This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features Devonshire Club, a sophisticated and opulently feminine interpretation of a private members' club set in the illustrious heart of the U.K, which has been imaginatively conceived by March & White's creative London-based design team.
When commissioned to create Devonshire Club in the heart of The City of London, the design team eschewed the clichés of masculinity that are almost mandatory in the culture of private members’ club. Opting instead for a confident, feminine and creative muse, they composed a place that feels invigorating, exciting and chic. Devonshire Club’s interior has been developed through the layering of mid-century influence. A 1950s-inspired architectural base is layered with the softer femininity of fashion design, incorporating its glamorous pattern, texture and colour. This process has successively produced a unique series of spaces, each with their own character yet subtly connected to the next.
Company: March & White
Project: Devonshire Club, London
Project Location: London, United Kingdom
What was the client’s brief?
Our clients philosophy for Devonshire Club was to create an elegant interior design scheme for an iconic members’ club and hotel destination for London’s city elite; a glamorous and subtly feminine space which confidently speaks of creativity and sophistication.
What inspired the design of the project?
Devonshire Club’s interior was developed through the layering of mid-century influence. We created a 50’s inspired architectural base and layered this with the softer femininity of fashion design, incorporating its glamorous pattern, texture and colour. This process enabled us to successively produce a unique series of spaces each with their own character yet subtly connected to the next.
We passionately studied the instinctive elegance of Italian design heritage. From Gio Ponti’s breath-taking pattern work, the purity of Carlo Scapa’s detailing and through to the beautiful intricate moulded ceilings of Milan’s Villa Necchi. These timeless signifiers of sophisticated elegance inspired us as we composed an interior which is entirely unique and fresh.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
A private members club has a complex purpose and by adding to this 70 hotel suites above for the use of members, the logistics, functionality and performance for the Club as a whole required scientific analysis. Aesthetically, each room, each space of the club, needed to have a sense of the unique whilst being an episode in a larger, entire, piece. We very much enjoyed the challenge of bringing these elements together, so much so that with the thrill of seeing and experiencing the result of the process, any challenges seem to fade.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
As always there are many, many highlights to an interior design project of this scale and status but a few in particular would have to include the commitment to bespoke craft throughout the Club which makes it truly unique and defines the March & White signature. We worked closely with the Italian textile house Nattier, developing bespoke rugs, fabrics and wallcoverings, involving exhaustive rounds of sampling to ensure the perfect outcome for the Club. We also worked with the exceptional Murano glass specialists Seguso, who helped us create the incredible and totally bespoke chandelier for the Club’s reception entrance. Both of these processes produced amazing and rewarding results.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
We very much admire the work of SBID and would feel honoured to receive one of their awards. We are also very proud of our design for Devonshire Club and feel SBID is the perfect place to showcase our work at the Club.
Questions answered by Harriet Liley, Senior Interior Designer at March & White.
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If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Muza Lab for Kanuhura Resort, Click Here
Entries to the SBID Awards 2017 are now closed. To find out more about booking a table, Click Here
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
March & White | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the dream-like Kanuhura Resort, an island retreat situated in Lhaviyani Atoll, the Maldives, a true paradise for free-spirited travellers.
Inspired by the concept of 'gypsy jet-setters' or 'gypsetters' a term coined by Muza Lab - the project focused on pulling inspiration from these two concepts. Combining the free-spirited lifestyle of 'gypsies' with the decadence and the spontaneity of 'the jet set-life.'
“We found inspiration in the legends, culture and natural world of the islands – their stories, colours and sculptural forms. By bringing these influences into the experience of Kanuhura, we have created a sense of free-spirited timelessness and well being where guests can escape from their normal lives and find a place to create their own special memories with family and friends.” Inge Moore
Muza Lab completely redesigned and reimagined the private island resort breathing new life and spirit into the holiday retreat.
“The concept of luxury is changing,” says Moore. “Luxury is now about what you get to feel inside rather than what you have to show off. As designers, this means it’s our thought process that sparks these feelings, and that really excites me. So with Kanuhura, we loved translating the values that bring happiness to sophisticated, well-travelled ‘gypsetters’ into experiences designed to elevate their sophisticated, free-spirited souls.”
