Linda McNally, Founder of Clontarf Interiors, has given her insights into the industry.
Ever since I was young, I’ve been a creative person with a strong affinity for art and design. While I loved to paint I concluded that I wanted my creations to not just be merely contemplated but to actually be experienced; I started my career in advertising (visualising) then a career travelling with Virgin Atlantic Airways, which opened my insights into interior design. I realised I wanted to physically include the observer in my work and ultimately, I wanted my creations to have a profoundly positive impact on peoples day-to-day life. Once I had this epiphany, it became immediately clear that interior design was the creative avenue that would best allow me to realise this goal. I haven’t looked back since.
The main aim for any project I undertake to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and truly enjoyable to live in. Feng shui is a keen interest of mine and incorporating it’s timeless and powerful principles is not only a source of personal enjoyment but also allows me to achieve the aforementioned aim.
Additionally, being a people person, I enjoy meeting new clients and collaboratively including them in the design process so that they feel part of the finished work, which hopefully will bring genuine and lasting joy into their lives. This gives me a great deal of satisfaction.
I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with many great clients this year, with each project having several memorable features. There is, however, one project that really stands out in my mind and that is an apartment that I designed on Aylesbury Road, Dublin. Honestly, it was a challenging project as the apartment’s ceilings, walls and floors were concrete, this made simple installations of wall lights etc. a challenge. After much deliberation, we converted it into a one bed apartment and fitted it with a walk in dressing area, ensuite, galley kitchen and an expansive living room.
A big part of why this project is so memorable is because of how big the transformation was. The before and after photos honestly look like completely different properties and when the client finally saw the finished space they were truly taken aback; astonished, even. It’s reactions like these that I truly cherish.
I most enjoy working on new built homes, as it’s like getting a blank canvas. Such projects allow me to employ the entirety of my creative arsenal. You get a chance to determine room sizes, lighting plans, space planning, minor details like where the sockets go, this may seem miniscule but these are all little details that are imperative to achieving a beautiful finish.
Managing one’s time effectively can be difficult in this game, as there are so many moving parts. You have to coordinate your own schedule (which can be hectic at times!) as well as ensuring that everything from windows, custom furniture, kitchen fittings and flooring are all delivered on time and installed to the highest standard. If just one item is delayed or one item isn’t fitted to a sufficiently high standard, then this can have a major knock on effect in other areas of the process and cause a deadline to potentially be missed. That’s why staying on top of things and planning ahead are always necessary.
I wish I knew how big a time commitment is required to succeed in this field. The truth is that to develop a level of design proficiency where you can consistently generate amazing results for your clients, you need to spend years diligently and persistently working on your craft. The required work ethic can only be sustained if you have a genuine burning passion for design and keep up the momentum.
Fully believe in your own design concepts; don’t get too influenced by trends! Trust your gut. Make sure you plan your time wisely, schedules are so important in this game, one slip and the project could fall apart quite quickly.
With my own clients, I’m seeing an increase in demand for eco-friendly furniture and fabrics. Sustainability is a trend that I foresee continuing as more and more people become aware of the environmental problems we face today.
From a technological standpoint, depending on which way developments in artificial intelligence unfold, we may see a world in which designers work alongside AI to enhance and expedite their creative process. Such a development could lead to big changes in the industry as a whole.
I feel greatly honoured to have become an SBID Accredited Interior Designer. I have worked extremely hard over the course of my 24 year career to become the best interior designer that I could be and to have my work recognised by one of the most reputable design institutions in the world means a great deal to me personally, my family and all of the wonderful clients that I have been fortunate enough to serve over the years.
About Clontarf Interiors
Established by Linda McNally in 2004. Since the beginning, we have been serious about achieving quality in every single aspect of our work, which is clearly reflected in our portfolio of residential and commercial projects. Atmosphere & Energy are the essential ingredients that go into creating the personality of your home. They make visitors' experiences unforgettable but more importantly that they allow the occupants to live in an environment that creates great pleasure every day. During my many years in business, the success of the house comes from the owner, (the house is tailored to meet the needs of its occupants). At the end of a project, it’s important that each room evokes a sense of wellbeing, comfort, and happiness. No two households have or share the same requirements, taste, or style, so I approach each project with a blank canvas and allow the client to lay down the first brushstrokes of their individual style.
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Alison Henry, Founder of Alison Henry Design Studio, has given her insights into the industry.
As a child I grew up living abroad from my native New Zealand and travelling extensively with my family. I was always inspired by the various cultures, fashions and styles of architecture I came across and fascinated by how they had evolved over the generations.
I recall visiting a family friend's home in Singapore and being blown away; he was an architect and had created a contemporary underground development with the garden on the roof and large sliding glass windows opening up to views out into the exotic garden. It was so different from everything else I was familiar with in the area - either modern high-rise or classical colonial.
It inspired me to want to become an architect when I grew up and create these memorable spaces and places.
I love the initial stages of a design project and seeing the potential of what can be achieved, developing ideas and the concept without any limitations. It’s an opportunity to allow myself to really think outside the box.
Once you get a clearer understanding of the design brief, budget and program, it often needs to be reined in. Then it’s a matter of selecting the key areas that are most important to ensure you retain the impact and a statement. Interior architectural design is like theatre finding where you can amp up the drama.
My most memorable career highlight in the last year has been the sale of my own family home that I developed over the course of several years in Belgravia, a classical Georgian Villa with timeless luxury and contemporary sophistication. We set about preserving the property's historic charm while infusing it with modern amenities, creating a home that is both elegant and functional.
I was stunned by the positive reaction to what we had created, and it made it worth the time and effort that had gone into achieving it.
