Kate Fryer, Founder of Khaya Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Interior Design and have since spent over 15 years immersed in the world of interiors - designing and managing projects across residential, retail, and hospitality spaces around the globe. Each project, whether a boutique store in London or a serene family home by the coast, has shaped my approach and deepened my understanding of how thoughtfully designed spaces can enhance the way we live.
Today, my focus lies primarily in residential interior design - and it’s where I feel most at home. I’m passionate about creating interiors with warmth, character, and quiet elegance, spaces that tell the story of the people who live within them. Forming close, collaborative relationships with my clients is at the heart of what I do, ensuring every home we create together feels deeply personal and effortlessly inviting.
I’ve always been fascinated by the way our surroundings influence how we feel and behave. From a young age, I found joy in rearranging spaces and noticing how light, texture, and colour could completely transform a room’s mood. Over time, that fascination evolved into a desire to help others feel truly at home in their environments - creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply nurturing and personal. Interior design felt like the perfect combination of creativity, psychology, and practicality.
For me, the most rewarding part of the process is the transformation - not just of the physical space, but of how my clients feel in their homes. Seeing someone walk into a finished project for the first time and witnessing that moment of joy and connection is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the storytelling aspect of design - uncovering what inspires each client and translating that into a cohesive, timeless interior.
This year has been particularly special as one of my recent projects, The Preserve Cottage, was featured in Good Homes Magazine. It’s always such an honour to see my work recognised in a publication, especially when it celebrates the warmth and individuality that my clients and I created together. Becoming an Associate of the SBID has also been a highlight - it’s a real milestone to be recognised by such a respected professional body.
I have a deep love for period and heritage homes. They hold so much character, and I find great satisfaction in honouring that history while adapting the spaces for modern living. I enjoy creating interiors that feel timeless - layering natural materials, craftsmanship, and thoughtful details so that each project tells a story and stands the test of time.
Balancing creativity with logistics can be one of the biggest challenges. Design is only part of the process - managing timelines, budgets, and the many moving parts of a renovation requires constant communication and flexibility. Unexpected issues will always arise, but experience has taught me that how you handle them makes all the difference.
That interior design is as much about people as it is about spaces. You need to be a good listener, a problem solver, and sometimes even a mediator! The ability to understand and interpret your clients’ needs, often before they can fully articulate them themselves, is such an important skill - and one that develops with experience.
Stay curious and be authentic. Don’t chase trends - instead, take time to understand proportion, light, and materiality, and develop your own design language. The best interiors come from confidence in your vision and a genuine understanding of how people live.
I think we’ll continue to see a shift toward more sustainable and “healthy” interiors - using natural materials, eco-conscious manufacturing, and timeless design that lasts. Clients are increasingly aware of how their homes affect their wellbeing, and designers have a real opportunity to lead the way in creating spaces that feel good for both people and the planet.
It’s a great honour and a mark of professional recognition. The SBID sets a benchmark for excellence in design practice, ethics, and education, and being an Associate member represents a commitment to upholding those standards. For me, it’s also about being part of a wider community that supports and celebrates the profession - something that feels both grounding and inspiring.
About Khaya Studio
Kate Fryer is a qualified interior designer with over 15 years of experience creating elegant, timeless interiors across Bristol, Bath and the wider Somerset region. Kate brings a professional yet personal approach to every project. Through her studio, Khaya Studio, Kate specialises in the transformation of period and heritage properties, blending classic architecture with contemporary comfort. Her work is defined by warmth, balance, and a deep respect for craftsmanship - creating homes that feel both sophisticated and lived in. Khaya Studio offers a range of tailored services, from colour consultancy to full turnkey renovation and project management. Every detail is carefully handled, ensuring a seamless process and a truly enjoyable design experience for each client.
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This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Goddard Littlefair. Founded by the visionary duo Martin Goddard and Jo Littlefair, the studio has evolved into a global creative force behind some of the most loved hospitality spaces and residences around the world.
One project that perfectly captures our approach is the spa and wellness spaces at Raffles London at The OWO. We honoured the building’s history and Grade II listed status, while making it work for guests seeking modern, restorative and luxurious experiences. We introduced rich, layered interiors that reflect its legacy but feel contemporary, inviting, and rooted in the Raffles brand DNA. The result is a deeply transformative experience in the heart of the capital.
Staying ahead means always being open to change—whether that’s through travel, research, or immersing ourselves in new materials and technologies. We’re constantly looking at how different cultures and industries approach design, taking inspiration from everything from historic restoration techniques to cutting-edge innovations in sustainability.