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Inge Moore, Founder of Muza Lab about this spectacular project.
Company: Muza Lab
Project: Kanuhura Resort, Maldives
Project Location: The Maldives
We were presented with the opportunity to redesign every existing area of Kanuhura Maldives as well as to introduce new spaces, working from the big picture though to every minor detail, from creating larger guestrooms and renovating the F&B outlets, to amenities such as crockery, picnic baskets and uniform collections for the staff.
We wanted to create something different from the usual luxury hotel offering in the Maldives, something that was bohemian, colourful and laid-back. Our inspiration for this was the word “gypset” – describing a lifestyle that combines the unconventionality of the gypsy with the sophistication and speed of the jetsetter.
We always like to tell stories through our design and, in this case, we were spoilt for choice! Extraordinary legends, fascinating cultural traditions and the stunning natural world of the islands gave us so many ideas that we could weave together, taking their forms and palette into different spaces and bringing them to life with an authentic sense of place.
The inspiration for the arrival area, for example, is the black and white sarong of the local Boduberu performers who showcase tales of heroism, satire and romance. The island kitchen A Mano, which translates as “touched by the hand”, embraces all that is handmade and natural, with lime washed timbers, local stones, woven fabrics and eclectic handmade ceramics. In Bottega Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar, fiery reds and corals mingle with sandy pinks, yellows and bright blues in a celebration of the colours of the Indian Ocean.
With the guestrooms & suites, we wanted to showcase the phenomenal panoramas, whilst bringing elements of the landscape into the design through material and colour choice. The Palm Houses take their palette from the surrounding palm trees and their position on the beach means that they benefit from uninterrupted views towards the ocean. The Shell Houses are raised over the Indian Ocean with exteriors inspired by the traditional local dwellings. Each of their outdoor courtyards has a bath so that guests can bathe under the stars whilst the terraces feature nets with large fluffy cushions suspended over the turquoise water, allowing sophisticated castaways a very private and luxurious connection with nature.
As the resort is so remote, the logistics of getting all the materials and products we needed on site was probably the toughest hurdle. We also had to bear the humid climate in mind when making each design choice. Everything used needed to be hard-wearing to combat the sun, sea and tropical rain, yet also beautiful. Striking the balance between the two was imperative to create a luxury oasis that could stand the test of time.
The best thing about the project was actually the same as what we found hardest – the location. It was such a fabulous place to work and whilst it could be a hassle, it was worth it.
SBID International Design Awards are widely considered to be one of the top schemes in the industry. It is important for us to compete against leading studios worldwide and the calibre of projects entered is always high.
Questions answered by Inge Moore, Founder of Muza Lab
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Studio Proof for the NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Click Here
Entries to the SBID Awards 2017 are now closed. To find out more about booking a table Click Here
Muza Lab | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, located in Amsterdam and overlooking the legendary Dam Square.
The Grand Café, housed within the Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky has been imaginatively revived by Studio Proof, along with the hotel’s other food and beverage offerings and public spaces. Elegant and contemporary but also designed clearly within the style and tradition of noble European cafés, the venue is three times the size of its previous iteration and has been sectioned into three adjoining areas, each accommodating different dining experiences. A fully glazed pantry housing enticing patisserie displays stands by the entrance, surrounded by compact booths. The next space in the enfilade is dominated by a magnificent seafood counter dressed with a white carrara marble top and custom lamps, and framed at each end by a floor-to-ceiling champagne wall. The far end is balanced with a floor-to-ceiling display of fine teas and sharing tables, with bespoke pendant lights hang throughout to articulate the space and capture the attention of passers-by.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with David Morris, Creative Director of Studio Proof.
