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Project of the Week

This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a lavish apartment design by 2020 SBID Awards Finalist, Cheng Chung Design. The skyscraper One Sanlitun is already a valuable addition to Beijing's skyline, and the luxurious apartments furnished by CCD are a feast for the eyes.

Cheng Chung Design (CCD) used inspiration from international brands of the highest level, such as Armani, Aston Martin, Chanel, Hermès, Bottega Veneta and Fendi, for a series of luxury apartments in this skyscraper. CCD is known for introducing Western artistic forms into Oriental concepts. The apartment we see here takes characteristic elements from the Italian luxury fashion brand Fendi bringing the classic style of Rome to Beijing.

For the apartment One Sanlitun - Fendi, CCD was inspired by the philosophy where a balance is sought between the classical and the modern, the sophisticated and the playful. It integrates Italian history and humanity with Fendi's brand story as the design inspiration, and presents Fendi’s art, fashion and lifestyle in an elegant way.

SBID Awards Category: Residential House Under £1 Million Sponsored by Sans Souci

Practise: Cheng Chung Design

Project: One Sanlitun - Fendi

Location: Beijing, China

What was the client's brief? 

Beijing Topwin investment group was founded in 1996. The company adheres to the concept of quality to rejuvenate areas such as real estate, hotel, golf court, energy investment and management, among other diverse sectors. Topwin Group is the owner who pursues aesthetics and hopes to lead in the high-quality domestic real estate, using art and design works.

What inspired the design of the project?

It is the unique charm of the Fendi brand. Fendi stems from the history, art and aesthetics of Rome. CCD combines Fendi's brand concept with the interior design of luxury apartments in the bustling business district of Beijing to create a brand-new experience, where guests can interact with Fendi's furniture and accessories more intuitively and deeply, along with the artistic appeal brought by artworks.

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

The most difficult part of the design is the integration of the huge cultural differences. Fendi is based in Rome, the eternal city of Italy, while Beijing is famous in the oriental cultures and history. Therefore, it is hard to balance the collision between the two cities. The design needs to maintain harmony between classic and modern, elegant and stable, without losing the focus on space.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The focal point of the design is the combination of practicality of space and the classic Fendi's brand style. Returning to the examination of this exquisite living space, we focus on the juxtaposition of decorative materials, Fendi's ultimate luxurious aesthetic, and the display effect.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

SBID Awards is one of the most prestigious events in the design industry. Winning the SBID International Design Award symbolizes high achievement and honour. We think that the unique design and ambience of the space, which reflects functional and aesthetic consideration, thoughtful material selection, technology, light and shadow make One Sanlitun – Fendi a brilliant piece of interior design, that is worthy of this award.

Questions answered by Joe Cheng, Founder & Chairman, CCD.

We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring an Oscar Crescent design by ET Design & Build Ltd., click here to see more.

With proud roots in Hong Kong since 1928, The Peninsula has been synonymous with refined Asian tastes and experiences, and an icon in the world of travel and hospitality.

Crosstec Group share the delight of unveiling The Peninsula Boutique & Café, designed by Conran Design Group - a newly opened retail space and a dining destination in one of the Peninsula hotels in Hong Kong. It celebrates the finest gourmet ingredients and dining experiences that reflect the legendary hotel’s reputation for excellence.

"It was a memorable journey for our CROSSTEC team, starting from design development to the final renovation fit out. The project features the work of extraordinary craftsmanship and partnership from various parties."

The Café and its products are all about exclusivity and excellence. Crosstec Group ensured that the interiors correspond to the brand and its values, and aimed to represent the Peninsula's rich heritage in their design. They achieved an elegant, yet relaxed and approachable look and feel for the Boutique, making the Peninsula Café the ultimate spot to unwind and share with friends, family or business associates.

The Peninsula invites guests to try their delicious culinary creations and beverages, accompanied with the famed Peninsula customer service, before exploring books on design, travel and culture by renowned French luxury publisher Assouline.

