Creating spaces and buildings that are as eco-conscious as they are design-forward is becoming a pressing requirement for the interiors industry. Russell Owens from Zip Water UK explains why the future lies in making sustainable design beautiful. ‘Sustainable design’ aims to reduce or eliminate negative environmental impact through thoughtful design. This means working to create buildings and products that are more energy-efficient, reduce waste and use limited resources throughout their life-cycle. Further to this, specifiers and designers can give preference to materials that will contribute to people’s health and wellbeing – another important element of sustainability that is often overlooked. . .
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This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features an American neoclassical design concept which lays a keynote of both comfort and function, executed with grandeur and sophistication at its helm. Borrowing the traditional Chinese ideas of aesthetics depicted in the Tang Dynasty poem, ‘with lengthening daytime, the scenic landscape emanates plant aroma amid the spring breeze,’ the design adopts modern, fashionable elements to brighten the space and create the feature of squareness and beauty. The villa has a spacious and grand structure, which strives to represent the classic Western approach of axial symmetry in a 3D view, as well as a balance of size and proportion. The lifted building structure and the supporting framework deliver a sense of bold heroism exclusive to the first-generation pioneers. It can be traced back to architectural form in ancient Greece since it highlights clear lines and graceful decoration. Meanwhile, it integrates the concept of European luxury and elegance, American freedom and progressiveness, and Chinese solemnity and exquisiteness – all of which showcase a fresh, smooth and bright style.
Company: David Chang Design Associates International (DCDA)
Project: China North Island B Type Villa
Project Location: Tianjin, China
What was the client’s brief?
The client’s belief was to build a villa which reflects an exquisite and elegant lifestyle.
What inspired the design of the project?
The inspiration came from the verses of an ancient Chinese poet named Du Fu, ‘over a beautiful scene, the sun is lingering, alive with birds and sweet with the breath of early spring’. The design is based on the traditional Chinese aesthetics, combined with the neoclassical interior architectural elements. Wallpaper with hand-painted flowers and birds and modern oil paintings, portraying mountains and rivers, are extensively applied in several areas of the villa. Together, they translate a beautiful Chinese vision of reunion in a nice season, set off in an elegant style.
What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?
At the early planning stage, the existing villa structure needed to be studied and modified thoroughly to have the floor layout optimised on the basis of the traffic circulation and flow. This includes swapping the elevator and the main staircase location, and adding a service elevator to the existing villa.
What was your team’s highlight of the project?
Although urbane residences bayside, seaside or in the mountains are among the beloved lifestyle choice for the famous and the rich, this no longer meets the need of high-end customers. A new ‘island of residence’ lifestyle has emerged to attract the attention of these elites. The villa surrounded by a 520,000 sqm lake in the heart of Tianjin city, with a well developed ecological environment and neoclassical architecture has become an excellent paradigm of a new lifestyle in the city. This project is the only downtown island-style villa development in northern China and one of the world’s most luxurious island-style developments. The villa is configured in a classical symmetrical layout to achieve harmony of the space. The archway and the powerful interior architectural framework convey the sense of luxury and comfort. Tracing back to the Greek architecture, the design not only emphasises the application of lines and elegant details, but also displays the sense of European luxury as well as the touch of Chinese elegance and delicacy.
Why did you enter the SBID International Design Awards?
SBID is the most competitive, prestigious, and unadulterated international award in the global interior design award field. The jury panel consists of gurus from a wide array of professions from design and fashion, to hi-tech. In addition, we love to share our design with people from different parts of the world. SBID both serves as a direct channel and an influential medium to expose our talents and creative designs to the world. The ability to be shortlisted in SBID is an honour, whereas the ability to win in SBID is a prestige.
Questions answered by the David Chang, Founder and Chief Design Director of DCDA
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a luxury residence which echoes the Renaissance elegance of the Château de Chambord, click here to see more.
We hope you feel inspired! Let us know what inspired you #SBIDinspire
David Chang Design Associates International | SBID International Design Awards 2018
Feast your eyes on this month’s product update for the latest products and innovations to specify for your projects. If your focus is to design with sustainability in mind, why not check out the industry’s most advanced drinking water appliances with multi-functional, energy-efficient taps, or even a new range of stylish and recyclable bathroom suites with baths, shower floors and washbasins made from entirely natural materials…
Alexander Joseph have just launched the world’s first luxury cordless lamps. The decision to create the range of lamps came following a fruitless search by the founder, Mark Robinson. He explains, “around a year ago my wife and I looked for decorative cordless lamps, all we could find were entry level or novelty varieties with very limited endurance. I spoke to several interiors’ organisations, lighting companies and retailers, then decided there was a place in the market for Luxury Cordless Lamps”. The patent pending technology used to power lamps provides at least 50 hours of continuous use before the need for recharging. Put another way, 3-4 weeks of normal use. Hidden in a sealed base, the technology is discrete and robust. The company have designed their own LED bulb, preferring to house the drivers in the base rather than within the bulb itself. This allows Alexander Joseph to provide a consistent soft light equivalent to a traditional 60w bulb. The idea has always been to hide the technology so lamps look as decorative as other luxury brands, but without the cord and plug.
