Mark McMahon, Managing Director of Victoria Stone, has given his insights into the industry.
Victoria Stone is a fireplace company like no other, specialising in bespoke, fully integrated fireplace solutions. We offer a complete turn-key service, encompassing everything from the design and manufacture of the complete fireplace to the technical complexities of flue systems and installation.
Collaborating closely with interior designers, architects, developers and main contractors, we deliver fireplaces that are both visually striking and technically exceptional across some of London and the UK’s most prestigious properties. Our ethos is rooted in creating timeless beauty through exceptional craftsmanship, supported by a highly skilled in-house team and a commitment to service at every stage of the project.
Victoria Stone has a heritage spanning over 50 years, originally established as a retail presence in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Over the past decade, under new ownership, the brand has undergone a significant evolution—transforming from a traditional retailer into a highly specialised, design-led fireplace company.
Today, Victoria Stone represents a new standard within the industry: one that combines heritage craftsmanship with technical expertise and a contemporary, collaborative approach. This evolution has enabled us to align more closely with the needs of today’s design community, offering not just products, but complete, considered solutions.
Our expertise lies in bespoke design, with every fireplace made to order and tailored precisely to each project. From sourcing exceptional materials such as natural stone from Italy, to developing specialist metal finishes, we provide designers with an extensive and highly considered palette.
What truly sets Victoria Stone apart is our ability to bridge the gap between aesthetic ambition and technical reality. A fireplace is inherently dual in nature: it is both a visual centrepiece and a highly engineered system requiring careful planning of chimney flues, ventilation and installation. While these elements are often separated within a project, we integrate them seamlessly.
By delivering both the design and technical aspects as one cohesive package, we enable designers and architects to specify with confidence, ensuring that the final result is not only beautiful, but fully functional and compliant.
As a specialist in a highly technical and often misunderstood area of interior design, Victoria Stone plays an important role in educating and supporting the wider design community.
Through our showroom, CPD programmes and hands-on workshops, we are helping to demystify the complexities of working fireplaces, from chimney flue systems and ventilation to construction detailing. We have seen a growing appetite among designers and architects to deepen their understanding in this area, particularly as fireplaces become more integrated into contemporary schemes.
By sharing our expertise, we aim to raise industry standards and empower design teams to approach fireplace specification with greater clarity, confidence and creativity.
We approach every project as a true collaboration, engaging with designers from the earliest stages to fully understand their vision and the wider design narrative.
Fireplaces are often central to the atmosphere of a space, and achieving the right balance between visual impact and performance is key. We guide designers through both the creative and technical aspects, advising on proportions, materials, flame aesthetics, and the practical requirements that underpin a working fireplace.
Our role is to support and enhance the design process, ensuring that the final outcome remains faithful to the original vision while being delivered to the highest technical standard.
The opening of our new London showroom has been a defining milestone for Victoria Stone. After an extensive search, we secured a space in Chelsea that strikes the perfect balance, situated within the design community, yet offering a more considered and immersive experience away from the high street.
The showroom has been conceived as a collaborative environment, created in partnership with industry peers and reflecting the level of craftsmanship and design detail found within our projects. It serves not only as a showcase of our work, but as a hub for dialogue, inspiration and learning within the design community.
We are seeing a growing interest in blending classical design language with contemporary interiors. In particular, the reintroduction of traditional styles such as Louis XV-inspired forms into modern settings is becoming increasingly popular.
In response, we are developing new designs that reinterpret these classic influences through a contemporary lens, allowing designers to achieve a balance between heritage and modernity.
The industry continues to move towards a more holistic and considered approach to design, with an increasing focus on wellbeing, atmosphere and sensory experience.
Fireplaces naturally align with this shift, offering not only visual warmth but also a deeper emotional and experiential quality within a space. As designers continue to prioritise these elements, we expect fireplaces to play an even more integral role in shaping interiors.
We are currently involved in a number of exciting projects, many of which remain confidential. However, our participation in WOW!House 2026 is a particularly significant milestone.
We are collaborating with four leading design studios to bring their visions to life, and this year we are approaching the platform in a new and ambitious way. WOW!House provides an exceptional opportunity to engage with the design community at the highest level, and we are excited to showcase the breadth of what Victoria Stone can offer.
Becoming an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is an important step in strengthening our presence within the design community. It provides a valuable platform to share our work, showcase our expertise, and connect more directly with architects and interior designers.
Historically, much of our work has been delivered through main contractors and project teams. This partnership allows us to engage earlier in the design process, offering guidance and support where it can have the greatest impact.