Company: Studio Proof
Project: NH Collection Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky, Amsterdam
Project Location: Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Studio Proof was tasked with the redesign of all public areas and food and beverage venues within the legendary Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. This was the first full refurbishment of the hotel for nearly half a century and called for the designers to rationalise the space to make sense of the 50-plus individual buildings that had been absorbed into the property since 1865. NH had just launched their new luxury NH Collection brand and so this was the first manifestation of it. Relevance to the brand and its colours were very much part of the client’s focus and we had to skilfully steer that alongside the sensitivities needed in this historic and much-loved hotel.
We were inspired by the history of the hotel, the story of the original owner, and the fantastic location. We wanted to tastefully update the spaces to combine cosmopolitan style with subtle references to the hotel’s heyday – the glamorous 1920s – to achieve interiors fit for the highest quality within the NH brand. The Grand Café is stylish and modern whilst also in keeping with the traditions of noble European cafes; we wanted to make the most of its stunning views across Dam Square and did so by adding more large windows and tripling its size so that it now spans one side of the hotel. The White Room is the oldest restaurant building in Amsterdam, protected by Dutch Monumental regulations, and called for a sensitive touch, whereas the Tailor Bar is a brand new venue whose more light-hearted décor is inspired by Wilhelm Krasnapolsky who started his working life as a tailor.
To be honest, it was simply getting 85% of our design ideas built. So much was invested into removing unexpected amounts of asbestos, inputting extra steel work to hold up the fragile houses that form the hotel (56 of them and some 500 years old), and the sheer quantity of steel needed to remodel the public spaces, it meant that the fit-out budget was really challenged. What we achieved with the budget we had and the building conditions we inherited was nothing short of a miracle, and stands as testament to the whole design team’s fortitude and perseverance. Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky is now a credible and stylish ambassador of the NH Collection brand values and it has been really fulfilling to see this design come to fruition.
To be honest, it was simply getting 85% of our design ideas built. So much had to be invested into unforeseen enabling works and introducing extra steel work to hold up the fragile houses that form the hotel (56 of them and some 500 years old) as well as the sheer quantity of steel needed to remodel the public spaces, it meant that the design budget constrained. The final achievement is testament to the whole design team’s resourceful pragmatism. Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky is now a credible and stylish ambassador of the NH Collection brand and it warms our hearts to see our design come to fruition.
I thought it would be interesting to take part in an international and prestigious contest known all over the world as The SBID International Design Awards; moreover I knew it could be also a good way to get in touch with other design professionals, to keep informed on the news and to be part of the SBID society.
Questions answered by David Morris, Creative Director of Studio Proof.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with II BY IV DESIGN's Residences of 488 University Avenue Click Here
Studio Proof | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the outstanding Residences of 488 University Avenue, a show flat development located in the bustling cosmopolitan city of Toronto, Canada.
Every great city has its iconic avenue, rich in history and heritage; New York has Park Avenue, Paris has the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Toronto has University Avenue - the ultimate landscape of society, culture and commerce for the cosmopolitan city. At The Residences of 488 University Avenue, the art of living has been raised to new heights. The Presentation Centre designed by II BY IV DESIGN features inspired kitchen, bath and lifestyle vignettes, as well as, a sales area and scaled model of the final building which embody the project’s lofty brand promise…’where extraordinary living becomes everyday life’. Key purchaser touch points include the stylised wall panelling (a motif found in the final building), which combine geometric shapes finished in lacquer, upholstery, chromed mirror and marble. Cove lighting, under-lit counters, down lights suspended between floating ceiling planes and contemporary decorative lighting in the vignettes work in unison to create a high-end and sophisticated atmosphere.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Dan Menchions, Partner, of II BY IV DESIGN.
Company: II BY IV DESIGN
Project: The Residences of 488 University Avenue
Project Location: Toronto, Canada
The Presentation Centre was created to promote the sales of the luxury condominium development, The Residences of 488 University Avenue. The client provided us with a simple brief - create a Presentation Centre (including Show Flat) that lived up to the iconic nature of the development and its brand promise, “where extraordinary living becomes everyday life.”
We were essentially given the creative freedom to incorporate elements that would typically only be found in a custom home, or considered ‘upgrades’ in other projects. Our goal was to create an inspired, contemporary space that united modern convenience with creative living.
