This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a neutral and luxurious city apartment, designed to accommodate frequent stays in London with the upmost comfort and style. The elegantly designed, three-bedroomed duplex apartment located within a development moments from the Thames, catches your attention from the second you enter with its impressive floor to ceiling panoramic views of the City. The neutral design scheme is punctuated with elements of colour using tonal accessories, brass features and the client’s own collection of artwork.
Company: Onyx London
Project: Duplex Apartment
Project Location: London, United Kingdom
What was the client’s brief?
The client’s brief was a neutral colour palette, complimented by brushed brass details, statement lighting and Carrara marble. The joinery creates a distinctive look, with dark veneers mixed with nude wallpapers and fabrics, giving a contemporary and luxurious feel to the space.
The client lives in China and travels to London regularly. The brief was to create a space that is both practical and comfortable for their stays, but also a place they can entertain friends. The interior scheme had to be both neutral and luxurious – the mixture of statement pieces, rich textures and comfortable living create exactly this.
What inspired the interior design of the project?
I worked on a similar scheme in One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge which is still one of my most favourite projects, this project also used neutral tones and dark veneers to create a contemporary luxury in a city apartment.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
It is always a challenge having international clients. We only met the client once in London for a morning, from this meeting we were able to grasp exactly what the client wanted to achieve and deliver it within a couple of months. The client had a confidence we were the right designer to work with them and we surpassed their expectations, which made for an incredibly successful handover.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
The daughter of the family is moving to London to study and she wanted somewhere she could write. We created a study area for her on the upper floor of the Duplex, on the 17th floor, with the desk positioned between three walls from floor to ceiling in glass, with the most spectacular panoramic views of London.
Questions answered by Elizabeth Cook, Director of Onyx London
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a sales centre designed to revitalise the traditional aesthetic values of Chinese architecture, click here to see more.
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
Onyx London | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Exclusive competition for SBID members to win a 3-day pass to Salone Del Mobile this April!
SBID have launched a competition exclusively for SBID members to win a 3-day pass to the world renowned trade event Salone Del Mobile.
In collaboration with FLA Eventi, 10 lucky winners will receive a free 3 day pass to the 58th edition of the event held from the 9th – 14th April at Rho Fiera, Milan.
Salone del Mobile describes themselves as a system of connections, creativity and innovation. Within the space of a week, more than 300,000 creatives unite in Milan to gain inspiration. The show is split into three sections, classic, design and xLux and remains the home of furniture with over 2000 international exhibitors worldwide.
The competition is now closed. Winners will be notified by 6pm tonight (Friday 5 April 2019)
Competition Terms & Conditions:
1.No purchase necessary. 2. One entry per person, no bulk or third party entries. 3. Email entries for competitions should be sent to [email protected] clearly stating in the subject header the competition you are entering. 4.Competitions are open to all UK & International residents except employees of SBID, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents or anyone directly connected with the promotion. 5. No responsibility can be accepted for entries lost, delayed or mislaid 6. Prizes are as stated only and no cash alternatives will be given. However the promoter has the full and free right to alter arrangements or prizes should circumstances change. 7. The decision will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. 8. All entries and copyright in them automatically become the property of SBID. 9. All entrants to competitions and offers are deemed to have accepted these rules and agreed to be bound by them and agree to co-operate in any publicity that may arise. 10. The closing date for receipt of entries is as stated for each individual competition. The winner will be decided by a random from the correct entries received during the promotion period. Decisions of the promoter relating to the drawing and all matters relating to this promotion will be final and binding. The odds of winning a prize will depend on the number of eligible entries received. 11. By providing your email address and entering this competition you agree to receive relevant email communications from SBID including news, events, offers and competitions. 12. The Promoter reserves the right to verify the eligibility of entrants and check their identity 13. The prize is a free 3 day pass to Salone Del Mobile in Milan. The prize does not include flights or accommodation. 14. The prize may not be used in conjunction with any other offer hosted by the Promoter. 15. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute a prize of equivalent or greater value if this is necessary for reasons beyond its control. 16.The winner will be contacted and notified by SBID. 17. The Promoter reserves the right to re-draw the winner if they cannot be contacted within a reasonable period of time (to be established at the promoter’s sole discretion) and the right to disqualify any entrant or select an alternative winner in the event that it believes that any entrant has contravened these Terms and Conditions. 18 Submitting an entry to this Competition is deemed to be acceptance by the entrants of these Terms and Conditions. The Promoter reserves the right to alter, amend or foreclose this Competition without prior notice in the event that unforeseen circumstances make this unavoidable. 19. The Promoter accepts no responsibility for any loss, damage, injury or disappointment suffered by any entrant resulting from entering this Competition or by the entrant’s acceptance of the prize. 20. Promoter: SBID 10 Molasses Row, Plantation Wharf. London SW11 3UX
This month the design industry turns once again to Milan for another year of the innovative, trend-setting edition of Milan Design Week 2019. Launching the 58th exhibition of Salone del Mobile.Milano which is set to dominate design news in the realm of interiors and furniture as professionals world-wide flock to Milan, SBID have 10 3-day pass tickets exclusively for SBID members to win! What’s more, the SBID Awards has officially announced its plans to open this April, with some exciting news up its sleeve..
