Clerkenwell Design Week returns to the streets of EC1 for another year of exciting product launches, talks, presentations, and exploration of a wide range of international designers, makers, and manufacturers.
As part of this year’s event, KI will be taking space in the grade II listed building and CDW 2023’s festival hub, Old Sessions House, on Clerkenwell Green. The main feature this year is KI’s latest innovation, Clubhouse, a flexible system of acoustic frames and panels that can create a variety of private and collaborative spaces. From individual phone-booths to larger meeting areas with advanced tech integration, Clubhouse has been designed to revolutionise the way we work and interact in shared spaces.
Clubhouse’s clean and contemporary design provides a modern and innovative solution that is both visually striking yet supremely functional. Situated in this traditional backdrop will showcase its versatility, demonstrating how it can be seamlessly integrated into any setting. The crisp lines of Clubhouse’s chamfered edges throughout the structured framework paired with 10mm glass panels will juxtapose uniquely against the rustic, raw plaster walls and original chandelier of the room, creating a spectacular contrast between old and new. Clubhouse’s innovative design will offer a glimpse into the future of workplace, displaying how traditional spaces can be transformed into practical and productive environments.
Speaking about the installation of Clubhouse in Old Sessions House, KI’s President for E.M.E.A, Jonathan Hindle, said, “We are excited to showcase Clubhouse in such a beautiful and historic space. The juxtaposition of the old and new will create a visually stunning statement that highlights its adaptability. We believe this installation will offer visitors a unique and engaging way of experiencing Clubhouse’s unique features.”
KI has collaborated with Designers Guild to use their fabrics throughout the installation; chosen for their beauty, durability, and sustainability. A wide range of tonal neutrals, putty pinks, and accent crimsons in fresh linens and sheers have been selected to complement the modern design while adding warmth, colour, and texture to the space. Designer Guild’s commitment to environmentally friendly practices make them an ideal partner for the show.
KI will also be launching a Bruce Kenneth reclining chair and ottoman. Inspired by Brutalist furniture and architecture, the products have been designed with intentionally opposing smooth, organic curves and unnatural edges. Its realistic design doesn’t try to be too ‘statement’, but instead creates a timeless and practical product with seamless one-piece frame and legs.
Alongside this exclusive showcase there will also be a selection of KI’s most popular products to complete the scheme including Take5 Ottomans, 800 series storage, Grafton collection chairs, and Athens tables.
KI’s one-piece polypropylene Postura+ chair will also have focus on it as visitors are invited to explore its new colour palette and ongoing sustainability efforts towards a circular economy. The small gallery will also feature KI’s process for a new bi-product wood chip mix for Postura+ stools that reflects their commitment to eco-friendly design.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the future of open plan architecture and sustainable design with KI at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023.
About KI
KI’s furniture helps the world’s leading organisations create happy, healthy, high performing working and learning environments. Bringing together good design, advanced engineering and sustainable resources, KI’s products are durable, flexible and offer excellent value.
If you’d like to feature your product news here, get in touch to find out more.
If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.
Nothing compares to water – the elixir of life. Whether it’s the soothing sounds, or the feel on the skin, through our experiences with water we can switch off from the noise of the outside world – to find peace for body, mind, and soul. Whether in people’s homes or hotel rooms, it is usually the bathroom that serves as a personal space of retreat. It’s the place for precious me-moments of indulgent bliss where we find hidden strength and new energy. The renaissance of the bathroom and its increasing significance as a zone of regeneration has been accompanied by heightened client expectations with regard to bathroom planning – for private houses as well as hospitality projects.
Guided by the underlying belief that water is the source of vital energy, GROHE, a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings, has revitalized its GROHE SPA portfolio. The word SPA originates from the first letters of ‘Salus Per Aquam’, Latin for ‘Health Through Water’. This is the founding concept behind GROHE SPA. Transforming the bathroom into a home spa is not just about using individual products, but about creating holistic experiences that embrace the positive effects of water on the body and mind. GROHE SPA curates exclusive products to create unique luxurious wellbeing areas that allow the user to become immersed in soothing water rituals.
