Diachok Architects: Using Earthy Shades and Natural Ornaments to Create a Family Villa

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features an earthy and timeless villa design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Diachok Architects.

Vacay Villa for a large family is a project by the Diachok Architects team. The ground floor is given over to common areas that flow smoothly into each other, merging with the courtyard. There are cosy "pockets" for each functional area. Natural stones were used to decorate the space, and the smooth shapes of the columns, decorated with liquid metal, give them monolithicity and elegance. Earthy shades and natural ornaments in the textures of fabrics create a luxurious and harmonious style. Bronzed glass hides the technological elements of the space while maintaining the elegance of the design.

What was the client's brief?

The primary objective of the 9000 sq.ft house project was to design the ground floor in the format of an open space comprising common areas. All units had to be accessible from the courtyard with a view to the north. The street side would provide privacy and protection from the direct sun. The house should contain numerous common areas to accommodate various scenarios and groups of people with varying interests. The design must be functional, with space for every member of the family and their guests to find their own area and something to occupy themselves with. At the same time, all zones should remain one space, without the formation of additional closed rooms. The house should be designed to be filled with technological functions, but this should not be conspicuous. Above all, the goal was harmony - between materials, light, and form - to craft an atmosphere that feels timeless, intimate, and effortlessly refined.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design draws inspiration from the serenity of nature and the refined aesthetics of modern minimalism. Earthy tones, organic textures, and sculptural forms reflect a harmonious balance between raw elegance and contemporary sophistication. The bespoke wine display and circular dining arrangement take cues from intimate gatherings, reinforcing the idea of connection and timeless luxury.

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

One of the biggest challenges was achieving the perfect balance between minimalism and warmth. The client desired a space that felt refined yet inviting, and ensuring that the neutral palette didn’t become too stark was a key focus. We meticulously layered textures- soft suede, natural stone, and brushed metals - to create depth without overwhelming the simplicity of the design. Another hurdle was integrating the bespoke wine display seamlessly into the space without making it feel too dominant. Precision lighting and custom millwork helped us turn it into an elegant feature rather than just a functional element.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The true highlight of this project was witnessing the seamless fusion of form and function come to life. Seeing the sculptural dining space take shape - where every element, from the custom stone table to the floating pendant light, felt perfectly in sync - was incredibly rewarding. The bespoke wine display became more than just a storage feature; it transformed into an artful focal point, subtly illuminated to enhance its presence without overpowering the room.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards because we believe this project embodies the essence of thoughtful, refined interior design. The awards celebrate innovation, craftsmanship, and excellence in design, all of which were at the core of this project. Beyond the design itself, this project represents our commitment to creating interiors that evoke emotion and enhance daily living. Being recognised on such a prestigious platform would be an incredible honour, allowing us to share our vision with a global audience of design enthusiasts and industry leaders.

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

Being an SBID Award Finalist is a tremendous honour and a testament to our team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of design. It validates our commitment to crafting spaces that are not just visually striking but also deeply functional and emotionally resonant. This recognition has strengthened our presence within the global design community, opening new doors for collaborations and inspiring us to continue innovating. Most importantly, it’s a celebration of the passion, creativity, and meticulous craftsmanship that went into this project. It fuels our drive to keep delivering exceptional, timeless interiors that elevate the way people experience their spaces.

Questions answered by Vlad & Karina Diachok, Founders of Diachok Architects.

Taking inspiration from its water side setting, the Riverside project, designed by Katharine Pooley, is a luxurious pied-a-terre situated in the historical walls of the City of London. With a grand view of the Thames, the designs' textures and shades echo the movement and light that emanates from the changing tides of the river. Reflective materials, a muted and aerial inspired colour palette and bleached timbers mirror the waterside locale.

Across the design, I layered complementary dual tones throughout: gold and silver, semi-gloss weave and matte, deep blues and silvery hues - all evoking the shimmering interplay of light and texture found along the river’s edge. When designing the entrance hall, we were looking for finishes that would lighten and brighten the space as much as possible due to its internal positioning away from the vast windows in the main living areas. Textured silk wallpaper was selected for its subtle way of reflecting light. A grass cloth weave on a metallic background was specified for the panels within the coat cupboard doors, while very pale aerial, silver-toned blue was realised for the painted surfaces. A focal point is the ‘bird of paradise’ handles on the cupboard which further reflect life near the water.

When designing the living room I drew deeply from the apartment’s external setting with views that stretch toward the Thames and across to Shakespeare’s Globe. A glacial palette of soft blues and watery silvers was chosen to echo the light-play on the river, while every material and finish was selected to bounce and throw light back into the room.