The guest experiences at the hotel will be enhanced not only by the premium food and stylish gifts they will find at the Boutique, but also by the design that is so unique to the place it is bound to become a tourist destination in itself.

Crosstec team believes that the visitors will be able to enjoy the exclusive and immersive dining experience at The Peninsula Boutique & Café and they congratulate the Peninsula on the grand opening.

About

Crosstec Group Holdings Limited (3893.HK) is a one-stop provider of interior design solutions and the majority of their clients are global luxury goods and high-end fashion brands with retail stores across the world. They serve a global client base with footprints in various parts of the world including Hong Kong, China, the United States, Europe, Middle East and other Asian countries.

If you'd like to become SBID Accredited, click here to find out more. 

Project of the Week

This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a luxury residential design by 2020 SBID Awards Finalist, ET Design & Build.

Situated next to the Macau Jockey Club and nearby International Hotel Resorts, this residence has an outstanding view. The owners, a 50-year-old married couple, requested a classy clubhouse style home to accommodate their friends and family. Thus, the luxury of leisure space, the superiority of materials and the quality of finish were important elements of this project.

SBID Awards Category: Residential Apartment Over £1M Finalists Sponsored by Vectorworks

Practise: ET Design & Build

Project: Oscar Crescent

Location: Macau, Macau S.A.R.

What was the client's brief? 

The client requested to restructure the floor plan to maximize the leisure space area (include the living/dining area) along with the balcony and full-length windows to take full advantage of the natural light and the day & night scenery.

What inspired the design of the project?

As part of the owner’s hobby, we incorporated a custom-made pool table and a birdcage to house the owner’s pet parrot as part of the design. As for the owner’s private area, they needed a master bedroom fully equipped with a walk-in closet, make-up table, dressing area and bathroom to endorse a comfortable leisure lifestyle. Also, a multi-purpose room to serve a study or guest room, as needed. The entire house needed to be equipped with a smart house system and electronic curtain system for the owner's convenience.

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

To achieve the design goal, besides matching the colour palate with suitable materials to portrait a luxurious look and feel, the designer put in much effort to source a great number of decorations, including the paintings, different art pieces, floral arrangements, etc to enhance the overall design effect. All furniture and lighting requirements were thoroughly discussed and agreed upon by the client to integrate with the design.

The construction team did a great job in executing a quality finishing of the project. The selection of materials was also the key to a perfect finished project. There are more than 3 types of marbles used in this apartment; the material that represents luxury and glamour and pairing marble with Golden/black mirror/brush steel made the pieces cutting edge and classic at the same time. The choice of wallcoverings and the soft shade of grey stone materials boards were also unique.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Aside from the luxurious clubhouse concept, the use of the birdcage element is the highlight of this design. The idea was inspired by the owner’s request for a birdcage to house his pet parrot. The designer extended this thought to not only transform the cage into a golden art piece but also placing 6 golden birdcage lightings, with different sizes and heights above the owner’s custom-made pool table as a functional and decorative item. The combination of these items with the sunset painting background has become the selected corner of the overall design and focal attention point upon entering the apartment.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

This Award for design standards attracts entries from across the world, making it truly an honour and a sign of industry recognition that is second to none for the deserving winners.

Questions answered by Tam Pui Wing, Design Director, ET Design & Build.

We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a unique restaurant design, click here to see more.

The post-pandemic environment has forced us to reconsider our understanding of the traditional definitions of living, working and leisure. Particularly for the Interior design industry, these questions necessitate an investigation into the pre-established typologies in both the private and public realms. Hosted by SBID’s founder & CEO, Vanessa Brady, the webinar series intends to examine specific typologies, the conflation of their boundaries, the emergence of new definitions of interior space and the consequential impact on the people who commission, design and use them.

