The Story Behind Francone Bespoke Taps: Bringing Craftsmanship and Quality Together

How do your products and services enhance interior design projects?

We create solid brass products by bringing craftsmanship and quality together. I believe our products add a special touch to homes. Our brand is customisable, which means that clients can work together with artisans and designers to create one-of-a-kind pieces that match their vision. Our solid brass products, especially when unlacquered, become really special pieces as they develop a natural patina over time. When clients use Francone Bespoke Taps in their projects, they can have a luxurious and bespoke product that enhances the space.

What value does your specialist sector add to the industry?

In our industry, we provide fittings that combine modern technology with tradition. The inner parts of our fittings have the latest innovative features, while the outer design has a classic look that reminds people of older times, like what you would see in homes back in the days. What makes us different is that we stand apart by prioritizing local resources, allowing us to offer customisations for both large orders and individual needs. We take pride in our commitment to personalisation, ensuring every customer receives tailored products that meet their unique requirements. We are proud to offer products that are not only trustworthy and dependable but also have a traditional and timeless look.

How do you work with interior designers?

Usually, interior designers come to us with a clear idea of what they want, and we just need to give them samples of finishes and then help them choose the best design for a space. Sometimes, they might ask us to create a unique concept for their client, which means we have to make a custom solution. We love being able to personalise and customise a design and give them flexibility in different areas, such as adapting products for floor or deck installation and adjusting spout sizes to meet their specific needs.

What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year?

In the past year, we had a fantastic opportunity to work on a special project for a client in Saudi Arabia. It was really exciting because we had to create a vanity area with special thermostatic taps that had touch systems. We adapted our thermostatic shower panel to be deck mounted, which matched the basin taps. We also made custom soap holders and designed huge brass mirrors that were fixed to the ceiling. These mirrors were challenging to make due to their size and it's not something we would usually offer. We can pretty much create anything in solid brass for clients.

The most challenging part was installing three outdoor taps for three large stone sinks. It took some time as we had to figure out the exact measurements for the drainage, but the team drilled into the stone to make fully functional sinks. This project showed us how committed we are to providing clients with extraordinary solutions. We were so proud of our work that we decided to enter this exceptional project into the KBB category for this year's SBID awards.

What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

The demand for unlacquered brass has been rising, as it seems to be a trend among clients. What sets unlacquered brass apart is its ability to develop a natural patina over time, making it difficult to stock in a store or shop. At Francone Bespoke Taps, we offer an advantage and a key reason why our clients choose us for this finish. We provide a made-to-order service, which ensures that our products are delivered polished and shiny, that will age beautifully overtime.

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

I feel 70s and 80s decor is making a comeback, as well as vibrant colours. We are currently developing tap styles that go with these aesthetics, by designing taps with shapes similar to these eras. It's exciting to see these trends popping up again. Thermostatic solutions are also gaining popularity, not just for showers but also for basin and bath taps. Thermostatic options are reliable which makes them popular.

Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?

We are excited to be to working on solutions for thermostatic basin and bath taps, and we’re making good progress. We’re always committed to product development, it’s an ongoing thing. We’re always exploring opportunities to expand our product range and identifying new solutions to add to our site. We’re hoping to add a collection in Stainless Steel next year which is exciting.

What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you?

Being a part of the SBID community within the interior design space is fantastic. It provides us with a great opportunity to stay connected with the trends and updates in the industry. We appreciate being an accredited partner alongside other great brands and the sense of community and connections that come with it.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

How do your products and services enhance interior design projects?

I think we have an approach that sets us apart from others. We're your ultimate "onestop-shop" for expert advice, service, and access to an unmatched product portfolio. We've got access to an unrivalled selection of over 750 global suppliers, including exclusive brands like Ann Sacks, New Ravenna, and Wall&Deco that elevate interior design projects. From the very beginning, our company's essence has been to provide a personalised sales and design service which enhances the projects and adds character as no bathroom will be the same. Our product offerings are limitless, and when combined with our renowned design service and highly skilled staff, we have the power to create truly exceptional spaces for our clients!

How do you work with interior designers?

