The Story Behind Woldon: Working with Classical Design Principles

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

Working with my clients, creating the brief for each project through insightful conversation, really sets the tone for creativity to thrive. One of my favourite parts of any project is the sourcing and working with some of the most incredible craftsmen across the world, whose dedication to creating timeless pieces is such a joy to specify.

What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year?

I am currently working on a wonderful project, a 10,000sqft new build family home, where we are also delivering the architecture. Designs for both elements have run in parallel and this year I was instructed to deliver the full landscape design, which has brought such fulfilment to create all three designs together, delivering my first turnkey project.

What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why?

I love classical design, within both interiors and architecture. This could be working with period properties and designing new build homes which feel like they’ve had a previous life. Working with classical principles feels like a natural process for me and one I am very much drawn to. I find the beauty in natural materials and balancing a predominantly neutral palette with texture, shape and form. I enjoy working closely with my clients, which lends my skill sets towards private client residential projects, where there is more emotion and connection for the end client.

What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design?

The area where I find the most challenges would be during the procurement stage, where there are many variables to handle. This is the moment where third parties are heavily involved and we closely monitor all of our suppliers, manufacturing and quality control. By implementing stringent procedures, we can undertake the procurement and delivery process carefully & efficiently.

What do you wish you knew before working in the field?

Great design takes time. It’s important to work with clients who appreciate and understand this sentiment. It can be a tricky working relationship if you have a client who doesn’t want to pay your fee or understand the programme. Always have conviction in your proposal, as long as it aligns with the client's brief and explain the deliverables carefully so everyone remains on the same page & enjoys the process.

If you could give one tip to aspiring designers, what would it be?

Really hone your personable & presentation skills. Design projects take a long time and it’s crucial that you and your client have a strong relationship. Most often, clients will choose you if they feel they can trust you & be inspired by you.

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a sophisticated penthouse design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, United Architects Kyiv.

This is a multi-level masterpiece completed by United Architects, blends minimalist design with contemporary classicism. State-of-the-art automation and ambient-responsive lighting coalesce into a flawless living experience where innovation transcends functionality to become art. This four-level sanctuary harmonizes minimalist elegance with contemporary classicism, enhanced by bespoke furnishings and exquisite materials like luxurious hardwood walnut, marble, and illuminated onyx. This sophisticated space achieves seamless transitions and a cohesive architectural language, embodying cutting-edge technology and refined aesthetics for an unparalleled living experience.

What was the client's brief?

The client sought an exceptionally high-end, technologically advanced, and fully custom-designed multi-level penthouse that combined refined aesthetics, natural ecological materials, and rich textures with cutting-edge functionality. Every element — from integrated furniture to fit-out materials — had to represent the latest innovations available at the time. Their standards were extremely demanding, and they brought a professional design vision and a pursuit of perfection to the collaboration.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design was inspired by a minimalist aesthetic infused with contemporary classicism and functionalism. The concept emphasises natural materials, textures, and integrated furniture solutions to create a cohesive architectural language that flows seamlessly across four levels and connects indoor spaces with an open rooftop terrace.

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

One of the toughest challenges was the integration and installation of large-format materials such as glass, tile, stone, and mirrors as seamless cladding across expansive surfaces. A particularly complex feature was the installation of a 4.5 x 6 m tempered-glass mirror on the ceiling, requiring precise engineering and execution. Another major challenge was eliminating visible seams at material junctions while ensuring flawless organic transitions.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was the successful realisation of a fully custom-designed penthouse that harmoniously fuses natural materials, cutting-edge smart technologies, and refined aesthetics. Achieving this level of seamless integration — from bio-adaptive lighting and full absolute automation to bespoke furniture and panoramic terraces — was a significant accomplishment for the United Architects team.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

This is not our first entry to the SBID Awards, as we regularly submit our most outstanding projects to this competition. We regard the SBID Awards as one of the most credible and prestigious platforms in the field of interior design. Being recognised here is an honour and a confirmation of our commitment to achieving the highest standards of design excellence.

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

Being selected as an SBID Award Finalist for our Penthouse Project is an exceptional honour for our team at United Architects. Recognition on such a prestigious international platform validates our years of professional dedication and passion for excellence. For our studio, it not only reinforces our reputation as a high-end design practice but also inspires us to continue pushing creative and technological boundaries in our future projects.

Questions answered by Iryna Hrynyk and Oleksii Shadyria, Lead Designers at United Architects.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxury residential design by 2025 SBID Awards Finalist, Daniel Joseph Chenin.

