Modus Workspace Design a Playful and Collaborative Office Space

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a playful and collaborative office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Modus Workspace.

Huckletree and Modus Workspace have joined forces, creating London’s most innovative ecosystem, built to support the next generation of disruptors. Huckletree project, Jubilee House. This co-working space is designed to be inclusive, playful, and visually appealing, while providing mental and physical space for ideating, offering an immersive experience for its occupants. Spanning two floors, the design manipulates colour and light to create boundaryless and visually deceptive spaces that represent the endless possibilities in a constantly evolving world. Each space challenges all five senses in a unique way, fostering a dynamic and vibrant environment that promotes inclusivity, innovation, creativity, and collaboration.

What was the client’s brief? 

Huckletree, the network of curated coworking hubs for innovative businesses, approached Modus to design and build their new Web3 focused workspace on the world-renowned Oxford Street. In the words of Huckletree co-founder and CEO Gaby Hersham,

“The Web3 space is the next frontier of our economy, and we want to foster the next generation of entrepreneurs. To do this, we need to look at workspaces that incorporate a mix of old world and new. We need to tailor-make spaces where creators, agencies and Web3 collaborators can come together to help our members thrive and build strong companies with robust longevity”.

This idea provided the foundations of the brief, which Modus digested and then transformed into the incredibly inclusive, playful, and Instagrammable, Huckletree Jubilee House workspace.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of the Jubilee House is where the metaverse influences reality, the journey of which was a highly collaborative experience for all those involved. Think bold colour spectrums, infinity mirrors, contemplative archways, NFT digital galleries, creative parlours, and an immersive meta-lounge. Huckletree Oxford Street not only meets the diverse needs of its occupants but provides a unique experience and a playground for reinventing the future of everything.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the project for the team was working with such a forward-thinking and energetic brand. The freedom of colour use during the design process was unlike any project we have worked on before. It is not every day you get to incorporate all the colours of the rainbow into a workspace! It was equally refreshing and inspiring to incorporate non-gender specific bathrooms to the space, a request from Huckletree, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity and diversity, making all occupants feel comfortable and valued. The whole project was a pleasure from start to finish and we look forward to future collaborations with Huckletree.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered Huckletree for an SBID award with the aim of showcasing the design and all that is has achieved with a wider audience, promoting an outstanding example of playful and inclusive workspace design.

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

Being a finalist in the SBID Awards is a phenomenal achievement, and one in which we are incredibly proud! It has highlighted our ability, as a leading office design and build company, to create unique, immersive, and inclusive workspaces that stand out in the competitive design industry.

Questions answered by Vidhi Sharma, Creative Director at Modus Workspace.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a traditional Indian styled beach house design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Pencil & Monk.

We are entrusted with revamping a beach house in Uthandi, Chennai. Our client desires a contemporary retreat infused with traditional Indian style. Situated by the sea, the property’s expansive landscapes provide an ideal backdrop. Our goal is to blend modern interiors with Indian elements, evoking tranquility and a connection with nature. The client envisions an outdoor open bar area for social gatherings, accommodating both intimate and larger events against the magnificent sea views. Our team of experts in interior design, landscape architecture, and project management will ensure the successful execution of the client’s vision.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client had a special desire. They dreamed of transforming the space into a special spot that would bring them a sense of refreshment and renewal. They wanted a space that’s close to nature. To step outside and feel the gentle breeze, see the trees swaying, and hear the soothing sounds of nature – that’s the kind of experience the client was aiming for – to make this place a true abode of calmness amidst the chaotic city life. Their thought was for us to craft a space that’s not only a getaway from the city’s hustle but also a way to connect with the beauty of the natural world and that is exactly what we delivered.

What inspired the design of the project?

The house finds its home in a neighbourhood wrapped up in lots of plants and trees. The beautiful surroundings gave us some big ideas for how the house should look and feel. We thought, “Why not bring a little piece of this nature inside the house?” So, we put on our creative hats and started planning. We envisioned a house where you don’t just see nature from the windows, but where nature is a part of every nook and cranny. We wanted to create a place where the outside and the inside blend together. The goal was to make anyone who enters the house feel a little bit closer to the natural world.

