Emma Hopkins, Commercial Marketing Manager at Amtico, has given her insights into the industry.
Amtico is a British luxury vinyl tile (LVT) manufacturer with over 60 years of expertise in designing and creating premium flooring solutions. For over 60 years, Amtico has been at the forefront of luxury vinyl tile (LVT) innovation, designing and manufacturing premium flooring solutions for commercial spaces. With a strong heritage in British manufacturing, we specialise in creating high-quality, design-led flooring that enhances interiors across hospitality, workplace, education, healthcare, and commercial residential sectors. Our expertise in bespoke design, precision cutting and laying patterns allows designers to craft genuinely unique spaces backed by technical support, sustainability commitments, and a dedicated design team.
Amtico began its journey in Coventry more than 60 years ago as a pioneering British manufacturer dedicated to creating high-quality flooring. Over the decades, our brand has evolved, blending advanced manufacturing techniques with an uncompromising commitment to design. We push boundaries and develop our collections with new designs, laying patterns and added benefits that shape and inspire commercial interiors. Today, we remain proud to be a British manufacturer with a longstanding history that reflects our expertise and dependability.
At Amtico, we believe that flooring is the canvas for any inspiring design – after all, every floor has a story. We empower designers with various tools – from our CAD design service to the online room visualiser and technical support – that help bring creative visions to life. Our LVT products give designers the freedom to shape projects with creativity and enthusiasm, whether through striking laying patterns, intricate bespoke designs or our wide choice of Wood, Stone and Abstract decors. We work closely with interior designers to curate environments that balance aesthetics, function and durability, offering a unique blend of design freedom, technical support, and a wide range of high-quality products.
Flooring sets the tone for both the look and functionality of a space. Our expertise in LVT allows us to offer solutions that not only elevate interior schemes but also address key challenges in commercial environments – from hygiene and maintenance with our antimicrobial protection to acoustics and safety with special backing layers and enhanced slip resistance. We work hand in hand with designers, offering comprehensive, tailored support to ensure that every project balances style with robust performance in any environment.
We see every project as a collaboration. Our design and support teams work closely with interior designers to unlock creative possibilities – whether it’s exploring our extensive LVT collections, like Signature and Spacia, or developing bespoke flooring solutions tailored to unique briefs, including custom laying patterns, logos and brand colours. Designers can access our room visualiser tool anytime to experiment with different styles and product combinations in their own space. At the same time, our dedicated specification and technical support teams ensure projects run smoothly from concept to installation. We also offer CPDs and ‘lunch and learns’ and host events that provide insights into not just flooring trends and innovations but also the wider industry, supporting designers at every stage of their journey and making them feel valued and supported.
2024 was a landmark year for Amtico as we celebrated our 60th anniversary – six decades of pushing the boundaries of flooring design and craftsmanship. We also refreshed the Amtico Form collection, which brings authentic wood aesthetics to commercial spaces while offering more manageable maintenance and installation than natural materials. Looking ahead, we remain committed to sustainability, ensuring our products keep inspiring and supporting the evolving needs of the industry.
Design is more human-centric, with a growing focus on creating inclusive, engaging environments. Interior designers are considering the sensory experience of a space – from textures that encourage interaction to colour choices that influence mood. Neurodiversity also shapes design thinking, with more emphasis on flexible, adaptable spaces that cater to a range of needs. The way we design floors plays a role in all of this, whether through thoughtful zoning, tactile finishes or the calming effect of natural-inspired materials.
How we experience spaces is changing, and designers are responding by prioritising wellbeing, sustainability and adaptability. We expect to see an even greater focus on biophilic elements, materiality and multi-sensory design, ensuring spaces feel welcoming and safe. Sustainability is also becoming more transparent, and designers are looking for materials with strong environmental credentials to tell a positive, authentic story. Flooring will continue to be a crucial part of this conversation, helping to define spaces that support both people and the planet.
There’s always something exciting happening at Amtico! We’re continually developing new products, researching trends and refining our design approach. While we can’t reveal too much just yet, we have some exciting product launches in the works – and you might just spot us at a key industry event later this year. Watch this space!
Joining SBID is an exciting opportunity for us to engage with the wider design community and contribute to conversations shaping the future of interiors. It’s important for us to be part of a network that values innovation and expertise, and we look forward to collaborating with members to inspire and support great design. Ultimately, being part of SBID means we are recognised as a partner who genuinely cares about creating beautiful, functional spaces that truly work for people. Being an accredited partner also allows us to connect with designers who may not yet be familiar with the creative potential of LVT flooring.
About Amtico
Headquarters in Coventry, UK, we extend exceptional customer service and comprehensive warranties worldwide, driven by a passion for creating enduring floors that truly inspire. As part of the Mannington family since 2014, we leverage the expertise of over 600 global flooring specialists, serving clients in more than 90 countries. Our integrated lineup of luxury vinyl tiles offers complete solutions for demanding commercial and residential spaces. Our pioneering efforts in efficiency, waste reduction, and material innovation fuel boundary-pushing product development. At Amtico, we don’t just create floors; we create the foundation for exceptional living and working environments.
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Vispring, the world’s premium luxury bed and mattress maker with over a century of heritage in handcrafted sleep solutions, is delighted to unveil its new 2025 collections at the prestigious Salone del Mobile, from 8th – 13th April. Celebrating the brand’s unwavering dedication to uncompromised quality and British craftsmanship, the new launches from Vispring are a testament to its continued use of the world’s finest natural materials.
