Róisín Lafferty: Creating a Homely and Soulful Residential House

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a homely and soulful residential house design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Róisín Lafferty.

The Georgian style Schoolhouse, located in Galway City, is of high historical and conservation interest and architecturally protected. We were tasked to reimagine the home with Helena McElmeel architects. The client brief was to elevate and accentuate the existing building and combine it with the newly designed extension, creating a natural blend of old and new, providing the family with a series of spaces that interconnect and speak to each other, imbuing all the while, a sense of character, nostalgia and design essence.

What was the client's brief? 

The Georgian style Schoolhouse, located in Galway City, is of high historical and conservation interest and architecturally protected. We were tasked to reimagine the home with Helena McElmeel architects. The client brief was to elevate and accentuate the existing building and combine it with the newly designed extension, creating a natural blend of old and new, providing the family with a series of spaces that interconnect and speak to each other, imbuing all the while, a sense of character, nostalgia and design essence. Functionally, the interior architecture needed to be enhanced, increasing modern day comforts such as additional bathrooms, and lounges. Aesthetically the challenge was to harness the soul of the original character and design a home that felt as though it had always been there. They wanted us to create a home that felt spirited, soulful, alive and homely.

What inspired the design of the project?

My inspiration came from the abundant character and soul, that exudes from the building. We sought to embrace and harness that. Our key self-appointed task was to create an interior that sensitively encompassed the essence of the property and for the end result to feel like it had always been like that; a home that felt spirited, soulful, alive and homely. In summary, we wanted it to feel embedded in the building, not a surface level application. My other inspiration came from the Handmaids Tale, the series captivated me in terms of set design and overall atmosphere.

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

The biggest challenge was the conservation constraints as the building was listed meaning the interventions we were allowed to make had to be carefully considered and certain areas of the building had to be maintained as they were. It took numerous design iterations from both KLD and architects working closely together, convincing the planning authorities to allow us re-design the building in a way that gave our client the result they were looking for. This process took time, creative thinking, and patience from our clients. Conservation constraints also impacted the interior design in some cases, with a lot of interior elements being required to be kept or reinstated during the works.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The rear extension area with sunken conversation pit linking to the kitchen and dining was a favourite for our team to design. We wanted to distinguish this area as a different type of lounge and encourage a different function within it that looked structured but was also tactile and comfortable. The kitchen area was a key conservation zone, so by creating a structural opening in the kitchen, we could visually connect the kitchen, dining, and rear lounge. By sinking the lounge, we kept a clear visual to the garden and created a space for the family to interact and spend time together in a more informal way while inhabiting different functional areas of the home at the same time. The more contemporary feel contrasts against the existing house and natural light floods in from all aspects.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID awards as they are renowned globally in the interior’s world, with a panel of leading experts judges. To have our design projects featured beside some of the best projects around the world is a stage where we want to be seen for our designs encouraging us to continue to push the boundaries of design and create truly new and unique designs for our clients that that capture and embody them as individuals and how they live.

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

Being a finalist in the SBID awards is a very special achievement for the team at KLD. To be recognised for our designs among peers who create such beautiful design internationally and to be able to showcase our projects to new and wider audiences is an amazing opportunity.

Questions answered by Roisin Lafferty, Founder and Creative Director of Róisín Lafferty.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a harmonious and historical manor house refurbishment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Kia Designs.

Considering carefully period features, such as fireplaces and original moldings, while adding modern touches, like statement lighting fixtures, handpainted wallcoverings and bold artwork. A cohesive colour palette and thoughtful furniture placement to enhance the overall aesthetic.

What was the client's brief? 

The client's brief was clear. A complete transformation of a Grade II listed manor house that would transcend a standard refurbishment; to elevate the space beyond its previous refurbishment. The palette of colours chosen for this venture was to exude happiness and vibrancy, each shade meticulously selected with the principles of feng shui in mind. The intention was to seamlessly weave the clients' rich cultural heritage into the very fabric of the house's historical background. The creative journey we thus embarked on was to bridge cultural nuances and local essence. With an artistic nod to the property's Cornwall surroundings, we wanted to create an ambiance that resonated with the locale. Drawing from this inspiration, hand-painted wall coverings were crafted in China to seamlessly blend local natural imagery, such as native butterflies. This fusion of cultures formed the backbone of our design, reflecting the harmonious interplay between the homeowners' roots and their ’new homes' historical context. With over 25 rooms, precision in colour and tone was paramount. Our task involved infusing each room with a distinct look, an individual identity. Thus, unique designs ensured that no two spaces mirrored each other.

What inspired the design of the project?