It is both a recognition of our expertise and an opportunity to contribute more actively to the industry, and we are proud to be part of the SBID network.
About Victoria Stone
Victoria Stone specialises in the design and delivery of bespoke fireplaces for exceptional residential and hospitality projects. With over 50 years of craftsmanship heritage, each fireplace is carved from the world’s finest materials, combining timeless design with modern innovation. Working closely with interior designers, architects and developers, Victoria Stone provides a comprehensive turnkey service encompassing bespoke fireplace design, flue and technical engineering, antique sourcing and restoration. From heritage properties and listed buildings to contemporary new builds, every project is carefully managed from concept through to installation, ensuring outstanding quality, technical expertise and enduring architectural detail.
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Karndean Designflooring, the UK’s trusted supplier of luxury vinyl flooring, has played a leading role in the transformation of Scotsdales Garden Centre in Cambridge. Working closely with Trevillion Interiors, Stanley Bragg Architects and Cadman Flooring, the refurbishment introduces a warm, design led customer experience crafted to withstand exceptionally high footfall and continuous daily use.
The redevelopment forms part of a long-term strategy to elevate the centre’s visitor journey, requiring clearly defined customer zones, intuitive navigation and a specification that could deliver both aesthetic quality and enduring commercial performance. Karndean’s Prairie Oak from the Art Select collection was chosen for the main concourse and seating areas, offering natural warmth, design versatility, and proven resilience in high traffic environments. Installation was completed by Cadman Flooring over an eight-week programme.
The design introduces three customer zones; grownup, casual and family, each with its own identity while remaining part of a cohesive whole. Given the open plan scale of the building, the flooring played a fundamental role in guiding movement and supporting spatial clarity. A full plank herringbone layout was used through the main concourse to create a strong directional cue, contrasted with parquet style patterns and straight planks in the seating areas to give each zone a distinct character without interrupting overall flow.
“Durability and aesthetic was a tough ask on such a scale with demanding footfall,” explained Frances Blackham, design director at Trevillion Interiors. “Karndean provided the design flexibility we needed. The herringbone layout choreographs movement subtly and beautifully, while parquet and straight planks with inserts create three clearly identifiable areas.”
The finished scheme blends refinement with practical performance. Prairie Oak’s warm, natural tones complement the garden centre’s organic identity, while the precision of the installation elevates the overall retail environment. Engineered for long-term durability, the floor withstands trolleys, high visitor numbers, and regular cleaning, maintaining a consistently high-quality appearance.
“The herringbone layout adds depth and elevates the interior beyond a standard retail fitout,” said Kieran Cadman, director of Cadman Flooring. “The detailing supports customer movement across the space, and the product performs exceptionally well in such a busy commercial environment.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, Richard Allen, VP of sales for commercial at Karndean Designflooring, added: “Scotsdales is a perfect example of how flooring can shape both the function and experience of a commercial space. Prairie Oak was selected for its authentic character, warm palette, and long-term performance. We are proud to support Trevillion and Cadman Flooring with a product that brings natural beauty to a demanding environment while standing up to the rigours of daily use.”
About Karndean Designflooring
Karndean is a global supplier of commercial and residential luxury vinyl tile flooring. We’re an industry leader in flooring design, offering a wide range of colours, textures and finishes, helping you create unique looks that are both stylish and practical; guaranteed to last. We see flooring differently. We travel the world in our quest to bring you exceptional floors that inspire and delight. From the ancient forests of Europe, to the remote Australian outback, we seek out expressive and intriguing forms in the natural world to influence our unique floor designs. By combining original features with cutting edge design, we create beautiful floors that bring your vision to life and take our clients on an endless journey of design discovery.
Garrett Leather proudly announces the launch of five new embossed leather collections—Cestino, Espiga, Quadro, Onda, and Tessera. Each collection is designed to reconnect us with the tangible beauty of artisanal craftsmanship in an increasingly digital world.
In an era dominated by screens and automation, these collections offer a return to the analog: a textured, tactile experience that honors tradition, intentionality, and the quiet power of handcraft. Inspired by natural forms and the intricate artistry of weaving, carving, and embroidery, each pattern evokes a sense of calm, depth, and connection.
“These leathers are thoughtfully crafted to engage the senses,” said Carolyn Perillo, Head of New Product Innovation at Garrett Leather. “Their texture and depth invite touch and add a layer of authenticity that transforms how a space feels and functions.”