Clients want spaces that feel thoughtful, enduring, and environmentally responsible, but they also want storytelling and authenticity. The challenge is bringing those elements together in a way that feels seamless and natural.
We don’t believe in a rigid ‘house style.’ Instead, we design spaces that respond to their surroundings, their history, and their purpose. Whether it’s a heritage restoration or a brand-new development, every project is unique—but always underpinned by craftsmanship, materiality, and attention to detail.
Technology allows us to push boundaries in both design and execution. It’s about enhancing the experience of a space, not just making it look good. We always want to retain a personal, human touch as this is what makes our designs feel layered and unique, but technology that improves our experience and enhances our productivity is no bad thing.
Our ability to breathe new life into historic spaces while making them feel contemporary and relevant. Whether it’s a heritage-listed hotel or a new-build concept, we create spaces that feel timeless, not trend-led.
Beyond Raffles London, another project we’re incredibly proud of is the Imperial Riding School in Vienna. Transforming a 19th-century military equestrian school and former cinema into a luxury hotel was a unique challenge. We preserved its historic identity and infused it with the spirit of Vienna, creating a total immersive experience for guests.
The biggest challenge with historic buildings is how to bring them into the present without losing their essence. Whether it’s structural limitations, conservation restrictions, or navigating modern expectations, it’s about thoughtful intervention—using lighting, materiality, and spatial planning to enhance rather than alter.
About Goddard Littlefair
Founded by the visionary duo Martin Goddard and Jo Littlefair, our studio has evolved into a global creative force behind some of the most loved hospitality spaces and residences around the world. As an international team we bring a shared vision and the diverse skills to make us leaders in modern luxury design. Our approach dives deep into brand DNA, sense of place, and local culture to create experiences and unforgettable spaces that connect with those that engage with them. We challenge ourselves to create the future cultural touchstones that will become the next generation of luxury hospitality.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Lawson Robb. Known for its avant-garde approach, the studio seamlessly blends innovation with craftsmanship, creating timeless and immersive spaces tailored to the world's most discerning clients.
The Lawson Robb team is currently growing, bringing fresh energy and expertise to our projects. Our integration within the Allect Family fosters positive collaboration between our design studios, allowing us to share knowledge, creativity, and resources. This dynamic collaboration enables us to push design boundaries while maintaining the highest standards of execution, resulting in truly exceptional spaces for our clients.
We blend research and theory into every project, always seeking out new technologies, products, and materials to challenge and expand the possibilities of design.
Lawson Robb has been awarded the Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark, recognizing our commitment to ESG principles and the integration of sustainable practices across our company, projects, and team.
At Lawson Robb, our design philosophy blends refined contemporary details with a harmonious balance of boldness and serenity. We seamlessly integrate heritage and innovation, drawing inspiration from local materials and cultural contexts to craft interiors that are both contextually relevant and aesthetically timeless. Our approach ensures that every space is not only sophisticated and functional but also deeply connected to its surroundings.
At Lawson Robb, technology and innovation are integral to both our design process and the final execution of our projects. We utilize advanced digital tools, including BIM and real-time rendering, to enhance efficiency and visualization. Incorporating smart home technology, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge construction techniques allows us to create spaces that are not only visually sophisticated but also intelligent, functional, and future-ready.
For emerging designers, my biggest advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. Interior design is constantly evolving, so keeping up with new materials, technologies, and trends is essential. Creativity alone isn’t enough—strong technical knowledge and execution skills are just as important.
Build relationships within the industry, as collaboration is key to delivering exceptional projects. At Lawson Robb, we push creative boundaries while maintaining meticulous attention to detail. Stay adaptable, be open to feedback, and most importantly, trust your instincts while refining your unique design voice.
Achieving a repeat client rate of 72% over the years is one of our proudest achievements, reflecting the outstanding trust and satisfaction our clients have in our work. Beyond that, the trust our clients place in us has taken us across the world, expanding from a London-based design firm to delivering projects in 22 countries.
About Lawson Robb
Lawson Robb is a globally recognised interior architecture and design studio specialising in ultra-luxury residential, hospitality, and yacht projects. Known for its avant-garde approach, the studio seamlessly blends innovation with craftsmanship, creating timeless and immersive spaces tailored to the world's most discerning clients. As part of the Allect Design Group, Lawson Robb benefits from a collaborative ecosystem, working alongside leading design and architecture firms to deliver exceptional projects across the globe.
Francine and Trevor Luker, Directors of Element7, have given their insights into the industry.
