This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features London-based design and build company Oktra who took on the challenge of transforming a Victorian building at King’s Cross Station into a remarkable ultra-modern workspace for 300 people. The brief was to create a forwarding-thinking collaborative workplace without affecting the original architecture of the building. The Oktra team inserted contemporary design using intriguing landscapes and modern shapes into the industrial period building. The space includes 300 fixed workstations, open plan desking and several meeting pods over an expansive café area. Biophilia is used throughout to create a relaxing natural environment and bring a sense of the outdoors in. The space allows NewDay to choose how, when and where they work by offering a range of work settings. Each area is designed for a different type of task.
Company: Oktra
Project: NewDay
Project Location: London, United Kingdom
What was the client's brief?
NewDay appointed our team to design a bold and modern 30,000 sq ft workspace in a magnificent Victorian building. They required a design which would grant more working space to help promote collaboration. NewDay wanted a mixture of formal and informal meeting places, including 300 fixed workstations to encourage productivity and communication.
What inspired the design of the Project?
Our vision was to achieve a contemporary design whilst retaining the building’s original mid-18th century features. To achieve this we inserted intriguing landscapes and modern shapes against the period brickwork backdrop to create an interesting and engaging juxtaposition which created a complimentary contrast between modern features and the characterful components of the previous architectural structure. We therefore had to come up with a design which was sympathetic to the buildings original features but also able to inject a lively and contemporary spirit into the property.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
Working with and around the Grade II Listed building, and connecting the 2 parts of the building together visually was definitely the most challenging aspect of the project. The site has close proximity to rail tunnels below the ground floor and an acoustic floor separates the demise at first floor level so there were various reasons to tread carefully which we had to navigate as the project developed in order to complete the work without compromising on our original vision.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
The project’s most remarkable feature is a floating 60m long mezzanine suspended over an acoustic floor, leaving a striking impression on everyone who enters the space. This complex piece of engineering is completely independent of the existing building fabric, and maximises use of the space while offering a different perspective. This involved lengthy coordination of services from our team alongside a series of structural gymnastics within the raised floor.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
Being one of the most prestigious awards in the design industry, we were honoured to be finalists in the 2017 SBID International Design Awards. To be recognised by SBID is a true testament to the work we do as leading design and build specialists.
Questions answered by David Bishop, Senior Designer at Oktra
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If you missed last week's Project of the Week with a sleek and faceted interior concept, inspired by the striking linear architecture of the Dollar Bay development in Canary Wharf, click here to see more.
The 2018 edition of the SBID International Design Awards is now officially open for entries!
Click here to register or enter your project!
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
Oktra | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Established in 1829 by two young Scottish entrepreneurs James Craig & Hugh Rose, Craig & Rose built a long established reputation as specialist paint providers in their field. This reputation spread swiftly throughout the UK, enabling Craig & Rose to become the paint of choice for the professional painter and decorator. Edward Brown, the Technical Director at Craig & Rose, gives us his informed insight on which colour palette the Spring season is set to usher in to the market and where the trend for paint finishes will lead in the coming months.
To find out more about Edward Brown's forecast for paint colours and finishes, read his feature here.
The Czech Republic headquarters of energy company, innogy, is using a new LED lighting system to support the circadian rhythms of the people who work there.
Installed by Philips Lighting, the system is tuned to stimulate the energy levels of the 550 staff at set times in the day. According to Philips, "the stimulus from the 'human centric lighting' fixtures is likened to a strong cup of coffee".
Tomas Michna, Senior Manager for Facility and Services at innogy Czech Republic explains how the system works and why this new innovation in using responsive lighting technology in the workplace can help to improve operational efficiency through remote monitoring and maintenance.
Learn more about this revolutionary lighting system, the effects of using advanced lighting technology on psychological patterns and behaviours and how this can be implemented in interior design, here.
This Special Report Case Study originally appeared in the Volume 7 Issue 1 edition of the official SBID interior design magazine, eSociety.
