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The creative industries will benefit from Government support thanks to a new package of measures announced at an event hosted by the Department for International Trade (DIT) on Monday 20th September.

The event brings together business leaders from the UK's creative industries to celebrate their export success and encourage more businesses in these fields to take advantage of the opportunities to sell their world class goods and services globally. It is part of DIT's new 'Made in Britain, Sold to the World' campaign, that provides practical export help and encourages the nation to take pride in our exporters.

From fashion to film, the UK is home to some of the world's leading creative talent, exporting £37.9 billion in 2019. With global demand increasing, our creative industries are one of the UK's export success stories.

Export Impact of the Creative Industries

  • 'The Design Economy', a Design Council report, estimates the contribution of design to total UK exports of goods and services to be £34 billion. Meanwhile exports in 2019 from the architecture sector were worth £625 million.
  • There has also been a 49% increase in international work for UK architects since 2015. (RIBA, Business Benchmarking 2020)

Minister for Exports Mike Freer said: 'The UK's creative industries are a force to be reckoned with. We create, write, produce and code amazing products, and sell them to the world. The nation can be proud of our creative industries exporters, and the jobs they create in our economy.'

'Along with the trade deals we're striking, we are committed to helping our creative businesses fulfil their potential on the world stage, fuelling sustainable growth for British businesses and creating new jobs in every region and nation of the UK.'

Demand internationally is growing for the UK products, particularly in Asia with the region set to be home to the 66% of the global middle classes be 2030, hungry for high-quality British goods and services.

DIT has an array of existing support for budding exporters, who supported 6.5 million jobs across the UK in 2016. DIT is developing an ambitious cross-government Export Strategy to drive an economic recovery and level up the entire country, which will be published later this year.

About Department for International Trade
DIT secure UK and global prosperity by promoting and financing international trade and investment, and championing free trade.

If you'd like to feature your news or stories here, get in touch to find out more. 

The special 2021 Salone del Mobile.Milano event, supersalone will open with the accent on safety, design transversality and an ambitious green commitment (avoiding 1.2 kilograms of CO2 being pumped into the atmosphere by recycling the installations). It will feature more than 423 brands and 50 independent designers, 170 projects from 48 international design schools, 20 of the most influential figures on the creative scene today, 110 Compasso d’Oro award-winning chairs, five great chefs, six films selected by the MDFF and 200 trees from Forestami.

Event Details:

When: 5th - 10th September from 10am to 7pm (Friday: 10am to 4pm)
Where: Rho Milan Fairgrounds

Complimentary tickets are available for SBID Members!

Get in touch with [email protected] to register your interest.

The Salone’s digital platform will provide an opportunity to follow the events both in person and virtually, with  work on the “supersalone” going full pelt, the event is helmed by the curator Stefano Boeri, the international team of co-designers – Andrea Caputo, Maria Cristina Didero, Anniina Koivu, Lukas Wegwerth, Marco Ferrari and Elisa Pasqual of Studio Folder, along with Giorgio Donà, co-founder and director of Stefano Boeri Interiors – and the entire staff of the Salone del Mobile.Milano with huge commitment, courage and, above all, a great sense of responsibility.

“supersalone” event space

Maria Porro, President of the Salone del Mobile.Milano, had this to say: “We are pouring our hearts into organising this “supersalone” because we believe it’s crucial to go back to meeting each other, conduct relationships and see for ourselves the products that our companies have carried on creating. In 2020 we felt the lack of being able to have a collective vision on the direction of the entire sector even more keenly, and this event will allow us to find out the latest products and the prospects for the future. We took on a tough challenge with a great sense of responsibility. The issue of safety is key, and so we are working with all the regional institutions and bodies involved to ensure a totally safe experience for our exhibitors and visitors, starting with the green pass. The new Salone del Mobile.Milano platform with its palimpsest of events, live streamings and dedicated content will ensure that we can also fully involve that part of the design community that has been prevented from travelling due to the restrictions in force.”

“supersalone” event space

At “supersalone”

423 brands in all goods categories will set out their wares in four pavilions, in a committed response to the call Stefano Boeri, and the firm belief that the “supersalone” will become a symbol of a new Renaissance. The stars of the show will be increasingly innovative products, capable of fully responding to the changes inherent in the contemporary social structure, and their knock-on effects on a rapidly changing furnishing market and the individual needs of each client. Recognising the importance and the symbolic value of this “supersalone” will also be confirmed by the presence of high-ranking government and institutional authorities – first and foremost the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, on the day of the launch – testament, as always, to the fact that the Salone is one of the drivers of the Italian economy, thanks to the fertile relationship that it manages to set up between businesses, cities and regions.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Chiaki Yoshihara©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Chiaki Yoshihara©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Cerón López and López Velascoi©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Cerón López and López Velascoi©

What is so special about “supersalone”?

“The “supersalone” will be the first great Italian fair since the pandemic erupted. Super because it’s unmissable. Unmissable because it will see the great design brands, the young makers, the international schools, the great icons of design, the most renowned Italian chefs and many stars of the art and architecture scene gathered together for the first time. Unmissable because everybody will have a chance to see the top products from the top companies – live – and purchase or reserve them on the Salone del Mobile web platform. Unmissable because all the display components have been designed to be reused or recycled. Unmissable because at such a difficult time in our history we’ve mustered the courage, the passion and the generosity of the best of Italian business and creativity. “supersalone” is a cheerful response from a SuperItaly after the long night of the pandemic,” said the architect Stefano Boeri, curator of the event.