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Atelier MIRU delivers to daring individuals with an artistic flair and appreciation for the mastery of hand-made craftsmanship. The Resurrection Collection of bespoke, painted furniture by Atelier MIRU was born from a poignant moment in the artist’s life, which became the main inspiration in her creative process. All Eyes on You was created exclusively as part of this collection. Hand painted in oil, the mirror is reminiscent of the human iris and alludes to its various anthropological symbolic values. The eye is not only a gate to inner realms and spaces of higher consciousness, but also enlightenment and mindfulness among many. Through its magnified and in-your-face quality, the piece emphasises and deliberates these connotations. By enticing both the visual and emotional, this mirror will easily become the focal point of any luxury interior.
German bathroom product manufacturer, Bette, will be exhibiting its ‘30 year warranty’ glazed titanium-steel baths, shower floors and washbasins; showcasing the latest in bathroom design, colour and safety at Sleep + Eat (November 20-21). They will be giving live demonstrations on the durability of its products, which are finished in BetteGlaze; a glass-like surface which is harder than marble, plastic or epoxy granite, is non-porous, scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
Products are available in both gloss and matt finishes, in an extensive range of colours, with the opportunity to colour-match ceramic items, such as tiles. Bespoke colours can be created to fit with interior themes, as well as bespoke sized products to fit the desired space perfectly. The latest edition to Bette’s range of baths will be exhibited with the freestanding bath in one of their new stand-out shimmering colours; welcoming the BetteLux Oval Silhouette bath in new ‘Blue Satin’ finish. What’s more, is Bette baths, shower floors and washbasins are made from entirely natural materials and are 100% recyclable. Bette has also invested heavily in green technologies at its factory in Germany to create 2/3 of its energy requirements from renewable resources!
Since 2006, eggersmann has been busy realising the idea of manufacturing and further developing a collection of kitchens and equipment which can hardly be matched for its timelessness and minimalism. The name UNIQUE really says it all. The focus is on individuality, also exceptional and exquisite materials. A decisive and fundamental idea for this system is the homogeneity of all relevant surfaces. Front and side surfaces, also handles and working surfaces are made of just one identical material, creating this very unique and stunning style for the discerning clientele.
Next level functionality meets flawless design in Zip Water UK’s latest HydroTap, the All-in-One Celsius Arc. The brand behind the world’s most advanced drinking water systems brings homeowners the very best in style and substance with this high-performance multi-functional tap. The new HydroTap instantly dispenses five different water types from a single tap and under-counter unit, including highly filtered boiling, chilled and sparkling water, plus unfiltered hot and cold water for washing up. Available in Zip’s expansive range of stylish finishes, including rose gold, brushed gold and gunmetal, all this functionality is also wrapped up in the Arc’s elegant ‘swan neck’ and dual-lever design making it perfectly suited to both modern and period kitchens.
As well as offering interior enthusiasts huge design scope, the HydroTap also boasts filtration 25 times more powerful than a water filter jug. Eliminating the need for still and sparkling bottled water, a kettle and additional mixer tap, owners can de-clutter countertops at the same time as reducing their household’s single-use plastic waste. By specifying the Zip HydroTap All-in-One Celsius Arc, clients can also be confident that they’re contributing to the energy efficiency of their home. With advanced energy saving features and best-in-class air-cooled technology, the tap performs to the highest standards of environmental responsibility and sustainability.
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a luxury residence with an exterior which echoes the Renaissance elegance of the Château de Chambord. The interior design scheme draws its inspirations from the history of the Silk Road and the cultural interactions it enabled; this ancient network of trade routes was essential in connecting the East and West, so an interplay of Asian influences and European Renaissance style details became a recurrent design theme throughout the property. From imperial gold, elegant blues, translucent glass, refined silk and sumptuous satin… Every interior decision aims to convey a language that speaks of both a classic era and that of the modern day.
Company: Chains Interior
Project: The Silk Road
Project Location: Chongqing, China
The client’s career map is spread all over the country, so he hopes to combine and elegantly blend different kinds of cultures in his new residence, as well as showcase the most exquisite tastes, designs and the character of himself.
Nestled in the city, the project’s symmetrical arch windows and angled roof resonate with the Renaissance elegance of Castle Chambord in France. Inside the castle are glass-cuts and curtains whose patterns derive from Chinese octagon motifs and a fascination of Chinese textile, an evidence of cultural interactions nurtured by the Silk Road. The project concept, with silk being an integral design element, is therefore inspired by those reciprocal exchanges between Eastern and Western thinking as well as aesthetics brought about by the ancient trade route.
This project is a huge villa in China. The first problem we faced was how to perfectly express the image of the trade which is a symbolic part of the owner. How to show the concept clearly and integrate into modern Chinese lifestyle? Second, our company is located in Taipei and the project is far away from us so we can’t always supervise the decorating process. We search local professionals for help to complete this difficult project.