SBID International Design Awards launches in April with a brand new website in anticipation of global expansion!
With the 2019 edition of the SBID International Design Awards due to open next month and an expansion of international awards planned; organisers have announced their plans to launch with a brand new responsive website. The website has been redesigned to not only cope with higher entry demand, but also perform with improved functionality and enriched content, so entrants will be able to seamlessly submit their projects with ease from any device.
Last year saw one of the most globally represented editions to date, with more entries than ever before and an astounding 225,000 unique public votes. With industry talent from over 42 countries across the globe, and winning projects hailing from the UK, South Africa, China, New Zealand, Canada, China and Dubai; organisers are progressing with plans for international expansion. This year also brings brand new additions to the revered panel of judges including Director of Architecture at Burberry, Associate Director at the Guggenheim Museum and Director at Jacobs; the full line-up and new additions will be announced soon.
9th – 14th April
Salone del Mobile. Milano 2019 – Milan, Italy
The 58th edition of the Salone del Mobile.Milano will be held from 9 to 14 April at Rho Fiera Milano. In the wake of the ‘new approach’ launched with the Manifesto in 2018, the Salone is putting the spotlight this year on both the centrality of Milan, which continues to garner international plaudits and recognitions, and on the creative capacity and generosity of spirit of the industrial network that underpins it and works to deliver global excellence.
The exhibition showcases endless approaches to furniture and design from all around the world and is the most prestigious place for designers to display their new products. The press conference for the 58th edition of the Salone del Mobile at the Triennale di Milano, was the harbinger of much important news. From the addition of a new term in the Manifesto launched last year, to new exhibition formats at Workplace3.0 and S.Project, alongside two great installations dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci in the city and fairgrounds; as well as a three-year collaboration with the Teatro alla Scala Foundation.
SBID have launched a competition exclusively for SBID members with the opportunity to win tickets to the world-renowned trade event, Salone del Mobile. In collaboration with FLA Eventi, 10 lucky winners will receive a free 3-day pass to the 58th edition of the event held from the 9 – 14 April at Rho Fiera, Milan.
Enter now
10th April
To celebrate SBID’s 10 Year Anniversary, iDOGI are hosting an SBID Cocktail Party at Salone del Mobile
iDOGI® are the highest expression of luxury chandeliers and unique pieces of artistic lighting. The best Venetian glassmaking heritage matched with lasting design and masterly handcrafted. Their fully tailor made creations are precious works of art, seeing their lighting creations shine in the most prestigious interiors around the world. In celebration of SBID’s 10 Year Anniversary, iDOGI will be dedicating a Special Cocktail Party on Wednesday 10 April during Salone del Mobile at 5pm in xLux Hall 4, Stand C05, D02.
All SBID Members are invited to attend this exclusive event. RSVP via email before Monday 8 April to register your place!
Register now
Euroluce – Milan, Italy
Euroluce is the world-renowned biennial lighting exhibition that puts people back at the centre of lighting design; the International Lighting Exhibition, has been running every two years since 1976 and presents the most innovative solutions in the field of light for interiors and exteriors. The trade show exists as an important bridge between the lighting and furniture industry, bringing a whole new perception of what lighting can enhance the look of the space as a design element. The event, which is considered the global benchmark for cutting-edge technologies and design culture, is the most anticipated lighting mega exhibition for lighting manufacturers, designers, architects, dealers and sellers who seek to strike a harmonious balance between lighting products’ twin values – functionality and emotion.
