Chains Interior: Incorporating Different Forms of Light

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern family home design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Chains Interior.

The owners of this residence prefer to maintain a balance between family closeness and individual privacy. The floorplan thus devises two traffic flows to simultaneously fulfil this request. Natural sunlight from the windows, indirect light within the interior, and various light fixtures, serve as tangible sources of light. There is artwork placed in various corners in the residence. Thematically associated with light, the artwork represents the spiritual essence of light.

What was the client's brief?

The clients are a couple with four children, a very devout Christian family. They hope that their new home can create a space and atmosphere that is both intimate and private.

What inspired the design of the project?

We took a passage from the Bible: "And I will also be your light in the wilderness; and I will prepare the way before you." as the development of this project, with the light in the wilderness as the main axis of inspiration. The space uses primitive, simple, and unrefined materials as the background environment, and then uses a light atmosphere that is a mixture of reality and illusion to create a home space where "you are in the city, but your heart is in the wilderness."

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

In order to convey the concept of "light in the wilderness", how to choose materials and forms that can present a "wild" style became the first topic of this case. The second topic is how to bring out the theme of light. We divide the image of light into two levels. One is the physical light, which is formed by the sunlight outside the window, the indirect lighting in the room and various lighting fixtures; the other is the virtual light. We place artworks with the theme of light in the space to bring out the spiritual image of light. In particular, in the selection of artworks, we searched for the theme of "light" suitable for this case from all over the world and placed them in the space. In addition to becoming the visual focus, they also convey the spiritual symbolic meaning of light.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The indoor configuration of public and private dual traffic lines is the highlight of this case. The different window conditions corresponding to the two traffic lines cleverly create two different atmospheres of daytime light and nighttime light, thereby bringing out the fluidity and temporality of light.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Award is one of the few interior design competitions that has categories for different cost budgets and design goals. This makes the judging criteria of the competition more clear. In addition, there is also a "project of the week" activity selected internally by the association, which provides another new perspective and allows many works to have the opportunity to be reported.

Chains Interior on 7 November 2018, 14 April 2021, 10 November 2021 and 15 November 2023 won SBID's "Project of the week" four times, and this year two more design works were selected for "Project of the week" at the same time. It also recognises and encourages our continuous efforts in the field of interior design.

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

First of all, this award has always been a very indicative and international certification, so we want to let more people see our work by participating in this competition. Secondly, we reached the finals in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2022, 2023 and 2024, which gave the team great encouragement and made us look forward to continuing to pursue innovation.

Questions answered by Lien Wu Chen, Design Director of Chains Interior.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated entertaining space by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Amy Hunt Interiors.

Amy Hunt Interior Design was commissioned to create a Mayfair-inspired bar and entertaining space in an underutilized annexe. Amy Hunt Interiors expertly coordinated the entire project, delivering design concepts, mood boards, lighting and electrical plans, bespoke joinery design and installation, and sourcing and supplying all FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) for this Oxted, Surrey Annexe refurb.

What was the client's brief?

The client wanted to transform their tired and uninspiring annexe into a sophisticated entertaining space, drawing inspiration from the exclusive bars of Mayfair. The goal was to create a luxurious yet inviting home bar where they could host many a gathering, dance under the disco ball, but also to enjoy it as a family. They wanted a design that balanced modern elegance with subtle traditional undertones while incorporating smart storage solutions.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was heavily influenced by the client’s fond memories of nights out in Mayfair. We aimed to capture the refined glamour of high-end London bars through rich, moody colours, luxe materials, and atmospheric lighting. The copper-topped bar, upholstered finishes, and hidden bar integration within the storage unit all contributed to the sophisticated, club-like ambiance. The lighting design played a crucial role, allowing the space to shift from a cosy lounge to a vibrant party setting.

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

One of the biggest challenges was designing and constructing the statement storage and bar unit. Not only did it need to house the client’s existing items, but it also had to integrate a secret central door leading to the garage—without compromising aesthetics or functionality. Additionally, working within a tight 8-week deadline to coordinate joinery, lighting, and upholstery installations required meticulous planning and execution. Despite these challenges, we delivered the project ahead of schedule.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The moment the lighting was installed, and the disco ball was illuminated, the space truly came to life. Seeing the client’s reaction to the final transformation was incredibly rewarding. The success of the bespoke bar unit, with its copper top and upholstered details, was another highlight—it became the perfect focal point for the room.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

This project was a bold and creative transformation and it’s not often you get asked to design a party room! The level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and ability to capture the essence of a Mayfair bar in a countryside home made it a standout design we are really proud of. Entering the SBID Awards allowed us to showcase our expertise and celebrate the innovation and problem-solving that went into the project.

