were layered with different textures, colours and patterns to create a vibrant mix reflective of Indian culture and fashion. From soft velvets in the formal restaurant area to linen prints and leathers in the casual dining and bar, each area was made to feel different to create the zoning of each space. We also improved the artwork and lighting to create more interest and atmosphere. Some of the finer details included fringed pendants, fret-cut screens, rustic timber wall panelling and textured wallpapers which are highlighted with LED strip lighting, further adding to the ambience. The use of traditional patterns, motifs and intricate designs are incorporated into the décor adding to the overall aesthetic.
The end result is a stunning transformation which was delivered within an ambitious programme. The refurbishment has created an amazing venue suited to all from drinks and snacks through to special celebrations. Four months post refurbishment the Covered Wagon won Best Pub in the Midlands!
About Harkin Walker
Harkin Walker is an Interior Design consultancy specialising in leisure and hospitality projects. Established in 2015 by Kathleen Walker, who has extensive professional ability and experience in the industry, we offer a full Interior Design service from inception through to completion. We pride ourselves on our friendly, professional approach to each project we undertake and building strong relationships with our clients so that we really understand and translate their vision. Our passion is to create beautiful and inspiring environments that enhance the customer experience and provide a venue for our clients to be proud of. We also understand and implement operational and statutory requirements so that we deliver a fully operational, compliant business.
Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio, may have made his name in kitchens, but at his core, he is a furniture designer. Charlie’s passion lies in taking natural materials and crafting beautiful pieces – for any room. As such, when the owner of this Hampstead home enlisted the help of Ledbury Studio for a complete home makeover, Charlie designed furniture not only for the kitchen but also for the master bedroom suite and media room.
“This is a very elegant and spacious Edwardian home, with high ceilings and lots of natural light,” says Charlie. “Therefore, we designed pieces that followed the classic lines of the house, but with plenty of contemporary touches. It was a particular joy to work with swathes of stunning natural stone in every room. I’m delighted with the final result – as are our clients!”
The Ledbury Shaker kitchen is a modern interpretation of Charlie's original painted kitchens from the 1980s. This version features beautifully crafted and simply made furniture, updated cornicing, and bespoke aged-brass handles. It blends seamlessly with the house's age while maintaining a contemporary style. Painted in a muted colour palette of soft white, it incorporates luxurious materials such as Arabescato marble worktops, splashback, and a specially designed integrated double sink. The cooker hood above the Wolf range cooker is finished with textured Marmorino Venetian Plaster for added visual appeal.
Upstairs, in the master bedroom, Charlie designed an upholstered headboard in natural oak that wraps around the bed and matching bedside tables. This creates a peaceful and serene space to unwind. Additionally, there is an adjoining kitchenette, eliminating the need to go downstairs for a drink! Designed in walnut and marble, this handy space houses a coffee machine and kettle, with a fridge drawer for cool drinks on demand.
Moving into the master bathroom, the walnut and marble theme continues. Charlie selected a walnut veneer for the impressive double vanity, which features walnut interiors specifically designed around a chimney breast to maximise storage space. Above the vanity, there are custom mirror cabinets for additional storage. However, just like in the kitchen below, the standout feature is the stunning Arabescato marble. It is used for the vanity tops, bath surround, and shower, adding a touch of Hollywood glamour reminiscent of the golden age!
The master suite is completed by the dressing room, which is surely every fashionista's dream. This beautiful space includes a custom-made teak dressing table placed by the window to make the most of the view. The stunning piece not only has leather-lined drawers to keep items organised, but also a convenient vanity basin set into the top.
Last, but not least, Charlie designed furniture for an incredible media room. Fast becoming an essential for the family home that has it all, Ledbury Studio is being asked more and more to create cupboards like these. In this design, walnut veneer is bookmatched across the width of the cabinets to fabulous effect. Housed inside are a drinks cabinet, TV and sound system, plus drawers for storage, including an integrated fridge drawer. Illuminated open shelves for showcasing treasured pieces provide the finishing touch.
Charlie Smallbone is well known for going to great lengths to create exquisite furniture for his clients. And now, in his designs for the open-plan kitchen of this 23rd-storey penthouse in London’s Canary Wharf with stunning views of the River Thames, he has taken his craft to great heights too.
Charlie tells us how the Canary Wharf project came together.
Our client wanted a kitchen for entertaining that could accommodate large parties of friends, as well as cosy suppers for two. The design also had to deliver wow factor, but through elegance and simplicity rather than fancy or complicated elements. This was music to my ears, as I always prefer the beauty of natural materials to shine through!
The kitchen is part of a spacious, open-plan room that also houses the dining and sitting areas. Despite its size, not a huge amount of space has been allocated to the kitchen, so we had to be creative with the layout. There wasn’t much room for tall cupboards, for example, not least because the client had specified a full-height Sub-Zero fridge-freezer and wine cabinet. To maximise storage space, we extended the wall cabinets to the ceiling, but added glass fronts to stop them from feeling too imposing. In addition, we designed the base cabinets to be roomy, avoiding smaller cupboards that are less efficient in terms of storage. In this design, every inch of storage space had to count!
The design for the dark-stained oak cupboard doors began with the cut-out handles, which our client had seen and loved. To add an element of drama, we incorporated brass inlays behind the handles and a matching kick plate. The requested wow factor is in the detail of the beautiful book-matched Fior di Bosco marble waterfall worktop, which cascades down the sides of the island. To make the island stand out even more, we placed a panel of our signature Choppy Water carved oak on the outside. Its grey tones work perfectly with the marble. Finally, the splashback is antique mirror, which offers a suggestion of the views behind without an outright reflection – so much more intriguing, to my mind.