The other career highlight has been the opportunity to work on a contemporary project on the South Coast, in a completely different style to some of our other design projects currently. It is an architectural statement using concrete floors and glass walls that open up onto views over the grounds and the water from terraces at various levels.
I love to work on projects whether residential or hospitality where the client and or owners are passionate about achieving their dreams and not willing to compromise on quality. It is also important to have an open relationship with your client so that you can work with them to ensure that you have a complete understanding of their vision and dream.
Timeless design is behind everything I have done in my career. I believe in designing well, and with passion. This ideology has carried me from hotel and house projects to boat and product design.
I also enjoy looking at projects where it’s a change of use as it makes for an interesting challenge on all levels, from permits to layout.
The most challenging aspect of working in interior design is ensuring the quality and attention to detail is maintained throughout the project, that it is not sacrificed for the sake of time and budget.
Therefore, having contractors that you have worked with in the past and who have an understanding of the expectations helps to ensure this is maintained. I also like to have samples produced and approved where necessary as this avoids disappointments and any potential rectification.
It is also important that each design stage is approved before progressing to ensure the design is fully cohesive and that everything works together as otherwise it can have a knock-on effect.
I wish I had understood the complex nature of getting planning consent and the restrictions on listed buildings and architectural heritage requirements. I have now worked on several properties of this nature and have a better understanding of planning obstacles and how best to manage these… or cut through red tape and get around them.
My advice to any aspiring designer would be to get experience by working for a designer or design organisation and try to dive in on all aspects of a project, from the initial design brief, developing the concept and presentation, budgets and programs, tenders and award, on site supervision and purchasing through to snagging, dressing out and finally client handover.
A good sense of the scope of work and all the work stages that are required will also give a better understanding of the contractual agreement and therefore time management.
I believe the interior design industry is changing as there is a trend towards not only sustainability but also to create more personalised spaces. Plus, there has been an increase in people wanting to try to do the work themselves in order to keep the costs down. I also see a desire to minimise the number of consultants, especially with the increase in advice from influencers and social media. Therefore, I see there being more opportunity to give design consultation to clients such as producing initial design concepts for both residential projects and commercial projects to enable them to attempt to undertake and manage the project themselves. Where the project is overseas, they could appoint a local company.
Being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer means a lot as it is an acknowledgement that we have been vetted and approved and invited to be part of the Society of British and International Interior Designers and that we have met all their standards and requirements for the professional body.
About Alison Henry Design Studio
With a background in architecture, and extensive experience in large-scale refurbishments both commercial and private, Alison Henry brings knowledge and insight to any phase of an interior design project. From working with planners and contractors on optimising the structure of the building to appointing the interiors down to the very last detail, her studio is equipped for residential projects of any size.
Deborah Franklin, Design Manager and Special Projects Manager at Skopos Fabrics, has given her insights into the industry. With more than 50 years of specialist design and manufacturing experience, Skopos provides high-quality flame-retardant fabrics and soft furnishings to the contract market.
Offering full-service (design, measure, make-up and install), or fabric-only options, Skopos specialises in innovative flame-retardant fabrics which lead the way in the contract sector. Fabrics meet the requirements of various sectors with attributes, such as antimicrobial, acoustic, soil and stain-resist and new recycled fabrics. With a Bespoke design and colour matching service Skopos can provide customers with the opportunity to create unique statement solutions.
Defining signature styles of flagship hotels and cruise-liners, working with key brands within the commercial sector, Skopos prides itself in leading the way in fabric innovation.
Skopos was started in the early 70’s by Art College students, Stephen Battye and David Richards. Skopos began by hand-printing Greek inspired geometric designs onto lengths of cotton fabric. It wasn’t until a couple of years later, when joined by a third partner, Bernard Thomas that the company decided upon the name Skopos, roughly meaning ‘design’ or ‘range’ in Greek.
In the mid’ 70s the company started making up curtains and in the late 70’s developed a process to produce fabrics that were flame retardant, initially, specifically for the healthcare market. The first export market for the company was the Middle East, with project teams wanting to specify British product.
In the 80s Skopos explored the retail sector. Roll ends and small leftover quantities were sold here to ensure nothing was wasted. Until 2015 Skopos wet-printed fabrics on site at Providence Mills. Now printing takes place down the road, all via the transfer print method.
Skopos’ fabrics, and expertly made soft furnishings, provide the finishing touch to interior design projects across the globe. Providing flagship schemes for hotels, cruise-liners and a vast array of commercial environments, Skopos are the leaders in textile design, bringing new ideas and innovations into interiors. Designs are not limited to collection fabrics. With the offer of Bespoke Design, the Skopos team are ready to create something new and unique for brands that like to stand out. Designers can specify Skopos fabrics with the knowledge that style comes hand in hand with quality: beautiful fabrics that meet stringent technical requirements and soft furnishings produced by a skilled team of craftsmen.
Innovations within textile design, production and supply, mean that fabrics are a key part of the interior architecture of any space. Designers can knit together schemes knowing that they have on-hand knowledge including acoustic properties, light reflective values, thermal properties etc…to make informed decisions when creating schemes. All Skopos products are flame retardant as standard, without the need for extra treatments. The contract fabrics sector is ever-evolving and an exciting and key part of the design industry. Skopos’ purpose is to assist the role of the specifier, offering design and colour, enabling the creation of beautiful and functional interiors.
Our next day sampling service is a core tool for designers. Fabrics are tactile and therefore mood-boards with textures and surfaces are a key precursor to decision making or confirming any fabrics or soft-furnishings order. We provide designers with key tools, including sample books and cards or swatches for their library and via our website we allow fabric swatch downloads or the tools to visualise patterns and designs on 3D models…. a bit of a try before you buy idea. Our website also provides designers with downloads of ready-made surfaces that can be adopted straight into AutoCad or other 3D modelling software models.
