That quintessentially cosy home is easily attainable over the Christmas and New year period. Roaring fire or crackling wood burner, Scandi-style stockings draped from the mantle, a touch of Hygge with throws and foliage here and there, and all enhanced with subtle candlelight or twinkling fairy lights. How, though, can we continue to create that warmth, atmosphere, and cosy home ambiance throughout the less festive – often downright dull – first quarter of the year?
It can be problematic to create such comfort and cosiness in larger rooms, more so in contemporary or minimalistic spaces. It’s even more difficult in our less lived-in holiday homes. It’s far from impossible, though. We have our ways, so do read on:
A fireplace can create a perfect focal point. Town or country, home or holiday place, we love to suggest a fireplace when we design for our clients – where appropriate, of course. A fireplace brings an instant focal point, adding a suggestion of warmth even when not in use. Perhaps you’re already blessed with an imposing and inviting inglenook, or a chic and stylish modern piece? Maybe we need to work with you to source or design the perfect new one. For new or post mid-century homes – those with no chimney – we could even create bespoke media/firewalls. Newer spaces may suit solely a custom media wall as a focal point, instead. Once you give a room a real focal point, you can truly make sense of the furniture composition; it’s just irresistible and inviting to gather several sumptuous sofas and chairs around a fire – real or otherwise.
A must in any space designated for relaxation and to enjoy spending valuable downtime. Style should NEVER be considered over substance; your furniture simply MUST be fit for purpose. With this – and your comfort – in mind, we work with some of the very finest British-made furniture companies to ensure that perfect seat. This is an area in which it would be very unwise to scrimp. Our recommendation is: spend wisely on your furniture, it is an investment. By doing so, you will reap the rewards of comfort and longevity, of sinking into something akin to a hug after a long, hard day. Solid, wood frames and traditional upholstery techniques can produce chairs or sofas that will last decades. We’d take a perennial family favourite over a throwaway high-street bargain buy every time. The environment appreciates built-to-last, too.
Traditionally, it’s always been warmer, richer shades and tones which are thought to add to a feeling of comfort and cosiness. Berry tones, ochres, and terracotta spring readily to mind but don’t be too hasty to dismiss blues and greens – even stormy greys. A rich teal or a soft navy will add an instant warmth with an elegant edge. Rooms that come into their own after dark lend themselves to these deeper colours, as clever use of artificial lighting in the room can lift them. Farrow and Ball, Zoffany and Little Greene are all a go-to for their wide selections of exquisite colours, simply perfect for these spaces.
By its very definition, a cosy room will have a plethora of upholstery, thus presenting the perfect opportunity to combine distinct and diverse textures to bring depth and interest into a room. Velvet, and wool can sit well together. Jacquards and tweeds are a treat to layer with chunky cable-knit blankets, while the richness of velvet complements leather and suede, or can contrast beautifully with silk or damask. Cushions, rugs, and throws can introduce pleasing textural blends and soften a scheme. They also add an indulgent feel with little investment, so can be added to at will.
None of us likes sitting with bright, overhead spotlights glaring, so we love to suggest a subtle, more custom lighting scheme. We can design a scheme to enhance your favourite details of the room; subtle pin spots to illuminate the fireplace, a reading lamp for a library corner, soft mood lighting or lights to discreetly highlight artwork or favourite objets d’art. Use subtle pin spots to illuminate the fireplace, a reading lamp for a library corner and soft mood lighting to discreetly highlight artwork or favourite objets d’art.
By layering your lighting and ensuring it’s all dimmable, cosiness is assured – yet the brightness can always go up a notch, say when working from home. If you’re hoping for something a little extra, we can collaborate with our lighting and Audio-Visual specialists to incorporate intelligent lighting. Intelligent lighting lets clients flick from scene-to-scene at merely the touch of a button (or phone), to create the perfect soirée, dinner, relaxation, or daytime backdrop. Between us, we can create the most spectacular settings with lighting.