30th April – 2nd May
The Natural Stone Show 2019 – London, United Kingdom
The Natural Stone Show remains the only UK exhibition and conference dedicated to natural stone. Thousands of architects, designers, developers, stonemasons, wholesalers and retailers will flock to London’s ExCeL to see exhibitors from across the globe and enjoy 3 days of seminars; each seeking inspiration and advice for their next stone project. Designed to showcase the extraordinarily varied palette offered by Stone from around the world and the Best of British Stone, sourced from over 200 exhibitors.
One of the most important considerations to make as a designer when specifying interior products for your projects is flexibility. This month, we take a further look into bespoke design elements which can be custom-made to suit individual projects; as well product lines that offer flexible installation, colour and design options to ensure the interior vision comes together, whether you’re designing for high-end residential or commercial office spaces. From bespoke surface solutions and wall coverings designed with health and wellbeing in mind, to the art of meticulously hand-crafted glassmaking.
James Latham expands its solid surface offering to include the Avonite® and STUDIO Collection® brands
Designed and developed in the US by Aristech Surfaces LLC, these latest additions compliment perfectly Latham’s existing added-value product portfolio which has been developed with the specification market in mind.
With 65 striking colours in the range, Avonite® is the only product in the solid surface market made with a double-belt technology and a thermal cure, ensuring a series of benefits including: versatile product width, impeccable colour consistency and a better manufacturing precision with narrower thickness tolerance and eco-friendly manufacturing. It is used in architectural and design applications across numerous sectors including hospitality, retail, education, government, transportation, public and living spaces, healthcare and commercial workspace.
The STUDIO Collection® is a translucent, customisable ‘patented composite blend’, with 29 attractive designs in nine decorative colour groups: Venato, Recycled, Movement, Crystelles, Sea Glass, Element, Glass, Metallics and Petals. Most of these groups can be backlit with dramatic effect and are therefore perfectly suited for prestigious and high-impact applications for example reception desks and sales counters within retail or hospitality environments.
Click to shop
Commercial drinking water solutions have never looked better: Zip Water UK’s HydroTap Design range
Now offering the widest range of designs and finishes for the workplace. Today, specifiers have an ever-growing need for products that deliver both high-performance functionality and stunning design. Zip Water, creator of the world’s most advanced drinking water systems, recently launched a wide range of new designs and finishes within its popular HydroTap range for work. Previously only available for residential projects, the HydroTap Design range includes three new tap styles; the elegant swan-necked Arc, the contemporary Cube and minimalist Elite. Alongside these designs are eight trend-led Platinum finishes – rose gold, brushed rose gold, gold, brushed gold, platinum, gunmetal, nickel and brushed nickel.
The new tap designs and finishes are an extension of the Zip HydroTap range for the workplace, which includes the flagship HydroTap Classic design. All tap styles can be paired with commercial under counter units to deliver up to 240 cups of instant filtered boiling water an hour and 175 glasses of instant filtered chilled or sparkling water an hour. The Design range looks the part in any office, while also delivering the performance and reliability specifiers expect from Zip. The HydroTap’s market-leading and cost-efficient filtration system offers 25 times better filtration than a standard water filter jug, producing water that’s crisp, clear and refreshing.
Rock Revelations collaborate with Award-winning Khoury Architects on prestigious new build home
Rock Revelations, leading UK fabricator of exquisite stone materials for both residential and commercial projects have collaborated with award winning Khoury Architects on a contemporary new build house in a leafy suburb of Leicestershire. A number of deliverables were specified for the project including a high impact entrance lobby that would set the character of the house throughout from hall, stairs and landing as well as a number of bespoke and luxurious features for kitchen and bathrooms. The interior design exhibits the client’s love of natural stone and the complexity of the scheme required specialist knowledge hence the appointment of Rock Revelations.
Click to read the full case study
Garrett Leather introduces pure aniline leather with Garrett Vintage range
Vintage is an authentic, full grain Italian leather with a light pull-up effect and glossy, transparent finish. The vibrant colours and subtle mottled surface add depth to the final appearance. Garrett Leather tanneries use a specially formulated mixture of oils and waxes to give this leather its soft hand for superior comfort. Vintage has a timeless look with a gorgeous moderate sheen that is ideal for both traditional and contemporary interiors. It wears well and will age beautifully, developing a rich patina over time. It is a leather to be treasured, as it shows signs of love and use with pride, emphasising nature’s splendour. All eight colours of Vintage are GREENGUARD certified and available for immediate shipment.
