Hamilford Design Blends British Countryside Charm with Modern Elegance

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxurious family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Hamilford Design.

This thoughtful project transformed a scientifically protected site into a luxurious family home, blending British countryside charm with modern elegance. Hamilford Design provided interior architecture, project management, full construction oversight and FF&E design. A neutral palette and natural materials, including a locally sourced stone fireplace and three-metre arched doorways, emphasise local craftsmanship to enhance character and quality. Thoughtful spatial flow and natural light were prioritised to connect indoor and outdoor spaces. Sustainability was prioritised through the use of smart technologies, eco-friendly materials and energy efficient systems.

What was the client's brief?

The client wanted a home that felt deeply rooted in its Cotswolds setting and fit in with its surroundings, somewhere that captured the palette and feel of the landscape while functioning as a modern family retreat. The brief required a balance between comfort and elegance, with interiors that respected the site’s protected status and celebrated British craftsmanship.

What inspired the design of the project?

The starting point was the site itself. Set beside a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, the surrounding woodland, lakes and rolling hills shaped every design decision. We drew inspiration from the textures and tones of the landscape; Cotswold stone, reclaimed timber and an earthy palette. But this was married with a modern elegance too.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Working within a scientifically protected site brought with it a responsibility to tread carefully. Every element (from sourcing local stone to ensuring construction methods respected the environment) had to be meticulously planned. Coordinating sustainability, craftsmanship and the client’s wishes was a challenge.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the home come together with so many bespoke elements, such as the three-metre arched doors, the hand-built local stone fireplace, the bespoke joinery, it was hugely satisfying. We work with trusted suppliers and craftspeople that we’ve known for over a decade, seeing them bring our vision to life is a wonderful feeling for the whole team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

It’s always a great feeling, sharing a project that you’re proud of and potentially having it recognised by the SBID is a real honour. The SBID awards are a real benchmark for excellence in design and entering helps us share our work within the design community as a whole. We felt the Woodland Estate embodies a lot of what the SBID stands for and we were excited to showcase a project which felt really personal to us as designers.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being a finalist has been a proud moment for our whole team who are always striving to be creative and are so dedicated. Also, our suppliers and co-collaborators who we are constantly grateful for.

Questions answered by Manuela Hamilford, Founder of Hamilford Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a classic residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Artfocus Studio.

This interior design project features a highly detailed and meticulously developed concept, created for a young woman who deeply values timeless beauty, cultural heritage, and refined simplicity. Rooted in classical European design, the space is gently infused with subtle Provencal charm to bring warmth and a sense of lived-in elegance. Every element is carefully considered: traditional architectural features such as wall paneling, cornices, and balanced proportions establish a clear, structured foundation.

What was the client's brief?

This project was particularly close to my heart. From the very beginning, I felt a deep connection to the client and her vision—a young woman with a refined sense of beauty, drawn to elegance, cultural roots, and timeless aesthetics.

She wanted a home that would feel serene, graceful, and emotionally rich—a space that reflects both sophistication and warmth. That became the foundation of our collaboration.

The design is rooted in classical European principles, but I infused it with subtle Provencal charm to create a softer, more intimate atmosphere. Every detail was carefully considered: traditional architectural elements like wall panelling, ornate cornices, and balanced proportions helped establish a timeless and structured base. From there, we layered in textures, tones, and moments of quiet luxury to bring her dream to life.

What inspired the design of the project?

The main inspiration came from the property itself—a place rich with history, authenticity, and soul. It was a rare opportunity to work on a home that had already lived a life. The character of the original structure, the spirit of the past, and the historical furniture elements we chose to restore—especially the post-war fireplace—guided the entire design direction. Projects like this, filled with stories and a sense of time, are truly special and inspiring.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

One of the most complex challenges was the spatial planning and zoning. The apartment was originally a former communal residence, divided into many small, disconnected rooms. We had to completely rethink the layout to create an open, flowing space that would accommodate the client’s specific requests: two bedrooms, a home office, a bathroom, and a combined living, dining, and kitchen area. Striking the right balance between openness and functionality required significant effort and creative problem-solving.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Without a doubt, the most memorable moment was the client’s emotional reaction during the final reveal. She was overwhelmed and could hardly believe this was her home. Those sincere, joyful emotions are the most meaningful reward for our work and serve as a reminder of why we do what we do.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Because it’s a powerful opportunity to share with the world the beauty and meaning we create through our work.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

For me, it’s a powerful affirmation that every effort, every decision, and every moment poured into my work was truly worth it!

