Twenty-Two Twelve: Creating a Moody and Opulent Hotel Suite Design

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a moody and opulent hotel suite design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Twenty-Two Twelve Design Inc & You Should Stay Here.

Canadian design firms, Twenty-Two Twelve Design Inc & You Should Stay Here were commissioned to design a 9 suite boutique inn in Stratford, Ontario, Canada, a quaint theatre town modelled after Stratford-upon-Avon. They preserved the historic qualities of the building and were endlessly inspired by Shakespearean drama and eccentricity. Draped in rich velvets and tangled in serpent motifs, moody and opulent describes this space best. Each suite is unique featuring completely different bold colour palettes that are tied together with common themes.

What was the client's brief? 

The clients wanted to transform the space into a destination for theatre goers in time for Stratfords festival season. They trusted ours (Twenty-Two Twelve's) and You Should Stay Here's ability to come up with our own vision.

What inspired the design of the project?

At Twenty-Two Twelve my sister and business partner Haley McDonough and I believe you need to start with three questions: what does the property want, what would the client love and how can we push the boundaries. When Autumn Hachey from You Should Stay Here asked us to collaborate on the project we knew Hotel Julie was going to be a boundary pusher. The clients Jake and Paula love vintage, bold design and were not afraid of colour. The building is a Georgian style row house built in 1890 located in the heart of Stratford which is the theatre hub of Ontario and based on Shakespeare's hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon. We wrapped the walls and ceilings in heritage paint colours and chose finishes that could have always been there like dark oak floors, classic black and white checkerboard, applied mouldings and unlacquered brass fixtures. We added rich velvets as a nod to theatre and layered in Shakespearean motifs such as serpents and ruffles. The goal was "play"ful and sophisticated".

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

The Project was turned into a TV show by Alibi Entertainment which added a layer of complexity and added pressure for deadlines. It was beautifully shot by Matt Braun and produced by Joanne Virgo so while it made it more difficult to pull off, it is amazing to be able to look back at the process.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the project was seeing the clients faces when we walked them through the first time. We kept the design a secret along the way so they did not know what to expect. Paula was brought to tears she was so overwhelmed with joy. They said it far exceeded their expectations and that is an amazing feeling.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have been accredited professional members of SBID for 6 years now and believe in the value and importance of setting standards in the interior design industry. We are proud to be associated with SBID, we are proud of this project and are delighted that SBID has identified it as a finalist in our category.

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

We feel being an award finalist for SBID is a prestigious accomplishment in its own right.

Questions answered by Jillian Smith-Moher, Interior Designer and Co-Founder at Twenty-Two Twelve.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and cosy residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Katja Kessler Kreation.

The entire building was carefully gutted to gain space. Downstairs all walls were removed creating an inviting lounge-like kitchen-living room. Recycled brushed pine flooring, old grain sacks as couch covers and brick walls stripped of plaster give the place a unique fingerprint. Old and modern elements were carefully arranged in order to link the landmark nature of the building with the amenities of a modern family home. In the first floor a master bedroom and two guest rooms each of it with own ensuite bathroom found their place.

What was the client's brief? 

The client approached us with a daring idea: to revitalise a 19th century sleazy Baltic Sea villa that for decades had been inhabited by bats only. He had discovered the ruin during a stroll along the coastline of the German island Usedom and fell in love at first sight. Not only that he wanted us to preserve the vastly deteriorated landmark nature of the building, but at the same time he envisioned a welcoming warm cosy family nest, a place to host family and guests comfortably.

What inspired the design of the project?

The proximity to the Baltic Sea, seagulls screeching, wind blowing, endless sound of the waves – that all created a strong impression of freedom and the power of untamed nature which to us felt had to be translated into an interior design that echoed all these emotions. Moreover, we discovered that from 1906 to 1916, Engelbert Humperdinck, student of music legend Richard Wagner and composer of the world-famous opera “Hensel & Gretel” lodged in the VILLA MEERESSTERN, then a guesthouse, to compose the opening music theme for Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”. Therefore, our mission was not only to renovate a spectacular old house but to worship the place and treat it with respect to its historic significance. We decided to reuse whatever we could: old wooden floorings, ancient brick walls, weathered cobblestones – all these components were carefully obtained and secured to be used again later or reinforced to its original grandeur.

