LSD Interior Design Merges Functionality, Artistry, and Contemporary Comfort

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an elegant show flat design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, LSD Interior Design.

LSD Interior Design was commissioned by Shanghai Yalong Gucheng Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. to design the interiors of One Central Park. The project blurs boundaries between living and dining zones, creating a gallery-like, light-filled space enriched with vintage lighting, international art, and panoramic views. The result is an elegant, open-plan residence that merges functionality, artistry, and contemporary comfort.

What was the client's brief?

Shanghai Yalong Gucheng Real Estate Development Co.,Ltd. is a forward-looking real estate enterprise based in Shanghai, with a strong commitment to creating high-quality residential and commercial developments. The company integrates modern design vision with refined construction standards, striving to deliver projects that not only meet market demands but also elevate the living experience of residents.

With an emphasis on cultural awareness, lifestyle innovation, and sustainable urban integration, Yalong Gucheng has established a reputation for developing projects that combine functionality with artistry. Its portfolio reflects a dedication to excellence in planning, architecture, and spatial design, while maintaining sensitivity to the evolving aspirations of contemporary urban communities.

As the client of One Central Park, the company continues to demonstrate its pursuit of distinctive, human-centered living environments. By supporting innovative design approaches and embracing international perspectives, Shanghai Yalong Gucheng Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. positions itself as a driving force in shaping sophisticated urban lifestyles in China.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design drew its core inspiration from the pursuit of "symbiosis between art and daily life", with the "art gallery" as a pivotal conceptual prototype. It aimed to transcend the traditional boundary between functional living spaces and artistic venues:

- By emulating the fluid circulation and immersive aesthetic experience of art galleries, the design liberated the "circulation axis" of the open-plan layout, allowing the act of moving through the home to resemble a leisurely stroll through a gallery.

- It treated the natural environment as an integral part of the spatial "artwork"—utilizing floor-to-ceiling windows (spanning the living and dining areas) and the 270° corner vista to frame the exterior landscape as a dynamic, ever-changing "living canvas."

- Guided by the principle of "contextual relevance" for functional zoning, the design sought to blur rigid spatial interfaces, transforming the living and dining areas into permeable "vessels" that harmonize light, air, functionality, and artistry.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The primary challenge lay in reconciling spatial openness with functional clarity in the large open-plan flat—avoiding either a chaotic "one-size-fits-all" space (lacking distinct functional zones) or a fragmented layout (ruined by rigid partitions that undermine openness and interaction). To address this, the team adopted a set of "non-intrusive zoning strategies" that prioritized continuity while defining functions:

- Leveraging existing architecture: Instead of adding fixed physical partitions between the living and dining areas, the team used the building's original walls as the primary framework for spatial allocation, ensuring proportional rationality without disrupting openness.

- Furniture as "invisible boundaries": Oversized sofas (accommodating diverse family routines) and low-profile backrests (enhancing visual connectivity) were deployed to delineate the living zone; a backless chaise paired with horsehair armchairs defined the reading nook; and area rugs anchored functional zones—all while maintaining spatial flow.

- Material continuity as a unifier: The same high-end stone was used for the dining table and lounge countertop, creating a subtle visual link between adjacent functional areas, which fostered dialogue and reinforced the cohesive narrative of the living-dining space.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The project's highlights revolved around its seamless integration of openness, functionality, artistry, and familial warmth:

- "Gallery-like" spatial experience: By liberating the cross-hall "circulation axis," the design transformed daily movement through the home into an immersive art-gallery stroll, setting a sophisticated tone for the large flat.

- Dynamic natural "artwork": The 270° corner vista and full-span floor-to-ceiling windows turned the exterior landscape into a constantly evolving "living canvas," merging indoor comfort with outdoor beauty.

- Interaction-enhancing furniture design: The oversized sofa catered to diverse family routines, while its low backrest maximized visual connectivity—directly addressing the client's need for familial interaction.

- Blurred yet coherent spatial boundaries: The ambiguous spatial interfaces allowed the living and dining areas to act as permeable vessels for light and air, while the combination of original walls, furniture clusters, and rugs ensured clear functionality without sacrificing openness.