Designed by Daniel Joseph Chenin, FAIA, Tombolo is a private residence that unites architecture and interiors into a singular, immersive composition. Commissioned to lead both disciplines, the studio drew inspiration from the tombolo landform, a natural bridge, as a metaphor for the seamless integration of form, material, and light. Deep colonnades and sculptural ribbing lend rhythm and depth to the exterior, while the interior features tactile finishes and bespoke furnishings, evoking a layered sense of warmth and restraint. Each space balances monumentality with intimacy, offering a living narrative that redefines luxury as something experiential, emotional, and continuously unfolding.

What was the client's brief?

The brief was for a desert residence that would transcend function, a place at once private sanctuary and social stage. The clients asked for a design that balanced intimacy with grandeur, where architecture and interiors dissolved into a single composition. Every element, from materiality to movement through the home, needed to feel considered and timeless.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design drew from the tombolo landform, a natural bridge uniting separate bodies of land. We interpreted this as a metaphor for connection: between the house and its desert site, between shelter and openness, between daily ritual and elevated experience. The result is a residence where bold exterior geometries give way to layered, tactile interiors that soften and humanize the whole.

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

The challenge lay in reconciling the extremes of the desert environment with the delicacy of experiential design. Deep colonnades, apertures, and thermal mass were introduced for climate control, but these solutions had to feel like part of a larger narrative rather than technical responses. The greatest accomplishment was making complexity appear effortless.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The most rewarding moment was walking the completed home as a sequence of curated experiences. From the oculus framed arrival court to the stair wrapped in hand painted wall covering, every threshold feels cinematic. The highlight was not a single gesture, but the realization that the house itself reads like a story, with chapters of intimacy, spectacle, and discovery.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards celebrate design as both craft and cultural dialogue. Entering allowed us to share Tombolo with an international audience that values projects pushing beyond aesthetics to something immersive and emotionally resonant. It’s about contributing to a global conversation on design excellence.

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

Becoming a finalist has been affirming for our studio and our collaborators. It signals that a design rooted in site, story, and sensory experience resonates far beyond its desert setting. For us, the recognition reinforces that design, when conceived as an unfolding narrative, has the power to connect universally.

Questions answered by Daniel Joseph Chenin, FAIA, Founder of Daniel Joseph Chenin.

Who leads design and creative direction at your company?

Our studio of specialist interior designers, architects and FF&E specialists, drawn from all backgrounds and from across the world, is led by James Dilley, Jennifer de Vere Hopkins and Joanna Grotowska-Hall, who have been working closely together for a long time. We are inspired by each other’s differing approach to design – and life in general – and united in a passion for design that ‘goes beyond’.

Every member of our team contributes to the creative direction of our work, and we encourage contributions at every level, informed by the open spirit of the studio and its staff.

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

We don’t have a recognisable design style, because our approach is always in response to the specific context of each project. While the outcomes may be disparate and diverse, our common process means there are recognisable red threads running through them all. This has helped us to attract a wide range of projects and clients, and to respond to each with freshness and authenticity.

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

Collaboration is not only enjoyable, but it produces the best results and challenges us to learn in real time. We are open and encouraging to every member of the team, both internal and external, to make meaningful contributions based on their experiences and background. Internally, we have practice-wide design reviews to unlock the widest range of perspectives.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

We understand that in this fast-moving environment we must never stop learning, and we enjoy that process. While the main influence on our work is our own work, we are constantly visiting buildings of all types, across the world. While our background is in hospitality, we are increasingly seeing our expertise and approach being sought for work on buildings of all types, including mixed-use projects – an exciting evolution.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

We think it’s essential to balance the analogue and digital worlds. Sophisticated digitally produced imagery is now an expected part of the presentation process. However, a watercolour, a pencil sketch or a handmade model remain intimate and personal ways of communicating our ideas.

We are excited by the opportunities of AI, which has a place both in sparking inspiration and expressing ideas. However, we know it will never replace human input in design which is grounded in empathy.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

As early pioneers of environmentally conscious design, sustainability is intrinsic to everything we do – creating great design while caring for each other and the world around us is a core value of ours. We operate an ISO14001 environmental management system to monitor our environmental impact, and have published a Carbon Reduction Plan since 2022, reviewed annually to reduce our carbon emissions. Our B Corp certification, achieved in 2024, underlines our continued commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Our in-house sustainability team, plusZero, comprises architects and interior designers from various sectors within the practice, including three Passivhaus Designers. Our projects include those with LEED, BREEAM, NABERS, WELL and other recognised sustainability certifications.

