Claudia De Sousa Interior Design Seamlessly Blends Functionality and Elegance

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a warm and inviting family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Claudia De Sousa Interior Design.

Home in Strassen, Luxembourg by Claudia de Sousa Interior Design seamlessly blends functionality and elegance, creating a warm and inviting family home. Designed for effortless living, the space features an open-plan social area connected to the garden, fostering togetherness while maintaining fluid circulation. A striking five-meter-high fireplace anchors the living room, complemented by sculptural lighting to enhance the double-height architecture. The couple’s private floor evokes the luxury of a hotel suite, but fully tailored to their lifestyle, designed with attention to detail to feel personal, intimate, and uniquely theirs.

What was the client's brief?

Create a home for a family of 5 but with a main living area and pool area also prepared for social events.

What inspired the design of the project?

I was inspired by warm minimalist design with detailed lighting.

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

The biggest challenge we faced was how to emphasize the double height of the living room, as it was the heart of the house and we wanted it to work from all angles, even when viewed from above on the first floor.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Apart from designing the space we were also very focused on the light and are very happy with the result.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered out of curiosity, I really liked the result of this project and also the amazing photos so I thought I could give it a chance, is the 1st time I compete, so let's see!!

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

This business sometimes is very hard, competitive and when working on your own, is very nice to receive recognition for such an important organization as SBID. So it would mean that we are going in the right way. Although I think our clients already tell us this, it is always good to have someone so expert saying too.

Questions answered by Cláudia Morgado de Sousa, Founder of Claudia De Sousa Interior Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a grounded penthouse design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Nu Infinity.

Turning every nook of one's home into a relatable and personal space makes it unique to this client's brief. Located in a prime spot overlooking Bondi Beach, it was imperative that all the important areas face outward and maximizes the view all day long - the TV hung from above, the sauna, the gym, the work desk, the living and dining areas; even the kitchen has unobstructed views. Nu Infinity's design philosophies and this year's design direction are aptly introduced but the most important part was the study and understand of our client with different lifestyle at a very unique location.

What was the client's brief?

The brief was simple, yet it demanded thoughtful consideration. Our client entrusted us with the design of a penthouse perched above the iconic Iceberg’s Cafe at Bondi Beach, Sydney. A residence in such a prestigious location called for unobstructed views of the coastline. With wellness at the heart of his lifestyle, the brief centred on maximizing the layout to embrace Bondi’s sweeping horizon while seamlessly supporting his daily rituals.

What inspired the design of the project?

The clients themselves were an inspiring duo. One, an Asian-born Australian, the other from South Africa, both sharing a profound appreciation for solid wood. Surrounded by sweeping views of the ocean, we envisioned a design that embraced natural timber as its foundation. This interplay between the vastness of the sea and the warmth of wood brought a sense of intimacy, creating a home that feels both inviting and grounded.

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

Convincing the client of two key ideas became our greatest challenge.

The first was rethinking the master bedroom. While the client wished to maximize the panoramic views of Bondi Beach, we proposed relocating the bedroom to the rear. This allowed us to design a custom sauna at the front, one that opens directly to the ocean views through the spacious gym, offering a serene wellness experience. Our reasoning was simple: at night, the bedroom view fades into darkness, but by shifting the private spaces inward, the open plan living, dining, gym, sauna, and even the workspace could enjoy the breathtaking scenery throughout the day.

The second challenge was the television. We resisted the idea of a conventional TV wall, which would have disrupted the openness of the floor plan. At the same time, we knew a small screen would never do justice to the space. Our solution was to propose a retractable 120-inch screen—an ambitious idea that initially seemed unfeasible due to its weight. Fortunately, we sourced a customized, whisper-quiet retractable system from South Africa. When closed, the screen disappears seamlessly into the ceiling, leaving the horizon uninterrupted. This became one of the client’s favourite features, balancing technology with the purity of the view.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

We crafted a home that flows seamlessly around our clients’ daily rituals, achieved through a thoughtful choreography of space planning. By reorienting the bedrooms toward the rear, we created a private sanctuary, while the front of the residence was left fully open to the sweeping views, yet adaptable, with sliding glass partitions providing separation when needed.

Designing a penthouse with a sauna and open living overlooking the iconic Bondi Beach is a rare opportunity, and this feature became a defining statement of the project. Most importantly, the design never asked our clients to adapt to their home but instead, the home was meticulously choreographed to adapt to their lifestyle.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To be honest, winning the SBID Awards would be an accomplishment not just for us but a focal achievement for our team.