- Art as a "memory anchor": Curated large-scale artworks and internationally sourced vintage lighting fixtures added layers of personalization, bridging the duality of the space—practical daily living and artistic appreciation.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The project aligns closely with the SBID Awards' core values of recognizing design that balances innovation, functionality, aesthetics, and human-centricity—making it a natural fit for submission:

- It innovatively solves a universal challenge in open-plan residential design (balancing openness and functional clarity) through non-intrusive, context-driven strategies, offering a replicable model for high-end flat design.

- It redefines the relationship between "home" and "art," proving that residential spaces can simultaneously serve as practical family havens and immersive artistic environments—reflecting the award's emphasis on elevating living aesthetics.

- Every design decision (from furniture height to material selection) centers on the client's needs for familial interaction, comfort, and personal expression, embodying the "people-oriented" design philosophy valued by the SBID Awards.

- The project's meticulous attention to detail—from the 270° view framing to the material continuity between zones—showcases excellence in both macro spatial planning and micro design execution, meeting the award's rigorous standards for quality.

By entering, the team aimed to share this exploration of "art-infused, family-friendly open-plan living" with the global design community, contributing to dialogues on contemporary residential design innovation.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an SBID Awards Finalist represents profound recognition and strategic value for both the team and the business:

- For the team: It validates their creative vision of merging art and daily life in residential design, as well as their problem-solving prowess in balancing spatial openness and functionality. This affirmation strengthens their commitment to human-centric, aesthetically rigorous design, inspiring them to push further in exploring the boundaries of residential spatial experience.

- For the business: It significantly enhances brand visibility and credibility in the global high-end residential design sector. The project's finalist status demonstrates the business's ability to deliver designs that harmonize practicality, artistry, and client-centricity—attracting clients who seek sophisticated, personalized open-plan residences. More importantly, it positions the business as an innovator in "gallery-inspired residential design," laying the groundwork for leading industry discourse on integrating art into everyday living spaces.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a deeply atmospheric hotel design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, LW Design.

LW Design was commissioned to transform a former residential tower into Conrad Bahrain, a 24-storey luxury hotel defined by spatial elegance and refined restraint. Situated along the Manama seafront, the property features dramatic public areas—including a rooftop pool and the signature SUSHISAMBA restaurant. The design embraces the brand’s bold, contemporary identity while remaining rooted in Bahrain’s cultural and coastal context. Through rich material palettes, sculptural forms, and seamless spatial transitions, the hotel offers a hospitality experience that is both elevated and deeply atmospheric.

What was the client's brief?

The client asked us to create an environment that feels like an effortless journey—an elevated, intuitive experience where every transition between spaces is seamless and purposeful. The brief emphasized clarity, comfort, and sophistication, with materiality playing a central role. Surfaces had to be tactile, honest, and rooted in the spirit of Bahrain, allowing the hotel to feel modern yet contextual.

What inspired the design of the project?

The mantra “Live in the moment. Be Bold. Be Inspired. Be Energized. Be Loud.” became our guiding inspiration. The design responds to a new generation of global citizens who are unapologetically authentic and drawn to places that reflect their pace and passions. We sought to create interiors that pulse with cultural richness, layering artworks, artisanal objects, and commissioned pieces to reflect Bahrain’s creative spirit. The goal was not to conform to traditional luxury but to celebrate contrast, individuality, and energy.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The biggest challenge was transforming a high-end residential tower into a luxury hotel after the structure had already been built and fit-out had begun. This required recalibrating the spatial logic, circulation, and programmatic functions within a rigid framework—without losing coherence. We also introduced a new staircase and lift post-construction to connect the Trade Room bar with the mezzanine, which demanded technical precision and agility from the team.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the highlights was turning constraints into opportunities. The original residential dimensions became a defining strength, giving Conrad Bahrain its expansive suites that feel more like private residences than hotel rooms. Another standout was bringing Sushi Samba to the top floor—a dining destination that transforms dramatically from day to night, creating an unforgettable lifestyle experience at the hotel’s crown.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We believe Conrad Bahrain represents a bold and distinctive approach to contemporary luxury in the Middle East. Entering the SBID Awards was an opportunity to celebrate the ingenuity, resilience, and creativity behind this project, while also sharing our team’s design philosophy on a global stage. It allows us to benchmark ourselves against the world’s best practices and reaffirm our role as design leaders.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Becoming a finalist has been a proud moment for our studio. It has validated the countless hours of collaboration and problem-solving that went into this project and has given our team well-deserved recognition. For our business, it has strengthened client trust, reinforced our reputation for design excellence, and motivated us to continue pushing boundaries in every project we take on.