- Cestino draws inspiration from handwoven baskets, offering a versatile texture with a hand-tipped finish and no plate lines. - Espiga features a braided motif enhanced by a high-gloss finish, reflecting harmony and organic elegance. - Quadro channels the interlaced warp and weft of traditional textiles, with a hand-antiqued surface that celebrates heritage. - Onda mimics the gentle movement of waves, with pearlescent accents that play with light and shadow. - Tessera presents a tightly woven aesthetic, blending modern sensibility with timeless craftsmanship.
Each leather is semi-aniline, embossed, and combination-tanned—offering the perfect balance of chrome-tanned suppleness and vegetable-tanned firmness, making it ideally suited for embossed patterns. This specialized tannage provides the optimal foundation for achieving detailed and lasting embossed designs, resulting in leather with a premium hand that is sturdy to hold detail while remaining pliable for versatile workability. These full sized and center-cut hides offer large cutting areas with minimal pattern disruption.
The collections feature 20 rich colorways, including deep mineral blues, earthy reds, soot blacks, grounding neutrals, and opalescent highlights. These hues echo the natural materials and techniques artisans have used for centuries, while contemporary finishes add a refined touch. All colors are readily available to ship within two business days of purchase.
All five collections are LeatherShield™ products suitable for high traffic areas and have achieved LBC Red List Free status and GREENGUARD Gold® certification. With excellent durability, flame resistance, UV protection, and water/stain repellency, these leathers are recommended for all upholstery applications.
Garrett Leather’s new collections are for those who value materials with meaning and spaces that embrace intentional living. They are a tribute to the analog aesthetic—inviting interaction and human connection.
About Garrett Leather Corp
Garrett Leather is a premium Italian leather brand specializing in a distinct combination of high-end style and service. They specialise in helping interior designers find the perfect leather for commercial and residential interior markets. They also offer opportunities for their clients to learn more about the intricacies of leather and its applications. Garrett Leather sources leather from the highest quality raw material selections throughout Europe and maintains strong relationships with the most elite and ethically responsible tanneries in Italy. Garrett Leather remains privately-owned and family-run to strengthen their deep commitment to personal attention and care for each of their clients.
In the modern climate, it is more important than ever to build wellness into your designs. Designers are increasingly prioritising health and wellbeing when curating a space, searching for solutions that champion this, whilst not compromising on elegance and functionality. With public concern about what’s really in our drinking water – including PFAS (forever chemicals) and microplastics – interest in home filtration is becoming even more prevalent. Suddenly, what was once a good-to-have for those health and wellbeing-conscious clients is becoming a necessity for all. The Zip HydroTap covers all bases, boasting advanced filtration coupled with a stylish, statement design.
Zip Water explores the worrying truth of what is truly in the water we are drinking, and why advanced filtration solutions pave the way for a healthier home.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that resist breaking down in both the environment and the human body. Their resilience is precisely what has earned them the name “forever chemicals”. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health risks, and troublingly, they have been recorded in more than a third of water courses in England and Wales. Even plastic bottled water is not immune, with studies confirming the presence of these same contaminants. Here in the UK, such concern has led to increased testing for these chemicals in the environment, as part of a wider plan to tackle the inflating problem.
So, what can be done to protect our homes and drinking water? The solution lies in advanced, high-performance filtration. The Zip HydroTap uses 0.2 micron MicroPurity filtration, incorporating triple-action technology certified to reduce the eight most common contaminants found in drinking water – including up to 99.4% of total PFAS. It’s world-class filtration that delivers a world-class taste.
A world-leader in instant boiling, chilled, and sparkling drinking water solutions, Zip has long been recognised for its pioneering approach to filtration. Integrating seamlessly into the home, its market-leading 8-in-1 MicroPurityTM technology reduces the eight most harmful contaminants- chlorine, sediment, lead, limescale, bacteria growth, microplastics, asbestos and PFAS. Independently certified to NSF standard 42 (Aesthetic Effects) and 53 (Health Effects), the Zip MicroPurity™ filter delivers peace of mind to all users, eliminating the impurities you can't see, smell or taste.
“As awareness grows around water quality, filtered water taps are becoming a must-have in modern kitchen design – but not all filtration technology is created equal when it comes to removing PFAS,” says Nick Taylor, Head of Residential Sales at Zip Water.
“At the same time, homeowners want products that look as good as they perform. Our range of HydroTap models and finishes deliver timeless design with the confidence of market-leading filtration and award-winning HydroCare servicing. Combined with our flexible installation options, it shows that technical innovation and beautiful design can work perfectly in harmony.”