The broad GROHE SPA portfolio ranges from elaborate tap collections, customisable ceiling showers and intricate ceramics to complementary accessories. GROHE SPA redefines what is possible in terms of design, technology, and precision. Customers who wish to bring a new, bespoke kind of luxury to their private home spa will feel GROHE’s passion for water in every detail.
With GROHE SPA, architects, designers and planners now have the freedom to select from a carefully curated bathroom portfolio which offers customisable options to match customers’ personal needs and their individuality. The brand-new GROHE Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections allow a choice of different colour, material, finish, and handle options to help design one-of-a-kind bathroom pieces. In order to enable end-consumers to enjoy an authentic marble style with a high-quality finish, GROHE is partnering with Caesarstone, the global pioneer of premium countertop surfaces, to craft tap handles in the brand’s timeless and durable quartz designs. Caesarstone has a long-standing reputation for designing and producing high-end engineered surfaces, used in some of the most exclusive residential and commercial buildings around the world. Caesarstone surfaces can be combined with GROHE SPA Private Collections for a truly bespoke design.
Thanks to the GROHE SPA Aqua Rainshower Ceiling Shower Modules, the shower experience can also be tailored to the user’s personal preferences. In this way, unique spaces are created that stand out and bear the signature of the designer.
“The products sit at the intersection of premium quality, cutting-edge technology, unrivalled precision, and progressive design. We are driven by a spirit of redefining what is possible, leveraging industry-leading production techniques like 3D metal-printing, to create exclusive designs.
Addressing the rising macro trend for Health & Wellbeing, GROHE SPA is designed to enable architects, designers, and planners to create the ultimate water experience for their bathrooms and spas”, explains Patrick Speck, Leader LIXIL Global Design, EMENA.
In addition to this versatile but coordinated product portfolio, GROHE offers expert consultation to guide architects, designers and specifiers, as well as project developers, through the whole process.
Architects and designers can experience GROHE SPA first-hand at Milan Design Week, taking place from 18th – 23rd April 2023. Located in the Brera district, GROHE SPA will be showcased by way of a water surface installation – designed by the in-house design & brand identity team LIXIL Global Design – which will reflect the stunning architecture of one of the world’s most prestigious art museums, the Pinacoteca di Brera, while expressing the overall GROHE SPA Health Through Water concept. The exhibition will be complemented by outstanding bathroom designs occupying four immersive cubes nestled within the space, each expressing one of our four tiers: exclusive 3D metal-printed products, the new bespoke Atrio and Allure Brilliant Private Collections, trend-leading GROHE Colours, and a multi-sensory experience for the brand’s modular shower solutions.
The installation will be open to the public on
About GROHE
GROHE is a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings. In order to offer “Pure Freude an Wasser”, every GROHE product is based on the brand values of quality, technology, design and sustainability. Focused on customer needs, GROHE thus creates intelligent, life-enhancing and sustainable product solutions that offer relevant added value – and bear the “Made in Germany” seal of quality: R&D and design are firmly anchored as an integrated process in Germany. GROHE takes its corporate responsibility very seriously and focuses on a resource-saving value chain. Since April 2020, the sanitary brand has been producing CO2-neutral* worldwide. GROHE has also set itself the goal of using plastic-free product packaging by 2021.
Opitome, the London based luxury architectural hardware concierge, has made an exciting announcement with the addition of their new manufacturing partner – the highly regarded Italian brand Enrico Cassina.
This alliance represents a significant further expansion for the Opitome portfolio, providing their customers with even more options for high-quality hardware solutions on a global level.
The premium Italian manufacturer provides an extensive range of architectural fittings that span from Baroque to Colonial, through to contemporary styles. All are created in their Italian factory, where the craftsmen and women pour their expertise and passion into creating true works of art.
Opitome Director, AJ Powell states “We are thrilled with this new partnership. Their commitment to quality and service aligns perfectly with our own values and the additions will also complement our existing partner offerings. As we continue to expand our portfolios, we continue to provide our customers with the very best hardware solutions available.”