Questions answered by Rachel Kidd, Partner & Senior Design Director at LW Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a bold primary school design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Lineworks Studio.

Lineworks Studio transformed Shanghai’s Daning Road Primary School into a vibrant, modern campus while preserving its heritage. The 2024 phase reimagined the entrance with geometric forms and a bold yellow accent, harmonizing it with the neighborhood. Interior upgrades included light-infused classrooms, a reading room with sloped ceilings optimized for brightness, and a gymnastics space blending indoor-outdoor energy. Constraints like enclosed corridors were resolved through adaptive design, creating airy communal areas. Warm wood finishes and playful yet sophisticated aesthetics unify the campus, fostering creativity and well-being. The project revitalizes an aging institution, balancing timeless charm with contemporary functionality.

What was the client's brief?

The client's brief was to renovate Daning Road Elementary School in a phased manner. The renovation aimed to revitalize the campus while preserving its heritage and integrating modern functionality. Specific requirements included renovating the main entrance to solve the clutter problem and enhance its visibility, optimizing the architectural exterior by adjusting window layout and colour - matching, remodelling the interior space to create a bright and creative teaching environment, activating special areas like the reading room and gymnastics room, and enhancing functionality by transforming the enclosed meeting room into an open and comfortable space.

What inspired the design of the project?

This design project for Daning Road Elementary School draws inspiration from a harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and the unique characteristics of a school environment.

Functionality is a key driving - force. We aimed to create spaces that meet the diverse needs of teaching, learning, and extracurricular activities. For example, in the classrooms, the layout of desks and chairs, along with the installation of air - conditioners and lighting, is carefully planned to provide a comfortable and conducive learning atmosphere. The transformation of enclosed meeting rooms into open spaces balances modernity and comfort, meeting the needs of group discussions and collaborative learning.

Aesthetically, the use of colour is both bold and purposeful. The prominent yellow accents throughout the campus, such as on the main entrance and in some interior spaces, add a touch of vibrancy and energy, making the school standout and creating a positive and lively atmosphere. The geometric design elements on the ceiling, like the circular and linear light fixtures, not only serve as decorative features but also add a modern and artistic feel to the environment.

The unique characteristics of the school environment also play a crucial role in the design inspiration. The reading room takes advantage of the structural height difference, creating a multi - functional and interesting space that encourages students to explore and read. The gymnastics room integrates outdoor elements, providing a more open and natural space for physical activities.

In summary, this design project combines functionality, aesthetics, and environmental characteristics to create a modern, comfortable, and inspiring campus for students and teachers.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle our team overcame was working within the constraints of the original structure. For instance, in the renovation of the reading room, we had to creatively utilize the differences in heights between interior beams. We covered sloped surfaces with light - diffusing film to make the space open and bright. Also, when transforming the multifunctional conference room on the top floor of the comprehensive building, the existing enclosed corridors made the space narrow and cramped. Our team removed part of the corridor partitions to create a more spacious and comfortable area.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The team's highlight of the project was breathing new life into an old educational building through our creative design. We successfully renovated various parts of the school, like the main entrance, teaching building, reading room, gymnastics room, and conference room. Our design made the campus more visually appealing, functional, and comfortable for students and teachers, for example, the vibrant yellow accent at the entrance made it a standout feature in the neighbourhood, and the transformation of indoor spaces with lighting and wood - grain details enhanced the teaching and learning environment.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Because the SBID is a well-known and authoritative design organization. Success in this GOLD-rated Awards programme demonstrates the highest level of design skill and professional mastery across the interior design profession. We entered the SBID Awards to showcase our commitment to design excellence and to gain recognition within the industry.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an Award Finalist in a prestigious design award like SBID can bring increased recognition in the design industry. It can lead to more opportunities, such as new projects, partnerships, and a boost in our team's and business's reputation, which can in turn attract more clients and top-tier talent.