We are driven by a commitment to beautiful design that emphasises wellbeing, sense of place and emotional and physical connection. We endeavour to prioritise material selection with high recycled content, low VOCs, and FSC-certified timber, working with the highest quality furniture suppliers and manufacturers to specify locally sourced and quality crafted products.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

The world of design is too vast to comprehend, and it is rare that anyone might see their future path with any clarity. Embrace your own journey of uncertainty and accept that there is not, most likely, a firm destination – and this is only positive. Use your early years to immerse yourself in a range of opportunities. That means, above all, to get as much exposure as possible to inspiring people as possible; seek out your mentors and keep in touch with them, as frequent sense checks are invaluable. It will be the unexpected, disruptive, challenging or curio project, or person, that may be uncomfortable but will push you into a new orbit. Don’t dismiss a prospect without careful consideration.

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How does your team collaborate on major projects?

We maintain an open-plan office layout, which we find enables seamless and efficient communication between ourselves and our interior architecture team, FF&E designers, and support team. This constant collaboration helps us stay on top of every detail, keeping every project on track, highlight each individual’s strengths, and build trust. The result is a cohesive process from concept to completion.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

We’re always exploring what’s next, whether it’s innovative finishes, forward-thinking concepts, or emerging technologies like AI. We don’t chase trends for the sake of it; instead, we stay curious and selective. Attending international design fairs, such as Salone in Milan, is a major source of inspiration for us. We love spotting prototypes and conceptual pieces that might not be released for several years, as they help us anticipate what’s on the horizon. Our process is equally informed by the synergy between fashion and interiors—tracking colour palettes, materials, and silhouettes to keep our work current yet enduring.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

Wellness is an absolute standout right now—think home spas, ice baths, salt rooms, and hot yoga studios, all designed to recreate a five-star hotel experience right at home. We’re also finding new ways to work with innovative finishes and clever ways of incorporating classic materials, giving them a fresh twist that feels interesting and ahead of the curve.

Another shift is the rise of “couture interiors,” where carefully curated, one-off pieces take centre stage, rather than relying solely on big-name brands. This approach really elevates the ultra-high-net-worth design portfolio, ensuring every project feels entirely unique.

We’re also delighted to see more sustainable innovations, like a new outdoor rug collection made from recycled ocean waste. These rugs emulate the look and feel of indoor styles, helping us create sophisticated, eco-friendly spaces that are as kind to the planet as they are pleasing to the eye.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

Technology is a delightful layer in our designs—subtle but undeniably impactful. Whether it’s discreetly integrated climate control or customisable lighting scenes that set just the right ambience, we love how modern innovations can elevate everyday living without ever compromising aesthetics. It’s remarkable how far tech has come; we can now design seamless, invisible solutions that blend beautifully with our interior schemes.

For us, the best technology is the kind you barely notice—it simply works in the background, ensuring complete comfort and convenience. It’s this effortless sophistication that resonates with our ethos of understated luxury. When done right, innovation becomes a natural extension of the design rather than a distraction, allowing our clients to enjoy a space that’s as practical as it is elegant.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

Helen:
Never be afraid to ask questions. Hands-on experience is invaluable, even if it means starting out in a junior position or offering your time for free. It’s all part of the process. Keep yourself organised, stay curious, and don’t be put off by the long hours—when you see how far you’ve come, it’ll be well worth it. One of the best feelings in this industry is looking back and realising how much you’ve grown by embracing every opportunity to learn.

Jenny:
Seek inspiration wherever you go—from major design exhibitions, to a stroll around your local market or your favourite holiday destination. You never know which unexpected detail might spark a brilliant idea. The more experiences you gather, the richer your creative palette becomes. Above all, keep an open mind and a sense of wonder—design is a continuous journey of learning, exploration, and collaboration.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Mentorship has always been close to our hearts. We’ve been in the industry for almost three decades, and we feel strongly about supporting the next generation of designers who share our passion for creativity and craftsmanship. Each year, we attend the Inchbald Graduate Exhibition and we offer internships, many of which have blossomed into full-time roles for talented individuals who truly shine.

We also love taking part in panel discussions—there’s something wonderfully fulfilling about passing on knowledge we’ve gained over the years, hearing fresh perspectives from newcomers, and sparking that sense of excitement in the field. Judging on the SBID panel is another enriching way for us to give back, as it connects us with peers and provides a platform for constructive feedback that helps raise the bar for everyone.

How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and engineers?

Collaboration is part of our everyday fabric. We believe there’s a specialist for every aspect of a project—from architects and engineers to artisans who craft bespoke finishes. Over the years, we’ve joined forces with iconic names like Lalique, Ralph Lauren, and Benjamin Raymond to create inspiring, one-of-a-kind environments. We also love teaming up for events and showroom exhibitions with brands such as Gladee and Bella Figura, where we can collectively showcase design at its finest.