Hard flooring always looks good. It works in a period property or a cool, contemporary bolt hole, but to layer up the room with a rug – or rugs – will always afford a warmth and cosiness. We LOVE a vast rug, one which will allow all the central furniture to sit comfortably thereon. This acts to create a zone around the seating area and just beckons you over to curl up on the sofa. And relax…
A room without artwork will rarely feel cosy. Perhaps your walls are already burgeoning with pieces you love, or maybe you’d like to start from scratch. Regardless of your relationship with art – aficionado or I-know-what-I-like, we can offer guidance on best placement, size, framing or even the style of art that’ll work best for the room.
Often considered an Interior Designer’s best aid but, that’s because there can surely be no cosy home without several plump, feather-filled cushions. It’s a fact. Cosiness demands a veritable plethora of cushions – so much so that, even though they’re mentioned in ‘texture’, they warrant a sub-heading entirely their own. We don’t do small or sparsely filled either; when doing cushions, do it with conviction.
No cosy room can be complete without your personal touch. Here’s where you get your personality across and create a context for your space. Items with which we accessorise a room should be intrinsically YOU. This could be family photos, collected and carefully curated artifacts, plants and flowers. Things you love and things that matter to you, thoughtfully clustered on tables or bookcases, create interesting compositions in the room. These offer somewhere to rest your eyes, to bring a smile or a happy memory as you’re sinking into your squishy sofa. With cushions. Did we mention the cushions?
Fragrance can be so evocative; be it an old favourite perfume, the scent of olive groves, a full-bodied red wine or saddle soap from childhood pony club camps. Aromas have the power to change or enhance mood, so another must-have in all main rooms are scented candle. Take time to find scents that work for you – Espa and Jo Malone candles are beautiful and have a scent to suit everyone. This is so personal for all our clients – but do go soy based wherever possible, for a lovely, clean, non-toxic burn. We have a real penchant for pure white wax ourselves.Take time to find scents that work for you – Espa and Jo Malone candles are beautiful and have a scent to suit everyone.
Let nobody say that January must be the Monday of months, or that February is somehow miserable. Take some of our ideas to keep your home cosy beyond Christmas and right through until Spring. Or contact us today and we’ll help you achieve the ultimate cosy home, all year round. If you have anything you’d like to add – or ask – we’d love to hear from you.
About Lewis Knox
A dynamic interior design studio providing bespoke architectural and interior design services. More than 30 years experience in the luxury residential sector.
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Why do we love modern country kitchen design so much? Put simply, we’ll never tire of the classic lines and warm hues that make country kitchens so enduring. These are versatile bespoke kitchens too. And whether you live in an urban pied-a-terre or a rural cottage, modern country kitchen designs are a great choice. Even super contemporary, minimalist homes can benefit from the soft, cosy and comforting silhouette of modern country bespoke kitchen design. So if you’re in the mood for a luxury kitchen design that will never date, let Roundhouse show you how.
Discover the key design tips of a modern country kitchen design and fall in love with this classic look all over again…
You won’t go far wrong with a neutral palette when it comes to modern country kitchen design. Think warm shades of buttermilk, off white and vanilla for light and inviting bespoke kitchen design with a little touch of French country flair. Alternatively, why not add a little drama with a darker shade. We work closely with Farrow & Ball and Little Greene to offer a huge selection of colours for our Design bespoke kitchens. Meanwhile, our Studio collection includes statement-making Indigo Blue, Forest Green and Graphite Grey – perfect for modern country kitchen designs big or small.
Adding freestanding pieces to bespoke kitchen design is an expert-proof way to create the modern country look. A standalone kitchen pantry cabinet or dresser for example instils instant country charm into any layout. Our freestanding furniture can transform your luxury kitchen design and embrace an artisan craftsmanship that Roundhouse is so proud of. Because everything from Roundhouse kitchens is manufactured to order – and that includes our freestanding Brompton and Nightingale cabinets. So whether you want to show off your best glassware or simply create extra storage, choose unfitted furniture for modern country appeal.