At the heart of our inspiration lay the heritage of the house and its verdant surroundings. The exterior of the property, with its trees, flora, and fauna, served as a wellspring of creativity. We sought to capture this exterior allure and weave it into the interior space. With trees, plants, flowers, and creatures native to the region found within the property’s very own garden, these quickly became integral elements of our design narrative. Translating them onto the interior walls and canvases was a delight.

Seeking to harmonise the elegance of modern living with the echoes of the past, the careful selection and placement of antiques served as an ode to the heritage, grounding the space in its historical context. Meanwhile, bespoke creations, such as wall coverings, rugs, and joinery, introduced a contemporary flair that intertwined seamlessly with the classic backdrop.

Fuelled by the desire to forge a space that surpassed mere aesthetics, it was about breathing life into each room, infusing it with a unique personality that resonated with its inhabitants.

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

Taking on a project during the chaotic times of Covid-19 was a real challenge. There were several tough obstacles we had to overcome, and each one needed some creative thinking. One of the biggest issues was that the project was in a remote area of Cornwall. So, in addition to the project itself, we also had to ensure that our team remained safe throughout.

With the pandemic hanging over us, the main thing on our minds was keeping our team members out of harm's way. That meant we had to work separately, which was a big change from our norm. Safety was more important than being quick. So, we spaced out the work carefully to make sure everyone was protected. This slow and steady approach, while frustrating at times, ensured that the work was carried out in a safe and efficient manner.

With items being made in China, communication was key. We spoke via Teams on a regular basis to explain exactly what we needed. We had to be super clear because we had to be 100% certain that once an item was installed, it would not need to be altered in any way.

Of course, everything took longer because of delays, more complicated processes, and just the general slowdown caused by the pandemic. We had to be patient. We adapted along the way because we had to. But we didn't give up. We pushed through, determined to make it even though we faced unexpected challenges the whole way.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Amidst the tough challenges we faced throughout this project, towards the end our team was able to come together to put all the finishing touches to breathe life into the design. This was more than simply the final stage of a project, it was a testament to our team's resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment. Not only had our creative vision taken shape, but we had worked together through what was an unprecedented and difficult time.

And the icing on the cake? When the client flew in, saw the finished design, and expressed their delight with it.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Wanting to share a project which, for us, was a labour of love, having had such a profound effect on us and our client, we felt that the SBID Awards offered the perfect platform. As an international awards body, the SBID holds prestige, its awards signify design excellence, dedication, and innovation; traits you will find in every room of this Manor House. Ultimately, entering the SBID Awards was an opportunity for us to celebrate our hard work.

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

I'm honoured to be a finalist for SBID. This recognition is a testament to the excellence and creativity that underpin our design-led projects. But being a finalist for such an award is not just about gratification; it's about showing the design world what's possible. This recognition goes beyond one project. It highlights just how impressive and inspiring design can be. We want to highlight the extraordinary possibilities that design-led projects can offer, not only in aesthetics but in their ability to transform spaces and experiences.

We hope to connect with clients who appreciate unique and innovative design. This recognition could open doors for collaborations that match our design style. It's also about inspiring others in the design community. By entering the SBID Awards, we want to encourage fellow designers to share their great work. These awards show that designers can shine and share their visions with the world.

In short, being an SBID finalist is a big deal. It's not just an honour, it's an opportunity to showcase amazing design. We're excited to make new connections, inspire others, and keep pushing the boundaries of design.

Questions answered by Kia Stanford, Founder of Kia Designs.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a punk rock inspired workspace design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Anomaly.

Tribeca, an exciting one million sq ft Life Science campus situated on the Regent’s Canal, are having their new workspaces and common parts designed and delivered by Anomaly. The development consists of four buildings, each with their own distinct identity. The design concept drew inspiration from the surrounding Camden area, incorporating elements of punk rock to create clashes of texture and colour, and was heavily influenced by sustainably conscious design, recycling materials extracted from site.

What was the client's brief? 

Reef Group approached Anomaly with the exciting task of developing the reception and core areas for the 1,000,000 sqft Life Science Campus named Tribeca. Located on Regents Canal and just a short walk from the Kings Cross Granary square, Tribeca is a new destination at the intersection of life and science, in the heart of London’s Knowledge Quarter.

The development consists of four buildings: Apex, Reflector, Connector, and Assembly; the brief required each one to have their own distinct identity. It was also crucial that the project prioritised sustainable design, catering the client’s sustainability driven goals.

What inspired the design of the project?

There are three pillars within our inspiration, the first being the local context of Camden and its rich musical heritage. We were inspired by the bright acid colour pops from the Camden punk scene, metallic mixes mimicking the jewellery and hardware that featured in the clothing and accessory style of the time in rock/punk music.