About Opitome
As industry leading experts, we specialise in the consultation and provision of truly exceptional door, window, and interior fittings for high nett worth projects globally. Providing a fully complimentary service, you will benefit from our 360 degree approach. From design concept through to after project care. We’ll work with you to understand your design brief, take care of organising samples and swatches, create detailed door and window schedules, provide technical and onsite support and much more. This is where we are exceptionally different. We look forward to supporting you on your next project.
If you’d like to feature your project news here, get in touch to find out more.
Sans Souci, leading designer and producer of glass and lighting installations, has unveiled its latest portfolio with an ambitious new direction for the brand. The new design concept is focused on finding the beauty and innovation between contrasting perspectives, which was the inspiration behind an impressive 15 new collections that will be launched as part of the 2023 Milan Design Week.
The new collections are the culmination an important creative journey for Sans Souci, which has experienced significant growth globally in recent years. Some of the most exciting new designs are collaborations with respected designers Karim Rashid and William Sawaya.
William Sawaya’s BRANCHY collection is sleek and artistic, inspired by the natural world. Long crystal tubes in sandblasted, clear and metallic finishes are fitted together with metal bindings. Each component has a LED light source running through it, allowing the installation to produce a different ambience depending on how you choose to light your interior.
Karim Rashid’s exquisite CHIN CHIN collection plays with your perceptions. Flawless installations are formed of crystal components shaped into golden drinks glasses suspended from glass rings, finished with gradient nanocoating. The effect is a perfect paradox – the glasses look full, but they are empty, they hang upside down, but nothing spills. This design is both opulent and contemporary, creating a dramatic focal point for your interior.
Each of the new collections builds on Sans Souci’s central design concept – finding harmony in contrasting ideas and aesthetics. This is the brand’s response to the most pressing questions the interior design industry is facing. It is focused on embracing the contrasts and equilibrium between different perspectives. The space between luxury and responsibility to the planet, between craftsmanship and sophisticated technologies, between classical design and contemporary ideas.
Martin Chab, Founder and CEO of Sans Souci commented: “Our new direction and collections are testament to our commitment to design and innovation. They show that we are not afraid to combine diverse elements and ideas to create truly captivating pieces. We’re delighted to launch our 15 collections in Milan at one of the biggest design celebrations in the calendar – Fuorisalone and Euroluce. It will be exciting to get feedback from our partners and the wider industry, but this is just the beginning as we continue to grow our brand and portfolio.”
Sans Souci’s exhibition ‘The Harmony of Contrast’ will be showing this April at 2023 Design Week in Milan. One of the highlights will be HARK, an immersive exhibit showcasing Sans Souci’s bold designs and cutting-edge lighting technologies. The multimedia piece features exquisite crystal cuboids that respond to the audio around them, emitting different ambience depending on the tone of sound. A design experience for all your senses as it shows the contrasts between cool and warm, darkness and light, silence and sound.
The exhibition ‘The Harmony of Contrast’ is part of Fuorisalone and will be displayed at gallery Mimmo Scognamiglio Artecontemporanea, Via Goito 7, Milan, from 17 to 23 April. Sans Souci’s new portfolio of collections will be showing at Euroluce at Fiera Rho, Milan, P11.250, from 18 to 23 April. Find out more about Sans Souci’s collections and projects at www.sanssoucilighting.com
About Sans Souci
Sans Souci is a leading designer and producer of quality interior and architectural installations. Design and innovation are at the heart of its vision, offering clients a range of studio collections as well as a bespoke design service to create the perfect piece for each interior. Sans Souci manages the entire creative and production process from its headquarters in Bohemia, the world-famous glassmaking region, ensuring quality and sustainability at each step. Its unique art and lighting designs are installed in luxury interiors around the world, from iconic hotels such as Claridges and Burj Al Arab to private residences and designer retail spaces.
If you’d like to feature your news or editorials on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more.