Natural materials such as timber, marble and metal are a signature look of modern country kitchen design. Here at Roundhouse we work with a mix of high quality materials and warm textures to create bespoke kitchens to suit your space. Try walnut veneer mixed with antique brass accents or a beautiful marble kitchen island. This bespoke kitchen design in a barn showcases book matched oak veneer offset with a patinated silver. Natural beauties that need nothing else…
Cooking is a big event for the modern country kitchen. So a robust range cooker should be top of your shopping list in country-inspired bespoke kitchen design. Go for a professional-style range in slick stainless steel with sturdy handles and matching steel wall racking. Or take a more vintage mood in luxury kitchen design with a colourful stove in enamelled yellow, cream, red or racing green. Finish off your Roundhouse kitchen with rows of gleaming copper pans, chunky cookware and great food.
Choose a large double bowl kitchen sink in chunky ceramic to set the tone in country bespoke kitchens. Belfast and Butler sinks won’t just add masses of style to your Roundhouse kitchen, they are perfect for washing bulky pans and large oven trays. Pair with a beautiful wall-mounted pot filler oozing with rustic charm. Pick a design in brushed nickel, copper or brass. And look out for an extendable arm so you can fill up kitchen pots and pans quickly and conveniently.
Details count. So for the modern country bespoke kitchen design, try tongue-and-groove panelling, tactile surfaces or a chic tiled splashback. Dark oak floorboards look striking against white and neutral kitchen storage cabinets. Or try pale timber in a chevron style pattern to add a touch of modern rustic cool. Glazed door fronts add a light welcoming touch while exposed brick walls create the perfect modern rustic backdrop. This is how to do modern country kitchen design for twenty-first century living.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on classic kitchens, head to our blog here.
Our expert kitchen designers can help you make the best choices for your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen, furniture or wardrobes. Visit any of our seven Roundhouse showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham and get planning!
About Roundhouse Design Ltd
Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.
Many of us already aspired to owning a coastal – or country – escape. Now, after the uncertainty of the past couple of years, along with ever-changing hoops to jump through merely to travel abroad, it’s even more desirable. We all long for a bolthole, somewhere to escape to at the end of a demanding week; somewhere to decamp for the Summer, for the children to enjoy the seaside as they grow up. How lovely it would be for them to continue to visit as young adults, too. That’s when we’d know we’d created a long term Happy Place.
It’s essential that a retreat must be every bit as beautiful – and as comfortable – as a main residence, just as tastefully finished and with every conceivable luxury and convenience – albeit usually in a rather more compact space. After we’ve worked on a client’s home, they often entrust us to design, style and optimise their coastal property or holiday home.
We love a coastal project. The design approach is much the same as with all our projects but using the coastal context and taking inspiration from the surroundings, we can embrace a more relaxed, laid-back scheme. Think tranquil palettes, creased linens, driftwood or precious beachcombing finds and rustic timbers and finishes.
Often, a coastal project will involve remodelling a traditional stone cottage or adding an extension to a period property. Occasionally, it’ll be a purpose-built villa or even a luxury chalet on a designated development. While working sympathetically with the building and its plot, crucially, we consider our client’s lifestyle, their needs and desires, and ensure the result will work well for them.
It must be perfect. After all, this is to be THEIR happy place, their sanctuary and the place where many memories will be made. We take that responsibility very seriously indeed.
When designing and planning a coastal retreat or a holiday home of any description, there are countless considerations. Here, we’ll address a selection – but please, do get in touch with your own thoughts or queries.
- First impressions last. A cliché, yes – but only because it’s absolutely true. Your second home needs to look inviting, and that warm welcome feel needs to continue beyond the threshold. If you’re arriving after a difficult week at work, or having endured a hellish journey and struggled through horrific traffic, you need to feel that stress dissipate, and your shoulders relax, the very second you approach.
