This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the latest venture from Michelin-starred chefs Chris and Jeff Galvin. DesignLSM were tasked with introducing the opulent eatery, Demoiselle by Galvin, to Dubai's newest urban living destination - CITY WALK 2. The interior design concept expands upon their flagship restaurant located within Harrods department store, London. The 6,039 sqft restaurant is set across two floors featuring an artisan patisserie counter, juice bar, modern tea parlour and two intimate terrace spaces, which offer patrons resplendent views. The overall scheme combines a modern and stylish aesthetic with a delightfully warm ambiance, radiating elegance at every turn, and giving Dubai a taste of the artistic and enchanting French charm we all adore.
Company: DesignLSM
Project: Demoiselle by Galvin
Project Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
What was the clients brief?
Having worked with the Galvin brothers on a number of projects over the years, we were delighted when they approached us to design the interior for their first venue within the Middle East. Our brief was to encapsulate the essence of the original Demoiselle in the Harrods department store in London, creating an elegant, modern and stylish all-day dining destination.
What inspired the design of the Project?
The interior design scheme was originally inspired by an ornate collection of paintings illustrating beautiful birds of paradise, and Parisian women in a pastel-hued palette, which Chris Galvin stumbled across on a trip to Champagne. We decided to curate the opulent artwork into the interior and branding of the scheme; creating a stylish and feminine design aesthetic with signature touches that allude to Galvin’s authentic French character.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
The budget constraints on the project were very challenging and as a consequence there was a constant effort and policing on our side to maintain the design essence and DNA of the Galvin Brand.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
Seeing several years of discussions and development coming to full fruition. Demoiselle is unique to Dubai…there really is nothing quite like it!
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
The SBID awards are a great platform for designers to showcase their work to the industry and other fellow creatives. Demoiselle by Galvin was a big moment for us as a design practice, we feel we have achieved something very unique here and really wanted to showcase our hard work and success on this beautiful scheme.
Questions answered by Simon Spiteri, Architectural & Projects Director at DesignLSM
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If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the illustrious Mayfair apartment by 1.61 London, 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.
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
DesignLSM | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features an illustrious Mayfair apartment, seamlessly integrated with premium quality textures and materials, then finished with high-end furnishings to create the ultimate luxury aesthetic. Akin to the exceptional gentry and opulent nature of its neighbouring properties in the exclusive and sought-after territory of Mayfair's Park Lane, this ultra lush pad is definitely on par with the beau monde of London's residential elite and has encapsulated the essence of luxury with distinction; boasting the latest in interior technology.
Company: 1.61 London
Project: Park Street, Mayfair
Project Location: Greater London, United Kingdom
The brief was to create a fluid interior design scheme with effortless transition, whilst adhering to symmetrical elevation structures. Luxurious finishes were also a necessity given the apartment was next to Park Lane with the best technology integration that was on the market. Structurally we were required to open up the floorplate and increase the ceiling heights throughout to achieve the best possible design result.
The interior design of the property was inspired by a few key principles. The location was a key driver in the aesthetic. We needed to create an opulent and luxurious look in a modern way. We also wanted to set a benchmark on the design principles of 1.61 London with all of our years of experience in the industry. We wanted to combine and tie together the very best elements we had seen in the interior design industry and create a breathtaking apartment.
In any Central London building, working in tandem with buildings surveyors is always tough. You are always having to push the marker to get them on board with a unique design request. There were so many tough hurdles we overcame to deliver the end scheme from rebuilding the floors structure to achieve a 3.1m ceiling height, adding intricate ceiling details, including the master bathroom polished plastered arch. The duo sync FR glass sliding doors hidden in front of back lit onyx end panels were a particularly unique and difficult design creation because we had such limited depth to achieve everything we wanted in a fire rated manner.
I think it was all the amazing textures and materials we managed to incorporate into the project. In the kitchen, back lit onyx panels stand opposite to elevationally identical doors, finished in mirror, polished plaster and metal. The reception room main elevation of rebated metal bead lines the polished plastered TV wall and sits centred above a remote controlled marble clad ethanol burner. Either side are book cases with 50mm thick walnut open shelving and triangular chain mail upholstered doors. We mix natural stone with polished plaster, paint against wallpaper, engineered wood flooring against metal profiles and carpet inserts. In the kitchen a mixture of liquid metal doors, ostrich feather lacquered bass units and black glass wall units were chosen. These materials are interchanged and re-implemented throughout to keep continuation but to make each space distinct and interesting.