In April 2025, Vispring will launch a collection of Wool fabrics, encompassing a range of 25 textiles, along with the exquisite Diamond Majesty Topper, a masterpiece of luxury craftsmanship filled with nine meticulously layered natural fibres, and the Luxury Wool Duvet range, crafted with 100% authentic British wool.
Celebrating an unwavering commitment to the world's finest natural materials, Vispring proudly unveils its new Wool Collection of fabrics. This global launch presents 25 new textiles that showcase premium wools in a sophisticated spectrum of natural and warm hues. From the silken touch of immaculate Satin to the irresistible texture of plush Wool Bouclé, this curated collection offers discerning clients a range from refined plain finishes to subtle patterns, distinguished Tweeds, and timeless Herringbone designs.
A masterpiece of luxury craftsmanship, Vispring presents its exquisite new Diamond Majesty Topper, drawing design cues from its renowned Diamond Majesty mattress. With nine meticulously layered natural fibres including Shetland wool, hand-teased Royal Alpaca, cashmere, and Austrian Moosburger® Horse Tail, all enclosed in Belgian damask with Merino wool border, the Diamond Majesty Topper epitomises a distinctively British form of elegance and showcases the brand’s unwavering dedication to traditional craftsmanship and premium design credentials.
While lavish comfort layers provide a precise and impressive 15cm loft, the signature three-chamber box-quilted design delivers outstanding comfort. Encased with a Belgian damask cover, its sculpted design lines are accentuated by a Merino Wool border and matching mattress handle straps.
Filled with 100% authentic British wool, the new exceptionally breathable Luxury Wool Duvet Range from Vispring is a celebration of time-honoured craftsmanship techniques and materials. With a revolutionary quilt-free design that prevents clumping while providing perfect temperature regulation year-round, the Luxury Wool Duvet Range is available in both light and medium weights. Handcrafted in the UK, the premium range showcase the brand's unwavering commitment to personalised luxury, innovative sleep technology, and sustainable practices through ethically sourced materials. The range is available as a Single, Double, King, Euro King, Super King and Emperor size.
Discussing the launches, Clare Schifano, Global Marketing Director at Vispring, comments, “Vispring boasts a rich heritage rooted in British craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. Although our heritage spans over a century, Vispring remains at the forefront of innovation, setting an international benchmark for comfort, sophistication and traditional methods of workmanship. Our new launches are a testament to our heritage and brand ethos at Vispring, notably our love for celebrating the world’s finest natural materials. Wool, specifically British and Real Shetland Wool, has been central to the Vispring range for more than a hundred years. In 2025, our new launches will continue to honour natural materials and the art of fine British craftsmanship."
About Vispring Ltd
Vispring is one of the world’s leading luxury bed brands, manufacturing in the UK since 1901. Based in Plymouth since 1970, Vispring sells to 59 countries globally and is the benchmark for handmade, bespoke, high-quality beds made using only the finest natural materials. With values of excellence and craftsmanship at its core, Vispring epitomises a distinctly British form of elegance. Their beds combine technical prowess with a bespoke approach worthy of the finest tailoring and are the international standard for comfort and sophistication. Vispring has graced the first-class cabins of legendary ocean liners – including Titanic – the suites of the world’s most luxurious hotels, including The Dorchester; and on board a Princess Yacht or Gulfstream Jet.
Our new Catalogue 27 is more than just a collection of lighting pieces. Whether you’re seeking subtle elegance, bold statements or simple functionality, our decorative lighting ranges are designed to inspire and illuminate your world. Explore our curated collection featuring both beloved classics that have stood the test of time and new innovative pieces that will transform your space. With emphasis on dedicated LED products there are a number of ranges in the catalogue that provide optimal performance with beautiful aesthetics, one of our core values.
Eternity was hand selected to feature on our catalogue cover as it represents the ultimate statement piece. The curved edges enhance the upwards illumination of these dedicated and dimmable LED pendants.
The new brushed bronze finish elevates the overall aesthetics of the Beatrice range. With its original shape and style of the delicate angled cut crystal glasses, this impressive range includes single, double and triple tiered LED pendants and a matching wall light.
The combination of a matt black finish and layered crystal design creates a striking contrast for the Coral range. With two layers of crystals – an octagonal layer at the back and the coral-like formation in the front add depth and visual interest. This design not only highlights the elegance of the crystals but also introduces an organic, textured feel.
A first for us and making a debut in this catalogue is our portable table lamp collection. A variety of cast aluminium rechargeable lamps in various sizes and finishes featuring colour temperature options and a dimmer setting memory function that memorises the dimming level. Sleek and functional these table lamps can be for interior and exterior use.
The addition of a remote control and multi-way charging pad for the portable table lamps in a hospitality setting significantly enhances both convenience and functionality. The remote can sync multiple table lamps and control a variety of functions simultaneously whilst the six-way charging pad makes it very easy to charge multiple units.
The Newton rise and fall pendant seamlessly blends artistry with functionality. Its distressed bronze finish and frosted glass offer a vintage charm, while the cage detail adds a modern edge. The adjustable design ensures you can effortlessly control the level of light.