The satin, shimmering like pearls on the vertical façade, is like the golden sand which whirled across the Silk Road by sweeping winds. The arches decorate the basement like ribbons as well as divide it into spheres serving various functions, a light bar and recreational use, mahjong and games, guzheng performance… The extravagant gold colour imbues the bar with a contemporary charm, while the glass mosaic unfolds into continuous, symmetrical damask patterns that emanate aristocratic elegance.
The fine silk conveys a tinge of allure in the grand living room. The glass railing winds up the staircase as if dancing to a tune with the air current. The dome-shaped ceiling hovers above like a scarf in midair, forming a collage of hexagons in three metallic shades that allude to French glamour. Walking up to the second floor, intricately embroidered flowers, birds and mountains in resplendent colours in the master bedroom show magpies perched on plum trees. This motif, symbolic of everlasting happiness, is an offering of goodwill to the owner.
Thin as cicada wings, the silk screen that divides the space seamlessly is resplendent, yet light and cosy, as if veiled by ancient blessings. Meanwhile, refined glass and metal reflect the morning light as they caress the European broad-leaf plants on the carpet and curtain. Life, can be a delightful dream. Imperial gold, elegant blue, translucent glass, refined silk… felicity is woven into warps and wefts to convey a language that speak of both a classic era and the modern day.
SBID is one of the most representative Awards in the world. Our project is highly acknowledged in Asia competitions and we want to know if it is also appreciated by an international audience.
Questions answered by the Lien Wu Chen, Design Director at Chains Interior
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a heritage conversion property rich in original detailing and upscale interest, click here to see more.
Chains Interior | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week SBID interviewed Michael Seum, VP Design at GROHE to discover more about his journey through the interior design industry; from a vision for architecture to finding his calling in product design. Michael gives us the inside scoop on his role as VP Design, the importance of motivation, and even shares his secret for inspiring and maintaining creativity!
Can you describe your current job?
As VP Design for GROHE, my job is to connect creativity with commercial for the company and be the creative horsepower and the biggest advocate of Grohe’s excellent design team. It’s my job to lead a team that focuses not just on consumer needs, but consumers’ desires and we put a lot of passion and emotion in our work.
What is your background and how did you get into interior design?
My background is in industrial design and I started my career with the intention of going into architecture. As a child I was always very curious and a creative nature which I was fortunate enough to have fostered by my parents. However, I have always felt an affinity for space and experience and it was actually this that brought me to product design. I have always been interested in the relation of people to an object or an experience, just like an interior designer does; in this role, I am bringing products that work within the interior space wherever there is a water experience.
Describe an average day in your job role..
Whilst there is no such thing as a truly ‘average’ day in my role, an ideal day would begin with breakfast with my children at home at 7am. I then head to the office at 8.30am where I have a cup of coffee. I’ll check my to do list and walk through the office to see my team. From 10am I jump straight into project work and meetings to make sure projects are moving. This takes most of the morning. I always eat lunch at my desk, around 1pm, for efficiency and in the early afternoon I will spend time catching up on the latest world design news and developments. The rest of the day will revolve around further project work and meetings until I leave the office at 6pm. I go to the gym religiously and believe a healthy mind is good for creativity. I then go home and recharge for the next day.
Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most and/or find the most rewarding?
Working with a talented team that actually operates as a team and a collective community is incredibly rewarding, especially as it shows in our work.
What are the latest plans for Grohe? Is there anything new you are working on?
We are focused on reframing the relationship we have with water. Whether you are consuming water or using it for hygiene, it’s always going to re-energise us. Without revealing too much, we’re focusing on really meaningful innovations that reframe our relationship to the precious resource of water. You will see this in the coming months, especially as we get closer to the ISH show in Frankfurt.
What do you find the most challenging aspects of your job?
For me, the challenge is the same as the reward; keeping the team motivated. It’s not easy to get a product from a price of paper to a world-wide marketed product and sometimes that can mean working behind the scenes to break down barriers to keep the focus on the long-term design plan. I find keeping a positive mindset helps with this.
What do you wish you knew before working in the field?
I came into the field knowing it would be different every day. But I guess it would have been nice to have known just how diverse it could be. I never expected that I would have the opportunity to work all over the world!
What would you tell your younger self if you had the chance?
That extra hour at lunch is not a bad idea!
What has been your favourite project to work on?
The next project, always! For me, the whole reason for being a designer was to take on the challenge of the next project. I love not knowing what could be next, and then drawing inspiration from my experiences so far to make improvements on the next project.
What do you think is the biggest problem the interior design industry faces?
Instagram! There is so much digital influence on a daily basis now that consumers are seeing similar styles echoed. I find that if I want to seek new inspiration then I need to look outside of Instagram. It also surprises me how so many inspiring interior design shots are void of people when, ultimately, these spaces are designed for people.
Which people do you admire the most in the industry and why?
The people I admire most in the industry are very humble; they are the people working behind the scenes, avoiding the limelight but still producing amazing work.
What are you most looking forward to at Sleep + Eat 2018?
I like that Sleep + Eat focuses on a big design topic – the hospitality industry. This interior design sector encompasses a lot of design considerations and, whilst GROHE has a lot of expertise in the sector, I go to the show to learn.
