Katja Kessler Kreation Design a Colour Coordinated Office Space

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colour coordinated office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Katja Kessler Kreation.

A former 17-storey high-rise signature office building which was abandoned for years and only populated by an army of pigeons is currently subjected to a complete makeover. The first task Katja Kessler Kreation is assigned with by the client: creating a unique interior design handwriting for various functionalities within the building (such as the entrance lobby, the spacious day bar, the boarding homes, the coworking settings and the panorama conference floor). Second task: These highly elaborated fancy floors should effortlessly blend into the building’s all-over-design (created by Katja Kessler creation, too) which is targeting a more classy design.

What was the client's brief? 

A former 17-storey high-rise signature office building in the heart of Germany which was abandoned for years and only populated by an army of pigeons is currently subjected to a complete makeover. The client wants the interior to serve a vast variety of different functionalities and purposes including a day bar, boarding rooms, co-working settings, offices and conference floors. He asked us to give every single area an individual touch that would provide a high recognition value within the building while blending into the all-over design.

What inspired the design of the project?

We were primarily inspired by the monotonous grey and cold concrete shell of the building. Therefore to set a contrast, we decided to give each floor a distinctive feature by attributing individual vivid colour-codes.

The history of the building - a former Telecom headquarter from the seventies – had a big impact on our design philosophy of this project, too. An old phone booth was reinvented, its windows replaced by screens, and now serves as a guide post for visitors entering the building. The pages of an old telephone book were digitally obtained, replicated, and printed as a wallpaper and now cover the walls of the entrance area. All these are examples of how attention to small details can have a significant impact on the over-all appearance. Redefining old and meaningful components to incorporate them into the building has been a major key to the all-over interior concept of this project.

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

The sheer size of the project, the number of people involved, and the range of functionalities and purposes – all these aspects accumulated into one big challenge: Not to lose track of the core ideas and principles of this project – to create an inviting modern interior which doesn’t need a manual to be understood but provides an iPad moment, because it is self-explaining.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Amidst the messy construction site full of dirt, dust and junk piles we staged a fully equipped pop-up hotel room made up only of four drywalls and a door. Passing through this door was like glimpsing into the future: Sunlight was flooding through cosy velvet curtains, a bed with fluffed pillows dared you to take a spontaneous nap, and a toothbrush on the stylish looking vanity awaited your late-night routine. This was a moment of wow, accompanied by a breath-taking view over the city skyline.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I've been following the SBID Awards for a long time and have repeatedly been inspired and impressed by the submitted projects. This year, I thought now or never and submitted my own application.

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

So many people congratulated us for the nomination via social media. It feels like participating in a kind of interior Oscar. That alone has been a great compliment for me and the rest of my team.

Questions answered by Katja Kessler, Founder of Katja Kessler Kreation.

Akabeko, the latest creation from award-winning design studio 4SPACE, introduces a fresh take on traditional Japanese yakiniku dining. Located in Dubai, Akabeko blends the elegance of Japanese heritage with modern design, offering an immersive and captivating dining experience that appeals to both design aficionados and culinary enthusiasts alike.

Where Tradition Meets Modern Design

Akabeko is inspired by the iconic Akabeko cow, a symbol of strength and endurance in Aizu folklore. The restaurant’s name and central design element – the striking Akabeko statue – celebrate this cultural symbol while anchoring the restaurant’s identity. The Akabeko cow, with its deep red hue, infuses the space with cultural significance and establishes a connection between Japanese tradition and modern dining aesthetics.

The design of Akabeko is guided by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and the transient nature of life. This philosophy is reflected in the choice of natural materials, subtle textures, and organic forms that permeate the restaurant’s interior. The design seamlessly fuses Japanese tradition with contemporary elements, making Akabeko a visually compelling space where diners can connect with both the past and present.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Storytelling

The interior of Akabeko showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The contrast of textured black walls against warm wood tones creates a welcoming yet sophisticated atmosphere, while strategically placed, indirect lighting adds depth and warmth to the space. These carefully considered design elements contribute to a sense of tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience.