Innovation, attention to environmental impact, creativity tout court, cultural exchange, and digital experiences are the “supersalone” buzzwords. It will be an event that will draw on the power of design creativity to become a hub of experimentation and cross-pollination, a meeting place and a forger of new opportunities for reflection on the world of design and for acquainting ourselves with its protagonists – from the furnishing manufacturing system to the schools turning out the new cohorts of designers, from the independent makers to the most influential current figures in every field of design, from filmmakers who iconise the ability of design to shape worlds and tell stories to those who support and promote creativity.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Charlotte Krzentowski©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Chiaki Yoshihara©

Sustainability at the heart of the event

With circularity and sustainability uppermost, all the materials and components used in the installation designed by Andrea Caputo - long parallel sets, designed for the specific goods categories, and the communal areas such as the Food Courts, arenas and lounges designed by Stefano Boeri Interiors - have been devised in collaboration with Lukas Wegwerth to be dismantled and reused. With the onus on circularity, the installation systems, which involve no loose components and reduced amounts of material, will be completely recycled. All the chipboard panels made from 100% recycled timber will go back into the production cycle. The overall benefit from avoiding emissions of CO2 deriving from the use of post-consumer reclaimed material is a lower emissions figure of 1.125.000kg CO2eq. The same goes for the bricks used in The Lost Graduation Show installation, which are all reusable; all the arenas, benches and seating will be “dry” mounted and can therefore be disassembled and used again at different times and in different contexts.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Hemmo Honkanen©

Surrounded by trees

The trees supplied by Forestami will underscore the green credentials of “supersalone” with an ad hoc project that provides for a “forest” of around 100 trees through which the turnstiles at the East Gate entrance can be accessed. Another 100 tall trees will lead visitors into the various exhibition areas and living areas dedicated to relaxation. The selected trees – lime, ash, oak, flowering plum trees – will subsequently be planted in Milan’s metropolitan area.

An open space event venue with trees, exhibition spaces, screens and round red benches. Chairs displayed at the exhibition.
“supersalone” event space

Supporting new designers in difficult times

One of the special “supersalone” exhibitions will be The Lost Graduation Show, curated by Anniina Koivu, showcasing 170 projects from students who graduated between 2020 and 2021, hailing from 48 design schools in 22 different countries in all five continents. A first in the history of the Salone that will involve every sector of furniture design and more besides. Incursions into the world of mobility, inclusive, medical and sports design, research into materials and design sustainability will map out the status quo of the entire sector. An example of how the Salone del Mobile.Milano works to support design schools, promoting the latest generation of designers, narrating their enthusiasm, courage and efforts at a time when the profession is undergoing swingeing change.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Oneseo Choi©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Oneseo Choi©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Chiaki Yoshihara©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Chiaki Yoshihara©

Chairs - telling stories through design

The exhibition Take Your Seat / Prendi Posizione – Solitude and Conviviality of the Chair / Solitudine e Convivialità della Sedia, curated by Nina Bassoli in partnership with ADI / Compasso d’Oro Award, will be another major highlight. Featuring 30 Compasso d’Oro award-winning chairs and more than 80 chairs that have gained honourable mentions ranged around the four “supersalone” pavilions, the exhibition will tell the story of the most iconic of all design objects, the chair, more capable of synthesising the value of good design than any other artefact. Split into four themed sections, with the addition of an “extra” section at the ADI Design Museum – the ideal end or start point to the visit – it will illustrate just how design has harnessed languages and content throughout the great changes in society and how it has managed to respond to new cultural paradigms with new inventions.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Albini©

Broadening knowledge through talks and lectures

Devised by Maria Cristina Didero, the “supersalone” programme will be packed with conversations, talks and lectures by designers, architects, artists, scholars and managers from all over the world. The protagonists will endeavour to respond to a variety of questions on design, art, architecture, education, the circular economy, environmental impact, the relationship between project and curation and much more besides, in a series of dialogues and one man shows. There are many famous names among them: from Humberto Campana to Bjarke Ingels, Carsten Höller, Paola Pivi, Beatriz Colomina, Cecilia Alemani, Formafantasma and Philippe Malouin. There will be three fixed appointments every day: round tables at 12pm, talks at 3pm and lectures at 5pm. In addition to these events and in collaboration with the Milano Design Film Festival, every day at 4pm studies, biopics and docufilms will allow for crosscutting insight into design, architecture and the current social and sustainable implications. The programme includes Newmuseum(s). Stories of Company Archives and Museums by Francesca Molteni; Tokyo Ride by Ila Bêka and Louise Lemoine; Paradigma Olivetti by Davide Maffei; Precise Poetry. Lina Bo Bardi’s Architecture by Belinda Rukschcio and Honeyland by Tamara Kotevska and Ljubomir Stefanov.

