This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a sky-high commercial property defined by sustainability, energy-saving capability and its modern design. The underground avenue in B2 is about 370 metres long and 15 metres wide and acts as a walkway connecting three skyscrapers. The Shanghai Tower is located on levels 2-5, serving several commercial functions which includes acting as a venue for international conventions, a centre for fashion-related activities, a venue for wedding celebrations as well as an exhibition/show space. The 5th level includes a ballroom seating 500 guests, four multi-function meeting rooms, a business club, a VIP room, a garden bar and an outdoor garden. Despite having different functions and appealing to different audiences, the design of this project harmoniously blends culture and business demands while embodying the spirit of the skyscraper: sky-high, incisive and supreme.
Company: Gold Mantis Construction Decoration Co
Project: Shanghai Tower Meeting Centre and B2 Public Underground
Project Location: Shanghai, China
What was the client's brief?
The owner of Shanghai Tower is Shanghai Tower Construction and Development Co, which is jointly funded by Shanghai Urban Construction Investment and Development Corporation, Shanghai Lujiazui Finance and Trade Zone Development Co, and Shanghai Construction Engineering (Group) Corporation. With the enterprise spirit of 'passion, harmony, innovation and pragmatism', the company pursues the construction and development goals of the highest quality, supreme design and precise detail, which integrates multi-party wisdom and resources, and strives to create a concept of humanity and the future with green, sustainable decision-making defining this vertical city.
What inspired the interior design of the project?
Shanghai Tower is a super high-rise landmark building with outstanding popularity and excellent geographical advantages. Meanwhile, it is also a skyscraper full of cultural atmosphere, using a variety of cultural forms to show the international character of the building. Moreover, the design concept of 'Nature, Humanity, and Future' for the building itself is an exciting point to stimulate our project design.
With the city of Shanghai being energised by water, the layout of the whole city follows the meander Huangpu River, generating an organic, geographical flow. The culture of the city therefore changed with the city's layout, giving it containment. Therefore the main element of the interior design is naturally inspired from Huangpu River: for instance, blue terrazzo flooring which extends gradually in B2 avenue and the blue ripple pattern carpet flooring in ball hall etc. The elements of 'River' and 'water' are conveyed directly through the design.
The interior design also reflects the facade of the architecture: the form of Shanghai Tower is rotating 120 degrees, standing at Lujiazui financial district. The concept of 'rotation' is not only showing dynamic form in physics, it also reveals lots of embedded cultural meanings behind the design we implemented; it showcases the continued eternal flow which stands in the sky space overlooking the city. These forms reflect the spirit of architecture as rotation, filament lines, rhythm, and they contribute to the main style of the space.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
The Shanghai Tower is a complex building with complex functions. Our design needed to overcome many unknown technical problems. The design area we were involved in uses a large number of curves and shaped modelling, and these modellings must take into account indoor physical space, building structure, electro-mechanical equipment, curtain walls, etc. Therefore, the most difficult obstacle we overcame was the accurate realisation of shaped surface modelling.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
The highlight of this project was that our design concept incorporates regional culture, with the theme of Huangpu River, using dynamic curve modelling: such as the streamlined blue terrazzo splicing ground in the B2 public underground avenue, the rolling wave-shaped aluminium round tube wall of 5F banquet hall, water ripple effect blue carpet of the banquet hall floor and so on. Seeing this fluid, river-inspired concept translated effectively into the psychical design is a great achievement for us.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
The SBID International Design Awards, with its considerable attention in terms of international awards, have firmly established its position and specifications in the industry as one of the most prestigious design events. Winning the SBID International Design Award would be a great achievement and honour for designers.
Questions answered by Miaoyi Jiang, Company Executive Manager at Gold Mantis
If you missed last week's Project of the Week featuring a project with complex, architectural elements to create multi-dimensional spaces and structural intricacy, click here to see more.
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
Gold Mantis Construction Decoration Co | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Contemporary art consultants, Velvenoir, shed expert light on how contemporary art can make a difference in corporate spaces. Covering the power of a bespoke art strategy in increasing productivity and creativity; the important considerations to bear in mind when investing in contemporary art, and how art consultants play a vital role within this process.
As Deutsche Bank states; art builds, art questions, art transcends borders, art works… A corporate art collection should not only be focused on investment, rather it should align with the company’s every moral and value to become part of it’s DNA. An art collection can be a powerful communication tool that speaks to clients as well as employees.
