In an exclusive collaboration with Lutron, Focus SB has created an extensive line of accessories finished to pair with its distinctive Alisse Keypads.
Showcased by Lutron at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) and at Decorex in 2022, the high quality, innovative Alisse Keypad accessories range was displayed by Focus SB at Decorex 2023 and captured the attention of interior designers visiting the adjacent Lutron stand, where visitors could experience high-end design lighting control and shading systems solutions. The ‘Alisse accessories by Focus SB’ range offers a sophisticated finish palette from the Lutron Signature Metal Collection and is exclusive to the Alisse family of luxury wall controls.
The complementary range of Alisse accessories include power sockets and data outlets finished in-house by Focus SB. ‘Alisse accessories by Focus SB’ are handcrafted in a selection of Lutron’s Signature Metal finishes including Aged Brass, Aged Bronze, Brushed Brass, Satin Nickel and Bright Chrome finishes, creating the perfect complement to Alisse Keypads, and can be ordered directly from Focus SB.
Focus SB creates desirable faceplate and light switch designs and finishes using a blend of traditional artisan crafts combined with cutting-edge technology, complemented by years of in-house experience and investment in sustainable manufacturing processes and technology. All components are manufactured and expertly finished in-house across the company’s three sites in East Sussex.
The Alisse accessories engineering process sees solid naval brass ingots machined into blanks before faceplate apertures are precision machined using cutting edge technology for exact component fit. The faceplate, including edges, are pre-finished for a flawless final finish. Specially turned ‘stepped head’ screws are manufactured for a perfectly flush fit on installation.
Focus SB’s head of strategic partnerships, Duncan Ray said: “It has always been important to offer our clients different solutions for continuity of finish. Working closely with other manufacturers and suppliers to deliver this vision is key and we are delighted to collaborate with Lutron on finishes for this second exciting product range, following the successful launch of the Palladiom Bespoke Metals collection for Lutron Homeworks QS Wired Palladiom.”
Mr Ray continued: “The new suite of ‘Alisse accessories by Focus SB’ is available to complement the Alisse family of wall controls and further demonstrates Focus SB as the partner of choice by high end brands specified in global luxury construction”.
Download the brochure at Focus SB’s website and contact the company for further information.
About Focus SB Ltd
Established for over 40 years in East Sussex, Focus SB’s award winning in-house manufacturing and metal finishing expertise presents designers with a comprehensive collection of switches, sockets and components complemented by bespoke project services. Quality faceplate styles made from the finest solid brass and durable stainless steel offer striking solutions for high-end hospitality, prime residential, heritage and commercial interiors. Working closely with design consultants, control system companies and fire and security specialists, Focus SB’s unrivalled ability to match metal finishes across its collection, coupled with custom finish options, sees the company’s products specified for world class projects internationally.
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Deborah Franklin, Design Manager and Special Projects Manager at Skopos Fabrics, has given her insights into the industry. With more than 50 years of specialist design and manufacturing experience, Skopos provides high-quality flame-retardant fabrics and soft furnishings to the contract market.
Offering full-service (design, measure, make-up and install), or fabric-only options, Skopos specialises in innovative flame-retardant fabrics which lead the way in the contract sector. Fabrics meet the requirements of various sectors with attributes, such as antimicrobial, acoustic, soil and stain-resist and new recycled fabrics. With a Bespoke design and colour matching service Skopos can provide customers with the opportunity to create unique statement solutions.
Defining signature styles of flagship hotels and cruise-liners, working with key brands within the commercial sector, Skopos prides itself in leading the way in fabric innovation.
Skopos was started in the early 70’s by Art College students, Stephen Battye and David Richards. Skopos began by hand-printing Greek inspired geometric designs onto lengths of cotton fabric. It wasn’t until a couple of years later, when joined by a third partner, Bernard Thomas that the company decided upon the name Skopos, roughly meaning ‘design’ or ‘range’ in Greek.
In the mid’ 70s the company started making up curtains and in the late 70’s developed a process to produce fabrics that were flame retardant, initially, specifically for the healthcare market. The first export market for the company was the Middle East, with project teams wanting to specify British product.
In the 80s Skopos explored the retail sector. Roll ends and small leftover quantities were sold here to ensure nothing was wasted. Until 2015 Skopos wet-printed fabrics on site at Providence Mills. Now printing takes place down the road, all via the transfer print method.