EPISODE ONE: The Future of Hospitality Design

For episode one, the focus is on the hospitality and travel industries which have faced considerable challenges during the pandemic. The limited mobility and opportunities for interaction between people during this period have meant that demand has waned. On the other hand, continual restrictions has created a pent-up need to escape and to bolster one’s well-being. Guest speakers, Kar-Hwa Ho, Head of Interior Architecture at Zaha Hadid Architects; Douglas Grieco, Senior Director of Architecture and Design at Hilton Hotels; and Mari Balestrazzi, Director of Operations for Environments at Airbnb address how hospitality as an industry foresees a fundamental change in the services that it is expected to provide, and how design can evolve to navigate these restrictions, while satisfying the needs of current lifestyles.

Key discussion points:
  • One key thing that the pandemic has underscored is the need for adaptability. While the focus has been on the immediate need to adapt to rules that keep changing constantly, how do the effects impact the way hospitality services are programmed and physically designed?
  • For many, what was missing during this period of enforced isolation, was the sense of community and connection. While we have experienced the advantages of virtual connection, how do we design or program experiences in a meaningful and global way?
  • With leisure/personal time being monetized and commodified with a decline in business travel, has the design of experiences become the starting point of a design brief as opposed to the physical accommodation of its functions? Would we envisage the involvement of interior architects at an early brief development stage to allow for pro-active engagement rather than a reactive response to a pre-determined program?
  • With the hindsight of the last year and a half behind us, would you approach your current role any differently? What are the key changes?
    Watch on demand
    Speakers:
    Kar-Hwa Ho

    Kar-Hwa Ho | Head of Interior Architecture at Zaha Hadid Architects

    Kar first worked with Zaha Hadid in the 1980s on a number of competitions and architectural projects. For eleven years he worked with Kohn Pedersen Fox as the Senior Associate Principal responsible for the design and implementation of mixed use, commercial and retail projects across the USA, Asia and UK. He ten spent eight years with Louis Vuitton Malletier in Paris, as the Design Director in charge of the establishment and development of LV stores across the Asia-Pacific Region. Kar re-joined ZHA in 2014 to set up and lead the new ZHA Interior Architecture cluster that strengthened ZHA’s architectural offer to include bespoke interiors, furniture and product design for both private and public projects.

    Douglad Grieco - Hilton Hotels

    Douglas Grieco | Senior Director of Architecture and Design at Hilton Hotels

    Douglas is a brand and innovation leader with a strong entrepreneurial background. He has worked for 2 Pritzker prize winning architects, holds 2 Masters Degrees and led Design for W Hotels. With Hilton Hotels, as Senior Director of Architecture and Design for Latin America, he is on the team responsible for growing the LATAM region through hotel projects and brand extensions. Specifically, Douglas is leading Design for Collection, Full serve and Lifestyle brands in Central America and South America. He also teaches Hotel Design and Brand Development at Yale, Columbia, and Parsons New School for Design.

    Mari Balestrazzi - Airbnb

    Mari Balestrazzi | Director of Operations for Environments at Airbnb

    As Director of Operations for Environments, Mari oversees the team that designs Airbnb’s offices worldwide, and collaborates with real estate developers to create new models of housing that support Airbnb’s goal for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way. Before assuming her role at Airbnb, Mari held numerous positions within the hospitality design industry; most recently she was Vice President of Design Services for Hyatt Hotels in Chicago, where she oversaw design for Hyatt’s portfolio of full-service hotel brands throughout the Americas region.

    Cover image credits: Project by Zaha Hadid Architects

    Project of the Week

    This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a unique restaurant design by 2020 SBID Awards Finalist, Bishop Design. Becoming a magnet for residents seeking a refreshing and dynamic experience, BOHO Social is something that has been hugely awaited across the country. Qatari’s have been ready for an exciting F&B hotspot to hit the scene, with BOHO becoming that integral pedestal in achieving the united vision of this dynamic culture.

    Whilst the venue isn’t driven by alcohol, people frequent for genuinely good food and amazing ambience – a true testament to the collaborative mindset of hospitality and design mavericks. The venue, therefore, fits perfectly within its locale, satisfying the desires of Qatar’s people.