The flowing yet puristic design of MEM from Dornbracht is reminiscent of the most natural and original form of water presentation: spring. The fitting takes a deliberate step back, and by doing so, is fully taken up by the individual ambience of the architecture. The series stands for clarity, reduction, and balance, and thanks to the extensive enhancement, it now offers an even greater variety of design options.
Dornbracht provides several new variants for the washing area: The washbasin fitting is now also available as a single-lever basin mixer and a three-hole mixer with a flat spout. Joining the wall-mounted fittings line-up, are a single-lever mixer, a three-hole mixer, and a monobloc single-lever mixer. The latter is a totally new product type. All five of the new products have one thing in common – they are perfect for small bathrooms and have an aesthetic impact there. Another impressive new highlight is the slender, freestanding single-lever bath mixer which can be positioned anywhere in the room, as the main attraction.
MEM is impressive, not just for this great product variety, but also for its wide choice of surface finishes. From now on, the series, which was created by Sieger Design, will also be available in Dark Chrome, Champagne (22kt Gold) and Brushed Champagne (22kt Gold). While the Dark Chrome represents subtle elegance, the warm golden hue of the two Champagne finishes sets a refined tone.
New textured handles complete the series enhancements. These are produced by the so-called hammering technique, a traditional and skilled manual working method that creates decorative surface finishes. The indentations and projections formed by hammering reflect instant light, creating glossy and matt areas. This gives the handle a unique texture that is pleasant to touch. Its complex nature stands in fascinating contrast to the strict form of the MEM handle geometry. This elaborate manufacturing process makes every handle unique.
Both the new products and the MEM variants that have been available in the market for 20 years, prove to be unobtrusive and visible at the same time. A spout with a 180-degree bend, an invisibly integrated jet regulator and minimalist handles, the series embodies a basic aesthetic appeal that intentionally avoids any extrovert elements. Conceived according to the Dornbracht design principles – proportion, precision, progressiveness, performance, and personality – MEM conforms directly to the Dornbracht claim of creating “Leading Designs for Architecture”.
More information can be found at www.dornbracht.com/mem
About Dornbracht UK & Ireland
Based in Iserlohn, Dornbracht is the leading specialist supplier of superior designer fittings and accessories for bathroom, spa and kitchen. The company was founded in 1950 and is represented by a portfolio of products on more than 125 markets worldwide. With clearly-defined design principles for a lasting product design and a consistent focus on user needs, Dornbracht has transformed the bathroom and kitchen into living spaces – and in so doing, continues to set new standards. The premium manufacturer is famous worldwide for its design and architectural expertise and quality of manufacture at the highest level and underlines its leadership aspirations with the brand claim “Leading Designs for Architecture”.
Opitome is a one-of-a-kind luxury hardware concierge that boasts a rich heritage in both traditional and modern architectural hardware design and manufacturing. Our team of qualified and passionate experts, possess unparalleled knowledge of specification, design, and quality craftsmanship.
Through consultation and supply services, we work with interior designers and architects from around the globe to deliver the highest quality, luxurious fittings that meet their specific requirements. A full support service which includes detailed door and window scheduling.
The Opitome brand was founded in 2013 by a team of experienced architectural ironmongers who recognised the lack of flexibility and customisation with regards to hardware, offered to specifiers within the industry. We set out to create a company that could provide unique, tailored solutions for each client’s individual needs, along with unrivalled support.
Opitome’s hardware concierge service sets us apart. This bespoke service helps clients navigate the technical and aesthetic specifications of architectural hardware, ensuring that each project is completed to the highest standard possible. Today, Opitome’s combination of high-quality hardware solutions and exceptional customer service makes us the go-to choice for designers and architects looking for a reliable and trusted partner for their architectural hardware needs.
Our extensive portfolio includes door and window fittings, cabinet hardware, and other interior and exterior fittings made from the finest materials such as brass, bronze, leather, and resin. Our products are not only functional but also add an element of luxury and style to any project, enhancing the overall interior design aesthetic.