Dynasty Wallcoverings introduces Dynasty Wellbeing to cater for the health and wellness sector
Dynasty Wellbeing has been specially created to cater for the health and wellbeing sector and will include wallcoverings and fabrics designed especially with this market in mind. The first range under the new brand is now available and includes beautiful wallcoverings designed with precise attention to detail taking on board the considerations that arise in this challenging market.
Discreet yet stylish wallcovering designs printed in soothing, calm colours makes the new range the most comprehensive design collection for the health and wellbeing sector. Exclusive designs and colourways are also available should bespoke and unique décor be required. Rolls are available in 52 cm wide x 10.05 m lengths, printed to non-woven fabric backed vinyl and Class 0 & 1 fire retardancy. The designs will also be available in several fabrics too with new designs continually added as a rolling product offer.
iDOGI continue to champion the art of ancient Venetian glassmaking with their bespoke crystal design services
Italian creativity has always been linked to the history of design, the primary part of luxury and excellence. From the ancient Venetian glassmaking tradition handed down over the centuries from father to son iDOGI® was born: a bright half-century-old story of passion and creativity. Today, still entirely by hand, iDOGI design and make sumptuous artistic chandeliers and large luminous crystal tables. All of these unique masterpieces are used to embellish private residences, luxury hotels and yachts around the world. From the design and creation phases through to final installation, their international architects and interior designers are assisted by a specialised and highly-dedicated team. All to ensure a meticulously bespoke service and exceptional customer care.
Nothing is accidental in the ongoing search for harmony and balance which is why during the design phase, models, measurements, proportions, details and colours are all carefully studied and selected to achieve the best relationship between the finished item and the setting. Luxury is not a trend or a fashion. It is a dream that iDOGI helps to transform into reality.
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features the Sales Center of Huahao Yalong Place; nestled at the foot of a mountain, providing distant mountain views and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The design aims to revitalise the excellence of Chinese architecture and its traditional aesthetic values by achieving ultimate refinement to present the essence of simplicity and by doing so, create innovation. The design has a soulful outlook and is an elaborate embodiment of ancient architectural values with new design approaches. From magnificence to pristine, refined beauty, from grandeur and solemnity to brightness and sensation, the integration of these values has created a harmonious spatial ambience which is, in some ways, akin to the Forbidden City located in northern China.
Company: Guangzhou Basic Design Co
Project: Sales Center of Huahao Yalong Place
Project Location: Sanya, China
Huahao Yalong Place covers a gross site area of around 730 Mu (equivalent to 120 acres). The project is consisted of Chinese courtyard villas, high-end apartment buildings, feature shopping arcade and five-star hotspring hotel.
The design aims to revitalise the excellent Chinese architectural culture and the traditional aesthetic values by achieving ultimate refinement to present the essence or achieving simplicity so as to create innovative elements.
In addition to passing on the flame of civilisation, we hoped to create a design that can grant old traditions a young heroic spirit, introduce rhythms of the nature and ingenuity of the creator which stretches across thousands of miles, so that charms of the history and refinement of the art together produce magnificence and elegance of the space. Capturing and honouring the essence of this became a key challenge when producing the design concept for this project.
An elegant space was created under a dignified roof. The luxury temperament of the furnishings cannot be concealed by their pristine appearance. Whereas classic romance emerges from the innermost recesses of their souls, reinforcing the noble and refined lifestyle. Within the brand-new palace-like building and penthouse, there is no vicissitudes. Instead, there is a harmony of the nature as well as breath-taking scenes. In the splendid art world, there is a fascinating colourful space. Seeing this vision come together with fortitude was one of the main highlights for me.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
Winning a SBID International Design Award is a distinguished recognition for designers. As one of the most prestigious events in the interior design industry, to enter the competition means to communicate with and be showcased to a magnitude of excellent interior designers from all over the world.
Questions answered by Zhide Liang, Chief Designer and Design Director of Guangzhou Basic Design Co
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a development project which guides the client through an inspiring and dynamic visual journey, click here to see more.
Guangzhou Basic Design Co | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a development project with a philosophical concept, designed by Medhat Nehad. The concept revolved around guiding the client through an inspiring visual journey, from the moment they park their car to when they sign the contract to buy the property. The hierarchy starts with walking through the open landscape to the semi-transparent glass cube. Next, the dynamically designed main reception hall is approached through a ceremonially-long corridor, before the focus of the project – the parabola-shaped room – is reached. The luxurious and modern touches of natural wood and glass enhances this unique project. Special lighting effects, for both the day and the night, strengthen it further. The architect took the challenge to negotiate the design concept with the client, convincing them to go through with these ideas in the Egyptian market.