We have participated in multiple international and local awards and every time we win them, we bring back joy and motivation that drives our team to a new level. From one project to another, from one year after another, we unlock not just new projects but also unlock new strengths and talent.

Being part of the SBID Awards is like being part of a gathering among passionate creative minds that is not present to compete, but present to share, to reflect, to realise and for us, mainly to discover and grow. And that is why we have been submitting every year.

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

For over 16 years, we have pioneered our design practice, working with clients from diverse backgrounds across the globe. To us, design has never been just about aesthetics, it is about curating experiences that resonate on a deeper, more human level.

Placing our work on the international stage allows us to measure ourselves not only against global standards, but also against our own potential for growth. To be recognised by the SBID Awards, whether as a winner or a finalist, would mark more than an accolade, it would affirm that our journey is on the right path. Most importantly, it would inspire our team to push boundaries with even greater passion, constantly striving toward new heights.

Questions answered by Alex Lee & Nick Fong, Founders of Nu Infinity.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Studio LBI.

The property occupies a stunning plot overlooking the Kyles of Bute with gardens reaching to the shore. The property was tired and overrun with tartan carpets and dark corners. The brief was to breathe new life into this period property and deliver a restful, cosy but thoroughly modern and functional holiday home, with an understated, luxurious and timeless aesthetic. The brief ran from soft furnishings through to kitchen and bathroom design, bespoke cabinetry and the selection of art and accessories throughout the house. For the clients this was a turnkey project and handed over complete and ready to move into.

What was the client's brief?

Our clients had recently purchased a holiday home in Argyll, set on the banks of the Kyles of Bute. Whilst surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the interiors felt dated and disconnected from their natural surroundings. Heavy tartan carpets and dark wall coverings closed the house off from the beauty outside.

The brief was to transform the property into a bright, welcoming retreat, that invited the outdoors in and embraced natural light. Above all, the clients wanted an open-plan space that would allow them to entertain and host family in a relaxed, elegant setting.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration came from the surrounding countryside. We designed the interior in neutral, earthy tones with luxurious soft furnishings to create a cosy feel. The countryside in Argyll is so beautiful that we paid particular attention to window dressings so that the eye is drawn to the spectacular views.

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

The remote location brought some logistical challenges, but with such a beautiful journey to the property, it was hard to see travel as a burden.

The greater challenge lay in the property’s outdated electrical system which simply couldn’t support the requirements of a modern home. This was a significant hurdle, but through close collaboration with the builders, the system was successfully upgraded, ensuring the house could meet the clients’ needs both now and in the future.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The true highlight came when we handed the completed home back to our clients and saw their reaction. They had entrusted us to oversee every detail, from managing the trades and coordinating the installation of the kitchen and bathrooms to commissioning bespoke joinery by our cabinet maker. Every piece of soft furnishing and accessory was carefully sourced by the Studio LBI team to ensure the house felt cohesive and complete.

The installation itself was a memorable week, set against a rare Scottish heatwave with blue skies and temperatures in the thirties. Despite the challenge of moving furniture in the heat, the atmosphere was electric as everything came together.

When our clients finally walked into their turnkey-ready holiday home, their delight and emotion made all the effort worthwhile.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We value the recognition that comes from our industry peers and the credibility that the SBID Awards bring to our brand. To be considered among such a high calibre of finalists is both an honour and a privilege and it reflects the passion and dedication that goes into every project we deliver.

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

Being a finalist is a powerful recognition of our team as serious, professional designers within a competitive industry. The interior design market is crowded and standing out requires both creativity and credibility. Winning the SBID Award in 2023 elevated our profile within the industry and continues to give prospective clients confidence, as the award serves as a trusted mark of quality and excellence.

Questions answered by Louise Bramhill, Founder of Studio LBI.

Each area was designed around a different experience. Open-plan living spaces flow into cinema and entertainment areas, allowing visitors to move naturally through the showroom and experience the technology within varied settings. Open sightlines and connected spaces let people experience each environment as part of a wider, cohesive interior. Lighting plays a particularly important role throughout: integrated subtly within shelving, joinery and architectural details, it shapes the mood of each space and demonstrates how atmosphere can completely change the way an interior feels.

A custom media wall was designed to conceal audiovisual elements within the joinery, allowing the technology to feel fully integrated into the interior rather than treated as a separate feature. Working closely with SONA and the wider project team from an early stage meant the design and technology could evolve together - nothing feels separate or applied later. The result is a showroom that feels calm, immersive and residential in character; a space that demonstrates technology through experience, rather than display.