Skopos’ fabrics, and expertly made soft furnishings, provide the finishing touch to interior design projects across the globe. Providing flagship schemes for hotels, cruise-liners and a vast array of commercial environments, Skopos are the leaders in textile design, bringing new ideas and innovations into interiors. Designs are not limited to collection fabrics. With the offer of Bespoke Design, the Skopos team are ready to create something new and unique for brands that like to stand out. Designers can specify Skopos fabrics with the knowledge that style comes hand in hand with quality: beautiful fabrics that meet stringent technical requirements and soft furnishings produced by a skilled team of craftsmen.
Innovations within textile design, production and supply, mean that fabrics are a key part of the interior architecture of any space. Designers can knit together schemes knowing that they have on-hand knowledge including acoustic properties, light reflective values, thermal properties etc…to make informed decisions when creating schemes. All Skopos products are flame retardant as standard, without the need for extra treatments. The contract fabrics sector is ever-evolving and an exciting and key part of the design industry. Skopos’ purpose is to assist the role of the specifier, offering design and colour, enabling the creation of beautiful and functional interiors.
Our next day sampling service is a core tool for designers. Fabrics are tactile and therefore mood-boards with textures and surfaces are a key precursor to decision making or confirming any fabrics or soft-furnishings order. We provide designers with key tools, including sample books and cards or swatches for their library and via our website we allow fabric swatch downloads or the tools to visualise patterns and designs on 3D models…. a bit of a try before you buy idea. Our website also provides designers with downloads of ready-made surfaces that can be adopted straight into AutoCad or other 3D modelling software models.
In 2023 Skopos achieved Carbon Neutral status as an organisation, recognising the business’ commitment to supporting our environment. A lot of effort has been made to reduce carbon emission and set achievable goals for the future, offsetting any remaining emissions, to assist worthwhile environmental projects in the UK and overseas. Everything is measured. Every journey, whether person or product, is recorded, to ensure we are realising those efforts for a cleaner future. Alongside Skopos’ wider sustainability drive we are focussing on new recycled product, as a key part of the portfolio ongoing. New recycled fabrics, which re-engineer waste products are a key part to our portfolio. Skopos also make an effort to utlise local suppliers to minimise the carbon footprint of their products. Skopos is an ISO 9001 company, focussed on delivering the best for its customers.
Customers are increasingly aware of sustainability, but also the need to create designs which can be owned by a brand. There are a huge variety of textures being requested. Customers are also keener than ever to understand the architectural qualities of fabrics. Elements which are a consideration in the interior architecture of a room. Colours are a little braver with straight neutrals becoming warmer and used alongside stronger yet muted tones.
We are also seeing an increased use of bolder, brighter colours and the injection of more pattern, with brands striving to reinforce their identities.
There are some exciting trends running side by side at the moment. The maximalist look is still very much apparent, with an abundance of textures and layers in a room filled with colour and the contrast of dark and light. Texture is a big part of the finishing touches. Higher piles with a natural woolly look sit alongside metallics, velvets, woods and stone. Biophilia is still very relevant, bringing the outdoors in, goes hand in hand with sustainability. Shapes in print are often irregular and organic, yet bold and confident.
We are working on an exciting new project for later in the year, with the idea that we are virtually inviting the specifier to have a peek into the Skopos studio, to choose from a special library of prints for a variety of end uses.
The SBID Industry partnership gives us access to a broader scope of people in the industry. Designers who have previously concentrated on more domestic projects are branching into commercial challenges, rather than limiting their talents. We are ready to take the challenge and embrace SBID members and work with them to realise their visions.
About Skopos Fabrics Ltd
Skopos has over 50 year’s experience of supplying innovative statement fabrics and soft furnishings into flagship hotels, marine interiors and other commercial spaces. Working globally with designers and specifiers, the Skopos brand thrives on innovation. Skopos fabrics deliver on style but also meet the needs of customers looking for technical assurance and key attributes, such as acoustic options, impervious upholstery fabrics, antimicrobial and blackout; providing a fabric-only, or made-to-measure and installation service. Accredited as a Carbon Neutral organisation in 2023, sustainable operations go hand in hand with the development of new recycled products and the use of local suppliers.
Bring the beauty of spring into your home with Katharine Pooley Spring Accessory Edit. The Alia Vase introduces a vibrant burst of colour, brightening any space.
Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean Coast, sculptural coral home accents evoke a sense of sophistication and serenity within the home.
The Etched Vase, formed from smoke-hued glass offers a contemporary edge, and the handcrafted wicker trays and candle hurricanes are fantastic new additions, perfect for al fresco entertaining.