Our second source of inspiration was the proximity to the Regents Canal and its deep-rooted history in the industrial trade. Raw textures were introduced, reflecting the old beer factory site in which our new Tribeca campus is located, shown in the exposed concrete, bricks and steelwork. Lastly, ESG is a huge focus of the Tribeca strategy. This informed our material choices to be as sustainable as possible, introducing large amounts of biophilia within Assembly, using unconventional but highly recycle content material, and ensuring to work with local suppliers to reduce the carbon footprint.

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

Tribeca is not on site yet so luckily there haven’t been any truly tough hurdles as of yet! Although the scale and complexity of the scheme would ordinarily cause headaches in co-ordinating the design, working alongside the lead architects of BDP and Perkins & Will, as well as the wider consultant teams, has made this a delightful privilege.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The use of recycled materials (some of which are to be extracted from the site itself), such as recycled clay bricks, Lavastone, FSC compliant timber, recycled copper sheets, and recycled plastic, showcased the project's commitment to sustainability and defining highlight. Working with local suppliers/ trades people to create waste recycled from the site into items such as reception desks is something we’re really looking forward to putting into action and has been made possible by the support and conviction of the client.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards because they acknowledge excellence in design from an esteemed panel of experts who are prominent within the industry, and an excuse to get the team out for a knees-up. To be recognised for our approach and design by our peers is testament to the work of the team, and no one individual. It’s a golden to be recognised as a finalist for the first time.

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

As a practice, it will never be a hardship to be acknowledged for the work you do, for the work the team does. But to be a finalist in a grouping of such high calibre and is recognition beyond and we’re proud to stand behind the work we have done and celebrate it.

Questions answered by Nina Greenwood, Lead Designer at Anomaly.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a fun and engaging sixth form hub design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Lulie Fisher Design Studio.

Lulie Fisher Design Studio was commissioned by Sunmarke School, Dubai to convert existing classrooms and offices into a state of the art Sixth Form Hub. The brief was to create an iconic space that is cool and funky enough to appeal to 16 -18 year olds whilst being engaging, aspirational and functional. Activities are clustered around a central “garden courtyard” which forms the heart of the facility and is comprised of a series of organically shaped ribbed, timber decks stepping and overlapping to form arrangements at varying heights to act as seating, banquettes and study counters.

What was the client's brief? 

Lulie Fisher Design Studio was commissioned by Sunmarke School, Dubai to convert half an existing floor plate comprising classrooms, corridor, and offices into a state of the art Sixth Form Hub. In the competitive world of Dubai schools, our brief was to create an iconic space that is cool and funky enough to appeal to 16 -18-year-olds whilst being engaging, aspirational and functional as a superior facility for study. In summary it needed to stand out from the crowd of its competitors and have the “wow” and “cool” factor to attract the students who at 6th form level tend to be the primary decision makers in school selection. It was also important that the environment be a serious and sophisticated work one akin to a university style, collegiate environment rather than a school, to foster independence and maturity. The atmosphere was to be one of work rather than play. The brief of areas comprised a presentation area for 60 students for visiting speakers and career discussions; diverse modes of study ranging from collaborative, semi-independent and independent; a self-service F&B area, pastoral office accommodation including career and counselling offices and dedicated sixth form student toilets.

What inspired the design of the project?

The sixth form hub acts as a home base for students when not actively participating in lessons and the central garden with its greenery, daylight, warm palette, and soft finishes coupled with the multitude of study and seating styles, provides the perfect respite for contemplation, study, collaboration, relaxation and nurture and a touch of communing with nature. The functions of the hub are clustered around a central garden courtyard which forms the heart of the facility and is comprised of a series of organically shaped ribbed, timber decks stepping and overlapping to form arrangements at varying heights to act as seating, banquettes, and study counters. Trees and planting are incorporated into the centre of the deck elements and “skylights” comprised of suspended circular stretched fabric concealing daylight simulating light sources are suspended above. This central garden courtyard is a space of collaboration and meeting and the fully enabled platforms have been artfully clustered around a central presentation area where a large format digital screen will be wheeled into place as needed from its dedicated storage place at the perimeter. The floor finish in the garden is picked out in shades of green and pebble and follows the organic shapes created by the decks and inset into a background of grey-toned tiles. Sunny yellow carpets highlight perimeter areas, and the overall palette is fresh, warm and inspired by the earth and natural elements.