In 2023 Skopos achieved Carbon Neutral status as an organisation, recognising the business’ commitment to supporting our environment. A lot of effort has been made to reduce carbon emission and set achievable goals for the future, offsetting any remaining emissions, to assist worthwhile environmental projects in the UK and overseas. Everything is measured. Every journey, whether person or product, is recorded, to ensure we are realising those efforts for a cleaner future. Alongside Skopos’ wider sustainability drive we are focussing on new recycled product, as a key part of the portfolio ongoing. New recycled fabrics, which re-engineer waste products are a key part to our portfolio. Skopos also make an effort to utlise local suppliers to minimise the carbon footprint of their products. Skopos is an ISO 9001 company, focussed on delivering the best for its customers.
Customers are increasingly aware of sustainability, but also the need to create designs which can be owned by a brand. There are a huge variety of textures being requested. Customers are also keener than ever to understand the architectural qualities of fabrics. Elements which are a consideration in the interior architecture of a room. Colours are a little braver with straight neutrals becoming warmer and used alongside stronger yet muted tones.
We are also seeing an increased use of bolder, brighter colours and the injection of more pattern, with brands striving to reinforce their identities.
There are some exciting trends running side by side at the moment. The maximalist look is still very much apparent, with an abundance of textures and layers in a room filled with colour and the contrast of dark and light. Texture is a big part of the finishing touches. Higher piles with a natural woolly look sit alongside metallics, velvets, woods and stone. Biophilia is still very relevant, bringing the outdoors in, goes hand in hand with sustainability. Shapes in print are often irregular and organic, yet bold and confident.
We are working on an exciting new project for later in the year, with the idea that we are virtually inviting the specifier to have a peek into the Skopos studio, to choose from a special library of prints for a variety of end uses.
The SBID Industry partnership gives us access to a broader scope of people in the industry. Designers who have previously concentrated on more domestic projects are branching into commercial challenges, rather than limiting their talents. We are ready to take the challenge and embrace SBID members and work with them to realise their visions.
About Skopos Fabrics Ltd
Skopos has over 50 year's experience of supplying innovative statement fabrics and soft furnishings into flagship hotels, marine interiors and other commercial spaces. Working globally with designers and specifiers, the Skopos brand thrives on innovation. Skopos fabrics deliver on style but also meet the needs of customers looking for technical assurance and key attributes, such as acoustic options, impervious upholstery fabrics, antimicrobial and blackout; providing a fabric-only, or made-to-measure and installation service. Accredited as a Carbon Neutral organisation in 2023, sustainable operations go hand in hand with the development of new recycled products and the use of local suppliers.
Ana Moisin, Creative Director at Anamo Design Studio, has given her insights into the industry. With over a decade’s experience in Interior Design, Ana Moisin - the Creative Director and Founder of Anamo Design Studio seeks to deliver the highest creative solutions with outstanding professionalism, revitalising the hospitality scene through game changing design. After graduating in Interior Design, Ana has been leading premium and high-end Hospitality, Leisure and F&B projects from the very early concept stages to on-site completion. She has an enormous passion for design, phenomenal attention to detail and thorough technical knowledge including FF&E and finishes. During her career so far, Ana developed unique design schemes for clients such as: F1 Arcade, The Cadogan Hotel, Aviary Roof Top Bar, Jason Atherton, The Goring Hotel and Puttshack.
Ana’s international education and experience enabled her to draw inspiration from a vast range of subjects such as intricate geometry and rich cultural heritages, combined with an eclectic approach to textures and patterns. Following a number of successful positions at renowned interior design firms, Ana established Anamo Design Studio, an international practice focusing on a multidisciplinary approach to deliver a complete guest experience.
My passion for art and design started at a very early age, so my family was very supportive of me pursuing an Art and Music School in parallel with my Primary and Secondary Education. In High School, I developed a long-standing passion for mathematics and logical skills which evolved into a love of geometry, technology and 3D spatial exploration in Academia. Having this strong foundation, I was able to seamlessly combine art and mathematics, which I consider to be the foundations of interior design, ultimately enabling me to optimise the potential of any space.
From my point of view, the most fulfilling aspect of the Interior Design career is navigating all design stages of a project and witnessing the evolution of initial concepts, culminating in their realisation. I find great pleasure in tackling the initial challenge, brainstorming concepts, and uncovering the grand design idea. At Anamo Design Studio we believe no two projects are the same, so we offer our projects a sense of uniqueness and individuality by re-imagining the design every time.
Another incredibly rewarding experience for me is the first Client design meeting of a new project, as it acts as a catalyst for the big creative ideas and a platform for generating excitement within the team. Interior Design as a profession is creatively rewarding and comes with a strong sense of fulfilment, as each day unravels unique experiences and challenges.
One standout moment from the past year is the launch of our latest project - F1 Arcade Birmingham. Marking the creation of F1 Arcade’s second venue, this unique, one-of-a-kind environment that beautifully blends the premium and glamorous Formula 1 lifestyle with the high-tech, energy infused Formula 1 racing, showcases a modern industrial language with touches of glamour layered throughout the space. In parallel with this opening, we have been actively shaping innovative concepts within the realm of experiential hospitality, details of which we can hopefully share with you very soon.
Furthermore, we've reached significant milestones with the completion of High-End residential projects that have been in development over recent years. Over the past year, we have successfully expanded our team and integrated additional design disciplines in-house, effectively enhancing our multidisciplinary approach to projects —a source of profound pride for me.