From sophisticated flush ceiling fittings and wall lights that bring an elegant glow to any room, to decorative table and floor lamps that combine style and practicality, there’s something to complement every interior.
For more information about the availability of Catalogue 27 please contact us on 01908691818 or visit our website.
About Franklite Limited
Founded in 1973, award winning Franklite is one of the leading innovators in high-quality decorative lighting. Working with clients, architects, lighting consultants, interior designers, M & E consultants and distributors for the residential, hospitality and commercial markets throughout the UK, Europe, Middle and Far East. Franklite has a story to tell. They are far more than just a lighting manufacturer; they are creators, visionaries and craftspeople who continue to pride themselves on their manufacturing methods and excellent service. This includes offering products that balance optimal performance with beautiful aesthetics and have successfully supplied exceptional luminaires to palaces, embassies, hotels, private residences and multi-residential projects. Franklite remains at the forefront of the lighting industry with incredible in-house technology which includes the Rigo Near-Field Goniophotometer and highly-skilled design and technical teams who continue to develop signature products. Our LED plates and most recently award winning tuneable light engines are manufactured in-house and compatible with many of our luminaires.
How often do you find yourself scrabbling around in the back of kitchen cupboards to locate the right spice? Perhaps daily – especially if you have a large collection of herbs and spices to sort through. That’s why customised spice racks are fast becoming an essential kitchen storage feature in our luxury bespoke kitchens. A super organised spice rack will neatly order your cumin, cardamom, paprika and pepper – and let you access everything at a glance. And don’t forget our spice racks can be tailored to suit your space. So whether you want a skinny pull out spice rack next to your oven or a dedicated spice drawer organizer, Roundhouse can help.
Is it time to spice up your life? We think so.
Our pantry cabinets are spot on for stashing all your dried foods in one central hub – and that includes spice storage. Yes, door spice racks are a clever way to streamline your spice collection – and one of our most popular kitchen storage ideas. Slim shelving is attached to the inside of pantry cabinet doors with bars or rails to keep your herbs and spices neatly in place. It also ensures spices are stored away from direct light. By collaborating with our designers, we can work out the exact distance between your spice racks to suit the size of your jars, bottles and packets. And the idea works for both single and double door pantry cabinets. Start by looking at our clever storage ideas and you’ll see how special our spice racks really are.
Kitchen drawers aren’t just for cutlery and utensils. So why not consider a spice drawer organizer? These flat lay spice racks are ergonomic and super accessible with no bending or reaching when you need to grab a cinnamon or saffron. Our spice drawers are generally divided up using tiered trays that are slightly angled to further improve visibility. They also extend out fully so your entire spice rack is visible in seconds. And if you choose a Roundhouse bespoke kitchen, your spice drawer organizer can be as big or as compact as you please. Ready to order? Book an informal chat with one of our kitchen designers so we can help turn your kitchen ideas into a reality.
Not sure what to do with an unused, unloved wall space? Why not utilise it with a hardworking spice rack? In this luxury kitchen room, a special timber spice rack organizer creates an orderly hub for tidy rows of glass jars and bottles. The bespoke piece even has space for a kitchen roll dispenser and chopping board – plus open shelves to display cookery books. Here at Roundhouse we adore mixing and matching fitted and unfitted kitchen storage ideas. Let’s work together and create beautiful bespoke kitchens tailored to you and your lifestyle.
Don’t worry if space is tight. We can work around this with a pull out spice rack that slides out from your Roundhouse bespoke kitchen. Kitted out with slim shelving and internal pull-outs, these space-saving spice racks pack in a ton of kitchen storage. We can vary the depths of the shelving to accommodate different sized bottles and jars. And you have the opportunity to customise your pull out spice rack with a range of different materials such as wood, glass or metal. That’s because all of our British made kitchens are expertly crafted in a huge range of finishes. It’s a great idea to position your spice storage next to the oven and hob area. So when you’re whipping up a curry or a casserole you have all your herbs and spices to hand. Hot stuff.
Ready to explore a bespoke spice rack? Book a design consultation with one of our experts and watch your kitchen come to life.
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.
Nudging into Spring 2025, our new flame-retardant teddy-pile upholstery fabric, Kose, gives a soft textural finish to contract furniture. With a dappled surface, the 11 sophisticated colourways provide a perfect co-ordinate for commercial environments. Tapping into the trend for cosy textures and layers, the soft surface and style of Kose, alongside a fantastic value-led price, makes this easy to add into any scheme, whether for hospitality bedrooms or large public-space areas.
Hard-wearing, achieving 100,000 Martindale rubs, Kose retains its eye-catching appearance in the most demanding spaces. This new addition to the Skopos portfolio provides a furniture fabric solution suited to all commercial environments. Kose is 100% Polyester and comes with flame retardant Crib5 Halogen free* backing (no additional FR treatment required) and provides an easy-to-use contemporary option.
A go-to option for furniture makers, end-users and designers alike, keeping interiors cosy. Kose provides a complimentary furniture solution alongside Skopos’ recently launched STUDIO prints. This vast library of printed designs can be selected for use across a wide variety of end-uses, including upholstery, bed-throws, curtains. A truly eclectic collection of design ideas, it is left to the specifier to co-ordinate the schemes and decide on a fabric-only or full-service option.
Skopos have recently been re-awarded Carbon Neutral status and are committed to providing sustainable solutions for contract interiors.