When it comes to Opitome’s service, firstly our qualified team has extensive knowledge and experience in architectural ironmongery, and work with a wide range of high-end manufacturers in the UK and overseas to provide the finest fittings on a global level. This allows us to provide a wider portfolio of products and solutions to clients, with the ability to tailor bespoke options to meet specific design briefs, timescales, and budgets.
Our team provide exceptional customer support and advice, including a complimentary detailed door and window scheduling service, we will organise samples and swatches, onsite support and provide a centralised procurement service to help clients streamline their supply chain and ensure that all fittings are delivered on time and within budget. We also provide expert advice on the correct specification of locks, latches, hinges, and other associated fittings, helping clients to avoid potential issues and the reassurance that their projects are safe and functional.
Finally, Opitome’s passion for craftsmanship and hand finishing is evident in our products, ensuring that each fitting is of the highest quality and built to last.
Opitome understands the complex challenges faced by designers and architects in managing multiple suppliers per project, especially when it comes to the technical specification of architectural hardware. Getting it right is not only an investment for the client but also impacts the reputation of the designer. Aesthetics and functionality must be balanced, which can often be a daunting and very time consuming task.
This is where Opitome comes in. We provide the technical assurances and help with time management for designers. We become an extension of the team, working closely with designers to provide the right solutions quickly, whether it is regarding the design, price point or technical aspect. With Opitome, you are in safe hands. Our years of experience and expertise in the industry have earned us a loyal client base. We help elevate interior design projects to new heights with our unparalleled services and solutions.
We work closely with interior designers to understand their vision, timescales and budget for a project and provide tailored hardware solutions that complement the design aesthetic while meeting practical requirements such as security and accessibility.
Organising samples can be time consuming, especially when short notice is given, so our support in sourcing and delivering samples and swatches, often hand-delivering them at short notice, is always appreciated by our clients and helps to ensure that projects remain on schedule. Our all-inclusive approach means that we will write the detailed schedules to include all associated products such as locks, latches, hinges and so on. This not only free’s up the time for the design teams but also provides the assurances that everything will be fit for purpose and within budget. Finally, we ensure that the goods receive one final quality check at the Opitome offices, before being packed into labelled door sets and sent to site or the client.
The company has gone from strength to strength and there are many significant highlights. I’d have to include the successful completion of several high-profile projects, including luxury residential developments in Mayfair, Kensington and the Cotswolds, where our teams consulted and supplied all hardware throughout. Plus a major commercial office building in the Middle East, along with a royal Palace! We hold a really strong mix of specialisms.
Our team is also growing and Natalie Kelly joined us at the end of 2022 as Opitome Client Relationship Manager, with a specific focus on the interior design partners. Natalie comes with much experience within the industry and from a luxury hardware manufacturing background, bringing a different aspect to our team strengths. Her client centric approach ensures we’re continuing to provide the best level of support as our company and teams grow.
In the last year or so, there has obviously been an increased focus on the use of natural and sustainable materials in luxury architectural hardware design. This has led to an increase in the popularity of quality, more robust materials such as brass, bronze, and leather.
In terms of finishes, we have seen a continued trend towards the use of matte and brushed finishes, as opposed to high-gloss or shiny finishes. This gives a more understated and refined look to the hardware. Antique Brass also continues to be as popular as ever.
Another design trend that has emerged is the use of organic and fluid shapes in architectural hardware design. Rather than the traditional geometric shapes, we are seeing more curves, twists, and asymmetrical designs. Although the classic designs are still extremely popular, particularly in the antique brass and dark bronze finishes.
Finally, there has been an ever growing interest in customisation and personalisation of architectural hardware. Clients are looking for unique and bespoke designs that reflect their personal style and taste, and manufacturers are responding by offering more customisation options.
The interior design industry is constantly evolving, and trends are likely to continue shifting towards sustainable, natural materials and innovative technologies. Designers who stay ahead of these trends and adapt to changing client needs will be well-positioned for success in the future.