Cultural storytelling is a key component of Akabeko’s design. The restaurant’s layout and décor are inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, from the use of bonsai trees as living art pieces to the intricate light patterns that play on walls and surfaces. The Akabeko statue serves as a focal point, imbuing the space with a narrative that ties the restaurant’s design to its cultural roots. The integration of these symbolic elements goes beyond aesthetics, offering diners an enriched experience that resonates with Japanese heritage.

An Elevated Culinary Experience

Akabeko reimagines the yakiniku dining experience by combining the finest Japanese wagyu with state-of-the-art culinary technology. At each table, smokeless grills are seamlessly integrated, allowing guests to enjoy an interactive and intimate cooking experience. The presence of highly skilled chefs adds a personal touch, guiding diners in preparing their meal while showcasing the art of yakiniku.

Akabeko’s menu emphasises quality and authenticity, with a focus on premium cuts of wagyu, celebrated for its marbling and flavor. The combination of traditional Japanese culinary methods and cutting-edge technology ensures that each dish is prepared to perfection, offering diners a taste of Japanese gastronomy at its finest.

Designed for Privacy and Connection

The spatial layout of Akabeko is designed with the diner in mind. Carefully arranged booths and tables provide a balance between privacy and connection, allowing guests to enjoy an intimate meal while remaining engaged with the restaurant’s overall ambiance. This thoughtful design creates a welcoming environment where diners can savor their meal while feeling connected to the cultural and social energy of the space.

Sustainability and Modern Responsibility

In addition to its design and culinary achievements, Akabeko emphasizes sustainability through the use of natural materials and energy-efficient technologies. 4SPACE’s commitment to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary global values, making Akabeko not only a celebration of Japanese tradition but also a model for responsible design and consumption in the hospitality industry.

Conclusion

Akabeko by 4SPACE is more than just a restaurant - it’s a journey into the heart of Japanese culture, redefined for modern times. With its thoughtful integration of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation, Akabeko offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that resonates on both sensory and cultural levels. Whether through its design that celebrates wabi-sabi, its menu of world-class wagyu, or its commitment to sustainability, Akabeko invites guests to enjoy a truly immersive dining experience.

Project Specifications

– Size: 240 sqm
– Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
– Contractor: Laads Contracting LLC
– Design: 4SPACE

Collaborators:
– Furniture by Interior 360 and Al Huzaifa
– Lighting by Huda Lighting and Folio Lighting
– Marble Granule Flooring by Colortek
– Facade covering solution by I-Mesh
– Wood flooring by Lignum
– 3D printed Akabeko cow by Proto 21

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.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a feminine and serene office design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Shalini Misra.

On a thriving street in London’s Mayfair, Shalini Misra has designed the interiors to a feminine, modern office space with a curated mix of materials from marble and timber with metal accents to fluted glass. Artwork is hung in the entrance, main office and board room giving a high-end residential feel. The main office is separated from the other areas with a glass fluted wall to allow light to flow throughout the space, with motorised blinds installed for privacy. Plants are placed throughout to bring in the essential presence of nature and the terrace provides a private outdoor space.

What was the client's brief? 

The client aspired for an office space that radiates a homely, feminine, modern, and serene ambiance, enriched by an abundance of green elements. With a harmonious combination of materials like timber, marble, glass, and elegant metal accents, the bespoke shelves incorporate captivating accessories, creating a striking backdrop for the client. Meticulously crafted custom furniture, rugs, and the addition of exquisite Hermes and silk wallpapers catered to individual needs, elevating each space with an extra layer of elegance and charm. Additionally, the use of burgundy and navy upholstery infuses a vibrant and colourful rhythm throughout all areas.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our design approach was guided by the client's love for nature, greenery, and abundant natural light, along with her impressive art collection. The design layout seamlessly integrates a cleverly crafted glass-fluted wall that delineates the main office space, allowing for the uninterrupted flow of natural light while ensuring privacy through the inclusion of motorized blinds. Carefully positioned plants breathe a vital sense of nature into the setting, while the terrace offers a secluded outdoor sanctuary.