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

The toughest challenge we faced while designing was the fact that a lot of walls in the existing space had to be broken down. The layout didn’t work for us. We had to open up a lot of spaces. We had a lot of surprises during the whole process. We also had a lot of issues involving the labour force working on site. Material laying also proved to be very challenging.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Since the area of the site was vast, the team came up with a creative proposal for the outdoors – to utilise the terrain and existing landscape to create an outdoor bar. The bar is the major highlight of the property. The existing landscape was highlighted using creative lighting designs.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Receiving an SBID award equates to global acknowledgment and elevating our design on an international stage. When someone looks at what we’ve designed, we want them to go, “Wow, that’s quality right there!” We want them to see the spaces we’ve designed and think, “Wow, this is really working well!” And most importantly, we want our clients to look at what we’ve done for them and say, “Wow, this is exactly what we wanted!” We’re not just aiming to impress folks around the block – we’re thinking global. We want design enthusiasts from all over the word to see what we’ve done and feel that spark of admiration. We believe SBID gives us the platform to achieve this.

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

It’s been an absolute honour to be listed as one of the finalists at SBID awards. It’s a major boost to the company and the team steering the company. Winning this award would mean global recognition for the firm and the talent of the team being recognised by design lovers across the globe.

Questions answered by Siddharth Chandrasekar, Founder of Pencil & Monk, and his team Ravi Kumar, Abhirami Vaithiyanathan, and Viswanathan.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a relaxing and Oriental spa design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Lude Design.

As a strategic partner of Renhe Zudao Spa, Lude Design participated in the design of the new project in Hangzhou, China. As a relaxing space, the foot spa must be a livable and tourable place that the body and mind yearn for. With the Chinese culture and aesthetics throughout the project, the design starts from nature and returns to it, arousing a new understanding of elegant oriental living.

What was the client’s brief? 

Established in 2004, Renhe Zudao Spa is an upscale commercial healthcare spa chain brand that features a cinema-style vibe. It is currently credited as a leading registered agency of the Hangzhou Health Care Service Industry Association. Since its establishment, it has opened numerous stores. Renhe Zudao Spa boasts a fashionable and elegant decoration style that creates a comfortable and warm health environment. Their professional and skilled massage manipulation and thoughtful and attentive service have gained a word-of-mouth reputation and over 15,000 members in 18 years of development. Renhe Zudao Spa perfectly integrates a natural healthcare approach with cutting-edge technology, setting a new benchmark for the foot bath and healthcare industry.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration for this design is drawn from Jiangnan, which is a blend of natural landscapes and urban features. The city of Hangzhou is known for its strong cultural identity and regional symbols, but it also has a dynamic and constantly evolving nature. We embrace change and innovation and blends modern consciousness with avant-garde concepts. Through active exploration and experimental design practices, we strive to create something truly unique.

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

As the spa was constructed during the peak of the pandemic, workers could not all come on-site, so the construction could not be completed efficiently.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our team specialises in identifying unique brand cultures and crafting effective business models that help our clients thrive even in the midst of an epidemic. We offer both design services and brand consulting to our valued clients.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As a brand consultant for our clients, we also have a professional consulting company that offers us valuable predictions and suggestions. With their guidance, we have participated in numerous international competitions, such as SBID, and have won several awards. We are optimistic about achieving further success in the future.

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

The field we have been specialising in is relatively niche and our design style is quite distinct. Being on this shortlist has given us confidence that we can make a name for ourselves on the global stage. We hope to enter the following year’s SBID award with better projects.

Questions answered by Bin Liu, Design Director of Lude Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a warm and earthy salon design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Layrd Design.