Despite current plans put in place to address the contamination issue, it is clear that more can be done. Designers and homeowners alike should be looking to advanced filtration technologies capable of addressing both aesthetic parameters (taste, odour, clarity) and health-related thresholds (removal of heavy metals, organic pollutants, pathogens).
The HydroTap’s advanced filtration, coupled with its user-friendly design, makes hydration effortless for everybody. Over 80% of existing HydroTap owners say they drink more water than they did before, a testament to its versatility, pure-tasting water, and user convenience. Its elegant design is bound to make a statement in the modern home, combining the desired aesthetic with the required functionality to contribute to an overall healthier home.
Discover how the Zip HydroTap can redefine hydration, or connect with our specialist team for expert guidance on the perfect solution.
About Zip Water
Experience water at its best with the ultimate in luxury home appliances. Zip Water are manufacturers of the iconic Zip HydroTap - a revolutionary drinking water appliance offering the very best in filtered boiling, chilled and sparkling water; designed to upgrade your lifestyle. A health-boosting, time-saving, space-saving and planet-saving marvel, the HydroTap transforms ordinary tap water into something extraordinary.
Global design and BIM software provider Vectorworks, Inc. releases its fourth update to the Vectorworks 2026 product line, expanding its data-driven workflow capabilities to help designers plan, document, and visualize projects with greater precision and efficiency at every stage of delivery. This update introduces intelligent phasing tools, enhanced embodied carbon analysis, and a real-time rendering integration with fellow Nemetschek Group brand Maxon, strengthening how teams manage project evolution, measure environmental impact, and communicate design intent.
“Vectorworks 2026 Update 4 reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering designers with smarter, more efficient tools,” said Vectorworks Vice President of Product Development Hugues Tsafak. “From the first iteration of phasing, supporting various project types and sizes, to enhanced sustainability dashboards and Maxon Redshift for Archviz, this release leverages our strength in data management to help designers plan, document, and visualize projects more accurately and sustainably. We remain committed to evolving these tools to meet the growing demands of modern design.”
High-quality rendering has traditionally been a time-consuming process, often requiring disconnected workflows and repeated exports between modeling and visualization tools. With Vectorworks 2026 Update 4, that process becomes significantly more seamless through Maxon Redshift for Vectorworks — making Vectorworks the first design platform to offer this level of direct, live integration with Maxon Redshift for Archviz rendering technology.
Available as a standalone product from Maxon, designers with a Redshift license can now access the integration directly within the Vectorworks design environment with Update 4, allowing them to send active scenes to the Redshift Visualizer and immediately generate high-fidelity, real-time renderings. Unlike traditional export-based workflows, the Redshift Visualizer maintains live synchronization with the Vectorworks model. Geometry, lighting, cameras, and scene updates remain aligned between both environments, eliminating repetitive exports and reducing the risk of outdated visuals during presentations or design reviews, giving designers a faster, more reliable visualization workflow that supports both creative exploration and client communication.
Renovation and multi-phase projects now represent a significant share of work across the AEC industry, yet documenting existing building site conditions has historically required manual work and file duplication.
Now, Vectorworks 2026 Update 4 introduces a comprehensive Phasing system that embeds a time-based dimension directly into your BIM model. Assigning defined status conditions — including existing, new, demolished, relocated, or temporary — allows teams to track how projects progress across multiple stages accurately.
Integrated with Vectorworks’ powerful data management capabilities and leveraging Data Visualization, Phasing automatically controls object visibility and graphic representation across design layers and viewports. A dedicated Demolition tool further streamlines the process, improving documentation accuracy while eliminating redundant class and layer management.
As adaptive reuse and infill redevelopment become central to sustainable project delivery, clear renovation documentation is critical. Simplifying phased workflows within a unified environment means teams can reduce risk, improve coordination, and align projects with sustainability strategies focused on adaptation rather than replacement.
As sustainability expectations intensify across the AEC industry, early-stage embodied carbon analysis has become critical. It often involves manual setup, inconsistent material categorization, and complex unit conversions that slow evaluation.
Update 4 advances the Vectorworks Embodied Carbon Calculator (VECC) in the Sustainability Dashboard by aligning predefined Concept and Planning categories with recognized frameworks, including RICS guidelines. Automated quantity aggregation and support for enhanced mixed-unit management streamline material analysis and strengthen standards-aligned reporting from concept through detailed design.