Existing columns and riser ducts have been disguised in lozenge shaped plasterboard casings and integrated into platforms or banquette designs. A dado of variously ribbed timber, fluted upholstery and paint colours anchor these elements into the design. The perimeter of the hub is occupied with a combination of private and contemplative spaces, communal worktables, acoustically treated study booths for single use, two or four person working groups, bench seating for casual working, bar counter height work stations and soft clusters of sofas and armchairs. In this way a myriad of study modes is possible to suit all preferences.

Acoustic treatment and privacy have been carefully considered in the design by passive zoning of activities in plan and by more active placement of oversized acoustic lighting features, acoustic wall panels in the form or decorative features and acoustically absorbent fabric lined booths. Pairs of glazed offices for pastoral support and designed to have a nurturing and hospitality aesthetic have been located centrally along either side of the main perimeter walls not only with the purpose of providing uninterrupted lines of sight to the student areas but for providing alcoves either side for quiet study.

A self-serve bar has been provided at one end of the facility with a pistachio green tiled wall and tiled shelving where students can help themselves to hot and cold drinks, prepare food and socialise. An existing toilet block has been upgraded into a dedicated sixth form facility with the introduction of banded tiling in terracotta, white and deep blue, and over-sized circular mirrors to suite in with the existing chroma key blue cubicles.

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

Balancing creating an attractive space for 16 to 18-year-olds with the ‘cool’ factor while establishing a sophisticated environment for serious individual or group study was the main challenge. This was overcome by using the calming elements of the outdoors as the basis of our design and creating contoured shapes for flowing circulation and to break away from any rigidity. The layout of the space was informed by the need for a range of both quiet and more lively, social spaces. As the plan was developed and the central hub came to life, more contemplative zones were naturally formed around the perimeter of the space. Being an open-plan space, which could cater to groups of 60 the acoustic levels had to be managed carefully to maintain an environment conducive to learning. Various sound absorbing materials such as ceiling panels, acoustic fabric and decorative felt lighting were used to subtly address this factor. Since the hub was in an existing building hidden MEP and structural elements were revealed sporadically during construction. To protect the design, we modified features proactively during the build as unwanted elements were uncovered. An example of this would be the 800 x 600mm risers and ducts disguised within a lozenge shape plasterboard.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The functions of the hub are clustered around a central garden courtyard which forms the heart of the facility and is comprised of a series of organically shaped ribbed, timber decks stepping and overlapping to form arrangements at varying heights to act as seating, banquettes and study counters. Trees and planting are incorporated into the centre of the deck elements and “skylights” comprised of suspended circular stretched fabric concealing daylight simulating light sources are suspended above. This central garden courtyard is a space of collaboration and meeting and the fully enabled platforms have been artfully clustered around a central presentation area where a large format digital screen will be wheeled into place as needed from its dedicated storage place at the perimeter. Acoustic treatment and privacy has been carefully considered in the design by passive zoning of activities in plan and by more active placement of oversized acoustic lighting features and wall panels in the form of decorative features and acoustically absorbent fabric lined booths.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We are a small, friendly, and dedicated team continuously striving to weave our passion and enthusiasm to create unique captivating spaces. SBID Awards serves as an international platform for recognition amongst a wide spectrum of leading design studios and consist of a broad range of award categories. Being part of SBID can attract new clients who are specifically seeking out innovative and exceptional design.

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

Being an Award Finalist with SBID can have a wide-range of positive impacts, from boosting reputation and credibility to attracting clients seeking innovative design solutions and to fostering growth by increasing team members morale. Award ceremonies and events offer excellent networking opportunities as well and can lead to new projects and partnerships.

Questions answered by Lulie Fisher, Design Director and Founder of Lulie Fisher Design Studio.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sustainable and neutral office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Anomaly.

Global family business, Metdist, required their new UK base to become their home-from-home, and it was up to Anomaly to make this their reality, creating a stylish space that brought together the multiple functions of the business all in one open plan space. The 5,806 sq ft space includes an art studio, private offices, and a breakout space, all within a neutral palette.

What was the client's brief? 

The client, Metdist - a global family run business - was driven to create a space fit for their London office HQ in the established Regent’s Park surroundings. The design directive was underpinned by Metrist’s belief that they, their staff, and their clients should connect emotionally with the spaces they work in. The existing building was a unique modernist warehouse and to be retrofitted from its industrial past into a sustainably lead office, layered with colour, materiality, and a wonderfully ferocious eye for detail from the client.

What inspired the design of the project?

The client held the belief of fine craftsmanship to bond the old and contemporary architecture, a focus of bespoke joinery and working with the existing industrial structure was a key source of inspiration. The brief required an intertwining of functional spaces that were fit for use, but also adaptive to their growing team. The joy of working closely with a family-owned business was the exploration of each family member and what this space meant to them, and their full engagement across the process to push us as a practice. We developed and designed spaces that reflected their individual personalities but also their family as an identity which has been going for three generations.