In today's world, we are busy on a daily basis, with barely the time to relax, take a break and simply enjoy the little things in life – especially when we sit in front of a huge to-do list in offices, surrounded by equally busy colleagues in an even busier workplace. This is where art - or better still - a curated art collection, comes into play. A carefully curated art collection allows people to connect, builds engagement, and inspires them daily. Some believe design is the key, but research has shown incorporating original artwork does not only offer various ways to inspire employees, but also allows them to relax and be part of the corporate culture that the firm has to offer. In the end, the art collection should be utilised strategically to make employees feel a part of the companies DNA; even incorporating team members in the selection and installation process. This article will outline the importance of incorporating original artworks in a corporate environment and how to make the most of your art concept to benefit employees and clients alike within corporate projects.
First, it's important to understand that art inspires creativity and leads to an increase in productivity. A curated art collection embodies the corporate value behind a firm, reflecting innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. Various surveys conducted over the years have shown that well-chosen art makes employees and their workplace feel more welcoming and also improves the individual and collective wellbeing. Doctors have even started recommending art psychotherapy to help patients explore their mental health, so it seems visiting a gallery/museum could soon replace the popularised practice of retail therapy! It's also important to note that art is also a financial asset – even when investing in emerging and up-and-coming artists. Making the right emotional and financial investment for your projects therefore boils down to the strategy behind it, and this is where an art consultant comes in to support the selection process.
How & Where
First things first, you and your team should work in collaboration with the art consultant to establish the basic requirements of the project to align the art selection with the project brief. You should develop an overall vision and strategy for the art; an allocated budget; the desired locations / spaces in the office or building; as well as the deadline and initial ideas on how to utilise it. Once those questions have been answered, it becomes about researching local and international artists to start the selection process with your team. It is a very personal and hands-on approach in order to best source and suggests artists that reflect your vision, align with the interior design scheme, as well as convey the firm's philosophy and overall corporate identity. Additionally, arranging artist studio meetings or inviting artists to showcase their work are all part of the process. Once the art selection is confirmed and agreed with you and your team, the acquisition process, logistics, and installation with professional art handlers are the next steps.
The Benefits
The final art collection can feature literally any shape, size and medium that you desire or that is required for the space; from large-scale sculptures, interactive digital art, screen prints and textiles to paintings, photography and neon art installations. In the end, it all derives from the concept behind the collection and the detailed strategy developed and implemented to communicate the end-client's values, philosophy and passion to support the culture of the company and enhance the overall interior design. Not to mention the potential of the art increasing in value over time, making for even happier clients!
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a project with a core focus on sustainability and the future whilst using complex, architectural elements to create multi-dimensional spaces and structural intricacy. From the architectural planning and design through to the rational planning and design of the layout of the building, it was key to prioritise aspects of sustainability such as achieving low energy consumption, high energy efficiency, less pollution and minimising the use of non-renewable resources. At the same time, in the design process, new material technologies such as various types of membrane that meet EU environmental standards, have been used to achieve harmonious co-existence between man and nature.
Company: MYP Design
Project: Chengdu Zhongzhou Mileage Sales Center
Project Location: Chengdu, China
The brief was to design a great space which is creative and in line with the high-end positioning of the project. What's more, the purpose of the project is to serve as a sales office which the client hopes can play an effective role in helping the sales of real estate, so this is a space to create trust with the buyer, effective communication, and host positive interaction between people.
This project has the ultimate advantage of high elevation with vast open spaces and high ceilings. The concept of interior 'architecture' was used as the preface in the initial conception. Using structural elements to fill empty spaces with curved lines and rectangular structures, a streamline metope unfolds as the central feature at the entrance to create depth and interest. At the bar area, an array of acrylic rods and deep bronze installation in the middle enhance the visual extension and bring about a new attitude. With the geometric modelling of the truss structure, the bar acts as a focal point which abstracts another meaning to connecting within the space.
The biggest hurdle was to make sure our design paid respect the space itself whilst aiming to introduce more creative thinking into the space with complex dimensional structural elements to inspire guests and reflect the highest quality of design intricacy.
The change of facade brought about by the interlaced stair skin creates a change in the abstract nature of the project, with a warp and weft effect. Through such expression, the treatment of stair entrance is strengthened. An 'experience' is felt as guests are passing through with the changes in light, entering into a giant, dimensional model and experiencing the raw sculptural tension which surrounds them. The streamline shape hanging high in the air not only forms the carrier of light, but also guides the space. The stark contrast between this space and the next creates a more powerful impact as guests move through the building, using the injection of vibrant furniture and bright colours in other zones to inspire a different mood and atmosphere.
