Rive Gauche London: Creating a Luxurious and Bespoke Apartment

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a luxurious and modern penthouse design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, SHH.

SHH was invited by Developer Henigman to transform an empty shell space into a modern slick penthouse with interiors that amplify the luxurious nature of the private gated London development where the penthouse apartment is located. The design team drew inspiration from the penthouse’s leafy location, the best of British craftsmanship and London’s culture in creating an ultimate living and entertainment pad. Smart technology which controls everything from light to sound and a combination of carefully selected and unique, bespoke designed pieces of furniture, lighting and artwork contributed to creating stylish interiors tailored to entertaining guests.

What was the client's brief? 

Our brief was to transform an apartment from ‘shell and core’ into a modern slick penthouse with interiors that amplify the luxurious nature of the private gated development where the penthouse apartment is located. Our interior design effort focused on shaping a unique lateral space with balance and a subtle feel of luxury for modern living. A careful selection of unique, bespoke designed pieces of furniture, lighting and artwork helped us create a stylish living and entertainment pad.

What inspired the design of the project?

We drew inspiration from the penthouse’s leafy location, the best of British craftmanship and London’s culture. By introducing artisans such as Anka for bespoke bronze panels with leaf imprints, we created unique moments throughout the property and links between the interior and the beautiful exterior surrounding.

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

It was unknown if the property would be sold or offered to the rental market. We had to be mindful to design beautiful interiors that would appeal to a client purchasing the property but also finishes that would withstand the rental market.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the key aspects of this project is the creation of contrast between the different zones of the apartment. We wanted to introduce the feeling of a private members’ club to the interior of the living space. The living areas of the penthouse are shared between the top floor and the lower ground portion of the building which hosts a multi-purpose entertainment space including a games and dining room, a private screening room, a pool table and bar as well as a dance studio and yoga room.

On the upper level SHH’s interior design effort was focused on shaping a unique lateral space to bring balance and a subtle feel of luxury for modern living. The upper floor benefits from ample light coming through the wrap around glazing and a large outdoor terrace which circles around the entire apartment. The terrace offers an ideal space for entertaining guests with 360° views to the gardens. The Lower Ground space sits in a complete contrast to the upper level and features warm and deep tones around the furniture and walls which are enriched by details of bronze, marble and glass.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

By showcasing our work alongside other talented designers, we contribute to the collective innovation and evolution of the field. And in the end, the most fulfilling aspect is seeing the positive impact our designs have on people's lives, making all the effort put into these awards truly worthwhile.

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

Being a Finalist isn't just about business accolades—it's a commitment to raising the standard of interior design as a whole. The decision to enter professional awards isn't just about recognition, but about pushing the boundaries of our creativity and expertise. These awards serve as a great platform to showcase the culmination of hard work, innovative design solutions, and meticulous attention to detail that goes into every project we work on.

Questions answered by Bethany Prince, Associate Interior Designer at SHH.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a bold and magical apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Mane Design.

Bright colours and pied-de-poule prints, interesting architecture and the design of the duplex apartment immediately evoke memories of the heroine of the book by Lewis Carroll. The height of the ceilings in some places reaches 6 metres, the huge windows in the kitchen/living room area let in a lot of light. And of course, a spacious dressing room in the master area with a window in the ceiling, makes you fantasise… The second floor is allocated for a child’s room. It is made in a discreet style, in the spirit of classic English cabinet interiors.

What was the client's brief? 

The apartment belongs to the designer of our studio. Since the designer had seen many different apartments thanks to her work, she chose an apartment with interesting and unusual planning for herself, but the most interesting thing is that it was difficult to understand what the designer would like for herself in terms of design, as we always work with a client and enter mentally into his project, she never thought about what she would like for herself. As a result, it turned out that many details of designs that we previously had done for clients came together and created such a non-standard interior.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were inspired by the apartment itself and, of course, complete freedom of action. Here we could unleash our creative potential without restrictions and let ourselves to have fun. It was only necessary to remember about the limited budget. The interior became so unusual and cozy that an association with the book Alice in Wonderland was soon born. We are sure that Alice would live in such a magical and bold interior.

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

The designer wanted not only unique and unusual combinations in the interior, but also unique sanitary ware, wallpaper, door handles etc that were not used in other projects.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Main highlights I have already described above, and of course also it was to find a balance in mixing bright colours, prints, styles.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Our interior design studio has been participating in the SBID Awards for the fourth year and we reach the final every year. It is important for our studio to see the view to our projects from the outside and we are very happy receive high reviews. Last year, our sport club project was awarded the Grand Prix.

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

Of course international recognition expands the possibilities of the studio. We proudly announce our achievements to the World.

Questions answered by Mane Mehrabyan, Founder of Mane Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a modern and neutral family home design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Inside Studio.

Inside Studio was tasked with the brief to transform a dated space into a home that reflects the needs of the clients’ growing family. The design had to have full impact of a transformation whilst retaining the existing kitchen, flooring, sofa and gas fire. Regardless of the many elements that remained, Inside Studio wowed the clients with a complete transformation of the space, introducing classic details to point back to the original architecture of the house, whilst keeping the balance with the modern elements. Enriching the space with a colour and materials scheme that is luxurious, timeless and family friendly.

What was the client's brief? 

We were tasked with the brief to transform a dated space into one that meets the needs of how the clients’ growing family uses the space, without compromising on the aesthetics.

What inspired the design of the project?

We introduced classic details in the design to point back to the original architecture of the house, whilst keeping the balance with the modern elements that the space already had installed, such as the kitchen and fireplace. To keep the aesthetics warm and inviting, whilst suitable for a young family, we used layered with textures with a neutral base accentuated with rich warm colours.

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

The design had to have full impact of a transformation whilst retaining the existing kitchen, flooring, sofa and gas fire.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Regardless of the many elements that remained, the design wowed the clients with a complete transformation of the space. The final end result turned out just as we had designed, every detail was followed and the end result exceeded our clients’ expectations.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We are very proud of the results on this project, to win an SBID Award would be such an honour for our team who worked on this project and for our clients who trusted us with their home.

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

We are so thrilled that our project is recognised amongst so many amazing and inspiring projects - we feel so honoured!

Questions answered by Alisa Bowen, Director at Inside Studio.

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

Questions answered by Kia Stanford, Founder of Kia Designs.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features 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 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 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.