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a contemporary residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Studio 95 Interiors.

Studio 95 Interiors, a West London-based design studio, was commissioned to add contemporary style to this charming 1930s family home in Ealing. Central to the project is a spacious new kitchen, dining and living area created as part of a generous rear extension. The fully refurbished entrance hall retains key original features, blending classic character with modern functionality to create a welcoming, open space adorned with tribal masks inspired by the family’s extensive travels. The newly designed master suite boasts an high pitched ceiling and a striking oriel window seat, offering serene garden views and a sense of retreat.

What was the client's brief?

The clients had decided to update and extend their large 1930's semi-detached two-storey family home in Ealing. As part of the refurbishment and extension project, they wanted a new contemporary kitchen which was to be situated in an open plan kitchen, dining and living space at the rear of their south facing property. They also wanted an updated entrance hall with new stairwell, a new master suite on the first floor along with refurbished rooms throughout. The following requests were raised by the client as their design brief.

- Generally: To honour the home's original character while introducing a contemporary aesthetic tailored to modern family life.
- Kitchen, Dining & Living Area: Create an inviting, multifunctional space that balances elegance with everyday functionality and one that enhances the connection to the large south-facing garden. Create a cohesive lighting plan layout and specification for the rear extension incorporating feature lights along with functional downlights. Create a media wall with shelving.
- Entrance Hall & Stairwell: Create a striking entrance hall to reflect the home's original character but in a contemporary way.
- Master Bedroom Suite: Create a calm elegant room that enhances the newly designed architectural features of the high pitched ceiling and oriel window. Create a place of retreat which also connects with the outdoors.

What inspired the design of the project?

On the ground floor, at the rear of the property, the open-plan ground floor kitchen, dining and living area was envisioned as the vibrant heart of the home, offering a generous, light-filled environment that opens onto the south-facing garden. We wanted to make the most of this wide 10 metre space and for each designated area to flow and work well with each other.

The entrance hall was to serve as a transitional space, subtly nodding to the home's 1930s heritage while embracing a contemporary design approach. It was a transitional space where you move from the reinterpreted original architecture at the front of the property to the modern extension of the kitchen, dining and living area at the rear. As a nod to its 1930s heritage, we added a classic monochromatic scheme of art-deco inspired black and white geometric flooring, black doors, grey painted wall panelling and a glamourous glass bauble chandelier. These reflect the overall design language of the home.

On the first floor, the master suite was designed to celebrate architectural volume and light. The pitched roofline was left open to enhance a sense of airiness. The feature oriel window which has a bespoke built-in window seat, creates a serene corner for relaxation and making the most of views and natural light.

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

There were a number of hurdles in this project, the main one was working within the budget that had been allowed. It was a large home and the client was refurbishing the entire house. So, with clever and imaginative use of the budget, we were able to make the budget stretch to achieve the thoughtfully curated look throughout and making some existing pieces work with the new.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The design carefully balances old and new, respecting the character of the original home while introducing light-filled, modern living spaces. Key highlights include:
- Seamless Integration: A contemporary extension that harmonises with the existing architecture while offering a bold modern identity.
- Maximising Light & Space: Open-plan layouts, large glazed panels, and thoughtful spatial planning bring natural light deep into the home, creating a sense of openness and connection to the garden.
- Contemporary Living: Flexible spaces designed for modern family life, with a focus on flow, comfort, and functionality.
- Craftsmanship & Detail: High-quality materials and refined detailing elevate the design, ensuring both durability and elegance.
- Sustainability Considerations: Energy-efficient solutions and sustainable materials contribute to the longevity and environmental responsibility of the home.

The result is a home that redefines a traditional property for 21st-century living, blending heritage with innovation.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Entering the SBID Awards is an opportunity to push creative boundaries and showcase work to a global audience. Being shortlisted by a panel of highly respected industry experts is both an honour and a testament to the quality of a studio’s design. The awards not only provide valuable benchmarking against peers but also open doors to significant marketing opportunities, particularly when recognised as a finalist.

