Anomaly: Creating a Sustainable and Neutral Office Design

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.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colourful and retro restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Wid Chapman Architects.

Wid Chapman Architects was commissioned to create a fun, colourful retro eating and drinking establishment in the heart of Times Square, NYC.

What was the client's brief? 

The client was seeking a high energy experience and narrative to distinguish itself from other restaurants in a highly competitive market they believed that good food and great drinks were not enough to attract diners. They were keen on the 70s vibe, playful, vibrant and fun filled environment that would give life to one of the group’s strengths a fun, over-the-top beverage program, highlighting signature cocktail recipes that could not be found at your everyday bar or restaurant accompanied by family. Favourite foods that never go out of fashion.

What inspired the design of the project?

We came up with a concept that really gave life to the client’s brief and Peachy Keen is undoubtedly a memorable experience! As soon as you walk through the door, your senses are engulfed in excitement. The vibrant colours, textures, and curvaceous architectural elements combine with high-energy music and a bustling environment to instantly brighten your mood. The atmosphere is electric, yet uniquely welcoming, unlike anything Midtown Manhattan has seen in quite some time. Peace, love, and good vibes!

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

With any restaurant we design we have a particular owner/chef’s vision in mind. But with Peachy we were also tasked with giving effect to an entirely different era whilst keeping it contemporary and blending that with maximalism that can stand the test of time - all combined this created a major design conundrum.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

At WCA we like to showcase colour as a concept versus as an accessory. With Peachy Keen our client was fully on board with really working with colour as a concept and utilising it to full effect in a bold and modern design that captured the 70s era but for today’s diner and today’s culture. We thoroughly enjoyed the utilising bold colours and materials to create many different and playful dining and drinking zones. The restaurant is full of fun and flair a rare combo in fast casual today. This restaurant with all its ‘70s vibes features comfortable space that captures the spirit of the city with a vibrant atmosphere that always feels familiar and right in the centre of the Theatre District.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As an international hub of design professionals, it’s an obvious place to showcase our work and compete at the highest levels of the industry.

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

We are honoured and privileged to be included as an awards finalist. As a hospitality firm we understand the competition for great design and in the era of mass content being recognised as global leaders in design through the SBID Awards helps channel our work and experience to new clients and provide further promotional benefits to existing clients. Hospitality design has become and ever important factor in restaurant attractiveness and success both in the U.S and internationally.

Questions answered by Wid Chapman, Founder of Wid Chapman Architects.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an urban and minimalistic library design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Xtendere Architecture.

“Mother’s House Library · Airport Library” is not only a library but also a bridge linking Quanzhou culture. Relying on the airport environment, it presents the form of a library in the new era, realising the transformation from a single function to a multi-integrated cultural display space, and expanding the attributes of a variety of scenes.

What was the client's brief? 

Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport is a 4D-level airport operated by Quanzhou Jinjiang International Airport Co., Ltd. The airport was originally established in 1955 as a military airport and serves as a bridge linking Quanzhou to the world and a driving force for development.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration of this project comes from the vivid memory of urban culture in southern Fujian, and from the interpretation of hometown feelings. We hope to build an open and public library and gather people in the airport in various ways of social ceremony activities such as "physical presence, joint participation, emotional exchange and resonance" to create a harmonious interpersonal atmosphere, narrow the distance between tourists and urban culture, and stimulate tourists' sense of identity with urban culture.

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

How to break through the traditional expression techniques of Minnan culture and express Minnan culture with modern design techniques, so that Minnan elements can be presented in a more comfortable and gentle way in the new era and space, which will infect every visitor invisibly. At the same time, affected by the epidemic, how to ensure the smooth and perfect landing of the project is also an obstacle we face.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The landing of this project is a demonstration of regional culture and the spread of local spirit. It presents the form of a library in the new era, absorbs the artistic form of multi-culture, and connects with the direct value realisation of urban development empowerment, opening a window for Quanzhou culture to spread abroad.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

SBID Awards is a platform for displaying design works and talents. On the one hand, I want to establish a good reputation in the industry through this award and increase the wider publicity and promotion of my works. On the other hand, it is an opportunity for learning and development, and I can learn the latest design trends and improve my design skills and knowledge through the competition.