    SBID Awards Category: Restaurant Design Sponsored by Garrett Leather

    Practise: Bishop Design By Paul Bishop

    Project: BOHO Social

    Location: Doha, Qatar

    What was the client's brief? 

    When one of the biggest names in the hospitality industry reached out to us with a unique F&B destination in the bustling heart of Qatar in mind, there was no way we could turn the opportunity down. FLIP International have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the industry as they boast a multitude of successful hospitality concepts in their portfolio. This most recent venture was to reside on Katara Beach – the latest “it” destination in Qatar.

    Desiring a complete contrast to existing offerings in Qatar and the Middle East, we were given the brief to create a dynamic social destination. This hub was to be eclectic, yet modern and would echo hues of the Bohemian era. When stripped back this ideology of bohemian lifestyle represents a free spirit; a traveller and a creative. Alas, Boho Social was born. These characteristics have been beautifully embraced throughout the entire interior styling, building a venue that concretizes itself as a new era to Doha and Qatar in its entirety.

    What inspired the design of the project?

    The approach became focused on how we could truly animate the space through design whilst respecting the brief. Colour became a key aspect of the interior styling as it perfectly encapsulated bohemian sentiments whilst simultaneously providing character, depth and soul to the space. Fluid poured terrazzo gives a striking effect as the ground pours into the centre of the space. Pattern-happy accessories, traditional ottoman chairs and fabric colour waves all converge to create this unique overlay of infectious energy and palpable excitement. Eclectic modernism encapsulates this interior realm which is mirrored across the exterior as the terrace elevates an intoxicating mélange of furniture, whilst vibrant rugs gracefully transport guests through the external experience.

    It’s evident that each design aspect optimizes the overriding sentiments of the Bohemian lifestyle whilst respecting the demographic of which it sits. In particular, the sculptural oryx heads featured in the VIP rooms are an iconic symbol of Qatar. Touches such as this remain fun, quirky but always respectful of the narrative and surrounding culture. Hand-painted tiles curated by a renowned Middle Eastern artisan adorn surfaces within, contributing to this boho-chic personality. Each tile was bespoke, customized and hand-painted on site. This attention to detail and showcase of creative mastery sit perfectly with the overriding story and character of BOHO Social.

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

    We were faced with architectural challenges when inheriting the space, specifically in terms of the double-height area as a mezzanine level had to be considered to fulfil aspirations of a functional F&B environment. Internally speaking, the space was uninspired and as such called for intelligent solutions to create a successful venue.

    What was your team’s highlight of the project?

    When we speak of Qatar as a destination it isn’t necessarily a part of the world that is on everyone’s radar when it comes to hospitality and entertainment just yet, so to have the opportunity to reinvent that perception has been a refreshingly exciting responsibility and we feel it is just the beginning of a very exciting chapter for the country.

    Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

    As creatives, we rely heavily on recognition from esteemed committees to sustain our credibility, and there’s no other platform that offers it quite like SBID. They are, quite simply, an undisputed achievement within the design world and we take immense pride in having the opportunity to put forward our best work year upon year.

    Questions answered by Paul Bishop, Owner and Founder, and Selini Bishop, PR Executive, Bishop Design.

    We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!

    If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a hotel suite design by Portview, click here to see more.

    Professional accreditation provides impartial third-party certification or endorsement of an individual's level of knowledge, skill, experience and proficiency to practice within a specific industry or profession. Granted by authorities in the field, accreditation for professional competence is often affiliated with the industry’s trade or professional association (also referred to as a body, organisation or society), interested in raising the industry’s standards.

    Why do interior designers need it?

    Professional bodies help to define and set standards for professional practice. Unlike chartered professions, due to the lack of official title recognition for an interior designer, there is no universally accepted definition recognised by government for qualifying an interior design professional or distinguishing a proven, professionally trained interior designer against an interior decorator, stylist or untrained hobbyist.

    Why does the interior design industry need regulation?