SBID is a design competition that is widely spread and has substantial influence around the world. Of course, it is also a high-quality competition. We hope to achieve recognition of our design works from SBID and enhance our brand awareness to some extent. In addition, I also hope to see and appreciate more international cutting-edge design concepts, works and designers with interesting ideas from this platform, so that we can have the opportunity to communicate and make progress together.
Questions answered by Horizon Ma, Creative Director of MYP Design
If you missed last week's Project of the Week featuring a neutral and luxurious city apartment, designed with the upmost comfort and style, click here to see more.
MYP Design | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a neutral and luxurious city apartment, designed to accommodate frequent stays in London with the upmost comfort and style. The elegantly designed, three-bedroomed duplex apartment located within a development moments from the Thames, catches your attention from the second you enter with its impressive floor to ceiling panoramic views of the City. The neutral design scheme is punctuated with elements of colour using tonal accessories, brass features and the client’s own collection of artwork.
Company: Onyx London
Project: Duplex Apartment
Project Location: London, United Kingdom
The client’s brief was a neutral colour palette, complimented by brushed brass details, statement lighting and Carrara marble. The joinery creates a distinctive look, with dark veneers mixed with nude wallpapers and fabrics, giving a contemporary and luxurious feel to the space.
The client lives in China and travels to London regularly. The brief was to create a space that is both practical and comfortable for their stays, but also a place they can entertain friends. The interior scheme had to be both neutral and luxurious - the mixture of statement pieces, rich textures and comfortable living create exactly this.
I worked on a similar scheme in One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge which is still one of my most favourite projects, this project also used neutral tones and dark veneers to create a contemporary luxury in a city apartment.
It is always a challenge having international clients. We only met the client once in London for a morning, from this meeting we were able to grasp exactly what the client wanted to achieve and deliver it within a couple of months. The client had a confidence we were the right designer to work with them and we surpassed their expectations, which made for an incredibly successful handover.
The daughter of the family is moving to London to study and she wanted somewhere she could write. We created a study area for her on the upper floor of the Duplex, on the 17th floor, with the desk positioned between three walls from floor to ceiling in glass, with the most spectacular panoramic views of London.
Questions answered by Elizabeth Cook, Director of Onyx London
If you missed last week's Project of the Week featuring a sales centre designed to revitalise the traditional aesthetic values of Chinese architecture, click here to see more.
Onyx London | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Exclusive competition for SBID members to win a 3-day pass to Salone Del Mobile this April!
SBID have launched a competition exclusively for SBID members to win a 3-day pass to the world renowned trade event Salone Del Mobile.
In collaboration with FLA Eventi, 10 lucky winners will receive a free 3 day pass to the 58th edition of the event held from the 9th – 14th April at Rho Fiera, Milan.
Salone del Mobile describes themselves as a system of connections, creativity and innovation. Within the space of a week, more than 300,000 creatives unite in Milan to gain inspiration. The show is split into three sections, classic, design and xLux and remains the home of furniture with over 2000 international exhibitors worldwide.