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

Balancing the rigid geometry of the sawtooth structure against the client’s appetite to deliver more open and softer spaces. Curved walls don’t go into pitched roofs without a headache or two. In addition, the proximity of the site to the London Underground was a curious hurdle that logic would ordinarily dictate as unnecessary. The removal of a single, non-load bearing column took 9 months to be approved which was a thrilling experience.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The client's enthusiasm for bold and daring ideas was definitely the highlight, it made the collaboration extra exciting and appealing, and reaffirms that a great scheme isn’t born from indifference, but through being challenged, through debate, testing the ludicrous and playing with the salacious to get create something worthwhile, not meanwhile. Working with a non-profit charitable institution added another a-typical dimension to the scheme, providing philanthropic assistance through the promotion and assistance of arts, history, culture, education, and relief work – so what’s not to love!

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards because they acknowledge excellence in design, and we think this scheme is excellent... at least that is what Metdist told us. Anomaly is not a practice of the individual, but collection of others producing work of note. To have this seen, to have this recognised is validation of what the team strive for and own on each project.

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

Getting to tell the team that designed this that it isn’t just us that think you’re a class act, but your peers do to. That what we’re doing has reach beyond the studio, and beyond the relationships we have with our clients.

Questions answered by Nina Greenwood, Lead Designer at Anomaly.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an immersive and harmonious forest house design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Two Arquitetura.

An important part of the project was not having to choose between the joy of summer or the warmth of winter, the intimacy of a family movie or the togetherness of many friends of all ages. The house has cozy corners and large spaces to gather, allowing people to enjoy the forest at any time of the year. The idea was to ask the forest for permission to belong to that place that is hers. The house is not the final objective, but the experience of being in contact with nature and all that it offers.

What was the client's brief? 

The great challenge given by the client was to integrate the house and highlight the beauty of the forest, transmitting an immersive and harmonious experience. It was to offer a versatile house, to enjoy during the summer and at the same time the warmth of the winter, in addition to providing moments of intimacy in the family and togetherness with friends of all ages.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration came from the wonderful rainforest. Bedrooms, halls, bathrooms, leisure area were all relocated so that it was possible to have a view of the forest, hear its sounds, feel its humidity and live with its animals. We literally turned the house the other way, the forest side. The experience went beyond the limits of the house, seeking to establish a connection with nature, allowing visitors to feel part of this natural environment. The experience is complete: waking up early and seeing the forest, sleeping late, and listening to it. The idea was to ask the forest for permission to belong in that place that is hers. The house is not the final objective, but the experience of being in contact with nature and all that it offers.

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

The original house, before the renovation, was all made of wood and had dozens of pilasters along the circulation path. To make the span free and maintain the original charm, we chose to remove most of the pilasters but keep part of the wooden structure, complete with steel beams, which brought a special charm to the project.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the project was to integrate the house into the forest, highlighting its beauty and transmitting an immersive and harmonious experience.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We signed up for the SBID award, mainly because it is an international award with great prestige, where we would be evaluated not only by a qualified jury, but later by popular vote. A form of mass recognition, and now with a possible very important award for those who work with architecture and interior design.

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

Being a finalist for the SBID Award in the residential category with the Praia da Baleia Project, in addition to the importance of the award and recognition of our work, brings the opportunity to show the world a contemporary project with characteristics of Brazilian architecture immersed in the typical nature of our beaches.

Questions answered by Karina Salgado, Founder of Two Arquitetura.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxurious and wellness-focused apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Design-Art LLC.

Residences Kierland is a prestigious multifamily development that places an emphasis on wellness. This project effortlessly blends indoor and outdoor living spaces, providing residents with a luxurious and wellness-focused environment. Designed to be able to offer a comprehensive spa menu, residents can indulge in various treatments and services, including tranquil relaxation spaces, private massage rooms, saunas, steam rooms, and secluded outdoor hot and cool pools. With its emphasis on wellness, luxurious amenities, and captivating surroundings, Residences Kierland sets the stage for a life of unparalleled comfort, luxury, enjoyment, and wellness through its thoughtfully designed amenities.

What was the client's brief? 

To create a multifamily living experience that focuses on wellness, sophistication, and luxury. And, feels like an extension of the neighbouring Kierland Commons retail development. The project should consist of 294 homes including 8 town home style units in a six-story “podium” and take advantage of the Westin Golf Course views.

What inspired the design of the project?