An abalone-pearl-inset side table further captures the shifting colours of the sun as it dances across surfaces, echoed by the mix of metal accents and visible hardware throughout. The chandelier is detailed with baubles and reed-like forms and evokes the effervescence of rising tide bubbles. The curtains are trimmed with a pearl edging - a nod to the theatrical costumes worn on stage at the Globe visible just beyond the windows.

Furniture selections support both form and function - swivel chairs offer flexibility and I positioned them to easily face either inward or outward towards the terrace. Bespoke upholstery and a pebble inspired side table sits beautifully atop a raised-pile rug. Together, these elements create a serene interior where water, light, and location are continuously reflected and reinterpreted.

A quietly layered rhythm defines the bedroom below. Nature inspired-details and tones are used to create a calm retreat from the energy of the city beyond the windows. A verdant sectional headboard frames the bed and is flanked by panels of wallpaper. Hanging pendants are found above each bedside table, which themselves are bespoke pieces crafted with soft radial curves. They include discreet pull-out trays, perfect for resting small treasures or a morning cup of coffee. The curtains are finished with a bauble trim along the leading edges, adding a playful tactile note, while sheer layers help to diffuse the sharper lines of the metropolitan view outside.

Our team of interior designers and architects considers the surrounding environment an essential factor in crafting residential spaces. We have achieved a sense of balance by addressing the inerrant contrasts of central city life - its dynamic energy and fast pace - with the serenity of nearby nature. Through careful consideration of textures, tones, and natural materials, we bridged these opposing forces to craft a home that provides both a vibrant connection to urban living and a peaceful retreat.

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a cosy and practical care home design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, HomeSmiths.

HomeSmiths were appointed as interior designers for Kingsley Healthcare's flagship luxury care home, King's Court in Holt, Norfolk. Their remit included all finishes, the design of the bespoke furniture, free standing furniture specification, soft furnishings specification as well as art and accessories. The home has 66 bedrooms, lounges and dining rooms on each floor as well as a cafe, salon, library, cinema, garden room and private dining room.

What was the client's brief?

This was the client’s flagship luxury care home. The client was keen to take the interiors to a different level whilst still keeping in mind the practical requirements of a care home.

What inspired the design of the project?

The colours, the architecture and the history of the local area.

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

The double height café space behind reception. Acoustics were a consideration and also how we would still create a cosy feel to the seating area. The preserved moss wall works as a feature as well as dampening noise and the layout of the furniture and rich upholstery fabrics add warmth.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The train carriage we recreated on the second floor in the dementia community. The corridor between the main dining room and lounge was very wide with space for additional seating. Instead of loose furniture we designed this train feature with the windows showing views one would see from the North Norfolk Line. Hearing that a train loving resident enjoys taking his meals there when his wife visits, gave me goosebumps. This is what it’s all about! The original submission includes a photo of the carriage, and I have added an additional one of me at fit out.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I think it’s fair to say that after all the hard work, most designers get a buzz from seeing a project make finalist in a design award and the SBID awards have a great reputation.

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

Recognition from an internationally respected design accreditation body.

Questions answered by Jacqui Smith, Creative Director at HomeSmiths.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a bold and modern home design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Renata Drumond Interior Design.

Renata Drumond Interior Design was entrusted with "Project Open Skies", a venture that navigates the duality of a modern architectural masterpiece set within the idyllic Cambridgeshire countryside. Designed for cosmopolitan clients, this project harmonises bold colours and audacious design with the tranquility of its rural setting. Emphasising cutting-edge technology and a vibrant aesthetic, "Project Open Skies" encapsulates the essence of modern luxury against a serene backdrop, embodying the clients' dynamic lifestyle and preference for innovative, standout interiors. This residence is a testament to the successful integration of contemporary living within the timeless beauty of the countryside.

What was the client's brief?

The clients wanted a home that reflected their bold, cosmopolitan lifestyle—something visually striking with bold shapes and vibrant colours. They valued cutting-edge technology and open, flexible spaces where comfort and creativity could coexist seamlessly.

What inspired the design of the project?

The clients themselves were our key inspiration. Their love for modernity, unique design choices, and desire for connection to the surrounding environment guided the design. Large windows, bold materials, and custom details reflected this blend of innovation and personal taste.

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

Integrating advanced technology while maintaining warmth and comfort was a challenge. We also worked closely with artisans to ensure custom elements, like bespoke resin panels and plaster finishes, were executed exactly as envisioned.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the clients feel “at home” was the most rewarding part. The glass-domed entrance, which floods the interiors with natural light, stood out as a key highlight, along with custom details that made the design uniquely theirs.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards showcase projects that tell meaningful design stories. Project Open Skies is deeply personal, and we felt it deserved to be shared with a wider audience for its thoughtful balance of bold design and practical living.