If you were inspired by Michael’s story and want to learn more about interior design, click here.
Prepare for the month of November with the latest industry news and upcoming design events!
Discover how the lucky SBID members among you can get your hands on free entrance to EquipHotel 2018 next month…
11th – 15th November
EquipHotel Paris 2018 – Paris, France
EquipHotel, the fair dedicated to hospitality services and equipment, is back from 11 – 15th November in Paris with even more new products, solutions and inspiration.As a designer the 5-day exhibition will enable you to source new suppliers amongst the 1,600 companies exhibiting, hunt down and test new products and innovations in the Innovation area by L’INNOVORE, network and take part in one of the masterclasses and special events.
SBID members are entitled to free entrance to the show! For your free pass simply register using our exclusive code.
Click here to register or email us for your code
11th – 12th November
Boutique Design New York – New York, USA
Now in its 8th year, Boutique Design New York (BDNY) is the leading trade fair and conference for the hospitality design industry, serving the eastern United States, Canada and Europe. Presented annually by Boutique Design at NYC’s Javits Center, BDNY brings interior designers, architects, purchasing agents and hospitality owners/developers together with manufacturers and marketers of high-calibre design elements for hospitality interiors.
The SBID Award Winners 2018 were announced at The Dorchester on 26th October
The highly anticipated winners of the SBID International Design Awards 2018 were revealed on Friday 26th October 2018 at a dazzling ceremony in The Dorchester hotel in London’s Mayfair. With more entries than ever before and an astounding 225,000 unique public votes; this year’s awards have been one of the most globally represented editions to date, with industry talent from over 42 countries across the globe. The competition this year was as inspiring as ever, with winning projects from the UK, South Africa, China, New Zealand, Canada, China, Dubai and more.
Winning a SBID International Design Award is truly a high achievement; all 14 categories are assessed by a technical panel, a public vote and a panel of leading industry experts, who look for outstanding examples of technical content and aesthetic creativity which ensures that all projects are assessed strictly on quality. Now in its eighth year, the SBID Awards is regarded as one of the highest accolades of interior design excellence. As a proudly independent contest, the SBID awards are driven purely by a desire to recognise talent and creativity, with every entry fairly and equally considered. The annual event continues to reward and celebrate outstanding projects and products from the industry at large.
Click here to see the full list of winners.
13th – 16th November
Downtown Design – Dubai, UAE
Downtown Design is the only platform in the Middle East for the region’s trade professionals to discover original, high quality design from all over the world. In its sixth edition, the Fair will take place at the Dubai Design District and present a carefully edited roster of established and emerging brands across a range of product categories; including furniture, lighting, bathrooms, kitchens, textiles and accessories. Fostering greater interaction, connectivity and commercial opportunity, Downtown Design is dedicated to providing a dynamic environment for buyers and brands to do business easily and efficiently. Downtown Design will run from 13 – 16th November 2018 as a key element of Dubai Design Week.
19th October – 22nd December
Karl Lagerfeld, Architectures – Paris, France
Carpenters Workshop Gallery Paris is pleased to introduce Karl Lagerfeld’s first ever sculptural works exhibition, Architectures, from 19th October through 22nd December 2018. Architectures is an art collection of functional sculptures designed by Karl Lagerfeld and inspired by Antiquity, referred to as the origin of beauty, culture and modernity by the designer. Evoking a contemporary architectural landscape with Greek origins, the unique pieces combine the precision of canonical proportions born from the use of the golden ratio and the most noble material, marble. The ensemble of gueridons, tables, lamps, consoles, fountains and mirrors materialise the perfect balance of classical foundations with a present-day vibe, like a modern mythology.
20th – 21st November
Sleep + Eat – London, UK
Sleep + Eat brings together the visionaries that represent and define the evolution of hotel, restaurant and bar design. Over two days, the show brings together hospitality leaders with Europe’s foremost designers, consultants, architects and emerging talent creating across hotels, restaurants and bars. The expertly curated exhibition sees leading brands showcase their products and concepts; a seminar programme tackles zeitgeisty topics on the future of design; and there’s plenty of chance to celebrate the industry’s collective, creative spirit.
21st November
SBID Business Breakfast Meeting – London, UK
The upcoming Breakfast Meeting will be hosted by creators of innovative, beautiful and functional kitchens with a contemporary aesthetic and timeless elegance; Roundhouse Design at their Showroom in London on the Wednesday 21st November. SBID Business Breakfast meetings aim to bring together relevant industry professionals to facilitate business networking and partnerships.
To attend or register your interest in attending, please email [email protected]
GROHE extends its research laboratory in Germany
The world’s leading provider of sanitary fittings, celebrated the official opening of the extension to its research laboratory at the Hemer site in Germany. Investing EUR 1.1 million, GROHE is consolidating all the previously decentralised activities of its research laboratory in Hemer, facilitating an even closer connection between the central areas of research and development. In the past few months, GROHE has increased the laboratory space by 590 square metres for a total of 1,510 square metres to create the necessary infrastructure for more efficient development processes and new testing procedures.
