SBID Icon Insights: HBA Create Exceptional Spaces that Inspire and Elevate Experiences

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

Although we take pride in not being confined to a single style, we strive to create spaces that foster harmony and balance for those who inhabit them. The example of Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara beautifully illustrates how an environment can evoke a sense of place and connection to nature through thoughtful design choices. Each project indeed presents a unique opportunity to narrate a story that resonates with the guests, enhancing their overall experience.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Staying at the forefront of the design industry requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. We prioritise continuous education and training, ensuring our team is equipped with the latest design trends, technologies, and methodologies through workshops, conferences, and online courses. Simultaneously, we embrace technology by integrating advanced design software and tools, enabling immersive client experiences and streamlining our design processes. Recognising the importance of sustainability practices, we actively incorporate eco-friendly solutions and materials into our designs, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Our commitment extends beyond internal development. We foster global networking and partnerships by collaborating with design professionals, suppliers, and industry leaders worldwide, participating in global forums and exhibitions to expand our influence. Central to our approach is a client-centric approach, where we prioritise understanding and exceeding client needs through regular feedback and personalised solutions. We also conduct rigorous trend analysis and forecasting to anticipate market shifts, including cultural influences and emerging materials, ensuring our designs remain relevant and impactful.

We also understand the value of a diverse and inclusive environment. Promoting diversity and inclusion within our team brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, fostering a more innovative and creative design process. By combining these strategies, we ensure that HBA remains a leader in the design industry, consistently delivering cutting-edge and impactful solutions that resonate with our clients and the evolving market.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

Looking ahead, the landscape of interior design is being redefined by a natural blend of sustainability, technology, and deeply personal expression. Sustainability has moved from a trend to a foundational aspect of design, influencing everything from material selection to energy efficiency and the incorporation of biophilic elements. Simultaneously, smart technology is weaving its way into our spaces, creating seamless experiences that enhance both comfort and functionality. These advancements aren't just about innovation; they reflect a growing consciousness about our impact on the environment and a desire for spaces that intuitively serve our needs.

Beyond the technical, we're witnessing a powerful shift towards personalisation and adaptability. Clients are no longer seeking generic luxury; they want spaces that truly resonate with their unique identities and lifestyles. This demand for bespoke, boutique experiences is mirrored by the rise of multifunctional spaces, driven by the growing prevalence of remote work. Interiors must now be fluid and adaptable, seamlessly transitioning from home offices to social hubs. In essence, the future of interior design is about creating environments that are not only beautiful and functional but also deeply personal, responsible, and responsive to the evolving needs of our lives.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of our design process. We prioritise eco-friendly materials, choosing options like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metals, alongside low-VOC paints and finishes, to minimise environmental impact and enhance indoor air quality. We actively pursue local sourcing to support regional economies and reduce transportation emissions. Biophilic design is integral to our spaces, as we incorporate natural elements like plants and green spaces through green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens, enhancing both aesthetics and well-being. Furthermore, we believe in fostering community engagement, involving local communities in our design and operational decisions to promote cultural sustainability and create authentic experiences that reflect the unique character of each destination.

What has been your company’s proudest achievement so far?

While we celebrate numerous milestones and accolades, our proudest achievement is consistently evolving and adapting to meet the ever-changing needs of the hospitality industry over our 60-year history. This includes our remarkable growth from a single office to 24 locations across the globe, and our sustained position as the world’s leading hospitality design firm, evidenced by our ranking first on the 2025 Interior Design Top 100 Giants Hospitality List for over nineteen years.

In addition to HBA's global achievements, HBA London is particularly proud of the firm's overall legacy of excellence. HBA London's exceptional work has garnered widespread acclaim, including Gold Key Awards, SBID International Design Awards, World Travel Awards, Hospitality Design Awards (HD), and Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Awards.

We're proud of our ability to embrace innovation, integrate cutting-edge technologies, and champion sustainability, all while maintaining a deep respect for the unique cultural context of each project. Ultimately, our proudest achievement is the enduring impact we've had on creating exceptional guest experiences and contributing to the success of our clients globally.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

As passionate and responsible interior designers, we view every project as a unique and boutique experience tailored to the specific needs and desires of our clients. What sets our work apart in the industry is our unwavering commitment to personalisation and attention to detail. We believe that every space should tell a story, reflecting the distinct character of its inhabitants while also considering the functional aspects of design.