I am particularly drawn to Experiential Hospitality and F&B projects, as they bring a dynamic energy, fast-paced atmosphere, and the chance to explore innovative and groundbreaking ideas. Typically, we see such venues wanting to open their doors to the public as soon as possible after the design is agreed, giving us a great opportunity to follow the project closely throughout the duration of the build.
Another type of projects I am particularly drawn to are High-End Residential and Hotel schemes, as both require meticulous attention to detail and offer ample opportunities for creative expression through a variety of textures and patterns available for use.
I find that the most rewarding aspects often coincide with the most challenging ones. Aligning the Client's vision, guest expectations, and our creative design flair to achieve an extraordinary outcome is no small feat and requires cohesive collaboration. Apart from ensuring all stakeholders are aligned when it comes to design, one of the biggest challenges in this industry is delivering great designs on budget. This is why, at Anamo Design Studio, we like to be involved in the project budgeting from the early concept stages to ensure we safeguard the design elements that will create the most impact. In addition, this enables us to manage expectations and maintain transparency regarding the project's outcomes and success.
The biggest learning for me was the expanse of the field; Interior Design is more than just design, it combines a wealth of knowledge such as technical acumen, creative presentation skills, accurate budgeting and constant research into expanding the use of the application of finishes and textures. Furthermore, understanding the differences between Interior Decorator, Interior Designer, and Interior Architect is important because each role entails specific skills, qualifications and responsibilities. Knowing these distinctions helps clients and professionals alike to ensure that the right expertise is sought for the task at hand. Additionally, it fosters clarity and effective communication within the industry, leading to better collaboration and outcomes in interior design projects.
The best advice for aspiring designers is to embrace flexibility early on in your career and willingness to learn from various disciplines such as architecture, graphic design, engineering, and project management. This will transform you into a versatile, highly sought-after designer, instilling the confidence to present your own ideas and lead projects from concept to completion.
As creative brands continue to launch hospitality venues and guests become increasingly design-conscious, we have noticed the significance of design in choosing leisure destinations increased significantly compared to few years ago. This year, I see the industry pushing the limits of creativity, aiming for impactful ideas and a wow factor in design. This presents an excellent opportunity for creative agencies to showcase their expertise and craft captivating, standout designs.
In addition, I have noticed an increased awareness within the Interior Design industry as a whole around the significance of lighting and its role in interior design, which I believe will have a notable impact on the projects completed over the next few years.
Having the accreditation as an SBID Interior Designer significantly boosts the studio's visibility and aligns us with top-tier designers, facilitating valuable idea-sharing and continuous learning within the Interior Design field. The membership allows us to access exclusive resources such as the SBID Design Awards and the Interior Design Directory, elevating our reach to worldwide clients seeking our services. Both the awards and directory raise professional standards in design year on year and empower designers to elevate the outcome of completed projects.
One of the many things we appreciate at SBID is their passion for regulating the interior design industry, which helps potential Clients distinguish between hobbyists, Interior Decorators and Interior Designers.
About Anamo Design Studio
Anamo Design Studio is an International practice based in London. Specialising in Hospitality, F&B and Residential Design our multi-disciplinary team of highly skilled designers, FF&E experts and creative technical architects is focused on hand-crafting a timeless personality for each project. At the heart of our studio is an immense focus on quality and detail, ensuring our designs are as durable and long lasting as they are aesthetically pleasing. We aim to reflect each Client’s personality and passions into the spaces we design, through a combination of hospitality-forward design solutions and an outstanding technical acumen.
Barry Smith, Design Director at Calibre Climate, has given his insights into the industry. Calibre Climate design and deliver integrated air conditioning systems to high-end residential properties. We enable beautiful, quiet indoor climates as a complete end-to-end solution through our unique approach of consultancy, installation and aftercare.
Commencing trading in the luxury property market in 1975, Calibre has been supplying visually discreet air conditioning systems to private residences for years.
Recognising a need in this market for air conditioning systems that could meet exacting technical performance levels and low noise requirements whilst being sympathetic to the highly curated interior design schemes, we focused exclusively on prime residential projects, which is now our specialism. In 2023 alone, we completed over two hundred design and installation projects in luxury residential properties across the UK.
Our unique approach commencing with design consultancy enables any introduction of air conditioning to a property to be discussed, planned and visualised both technically and aesthetically right from the earliest design stages. This ensures that the finished result delivered will be exactly as required by the client and interior designer, and eliminates unexpected design or cost variations during the build stage. We bring ideas, samples, visualisations and budgets to the table in the earliest pre-project discussions, enabling the client and wider design team to make informed decisions, even before planning application stage. Our service comprehensively covers the six core elements of every prime residential air conditioning design – the clients’ requirements, legal/planning requirements, aesthetic requirements, technical requirements, sound reduction requirements, and control requirements.
In an ordinary residential property, air conditioning is rarely an element where its interior design impact is considered – but in the high-end residence, detail is everything. Integrating air conditioning into the wider building design enables concealment of equipment built for functionality rather than aesthetics, minimising its visual impact on a space. Designing it into a property where every architectural element and interior finish is meticulously planned requires extensive experience and technical expertise.
We meet with the interior designer and the end client at the earliest stage of the project to discuss their requirements and establish interior aesthetic intent. Balancing these with technical performance requirements, we are then able to develop a highly integrated, bespoke solution for the property, blending with the interior design scheme to minimise visual impact on the space.
Firstly, we are very pleased to announce that one of our favourite projects from last year, a townhouse in Holland Park, has been shortlisted for the RIBA London Awards for 2024.
We also took on an interior-led design and installation, retrofitting air conditioning throughout a large, occupied country mansion in Berkshire. With fourteen thousand sq.ft of finished property spanning four floors, we were able to work closely with the interior designer to bring together a number of unique and beautifully discreet design features to compliment the original finishes. An amazing project that’s been great to see come together.