Questions answered by Reghina Ivanco, Founder of Art Focus Studio.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a quietly luxurious wellness space by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Nu Infinity.

Drawing inspiration from wabi-sabi principles, the space was to embrace natural imperfections, raw textures, and organic forms, yet be elevated through craftsmanship, bespoke detailing, and curated materials to reflect a high-status clientele. The result was to be a “twisted” concept—a delicate balance between earthy authenticity and luxurious sophistication, tailored to CEOs seeking both restoration and prestige in one unified environment.

What was the client's brief?

The client’s brief was to design a wellness centre that doubles as an exclusive CEO club, with a focus on biohacking and holistic well-being. The goal was to create an environment that feels grounded yet distinctly premium, a concept we internally termed “quiet luxury.” The design was to evoke a refined sense of tranquillity while reflecting subtle opulence. It needed to balance earthy authenticity with sophisticated luxury, catering to CEOs seeking both restoration and prestige within one unified environment.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration came from the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which embraces natural imperfections, raw textures, and organic forms. We reinterpreted these principles through a modern lens, elevating them with craftsmanship, bespoke detailing, and curated high-end materials. This blend created a space that feels both authentic and luxurious. A key element was integrating biohacking technology into this philosophy, merging advanced wellness equipment with the natural, grounded design. The interaction between user, technology, and space became a design outcome in itself. The result is a striking yet harmonious contrast: a sense of wabi-sabi serenity with the sophistication of cutting-edge innovation. Beyond aesthetics, we also considered the emotional psychology of high-performing individuals, designing non-linear pathways, spatial breathing zones, and natural rhythms to encourage decompression and calm.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle was balancing cutting-edge wellness technology with timeless design integrity. Biohacking equipment often evolves quickly, so we had to plan for future-proofing by creating modular zones and concealed service routes. This ensured the space could adapt to technological upgrades without compromising the refined aesthetic. Managing this integration while keeping the atmosphere serene and cohesive was one of our greatest challenges.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our highlight was achieving a seamless spatial flow that intuitively guides users through active and restorative zones. Every transition from energizing areas to relaxation sanctuaries was carefully choreographed using natural light, layered lighting design, tactile materials, and acoustic control. Another highlight was how technology and design became inseparable. Instead of treating wellness equipment as an add-on, it was embedded into the wabi-sabi design language. This integration created a unique tension between rustic authenticity and high-tech advancement, giving the project a distinct identity. Seeing the design come together into a fully immersive, sensory-rich environment was an incredibly rewarding moment for the team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To be honest, winning the SBID Awards would be an accomplishment not just for us but a focal achievement for our team.

We have participated in multiple international and local awards and every time we win them, we bring back joy and motivation that drives our team to a new level. From one project to another, from one year after another, we unlock not just new projects but also unlock new strengths and talents.

Being part of the SBID Awards is like being part of a gathering among passionate creative minds that is not present to compete, but present to share, to reflect, to realize and for us, mainly to discover and grow. And that is why we have been submitting every year.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

For over 16 years, we have pioneered our design practice, working with clients from diverse backgrounds across the globe. To us, design has never been just about aesthetics, it is about curating experiences that resonate on a deeper, more human level.

Placing our work on the international stage allows us to measure ourselves not only against global standards, but also against our own potential for growth. To be recognized by the SBID Awards, whether as a winner or a finalist, would mark more than an accolade, it would affirm that our journey is on the right path. Most importantly, it would inspire our team to push boundaries with even greater passion, constantly striving toward new heights.

Questions answered by Alex Lee & Nick Fong, Founders & Directors at Nu Infinity.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a refined wellness experience by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, THDP.

De Montel: Terme Milano is a transformative spa project by THDP, restoring Milan’s historic 1920s Scuderie into the city’s largest urban thermal complex. Merging Art Nouveau elegance with sustainable innovation, the design honors the site’s equestrian past while showcasing Milan’s only certified thermal waters. Spanning 16,000 sqm, the interiors blend bespoke craftsmanship, tactile materials, and immersive sensory elements inspired by water, nature, and heritage. Every detail—from custom lighting to spa layouts—creates a refined wellness experience. This unique restoration sets a new benchmark for heritage-led design, fusing tradition, well-being, and environmental responsibility in an urban sanctuary.

