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
What was the client’s brief?
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.
What inspired the design of the project?
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.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
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.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
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.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
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
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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.
Company: 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
Muza Lab | SBID International Design Awards 2017
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.
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 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
Entries to the SBID Awards 2017 are now open and accepting submissions, to find out more and enter Click Here.
David Chang Design Associates International Ltd | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features MKV Design's glorious renovation and extension of Hôtel Royal Savoy, Lausanne, Switzerland. Drawing on the Art Nouveau heritage of the original property while redesigning the spaces in the old building, aiming to delight today’s international travellers and local guests. By contrast, the new wing is resolutely modern in style with smart, streamlined interiors. Throughout, luxury has been taken to a new level with elegant new guest rooms, magnificent suites and captivating public areas while connection to the hotel gardens as well as the city has been restated with ingeniously created views at both ground level and from the rooftops.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Maria Vafiadis, Founder and Managing Director of MKV Design.
Company: MKV Design
Project: Hôtel Royal Savoy
Project Location: Lausanne, Switzerland
Hotel Royal Savoy was once one of Lausanne’s Grandes Dames but was closed and in disrepair when the project began. The vision was to reinvent the legend, taking design cues from the old building but essentially creating a new hotel. In the process, the footprint of the hotel was virtually doubled with the addition of a new wing.
The concept of the classic grand hotel is particularly Swiss and design inspiration was found in the hotel’s beautiful gardens, its quintessentially Swiss views of Lake Geneva, the Art Nouveau heritage, whispers of history and the owner’s private art collection.
The new plan takes guests on a journey through distinctive spaces, each one heralded by a custom-designed decorative screen. From the classical arrival hall onto the lounge where a grand double-height space is revived as a glamorous showpiece with dramatic lighting and new furniture that hints at Art Nouveau. There are new plaster mouldings, in a style similar to the original, while elegant hand stencilling replicates earlier decoration to the walls. The bar is the next stage, looking towards a new glazed extension and the sudden vista of the gardens. To one side, the walkway, which may be fully opened-up to the sunshine, flows through the garden to the new building.
In reality, there weren’t any great hurdles in this project. We’re used to reinventing Grand Dames for the next generation and always find them a great joy and privilege to work on as we relish the research and sensitive considerations that this kind of project involves.
The spa was a certainly a highlight for us. The boldly contemporary design means that it is completely unlike anything else that Lausanne has to offer and it is thrilling to see how well it is being received by both hotel guests and local people. It was also a real pleasure to be able to work with some of the original elements of the hotel such as a historical wall mural depicting a rural idyll, which was relocated from the entrance lobby to the restaurant, as well as antiques and artwork from the owner’s personal collection.
Further to this, the team relished the opportunity to create guestrooms in both the new and heritage buildings that made the most of the spectacular views over Lake Geneva and the beautiful hotel gardens. The opening up of the rear of the original building with the glazed extension and terraces continues this connection between indoor and out.
SBID is one of the most highly respected awards schemes in the industry. We value the calibre of the projects entered and take pride in having our work judged by such an esteemed panel.
Questions answered by Maria Vafiadis, Founder and Managing Director of MKV Design
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with JHP Design, click Here
MKV Design | SBID International Design Awards 2016
Photography by Robert Miller.
This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire series features JHP Design's stunning Muscat based Amouage project. Middle Eastern brand Amouage is a luxury perfume specialist. Known for incorporating local Frankincense into their perfume they have now expanded the brand to include home and accessories. The centre in Muscat integrates perfume production, a working factory, offices, a visitor centre and a very sophisticated shopping experience.
SBID had the opportunity to speak with Creative Director & Joint Managing Director Raj Wilkinson.
Company: JHP Design
Project: Amouage
Project Location: Muscat, Oman
Amouage commissioned JHP to design a new visitor centre and factory at their headquarters in Muscat. (Owned by the Omani Royal family, the brand is now a truly international business with shops and accounts in 52 countries.)
JHP worked on the project for more than five years with a remit that included the centre's architecture, visitor experience, landscaping, and retail design.
As the Amouage brand grew internationally, and with more and more people visiting Oman, more people became exposed to the brand. It was a natural decision to expand the home of the brand – its factory.
The design of the new building was to enable the business to increase its production to 20,000 bottles per week from the current 8,000 as well as to provide a memorable experience for tourists and visitors to be educated in all aspects of perfume creation.