A recent highlight was our collaboration with Glancy Fawcett, Sylka Carpets, and Parkway England at the Dubai International Boat Show, presenting a “Best of Luxury British Brands” experience. Bringing together a diverse group of experts in one space allowed us to truly celebrate the richness and depth of British design on a global stage.

We’re also working on lots of new ideas in the background so watch this space!

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Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

My design style evolves and rotates between many polarities. I’m inspired by Medieval and Georgian periods in our culture, early Chinese furniture, also Arts and Crafts and Modernist architecture, as well as Japanese movements such as the Metabolists. I am always on the lookout to connect with artists and craftspeople, including through the paint and patterns of domestic artefacts, fabrics and wood carving. My new Unfitted Kitchen shows off this approach with aesthetics that incorporate many of the design references I have mentioned.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

Unfitted kitchens are increasingly popular as they offer a range of furniture items to give clients freedom in creating their own personal environments. Furnishing a room, as opposed to having cabinetry built in, allows clients more flexibility and self-expression. Kitchens are no longer just for cooking. The functions of other downstairs room are often folded into them these days. With home working, hobbies and sociability increasingly taking place in the kitchen, the room can now be designated a ‘House Place’, an idea articulated by the poet William Wordsworth. This fits with a process that involves functions of rooms becoming less specific and more diverse. Interestingly the trend applies to both small and large homes. The hybrid nature of this new kitchen, ‘broken plan’ rather open plan, suggests that we need activity areas as well as nooks for privacy or security, plus a personal sense of belonging expressed through its decor.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

We have a section on the Johnny Grey Studio website called Full Circle where we resell kitchens that have been taken out of their original homes. This is a very effective way of reducing waste and the problem of disposal of building materials. Our kitchens are always well crafted, very durable and fit to be repurposed. We make conscious efforts to use natural and recycled materials when possible and to avoid plastic finishes on our furniture when this can be done in line with durability, which it often can.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

Our designs use multiple style references, allowing them to stand out from fashion trends and obsolescence. Because of this, a thirty-year-old Johnny Grey kitchen still looks modern. Three essential design ideas of mine are in evidence in most, if not all, of my kitchens. Number one is to make eye contact possible as this promotes sociable use of space so that people can have conversations while cooking and preparing food. Number two is ‘soft geometry’ – that is, the avoidance of sharp corners, particularly on furniture like central islands in the middle of a room. Walking around the kitchen feels safe and natural and it means the passageways can actually be narrower. The third principle is the use of dedicated work surfaces instead of indiscriminately long countertop work surfaces. This allows both small and large kitchens to function efficiently, often with reduced distances between key activities. It frees up space for sociable furniture.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

Spend time in a workshop to learn how things are made. Take your education and learning processes across design boundaries. Learn skills from product design, architecture and interior design as well as project management. Observe how people use space, follow research into behavioural psychology and neuroscience, visit historic buildings and enjoy books on the history of design. Remain self-critical of your work, seek a broad spectrum of style and constantly explore new ways of approaching your work.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

It is not fashion focused. It connects history and my personal vision of using colour, pattern, shape with a sense of fun and quirkiness. I attempt to make people feel comfortable and happy in their surroundings through sociable design philosophy. The quality of the individual pieces of furniture should last for generations.

Can you highlight one or two of your most iconic projects?

Many if not all my projects represent the core aspects of my approach. Narrowed down, I would say the Unfitted Kitchen for the reasons mentioned above. It’s the distillation of years of work honing furniture that is practical, stylish and flexible, has an easy appeal and represents good value for money. After successfully offering this to the public in 1986-9 through Smallbone of Devizes, I have now revived the concept as part of my legacy. I’m hoping it will change the industry by becoming a popular alternative to fitted kitchens.

The Guildford kitchen is a classic JG Studio collaboration between clients, furniture makers and the design team. The design is functional and innovative – three working tables distribute the activity of the kitchen, all linked together and with different heights and materials. Surfaces are warm to the touch, including the ceramic wall with its innovative unglazed hammered finish that is soft and eye catching in a fun way. The Dolphin shaped legs make a hinged bar that is ideal for leaning against and serving food is a classic example of one of my custom designs. For interior projects, the Treasure Island House for Felix Dennis stands out. This was a themed fun house based on the writings of Robert Louis Stevenson. It centred around a swimming pool with palm trees distributing heat, a seventeenth century opium ketch kitchen and panelled dining room, a four poster bed decorated with carved statues of Long John Silver and the Spanish Lady with a secret staircase to the stars, a shell filled bathroom and a double-sided aquarium through which the viewer enters the building on arrival.