Company: Archiform Consultants
Project: Almarasem Sales and Marketing Showroom
Project Location: Cairo, Egypt
The client was at that time a new developer, embarking on a new project developing his fifth complex compound on a 158-acre plot area in a premium location in new Cairo, Egypt. The developer name is Almarasem International Development. They introduced themselves to us as they needed to enter the market as a developer with a unique new sales centre on a plot area of 4600 m2. The project scope included the following:
From the first meeting, they requested that Archiform to design the development with the concept of creating an outstanding new identity for the sales centre. The sales centre will be used to sell the client’s exclusive properties through and must therefore make an impact as their prime sales location in the market. The aim of the build will be to impress the visitors and clients with the luxurious standard of the interior and exterior spaces to reflect their superior reputation whilst capturing the new ‘look’ and ‘experience’ offered by the showrooms and offices.
As the lead designer on the project, I was inspired by organic shapes and geometrical forms. In particular, the way these forms can be intersected to create unique spaces which connect to each other in a fluid and inspiring way; offering a welcoming environment for the visitors and clients. The main idea was to create a long ‘path’ or journey for the visitor to feel like they are being invited through the building for a ceremonial welcoming. As the name of the company in Arabic language ‘Almarasem’ means to make a special process with a formal event to welcome the VIP visitors and clients through these prestigious spaces and exclusive surroundings.
We experience three main challenges throughout this project. Firstly, the project was ran under a very tight schedule as the client needed to finish the project in maximum of 100 days from design to build. The tight time lines had the team working day and night for more than 15 days continuously in order to produce the first conceptual drawings package; including photo realistic perspectives.
Secondly; as the designer I had to ensure I was effectively explaining the concept, parameters and parabolas geometric shapes to the team and the visualiser so it can be drawn correctly and illustrated clearly for the client, so they could better visualise our design ideas and approve it!
The third issue we faced, and arguably the toughest, was to convince the client that we can achieve these complicated shapes, be executed through the contractors and completed on within that very short time-frame we were set.
Being able to deliver on a project of this magnitude, whilst achieving a high quality finish; capturing the essence of the client’s company as well as executing the design and build according to plan within the time-frame we were given. This has to be the most important highlight for me.
From the time I had developed the concept of this project and as a member of the respectable SBID, I was quite sure that this project could bring great inspiration to enrich the industry of Architecture, interior design and landscape design. Also it served as a great opportunity to share my thoughts with fellow designers from all around the world, so I can be more inspired and do more in the years to come. I was so proud to be finalist for this particular project, especially as I was feeling confident that this project would measure up well against the world of design.
Questions answered by Medhat M.Nehad, President and Founder of Archiform Consulants
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a sustainable and luxuriously designed African lodge for Wilderness Safaris’ Premier Camp, click here to see more.
Archiform Consultants | SBID International Design Awards 2018
SBID got in touch with Katie Thomas, Design Director of KTM Design and SBID South West Regional Director to discover more about her career in interior design and how her journey evolved, from studying interior design at university to becoming a professional interior designer and even co-founding her own design practice, KTM Design.
Why Interior Design?
I had just started secondary school when I made the decision to focus on becoming an Interior Designer. It may sound a bit trivial, but my passion and interest for interior design was sparked by my childhood love of the life-simulation computer game ‘The Sims’! I’m sure a lot of young designers can relate. Creating virtual people, placing them in houses that I designed and directing their moods and satisfying their desires – I loved everything about it. This, coupled with watching TV shows like ‘Grand Designs’ (cliché but true) and my enjoyment of the creative subjects at school, I was set on becoming a designer of spaces. I remember talking to my teachers about my options, and learnt about the role of an Interior Designer. It sounded like my dream job – creative, logical, people-focused and having the chance to have a positive impact on people’s lives. Fast-forward 13 years and I am designing restaurants, nightclubs, offices, shopping centres and homes and running my own interior design practice in Bournemouth, KTM Design.
How did you make your dream job become a reality?