Embedding carbon intelligence directly into data-driven workflows means teams can assess impact earlier, compare design alternatives with greater clarity, and more readily integrate sustainability into everyday decision-making.
Beyond its flagship capabilities, Vectorworks 2026 Update 4 introduces a series of discipline-specific refinements designed to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and documentation reliability across architecture, landscape, and entertainment workflows.
For AEC professionals, improved Class and Layer search functionality enables faster, more reliable navigation within complex files. The Linear Material tool now includes world-based parameters for stucco and plaster, allowing users to define exact Variation Length and Thickness for scale-accurate surface detailing in sections, producing realistic results without additional manual adjustments.
For landscape architects and designers, the Hedgerow tool is now fully integrated into the styled Landscape Area object, enabling more efficient, precise planting design. Designers can create complex staggered rows, visualize individual plants, and generate data-rich planting plans while maintaining accurate, easily material schedules using styled objects.
Entertainment workflows continue to evolve in Vectorworks 2026 Update 4, with refinements to Spotlight numbering and device management tools. Visual directional previews and an Exclude field help prevent labeling errors before documentation is finalized, while the unified Device tool streamlines placement, editing, and tagging in a single interface. New Cable tool insertion modes further enhance efficiency by enabling one-click cable type switching during full-show design.
This update is now available for all currently released English-language versions of Vectorworks 2026 and is immediately accessible to subscription and Vectorworks Service Select customers. To install, select “Check for Updates” from the Vectorworks menu (Mac) or the Help menu (Windows). Maxon Redshift for Vectorworks, which powers the new live rendering integration in Update 4, is available as a standalone product from Maxon and can be purchased either through Vectorworks or Maxon. To use Redshift for Vectorworks, customers must create a Maxon account and purchase a Redshift subscription. A 14-day free trial is available from Maxon, and students can access special pricing through Maxon’s student program. For more information on Maxon Redshift for Archviz, visit maxon.net/archviz.
To explore the latest features, start a free 7-day trial of Vectorworks Design Suite. For a comprehensive list of enhancements, visit the Tech Bulletin, and review the Public Roadmap to stay informed about upcoming developments and provide feedback on future features.
About Vectorworks
Exceptional design demands exceptional tools - a platform built to deliver absolute creative expression and maximum efficiency. Vectorworks believe your design software should offer the freedom to follow your imagination wherever it may lead you, to seamlessly share your vision at any phase, and to easily interpret the information needed to make the smartest decisions every time.
As the understanding of neurodiversity continues to grow across education and workplace sectors, KI is furthering its longstanding commitment to creating environments that support different ways of thinking, learning and engaging. Through research-led design and close collaboration with architects and specifiers, KI is helping organisations translate inclusive principles into practical, everyday solutions.
Neurodiversity recognises the natural variation in how people process information and experience their surroundings. With more than one in seven people estimated to be neurodivergent, classrooms, universities and offices are increasingly seeking ways to ensure spaces work with individuals rather than expecting individuals to adapt to the space. Designers and clients are asking how interiors can better support sensory regulation, movement, focus, and wellbeing. KI believes furniture plays a pivotal role.
KI’s dedicated seating portfolio reflects its commitment to neurodiversity. The Cogni seating collection incorporates sensory surfaces, a heel wheel, flexing back and comfort ledge to enable subtle movement. The Ruckus Chair supports multiple postures with five seating positions, 360-degree use and multifunctional armrests, while the Postura + One Piece Stool offers both low and high-back options for comfortable and adaptable learning settings.
Products such as KI’s Ricochet Wobble Stool are increasingly specified in both specialist and mainstream settings, for all ages. The stool offers 12 degrees of stable rocking motion and has been designed to help children and adults maintain engagement and concentration, with the freedom to move.
KI’s wider product range offers an array of solutions suitable to environments from education to higher education and into the workplace. Including acoustic solutions from Bejot, lounge furniture like Take5 which allows a ‘sit as you like’ approach and multiple table and workstation solutions which allow for movement, adaptivity and flexibility including Scrum Flip Top Tables and the full Sit-stand collection.
Materiality and colour are equally important. KI works with design experts, teachers and students to develop calmer palettes, muted tones, and softer contrasts that reduce visual overstimulation while maintaining warmth and identity within spaces. Designing for neurodiversity is often framed as a social responsibility, but it also brings measurable performance gains. Spaces that reduce sensory overload and support autonomy tend to be calmer, healthier, and more productive for everyone.