We are able to offer a complete solution from start to finish. Our goal is to make life easier for interior designers by taking the stress out of bathroom planning. We're here to assist with product selection and compatibility, ensuring everything fits together seamlessly. When designers visit our showrooms, they are guaranteed to be inspired. We've created a studio concept where you can find an abundant of samples to create personalised mood boards for clients. It's all about bringing your vision to life in a way that's uniquely tailored to your style. With an extensive product portfolio, we can find almost anything you need, no matter how bizarre or specialised the project is.

What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year?

This year, we celebrated a major milestone - our 45th anniversary! It's an incredible achievement that we're absolutely thrilled about. One of the highlights of the past year was the complete refurbishment of our Chelsea showroom. We transformed all four floors, introducing exciting new features like the Studio concept, which focuses on colour, texture, and finishes. We had the pleasure of collaborating with renowned interior designers, Barlow and Barlow, who designed four unique displays. These displays showcased eclectic schemes with a classic contemporary twist, incorporating vibrant colours and playful patterns. But that's not all. We have even more excitement as we are currently in the process of refurbishing our extensive Battersea showroom, set to be completed by the end of 2023. Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible transformation!

What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

We don’t believe nor follow trends per se, they come and go. However, we have noticed an increase in clients embracing colour, patterns, and various textures in their designs. This shift could have been influenced by advancements in technology and the growing popularity of our Wall&Deco WET SYSTEM wallpaper, which can be directly applied in shower areas. We have also observed a rising demand for wellness-focused features. Clients are now seeking steam generators for walk-in showers, along with shower benches to enhance relaxation. Our Sunshower has also gained popularity, as it combines the benefits of sunlight during showering by utilising warming Infrared and carefully controlled UV light. It's a fantastic option for those who crave the feeling of the sun. We remain committed to offering innovative solutions that cater to our clients' evolving desires and needs whether they are trendy or timeless.

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

Looking ahead, we suspect sustainability and wellness will be the focus of the coming year. As people become increasingly conscious of our planet and environmental impact, they will seek out environmentally friendly options for their bathroom. The concept of at-home spa bathrooms is continuously evolving, especially after the pandemic, with a growing array of products designed to create the ultimate sanctuary at home, so it is definitely something to look out for in the upcoming future.

Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?

We are constantly working on lots of exciting projects, but one that our contracts department are very excited to be working on is the iconic Whiteley London Development where we are proud to be doing both the hotel and residences.

What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you?

Being recognised as an SBID Accredited Industry Partner allows us to be part of a community of trusted suppliers, which is truly valuable. This recognition sets us apart, not just in the UK but also on a global scale, as a company dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and excellence in our industry. We strive to achieve the highest level of knowledge and industry experience, and being able to showcase this achievement will show a sense of confidence in our clients.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

As an interior designer who specialises in soft furnishings there are several factors that contribute to my love of interiors. My favourite element is meeting the client and the consultations throughout the project. The feeling when you find the perfect sample to go with a colour scheme. The Unique challenges that each job has and the reward along the way.

I also love working with fabrics, the ability they hold to transform a space completely to the clients desire and personality is so unique.

What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year?

My most memorable career highlight from the past year has to be the numerous whole houses we have worked on, from Listed Properties, to houses in the centre of London there is a big sense of achievement when a large project is completed to the schedule and the client is happy. Reaching a such significant milestone in my business journey has been the relocation to our new spacious workroom and the expansion of our team. Witnessing the growth of the business in this manner has been an immense source of pride and fulfilment.

What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why?

I enjoy working on a variety of different projects because they all have their own unique challenges. I mostly enjoy projects where we have done work at the property previously and the clients have remembered us years later when they want to redecorate another room. Working with other interior designers and clients who are very creative allows for new opportunities for us to create something truly unique. However, any positive impact on a clients life makes a project enjoyable for me regardless of the size.

What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design?

There are a variety of different aspects within interior design which are challenging. Project coordination and time management are key to ensuring that a project runs as smoothly and on-time as possible. Thankfully, we have a very experienced project manager who is always ensuring that all the components of a project have been meticulously planned out and ensures that the clients expectations are always set realistically. Furthermore, if there are any delays then the client knows of them straight away and can adjust accordingly. Finally unforeseen challenges are the most challenging because you never know when to expect them or the magnitude of them until they arrive.