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

Being an SBID Award Finalist is a fantastic recognition of our dedication to delivering unique, high-quality interiors. It has elevated our profile within the industry and reinforced our passion for creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful. The acknowledgment has also been incredibly meaningful to Amy Hunt Interior Design but also meaningful to my clients too, further inspiring us to push creative boundaries in future projects.

Questions answered by Amy Hunt, Director of Amy Hunt Interiors.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern Scandinavian styled house design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Pia Design.

Pia Design were commissioned to design and specify the interior architecture and full interior fit out and furnishings for Pond Place, a 5 bedroom family home in St Albans designed in a clean, minimal Scandinavian style. The striking features of the property are the use of Dinesen flooring throughout, minimal, floating staircase by Smet, and bespoke, custom built in joinery by End Grain and bathrooms in microcement and recycled glass tiles. The colours of the design are inspired by the striking garden landscaping by Rosemary Coldstream.

What was the client's brief?

The brief for Pond Place was to create a tranquil yet functional environment that reflected the client’s love for nature while accommodating their lifestyle needs and kept clutter to a minimum. We aimed to design a space that fosters connection and well-being, integrating natural elements with luxurious details. Our focus was on creating a sense of calm and serenity, blending modern Scandinavian design with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was inspired by the surrounding environment—particularly the pond and natural greenery. We worked closely with Rosemary Coldstream, the landscape designer, to ensure our designs worked cohesively together. We wanted to seamlessly integrate the indoors with the outdoors, drawing from organic forms, soft textures, and earthy tones. The concept was to evoke a sense of calm and relaxation, using nature as a guiding principle to design a sophisticated, timeless space.

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

One of the toughest hurdles was the short design period as we were brought onto the project team late in the process - therefore, we had only 4 weeks to pull together the design visuals for the whole house, in order to make the tender deadline. Further down the line there were some significant delays with the project once the building works started - in total, from the date we started the concept designs, to the date the project was completed and installed, it took around 6 years!

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the project was the final reveal to the client, who was thrilled with how the space transformed into a seamless extension of the natural surroundings. Our client had known their house as a building site for nearly 5 years, and wasn’t there for the final install, so it was such a rewarding experience to be there when the client saw their finished home for the first time, and to see the harmony between the interior and the landscape come to life. The project itself was a true testament to collaboration and vision - especially with it being such a long time in the making!

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards to celebrate the success of Pond Place and share it with the wider design community. It’s an opportunity to showcase our passion for blending design with nature, and it’s an honour to be recognised by the SBID among so many talented designers from around the globe. The awards also provide us with a platform to connect with like-minded professionals, continue pushing creative boundaries and to showcase sustainable interior design.

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

Being named an Award Finalist has been a huge honour and a moment of pride for our team. It reinforces the hard work and dedication that went into Pond Place, and the recognition has been invaluable in helping us grow as a business and reaffirming our commitment to creating exceptional, sustainable design experiences.

Questions answered by Pia Pelkonen, Founder of Pia Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated and functional office design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Antrepo by Ozge Caglayan Studio.

Located in the heart of central London, the JS office project artfully blends contemporary design with the city’s rich historical character. At the core of the approach is the careful selection of high-quality wood, a material that embodies both tradition and innovation. This choice is not merely a nod to the past; it serves as the foundation for the entire space, linking the city’s heritage with a modern aesthetic. Through this focus on wood, the design team has created an office environment that not only reflects the client’s vision but also pays tribute to London’s enduring spirit.

What was the client's brief?