Another month, another round-up of the latest products, design concepts and collection launches from this October! With new, collaborative meeting solutions for office spaces, a kitchen design scheme which acts as more than just a kitchen and the return of vintage-inspired trends in bathrooms and surfaces…
The MX POD was created to meet different types of meetings and to integrate the new collaborative technologies. This solution is totally suitable for open plan offices. Thanks to its seating capacity up to 4 people, you can easily arrange meetings, whatever its use : face-to-face meetings, interactive presentations or videoconferencing. Designed in order to integrate the AV and collaborative technologies : this solution includes a table with a connection panel and it can accommodate a screen from 32’’ to 40’’. It creates an intimate meeting space while suiting to the new collaborative tools : presentation on screen, videoconferencing system, network connection… Its acoustic correction absorbs noise and contributes to the comfort and the concentration of attendees.
Launched with 35 taps which form the Atrio Collection and sharing one unified look of elegance and precision, Atrio is symbolic of a new era of design that challenges conventions in order to create something truly iconic. The fundamental, consistent design is inspired by GROHE’s original best-selling ATRIO collection incepted more than 10 years ago. Atrio’s sleek, cylindrical design gives a timeless elegance, enhanced by a form that measures the same diameter from the base to the top. This design feat is replicated across all taps within the collection. This is a first for tap design which required technical experts to achieve new levels of engineering perfection, to ensure both form and function worked in harmony. The spout itself curves in the perfect arc of a semi-circle.
From the bold cross handles with subtle ‘H’ and ‘C’ markings, to the slim cylindrical shape made possible by GROHE’s super-slim cartridge technology, the considered details add up to an object with a reassuring air of design permanence. The Atrio collection delivers versatility in its design, with a number of different sizes and configurations for bathroom basins, baths and showers. The Atrio range is available in three beautiful finishes; Chrome, Supersteel and Brushed Hard Graphite.
Heralding new heights for Brighton’s coastline, the new British Airways i360 observation tower is designed by Marks Barfield Architects, who also designed the iconic London Eye. Working with the architects, Inside Out provided a full furnishing solution for the attraction’s dedicated food and beverage offering, the West Beach Bar & Kitchen. Inspiration for the venue has been derived from the vibrant local culture of Brighton and Hove, channelling an eclectic beach hut vibe which includes art from local artists.
From Inside Out’s UK workshop, existing full circle booths have been reupholstered in ocean-hued blue fluting and refitted with weathered-style limed oak wooden panels, which are reminiscent of the seaside. Bespoke marshmallow stools also handmade in the UK feature in an array of red, purple and yellow, dotted around the bar with Cocktail lounges and sofas in matching fabrics to the local art on the walls. From the main dining room, Thea and Karavan chairs mingle with Italian made Jeeves armchairs in a mixture of natural oak and white-washed wood stains. Complementing the dining chairs, the solid wood table tops continue the weathered look with limed oak finished table tops upon black metal bases.
Poggenpohl’s innovative +Venovo kitchen is designed for how we live our lives today because the kitchen of today is more than just a kitchen. It is a room in which everything can – and should – take place. Demanding flexibility and freedom, +Venovo is a living sculpture that enriches its environment and moves with you as you move, grow and adapt through life. The contemporary design is freestanding on elegant metal legs, eliminating the boundary between kitchen and living space and the +Venovo island incorporates everything necessary to cook and prepare food.
+Venovo can be located anywhere in the home and even taken with you when you move. The units are available in the full range of Poggenpohl finishes, with the metal frame in the option of matt black, polar white, gloss chrome or gloss grey.
The Carmen bathroom collection is synonymous with a vintage style that can be appreciated by generations to come. Its soft, classic lines give the entire ensemble character and poise – from vitreous china to bathroom furniture, from taps and brassware to accessories, every detail tells a captivating story. Carefully designed and refined rectangular shapes are used to give distinction and definition. This can be admired in the basins (choose from wall-hung, pedestal, in countertop or vanity options in a variety of sizes) as well as the style of the lower part of the WC toilet.
Committing to a vintage style bathroom doesn’t have to mean compromising on functionality! The new Carmen collection comes with a multitude of storage possibilities. Should you need additional space, add the elegant Carmen column unit, where glass doors add grace and definition. The height-adjustable shelves also make a statement, along with the unit’s LED interior lighting. All the pieces in the Carmen vintage style bathroom collection are made from Roca’s exclusive high quality vitreous china. Its robust enamel provides great durability and resistance and a brilliant shine and white colour that will remain flawless through the passage of time.
Hand-silvered antique mirror glass, made in-house by Saligo Design will enhance your interiors with an authentic, vintage-esque aesthetic. The vintage style of antique mirror is a distinctive product and, being hand-finished in their workshop, is even more versatile. Hand finishing the mirror allows them to control the level of antiquing, creating lighter or heavier levels of distressing overall, and more specifically, when required, around the edges. Vintage comes in a number of different glass types. For the authentic looking drama of antique mirror, they use hand-silvered clear float glass. With bronze and grey glass, they create reflections which are subdued behind a warm or neutral tint; this finish has less contrast and is elegant and understated.