With over 50 years’ experience in textile innovation, Skopos have built up a wealth of design experience, providing flame retardant fabrics and key attributes that meet the needs of designers and end users alike. KOSE is available to order immediately with no minimums. Request loose samples via the website: skoposfabrics.com
*All backing is Halogen free except the Angora colourway
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.
Games rooms, wine cellars, music rooms, home cinemas or ten pin bowling alleys - this spring Katharine Pooley is seeing an increase in requests to create one-of-a-kind luxury spaces that are intimate, unique and individual to our clients personal passions. I think it is fair to say, enjoyment and relaxation at home has become a growing priority for many.
When my Studio was commissioned to redesign the interior of the Château de la Croix des Gardes, a 13,000 sq ft Château, overlooking the Bay of Cannes, we created an incredible, burgundy hued, subterranean games room for an English client with a passion for poker.
The generous space is located below the Château and is accessed through a vast antique bronze bank-vault door sourced specially from Canada. More than just an entrance, it is a talking point and creates an impressive welcome for guests. Passing through feels like stepping into a hidden world, leaving behind the formality of the historic Château, to discover a space entirely unexpected - intimate, inviting and infused with the owner's personal character and passions.
The Games Room is subtly divided into three areas. The first features a poker table and fully equipped bar, the central section is a formal conversation and lounging area, while the last boasts an emerald green snooker table with hand-painted wallpaper depicting a homage to the Alfred Hitchcock movie 'To Catch a Thief' which was filmed on the property.
The feature bar is positioned at one end of the space and was designed to accommodate both exclusive poker games and large lively gatherings. The masculine aesthetic strikes a balance between the warmth of a countryside club and the sophistication of a James Bond-style setting. The scheme plays with contrasts: bronze adds depth and richness while brass brings brightness. Classic and contemporary elements intertwine, giving the space an elusive quality that resists being tied to a single era or location.
At the heart of the bar, diamond-cut glass panels are set in custom joinery and accented with antique brass detailing. Flanking this centrepiece, tall cabinetry with antique mirrored panels create depth, while surrounding leather-inset panels add a tactile richness. Recessed antique brass handles with fluted metal detailing complement the fumed eucalyptus timber found across the room.
An oval-shaped chandelier hangs above and was crafted from solid glass to enhance its brilliance. Rather than more muted hollow glass, solid glass increases the surface area and allows light to refract and sparkle. Polished stainless steel rims frame the piece and add a sleek contrast. My choice of solid glass not only elevates the chandelier’s luminosity but also provides a richer, more luxurious presence. I commissioned each piece in the Czech Republic, using the best glassmakers in Europe and ensuring artisanal precision.
Luxurious umber-hued leather upholstery enriches the seating, while the deep navy pivot bar stools echo the undulating shapes and contrast piping of the poker table chairs. The rich leather wall panels pair beautifully with a striking marble surface and a grand quadrate chandelier, reinforcing the space’s opulence. Alabaster-domed lamps provide a final touch of warmth and refinement.
This design echoes the stepped chandeliers found in the rest of the room and ties the spaces together with a cohesive, atmospheric glow. Elsewhere, bespoke marquetry details heighten the drama, with starburst-patterned tabletops in blonde veneer framed by rich bronze accents. Deeply buttoned, ink-blue leather chesterfield sofas, velvet backed mid-century sculptural armchairs and soft Hermes throws create the ideal lounging space.
Finally, we enormously enjoyed designing the most unexpected space, reached through a discrete door beside the bar: a private ten pin bowling alley featuring custom lighting, accessories and audio system. We created an adjacent seating area perfect for lacing up bowling shoes. I can just imagine the memories that will be made in this space and the laughter shared with friends and family.
While game rooms are enjoying a renaissance, they reflect an age-old desire for play and togetherness. Many of the special, entertaining spaces my clients are requesting reflect their wish to have fun and be able to completely relax in the privacy and security of their own homes. There is a timelessness to our love of fun, and it is just as enjoyable to plan, construct and design these rooms for our clients. My talented team of architects and designers also created a separate but complimentary home cinema and powder room which are accessed through the main Games Room.
This spring my studio will complete the redesign of a striking and contemporary Parisian home as well as visiting our ongoing projects across the South of France. We are looking forward to forging new connections across the world in 2025, and it is set to be an especially exciting year for the design studio as we grow our team of architects and designers, and further strengthen our yacht, hospitality and art consultancy divisions. Please feel free to reach out to our team regarding any projects in France and beyond. Our team is on the ground and available for site meetings in the coming weeks.
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.
Let's be honest, flush plates don't usually steal the spotlight in a bathroom! But Roca is about to change that with Duplo S, a collection that proves even the smallest details can make a big impact.
Designed for homeowners and designers who appreciate both style and functionality, Duplo S offers a bold new take on flush plates. Featuring a mix of sleek finishes, premium materials, and eye-catching designs, this collection brings an unexpected touch of sophistication and, dare we say, fun to any bathroom. Please note, Duplo S flush plates are exclusively compatible with the Roca Duplo S Toilet Installation Systems.
With five distinct models-PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4 (Single and Dual) and PS5-Duplo S caters to every style preference. Choose from designs with more conventional square and rectangular buttons or rounded geometric shapes, all in a wide choice of colours and finishes.