About Katharine Pooley London
Recently named ‘British Interior Designer of the Decade’, ‘International Designer of the Year in Asia’ and ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ Katharine Pooley has in a short space of time become one of Europe’s leading designers. Her portfolio encompasses a multitude of interior styles and architectural genres and her design ethos is one of luxurious eclecticism. No two projects are ever alike, but they are universally beautiful and timeless.
Offering a one-stop solution for sanitaryware and surfaces that turn an average golf club into a luxurious sports and leisure retreat, RAK Ceramics has helped transform the Cambridge Country Club into a health and wellness destination, as part of a multi-million-pound development.
Partnering with interior architect May Fawzy of MF Studio, RAK Ceramics supplied surfaces and sanitaryware for use throughout the newly built Country Club. Making first impressions count, large format Calacatta Gold tiles feature in the venue’s main entrance and reception area.
“The selection of finishes was meticulously aligned with the original brief, emphasizing the creation of a premium space for club users,” explains Fawzy. “We carefully handpicked materials and textures that not only met our aesthetic aspirations but also embodied enduring quality.”
RAK Ceramics surfaces feature throughout the location, from the RAK Revive floor tiles in the lavish spa and shower rooms and nature-inspired flooring in the bar and restaurant to RAK Detroit metallic finish tiles in the pool area and changing rooms and porcelain flooring and countertops in the golf shop.
Sanitaryware from the leading brand also features, with the designer collection RAK-Petit floorstanding washbasins featuring in the WCs and the public bathrooms all finished with RAK-Precious basins teamed with matt black brassware. “Our objective was to source products that seamlessly merged aesthetics with durability,” continues Fawzy. “We pursued a minimalist design infused with a touch of opulence, a quest that led us to the exquisite offerings within the RAK Ceramics collection.”
Commenting on the finished project, the club’s General Manager, Ben Evans, says: “The new club was created for the Cambourne community, which until now has lacked anything like it in terms of leisure facilities. It’s quickly become a go-to lifestyle destination for our members and their families.”
About RAK Ceramics Ltd
RAK Ceramics products feature in some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Known for a wide product range and the ability to produce bespoke solutions for both small and large scale projects, RAK Ceramics enable clients to bring their ideas to life. They respect, inspire, improve and deliver; today, tomorrow, no matter the ambition, no matter the challenge, RAK Ceramics take care of all the details, so you don’t have to. Their passion and expertise combined with a careful attention to detail means they can provide you with a range of integrated ceramics solutions, allowing you freedom to be creative and plenty of room for imagination.
Calibre Climate was commissioned to design and install air conditioning and mechanical ventilation to a lateral apartment in a famous John Nash Grade II Listed crescent building overlooking Regent’s Park, in collaboration with House of Design Architects and Sonsino Turcan Construction.
At the outset, the design was heavily influenced by the interior design intent – the client’s vision was for a natural, earthy feel supported by neutral tones and a variety of textures in a geometric style. The air conditioning was designed to blend with architectural elements, leading to a clean and uncluttered finish with linear features.
While the façade was retained, the building behind it was completely reconfigured, allowing an array of options for equipment concealment and air terminations. The open plan layout simplified the number of air terminals required, allowing us to minimise the visual impact of the installation on the space.
In the main open plan living area, comprising the study, dining room and living room, simple twin slot diffusers were integrated into the underside of the coffered ceiling, complementing the geometry of the bespoke crittall partitioning separating the study and dining room. A similar solution was installed in the kitchen, with the diffusers running the full length of the wall section over the crittall door into the pantry to frame the space.
Tying in with the monochromatic colour palette selected in the bathrooms, single slots flush in the ceiling were selected for bathroom ventilation, keeping the overall look and feel smooth and cohesive.
Integral to the project were listed building constraints, which had to be considered at every stage to remain true to the historic character of the property. The end result is a beautifully tailored solution, in complete harmony with the space – blending into the existing architectural features in a minimalist way and complementing the linear nature of the wider design.
About Calibre Climate
Calibre is London’s air conditioning design, installation and aftercare specialist for prime residential properties. From sound surveys and planning applications to integrating equipment in joinery with beautifully discreet air terminals, we design and deliver quiet, concealed, luxury air conditioning systems tailored specifically to the interior design requirements of each client and property. Our unique consulting process, engaging with the wider design team from concept stage, enables end-to-end delivery of technically astute solutions that blend seamlessly with the architectural and aesthetic intent and character of each individual property.