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features a heritage conversion property rich in original detailing and upscale interest. Situated opposite the Dutch Royal Palace and once a bank, Hotel Indigo The Hague – Palace Noordeinde wears its prestigious heritage proudly. Complete with underground speakeasy which was once the banks vault, the hotel is a true icon of the city, and exemplifies The Hague’s prestigious royal and political connections. Portraits inspired by royalty adorn the walls, and original mouldings and light fittings have been carefully restored by local craftspeople. Art Déco stained glass, aged brass lamps and original green marble columns evoke the luxury world of private banking. A carefully curated selection of bespoke furniture choices cater for both hotel guests and well-heeled locals, be they there for a fresh morning coffee in the all-day Stocks & Bonds brasserie or a late night cocktail in The Gold Bar.
Company: HUGO interior design
Project: Hotel Indigo, The Hague
Project Location: The Hague, Netherlands
Hotel Indigo The Hague needs to communicate the unique cultural and historic offerings of this unique Dutch city of power, wealth and government. A sense of prestige and exclusivity should be celebrated within the hotels design.
HUGO interior design was inspired by the most unique and important buildings in the neighbourhood, such as the Royal Palace, Dutch government and International Court of Justice. The hotel is situated on Noordeinde street, directly opposite the Royal Palace. As a result, hotel rooms on Noordeinde side have a unique view on the palace. The chic Noordeinde district is primarily known for its distinctive fashion boutiques, galleries and art and antiques dealers, located in beautiful art nouveau buildings. With this neighbourhood story the design of the hotel should be sophisticated and high-end, where guests experience a royal and wealthy feeling. Wealth and royalty were key words in the design of Hugo Broeders, since the Royal family and the Nederlandsche Bank are inextricably linked to the history of this building. One of the most important starting points in the design was the building itself, with its historical and architectural elements such as the various marble, glass, mosaics, ornaments and woodwork. Characteristic materials for that time for buildings with a purpose like this. Hugo Broeders: “We have had the beautiful panelling disassembled, because we wanted to make headboard of this. We reused cupboards and steel doors, especially in the public areas where guests can experience them. We have implemented the patterns of the old woodwork in the new interior components such as the doors and carpets. Artwork is mostly inspired by coins and banknotes. And because the vault plays such an impressive role in the building, we have designed a multifunctional safe that will have a place in every room. We wanted all guests to have their own safe, so we designed a multi-functional steel safe that is positioned in each room. The safe contains a safe (of course), a minibar, coffee and tea making facilities and storage space. It seems and works like a real vault, you have to turn the wheel to open it. It is a feature that embodies the history of the building.
Every space, every room is not only unique in size, but also in form. Working on a property like this, you have to detail everything because every part of the building is unique and different from another part. Although you have the most wonderful materials to work with, you’re limited in possibilities. What you see is what you get, so you have to be very creative to make sure you get the most out of what’s available. You need to create spaces and add materials that are complementary and meet up to the standards of modern day regarding comfort, look and feel. To celebrate this uniqueness and work with the challenges, the idea was that guest should have a unique experience, even if they visit the hotel multiple times. That means three room types were designed, all different in atmosphere and appearance: Royal Residence – street facing rooms with Palace view, experiencing the feeling of residing in a prestigious street in a room with stained glass windows, high ceilings, wood panelled walls and headboards and a dark red and blue grey colour palette with warm velvets and antique brass details. Court Capital – the feeling of wealth comes across in these (some split-level) rooms. Using leathers and a light and dark green colour palette with polished brass details, guests feel the power and history of the building and the city. Loft Living – more contemporary rooms on the top floor and in the attic, combining old beams and slanted ceilings with concrete flooring and rooms in the newly build part of the hotel with large glass curtain walls on the backside of the hotel. Adding variations in grey and an ocre colour palette, soft fabrics and satin brass details, this room feels like modern Dutch living in the city. The combination of this property and the concept of diversity in rooms was challenging. Procurement was difficult, chances of making errors are big and it took a lot of time to make sure the results are as intended.
When the bank closed its doors in 1994, it was impossible to remove the massive doors from the vaults where the gold stock was previously kept. The round safe door is still one of the most impressive elements in the building. The vaults are in the basement, if there is no need to go down they are not seen by guests. Wanting to make sure that guests would experience these special spaces, a speakeasy was created here. The story goes that the bank was once connected to the Palace through a corridor. Everything indicates that this came out in the space that we transformed into this speakeasy. From the lobby you have easy access to the speakeasy, making it possible for everyone to have a drink at this very special “Gold Bar”.
Questions answered by the Founders of HUGO interior design, Hugo Broeders and Debby Wentink.
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring an innovative hotel design which strives to redefine the concept of luxury, click here to see more.