For a minimalist look, there's White, Chrome, Matt White and Matt Black, while the contemporary Glass finishes in White, Anthracite and Black bring a crisp, polished edge to the bathroom. Meanwhile, for a luxurious touch, the collection features metallic PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes in Titanium Black, Brushed Titanium Black, Rose Gold, Brushed Brass, and Brushed Stainless Steel, designed to perfectly complement Roca's brassware. PVD is a durable coating process that provides a sleek, high-quality metallic finish, enhancing both appearance and longevity.
Duplo S plates also come in five new organic-look and textured finishes -Ceramic White, Ceramic Black, Concrete, Slate and Oak - which add warmth. And if you love a bold, playful statement, vibrant shades like Honey Yellow, Mint Green and Cobalt Blue introduce a fresh pop of colour that makes an impact.
The Duplo S collection seamlessly integrates with some of Roca's existing ranges. For example, the Honey Yellow flush plate is the same shade as Nu brassware, while the Rose Gold finish coordinates with the ONA Rose Gold toilet roll holder.
"Homeowners want their bathrooms to feel intentional and well thought out. Matching elements-whether it's taps, accessories, or flush plates - help elevate the overall design. It's these small but impactful details that transform a bathroom into a beautifully curated space," says Natalie Bird, Brand Marketing Manager at Roca UK.
Another advantage of the Duplo S flush plate is its compact size. Measuring 20.5 x 14.5cm, it is smaller than most plates on the market, which are typically 25 x 16cm. This makes it more aesthetically pleasing.
For those who want to add a personalised touch, the PS3 and PS4 models can be customised, allowing you to create a flush plate that perfectly suits your scheme. With 11 front panel finishes and four push button colours to choose from, you could pair Concrete with Matt Black for a bold, industrial feel or combine Oak with Brushed Brass for a warm, sophisticated look.
"With its versatile design, premium materials and customisation options, the Duplo S collection transforms the flush plate from a simple necessity into a standout feature of modern bathroom design," says Natalie. "This collection is more than just a finishing touch-it's an opportunity to elevate bathroom aesthetics in a way that is both functional and full of character."
About Roca London Gallery
Roca have more than 100 years experience of designing bathroom products and kitchen solutions with the aim of increasing peoples quality of life through continuous innovation in the production of sanitary ceramics.
Sales and marketing manager, Steve Moss of St Leonards-on-Sea based electrical accessories manufacturer Focus SB welcomed Dr Vanessa Brady OBE, founder and CEO of Interior Design Services Ltd (IDS) on Thursday 6th March.
A private factory tour across the company’s three sites on the Castleham Industrial Estate gave the multi-award-winning interior designer and business consultant a detailed insight into Focus SB’s in-house electrical accessories manufacturing processes from start to finish. During the tour Dr Brady met a number of the company’s employees from the shop floor to its internal sales office.
Given demonstrations in metal component manufacturing and finishing, metal pressing, hand assembly and dispatch, the Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) founder handled quality components from the smallest screws to finished light switches and viewed products in manufacture such as Alisse socket outlets and the bevelled edges of Focus SB’s clear Prism faceplate style being flame polished by hand. Dr Brady was shown where solid brass and stainless-steel raw materials are delivered to the factory direct from the mills, learning how the company separates and recycles its metal waste. She saw finished orders being expertly assembled, labelled and packaged by hand using recyclable materials.
Focus SB’s finishing expertise blends traditional artisan crafts with cutting edge design tech and advanced manufacturing technology. The in-depth tour gave Dr Brady a valuable insight into the variety of finishing processes and length of time required to produce the company’s bespoke made ‘wall jewellery’ specified by design consultants for luxury hotels, private homes and heritage buildings such as Hampton Court Palace.
Dr Brady viewed Focus SB’s electrophoretic finishing plant where experts prepare, jig and degrease faceplates by hand. She learned how Focus SB reuses and recycles chemistry in its degreaser via a closed loop system (degreasing removes contaminants enhancing durability of hand applied finishes). In the company’s spray shop she learned how metal plates being manufactured for light switches and power outlets are sprayed by hand and how particulates are safely removed from the air. Dr Brady also saw the firm’s robotic satining and polishing plant in action which enables the company to offer matching switch caps to complement plate finishes to a high degree of accuracy time after time. She was also given access to view Focus SB’s Jordan bronze finishing area and learn more about the company’s living finishes hand processes.
Dr Vanessa Brady commented: “I had such a lovely time learning about Focus SB as an innovative company from machinery, sourcing materials and the future of the company and its ethos, but importantly - you are a people’s company and you look after each person in a very special way. I noticed that everyone just happily performs their tasks, and they do it with interest. So many had found solutions for improvement in their area of work. In turn you have as a brand built such a fantastic loyalty, you should bottle it!”
Following Dr Brady’s visit Mr Moss said: “It was an absolute pleasure to host Vanessa for a tour of our factory. Our team thoroughly enjoyed meeting her and were delighted by her genuine interest and enthusiasm. We would welcome her back anytime".
In 2024 Focus SB was honoured to achieve the prestigious SBID global lighting design award for its Ambassador Wall Light, the company’s first ever lighting design in collaboration with Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard.
Awarded an OBE for her services to Interior Design and the UK Economy in 2014, SBID founder Dr Vanessa Brady represents the interests of interior design at cross-party meetings at the House of Commons and the House of Lords.