- Storage. Now, while you don’t expect to need quite so much closet space and storage for larger or occasional items as at home, it still makes sense to allow some convenient storage so as not to clutter calm zones. Storage for an entire family’s lifetime of belongings may not be necessary, but top of the wish list is often a utility-cum-store room for wetsuits, kayaks and other water sports or outdoor paraphernalia.
- We usually recommend that social spaces are given key considerations over the bedrooms in your coastal retreats. Many clients find that they’re perfectly happy with more compact sleeping areas in holiday homes. This can facilitate additional wow factor space and budget allocated to the day-to-day living and social spaces.
- Soft furnishings and bedding can add to the calming, coastal feeling too. But practicality must also be a consideration. It’s probably best to avoid anything too fussy or heavy, and think about cleaning and maintenance too.
- Kitchen space is also important. Whilst we may not choose to spend a great deal of time cooking on traditional holidays, often our coastal retreats are more of a home-from-home. A well-equipped and reasonably roomy kitchen can be high on the list of priorities. A large, scrubbed wooden dining table can really reflect that coastal ambiance, and perhaps consider a decent bar area within the kitchen. Our holiday homes by definition regularly become party central.
- That leads us neatly on to the outdoor space. As would stunning bifold doors… Where room and budget permit, a pool is always likely to be a winning option. Failing that, perhaps dedicate space for entertaining and outdoor catering – be that a sizeable barbecue, a fire pit or pizza oven. Outdoor kitchens, coupled with plenty of dining and lounge seating to enjoy that evening sundowner can add a whole new dimension to our holiday home.
One frequent concern that arises is if the property is also an investment, to be used for holiday lets. Whilst we’d advise on being very clear on insurances and deposits to protect your investment (and its furnishings) we’d also suggest that your ideal client, your target demographic, is someone just like you. Thus, plan and design for YOU. They’ll love your seaside sanctuary just as much as you do, care for it like their own – and return year on year to their own hired happy place.
Typically associated with bespoke kitchens and fitted wardrobes, built in furniture is increasingly finding its way into every corner of the home, from hallways and bathrooms to home offices, dining rooms, and so many other projects. The advantages of fitted furniture are plentiful but not always obvious. Here’s just some of the reasons why it’s a good idea to think beyond the kitchen and take a more holistic approach to fitted furniture when renovating your home.
As with the best kitchen design, fitted furniture is tailormade to fit perfectly within your space, which means no awkward gaps or wasted corners. Unlike off-the-shelf pieces, which might not make the most of a room’s layout, fitted furniture is designed to optimise every available inch. Small hallway with nowhere to discard outerwear? With sleek, built in furniture your entranceway can easily accommodate shoes, coats and bags without encroaching on walkways, making the area feel bigger, tidier and more welcoming. Similarly, fitted furniture in the dining area – for example built in seating with storage inside – can boost storage provisions while working in harmony with the shape and size of the room.
One of the greatest advantages of fitted furniture is the way it allows you to achieve seamless flow throughout the home, which is the key to creating a relaxed and inviting environment. By commissioning fitted pieces for various rooms, you can ensure a consistent aesthetic, whether that’s through coordinating finishes, materials, or design style. This is not about strict matchy-matchy, which can quickly lead to bland, but more geared towards fitted furniture with a common thread that’s subtle yet intentional. A boot room or laundry room fitted with the same cabinetry as your luxury kitchen, for example, creates a sense of unity and flow. Don’t forget, at Roundhouse you have the option to coordinate your luxury kitchen with fitted cabinetry from our Studio Collection in ancillary rooms. Learn how to combine our Design and Studio Collections to help your budget go further while enjoying the benefits of our skilled designers and installation team in every room.
The joy of fitted furniture lies in its ability to be tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Whether you want to set up a home office in your kitchen, or are seeking stylish shelving for your dining room, or a smart broom cupboard in your utility room, bespoke fitted furniture can be designed to suit specific requirements. In bathrooms, fitted vanity units can seamlessly integrate basins and storage, making the most of small or irregular spaces while promoting a polished look. The versatility of bespoke furniture means there is endless potential to customise – be it smart chargers inside drawers, his and hers mirrored cabinets or file storage sized to fit your documents. Furniture that’s made to suit your individual requirements doesn’t just look good, it can make your home function more smoothly and efficiently, ultimately resulting in an easier life.