What do you wish you knew before working in the field?

How important building a network of reputable designers, suppliers and contractors is, they are all critical to interior design projects and are needed in every project. Having someone who you can rely on for part of the project can take lots of the stress and time away from you which will leave you to do the more important aspects of the projects. Additionally, to recognise how important your brand identity is with your marketing and to always ensure that you have professional photographs taken.

If you could give one tip to aspiring designers, what would it be?   

Do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and to embrace every opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills. With the field ever moving it is important to stay on top of developing techniques and technologies by taking every opportunity to learn, build and grow. Ensure you attend lots of networking events to find reliable contractors and suppliers to help you on your journey.

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

I see the design industry continuing its push towards being more sustainable and eco-friendly. Last year I visited Rapture & Wright which was an incredible experience to see how they make their fabric and the processes with the paint creation and breakdown after use. I believe other fabric houses will be following suite creating a more sustainable and futureproof design industry. I feel certainly from clients that they have been more conscious of where everything comes from and if there are better alternatives that can be chosen within their budget. I also think from COVID-19 that lots of clients have been trying to alter their spaces to be more versatile to many different needs such as trundle beds in offices.

What does being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer mean to you?

Being an accredited interior designer by the SBID holds great personal significance to me and my business. It represents a significant achievement, as it demonstrates that I have successfully met the rigorous standards and criteria set by a respected professional organisation in the design field. Being accredited reinforces my credibility and assures clients that they can expect a certain level of quality and professionalism when working with me and my business. Additionally, the access to value researches that the SBID provide help to keep me well-informed with trends and aids me in collaboration with like-minded accredited designers.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards winners of the Residential Apartment Under £1M category, JL Studio, Jenya Lykasova discusses achieving a balance of roughness and cosiness, using natural materials in a design, and mixing nature and architecture.

The JL STUDIO team has implemented a completely unique interior design project for a two-level apartment in a historic building.

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

The main idea behind the interior is naturalness, going beyond the ordinary and outgoing trends. It was important for us to create an interior that would be relevant even in 10 years from now.

We met some difficulties while started working on the project, because the local authorities imposed strict requirements on the renovation of the building. We wanted to emphasize its historical value and show pure modernity in the same time, as well as demonstrate how harmoniously this interior fits to the human nature and people’s lifestyle.

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

I was happy to realise, that we have reached this perfect combination of cosiness, natural roughness and uniqueness. Art objects in the interior are ordinary things that we see in nature, but do not see in our apartments. That is why they are not perceived as something catchy and do not turn the house into a museum.

At the same time, these interior elements perfectly reflect the bright individuality of the owners. Guys are happy and delighted with their new interior for 100 % - that is very important for me and my team.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

We have always been totally in love with what we do, but SBID Award gives a definite understanding that our projects are professional and competent. It means that we understand high standards and trends of the interior design in the UK and worldwide as well. We had been participating for three years and finally got an award we wanted so far.

The design creates a cosy and warm space while using wildness and rough textures in an ancient building. How did you achieve such an effect, without the apartment looking cold and stiff?

Textures make everything, especially when they are so different and extraordinarily tactile. Everything matches perfectly in this symphony of comfort and function. Linen plays with woods and bricks as well as day-and-night lighting compliments every single detail of this interior composition.

This space is full of natural light which is duplicated by lamps of soft lighting at night. Greens play a key role also: it fills the interior not only with freshness and life, but also helps to absorb sounds and eliminate echo.

What would you say is most important to keep in mind / the correct approach when using lots of natural materials and textures in an interior design?

Its important to find out a nice combination between materials, this relationship is a key note. By choosing material samples we always place them all together and check if there is something to ruin the whole idea.

I don’t like much color but i enjoy rotating textures within a composition of the same color. For example, total grey interior architecture looks smart and expressive only when all the textures are different.

And of course all the materials should be tactile and cause this incredible touch-desire. If they are not, something has to be changed immediately.

There is quite a mix of straight-edged and organically shaped furniture. Tell us more about your choice and approach to using it.

This is one of my favorite techniques. While combining straight-edged shapes with natural ones I can emphasize each of them correctly. Straight forms of the podium are highlighted by soft couch pillows. Look at this unusual bathroom with its strange shower and a stone sink which is supposed to be an accent itself.