Click here to read the full issue or see the full Special Report on Lighting and Surface, here.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the interior specification design for the Dollar Bay Penthouses located in Canary Wharf, London. Suna Interior Design was selected by Mount Anvil and Citystyle (One Housing) to translate the faceted and linear qualities of this unique building in different ways throughout the property. Complimenting the striking architecture and creating a harmony between the exterior and interior elements were integral to the style and design of this luxury residential development. Dollar Bay sits in a glamorous enclave where elite fashion brands, high-end dining, leisure and charismatic nightlife come together to offer a cultured and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Suna Interior Design carefully considered every design decision to reflect this aura of affluence and style, typified by the building's opulent surroundings.
Company: Suna Interior Design
Project: Dollar Bay Penthouse
When we work with developers on any specification work, we take into account many contributory factors.
In this instance, we were working on only two apartments but they were the jewel in the crown of this development as they were the triplex penthouse units atop the striking Dollar Bay development for Mount Anvil. The penthouse apartments offered a truly unique space as the interior was spread across four floors finishing with an impressive multifunctional area consisting of a spa, dining and lounge area with triple height glazing and views across the docklands landscape.
As with all penthouse designs, the client needed us to come up with a design for the interior which would impress their potential buyers and maximise the space within. When specifying interiors that need to stand the test of time it is important to select finishes that will not date and choose products that have a long aesthetic lifespan. We combine this with adding in individual design details to add some identity to the interior and touch points to link it to the architecture.
The fundamental starting point for all of the design was the architecture of the building. The external glazing facets in and out which ran all the way up the structure created a truly impressive and dramatic design aesthetic. This influenced many key features of the interior design. Specifically the internal doors and ironmongery were bespoke, designed to incorporate the same faceted and angled designs to mirror the rest of the property. Having a direct correlation between the interior and the exterior creates an intelligently curated overall aesthetic with synergy between all areas.
One of the hardest areas to design was the master ensuite due to the layout of the room and the desire to create an impressive addition to the master bedroom. The area we were working with reflected the angled features of the architecture. The unusual space with large glazing panels displayed incredible views across Canary Wharf and linked the ensuite to the generous winter garden which wrapped around the perimeter of the rooms. The angled shape of the space ended up working to our advantage, allowing us to position the shower enclosure to the rear, hiding the WC between the smoked shower screen and a bespoke slatted divider beside the vanity unit. The double basin vanity was a truly impressive feature with a bespoke marble vanity unit and shelf that bisected a full height mirror with integrated Led lighting. We used the Agape Sen range of brassware that followed the linear lines of the vanity and finished off this area perfectly. We sourced a unique slash sided freestanding bath that butted to the angled wall and provided a luxurious bathing area with fantastic views.
The most impressive area within the apartment is the last one you come across. At the top of the building there is a 3 storey open spa which links the dining room and an upper open floor as a second lounge. We knew when we started looking at this impressive space that the large wall that forms the backdrop to the spa area needed to have impact. As it is such a large wall area we wanted to add product which would break it up and add interest. We selected a tile product that was available in multiple sizes and surface finishes so that each one would catch the light differently. In addition we added in recess strip lighting to the wall in specific areas so that the whole area would transform from day to night.
We hold the opinions of those at SBID very high as we know they have high expectations and broad industry experience. Achieving success at these awards would be an accolade we would be immensely proud off and a testament to the work we have produced.
Questions answered by Helen Fewster, Director at Suna Interior Design
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the virtual reality theme park inspired by the vibrant cityscape of Dubai, click here to see more.
The 2018 edition of the SBID International Design Awards is now officially open for entries! Click here to register or enter your project!
Suna Interior Design | SBID International Design Awards 2018
I think the Colour Council is very relevant to the creative industry in general. With any subject it’s important to have access to a reliable source of information. SBID’s Colour Council initiative not only allows the organisation to share information on colour knowledge but also to set standards in the way we work with colour. It’s also an opportunity to create a permanent knowledge resource for using colour successfully. We will be looking into colour theory, working with colour in space and colour forecasting as well as looking to colour combinations for inspiration; this will enable interior designers to connect with colour experts and establish a reliable information source.