“Neuroinclusive design isn’t about a single specialist product,” says Alison Mallett, Director of Education Furniture, KI Europe “It’s about providing options that allow people to find what helps them feel comfortable, calm and able to concentrate. When choice is built into the environment, inclusion happens naturally and discreetly.”
By embedding flexibility, dignity and user choice into its products, KI aims to help clients create environments that are both inclusive and productive.
About KI
KI’s furniture helps the world’s leading organisations create happy, healthy, high performing working and learning environments for their people. Bringing together good design, advanced engineering and sustainable resources, KI’s products are durable, flexible and offer excellent value. Founded in 1941, KI has grown to become one of the world's largest, most respected furniture manufacturing groups. KI’s EMEA headquarters in London is supported by an established network of manufacturing facilities and distribution partners across the region.
In this exclusive reveal, C.P. Hart’s trend report highlights sophisticated approaches to materiality, colour, and pattern, as well as a growing focus on considered, enduring design.
In 2025, Bordeaux was the colour of choice – similar to claret but deeper, with stronger brown undertones. This year, claret takes its place with a slightly brighter, fresher approach. Not quite red (also fashion’s standout hue of 2025), claret taps into a growing desire for interiors that feel rich, atmospheric, and energised. Its self-assured confidence functions as much as an accent as it does a full colour drench.
A strategic colour choice for designers seeking renewal, claret is being used en masse across painted walls and large-format furniture, extending even to marble tiling with claret veins – another contemporary way to reinterpret monochrome.
Stripes are asserting themselves as a standout interior trend, driven by a renewed appetite for bold, expressive design.
As maximalism gains momentum, stripes are being reimagined through vivid colour, dynamic scale, and unexpected placement. The rise of ‘stripe drenching’ signals a move towards immersive, all-over pattern, whilst the motif’s graphic nature sees it extending across furniture, ceramics, lighting, and soft furnishings. In the bathroom, look to introduce stripes through tiling, cabinet fronts - including fluted wood, a more subtle take on stripes - and bathroom furnishings, such as lights, towels, blinds, wallpaper, and cushions.
Confident and adaptable, stripes deliver instant rhythm, energy, and edge to both classical and contemporary interiors – a versatility few patterns can match.
Though gemstones may not be an obvious reference for modern-day interiors, this 2026 trend cleverly interprets their naturally decorative colourings and iridescent surfaces in a way that feels distinctly refined.
Designers are working gemstone references into furniture tops, lighting, decorative objects, and tiles, often through glass, glaze, and polished finishes that capture depth and luminosity. Tactile and hardwearing, even just a glimpse of gemstone introduces a characterising point of interest, offering a sense of quiet opulence over overt decoration.
Olive has been present in interiors since ancient times, particularly across the Mediterranean, first derived from natural earth pigments and valued for its connection to nature, fertility, and peace. It became sought-after once again during the medieval periods – think tapestries and panelling – and re-emerged in the Georgian and Victorian era, when advances in pigment production enabled richer, more prominent tones. During this period, olive expanded in its possibilities, translating into wallpapers, upholstery, and painted joinery.
Now, as a leading trend for 2026, olive is celebrated for its ability to introduce warmth and sophistication into the home. It pairs effortlessly with wood and warm neutrals such as taupe, beige, and white, whilst also complementing richer shades like terracotta and rust. Timeless and adaptable, olive works beautifully across both contemporary and classical schemes.
Dark wood has been long associated with heritage, craftmanship, and luxury. In Georgian and Victorian interiors, deep woods such as mahogany, walnut, and oak were used for panelling, furniture, and joinery – often reserved for formal areas of the home as a signal of status.
Whilst wood has remained a staple material in interiors, today’s trend marks a further shift away from the paler, white-washed woods that dominated the late 2010s, now favouring darker, more natural hues with grains and markings left intact. Rich, warm, and luxurious woods (walnut, mahogany, and mango) work beautifully when balanced with lighter materials, seen across tables, chairs, storage and vanity units, mirrors, and even tiles. Classical, contemporary, and enduring, dark wood is a trend designed to last.
Travertine is a type of limestone formed by mineral-rich spring water, used in construction since the ancient times, most notably in structures such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Warm and earthy with natural veining and subtle surface variation, travertine quickly became a decorative tool, building on its long-standing association with grandeur.
The 2026 Cappuccino Travertine trend is exactly as the name suggests: natural and porcelain travertine characterised by ripples of soft brown and foamy cream. Offering depth and warmth, this trend introduces a more inviting, tactile approach to stone, appearing across furniture tabletops and tiling, where its tonal movement adds richness without overwhelming a space.