When thinking about wellness, we immediately thought about Spa Resorts, and started talking through how we could incorporate a wellness resort lifestyle into our multifamily project. We, additionally, wanted to bring some luxury living elements into the project, so residents didn't have to go far to get their nails done, go to the gym, or store their wine. So, we worked with the Architect to include a beverage fridge in every unit, as well as additional rental wine lockers in the wine bar inspired clubroom. A full-service spa and fitness facility were added to the project as a luxury amenity that really rounded out our luxury wellness lifestyle concept.

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

Due to the global pandemic, many of our construction walks for this project were done electronically, due to the team's inability to travel to the site and/or gather in large groups. We had what we called "paper box walks" for the bulk of the units, which made it challenging to know exactly what we were going to get, once finally on-site. The pandemic also affected the supply chain, which caused several project delays. And, additional tariffs were added to receive goods, which increased our costs beyond what was originally budgeted. However, everyone stuck together. And the teamwork across trades was incredible to achieve a final product that everyone is immensely proud of.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Designing, and helping to program the full-service spa, was incredibly rewarding. I had an opportunity to work on a few spa designs while previously employed with hospitality design firms, designing hotels and restaurants around the world. So, it was wonderful to bring that knowledge and experience to this project, and create an amazing, one-of-a-kind, amenity space, for these residents.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We saw entering the SBID Awards as an opportunity to further showcase this amazing project/development and provide international exposure of what our local design and development teams are working on.

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

Being an Award Finalist has been such an honour. We are so grateful that we have an opportunity to be recognised as part of the greater international small design business community. And feel a sense of pride to be included among such amazing international projects and teams. We can't wait to attend the ceremony in November!

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a playful and whimsical public space design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Lulie Fisher Design Studio.

Lulie Fisher Design Studio was commissioned by Regent International School Dubai to convert areas of the school into Primary, Secondary and Early Years Libraries. The Early Years library is based around the theme of an enchanted whimsical forest which encourages exploration and captivates the child’s imagination. A central reading circle with mirrored ceiling creates a curious environment. In the Primary and Secondary library zones are defined to appeal to both age groups by creating petrol blue surfaces and joinery in the primary zone and a dark red ceiling with a central red “living room” in the secondary.

What was the client's brief? 

The project brief was to convert areas of the existing school into Primary, Secondary and Early Years Libraries. The Early Years Library at Regent International School was located in a small, tired and uninspiring classroom and our brief was to convert an existing gym into a dedicated Library for the school’s Early Years students aged from 4 to 7 years. The existing Primary and Secondary Student Library which dated back to 1993 was too small and out-dated for current needs and we were tasked with creating a fun environment that supported learning, collaboration and discovery. To expand the footprint, an adjacent staff room, pantry and corridor were amalgamated into the new library creating an L-shaped space which then lent itself to a natural division into two main zones: the primary students’ zone and secondary students’ zone, each tailored to the students’ age group, aesthetic and their dedicated book collections and study materials.

What inspired the design of the project?

The Early Years library is based around the theme of an enchanted and whimsical forest, aiming to encourage exploration and captivate the imagination. The elements and materials employed create a warm, welcoming yet exciting environment. Alongside this, the layout and forms of the space were based on the topical forms of an ordinance survey, adding a 3D dynamic to the library. Unlike many spaces designed for children, the expected use of bold primary colours have been eschewed in favour of a base palette of neutral and earthy tones employed across a variety of surfaces including a robust vinyl plank on the floor cut into waves of soft greys, browns and greens to mimic the forest floor, a soft polka dotted rose toned inset carpet invoking the coat of a whimsical animal and a soft mushroom colour for the exposed ceiling surfaces and services. Blue/green lacquered shelving lines the perimeter, softened with back panels in warm oak. Although small in size, every corner of the library has been carefully imagined and designed to its full potential. The space is divided into three zones: the centrally located Story Time Circle; the Communal Activities Corner; and the gently stepped and striated Shelving and Reading Platforms resembling the topographical contours of an ordinance survey map. These functional and ergonomic feature elements have been custom designed for these zones to enhance learning and participation and to spark the imagination.

The experience is further magnified by a mirrored ceiling, creating the illusion of endless volume. Special attention has been paid to the treatment and design of the ceiling as young children are most comfortable lying on their backs when reading. The Early Years library is a calming and enchanting space which through its carefully considered layout, colour scheme and both functional and whimsical design elements, encourages curiosity, discovery and learning.