“supersalone” event space

Gastronomic experiences by world-renowned chefs

“supersalone” is also and especially open to cross-pollination between different spheres and languages, featuring Identità Golose Milano – International Gastronomic Hub in the event, because food is a product on the same level as any other, and has always evolved on the basis of human creativity and need. It calls for careful planning and the study of craft and industrial processes, both traditional and otherwise. It also requires a good pinch of curiosity and openness. The Identità Golose Food Court is a new bespoke concept tailormade for “supersalone,” conceived as an integral part of the visitor experience and an opportunity to savour the original recipes of some of the greatest Italian chefs and artisans, including Carlo Cracco with pastry chef Marco Pedron, Massimo Bottura with the workshop Il Tortellante, Michelin star chefs Cristina Bowerman and Matias Perdomo, Eugenio Boer, the Italo-Dutch chef renowned for the international influences that he weaves into his cuisine, as well as Renato Bosco, considered one of the greatest master of pizza, the great ice-cream maker Paolo Brunelli and Andrea Besuschio, who has been ranked among the top 10 best pastry chefs in Italy for years. Each of them will come up with an iconic dish – either sweet or savoury – that the public will be able to purchase, putting together their own ideal menus to enjoy in an informal and inclusive environment.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Charlie Humble Thomas©

The unification of Salone del Mobile and Triennale Milano

As per another well-established tradition being revived at this special September event, the Salone del Mobile will venture beyond the confines of the Rho Fairgrounds to underscore and valorise its deep ties with Milan and, in the spirit of increasing openness to the exchange and circulation of ideas, culture and creativity, will reinforce its dialogue with Triennale Milano, the city hub of “supersalone.” Triennale will be marking the occasion with Il Salone / La Città (The Salone / The City), an exhibition conceived by the Triennale Museum of Italian Design for the Salone del Mobile.Milano and curated by Mario Piazza. The exhibition will narrate the cultural events held in the city by the Salone that, over the years, have communicated design to its fans. A spectacular show that will draw on the archives of Triennale Milano and the Salone del Mobile.Milano.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Francesco Lucini©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Zanuso Sapper©
The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Zanuso Sapper©

Blending physical and digital to create engaging experiences

The mix of digital and in-person presence will make for a thoroughly engaging experience and allow those unable to be physically present to observe the products on exhibit, visit the exhibitions virtually and attend the talks and lectures. The Salone del Mobile.Milano platform has been designed to promote the design on exhibit with original content and medium-specific language, and to put the user at the centre of the event before, during and after their visit. The exhibition spaces and themed itineraries will dialogue with the platform in a wholly original manner, allowing the products to be observed and reserved for purchase. These are the digital crossroads that will create new forms of integration and interconnection between different worlds, users and markets.

The Lost Graduation Show. Project Credit: Elias Antonson©

“supersalone” will be all this and much more - a special project through which the Salone del Mobile.Milano intends to serve as a promoter of and catalyst for activities, thoughts and feelings that will allow the entire sector and the supply chain as a whole to breathe life into a new Renaissance.

About Salone del Mobile
Launched in Milan in 1961 as a vehicle for promoting Italian exports of furnishing and accessories, the Salone Internazionale del Mobile is the global benchmark event for the furnishing and design sector.

If you'd like to feature your product news here, get in touch to find out more. 

The SBID International Design Awards finalists for 2021 have been revealed, boasting an impressive shortlist of award-worthy entries across Interior DesignProduct Design and Fit-Out. From the design scheme, materials used and products specified through to the final fit-out installation, the SBID Awards champion design standards across the supply chain in the design, procurement and execution of outstanding interiors!

To complete the third and final stage of judging, the online Public Vote is now open! Worth an influential 30% of the final scores, it's your chance to sway the results and decide which finalists you think deserve to take home a prestigious SBID Award! You can only vote once per category, so choose wisely and vote for your favourite designs!

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 10 September

Interior Design Awards:

CGI & Visualisation

Angel O'Donnell - Prince of Wales Drive

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the CGI & Visualisation category! This category rewards skill and innovation in the use of visual design software and includes both residential and commercial renders. The shortlisted entries include any interior design visual or CGI that has been created on a visualisation programme, including AutoCad, CAD, 3ds Max, InteriCAD and Vectorworks.

Club & Bar Design

Kris Lin International Design - Leaves

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Club & Bar Design category! The shortlisted entries include nightclubs, private members clubs and bars with judges looking for functionality, compliance and fit-for-purpose design.

Healthcare & Wellness Design

Bishop Design by Paul Bishop - Ciel Spa

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Healthcare & Wellness Design category! From interiors of hospitals, healthcare facilities and care-related properties (including gyms, spas and wellbeing centres), the finalists adopt innovative approaches to healthcare environments.

Hotel Bedroom & Suites Design

IHG - Hotel Indigo Bath

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Hotel Bedroom & Suite Design category! The shortlisted projects include both new builds and restorations for commercial hotel designs, showing high levels of creativity, innovation and consideration for the target clientelle.

Hotel Public Space Design

Richmond International - Múzsa at Four Seasons Gresham Palace, Budapest

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Hotel Public Space Design category! This category includes designs for lobbies, spas, ballrooms, meeting rooms and other public facilities within hotels. Shortlisted projects show the creativity and innovation required to provide unique and memorable guest experiences!

KBB Design

Detail by Davinia Sutton Ltd - Residence No. 8

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for KBB Design! The finalists in this category include the latest interior designs for the kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms within residential spaces, considering user lifestyles, personal tastes and trends to execute the client brief.

Office Design

Oktra - Crowe UK

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Office Design category! Showcasing inspiring workplaces with contemporary design concepts to curate effective working environments that meet the needs of both the client and the employees!

Property Development Asia Pacific

NNS INSTITUTE OF THE INTERIOR ART&DESIGN - Jinke Bocui Future

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Property Development Asia Pacific category! Including the most innovative residential and mixed-use developments, sales centres, marketing suites in the Asia-Pacific region.