Also worth mentioning that Alexa controls the entire house!
They are a very important institute which pushes the very boundaries of innovative and new design. They give designers a platform to showcase their achievements and show you what you are competing against. Each year the standards increase and each year you have to up your game. They also showcase design to a wider audience which gives your work the necessary critical platform for all to see and discuss.
To see more inside this lavish Mayfair apartment watch the video tour, here.
Questions answered by Michael Christou and Alexander Christou, Directors of 1.61 London
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the fiery and exotically-inspired Bankside abode by Hill House Interiors, click here to see more.
1.61 London | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a punchy penthouse apartment which flirts dangerously with the colour red. Inspired by the exoticism of the wild tiger, this apartment exudes excitement and sophistication through the bold blend of bright colours. The carefully selected furnishings give this property its electrifying, yet illustrious edge to capture the imagination of all those who visit this elaborately eclectic abode. Leading guests on an exciting journey as they are lured through this enticing jungle of vibrancy and undeniable style to soak up the stunning 360 views across London's Bankside. We're sure it'll receive flaming reviews from anyone lucky enough to explore this tastefully contemporary oriental oasis.
Company: Hill House Interiors
Project: London Bankside Penthouse
The clients, a professional couple with global business interests, gave us a detailed brief, confidently underlining their love of strong colour - particularly red, their passion for the exotic wild tiger, and their need of a few quirky surprises to entertain guests as they explore the main reception areas of their fabulous new London home.
When a brand new 22nd floor bankside penthouse was introduced to us as a blank canvas, we felt duty bound to deliver an interior design scheme as stunning as the 360 degree views, delivering interiors worthy of this iconic landmark building, famous for its dramatic glass pitched roofs.
Our team managed to turn this project around in record time – from start to finish we managed to be in and out within just three months, which, considering the long lead time for a lot of the bespoke interior design elements within the home, is no mean feat!
The Sharon Marston chandelier above the super-sized one off table was custom made, each strand measured to a specific length to line up with the ascending height of the overhead lofty glass ceiling. Each strand was hung separately to ensure a sleek and perfectly level finish above the table.
Additionally, stretching across two walls are hand carved metal panels featuring a vibrant jungle scene, complete with prowling tigers. Soaring to the ceiling of the upper internal gallery, the framed and lit bronze artwork creates the ultimate show stopping backdrop to this impressive living space.
SBID are consistently at the forefront of both new trends and interior design, while championing exciting and innovative suppliers. As well as the fabulous awards, events and networking opportunities they organise, the SBID accreditation give us an edge as interior designers, it’s also great to work closely with such a wonderful team.
Questions answered by Helen Bygraves, co-Founder of Hill House Interiors
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If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the artfully designed family home in Amman, 'Jordan House' by Iggi Interior Design, click here to see more.
Hill House Interiors | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features an architecturally strong property with a bold and artful design. This large family home is located in the warm climate of Amman, Jordan, a city known for it's ancient ruins which are steeped in history. The formal rooms in this property were inspired by Middle Eastern design and the relaxed family areas were influenced by UK culture, including red telephone phone boxes, Union Jack curtains and UK stamps emblazoned on rugs! The property features contemporary and bright aesthetics with influences from pop culture and pop art. The home had a lot of separate areas which enabled the designers to create formal spaces juxtaposed with a mix of informal and family spaces, the focus was on creating dynamic spaces that bring a large family together using art, strong patterns and bold design. Susan White Interior Design & Iggi Interior Design create unique spaces for large properties around the globe.
Company: Iggi Interior Design
Project: Jordan House
What was the brief?
To create a luxurious home for a VIP family in Jordan. This house would be their main residence while in Jordan and need to both entertain VIP’s as well as act as a relaxed family home.
The family lived between the UK and Jordan, so it was important to incorporate both cultures into the design. The formal areas have been inspired by the Middle East and the relaxed informal areas looked towards the UK for inspiration.
Installing this large 27000 square foot project was a real highlight, it was a labour of love, but to see it all come together was such a magical feeling.
At Iggi Interior Design, we believe that community is so important and design awards give us the chance to share our work with the wider community so that we can all learn and be inspired by each other too. Plus, it’s nice to win every now and then and be recognised for your work.