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

Being shortlisted for the SBID Awards finals means that the jury recognises and affirms our professional ability and creative level for me and my enterprise. This also gives us greater responsibility and obligation to explore local culture and endow traditional culture with new expressions and communication forms through design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an uplifting biophilic retail design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, The Secret Stylists.

The Secret Stylists were commissioned to design and specify the interior architecture, fixtures, fittings, soft furnishing, lighting and finishes for Moss and Moor Garden Centre Ilkley.

What was the client's brief? 

The clients provided me with this new brand’s guidelines and the architectural drawings of the building before they broke ground and asked me how I would imagine their garden centre to feel and look. The words that I took from that brief were: Lively natural. Social, Friendly. Down to earth. Uplifting. Camouflage. Plants & People Honest, ethical, intriguing. Natural Vibrancy. So, I set about how I would imagine I could communicate these ideas within essentially an industrial shell.

What inspired the design of the project?

The View. Moss and Moor looks out onto an iconic landmark in Yorkshire, “The Cow and Calf”. I looked at the geology of the rocks, the heather moorland, the rivers, the stone walls, and sky and tried to figure out how I could relate this to Moss and Moor. I feel I achieved this with the plywood edging, the polished concrete floors that add a depth to the space when the sky is reflects on it at different times of the day, the layering of fabrics, colours and textures in the restaurant. My upholsterer thought I was crazy when I plotted out a random shape to be repeated as the bench backrests to allude to a Yorkshire stone wall. The handmade porcelain lampshades were pressed into hessian to create an organic finish. The cork wrapping the bar is akin to a topographic map and contributes a sound proofing function to this area. The rubber and cork flooring used to wrap the tills (as they needed to be very durable) is akin to soil.

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

We were building it during the pandemic, which did bring challenges, but generally we had a great flow of communication throughout to trouble shoot any issues that arose.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The welcome desk… I had wanted to introduce one obvious natural element into an otherwise modern environment and that was in the form of a large tree as our reception desk. The fact that my sculptor friend happened to have a seasoned tree which was the perfect size, that he (luckily) hadn’t started cutting into, filled me with joy. We took the bark off, cut it down, made a perfectly flat top with an arctic mill saw, carved a space as the desk, and mounted it on large metal supports. Everyone tends to run their hand over it when they arrive, and the natural undulations of the trunk are very welcoming to lean against.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I have always followed the awards and just by chance thought I would submit Moss and Moor as I am very proud of this design, as I know it achieves everything I had set out to create for the owners and the customers.

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

It has given me more confidence to put my work out in the public eye and I feel very privileged to be included in the awards.

Questions answered by Cliona Harkin, Brand and Design Director at The Secret Stylists.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an enchanting and contemporary apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, THDP.

Through this project, THDP’s desire is to create the perfect haven for the curious travelers that want to dive deep into the secrets of one of the most fascinating cities in the world. By restoring these apartments, THDP have created a luxury space to live when visiting Rome; a serene yet enchanting space to unwind after long days of exploring.

What was the client's brief? 

Just to be very local and contextualise the city within the concept. Rome today is not only the open-air museum that everyone knows, the cradle of a history that has generated monuments of unique and incredible beauty. It is a treasure chest full of contaminations, of works by contemporary artists, of exhibition spaces and galleries, of new architectural interventions commissioned by important fashion brands. It is a nerve centre full of chic and trendy clubs, which perfectly embodies the worldly and timeless spirit of the city. With its millenary history, Rome today looks to the future, absorbing the international inputs, to merge them with its ancient soul and transform them into something never seen before. In recent years, Rome has come out of the collective imagination that saw it “only” as an open-air museum, intended for “hit and run” tourism, to regain its role as European capital also thanks to the opening of important clubs and international hotels that transform the social fabric projecting it towards internationality. Through this project, THDP’s desire is to create the perfect haven for the curious travelers that want to dive deep into the secrets of one of the most fascinating cities in the world. By restoring these apartments, THDP have created a luxury space to live when visiting Rome; a serene yet enchanting space to unwind after long days of exploring.

What inspired the design of the project?

Trastevere – Young Rome “La Roma Giovane”: Trastevere is not only famous for its historicity, but also for being one of the busiest centers of the city nightlife. With its countless traditional and contemporary restaurants, street artists, theaters, monumental squares and bridges that connect the area with the city center, it acts as a trait d’union between the old and the new, creating around itself a bubble in which there is an unparalleled atmosphere.