For the past 11 years I have worked with many brands, helping them with product development and marketing strategies. I have built a broad knowledge in colour nuances and how different cultures react to colour by working with paint companies around the world. I have also worked with materials manufacturers as Finsa, Formica, DuPont, Ceasarstone and LG Haus as well as companies as Kimberley Clarks, Samsung, Logitech or Panasonic. I would say that this experience has really helped me to understand how consumers think.
I think designers are fully aware of the need to have the right information. We are a savvy industry and understand that having the right knowledge helps us create customer satisfaction. Right now, you need to search the internet to find colour information which is time consuming. Also because data comes from different sources, how can you be sure it’s reliable? Getting good data on colour is also a challenge for students and anyone else who works in design. Colour is a fabulous tool for creativity but a lack of knowledge in this area can hold you back creatively. That’s why I am strong believer in making information available from a reliable source as SBID.
Co-chair of the SBID Colour Council & SBID East Anglia Regional Director
This interview originally appeared in the Volume 7 Issue 1 edition of the official SBID interior design magazine, eSociety.
Click here to read the full issue or see the rest of the interview with Carolina, here.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series introduces a new age of theme park with a thought-provoking and awe-inspiring dimension that Dubai has never seen before. The design concept pays a very unique homage to the vibrant city that is Dubai, featuring a life-like replica of the infamous skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, from an entirely new perspective. 4SPACE Design took the brief of bringing the Dubai cityscape to life for this innovative theme park and made it a virtual reality to amaze and inspire the imagination of all its visitors!
Company: 4SPACE Design
Project: VR Park, Dubai
Project Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
EMAAR Entertainment wanted to create a one of a kind virtual reality theme park that has never been created in Dubai before. The design concept was to create a unique experience with a futuristic ambience which introduced visitors to the wonderful world of virtual reality. They were hoping for an innovative and thought-provoking design approach that would blow the minds of users visiting the space.
The project is inspired by Dubai city itself. The focal point of the entire theme park interior is a giant model of the Burj Khalifa hanging upside down from the ceiling to the floor. The initial concept sketch started with the upside down Burj Khalifa and we collaborated with the theming company to get the proper proportion, finish, look and feel of the real building.
The infrastructure of downtown Dubai is projected as a video map on the ceiling while the columns beside the Burj Khalifa are designed as building models to create the illusion of walking through the upside-down version of Dubai.
This reoccurring theme influences the design approach of the entire interior space. For example, the reflective blue epoxy flooring replicates the Dubai night sky while the handrails and staircase are designed to demonstrate the look and feel of Burj Khalifa itself.
The biggest challenge was achieving an upside down cityscape of Dubai. The scheme was to replicate the city so we teamed up with a theming company that was able to execute the life-like details of the cityscape.
The façade was the highlight of the project. It tells the entire story. We wanted to start the story from entrance which would be reinforced as you walked through the entire space. 4SPACE crafted an innovative, unique, and delightful design using modern technology. The large 90 degree curved LED display screen panel shows a complete cityscape of downtown Dubai bent upside down. It was designed with the intention of alluding to the user, the magnificent experience awaiting them inside. The LED screen showcases Dubai during the day and night with fascinating animations.
The SBID International Design Awards is one of the most prestigious, credible, and enjoyable events in the design industry calendar. It pays tribute to the projects and designers making their mark in the interior design industry. The awards attract the world’s top designers and potential clients around the globe.
Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Interior Architect / Managing Director at 4SPACE Design
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the transformation of an uninspiring driveway into the ultimate luxury man cave, click here to see more.
4SPACE Design | SBID International Design Awards 2018
The GDPR introduces more stringent data protection obligations on companies and will strengthen the rights of individuals. Its implementation and effect is therefore of relevance both to corporate entities and to those seeking to enforce their rights. It will be implemented across all EU Member States and its provisions will continue to apply in the UK post-Brexit through the UK's proposed Data Protection Bill.
The GDPR sets out new rules for any organisations that collect or process personal data of individuals (known as data subjects). Personal data is any information relating to an individual, including names, addresses, photographs of individuals, email addresses, bank details, IP addresses and even social media posts – as a result, the GDPR will apply to most organisations that do business in the EU.