Visible grilles are becoming less and less popular, with a greater emphasis on highly integrated and fully concealed solutions for the optimum aesthetic finishes. There is an increased demand for innovative methods of concealing equipment and air terminals, for example within coffered ceilings, integrated into cornice detailing and shadow gaps.
As homeowners and designers alike become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, we are noticing a greater focus on sustainable and eco-friendly cooling solutions within property design. Constant innovation and technological advances will also have an impact on interior design.
Our SBID membership is high on the list so far – we’re enjoying delivering our CPD to SBID members and designers, and engaging with them through networking sessions.
Our SBID accreditation reflects our commitment to designing innovative, high-quality climate control solutions, and allows us to network with other industry professionals for constant improvement of our offering. It gives us an opportunity to showcase our work and keep up with industry trends, as well as supporting designers in the luxury property market through our CPD.
About Calibre Climate
Calibre is London's air conditioning design, installation and aftercare specialist for prime residential properties. From sound surveys and planning applications to integrating equipment in joinery with beautifully discreet air terminals, we design and deliver quiet, concealed, luxury air conditioning systems tailored specifically to the interior design requirements of each client and property. Our unique consulting process, engaging with the wider design team from concept stage, enables end-to-end delivery of technically astute solutions that blend seamlessly with the architectural and aesthetic intent and character of each individual property.
If you’re a UK-based interior designer looking to partner with an industry specialist who can cater to every aspect of your next big project, then FCI London should be your first choice.
Home to over 700 world-renowned furniture brands and with an end-to-end service geared towards creating exceptional homes, this innovative company is at the top of their game.
Founder and CEO, Firdaus Nagree, brings you his insights on the world of fine décor and why it’s an exciting time to be in this field.
Driven by a tactical mindset, Firdaus started his career as a strategy consultant for Accenture and began trading in property from the age of 21. With his entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for “doing” his path led him to other projects, affording him positions as an investor, board member and CEO for multiple concerns.
Along the way, his vision to expand his parent’s small furniture shop took flight, jettisoning the business into one of England’s stalwarts of fine contemporary design. Now an international concern with branches in the UAE, Nigeria and India, the original 5,000 sq ft shop is now a 30,000 sq ft, award-winning showroom - the largest in London.
With a focus on quality, FCI London offers a range of luxury, internationally recognised furniture that can be customised to suit your needs. And, with our finger on the pulse on new industry trends, our offerings are constantly expanding, bringing fresh innovations to our discerning clientele.
From picking out an elegant extendable dining table to finding a sofa in the right size and style, our highly qualified team of designers, showroom consultants, joiners, warehouse experts and installers is available to assist you every step of the way. So, everything is accessible to you under one roof.
One of our superpowers is relationship management. Yes, service is key, but every good design business offers that. The FCI London’s approach to adding value is through listening and understanding what a client thinks they want and then converting that brief into something that pushes the bar out a little further.
Comfort zones are there to be transcended and we’re in the business of breaking old habits, introducing new possibilities and expanding the boundaries of fine design.
We believe that people should be happy in their homes, so filling personal spaces with well-considered furnishings is a given. But on top of that, we have a technological edge. Everything we do is geared towards keeping up with developments that bring ease to your lifestyles, and we make sure that our partnerships with industry professionals includes them in the loop.
Our B2B offerings form an intrinsic part of our business and the affiliations we forge with qualified interior designers are important to us.
From worthwhile trade discounts to free consultations where we’ll help with things like conceptualising a wardrobe or finding accessories, we’re 100% on board with every project.
We also offer CPD training courses that cover integrated SMART home technology and the use of AI. So, whatever we do is geared towards helping them broaden their skill set and elevate their services. We even have a specially designed software package that will help them run their businesses efficiently.
Consider us the ally you need to get you up, running, and properly sustained.
Our expansion into the UAE has been extremely exciting, adding to our global presence and widening our skill set. It’s been a process that has involved dipping into our pool of expertise and allowing our outstanding team members to take the lead.
We’re lucky to have people who are on-board, diligent and understand exactly what we do and how we do it. So, despite the challenges of working in different time zones and with diverse cultures, we’re making it happen.
Integrating AI into our services has also been a significant achievement, allowing us to streamline our processes and facilitate an easier design journey for our clientele.
After the “safe” profiles that were fuelled by Covid, people are finally coming out of their shells and statement pieces, bold colours and out-of-the box designs are trending. Things like bubble sofas are big. And even utility areas are becoming playful parts of the home.
But the underlying truth of all design is that, while fads come and go, creating a timeless aesthetic that still embodies the ultimate in style will always be a priority if you’re investing your money well. So, embrace the expanding interest in retro themes, antiques and vintage chic, find materials that are durable and create something you can live with long-term.
Without a doubt, eco-friendliness is becoming a key factor in any design process. From ensuring that your resources are sustainably sourced to securing low-impact manufacturing, packaging, and transportation methodologies, we’re all responsible for realising positive change.
Aside from that, technology is big and will continue to influence our choices and evolve our expectations. We’re also seeing a move towards smaller living areas, making floor space prime real-estate. This will undoubtedly inspire new innovations that fit in with a more compact home.
At the end of the day, the evolution of design is all about finding new ways to elevate our lifestyles. And that’s the fun in it.
At FCI London, we’re always excited about what we do and expanding our business internationally gives us an opportunity to share our love for design with the world. But we’re also passionate about paying our success forward and are heavily involved in several CSR activities, supporting two NGOs that make a huge difference to the causes they serve. YUVA Unstoppable aims to transform the lives of underprivileged children by providing them with both food and sanitation in their school environments. WeForest works relentlessly to protect and sustain our woodlands, ensuring that our ecosystems are properly maintained. This contributes significantly towards our fight against global warming and preserves one of the biggest resources used in interior design. Both are extremely important to us, and we feel honoured to play a small part in their endeavours.