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Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

A standout project that embodies our design ethos is Harcourt House Apartments Grade II listed residences in the heart of Marylebone. This project beautifully reflects our ability to balance heritage architecture with contemporary living. We introduced layered lighting solutions to enhance the ornate period details while ensuring the space felt modern and inviting. The use of refined materials, bespoke furnishings, and carefully curated finishes created an interior that feels luxurious yet understated—something that is central to our approach.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

The future of interior design is being shaped by a renewed focus on timeless craftsmanship, sustainability, and the fusion of tradition with modernity. Clients are increasingly seeking personalized, curated interiors that reflect their lifestyle while standing the test of time. The demand for bespoke, artisan-made pieces continues to grow, as does an appreciation for historic architectural details reinterpreted in a contemporary way. Additionally, there is a shift towards holistic well-being in design, incorporating biophilic elements, natural materials, and intelligent spatial planning to enhance quality of life.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

Sustainability is integrated into our design philosophy through responsible sourcing, longevity, and craftsmanship. We prioritize high-quality, durable materials that age beautifully, reducing the need for frequent replacements. We work with artisans and suppliers who share our commitment to ethical production, favoring locally crafted furniture and finishes where possible. Additionally, we emphasize adaptive reuse, preserving and repurposing existing architectural elements rather than replacing them. Energy-efficient lighting, natural ventilation strategies, and sustainable fabrics are also key considerations in our projects.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

Helen Green Design is known for its timeless British luxury with a contemporary edge. Our interiors are defined by layered textures, refined detailing, and an elegant yet understated aesthetic. While each project is tailored to the client’s personal vision, our hallmark approach emphasizes proportion, craftsmanship, and a balance between classic and modern influences. We create spaces that feel sophisticated yet inviting, always prioritizing comfort and function alongside beauty.

What has been your company’s proudest achievement so far?

One of Helen Green Design’s greatest achievements has been maintaining the brand’s identity, reputation, and recognition following the absence of its founder, ensuring that the studio continues to thrive while staying true to its original vision of timeless British luxury. Through a commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation, we have successfully upheld the studio’s legacy while evolving to meet the needs of a modern, discerning clientele.

Additionally, we take pride in being pioneers in integrating sustainability within the luxury interior design sector. In an industry often driven by excess, we have actively worked to promote responsible sourcing, longevity, and ethical craftsmanship. By prioritizing high quality, enduring materials, collaborating with sustainable artisans, and advocating for adaptive reuse where possible, we are reshaping the perception of luxury to be not only beautiful but also conscious and future-focused.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

Helen Green Design distinguishes itself through its ability to blend heritage with modernity while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality, detail, and client experience. Our interiors are carefully curated to feel both elegant and deeply personal, ensuring that every project reflects the lifestyle and aspirations of our clients.

We also stand apart in our pioneering approach to sustainability in high-end design, proving that luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist. By championing artisanal craftsmanship, responsible material sourcing, and timeless rather than trend-driven design, we create spaces that are not only exquisite but also built to last.

Furthermore, our collaborative, client-first approach ensures that every project benefits from the expertise of a multidisciplinary team, delivering a seamless experience from concept to completion. This, combined with our reputation for discretion, excellence, and innovation, continues to set Helen Green Design apart as a leader in the luxury interior design industry.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Yes, mentorship and education are integral to Helen Green Design’s ethos. We believe in nurturing the next generation of designers, sharing knowledge, and fostering creativity within the industry. Through in-house training programs, internships, and mentorship opportunities, we guide emerging talent in understanding the intricacies of luxury interior design, craftsmanship, and project execution.

Additionally, members of our team participate in industry panels, guest lectures, and design forums, offering insights into evolving trends, sustainability in luxury design, and the business of interior design. We take pride in supporting young designers and fostering a collaborative learning environment within the studio.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

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Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

Our recent interior design and interior architecture project, Château de la Croix des Gardes, has been called ‘a contemporary reimagining of an historical masterpiece’. The largest remaining estate on the Cote D’Azur, this legendary Belle Époque Château is unparalleled in the beauty of its architecture, its sublime Mediterranean views, the scale of its surrounding gardens and its magical history. It has been an honour and a pleasure for Katharine to lead a formidable team of creatives in the complete redesign of this majestic home (as featured in Architectural Digest France). Inspired by classic French design delicately blended with a touch of English eclecticism it is a good example of Katharine’s design aesthetic, married with her passion for craftsmanship, as it included:
- Over 150 hand-crafted bespoke furniture pieces and custom joinery pieces with intricate marquetry, inlays and specialist timber finishes which have been made by England’s traditional, small-scale, fine cabinetry workshops.
- Over 40 diqerent hand embroidered textiles from 5 British ateliers.
- 30 diqerent pieces of art from British painters and ceramicists.
- 13 hand-painted frescos, silk wallpapers and panels painted by 8 diqerent studios and artists – the work of a London based artist features throughout and 2 British handpainted wallpaper companies

