Arsight: Creating a Charming and Historic KBB Design

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a charming and historic KBB design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Arsight.

Artem Kropovinsky, of Arsight Studio, masterfully reimagines a 120-year-old Brooklyn brownstone, infusing Scandinavian-inspired design elements. The renovated kitchen and bathroom seamlessly blend historic charm with modern comfort, integrating cutting-edge technology while preserving original details. Custom woodwork, brass hardware, and eclectic wallpaper create a harmonious visual flow. Underlying the design is a strong commitment to sustainability, with restored original features, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient appliances, demonstrating that luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client desired a blend of the Brooklyn brownstone’s rich 120-year history with cutting-edge modern technology. Their goal was a harmonious marriage of the two, focusing on the custom kitchen and bathroom. They wanted these spaces to pay homage to the property’s heritage while providing the modern conveniences and features expected in a high-end property today.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration was twofold. First, the inherent charm and architectural beauty of the Brooklyn brownstone acted as our canvas. Second, we were inspired by the potential of cutting-edge technology to enhance daily life. Drawing on minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics, we combined earthy tones and minimalist finishes with state-of-the-art technology, like voice-activated assistants and adaptive lighting, to craft a space that’s as smart as it is stunning.

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

Beyond marrying the old with the new in terms of design, our challenge was seamlessly integrating modern technology without disrupting the brownstone’s historical integrity. Introducing smart appliances, retractable range hood, and sensor-driven lighting into a setting that boasts carefully restored stained glass windows and original woodwork was a delicate task. It required a perfect blend of innovation and respect for history.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The custom wood kitchen was a crowning achievement. It wasn’t only the aesthetic harmony we achieved, but also the integration of modern tech features like smart appliances, voice-activated assistants, and centralised control panels. This kitchen isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s a hub of modern convenience, with every technological addition designed to enhance user experience, from adaptive lighting to an integrated sound system.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards represent the epitome of interior design innovation and excellence. We believed our project, with its unique blend of historical aesthetics and advanced technological features, was emblematic of the pioneering spirit SBID celebrates. Participating in the SBID Awards was a chance to spotlight our commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.

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

Achieving Finalist status at the SBID has been both an affirmation of our dedication to design and innovation and a tremendous boon for our brand’s reputation. It’s not only about being recognised but also about showcasing our approach, which deftly balances reverence for history with the exciting possibilities of modern technology. The acknowledgment has reinforced our reputation as innovators in the world of interior design.

Questions answered by Artem Kropovinsky, Founder & Principal Designer at Arsight.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a peaceful and earthy apartment design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, RS Interiores.

Udo means peace in Hindu, just the name Rosadela Serulle had been searching for this project, since its exactly what is reflected in its ambiance. She describes it as a symbol of amplitude, where the unity of colors come together in perfect harmony. All the spaces in Casa UDO have elements of design that forces its visitors to admire them. The simplicity in the entrance and its complicity with the grand living room. These spaces are in earthy hues to create the sensation of lightness and tranquility it offers.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief was simple, they wanted a residence that transmitted peace. After that I was given full freedom of design, which is every designer’s dream.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration for this project came from the first conversation with my client, where we sat down and just spoke about life, their expectations and desires for their home. This is where UDO was born. Udo, means peace in Hindu, just the name I had been searching for this project, since its exactly what is reflects in its ambiance.

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

The toughest hurdle we overcame was definitely time, we had a specific goal to completed this project within a few months, from a blank canvas to what we accomplished, and our team delivered, we completed UDO within 6 months. This includes all of the wood works, tapestry, wall finishing, curtains and all furnishings.

We aim to please our clients and this project met all the expectations.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our highlight of Casa UDO, was definitely composing a home worth of this family, we met all of our clients expectations. Our designs, color, lighting and furnishing came together in a wonderful way.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I entered SBID awards as we have done for the past years, I believe in excellence and recognition, and you can always find this in SBID.

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

It truly meaningful to be recognised at this stage as a finalist to this prestigious award. We strive to produce designs that create a unique identity, that truly represents our clients way of life.

Questions answered by Rosadela Serulle, Founder of RS Interiores.