What was the client's brief?

The client asked us to restore and transform the historic Scuderie De Montel into a contemporary urban thermal spa for Milan, while preserving the soul of the building. The brief was to create a place dedicated to relaxation and well-being that would balance tradition and innovation, respect the Art Nouveau heritage, and integrate the unique thermal waters into a modern wellness journey.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration came from three pillars: the elegance of Milanese Art Nouveau, the equestrian heritage of the stables, and the transformative power of water. These themes guided the interiors, where bespoke details recall the building’s equestrian past, Art Nouveau forms celebrate its architecture, and water-inspired materials immerse guests in a sensory journey.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The greatest challenge was balancing faithful restoration with contemporary functionality. Working under the supervision of the Superintendence of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape meant every design choice had to honour the original architecture while still delivering modern wellness spaces. Integrating innovative solutions into a protected historic building required sensitivity, creativity, and precision.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the transformation of the abandoned Scuderie into a vibrant wellness destination was the true highlight. The moment the bespoke lighting installations (such as the Venetian glass discs and floating glass bubbles) came to life, we felt we had captured both the history and future of the space. Bringing light, water, and heritage together into a harmonious experience was incredibly rewarding.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

THDP deeply value the recognition of design excellence on an international level. The SBID Awards provide a platform to showcase projects that combine heritage, storytelling, and innovation. For us, entering was about sharing the journey of De Montel: Terme Milano with a wider audience and celebrating the collaborative effort behind it.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being a finalist is both an honour and a validation of our approach to design. It affirms our commitment to creating immersive experiences that respect history while embracing the future. For our studio, it strengthens our international profile, motivates our team, and builds confidence in our clients that we can deliver meaningful, world-class design.

Questions answered by Claudia Mazzucato, Associate Director & Project Leader of THDP.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an earthy family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Lucy Goldbart Interior Design.

Lucy Goldbart Interior Design carried out a full renovation and extension for Project Ten. This included updating the homes layout, specifying the interior architecture, furniture and soft furnishings. Lucy Goldbart's goal was to transform a previously lifeless and tired space into warm and striking home, with a nod to the earthy tones and retro shapes on the 1970s.

What was the client's brief?

The home originally featured stark white walls and white painted floorboards which contributed to a rather cold atmosphere. The goal was to breathe new life into the space, transforming the dated designs into a home that reflected warmth and character, with a nod to the earthy tones and retro shapes of the 1970s. Key to the brief was delivering this elevated luxury feeling on a more approachable budget.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were heavily inspired by the gorgeous warm, earthy colour palettes and laid-back vibe of the 1970s. We wanted the space to feel comfortable, inviting and a little bit moody, so we blended our signature effortless, California-cool aesthetic with rich caramel tones and added interest with sculptural furniture.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Our main challenge was the compact bathroom spaces on this project, ensuring that they packed a punch and delivered a striking yet restful feeling. In the Master Ensuite we used large scale Patagonia slabs in the shower area to provide maximum impact without overwhelming the space, and colour washed the rest of the room in a deep ochre paint to add warmth.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the Master bedroom transform from a small, impractical space, to a generous light-filled room with floor-to ceiling windows was an absolute highlight. That space is by far the most transformed and is now such a beautiful warm and welcoming space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I chose to enter the SBID Awards because they represent a respected benchmark of excellence in our industry. I’ve been a member of SBID since setting up my company and these awards give us a platform to share our work with an incredible global audience, who enjoy celebrating each other’s creativity.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being recognised as an Award Finalist has been an incredible honour and gives validation to hard work that goes into each project. This gives our company an increased credibility which is great for attracting clients, and on a personal level, it has motivated me to continue pushing creative boundaries and having fun with design.

Questions answered by Lucy Goldbart , Founder and Director of Lucy Goldbart Interior Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an eco-conscious office design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Space Matrix Design Consultants.