This advantage is really quite simple – by providing designated places for all your belongings, throughout the home, fitted furniture supports clutter-free living and a calmer atmosphere. When working from home, for example, fitted desks, shelving and file storage can create an efficient and organised workspace, keeping paperwork and stationery out of sight but easily accessible. In the utility room, think built in laundry baskets and bespoke wardrobes for outerwear, pull-down clothes rails and cleaning cupboards with specialist storage dividers. This clutter-blitzing benefit not only makes daily life more manageable but also enhances productivity by ensuring everything you need is close to hand and easy to find.
Fitted furniture can be an investment but the outlay is offset by the knowledge that, done well, it can significantly enhance the value of your home. Beautifully made bespoke Roundhouse furniture will undoubtedly be viewed as a premium feature by potential buyers and can help your home stand out in a competitive market. Built in wardrobes, elegantly appointed living rooms, well-organised hallway storage and of course a luxury bespoke kitchen, will all lead to a more desirable property that reflects thoughtful design, quality workmanship and attention to detail. Above all, Roundhouse fitted furniture is built to last, making it a smart investment that brings both immediate enjoyment and long-term benefits.
Why not work with a designer to resolve all your fitted furniture needs and explore the clever built in storage solutions in our inspirational showroom displays? To book a design consultation, click here, or visit any of our Roundhouse showrooms in Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham. Come and experience the benefits of fitted furniture for yourself!
Integrating or retrofitting air conditioning into a finished residential property presents a unique set of challenges. Careful integration of plant, preservation of existing finishes, protection of surfaces and furnishings, cleanliness, and minimising disruption are just some of the things that must be considered throughout the project. Without the right approach, achieving a solution that addresses all these points is impossible.
During a property refurbishment where a blank canvas approach can be taken, the possibilities for concealment and integration are endless. The number of options for retrofit installations are far more limited, particularly in the luxury residence where unsightly grilles can detract from specific and beautiful interior aesthetics. It’s crucial to engage a consultative designer to ensure a cohesive and discreet result is achieved.
In collaboration with the property owner or interior designer, air terminals and equipment can be selected to integrate within joinery and architectural elements with the least disruptive impact on the existing finishes, achieving a virtually invisible solution. Without this approach, the common result is an air conditioning installation that is distinctly and obviously an afterthought or after-market installation.
In an occupied and finished property, strategic design and planning is critical in minimising disruption and downtime. Indoor and outdoor equipment locations must be selected carefully, and all pipework, drainage and cabling routes assessed to ensure they avoid existing hidden services. All associated enabling works including surface protection, moving of furniture, lifting of carpets, opening up of voids, and any redecorating on completion need to be discussed and documented into a planned phased programme of works. It is of all importance that the building contractor carrying out these facilitating tasks is experienced, reputable and has correct and sufficient insurance cover.
Every residential property is unique, with different layouts, insulation levels, and usage patterns. A consultative approach allows the designers to tailor the air conditioning system to the specific needs of the property and its occupants through gaining an understanding the homeowner's preferences and lifestyle and combining this with the desired interior aesthetic of the property. Comfort is subjective and can vary greatly from one individual to another. Through consultation, homeowners can express their comfort preferences such as desired room temperatures, sound levels and air quality requirements. The system can then be designed to meet these preferences, ensuring optimal comfort year-round.
Integrating air conditioning into a finished residential property is a significant investment. A consultative approach ensures that homeowners are fully informed about their options, typical system running costs and long-term maintenance requirements. Air conditioning systems must comply with building regulations, local planning law and environmental standards. A consultation with a professional provider ensures that the proposed air conditioning solution meets all relevant requirements, removing the risk of non-compliance issues and potential fines or penalties.