Every great city has its iconic avenue, and Toronto has University Avenue. Inspiration for The Residences of 488 University Presentation Centre came from the developments ‘Discovery District’ locale, as well as Toronto’s urban fabric; the coming together of great minds, the creation of place and the exchange of innovative ideas.
The overall effect is chic, luxurious and thoroughly modern. Created to reflect the final building design, the Presentation Centre introduces prospective buyers to an overall atmosphere of high-end finishing, inspired design and the unlimited amenities which they can expect.
This was an exceptional project in that the client did not impose any creative restrictions or budget. Fortunately, our mandate was simply to create a Presentation Centre that would reflect the level of quality and care found in this iconic development.
Touring this one-of-a-kind Presentation Centre provides one with an amazing authentic living experience. No expense has been spared, and the level of luxury buyers will be moving into is clearly demonstrated. Inside the stunning entrance, we set the stage with rich detailed paneling, glowing glass walls and sumptuous, eclectic furnishings that seem to magically transport potential buyers. Two fully functioning kitchens in contrasting colour palettes display the luxurious finishes and standard appliance packages.
We entered the SBID International Design Awards because it is internationally renowned, and to be recognised by this prestigious awards program is truly a great honour.
Questions answered by Dan Menchions, Partner, of II BY IV DESIGN
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Hill House Interior's 'Surrey Pool House' Click Here
II BY IV DESIGN | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features Avalon II; a stunning residential project based in the U.K, designed by Hill House Interiors. Meticulous attention has been paid to every detail. The brief was to create timeless elegance with a luxurious yet neutral textured palette. Every room had to be of equal importance and opulence. The concept behind the design stays true to the Hill House philosophy ‘You only get one chance to make a first impression’.
Hill House Interiors were commissioned to design a home for an international businessman with an extended family, who required an 'out of town' base in the UK which included a home cinema, luxury pool, spa and gym.
They have created interest by using a myriad of textures, along with a collection of painstakingly sourced objets d’art, wall coverings and distinctive focal point lighting solutions, for this elegant family home. The end result is the quintessence of a Hill House Interiors scheme: classic contemporary, incorporating only the highest quality materials, with touches of this innovative design consultancy’s unique brand of glamour. The most recent addition to this stunning home includes a state of the art luxury spa, pool and gym area.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Helen Bygraves, Co-Founder of Hill House Interiors.
Company: Hill House Interiors
Project: Surrey Poolhouse
Project Location: Surrey, U.K
This truly luxurious spa complex was designed for an international businessman and his family to enjoy whilst in the UK. A sympathetic addition to the property, we consulted with the developers throughout, using our in-house architectural expertise to help create a practical, as well as aesthetically beautiful, new focal point for the home, which has been seamlessly integrated into the original part of the house
Texture was central to our design for this spa - for example, the wave-effect wall is beautifully juxtaposed by the crazy cut mother-of-pearl vases filled with stunning orchids. Another key feature is versatility, from the cinema room, a large feature glass wall allows extra light and ambience through to the pool area; we installed a concealed remote control blind to block the light when required for those movie moments!
It was of paramount importance that this extension blended seamlessly with the existing building, whilst bringing a wonderful new dimension to the house. The client is delighted with the fluidity of the space, and the soothing aqua colour palette which makes this the perfect place to relax, as well as workout.
From the textured wave wall to the transparent swimming pool cover, which acts as a safety measure for children whilst showcasing the stunning pool tiling, every element has been carefully considered to offer a majestic poolside experience. The chic single cabana cabins and sofa, from Italian furniture specialist Bonacina Pierantonio, provide pool-side seclusion, perfect for post-workout relaxation.
SBID are consistently at the forefront of both new trends and 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.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with 'Belmond Andean Explorer' Click Here
Hill House Interiors | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the inspiring Belmond Andean Explorer. Muza Lab has exquisitely re-imagined the slow travel experience through their design of South America's first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru, which launched on the rails May 2017. Working closely with Belmond to compliment the brand’s heritage for properties that are at one with nature, the studio has harmoniously woven cultural connections with inspirations from the idyllic surroundings, creating a detailed backdrop for the breathtaking spectacle of the Peruvian Andes.