Born on the Chelsea Embankment in the early 1990s, Element7 began as River Flooring - a name that soon evolved, like our vision, into something greater. Inspired by the seven elements of nature, we became Element7, with wood - our most treasured material - as the seventh. From the start, we set a new benchmark in luxury flooring, pioneering wide-plank designs engineered for radiant underfloor heating - a first in the UK. Innovation and craftsmanship have defined us ever since, from the introduction of grey hardwood floors to exquisite parquet patterns, bespoke creations, and finishes that stand the test of time. In 2016, we opened our flagship 5,000 sq. ft. showroom beside the Chelsea Design Centre - one of the largest flooring spaces in Europe. Here, expansive installations showcase the beauty and versatility of our collections, while our expert team guides each client through an exceptional design journey. Today, Element7 is synonymous with timeless design, innovation, and the finest wood flooring in the world - chosen by visionary architects, leading interior designers, and discerning clients across the UK and beyond.
At Element7, every product and service is designed to elevate exceptional interiors.
Uncompromising Quality - We specialise exclusively in luxury projects, delivering unrivalled quality, longevity, and prestige. Each floor is crafted from the finest materials, meticulously sourced in Italy and finished to perfection. Every installation is backed by our 25-year guarantee, a testament to enduring excellence.
Tailored to Your Vision - Designers can choose from our curated collections or create entirely bespoke finishes - from custom stains and treatments to unique plank widths and lengths - ensuring every floor is as individual as the space it enhances.
Sustainably Sourced - Our wood is responsibly and sustainably sourced, appealing to eco-conscious clients and supporting green building standards without compromising on beauty or performance.
Precision Installation - Our expert installation teams deliver flawless results - from perfect alignment and grading to seamless joints - ensuring superior performance and durability while preventing issues such as gapping or buckling.
The engineered wood sector is more than a source of materials - it’s a driver of innovation, sustainability, and creative freedom. Today’s designers have an unprecedented ability to experiment with texture, colour, and pattern, tailoring each Element7 floor to the unique character of their project. Engineered wood offers seamless integration with glass, steel, porcelain, and concrete - allowing for bold, contemporary interiors that balance warmth and modernity. Sustainability lies at the heart of this progress. At Element7, we are proudly PEFC and FSC certified, upholding the highest environmental standards that define modern architecture and design.
At Element7, we partner closely with interior designers to bring their creative visions to life - offering expertise, inspiration, and a fully bespoke service from concept to completion. Our 5,000 sq. ft. Chelsea showroom showcases large-scale floor installations (9-12 sqm) in a range of species and tones, allowing designers and their clients to truly experience the scale, colour, and grain of each wood. We provide both small samples for mood boards and larger pieces for presentations, helping designers seamlessly integrate our products into their concepts. We work hand in hand with each designer to select or colour-match wood flooring that perfectly complements their project. Our team also conducts pre-installation site visits to ensure optimal conditions and long-term performance. Beyond installation, we support our clients with tailored maintenance guidance, care kits, and a professional repair service - ensuring every Element7 floor remains as timeless and beautiful as the day it was installed.
Our standout achievement in 2025 is establishing a presence at The Design Centre in New York. We are thrilled to be collaborating with premium New York designers and architects on a series of exciting U.S. projects, bringing Element7’s luxury flooring and bespoke expertise to a new international stage.
We’re noticing a clear shift from cool greys toward warm browns and earthy tones, creating interiors that feel natural, inviting, and timeless. Clients are increasingly drawn to artisan-style wood with character - surfaces featuring knots, hand-scraped textures, and distressed finishes that celebrate the natural beauty of the material. Longer and wider planks remain highly sought-after, offering a seamless appearance that highlights the wood’s grain and elegance. Classic patterns such as chevron and herringbone continue to be popular, alongside intricate inlays and borders, adding bespoke detail and sophistication to luxury spaces.
This year, the focus on wellbeing and comfort continues, with homes designed not just for aesthetics but for liveability and warmth. Warm tones paired with natural textures remain popular, while interiors become more personalised, blending styles and materials to create spaces that feel truly lived-in rather than staged. We also see more adventurous design features, with floors and ceilings treated as canvases for artistic expression. Sustainability is now non-negotiable - clients are seeking materials that age beautifully and endure, allowing them to invest once in quality products that stand the test of time.
At Element7, we are passionate about collaboration. We’re currently working with select designers to create curated Element7 Collections tailored to each designer’s vision. We’re also excited to partner with other companies in the premium interiors sector, enabling us to deliver comprehensive luxury interior solutions to designers and architects, combining expertise, quality, and innovation.