The client’s vision for their London office was to move away from the typical corporate setting and create a workspace that felt both personal and refined. They wanted an environment that reflected their company ethos while seamlessly blending sophistication, comfort, and functionality. A key request was the integration of high-quality, original materials such as wood, aged brass, marble, and leather to establish a sense of timeless elegance. Additionally, the design needed to prioritise usability, ergonomics, and efficiency while maintaining a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

Our design approach carefully balanced these aspirations by incorporating bespoke elements tailored to the client’s preferences. Through meticulous material selection and an emphasis on craftsmanship, we created a space that not only met but exceeded the client’s expectations, resulting in a workplace that fosters productivity, collaboration, and creativity.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was primarily inspired by London’s architectural heritage and the desire to create a workspace that embodies both tradition and modernity. Our vision was to craft an office that reflects the city's rich history while seamlessly integrating contemporary aesthetics and functionality. The fusion of timber, aged brass, and leather played a crucial role in establishing a cohesive and sophisticated atmosphere, ensuring a warm and inviting ambiance throughout the space.

A significant design inspiration was the idea of continuity—creating seamless transitions between different areas of the office to maintain a harmonious flow. We achieved this through the thoughtful integration of wooden panels that extended across walls and ceilings, connecting spaces in a visually and structurally cohesive way. Additionally, bespoke handcrafted elements, such as intricately carved brass details and a custom wood-topped coffee table, paid homage to traditional craftsmanship while reinforcing the uniqueness of the design.

Functionality was another key driver of the project. The use of curved corners encouraged movement and interaction between different functions, while the incorporation of a central wood cabinet served as both a visual anchor and a practical storage solution, optimising space without compromising aesthetics. The result was a space that not only met the client’s practical needs but also provided a sanctuary of productivity and inspiration.

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

One of the most challenging aspects of the project was ensuring the seamless alignment and continuity of the wooden panels that connected different areas, including the meeting room, lobby, and CEO office. Maintaining precise visual consistency across these elements required exceptional attention to detail and coordination between design and construction teams. The challenge was further amplified by the integration of storage solutions within the central wood cabinet, which needed to serve multiple functions without disrupting the overall aesthetic.

Additionally, working within the constraints of space meant that every design decision had to be both efficient and purposeful. We tackled this by integrating storage solutions into a single multifunctional furniture piece—the central wood cabinet—allowing us to maximize usability without sacrificing visual harmony.

Another significant hurdle was balancing sustainability goals with the high-end material selections required for the project. We addressed this by prioritising environmentally friendly materials and implementing energy-efficient strategies. For instance, we carefully selected wood for its sustainable properties and long-term environmental benefits, ensuring that the project aligned with responsible design principles. The use of Smart Building Technologies and energy-efficient lighting further reinforced our commitment to minimising environmental impact.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the proudest achievements of the project was the successful execution of the intricate brass detailing, particularly the custom-carved brass logos that greeted visitors in the reception area. These bespoke elements not only added a distinctive touch but also reinforced the company’s identity, enhancing the overall brand experience. The integration of brass details throughout the office demonstrated our team’s dedication to precision and craftsmanship.

Another highlight was the multifunctional central wood cabinet, which played a pivotal role in shaping the layout and functionality of the office. By seamlessly integrating storage solutions and spatial divisions within a single design element, we created a visually striking and highly practical feature that set this project apart. The elegant transition of wooden panels across walls and ceilings further emphasized the sense of continuity and cohesion that defined the space.

Beyond the design itself, one of the most rewarding moments for our team was receiving positive feedback from the client. Their recognition of our ability to transform their vision into a reality reinforced the success of the project and highlighted the impact of thoughtful, detail-oriented design. Seeing the office become a space that truly resonated with its users was a testament to our team's dedication and creativity.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered the SBID Awards to showcase my work on a prestigious international platform that celebrates excellence in design. The competition provides an opportunity to gain industry recognition, connect with leading professionals, and receive valuable feedback. Winning or being shortlisted would be an incredible honour, helping to elevate my brand and inspire future projects.

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

Being an SBID Award Finalist with not just one, but two projects has been an incredible honor and a defining moment for my business. Having my work recognised on an international stage, one project in the UK category and the other in the Europe category in Zurich, has reinforced my commitment to excellence in design. This recognition has elevated my credibility, expanded my network, and opened doors to exciting new opportunities. It has also been a great source of motivation, inspiring me to continue pushing creative boundaries and delivering outstanding projects.

Questions answered by Ozge Caglayan, Founder of Antrepo by Ozge Caglayan Studio.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and coastal holiday cottage design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, LWE Interiors.