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

The original interior design of the building was designed by Dracula – or was at least deeply inspired by him. On the ground floor: tiny rooms cramped by cold walls, and not a glimpse of sunlight. In the attic and basement: the same. There was no way that we would be able to remodel this into a cosy, sun-drenched, warm family beach home making some minor adjustments here and there. Instead, the whole layout had to be rethought. Where to fit the kitchen, where the living-room, and how would it all work together? It needed some crazy dramatic solutions for these problems.

While the building’s outer surface was kept untouched (more or less), for the inside we came up with a design called “the no wall policy”: the entirety of the ground floor was gutted. This created an open room that nurtured the sense of togetherness. Kitchen, living room, study, conservatory, and dining place merged into one spacious lounge-like loft that allowed light to enter from all sides through 3-meter-high windows. This opened unbelievable visual axes and revealed the full beauty of the surrounding landscape including the endless blue of the sea and the blossoming garden.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

To arrive at the sight for the first time seeing that the ground floor had been stripped of all inner walls, the outer walls freed from plaster, the old pine flooring recycled and brushed, and the sun shining into the house all the way through – that was kind of a solemn breath-taking moment.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I've been following the SBID Awards for a long time and have repeatedly been inspired and impressed by the submitted projects. This year, I thought now or never and submitted my own application.

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

So many people congratulated us for the nomination via social media. It feels like participating in a kind of interior Oscar. That alone has been a great compliment for me and the rest of my team.

Questions answered by Katja Kessler, Founder of Katja Kessler Kreation.

Designed by 4SPACE, Moli by SHI tells a tale as old as time, weaving traditional Chinese architecture with modern extravagance. The name “Moli” meaning "jasmine" in Chinese, carries profound symbolism associated with purity, grace, and elegance, immersing visitors in a feeling of opulence and sophistication right from arrival.

Upon entering the restaurant, guests encounter traditional architectural elements reminiscent of a Chinese temple. Greeted by two guardian lion statues right at the reception, the statues set the tone for the immersive cultural experience that awaits.

Walls adorned with classic carvings create a mesmerising backdrop, while plush banquettes featuring intricate Chinese artwork set the stage for a lavish dining experience. The central floor illuminates with a subtle glow as night descends, creating a magical atmosphere for refined dinners.

The interior of the space showcases a captivating architectural feature deeply rooted in Chinese tradition—the Dougong system. Originating from ancient Chinese construction techniques, Dougong represents a distinctive method of interlocking wooden brackets that provide structural support within a building's framework. This intricate and time-honoured element is prominently featured in the columns, contributing to the structural integrity of the space and its aesthetic appeal.

The restaurant’s wall cladding is a testament to the meticulous artistry and cultural richness inherent in Chinese craftsmanship. Adorned with wood engravings, the surface becomes a canvas that elegantly tells a visual narrative, with each intricately carved detail capturing the essence of tradition and the enduring legacy of Chinese culture.

Above, the ceiling features prominently hanging light features shaped in jasmine flowers, providing gentle and ambient lighting, further emphasising the essence of Moli.

A metallic bead curtain flows into the space, merging the walls with the ceiling, gracefully mimicking the fluid movements of a dragon, as it weaves through the restaurant space and around the columns, starting from the entrance toward the end and grinding the guest gracefully through the space.

In crafting the design concept, careful consideration was given to the selection of furniture; each piece was crafted to the small. The chosen furniture complements but actively implicates and portrays the underlying concept, seamlessly blending functionality with the rich cultural narrative.