We prioritise collaboration with our clients, engaging them throughout the entire design process to ensure their vision is translated into reality. This collaborative spirit allows for a deeper understanding of their preferences, resulting in spaces that not only align with their aesthetic but also enhance their daily lives.

In essence, our work stands out due to its bespoke approach, commitment to collaboration, and dedication to sustainability, culminating in designs that are as unique as the individuals and businesses we serve.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Yes, each year we welcome university students for internships, providing them with valuable practical experience, and we are proud to have hired several of them following their graduation. I also find it incredibly rewarding to give lectures at various universities when I have the time, as it is important to invest in the next generation of designers.

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.

A defining aspect of the design is the seamless relationship between the interior and exterior. This is where Lewis Knox was brought on board to develop the interior vision. The home is conceived not merely as a place to live but as a space to experience, offering a sanctuary that feels naturally connected to its setting. Expansive glazing and open-plan living areas allow light to pour through the interiors, creating a sense of calm and openness that enhances the feeling of space throughout.

The property’s design is a reflection of its picturesque Shrewsbury surroundings. Classical forms and traditional details blend effortlessly with the local architecture, ensuring the home feels rooted and enduring. Inside, a muted palette of natural tones and tactile materials enriches the tranquil atmosphere and reinforces its sense of place.

Spacious, open-plan living areas form the social heart of the home. Designed for adaptability, these spaces accommodate family gatherings as easily as moments of quiet reflection. A fully equipped gym, indoor pool, bespoke bar and games room create opportunities for relaxation, wellness and entertainment within the comfort of home.

The principal suite occupies the entire second floor and serves as a private retreat. It includes a generous bedroom, personal study, walk-in wardrobes and a luxurious en suite, all arranged to offer serenity, privacy and ease of use.

Every aspect of the interior has been designed to complement the home’s architectural grandeur. A soft, textural colour palette brings warmth and cohesion to the spaces, while refined materials and bespoke finishes enhance the overall sense of craftsmanship.

With its harmonious blend of classic architecture and modern living, Edge Hill embodies understated luxury. As the project progresses, it continues to reveal the balance of form, function and feeling that defines the Lewis Knox approach.

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 contemporary and luxury residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, LWE Interiors.

This striking transformation breathes new life into an old church, reimagined as a grand family residence. Seamlessly blending heritage architecture with contemporary living, the project delivers 13 beautifully designed bedrooms, expansive entertainment spaces, and a luxury private pool - all wrapped within the soaring volumes of the original ecclesiastical structure. A standout feature of the conversion is the former Sunday school hall, transformed into a show-stopping indoor wellness retreat. This serene space houses a fully equipped wellness centre complete with a jacuzzi, gym, sauna, and relaxation zone, offering an indulgent sanctuary that reflects the home's commitment to luxury and wellbeing.

What was the client's brief?

The client entrusted LWE Interiors with complete creative freedom to define the interior style and design direction of the project. The only key criteria were:
- The conversion must deliver a 13-bedroom luxury home with extensive leisure and entertaining facilities.
- Spaces should feel luxurious, comfortable for family living, and appealing as a high-end holiday rental, bathrooms & bedrooms all needed to be different with different styles & moods, to help create an individual experience in every room.
- The old Sunday School hall was to be reimagined as a private spa and wellness area.
- Provision for large-scale entertaining was essential, with a bar, games/entertainment lounge, and a banqueting dining room capable of hosting all 34 guests together.
- Most importantly, the project had to be delivered on or under budget.

What inspired the design of the project?

The building itself provided the creative spark for the design direction. The soaring volume and height of the main hall inspired the introduction of a mezzanine level overlooking the lounge, adding drama while maximising space and flow.

I was drawn to the original stonework and architectural details of the church and made it a priority to retain and rework as many features as possible. These were carefully integrated into the interiors in a modern and contemporary way, ensuring the building’s character was celebrated rather than concealed.

The coastal setting also played a key role in the design ethos. With the church situated close to the beach, the interiors were layered in beach-inspired neutrals and boho textures, creating a soft, relaxed aesthetic. This was elevated with a quiet luxury vibe throughout — calm, refined, and timeless, yet warm and welcoming for family life and entertaining.