Consult by FD were appointed to renovate this city apartment in central London, Angel N1.
Our clients approached us during the whirlwind of purchasing their new/old apartment tucked away from the bustling streets of central London.
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.
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.
After assembling our dream renovation team, and suppliers, our clients got the keys and we got busy project managing the build.
We’re super pleased with the results and can confidently vouch that the new layouts and details make it feel like a haven.
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.
Presenting The Gainsborough - An apartment nestled on the riverside, in the heart of London’s iconic Westminster.
There is a certain weight that goes hand in hand with anything to do with my home of London, an intangible gravitas that carries with it the depths of centuries-old culture, all enveloped in the energy of a thriving metropolis.
The city's iconic landmarks are a testament to its legacy, each telling a chapter of its enduring history and steady evolution. The challenge and joy of designing here lies in harnessing the dynamic spirit that floats around our city and translating it into an interior that encapsulates the essence of the capital itself. Art and architecture have resonated across these streets for centuries and this presence is the source of inspiration that has driven me to craft a space that pays homage to the city while encapsulating the luxurious, contemporary lifestyle it can offer.
With that in mind, I proudly present my studio's most recent work - The Gainsborough at Millbank. This 4,536-square-foot duplex apartment is unique in shape and legacy. The building has so much character, that I came to think of her as a beautiful, quintessentially English woman from a time gone by. Her natural grace needs only the most elegant of pieces to add a final touch of glamour to her innate beauty.
In a previous life, the building was the home to Imperial Chemical Industries, the country's creators and largest manufacturers at the time, of the familiar and enduring material Perspex. And the vast apartment itself? It was the Chairman's Office.
With spectacular views of the Thames, Grade-II Listed 9 Millbank was originally designed by Frank Baines, a staunch supporter of the conservation and preservation of buildings for which he had a global reputation. The Portland-stone exterior is flanked by 1920’s sculptures from Charles Sargent Jagger. The four effigies represent the industries of chemistry, agriculture, marine transport, and construction, or the four pillars of ICI.
It is a very considerate exterior and with the apartment named after the 18th century artist, Thomas Gainsborough, who was known for his inventive and original approaches, we needed a fitting ambience to match. The first floor of the apartment boasts an open-plan entertaining and living room with parquet herringbone parquet flooring. An original 1920s stained glass roundel depicting the allegory of Britannia is set in the middle of The Gainsborough’s sweeping 10ft windows.
As a team, we approached this project as a restoration and we worked to capture the grand majesty of the original features. The apartment was already adorned with rich walnut panelling and intricately floral-carved door frames; I wanted to ensure our designs for this extraordinary space allowed the beautiful bones of the building to breathe and take centre stage.
Sculptural chandeliers by Sans Souci in hand-blown crystal, Murano glass, and patinated bronze and bespoke carpets from Rivere were created to reflect the cityscape beyond the terrace. As always the work of Britain's finest ateliers and artisans was realised by incorporating bespoke sculptures and hand-crafted embroidered textiles alongside tactile materials like alabaster, parchment, British wool, Italian silk, and cotton velvet.
The grandeur of the surroundings is highlighted by our thoughtful selection of antique pieces for the various case goods throughout the residence. Each room has been meticulously layered with treasures from the past and is complimented by bespoke pieces, created to fit the unique dimensions of specific spaces.
The macassar ebony office desk pictured above was dressed with bronze details, a leather blotter, and dedicated pencil and paper arrangements within the drawers. Power was also worked into the design, ensuring all stays were as equally functional as aesthetic.
Hand-stitched silk wallcoverings by Fromental adorn the entryway walls with delicate beaded feathers. The design echoes the peacock motif that greets visitors from the building's exterior façade and accompanies motifs of the individuals involved in the founding of the company. Another iteration of the building is realised in the delicate shade used in the Master Bedroom: the cosy and nostalgic teal grey of Farrow & Ball’s Pigeon.
The graceful master bedroom features many original details, including timber panelling and the stunning circular plaster ceiling with its fine cornicing and decorative motifs. The moulded ceiling soars to 17 feet and the timber columns are akin to those found in London’s historic palaces. Cotton-linen drapes hand-stitched in bronze thread adorn the four-poster bed.
To the east of the apartment lies the family kitchen where contemporary fitted units and an island offset the imposing architecture. These features contrast beautifully with the rich lustre of the original timber panelling on the walls.
With the tall ceiling came tall windows, and owing to the listing of the building, we had to come up with innovative solutions to dress them. We went with a gorgeous Roman blind with an embroidered leading edge to pair with the light-and-airy drapes pressure-fixed mid-way. Meanwhile on the upper floor lie three en-suite bedrooms; the sage, pearl, and slate rooms respectively.
The 43ft colonnade terrace is accentuated by the apartment's vast floor-to-ceiling glazing. The only thing I love more than thinking of the lucky owner of this apartment enjoying the sunrise and sunset from their abode, is the wonderful sculptural addition St Edward commissioned. Standing alongside the existing representations of male scientists on 9 Millbank a sculpture of pioneering mathematician, Ada Lovelace, pays homage to the building's scientific legacy.
Designed by renowned London sculptors Mary and Etienne Millner, the work compliments the existing stone sculptures of Charles Sergeant Jagger and celebrates the woman's ground-breaking work on the world's first mechanical computer in the 1840s.
To see this marvellous building of national importance, rise anew, is very exciting. I hope you enjoy this little insight into the process behind bringing it to life!
About Katharine Pooley
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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