The seating arrangements and furniture are expertly crafted with a nod to traditional Chinese woodworking techniques. They are adorned with jacquard velvet fabric that presents an interpretation midway between a figurative depiction of magical tigers and the Chinese mythological realms.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless and elegant apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Angel O'Donnell.

Angel O’Donnell was tasked with interior designing an apartment inside The OWO Residences by Raffles. Once home to Britain’s military HQ under Churchill’s premiership, this neo-baroque Grade II* listed gem boasts a fine pedigree. Even so, their client was keen to eschew shouty emblems of luxury in favour of a quietly assured scheme that would appeal to a discerning, globe-trotting buyer. So the team set to work creating a warm and welcoming home – where craftsmanship, pin-sharp detailing, expert art curation and comfort work in concert with each other.

What was the client's brief? 

It was a gem of a brief borne out of several brainstorms with The OWO’s Design Director and wider sales team. Eventually we landed on, ‘A sanctuary in the heart of London. Understated yet beautifully crafted. A home from home for citizens of the world.’ The words ‘sanctuary’ and ‘home from home’ resonated with us. There’s an intimate, sort of cosy romance to this language, which conjured images of four-poster beds, elegant glass pendants, embroidered fabrics, and large, deep-seated furniture to luxuriate in. It’s one of the freshest, most single-minded briefs we’ve ever worked on.

What inspired the design of the project?

The building’s architecture inspired many choices. It’s quite the melting pot: Scottish architects, Edwardian construction, in a baroque style belonging to 17th century Europe. So we thought it would be fun to add our own heady mix of influences – everything from an Arabesque rug to cocktail chairs upholstered in Florentine bargello fabric to a Renaissance-inspired painting by a Columbian-born artist. What better way to appeal to a global audience?

Comfort was the other big design influence. Plush-velvet sofas, Savoir Beds, classic English silhouettes – designs that are timeless and elegant while at the same time robust enough to jump on and nestle into.

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

It’s all too easy to get swept up in the mythology of a building, especially one as grand as The OWO. This is where Churchill commanded the British armed forces, T.E. Lawrence (of Arabia) compiled maps of foreign territories, and Ian Fleming dreamt up James Bond. A pedigree this fine could have easily muddled our thinking. But we kept our cool, exercised restraint, and wheedled out anything that evoked the building’s past too thirstily. This involved a lot of editing. Patterns, colourways, fabric choices, artwork, lighting, furniture, even bead mouldings for the walls – it was all scrutinised. The more we cut, tweaked, polished and developed, the more effortlessly designed and curated everything appeared. Sometimes, the things that can trip you up give you that extra drive and focus.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Getting to work with so many amazing talents was the most creatively stimulating and happy-making highlight of all. Dairo Vargas, the dizzyingly gifted artist whose brilliant colours and bravura brushwork created one of our all-time favourite paintings in the living room. Georgia Stoneman, our trusted art curator and friend, who spent months helping us to compile a serious collection of works spanning multiple decades and medias. Dan Green, Fabrili and CM Upholstery who executed our furniture and joinery designs to perfection. Then, of course, all the Great British brands like Savoir Beds, Porta Romana, George Smith and Tom Faulkner, whose creations elevated our schemes to new heights.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We’ve entered the SBID awards because we’re proud to be SBID accredited, happy to number among its global community, and supportive of its tireless quest to protect, nurture and champion talent without bias.

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

Being a finalist means the world to us because it involves so many people. Clients, suppliers, craftspeople, tradespeople, artists, gallerists, plant specialists, storage and installation experts – everyone who got us over the finish line owns a slice of this achievement. And from a PR perspective, it’s always fun to have awards news to talk about in social media and pitch presentations. It gives you licence to show off in a kind way. It’s the cherry on a very well-decorated cake.

Questions answered by Ed O’Donnell, Co-Founder & Creative Director at Angel O’Donnell.

The Nursery Inn, on Green Lane in Stockport, is a pub with history. Built by Hydes Brewery in 1939, it is one of the few remaining inter-wars, (built between World War 1 and World War 2), pubs and retains its original layout and many original features. To recognise its historic significance CAMRA campaigned for the site to become a listed building and The Nursery was given a grade II listing in 2011 to protect this significant part of UK heritage.