Public Space

Fogarty Finger - Dock 72 at Brooklyn Navy Yard Lobby

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Public Space Design category! Dedicated to the exceptional interiors for public spaces created as a service for the community; from airports, libraries, schools and museums, to universities and religious buildings!

Residential Apartment Over £1M

IAIA - Idea Art Interior Architects - The Shadow Box

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Residential Apartment Over £1M! This premium design category highlights the wow-factor for high-end residential projects with an overall value exceeding £1 Million!

Residential Apartment Under £1M

Celia Chu Design - 55 Timeless

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Residential Apartment Under £1M! With an overall value of under £1 Million, the finalists are recognised not only for achievement for the budget, but also on intuitive functionality and aesthetics.

Residential Budget Up To £50k

Carton Interiors - Riverside Townhouse

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Residential Budget Up To £50K! The finalist projects in this category have delivered the best interior design solutions to meet the client’s brief on a limited budget! 

Residential House Over £1M

Hill House Interiors - Mayfair, London

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Residential House Over £1M! This premium design category highlights the wow-factor for high-end residential projects with an overall value exceeding £1 Million!

Residential House Under £1M

Bells + Whistles - Marrow Mirage

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Residential House Under £1M! With an overall value of under £1 Million, the finalists are recognised not only for achievement for the budget, but also on intuitive functionality and aesthetics.

Restaurant Design

Design Command - Mickeys Beach Bar and Restaurant

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Restaurant Design category! Looking for the latest innovations in hospitality, the finalist designs for restaurants and cafes consider functionality, compliance and creativity to create engaging dining experiences.

Retail Design

Mercurio Design Lab - Doji Tower

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Retail Design category! Highlighting the latest commercial trends, the finalist designs include retail outlets, shopping centres, pop-up shops and showrooms with the innovation and functionality to create safe and engaging customer environments.

Show Flats & Developments

Rebecca Robertson Interiors - 53 West 53 Residence

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for Show Flats & Developments! This category is for marketing suites and show homes with designs focusing on functionality, aesthetic and ability to interpret the developer’s vision and engage potential consumers.

Product Design Awards:

Acquabella - Flow Zero

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Product Design categories! Boasting finalists across the sectors, the product design awards showcase interior solutions from accessories and furniture to floors, surfaces, sanitaryware and more!

Fit Out Awards:

Modus - Workspace

Explore the 2021 SBID Awards Finalists for the Interior Fit-Out Design categories! This award is bestowed upon the fit-out specialists and contractors operating across the commercial and residential sectors for providing superior services in the execution of outstanding interior design projects!

Voting closes at 5pm (BST) on 10 September.

Visit www.sbidawards.com to find out more!

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration when it comes to most sectors, and interior design is most definitely one of them. Consumers now more than ever want to know they are making the best decisions when it comes to environmental impact.

SBID Accredited outdoor furniture specialist Oxley’s Furniture, have been sustainably making their outdoor furniture from recycled aluminium for 30 years. This recycled aluminium comes from old alloy wheels, disused airplane parts and hundreds of thousands of drinks cans.

Why Aluminium?

Aluminium is an amazing metal; it is 100% recyclable and will lose no quality during this process. Nearly 75% of all aluminium ever produced still being in use today. Recycling aluminium uses just 5% of the energy required to produce new aluminium and it can be recycled over and over again.

A Business Model Ahead of Its Time...

Using recycled aluminium creates a virtuous cycle that allows Oxley’s to manufacture luxury outdoor furniture as sustainably as possible. When Oxley’s started 30 years ago, most outdoor furniture was made of rain forest teak, now most outdoor furniture is made from woven plastic. Simon Hudson, managing director of Oxley’s Furniture says; “When we started the business we wanted to make wonderful furniture that lasted generations. At the time we loved the idea that we could do this using a recycled product. This just seemed a good practical thing to do - now this is called sustainability.”

Built To Last

When processed properly aluminium does not rot or rust, meaning it can be left outside all year every year. The recycled aluminium Oxley’s use is smelted and carefully graded to their particular manufacturing requirement. Oxley’s go to extreme lengths in their Cotswold factory to process their furniture in the most thorough way possible, so it is unaffected by weather, wherever in the World it is located. So not only are the materials sourced sustainably, but Oxley’s furniture will last for generations.

Using tiles in interiors has been common practice for decades, from our bathroom floors to our kitchen walls. In fact, the use of tiles stems back to Ancient Egypt! Today, as interior designers are always looking for new ways use materials and innovate their designs, the specification of floor and wall tiles is getting more and more creative. Newly SBID Accredited specialists in tiles for specifiers, Craven Dunnill share their story; from a longstanding heritage, to how they work with interior designers to supply unique and bespoke tiling solutions for their projects. Discover their insight on the latest trends for interior tiles!

What are the origins of Craven Dunnill?

We have been manufacturing and supplying ceramic tiles for commercial and residential projects for 150 years, since 1872; and we use every bit of that experience to ensure that our clients are always provided with professional, market-leading and passionate support. Our vast portfolio is stocked here in the UK, showcasing the very latest of British and European produced ceramic wall and floor tiles. Our specialist production factory, based in Ironbridge UK, still operates as the oldest surviving purpose-built tile factory in the world.