Questions answered by Song Chen, Design Director at Lineworks Studio.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Yudi Design.

“Nest Within” is a thoughtfully designed residential project that redefines family living by prioritizing shared spaces over private ones. Emphasizing natural materials and transparency, the design fosters emotional connection and practical flexibility for a modern family. Innovative use of glass partitions maintains openness while ensuring supervision and interaction, creating a warm, sustainable home that balances function with heartfelt togetherness.

What was the client's brief?

The client, a young family, wanted a home that emphasized daily togetherness and shared living, rather than conventional, separated rooms. Their brief called for maximized communal areas, visual connectivity, child-friendly features, emotional closeness, and the use of natural, sustainable materials. They also wanted the space to support work-from-home needs while remaining aesthetically calm and flexible.

What inspired the design of the project?

The project was inspired by the idea of redefining domestic life for modern families, focusing on emotional well-being and togetherness. The design reversed traditional layouts by minimizing private areas and expanding shared zones. Inspiration also came from natural materials like Shirasu-kabe plaster and reclaimed driftwood, promoting a sustainable and sensory-rich environment.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The greatest challenge was achieving intimacy and calm within an open-plan layout without visual clutter or overstimulation. Balancing spatial openness with emotional zoning required careful use of materials, textures, and acoustic control. Additionally, designing for both adult functionality and children's evolving needs added emotional complexity to the process.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was creating a future-oriented, flexible home that fosters behavioral change—encouraging more face-to-face interaction and shared rituals. By involving both adults and children in the design process, the result is a thoughtful, emotionally resonant space that evolves with the family.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards to share our human-centered and sustainable design approach with a wider audience. It was an opportunity to showcase how design can shape behavior, support emotional well-being, and respond to environmental responsibility—especially in the context of evolving family life.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an SBID Award Finalist has validated our design philosophy and brought greater exposure to our work. It has strengthened client trust, elevated our brand, and inspired our team to continue pushing the boundaries of emotionally and environmentally conscious design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an innovative hotel design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, HBA.

Following its 2025 upgrade, the Hangzhou Wulin GDA Hotel reemerged as a luxurious tribute to the city’s rich heritage, rooted in the 1929 West Lake Expo. Inspired by “A Collector’s Manor Residence,” the design blends Eastern elegance with Western artistry. Guests experience curated spaces filled with antiques, art, and cultural motifs, evoking a private museum. From vibrant dining areas to tranquil guest rooms, every detail celebrates Hangzhou’s legacy of global exchange and refinement. The hotel stands as a living narrative where history, culture, and modern hospitality meet in harmony.

What was the client's brief?

Through the comprehensive renovation and upgrade of the hotel, it will be transformed into an iconic destination, ultimately maximizing the return on investment.

What inspired the design of the project?

Inspired by the 1929 West Lake Expo founded by Mr. Zhang Jingjiang, the hotel boasts a privileged location adjacent to the Zhejiang Exhibition Hall at Wulin Square, offering a front-row seat to the magnificent journey of Hangzhou's exhibition culture.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The greatest challenge lay in realizing the design vision and meeting the diverse functional requirements of a hotel while working within the inherent structural and layout constraints of the existing building.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The most impressive highlight is the "Dialogue Across Time" narrative woven throughout the hotel. Adopting the theme of "Visiting a Collector's Manor Estate," it guides guests on an immersive journey to explore the glorious history of the West Lake Expo in Hangzhou.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards place the utmost importance on the innovation, execution, and level of challenge in design. By entering the competition, we aim to present the judges and industry peers with an exemplary project that fully embodies these standards.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

To the Company: This honor represents significant international recognition of our ability to comprehensively tackle complex projects. It powerfully demonstrates to the market that our company not only delivers cutting-edge aesthetic vision but also possesses the technical expertise and project management capabilities to turn ideas into reality. We are adept at addressing the challenges of renovating existing structures and creating exceptional value for our clients.