Whilst a triumph for the protection of this historical site, the new Listed status created hurdles to ensuring that the pub could adapt to modern customer expectations and remain a viable business concern for its ongoing owners, Hydes Brewery. After previous failed attempts at achieving listed building consent for refurbishment works, MGI were appointed to develop detailed drawings and specifications to accompany a listed building application that would satisfy both the conservation officer and the client. After a hard-fought battle, listed building consent was granted, and the rejuvenation of the Nursery Inn could begin.

Throughout the design process, our designers took great care to ensure that the historic fabric, fixtures and fittings of the site were retained and protected wherever possible, such as the original wall tiling and terrazzo flooring throughout the WC facilities, lighting, bar serveries , fixed seating, wall panelling and the separate entrance to the “vault” bar.

New Finishes and fixtures were chosen to complement and enhance the original elements of the site with concerted effort to specify finishes that harked back to the décor of the late 1930’s but with more modern elements sensitively worked into the project to appeal to the modern customer base.

The biggest obstacle in achieving listed building approval was the proposal to move one of the existing serveries forward from its original position so as to be visible to customers entering the site, enabling staff to greet them as they enter. The Client`s appointed contractors WHB construction carefully removed the servery section in one piece and formed new end panel and over bar sections that faithfully reproduced the original materials and design. New back fittings were formed in the same manner.

Wall finishes specified were a mixture of heritage paint colours and Arts & Crafts design wall papers, with faux leather upholstery and floral prints utilised to tie the scheme together.

We at MGI are immensely proud of what has been achieved by the whole design and construction team on this project and are extremely confident in The Nursery Inn’s success as an ongoing business.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an immersive retail design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, External Reference.

The Presentedby store in Riyadh, designed by the Barcelona-based architecture firm External Reference, blends physical and digital elements to create a uniquely immersive retail environment inspired by the desert oasis and the role of water. The store features a programmable water curtain, animated water holograms, morphological product displays interpreted as cascading water, and interactive digital projections. The space also includes a VIP lounge with screens and mirrored ceilings for an intimate customer experience. Eco-friendly 3D-printed materials balance innovation with sustainability, embodying a comprehensive design approach for this premium sneaker and streetwear consignment store.

What was the client's brief? 

The client's brief for the project was to design the new Presentedby premium sneaker and streetwear consignment store in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and to create a destination that would captivate Saudi aficionados of premium sneakers and streetwear. The aim was to design an immersive and unique store that would stand out while maintaining a connection to the established family of previous Presented By stores. The challenge was to harmonize innovation with nature, technology with water, an exhibition space with a retail necessity, ensuring that the new store in Riyadh would offer a fresh experience while resonating with the brand's existing identity.

What inspired the design of the project?

The unique identity of each Presentedby store is intricately woven into its specific urban context, resulting in a series of distinctive, innovative projects. This approach ensures that every store stands out as a singular creation, intimately linked to both the brand's identity and the geographical location it inhabits. This emphasis on contextual integration is a hallmark of PB stores, where the design for each establishment is meticulously tailored to its surroundings, be it in terms of physical attributes, cultural influences, or environmental factors. The project's design inspiration stemmed from the desert oasis and especially the role water plays in shaping such landscapes. The primary objective was to underscore water's profound importance in the region. This concept was then skilfully translated into an immersive retail space that is both distinctive and unparalleled. Under the leadership of Carmelo Zappulla, the architects at External Reference embarked on a mission to mirror both the physical and symbolic impact of water. This creative journey materialized in the conception of an array of design components, ranging from a programmable water curtain to animated refreshing water holograms, 3D-printed display walls mimicking the flow of cascading water, and even digital simulations of various water formations. These elements collectively manifest the aquatic theme and enrich the store's ambiance, fostering an engaging and sensory experience for visitors.