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

The budget was the toughest hurdle on this project. The brief demanded a stunning, luxury aesthetic, which meant we had to carefully balance design ambition with cost control. In several cases, alternatives were sourced for original feature lighting and furniture to achieve the desired look without compromising on style or quality.

Beyond this, the project progressed smoothly and to plan. All design concepts and detailed drawings were completed within the agreed timeline, enabling contractors to quote accurately and work efficiently.

Once the building was stripped back to its true structure, a few areas required adjustment. However, these changes had minimal impact and did not escalate costs from the interiors side — ensuring the project was delivered on time, on budget, and true to the design vision.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was watching the interiors take shape almost exactly as envisioned in the concept designs. It’s always a special moment seeing drawings and moodboards evolve into real spaces that people can live in and enjoy.

The double-height lounge and mezzanine became a true showpiece, capturing the building’s volume and character while creating a stunning, memorable interior that leaves a lasting impression.

Perhaps the most fulfilling transformation, however, was the conversion of the old Sunday School hall into a swimming pool and spa. Working closely with contractors, who followed the detailed drawings and specifications I developed, brought this vision to life beautifully. The result was a space that embodies both luxury and tranquillity — a highlight of the project for everyone involved.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I chose to enter the SBID Awards because they are a prestigious, internationally accredited platform that recognises excellence in interior design and architecture. Attracting entries from a diverse global community of designers, manufacturers, and contractors.

For me, entering the SBID Awards was about positioning this project among the highest calibre of international design work, while also celebrating the creativity, vision, and collaboration that brought it to life.

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

Becoming an SBID Award Finalist has been both a professional milestone and a personal honour. On a professional level, it provides a respected international platform to showcase my work and validates that the design achieved the highest standards of creativity, technical execution, and innovation.

On a personal level, the recognition has been deeply rewarding. As a small interior design practice, every project is incredibly hands-on — from the first sketches to the final details. To see that dedication acknowledged by such a prestigious award body reinforces not only my vision as a designer, but also the belief that passion, persistence, and creativity can stand proudly alongside the best in the industry worldwide.

Questions answered by Lorraine Warwick-Ellis, Interiors Director of LWE Interiors.

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

At Harrods Interior Design, sustainability underpins our design philosophy, and our designs incorporate natural features that enhance the built environment allowing our clients to experience the lasting value of thoughtful, sustainable choices. As we evolve our sustainability approach, we place significant emphasis on working with suppliers and contractors who share our values. We prioritize partnerships with those who actively demonstrate commitment to circularity, regeneration, climate impact reduction, and community wellbeing, while also upholding worker rights and safety standards.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

With the always on, access-anything-anytime culture we now live in, the need for flexible Living spaces will continue to grow and designing for emotional ease and playful inspiration will be just as important as function. Focus will concentrate on sustainability with architectural resilience and low-tox living the priorities. Integrated tech, particularly the introduction of AI agents will soon become part of everyday life, the key to success will be designing smart interiors that still feel simple.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

At Harrods Interior Design, sustainability underpins our design philosophy, and our designs incorporate natural features that enhance the built environment allowing our clients to experience the lasting value of thoughtful, sustainable choices. As we evolve our sustainability approach, we place significant emphasis on working with suppliers and contractors who share our values. We prioritize partnerships with those who actively demonstrate commitment to circularity, regeneration, climate impact reduction, and community wellbeing, while also upholding worker rights and safety standards.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

Most importantly, we have a sense of belonging to Harrods and its values - the dedication to its customers and its legacy for curating the finest in luxury living. This unique position allows us to deliver interiors that are not only beautifully designed but also infused with storytelling which is perfectly tailored for the people it is designed for.

We listen - to our clients, to the spaces we design, and to the ever-evolving relationship between form and function. We also adopt a co-authoring design journey with our clients, where we champion their engagement and take much pride in how this part of our process contributes to the success of our projects.

Can you highlight one or two of your most iconic projects?

We have worked on a wide range of exceptional projects within the UK and abroad and are proud of the experiences they fostered.

One example of an iconic project we completed recently was a private residential home for a young couple. This was an international project which went through a 2-year design process to remodel an existing 80s-built shell and transform it into a Parisian-inspired sanctuary from the Empire design era of the early 1800s. It was a masterclass in meticulous research, design and execution and a jewel in our repertoire.