To the Team and Individuals: This award brings immense encouragement and recognition to our team and each individual involved. It will continue to inspire us to uphold professionalism and dedicate ourselves to creating more meaningful design works in the future.

Questions answered by John Wang, Design Director of HBA.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated salon design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Atrio Design.

Atrio Design proudly presents Beauty Made, a high-end beauty salon located in the heart of Calthorpe Estate, Edgbaston, Birmingham. Designed and built in just two months, the salon blends sophisticated elegance with contemporary luxury, creating a serene and exclusive atmosphere. The interior features bespoke finishes, premium materials, and custom lighting, ensuring a seamless client experience. Every detail reflects the refined aesthetic of Edgbaston Village while offering a modern, functional space for beauty professionals. Beauty Made is a testament to Atrio Design’s expertise in delivering high-end, tailored interiors with precision, creativity, and uncompromising quality.

What was the client's brief?

Atrio Design was commissioned to design and build Beauty Made, an exclusive high-end beauty salon in the prestigious Calthorpe Estate, Edgbaston, Birmingham. The vision was to create a super unique salon that seamlessly integrates with the sophisticated charm of Edgbaston Village while offering a luxurious and immersive experience for clients.

The challenge was to deliver a high-end fit-out within an ambitious 2-month time-frame, ensuring every detail aligned with the salon’s premium aesthetic and functional requirements. Atrio Design took a turnkey approach, managing everything from conceptual design to execution, incorporating bespoke finishes, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship.

The result is a harmonious blend of elegance and innovation, with tailor-made interiors, curated textures, and a seamless flow that enhances the client experience. Every design element was chosen to reflect sophistication, comfort, and exclusivity, positioning Beauty Made as a standout destination in Birmingham’s beauty industry.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was inspired by natural textures, timeless detailing, and the philosophy that beauty is best expressed through simplicity and balance.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Achieving the right equilibrium between luxury and calm minimalism, ensuring the space felt elegant yet understated.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Delivering a finished space that reflected our vision in every detail — from the atmosphere to the craftsmanship.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To showcase our work on a global stage and align Atrio Design with the most respected names in the industry.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

It has validated our design philosophy, enhanced our reputation, and opened new opportunities for growth.

Questions answered by Andrii Yeksarov, Founder & Creative Director of Atrio Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a characterful hallway design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Amy Hunt Interior Design.

Amy Hunt Interiors designed this Edwardian hallway and cloakroom to restore character, warmth, and personality to two previously overlooked spaces. Wide-plank oak flooring, bespoke panelling, and layered lighting reintroduced architectural depth, while a wallpapered ceiling and bold stair runner added drama and visual interest. The adjoining WC was transformed with rich magenta panelling, a marbled wallpaper ceiling, and vintage-inspired details, including brass taps, a wall-mounted basin, and checkerboard tiles. These thoughtful, playful elements celebrate the home’s heritage while creating a cohesive narrative. The result is a striking, characterful transformation that turns transitional areas into standout design moments.

What was the client's brief?

The clients wanted the design to be sensitive to the era of the home and to bring its history back to life. Sadly, over the years, many of the original features had been stripped away or removed. One unique aspect of this project is that my client is colour blind, so it was important to choose colours that stood out clearly rather than blended subtly into the space. The result is a design that’s both visually impactful and respectful of the home’s past.

What inspired the design of the project?

The stained-glass windows on the front door have beautiful colours and a delicate floral theme that were lost in the space. We used this as inspiration to carry those tones and motifs into the rest of the space. When I came across the House of Hackney wallpaper, it felt like fate!

The WC was cold and dark, and we knew we wanted to bring in depth and warmth to the space, having already decided on a wallpaper for the hallway it felt right to opt for something even more bold for this small space!