About Element7
For over 27 years, Element7 has set the benchmark for luxury engineered hardwood flooring, delivering bespoke flooring solutions for ultra-prime residential and commercial projects worldwide. Trusted by leading design professionals, Element7 specialises in wide-plank flooring, parquet, and fully customised designs—often incorporating unique materials such as ceramics, leather, and metal. Renowned for its design-led approach, exceptional craftsmanship, and close collaboration with clients, Element 7 offers flooring innovation for those seeking rare, timeless quality.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features G.A Group. G.A Group is a dedicated design studio, specialising in luxury hospitality design for over 35 years.
This varies from project to project, but one constant is our commitment to being part of the early design team. Early involvement allows us to add value by collaborating with the architectural and client teams to explore layouts, test ideas, and uncover new possibilities. We believe in the power of early sketches, often holding multiple informal sessions to explore concepts and preliminary designs before refining them into more developed solutions.
The future of luxury hospitality is rooted in creating meaningful, lasting experiences that resonate with guests on a personal level, rather than simply following transient design trends.
As we move through 2025, the focus is on crafting immersive, transformative experiences that blend sustainability, cross-industry collaborations, and an authentic connection to the locale. These trends underscore a shift from fleeting fashion trends to a deeper understanding of the evolving desires of modern travellers.
Sustainability is a driving factor in our design philosophy. We always prioritise sourcing materials and furniture locally to the project’s location. This approach not only reduces carbon emissions but also supports local artisans and craftspeople, ensuring that each design is deeply rooted in its cultural and geographical context. By integrating sustainable materials and responsible practices, we create spaces that are both environmentally conscious and authentically connected to their surroundings. A great example of this is 1 Hotel Mayfair, where sustainability and thoughtful design work in harmony.
While our design outcomes may differ, our approach remains consistent.
At G.A Group, the guest experience is at the heart of everything we do, guiding our design process from concept to completion. We challenge conventions through dynamic spatial planning, pushing boundaries to discover unexpected solutions. Grounded in deep research and a respect for place, we craft spaces that feel intuitive, refined, and uniquely connected to their surroundings.
At G.A Group, we see technology as a powerful tool to enhance creativity, not replace it. Innovation allows us to push boundaries, refine our design processes, and unlock new possibilities, but our work remains fundamentally human-centric. We integrate cutting-edge tools, such as advanced visualisation and sustainable material innovations, to bring ideas to life with greater precision and efficiency. However, true creativity stems from curiosity, craftsmanship, and storytelling, which no technology can replicate. By balancing innovation with intuition, we create spaces that feel both forward-thinking and deeply personal.
I would encourage them to remember Pinterest is just a tool. To foster their own creativity instead, believe in it and make design decisions based on the demands of the individual project, no based on the dictates of trends. Build your own identity. - Terry McGinnity
Yes, we are committed to fostering the next generation of talent through our internship program. By providing hands-on experience and mentorship, we offer emerging designers the opportunity to develop their skills, gain industry insight, and contribute to real projects within our studio.
About G.A Group
G.A Group is a dedicated design studio, specialising in luxury hospitality design for over 35 years. United by a shared passion for ground-breaking design, wherever the brief takes us, our driving philosophy is one of Restless Curiosity. All our projects are vastly diverse in terms of locale and style and we are recognised worldwide for the quality of our work and our ability to respond to different environments incorporating local architecture and cultural references into our concepts. Effective design should resonate with its intended audiences. Design that resonates can only be the natural conclusion of a process that starts with listening and learning about people, behaviors and the world in which we live.
Alena Bulataya, Founder of AB DESIGN BURO, has given her insights into the industry.
I chose interior design because it combines creativity, psychology, and craftsmanship in a tangible way. Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to art — painting, music, choreography — all forms of creative expression that taught me harmony, rhythm, and composition.
At the same time, I’ve always been deeply interested in psychology — in observing people, their reactions, and how surroundings influence their emotions and state of mind. One day I realized that all of this is connected: the environment we live in directly shapes how we feel, think, and interact with the world.
That understanding naturally led me to interior design, where I could merge these interests into one creative profession. I love the process of turning abstract ideas into spaces that influence how people feel, think, and behave. Balancing light, materials, and proportion — creating a dialogue between texture and form — allows me to build environments that evoke emotion and meaning. The most fulfilling moment is when a concept finally comes to life: when marble meets wood, when fabric softens geometry, when light reveals the soul of the space, and I see people respond to it emotionally.
The highlight of the past year was my collaboration with the world-renowned Swiss luxury watch brand Franck Muller, developing design concepts for two signature restaurant formats to be launched in the Middle East, with plans for global franchise expansion. Working with such an iconic brand was both an honor and a responsibility — every detail had to reflect its precision, heritage, and exclusivity.