One of the main challenges when working on an international project, more specifically, is the collaborative and management piece with other consultants and disciplines, few of whom may not be familiar with the specifics of that territory. To overcome this, we not only reported weekly and comprehensively as the main conduit between all disciplines but were also based abroad for the duration of site operations and finishing. This adaptability to a project’s needs and pulling in the appropriate resources was key to the project’s journey.

How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and engineers?

For major projects, we collaborate with a team of exceptional consultants, with architects as our first and foremost partners in shaping the design vision. This design-led approach extends to specialists in lighting, acoustics, smart home systems, and landscape design (to name a few) —ensuring that every element is seamlessly integrated from the outset.

Crucially, our dedicated project management team plays a vital role in facilitating communication and coordinating requirements across this wider network of professionals. Their expertise ensures a structured workflow, maintaining efficiency throughout the project.

Do you have key partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, or brands?

Absolutely. Our access to a network of suppliers, manufacturers, and brands is highly valued and we champion opportunities to collaborate to achieve something special together. As an example, we celebrated Harrods’ 175th anniversary last year and joined forced with another British institution to create a capsule collection of stunning wallpapers with Cole & Son. These partnerships allow us to create limited editions that elevate our designs beyond the ordinary or expected.

For our projects, we value our curated network which also enables us to provide a truly bespoke experience, offering our clients access to pieces and finishes not available anywhere else, ensuring that every interior we design is truly unique and refined.

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 rich and relaxing residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Georgina Robertson Interiors.

Georgina Robertson Interiors was chosen to design and specify the layout, lighting design, finishes, furniture and soft furnishings for Bullfinch Way. Maximising storage and decluttering this multi-functional kitchen, dining, and living room extension were key to the success of the project to create a calm but bright space to relax and entertain in. As a compact space, custom joinery was crucial to the design as well as clever lighting design to enhance the ambience in the evenings. Layering textures and prioritising hard wearing materials such as LVT and quartz were essential in this highly utilised and functional space.

What was the client's brief?

The owner had hastily furnished the kitchen and extension when it was first built around 15 years ago, but it was never quite what she wanted, so she asked for my help. The client wanted to maximise storage and declutter the space entirely as well as having the perfect space to entertain and relax in the evening and at weekends.

She explained that she wanted the space to feel calm but bright even though she loved darker tones with minimal colour.

What inspired the design of the project?

The client was inspired by Scandinavian and Japandi styles which heavily influenced the design direction from the beginning. The space needed to work hard to incorporate everything the client wanted so I approached the design trying to maximise every inch of space without making it feel overwhelming.

The slatted panelling that now frames the kitchen was the starting point for the dark accents and it links the cabinetry on either side of the living space. There’s a dramatic bulkhead over the island and into the extension so instead of trying to hide it, I decided to make it into a feature. You can see how the rich, dark elements in the design are set amid off-whites, adding definition while keeping an airy feel.

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

The main design hurdle was how to incorporate all the storage the client needed without making it feel cluttered or too full again. When installing, we pulled the tiles off the wall in the kitchen, the whole wall came down. The existing flooring had also been laid on top of old floor tiles which were both big setbacks which we weren’t expecting but were easy to overcome. They did delay the project but not hugely.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was seeing how well we had maximised a relatively small space and given the client everything she needed and more - with it still being beautiful and functional. The client had a bad experience with the initial extension build so to transform the space into something she loved was incredibly rewarding.

As a standalone, the pantry was a fantastic design choice and use of space - especially with the wine rack incorporated!

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I felt this project was worthy of recognition on a wider scale. What we achieved with this size of budget is unheard of. We transformed a kitchen, snug, and dining space with all custom joinery, quartz worktops, new appliances, furniture, and lighting all for under £50,000 to an exceptionally high standard which we pride ourselves on.

The client was over the moon, so it only felt right to enter this project to the SBID awards.

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

We’ve had some amazing engagement on our social media from old and new followers, supporting the achievement in itself and also voting for us in the awards. Just to be recognised as a finalist in such a prestigious award is incredible and we feel privileged to be involved this year.

Questions answered by Georgina Robertson, Founder of Georgina Robertson Interiors.