Being one of SBID’s accredited partners connects us to a wider group of industry professionals, all of whom are committed to upholding the highest level of industry standards.
Not only does this endorse FCI London’s credibility as a discerning, professional business but it also holds all members responsible for conserving a benchmark of excellence, guaranteeing our clients the best possible service across the full spectrum of our trade.
We are delighted to be a part of this esteemed network and find great value in the select opportunities that the SBID offers us.
About FCI London
FCI was established in 1985 and has grown from a 5000 sq ft showroom to one of the largest designer furniture and lifestyle houses in the UK. We are an independently owned family business with deep roots in furniture design, manufacture and interiors. We have one of the largest contemporary furniture showrooms in the UK, displaying the most exclusive quality pieces from the world’s most exclusive quality designers.
Samantha Tong, Interior Designer at Interiors Angel has given her insights into the industry.
I began my career in hotel conference and events, working for companies such as Hilton and De Vere, securing high profile clients such the Liberal Democrats and The Police Federation. I always had an eye for detail, space planning and time management, working as part of a wider team to deliver events tailored to the client specification in hotels nationwide.
I reached a point in my career where I wanted to spread my wings and venture into real estate. Which was when I secured a role with Hoburne Development, as right hand lady to the Director of Development. Supporting him on building sites, liaising with potential buyers and managing a portfolio of properties.
I quickly established key information from potential buyers as to what was important to them when searching for their new home and was fortunate to be trusted to make interior alterations and changes to the aesthetics that elevated the homes, helped sales, and grew local reputation. Thereafter, my role rapidly changed and I soon lead the interior design for the company, from examining each floor plan prior to building, drawing electrical layouts and negotiating with suppliers to staging show homes and styling for photography.
I invested in training, attended trade shows, CPD events and attended networking events to learn from other professionals. Since then, my career has grown with projects from my first phase of new build family homes and Help to Buy apartments, to a new, award-winning holiday park and senior living apartment building with communal lounges.
I always loved playing Tetris as a child, drawing, painting, pulling pictures out of the Index and Argos catalogues to create room sets and my favourite coursework was designing and creating a model of a playground as part of my graphic design GCSE. I never knew interior design or even architecture existed back then. We were told about service jobs; being a teacher, a lawyer or a nurse. And girls weren’t considered to have a place on building sites. When this world was opened to me at Hoburne Development, I felt like a child again. I get to do all my favourite things; problem solve, be creative and draw. And get paid for it!
Understanding a client’s lifestyle, desires and pain points and translating that into an environment that they love, that works for them and improves their way of life, not just for now, but their future too. For example, designing a client’s dream bar and lounge on the ground floor of their new extension, whilst also placing services that enables them to easily transform the room to a bedroom with en-suite should they need to as their life evolves.
I enjoy working on floor plans to maximise the space, using colours to influence mood and improve wellbeing and a huge fan of being resourceful, re-purposing objects in aspects of the new design if I can. For example, I recently arranged for a disused architect model of a development to be transformed into a modern coffee table. It’s a great talking piece to showcase the developer in their new office reception waiting area.
Finch House is a beautiful, listed building in Salisbury that used to be the largest private mental hospital in England. Recently redeveloped by AHH for the over 55’s market it comprises 21 apartments with communal lounges over 2 floors, a carefully restored greenhouse, rose garden and stunning water fountain.
Residents feeling at home as soon they enter, whilst honouring the property and the needs of the demographic was important to me.
This was achieved by increased, layered lighting and considering light reflectance values between surfaces for aging eyes, LVT flooring with recessed, low pile carpet to imitate rugs for moveable equipment and specialist yet stylish furniture for comfort and support. Art from local places and by well-known artists such as Salisbury Cathedral by John Constable, colours with yellow undertones and William Morris wallpaper, bring the space to life and offer talking points for the new community.
The pièce de resistance was the chandelier. Unable to find a light fitting suitable to fill the space whilst not blocking the smoke vent, I designed my first light fitting where 2 soft gold rings with decanter style pendants join, cascading through the void.
I love to work on challenging assignments that involve problem solving, where space and technical details need to be carefully considered. Manufacturers couldn’t generate a floor plan or specification that the executive team desired for their new holiday lodge park, Hoburne St Mabyn. I took control, working closely with the manufacturer, operations, and sales team to create our first, unique range of holiday lodges. A hit at the trade show, the development won Hoseason’s Diamond Award and the park is a great success.
Another project I worked on was for a retired couple who had always renovated houses. This project was to be their last and to offer space for a live in carer, should they need it in the future. I sought advice from an occupational therapist to create a layout and specification that serves them now, as they continue to age and that can easily be adapted without costly alterations.
The budget for the interior design element of a project is usually well considered and agreed before starting. However, as build costs accumulate during the programme, that budget slowly decreases, and this can be detrimental to the outcome.
Being adaptable and value engineering can help achieve the design intent without compromising on the result, but when items are stripped out completely either due to cost or lead times affected by world events, it can be demoralising.
Ultimately, you’re judged on the final finish and people forget that these adaptations were made to complete a project on time and within budget. And where you may have designed one element in that has been removed, it was part of an overall picture, which can also jar the aesthetic.
I’m fortunate to have been exposed to working on a construction site and have a great understanding of the processes of a building site. I can stand my ground when a tradesperson is saying something isn’t possible when I know it is. For example, I had an electrician tell my client he couldn’t have a chandelier in his bathroom. When we all know, you can, with the correct IP rating.