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

Being shortlisted for the SBID Awards is a significant milestone for my studio. Having a project recognised in the residential category for the third consecutive year affirms the consistency and quality of our work. The recognition serves as a powerful showcase, attracting attention from peers in the interiors industry as well as prospective clients, while reinforcing our reputation for professionalism, reliability, and design excellence. Beyond visibility, the awards have strengthened relationships with clients, suppliers, and media partners. On a more personal level, the journey highlights the evolution of the business - its beginnings, its growth over the past five years, challenges and achievements - making the experience both rewarding and invaluable.

Questions answered by Stephanie Gilsenan, Founder of Studio 95 Interiors.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a mid-century kitchen design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Bower Interior Design.

Bower Interior Design was commissioned to design the interior of a newly built rear extension in Saltdean, East Sussex. The open-plan kitchen, dining and living space was created for a family of four seeking a timeless design with a mid-century influence. Rich walnut cabinetry, soft green tones and brushed brass accents were combined to bring warmth, depth and character. The result is a calm, functional and beautifully layered space that reflects the family’s lifestyle while nodding to the home’s coastal setting and their love of classic design.

What was the client's brief?

The family wanted a home that would really bring them together at the end of each day, as well as a space to host friends and relax. They imagined a place to sit and read with a glass of wine, a generous dining area that could comfortably seat ten, and an open-plan kitchen where they could keep an eye on everything while the family gathered. Hosting was also really important to them — they loved the idea of the bi-folds opening out onto their beautiful gardens, creating plenty of space to entertain and throw parties. My approach was to zone the space carefully into kitchen, dining and living areas, so that each had its own purpose but also flowed seamlessly together. They wanted a contemporary mid-century feel — light and neutral at its base to maximise the natural daylight, but with layers of rich colour, from olive greens to ochres, alongside natural wood textures for warmth and depth.

What inspired the design of the project?

The biggest inspiration was the house itself. It’s a mid-century property that looks out onto beautiful, sprawling fields, and it felt only natural to bring that sense of greenery and connection to the outdoors into the design. I used earthy tones, wood textures and tactile finishes to echo what was happening just beyond the garden. The family wanted something timeless, with enough wow factor to feel special, but still a home where they could kick off their shoes, put the kettle on, and feel completely at ease.

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

The project was smooth overall, but one challenge was ensuring the space would be properly heated without relying on underfloor heating. With so many large glazed areas and open walls, I had to think very strategically about where radiators could be placed — they needed to do their job effectively without dominating or disrupting the design. It took some careful thought to make everything work, but in the end it came together in a way that felt balanced and practical.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

For me, the highlight will always be my clients’ reaction when it was finished. They sent me videos saying they “couldn’t believe it was theirs,” which was such a moving moment. Seeing their joy and hearing that disbelief turn into pride made all the months of planning and decision-making worthwhile. It’s the kind of feedback that reminds me exactly why I love doing what I do.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Honestly, I entered on a bit of a chance. I was really proud of the project, but I never imagined it would make it through to become a finalist.

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

Becoming a finalist has been such a dream come true. To be recognised alongside so many incredible designers is both humbling and inspiring. It’s given me a huge boost of confidence in my work and feels like a real milestone for Bower Interior Design.

Questions answered by Natalie Johnson, Founder of Bower Interior Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated penthouse design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Fenton Whelan Design.

Fenton Whelan Design was commissioned to design the interiors of a penthouse, with a vision of refined international luxury. The design merges modern minimalism with Asian-inspired details, expressed through rich textures, sculptural forms, and a harmonious palette of soft neutrals accented by green and blue. Calacatta marble, bespoke furnishings, and curated artwork bring depth and elegance to each space. From the panoramic city views of the living room to the serene, layered bedrooms, every detail reflects thoughtful craftsmanship. The result is a sophisticated, tranquil residence that balances contemporary aesthetics with timeless character and global influence.

What was the client's brief?

The client wanted a home that transcended the idea of a traditional penthouse — a space that was at once modern and timeless, offering both dramatic views and a calm sanctuary. Their brief centred on creating a refined environment for entertaining while still feeling deeply personal and liveable.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration came from the dialogue between architecture and lifestyle. With panoramic views as the backdrop, the design sought to frame the skyline while layering in warmth through textures, craftsmanship, and carefully curated details. We were inspired by the idea of “quiet luxury” — elevating every finish, proportion, and piece of furniture so the space feels sophisticated yet effortless.