As a result of the changes in the law, and the publicity surrounding the introduction of the GDPR, individuals are more likely to scrutinise the way in which information about them is held by organisations.
Two key themes arising from GDPR are transparency and accountability. Companies will need to explicitly and clearly tell individuals what data they are holding, why they have captured it and what they intend to do with it. Companies will also need to be able to show that what they are doing is in accordance with the law. In practical terms, this is likely to involve at the very least updating your privacy policy to ensure that it is in plain English and that it accurately reflects what data you are processing.
Electronic direct marketing, such as emails sent to people who are not existing customers, will require a higher level of 'consent' than now: consent needs to be explicit and freely given, by way of a positive opt in. The GDPR also introduces a requirement for some types of organisation to appoint an expert in data protection law as a Data Protection Officer.
Reputation management should be a key consideration for all companies. Ensure that you have a crisis plan in place for dealing with data breaches. You could also face enforcement action if you are unable to demonstrate that you have addressed the new requirements. The legislation introduces hefty fines for data breaches of up to 4% of global annual turnover or €20million, whichever is more.
Think carefully about a notification strategy for breaches. In the event of a data breach, companies will often have just 72 hours to notify both data subjects and the Information Commissioner's Office, so having a strategy in place for dealing with this will be crucial.
Data breaches are most likely to occur as a result of human error – make sure that members of staff are appropriately trained on the changes which are coming into force and ensure that you have policies in place in relation to data security and how to handle data breaches.
If you are an employer, you will also need to ensure that the way in which you handle your employees' data is GDPR compliant. Review any HR policies to ensure that you have systems in place to deal with your obligations under the GDPR and inform employees and any job applicants about the purpose and legal basis for processing their personal data.
For further information on the GDPR and how it could affect your business, please contact Suzi Sendama at Mishcon De Reya LLP, [email protected], +44 (0) 203 321 6794.
Suzi Sendama, Mishcon De Reya LLP
Did you miss Suzi's article on Intellectual Property and Copyright Law? Click here to see more.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the ultimate luxury man cave! The dark, sultry and masculine design of this glorified garage was built to house the client's invaluable collection of sports cars. The space now embodies the essence of a moody underground club, doubling up as a sanctum of entertainment where the client can play pool in the glamour of a subterranean bar. The project evolved to include a plethora of cutting-edge technology. Every carefully considered curve and specially selected surface, combined with the un-apologetically flashy and unmistakably contemporary design, has managed to transform what used to be an uninspiring driveway into a gallant showcase of masculinity, impressive enough to rival any Hollywood-style superhero garage. We think this project would give the likes of Tony Stark a run for his money!
Company: The Design Practice by UBER
Project: Man Cave
Project Location: Manchester, UK
What was the clients brief?
Following the completion of the main house and its enjoyment for a year or two the client realised that there was a fundamental piece of the jigsaw missing from the lifestyle he had created. Looking out onto the driveway hinted at the missing component. The client’s collection of sports cars sat on a driveway in the affluent south Manchester suburb where the weather was not always as pretty as the cars themselves.
The cars were isolated, hardly ever garaged as a result of an awkward entry point to the garage itself which involved reversing back up a steep driveway to get the cars out. From within the blank canvas space there was the usual hoarding of garage paraphernalia and wheelie bins to negotiate and for remodelling consideration there were some fundamental construction obstacles to overcome. Not least there were two huge structural columns which were positioned awkwardly in the space. The floor to ceiling heights were already on the low side and yet we needed to get air conditioning and fresh air into the space. We then had the challenge of allowing for the cars to turn and enter and exit the space comfortably (rather than reversing up the drive) as well as providing a break between the garage space and living space that met with building regulations.
The wish list then evolved to include a moody underground club feel entertaining space where the client could play pool in the glamour of a subterranean bar and watch the football with his mates. He wanted the space to feel like an exciting break from the every day and quickly caught the technology bug desiring to push the boundaries within a tight pre-built space wanting luxury, intrigue and showmanship.