With a deeply rooted history in providing tiles for interior design specification, we offer distinctive designs inspired by our longstanding heritage, with an unrivalled reputation for quality, style, and service. With experience stretching back 150 years, we pride ourselves in our flexibility, technical support, fit for purpose guidance, and high product quality standards.

How do you work with interior designers?

Craven Dunnill stock the widest selection of ceramic tiles from the leading manufacturers around the World. Our vast range provides interior designers with limitless possibilities according to their project needs and requirements.

We appreciate that every project is unique and we have extensive experience across a wide variety of projects and installations. With the knowledge and experience of what is achievable, we work closely with interior designers to ensure we select products which fit the performance, quality and longevity demands for their projects.

We can provide a truly bespoke solution for even the most challenging of projects. If you can’t find the tile you need in our vast portfolio of wall and floor tiles, we have the facility to produce ceramic wall or floor tiles to almost any shape and/or size. All custom design and manufacture solutions are provided through our own specialist factory. Craven Dunnill Jackfield have been hand-making ceramic tiles for over 150 years and now combine modern and traditional production techniques to create bespoke wall or floor ceramics to almost any design and specification!

What value does your sector add to the interior design industry?

Tiles are an integral element for any project and offer a wide variety of materials, finishes and styles with versatile laying options which can bring the vision of interior designers to life. They can deliver stunning aesthetics, unify indoor and outdoor spaces with a seamless transition and offer everyday solutions to meet the challenging creative and practical demands of contemporary projects.

Creating surfaces for many projects involves not only meeting requirements in terms of practicality, durability but also aesthetics. Tile materials can guarantee comfort, elegance, very high-quality performance and longevity for long term use to meet more eco-friendly specification approaches to sustainability.

Today, hygiene and safety is more important than ever. Everyone wants to live and work in healthy environments. Ceramic surfaces with antibacterial protection, an anti-microbial shield integrated into the tiles, eliminate up to 99.9% of surface bacteria, 24 hours a day, forever.

How do your services/offering enhance an interior designer’s projects? 

Specialists like no other. Craven Dunnill is renowned for the production and supply of ceramic wall and floor tiles to all market sectors, including specification, housebuilder, commercial, retail and specialist, for both the UK and global markets.

Product: Craven Dunnill prides itself on its choice and selection of best-in-class ceramic wall and floor tiles, sourced from the leading manufacturers around the World. Our products represent quality. And more than that, it is an ethos throughout the organisation. We have an appreciation and understanding of high-quality products, and that is recognised across everything that we do.

Sampling: Fast and efficient sampling is an important part of our specifier support service. Smaller tiles can be despatched as full tiles, and larger tiles can be sent either as 100×100 colour swatches – perfect for mood boards – or delivered as larger tile samples.

Service: We take our service and support very seriously – putting your needs first, and continually striving to exceed expectations. We aim to deliver an experience worth talking about, every single time. We have an experienced team of customer service advisors who are always on hand to assist with your specific enquiry, whether its face-to-face, online, or on the phone.

Technical: At Craven Dunnill, we set ourselves apart through the quality and accuracy of our technical support and guidance. We aim to build confidence and earn the trust of our clients by providing correct and appropriate technical information, and finding a solution to meet your specific needs. We are on hand to give all the necessary guidance on selection, installation, maintenance and care.

Our technical experts sit on a number of standards and technical committees including BSI, UKSRG (UK Slip Resistance Group) and TTA (The Tile Association). This ensures that any technical advice given is absolutely in line with current standards and industry guidance.

Custom Design & Manufacture: Using our own specialist factory, Craven Dunnill Jackfield, we combine modern and traditional production techniques to create bespoke wall or floor ceramics to almost any design. If you can’t find the tile size you need in our vast portfolio of wall and floor tiles we have the facility to produce ceramic wall or floor tiles to almost any shape and/or size.

Sustainability: Respect for the environment is more critical now than ever. We are market leaders in the supply of ceramic tiles with a green agenda, sourcing only from manufacturers with responsible practices and certified credentials. We have an experienced team that can support you in specifying tiles with the appropriate eco-credentials for your project.

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

  • Indoor/outdoor living is an enduring trend that continues to drive the need for creative and practical solutions.
  • Large format tiles in a variety of effects and finishes are increasingly moving into domestic and residential projects, while natural effect tiles as wall surfaces and feature walls remain popular.
  • There is a trend emerging towards a mix and match approach, with interior designers pushing the creative use of contrasting effects and finishes, incorporating 3D wall tiles with bold patterns and dramatic reliefs.
  • Thinner porcelain slabs, which are easier to handle and install than large stone slabs but offer the same aesthetic, are helping designers create stunning and expansive surfaces.
  • Wet room solutions are continuing to grow in popularity.
  • Highly durable porcelain is also increasingly be used as an alternative to other materials such as granite for surfaces such as kitchen worktops. Porcelain is highly durable and offers a wider variety of attractive effects and finishes.

To find out how to join the SBID professional membership, click here 

Over the past year, our homes have become a sanctuary, playground, and office all at once. Nights out have become nights in. More than ever before, we have been confronted by the notion of “how does our home make us feel?”. That visceral feeling is at the heart of Timothy Oulton’s captivating furniture designs.

Elevate Every Moment with Inspired Design

Organised into a spectrum of different energies, the 2021 Collection is designed to imbue a space with a distinctive mood and feeling, from the deep chill of quiet moments alone, to a relaxed hub of family life, to more energising spaces that spark ideas and augment the unbridled joy of life’s celebrations. The Timothy Oulton Collection enriches these experiences through the use of beautiful materials, finishes, forms and craftsmanship techniques which connect deeply through the senses and through stories of meaning.