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

The design team faced its most formidable challenge in navigating the technical and engineering obstacles tied to the incorporation of water-based design elements. This encompassed devising solutions for a programmable water curtain, a water printer responsible for animating sculptures, and crafting 3D-printed display walls. Each facet necessitated pioneering approaches and meticulous contemplation to uphold both functionality and safety, all the while preserving the desired aesthetic. The initial step involved a comprehensive 3D scan of the space, leading to the subsequent development of a detailed 3D model encompassing all fabrication files. Subsequent production activities took place in Spain before being transported to Saudi Arabia. Impressively, the entire assembly of the store transpired within a remarkably swift 15-day period. The ultimate objective was to craft an iconic destination that not only served as a paramount marketing tool for the brand but also possessed a distinct allure compared to its counterparts. Additionally, the project aimed to generate digital content amenable to remote monitoring and management. This approach facilitated the seamless updating and rectification of all digital content from a remote location.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The task involved seamlessly blending innovation and nature, integrating technology with water, and merging the functional requirements of a retail space with the immersive ambiance of an exhibition area. The goal was to create a novel experience within the new Riyadh store, all while maintaining a strong alignment with the brand's established identity. The team's highlight of the project was likely the successful realization of the immersive water-themed design. The ability to bring the concept of water to life through various architectural and technological innovations, including the water curtain, holograms, and 3D-printed displays, would have been a significant achievement that showcased their creativity and expertise.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The decision to enter the SBID Awards was driven by our desire to gain recognition and acknowledgment for the exceptional design of the Presentedby store in Riyadh. As a team that has previously won an SBID Award with the Restaurant Alkimia in 2017 and has been named finalists with several retail projects, we understand how exhilarating it is to receive such prestigious recognition. The experience of winning an SBID Award and being recognized as a finalist in the past has shown us the transformative power of these accolades in increasing our reputation and standing within the design community.

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

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards would hold immense significance for both Carmelo Zappulla's architecture firm, External Reference, and the Presentedby brand. Having previously secured an SBID Award with the Restaurant Alkimia in 2017 and having been finalists with multiple retail projects, we are aware of how thrilling it is to receive these honours. The positive impact on our reputation, the heightened visibility, and the new opportunities that arise are invaluable. Recognition as an SBID Award Finalist would not only reaffirm our commitment to innovative and exceptional design but also continue to elevate our standing in the design industry.

Questions answered by Carmelo Zappulla, CEO of External Reference.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colour coordinated office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Katja Kessler Kreation.

A former 17-storey high-rise signature office building which was abandoned for years and only populated by an army of pigeons is currently subjected to a complete makeover. The first task Katja Kessler Kreation is assigned with by the client: creating a unique interior design handwriting for various functionalities within the building (such as the entrance lobby, the spacious day bar, the boarding homes, the coworking settings and the panorama conference floor). Second task: These highly elaborated fancy floors should effortlessly blend into the building’s all-over-design (created by Katja Kessler creation, too) which is targeting a more classy design.

What was the client's brief? 

A former 17-storey high-rise signature office building in the heart of Germany which was abandoned for years and only populated by an army of pigeons is currently subjected to a complete makeover. The client wants the interior to serve a vast variety of different functionalities and purposes including a day bar, boarding rooms, co-working settings, offices and conference floors. He asked us to give every single area an individual touch that would provide a high recognition value within the building while blending into the all-over design.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were primarily inspired by the monotonous grey and cold concrete shell of the building. Therefore to set a contrast, we decided to give each floor a distinctive feature by attributing individual vivid colour-codes.

The history of the building - a former Telecom headquarter from the seventies – had a big impact on our design philosophy of this project, too. An old phone booth was reinvented, its windows replaced by screens, and now serves as a guide post for visitors entering the building. The pages of an old telephone book were digitally obtained, replicated, and printed as a wallpaper and now cover the walls of the entrance area. All these are examples of how attention to small details can have a significant impact on the over-all appearance. Redefining old and meaningful components to incorporate them into the building has been a major key to the all-over interior concept of this project.