Donglong Fintech Park is a 13-story office building located within Zhengzhou’s prestigious Longhu Financial Island. Designed by Space Matrix, the 21,000 sqm interior promotes a healthy, eco-conscious, and tech-enabled workplace. Drawing inspiration from water—a symbol of prosperity in Feng Shui—the design integrates reflective materials like mirror-polished stainless steel to create a dynamic and immersive environment. Key features include a shared conference center and a premium Entrepreneur’s Salon, supporting collaboration and executive networking. With integrated smart systems for lighting, access, and navigation, the project blends innovation with cultural context to deliver a future-forward workspace for leading financial enterprises.

What was the client's brief?

The Donglong Fintech Park project, commissioned by Donglong Group—a major state-owned enterprise spearheading the Longhu Financial Island development—was envisioned as a future-ready, green, and technologically advanced office hub that would attract top-tier financial institutions and global talent. The brief called for the creation of a youthful, eco-conscious, and vibrant workplace within a 13-story, 40,000 sqm building. Our scope included the interior design of approximately 21,000 sqm covering the lobby, public spaces, shared conference center, staff cafeteria, office floors, and a premium Entrepreneurs' Salon. The aim was to support a new era of financial innovation through an inspiring, user-centric, and highly functional environment.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of the project was inspired by the symbolic and literal presence of water. In Feng Shui, water represents prosperity and abundance, and flowing water symbolizes income. This became the central narrative of the design—positioning the building as a magnet for financial capital and global talent. By leveraging water’s unique qualities—transparency, fluidity, and reflection—we created a space that embodies openness, innovation, and modernity. The water features connect seamlessly with the artificial lake at Longhu Financial Island, reinforcing coherence with the broader Fintech Island development.

Beyond symbolism, water also inspired the material palette and spatial forms. Mirror-polished stainless steel, high-transparency glass, and light-reactive finishes mimic water’s depth and movement, while ceiling undulations echo the philosophical concept of “round heaven, square earth.” Together, these elements established a design that feels both technologically advanced and culturally grounded, aligning with the client’s vision for a modern financial anchor point.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The toughest hurdle we faced was balancing multiple layers of complexity—symbolism, user experience, and technology—while ensuring that the design aligned with both cultural meaning and modern functionality. Interpreting water as the core design inspiration required us to go beyond aesthetics: we had to translate it into spatial forms, material choices, and smart-building systems that were not only beautiful but also practical. Another challenge was coordinating the needs of diverse stakeholders—from state-owned enterprise headquarters to financial tenants and property managers. Through immersive user journey simulations and advanced digital modeling, we were able to harmonize these demands, optimize light and flow, and ultimately deliver a design that is both culturally grounded and technologically forward-looking.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Donglong Fintech Park integrates sustainability, innovation, and advanced technology to set a new benchmark for modern financial workplaces. The project has earned China’s Green Building 2-Star Design Label and a LEED Gold Certificate, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility. Key sustainability features include energy-efficient lighting systems, intelligent HVAC controls, low-flow water fixtures for conservation, and the use of recycled or locally sourced materials where possible. From an innovation standpoint, the project redefines traditional office typologies. For example, the main lobby replaces a conventional reception desk with a welcoming café bar, creating a social anchor for visitors and tenants. Multifunctional zones support events, product launches, and informal gatherings. The top-floor Entrepreneurs’ Salon is a standout feature—a luxurious, multi-use space blending business, leisure, and culture through amenities like a library, movie room, art space, and wellness zones. Technological integration is at the core of the project’s smart building strategy. Automated parking, facial recognition-based access control, elevator dispatch systems, dynamic digital signage, smart lighting, and motorised curtains ensure a seamless, user-centric experience. These features reflect the building’s progressive identity and future-ready infrastructure.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As a global design firm headquartered in Singapore with 15+ locations worldwide, we value platforms that benchmark our work against the best. The SBID Awards are internationally respected for their credibility, visibility, and rigorous standards. Entering allows us to showcase our innovation, strengthen client confidence, and gain global recognition for projects that reflect our commitment to excellence and human-centric design.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Becoming an SBID Award Finalist is a significant achievement. Being recognized by a prestigious organization like SBID confirms that our designs are not only beautiful but also strategically impactful and globally relevant. This recognition enables us to showcase our expertise on a global stage. This recognition is a direct result of our team's hard work, creativity, and dedication. Being named a finalist instills a deep sense of pride and accomplishment, reinforcing our shared values and inspiring us to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in design. It validates our #tomaketheworldabetterplacetowork mission, showing that our efforts have a real, tangible impact.