“We design journeys and with Belmond Andean Explorer, we have distilled the romance, nostalgia and freedom of the train voyage. The train is a place of transition where time seems to slow down between the departure and the arrival. Our vision was to design somewhere to ponder and dream, a space where the beauty of the land can infuse the soul.”
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Inge Moore, Founder of Muza Lab.
Project: Belmond Andean Explorer
Project Location: Peru
For South America's first luxury sleeper train, Belmond Andean Explorer, Belmond gave us the brief to design a new, unparalleled level of experience that complements the brand’s heritage for properties that sit at one with nature. Our response was to create a one-of-a-kind immersion into Peru’s culture, landscape and crafts that gives passengers a contemporary, re-imagined way to enjoy the beauty of slow travel and create memories they will cherish forever.
Our vision was to distil the romance, nostalgia and freedom of the train voyage through an interior design that taps into the journey’s dreamlike sense of suspended time, an experience where moments seem to slow down. We harmoniously wove cultural connections with inspirations from the surroundings to create a detailed backdrop for the breathtaking Andes mountains.
Soft, neutral tones create an open, airy feel that allows the amazing vistas to take centre stage, while beautifully crafted furnishings reflect Peru’s heritage and natural bounty. Palettes, textures and patterns were chosen to create a sense of calm, a counterpoint to the vibrant panorama outside and a place of transition where travellers can ponder, dream and explore new horizons as the beauty of the land infuses their souls.
In the Observation Car, guests can enjoy nearly 360-degree views, either leaning against the scrolled balcony rails or relaxing on the central round seat. Inside, the bar is furnished with traditional embossed leather chairs and cosy sofas. The elegant Piano Bar Car offers a more formal ambience with a corner bar at one end facing an impressive grand piano at the other, and a palette of refined grey tweed with splashes of cornflower blue and golden yellow. The spa is formed of three treatment rooms painted a soothing shade of white to inspire a sense of stillness and relaxation as the colourful landscape whirs past.
Pale shades of taupe and cream enhance the two Dining Cars’ open spaciousness, and rich, cognac-toned leather chairs bring a substantial feel. One carriage also features a library as well as a boutique shop with original, handcrafted items from each destination along the route. Divider screens between seating groups have been refreshed with white macramé that replaces the inset timber panels.
Carrying up to 48 passengers, the Sleeper Cabins have been designed with all the sumptuous amenities guests expect from a luxury experience. Select nostalgic elements of the original train have been restored or added as emblems of the golden age of train travel. Brass room keys were forged into the shape of the Chakana Cross, one of the most enduring shamanic symbols of Incan civilisation and the train’s official crest.
There weren’t really any hurdles, but we did commit to creating a genuine, heartfelt experience of Peruvian culture versus a pastiche. Nearly everything has been locally sourced, supporting the local community while reducing the project’s carbon footprint. Finishes have been renewed where possible, and re-purposed materials contribute authenticity and environmental responsibility. For example, in the Observation Car, the round central seat is covered in fabrics from traditional dresses sourced by Muza at a Cusco market, and passementerie on the roman blinds is from antique Incan fabrics. The result is a welcoming spirit that feels real and honest. In addition, the design allows for furniture and accessories to be securely affixed due to the train’s movements.
The Belmond Andean Explorer travels through one of Earth’s most beautiful countries, a destination on many people’s bucket-list of places to explore. To get an understanding of Peru’s culture, we visited several Belmond properties in Lima, Cusco and the Sacred Valley and researched its amazing landscape as well as the textiles and textures of Peruvian arts and crafts. It was a magical experience and, with so much beautiful inspiration, truly a designer’s dream project.
The SBID International Design Awards elevate the stature of the interior design industry by highlighting exceptional talent, passion and expertise across the globe. Participating in the competition strengthens our reputation as imaginative leaders creating some of the world’s most exciting designs.