This year also marked the launch of my own modular soft furniture collection, INCLINE, presented at two international design exhibitions. Soon after, I completed the design of a luxury aesthetic clinic and beauty salon in The Dubai Mall, the largest shopping destination in the world — a project that demanded refined detailing, innovation, and brand sensitivity.
Additionally, I created the concept for a restaurant in Qatar within one of the region’s most ambitious new lifestyle destinations and developed designs for public spaces and private apartments for Layan Verde, one of the largest luxury developments in Phuket, Thailand.
I especially enjoy working on hospitality and residential projects. Hospitality allows me to create immersive experiences for many people, while private residences are deeply personal and emotional. Both require sensitivity, innovation, and attention to detail, which make the creative process both challenging and rewarding.
The most challenging aspect is aligning all stakeholders — clients, contractors, suppliers — while maintaining design integrity. Interior design requires constant negotiation between vision, budget, and technical constraints. Balancing creativity with practicality is demanding, but it ultimately defines the success of a project.
I wish I had known how much of interior design is about people — communication, coordination, and trust — not just creativity. Early in my career, I believed a designer should do everything alone to maintain control and quality. Over time, I realized that true mastery lies in collaboration. Building a strong team of like-minded professionals, each an expert in their field, allows you to focus on the essence of design — the concept, the atmosphere, the emotional message.
Delegation, communication, and leadership are as important as artistic vision. The ability to unite talented people around one idea and guide them toward a common goal is what truly defines a successful designer.
Stay curious and never stop learning. Interior design is a constantly evolving profession influenced by technology, sustainability, and cultural shifts. Embrace change, refine your personal style, but always remain flexible to the needs of each project and client.
Design is rapidly moving toward sustainability and technology. Artificial intelligence will handle routine tasks, giving designers more space for creativity. The focus is on sustainability, digital integration, and human well-being.
Being accredited by SBID is a recognition of my professional achievements and an opportunity to be part of an inspiring global community of designers. It strengthens my credibility with international clients and motivates me to contribute to the advancement of our profession — across different cultures and continents.
About AB Design BURO
Alena Bulataya is the founder and creative director of AB Design BURO, an internationally recognized interior designer celebrated for her bold, authorial style and innovative approach to luxury spaces. With over 15 years of experience, Alena has completed more than 350 projects across Belarus, the UAE, Qatar, the USA, and Europe, earning prestigious awards and features in leading publications such as AD, SALON Interior, Harper’s Bazaar Interiors, Elle Decoration, American Daily Post, and many others. Beyond interiors, Alena is also an accomplished product designer, creating unique furniture and lifestyle collections that reflect her vision and influence on the global design industry.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features LXA Projects. They offer clients a bold and dynamic approach to interior design, spanning the Hospitality, Education, and Commercial sectors.
Design trends are always shifting, and we make sure to stick to our client brief and objectives. Rather than sticking to a single "house style," we tailor each project to our client’s brand and audience. A great example is our work on V and BYRD. For both, we created striking, contemporary spaces that captured market trends while staying true to the brands’ core values. The goal is always to deliver something unique yet commercially relevant.
We’re always out there — whether it’s networking at industry events, engaging on social platforms, or entering award submissions. Networking is key for us—it helps us stay connected and informed about what’s happening in the design world, so we’re always in tune with the latest trends and opportunities. We also host regular CPD sessions in-house to keep our team sharp, updated, and inspired.
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us – it’s a responsibility!
We prioritise locally sourced materials, ensure our designs are built for longevity and make conscious choices that reduce waste. It’s about creating spaces that stand the test of time, both aesthetically and environmentally.
Technology is reshaping the industry, and we embrace it – AI tools, CAD modelling, and enhanced visualisation software all help to refine our process. But all our designs start with pen and paper or pen and an iPad. There is something irreplaceable about hand-sketching ideas before digitalising them, and we believe in the power of a hand-sketched 3D visual to present early ideas. Full rendered visuals sometimes hinder the design process rather than supporting it and they’ll never fully replace the hands-on creativity that’s at the core of our work.
Forget about your style—it’s not about you. Something I learned early in my career is that design isn’t about your personal preferences—it’s about the client. They’ll likely change their mind several times during the process, and that can be frustrating.
But you must remember that their satisfaction is the priority. Stay adaptable, patient, and always focus on meeting their needs, even when things shift. The best designers are adaptable, patient, and responsive to their clients' needs.