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

It’s been an incredible milestone, providing industry recognition and opening new opportunities. Most importantly, it reaffirmed the importance of designing homes that reflect the clients’ individual needs and personalities.

Questions answered by Renata Drumond, Founder and Lead Designer at Renata Drumond Interior Design.

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

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

What was the client's brief?

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was the client's brief?

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was the client's brief?

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

Questions answered by Pia Pelkonen, Founder of Pia Design.

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

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

What was the client's brief?

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

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

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

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was the client's brief?

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

How Saunas Can Improve Mental Health

In recent years, our approach to well-being has undergone a significant transformation. Mental health has become a central focus in home design, with saunas emerging as powerful tools for psychological restoration. Drawing from biophilic design principles that connect us with natural elements, these amenities offer more than mere luxury—they provide essential spaces for mental rejuvenation.

The Therapeutic Power of Natural Aromatherapy

The traditional sauna experience has been strategically elevated through the incorporation of natural aromatic elements, particularly eucalyptus oils and the rich, grounding scent of teak wood. Scientifically validated, eucalyptus oil offers remarkable psychological benefits. Its compound 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) has been shown to reduce cortisol stress levels by up to 27%, interacting with neurotransmitter receptors to stimulate dopamine and serotonin production—providing a natural mechanism for mood enhancement and mental clarity.

Teak wood's complex fragrance adds sensory depth, releasing a warm, slightly sweet aroma that mimics ancient forests, triggering a primal sense of safety and relaxation.

Physiological and Psychological Synergy

Saunas provide a powerful convergence of physical detoxification and mental relaxation. The heat experience promotes circulation, eliminates toxins through perspiration, and soothes muscle tension. This physical relief directly contributes to mental calm, creating a virtuous cycle of well-being.

Eucalyptus oil amplifies these benefits by:
- Supporting respiratory health through antimicrobial properties
- Counterbalancing intense heat with a cooling sensation
- Reducing inflammation and mental tension

Creating a Multisensory Healing Environment

Enhanced by thoughtful lighting and strategic aromatherapy, the sauna transforms from a simple heat chamber into a holistic healing sanctuary. As essential oils diffuse, they create a microclimate of healing—eucalyptus oil penetrating deeply to offer respiratory and mental clarity, while teak wood's aroma provides a grounding counterpoint.

The Elemental Philosophy of Healing: Salt, Fire, and Therapeutic Transformation

Inspired by ancient Greek elemental philosophy, the sauna design integrates Himalayan salt walls with the transformative power of fire, creating a sophisticated therapeutic environment that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The Himalayan salt wall becomes a dynamic healing element when heated, releasing negative ions that offer significant health benefits. Scientific research demonstrates these ions can:
- Neutralise stress-associated positive ions
- Enhance serotonin production
- Improve air quality
- Reduce respiratory inflammation

When warmed, the salt wall activates its inherent mineralogical properties, creating a microclimate that mimics natural salt caves. The fire element, conceptualized in ancient philosophy as a force of revitalization, transforms from mere heat into a sophisticated healing mechanism.

This design bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding, creating an atmosphere that simultaneously warms the body, purifies the respiratory system, and uplifts the spirit—embodying a holistic approach to wellness.

Social Connection and Sensory Sharing

Saunas transcend individual healing by addressing the social dimension of mental health. Larger spaces become safe, informal environments for reconnecting with friends and family, fostering conversation and bonding away from everyday distractions.

Studio Anqet: Driving forward Wellness-Centered Design

Studio Anqet's vision of wellness design emerges as a transformative approach in this sauna project, embodying a holistic philosophy that transcends traditional architectural boundaries. Founded on the principle that physical spaces profoundly impact mental and emotional well-being, the studio has carefully crafted an environment that is more than a mere functional area—it is a therapeutic landscape.

The design philosophy reflects a deep understanding of biophilic principles, where natural elements are not simply decorative but integral to the healing process. By selecting materials like teak wood, Himalayan salt and incorporating therapeutic essential oils, Studio Anqet demonstrates a commitment to creating spaces that actively contribute to human wellness. The sauna becomes a testament to their belief that design can be a powerful tool for psychological restoration.

Each design choice—from the strategic placement of lighting to the careful selection of aromatic elements—is intentional. The studio's approach goes beyond aesthetic considerations, viewing the space as a living, breathing ecosystem designed to support mental health, reduce stress, and promote a sense of connection with natural rhythms.

A Holistic Approach to Design

By integrating natural elements—earth (wood), fire (heat & warm lighting), and sophisticated aromatherapy—modern saunas create a balanced environment that resonates with our innate need for nature connection. They are no longer mere rooms, but carefully crafted ecosystems designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.

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