Questions answered by Inge Moore, Founder of Muza Lab.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with 'Peace Palace' Click Here
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the luminous and mesmerising 'Peace Palace' located in the heart of Taipei which boasts a total of 38 floors. The lobby, with its magnificent 17 meter high ceiling, hosts an incandescent light installation named “The Flight of the Cranes” which was imagined and created by the designer Lorenzo Tondelli. Over the lighting elements in polished brass, you will see purple, red and gold Murano glasses, which when lit from the back, reflect a myriad of colours across the installation and the walls, which creates a surreal and dreamy atmosphere.
The huge columns created in white marble were inspired by the classic Greek-roman temples, which exalt the vertical space. The large reception counter gives the illusion of being sculpted from a unique solid marble block. A second space, next to the monumental entrance, separated by majestic doors in wood and cast bronze, offers a library corner dedicated to reading, a big angular living room and some reserved areas to make conversation. The bar counter and the grand piano for live music, create a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Lorenzo Tondelli Founder & Designer of Lorenzo Tondelli Studio.
Company: Lorenzo Tondelli Studio
Project: Peace Palace
Project Location: Taipei, Taiwan
The client wanted a project that created a strong emotional connection and impression. He found a space with an available height of 17 meters. He requested that we take advantage of and enhance this height in order to surprise the visitors. We decided to design a mesmerising, large scale light installation to illuminate and mark out the available space.
Within the second area there was a metal structure supporting the building, the client asked for the structure of the second area to inspire the aesthetic of the furniture - making it a main element in the project. The furniture in the area needed to be elegant and luxurious, creating in a contemporary style with occidental taste, juxtaposed with references to Asian culture.
The inspirations for this project include a passion for Asian culture and history mixed with the traditional Italian handcrafting know-how. Regarding the light installation, I envisioned a flock of cranes flying lightly and graciously in the lobby hall space. From the moving and beating of the cranes’ wings, colourful feathers come off softly and float gracefully in the air. This is the vision that inspired the installation.
I had the chance to work with highly trained professionals that assisted me, helping the project run smoothly. We only struggled with communicating our ideas and visions a few times. I care deeply about the quality of my furniture and of my projects! Details and finishings must be perfect; they make a space worthy of being remembered and truly appreciated by the people who live in it.
The moment when the light installation “The Flight of the Cranes” was turned on for the first time! The reflections coloured by the Murano glass adorned the walls, all the elements of the project took life and amazed all the people in the lobby; I was really excited and I realised that my work was complete.
Questions answered by Lorenzo Tondelli, Founder & Designer of Lorenzo Tondelli Studio.
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with AFM Toyota 'The Wave' Click Here
Lorenzo Tondelli Studio | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features the cutting-edge and futuristic flagship showroom dubbed 'The Wave' for Toyota in Abu Dhabi. Al-Futtaim Motors is the exclusive distributor of Toyota in the UAE. Following its acquisition of ‘The Wave’ building, design consultancy Greenspace, was commissioned to create a contemporary and unique flagship and redefine the standards for retail and brand experience for Toyota.
The Wave is set over five floors of 14,000 m2 of retail and service space. The challenge for Greenspace was to plan the circulation throughout the buildings and differentiate sales, display, hospitality and interaction zones.
The interior design vision from the outset was to provide a modern and minimal aesthetic achieved by using undulating fins with inset premium lighting above smooth, white and grey ceramic flooring slabs.
Greenspace also included a family zone, complete with racetrack and drivable electric cars, travelator tunnel to join the buildings and a digital design studio area.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Adrian Caddy, CEO & Founder at Greenspace.
Company: Greenspace Ltd
Project: AFM Toyota 'The Wave'
Project Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Al-Futtaim Motors’ brief was to create a ‘unique retail concept’ to drive the complete interior and exterior fit out and the total customer experience for the ‘Wave’ facility, including:
Brief objectives
Based on Toyota and Al-Futtaim Motors’ shared brand vision, ‘Passion for Better’ was the creative inspiration for all the architectural and interiors, lighting, digital and experiential design development undertaken by Greenspace.