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

The sheer size of the project, the number of people involved, and the range of functionalities and purposes – all these aspects accumulated into one big challenge: Not to lose track of the core ideas and principles of this project – to create an inviting modern interior which doesn’t need a manual to be understood but provides an iPad moment, because it is self-explaining.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Amidst the messy construction site full of dirt, dust and junk piles we staged a fully equipped pop-up hotel room made up only of four drywalls and a door. Passing through this door was like glimpsing into the future: Sunlight was flooding through cosy velvet curtains, a bed with fluffed pillows dared you to take a spontaneous nap, and a toothbrush on the stylish looking vanity awaited your late-night routine. This was a moment of wow, accompanied by a breath-taking view over the city skyline.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I've been following the SBID Awards for a long time and have repeatedly been inspired and impressed by the submitted projects. This year, I thought now or never and submitted my own application.

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

So many people congratulated us for the nomination via social media. It feels like participating in a kind of interior Oscar. That alone has been a great compliment for me and the rest of my team.

Questions answered by Katja Kessler, Founder of Katja Kessler Kreation.

Akabeko, the latest creation from award-winning design studio 4SPACE, introduces a fresh take on traditional Japanese yakiniku dining. Located in Dubai, Akabeko blends the elegance of Japanese heritage with modern design, offering an immersive and captivating dining experience that appeals to both design aficionados and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Where Tradition Meets Modern Design

Akabeko is inspired by the iconic Akabeko cow, a symbol of strength and endurance in Aizu folklore. The restaurant’s name and central design element – the striking Akabeko statue – celebrate this cultural symbol while anchoring the restaurant’s identity. The Akabeko cow, with its deep red hue, infuses the space with cultural significance and establishes a connection between Japanese tradition and modern dining aesthetics.

The design of Akabeko is guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and the transient nature of life. This philosophy is reflected in the choice of natural materials, subtle textures, and organic forms that permeate the restaurant’s interior. The design seamlessly fuses Japanese tradition with contemporary elements, making Akabeko a visually compelling space where diners can connect with both the past and present.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Storytelling

The interior of Akabeko showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The contrast of textured black walls against warm wood tones creates a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere, while strategically placed, indirect lighting adds depth and warmth to the space. These carefully considered design elements contribute to a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience.

Cultural storytelling is a key component of Akabeko’s design. The restaurant’s layout and décor are inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, from the use of bonsai trees as living art pieces to the intricate light patterns that play on walls and surfaces. The Akabeko statue serves as a focal point, imbuing the space with a narrative that ties the restaurant’s design to its cultural roots. The integration of these symbolic elements goes beyond aesthetics, offering diners an enriched experience that resonates with Japanese heritage.

An Elevated Culinary Experience

Akabeko reimagines the yakiniku dining experience by combining the finest Japanese wagyu with state-of-the-art culinary technology. At each table, smokeless grills are seamlessly integrated, allowing guests to enjoy an interactive and intimate cooking experience. The presence of highly skilled chefs adds a personal touch, guiding diners in preparing their meal while showcasing the art of yakiniku.

Akabeko’s menu emphasises quality and authenticity, with a focus on premium cuts of wagyu, celebrated for its marbling and flavor. The combination of traditional Japanese culinary methods and cutting-edge technology ensures that each dish is prepared to perfection, offering diners a taste of Japanese gastronomy at its finest.

Designed for Privacy and Connection

The spatial layout of Akabeko is designed with the diner in mind. Carefully arranged booths and tables provide a balance between privacy and connection, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate meal while remaining engaged with the restaurant’s overall ambiance. This thoughtful design creates a welcoming environment where diners can savor their meal while feeling connected to the cultural and social energy of the space.

Sustainability and Modern Responsibility

In addition to its design and culinary achievements, Akabeko emphasizes sustainability through the use of natural materials and energy-efficient technologies. 4SPACE’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary global values, making Akabeko not only a celebration of Japanese tradition but also a model for responsible design and consumption in the hospitality industry.