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

Although we faced challenges posed by joinery-related delays, achieving timely project completion was effectively overcome through swift on-the-spot solutions, ensuring the smooth progression of the project.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

When we handed over the project to the client, she was thrilled. Over the years, every time we see her or hear from the team, they fondly recall the office's inception and express ongoing enjoyment of their work environment.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered the SBID Awards to showcase my recent interior projects, gain recognition within the industry, and connect with fellow professionals. The awards provide an excellent platform to highlight my studios creative abilities and contribute to the broader design community.

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

Being a finalist in the awards has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me and my design studio. It signifies that our hard work, dedication, and innovative approach to interior design are being acknowledged and celebrated by our peers and the industry. This recognition not only boosts our team's morale and motivation but also enhances our credibility and reputation. It inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity in our projects.

The Victoria has been at the heart of the Withington community for over 100 years. MGI worked closely with their clients Hydes Brewery to ensure this pub will stand the test of time by bringing up to date the interior of this late 1800 building while still retaining several of its original features.

MGI brightened up the bar servery, specified new flooring, furniture, lighting and window dressings and the walls now adorn some brighter colours and stylish wallpaper. The back of the pub was opened up to enhance sport viewing with a new darts feature that can be enjoyed by all.

The atmosphere created suits both the locals who have been a constant feature of this pub for decades while attracting the students that come through the doors every year to enjoy Manchester's drinking scene.

The design has been a great success and the pub is packed nightly with all ages and professions and will stand to serve the community of Withington for many more decades to come!

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.

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

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

Questions answered by Kia Stanford, Founder of Kia Designs.

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

Questions answered by Nina Greenwood, Lead Designer at Anomaly.

With the original built in wardrobe’s removed the layout was reconfigured and new bespoke wardrobes were built in but this time also including a dressing table and window seat with shoe storage. By removing a radiator from under the window and adding in underfloor heating instead allowed storage to wrap around the room and made it possible to have a dressing table, with the bench seat under the window doubled up as shoe storage.

The colour scheme was restful, light and airy. Clean lines and minimalist style with furniture, wardrobe handles, bespoke wardrobes, bespoke headboard all created a contemporary but timeless master bedroom.

Textured wallpaper was used on the main wall and also repeated this on the wardrobe doors, a soft loop wool carpet was added, texture fabric with piping for the headboard was repeated for the bench seat cushion, plus the curtains and roman blinds were made of three different but complementary fabrics – this was to create a design feature and add more detail to the room, but also keeping the straight, minimal lines.

Attention detail features throughout the room, notably the textured finials on the curtain pole, the green floating shelves linking the sage green into the bedroom and creating a cohesive flow. The final result of this bedroom renovation meant it felt more spacious, open, lighter and tranquil.

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.

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

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

What was the client's brief? 

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

What inspired the design of the project?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

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

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

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

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

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

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

Balan and Nambisan Architects have designed this modern industrial home for a young couple and their toddler twins, filled with surprises around every corner all the way into the bathrooms. Sitting on a quiet lane of a busy neighbourhood, this penthouse sits at a vantage point to watch planes take-off from the runway next door.

The house is split into two parts with very practical serviceability hidden away behind multiple pocket doors. One wing houses the entertainment pad - souped up with a media lounge, convertible guest bed and an indoor and outdoor bar perfect to bring the parties home.

The other wing boasts a dramatic double height family, dining and kitchen area into which the upper level of bedrooms look into. Chunky steel beams punctuate the volume, dipping low to embrace human scale.

A lush balcony with a Jacuzzi surrounded by dense foliage acts as an oasis amidst a concrete jungle.

Each sleep-suite is fully equipped with the works for its respective users - a playful loft for the twins, a glamorous walk-in with an ensuite to match for the missus, and a moody jet-black rock-cut skylit shower for the mister.

The structure is left raw like an exoskeleton - the corrugated underdecks painted a cold grey set against dark rafters and beams and exposed tracks to light up the whole space.

A delicate cluster of handmade metal discs light up the double height volume in stark contrast. The entire house is a vibe of its own, only short of its vibrant occupants.

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