This isn't just an award; it's a validation of our vision and a catalyst for future growth and innovation.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a warm and inviting family home design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Claudia De Sousa Interior Design.

Home in Strassen, Luxembourg by Claudia de Sousa Interior Design seamlessly blends functionality and elegance, creating a warm and inviting family home. Designed for effortless living, the space features an open-plan social area connected to the garden, fostering togetherness while maintaining fluid circulation. A striking five-meter-high fireplace anchors the living room, complemented by sculptural lighting to enhance the double-height architecture. The couple’s private floor evokes the luxury of a hotel suite, but fully tailored to their lifestyle, designed with attention to detail to feel personal, intimate, and uniquely theirs.

What was the client's brief?

Create a home for a family of 5 but with a main living area and pool area also prepared for social events.

What inspired the design of the project?

I was inspired by warm minimalist design with detailed lighting.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The biggest challenge we faced was how to emphasize the double height of the living room, as it was the heart of the house and we wanted it to work from all angles, even when viewed from above on the first floor.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Apart from designing the space we were also very focused on the light and are very happy with the result.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered out of curiosity, I really liked the result of this project and also the amazing photos so I thought I could give it a chance, is the 1st time I compete, so let's see!!

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

This business sometimes is very hard, competitive and when working on your own, is very nice to receive recognition for such an important organization as SBID. So it would mean that we are going in the right way. Although I think our clients already tell us this, it is always good to have someone so expert saying too.

Questions answered by Cláudia Morgado de Sousa, Founder of Claudia De Sousa Interior Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a grounded penthouse design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Nu Infinity.

Turning every nook of one's home into a relatable and personal space makes it unique to this client's brief. Located in a prime spot overlooking Bondi Beach, it was imperative that all the important areas face outward and maximizes the view all day long - the TV hung from above, the sauna, the gym, the work desk, the living and dining areas; even the kitchen has unobstructed views. Nu Infinity's design philosophies and this year's design direction are aptly introduced but the most important part was the study and understand of our client with different lifestyle at a very unique location.

What was the client's brief?

The brief was simple, yet it demanded thoughtful consideration. Our client entrusted us with the design of a penthouse perched above the iconic Iceberg’s Cafe at Bondi Beach, Sydney. A residence in such a prestigious location called for unobstructed views of the coastline. With wellness at the heart of his lifestyle, the brief centred on maximizing the layout to embrace Bondi’s sweeping horizon while seamlessly supporting his daily rituals.

What inspired the design of the project?

The clients themselves were an inspiring duo. One, an Asian-born Australian, the other from South Africa, both sharing a profound appreciation for solid wood. Surrounded by sweeping views of the ocean, we envisioned a design that embraced natural timber as its foundation. This interplay between the vastness of the sea and the warmth of wood brought a sense of intimacy, creating a home that feels both inviting and grounded.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

Convincing the client of two key ideas became our greatest challenge.

The first was rethinking the master bedroom. While the client wished to maximize the panoramic views of Bondi Beach, we proposed relocating the bedroom to the rear. This allowed us to design a custom sauna at the front, one that opens directly to the ocean views through the spacious gym, offering a serene wellness experience. Our reasoning was simple: at night, the bedroom view fades into darkness, but by shifting the private spaces inward, the open plan living, dining, gym, sauna, and even the workspace could enjoy the breathtaking scenery throughout the day.

The second challenge was the television. We resisted the idea of a conventional TV wall, which would have disrupted the openness of the floor plan. At the same time, we knew a small screen would never do justice to the space. Our solution was to propose a retractable 120-inch screen—an ambitious idea that initially seemed unfeasible due to its weight. Fortunately, we sourced a customized, whisper-quiet retractable system from South Africa. When closed, the screen disappears seamlessly into the ceiling, leaving the horizon uninterrupted. This became one of the client’s favourite features, balancing technology with the purity of the view.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

We crafted a home that flows seamlessly around our clients’ daily rituals, achieved through a thoughtful choreography of space planning. By reorienting the bedrooms toward the rear, we created a private sanctuary, while the front of the residence was left fully open to the sweeping views, yet adaptable, with sliding glass partitions providing separation when needed.