The competition is now closed. Winners will be notified by 6pm tonight (Friday 5 April 2019)
Competition Terms & Conditions:
1.No purchase necessary. 2. One entry per person, no bulk or third party entries. 3. Email entries for competitions should be sent to [email protected] clearly stating in the subject header the competition you are entering. 4.Competitions are open to all UK & International residents except employees of SBID, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents or anyone directly connected with the promotion. 5. No responsibility can be accepted for entries lost, delayed or mislaid 6. Prizes are as stated only and no cash alternatives will be given. However the promoter has the full and free right to alter arrangements or prizes should circumstances change. 7. The decision will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. 8. All entries and copyright in them automatically become the property of SBID. 9. All entrants to competitions and offers are deemed to have accepted these rules and agreed to be bound by them and agree to co-operate in any publicity that may arise. 10. The closing date for receipt of entries is as stated for each individual competition. The winner will be decided by a random from the correct entries received during the promotion period. Decisions of the promoter relating to the drawing and all matters relating to this promotion will be final and binding. The odds of winning a prize will depend on the number of eligible entries received. 11. By providing your email address and entering this competition you agree to receive relevant email communications from SBID including news, events, offers and competitions. 12. The Promoter reserves the right to verify the eligibility of entrants and check their identity 13. The prize is a free 3 day pass to Salone Del Mobile in Milan. The prize does not include flights or accommodation. 14. The prize may not be used in conjunction with any other offer hosted by the Promoter. 15. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute a prize of equivalent or greater value if this is necessary for reasons beyond its control. 16.The winner will be contacted and notified by SBID. 17. The Promoter reserves the right to re-draw the winner if they cannot be contacted within a reasonable period of time (to be established at the promoter’s sole discretion) and the right to disqualify any entrant or select an alternative winner in the event that it believes that any entrant has contravened these Terms and Conditions. 18 Submitting an entry to this Competition is deemed to be acceptance by the entrants of these Terms and Conditions. The Promoter reserves the right to alter, amend or foreclose this Competition without prior notice in the event that unforeseen circumstances make this unavoidable. 19. The Promoter accepts no responsibility for any loss, damage, injury or disappointment suffered by any entrant resulting from entering this Competition or by the entrant’s acceptance of the prize. 20. Promoter: SBID 10 Molasses Row, Plantation Wharf. London SW11 3UX
This month the design industry turns once again to Milan for another year of the innovative, trend-setting edition of Milan Design Week 2019. Launching the 58th exhibition of Salone del Mobile.Milano which is set to dominate design news in the realm of interiors and furniture as professionals world-wide flock to Milan, SBID have 10 3-day pass tickets exclusively for SBID members to win! What's more, the SBID Awards has officially announced its plans to open this April, with some exciting news up its sleeve..
SBID International Design Awards launches in April with a brand new website in anticipation of global expansion!
With the 2019 edition of the SBID International Design Awards due to open next month and an expansion of international awards planned; organisers have announced their plans to launch with a brand new responsive website. The website has been redesigned to not only cope with higher entry demand, but also perform with improved functionality and enriched content, so entrants will be able to seamlessly submit their projects with ease from any device.
Last year saw one of the most globally represented editions to date, with more entries than ever before and an astounding 225,000 unique public votes. With industry talent from over 42 countries across the globe, and winning projects hailing from the UK, South Africa, China, New Zealand, Canada, China and Dubai; organisers are progressing with plans for international expansion. This year also brings brand new additions to the revered panel of judges including Director of Architecture at Burberry, Associate Director at the Guggenheim Museum and Director at Jacobs; the full line-up and new additions will be announced soon.
9th - 14th April
Salone del Mobile. Milano 2019 - Milan, Italy
The 58th edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano will be held from 9 to 14 April at Rho Fiera Milano. In the wake of the ‘new approach’ launched with the Manifesto in 2018, the Salone is putting the spotlight this year on both the centrality of Milan, which continues to garner international plaudits and recognitions, and on the creative capacity and generosity of spirit of the industrial network that underpins it and works to deliver global excellence.
The exhibition showcases endless approaches to furniture and design from all around the world and is the most prestigious place for designers to display their new products. The press conference for the 58th edition of the Salone del Mobile at the Triennale di Milano, was the harbinger of much important news. From the addition of a new term in the Manifesto launched last year, to new exhibition formats at Workplace3.0 and S.Project, alongside two great installations dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci in the city and fairgrounds; as well as a three-year collaboration with the Teatro alla Scala Foundation.
SBID have launched a competition exclusively for SBID members with the opportunity to win tickets to the world-renowned trade event, Salone del Mobile. In collaboration with FLA Eventi, 10 lucky winners will receive a free 3-day pass to the 58th edition of the event held from the 9 – 14 April at Rho Fiera, Milan.
Enter now
10th April
To celebrate SBID's 10 Year Anniversary, iDOGI are hosting an SBID Cocktail Party at Salone del Mobile
iDOGI® are the highest expression of luxury chandeliers and unique pieces of artistic lighting. The best Venetian glassmaking heritage matched with lasting design and masterly handcrafted. Their fully tailor made creations are precious works of art, seeing their lighting creations shine in the most prestigious interiors around the world. In celebration of SBID's 10 Year Anniversary, iDOGI will be dedicating a Special Cocktail Party on Wednesday 10 April during Salone del Mobile at 5pm in xLux Hall 4, Stand C05, D02.
All SBID Members are invited to attend this exclusive event. RSVP via email before Monday 8 April to register your place!