My dream job becoming a reality didn’t happen without hard work. It was just over three years ago that I graduated from the Arts University Bournemouth (AUB). I studied on the BA (hons) Interior Architecture and Design course and then decided to do my Masters in Spatial Design the following year. I was working part-time at a commercial interior design practice in Bristol whilst I was doing my MA, which meant that I was gaining invaluable industry experience whilst continuing my studies. Prior to this, I had completed several internships at interior design companies in Bath and London. It was a big priority of mine to gain as much work experience as possible whilst I was a student. I wanted to understand more about the industry and prepare myself as much as I could before making the complete transition into my professional career as an Interior Designer. My life-long mantra of ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’ was very apt. Curiosity also played a big part in this. Being a curious person, I’ve always asked lots of questions and find myself continually searching for answers, and the only way I was going to find out what I was getting myself into once I’d finished university was by experiencing it first-hand. I was curious about the varying working environments in different design studios, the operations and structure of companies, the type of work the designers actually undertake, and of course the company culture and what sort of working environment I’d feel most suited to. These are all things you don’t learn at university, but play a crucial role in feeling prepared for industry. I am very grateful to all the companies that gave me the opportunity to gain some experience with them, even if it was just for a few days. When I was at university I learnt about the SBID and the support they give to students, so I became a student member and saw the president Vanessa Brady as a great role model. I’d never had a role model before. I wasn’t interested in the pop stars and ‘celebrities’ that my peers aspired to be like, so it brought me a great sense of happiness and positivity to finally have someone to look up to. A strong woman in the same industry, achieving so much and having a positive influence on so many.
What made you decide to start your own business?
As I was coming to the end of my MA at AUB, I had a couple of job offers from companies that I had previously interned with as a student (another good reason to do as many internships as you can – you never know what your new contacts could lead to, and make sure you don’t burn any bridges). I really wanted to start my own business, especially after having so much creative freedom on my MA, and when an opportunity arose to co-found a company, I thought I’d give it a shot and see how it goes. It was a tricky first few months of having no work, but after a lot of ‘putting myself out there’, we had our first office redesign enquiry come through Twitter! This led to our next, slightly bigger office redesign project, and for a short while it seemed like all we were going to do was offices, which was quite ironic as most of my work experience was in office design! At the same time, I was ‘networking’ like crazy, being consistently active on social media, and eventually finding openings to our first night club project, our first residential project, and then things started to take shape. Now, going into our fourth year of business and with a lovely, hardworking team by my side, I always make sure I take time to look back, reflect and feel proud of my progress and where I started. I think this is important, especially when it is very easy to get swept up in the everyday stresses of running a business. If I ever have self-doubt, I remember how tenacious and determined 12 year old Katie was to be a successful Interior Designer, and I’m not going to let her down! There is always another mountain to climb or hurdle to jump over, and that’s part of the fun of it.
What advice would you give to current interior design students?
Say YES. When I was leaving university and the opportunity came up to start my business, the Arts University Bournemouth (where I had studied), asked if I would teach some of their interior design evening courses as the previous tutor was retiring. Just the thought of this petrified me. I used to hate public speaking and instantly thought, ‘I’m not good enough to do that’ and ‘I don’t know enough to teach’! Once I’d got a grip of this initial hurricane of self-doubt, I realised what a great opportunity it was and how many more things it could lead to, as well as hopefully being quite fun! Three years on, I’m still teaching the same evening courses (and more) because I absolutely love it and have gone through a significant amount of personal growth and confidence building because of it. So, as Richard Branson says, ‘If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!’. I know the struggles of being at university and the fear of the unknown once university ends, so I am happy to listen to any questions and advise wherever I can. Remember to embrace the beauty of change.
If you’re inspired by Katie’s journey and want to make sure you get the essential work experience you need to launch your interior design career after university, make sure you take advantage of the opportunities SBID provide to afford students with internships at leading UK design practices.
The Get Me 2 the Top UK student design competition is now open for entries, awarding three winning students with a 3-month internship with the likes of 1.61 London and Crawford Partnership. Designed to help the younger generation of designers find potential employers, overcome the barrier between learning and earning, forge key relationships in the industry and gain valuable insight that will help to kick-start their creative careers.
Click here to find out more
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a sustainable and luxuriously designed African lodge for Wilderness Safaris‘ Premier Camp, Mombo. The spacious tent-like lodges afford sweeping views over a floodplain teeming with wildlife, so curating an authentic design scheme that combined traditional elements with modern elegance was essential to truly embrace the essence of Mombo. Deconstructed furniture in classic styles, antique brass finishing, vintage leathers, copper lighting combined with marble and oak floors were all used. A tonal colour palette throughout reiterates the longevity of the interior design. A mix of mismatched – yet complementary – wooden furniture all works together to feature a collection of pieces sourced over the years, resulting in a personalised feel. Space was also a key factor in creating the new design, with each tented suite now comprising an expansive entrance, a sitting room with a bar unit, a separate bedroom and bathroom with a dressing area, indoor and outdoor showers and a bathtub that creates a sense of indulgence.