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

We collaborate exceptionally well both internally and externally and that is a cornerstone of the design studio: It takes a village! Internally we have built a studio of experienced and award-winning designers and architects who seamlessly work together to create flawless, fully immersive designs for our clients where every detail is considered, designed, installed and styled. We also work alongside – and often lead – an established network of the highest quality contractors, agents, specialists and suppliers to ensure a luxurious level of workmanship is achieved across every facet of a client’s project.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

We like to design unhemmed by trends or fleeting fashions as Katharine strongly believes that true elegance and comfort is timeless. Wellness, fitness, comfort and personalisation are increasingly important to our clients. There is also a move towards more informal entertaining, a generational move away from traditional formal living room spaces to more fun and immersive games rooms, home cinemas, wine tasting rooms, music rooms. Spaces that reflect the unique individual passions of the client and showcase their niche interests are definitely growing in demand.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

We make a conscious eqort to design with an eco-friendly approach and have a dedicated librarian who manages all of our supplier relationships and the library of architectural samples and decorative finishes and fabrics to ensure that specifications are made with sustainability in mind. We actively work to minimise waste across our projects and prioritise reuse, refurbishment, reclamation and antiques.

Katharine champions hundreds of the finest small to medium workshops, ateliers and makers in Britain. This ‘British-made’ approach minimises transportation for our domestic projects.

Wherever possible we aim to use natural fibres in our fabric specifications and Katharine’s role as an advocate for the Campaign for Wool reflects this passion for sustainable, natural fabrics. Wool, cotton, linen, jute, Cashmere, sisal, mohair and bamboo are all far more sustainable and better for our health than man-made fibres. Timber in our joinery and bespoke furniture is also sourced from FSC.

Our team of talented architects place sustainable MEP design solutions at the heart of our projects. For example we have completed a number of projects which have ‘air source’ heat pumps and solar photovoltaic solutions. Focusing on achieving the best U values so that the fabric of the building gives the system a head start.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

Travel as much as you can, visit galleries, museums, beautiful cities, and individual artists and creators. Live life with your eyes and heart open, everything and anything can inspire you to create new and beautiful designs, but you have to get out in the world, don’t wait for it to come to you.

Can you highlight one or two of your most iconic projects?

The Château de la Croix des Gardes has is probably our most iconic recent project, due to the final design and its captivating history. Situated high above Cannes on the lush Crois des Gardes hill, the property became infamous in 1955 as the set of Hitchcock’s film ‘To Catch a Thief’, starring Grace Kelly and Cary Grant. The scale of this project was quite spectacular, the Chateau’s square footage is 25,000 sq. ft set across four floors (extended from an original sq ft. of 13,000). Katharine Pooley also designed 42,000 sq. ft of living spaces spread across five additional beautiful secondary buildings and in total there are fifteen guest bedrooms and seven staq bedrooms across the estate. A majestic property set amongst 25 acres of sympathetically restored Italianate gardens, the design and renovation of this “heartstoppingly” beautiful French Riviera chateau embodies the luxury and glamour of its movie-star history.

In spring 2025 we complete a beautiful 50,000 sq ft coastal residence in Sardinia for a returning client. I feel this will be an iconic design for us. Set within two acres of gardens with classic Mediterranean style architecture housing a refined contemporary /rustic interior. We have taken inspiration from the curved architectural detailing that is the hallmark of Mediterranean design and designed joinery and furniture with rounded edges and circular elements to complement the flowing, intimate, nature of the space. The outdoor landscape overlooks a simply sublime Sardinian seascape which has inspired the interior design and infused it with vibrant Mediterranean hues like terracotta, deep blue, or olive green adds warmth.