The Design Practice by UBER set about creating a car ‘trophy cabinet’, to take the very finishes from inside these stunning vehicles and translate them onto the walls of the garage together with some bespoke hotel inspired materials. The client loved our initial concept including a turntable to showcase his showcase sports cars and allow them to be rotated in a small space, making it also extremely practical. The brief quickly evolved to include a plethora of cutting-edge technology to rival superhero garages from a Hollywood blockbuster.
The circular ceiling feature that sits above the turntable was a masterpiece in design and engineering in itself. Weighing over a ton and being suspended from a heavily clustered ceiling full of pipe work and cabling, it needed a great deal of thought. In the design intent it was critical that we achieved a glow from the amber back-lit precious quartz that we had set our hearts on using together with a smoked mirrored central section to show the car off and reflect across the roofline.
However, the weight of the stone was substantial and proved a problem for use in the ceiling detail as well as the fact that the waste material would have been enormous. We managed to get the slabs of the precious stone to site and once correctly illuminated we photographed the pieces and then printed the high resolution image onto lightweight acrylic to use on the ceiling section. This was highly successful and the faux material works harmoniously with the real precious stone in the bar and wine cabinet areas, something that would have been almost impossible to achieve had we not photographed and used the same pieces.
The enthusiasm of the client was evident throughout pushing us to bring together services at the very cutting edge of technology. The car turntable was designed to be controlled by custom designed Crestron wall panels to create a bespoke “man-cave” feel. The system shows the exact rotational position of the car on the turntable. With a simple swipe, the car can be rotated to specific angles to show off its best side in a pre-set positions or simply spin 360° for “look at me” appeal. And when the system is not in use the vehicle will always come to rest pointing outwards, towards the garage entrance for fast drive away convenience.
Due to sensors in the car and driveway, as the homeowner simply approaches the home’s lighting, heating and music systems fires into life matching the predetermined preferences of the particular car that has arrived.
There are sensors on every door within the man-cave, which not only enhance safety (the turntable won’t operate if the door is open), but also notifies the owner if the wine cellar door is left open.
The lighting scheme has been carefully considered to work with all the contrasting surfaces to give the most dramatic impact possible to this moody space. From the shiny and reflective surfaces of floors and polished plaster ceilings, to the soft leather paneling and backlit quartz pops of colour. Along with the industrial decorative drop lights, each aspect of the lighting was crucial in bringing this theatre spectacularly to life for the most incredible impact possible.
As an esteemed society within the industry, the SBID awards are hugely influential for awareness and recognition to a global audience. As a long-standing member we look forward to submitting our projects which allows us to realise, each year, how our esteem peers push us forward to achieve greater things.
Questions answered by Jim Evans, Director at The Design Practice by UBER
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with a lavish and tranquil family home based in Kuwait City, inspired by a vast collection of Middle Eastern treasures, click here to see more.
Entries were received, finalists deliberated and the winners of the SBID International Design Awards 2017 were announced! Click here to see the full list.
The Design Practice by UBER | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Andrew Davies, Design Director at YTM Group explains how technology is challenging hotel design teams in new ways.
In recent times the focus of hotel design has shifted towards what will make a statement online. The need to create spaces that photograph well, showcase something new and exceed expectations has never been greater. The ever-growing popularity of social media platforms and review sites is making it possible for guests to analyse and appraise almost every aspect of a hotel before they stay, so no room or space can afford to look anything other than outstanding.
In the 21st century, one thing that guests love to see is the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. As a result, the challenge we often find ourselves presented with, is the demand to deliver an end product that utilises digital tools without compromising on the aesthetic or comfort of the surroundings to ultimately, strike a balance between beneficial tech and unnecessary gimmicks. Finding this balance can be a powerful tool in generating positive reviews and word of mouth, both online and in person.
Innovation with purpose
Whether it's across public spaces or in the privacy of a hotel room, the temptation among hoteliers is to expect that every new gadget and gizmo in the marketplace be integrated. Yet the temptation to overload on tech can also detract from a guest’s stay. To deliver a true experience, we know that hotel guests need to be connected to a room – not via wireless technology – but through their senses. Lost in a screen, they may all too easily miss the pleasing curves of a four-poster bed, the soft feel of an upholstered chair and even the smell of a carefully placed diffuser. It is important to acknowledge that we remember with all of our senses. Repeat business and particularly referrals can only be acquired by bringing guests into the present and making them appreciate their surroundings.