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

Balancing bold architectural gestures with intimacy was our greatest challenge. We wanted to honour the scale of the penthouse without losing the sense of comfort that makes a home truly inviting. Achieving that harmony required a meticulous approach to proportion, zoning, and lighting — ensuring the space feels both expansive and human.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The moment of installation, when all the layered elements — bespoke joinery, tailored furnishings, curated art — came together. Seeing the client walk into a space that reflected both their aspirations and our vision was an incredibly rewarding highlight for the team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

SBID represents excellence in global design, and entering the Awards felt like the right platform to benchmark our work against the very best in the industry. It was also an opportunity to share a project we are truly proud of with an audience that values innovation, craft, and impact.

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

Being shortlisted has been both validating and motivating. It reinforces our belief in pushing boundaries and confirms that our design philosophy resonates beyond the client. For the studio, it has opened new conversations, elevated our profile, and reaffirmed our commitment to delivering projects that blend vision with execution at the highest level.

Questions answered by Arta Marku, Creative Director of Fenton Whelan Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a cutting-edge podcasting studio design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Point Concept Studio.

Poddster Singapore was commissioned to design and specify the interior architecture, furnishings, and bespoke fittings for a cutting-edge podcasting studio. The design process focused on supporting creators throughout their journey—from ideation to production and community building. Six modular studios were crafted to accommodate diverse recording styles, with tailored lighting and acoustics enhancing both audio and video quality. A multifunctional lounge encourages collaboration and creativity beyond recording sessions. The project balances technical precision with a warm, inspiring atmosphere, amplifying the creative energy of users and reinforcing Poddster’s brand as a dynamic content hub.

What was the client's brief?

The client asked us to create more than just podcast studios; they wanted a professional yet inviting hub that could adapt to different creators’ needs. From flexible, acoustically treated studios for solo or group recordings, to a multifunctional lounge for editing, networking, and collaboration, the brief was about building a space that supports creativity at every stage.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were inspired by the idea of collaboration and adaptability. We wanted to design a space that suited all types of creators; from a single podcaster seeking focus, to groups recording together. Each studio was given modular themes and customizable setups to allow variety, while the main lounge was designed as a vibrant social hub. When the studios aren’t in use, the heart of the space transforms into a place for discussion, networking, and creative exchange: fun, inspiring, and alive with energy.

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

The main challenge was keeping the essence of the design consistent while working across borders. Our team was based in the UAE, while we collaborated with new suppliers in Singapore. Coordinating details like acoustics, lighting, and modular elements meant aligning different teams and ways of working, but it ultimately came together smoothly through collaboration and shared focus on the client’s vision.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was seeing the space in action for the first time. Watching the studios adapt so effortlessly; whether for a solo podcaster, a duo, or a lively group showed us the flexibility really worked. The lounge quickly became more than just a waiting area; it turned into a lively hub where creators gathered, shared ideas, and built connections. For our team, seeing people move naturally between focused recording and spontaneous collaboration was the moment the design proved itself. it was exactly what we had envisioned coming to life.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Because the SBID Awards celebrate design that transforms how people experience spaces. Poddster Singapore is exactly that, it’s not just a studio, it’s a hub for voices, stories, and community. We felt its message deserved a global platform.

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

For our team, being an SBID Award Finalist has been a truly proud moment. It’s a recognition of the creativity, hard work, and collaboration that went into bringing this project to life. More than the design itself, it celebrates the way we worked together as a team, here at Point Concept, to meet challenges and deliver something meaningful. The recognition has strengthened our confidence and reminded us why we do what we do; to create spaces that inspire, bring people together, and leave a lasting impact.

Questions answered by Aishah Nazeer, Design & Project Coordinator at Point Concept Studio.

Project Team Members: Mark Ramos, Interior Architect, and Kevin Alejandro, Draftsman.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxury family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, More Design.

Inspired by Georges Seurat’s Neo-Impressionist principles, this residential project reinterprets domestic life through a “spatial pointillism” concept tailored for a multigenerational Asian family. The design team transformed the original structure to include a ceremonial basement social hub, intelligent zoning, and a 60-meter circulation loop fostering intergenerational connection. Blending Art Deco influences with digital fabrication, the residence features biomorphic mosaics, acoustic innovations, and daylight-responsive interiors. Through adaptive reuse, prefabrication, and low-impact landscape integration, the project redefines luxury living with cultural nuance, technical precision, and environmental sensitivity—creating a sanctuary where sculptural aesthetics and family warmth harmoniously converge.

What was the client's brief?