Questions answered by Susan White, Founder of Iggi Interior Design
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If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the flamboyant retro interiors of Clare Gaskin's 'Surrey Fun House' click here to see more
Iggi Interior Design | SBID International Design Awards 2018
In a new series we profiled the SBID Masters of Design to discover a new perspective on global interior design. We spoke with interior designer Liang Jianguo who attained degrees in Art and Architectural Design before launching his career in the 1980's when he co-founded the Newsdays Design Studio. His award-winning projects have harnessed a design palate inspired by the contemporary dynamism of a young and rising generation, whilst capturing the essence of Chinese culture and remaining sympathetic to China's traditions.
Designer: Liang Jianguo
Company: Newsdays Design Ltd
When did you know you wanted to work in design?
When I was five years old. I came across a picture by Qi Baishi, one of the most eminent Chinese artists and from that day, I decided to become immersed in art. In terms of my career, I officially became a designer when I established my own interior design company in 1984.
What has been the most career-changing moment for you?
It all started in 2004 with my Beijing North Lake Number Nine Club & Restaurant project. From then I started to formalise my own style and design concept, fully-integrating elements of Chinoiserie, modernism and nature in an international way.
What advice do you have for design students?
They should seek to understand more about life and society - and not be swayed by achievement or vanity. Don't think too much of becoming a master designer; instead do more to solve the original needs of design.
How would you like to use your talent and work around the world?
I'd like to present Oriental culture and the Chinese aesthetic on the international stage while introducing good Western design and ideas to China through collaborations. It would be great to work on international projects between foreign and Chinese designers.
The task of designers is to solve problems posed by human life and to address the practical and spiritual demand of the human condition. This is the common concern of all nations so really we can say that design is stateless, and not limited by geographical boundaries.
What does being a SBID Master of Design - CHINA mean to you?
For me, it means we can collaborate internationally with some of the most inspiring international designers - this will allow us to expand each other's horizons.
Questions answered by Liang Jianguo of Newsdays Design
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the retro flamboyance of the Surrey Fun House. With a minimal brief which requested the inclusion of a video game/chill out room, a gym, sauna and outdoor basketball court, Clare Gaskin Interiors transformed a Georgian lodge into a truly unique and mind boggling fun house, designed to entertain the client’s children and teenage friends whilst retaining a charmingly quaint exterior facade. The client stated 'surprise me' and that's exactly what Clare Gaskin did! Like a mysterious secret wonderland, no-one would suspect the kaleidoscope of colour hiding behind the doors of this quaint Surrey residence.
All bedrooms were removed, the kitchen minimised to essentials. Clare Gaskin commissioned graffiti artists to create a space invader themed den, a wet room with mosaic tiles in homage to pac-man, and a neon artist to create a multicoloured neon gaming room. A full-spec gym and sauna were installed, and in place of the basketball hoop, a multipurpose court was created - with lines that change colour to allow different ballgames to be played. The finished project was a realisation of every teenager's fantasy 'play' house - a myriad of colour, neon lights, games and cultural references.
Company: Clare Gaskin Interiors
Project: Surrey Fun House
The client's son had asked for a basketball hoop in the back garden. Instead, as a surprise, the client bought a Georgian Lodge adjacent to the main house with the idea to install a full basketball court in place of a hoop.
Perhaps leaving behind our heritage designing family homes with their characteristic requests for clever storage and instead, to create a unique, fun and surprising space tempering the traditional with the crazy. It was challenging to start with a blank canvas and re-imagine a perfect entertaining space for teenagers with a hint of Dad thrown in. With regards to the lodge, it had been subjected to some ugly rear extensions – including unattractive uPVC windows – we decided to use Crittel style doors and windows to improve the rear façade – they work perfectly unifying the traditional elements of the property whilst blending with the contemporary style of much of the interior (and exterior) design.
The Graffiti room – watching CEPT, the graffiti artist at work, the tiling of the PacMan bathroom and ultimately the final handover to the client – At his very trusting insistence, he wanted to be as surprised as his children and was kept in the dark as to the final designs. This led to a very nervous grand reveal...
The SBID International Design Awards give designers, like ourselves, an opportunity to celebrate our industry whilst acknowledging a large range of projects, budgets and styles. Our hope was to submit a different type of project from our usual work that could be showcased to our peers.