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

My style has evolved over time and is very much inspired by my travels. I have been fortunate to visit many countries and experience so many exciting cultures and ways of life. Since early 2024 I’m renovating a unique property in Holywood, County Down, a beautiful hidden gem dating back to 1838, it’s going to be stunning!

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

Everyone gets involved! We’ve a dynamic team of 22 people, each role and every person on the team is vital to the overall success of a project completion. We have weekly planning meetings to prepare for the week ahead, we brainstorm and look at each project from all the various disciplines and directions. We set goals and objectives and I encourage the team to work together seamlessly with empathy and patience, leveraging their collective skills and knowledge to overcome challenges and achieve a successful result.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Staying ahead in design isn’t about chasing every trend; it’s about staying aware and well informed whilst creating timeless designs that aligns with your clients. The creative team & I take trips throughout the year to visit our trusted suppliers, many of them who have become close friends. We always look forward to our visits to Chelsea Design Harbour, the annual design weeks in Paris and Milan and our supplier factory visits. I absolutely love visiting the extraordinary workshops of our manufacturers, it’s a privilege to be able to support and continue the centuries old craftsmanship of these ateliers and workshops.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

We act as a creative partner to craft our client’s vison for their project, creating unique and thoughtful concepts, sensitive to the property, its location and heritage rather than a standard house style. The whole team is passionate about design and provides a truly personal service to each and every client. The creative team fully develop every aspect of each individual project: from spatial planning, lighting design, furniture layouts, bespoke joinery, kitchen and bathroom designs to specifying the finest furniture, luxury fabrics and so much more to achieve an end result that works. This is what good design is all about, creating a home that functions as well as it looks.

What challenges did you face during your iconic projects, and how did you overcome them?

On reflection probably the biggest learn from working on projects is to ensure that the interior design team are engaged early enough in the project, something that often is out of our control. The bones of the building works are quite often well underway when we are appointed, when the contractor starts to request further details in relation the design intent and some of the key features of the home. The challenge for our team is trying to stay in front of the contractors, working under pressure to ensure we were a step ahead, this can in turn put the client under pressure to make decisions quickly. Encouraging our clients to start the process earlier has helped improve the flow of projects and the wider project team success.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Over the past number of years, I have been a guest lecturer at the Art College extending this to sponsorship of various awards to encourage students and the designers of the future. Annually the students attend the studio to meet the team and the various disciplines participating in the daily life of working in the design industry.

How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and engineers?

Creative collaboration isn’t always easy. Mutual respect for each other’s professions, ideas and methods will go a long way to cultivating creative collaboration. We have developed a good strong network of trusted peers and this helps us all work as a successful project team. Each designer or architect will approach a project differently, that’s what makes our world so exciting; we respect this however always remember the client is the most important person in the process.

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 neutral and warm office design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Paola Leon Design.

PLD have delivered a detailed and considered refurbishment, revitalising the co-working spaces to Capital Tower, Waterloo. Building elements have been carefully selected, repurposing and recycling where possible to minimise renewal. Existing and new are combined to create a cohesive look and feel. All spaces are unified with neutral warm hues, feature lighting, natural eco-friendly materials and accents of colour. Dynamic and flexible workspaces encourage movement and interaction. Amenities, social spaces, group, solo or quiet work settings all combine to deliver a space that is inviting and delightful to clients, colleagues and collaborators, encouraging personal inventiveness and creativity.

What was the client's brief?

The client brief was to create a sustainable, dynamic and flexible workspace that encouraged movement and interaction. The space needed to be inviting and delightful to clients, colleagues and collaborators, memorable, practical and future proof.

What inspired the design of the project?

A recent visit to Japan provided the opportunity to re-experience elegant traditional design and sleek modern interiors. Minimalism, functionality and natural materials seemed the perfect combination to create a welcoming and sophisticated space.

We combined this with feature lighting, a bright warm palette, tactile materials and familiar furnishing to complete the design.

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

To meet sustainability targets we aimed to retain as much of the existing fit-out as we could. This involved assessing the existing elements, reviewing their condition and working to incorporate them into the design where possible.