The client is an Asian high-net-worth family consisting of a couple, their overseas-educated daughter, and two preschool-aged sons. Their core residential demands centered on three key aspects: first, intergenerational living adaptability, requiring a space that balances the diverse needs of family members across ages—such as creating zones for the couple's social interactions, the daughter's independent living, and the young boys' activities, while ensuring both connection and privacy among generations; second, natural integration, with a strong emphasis on "sunlight penetration" and "symbiosis with nature" to infuse the residence with natural vitality; third, personalized expression, hoping to translate the family's unique traits (including the female homeowner's connection to "flowers" as reflected in her name) into spatial attributes, and to have a living environment that combines a sense of ritual with relaxed comfort, realizing a poetic cohabitation experience.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design drew inspiration from multiple layers, forming a cohesive creative framework:

Artistic origin: It took Georges Seurat's Neo-Impressionist aesthetics as the conceptual starting point, innovatively adopting the "spatial pointillism" technique to reconstruct the narrative of residential life, transforming the fragmented visual language of pointillism into integrated spatial logic.

Cultural gene: It rooted in the "coexistence and mutual support" cultural essence of East Asian families, aiming to materialize the intergenerational harmony of Asian households into spatial forms.

Personalized cues: The "flower" character from the female homeowner's name served as a core personal symbol—through parametric design, floral forms were deconstructed into floor mosaics and ceiling textures, creating a biomorphic spatial narrative that echoed the family's identity.

Market demand response: It closely aligned with the living aspirations of Asian high-net-worth families for "sunlit vitality and symbiosis with nature", integrating functional needs with aesthetic pursuit.

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

The team faced three core challenges, and addressed them with targeted innovations:

Challenge 1: Reconstructing the building's vertical functional logic
The original spatial layout failed to meet the family's demand for "separation of dynamic and static functions" and intergenerational adaptation. The solution was a vertical reconstruction of the architectural structure: transforming the original basement (traditionally a neglected space) into the core social layer, integrating the foyer, art gallery, and piano area to form a composite field; converting the original ground floor into a private living space, and establishing a dual-entry system to clearly divide communal and private zones vertically.

Challenge 2: Balancing intergenerational interaction and spatial privacy
Ensuring seamless connection among family members while avoiding mutual disturbance was a key difficulty. The team designed a 60-meter circular circulation path to weave through intergenerational interaction zones, enabling organic interweaving of children's activity routes and adults' behavioral trajectories; meanwhile, they implanted two-way acoustic speaker devices (inter-level acoustic dialogues)—these devices not only maintained the privacy of each space but also served as a physical medium for emotional connection, resolving the contradiction between "interaction" and "privacy".

Challenge 3: Achieving precise implementation of complex artistic components
The petal-shaped ceiling, copper decorative pieces, and other custom components with complex shapes posed great challenges to construction accuracy. The team adopted BIM digital modeling and factory prefabrication technology: through digital simulation and industrialized prefabrication, they ensured the precise landing of these artistic components, realizing the in-depth unity of functional needs and artistic expression without compromising either.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The project stood out with multi-dimensional highlights covering aesthetics, space, technology, culture, and sustainability:

Aesthetic innovation: It constructed a contemporary living landscape integrating Eastern and Western aesthetics—by combining Art Deco decorative vocabulary with digital construction technology, and using parametric "flower" elements and dynamic light and shadow (realized through large-area floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights) to create a spatial experience with temporal depth.

Spatial intelligence: The "full-age adaptation" spatial planning achieved maximum functional efficiency—vertically, the dual-entry system clarified the division of communal and private functions; horizontally, the circular path connected study, fitness, and entertainment areas. The vertical reconstruction of the basement and ground floor redefined the value of each spatial layer.

Emotional connection design: The circular circulation path and cross-floor acoustic dialogue devices jointly built an intergenerational interaction network, turning the residence into a carrier of familial warmth while ensuring individual privacy.

Cultural expression: It took East Asian familial "coexistence" values as the core, broke the spatial separation between generations, and exported Asian residential wisdom through spatial narrative, forming a design paradigm with cultural recognition in the global context.

Sustainable practice: Adhering to the concept of "adaptive reuse", it extended the building's life cycle through structural transformation; optimized basement lighting and functionality with vertical expansion; reduced waste and construction period through prefabricated technology, and integrated into the mountainous environment with low-intervention measures.