Questions answered by Clare Gaskin of Clare Gaskin Interiors
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the striking interiors of the Berkshire Show Home created by Barclay Interiors. click here to see more
Clare Gaskin Interiors| SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the striking interiors of the Berkshire Show Home created by Barclay Interiors. From concept to completion, the main objective for this space was to deliver a glamorous, unique and energised scheme whilst also achieving a fully functional environment within a fixed budget. Barclay Interiors layered colour, texture and interesting forms to create a smart yet unique interior. From pops of zesty orange to bespoke Eglomise wall art designed by Barclay Interiors themselves, it was their prerogative to deliver a smart yet interesting scheme that would make their development stand out from the many show homes in Berkshire. The intricacies such as upholstery studding and header selections for window treatments were just as vital as the overall continuity. In addition to achieving a refined aesthetic, it was imperative that the design was fully functional and not simply pleasant to observe. In line with this, all space planning ensured a comfortable traffic flow and all regulations were met.
Company: Barclay Interiors
Project: Berkshire Show Home
Project Location: Ascot, United Kingdom
As our client wanted a unique look, bespoke design and individuality within budget was both a huge inspiration and a great challenge. In the entrance hall, rather than specifying a print or an over-scaled mirror, we decided to design our own wall art. Through layering a selection of eglomisé mirrored trays, we created their own installation and therefore a unique stamp for first impressions. We also used some unique photography from the National Portrait gallery.
Typically, Barclay Interiors manage their projects from concept to completion. This of course includes managing all trades and contractors. For this project though, we worked alongside our client’s team so this dictated the time frame, which did slip slightly, which meant some juggling for us. However, it worked well.
It made us very happy to create an edgier show house with some 70s glamour. This was the first time we had worked with this client and, seeing how pleased they were with the end result, was fabulous. We are currently working with them on three further properties so it is definitely a huge sense of achievement completing a project that is slightly more challenging (in both style and budget) but where we are still able to bring a huge smile to our client’s face whilst establishing a lasting working relationship.
Actually, as this was the first time we had entered a competition, we decided to go big or go home, and chose the renowned SBID awards! We were so incredibly proud to be finalists - our budget must have been the smallest in our category so it goes to show what can be achieved! In reality, we felt it would be a great way to have our work recognised and to allow others to see what we offer as a practice. It has been a wonderful experience and we look forward to entering more in the future.
Questions answered by Sarah Barclay & Megan Loughborough of Barclay Interiors
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with click here to see more
Barclay Interiors | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features Orbi, Dubai an interactive visitor centre. Orbi was conceptualised to offer an amazing digital experience to its visitors and the entire space revolves around interactive technology. The space is designed for people of all generations and different walks of life to share the fascination with nature. Orbi Dubai fuses BBC Earth’s world-renowned Natural History content with SEGA’s innovation and plunges visitors into the heart of the natural world! From the heat of the Dubai desert, visitors can experience the chilling temperatures of Mount Kenya at -25°C. This multi-part experience takes the guest who dares, into freezing Polar environments where they experience the sensation of Antarctic cold and blizzard conditions. The space is equipped with real time thermal image of guests as they react to the freezing Polar conditions, all displayed on a monitor.
Company: Bluehaus Group
Project: Orbi
Project Location: Dubai, UAE
To create an interactive, multi-sensory and educational virtual wildlife park for people of all generations. BBC Earth’s world-leading nature content was teamed with SEGA’s cutting edge technology to plunge visitors into the heart of the natural world and Bluehaus Group were briefed to develop the interior design and MEP engineering design to suit and integrate all technology to create an experience that replicates the reality of being among nature. This technology includes laser projected images and videos, a sophisticated 22 point sound system with 3D soundscapes, scent technology, wind, fog, strobe lighting and vibrations.
Nature! All elements within the design were developed to emulate the natural environment as closely as possible. Furniture pieces, such as organic-shaped benches, and carpet designs were bespoke.
One of the toughest hurdles to solve was the air distribution such that it does not interfere with the effects (fog) and fire alarm such that neither life safety nor the audience experience is sacrificed. In the two main theatre (‘Meet the Komodo’ and ‘Earth Theatre’) we designed displacement ventilation to minimise air-movement from interfering with the fog effects.
Knowing that our work is helping to educate about the natural world and encouraging people to take ownership of it for future generations.
The end-result has far exceeded our own expectations and this is testament to the collaborative approach by all involved to deliver what is a highly complex and technical project. Therefore, we wanted to enter to reiterate how proud we are of our team who continue to commit to Bluehaus Group and to build awareness of this success on an international scale.