About Calibre Climate
Calibre is London's air conditioning design, installation and aftercare specialist for prime residential properties. From sound surveys and planning applications to integrating equipment in joinery with beautifully discreet air terminals, we design and deliver quiet, concealed, luxury air conditioning systems tailored specifically to the interior design requirements of each client and property. Our unique consulting process, engaging with the wider design team from concept stage, enables end-to-end delivery of technically astute solutions that blend seamlessly with the architectural and aesthetic intent and character of each individual property.
Are you dreaming of a kitchen that perfectly matches your style and needs? Look no further than a bespoke kitchen designed just for you, such as those created at Ledbury Studio. Working with a kitchen designer can bring your vision to life and create a space that is both functional and beautiful.
Here, Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio, rounds up his essential five steps to working with a bespoke kitchen designer.
The first step is finding the right professional for your project. Take the time to research different designers to ensure they have the experience and expertise in creating custom kitchens. It is also important to meet with potential designers in person to discuss your ideas and see if you have a good rapport with them. Chemistry is key in any relationship, and that includes the one you'll have with your designer!
But, how do you really know if the designer sitting in front of you is the one for your project? Ask to see previous work. Looking at their portfolio allows you to see if their style matches your own. And if you're still in doubt, ask to speak to a previous client. This will provide an invaluable glimpse into the creative process of your potential designer and their problem-solving abilities.
Once you have selected a designer, it is crucial to communicate your vision clearly. Start by gathering inspiration from magazines, websites and social media platforms, and create a mood board to showcase your ideas. Share this with your designer to give them a better understanding of your aesthetic preferences. Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words! For example, in our Camden kitchen, the client showed us an image of a 1970s screen she’d found in an antiques shop and requested a version of it for her kitchen. Inspired by this, I created this screen of brushed and polished stainless steel that can be used to divide the room, as required.
Apart from aesthetics, it is important to think about how you'll be using your kitchen. Are you the ultimate host, needing a huge island for entertaining? Or perhaps you're a culinary whiz with a big family and need space for all your cooking essentials. By clearly communicating any practical requirements to your kitchen designer, they can whip up a design that's both stunning and perfect for your lifestyle.
Before starting your kitchen renovation project, it's important to have a heart-to-heart with your designer about the all-important budget! By laying out your financial expectations from the get-go, you and your designer can work together to create a plan that matches your wallet. This ensures you won't have to sacrifice your dream kitchen and helps your designer find the best quality materials, appliances and finishes to fit within your budget. Without a clear budget in mind, it's easy to get swept up in flashy, pricey ideas that can come with big, surprising expenses later on. So, define your budget and ensure all costs stay within it.
At the start of any kitchen design journey, a designer is like a detective with a million questions, trying to get inside your life to figure out how you live. Why? Because every home chef is unique and has different needs. A good case in point is the Hackney kitchen, where the homeowners were such keen entertainers that they requested a bar area next to the dining table. Meanwhile, in our latest design, the Hampstead kitchen, the clients asked not only for a drinks cabinet next to the table, but also a breakfast cupboard conveniently placed just behind the breakfast bar. By chatting about your cooking style, entertaining preferences and daily routines, your designer can get the lowdown on how your kitchen should be designed.
Finally, working with a bespoke kitchen designer is a collaborative process. Your designer will present you with initial design concepts and it is important to provide feedback and ask questions. Remember, the design process may involve several iterations before reaching the final design, so be patient and provide constructive feedback to guide the design in the right direction. Your kitchen will probably be the biggest investment you make in your house, so it is worth going the extra mile to make sure it exceeds expectations!
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.
Successful spacing through interior design is achieved by the interior designer being involved in choreographing the sequence of a space. By doing this, it ensures that a project reflects a single design approach by a fluent design being fathomed by the architect and designer together. It is essential for all parties involved to understand the relationship between all rooms, plans and the cross section of the building.
Within hospitality design there is a vast number of aspects an Interior Designer should consider, such as, adjacencies (within design, this refers to the connection between two spaces or elements. The term can be used to describe both physical and visual relationships. In a physical sense, adjacencies are determined by how easily one can move from one space to another), catering layout, lighting, acoustics, and furniture to name a few.