This, of course, is not to say that technology does not have a place in supporting the guest experience. On the contrary, giving guests control over the ambient temperature and lighting through “Smart” equipment to accommodate their needs can heighten their sense of well being. The challenge however, is always to integrate technology seamlessly into a room, supporting the overall experience and making a stay more restful rather than overpowering it.
All too often it becomes possible to overlook the primary purpose of a hotel bedroom: to sleep. A hotel bedroom should work hardest to support rest and recovery. Few people will book the same hotel twice if they do not wake feeling refreshed, energised and ready to face the day ahead after their first stay. With this in mind, we know that digital devices are accountable for poor sleep. Many studies have shown that screen time before bed disrupts the sleep cycle. While it would be unwise not to accommodate laptop or mobile device usage in a bedroom, there are things that can be done even in smaller rooms to divide spaces and help differentiate between rest and activity space. A guest may not consciously note the positioning of a sofa, bookcase or cabinet between desk and bed, but subconsciously this can make a very real difference to the enjoyment of their stay.
It can be particularly tempting to pack as much new tech as possible into the pubic spaces of a hotel. Gymnasiums, pools, spas, restaurants, bars, workspaces and lobbies can all sport smart technology in abundance. But here, too, it is important to incorporate digital aids with a delicate touch. It might be manufacturing a reception desk that accommodates a slim tablet device into the work-surface or crafting fitted furniture to house television screens or even self-service machines. We can embrace these advances and use them to create greater subtlety rather than let technology become the statement piece.
The terrifying (but exciting) prospect for design teams is that the progression of technology and the way consumers appraise hotels is ever-changing. So we, as designers, can never stand still - it's what keeps us on our toes from day to day!
Andrew Davies, Design Director at YTM Hotel Furniture.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a stunning property based in Kuwait City, perched on the cusp of the Arabian Gulf, in Kuwait. Amidst this beautiful little nation, Katharine Pooley helped to forge a lavish but tranquil family home where the family can entertain and showcase their extensive collection of artefacts and antiques, amounted over the years from all across the Far East. Katharine’s extensive travels inspired many of the spaces in this villa, along with the client’s own authentic Middle Eastern treasures.
Company: Katharine Pooley Ltd
Project: Kuwait Villa
Project Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait
Katharine Pooley Ltd was appointed in 2010 to design all elements of a new build 40,000 square feet project for a Kuwaiti family wishing to create a bespoke 4 story home with internal courtyard and beautifully landscaped, oriental-inspired gardens. Along with the interior design of the house, the team were heavily involved in the design of the architectural detailing which included the design and coordination of the external architectural elements, bespoke cornices concealing AC units, intricate external and internal doors, glass cladded curved central staircase, balustrades, bathrooms designs and all marble selection throughout.
The client’s incredible collection of antiques and artefacts were a great source of inspiration for the furnishings and joinery of the property. These really helped to deliver the overall unique feel for the project and always gave the team an element of surprise and discovery to incorporate into the final build and design of this stunning family home.
With over 5m high ceilings on the ground floor and extra-large proportions to a number of the rooms, most of the spaces needed to deliver both comfortable and impressive accommodation for all the family and friends to use. Great care was spent on the furniture layout and design which helped us to achieve both an elegant and impressive ambiance.
For decorative inspiration, the team looked to the places and materials I'd enjoyed while living in Asia. The resulting scheme is layered, fresh, and studded with remarkable bespoke pieces. These include the central staircase column, which has a specialist finish inspired by the turquoise cladding of the Kam Tin cabinets in the entrance hall, and a copper and hold-leaf wall divider in the family entrance that echoes the movement of the rice fields in Vietnam.
The International Design Awards are well-respected within the industry and Katharine Pooley Ltd has had a long association with the SBID, previously supporting the Student Awards and even receiving the Joint Overall Winner Award in the International Design Awards 2012.