Register now
Euroluce - Milan, Italy
Euroluce is the world-renowned biennial lighting exhibition that puts people back at the centre of lighting design; the International Lighting Exhibition, has been running every two years since 1976 and presents the most innovative solutions in the field of light for interiors and exteriors. The trade show exists as an important bridge between the lighting and furniture industry, bringing a whole new perception of what lighting can enhance the look of the space as a design element. The event, which is considered the global benchmark for cutting-edge technologies and design culture, is the most anticipated lighting mega exhibition for lighting manufacturers, designers, architects, dealers and sellers who seek to strike a harmonious balance between lighting products’ twin values – functionality and emotion.
30th April - 2nd May
The Natural Stone Show 2019 - London, United Kingdom
The Natural Stone Show remains the only UK exhibition and conference dedicated to natural stone. Thousands of architects, designers, developers, stonemasons, wholesalers and retailers will flock to London’s ExCeL to see exhibitors from across the globe and enjoy 3 days of seminars; each seeking inspiration and advice for their next stone project. Designed to showcase the extraordinarily varied palette offered by Stone from around the world and the Best of British Stone, sourced from over 200 exhibitors.
One of the most important considerations to make as a designer when specifying interior products for your projects is flexibility. This month, we take a further look into bespoke design elements which can be custom-made to suit individual projects; as well product lines that offer flexible installation, colour and design options to ensure the interior vision comes together, whether you're designing for high-end residential or commercial office spaces. From bespoke surface solutions and wall coverings designed with health and wellbeing in mind, to the art of meticulously hand-crafted glassmaking.
James Latham expands its solid surface offering to include the Avonite® and STUDIO Collection® brands
Designed and developed in the US by Aristech Surfaces LLC, these latest additions compliment perfectly Latham’s existing added-value product portfolio which has been developed with the specification market in mind.
With 65 striking colours in the range, Avonite® is the only product in the solid surface market made with a double-belt technology and a thermal cure, ensuring a series of benefits including: versatile product width, impeccable colour consistency and a better manufacturing precision with narrower thickness tolerance and eco-friendly manufacturing. It is used in architectural and design applications across numerous sectors including hospitality, retail, education, government, transportation, public and living spaces, healthcare and commercial workspace.
The STUDIO Collection® is a translucent, customisable ‘patented composite blend’, with 29 attractive designs in nine decorative colour groups: Venato, Recycled, Movement, Crystelles, Sea Glass, Element, Glass, Metallics and Petals. Most of these groups can be backlit with dramatic effect and are therefore perfectly suited for prestigious and high-impact applications for example reception desks and sales counters within retail or hospitality environments.
Click to shop
Commercial drinking water solutions have never looked better: Zip Water UK’s HydroTap Design range
Now offering the widest range of designs and finishes for the workplace. Today, specifiers have an ever-growing need for products that deliver both high-performance functionality and stunning design. Zip Water, creator of the world’s most advanced drinking water systems, recently launched a wide range of new designs and finishes within its popular HydroTap range for work. Previously only available for residential projects, the HydroTap Design range includes three new tap styles; the elegant swan-necked Arc, the contemporary Cube and minimalist Elite. Alongside these designs are eight trend-led Platinum finishes – rose gold, brushed rose gold, gold, brushed gold, platinum, gunmetal, nickel and brushed nickel.
The new tap designs and finishes are an extension of the Zip HydroTap range for the workplace, which includes the flagship HydroTap Classic design. All tap styles can be paired with commercial under counter units to deliver up to 240 cups of instant filtered boiling water an hour and 175 glasses of instant filtered chilled or sparkling water an hour. The Design range looks the part in any office, while also delivering the performance and reliability specifiers expect from Zip. The HydroTap’s market-leading and cost-efficient filtration system offers 25 times better filtration than a standard water filter jug, producing water that’s crisp, clear and refreshing.
Rock Revelations collaborate with Award-winning Khoury Architects on prestigious new build home
Rock Revelations, leading UK fabricator of exquisite stone materials for both residential and commercial projects have collaborated with award winning Khoury Architects on a contemporary new build house in a leafy suburb of Leicestershire. A number of deliverables were specified for the project including a high impact entrance lobby that would set the character of the house throughout from hall, stairs and landing as well as a number of bespoke and luxurious features for kitchen and bathrooms. The interior design exhibits the client’s love of natural stone and the complexity of the scheme required specialist knowledge hence the appointment of Rock Revelations.