It seems like we mix nature and architecture, human impact on the entire world and the origins of human being. The key idea of this interior - is our communication with nature because we are a strong part of it.

Questions answered by Jenya Lykasova, Founder & Director, JL STUDIO.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards winners of the CGI & Visualisation category, II BY IV DESIGN, Dan Menchions talks about working on sustainability-focused projects, integrating sustainable initiatives into the design, as well as making wellness the main priority of the space.

In a world threatened by the climate crisis, The Residences at Central Park offers a better future. Nestled between Toronto’s protected ravine and one of the city’s hip urban areas, it is a vibrant nexus—focused on wellness and sustainability.

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

Central Park is an ambitious 12-acre master-planned neighbourhood in Toronto that promises a connected, healthier future. Focused on wellness and sustainability, it connects the urban and natural worlds, raising the bar for design excellence. Green initiatives are integrated throughout the complex. We worked collaboratively with the entire project team to align the interior design with the development’s vision: refining the contemporary lifestyle, using natural materials and framing views of the ravines, extending the harmony of the natural world inside. This strategy is also implemented in the design of the permanent Presentation Pavilion, where a composition of natural materials and future-forward immersive experiences emulate the proposed lifestyle for the prospective inhabitants of Central Park.  

Designed holistically, the Presentation Pavilion for Central Park is built as a permanent space with the potential to transform into a multi-purpose cultural hub for the community. Wrapped in a soaring 4-storey window façade, this architectural glass box is positioned on the site as a billboard to sell the development and its breathtaking views. With an orchestrated, powerful retail experience, we weaved culture and lifestyle stories, thoughtful moments of theatre, and a series of vignettes, creating the forthcoming environment at Central Park for the prospective residents while they visually merchandise the selection of future-forward finishes, furniture, and products. 

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

Witnessing the positive reaction of those who visit the site—and the pavilion—has been a joy for us since completing the project. We are pleased to see the formation of a community that cares about wellness and sustainability; and have come to appreciate how significant the integration of nature and natural elements (including natural light) plays a part in creating a healthy, future-forward residence. It is also encouraging to gain insights about how much the prospective residents of Central Park delight in someday living where they have ease of access to the nearby ravines, urban living, public transit, and robust indoor/outdoor amenities. We aim to incorporate these insights into our future projects, designing healthy, wellness-focused, and connected residences for our clients.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

Since its inception in 2009, SBID has been instrumental in propelling the interior design industry forward. As a global platform—attracting entries from across the world—it is truly an honour to win an SBID award. It is a sign of industry recognition for our project to get evaluated by leading experts for technical content and aesthetic creativity. Together with our clients, team, and collaborators, we get the boost of encouragement to continue designing beautiful spaces that connect and elevate people. We also love that the design-conscious public has a say in voting for the most inspiring projects.

What is the most important thing to keep in mind when working on sustainability-focused projects?

When designing a sustainability-focused project, the design principles of functionality, accessibility, and aesthetics revolve around environmental considerations, so in a way, the project is both eco-centric and human-centric, which includes humans too. The longevity and durability of the finishes are key, especially for high-traffic areas. It is also important to work collaboratively with the entire project team to accommodate for systematic Green features that are new in residential developments. For Central Park, we reached further and emphasized the significance of integrating the natural world into everyday life by incorporating natural materials and views of the surrounding ravine areas and using energy-efficient technology throughout the interiors.   

The development’s vision is to refine the contemporary lifestyle. What does contemporary lifestyle mean to you? How do you think our lifestyles and, therefore, design choices are changing?

To mitigate the climate crisis, we need to refine our current lifestyle as a global society. We need to become more efficient and eco-conscious, mainly for our benefit.