Whitecliff sofa

At the most laidback end of the energy spectrum are those special moments of reconnection, of letting the mind unwind and chilling out with those close to us. These moments nourish us and enrich us. With this in mind, Timothy Oulton’s Noble Souls range helps create a realm of reconnection in any home. New this year, the Sanctuary sofa hugs the body in the softest goose down and natural vegetable-dyed linens, while the epic Icebeam coffee table anchors a room with its mighty reclaimed timber beams topped with ice-like planks of glass.

The Bay swivel chair

Enriching the comfortable and relaxed energy of everyday living, the new Whitecliff sofa embodies a casual sophistication in soft Pennines linen, while the Bay Swivel chair is perfect for modern work from home settings, gliding back at the touch of a button for the ultimate comfort while you work.

Tactile dining table
Fibi dining chair
Iceberg Glow coffee table

The Tactile dining table juxtaposes cool, crisp marble with richly textured timber, while the Fibi dining chair takes it cue from modern Japanese design, imbued with a universal elegance that complements any style of dining table. For a more invigorating energy with which to engage the world, the new Iceberg Glow coffee table pairs sleek black steel with glass, casting a mellow yet captivating glow. Transporting the senses to somewhere otherworldly, the Kyron coffee and side table collection is crafted from softly illuminated moonstone, inspired by the famous Chiron comet.

Kyron side table
The Art-Deco inspired Rex rectangular dining table

Finally, for sheer unbridled celebration and joy, setting the scene for parties or other occasions, Timothy Oulton unveils exciting new additions to its iconic Art-Deco inspired Rex collection. The new rectangular Rex dining table, handcrafted from over 550 precision-cut glass prisms, together with the Rex coffee table and Rex sideboard, transform any space with a perpetual dance of shimmer and sparkle.

New leather innovations include the Vintage Jet Black, a true black leather distressed by hand to achieve a vintage look and opulent hand feel. Vintage Jet Black is showcased on the super-soft Squidgy sofa, a contemporary, buttoned-up style with bold proportions.

Shimmer bar cabinet

On the inspiration behind the new collection, founder and creative director Tim Oulton says, “This past year, we have all experienced our homes in a completely different way. From home-working and homeschooling to swapping nights out for nights in, ‘home’ became the epicentre of daily life. So the question of how your home makes you feel has become more meaningful than ever. Our ethos has always been rooted in the realisation that we only have one life, so we should elevate every moment to the utmost. Everything we create is about enabling and enriching these moments.”

With over 40 galleries worldwide including a flagship at Bluebird in Chelsea, Timothy Oulton continues to expand its global portfolio. Recently opened stores include Glasgow, Hamburg, L.A., San Francisco, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Barbados. Further openings are planned this year.

About

The story of Timothy Oulton started back in 1976 with a small antiques shop, owned by Tim’s dad. Profoundly influenced by his love of antiques, his father’s military background, and an inherent affection for British heritage, Tim created an authentic, visionary brand with the deepest integrity and a passion to deliver extraordinary experiences. Handcrafted with only the best traditional techniques and fabrications, each Timothy Oulton piece in the furniture collection is inspired by the past, but reconceived from a modern perspective, producing uniquely authentic collections, which push the boundaries of furniture design.

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This month's product roundup features the latest news and collections from SBID's network of Accredited suppliers; from aesthetic designs for sanitiser dispensers to a range of sustainably-made lounge chairs, the June edition showcases unique designer collaborations for signature furniture collections and hand-tufted rugs, as well as highlights new certifications for embedded carbon footprints of ecological paints!

KEUCO introduces additional colours and branding options for sanitiser dispenser

KEUCO’s sanitiser dispensers go above expectations, bold and bright or subtle chic, suitable for an extensive variety of areas, locations and situations: homes to hotels, supermarkets to shopping malls, airports to Aston Martin’s! These new dispensers meet the highest hygiene requirements, whilst combining functionality with a distinguished design.

Since the middle of 2020 hand sanitisers have become a must for every property. KEUCO’S dispenser has an elegant yet straightforward, linear design, along with superior technical features that have been invisibly integrated in the design. The KEUCO dispensers make a stylish addition in any location where hand sanitisers are required.

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Arper presents its first sustainable lounge chair in solid wood with Kata 

Lightweight in form and environmental footprint, Kata is designed with circular sustainability at its core. Arper’s first solid wood lounge chair, Kata takes inspiration from artisan-made wood and woven straw chairs and reimagines the near universal typology using contemporary, sustainable solutions in an expression that’s both graphic and warm. Kata finds form in juxtaposition - an evocative gesture in the movement between material presence and minimal silhouette, softness and strength, tradition and technology.

The Kata lounge chair is a union of traditional craftsmanship and soft technology. An oak and black locust FSC certified wooden frame supports a tailor-made 3D knit textile. The knit cover is created from recycled polyester made from post-consumer plastic that is converted into durable and lightweight fibers -  roughly 1 kilo of waste – or about 48 half PET bottles – is used to produce 1 kilo of yarn. The knit technology is also formed to fit the frame, avoiding leftover material waste found in traditional manufacturing, with unified seat and back structure available in lightweight stripe or graphic-patterned 3D knit with internal micro-padding -  all suitable for outdoor use. Additional loose seat and back cushions finishes can be customized in both Arper's complete fabric catalogue.