Our reputation. Building a name in this industry isn’t easy, but we’ve carved out a space where creativity meets practicality. We've established a strong name for ourselves, and the ability to work across a wide range of services that cater to varied client needs, sets us apart. Being able to adapt and deliver on diverse projects has been key to our success and is something we are incredibly proud of.
Yes! One of our associate designers, Sammy Bikoulis, is particularly passionate about mentorship. He’s involved in a phone mentoring program where he connects with up-and-coming designers a few times a year, offering advice and sharing what he’s learned along the way. He has also guided students in design competitions, helping them fine-tune their concepts and offering guidance to make sure their designs stand out. On top of that he frequently speaks at events like the London Design Fair. He’s even led online CPD sessions on topics like "Designing Inclusive Spaces." Sharing knowledge is something we value deeply.
About LXA Projects LTD
We offer clients a bold and dynamic approach to interior design, spanning the Hospitality, Education, and Commercial sectors. Our expertise isn’t just about aesthetics — we bring together interior design, project management, and cost consultancy to deliver a seamless, end-to-end service.
Dean Weston, Managing Director of C.P. Hart, has given his insights into the industry.
C.P. Hart is an established bathroom supplier with over 85 years of experience in specifying and sourcing the world’s most innovative and durable premium bathroom products. A successful Contracts division operates with architects, designers, and contractors, often on major commercial property developments and hotels, whilst a highly qualified in-house design team works with individual and private clients, ensuring each bathroom is as unique as it is beautiful.
C.P. Hart has always insisted on using the finest materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to create the highest quality classical and contemporary bathrooms. The brand has also developed a reputation for showcasing some of the world’s most talented and innovative bathroom designers, located in our showrooms across the UK and led by our expansive flagship in Waterloo, London.
C.P. Hart’s bathroom collections include brassware, sanitaryware, furniture, tiles, home spas, and a range of other essential components for bespoke bathrooms.
Established in 1937 by Charles Percival Hart, later joined by sons Tom and John Hart, C.P. Hart has consistently challenged the industry to take a fresh look at bathroom design. C.P. Hart creates spaces that work in harmony with your lifestyle whilst reflecting your aesthetic ideals, resulting in one-of-a-kind bathrooms that are as beautiful as they are functional. Few businesses have maintained a leading position in innovation, quality, and service for over 90 years.
Since the early years supplying bathroom sanitary ware, plumbing products, and tiles to Southeast London, C.P. Hart has been responsible for introducing the most exciting product innovations to the UK. Household names such as Duravit were first launched by C.P. Hart and thanks to continued close relationships, the world’s leading manufacturers still choose the company to exclusively showcase new designs.
Whilst paving the path for innovation, C.P. Hart has a long history of developing its own in-house products. From John Hart’s innovative Waterloo shower valve in 1992, which went onto become the biggest selling valve of the decade, through to our most popular classical collection, the London range, C.P. Hart understands the needs of the bathroom market like no other.
Our products and services are designed to elevate interiors by combining technical expertise with exceptional design. We work closely with designers, architects, and specifiers to ensure every bathroom not only looks beautiful but also functions seamlessly. That means advising on product compatibility, providing detailed drawings to support specifications, and sharing technical knowledge that helps bring ambitious ideas to life.
With hundreds of ranges to choose from, we give clients the flexibility to express individuality, whether through colour, texture, pattern, or material. At the same time, our curated collections ensure that every product meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
Ultimately, our role is to make the design process smoother and more creative, offering both inspiration and practical support so that interior design projects achieve the perfect balance of form and function. The expertise of our team – particularly in understanding product compatibility across more than 170 supply partners and countless product configurations – is simply second to none.
Our specialist sector – luxury bathrooms and bespoke design solutions – adds significant value to the interior design industry by bridging the gap between creative vision and practical execution. We provide designers, architects, and specifiers with expert guidance, technical knowledge, and access to premium products that elevate the overall quality of projects.
We offer tailored support through our trade-specific design services to ensure designers have the tools, drawings, and expertise they need to deliver seamless, high-end interiors. By combining innovation, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of materials, finishes, and functionality, we help create spaces that are not only beautiful but also highly practical and enduring.
Our sector raises industry standards, inspires creativity, and makes luxury, personalised bathrooms more accessible to clients and designers alike. We are a business driven by innovation, continually pushing our supply chain to deliver new designs and improved solutions.
At C.P. Hart, we offer tailored support to interior designers through our comprehensive services. Our Architectural Design Service provides detailed 2D CAD plans, project briefings, and design layouts, all supported by a qualified designer and sales consultant. This service ensures that designers have the technical expertise and resources needed for successful project execution.