Layrd Design completed this bespoke salon scheme for Douce. Douce is a 5 seat Salon, Cafe and Bar, this is a truly unique offering for Cambridge. The space is very welcoming with warm earthy tones throughout, from the walnut surfaces, concrete floor, dusty pink, deep greens and coffee colours. They designed a curved bar that was compact and functional to allow for both coffee service and alcoholic drinks. The front of this is clad in stainless steel as a nod to the former Air-Stream that was converted as a mobile salon and was located near to the new space.

What was the client’s brief? 

The brief was to take the clients vision for the space and turn this into a feasible and achievable scheme withing their budget. We were tasked with creating a unique salon space that also encompassed a small café/bar space which didn’t overlook or make the salon customers feel uncomfortable. Douce were looking to create a warm and welcoming setting so natural tones and earthy red and green tones were incorporated into the space.

The existing salon space was a mobile airstream located close to the new salon, they wanted the airstream to be included in the design in subtle ways as a hint to the heritage to the company.

What inspired the design of the project?

The existing airstreams and the values of Douce were big inspirations for the design. The need to create a calming, welcoming and timeless interior space.

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

The client had an incredible vision for their concept store. Creating this clear vision into a functioning design that met all of the necessary regulations, within budget, was a hurdle. Also creating a space that worked as a salon and a cafe at the same time and felt cohesive.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the bespoke Joinery elements all come together and work as they had been designed to work. There is a lot of bespoke elements to the space and you only see it all come together when they are installed.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have been finalists on two other occasions and the recognition and awareness from this is really great for our company growth and exposure. Company and team recognition for the completed project, as well as awareness of the concept store itself, Douce.

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

We are immensely proud to be nominated for the third successive year, it has elevated our profile and brand exposure massively and contributed to our growth as a company.

Questions answered by Will Mayes, Director of Layrd Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a charming and historic KBB design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Arsight.

Artem Kropovinsky, of Arsight Studio, masterfully reimagines a 120-year-old Brooklyn brownstone, infusing Scandinavian-inspired design elements. The renovated kitchen and bathroom seamlessly blend historic charm with modern comfort, integrating cutting-edge technology while preserving original details. Custom woodwork, brass hardware, and eclectic wallpaper create a harmonious visual flow. Underlying the design is a strong commitment to sustainability, with restored original features, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient appliances, demonstrating that luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client desired a blend of the Brooklyn brownstone’s rich 120-year history with cutting-edge modern technology. Their goal was a harmonious marriage of the two, focusing on the custom kitchen and bathroom. They wanted these spaces to pay homage to the property’s heritage while providing the modern conveniences and features expected in a high-end property today.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration was twofold. First, the inherent charm and architectural beauty of the Brooklyn brownstone acted as our canvas. Second, we were inspired by the potential of cutting-edge technology to enhance daily life. Drawing on minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics, we combined earthy tones and minimalist finishes with state-of-the-art technology, like voice-activated assistants and adaptive lighting, to craft a space that’s as smart as it is stunning.

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

Beyond marrying the old with the new in terms of design, our challenge was seamlessly integrating modern technology without disrupting the brownstone’s historical integrity. Introducing smart appliances, retractable range hood, and sensor-driven lighting into a setting that boasts carefully restored stained glass windows and original woodwork was a delicate task. It required a perfect blend of innovation and respect for history.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The custom wood kitchen was a crowning achievement. It wasn’t only the aesthetic harmony we achieved, but also the integration of modern tech features like smart appliances, voice-activated assistants, and centralised control panels. This kitchen isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s a hub of modern convenience, with every technological addition designed to enhance user experience, from adaptive lighting to an integrated sound system.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards represent the epitome of interior design innovation and excellence. We believed our project, with its unique blend of historical aesthetics and advanced technological features, was emblematic of the pioneering spirit SBID celebrates. Participating in the SBID Awards was a chance to spotlight our commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.

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

Achieving Finalist status at the SBID has been both an affirmation of our dedication to design and innovation and a tremendous boon for our brand’s reputation. It’s not only about being recognised but also about showcasing our approach, which deftly balances reverence for history with the exciting possibilities of modern technology. The acknowledgment has reinforced our reputation as innovators in the world of interior design.