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TSAR Carpets introduces latest hand-tufted rug collection, Tæpper

A global industry leader in luxury custom-made carpets and rugs, Melbourne-based TSAR Carpets is pleased to introduce the new Tæpper Collection, a series of hand-tufted rug designs made in collaboration with designer Michelle Macarounas of Infinite Design Studio. The collection will be sold exclusively at TSAR’s studios in Melbourne, Sydney, New York, London, and Shanghai with each luxurious rug hand-tufted from the finest grade of New Zealand wool and shiny Tencel fibre, offering incredible durability and softness.

Featuring abstract designs inspired by the art and design of mid-20th century modernism - in particular, the object-mobile artwork of Alexander Calder - the collection’s sculptural graphics are enhanced by colorful dimension, adding a design-forward focal point for any room. “The goal was to create stylish area rugs that felt more like pieces of art and infuse an eclectic sensibility to any interior space,” says Macarounas. “My aim was for each design to be simple, yet strong enough to breathe on its own or sit in harmony with other interior design elements.”

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Appliques et bougeoirs Perles - salon

Lalique launches Signature Collection in collaboration with interior designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon

The Signature Collection combines Lalique's extraodinary skills in the art of glassmarking with Pierre-Yves Rochon's outstanding expertise in designing interior solutions for luxury hotels around the world. The collection embodies the brand's timeless elegance as an enduring symbol of French luxury.

Pierre-Yves Rochon comments: “Crystal is a noble material that beautifully serves all forms of art: from architecture or sculpture to tableware or jewelry... As an Interior Designer, it is an inexhaustible source of inspiration and creativity. With this Signature collection of furniture, I wanted to write a new story in which metal sublimates the transparency, purity and brilliance of crystal. The Perles, Coutard, Vibration, Causeuses, Roses or Soudan pieces were born from the quest for the most beautiful aesthetic effect, the search for perfect proportions and the attention to every detail. Marked by the precision and the elegance of metal, the designs give crystal the freedom to blend in interior architecture and furniture design in a new manner. I am honoured to perpetuate René Lalique’s work, associating crystal and metal in my own turn.”

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Graphenstone conclude certification for its embedded carbon footprint

The construction sector consumes 50% of all raw materials, produces 39% of all carbon emissions, causes 36% of all waste and 49% of total carbon emissions over the life of a building (source - WasteBuild).  Architects, interior designers, manufacturers and contractors can all make significant contributions in protecting our fragile climate through choice of materials. For example in paints, one of the most polluting industries in the world, selecting and specifying newly developed ‘harm-free’ products using advanced technologies, as opposed to the same toxic options used over recent decades, can make a huge difference.

Graphenstone have now concluded the certification of its embedded carbon footprint. Its level is about one-fifth of the few other paints companies who have conducted the same research. The entire carbon footprint (complete raw material extraction to end of manufacture) presents the value 0.5kg / litre. BREEAM, LEED & WELL complaint, Graphenstone is certified for health and sustainability by the world’s most recognised product evaluation agencies (Cradle to Cradle Institute, Eurofins, Green Tag). They examine all aspects of a product's sourcing, development, energy, water and social impact, as well as how cleanly it dies off at end of life.

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With growing demand for zero contact bathroom solutions, manufacturers are increasingly introducing new developments for innovative touchless products to deliver the ultimate in hygiene. From basin mixers that activate automatically when they detect a user, to electronic flush plates with movement sensors, and mirrors with lights that are switched on with a simple gesture – Roca offers a range of touchless solutions which provide an extra layer of hygiene and safety within the bathroom. Infrared sensors allow users to activate water flow in taps, flush the WC or control mirror lights without the need for contact, avoiding the spread of viruses and growth of bacteria.

Electronic Basin Mixers

Roca’s range of electronic basin mixers, including the Loft-E range, feature an infrared sensor which activates the water flow when presence is detected and shuts off automatically when presence is no longer detected, avoiding direct hand contact. The lack of contact with the tap improves hygiene and prevents the build-up of droplets and fingerprints on its surface, resulting in a cleaner product for longer. Roca’s electronic basin mixers offer a highly hygienic and effective solution to fight the spread of viruses and bacteria and to reduce the use of water in the home.

Easy installation is guaranteed. The electronic mixers are available in a battery or mains operated system which means they can be installed in any bathroom, regardless of the availability of a power outlet in the area of usage. The battery operated versions are exceptionally durable with alkaline batteries which guarantee over 250,000 uses. A further innovation means both greater safety and more savings - the electronic device stops the water flow after a preset usage time to promote moderate use and prevent unnecessary waste of water.

Touchless mirrors with LED lights

Mirrors with integrated touchless technology, such as the Prisma Comfort model, allow users to activate functions such as the ambient light or the demister device through movement, which means less direct contact from hands, allowing the glass to remain clean and clear.

Electronic operating plates for toilets

The EP-1 and EP-2 electronic operating plates make it possible to activate the toilet flush without touching it. With a stylish, contemporary design and very easy installation, they are automatically activated when moving a hand in front of them, ensuring maximum hygiene and avoiding any contact.

With a backlit surface divided into two stripes which are alternatively activated depending on the type of flush (partial or full), they can be set off by simply bringing the hand closer or by choosing the automatic option in which the toilet is instantly cleaned when the user approaches or when a specific time has passed after its use.