We are delighted to introduce a new collection of small-scale, geometric designs that builds on the success of our recent Small Prints and Bibi launches.
These 5 designs are printed onto tumbled, 100% linen cloth with a relaxed, soft touch. Perfect for curtains, blinds, fixed and loose upholstery.
The free-flowing and tonal movement of this stylized coral, which was inspired by a small section of a traditional chintz from the 1800s, give it an endearingly natural appearance.
LF2398C / LF2427FR Available in 7 colourways
This pattern is derived from 17th-century domino paper used as book endpaper. The Linwood design team successfully blended a contemporary aesthetic into the design. Through its gentle, delicate flow, Helter Skelter celebrates the natural feel of the stylized fern.
LF2399C / LF2429FR Available in 19 colourways
With the immutable quality of a traditional block print, this basketweave pattern has a dynamic movement created by its multidirectional lines and varied tones.
LF2395C / LF2425FR Available in 9 colourways
With scalloped edges redolent of passementerie, Waltzer has an informal feel that captures the enchantment of sound waves.
LF2397C / LF2427FR Available in 7 colourways
This lively, casual stripe is presented on pure linen fabric and is based on an old Indian pattern discovered by the design team during their travels.
LF2396C / LF2426FR Available in 4 colourways
About Linwood
Our Hampshire-based family business puts excellence at the heart of everything we do. We straddle the worlds of creativity and innovation to produce distinctive collections of fabrics, wallpapers and cushions that are bursting with fresh ideas, while retaining the quality and artistry we are renowned for.
Gaggenau, the luxury brand for professional grade home appliances, introduces its latest innovation, the Essential Induction cooktop. Seamlessly integrated into the kitchen’s worktop, it represents the epitome of freedom, flexibility, and cutting-edge design for culinary enthusiasts.
The new induction cooktop is distilled to its essentials: the LED ‘dot’, the worktop surface, and the performance control knob. These elements are all that are visible. The result is a clear countertop that provides unmatched convenience and aesthetic appeal, transforming the cooking experience into a true architectural masterpiece.
The Essential Induction cooktop is designed to integrate exclusively with Dekton stone countertops. These ultra-compact, stain- and scratch-resistant surfaces are available in 60 finishes, designs and colours to complement any kitchen design. Gaggenau’s distinctive front-mounted performance control knobs assist users throughout the cooking process. The dot, a smart centre light within the cooking zone, shows the user where to place the cookware, warns of residual heat and vanishes when not in use, transforming the cooktop island into a versatile area suitable for preparation, serving, dining, working and socialising.
To ensure efficient cooking, Gaggenau has developed removable magnetic surface protectors for your existing cookware. These protectors not only mitigate any noise of the pan moving across the stone surface and safeguard the worktop but also ensure the conductivity of the induction modules, guaranteeing optimal cooking performance. The Essential Induction cooktop offers the full Gaggenau capabilities: keep warm and boost functions and an illuminated performance control knob in stainless steel or black. Combining the Gaggenau ceiling extractors provides a harmonious kitchen environment, especially for open-plan designs.
“Our longstanding commitment to innovation has often changed the dynamic of cooking. From the first integrated, eye-level appliances, to downdraft ventilation and pioneering steam cooking for the private kitchens, our technological advances have always created genuine human benefits. Today we champion The Essential Induction cooktop, an innovation that will not only change the way people cook but also how they choose to interact and socialise in the modern, open plan kitchen.” – Dr Peter Goetz, Managing Director of Gaggenau.
The Essential Induction cooktop is a result of Gaggenau’s dedication to timeless design, craftsmanship and innovation. This addition to their renowned collection of luxury appliances is set to revolutionise the kitchen landscape, empowering users to explore their culinary passions without compromise.
The Essential Induction cooktop will be available for purchase beginning May 2024.
About Gaggenau
Gaggenau is a manufacturer of high-quality home appliances and is acknowledged as an innovation leader in design and technology “Made in Germany”. The company, with a history dating back to 1683, has revolutionised the domestic kitchen with its internationally acclaimed products. Gaggenau’s success is founded on technological innovation and a clear design language combined with high functionality. Gaggenau has been a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH in Munich since 1995 and is currently represented in more than 50 countries with 25 flagship showrooms in major cities around the world.
In March, Bolon is relaunching Graphic, a design concept that is contemporary, nostalgic, and avant-garde – all at once. The updated collection retains several of its classics and adds a stripe design and a new leathery warp colour.