This year we complete ten more projects that really are unlike anything we have created before. They will be in Paris, Aspen, Kuwait, Hong Kong, London, Bermuda, Mallorca and we currently are working on large scale iconic projects in Dallas, Doha, Dubai and Gibraltar.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Yes, we have a strong internship program which accepts candidates and graduates every year from all the main design schools and from further afield. Katharine gives regular talks and takes part in panel discussions and has a strong relationship with the KLC School of Design.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

Although we take pride in not being confined to a single style, we strive to create spaces that foster harmony and balance for those who inhabit them. The example of Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara beautifully illustrates how an environment can evoke a sense of place and connection to nature through thoughtful design choices. Each project indeed presents a unique opportunity to narrate a story that resonates with the guests, enhancing their overall experience.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Staying at the forefront of the design industry requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. We prioritise continuous education and training, ensuring our team is equipped with the latest design trends, technologies, and methodologies through workshops, conferences, and online courses. Simultaneously, we embrace technology by integrating advanced design software and tools, enabling immersive client experiences and streamlining our design processes. Recognising the importance of sustainability practices, we actively incorporate eco-friendly solutions and materials into our designs, reflecting our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Our commitment extends beyond internal development. We foster global networking and partnerships by collaborating with design professionals, suppliers, and industry leaders worldwide, participating in global forums and exhibitions to expand our influence. Central to our approach is a client-centric approach, where we prioritise understanding and exceeding client needs through regular feedback and personalised solutions. We also conduct rigorous trend analysis and forecasting to anticipate market shifts, including cultural influences and emerging materials, ensuring our designs remain relevant and impactful.

We also understand the value of a diverse and inclusive environment. Promoting diversity and inclusion within our team brings a wealth of perspectives and ideas, fostering a more innovative and creative design process. By combining these strategies, we ensure that HBA remains a leader in the design industry, consistently delivering cutting-edge and impactful solutions that resonate with our clients and the evolving market.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

Looking ahead, the landscape of interior design is being redefined by a natural blend of sustainability, technology, and deeply personal expression. Sustainability has moved from a trend to a foundational aspect of design, influencing everything from material selection to energy efficiency and the incorporation of biophilic elements. Simultaneously, smart technology is weaving its way into our spaces, creating seamless experiences that enhance both comfort and functionality. These advancements aren't just about innovation; they reflect a growing consciousness about our impact on the environment and a desire for spaces that intuitively serve our needs.

Beyond the technical, we're witnessing a powerful shift towards personalisation and adaptability. Clients are no longer seeking generic luxury; they want spaces that truly resonate with their unique identities and lifestyles. This demand for bespoke, boutique experiences is mirrored by the rise of multifunctional spaces, driven by the growing prevalence of remote work. Interiors must now be fluid and adaptable, seamlessly transitioning from home offices to social hubs. In essence, the future of interior design is about creating environments that are not only beautiful and functional but also deeply personal, responsible, and responsive to the evolving needs of our lives.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of our design process. We prioritise eco-friendly materials, choosing options like reclaimed wood, bamboo, and recycled metals, alongside low-VOC paints and finishes, to minimise environmental impact and enhance indoor air quality. We actively pursue local sourcing to support regional economies and reduce transportation emissions. Biophilic design is integral to our spaces, as we incorporate natural elements like plants and green spaces through green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens, enhancing both aesthetics and well-being. Furthermore, we believe in fostering community engagement, involving local communities in our design and operational decisions to promote cultural sustainability and create authentic experiences that reflect the unique character of each destination.

What has been your company’s proudest achievement so far?

While we celebrate numerous milestones and accolades, our proudest achievement is consistently evolving and adapting to meet the ever-changing needs of the hospitality industry over our 60-year history. This includes our remarkable growth from a single office to 24 locations across the globe, and our sustained position as the world’s leading hospitality design firm, evidenced by our ranking first on the 2025 Interior Design Top 100 Giants Hospitality List for over nineteen years.

In addition to HBA's global achievements, HBA London is particularly proud of the firm's overall legacy of excellence. HBA London's exceptional work has garnered widespread acclaim, including Gold Key Awards, SBID International Design Awards, World Travel Awards, Hospitality Design Awards (HD), and Condé Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Awards.

We're proud of our ability to embrace innovation, integrate cutting-edge technologies, and champion sustainability, all while maintaining a deep respect for the unique cultural context of each project. Ultimately, our proudest achievement is the enduring impact we've had on creating exceptional guest experiences and contributing to the success of our clients globally.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

As passionate and responsible interior designers, we view every project as a unique and boutique experience tailored to the specific needs and desires of our clients. What sets our work apart in the industry is our unwavering commitment to personalisation and attention to detail. We believe that every space should tell a story, reflecting the distinct character of its inhabitants while also considering the functional aspects of design.

We prioritise collaboration with our clients, engaging them throughout the entire design process to ensure their vision is translated into reality. This collaborative spirit allows for a deeper understanding of their preferences, resulting in spaces that not only align with their aesthetic but also enhance their daily lives.