Additionally, our Interior Design Consultation harnesses our award-winning design talent to offer complimentary peer-to-peer bathroom design advice, including product knowledge and access to samples, to assist designers in making informed decisions for projects of all sizes.
We are also happy to work directly with designers and support their clients in a variety of ways, from providing meeting spaces to collaborating on design concepts.
I have only been with the business for seven months, after a career in the KBB sector, during which I had long admired C.P. Hart. What has surprised me most is the level of innovation and care within the company. Despite its well-deserved reputation as a leader in the luxury bathroom sector, I was amazed to see how focused the team is on the customer experience and the smallest details that ensure perfection in every completed bathroom, whether in a client’s home or on one of our trade partners’ large-scale projects.
In recent years, we’ve seen a shift away from the minimalist, white, clinical-style bathrooms that dominated much of the early 2000s. Instead, our clients are increasingly drawn to more colourful, characterful spaces that reflect the opulence of earlier design eras such as the Art Deco period and the glamour of the 1970s.
There’s a growing appetite for bathrooms with colour, texture, pattern, and depth, now shifting to spaces that feel rich and layered through the clever use of materials. Alongside this, spa-inspired bathrooms are becoming hugely popular. What was once the preserve of luxury hotels is now far more attainable at home, with innovations in home saunas, steam, and wellness-led design.
Another key trend is the introduction of nature into the bathroom. Clients are looking to bring the outdoors in through organic textures, natural finishes, and earthy tones. Tiles play an essential role in this transformation, and with hundreds of ranges to choose from, they allow us to create highly personalised schemes tailored to each client’s vision.
We anticipate the year ahead will continue the move toward more expressive, personalised interiors. Clients are becoming bolder, stepping away from uniform, neutral schemes and instead embracing colour, pattern, and layered textures that tell a story and create a sense of individuality. Our clients want their bathrooms to be an extension of their home.
Wellness-focused design will also continue grow, with interiors, particularly bathrooms, being seen as restorative spaces for relaxation and self-care. The integration of spa-like features, natural elements will only increase.
Technology will also play an important role, from smart lighting and water-saving solutions to innovations that make luxury features more accessible.
While we always remain discreet about our clientele, it’s continually a pleasure to encounter some of the major celebrities who trust us with their homes. Similarly, there are significant developers bringing exceptional, large-scale projects to life across the Capital. Even after several decades in the industry, I’m still excited by the opportunity to source exclusive products for our customers and to make a real difference in someone’s home.
Being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is a real mark of trust and credibility for us. It reflects our commitment to excellence, professionalism, and innovation within the design community. For our clients, it provides reassurance that they are working with a company that upholds the highest standards and is aligned with a globally recognised authority in interior design.
It also allows us to stay closely connected to the wider design industry – sharing knowledge, supporting best practice, and contributing to the future of interior design. Most importantly, it strengthens our ability to collaborate with designers, architects, and specifiers, ensuring we can provide the best possible expertise, products, and support for their projects. We are a relationship based business, and interior design is fundamental cornerstone for us – it’s the creativity that we thrive on.
About C.P. Hart
C.P. Hart is an established bathroom supplier with over 85 years of experience in specifying and sourcing the world’s most innovative and durable premium bathroom products. A successful Contracts division operates with architects, designers, and contractors, often on major commercial property developments and hotels, whilst a highly qualified in-house design team works with individual and private clients, ensuring each bathroom is as unique as it is beautiful. C.P. Hart has always insisted on using the finest materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to create the highest quality classical and contemporary bathrooms. The brand has also developed a reputation for showcasing some of the world’s most talented and innovative bathroom designers, located in our showrooms across the UK and led by our expansive flagship in Waterloo, London. C.P. Hart’s bathroom collections include brassware, sanitaryware, furniture, tiles, home spas, and a range of other essential components for bespoke bathrooms.
This week’s instalment of the SBID Icon Insights series features Fusion by Design. Through our passion for design and eye for detail, Fusion by Design know the true beauty of any project is in its commercial success.
The design and creative direction of the business is overseen by myself (Paula Jepmond) by working collaboratively with the team. It is important that all creatives continually shine, and we understand each other’s qualities, strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the positives makes for a cohesive project scheme.
I am unsure if we have a ‘Design Style’ as many of our projects are completely different whether that be a high street bar or a traditional pub. A comprehensive brief is the key to a great project, unfortunately a quality brief is very rare, so it is important to ask the right questions from the outset. Leaving a briefing meeting unclear of what the client wants is no good for anybody. Asking the right questions usually throws even more questions than achieves answers but this can save a lot of unnecessary wasted design time. If you still don’t get the answers you need, asking for a reference house is always a good start.