    Architects and engineers are often the professionals credited for the creation of safe internal environments – while the role of an interior designer is overlooked in terms of its impact on public health and safety. Much more than mere aesthetics of dressing a space, an interior designers choices and advice can have significant implications on our health and wellbeing. Inaccurate advice or inappropriate specification may breach laws or compliance regulations, incur additional cost, generate delays or increase risks to those who invest in and ultimately use the space.

    What does SBID Accreditation do?

    For over a decade, the Society of British & International Interior Design (SBID) has represented, promoted and protected the interests of practicing interior designers in industry, government and trade, creating a widely recognised benchmark for professional standards with its first-to-market Accreditation criteria – defined by an interior designer’s level of education, experience and competence.

    To ensure the welfare and safety of clients and end-users – from adhering to building regulations and ethical business practices, to making compliant material specification and space planning, SBID Accredited Designers must comply with its Code of Conduct and Ethics which set out the expectations for design professionals operating in a safe, compliant and ethical manor.

    What does this mean for the public?

    Achieving SBID's Interior Design Accreditation provides clients with reassurance that the design services offered are quality-assessed to meet the required industry standards for compliant professional practice.

    SBID also require its Accredited Designers to commit to an annual programme of continued professional development to maintain relevant skills and knowledge. Ensuring the designers commissioned are sufficiently trained, educated and experienced to perform at the highest level is essential for improving public safety, reducing industry complaints and driving professional standards.

    To find out more about SBID's professional accreditation for interior designers, click here.

    Become SBID Accredited

    Project of the Week

    This week's instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a luxury hotel-suite design by 2020 SBID Awards Finalist, Portview. In September 2019 the fit-out specialist completed a new luxury suite, Lincoln House, for Rosewood London. The three-bedroom suite was designed by Tony Chi and offers an expansive 251 square meters of light-filled living space, including one of London’s largest master bedrooms.

    Lincoln House is positioned between the hotel’s Garden House suite and the famous Manor House – London’s only suite with its own postcode. The ultra-luxurious Lincoln House is named in honour of the hotel’s close proximity to Lincoln’s Inn Field and the illustrious Inns of Court.

    SBID Awards Category: Hotel Bedroom & Suites Design Sponsored by Schneider Electric

    Practise: Portview

    Project: Rosewood Lincoln

    Location: London, United Kingdom

    What was the client's brief? 

    Lincoln House is positioned between the hotel’s Garden House suite and the famous Manor House – London’s only suite with its own postcode. It’s named in honour of the hotel’s close proximity to Lincoln’s Inn Field and the illustrious Inns of Court, which have defined Holborn since medieval times, so our brief was to execute a concept that reflects the environment in High Holborn - presenting an interior that has character and a luxurious, residential feel.

    What inspired the design of the project?

    The combination of interiors conceived by Tony Chi - the designer behind the original hotel areas – and bespoke furnishings, finely curated decorative elements and intriguing works of art, give the suite an exceptional depth of character that was inspired by High Holborn. Italian furnishings include Meridiani and Minotti sofas, Silvera armchairs, as well as rugs and tables by Il Piccolo. Based on a rich palette of materials including Wenge timber flooring and sumptuous carpets, finishes also include the use of Arabescado marble in the bathrooms and Eglomised glass feature screens to give it an ultra-luxurious, residential feel.

    The versatile open-plan entertainment and living room was designed for socialising with friends and family, and comprises a residential living and dining room, with a spacious foyer and adjoining kitchen. The suite is outfitted with the latest technology, including a state of the art 75-inch television, and panoramic windows run the length of the entire wall, bathing the space in natural light. With panoramic windows running the length of the entire wall, the voluminous space is outfitted with the latest technology including Lutron controlled lighting. High gloss lacquered panelling and doors were used throughout to give the suite a timeless yet modern feel.