Value creation: It established technical barriers through custom processes such as petal ceiling mold opening and acoustic device research and development, enhancing market premium capacity; and promoted the upgrading of high-end residential design standards through sophisticated circulation systems and full-age adaptation solutions.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards are renowned for recognizing design works that integrate innovation, functionality, aesthetics, cultural connotation, and sustainability—attributes that the project fully embodies, making it a natural fit for the award's evaluation philosophy:

It realizes the perfect integration of artistic inspiration (Neo-Impressionist "spatial pointillism") and practical living needs, setting a benchmark for "aesthetically pleasing and functional" high-end residential design.

It innovatively solves the universal challenges of intergenerational living in contemporary families (such as balancing interaction and privacy, adapting to multi-age needs) through spatial planning and technical means, providing a replicable and promotional solution for residential design.

It seamlessly blends Eastern and Western aesthetics and inherits Asian residential culture, demonstrating how regional cultural values can be innovatively expressed in modern design, which aligns with the award's emphasis on cultural diversity and design originality.

It achieves a win-win situation of commercial value (market premium), social value (community coordination, residential paradigm), and ecological value (sustainable practice), reflecting the multi-dimensional influence of outstanding design—an aspect highly valued by the SBID Awards.

By entering the awards, the team hopes to share this exploration of "poetic cohabitation integrating culture, technology, and nature" with the global design community, and contribute to the development of contemporary Asian residential design.

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

Being a finalist for the SBID Awards is a profound recognition and valuable impetus for both the team and the business:

For the team: It is an affirmation of their professional capabilities in multiple fields—including artistic creativity (interpreting Neo-Impressionism in spatial design), technical innovation (BIM prefabrication, acoustic device development), and cultural insight (translating East Asian family values into space). It strengthens the team's confidence in adhering to the concept of "people-oriented innovation" and encourages them to continue exploring the boundaries of residential design.

For the business: It significantly enhances the brand's visibility and influence in the global design industry, especially in the field of high-end Asian residential design. The project's positioning as a finalist proves the business's ability to create works that balance cultural connotation, technical advancement, and market value—helping to attract more clients who pursue personalized, culturally rooted, and sustainable residential solutions. More importantly, it establishes the business as a pioneer in "integrating regional culture with modern residential design", laying a solid foundation for further promoting Asian residential wisdom in the global design discourse.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an immersive property development design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalists, Matrix Design and Enjoy Design

Matrix Design & ENJOY DESIGN were commissioned by Vanke Real Estate to create the interior concept for Changsha Vanke Oriental One, a high-end residential demonstration zone. Inspired by Shanghai-style classic aesthetics, the project merges cultural sophistication with international luxury. Featuring five key functional areas and custom floral installations by artist Mr. Dalu, the design delivers an immersive lifestyle experience for elite global returnees. Despite tight timelines and budgets, the team integrated sustainable strategies, modular logistics, and cross-cultural artistic expression to create a landmark in luxury residential design.

What was the client's brief?

The client targeted an elite demographic—internationally experienced professionals in finance and economics, particularly cosmopolitan returnees with overseas study backgrounds. This group possesses rich global travel experiences, profound expertise in finance, and aspirations for cutting-edge living standards that align with the lifestyles of high-end social circles. Their core demands included: creating an immersive residential atmosphere that blends the elegance and comfort of a boutique hotel; integrating multi-dimensional living scenarios (encompassing a community entrance lobby, reception & sales area, VIP high-end custom club, Art Sanctuary multi-functional club, and Learning & Play multi-functional club) to cater to elite urban life rhythms; and conveying the philosophy of “symbolic exclusivity and artistic living,” ultimately transforming the space into a lifestyle hub that embodies Shanghai-style refinement, artistic ambiance, and premium experiential value.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design drew inspiration from three interconnected pillars, rooted in cultural heritage, client needs, and aesthetic benchmarks:

Cultural origin: It took “Shanghai-Style Classic” as its core theme, deriving creative impetus from modern Shanghai’s cultural sophistication, legacy of glamour, and cosmopolitan identity—seeking to reinterpret classical Eastern aesthetics through a contemporary, globally attuned lens.

Aesthetic benchmark: It referenced the visual vocabulary of Bulgari Hotels, particularly adopting its iconic black-and-white wall art technique. To resonate with the clients’ financial backgrounds, the design transformed architectural photography of global financial hubs (across historical eras) into abstract artistic statements via geometric reinterpretation and modern artistic methods, capturing the essence of these economic powerhouses.

Lifestyle orientation: Guided by the clients’ pursuit of high-end living, the design aimed to replicate the refined ambiance of a hotel-style clubhouse, integrating the coveted lifestyle experiences of elite circles into residential spaces while aligning with the project’s vision of “co-creating an artistic and fulfilling life narrative.”