However, what I was not prepared for, was how many wallpapers and fabrics there are available! I would meet with other interior designers who would reel off these brands and styles, and I’d have no idea what they were talking about. Thankfully, once I had immersed myself in tradeshows, visited places like Chelsea Harbour and Clerkenwell, I quickly picked them up!
Never stop learning and growing. There are always new styles, trends, brands and ways of working. Attending tradeshows, CPDs, networking, doing online workshops or courses provides you with new opportunities, new relationships, new ways to adapt in a fast-paced industry and new services to offer your clients keeping you ahead of the game.
I feel virtual reality will help designers offer more immersive experiences for clients. 3D modelling plays an important role in helping my clients to visualise their project, particularly space planning and they always make alterations before the build commences as a result. Virtual reality already happens in-store for many high street chains and I can see studios growing this way too.
I also believe we will see more sustainable products that benefit the environment we design becoming available. For example, Crown recently launched Clean Air paint – a paint with air purifying technology. I used it on a recent office project – it’s currently available in ‘whites’ – and there was a noticeable difference in smell between that and the usual product I used on other walls. I hope to see more of these products and colours become available over the next year.
As you will have learned, the route into interior design was a career change for me. It required significant investment in training, most of which took place with a new baby at home, and years of making the most of the opportunities that arose to allow me to learn and grow quickly within the industry.
Being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer acknowledges this investment and recognises that I have succeeded in offering high standards of practice too. The ongoing support and CPD and tradeshow opportunities available also help to keep at the top of my game.
About Samantha Tong
Accredited interior designer with extensive experience in leading projects within the hospitality, property development and construction industry. And certified home staging and styling professional. Experienced in pre-build interior design and technical co-ordination, I tailor each project to the customer profile to maximise space and can assist with value engineering to help keep within budget. A keen eye for detail and understanding of Lifetime Homes, I specialise in designing for family life, senior living and lettings.
Amin Goliri, Senior Interior Designer at Alkafaa Engineering Consultant has given his insights into the industry.
Greeting to all of you, my name is Amin Goliri, I am from South Sudan, an Interior designer with more than ten years’ experience in Residential and Commercial interior design; especially interior design for office space, Professional in Architectural interior concept design and 3D modelling using design software’s site supervision experiences of over ten years. More than four years’ experience in Architectural photography. Recently I had a master degree in Art Design from Harbin University in China. Now I am working in UAE with Alkafaa Engineering Consultant as Senior Interior Designer.
In the beginning, I thank God for the talent of the interior designer. The designer’s profession or working as an interior designer in my personal opinion is a message and a humanitarian service that we provide to society as a whole, because the nature of our work as designers is to create the interior space and coordinate the interior elements so that a person can carry out his activity comfortably within the space.
In fact, all the elements and stages of design are very important to me, but if we want to be specific, I think that the initial stages of the interior design process are among the most enjoyable things I enjoy, especially the stage of collecting ideas and initial drawings.
The past year has included many beautiful years that have passed me through beautiful professional events, but there is what I call the most wonderful, which is the design of a new residence for newlyweds inside their parents’ house. The challenge was that the area of the apartment was very small, but despite that, I was able to provide all their basic requirements inside the apartment.
I think that all projects are preferable to me, whether they are residential, commercial, or administrative, but to be honest, I always lean toward administrative projects (office design), for two basic reasons. The first reason is because this is what I specialise in. The second reason is that you are dealing with constant variables during the design stages and the speed of completion.
I believe that all aspects of the work in the interior design process are not without difficulties, but if we study each stage well there will be no problem, but if we want to determine the most difficult stage, it is the implementation stage, for sure.
There are many things I wish I knew, but the most important of them is the moment I discovered that the design process requires a very long time to think deeply about the sequence of tasks, and it also requires a lot of mental effort to imagine the design and materials required for the project.
If I had the opportunity to offer advice to designers, I think I would tell them that we are one of the pillars of civil service for a society, and our job is to make human life better within the environment in which they live, so we must always develop ourselves better so that we can carry out these mighty tasks.
Being an interior designer, I have witnessed the technological development and the speed of the business market, especially in the field of modern technology, industry, modern technology for building materials, etc. I believe that in the coming years, the field of interior design will be more developed and will provide the best modern technologies and innovative solutions for all types of engineering projects.
In fact, it is an indescribable feeling, but I will try to summarise it in a simple way. Firstly, being a certified interior designer is the biggest dream that has come true in my professional career. Secondly, I believe that my membership in the association is the gateway to reaching the international level in the field of interior design. Thirdly, my membership means gaining new experiences at the hands of great designers in the field.
About ALKAFAA ENGINEERING CONSULTANT
Alkafaa was established to provide engineering consultancy services at a high level of quality based on practical experience spanning more than 15 years with designing more than 500 projects in Fujairah. Alkafaa works on the use of the latest technologies in architectural design and project management, which are implementation of the lean principles, and the Project Management Institute (PMI) in supervising of projects.
Ledbury Studio has reached new heights with its latest project – all the way to the 15th floor, to be precise. This stylish contemporary penthouse, located in Malta, boasts breath-taking views over the island thanks to floor-to-ceiling glazing that opens onto three expansive outdoor terraces with sitting and dining areas. There’s even room for a swimming pool!
Creating a kitchen and bar area that would perfectly complement this luxurious setting was no small undertaking – but Charlie Smallbone rose to the challenge! Here, he tells us how the design as a whole came together.
“The couple who own the apartment have grown-up children with families of their own, so they wanted it to be a space where they could all gather. When they acquired the property, it was an empty shell, giving them the freedom to design a fully open-plan space. In the resulting layout, spaces flow effortlessly into each other – from a comfortable living room, to a kitchen and dining area, and finally to a bar with additional seating. My brief was to design furniture that would contribute to that feeling of openness by creating linked but distinct areas where the family could socialise and enjoy everything from dinners to casual snacks and drinks.”