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

    Working on a complex project in a live, five-star environment presents its own unique set of challenges and this one was no different. Our team did a fantastic job of minimising any disruption, through seamless coordination and carefully thought-out project management. I’m pleased to say the results were worth the effort. It’s a fantastic looking suite that perfectly reflects the opulent and illustrious reputation of the famous Rosewood brand.

    What was your team’s highlight of the project?

    Working in partnership with Rosewood was a delight, largely thanks to our shared passion for creating exceptional spaces, experiences and solutions for people to enjoy. It was a real team effort, and we take great pride in having completed another standout project for one of the world’s most luxurious hospitality brands.

    Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

    The SBID Awards set the precedent for design excellence and are hugely influential in curating new trends and industry standards, which we all aspire to. At Portview we pride ourselves in delivering exceptional interiors that are world-class. To be recognised on a global scale by one of the industry’s most respected organisations is a huge achievement and one we’re very proud of. Last year we were not only finalists in the hotel interiors category, but we also won the retail category for a consecutive year with the fit-out of Samsung KX, in London. It was a brilliant experience and one which we hope to achieve again in future.

    Questions answered by Simon Campbell, Managing Director, Portview.

    We hope you feel inspired by this week's design!

    If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a residential design by XBD Collective, click here to see more.

    Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration when it comes to most sectors, and interior design is most definitely one of them. Consumers now more than ever want to know they are making the best decisions when it comes to environmental impact.

    SBID Accredited outdoor furniture specialist Oxley’s Furniture, have been sustainably making their outdoor furniture from recycled aluminium for 30 years. This recycled aluminium comes from old alloy wheels, disused airplane parts and hundreds of thousands of drinks cans.

    Why Aluminium?

    Aluminium is an amazing metal; it is 100% recyclable and will lose no quality during this process. Nearly 75% of all aluminium ever produced still being in use today. Recycling aluminium uses just 5% of the energy required to produce new aluminium and it can be recycled over and over again.

    A Business Model Ahead of Its Time...

    Using recycled aluminium creates a virtuous cycle that allows Oxley’s to manufacture luxury outdoor furniture as sustainably as possible. When Oxley’s started 30 years ago, most outdoor furniture was made of rain forest teak, now most outdoor furniture is made from woven plastic. Simon Hudson, managing director of Oxley’s Furniture says; “When we started the business we wanted to make wonderful furniture that lasted generations. At the time we loved the idea that we could do this using a recycled product. This just seemed a good practical thing to do - now this is called sustainability.”

    Built To Last

    When processed properly aluminium does not rot or rust, meaning it can be left outside all year every year. The recycled aluminium Oxley’s use is smelted and carefully graded to their particular manufacturing requirement. Oxley’s go to extreme lengths in their Cotswold factory to process their furniture in the most thorough way possible, so it is unaffected by weather, wherever in the World it is located. So not only are the materials sourced sustainably, but Oxley’s furniture will last for generations.

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    One of the biggest concerns for interior designers is often about securing clients for their next project. In the context of high-end luxury design, the burning questions turn to how design practices go about reaching the lucrative market of ultra-high-net-worth (U/HNW) individuals.

    SBID organised an insightful panel discussion with SBID founder & CEO, Vanessa Brady as she explores the professional approaches and business strategies of leading international practices when it comes to building relationships with U/HNW clients in the UK and abroad.

    Sharing valuable perspectives across the global design industry, the panel boasts an extraordinary wealth of expertise and experience working and engaging with clients on high-value projects around the world. Speakers include Chris Godfrey, Global Principle of HBA Residential; Firas Alsahin, Co-founder and Design Director of 4SPACE Design; and Andrew Linwood, Head of Business Development at Areen Design.

    Key discussion points:
    • How do you meet and engage with U/HNW clients?
    • What do U/HNW clients value the most when choosing a design firm?
    • Do you see any changes for them regarding the requirements for interior design after the pandemic?
    • What are the key practical tips on how to gain and build trust with U/HNW clients in the UK/Europe/Asia/Middle East?