Conclusion

Akabeko by 4SPACE is more than just a restaurant - it’s a journey into the heart of Japanese culture, redefined for modern times. With its thoughtful integration of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, Akabeko offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that resonates on both sensory and cultural levels. Whether through its design that celebrates wabi-sabi, its menu of world-class wagyu, or its commitment to sustainability, Akabeko invites guests to enjoy a truly immersive dining experience.

Project Specifications

– Size: 240 sqm
– Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
– Contractor: Laads Contracting LLC
– Design: 4SPACE

Collaborators:
– Furniture by Interior 360 and Al Huzaifa
– Lighting by Huda Lighting and Folio Lighting
– Marble Granule Flooring by Colortek
– Facade covering solution by I-Mesh
– Wood flooring by Lignum
– 3D printed Akabeko cow by Proto 21

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a feminine and serene office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Shalini Misra.

On a thriving street in London’s Mayfair, Shalini Misra has designed the interiors to a feminine, modern office space with a curated mix of materials from marble and timber with metal accents to fluted glass. Artwork is hung in the entrance, main office and board room giving a high-end residential feel. The main office is separated from the other areas with a glass fluted wall to allow light to flow throughout the space, with motorised blinds installed for privacy. Plants are placed throughout to bring in the essential presence of nature and the terrace provides a private outdoor space.

What was the client's brief? 

The client aspired for an office space that radiates a homely, feminine, modern, and serene ambiance, enriched by an abundance of green elements. With a harmonious combination of materials like timber, marble, glass, and elegant metal accents, the bespoke shelves incorporate captivating accessories, creating a striking backdrop for the client. Meticulously crafted custom furniture, rugs, and the addition of exquisite Hermes and silk wallpapers catered to individual needs, elevating each space with an extra layer of elegance and charm. Additionally, the use of burgundy and navy upholstery infuses a vibrant and colourful rhythm throughout all areas.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our design approach was guided by the client's love for nature, greenery, and abundant natural light, along with her impressive art collection. The design layout seamlessly integrates a cleverly crafted glass-fluted wall that delineates the main office space, allowing for the uninterrupted flow of natural light while ensuring privacy through the inclusion of motorized blinds. Carefully positioned plants breathe a vital sense of nature into the setting, while the terrace offers a secluded outdoor sanctuary.

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

Although we faced challenges posed by joinery-related delays, achieving timely project completion was effectively overcome through swift on-the-spot solutions, ensuring the smooth progression of the project.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

When we handed over the project to the client, she was thrilled. Over the years, every time we see her or hear from the team, they fondly recall the office's inception and express ongoing enjoyment of their work environment.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered the SBID Awards to showcase my recent interior projects, gain recognition within the industry, and connect with fellow professionals. The awards provide an excellent platform to highlight my studios creative abilities and contribute to the broader design community.

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

Being a finalist in the awards has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me and my design studio. It signifies that our hard work, dedication, and innovative approach to interior design are being acknowledged and celebrated by our peers and the industry. This recognition not only boosts our team's morale and motivation but also enhances our credibility and reputation. It inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity in our projects.

The Victoria has been at the heart of the Withington community for over 100 years. MGI worked closely with their clients Hydes Brewery to ensure this pub will stand the test of time by bringing up to date the interior of this late 1800 building while still retaining several of its original features.

MGI brightened up the bar servery, specified new flooring, furniture, lighting and window dressings and the walls now adorn some brighter colours and stylish wallpaper. The back of the pub was opened up to enhance sport viewing with a new darts feature that can be enjoyed by all.

The atmosphere created suits both the locals who have been a constant feature of this pub for decades while attracting the students that come through the doors every year to enjoy Manchester's drinking scene.

The design has been a great success and the pub is packed nightly with all ages and professions and will stand to serve the community of Withington for many more decades to come!

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.