Designing a penthouse with a sauna and open living overlooking the iconic Bondi Beach is a rare opportunity, and this feature became a defining statement of the project. Most importantly, the design never asked our clients to adapt to their home but instead, the home was meticulously choreographed to adapt to their lifestyle.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To be honest, winning the SBID Awards would be an accomplishment not just for us but a focal achievement for our team.

We have participated in multiple international and local awards and every time we win them, we bring back joy and motivation that drives our team to a new level. From one project to another, from one year after another, we unlock not just new projects but also unlock new strengths and talent.

Being part of the SBID Awards is like being part of a gathering among passionate creative minds that is not present to compete, but present to share, to reflect, to realise and for us, mainly to discover and grow. And that is why we have been submitting every year.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

For over 16 years, we have pioneered our design practice, working with clients from diverse backgrounds across the globe. To us, design has never been just about aesthetics, it is about curating experiences that resonate on a deeper, more human level.

Placing our work on the international stage allows us to measure ourselves not only against global standards, but also against our own potential for growth. To be recognised by the SBID Awards, whether as a winner or a finalist, would mark more than an accolade, it would affirm that our journey is on the right path. Most importantly, it would inspire our team to push boundaries with even greater passion, constantly striving toward new heights.

Questions answered by Alex Lee & Nick Fong, Founders of Nu Infinity.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Studio LBI.

The property occupies a stunning plot overlooking the Kyles of Bute with gardens reaching to the shore. The property was tired and overrun with tartan carpets and dark corners. The brief was to breathe new life into this period property and deliver a restful, cosy but thoroughly modern and functional holiday home, with an understated, luxurious and timeless aesthetic. The brief ran from soft furnishings through to kitchen and bathroom design, bespoke cabinetry and the selection of art and accessories throughout the house. For the clients this was a turnkey project and handed over complete and ready to move into.

What was the client's brief?

Our clients had recently purchased a holiday home in Argyll, set on the banks of the Kyles of Bute. Whilst surrounded by breathtaking scenery, the interiors felt dated and disconnected from their natural surroundings. Heavy tartan carpets and dark wall coverings closed the house off from the beauty outside.

The brief was to transform the property into a bright, welcoming retreat, that invited the outdoors in and embraced natural light. Above all, the clients wanted an open-plan space that would allow them to entertain and host family in a relaxed, elegant setting.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration came from the surrounding countryside. We designed the interior in neutral, earthy tones with luxurious soft furnishings to create a cosy feel. The countryside in Argyll is so beautiful that we paid particular attention to window dressings so that the eye is drawn to the spectacular views.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

The remote location brought some logistical challenges, but with such a beautiful journey to the property, it was hard to see travel as a burden.

The greater challenge lay in the property’s outdated electrical system which simply couldn’t support the requirements of a modern home. This was a significant hurdle, but through close collaboration with the builders, the system was successfully upgraded, ensuring the house could meet the clients’ needs both now and in the future.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The true highlight came when we handed the completed home back to our clients and saw their reaction. They had entrusted us to oversee every detail, from managing the trades and coordinating the installation of the kitchen and bathrooms to commissioning bespoke joinery by our cabinet maker. Every piece of soft furnishing and accessory was carefully sourced by the Studio LBI team to ensure the house felt cohesive and complete.

The installation itself was a memorable week, set against a rare Scottish heatwave with blue skies and temperatures in the thirties. Despite the challenge of moving furniture in the heat, the atmosphere was electric as everything came together.

When our clients finally walked into their turnkey-ready holiday home, their delight and emotion made all the effort worthwhile.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We value the recognition that comes from our industry peers and the credibility that the SBID Awards bring to our brand. To be considered among such a high calibre of finalists is both an honour and a privilege and it reflects the passion and dedication that goes into every project we deliver.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being a finalist is a powerful recognition of our team as serious, professional designers within a competitive industry. The interior design market is crowded and standing out requires both creativity and credibility. Winning the SBID Award in 2023 elevated our profile within the industry and continues to give prospective clients confidence, as the award serves as a trusted mark of quality and excellence.

Questions answered by Louise Bramhill, Founder of Studio LBI.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a contemporary residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Studio 95 Interiors.

Studio 95 Interiors, a West London-based design studio, was commissioned to add contemporary style to this charming 1930s family home in Ealing. Central to the project is a spacious new kitchen, dining and living area created as part of a generous rear extension. The fully refurbished entrance hall retains key original features, blending classic character with modern functionality to create a welcoming, open space adorned with tribal masks inspired by the family’s extensive travels. The newly designed master suite boasts an high pitched ceiling and a striking oriel window seat, offering serene garden views and a sense of retreat.