Roca’s Touchless solutions are suitable for both domestic and commercial use, providing an extra layer of safety within every type of bathroom.

About Roca

Roca began in 1917 as a manufacturer of cast iron radiators at its factory in Gavà, near Barcelona. From humble origins, the company has grown into a global business driven by a firm focus on improving the quality of life for its customers. Roca began producing innovate new designs, products and materials to provide the complete bathroom solutio. Today, Roca manufactures at 78 facilities around the world and is active in over 170 markets.

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Nestled deep in the heart of the English countryside, Avalon at Broughton Hall is part of The Broughton Sanctuary in the foothills of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The luxurious wellbeing retreat centre required a calming and harmonious aesthetic with sumptuous sound systems to play a key role in the Art of Being and relaxation.

Avalon, amidst the stunning 3000 acre Broughton Hall Estate in Yorkshire, is a retreat like no other. This special location was designed to serve the mind, body and spirit, creating the freedom for personal development and the pursuit of the inner voyage. This unique building was designed by Cirencester-based architects, Yiangou, with the interior design created by celebrated Opera and Ballet designer, Patrick Kinmonth.

The importance of the building and the way it helps people connect with it and each other during their journey cannot be underestimated. As a result, Patrick Kinmonth stage managed a deluxe and inventive interior for ultimate connectivity and wellness in mind. It is discreet, joyful and functional, combining natural materials, contemporary style and technology in a thoughtful and contextual way.

Sound systems designed to be discreet

Sound is a key sense in the Art of Being. Kinmonth understands this well and with the invisibility of the buildings' technology being an integral part of the specification for Avalon, Patrick chose to deploy Amina invisible speakers throughout. Invisibility is, of course, key in keeping the interior space visually free and uncluttered. After all, a sanctuary is not a sanctuary when you are surrounded by technology. Amina was the logical step to ensure the audio solution fitted with the design concept and did not distract from the visual journey and intention of the spaces.

Effective audio solutions to suit the space

Not only was invisibility integral, but a sound that filled the space evenly with quality, calmness and control was of equal importance. Avalon is full of large open and empty spaces which is where the Amina speakers came into their own. Sound evenly fills the space and is delivered with aplomb, supporting and nurturing the beautiful Avalon experience.

Providing the right amount of bass

When it comes to bass, there is only really only one name that stands out above the rest for quality without compromise; Velodyne. Or, more precisely in this case, the Velodyne 15" Digital Drive plus. Two of these power-house subwoofers are hidden away in descrete, bespoke cabinetry using vents to allow sound and bass pressure into the room. Bringing the Yoga Studio's Dolby Atmos experience to life with thunderously deep, tight and dynamic bass; whatever the audio application.

Needing high quality, deep and clean bass with an IP65 rating for the swimming pool area brought us to the Artison RCC320 range of subwoofers. Known for their phenomenal 'Reactance Cancelling' technology. Allowing them to achieve vibration-free, room-filling bass from a compact in wall unit.

About Redline

Formed in 2001, Redline's expertise lies in creating custom and discrete audio-visual solutions inline with client requirements. The brands they represent display a daring disregard for industry convention, while incorporating ground-breaking technology and a high attention to detail and superior quality.

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The way we view and use our bathrooms has changed in recent years. It is now seen as a place for replenishing and relaxation as homeowners seek to a create more luxurious, spa-style experiences in the home, with dedicated space to unwind from the day and indulge the senses.

With the average female spending at least 29 minutes in this space every day, it’s becoming vital to ensure that bathroom environments are designed to deliver the right atmosphere of luxury and indulgence; redirecting the focus to our personal care and wellbeing rituals to cultivate more accessible wellness experiences without leaving the house. 

The shower has become a large part of this wellness-driven, self-care lifestyle and in many homes it now replaces the traditional bath tub; with many showering in the morning to actively start the day or taking a shower in the evening to relax the body and soothe the soul. The ROYAL MIDAS shower light made by KEUCO creates a unique showering experience with the perfect combination of water and light.

The unique shower light concept has a large integrated shower head to create a stunning combination of light and water, providing positive effects on the person showering and offering a bespoke experience depending on the time of day. Single drops of water reflect the light, whilst the water streaming from shower above covers the body – whether refreshing, cooling and invigorating, or warming and relaxing, the shower light is a welcome addition to bathroom interiors for enhancing that at-home wellness experience.

The complete all-in-one shower solution means installation is quick, safe and easy in coordination with a KEUCO shower valve; the KEUCO shower light being autonomously operated via a momentary room switch providing on/off and light adjustment.

The shower light can be set or dimmed between 6500 kelvin (day light) and 2700 kelvin (warm white). This is especially good in winter time, allowing users to have a brighter ‘day light’ shower in the morning with a warming effect to activate the circulatory system. A dimmer, softer light during the evening shower creates a more relaxing ambience; mirroring the appearance of sunset to help stimulate the release of melatonin hormones, encouraging healthy sleep.

About KEUCO

KEUCO GmbH & Co. KG is an internationally active, full provider of premium bathroom furnishings. KEUCO offers a wide range of fittings, accessories, mirror cabinets, lights and mirrors, washbasins and bathroom furniture “made in Germany”. Design and function play a decisive role at KEUCO. The aim of perfectly crafted products is to combine aesthetic forms with sensible functionalities - a claim that is consistently taken into account right from the idea through to the implementation. KEUCO has a long tradition of working together with designers.

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