Questions answered by Artem Kropovinsky, Founder & Principal Designer at Arsight.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a peaceful and earthy apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, RS Interiores.

Udo means peace in Hindu, just the name Rosadela Serulle had been searching for this project, since its exactly what is reflected in its ambiance. She describes it as a symbol of amplitude, where the unity of colors come together in perfect harmony. All the spaces in Casa UDO have elements of design that forces its visitors to admire them. The simplicity in the entrance and its complicity with the grand living room. These spaces are in earthy hues to create the sensation of lightness and tranquility it offers.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief was simple, they wanted a residence that transmitted peace. After that I was given full freedom of design, which is every designer’s dream.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration for this project came from the first conversation with my client, where we sat down and just spoke about life, their expectations and desires for their home. This is where UDO was born. Udo, means peace in Hindu, just the name I had been searching for this project, since its exactly what is reflects in its ambiance.

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

The toughest hurdle we overcame was definitely time, we had a specific goal to completed this project within a few months, from a blank canvas to what we accomplished, and our team delivered, we completed UDO within 6 months. This includes all of the wood works, tapestry, wall finishing, curtains and all furnishings.

We aim to please our clients and this project met all the expectations.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our highlight of Casa UDO, was definitely composing a home worth of this family, we met all of our clients expectations. Our designs, color, lighting and furnishing came together in a wonderful way.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered SBID awards as we have done for the past years, I believe in excellence and recognition, and you can always find this in SBID.

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

It truly meaningful to be recognised at this stage as a finalist to this prestigious award. We strive to produce designs that create a unique identity, that truly represents our clients way of life.

Questions answered by Rosadela Serulle, Founder of RS Interiores.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and urban residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Arsight.

Designed by Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight, this interior project in Tribeca curates an intuitive and personalized living space that beautifully interweaves the rough charm of natural materials with high-end features. A testament to creative craftsmanship, the apartment is imbued with unique elements such as hand-troweled fluted plaster walls, a hand-carved kitchen island, and heavyweight linen curtains. The design, valuing authenticity and embracing imperfections, tells a compelling story of human touch and history. This innovative fusion of refined elegance and rustic appeal, underscored by a commitment to sustainability, offers a refreshing divergence from prevailing trends.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief was wonderfully open-ended and truly allowed us to connect with our deepest design inclinations. They sought an interior space that drew inspiration from the heart of nature, a setting that would be not just a living space, but a narrative – a reflection of nature’s unparalleled beauty. They envisioned a space that would harmoniously blend the raw beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of an urban dwelling.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our primary inspiration for this design was the enchanting allure of nature itself. This wasn’t just confined to theoretical concepts; we actively ventured into the wilderness landscapes of Connecticut. Here, we were particularly moved by the timeless beauty of driftwood and stones that had been molded by nature over millennia. These elements, in their most authentic form, became vital components in our design, serving as a tangible bridge between the natural world and the constructed urban environment.

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

The most challenging aspect of this project was ensuring that the raw, natural elements we introduced, such as driftwood and stones, seamlessly integrated with the modern features of the apartment. This meant balancing the ruggedness of these elements with the refined aspects of modern design without losing the authenticity of either. It was essential that the space felt both luxurious and raw, opulent yet genuinely connected to the natural world.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the most rewarding moments was seeing the hand-chiselled kitchen island, an epitome of our design philosophy, come to life. Witnessing raw stone transform into an exquisite functional and artistic centrepiece was a validation of our vision. This island epitomized the harmony between rough and refined, and watching it anchor the space was truly a joy.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards because we genuinely believe in the integrity and authenticity of our design. The SBID represents the pinnacle of interior design recognition in our industry. It’s not just about accolades; it’s a platform that recognizes dedication, innovation, and true excellence in design. We felt that our project, with its unique blend of nature and luxury, resonated with the values that SBID champions.

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

Becoming an Award Finalist at the SBID has been an immense honour. It is not just a testament to the hard work and dedication our team has poured into the project, but it also offers validation from a community of esteemed peers. For our business, this recognition has bolstered our reputation and credibility in the industry.