LWE Interiors were asked to redesign an old cottage that had stood neglected for several years at the end of a street in Llandudno wales. The client wanted to use this old cottage as a holiday home for weekends away for family and friends. The budget was very strict and included a full refurbishment of the ground floor and bedrooms. They used salvage wood to create rustic elements as well as uncovering an original old wall which they transformed into a design feature, bringing in a holiday vibe and fresh new look.

What was the client's brief?

The clients brief on this project was to give the home a modern rustic feel adding subtle coastal accents as the property is walking distance to the beach, the old cottage was bought at auction with the intention to transform into a holiday home for family and friends.

What inspired the design of the project?

The cottage was very dilapidated and required everything internally taking out / rebuilding, the budget for the interiors was strict due to the building works the cottage needed, whilst the contractors stripped the building back to the bare bones we discovered an original wall over meter thick made in the traditional method of stone, rubble and mortar. I decided to keep this feature and build on the rustic elements as there were no original features in the cottage even before the strip out took place, then adding modern fittings against rustic elements, to give a modern feel but still incorporating the traditional building feature we found.

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

The budget was the toughest hurdle, the construction team also had issues at times with the building itself which chewed into the budget, threatening to reduce the interior budget further. Fortunately I found a great kitchen company who made the kitchen and installed the units and a local quartz / stone constitute supplier who installed the worktops at a great price. We were also resourceful with the interior design, we couldn’t move the meters or the boiler as it would have cost too much and they were so unsightly in the lounge area, so I designed a cupboard to house them with a log effect design which blends in with the rustic feel, blending away the unsightly meters from the lounge area.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the project aside from discovering the original feature wall, was when the client asked to add an en-suite to the master bedroom, to close off an area of the bedroom would make the bedroom feel claustrophobic so I suggested we keep the en-suite open as a feature to the bedroom, which the client loved the idea so we added an open en-suite, a little cheeky but a great talking point, the toilet we found a small cubbyhole area which was perfect to hide the toilet in, then used a sliding barn door-for privacy.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered the SBID Awards as this is a prestigious international awards for interior designers, architects and suppliers in the property industry. It’s an award that gives credit as a notable designer to the finalists and winners.

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

We have added our finalist badge with pride to our website and we launched social media posts on all platforms celebrating and advertising our achievement which in turn created a lot of recognition and interest. It gives myself and my company credit and acknowledgment as an award winning and award finalist interior design practice with a leading international award which has brought us more attention when clients are looking for an interior designer for their project.

Questions answered by Lorraine Warwick-Ellis, Founder of LWE Interiors.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a harmonious blend of old and new in this residential house design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Barclay Interiors.

Barclay Interiors were commissioned to design and specify the interior architecture, soft furnishings, and accessories for this quintessential English retreat nestled amidst the serene countryside. This exquisite property embodies the charm and elegance of traditional British architecture while offering modern comforts and luxurious amenities. The Berkshire estate seamlessly marries traditional charm with modern sophistication, providing a timeless retreat for those seeking the epitome of British countryside living. Whether relaxing by the fireplace, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a meal in the gourmet kitchen, every moment spent here is imbued with luxury and tranquility.

What was the client's brief?

The project involved the renovation of a listed Berkshire estate with Elizabethan heritage, balancing historic preservation with modernisation. The renovation was completed in two phases: Phase 1 covered two cottages, multiple barns, a billiards room, gym, golf simulator, and outdoor areas; Phase 2 focused on the main house, wine cellar, vintage car storage, a bar and lounge, and a pool house with a Bulthaup kitchen. The client wanted to retain historical charm while incorporating modern conveniences, enhance lighting in darker areas, and create a space suited for both family living and entertaining.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was influenced by the estate’s historic character, with a focus on preserving original features while introducing modern elements. Hand-plastered walls, restored beams, and contemporary furnishings created a harmonious blend of old and new. Crittall windows and doors maximised natural light, opening the home to the surrounding gardens and pool. The integration of the client’s modern art collection further balanced tradition with contemporary sophistication.

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

The biggest challenge was preserving the estate’s historical integrity while modernising functionality. Retaining original wooden beams and architectural details required careful planning. Enhancing lighting and technology without compromising the period character was a priority, tackled through collaborations with heritage consultants and John Cullen Lighting. The project also required coordinating multiple specialists, ensuring a seamless renovation across the estate’s extensive spaces.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was the transformation of seven barns into beautifully designed, functional spaces, which significantly enhanced the estate’s versatility. Beyond the individual spaces, the project’s greatest success was the harmonious integration of historical character with contemporary luxury, ensuring that each element of the estate felt authentic, functional, and perfectly suited to the client’s lifestyle.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The team at Barclay Interiors saw the awards as an opportunity to highlight their expertise in working with listed properties, demonstrating their ability to respect architectural heritage while delivering interiors that are both stylish and highly functional.