It is important we stay informed of what is happening in the design world. I still love a good design book, and Pinterest is great if used correctly. Our sample library is our pride and joy, and we are grateful to the many reps who travel to see us from all over the UK, quite often we will be given a sneak peak of new collections before they are launched. We tend to alternate the trade design shows, going to them bi-annually but the World Wide Web has been fantastic in opening to suppliers and design further afield. I am very excited about how AI will work in our industry. We have already started introducing AI into our schemes, this opens a whole new world of opportunity.
For many of our clients, sustainability is at the forefront of their company ethos and more recently their ESG policy, therefore this is reflected in our schemes. Sustainability has been discussed in our briefings for the last 20+ years, the student unions were the first to really push this. I’m saddened to think of all the wonderful quality furniture and light fittings that have been skipped and more often replaced by lesser quality items simply because the design was no longer relevant. More and more we are re-using, re-furbishing, re-upholstering, re-lamping, refinishing in order to reduce waste. You can see a shift in design styles too, there is so much more stained and polished timberwork in our schemes now replacing low quality painted MDF with stained and polished sustainable woods that will stand the test of time far longer than cheaper materials.
It is important for a company to be proud of all their projects both large and small. New concepts are really exciting for a design company, seeing new finishes and details come together is very rewarding. Seeing that concept then roll out as a brand is also a great achievement. What is important is to ensure you have delivered the clients brief, more often than not the client doesn’t brief that they want to win an award, they want something that has longevity, sustainability and is operationally functional if they get an award too that is an added bonus for everybody involved.
I believe one of our proudest moments was when we started working for Pizza Express when our company was in its infancy. Again, this work came through a client moving companies and taking us with them. For us, a small, unknown business in Leeds to be working for such a well established, iconic brand was very rewarding and I was very proud of that. Around the same time we undertook the refurbishment of the main hotel bar in the historic Landmark Hotel in London another pinch me moment.
About Fusion by Design
Established in December 1998 we are very proud to still be working with the same heartfelt enthusiasm and creativity into our 27th year of Business. From Conception to Completion, we work across all aspects of Commercial & Hospitality Design. Through our passion for design and eye for detail we know the true beauty of any project is in its commercial success.
Laurens van Graafeiland, CEO & Founder of Sustonable, has given his insights into the industry.
Sustonable is an innovative surface material crafted from post-consumer recycled PET bottles, pre consumer glass, and natural stone. It combines the elegance of premium finishes with exceptional durability, offering architects and designers a sustainable alternative to traditional surfaces.
Whether for wall cladding, flooring, countertops, or decorative applications, Sustonable transforms waste into stylish and practical solutions. By choosing Sustonable, you’re not just opting for aesthetics—you’re embracing a material that redefines sustainable design, seamlessly blending beauty and responsibility. 100 bottles are used for each 1 m2.
Sustonable was started by 3 founders in the Netherlands. The origins spun out of Shell in the Netherlands. The idea was to recycle the plastic bottles that were produced out of the oil of Shell. The traditional application we found was an engineered stone used for kitchen tops. We wanted to replace the unsaturated polyester resin by post-consumer recycled PET. On top of that we developed a very efficient continuous extrusion process to make the thin slabs.
Sustonable combines the elegance of premium finishes with exceptional durability, offering architects and designers a sustainable alternative to traditional surfaces.
Sustonable surfaces are decorative surface materials for wall cladding, flooring, countertops, or other types of furniture.
We present our materials and technical specs to interior designers with samples a catalogue and other documents. We support fabricators and installers with technical advice.
Sustonable was selected for a wall panels installation project at a passenger terminal of Lisbon airport.
Clients ask more about Sustonable for wall panel applications as an alternative for ceramics. In general light, beige, warm colour tones are popular.
Sustainability, high recycled content, low carbon footprint will gain market share.
The exciting thing is that we are now fully focused on the UK market.
This means we can connect to the community of qualified interior designers in the UK.
About Sustonable
Sustonable is an innovative surface material crafted from recycled PET bottles, pre consumer glass, and raw materials. It combines the elegance of premium finishes with exceptional durability, offering architects and designers a sustainable alternative to traditional surfaces. Whether for wall cladding, flooring, countertops, or decorative applications, Sustonable transforms waste into stylish and practical solutions. By choosing Sustonable, you’re not just opting for aesthetics—you’re embracing a material that redefines sustainable design, seamlessly blending beauty and responsibility.
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