As Designers, we ensure that we are familiar with each of these aspects, especially within spatial planning and dimensional criteria for seating layouts. The key to understanding and designing an all-encompassing, fluent, and functional space is to understand a venue’s core concepts. This concept often comes from our team working closely with the client to establish a clear and cohesive experience for the desired customer.
Something as simple as spacing between tables can go a long way to creating an atmosphere within a venue. Restaurants and bars that offer a full dining experience often provide ample space between tables for a more relaxed atmosphere. While a site such as a fast-food restaurant or coffee chain maximise the number of their tables, and therefore customers, to create a bustling, high tempo environment.
Use of different finishes and materials helps to define individual spaces within a venue, hard finishes are more suitable to busy bar venues where materials need to endure the vigour of nightlife trade, whereas softer finishes lend them-selves better to intimate dining situations or more laid-back relaxed drinking venues such as high-end cocktail bars. When it comes to specifying internal finishes, our wealth of experience ensures that all finishes are chosen to satisfy the individual requirements of each project and client. It is of the upmost importance that the highest quality finishes are specified within budget.
Whilst ensuring that materials and finishes are aesthetically appealing, it is of equal importance that the material an Interior Designer chooses must be appropriate for its use. Care must be taken to ensure that the material is correctly Fire Rated, as economically and ecologically friendly as possible and high-traffic areas must have finishes that are more durable to last the test of time. Floor finishes must have appropriate slip ratings for their designated use and the visual contrast between finishes on walls and ceilings must be considered to enable the visually impaired can perceive potential hazards within a space.
Another aspect a designer must take into consideration is the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of specific materials once a project is handed back to the client. It is the responsibility of the interior designer to pick finishes that are easy for the client to clean and maintain, therefore ensuring they get the best value for money and a high standard of finish is maintained throughout the years.
Lighting plays a huge part in creating an atmosphere within a venue and can be cleverly utilised to define spaces or zones within an otherwise open area. Low-level mood lighting can create a fine-dining experience. Whereas brighter and whiter lights a more casual energy. Considering today’s cost of living crisis, venue owners also need to consider the energy efficiency of the lighting specified. It is often favourable for interior designers to specify warm lighting within trade areas, fluorescent flighting is more cost and energy efficient. Therefore, this could be a valuable consideration for back of house and catering areas.
The acoustics in a hospitality venue go together with the concept and desired atmosphere created and in hybrid spaces it may be necessary to define zones with different acoustic qualities. Bar areas can be noisier and livelier whilst dining area may need to be quieter to allow for ease of conversation between diners.
Hard surfaces such as ceramics, wooden tabletops and cold metal finishes can create reverberations throughout a space. To counter this a competent designer may consider the specification of sound absorptive materials such as carpets, soft furnishings, and soft wall panelling, or specialist acoustic solutions such as suspended ceilings or wall panels utilising mineral fibre board wrapped in acoustically transparent fabrics, perforated ply, or timber slats.
Another solution on how to control a space's acoustics is by separating out sections through screen or stud walls. Through careful consideration of spatial planning this way, diverse types of rooms with different noise levels can invented to accommodate various patrons.
- Work with what you have got! Time & money can be saved planning around current features of a building whilst preserving a space’s original features. - Do not forget about storage and back-of house! Your trade areas may look amazing but are useless if your venue cannot function efficiently. Therefore, when planning out your spaces, ensure you leave enough room in none trade areas too! - Be Flexible! In smaller venues and spaces, do they need to be adaptable for more than one purpose? If this is the case, loose seating, moveable furniture, and adjustable lighting levels are all successful considerations in creating different atmosphere within the same space. - Prioritise! Sometimes, however hard we try, everything desired cannot be achieved within the designated space. MGI ensure that they work closely with their clients to understand what is most important for them to have the most efficiently designed, attractive and successful space.
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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