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

Being an SBID Award Finalist has reinforced Barclay Interiors’ position in high-end interior design, validating the studio’s expertise in working with listed properties.

Questions answered by Sarah Barclay, Founder of Barclay Interiors.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a combination of modernsim and organic shapes in this show flat design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Angel O'Donnell.

Angel O’Donnell’s design story is rooted in Centre Point’s brutalist precision, strong geometry and arresting silhouettes. The team designed upholstered bedroom walls with zigzag patterns and honeycomb-shaped pillars to echo the building’s iconic façade. Curated totemic sculptures of carved wood, built a room divider comprising polygonal panes of coloured glass, and sourced vintage pieces that date back to the time of Centre Point’s construction. They painted a ceiling mural that captures the fiery hues of the sunrises and sunsets that can be seen from the east and west facing windows, and assembled a gorgeous mix of materials, from honed marble to oxidised steel.

What was the client's brief?

Our client wanted a last hurrah! A newsworthy interior that would celebrate Centre Point’s brutalist architecture, jaw-dropping views, and decade-long story of regeneration since building works began.

This would be the last in a long line of show residences, so it was essential we created a different look from previous designs – particularly the scrupulously pared back, mid-century-modern interiors by Conran + Partners, and the glossy-luxe interiors by Morpheus & Co.

By creating a whole new look and feel, we could demonstrate the versatility of these spacious and smartly planned residences.

What inspired the design of the project?

Centre Point’s brutalist architecture provided us with a bottomless well of inspiration. Everything from the building’s rippling rhythms of precast concrete to the beautiful light that pours in through the east- and west-facing windows informed our designs.

We took the spirit of modernism – its optimism and freedom of expression – and made it our own, mixing rectilinear forms with organic shapes, bright rich colours with soft pale neutrals, smooth surfaces with strong textures, and subtle patterns with bold motifs. This ebb and flow of binary styles creates a lovely rhythm as you journey from room to room, from morning till night.

We instinctively wanted colour-soaked interiors that contradict the cool white-grey exterior of the building. Each colour was carefully selected to elicit a different emotional response. The embracing warmth of terracotta in the principal bedroom. The respective palettes of soothing pink and positive green in the guest bedrooms. And the healing energy of copper in the dining area. These colours are designed to calm and balance, energise and uplift, and in turn enhance the experience of living up high with all of London laid out before you.

As for materials, we incorporated as many as we could to honour the concrete, steel, glass, limestone and wood present in the building. We chose walnut, rattan, marble, leather, bronze, ceramic, resin, oxidised steel, bamboo silk, velvet – a panoply of noble and other quality materials that look, feel and smell reassuringly luxurious. Their veins, grains, colours, textures and aromatic properties add to the rich sensory experience throughout.

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

It was finding a smart and subtle way to zone the 33ft-long living area without carving it up and making it feel small. In our minds, zoning was critical to reimagining the space and opening prospective buyers’ eyes to all the things you could do with it. So, we opted for low-slung furniture to keep the focus on the views over Mayfair and Hyde Park. Then we used a giant L-shape sofa to create an island of tranquillity with easy-to-reach coffee tables and spot tables, deep-seated lounge chairs, and a silky-soft rug. By resisting a traditional layout of two sofas facing each other, we enhanced the flow between the living, dining and study areas.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The room divider was immensely satisfying to design and build. We love to work with craftspeople whose workshops we visit to stress-test materials and prototype constructions – and this piece certainly put us through our paces.

We experimented with different frames – both free-standing and fixed – as well as a variety of shapes ranging from the regimentally geometric to the varied and polygonal. We also tested various burner boxes and fuel reservoirs for the bioethanol fireplace.

Working through multiple iterations is the only way to guarantee an excellent product, in this case, a new focal feature that will remain functional and fabulous for years to come.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Angel O’Donnell won its very first gong at the SBID Awards in 2019 – and we’ve loved them ever since. The SBID is such a supportive organisation, the team is terrific to work with, always attentive, and the awards themselves are a joyful celebration of design and craftsmanship. For these reasons, we enjoy entering the awards and being a part of the SBID family.