HUGO interior design | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features an innovative hotel design which strives to redefine the concept of luxury, five-star hotel experiences by connecting with the neighbourhood which surrounds it. In a world increasingly congested with fussy design, this project demonstrates a new type of luxury. A refreshing perspective, celebrating the Kaohsiung harbour and all of the creative energy of the commercial surroundings delivered with wit and charm. The Hotel Indigo, Kaohsiung Central Park is located in the heart of Kaohsiung, Taiwan. The neighbourhood and its dynamic port served as the inspiration for the design. Located in a vibrant suburb within Kaohsiung near the bustling commercial harbour, the hotel experience was conceptualised as the journey of goods from the harbour to the shelves of Kaohsiung’s boutiques and emporiums.
Company: Hirsch Bedner Associates Hong Kong
Project: Hotel Indigo Kaohsiung Central Park
Project Location: Kaohsiung, Taiwan
The client owned an old shopping mall in an area near the Kaoshiung port and wanted to convert it into a hotel, but wanted the hotel to somehow relate to the previous history of the building and to the neighbourhood that was deeply connected to the nearby harbour and undergoing a process of urban renovation. The brief was therefore to redefine the concept of a five-star hotel experience, shifting the notion of luxury, as it’s commonly envisioned. The objective was to connect with the local area, allowing the hotel to become an energetic part of the urban fabric and distinguishing itself from other large five star hotels.
As a consequence of the context in which this project came to life; the commercial aspect of the building and the evolution of the neighbourhood from an industrial harbour to a gateway to the world, became the main inspiration. The Kaohsiung neighbourhood and its dynamic port was the central inspiration for designing key areas of the hotel. Located in a vibrant suburb within Kaohsiung near the bustling commercial harbour, the hotel experience was conceptualised as the journey of goods from the harbour to the shelves of Kaohsiung’s boutiques and emporiums. Inspired by the humble local emporiums where products such as soft drinks, canned and picked food are part of everyday life for Taiwanese, beautifully designed feature walls depict the tops and bottoms of cola bottles with fun messages. Digitally printed wall coverings featuring opened jars and tins of food adds a splash of colour, character and provincial flavour.
Due to the trade barriers between Taiwan and Mainland China most of the finishes had to be locally sourced or engineered from scratch. The process was difficult but extremely gratifying. Thanks to this project, new products and finishes are now available in Taiwan!
The reaction of guests and visitors; some thought it was brilliant and told us they felt the connection to the neighbourhood, others found the project was at the limit of their comfort zone and didn’t like it entirely. That to us is a good sign, it means we succeeded at giving to the hotel a distinct personality and when it comes to personality, we simply just don’t all feel the same!
The project was very appreciated in Taiwan but to some it felt like it was pushing the boundaries of their comfort zone. So we were curious to see how it would have been received by an international audience and the SBID Awards was the perfect platform to do this!
Questions answered by Federico Masin, Partner at Hirsch Bedner Associates Hong Kong
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a hotel design which delicately balances timelessness and tradition with industrial modernity, click here to see more.
HBA Hong Kong | SBID International Design Awards 2018
This week’s instalment of the #SBIDinspire interior design series features an elegantly timeless, yet industrially modern and edgy hotel interior design based on the narrative of two Turkish sisters – one who lived in New York City and the other in Paris. Envisioned as a portal between two worlds, the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul’s hotel lobby leaves a lasting impression to those who walk through it, beckoning passersby to explore and engage. White marble floors found at the entrance contrast against warm wood floors covering the reception area, crafting a carefully balanced procession. Guests check in at the bespoke reception desks showcasing wood, metal, and stone. Oversized, locally crafted lanterns accent the corner of the lobby and signify the entrance of the bridge connection to the business centre. Similarly, a dark and striking carved stone wall flanks the side of a “runway” that connects the lobby with the Great Room. The design team used the walkway to echo the overall project’s interior design concept of merging two different narratives into one, by blending urban culture and industrial flair with traditional features and a strong sense of place.
Company: Wilson Associates
Project: Fairmont Quasar
Project Location: Istanbul, Turkey
This project is developed by joint venture company, Viatrans Inc. – Meydanbey. The multi-complex encompasses a hotel, serviced apartments, and offices set on the site of Turkey’s first liquor factory that was designed by the Parisian Art Deco Master, Robert Mallet Stevens in the 1930’s. This is his sole masterpiece, the only one ever built outside of France. This is the first project by Viatrans Inc. – Meydanbey and they had a vision to create the most innovative and luxurious development in Istanbul. They also had a vision to turn the liquor factory into an epicentre for arts, fashion and culture — transcending the level of luxury in Istanbul to new heights. Rising above the slopes of The Bosphorus, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul serves as a hub for the well-travelled, fusing the sophistication of modern Istanbul with the unique lineage of its location and centuries of history. A new icon for the vibrant Mecidiyeköy district, Fairmont Quasar sits at a crossroads in Istanbul – where eclectic neighbourhood bazaars and colourful side streets meet modern shopping centres and commercial properties. This will be the first hotel for Fairmont Hotels & Resorts in Turkey, and the fifth property of parent company AccorHotel’s luxury brand portfolio within Istanbul. Situated inside the Quasar Istanbul complex, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul occupies two 40-story towers that sit atop a four-story office podium comprised of fitness facilities and luxury retail. The towers include Fairmont Hotel and Residences, as well as the Quasar Residences and offices, also managed by Fairmont. Opened March 2017, Fairmont Quasar Istanbul provides 209 guestrooms including 25 suites.