Questions answered by Artem Kropovinsky, Founder and Principal Designer at Arsight.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colourful, Armenian-inspired restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.

The name “VAGA” comes from the word “vagabond,” which means “nomad” and serves as the inspiration behind the concept. 4SPACE created a world-fresh time-traveler vibe that takes you on a journey through traditional Arabic cuisine and colorful Armenian culture – a lifestyle destination that embodies the wandering, explorative nature of the vagabond. The restaurant offers exceptional views of Ain Dubai and a contemporary design that takes your dining experience to the next level. Revelers looking for secrecy can enjoy the private room that offers a world of speakeasy fantasy, perfect for those looking for a little adventure to their dining experience.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for VAGA Restaurant and Bar, designed by 4SPACE, was to create a contemporary dining destination that harmoniously blends Arabic and Armenian cultures. The restaurant was envisioned as a space where diners could embark on a captivating journey, experiencing the fusion of these two vibrant traditions. The goal was to design a restaurant that pays homage to both cultures while providing extraordinary views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest and tallest Ferris wheel, on Bluewaters Island.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of VAGA was inspired by the concept of a magical vagabond, a time traveler who traverses different eras and worlds, experiencing grand adventures along the way. This inspiration led to the creation of a space that beautifully weaves together Arabic and Armenian elements, with a focus on kitchen drama, textures, and reflective surfaces. The design represents the wanderlust and explorative nature of the vagabond, capturing the essence of discovery and wonder.

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

The toughest challenge that 4SPACE overcame during the VAGA project was designing and connecting two distinct spaces that represent Armenian and Arabic cultures, while still maintaining a sense of harmony and unity. Creating a seamless transition between the ground floor, which reflects Armenian influences, and the first floor, which is inspired by Arabic aesthetics, required careful design and meticulous execution.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the VAGA project for the 4SPACE team was the creation of the impressive chandelier on the ground floor. Comprising large metallic rings intricately adorned with the Vannic alphabet, this chandelier is a stunning focal point that captures the essence of the restaurant’s concept. Additionally, the unique DJ booth, which becomes the center of attention for diners and late-night revellers, added a dynamic and interactive element to the space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

4SPACE entered the SBID Awards to showcase the innovative and culturally rich design of VAGA. The project’s successful fusion of Arabic and Armenian influences, along with its captivating design elements and attention to detail, made it a compelling contender for recognition within the design industry.

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

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held significant meaning for 4SPACE and their design business. It affirmed their ability to merge diverse cultural influences into a harmonious and visually striking space. The recognition from the awards highlighted their expertise in creating immersive and experiential environments, enhancing their reputation in the design community and among potential clients.

Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a retro styled residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Harmony World Consultant & Design.

Harmony World Consultant & Design was commissioned to design interior space for The Catania Wuhan project.

What was the client’s brief? 

In a globalised city, art and life have never been separated. Under the trend of the overall environment, the design of this project tends to create an artistic living space, which can better experience the architectural form and space volume by emphasising artistic decoration and infiltrating art.

What inspired the design of the project?

We provide each viewer with a certain identity of presence in this immersive space, which means that they have various possibilities to reconstruct their feelings as individuals and continue to write stories. This is the meaning of our design.

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

The integration of various design elements in the space has become our main design consideration. In order to continue the cultural attribute of the integration of multiple cultures, we also focused on the retro style of multi focus, artistic and cultural heritage and French elegance when creating this house style.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The overall beige tone shows its elegance to the audience. At the same time, the entrance is a master sculpture from the Paris. Through the appreciation of artistic sculpture and the continuity of metal chandelier space, the audience is constantly attracted to explore the space, to re-establish their feelings of space in their minds and create the artistic atmosphere of Home Gallery. It shows the collision and integration of modern and classical art in space as a whole, and the experience of “crossing multi-dimensional space” is completed by the design. Innovation and retro, collision and blending, thus reflecting the instantaneous eternity of the concept of art space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As one of the most prestigious awards in the world, SBID has attracted the attention and participation of many internationally renowned designers with its strict selection criteria. From a professional perspective, SBID focuses on exploring, summarising and exploring the latest trends in the field of design. It also has high standards and requirements for the design works participating in the awards. Every year, authoritative experts in the industry assess the technical content and aesthetic creativity of the entries, and is committed to commendation, reward and publicity of various excellent designs.