Company: Artichoke
Project: Mombo
Project Location: Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
Wilderness Safaris wanted the lodge to have longevity and to rebuild a camp in such a way to maintain the Mombo traditions and history stretching back nearly 30 years, yet rebuilding to the highest and most innovative standards. The client’s brief was to create an environment within the camp where nothing of the stylish, traditional appeal is lost as this Lodge became the flagship of the Premier Facilities of this camp. It was important to continue to offer repeat guests a level of uniqueness to which they had become accustom, but at the same time introduce features that brings the Lodge up to date.
The history of this prestigious Lodge was a great source of inspiration where an existing blueprint called for the revival of the prestigious structure. This enabled me to make my mark on this iconic camp whilst remaining sympathetic to the essence and nature of the surrounding areas.
The location of the camp caused difficulties particularly relating to the logistics of transporting solid marble bathroom vanities on rudimentary roads through Africa, so this become a significant hurdle we had to overcome. Delivering furnishing items is always a challenge in the Delta. In the re-appointment of Mombo, there were many natural geographic obstacles which arose! The curved structure of this Lodge was also a project element which presented some interesting challenges.
Simply just to have had the opportunity to complete a historian rebuild of not only one of the oldest lodges in Botswana, but also one of the most iconic facilities constructed in the African Wilderness. Working on the client’s flagship property was a privilege.
It is well known that participation in the prestigious SBID Award programme is a privilege as one’s team is considered to be amongst the finest on the planet.
Questions answered by Caline Williams-Wynn owner of Artichoke
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a bold and striking pavilion designed to mark the launch of a make-up collection by II Makiage, click here to see more.
SBID International Design Awards 2018
As momentum in the design industry builds, March is set to kick off with some of the most prestigious and globally-anticipated design trade shows and events for 2019; attended by all walks of industry professionals from Architects, specifiers and designers to buyers, property developers and retailers – we look toward Shanghai, Singapore and London to set the standard of design for the year ahead.
5th – 7th March
Futurebuild 2019 – London, United Kingdom
Futurebuild 2019 brings together opinion-shapers, decision-makers and product innovators under a common purpose to explore the latest technologies and approaches, and debate the biggest issues facing the built environment. Whether you’re an architect, designer, consultant, energy or sustainable manager, Futurebuild 2019 will provide you with insight, innovation and inspiration in a packed three day programme including an exhibition of future-focused brands, a conference, seminars, workshops, showcases and much more!
Win a 3 month internship with Get me 2 the Top UK 2019, now open for entries!
Three interior design students have the opportunity to win an internship at leading London design studios as SBID launches its latest student design contest. Design studios include 1.61 London, Crawford Partnerships and one more to come. Dr Vanessa Brady OBE comments: “The knowledge and insights that students receive during a three-month internship are immeasurable in terms of career and employment opportunities”.
Find out more
6th – 9th March
Design Shanghai 2019 – Shanghai, China
Showcasing the best design brands and galleries from across the globe, Design Shanghai provides a unique and exciting platform to network and establish long-term business relations with Asia’s top architects, interior designers, property developers, retailers and private buyers. Design Shanghai will be returning to the stunning Shanghai Exhibition Centre from 6-9 March 2019, celebrating its 6th anniversary with exciting new content. Set across five remarkable design halls, Design Shanghai 2019 is set to be the biggest and best yet.
9th – 12th March
IFFS Singapore 2019 – Singapore
At Asia’s premier furniture sourcing platform and design-led exhibition, the IFFS International Furniture Fair, which will take place in the exhibition centre of Singapore, furniture of all kinds and for all rooms including office and garden furniture, lamps and decorative accessories are presented by well-known exhibitors. To enhance its industry-leading position as the region’s top furniture trade exhibition, IFFS remains committed to curate a multi-sensorial show experience that introduces technology, celebrates design and facilitates connections.
10th – 15th March
London Design Week 2019 – London, United Kingdom
For one week in March, London becomes the design capital of the world as interior designers, architects, taste makers and magpies from across the globe flock to the capital for London Design Week 2019. Whether you’re an architect, designer, or a style-seeker with a passion for ingenuity, you’ll love exploring the various booths and stands housed under the famous glass dome of the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour. London Design Week prides itself on showcasing collection launches from the best in stylish innovation, with products ranging from fabric and furniture, to carpet and kitchens.