As people become more conscious of their environmental impact, the interior design industry is likely to continue evolving towards a greater focus on sustainability and eco-friendly materials. This trend has already been seen in the increased use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and plant-based fibres in interior design. Not only are these materials more sustainable, but they also add a sense of warmth and comfort to spaces.
In addition to sustainable materials, technology and innovation are expected to play a significant role in the future of interior design. Smart homes, for example, are becoming increasingly popular, with homeowners using apps and voice control to control their lighting, heating, and security systems. A very interesting time.
We’re thrilled to again be working on some incredible projects this year, and we’re currently busy writing schedules and organising samples for sign off, to ensure everything runs smoothly. We have a range of exciting overseas developments lined up, as well as work across London and the rest of the UK. Our focus remains on maintaining strong relationships with key manufacturers, so we can develop products that truly meet the needs of our clients. We’re always listening to our customers and looking for ways to further improve our service, so we can provide even better support to our partners.
In addition, we’re excited to announce that this year marks Opitome’s 10th anniversary! To celebrate this milestone, we’ll be collaborating with select partners to develop new and innovative designs. We’re constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with architectural hardware, and we can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together in the years to come. So watch this space!
Opitome is proud to be an SBID Accredited Industry Partner, which is a significant achievement and reflects our commitment to providing high-quality, innovative hardware solutions for the interior design industry. We are proud to have met the highest standards of professionalism, quality, and customer service required to become a partner.
Being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is not only a recognition of our achievements, but it also provides us with a platform to connect with other industry professionals, attend networking events, and participate in prestigious awards programs.
These events are a great opportunity for us to showcase our products and services, collaborate with other experts in the field, and keep up-to-date with the latest industry trends.
In short, being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is an important part of our commitment to excellence, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with SBID in the years ahead.
Questions answered by AJ Powell, Founder & Director, Opitome.
Sylan Mirror Box Units are an expression of innovation, design and function. They are the complete package combining space saving concealed storage and minimalistic, stylish design to create the perfect final touch to any washroom. The inside boasts a fully customisable behind the mirror accessory system along with a full range of configurable accessories which can be adapted to clients’ requirements or to complement the project environment.
Designed with elegance, safety and sustainability in mind, the minimalist mirror panel design with polished mirror glass and back lit lighting reflect the aesthetics of contemporary styling of today’s washroom interiors.
To find out more visit our website or contact our Sylan team on 01763 276200 who will be happy to help.
About Sylan
A Sylan washroom is the ultimate expression of precision. This is because we are obsessive about detail. Every Sylan washroom we create is a luxuriously crafted, beautifully engineered product. But more than that, every one is bespoke built and individually customised around your needs. Your Sylan journey will start with our Project Managers and stay with you for years to come. It will be so well built, so precision crafted and so detailed in its design that we are fully confident to offer a 10 year guarantee across the whole range.
Homeplay is proud to be one of only a handful of integrators in the UK to have been selected, trained and authorised to install Lutron’s brand-new premium Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System.
Designed with groundbreaking technology and whisper-quiet performance, they are installed without fascia, pocket, recess or wires, making them the perfect choice for a minimalist aesthetic.
Available as a wired or wire-free, battery-operated system these shades look beautiful from every angle, Palladiom shades are created for the most sophisticated homes.
The aluminum brackets are meticulously hand-finished and available in a variety of finishes that blend seamlessly into any architectural style.
Enhance your space with a shading solution that showcases what’s beyond the window pane. Occupying no more than 3 1/4″ of vertical space, a single Palladiom shade can cover a 12 x 12 foot window – highlighting expansive views while delivering daylight control at scale.
The Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System runs on Active Energy Optimization, a battery management architecture designed to optimize the efficiency of traditional alkaline batteries to extend battery lifetime to an industry-leading three to five years with fewer batteries.
To accentuate the minimalist aesthetic of the Palladiom Shading System, Lutron has created the inventive Palladiom Bottom Rail. The design uses a groundbreaking method of clamping onto the fabric – regardless of the fabric thickness – to ensure that the hembar will always sit perfectly flat and perpendicular to the fabric plane. The subtle curve along the hembar face matches the roll diameter at the top of the shade. When the shade is fully open, the hembar disappears into the negative space behind the shade itself.