In the Primary and Secondary library there was a need to clearly define each space to ensure they appealed to each age group. The primary students’ zone on the right at entry is clearly defined by a petrol blue ceiling, walls, carpet and joinery elements. An exciting yet functional series of bespoke, tiered platforms, create an interactive versatile environment for students to sit, gather or recline while reading. The books are integrated within the risers of the steps and are mindfully grazed with soft LED lighting. A large, custom-designed, organic-shaped table anchors the space centrally and is used as the main gathering point for communal activities under the delicately preserved indoor tree.

The secondary students’ zone on the left, is defined by the dark red exposed ceiling and the red “living room” in the centre of the space which is flanked by long communal work tables either side. The “living room” element is a self-contained room with raised floor, walls and ceiling which has been created as a device to transport the students into a cosy residential environment where they are surrounded by warmly lit bookshelves, comfortable lounge seating, rug, pendant and glowing wall sconces.

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

Early Years Library: The requirements for the library were as large as the given space was small. A large volume of varied book sizes had to be stored whilst ensuring accessibility to little readers. Rather than line the space with shelving, we wanted to create various zones for play as well as study. Being able to store books within the raised platforms and animal shaped bookshelves helped take care of this factor along with storing large books within playful low level mobile storage units. The custom joinery had to be carefully studied and ergonomically designed to suit the young readers.

Primary and Secondary Library: The library needed to house a set volume of books together with future expansion potential while creating a welcoming environment for collaboration, self-study, group study, presentations and lectures for two very different age groups. It was a challenge to zone and balance the space for these various functional requirements along with visual focal and this was overcome by the clever use of materials and colour blocking.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Early Years Library: As the children enter the library, they are drawn towards the striking central feature – a pale blue story circle surrounded by books, acting as a cocoon with a soft carpeted floor, cosy leaf shaped blankets and crowned by a vibrant and enchanting rain cloud feature composed of colourful felt interspersed with twinkling rain drop shaped pendants. The experience is further magnified by a mirrored ceiling, creating the illusion of endless volume. The contoured reading platforms nestled into one corner of the library contain books tucked below the steps and this element acts as a connection to the story time circle, creating spill out for larger groups to congregate around the teacher and different seating and reclining options.

Primary and Secondary Library: For the Primary area, an exciting yet functional series of bespoke, tiered platforms, create an interactive and versatile environment for students to sit, gather, or recline while reading. The books are integrated within the risers of the steps and are mindfully grazed with soft LED lighting. Decorative wall panelling and oversized pendant lighting not only help to contain any noise generation and disturbance at source but also add softness. The reception desk is clad in rich, turquoise-glazed tiles, acting as a focal point for young students who need the librarians’ support to administer the book check-in and check-out system. Two wall sconces in the form of owls (which have long been associated with knowledge and wisdom), look on from behind the desk, providing a quirky and humorous design element.

The “living room” element in the Secondary space is a self-contained room with raised floor, walls and ceiling which has been created as a device to transport the students into a cosy residential environment where they are surrounded by warmly lit bookshelves, comfortable lounge seating, rug, pendant and glowing wall sconces.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We are a small, friendly and dedicated team continuously striving to weave our passion and enthusiasm to create unique captivating spaces. SBID Awards serves as an international platform for recognition amongst a wide spectrum of leading design studios and consists of a broad range of award categories. Being part of SBID can attract new clients who are specifically seeking out innovative and exceptional design.

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

Being an Award Finalist with SBID can have a wide-range of positive impacts, from boosting reputation and credibility to attracting clients seeking innovative design solutions and to fostering growth by increasing team members morale. Award ceremonies and events offer excellent networking opportunities as well and can lead to new projects and partnerships.

Questions answered by Lulie Fisher, Design Director and Founder of Lulie Fisher Design Studio.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an elegant and bionic villa design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, ISTO.

ISTO Architecture and Design Studio, originating from Ukraine, has crafted a private villa in Dubai spanning an area of 1210 sq. m. on Pearl Jumeira Island. The client of the private villa is an elegant woman. She traveled a lot and lived in Europe for a long time with her family. Inspired by the elegance and aristocracy of European lands, she wanted to strive to convey this atmosphere in her personal villa. The interior is dominated by voluminous, non-standard decorative elements, dynamic bionic forms, curvilinear shapes, and natural materials. Designers landscaped the house and created a spacious villa.

What was the client's brief? 