“Weaves and textiles have always been a great source of inspiration for me! The designs in Graphic can be derived from a selection of classic textile patterns”, says Lisa Jarhult, Product Developer and Designer at Bolon.
The collection consists of four timeless patterns: Herringbone, a true classic zigzag pattern, Gradient that celebrates eclectic aesthetics with soft textile references, String, Mache, Tan, Etch a group with a discrete pattern that has the ability to blend in without ever being ordinary, and the newcomer, Duo, a symmetric stripe that is both elegant and edgy.
“The new pattern Duo has a subtle colour range with three colours, but each has its own expression – one crisp, one soft and one spicy. In developing the new warp colour, we were looking for a colour with the perfect balance of a comforting, soft brown and spicy orange. Just like the name Cinnamon indicates, we found a warm, sweet neutral colour with confidence!” says Lisa.
Effortless combinations can be made within the collection, and Graphic also opens up for new exciting matches with other Bolon flooring and rugs.
All Bolon flooring and rugs contain 68% waste material with 0% climate impact. On top of that, all products are 100% made in Sweden in our climate-neutral production.
Available worldwide now!
About BOLON UK
Bolon specialise in the creation of high-performance design floorings. They believe in design for the long run. Where durability and aesthetics are equally important. Where effortless cleanability and maintenance comes naturally, and honest sustainability stands above it all. Produced using 100% renewable energy and recycled materials, Bolon’s high quality flooring solutions are specified for contract interiors, featuring in the offices of renowned brands around the world. When you design interiors with Bolon flooring as a base, you are set with an extensive palette of colours, shapes and patterns – making the design possibilities endless.
The Sync design series from Dornbracht complements style-conscious and progressive kitchen interiors. The tapered design transition between body and spout is the primary characteristic of the fitting, with the inner contour of the groove-free lever running parallel to it. With its dynamic, forward-facing design language, Sync offers function as well as form for a timeless piece that is easy to use in the kitchen.
Whether paired with natural stone and concrete, copper and terrazzo or stainless steel and wood: Sync enhances texture contrasts in the kitchen to unique effects. The resulting creative ensembles satisfy both virtuoso cooks and interior enthusiasts.
Sync is available as a pull-down single-lever mixer with spray function, or as a professional single-lever mixer. There is a wide choice of finishes – from Dark Chrome, to Brushed Platinum, to Champagne (22kt Gold).
About Dornbracht UK & Ireland
Dornbracht, with headquarters in Iserlohn, Germany, is a leading specialist for superior designer fittings and accessories for bathrooms, spas and kitchens. The company was founded in 1950 and today is internationally renowned among architects, designers and luxury consumers for its product portfolio in more than 125 markets. As an ultra-luxury brand, Dornbracht prides itself on its innovative technology and “Made in Germany” manufacturing standards which are made possible by state-of-the-art production technologies and highly qualified employees. The brand is driven by its clearly defined Design Principles which ensure every product will remain timeless and relevant for generations to come, characteristics for which Dornbracht has achieved worldwide recognition.
Tapping into the beauty of linen, Laon from Skopos offers up 22 chalky linen tones in a superb linen-look quality. Broadening the offer of Skopos flame retardant blackout fabrics, Laon brings natural matt texture to contract curtains. The distinctive texture of the woven face gives a natural variation in the colour and with a choice of calming blues, neutrals and soft greens, Laon provides a beautiful finishing touch for pelmets and windows and has an incredibly soft handle and elegant drape. Perfect for build to rent, hospitality and other commercial environments. Laon provides 100% blackout, without the need for curtain lining.
The collection is offered as wide-width, for easy and quick curtain make-up for contract windows. 100% Polyester with FR backing, 4 pass blackout, the fabric is washable at 30 degrees and achieves UK, European and IMO standards for fire retardancy.
Skopos also offers a comprehensive range of FR blackout (and dimout) roller blinds, available in a wide range of colours, with printed options for further choice.
Blackout curtains and blinds, alongside expert fitting, provide a complete blackout solution for areas such as bedrooms and cinema rooms, where light obscurity is vital for complete relaxation.
The Skopos team offer a full service or fabric only option, providing choice for our customers, with expertise in design, make-up (curtains, cushions and bedding), fitting and installation. Skopos Fabrics Ltd are dedicated to design, service and best performance.
Samples and shade-cards of Laon are available immediately. All colours available as a stocked item.
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