About C.P. Hart
C.P. Hart is an established bathroom supplier with over 85 years of experience in specifying and sourcing the world’s most innovative and durable premium bathroom products. A successful Contracts division operates with architects, designers, and contractors, often on major commercial property developments and hotels, whilst a highly qualified in-house design team works with individual and private clients, ensuring each bathroom is as unique as it is beautiful. C.P. Hart has always insisted on using the finest materials and advanced manufacturing techniques to create the highest quality classical and contemporary bathrooms. The brand has also developed a reputation for showcasing some of the world’s most talented and innovative bathroom designers, located in our showrooms across the UK and led by our expansive flagship in Waterloo, London. C.P. Hart’s bathroom collections include brassware, sanitaryware, furniture, tiles, home spas, and a range of other essential components for bespoke bathrooms.
For three decades, Roundhouse has been designing and creating spaces that enhance the way people live. Founded in 1996 on a clear and simple belief that thoughtful design can enrich daily life, the company has grown into a multi-award-winning British manufacturer that places people, purpose and longevity at the centre of everything they do.
Established by architects Craig Matson and Victoria Marriott, Roundhouse’s approach has always been shaped by architectural thinking. A deep understanding of proportion, flow and spatial balance continues to inform each project, ensuring every kitchen feels resolved, relevant and enduring, grounded in principles that stand the test of time.
This architectural foundation is brought to life through British craftsmanship. All Roundhouse furniture is designed and made under one roof at its purpose-built workshop in the Malvern Hills, where traditional skills sit alongside evolving manufacturing techniques.
Roundhouse’s craft has been refined over the years, enhanced by modern machinery and technology, yet always rooted in precision, material integrity and meticulous attention to detail. The result is furniture made not only to look beautiful, but to last for years to come.
Over the past 30 years, Roundhouse has evolved from a small Camden showroom into a multi-award-winning British manufacturer. From its purpose-built factory in Malvern Hills, Worcestershire, Roundhouse designs and produces luxury bespoke kitchens and furniture.
With over 100 employees and seven UK showrooms, they are recognised for creating spaces that are individual and designed around how people live.
Longevity has always been central to the Roundhouse ethos. Many kitchens created more than 25 years ago remain in daily use today - a reflection of timeless design, enduring materials and exceptional craftsmanship.
Reflecting on the milestone, founder Craig Matson notes: “Many of our clients still love kitchens we made over 25 years ago. It reflects what Roundhouse stands for, purposeful design, British craftsmanship and longevity.”
Behind every project is genuine collaboration. Roundhouse designers work closely with homeowners, architects, interior designers, developers and contractors to understand priorities and shape solutions that respond to both the architecture of the space and the needs of those who use it.
This collaborative way of working sits at the heart of how they work and ensures each kitchen feels personal, practical and carefully considered.
Thirty years of experience continues to shape how Roundhouse works today. The knowledge gained over decades informs how the team designs, makes and delivers, responding thoughtfully to evolving lifestyles, advancing technologies and changing client expectations.
As homes continue to evolve, so does Roundhouse - guided by the enduring belief that considered design has the power to enrich everyday life.
To explore Roundhouse’s kitchens and other furniture in more detail, you can download a brochure, browse their kitchen gallery, or experience Roundhouse design in person by visiting one of their showrooms; Wigmore Street, Clapham, Richmond, Fulham, Cambridge, Guildford, or Cheltenham.
About Roundhouse Design Ltd
Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.
At Studio Vellari, we believe that exceptional interior design is not only seen — it is felt. Specialising in bespoke private cinemas and refined residential interiors, our studio focuses on creating immersive environments that balance technical precision with contemporary elegance.
Founded on the principle that luxury lies in detail, Studio Vellari brings together spatial planning expertise, material sensitivity, and cinematic technology integration to craft environments that are both visually striking and experientially powerful. Each project is approached holistically, ensuring that acoustics, lighting, ergonomics, and aesthetics work seamlessly together.
Private cinemas have evolved far beyond dark rooms with large screens. Today’s clients seek multi-functional spaces that reflect their lifestyle while delivering a true cinematic experience. At Studio Vellari, our design approach begins with understanding how the space will be used — from intimate family screenings to large social meetings.
We carefully curate layered lighting schemes, incorporating concealed LED detailing, feature wall treatments, and sculptural elements to create atmosphere and depth. Acoustic wall panelling and bespoke joinery are designed not only for performance but also to enhance the architectural character of the room.