The Residences at Central Park connect the urban back to nature. The design and development team has integrated Green initiatives like reflective solar panels, Green roofs, and a thermal building envelope. A next-generation mechanical system incorporates advanced airflow and filtration for the entire building. Moreover, there is direct access to public transit, on-site bicycle/car-share service, and EV (electric vehicle) charging stations for every spot in residential and visitor parking spaces, promoting safe, clean travel—free of emissions. As interior designers of Central Park, we decided to reimagine how we can live better: what aspects of today’s lifestyle could be refined for a better tomorrow. We then reflected our insights onto every part of the project and delivered a robust amenity program, spa-inspired bathrooms, energy-saving light fixtures, and everything in between. The Presentation Gallery for this development even confirms the team’s commitment to sustainability, designing it as a permanent building. Envisioned as a multi-purpose cultural hub in the future, it is suited up in a composition of natural, enduring, high-quality materials and high-tech features for posterity.

What makes an interior design project wellness-focused? How do you account for it as a designer?

By its nature, interior design projects are always focused on wellness as we create spaces that improve the human experience through ergonomics, style, light, layout, and finish palettes/materiality. When designing vertical living projects, like The Residences of Central Park, we include activities for wellness in the amenity program. Moreover, a timeless composition of elements, materials, and furnishings in warm tones and delightful textures creates a harmonious feel for wellness. The attention to detail and quality cohesively begins at the entrance, continuing to the resort-like amenities and offering an urban oasis in each suite, including low water—and electrical—systems/appliances. There are also available provisions for cutting-edge automation, enabling residents to control temperature, lighting, or other items from their smartphones that make life more efficient and convenient, contributing to the quality of the residents’ everyday experience and, therefore, their wellness.

Questions answered by Dan Menchions, Partner, II BY IV DESIGN.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards winners of the Workplace Fit Out Project of the Year category, Modus Workspace, Kristy Foster shares how the team designed an office that responds to the occupants' needs and encourages socialisation, as well as how they incorporated playfulness into a professional setting.

Outstanding office design means removing barriers to communication, encouraging interaction and creating a positive environment in which people can thrive. The Numis project seeks to create such a place. 

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

The design brief was simple. “Take the company to the next level in terms of the client and staff experience – provide best in class facilities and encourage interaction and communication. And don’t forget to allow for 10 years seamless growth...!!”

The space selected was spread over three levels, so immediately we considered the potential for an accommodation staircase to dynamically connect all parts of the organisation, promoting interaction and a sense of togetherness. To further breakout areas were strategically placed to maximise accessibility to the external terraces.

The design exploits the stunning views of London's skyline by creating an open, unhindered view to the horizon on entry to reception, this played a vital role in curating an impactful client experience.

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

The highlight would have to be seeing how happy the client is in their new space. It is an amazing feeling to see clients not only enjoy the space for themselves but also be excited to show it off. We have built a lifelong relationship with the client team which is another huge highlight of the project.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

Winning an SBID International Design Award is a super high achievement and one in which we are incredibly proud. Being evaluated by both leading industry experts as well as the public is what makes this win so special, highlighting the projects attraction to a wide demographic.

How do you see the workspace designed for people to thrive in? What makes it different from regular offices?

With Numis we created a uniquely tailored workplace setting that adheres to the needs and requirements of the business. This was done by conducting a survey during the concept stage of the project to gain a detailed understanding of the types and amount of collaboration settings, meeting spaces and everyday amenities needed by the individual neighbourhoods.

One main breakout area allows all neighbourhoods to connect and meet, allowing teams that cannot sit near one another due to separations to come together to work and socialise. The main circulation route and staircase which runs through the heart of the workspace further adds to this notion of togetherness, brining teams together quickly and efficiently.

What was the most important thing to keep in mind when designing an office focused on communication and collaboration?

Firstly, it was essential to know how and where teams interact by putting ourselves in our clients’ shoes as it were, fully understanding their day to day needs. Creating dividing spaces to break up desk areas helped to create a collaborative focal point for each neighbourhood, enabling teams to work as efficiently as possible. The large breakout space provides a suitable space for hosting events, with the ability to place large screens for town hall meetings or to watch sporting events, homing in on this sense of communication and collaborating from a social perspective. Taking this even further an auditorium space kitted out with state-of-the-art technology and practical seating provides the client with a more formal gathering space, ideal for internal and external gathering.

How did you make sure the employees could stay focused and find privacy in such an open and collaborative space? Was it challenging to keep it professional while also introducing vibrancy and playfulness into the office?