12th March
The Psychology of Colour at LDW with Sophie Robinson and Martha Roberts – London, United Kingdom
Taking place during London Design Week at the Victoria + Albert Baths showroom, interior designer and co-host of The Great Indoors podcast, Sophie Robinson, alongside journalist, author and colourphile Martha Roberts of The Colour File will host a richly inspiring discussion on the use of colour in the home. Learn about the power of Colour Psychology and how it can transform the way a room feels, as well as looks.
25th – 29th March
Latin America and the Caribbean UK Roadshow – Multiple locations
The Latin America and the Caribbean UK Roadshow (LATAC Roadshow) is the ideal event for experienced UK exporters to gain an insight into business opportunities in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Department for International Trade (DIT) will bring together senior experts from Latin America and the Caribbean to update UK companies on the latest opportunities in these promising markets. The Latin America and Caribbean region is home to over 650 million people where growing economies are demanding ever-higher quality products and services. British companies have seen their business expand in the region in recent years, with the expectation that this growth to continue.
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February has been packed with product news across the industry, specifically focusing on innovations in the realm of KBB (Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms). From the latest innovations launching in intelligent water management and SmartControl technology; new ranges of paints, units and exquisite marble materials for uplifting kitchen interiors; to new colourways of quirky dinosaur-themed wallpaper to ignite the imagination within children’s bedroom designs. Browse what’s new this month to give your KBB designs a competitive and design-led edge.
Mark Taylor Design launch MeThD
Mark Taylor Design has launched a new kitchen collection, MeThD, consisting of three beautiful custom kitchen ranges, all of which are available with a number of bespoke adaptations and in standard or special paint colours. MeThD combines the quality, beauty and aftercare of bespoke with the affordability, speed of production and ease of installation that befits a custom range. With MeThD, we are also leading the trend for movable island units.
Heritage Bathrooms test the trend by making a monochrome statement with the new Granley Suite
Monochrome styling is a timeless and versatile trend, and as 2019 hails the return of geometrics and bold matte black accents, Charlie Williams, interior designer at Heritage Bathrooms, uses the Granley Suite range to test the trend for creating a standout monochrome bathroom; from using statement tiles and matte black features, to adding subtle, warmer coloured accents to ensure a softer feel without comprising the sleek monochrome styling. The Granley Suite from Heritage Bathrooms is designed to provide the perfect backdrop for a bold monochrome bathroom.
PaperBoy launches new colours to match your dinosaur to your decor
Dinosaurs. But not as you know them. ‘D’ya-think-e-saurus’ was PaperBoy’s first wallpaper, lovingly sketched by as a gift to Jurassic-minded twins. For 9 years it’s been their best-selling design: what dinosaur nut doesn’t want to imagine the exhilaration of flying through the air with the pterodactyls or beating the T-Rex in a running race?
This March they’re introducing three soft new hues to fit into even more design schemes. ‘Confetti’ – if only pink will do, this version will make the room blush; ‘Warm grey’ glows with subtle colour while still being a neutral option; and ‘China blue’ for a cooler tone, without the dullness. As in all their papers, the inks are non-toxic, sustainable, made in England and lovingly hand-crafted in Accrington.
GROHE is set to shape the future of water with record number of innovations at ISH 2019
GROHE will showcase a record number of innovations at ISH 2019, the world’s leading trade fair for the responsible use of water and energy in buildings. For the first time, GROHE will position itself as a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions, kitchen systems and intelligent water management. The brand will reinforce its philosophy; Water. Intelligence. Enjoyment by bringing the element of water to the forefront of its new innovations.
The GROHE Blue water system provides filtered and chilled water that is either sparkling, semi-sparkling or still, while GROHE Red delivers kettle hot water directly from the tap. The SmartControl technology, which has already been successfully launched in the bathroom, will also make its way into the kitchen…
New for 2019: Introducing Empira White by Caesarstone
For a thousand years marble has been appreciated and desired as one of nature’s most luxurious stones, immediately adding grandeur and glamour wherever it is used. As a material, it is timeless. Today marble is as desirable as ever, albeit with a somewhat more relaxed, softer and more organic appeal; a chance to bring nature into urban interiors, a connection to the earth around us and a natural contrast to other man-made materials. Of all marbles, Calacatta is perhaps the best known and Empira White is Caesarstone’s newest interpretation of this most famous material.
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