Trastevere (Trans Tiberim, “beyond the river Tiber”) has been an area apart from the rest of the city since its origins, and this spirit, which has remained unchanged over time, translates today into a cultural identity typical of the rione (neighborhood) that resists strong despite the progress and the merciless “invasions” of tourists, and perfectly integrates modernity and innovation thanks to its ever young millenary soul.

Colosseo – Ancient Rome “La Roma Antica”: Colosseo is located in one of the most ancient districts in Rome whose origins go back to prehistoric times, when it was nothing more than a rural path used by local populations. Continuing the Domus Aurea on Colle Oppio, the Ludus Magnus, the gladiator gymnasium, the Basilica of San Clemente, one of the very few remains of medieval Rome and the Church of SS. Marcellino and Pietro in Laterano at his meeting with Via Merulana. An area rich in history, but also in theaters such as Brancaccio, the new Palazzo Merulana set of continuous contemporary exhibitions, and an important hub between ancient Rome and the cosmopolitan Esquilino district in the direction of Termini station which seems to bring back in our imagination the idea of the Roman road that reaches the farthest points of the empire. Anyone who walks through it cannot avoid to immerse themselves in its history, fantasising about what is still unexplored under their feet.

Piazza Navona – Noble Rome “La Roma Nobile”: This neighborhood was created to establish a quick connection between the monumental and administrative center of the city and the new residential districts beyond the Tiber. Therefore, it has always had an elegant character, home to important noble palaces and beautiful architectural masterpieces, first of which the Chiesa Nuova on the square of the same name and the Oratory of the Filippini, by Borromini. Considered from the Romans as one of the entrances to the underworld, the area was born from the fusion of the sacred and the profane, with its countless churches scattered throughout the Rione Parione, the many workshops of artisans and antique dealers that still coexist with the new art galleries modern, the vintage shops of Via del Governo Vecchio, and historical places such as the bar del Fico and the Terrazza Borromini, or Palazzo Alberini, headquarters of Gucci. A few minutes away are Piazza Navona, Campo de Fiori, Via dei Banchi Vecchi, Castel Sant’Angelo. Here is also the Vatican, undoubtedly considered the geographic heart of the city. What once, today, and forever, is (and will be) the center of the world.

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

To be able to intervene with a very limited timeframe in 3 areas of simultaneously bringing 3 different concepts to life. The three places of intervention are distributed in 3 areas that differ from each other for history and day/night life. Although they tell different stories, they’re still linked by the same past, yet each of them has developed its own identity as a borough. The first one, Trastevere is a Young Rome, famous for its nightlife, especially outdoors. The alleys, the fountains, and the clothes hanging outside frame a fresh, sparkling and vital life, and here magic is born. The second one is the monumental Ancient Rome, situated really close to the Colosseum and watershed between 3 of the seven hills, Esquilino, Colle Oppio and Celio. The third one is Noble Rome, the Rome of palaces, antique dealers and art galleries. An elegant Rome that, when viewed from the windows and terraces, opens up the perspectives to an exclusive and opulent dimension.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

A series of artworks and objects from local artists from Via dei Banchi Vecchi have been selected, in order to preserve and maintain a strong local identity. Custom lampshades were made by local artisan atelier Il Paralume. Some artworks reminding faces and classic subjects, treated with different techniques to make them more vibrant and contemporary. These local artists brings on the artistic tradition of the city. Lastly, the frames surrounding the artwork in the hotel were provided by Patrizio Agostinelli, a well-established craftsman of Roman frames who has been working in his artisan shop in via Bartolomeo for over 70 years.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We think that the project fits the awards and, for its history and location, is one of a kind. It is undeniable that Venice is a source of endless inspiration. A city built upon water, with extraordinary palaces that loom over winding canals seems like a fragment of one’s imagination. Venice is a paragon of culture and boundless beauty, with a magical atmosphere and rich history.

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

We are honored to be selected as finalist at the SBID awards. SBID has been such a great support to the hospitality industry, especially over these thriving last few years and it is truly a privilege to be included and affiliated with such a wonderful organisation and community.

Questions answered by Manuela Mannino, Architect at THDP.