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

The SBID Design Award has a very high competitiveness and influence in the international design industry. Being shortlisted for the SBID Design Award is not only a recognition of designers’ professional ability, but also a recognition of their design achievements in the world.

Questions answered by Hongjun Lin, Managing Director at Harmony World Consultant & Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a nature-inspired, family home design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Pia Design.

Pia Design was commissioned for the sensitive refresh and redecoration of this dated but loved Georgian country family house. The clients wanted to keep as many of their existing furniture pieces as possible, opting to reupholster much loved heirloom items rather than buying new. Inspired by the stunning hilltop views of the North Downs surrounding the house, the concept was directly inspired by the natural surroundings and referenced the panoramic views of nature and invited the landscape in.

What was the client’s brief? 

This project was an exemplary case study for us in sustainable design. Our client had collected good quality furniture pieces of the years, some of which were handed down throughout the generations and had a lot of personal meaning to the homeowners. They wanted to keep as much of their existing furniture as possible, whilst being conscious that they want to modernise the look of their home. We successfully reused every single item of furniture, only filling in gaps with new pieces where necessary. Their existing furniture was lovingly restored and reupholstered and the new pieces carefully selected or made bespoke to fit in cohesively with the existing.

What inspired the design of the project?

The entire design of the house from concept to design development was inspired by nature. Firstly, we considered the panoramic views of the South Downs visible from this hilltop house and how the colours would change throughout the seasons – this was reflected in the colours schemes, patterns and textures we selected for the house – from nature murals to a soft, seasonal palette of blues and greens, always offset with pops of warming accent colours. Secondly, the materials we chose were primarily natural, sustainable materials, such as Carrara marble, wooden flooring, and fabrics which were at least 75% natural fibres.

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

I would say that working with the client’s existing furniture and focusing so rigorously on not sending anything to landfill unnecessarily did come with its own challenges – we spent a long time playing around with what furniture could be reused in what room and how to refurbish existing pieces – often reupholstering can be more expensive than buying new furniture, so we had to consider carefully how to sensitively and cost effectively breathe new life into existing furniture that didn’t always feel like the best fit for some design schemes. For example, the client’s existing main bedroom bed was a very heavy, ornate wooden sleigh bed which felt overwhelming against the soft blue colour palette we recommended. We overcame this by opting for a custom, handpainted mural by De Gournay behind the bed, as well as large, bright coloured cushions, to draw the eye to these details as opposed to the heavy bed.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was undoubtedly when the client saw her home finished for the first time after the re-upholstered furniture arrived back from the workshop. When she reacted to her grandmother’s chaise longue brought back to life, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room. It was very emotional and hugely satisfying to see the hard work we had put into the project be so appreciated and to see just how personal and meaningful everything in their home was to them, and to hear their feedback on how well they felt we had interpreted their brief and understood just how important retaining these heirloom pieces was to them. Of course seeing our project featured in Homes & Gardens was also a moment of great pride!

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Sustainability is at the heart and soul of everything Pia Design does, and this project has been such a perfect showcase of our commitment to our ethos and a testament to the fact that it is possible to design around what the client already owns without compromising the design aesthetic significantly. I think it would be a great achievement and even further testament to this if the project was deemed award-worthy.

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

Having been an SBID member for a few years now, to have been selected as a finalist, particularly with our sustainable project, has been a huge honour. We are still a young and growing business as well, so to be a finalist has given our team an enormous boost of confidence. I’m sure our clients will be excited to hear about our nomination as well!

Questions answered by Pia Pelkonen, Creative Director at Pia Design.