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Deciding on the lower half paint colour, we ended up pairing back to allow the ceiling to have its moment.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Stepping back to admire the completed space, the difference is incredible. After eight years of living without colour, the transformation feels uplifting and full of life. Opening the front door is so joyful.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As a small company, we work incredibly hard, and at times it can feel like a lonely journey, as you sit in your office squirrelling away on your designs for days if not weeks. Submitting a project for an award offers us valuable feedback and recognition from others that we might not otherwise receive.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Seeing your clients’ reaction to the finished scheme is incredibly rewarding. Taking that project to the wider market and receiving recognition for your design is really special. It not only validates what you are doing but also inspires you to keep pushing yourself.

Questions answered by Amy Hunt, Founder of Amy Hunt Interior Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a glamorous hotel design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, RVD Associates & HBA.

A 1926 Southern California landmark emerges anew in Downtown Long Beach as RVD Associates and HBA San Francisco announces the transformative completion of Fairmont Breakers Long Beach. With a vision championed by developer Pacific6 Enterprises and designed in collaboration with Eden For Your World, the restoration of the 185-room hotel gracefully balances classic glamour with modern sensibility, setting a new standard for luxury hospitality within the city. Stories from the hotel’s opulent past unfold upon arrival at the newly restored entrance, where Renaissance Revival-style architecture pays homage to the original work of architects Walker & Eisen.

What was the client's brief?

The client’s brief was very much in alignment with our vision. Together, we were inspired by the idea of honoring the beauty of the 1920s Spanish Revival architecture while reimagining the building for a new era. The goal was to restore its former grandeur while thoughtfully introducing modern elements that breathe new life into the property.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was inspired by the building’s rich history and the golden era of Hollywood. We wanted to honor its legacy while introducing a sense of timeless elegance that feels fresh and contemporary. The original period details provided a canvas that encouraged us to layer in refined, modern touches, creating a dialogue between past and present. Our palette drew from the ever-changing hues of the ocean—airy blues and crisp whites welcome guests in the lobby, gradually deepening into rich indigos and sapphires at the Sky Lounge, where the views connect seamlessly with the sea beyond. We also collaborated with local artisans to create truly bespoke elements, such as the custom Robert Crowder wallcovering in La Sala. RVD is proud to have helped re-polish this architectural jewel, breathing new life into ‘The Breakers’ while celebrating its storied past.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The Fairmont Breakers is a magnificent historic building, and with that came plenty of quirks and nuances. One of the toughest challenges was working with the guest rooms, each of which presented different conditions and configurations. Our team had to thoughtfully design for this variety while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic and guest experience throughout the property.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

For us, the highlight was the ability to craft a variety of experiences throughout the property. From the moment guests arrive in the light-filled lobby to the more intimate settings of the dining and lounge areas, each space offers its own distinct atmosphere while still feeling connected to the larger story of the Breakers. Designing this layered journey allowed us to honour the building’s history while giving guests a series of moments that feel both unique and cohesive. Creating that spectrum of experiences—each with its own personality yet tied together by a timeless design narrative—was one of the most rewarding aspects of the project.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have always admired the work that SBID showcases and the calibre of projects they feature on a global stage. Entering the SBID Awards felt like a meaningful opportunity to share the story of the Fairmont Breakers, a project we’re truly proud of. To be recognized among such an esteemed group of designers is an honour in itself, and we are grateful to have been selected.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being named an Award Finalist has been an incredible honour for our team. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase our work on an international stage and to celebrate the craft, creativity, and collaboration that went into the Fairmont Breakers. We feel fortunate to do what we love for such inspiring clients, and even more rewarding is knowing that guests will experience these spaces in ways that are memorable and transformative. This recognition affirms our passion for design and motivates us to continue raising the bar in our work.

Questions answered by Rodrigo Vargas, Principal of RVD Associates.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a calm boutique hotel design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Susanna Cots.