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

It’s a lovely thing to share with our clients. They’ve put all this trust in us to deliver a showstopping scheme – one that will help the developer to sell units – and when you can top this with an industry-recognised nod, it’s something everyone can feel proud of.

Questions answered by Ed O’Donnell, Co-Founder & Creative Director of Angel O’Donnell.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an airy and monochromatic apartment design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Dots & Points.

Architectural and interior design studio Dots & Points developed a turnkey project "Creme Brulee" from concept to completion. It is a two-bedroom apartment with a spacious living room combined with an open kitchen. The idea was to develop a harmonic space - an emotional shelter from a dynamic urban life. It is filled with light and warmth of sun. This atmosphere is achieved by painting the whole apartment into the creme brulee colour. The homogeneous colour integrates the apartment making the journey smooth and relaxed. Mirrors and polished surfaces reflect light, smooth-shaped furniture invite to endulge as a real "dolce vita".

What was the client's brief?

We were tasked with creating a turnkey project, from concept to completion, for a family with one child. This was our second project with the same family; we previously worked together in 2018 when they didn’t have a child. The new apartment is located in a modern building in the heart of Moscow, purchased as a blank concrete shell, so we began by developing the floor plans. The client requested a two-bedroom apartment with a spacious living room combined with an open-plan kitchen. They desired a relaxed, modern design with a light color palette. The space was intended to serve as a cosy retreat from the fast-paced city life and demanding office work.

We created a floor plan that not only maximises every inch of space and fulfills the client's brief but also offers ergonomic comfort and aesthetic satisfaction. The design includes a master bedroom with an ensuite and a walk-in wardrobe, a children's room, a living area with a kitchen and dining space, a guest bathroom, and a walk-in wardrobe in the entry hall, with the wardrobe concealed by coloured mirror panels. Additionally, the client requested a small office space, which was incorporated into the master bedroom near the window.

What inspired the design of the project?

Being located in Moscow the apartment enjoys rare natural light, and we aimed to capture and enhance this by using warm, creamy "creme brulee" tones for the walls throughout. We named the concept La Dolce Vita, inspired by the idea that life in this apartment would evoke indulgence, relaxation, harmony, and love. Sometimes our dynamic urban life absorbs us completely. And it is important to pause for a while, to look around and to find comfort and love in small things and moments. To live here and now and enjoy the real life around us. The apartment looks like a welcoming harbour which gives you love, relaxation and indulgence. The warm cream brûlée colour of walls embraces you and you get the pleasure and good mood we miss so much in our day-to-day life.

The furniture’s light tones and smooth, rounded shapes invite relaxation. Accents are provided by vibrant artwork, dynamic patterns on the living room rug, and freestanding furniture pieces such as the entry console, bedroom armchair, and TV unit. The built-in furniture—like the kitchen and wardrobes—blends with the walls, creating an elevated feel by making the ceilings appear higher and the rooms more spacious. Mirrored and polished surfaces reflect the light beautifully, adding to the open, airy atmosphere. The monochromatic colour scheme remains engaging and playful rather than monotonous.

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

One of the most challenging aspects was the installation of the coloured mirrors along the entire corridor wall, which not only visually expanded the space but also concealed the entry to the walk-in wardrobe. The mirrors, in yellow, pink, and grey, brought vibrancy and uniqueness to the hallway, becoming a defining feature. However, the both manufacturing and installation process of 3m height mirrors was complicated, the mirrors spanned from floor to ceiling. Additionally, we introduced very narrow pink strips of mirrors (just 50mm wide) on the wardrobe doors. Finding a supplier capable of executing this vision was a challenge, but the final result exceeded expectations. We're proud that we persisted with this idea despite the difficulties.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The most rewarding moment for any designer is seeing the client's satisfaction and knowing that the final result has surpassed their expectations. Witnessing their happiness with the project was incredibly motivating for our entire team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Participating in an international award of this calibre is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our work and gain recognition from the expert community. Given that this was an overseas project, entering an international competition was particularly exciting. We believed that the project stood out not only for its creative concept but also for the high level of execution. Additionally, the client’s enthusiasm and support in entering the awards further motivated us to participate.