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

The team faced a triple challenge: massive design scope, extremely tight construction timeline, and limited budget—a race against time and cost that threatened to compromise the project’s stylistic authenticity and quality.

To address this, a multi-faceted solution was implemented:

Cross-continental collaboration & cost-efficient sourcing: The team established an online-offline integrated workflow, building a database of Shanghai-style antique artifacts to screen high-quality global sources while coordinating overseas logistics. Simultaneously, partnerships with local artisans were forged to replicate classic Shanghai-style elements—striking a balance between cost reduction and stylistic fidelity.

Precision execution in installation: A meticulous timeline and task allocation plan were developed for the installation and staging phase. For large-scale installations and furniture placement, professional hoisting equipment was deployed to overcome logistical hurdles.

Through close collaboration across stakeholders and rigorous execution, the project was delivered on schedule, seamlessly merging Shanghai-style elegance with artisanal ingenuity.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The project’s highlights revolved around its unique cultural expression, artistic integration, and multi-dimensional functionality:

“Shanghai-Style Classic” aesthetic with iconic visuals: The Bulgari-inspired black-and-white wall art—featuring reinterpreted global financial hubs—served as a “super symbol,” creating a visually stunning impact that resonates with the clients’ professional backgrounds while embodying Shanghai’s cosmopolitan charm.

Artist-collaborative bespoke art: Exclusive floral installations were co-created with young artist Mr. Dalu. Dominated by a vibrant red-orange palette and paired with Shanghai-style retro vases and blue-and-white porcelain vases, these site-specific artworks infused each space with the opulence of Shanghai-style art, becoming emotional touchpoints and visual anchors.

Multi-functional lifestyle hubs: The five distinct functional zones (community entrance lobby, reception & sales area, VIP custom club, Art Sanctuary, Learning & Play club) offered immersive, scenario-based experiences, perfectly supporting the rhythms of elite urban life and fulfilling the vision of “symbolic exclusivity and artistic living.”

Harmony of elegance and practicality: It successfully blended the refinement of a boutique hotel with the warmth of a residential space, transforming into a new benchmark for lifestyle aggregation that unites cultural memory, artistic aesthetics, and global aspirations.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The project aligns closely with the SBID Awards’ core values—recognizing design that excels in cultural innovation, functional relevance, sustainability, and execution excellence—making it a compelling candidate:

Innovative cultural interpretation: It reimagines “Shanghai-Style Classic” through a global lens, merging Eastern classical aesthetics with contemporary artistic expressions (e.g., artist collaborations, abstract financial hub art). This unique cultural narrative reflects the SBID’s emphasis on originality and cultural diversity.

Functional excellence for target users: The five functional zones and hotel-style ambiance precisely cater to the needs of finance professionals and overseas returnees, demonstrating a human-centric design approach that balances artistry with practicality— a key criterion for the SBID Awards.

Sustainable luxury commitment: The adoption of low-VOC paints/adhesives, responsibly sourced timber, energy-efficient LED lighting (with smart controls), maximized natural daylight, and PM2.5-monitoring smart fresh air systems embodies the SBID’s focus on health, sustainability, and long-term value.

Exceptional execution under constraints: Overcoming the triple challenges of scope, time, and budget via cross-continental collaboration and precision planning showcases the team’s professional prowess—aligning with the SBID’s recognition of design excellence in real-world contexts.

By entering, the team aimed to share this exploration of “Shanghai-style artistic luxury” with the global design community, contributing to dialogues on culturally rooted, user-centric residential design.

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

Being an SBID Awards Finalist holds profound significance for both the team and the business:

For the team: It is a rigorous validation of their expertise—from interpreting Shanghai’s cultural heritage and integrating artistic collaborations to solving complex project constraints. This affirmation strengthens their confidence in pursuing “culturally infused, user-centric design” and inspires them to deepen their exploration of the intersection between local culture and global design trends.

For the business: It elevates brand visibility and credibility in the global high-end residential design sector, particularly among target clients (finance professionals, overseas returnees, and developers seeking cultural-lifestyle projects). The finalist status positions the business as an innovator in “Shanghai-style artistic luxury,” demonstrating its ability to deliver designs that balance cultural depth, functionality, and sustainability. This not only attracts high-caliber projects but also establishes the business as a benchmark for culturally resonant design in the industry, laying a solid foundation for long-term growth.