The SBID International Design Awards® are now open for entries.
About Focus SB
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.
The new Dedar collection creates a lively rhythm of variations when it comes to materials and techniques. It juxtaposes figurative and abstract elements, until the boundary between the two becomes seemingly inexistent. It reinterprets classical practices in a new key and introduces strictly contemporary treatments.
A truly rich line of new experiments becomes part of the Contemporary Archives family. A soft figurativism, at times tinged with oriental concepts, calls into question mountains and waterfalls, clouds and starry skies, butterflies, branches and samaras. The abstract, strong and immediate pictorial imagery of the Za wallcovering opens the way to new interpretations, new materials and unprecedented contrasts.
The embroidery is enriched with heterogeneous techniques, which animate the clash between materials and bring to life accurate and enigmatic graphical elements. Other patterns, wavering somewhere between figurative narrative and abstract styles, rely on unusual techniques, between laser-burnished micro-holes and warm material textures. But even the jacquards breathe life into unexpected combinations and evoke impossible abstract tapestries, tormented incisions, furrows in the ground all reminiscent of great Italian art.
The Texturologie category continues to explore the artistic potential of the material, drawing inspiration from the Modern Movement. Decisive movements create alternating rhythms, combining different thicknesses. Streaks and special dyes animate a lively debate between saturated, pale and mélange tones. On the rich slub textures, the contest between irregularity and rigour never sees a definitive winner.
The new Plain Classics are characterised by a woollen side and a silky side. Classic traditions such as tweed, and archetypes such as the chequered pattern, allow the story to come alive. A selection of the finest wools breathe life into exuberant, natural velvets characterised by a bright shine, in which the long fibres of mohair, kid mohair or alpaca fuel a sense of voluptuousness. Wild Katia silk is the protagonist of handcrafted fabrics that seamlessly combine contemporary tradition and craftsmanship, in a rich tapestry of complex yarns, materiality and unusual chromatic variations.
Among the other unexpected solutions found in the collection, a false plain in fullsection chenille – durable and stain-resistant – and an innovative stretch bouclette, characterised by a soft touch and exceptional ease of use.
The FR fabrics offer is substantial. A vibrant and sophisticated jacquard, moved by a syncopated rhythm and looseness of the structure, is accompanied by a delicately textured satin, as well as a variety of small seating designs, all resistant and washable as well as fire-retardant: rich, textured jacquards, slightly opaque, in which damiers and metallic hints, twisted and slub yarns, and chromatic weaves combine to create a strong style characterised by a practical spirit.
Is there life in space? We turn our gaze to the distant stars, allowing ourselves be overcome by the wonder and dizziness of the infinity stretching out before us. How Soon Is Now? interprets astral elements enriched by the magic of colour, following artists – from Kandinsky to Fontana – who have infused white canvases with their pictorial gestures. A precious and difficult satin stitch embroidery, threedimensional and textured, glides on the linen chintz: an abstract décor and a galaxy of different interpretations come together.
Ichi-Go Ichi-E, “an opportunity, an encounter”: an invitation to cherish the unrepeatable nature of the moment. A deep and saturated colour, which immediately makes an impact, expresses an equally immediate gesture. An instinctive brushstroke characterised by a pure artistic flair is made of hand-laid flock. Oscillating between painting and calligraphy, with imagery reminiscent of Yves Klein and Anish Kapoor, the surface, delicate to the touch and intense to the eye, creates a sharp contrast with the textured and luminous Aristotele background, in which the weaves emerge strong and three-dimensional.
An original insight invited a hand-laid artisan flock to bring its caressing stroke to an irregular surface: it paints mountains or waterfalls, Japanese clouds, an Indian ink landscape, in a floating frame that awakens different emotions in each person. The contrasts running through the Lilaz fabric are resolved harmoniously, like sea currents that oppose each other and then come together. The compact feel of the chequered-printed fabric is structured, yet infused with softness. The Minima Mirabilia background, a natural-looking basket weave, vibrates with colours and delicate metallic accents, while the gold imbues everything with an Art Deco flair.
Logical and at the same time random. Implacable and persuasive. A graphical pattern in a dense and irregular yarn draws imaginary itineraries on a uniform, shiny surface. In the undulating Cornely technique embroidery, corners and threads diverge and converge again, in an unresolved dispute between rigour and freedom. The labyrinth-like pattern characterising the Metametodo fabric embodies both the rule and the exception. The fine design with a decidedly Modern inspiration, and the elegant draping of the satin in fine and densely woven Aplomb merino wool, make it perfect for elegant and refined spaces.
An abstract and geometric tapestry: a fantastic, “impossible” artefact, as if it were a gift from a parallel and hypothetical art history. The careful study of the tonal passages of a 17th-century original has filled the forms of a composition closely inspired by the experience of the early 20th century artistic avant-gardes. The print, characterized by a very large ratio, unfolds on a textured and full-bodied weave. The result is a fabric with a soft and smooth feel, versatile to be used for seating, curtains and decor.
A boxing-themed narrative, between the figurative and the abstract, sculpts fragmented lines similar to incisions on a full and compact velvet. Faces, muscles, fists, jubilant gloves stretched out to the sky. A drawing whose story emerges only gradually, showcases all the agility and strength of boxing. Soft and dense, Goodfellas invites a cotton mélange thread and natural-toned linen into the ring. Like a modern Pompeian fresco or a jacquard transposition of Scorsese's Raging Bull, it reconciles an aggressive soul, refined workmanship and a strong artistic temperament.