“We wanted the entire space to feel as if has been constructed from light waves, drawing the intensity of the exterior light through the building via the horizontal light contours on every floor.” — Adrian Caddy.
The signature style of the entire interior space uses simple, mathematical lines and radiuses. The curved lines of the Wave exterior are echoed along the length of each floor by suspended white fins that are contoured from the front to the back of each floor.
Planning, designing and installing a completely new circulation system to enable high numbers of visitors, as well as the cars themselves, to move easily around a 9,500m2 retail space was the biggest challenge Greenspace faced.
“The needs of all types of customers were considered in great detail through the customer journey planning workshops and the outputs fully informed the interior architecture and experience design process and their subsequent implementation” — Adrian Caddy.
Greenspace designed the architectural interiors following rigorous circulation and customer journey planning, the results of which led to the construction of 2 new escalator cores, a vehicle elevator, and a 50m covered bridge incorporating moving walkways that spans the retail showroom and the service centre workshops. The new escalators, moving walkways and lifts enable customers to explore the giant flagship with ease.
Probably the greatest achievement of the project is that fact that the Wave retail flagship experience is augmented by digital screens on each floor, providing customers with information and interactivity through multiple touch points.
“We decided very early on to eliminate displays of printed brochures and other forms of traditional point of sale, in favour of a seamless digital experience guided by hosts in the service of customers.” — Adrian Caddy.
The entire customer experience was designed to be paperless, and instead, utilising digital technology to engage and inform visitors seamlessly.
We were attracted to the SBID International Design Awards because of the recognition they provide to design excellence across diverse sectors and because they have the ability to attract international attention.
“As a London-based company with a specialist reputation, we were delighted to create the new Toyota retail flagship experience in Abu Dhabi. This is a unique project with real ambition that will create a powerful legacy for all involved. To win an SBID International Design Award would be a great honour to all involved.” — Adrian Caddy.
Questions answered by Adrian Caddy, CEO & Founder at Greenspace
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with No.3, One Park Shanghai Click Here
Greenspace | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features an extravagant residential space located in Gubei, Shanghai, a finalist in our Residential over £1M category last year. The aim of the project was to create a prestigious and comfortable home which encompassed all the requirements of the owners, namely style and business functionality.
In the living area, the Portugal Grey marble flooring perfectly matches the jade marble TV wall, exuding ultimate elegance. The graceful accent continues in the adjoining dining area with the Shangri-la black marble mini bar creating a subtle yet elegant space. The master suite is topped with dark-oak flooring and light carpet to illustrate a contrasting visual effect of warm and cool colours, conjuring up a holistic luxury experience. In bedroom two, the brown palettes work together with the glossy wood finishes create a luxurious, streamlined look. With carefully selected materials and furniture, the designer has arranged the space with a contemporary approach, creating a refined, tasteful and luxury residence for its owners.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Chong Chiu Fung, Chief Creative Officer at Steve Leung
Company: Steve Leung Designers
Project: No.3, One Park Shanghai
Project Location: Gubei, Shanghai, China.
The project is situated in Gubei, which is a premium location for residence. The target demographic for this project was wealthy families with a high income, so we needed to create homes that reflected their status, lifestyle and taste for the luxurious.
Also, as lots of the owners are businessmen, we needed to take into account their specific requirements, including work spaces for their everyday business needs.
Italian design was a big inspiration for this project - especially their premium leather which is known for its craftsmanship and high quality. Italian design also possesses a certain substance and originality. To create an absolutely luxurious and indulgent experience for the residents we felt that adding Italian furniture and decors would not only lift up the whole space, but would also appeal to the style and the taste of the owners.
Located in the heart of the prestigious Gubei International Residence area, the client hoped that One Park Shanghai would not only serve as an extravagant residence but also serve as a place for business. Due to the fact that residential and commercial/business designs are different in terms of the ambience and functions, the design team had to find a way to accommodate both needs and requirements.