Click to read the full case study
Garrett Leather introduces pure aniline leather with Garrett Vintage range
Vintage is an authentic, full grain Italian leather with a light pull-up effect and glossy, transparent finish. The vibrant colours and subtle mottled surface add depth to the final appearance. Garrett Leather tanneries use a specially formulated mixture of oils and waxes to give this leather its soft hand for superior comfort. Vintage has a timeless look with a gorgeous moderate sheen that is ideal for both traditional and contemporary interiors. It wears well and will age beautifully, developing a rich patina over time. It is a leather to be treasured, as it shows signs of love and use with pride, emphasising nature’s splendour. All eight colours of Vintage are GREENGUARD certified and available for immediate shipment.
Dynasty Wallcoverings introduces Dynasty Wellbeing to cater for the health and wellness sector
Dynasty Wellbeing has been specially created to cater for the health and wellbeing sector and will include wallcoverings and fabrics designed especially with this market in mind. The first range under the new brand is now available and includes beautiful wallcoverings designed with precise attention to detail taking on board the considerations that arise in this challenging market.
Discreet yet stylish wallcovering designs printed in soothing, calm colours makes the new range the most comprehensive design collection for the health and wellbeing sector. Exclusive designs and colourways are also available should bespoke and unique décor be required. Rolls are available in 52 cm wide x 10.05 m lengths, printed to non-woven fabric backed vinyl and Class 0 & 1 fire retardancy. The designs will also be available in several fabrics too with new designs continually added as a rolling product offer.
iDOGI continue to champion the art of ancient Venetian glassmaking with their bespoke crystal design services
Italian creativity has always been linked to the history of design, the primary part of luxury and excellence. From the ancient Venetian glassmaking tradition handed down over the centuries from father to son iDOGI® was born: a bright half-century-old story of passion and creativity. Today, still entirely by hand, iDOGI design and make sumptuous artistic chandeliers and large luminous crystal tables. All of these unique masterpieces are used to embellish private residences, luxury hotels and yachts around the world. From the design and creation phases through to final installation, their international architects and interior designers are assisted by a specialised and highly-dedicated team. All to ensure a meticulously bespoke service and exceptional customer care.
Nothing is accidental in the ongoing search for harmony and balance which is why during the design phase, models, measurements, proportions, details and colours are all carefully studied and selected to achieve the best relationship between the finished item and the setting. Luxury is not a trend or a fashion. It is a dream that iDOGI helps to transform into reality.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the Sales Center of Huahao Yalong Place; nestled at the foot of a mountain, providing distant mountain views and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The design aims to revitalise the excellence of Chinese architecture and its traditional aesthetic values by achieving ultimate refinement to present the essence of simplicity and by doing so, create innovation. The design has a soulful outlook and is an elaborate embodiment of ancient architectural values with new design approaches. From magnificence to pristine, refined beauty, from grandeur and solemnity to brightness and sensation, the integration of these values has created a harmonious spatial ambience which is, in some ways, akin to the Forbidden City located in northern China.
Company: Guangzhou Basic Design Co
Project: Sales Center of Huahao Yalong Place
Project Location: Sanya, China
Huahao Yalong Place covers a gross site area of around 730 Mu (equivalent to 120 acres). The project is consisted of Chinese courtyard villas, high-end apartment buildings, feature shopping arcade and five-star hotspring hotel.
The design aims to revitalise the excellent Chinese architectural culture and the traditional aesthetic values by achieving ultimate refinement to present the essence or achieving simplicity so as to create innovative elements.
In addition to passing on the flame of civilisation, we hoped to create a design that can grant old traditions a young heroic spirit, introduce rhythms of the nature and ingenuity of the creator which stretches across thousands of miles, so that charms of the history and refinement of the art together produce magnificence and elegance of the space. Capturing and honouring the essence of this became a key challenge when producing the design concept for this project.
An elegant space was created under a dignified roof. The luxury temperament of the furnishings cannot be concealed by their pristine appearance. Whereas classic romance emerges from the innermost recesses of their souls, reinforcing the noble and refined lifestyle. Within the brand-new palace-like building and penthouse, there is no vicissitudes. Instead, there is a harmony of the nature as well as breath-taking scenes. In the splendid art world, there is a fascinating colourful space. Seeing this vision come together with fortitude was one of the main highlights for me.
Winning a SBID International Design Award is a distinguished recognition for designers. As one of the most prestigious events in the interior design industry, to enter the competition means to communicate with and be showcased to a magnitude of excellent interior designers from all over the world.
Questions answered by Zhide Liang, Chief Designer and Design Director of Guangzhou Basic Design Co
If you missed last week's Project of the Week featuring a development project which guides the client through an inspiring and dynamic visual journey, click here to see more.