About Homeplay
Discover sound you can feel, home cinema that transports you to another world and lighting that brings living spaces to life. We are Homeplay. Experts in beautiful home technology. Simple stylish systems, seamlessly integrated into the fabric of your home.
If you’d like to feature your news or stories with SBID, get in touch to find out more.
KI has confirmed that Postura+ will begin a transition to a circular economy, with all one-piece chairs manufactured from December 2022 set to contain at least 30% recycled polypropylene.
Following over 3 years of trials and testing, this achievement sets an important milestone on KI’s journey towards taking a leading position in the circular economy. Over the coming years, KI will work towards increasing this percentage to future milestones 50, 80 and ultimately 100%, bringing all standard colours into line with the increasingly popular Jet Black chairs which are already made with 100% recycled content.
The unique, UK-based supply chain development will see 600 tonnes per year of waste plastic being fed into the standard production process, the equivalent of over 2,000,000 food containers per annum. These new mixed virgin/recycled polypropylene chairs have been rigorously tested and have achieved the same certifications and standards as the fully virgin plastic chairs, so the unparalleled, proven Postura+ 20-year warranty remains in place.
Jonathan Hindle, President, KI EMEA comments: “We manufacture approximately 400,000 one-piece Postura+ chairs alone each year, making it one of our most successful and high-volume product lines. Eliminating 600 tonnes of virgin polypropylene from this supply chain demonstrates our commitment to realistic, impactful steps towards sustainable practices, without compromising colour options, quality, durability and warranties.”
Jeremy McWhinney, KI’s Finance & Operations Director adds: “Whilst other products in our lives have been able to utilise recycled polypropylene for years, they are routinely single or limited use items – Postura+ chairs must withstand the toughest learning environments for decades. The testing and production processes involved have been years in the making, and we look forward to continuing our journey towards our ambition of 100% recycled content in the future.”
This innovation in Postura+ chair production further enhances the product’s environmental performance, outlined in its independently verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Manufactured in the UK, these chairs are transported in 100% recyclable packaging, and are themselves 100% recyclable at their end of life.
Alison Mallett, KI Europe’s Director of Education Furniture comments: “Our customers both in the UK and across Continental Europe are looking for ways to reduce the environmental impact of their procurement practices, without adding unrealistic cost or compromising quality. What we’ve managed to achieve with Postura+ chairs is a fantastic step in the right direction and we are confident that this exciting news will be met with great enthusiasm from our customers.”
Great lighting design is one of the most important elements in any interior. In addition to enhancing functionality, illumination can also transform mood, ambiance and the perception of space. For optimum results, a project’s lighting plan should be implemented right at the beginning of the creative process. The best lighting designs maximise the amount of natural daylight available, then enhance this with complementary forms of artificial light. Task, ambient, mood, feature and architectural lighting all have an important role to play. The right type can enrich the colour, character and tone of any room. It can also accentuate physical features such as heights and recesses.
“There are three key facets to consider when planning lighting within a room design,” explains our director Mark Taylor. “The size of the room; the nature of the light and how it hits the room; and the existing shapes and ceiling heights.” The client’s personal preferences and their budget must also be taken into consideration. “Lighting can form a very expensive part of any room, sometimes more than the cost of furnishings and joinery,” Mark confirms. “So, it’s vital to establish a realistic budget from the outset.”
Rooms size and shape are next on Mark’s lighting design checklist. “We would assess the shape of the space, where the darker areas are, and how light the room needs to be,” he explains. “We would also consider where we need to avoid glare or reflection, and the colour palette and materials. Lighting can fundamentally change hues and tones.” Mark continues: “We would also take into account energy conservation, and how the lighting will be controlled. Solutions might include remote control smart home lighting systems such as Lutron. More traditional options – such as arc lamps and Anglepoise® lighting – can be both attractive and cost-effective if they are placed correctly and suit the interior’s aesthetic.”