Robert Mallet Stevens was our inspiration for the interior design concept. The hotel is set on the site of Turkey’s first liquor factory that was designed by the Parisian Art Deco Master Architect. Built in 1930, the factory was and remains both an important political statement of the modernity of Turkey and a unique piece of Istanbul’s architectural history. Robert Mallet Steven’s design of flowing concrete and glass, the industrial feel of the distillery equipment lent to the fervour of the Bauhaus design trends of the time. The factory itself emanated feelings of progress, positivity, hope, industry, and advancement encapsulating the birth of a new nation. Form following function, yet Robert Mallet Stevens never forgot the human touches through Art Deco details, intimate scaling, and compression versus expansion. This was the very same spirit that we wanted to transport into 2017 and into Fairmont Istanbul— To bring this sophistication into the millennium. The hotel is purposely designed to echo this bygone industrial age but interpreted in a new luxurious and relevant manner. Spaces are both intimate and expansive, filled with light; the materials used tactile and even nostalgic; all composed to recapture that ‘magic’. This design strategy is further enhanced with a more human story: We created a unique tale of two Turkish sisters, one living in New York and the other in Paris, both returning to Istanbul and bringing home with them the design sensibilities of the two cities to Istanbul. This tale is a story of souls bound together through time; timeless yet modern. These sisters, having lived in such rich and vibrant cities wanted to return to Istanbul with their adopted communities of Paris and New York, adding yet another rich layer to the fabric of the city. Istanbul is the perfect synthesis between East and West as Paris-New York are the shining beacons of the old and new worlds. This sets the perfect stage for the sisters to converge and star in a performance of life, love, and expression. This was our inspiration for the Fairmont Istanbul. This is our tale of old and new souls, bound together through the ages.
The main design challenge for us was to create a sense of place without being overly colloquial; the owners wanted the hotel to be modern yet timeless with a true sense of nostalgic elegance. The imposing glass and steel architecture of the towers also presented unique challenges to crafting this look. Furthermore, the structural grid left for the interior spaces that were somewhat compartmentalised into rooms of varying sizes also posed a design challenge for us. By echoing Robert Mallet Steven’s spirit of both compressive and expansive spaces, intimate yet grand, and merging influences of Parisian chic with New York industrial flair, we created harmonious design concept that helped mitigate these challenges. The result was a very interesting design with a variety of “feelings” and moments within the hotel. The creation was a multi-layered fabric of experiences much like the fabric of the city of Istanbul.
Some of the team highlights for the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul project include the hotel lobby and the luxurious Presidential Suite. Inspired by local Turkish culture, the 1930’s liquor factory and The Borphorus Strait, and the tale of two sisters, the lobby includes a fireplace, angled ceiling panels, eclectic groups of seating and a custom Turkish-inspired carpet by Golden Hali. The area is imbued with timeless, modern and local design such as large windows that look out onto the lobby garden – commonly found in Turkish architecture. These windows effortlessly create a sense of light and openness, and are bordered by floor-to-ceiling black metal geometric screens. All of the interior design details merge together to create a great public space for guests to sit, relax, and even enjoy a drink if they so choose. Fairmont Quasar Istanbul’s most luxurious room is the Presidential Suite. This space is a multifaceted and dynamic design with details ranging from the custom carpets and leather-upholstered casegoods to Turkish accessories and artwork that create an elegant and modern décor. Inspired by the industrial elements of the Robert Mallet liquor factory, rooms at the Fairmont Quasar Istanbul are a mix of Turkish design with bespoke, custom-made pieces such as the desk which has been created as a multi-functional space for work, dining or relaxing. The space includes blue leather-tufted headboards, mini-bars in the style of vintage travel trunks and custom carpets by Ottoman Hali and Stepevi. The bathrooms feature showers that resemble a traditional Turkish hammam, offering a local experience. The dining room makes the suite a truly luxury place for guests to stay. The interior design elements include dark walnut millwork, patterned wooden floors and crackled accent wall covering as well as the sparkling orb chandelier and angular mirrored wall sculpture.
SBID is a trusted industry voice and highly regarded by the interior design community. Wilson Associates is very proud to be recognised by SBID and be able to showcase our latest projects on a global and influential platform. The projects submitted to the awards program gets better, and better every year, which encourages us to push the creativity envelope further and deliver even better work. To see the talent we’re up against and to be able to walk away as category finalists or winners is an incredible honour. And, it’s always a lovely feeling at the awards ceremony when the design community is united, there’s a real buzz!
Questions answered by the Wilson Associates, New York team; Joanne Yong, Principal Designer; Dan Kwan, SVP and Managing Director; Seiichi Mori, Design Director; David Dorfman, Project Manager; Keiko Matsumoto, Senior Project Designer; Kevin Caulfield, Senior Design Manager.
If you missed last week’s Project of the Week featuring a new casual dining concept and London’s first dedicated Avocado bar, click here to see more.
Wilson Associates | SBID International Design Awards 2018
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