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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.

Ibis hotel design of restaurant with plug sockets

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.

Hotel design of bedroom suite interior dividing sleep and work space

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.

Hotel design used to accommodate technology and tv screens into public spaces

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

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

What was the clients brief? 

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.

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

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

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.

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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.

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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.

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

Questions answered by Katharine Pooley, Director at Katharine Pooley Ltd 

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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.

Entries were received, finalists deliberated and the winners of the SBID International Design Awards 2017 were announced! Click here to see the full list.

We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire

Katherine Pooley | SBID International Design Awards 2018

Kuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, LondonKuwait interior design project in Kuwait City by Katharine Pooley, London

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 

What was the clients brief? 

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.

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

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

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.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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.

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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 

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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.

We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire

Portview Fit-Out | SBID International Design Awards 2018

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 

What was the clients brief? 

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.

 

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

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

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.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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!

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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  

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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.

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

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

Project Location: Greater London, United Kingdom

What was the clients brief? 

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.

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

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

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!

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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.

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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.

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

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

Project Location: Greater London, United Kingdom

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.

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

What was your team’s highlight of the project? 

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.

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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

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

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

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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.

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

Project Location: Greater London, United Kingdom 

Clare Gaskin Interiors, Retro, Luxury, Interiors

What was the clients brief? 
 The brief was simple, to maintain the exterior of this charming lodge but to create a playful den inside, suitable for entertaining the client's children and their teenage friends. Surprise and playfulness were the watchwords, with the client referencing fantastical spaces from his travels, such as the neon extravaganza of Burning Man and Tokyo's Robot Restaurant. As well as the video games room and chill out rooms for his children, the client’s only request was for a gym and sauna to be included for himself.
Luxury, Living Room, Interior Design, Clare Gaskin

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

Clare Gaskin Interiors, Basketball Court, Luxury Design, Design

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

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.

What was your team’s highlight of the project? 

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...

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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 

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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

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

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

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home
What was the clients brief? 
Our client approached us to put forward a schematic proposal for their new 6-bedroom show home in Ascot, Berkshire. Having previously worked with an alternative interior designer, our client wanted to inject a different look for this property, one that was not based on neutral palettes alone, so they approached us. The BI team embraced the concept, and, after a lot of research, we put forward our proposal. In addition to creating a refined and locally unique scheme, our client provided us with a budget of £150,000.00 inc VAT. This was to cover all decorative specifications such as wall coverings and paint schedules and to specify, space plan and supply all furniture, fabrics, decorative lighting, accessories and window treatments.

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home

What inspired the design of the Project?

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.

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home, UK Design

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

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.

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home, UK Design

What was your team’s highlight of the project? 

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.

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home, UK Design

Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?

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.

Barclay Interiors, SBID Awards, Berkshire Show Home. Interior Design, Design, Show Home, UK Design

Questions answered by Sarah Barclay & Megan Loughborough of Barclay Interiors

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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.

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Barclay Interiors | SBID International Design Awards 2018

 

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