    We discover that obtaining connections with those desirable U/HNW clients is much more than presenting a design proposal with pretty pictures. The panel sheds light on key sources for reaching this elite clientelle, how they go about nuturing those relationships, managing client expectations, and ultimately, providing the level of trust, confidentially, and skills that U/HNW clients value when it comes to commissioning an interior designer for their exclusive design projects.

    The panellists also highlight their strategies for digital marketing, gaining press coverage, and achieving third-party endorsements through awards and accreditations (like those that SBID provide) as key to enhancing reputation among UHNW individuals.

    Watch on demand
    Speakers:
    Chris-Godfrey-e1615912569738-350x350

    Chris Godfrey  |  Global Principle of HBA Residential

    Chris has over 23 years experience creating highly considered and finely crafted interiors for the residences of the most discerning clients. Chris cultivated his holistic design approach; combining Architecture and Interior Design to create beautifully conceived and exquisitely delivered residences for clients who appreciate the value of design excellence. In 2018 he received the coveted Master of Design Award from SBID and is also an award-winning Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Architect.

    FIRAS PHOTO.jpg

    Firas Alsahin | Co-founder & Design Director of 4SPACE

    Firas is the Co-founder and Design Director of 4SPACE Design - a dynamic, multi-talented, and multi-awarded design studio delivering quality architectural and interior design services. He is a fully accredited SBID Professional and was chosen as one of the 20 most influential interior designers in the Middle East 2020 for Commercial Interior Design Magazine.

    Caption for this

    Andrew Linwood | Head of Business Development

    As Head of Business Development at Areen Design, Andrew has over 30 years of experience in delivering a range of projects for Hospitality, Residential and Commercial. He has designed insightful interiors for many of the world’s leading hotel operators including Hilton, Marriott, Radisson, Accor, Hyatt and InterContinental Hotels Group as well as HNWIs and sector specialist developers. He is involved in all aspects of a project: from initial client contact, brief and concept development through to documentation and site installation.

    Cover image credits: Project by HBA Residential

    Using tiles in interiors has been common practice for decades, from our bathroom floors to our kitchen walls. In fact, the use of tiles stems back to Ancient Egypt! Today, as interior designers are always looking for new ways use materials and innovate their designs, the specification of floor and wall tiles is getting more and more creative. Newly SBID Accredited specialists in tiles for specifiers, Craven Dunnill share their story; from a longstanding heritage, to how they work with interior designers to supply unique and bespoke tiling solutions for their projects. Discover their insight on the latest trends for interior tiles!

    What are the origins of Craven Dunnill?

    We have been manufacturing and supplying ceramic tiles for commercial and residential projects for 150 years, since 1872; and we use every bit of that experience to ensure that our clients are always provided with professional, market-leading and passionate support. Our vast portfolio is stocked here in the UK, showcasing the very latest of British and European produced ceramic wall and floor tiles. Our specialist production factory, based in Ironbridge UK, still operates as the oldest surviving purpose-built tile factory in the world.

    With a deeply rooted history in providing tiles for interior design specification, we offer distinctive designs inspired by our longstanding heritage, with an unrivalled reputation for quality, style, and service. With experience stretching back 150 years, we pride ourselves in our flexibility, technical support, fit for purpose guidance, and high product quality standards.

    How do you work with interior designers?

    Craven Dunnill stock the widest selection of ceramic tiles from the leading manufacturers around the World. Our vast range provides interior designers with limitless possibilities according to their project needs and requirements.

    We appreciate that every project is unique and we have extensive experience across a wide variety of projects and installations. With the knowledge and experience of what is achievable, we work closely with interior designers to ensure we select products which fit the performance, quality and longevity demands for their projects.

    We can provide a truly bespoke solution for even the most challenging of projects. If you can’t find the tile you need in our vast portfolio of wall and floor tiles, we have the facility to produce ceramic wall or floor tiles to almost any shape and/or size. All custom design and manufacture solutions are provided through our own specialist factory. Craven Dunnill Jackfield have been hand-making ceramic tiles for over 150 years and now combine modern and traditional production techniques to create bespoke wall or floor ceramics to almost any design and specification!