Material selection plays a critical role. We favour natural textures, matte finishes, and rich tonal palettes that elevate comfort while maintaining a timeless aesthetic. The result is a space that feels sophisticated yet inviting — where technology is seamlessly integrated rather than visually dominant.
While cinema rooms are a core specialism, our broader residential portfolio includes contemporary apartments and private homes designed with a minimalist, modern sensibility. Clean architectural lines are softened with warm, tactile materials, creating balanced interiors that prioritise both function and atmosphere.
Our process is collaborative and detail-driven. From initial concept development through to technical drawings and final styling, we work closely with clients and contractors to ensure that the design vision is executed with precision.
As the demand for experiential home environments continues to grow, Studio Vellari remains committed to pushing creative boundaries while maintaining a disciplined, architectural approach to design. Our goal is simple: to create spaces that enhance the way people live, entertain, and connect.
About Studio Vellari
At Studio Vellari, we specialise in crafting exceptional interior environments with a distinct focus on private cinemas and media rooms. Drawing on extensive experience delivering some of the world’s most exclusive residential cinema spaces, we design bespoke seating solutions tailored to each client’s vision and lifestyle. Our approach blends refined aesthetics with advanced functionality, ensuring every piece enhances both comfort and performance. From concept to completion, we curate finely crafted furnishings that embody timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail. The result is immersive, sophisticated interiors that elevate home entertainment into a truly luxurious and personalised experience.
Karndean Designflooring, the UK’s leading supplier of luxury vinyl flooring, announces the launch of its first gluedown collection with enhanced acoustic performance. Available from April 2026, Knight Tile Quiet has been developed to support wellbeing and create safer, calmer spaces in today’s shared residential environments by reducing disruptive noise that affects how people behave, perceive risk, and move through a space, making everyday environments easier to navigate.
Five best-selling Knight Tile designs; Lime Washed Oak, Grey Limed Oak, Dutch Limed Oak, Pale Limed Oak and Russet Character Oak, will be available for fast turnaround with all existing Knight Tile designs available in the enhanced format with a minimum order quantity, enabling design continuity across large-scale projects without compromising on acoustic performance.
“Noise has a profound impact on how people feel in their homes,” says Richard Allen, commercial sales director at Karndean Commercial. “In shared residential environments, we know that excessive noise can affect wellbeing and overall mental health.
“So, with quiet flooring fundamental to wellbeing, we have developed our Knight Tile Quiet collection specifically to meet the requirements of build-to-rent, purpose-built student accommodation and multi-residential developments. Knight Tile Quiet makes it easier for designers and contractors to meet acoustic standards while creating spaces that feel calm, comfortable and genuinely liveable.”
Today, acoustics matter more than ever in private rental developments with noise consistently cited as a leading cause of tenant dissatisfaction, directly influencing retention and long-term asset value. In addition, the recently introduced Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has placed greater emphasis on housing quality and habitability, increasing scrutiny on how developments manage issues such as noise transfer.
The new Knight Tile Quiet collection delivers impressive impact sound reduction, meeting the latest technical requirements effortlessly and invisibly, and so improves living conditions for renters and reduces potential complaints. Manufactured with an integrated IXPE acoustic backing and independently tested to achieve up to 18dB sound reduction, this product exceeds building regulations Approved Document E sound reduction requirement of 17dB and helps projects meet the specifications for BREEAM certification.
By integrating an acoustic layer within the product, Knight Tile Quiet reduces the need for additional underlays or secondary subfloor treatments, delivering cost efficiency in high-volume developments. Measuring 915mm x 152mm with a 3mm thickness and 0.3mm wear layer, Knight Tile Quiet incorporates its enhanced acoustic benefits without additional bulk, providing the flexibility to specify Knight Tile standard or enhanced technical specifications interchangeably as required in each space.
Beyond acoustics, the new Knight Tile Quiet format retains all the advantages that have made Karndean’s Knight Tile range a trusted choice where aesthetics, durability and affordability are equally important. Offering a convenient range of on-trend wood and stone designs with reliable and waterproof performance and easy maintenance for demanding environments, Knight Tile and Knight Tile Quiet are the versatile choice for design-led, budget-conscious residential projects.
Backed by Karndean’s technical expertise, product warranties and comprehensive specification support, Knight Tile Quiet delivers quiet confidence for every floor, helping architects, designers and specifiers balance compliance, wellbeing and design appeal in the spaces people call home.
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