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

From my point of view, the most fulfilling aspect of the Interior Design career is navigating all design stages of a project and witnessing the evolution of initial concepts, culminating in their realisation. I find great pleasure in tackling the initial challenge, brainstorming concepts, and uncovering the grand design idea. At Anamo Design Studio we believe no two projects are the same, so we offer our projects a sense of uniqueness and individuality by re-imagining the design every time.

Another incredibly rewarding experience for me is the first Client design meeting of a new project, as it acts as a catalyst for the big creative ideas and a platform for generating excitement within the team. Interior Design as a profession is creatively rewarding and comes with a strong sense of fulfilment, as each day unravels unique experiences and challenges.

What has been your most memorable career highlight from the past year?

One standout moment from the past year is the launch of our latest project – F1 Arcade Birmingham. Marking the creation of F1 Arcade’s second venue, this unique, one-of-a-kind environment that beautifully blends the premium and glamorous Formula 1 lifestyle with the high-tech, energy infused Formula 1 racing, showcases a modern industrial language with touches of glamour layered throughout the space. In parallel with this opening, we have been actively shaping innovative concepts within the realm of experiential hospitality, details of which we can hopefully share with you very soon.

Furthermore, we’ve reached significant milestones with the completion of High-End residential projects that have been in development over recent years. Over the past year, we have successfully expanded our team and integrated additional design disciplines in-house, effectively enhancing our multidisciplinary approach to projects —a source of profound pride for me.

What are your favourite types of projects to work on and why?

I am particularly drawn to Experiential Hospitality and F&B projects, as they bring a dynamic energy, fast-paced atmosphere, and the chance to explore innovative and groundbreaking ideas. Typically, we see such venues wanting to open their doors to the public as soon as possible after the design is agreed, giving us a great opportunity to follow the project closely throughout the duration of the build.

Another type of projects I am particularly drawn to are High-End Residential and Hotel schemes, as both require meticulous attention to detail and offer ample opportunities for creative expression through a variety of textures and patterns available for use.

What are the most challenging aspects of working in interior design?

I find that the most rewarding aspects often coincide with the most challenging ones. Aligning the Client’s vision, guest expectations, and our creative design flair to achieve an extraordinary outcome is no small feat and requires cohesive collaboration. Apart from ensuring all stakeholders are aligned when it comes to design, one of the biggest challenges in this industry is delivering great designs on budget. This is why, at Anamo Design Studio, we like to be involved in the project budgeting from the early concept stages to ensure we safeguard the design elements that will create the most impact. In addition, this enables us to manage expectations and maintain transparency regarding the project’s outcomes and success.

What do you wish you knew before working in the field?

The biggest learning for me was the expanse of the field; Interior Design is more than just design, it combines a wealth of knowledge such as technical acumen, creative presentation skills, accurate budgeting and constant research into expanding the use of the application of finishes and textures. Furthermore, understanding the differences between Interior Decorator, Interior Designer, and Interior Architect is important because each role entails specific skills, qualifications and responsibilities. Knowing these distinctions helps clients and professionals alike to ensure that the right expertise is sought for the task at hand. Additionally, it fosters clarity and effective communication within the industry, leading to better collaboration and outcomes in interior design projects.

If you could give one tip to aspiring designers, what would it be?

The best advice for aspiring designers is to embrace flexibility early on in your career and willingness to learn from various disciplines such as architecture, graphic design, engineering, and project management. This will transform you into a versatile, highly sought-after designer, instilling the confidence to present your own ideas and lead projects from concept to completion.

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

As creative brands continue to launch hospitality venues and guests become increasingly design-conscious, we have noticed the significance of design in choosing leisure destinations increased significantly compared to few years ago. This year, I see the industry pushing the limits of creativity, aiming for impactful ideas and a wow factor in design. This presents an excellent opportunity for creative agencies to showcase their expertise and craft captivating, standout designs.

In addition, I have noticed an increased awareness within the Interior Design industry as a whole around the significance of lighting and its role in interior design, which I believe will have a notable impact on the projects completed over the next few years.

What does being an SBID Accredited Interior Designer mean to you?