Adding quiet pods, phone booths and zoom rooms enabled employees to choose focused settings to work in, all of which were not bookable, increasing their flexibility. In general, the company worked in a relatively quiet environment, so keeping the team focused wasn’t a huge challenge. Some acoustic solutions were applied in collaboration and meeting areas to reduce reverberation, but due to the nature of the business and its culture not much more was required.

The fact that we had three floors to work with enabled us to be playful with the space. The 7^th and 8^th floors had their own unique look in comparison to the 9^th floor. The client focused 9^th floor was a high-end luxury space with bronze metal, stone worktops with indulgent fabrics applied to the joinery pieces. The working floors on the other hand incorporated a handful of playful colours. It was this client / working floor separation that gave us some extra wiggle room when designing for both playfulness and professionalism.

Questions answered by Kirsty Foster, Senior Designer, Modus Workspace.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards' Overall Winner, Clara Lleal Interiorista, Clara Lleal explains how they achieved displaying a number of different art pieces in a cohesive design, and discusses the experience of working on a space for an artist.

Art Gallery House is located in the historic centre of Badalona, a city near Barcelona. The brief was to strategically place the sculptures created by the owner of the house himself, the artist and sculptor Juanma Noguera. In short, an Art Gallery house.

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

One of the challenges when it came to the layout of the project was to strategically place the sculptures created by the owner of the house himself, the artist and sculptor Juanma Noguera. In terms of general aesthetics, the idea was to give the whole space an industrial atmosphere, maintaining and recovering the building's original materials. The solid brick walls were uncovered, the vaulted iron-beamed ceilings were respected, and areas with the original hydraulic pavement were maintained.

The materials used subsequently also follow this industrial premise, concrete, black iron sheet, herringbone floor of recovered wood, and teak wood furniture to break the cold of the greys.

The construction of the house dates back to the 19th century, coinciding with the industrial period in Catalonia. Therefore, the house has many architectural elements typical of that period, which we wanted to maintain and even restore. The walls were chipped to leave the brickwork exposed, the original cast iron columns were restored, the hydraulic mosaic floor tiles of Mediterranean origin were kept, and the Catalan vaulted ceilings were left exposed. In short, we wanted to recover the industrial essence of the house and give it value.

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

One of the main challenges was to gain natural light. It must be said that in an area of 200m2 there was only one window. Skylights were opened in the roof and in the inner courtyards, as many openings as possible were made so that the house would be bathed in light. We wanted to convey the feeling of wellbeing and warmth that natural light provides. In addition, from the beginning we wanted to include a lot of natural vegetation that can only live with light.

Another challenge was that the spaces were very large and there was a risk that they would not be welcoming, which was of paramount importance to the client. With the combination of materials such as teak wood and dark colors, a cozy atmosphere was definitely achieved.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

It was a big honor and symbolic for me. It was the first big international contest where I had taken part, and I can confirm that is also one of the few contests that is honest and where it is very difficult to get an award. That is why I cannot describe how happy I was when I heard my name. It was amazing!

For my business, winning this award represents an excellent opportunity to take a leap to grow and be able to access more interesting projects, and perhaps even have the opportunity to expand my business abroad.

You managed to display a lot of artworks of different mediums, while also using a few open storage units. How did you achieve this without the space looking cluttered?

The placement of the art pieces was well thought out from the beginning, and in fact the distribution was based on the strategic placement of each one of them. Initially we knew which pieces were going to be exhibited, so we only needed to determine where each one was going to be placed and design a setting and lighting to make them stand out. In this way, even though they are of different formats, the paintings and sculptures keep a visual order within the space as a whole as part of the same design.

Have you, as a creative, learned anything new from designing a home for an artist?

Perhaps I have learned to better appreciate works of art in general, but especially sculptures. Personally I have always liked the world of art and crafts and whenever I can I try to include works of art in the projects. Since I was a child I have practiced artistic painting in different techniques and ceramics is one of my hobbies.

In the case of this house, I have been able to work with some sculptures that I really like, pieces created exclusively to be observed and beautify the place where they are located. It is clear that the design, without these sculptures and paintings would not have the same result.

How did you find the process of working with an artist? Did they have their own vision of the space? Do you think the design process is easier or more difficult, if a client is set on a specific design concept?