The client of the private villa is an elegant woman. She traveled a lot and lived in Europe for a long time with her family. Inspired by the elegance and aristocracy of European lands, she strived to convey the atmosphere in her villa on Pearl Jumeirah Island in Dubai. One of the woman's key requests was to create a home that is comfortable to live in, but where you can invite friends and organise parties at the same time. "There should be a luxury hotel lobby feel on the ground floor." The ground floor is divided into two zones. The first zone is for family, and the second zone, which occupies most of the floor, is designed for a pleasant time spent with friends. The customer is also a connoisseur of bionic, curvilinear forms and materials. She strived to green her home and fulfill it with furniture and textures that would resemble natural figures. In addition, she has a passion for volumetric decorative installations of non-standard shapes and water, so the entrance area of the house is surrounded by water.

What inspired the design of the project?

We approached the project as the development of a new clothing collection. Our team was inspired by the best examples of world-famous fashion houses: Dior, Chanel, Hermes, Givenchy. Therefore, I can safely call this interior "haute couture". All of the above listed luxury brands are of French origin. It was not for nothing that we pushed away from them, because our clients are tightly connected to this European country. But the phenomenon is that the villa itself will be located in the Middle East, as an elegant pearl on the Pearl Jumeirah Island, Dubai.

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

We never set ourselves easy tasks. Each of our projects is a manifestation of unique personalities (our clients). And the Monsella project was no exception. Therefore, in some sense, we were an obstacle to ourselves. Plenty of non-standard solutions, custom finishing materials, furniture and lighting. All these positions required meticulous work, time and effort from the team in order to get an impressive result.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

All conceptual and creative solutions must be developed as organically as possible so that the design project can be implemented later. We do not only create concepts, we also calculate and consider the possibility of realisation to all the ideas. I guess that this moment was crucial.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The international SBID Awards attracts with its prestige, status and main mission of researching new ideas and manifestations in design industry. It seemed that it was a great opportunity to showcase the Monsella project. This was the main driving force that motivated to apply for the competition. In addition, the participation was due to the desire to depict a subtle approach to the client. We at the ISTO studio pay special attention to personalised communication. It is like a session with a psychologist, where the client immerses you in his/her life, tells you what is important to him/her, and the design team listens to the subtleties and relays everything in every square meter.

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

The moment of realisation that your efforts are appreciated on the international stage by judges from all over the world. This is recognition, confirmation of your importance and expertise. Of course, you should not become conceited, but simply continue to work: improve your professional skills, meet new obstacles, overcome them, learn new things and reach new heights of design development.

Questions answered by Oles Honcharenko, Lead Designer at ISTO.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a comforting care home design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Care Home Interiors Co.

Care Home Interiors were commissioned to design and specify the complete interior of a luxury purpose build care home Deer Park Care Home in Ledbury by Porthaven Care Homes. The design objectives of which were to apply thought and innovation focussing on innovative design features and aesthetics that enable easy navigation and accessibility whilst providing delight for every resident, visitor and staff member.

What was the client's brief? 

The client's brief was to create a home that went above and beyond the expectations of both the local community and visitors. They wanted the Porthaven Care Homes brand to be evolved through design that encompassed thought and innovation, choice and variety, comfort and homeliness, wellness and calm, as well as navigation and accessibility.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration for the project was deeply rooted in our commitment to the holistic wellbeing of residents. With an emphasis on emotional and physical wellbeing, we integrated elements that would resonate with residents on a personal level. Features such as the superior headboards and redesigned desk chairs were not just about aesthetic appeal, but also about creating a sense of comfort and familiarity. The unique lighting elements were designed to provide an ambiance that soothes the mind and uplifts the spirit. Even our gallery-style approach to artwork was envisioned to evoke positive memories and feelings, enhancing emotional wellness. In essence, every design detail was thoughtfully curated to promote an environment of comfort, care, and overall wellbeing for each resident.

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

The toughest hurdle we faced was the significant project management required due to supply issues. This was a result of complications arising from Brexit, inflation, and constraints on availability. The challenges demanded more from our team in terms of logistics and problem-solving, ensuring the project remained on track.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

A major highlight for our team was successfully reimagining conventional designs. For instance, the communal reception areas introduced individual seating pods that maintained openness while offering privacy. We also integrated innovative features like backlit 3D panels in the cinema room and inset light boxes in the private dining room. These design features combined functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating intimate spaces without compromising on the residents' mobility.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards to showcase our innovative and holistic approach to care home design. We felt that the Deer Park Care Home project truly represented a fusion of design and care, and we wanted to share this success with a wider audience, recognising the team's hard work and dedication.

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

Being an Award Finalist has validated our efforts and design philosophy. Not just elevating our brand in the eyes of potential clients but also reaffirmed our commitment to pushing boundaries in care home design. The recognition has helped in gaining new opportunities and has positioned us as leaders in innovative design for the care industry.

Questions answered by Kerry Southern-Reason, Managing Director at Care Home Interiors.