Les Clarisses is a boutique hotel in Vic, designed by Susanna Cots, blending the peaceful legacy of an ancient convent with modern elegance. The project preserves the building’s historic integrity while integrating organic materials like wood and stone to create a tranquil atmosphere. Soft, flowing shapes, bespoke furniture, and natural light invite guests to experience mindfulness and luxury. Original architectural elements, such as stone vaults and pillars, merge seamlessly with contemporary design, maintaining the convent’s serene spirit. Les Clarisses is not just a hotel but a restorative space where history and modernity coexist to offer a unique experience.

What was the client's brief?

The client had a clear and poetic vision: to transform a former convent into a boutique hotel where silence would not only be respected but become the soul of the project. A place of calm, light, and contemplation — where every detail invites pause and wellbeing.

What inspired the design of the project?

Silence was our greatest inspiration — not as absence, but as presence. Natural light guided us as a narrative thread to shape each space. And, of course, the architectural essence of the original convent, which we wanted to preserve and reinterpret with emotion and deep respect.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The main challenge was to find the balance between historical memory and contemporary function. We were working with a building full of emotional and symbolic weight, and our task was to reinterpret it without betraying it. Managing natural light within such an ancient structure also required precision and sensitivity.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The moment we saw light flow naturally into the reimagined spaces for the first time. That instant when everything aligns, when the design disappears and only peace remains. Also very special were the first impressions from the guests — when they connected with the space through silence.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

For us, silence is not the absence of sound — it is a design principle. We wanted to share this vision with an international community that values subtlety, emotion, and depth in interior design. We’ve been part of the SBID community for many years, and for us, it feels almost like a responsibility — and an honour — to showcase our work through such a respected platform.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

It’s a recognition that touches us deeply — especially in the year we celebrate our 25th anniversary. To be shortlisted with such a symbolic project as Les Clarisses reaffirms our belief that beauty, when born from stillness and respect, can resonate far beyond borders.

Questions answered by Susanna Cots, Founder of Susanna Cots.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an understated luxury hotel lobby design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, IQOSA.

A lobby that feels less like a public space — and more like the first chapter of home. Designed by IQOSA for THE ONE in Kyiv, this interior balances timeless materials with thoughtful zoning and sculptural light. Travertine, soft contours, and tactile furnishings create an atmosphere of quiet confidence. No excess — only purpose. A refined space that welcomes, grounds, and leaves a lasting impression without trying too hard.

What was the client's brief?

“Make it feel like checking into a five-star hotel – only now, it’s your home.” That was the tone from day one. The space needed to welcome, wow, and whisper luxury at every corner. High-end materials, seamless flow, thoughtful zoning – but no clichés. We had to find a balance between impressive and personal, between comfort and statement. And yes, it had to look like money – but feel like home.

What inspired the design of the project?

Honestly? The idea that luxury doesn’t have to shout. We looked at materials that age beautifully – travertine, warm bronze, soft glass – and imagined how they could shape a space that whispers rather than announces. Also, we loved the idea of the chandelier feeling like sculpture. A quiet statement piece that kind of says, “You’ve arrived.”

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Hiding all the technical stuff! (Laughs.) We had to incorporate biometric access, a full concierge back-office, soundproofing, ventilation – all inside what looks like a gallery. No visible cameras, no clutter, no mess. The cleaner the space looks, the more work is hidden behind it.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

We’ll let you know when the first person steps into the finished lobby and forgets what they came for – that’s when we’ll know it works.

But if we had to pick a moment during the process: finalizing the chandelier design and how it will catch natural light. It’s one of those rare elements that’s sculptural, technical, and poetic all at once. We’re counting down the days to see it glow in real life.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Because we love what SBID stands for: intelligent design, not just decorative design. This project wasn’t about trends – it was about feeling. We wanted to share that with a wider audience.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Let’s be honest – it’s a great moment for the team. We obsess over every tiny detail, over hidden screws, over which travertine slab to use... and now the world gets to see that obsession in the spotlight. It’s motivating. It also tells future clients: “Yes, this team can handle your high expectations.”

Questions answered by Mykyta Riazhko, Lead Designer at IQOSA.