The design process with the artist Juanma Noguera, the owner of the space, was very easy. This was the third project I had done with him, and not by chance, because aesthetically we speak the same language. Working with a client with this profile makes the work of choosing colors and combining materials and textures much easier, because his aesthetic sense is highly developed. I would insist, then, that part of the success of this project is due to his good taste and the inclusion of his artwork, which, by the way, is beautiful.

Questions answered by Clara Lleal, Creative Director, Clara Lleal INTERIORISTA.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards winners of the Residential Fit Out Project of the Year category, Laila Interiors, Laila Shour discussed how the team uses design elements to separate open spaces into different areas, talks about designing spaces to suit any taste and lifestyle, and the power of light colour palette.

Kensington court was a neglected mix of multiple vacant flats that were in a state of disrepair for many years. It lays in a conservation area within the borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

A complete refurbishment was carried out that transformed this prestigious building into 10 high ceiling luxury apartments and the key idea was to develop a unique design concept of living that aligns with the majority's style, preferences and functional requirements in keep with the surrounding neighbourhood.

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

When and during the refurbishment, the contemporary style which our design team introduced in the interiors was to incorporate modern design elements, such as choosing metallic accents, geometric shapes, neutral color palette to complement wooden flooring and wall finishes.

Our goal was coordinating the interiors with developers and managing most aspects of the project, to ensure a successful outcome for the client.

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

The biggest highlight of completing this project was the transformation of the space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment and feeling like we have exceeded all expectations.

The biggest takeaway of the completed project was the satisfying feeling in creating a unique empty space that reflects the style, personality, and lifestyle of everyone and anyone.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

Winning the SBID award was a great honour that gave our company recognition in the UK and on an international level. It elevated the credibility and reputation of the business, making us stand out in a competitive market while attracting new clients and opportunities.

This award boosted the morale of the team and instilled a sense of pride and motivation for us to maintain high standards in future projects and to continue pushing towards creative and design boundaries. We felt highly rewarded and valued for our achievements and hard work in this project from the public and SBID.

How do you design rooms that have lots of open space? What approach do you use to separate those spaces into different areas?

Separating a space that has lots of rooms can be achieved by using furniture such as sofas, armchairs or ottomans to create separate seating areas and define different functions within the space. We also use colour to differentiate between spaces, introducing textiles such as curtains, cushions, or throws to create a visual separation between different areas.

Bringing in nature with indoor plants, natural wood flooring, natural stone, sustainable rugs and lighting added to the separation within areas too. By using a combination of these techniques, it is always possible to create a functional and visually pleasing space with clear divisions, while still maintaining an open and airy feel.

How do you ensure the properties you design will be suitable for all occupants?

In order to ensure that the properties we design are suitable for all occupants, we incorporate universal design principles, such as easy to reach controls, ergonomic design, to make the space usable for people of different ages, abilities and to meet the needs of all occupants.

By following these steps, we promote inclusiveness and comfort for all occupants with adequate lighting, multi-functional spaces and furniture that could be flexible and adapted to accommodate changing needs and requirements over time.

What was the inspiration behind choosing a light and neutral colour palette?

The inspiration behind choosing a light palette in this particular project was due to a few reasons:

a) The 19 century building has an elegant red brick exterior, therefore a neutral palette was chosen for the interior to contrast yet complement the outside. Its purpose was to also draw attention to other design elements, such as textures, patterns, and artwork, and make them the focal point of the inside space.

b) To create a calm and serene atmosphere throughout the interior of the flats we enhanced natural light that seeped through the Kensington gardens to create a cohesive look.

c) The Neutral colors is an additional backdrop for more statement pieces throughout an interior.

d) The property is timeless hence light and neutral colours are seen as classic and timeless, and this was a versatile choice for our design to stand the test of time.

Questions answered by Laila Shour, Founder, Laila Interiors.

In this week's interview with 2022 SBID Awards winners of the Public Space category, Kossmanndejong, Pauline Fer explains the concept of the design, how they displayed the information in an accessible way, and developed custom-made solutions to fit the project's narrative.

At Beezantium, integrated architecture and scenography transform what initially appears as a small, wooden building on the outside into a thriving beehive on the inside.

Firstly, tell us a bit about the design of your project. What were the key ideas, concepts and processes behind it?