Guangzhou Basic Design Co | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a development project with a philosophical concept, designed by Medhat Nehad. The concept revolved around guiding the client through an inspiring visual journey, from the moment they park their car to when they sign the contract to buy the property. The hierarchy starts with walking through the open landscape to the semi-transparent glass cube. Next, the dynamically designed main reception hall is approached through a ceremonially-long corridor, before the focus of the project – the parabola-shaped room – is reached. The luxurious and modern touches of natural wood and glass enhances this unique project. Special lighting effects, for both the day and the night, strengthen it further. The architect took the challenge to negotiate the design concept with the client, convincing them to go through with these ideas in the Egyptian market.
Company: Archiform Consultants
Project: Almarasem Sales and Marketing Showroom
Project Location: Cairo, Egypt
The client was at that time a new developer, embarking on a new project developing his fifth complex compound on a 158-acre plot area in a premium location in new Cairo, Egypt. The developer name is Almarasem International Development. They introduced themselves to us as they needed to enter the market as a developer with a unique new sales centre on a plot area of 4600 m2. The project scope included the following:
From the first meeting, they requested that Archiform to design the development with the concept of creating an outstanding new identity for the sales centre. The sales centre will be used to sell the client's exclusive properties through and must therefore make an impact as their prime sales location in the market. The aim of the build will be to impress the visitors and clients with the luxurious standard of the interior and exterior spaces to reflect their superior reputation whilst capturing the new 'look' and 'experience' offered by the showrooms and offices.
As the lead designer on the project, I was inspired by organic shapes and geometrical forms. In particular, the way these forms can be intersected to create unique spaces which connect to each other in a fluid and inspiring way; offering a welcoming environment for the visitors and clients. The main idea was to create a long 'path' or journey for the visitor to feel like they are being invited through the building for a ceremonial welcoming. As the name of the company in Arabic language 'Almarasem' means to make a special process with a formal event to welcome the VIP visitors and clients through these prestigious spaces and exclusive surroundings.
We experience three main challenges throughout this project. Firstly, the project was ran under a very tight schedule as the client needed to finish the project in maximum of 100 days from design to build. The tight time lines had the team working day and night for more than 15 days continuously in order to produce the first conceptual drawings package; including photo realistic perspectives.
Secondly; as the designer I had to ensure I was effectively explaining the concept, parameters and parabolas geometric shapes to the team and the visualiser so it can be drawn correctly and illustrated clearly for the client, so they could better visualise our design ideas and approve it!
The third issue we faced, and arguably the toughest, was to convince the client that we can achieve these complicated shapes, be executed through the contractors and completed on within that very short time-frame we were set.
Being able to deliver on a project of this magnitude, whilst achieving a high quality finish; capturing the essence of the client's company as well as executing the design and build according to plan within the time-frame we were given. This has to be the most important highlight for me.
From the time I had developed the concept of this project and as a member of the respectable SBID, I was quite sure that this project could bring great inspiration to enrich the industry of Architecture, interior design and landscape design. Also it served as a great opportunity to share my thoughts with fellow designers from all around the world, so I can be more inspired and do more in the years to come. I was so proud to be finalist for this particular project, especially as I was feeling confident that this project would measure up well against the world of design.
Questions answered by Medhat M.Nehad, President and Founder of Archiform Consulants
If you missed last week's Project of the Week featuring a sustainable and luxuriously designed African lodge for Wilderness Safaris' Premier Camp, click here to see more.
Archiform Consultants | SBID International Design Awards 2018
SBID got in touch with Katie Thomas, Design Director of KTM Design and SBID South West Regional Director to discover more about her career in interior design and how her journey evolved, from studying interior design at university to becoming a professional interior designer and even co-founding her own design practice, KTM Design.
Why Interior Design?
I had just started secondary school when I made the decision to focus on becoming an Interior Designer. It may sound a bit trivial, but my passion and interest for interior design was sparked by my childhood love of the life-simulation computer game ‘The Sims’! I’m sure a lot of young designers can relate. Creating virtual people, placing them in houses that I designed and directing their moods and satisfying their desires – I loved everything about it. This, coupled with watching TV shows like ‘Grand Designs’ (cliché but true) and my enjoyment of the creative subjects at school, I was set on becoming a designer of spaces. I remember talking to my teachers about my options, and learnt about the role of an Interior Designer. It sounded like my dream job – creative, logical, people-focused and having the chance to have a positive impact on people’s lives. Fast-forward 13 years and I am designing restaurants, nightclubs, offices, shopping centres and homes and running my own interior design practice in Bournemouth, KTM Design.