Countless soft eyelets chase each other on the surface in a graphic glissando, capturing the light. A jazz rhythm made up of segmented strokes conjures an imagery of hands that run freely over the keys of a piano, to then give way to fleeting caresses. The technique used to create the small holes has left their outlines burnished, giving the fabric a chiaroscuro effect of unexpected depth. When backlit, its special magic offers itself boldly to the gaze. A Love Supreme, on an Aplomb background, drapes impeccably, like a Coltranean cascade of sound. Its refined character combines Art Deco echoes, futurist suggestions and references to the Russian avant-garde.
A satin made of the finest carded wool of Australian origin and Italian manufacture, characterised by an unmistakable feel. The exceptional quality of the superfine yarns (17.5 microns), and the seven processing steps that follow the weaving, give it an extraordinary softness. The wide range of colours extends from classic wool shades with a sartorial touch, to more decisive options with a Modern flair. A practical fabric, also thanks to its water-repellent properties. Ideally used for curtains, thanks to its light and elegant draping, as well as for seating, by virtue of its resistance characteristics.
If every fabric has its very own soul, Millais has two: between conjuring an open smile and evoking a penetrating gaze, it thrives on the edge of roughness. The quality of British wool and the elegance of Belgian linen combine in a compact basket weave. The mélange of the double piece dyeing accentuates the depth of the colours, between natural tones and extremely novel stitches. But above all, Millais stands out for its unique feel: the long processing steps have tempered the rigour of the material and infused a soft touch, finding a refined point of balance between the pleasant and the sustained nature of the fabric.
Extensive research has led to the development of an irresistible fabric. It has the personality of a fur, but it is not fur: it relies only on harmless and considerate shearings. Kid mohair, an exceptional quality yarn, bursts with exuberance and offers a great sense of pleasure. Velvet has angelic feel and a “philosophical” ability to transform spaces. The 7 cm long-pile allows the colours to pop, from pure white reminiscent of a lamb, to novel and bright shades. The two “sister” fabrics are equally voluptuous: Nonstop Ethereal Bliss, a white, dishevelled mohair with a long, curly pile, blends minimalism and seduction; Serene Splendour, a compact, informal alpaca, brings a subtle opacity to a pure natural white.
Irregular, full-bodied threads in multiple colours give life to an artisanal tweed made up of complex silk yarns and characterized by a strong textured quality. In the hand-spun Katia silk weave – a wilder tussah – the colours fade into each other within a single thread. In the cotton warp, space-dyeing gives a sense of depth to the colour. Like the other textured silks in this collection, Malesherbes is ideal for curtains: Serein, a streaked shantung characterized by a rather lively craftsmanship; Nicomaco, with its hints of modern jacquard geometries; Memorando, a delicate silk/wool checkerboard with a soft draping quality; Days Like Now, another shantung, bright and offering a crisp feel.
A strong and assertive jacquard fabric blends refined materials and techniques in a slub weave of thick ondé thread and a two-tone fil-à-fil cotton/linen warp. The rigorous texture, characterised by a sober and natural taste, boasts a rich personality animated by a textured chequered design, with a modern soul, and the rhythmic variation of the warp threads that creates the background movement. The fabric is made of high-quality fibres, with an entirely Italian supply chain: from the yarns, to the weaving, to the finishing process. It is characterised by a consistent, textured feel and a neutral colour range. It is excellent for seating designs.
In the FR offering of the new collection, a jacquard with a strong personality stands out, in which twisted and slub yarns come together. Imbued with a genuine artisanal spirit, it is a refined fabric, capable of thrilling those who love to discover exciting rarities. It expresses an authentic exoticism, like that of certain precious hand-woven rugs. The weave is characterized by an irregular rhythm that resembles a syncopated musical riff. The looseness creates further vibrations, moving the surface with plays of colour. Made of recycled fibres, fire-retardant, washable and durable, Aoxomoxoa is ideal for intense sitting use.
About Dedar
Founded in 1976, Dedar is a family-run fabric house located close to Como, in the heart of a manufacturing district. Dedar experiments and innovates to attain product perfection through an ongoing dialogue with those craftsmen and textile specialists who are most familiar with the techniques employed in the production of excellent fabrics. Characterized by seductive colour palettes and unexpected patterns, Dedar’s fabrics combine precious yarns with research into fiber technology to offer various solutions for curtains, upholstery and wallcovering of timeless elegance.
Neptune’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection captures the sensory charm of the British landscape. Inspired by its tranquil beauty, nature’s finest details are woven into every design - from the enduring warmth of solid oak furniture to the soothing textures of natural onyx and the botanical patterns of fine textiles.
Guided by fresh new fragrances reminiscent of the English garden, this collection invites you to create a space that feels grounded in nature and alive with the sights, scents and textures of the world outdoors, while a nature-inspired palette, led by the soft yellow hue of the seasonal colour, Polenta, sets the scene.