Questions answered by Emily Wong, Technical Design Manager at Bluehaus Group.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with DAR Design's bold, equine themed luxury residential project in Egypt. click here to see more
Bluehaus Group| SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the vibrant and enlivening luxury apartment in New Cairo which successfully integrates home automation technology with a sophisticated, contemporary design. We spoke to Eng. Mohamed El Abagy, The CEO & Co-founder of DAR Designs about this truly refreshing residential apartment design.
This luxury apartment in Egypt successfully integrates home automation technology with a sophisticated, modern design. Seeking to create harmony between the traditional and contemporary, the designer has given the apartment a high-end, luxury look while maintaining a connection with Arab culture through the display of local crafts throughout the interior. This residence also caters to the client’s active social lifestyle through an open plan space which includes the kitchen, guest living room, and dining room, all designed as one zone. To give the client privacy, the private area was also designed with its own exclusive family living room located between two bedrooms. The apartment also takes a huge step forward in terms of sustainability and energy efficiency, with its advanced home automation system designed to automatically shut off lighting and air conditioning when the occupants leave the room.
Company: DAR Designs
Project: Parkview Residence
Project Location: Cairo, Egypt
The client for this particular project is a young, open minded businessman who was obsessed with Arabian horses and enamoured with the yellow colour.
The clients passion for horses inspired us to play on this particular theme throughout our design process. The main design concept was to create a modern design with an Arabian touch to reflect his interests and personality beautifully.
The main challenge during this project was achieving optimum space management for all required spaces in this small area whilst preserving the need for privacy for residents during the design process. Creating the perfect mix of contemporary style blended with Arabian culture was also challenge as it was somewhat difficult to create without distortion.
The team's goal was to integrate home automation technology with a sophisticated, modern design. Seeking to create harmony between the traditional and contemporary, with a high-end, luxury look while maintaining a connection with Arab culture through the accessories whilst promoting sustainability and energy efficiency.
The SBID International Design Awards is a very reputable & honourable organisation and being celebrated as winners in our category is very beneficial and adding credibility and value to our leading Middle Eastern firm.
Questions answered by Eng. Mohamed El Abagy, CEO & Co-founder of DAR Designs
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the truly incredible renovations of a Category A Listed building in the heart of Glasgow’s Park District by Bernard Interiors. click here to see more
DAR Designs | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the incredible renovations of a Category A Listed building in the heart of Glasgow’s Park District by Bernard Interiors.
This imposing five-storey sandstone townhouse, situated in one of Glasgow’s most sought after areas, majestically overlooks Kelvingrove Park with fantastic views across the city. The townhouse had lain derelict for over 5 years, once used as office space throughout the 90’s, and had fallen into disrepair. Bernard Interiors were challenged to create a contemporary design whilst also utilising the historic and period features which run throughout the building. Bernard Interiors worked alongside the developer for three years to win planning permission to convert the building back to a residential dwelling. The client brief was to create a stylish and inviting family home with a luxurious finish and an abundance of high-end details to ensure ultimate “wow factor.”
Company: Bernard Interiors
Project: Park Terrace
Project Location: Glasgow, United Kingdom
What was the client’s brief?
Bernard Interiors were challenged to create a design, which was contemporary yet sympathetic to the historic and period features which run throughout the building. The client brief was to transform a 9700 sq ft Grade A listed, derelict office building into a stylish, chic and inviting family home with a luxurious finish and an abundance of “wow factor” details.
Glamorous 70’s influences were high on the clients as agenda, and can be seen throughout the home with interesting touches such as chaise lounge fringed in silk, large scale lamps and photography by Slim Aarons.
Due to the scale and complexity of the Grade A Listed building, maintaining and restoring period features including oversized bespoke cornicing, ceiling roses and original fireplaces in line with a contemporary edge proved challenging
The team enjoyed working closely with the developer to commission a bespoke chandelier designed by George Singer. The chandelier cascades from the top of the stairwell to the ground floor, and features thousands of smoked glass Swarovski crystals creating maximum impact as soon as you enter the home, greatly enhancing the effect of the imposing staircase.
It is an internationally recognised award and we felt that our challenging project Park Terrace warranted recognition from this prestigious award body.
Questions answered by Jennifer Bernard, Managing Director at Bernard Interiors.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with the truly majestic 'Whale Bar' designed by WOW Architects click here to see more
Bernard Interiors | SBID International Design Awards 2018
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