    What value does your sector add to the interior design industry?

    Tiles are an integral element for any project and offer a wide variety of materials, finishes and styles with versatile laying options which can bring the vision of interior designers to life. They can deliver stunning aesthetics, unify indoor and outdoor spaces with a seamless transition and offer everyday solutions to meet the challenging creative and practical demands of contemporary projects.

    Creating surfaces for many projects involves not only meeting requirements in terms of practicality, durability but also aesthetics. Tile materials can guarantee comfort, elegance, very high-quality performance and longevity for long term use to meet more eco-friendly specification approaches to sustainability.

    Today, hygiene and safety is more important than ever. Everyone wants to live and work in healthy environments. Ceramic surfaces with antibacterial protection, an anti-microbial shield integrated into the tiles, eliminate up to 99.9% of surface bacteria, 24 hours a day, forever.

    How do your services/offering enhance an interior designer’s projects? 

    Specialists like no other. Craven Dunnill is renowned for the production and supply of ceramic wall and floor tiles to all market sectors, including specification, housebuilder, commercial, retail and specialist, for both the UK and global markets.

    Product: Craven Dunnill prides itself on its choice and selection of best-in-class ceramic wall and floor tiles, sourced from the leading manufacturers around the World. Our products represent quality. And more than that, it is an ethos throughout the organisation. We have an appreciation and understanding of high-quality products, and that is recognised across everything that we do.

    Sampling: Fast and efficient sampling is an important part of our specifier support service. Smaller tiles can be despatched as full tiles, and larger tiles can be sent either as 100×100 colour swatches – perfect for mood boards – or delivered as larger tile samples.

    Service: We take our service and support very seriously – putting your needs first, and continually striving to exceed expectations. We aim to deliver an experience worth talking about, every single time. We have an experienced team of customer service advisors who are always on hand to assist with your specific enquiry, whether its face-to-face, online, or on the phone.

    Technical: At Craven Dunnill, we set ourselves apart through the quality and accuracy of our technical support and guidance. We aim to build confidence and earn the trust of our clients by providing correct and appropriate technical information, and finding a solution to meet your specific needs. We are on hand to give all the necessary guidance on selection, installation, maintenance and care.

    Our technical experts sit on a number of standards and technical committees including BSI, UKSRG (UK Slip Resistance Group) and TTA (The Tile Association). This ensures that any technical advice given is absolutely in line with current standards and industry guidance.

    Custom Design & Manufacture: Using our own specialist factory, Craven Dunnill Jackfield, we combine modern and traditional production techniques to create bespoke wall or floor ceramics to almost any design. If you can’t find the tile size you need in our vast portfolio of wall and floor tiles we have the facility to produce ceramic wall or floor tiles to almost any shape and/or size.

    Sustainability: Respect for the environment is more critical now than ever. We are market leaders in the supply of ceramic tiles with a green agenda, sourcing only from manufacturers with responsible practices and certified credentials. We have an experienced team that can support you in specifying tiles with the appropriate eco-credentials for your project.

    What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

    • Indoor/outdoor living is an enduring trend that continues to drive the need for creative and practical solutions.
    • Large format tiles in a variety of effects and finishes are increasingly moving into domestic and residential projects, while natural effect tiles as wall surfaces and feature walls remain popular.
    • There is a trend emerging towards a mix and match approach, with interior designers pushing the creative use of contrasting effects and finishes, incorporating 3D wall tiles with bold patterns and dramatic reliefs.
    • Thinner porcelain slabs, which are easier to handle and install than large stone slabs but offer the same aesthetic, are helping designers create stunning and expansive surfaces.
    • Wet room solutions are continuing to grow in popularity.
    • Highly durable porcelain is also increasingly be used as an alternative to other materials such as granite for surfaces such as kitchen worktops. Porcelain is highly durable and offers a wider variety of attractive effects and finishes.
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