This was time consuming, however, extremely rewarding as we were able to retain an intricate bespoke metal ceiling to the office spaces and revealed previously covered slot windows along the façade.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was the attention to detail we were able to go to on the joinery items. The construction and materiality really bring a high-quality feel to the space. A highlight was the timber coffered ceiling. This is a real statement piece, and when combined with the feature pendant lighting it gives a memorable first impression.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As an organisation SBID represents interior designers at the highest level, championing quality and professionalism both in the UK and internationally.

With these credentials entering the awards allows us to showcase our best work and presents an opportunity (if shortlisted) to measure how we compare to others in our industry.

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

Being a finalist means a huge amount to the business, the associated media, social and PR platforms of SBID brings great exposure to our studio.

Being able to associate ourselves with the values, reputation and international recognition of SBID allows us to demonstrate the quality of our design work not just for this year but years to come.

Questions answered by Paola Leon, Founder & Lead Designer at Paola Leon Design.

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

One project that perfectly captures our approach is the spa and wellness spaces at Raffles London at The OWO. We honoured the building’s history and Grade II listed status, while making it work for guests seeking modern, restorative and luxurious experiences. We introduced rich, layered interiors that reflect its legacy but feel contemporary, inviting, and rooted in the Raffles brand DNA. The result is a deeply transformative experience in the heart of the capital.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Staying ahead means always being open to change—whether that’s through travel, research, or immersing ourselves in new materials and technologies. We’re constantly looking at how different cultures and industries approach design, taking inspiration from everything from historic restoration techniques to cutting-edge innovations in sustainability.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

Clients want spaces that feel thoughtful, enduring, and environmentally responsible, but they also want storytelling and authenticity. The challenge is bringing those elements together in a way that feels seamless and natural.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

We don’t believe in a rigid ‘house style.’ Instead, we design spaces that respond to their surroundings, their history, and their purpose. Whether it’s a heritage restoration or a brand-new development, every project is unique—but always underpinned by craftsmanship, materiality, and attention to detail.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

Technology allows us to push boundaries in both design and execution. It’s about enhancing the experience of a space, not just making it look good. We always want to retain a personal, human touch as this is what makes our designs feel layered and unique, but technology that improves our experience and enhances our productivity is no bad thing.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

Our ability to breathe new life into historic spaces while making them feel contemporary and relevant. Whether it’s a heritage-listed hotel or a new-build concept, we create spaces that feel timeless, not trend-led.

Can you highlight one or two of your most iconic projects?

Beyond Raffles London, another project we’re incredibly proud of is the Imperial Riding School in Vienna. Transforming a 19th-century military equestrian school and former cinema into a luxury hotel was a unique challenge. We preserved its historic identity and infused it with the spirit of Vienna, creating a total immersive experience for guests.

The biggest challenge with historic buildings is how to bring them into the present without losing their essence. Whether it’s structural limitations, conservation restrictions, or navigating modern expectations, it’s about thoughtful intervention—using lighting, materiality, and spatial planning to enhance rather than alter.

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 an intricate and creative residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Angel O'Donnell.

Angel O'Donnell took the bones of a Grade II* listed building and elevated them with new interior architectural details. Every archway, wall panel, coffered ceiling, decorative moulding and wall-to-wall joinery unit they designed was a celebration of their fun, global and style-conscious client.

What was the client's brief?

Our clients – a Floridian couple and their 16-year-old daughter – wanted a home from home with elevated details that wouldn’t look out of place in a five-star hotel. For the parents, this meant two things:

1. Creating something worthy of Architectural Digest, their all-time favourite interiors and architecture magazine
2. Curating new museum-level queer art they could add to their beloved collection.

For their daughter, however, elevated details meant something a little more whimsical – a dream bedroom inspired by the romanticism of a French Château.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were keen to take the bones of the building – which is an Edwardian, neo-baroque, Grade II* listed masterpiece – and refine them even further with new architectural details. Really, we just wanted to knock our clients’ socks off. That’s why every archway, wall panel, coffered ceiling, decorative plaster moulding and wall-to-wall joinery unit we designed and installed was a celebration of our clients who are a fun, global, and fantastically style-conscious family.

The artwork too – from the David Hockney photo collage to the Keith Vaughan oil on canvas – was essential in the shaping the look and feel of our scheme.