Questions answered by Katharine Pooley, Director at Katharine Pooley Ltd
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the boutique style retail design of luxury accessory and lifestyle brand, kate spade new york, in Paris, click here to see more.
Katherine Pooley | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the modern luxury accessory and lifestyle brand, kate spade new york, in Paris. The market leading specialists, Portview Fit-Out, were called upon to complete the interior design work on the brand's new flagship store to mark kate spade’s celebrated arrival into France, following the successful launch of their Regent Street store in London last year. Located at 418 Rue Saint-Honoré and measuring 185 square metres over two floors, the design scheme created by kate spade new york and Hyphen radiates opulence, with contrasting white and grey terrazzo tiles, polished brass inlays and railings, and high gloss counter tops. The sophisticated white colour palette cleverly draws the eye towards the colourful assortment of product categories including handbags, ready-to-wear and fashion accessories whilst boasting an air of Parisian finesse.
Company: Portview Fit-Out
Project: Kate Spade, Paris
Project Location: Paris, France
The design of the flagship sought to embrace mid-century modern influences while maintaining the authentic aesthetic of the neighborhood. The store’s two-level façade was inspired by a traditional Parisian storefront, incorporating painted wood and dark stone accents. Furniture from the kate spade new york home collection is blended into the overall store design, allowing customers to immerse themselves in the world of kate spade new york.
Our goal was to make the clients’ creative vision a reality and that’s exactly what we’ve done here. The integrity of the kate spade new york brand is present throughout, with subtle splashes of colour and signature Sputnik lighting, and is integrated with Parisian elements to give the store individuality and cultural context.
Undoubtedly it was the surrounding Parisian architecture that played a huge part in the design of the store. The design of the two-storey boutique is distinctive and individual, with features ranging from neon signage and iconic patterned wallpapers, through to crown mouldings and crafted pilasters. The overall look combines kate spade new york’s trademark playful aesthetic with classic Haussmann-esque mouldings and detailing that are typical of Parisian architecture.
The joinery and cabinet work were designed in the U.S. and fitted by ourselves. The unique lighting scheme sourced “Sputnik” fittings from the U.S. which were rewired for local currents, giving the store a distinctive American ambience.
This store was a unique site in a landmark location, and the team overcame a number of challenges to ensure a successful delivery. Working on one of the most exclusive streets in Paris, came with complex local regulations that contrast vastly with those in the UK. For example, when it came to navigating the Parisian planning processes we needed to work closely with the local authority to adapt the shopfront design to meet their requirements. This involved a lengthy 16-week consultation process, which resulted in the commission of a black, high-gloss painted lacquer finish with gilded detailing, which gives the shopfront a signature look that is both classic and chic.
To work our way around the language barrier, we have a number of multilingual employees who are fluent in French and were able to communicate effectively with the local representatives.
Working in partnership with kate spade new york and Hyphen was a delight, largely thanks to our shared passion for creating exceptional spaces, experiences and solutions for people to enjoy.
This is the second retail project we’ve fitted for kate spade new york, with the completion of the Regent Street store in London in 2016 and the Paris flagship location last summer. It was a real team effort from our outstanding employees and we take great pride in having completed another standout project in one of the world’s fashion capitals.
The SBID Awards sets the precedent for design excellence and are hugely influential in curating new trends and industry standards, which we should all aspire to.
At Portview we pride ourselves in delivering exceptional interiors that are world-class. To be recognised on such a global scale by the industry’s most respected organisation, would be a huge achievement for us and one which we would cherish. Last year we were shortlisted for our fit-out of Harvey Nichols’ Menswear and Beauty Lounge departments in Knightsbridge, which was a brilliant experience and one which we hope to emulate again this year.
Questions answered by Simon Campbell, Managing Director at Portview Fit-Out
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the charmingly opulent, French-inspired eatery by DesignLSM, click here to see more.
Entries were received, finalists deliberated and the winners of the SBID International Design Awards 2017 have been announced! Click here to see the full list.
Portview Fit-Out | SBID International Design Awards 2018
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