What was the client's brief?

The clients had decided to update and extend their large 1930's semi-detached two-storey family home in Ealing. As part of the refurbishment and extension project, they wanted a new contemporary kitchen which was to be situated in an open plan kitchen, dining and living space at the rear of their south facing property. They also wanted an updated entrance hall with new stairwell, a new master suite on the first floor along with refurbished rooms throughout. The following requests were raised by the client as their design brief.

- Generally: To honour the home's original character while introducing a contemporary aesthetic tailored to modern family life.
- Kitchen, Dining & Living Area: Create an inviting, multifunctional space that balances elegance with everyday functionality and one that enhances the connection to the large south-facing garden. Create a cohesive lighting plan layout and specification for the rear extension incorporating feature lights along with functional downlights. Create a media wall with shelving.
- Entrance Hall & Stairwell: Create a striking entrance hall to reflect the home's original character but in a contemporary way.
- Master Bedroom Suite: Create a calm elegant room that enhances the newly designed architectural features of the high pitched ceiling and oriel window. Create a place of retreat which also connects with the outdoors.

What inspired the design of the project?

On the ground floor, at the rear of the property, the open-plan ground floor kitchen, dining and living area was envisioned as the vibrant heart of the home, offering a generous, light-filled environment that opens onto the south-facing garden. We wanted to make the most of this wide 10 metre space and for each designated area to flow and work well with each other.

The entrance hall was to serve as a transitional space, subtly nodding to the home's 1930s heritage while embracing a contemporary design approach. It was a transitional space where you move from the reinterpreted original architecture at the front of the property to the modern extension of the kitchen, dining and living area at the rear. As a nod to its 1930s heritage, we added a classic monochromatic scheme of art-deco inspired black and white geometric flooring, black doors, grey painted wall panelling and a glamourous glass bauble chandelier. These reflect the overall design language of the home.

On the first floor, the master suite was designed to celebrate architectural volume and light. The pitched roofline was left open to enhance a sense of airiness. The feature oriel window which has a bespoke built-in window seat, creates a serene corner for relaxation and making the most of views and natural light.

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

There were a number of hurdles in this project, the main one was working within the budget that had been allowed. It was a large home and the client was refurbishing the entire house. So, with clever and imaginative use of the budget, we were able to make the budget stretch to achieve the thoughtfully curated look throughout and making some existing pieces work with the new.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The design carefully balances old and new, respecting the character of the original home while introducing light-filled, modern living spaces. Key highlights include:
- Seamless Integration: A contemporary extension that harmonises with the existing architecture while offering a bold modern identity.
- Maximising Light & Space: Open-plan layouts, large glazed panels, and thoughtful spatial planning bring natural light deep into the home, creating a sense of openness and connection to the garden.
- Contemporary Living: Flexible spaces designed for modern family life, with a focus on flow, comfort, and functionality.
- Craftsmanship & Detail: High-quality materials and refined detailing elevate the design, ensuring both durability and elegance.
- Sustainability Considerations: Energy-efficient solutions and sustainable materials contribute to the longevity and environmental responsibility of the home.

The result is a home that redefines a traditional property for 21st-century living, blending heritage with innovation.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Entering the SBID Awards is an opportunity to push creative boundaries and showcase work to a global audience. Being shortlisted by a panel of highly respected industry experts is both an honour and a testament to the quality of a studio’s design. The awards not only provide valuable benchmarking against peers but also open doors to significant marketing opportunities, particularly when recognised as a finalist.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being shortlisted for the SBID Awards is a significant milestone for my studio. Having a project recognised in the residential category for the third consecutive year affirms the consistency and quality of our work. The recognition serves as a powerful showcase, attracting attention from peers in the interiors industry as well as prospective clients, while reinforcing our reputation for professionalism, reliability, and design excellence. Beyond visibility, the awards have strengthened relationships with clients, suppliers, and media partners. On a more personal level, the journey highlights the evolution of the business - its beginnings, its growth over the past five years, challenges and achievements - making the experience both rewarding and invaluable.

Questions answered by Stephanie Gilsenan, Founder of Studio 95 Interiors.