“The kitchen comprises a generous island that serves as the centrepiece, backed by a single row of cupboards that provide space for storage, appliances and a breakfast cupboard. Our challenge was that the kitchen is located in the middle of the space without any walls to work with. Therefore, all components had to be freestanding and are visible from every angle, including from above when walking up the stairs.”
“To address this, we clad the backs in a mixture of beautiful materials that look good wherever you stand in the space. On the back of the breakfast cupboard is polished fluted stainless steel. Meanwhile, the microwave section of the tall cupboard features a screen made from wooden slats with backlit opaque glass slivers, and the fridge-freezer is backed in polished mica panels.”
“Yes, the island is quite large – measuring almost 5 metres by 1.5 metres! But when you’re designing for a space of such huge proportions, with 10-metre-high ceilings, an average-sized island would look all wrong. You have to work with the scale of the building to ensure the island is proportional. We then added to the drama with a waterfall worktop of Mont Blanc quartzite, which ‘flows’ over the end. On the front, we added eye-catching polished mica panels and a liquid metal kicker. All the materials on the island both look great and are easy to clean, making them practical choices that combine to create a truly show-stopping piece.”
“The island’s size also means that we could accommodate many of the working elements of the kitchen within it, as well as generous bar seating. It features a hob with integrated extraction, sink with Quooker boiling-water tap, plus a 900cm-wide built-under oven, a dishwasher and plenty of storage to keep the kitchen clutter free.”
“The tall cupboard includes a large cabinet with pocket doors, which cleverly hide prep space, storage and additional sink all in one area, so any cooking detritus can be concealed as needed. There is further storage above and below the microwave oven and a fridge-freezer to the left. We grounded this large piece of furniture in the room with timeless black palm veneer for the fronts, with a stained oak frame that is the same shade as the oak ceiling.”
“The idea behind the breakfast cupboard was to create a standalone piece that was completely different from everything else in the kitchen. As such, it is made of stainless steel with liquid bronze pocket doors that slide back to offer full access. Inside, there are polished stainless steel and walnut drawers, as well as a countertop made of practical Mont Blanc quartzite, which adds to the modern elegance of the piece.”
“To tie the bar’s design to that of the kitchen, we once again used black palm for the base cabinets and the same bronze handles. We then harnessed our signature use of metal to create hammered pewter fronts for the wine cabinets. To add a dash of theatre to the space, we chose crystal quartzite for the worktop and framing, both of which are lit from underneath to create a stunning effect at night!”
“I have to say that I love the funky bar table! It’s shaped like a shield with a centre section in onyx that is lit from underneath, with black and white marble and a leather armrest around the outside. The blackened steel legs hide all the electric components of the design. Sitting at that table, having a drink from the bar, and enjoying those views, it doesn't get any better than that!”
Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.
About Ledbury Studio Ltd
Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.
Nirmala Banaji, Principal of Banaji & Associates, has given her insights into the industry.
From an early age, I discovered my innate artistic flair, coupled with a profound passion for design. My journey has been characterised by the development of exceptional problem-solving skills, driven by an unwavering desire to craft environments that elevate the quality of life for individuals.
I find immense satisfaction in the creative, collaborative, and problem-solving aspects embedded in my work. The tangible results of my efforts not only contribute to the overall success of projects but also add to the fulfilment derived from the diverse nature of the tasks at hand.
A particularly memorable milestone in my professional journey is the international nomination received on two separate occasions for distinct projects.
I have a clear inclination towards high-end, opulent residential, and retail projects. The allure lies in the chance to collaborate with a diverse array of materials without being restricted by financial considerations. This affords a creative outlet that authentically mirrors the personality of the individual or the essence of the project under design.
Navigating the complexity of aligning client expectations with those of contractors stands out as one of the most intricate aspects in the field of interior design.
I regret not possessing a deeper comprehension of financial aspects such as accounting and budgeting. A thorough understanding of these domains would have enriched my grasp of the financial intricacies inherent in the field of design consultancy.
Maintaining a creatively open mind and emphasising meticulous detailing are essential, as it is often said that God resides in the details.
Several key factors are set to shape the trajectory of the interior design industry. There is a growing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly design practices, coupled with the integration of AI technology to create smart and adaptable spaces. The demand for personalized and experiential designs is also on the rise. Furthermore, the industry is likely to witness a continued fusion of traditional and modern aesthetics, reflecting a diverse range of influences. In the evolving landscape, interior designers are expected to play a pivotal role in crafting spaces that not only meet functional needs but also resonate with the changing preferences and values of occupants. Unfortunately, the profession has transitioned from being solely a creative domain and, in certain instances, has been considerably misused.
Recognising a designer's professional acumen in interior design, SBID accreditation is a mark of distinction that boosts credibility and reputation. Adhering to professional standards, ethical conduct, and a commitment to excellence in design, client satisfaction, and regulatory compliance are key elements of this recognition. The accompanying access to a network of industry professionals further enables collaborative opportunities, knowledge-sharing, and potential business growth.
About Banaji & Associates
Principal & Founding Architect Dady Banaji (B.A, B.Arch Stanford Univ . USA) established Banaji & Associates in Bombay (India) as an innovative and integrated practice in 1960. The firm gained an international reputation in 1981 with the introduction of its Design Studio in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. He believed that good design works in harmony with people's lives; reflecting the way they live and adding style and inspiration to their home life. Whatever style you dream about, our goal is to develop beautiful & timeless designs that achieve a pure response to each client's vision.
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