The factory’s design was influenced by the brand itself. The Amouage brand palette was taken into the more industrial aspects of the factory. It was expressed liberally in the more luxurious aspects of the visitor centre and by way of a slight diversification in a minimalist way it is employed in the retail gallery. We consciously paired back many conventional retail and display strategies and displayed the product in glass boxes in an environment more akin to an art gallery than a retail store.
The main challenge arose from the complexity of managing a design programme which was based around the construction of a new building on an existing facility which included live buildings such as Amouage’s offices and original factory.
The existing factory carried on in operation before it was part demolished and part integrated with the new offer.
The second issue was in meeting the client’s aspirations for the building to be of the highest international standard, juxtaposed against the capability of local manufacturing and sourcing of materials.
In order to overcome this, JHP undertook an extensive briefing process with the local implementation team and researched endless alternatives and sourcing outlets for key materials and finishes.
Our highlight would probably be the success of JHP's work with Amouage. The new retail offer, factory and visitor centre is the showpiece the Amouage’s growing retail presence.
It has greatly contributed to the brand’s growing reputation as one of the world’s most highly respected perfume houses.
It has also lead to the greater contribution to visitors’ understanding of the various stages of perfume manufacturing, from ingredient maceration to bottling and packaging as well as explaining the perfume extraction process.
According to Amouage’s CEO Mr. David Crickmore, the new retail and factory facility created by JHP has given Amouage the capacity to produce and sell its products at its current location for at least the next ten years.
The new Amouage factory and visitor centre has firmly established itself as a true retail destination and ‘must visit’ attraction for all visitors to Muscat.
Our work for LOTTERIA has received huge publicity across numerous retail publications in Europe, America and Asia and was very well received on social media. We are very proud of what the team has achieved and of the project’s results. The SBID International Design Awards are very prestigious and we’d be honoured to have our work appreciated and shared by such a great organisation.
Questions answered by Raj Wilkinson, Creative Director & Joint Managing Director at JHP Design
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Penelope Allen Designs Click Here
JHP Design | SBID International Design Awards 2017
This week's installment of the #SBIDinspire series features AB Concept, 2016 finalist from the Restaurant category in the SBID Awards. AB Concept are behind the striking Dynasty Restaurant project located in Hong Kong. Inspired by the traditional Xiguan Mansions of Guangzhou in China, Dynasty Restaurant, meaning ‘Full of Happiness’, preserves the quintessential elements of the architecture and style of this heritage. SBID had the opportunity to speak with Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, Founders of AB Concept.
Company: AB Concept
Project: Dynasty Restaurant
Project Location: Hong Kong, Hong Kong
The clients were looking for a renovation of the iconic restaurant to enrich the space by telling a story from Chinese culture. Once we were able to pinpoint the direction we were headed towards in terms of overall design and architecturally, everything else flowed organically.
The project was inspired by traditional Xiguan mansions of Guangzhou, China. Dynasty Restaurant, meaning “Full of Happiness” in Mandarin, preserves the quintessential elements of the architecture and style of this heritage.
The challenge was retaining the history and core spirit of the established restaurant, whilst at the same time bringing a fresh and modern ambience to the space. Without forgetting that the roots of the restaurant lie in its exceptional Cantonese cuisine, the concept of the Xiguan Mansion ties back to this history and heritage - this is expressed through the bamboo artwork that mimics the Lingnan landscape painting, grey bricks and motifs reminiscent of the era, exquisite window shapes, and each PDR named after the indigenous districts of the region.
Our highlight was the feature artwork made out of bamboo pieces, which is an ode to a traditional Lingnan landscape painting and prominently display as the graceful focal point of the main dining area. Divided into two parts measuring 6x6 metres on one side and 6x10 metres on the other, the artwork is comprised of 13,600 pieces of bamboo and delicately layered over gold-leaf paper. The artwork was a customised piece and the largest bamboo painting display in Hong Kong.
It was really a no brainer to submit our project, as the award is internationally recognised by all in the industry. It is a great platform to participate in, not only to share our recently completed projects, but to also engage with designers all over the world, finding inspirations and seeing what everyone else is doing in their practices.
Questions answered by Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, Founders of AB Concept
If you missed last week's Project of the Week with Atelier PRO Architekten Click Here
AB Concept | SBID International Design Awards 2016
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