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

Being selected as an Award Finalist has been incredibly motivating for the entire team. It has inspired us to tackle new projects and challenges with renewed energy and determination.

Questions answered by Irina Kireeva, Owner of Dots and Points Interior Design Studio. The Interior designer: Anna Piskun. The photographer: Evgeny Kulibaba. The Stylist: Kira Prokhorova.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxurious and bespoke apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Rive Gauche London.

Rive Gauche London were commissioned to design and deliver the interior design for a large family apartment at the prestigious address of 1 Grosvenor Square, London. Their work included unique architectural interventions, luxurious specialist finishes and truly bespoke furniture and accessories.

What was the client's brief? 

The brief was to design and deliver interiors to befit the property’s prestigious location, complement the existing architecture and provide a strong connection to the local context. Rive Gauche were asked to go above and beyond with our design to create a unique residence that combined historical grandeur with modern flair, with the client’s love of art a driving force behind the design.

What inspired the design of the project?

Central to our approach was the desire to create spaces that truly reflected the clients’ taste and personalities. The entire design process, from concept to final touches, involved close collaboration with the client to achieve this. To connect the design with the local landscape, we drew inspiration from Grosvenor Square’s treetops, influencing the colour palette. Fresh use of colour, combined with natural materials like rare marbles and onyx highlighted with gold tones, created a soft yet vibrant ambiance. The dining room, with its subtle homage to Mayfair’s history through panelling and ombre blue lacquer inspired by gallery artwork, became a hidden gem that seamlessly blended the old and new.

The client’s private art collection was also a key point of inspiration. This was strategically incorporated throughout the property. The design team used the existing apartment architecture to help guide and influence the positioning of the artwork, with two large hallways naturally transforming into extraordinary gallery spaces. Thoughtful lighting arrangements were designed to showcase key art pieces.

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

We had a very specialist finish for the dining room panelling where we created an ombre effect within the paintwork. Due to the nature of the effect required, this had to be done by hand, on site, by specialist decorators. It was a painstaking process and involved multiple attempts to get the quality just right. The result however was very impressive and well worth the pain.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The feature, bespoke light fittings where amazing statement pieces within the design. Chandeliers were carefully designed to complement the furniture, soften the space, and serve as focal points. In the dining area, the crystal drop chandelier simulated rainfall by combining large rock crystal chunks with delicately carved small crystals at different levels. This piece was one of our favourites.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We were immensely proud of this project. Especially as it was so well received by our client. It was something we wanted to share with the wider design community and the SBID Awards seemed the perfect platform to do this.

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

From a personal point of view, it has been great for the team to receive such high industry recognition of our work. It has helped cement our growing reputation in this sector and given new clients reassurance in terms of the quality they can come to expect from us.

Questions answered by Nicolas Roux, Founder of Rive Gauche London.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a futuristic and fluid restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, KAI Interiors.

Curve Club is a new members club concept focused on combining both digital and physical locations for the most influential people in the world. KAI Interiors were appointed to design the interior of their first luxury clubhouse, which celebrates cutting-edge design and seamless hospitality. The design incorporates sculptural shapes and innovative lighting techniques while embracing organic materials to mesh with the existing building. Digital art is used to create a ‘dreamland’ feel that rings true to the future-focused Curve Club ethos.

What was the client's brief? 

Our client is building a members club that combines both digital and physical locations to the most influential people in the world. Their membership is a freely tradable NFT that gains lifetime access. The design brief called for organic materials & sculptural shapes with seamless details, while bring in beautiful digital art to create a futuristic 'dreamland' feel.

What inspired the design of the project?

Fluidity and water became a reference we continued to draw inspiration from, to achieve the organic feel. We have used water effect materials and lighting in key spaces, and we echo these fluid shapes throughout the interior.

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

We were working with a limited budget, so it was crucial that we allocated the budget efficiently to achieve the premium outcome. By utilising existing features, we managed to allow for the high end design features.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Pushing the boundaries and being able to create something unique. The vast majority of the furniture was bespoke which gave us the opportunity to be creative.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To be able to share this project with the SBID community of designers and gain insight into the other wonderful interiors that studios across the globe are designing.

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

We have been able to connect with leaders in our industry and gain invaluable recognition for our work.

Questions answered by Rebecca Crossling, Interior Designer at KAI Interiors.