In essence, our work stands out due to its bespoke approach, commitment to collaboration, and dedication to sustainability, culminating in designs that are as unique as the individuals and businesses we serve.

Are you involved in mentoring or education within the interior design industry?

Yes, each year we welcome university students for internships, providing them with valuable practical experience, and we are proud to have hired several of them following their graduation. I also find it incredibly rewarding to give lectures at various universities when I have the time, as it is important to invest in the next generation of designers.

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

This striking transformation breathes new life into an old church, reimagined as a grand family residence. Seamlessly blending heritage architecture with contemporary living, the project delivers 13 beautifully designed bedrooms, expansive entertainment spaces, and a luxury private pool - all wrapped within the soaring volumes of the original ecclesiastical structure. A standout feature of the conversion is the former Sunday school hall, transformed into a show-stopping indoor wellness retreat. This serene space houses a fully equipped wellness centre complete with a jacuzzi, gym, sauna, and relaxation zone, offering an indulgent sanctuary that reflects the home's commitment to luxury and wellbeing.

What was the client's brief?

The client entrusted LWE Interiors with complete creative freedom to define the interior style and design direction of the project. The only key criteria were:
- The conversion must deliver a 13-bedroom luxury home with extensive leisure and entertaining facilities.
- Spaces should feel luxurious, comfortable for family living, and appealing as a high-end holiday rental, bathrooms & bedrooms all needed to be different with different styles & moods, to help create an individual experience in every room.
- The old Sunday School hall was to be reimagined as a private spa and wellness area.
- Provision for large-scale entertaining was essential, with a bar, games/entertainment lounge, and a banqueting dining room capable of hosting all 34 guests together.
- Most importantly, the project had to be delivered on or under budget.

What inspired the design of the project?

The building itself provided the creative spark for the design direction. The soaring volume and height of the main hall inspired the introduction of a mezzanine level overlooking the lounge, adding drama while maximising space and flow.

I was drawn to the original stonework and architectural details of the church and made it a priority to retain and rework as many features as possible. These were carefully integrated into the interiors in a modern and contemporary way, ensuring the building’s character was celebrated rather than concealed.

The coastal setting also played a key role in the design ethos. With the church situated close to the beach, the interiors were layered in beach-inspired neutrals and boho textures, creating a soft, relaxed aesthetic. This was elevated with a quiet luxury vibe throughout — calm, refined, and timeless, yet warm and welcoming for family life and entertaining.

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

The budget was the toughest hurdle on this project. The brief demanded a stunning, luxury aesthetic, which meant we had to carefully balance design ambition with cost control. In several cases, alternatives were sourced for original feature lighting and furniture to achieve the desired look without compromising on style or quality.

Beyond this, the project progressed smoothly and to plan. All design concepts and detailed drawings were completed within the agreed timeline, enabling contractors to quote accurately and work efficiently.

Once the building was stripped back to its true structure, a few areas required adjustment. However, these changes had minimal impact and did not escalate costs from the interiors side — ensuring the project was delivered on time, on budget, and true to the design vision.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the most rewarding aspects of this project was watching the interiors take shape almost exactly as envisioned in the concept designs. It’s always a special moment seeing drawings and moodboards evolve into real spaces that people can live in and enjoy.

The double-height lounge and mezzanine became a true showpiece, capturing the building’s volume and character while creating a stunning, memorable interior that leaves a lasting impression.

Perhaps the most fulfilling transformation, however, was the conversion of the old Sunday School hall into a swimming pool and spa. Working closely with contractors, who followed the detailed drawings and specifications I developed, brought this vision to life beautifully. The result was a space that embodies both luxury and tranquillity — a highlight of the project for everyone involved.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I chose to enter the SBID Awards because they are a prestigious, internationally accredited platform that recognises excellence in interior design and architecture. Attracting entries from a diverse global community of designers, manufacturers, and contractors.

For me, entering the SBID Awards was about positioning this project among the highest calibre of international design work, while also celebrating the creativity, vision, and collaboration that brought it to life.

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

Becoming an SBID Award Finalist has been both a professional milestone and a personal honour. On a professional level, it provides a respected international platform to showcase my work and validates that the design achieved the highest standards of creativity, technical execution, and innovation.

On a personal level, the recognition has been deeply rewarding. As a small interior design practice, every project is incredibly hands-on — from the first sketches to the final details. To see that dedication acknowledged by such a prestigious award body reinforces not only my vision as a designer, but also the belief that passion, persistence, and creativity can stand proudly alongside the best in the industry worldwide.

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