Our scenography transports visitors into a thriving beehive by surrounding them with giant honeycombs made of a material mimicking wax.

The information in each of the honeycomb’s hexagonal cells contributes to the larger story. The narrative begins with a close focus on the bees. Visitors can watch living colonies in the observation hives, witnessing how these superorganisms organise themselves. With each honeycomb layer, the narrative’s perspective slowly broadens. We see the bees interact with their surroundings and discover how human actions affect bees. Gradually, visitors become aware that everything in our ecosystem is connected and that bees play a vital role in it.

To share this information in an accessible and intuitive way, we minimised text and worked with a multisensory combination of images, infographics, interactives, animations and audio. Each cell contains a piece of information waiting to be harvested by visitors. For example, visitors feel the warm temperature at which bees regulate their hives, learn about the tools used to artificially inseminate the queen bee, and consider a drop of honey that represents how much a bee produces during its entire lifetime (1/12 teaspoon). And in the audio guide, the estate’s beekeeper Paula Carnell shares her fascination with bees.

What was your biggest takeaway or highlight from completing this project?

We started working on the project with the expectation that we would create an exhibition about bees. But we ultimately developed a story about how everything in our ecosystem is connected. It was fascinating to dive into the world of bees and discover how much we depend on them.

What has winning an SBID Award meant for you and your business?

We strive to create impactful experiences that inspire and move visitors. We are honoured that our design resonated with and left a lasting impression on industry leaders and the public.

How was the process of arranging the display in a quite small and open space? Did you encounter any difficulties?

Our client wanted a space suitable for exploration and contemplation. The 50 m2 space was the perfect size to create a human-size hive. And we embedded a lot of information in the honeycomb’s hexagonal cells without overwhelming the space. These cells function like mini exhibits, partly hidden behind doors, peek holes and in drawers. They invite visitors to actively explore the content and draw them into the bees' world.

Given the observational hives on display, we developed a low-tech exhibition. Bees communicate and navigate using vibration, so we limited our use of technologies, like WIFI, that can disturb this.

The furniture and accessories used in the project probably couldn’t be found in a store. Did you commission any of the pieces? How did you find working directly with manufacturers and using made-to-order furniture in the project?

Our design is content driven, and we develop custom-made solutions unique to each project’s narrative. We have an extensive network and always look for the best partner for the project. Our shared trust encourages us to push ourselves and innovate, researching and experimenting until we find the right solution. For this exhibition, we worked with Kloosterboer Decor to find the perfect material that mimics wax’s structure, texture and opacity.

Even The Newt estate’s bees contributed. They coated a wood panel with propolis for visitors to touch. Propolis is a glue-like substance inside the beehive that the bees use for protection and repair. Another display features honey samples that show how different flowers produce different honey colours.

What is the most important thing to keep in mind when working on a design for a public space?

A public space must engage visitors with diverse expertise, experiences and interests. There should be something interesting for everyone to discover. That’s why we create layered stories. The main messages in this exhibition are easily accessible and yet every honeycomb cell enables visitors to explore more detailed information. Whether you’re in for a quick visit or stay longer and dig deep, you will always have a meaningful experience.

Questions answered by Pauline Fer, Spatial Designer, Kossmanndejong.

Traditional craftsmanship used for hammer textured handles

New textured handles complete the series enhancements. These are produced by the so-called hammering technique, a traditional and skilled manual working method that creates decorative surface finishes. The indentations and projections formed by hammering reflect instant light, creating glossy and matt areas. This gives the handle a unique texture that is pleasant to touch. Its complex nature stands in fascinating contrast to the strict form of the MEM handle geometry. This elaborate manufacturing process makes every handle unique.

Back to basics

Both the new products and the MEM variants that have been available in the market for 20 years, prove to be unobtrusive and visible at the same time. A spout with a 180-degree bend, an invisibly integrated jet regulator and minimalist handles, the series embodies a basic aesthetic appeal that intentionally avoids any extrovert elements. Conceived according to the Dornbracht design principles – proportion, precision, progressiveness, performance, and personality – MEM conforms directly to the Dornbracht claim of creating “Leading Designs for Architecture”.

More information can be found at www.dornbracht.com/mem

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