High ceilings were a particular challenge for this multi-functional Marlow kitchen project. Mark and his team incorporated a strip light on the walls, bouncing light off the ceilings to avoid any dark spots. To maintain task lighting, they added LED strips to the wall shelving, to illuminate all the work surfaces.
A room’s primary function usually dictates the type of task lighting required. It can be hidden or directed specifically at certain areas that need to be illuminated. Mark notes: “This type of functional task lighting can still deliver visual design impact via an exposed fitting, either from a ceiling or a wall.”
Feature lighting is about much more than mere functionality. It’s about the shape and style of the fitting, as well as the illumination it provides. It’s an ideal way to make a statement and enhance a specific element of your decor – whether the light in question is off or on.
Then there’s architectural lighting. “There are certain situations where natural light simply is not available,” Mark explains. “To offset this, we could install a large, illuminated panel simulating daylight coming in from a skylight. Or we might use an LED hidden strip to “bounce” light off a ceiling, especially if the ceiling is very tall and spotlights would create dark spaces. That’s what we did in this drawing room, as the client didn’t want too many spotlights. So, we added an LED strip above the tongue and groove panelling.”
Bespoke, layered lighting design schemes use multiple light sources to deliver a combination of functional, ambient and accent lighting. “Depending on a room’s function, we usually look at up lighting, mid-level lighting, and ceiling or task lighting,” Mark explains. “Everything depends on the height of the ceiling, the amount of natural light available, and how the room will be used.”
He continues: “For instance, to light an area with two specific functions – such as a kitchen and TV/entertaining area – you need to adapt the functionality of the lighting for each use, and for different times of the day. In many cases, we use lighting that bridges both areas. For example, we might install wall lights that can be turned on to enhance mood, when task lighting isn’t required.”
This Shaker-style kitchen project incorporated two levels of flooring – and two levels of ceiling. It also featured three distinct areas: the snug, dining space and cooking area. Our lighting design used a combination of floor lights, mid-level lighting, task lighting, LED linear lighting and a window wall to illuminate and harmonise the different elements.
While there is no ‘one size fits all’ with great lighting design, there are some general guidelines that apply, depending on a room’s primary function(s). Obviously, kitchens require practical task lighting so that meals can be prepared safely and easily. Conversely, the rule of thumb with most cloakrooms is to celebrate their relative darkness. Soft lighting – and not too much of it – can minimise the sanitaryware, mitigate small spaces, and create a feeling of calm. For example, this windowless cloakroom is dark, intimate and tranquil. Our lighting design created a sense of movement and fantasy without over-illuminating the space.
Multi-purpose spaces, such as open-plan areas, family rooms and even drawing rooms, are likely to require a lighting design that can accommodate different occasions at different times of the day. In fact, combinations of low level and lamp lighting usually work best.
“As bathrooms have become more luxurious, clients want to create a mood for them, rather than just ‘wash and go’,” Mark reveals. “Sensor lighting is a really great way to make the bathroom an inviting space from the moment you walk in. Soft warm lighting can be used to replicate candlelight. LED strip lighting is also an effective way to highlight a particular design feature.”
Bedroom lighting design also needs to be versatile. Most clients require lamps/task lights for reading in bed and choosing clothes, although the room in general should be calm and sleep-inducing. Mark observes: “A flexible lighting system that gives clear visibility where you want it – but is very forgiving where you don’t – is the key.”
“Not all clients understand the value of lighting design – but it really can make or break a space,” Mark observes. “There’s both a science and an art to great lighting design. And it represents some of the best money spent in terms of creating or renovating loveable living spaces.”
About Mark Taylor Design
Mark Taylor Design is a British manufacturer of superlative bespoke furniture, cabinetry and specialist joinery, working in Central London and the Home Counties.
Join SBID
Find out more about our flexible membership structure.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
By subscribing, you agree to be added to SBID’s mailing list. As an industry’s standard bearer organisation, we strive to bring you the most up to date news and access to exclusive industry content through our various newsletters.