Fred Horlock, Design Director, Neptune comments on the collection: “As we unveil our Spring/Summer 2025 Collection, we are delighted to celebrate the sensory journey through the British landscape. In a world where the connection to nature is more valued than ever before, this collection responds to our customers’ desires to create serene, nature-inspired spaces at home. We have curated a range that speaks to the senses, blending traditional skills with contemporary elegance. Our commitment to craftsmanship and thoughtful design is evident in every detail, ensuring that each Neptune creation is not just a part of your home, but a part of the life that surrounds it."
Neptune's new Spring/Summer furniture additions are guided by the natural beauty and tactile delight of wood using traditional techniques.
- A new tall cabinet with slim proportions, rounded corners, and a woven undershelf has been added to the regency-inspired Frome Collection, including adjustable zig-zag shelving for flexible storage. A new Natural Oak finish has been introduced to each of the designs within the collection in addition to the Warm Black finish. - The Tilbury stool, an evolution of Neptune’s bestselling Tilbury dining chair, showcases the warmth of solid oak and the texture of a hand-woven rattan seat. Crafted using traditional mortise and tenon joints for durability, its compact, relaxed design is complemented by a slim oak frame, ideal for arranging around a breakfast bar or kitchen island. - Designed with the minimalist aesthetic of the original, the Eliza sofa now has the option of a more relaxed feel with a loose cover that drapes to the floor. Crafted with a solid tulipwood frame for strength and durability, it features elegantly turned oak legs, and its deeper proportions and comfortable single seat cushion are perfect for curling up on. - The new Walter armchair draws inspiration from mid-century designs, blending craftsmanship and comfort. Built around a robust tulipwood frame with traditional reinforced halving joints for strength and longevity, it features a gently curved and tilted back creates a cocooning shape, meaning it looks good from all angles, with enveloping armrests perfect for relaxing.
Two new lamps have been designed with natural, textural materials, blending elegance with artisanal skills.
- The petite Marina lamp marries feminine scalloped shapes with the natural texture of raffia perfectly suited to use in pairs on bedside tables, or as an accent lamp in the kitchen. - A statement piece, the solid spherical base of the Delphi lamp is hand-carved from natural onyx by skilled stonemasons in India. Once lit, the calming hues of onyx come to life, with wavy shades of green and brown.
From English garden candles that evoke the sweet scents of spring to colourful artisanal glassware, ceramics and linens, this season sees accessories take centre stage.
- The new English Garden collection of candles and fragrances includes five fragrances inspired by the English countryside and the way we respond to the natural world through our senses: Vegetable Patch, Lavender Field, The Rose Garden, Wild Meadow, and Herb Garden. Complementing these fragrances, new stems inspired by wild meadows and rose gardens help bring the sensory experience of nature indoors. - The Primrose glassware collection, featuring a carafe and bistro glasses, is lightweight with a subtle green tint. Individually mouthblown in India from recycled glass, these pieces offer a relaxed and artisanal feel. For everyday glassware, the Ella tumbler, now available in a vibrant saffron yellow, adds a warm and cheerful touch to your summer table. - Accented by Neptune’s seasonal yellow hue, the Amberley collection's organic silhouette reflects the skilled artistry of Portuguese pottery. Spanning serveware and dinnerware, each piece is hand-finished with a natural reactive glaze in a soft, yellow-speckled finish. The collection is complemented by the Salcombe cutlery set and Carnaby glass napkin rings, adding an inviting touch to any summer table. - Made from natural rattan in a rich honey shade, the Ashbourne placemats and coasters add a new tone to Neptune’s tableware offering. - The Malpas collection of scallop-carved marble pieces are complemented by onyx stone bookends, colourful marquetry photo frames, and subtly tinted hurricane glass lanterns, adding interest for a layered, considered aesthetic.
Neptune’s new textiles draw on the colour and patterns found in nature: warm yellows, vibrant greens, hints of blue, and floral-inspired prints bring spring inside, creating a blend of comfort and elegance.
- Three new textural Rugs – Taplow, Marlow and Sonning - showcase thick basketweave, diamond flat weave, jute and wool blended designs with plaited tassel detailing in rich moss greens and summer cream tones. - Preparing the bedroom for summer nights, Neptune introduces four new luxurious pure cotton Bedspreads featuring floral block prints and traditional French Matelassé technique. Each design is beautifully crafted and has a substantial weight yet is light enough for warmer months. - New indoor cushions feature uplifting colour and pattern with decorative block prints and textures, in soft blues, greens and yellows which work equally well individually or grouped together. - Infusing the table with understated charm and a hint of saffron yellow, the Fife floral vine block-print tablecloth, runner and napkins are crafted in Portugal then washed for a softer feel and an elegant drape.
Neptune’s new seasonal colour, Polenta, is named after the traditional Italian dish of ground corn. This creamy, pale-yellow hue is subtly enriched with a hint of black for depth and sophistication. Evoking the warmth and texture of rustic Italy, Polenta has a refined edge that makes it a perfect fit for British interiors and perfectly complements the saffron highlight tones in the new season’s accessories. All Neptune paints are water based, incredibly low in VOCs, and available in matt emulsion or eggshell.
About Neptune
Our Neptune collection comprises over 1,500 products – a full lifestyle offering for the home that includes kitchens, furniture, lighting, home accessories and an edited paint collection. All of our Neptune kitchens are made from the finest quality timber using expert joinery. Our Trade Membership is designed to support the best in the design industry. We work with professionals who share our passion for beautiful and enduring design that takes a stand against throwaway culture and fleeting trends.
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