In the end, the design team were able to create a space that satisfied all the needs of the owner. From the colour palette to the material selection, the design director hand-picked fabrics, upholstery and wallpapers in Italy and created a chic home space with an official work station tailored for business. Sophistication and extravagance is demonstrated through the use of lacquered wood, hand-woven leather finishes, grey patterned marble, silk finishes and brushed stainless steel finishes, etc.
The residence was a very large space so the design team had to make use of careful spatial planning with different zones designated for different purposes. We took the client's brief and starting working on it. After the design proposal, the client was very happy as we were able to take all their needs into account. They were excited about the design and gave us free rein on the development. Of course there were some changes during the course of the project, however we would say that the client really believed in us and trusted that our work would create a perfect match for them, and it did!
To win an SBID Award is a very prestigious achievement and we hoped to demonstrate our extraordinary work through this platform.
Questions answered by Chong Chiu Fung, Chief Creative Officer at Steve Leung
Steve Leung Designers | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features David Chang's Poly Garden Presentation Center. The Poly Garden Presentation Centre, located in Zhaoqing at the west end of the Pearl River Delta of Guangdong Province, China, is a truly exquisite residential project. The project was inspired by traditional Chinese culture yet the design is also modern in appearance. David Chang and his team pulled inspiration from both Western and Chinese culture, namely Emperor Song Huizong and the Song Dynasty (AD 1118) as well as beautiful Chinese calligraphy, to create a breathtaking project that also serves to regenerate the area surrounding it.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with David Chang, Founder of David Chang Design Associates International.
Company: David Chang Design Associates International
Project: Poly Garden Presentation Center
Project Location: Zhaoqing, China
The project is located in Zhaoqing, and Zhaoqing is a prefecture-level city in west end of Pearl River Delta of Guangdong Province, China. Zhaoqing Poly Garden is a multi-family residential project, which was developed by state-owned developer, Poly Real Estate Group. The entire project covers an area of 140,000 square meters with buildable area of 360,000 square meters. The project is considered to be a major residential development that will regenerate the area and therefore upgrade the living standard of the city. This Client wanted to create a unique presentation center which embraces both western and Chinese culture in a modern yet classic context.
In the Song Dynasty (AD 1118) the 8thEmperor Song Huizong changed the name of Duanzhou to Zhaoqing, meaning “the auspicious beginning of a festival”. Emperor Song Huizong possessed many talents which included painting, horse riding, archery and calligraphy. Notably he created a Chinese calligraphy font now called I“Shoujinti”; meaning “slim golden font”. We incorporated the aesthetics of his calligraphy and silken painting style to develop the concept for the interior architectural space and integrated these into the detailing and motifs throughout the complex. The finely detailed and serene wall paintings, glass panel and mirror fretwork, refined railings and flowing line chandeliers all chronicle Emperor Song Huizong’s contribution to Chinese culture. We juxtaposed these references with classic Greek Corinthian columns and pediments that were used to pronounce the foyers leading from the central octagonal congregating hall to the display model area, bar, lobby and negotiating areas.
The original structure had no skylight in the center of the building. In order to bring a large influx of sunlight into the inner building, we used inspiration from local architecture - a courtyard space found in Southern China, to create a 14 meter dome with a skylight. Not only does it give the space a sense of grandeur, but it also allows ample natural light to shine through.
The delicate colour palette of black, grey and white is inspired by the aesthetic of the historic Chinese calligraphy brush, ink and ink stone. Soft veined marble in traditional fretwork patterns once again echo the delicate Song Dynasty influences. The soaring 14 metre high Octagonal-shaped Hall is crowned with a luminous stained glass skylight creating a strong sense of grandeur that reverberates throughout the entire project. Lofty gallerias and illuminated, tenderly curved barrel vaulted ceilings also echo this majestic ambience.
We desired to share our amazing design with the world, and SBID is an international and prestigious award, which not only recognises the excellence in design but also serves as an excellent channel to expose it to the world.
Questions answered by David Chang, Founder of David Chang Design Associates International
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Hôtel Royal Savoy Click Here
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David Chang Design Associates International Ltd | SBID International Design Awards 2017
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