And we can’t forget the daughter’s design ambitions, without which we wouldn’t have necessarily thought to lavish her bedroom with intricate plaster garlands, a rococo-esque bed, and a bespoke dressing unit finished in 22k gold verre églomisé.

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

As the parents were super keen to have the apartment ready before their daughter went back to the States, timings didn’t always allow us to stagger the trades and craftspeople as we would have liked. So, our toughest hurdle was co-ordinating everybody. At one point, a huge number of people were all on-site together, including:

- Various construction and decorative workers – installers, plasterers (both carved and venetian), French polishers, ceiling contractors, joiners, curtain makers, scaffolders, and electricians
- Our core team – three lead designers and a project manager
- Art professionals – two curators, a gallerist, a fine art insurance broker, a muralist, and even a sculptor who flew in from Madrid to oversee the hanging of his six-foot-long mobile.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

There are several standout finishes that both enliven and pull together the other handcrafted elements in the scheme:
- In the living room, for instance, artisans covered our joinery wall in gesso, gold leaf, and a hand-blended mixture of bronze and navy-blue paint. They then stone buffed it into a starry cosmos of tonal variations – an arresting feature that also houses a TV behind a remote-operated door.
- While on the opposite wall, a panel of inky-blue polished plaster frames the fireplace we installed. When the sun hits its faceted surface, the wall appears to flicker.

Details like these far exceeded our expectations.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have a soft spot for the SBID. They gave us our first major award – Best CGI & Visualisation – when we were a fledgling studio. Such recognition fortified us in many ways – convinced us that we weren’t mad, that we could forge ahead and build a design studio with substance. It said, ‘we belonged’, which means the world when you’re starting out. The SBID is a non-profiting, sector-championing, love-sharing ally in a scarily unregulated and largely unprotected field. They’ll always have our loyalty – and we’ll always enter their awards for as long we’re creating work we feel meets their exacting standards.

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

This shortlist – ‘The OWO Private Residence’ – is especially meaningful as it’s our studio’s first project that shares design credits. Historically, Co-Founder Ed O’Donnell led the design vision solo. Now we have a small team of designers, two of which – Tatiana Pietrangeli and Prima Patel – share this achievement for their rigor, creativity and dedication to the project. It's a big nod for them – and a wonderful symbol of growth for our studio.

Questions answered by the team at Angel O'Donnell.

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

The Lawson Robb team is currently growing, bringing fresh energy and expertise to our projects. Our integration within the Allect Family fosters positive collaboration between our design studios, allowing us to share knowledge, creativity, and resources. This dynamic collaboration enables us to push design boundaries while maintaining the highest standards of execution, resulting in truly exceptional spaces for our clients.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

We blend research and theory into every project, always seeking out new technologies, products, and materials to challenge and expand the possibilities of design.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

Lawson Robb has been awarded the Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark, recognizing our commitment to ESG principles and the integration of sustainable practices across our company, projects, and team.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

At Lawson Robb, our design philosophy blends refined contemporary details with a harmonious balance of boldness and serenity. We seamlessly integrate heritage and innovation, drawing inspiration from local materials and cultural contexts to craft interiors that are both contextually relevant and aesthetically timeless. Our approach ensures that every space is not only sophisticated and functional but also deeply connected to its surroundings.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

At Lawson Robb, technology and innovation are integral to both our design process and the final execution of our projects. We utilize advanced digital tools, including BIM and real-time rendering, to enhance efficiency and visualization. Incorporating smart home technology, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge construction techniques allows us to create spaces that are not only visually sophisticated but also intelligent, functional, and future-ready.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

For emerging designers, my biggest advice is to stay curious and never stop learning. Interior design is constantly evolving, so keeping up with new materials, technologies, and trends is essential. Creativity alone isn’t enough—strong technical knowledge and execution skills are just as important.

Build relationships within the industry, as collaboration is key to delivering exceptional projects. At Lawson Robb, we push creative boundaries while maintaining meticulous attention to detail. Stay adaptable, be open to feedback, and most importantly, trust your instincts while refining your unique design voice.

What has been your company’s proudest achievement so far?

Achieving a repeat client rate of 72% over the years is one of our proudest achievements, reflecting the outstanding trust and satisfaction our clients have in our work. Beyond that, the trust our clients place in us has taken us across the world, expanding from a London-based design firm to delivering projects in 22 countries.

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