How did you make your dream job become a reality?
My dream job becoming a reality didn’t happen without hard work. It was just over three years ago that I graduated from the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB). I studied on the BA (hons) Interior Architecture and Design course and then decided to do my Masters in Spatial Design the following year. I was working part-time at a commercial interior design practice in Bristol whilst I was doing my MA, which meant that I was gaining invaluable industry experience whilst continuing my studies. Prior to this, I had completed several internships at interior design companies in Bath and London. It was a big priority of mine to gain as much work experience as possible whilst I was a student. I wanted to understand more about the industry and prepare myself as much as I could before making the complete transition into my professional career as an Interior Designer. My life-long mantra of ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ was very apt. Curiosity also played a big part in this. Being a curious person, I’ve always asked lots of questions and find myself continually searching for answers, and the only way I was going to find out what I was getting myself into once I’d finished university was by experiencing it first-hand. I was curious about the varying working environments in different design studios, the operations and structure of companies, the type of work the designers actually undertake, and of course the company culture and what sort of working environment I’d feel most suited to. These are all things you don’t learn at university, but play a crucial role in feeling prepared for industry. I am very grateful to all the companies that gave me the opportunity to gain some experience with them, even if it was just for a few days. When I was at university I learnt about the SBID and the support they give to students, so I became a student member and saw the president Vanessa Brady as a great role model. I’d never had a role model before. I wasn’t interested in the pop stars and ‘celebrities’ that my peers aspired to be like, so it brought me a great sense of happiness and positivity to finally have someone to look up to. A strong woman in the same industry, achieving so much and having a positive influence on so many.
What made you decide to start your own business?
As I was coming to the end of my MA at AUB, I had a couple of job offers from companies that I had previously interned with as a student (another good reason to do as many internships as you can – you never know what your new contacts could lead to, and make sure you don’t burn any bridges). I really wanted to start my own business, especially after having so much creative freedom on my MA, and when an opportunity arose to co-found a company, I thought I’d give it a shot and see how it goes. It was a tricky first few months of having no work, but after a lot of ‘putting myself out there’, we had our first office redesign enquiry come through Twitter! This led to our next, slightly bigger office redesign project, and for a short while it seemed like all we were going to do was offices, which was quite ironic as most of my work experience was in office design! At the same time, I was ‘networking’ like crazy, being consistently active on social media, and eventually finding openings to our first night club project, our first residential project, and then things started to take shape. Now, going into our fourth year of business and with a lovely, hardworking team by my side, I always make sure I take time to look back, reflect and feel proud of my progress and where I started. I think this is important, especially when it is very easy to get swept up in the everyday stresses of running a business. If I ever have self-doubt, I remember how tenacious and determined 12 year old Katie was to be a successful Interior Designer, and I’m not going to let her down! There is always another mountain to climb or hurdle to jump over, and that’s part of the fun of it.
What advice would you give to current interior design students?
Say YES. When I was leaving university and the opportunity came up to start my business, the Arts University Bournemouth (where I had studied), asked if I would teach some of their interior design evening courses as the previous tutor was retiring. Just the thought of this petrified me. I used to hate public speaking and instantly thought, ‘I’m not good enough to do that’ and ‘I don’t know enough to teach’! Once I’d got a grip of this initial hurricane of self-doubt, I realised what a great opportunity it was and how many more things it could lead to, as well as hopefully being quite fun! Three years on, I’m still teaching the same evening courses (and more) because I absolutely love it and have gone through a significant amount of personal growth and confidence building because of it. So, as Richard Branson says, ‘If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!'. I know the struggles of being at university and the fear of the unknown once university ends, so I am happy to listen to any questions and advise wherever I can. Remember to embrace the beauty of change.
If you're inspired by Katie's journey and want to make sure you get the essential work experience you need to launch your interior design career after university, make sure you take advantage of the opportunities SBID provide to afford students with internships at leading UK design practices.
The Get Me 2 the Top UK student design competition is now open for entries, awarding three winning students with a 3-month internship with the likes of 1.61 London and Crawford Partnership. Designed to help the younger generation of designers find potential employers, overcome the barrier between learning and earning, forge key relationships in the industry and gain valuable insight that will help to kick-start their creative careers.
Click here to find out more
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