Having the accreditation as an SBID Interior Designer significantly boosts the studio’s visibility and aligns us with top-tier designers, facilitating valuable idea-sharing and continuous learning within the Interior Design field. The membership allows us to access exclusive resources such as the SBID Design Awards and the Interior Design Directory, elevating our reach to worldwide clients seeking our services. Both the awards and directory raise professional standards in design year on year and empower designers to elevate the outcome of completed projects.

One of the many things we appreciate at SBID is their passion for regulating the interior design industry, which helps potential Clients distinguish between hobbyists, Interior Decorators and Interior Designers.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

From conception to completion, Elementi Cucina’s Creative Director, Katie Lusty, was on board with this new build project working hard with the clients to create their dream home.

The clients were a young family with uber cool taste who didn’t just want a standard boring kitchen, wardrobes and bathrooms, like many they had seen, but were looking for something completely different, a statement, a reflection of their personalities as a family, quirky, fun yet functional for their lifestyle, which in a day could involve messy breakfasts, hordes of kids running around, the space being used as a family gathering place and sophisticated evening adult soirees. The clients were totally open to ideas, the more individual the better, they put their trust in Katie and were a designers dream client…

The kitchen space was very large, and the clients wanted it to look contemporary but with personality, cutting edge appliances were a must along with a stunning selection of materials. The space needed to wow but also work as a functional family kitchen, they love cooking and entertaining, and the appliances and extraction needed to be able to handle this, the kitchen had to be easy to maintain and navigate also. A focal point and copious worktop space for the family to congregate were a must!

The kitchen ergonomics were considered first, followed by the finishes (no insipid colours allowed), a beautiful sultry, dark door gave the whole design depth and texture. The layout was key, so Katie designed a tall wall run encompassing in beautiful organic strips of wood, refrigeration appliances were hidden and a pantry/breakfast area behind secret doors in the strip wood was designed in (to hide the toaster and clutter if required) and finally tall units for ample storage. The sink run included a beautiful stone sink and a must have Quooker tap system. The oven appliances were strategically placed for cooking with set down space directly opposite.

The island really was the focal point and practically gave the clients a central beautiful working space, with acres of clear worktop run for cooking up a storm and plenty of large pull-out drawers for storage. Dekton worktops add to the depth of the room scheme, the stone encases the back, island worktop and sides giving a monolith effect. The kitchen is a truly unique and stunningly original installation, and our fantastic suppliers who supported us throughout the project, especially the team at Classico Marble who really did go above and beyond with the intricate stonework (caused a few sleepless nights for sure).

Once the kitchen was designed, bang on budget the bathrooms and wardrobes came next, again working closely with the clients to create unique, individual, and stunning spaces. The Master En-Suite and dressing room showcase a calm, soft yet incredibly chic design, perfect for this fashion loving client and her husband. The children’s en-suites were designed to grow up with them, the girls bathroom features a stunning rose quartzesque tile and gold brassware whilst the boys bathroom is totally batcavesque whilst being stylish and classic.

The challenges faced on this project were mainly down to supply chain issues however we worked hard as a team to manage this and can happily say the project was a success and the clients delighted. True Elementi Cucina teamwork at play, all pulling together to leave the clients with their house, like no other.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

Erwin Ereno Design Studio shares a story of immense pride and gratitude, reflecting on their collaboration with HH Sheikha Maryam Bint Mohammed Bin Salman Al Khalifa. Guided by Her Highness’s vision, the design team poured their dedication and creativity into every detail of the project. The final outcome – a breathtaking transformation – stands as a testament to the power of shared vision and unwavering trust.

The project narrative is a heartwarming journey of collaboration. HH Sheikha Maryam Bint Mohammed Bin Salman Al Khalifa’s vision served as the guiding light, and Erwin Ereno Design Studio meticulously translated that vision into reality. The design team’s dedication and creativity shone through in every aspect of the renovation, from conceptualisation to execution.

Witnessing Her Highness’s satisfaction with the final product filled the design team with immeasurable joy. To not only meet but surpass her expectations is a significant achievement, underscoring the importance of shared vision and trust in the design process.

The after photos speak for themselves. The once bland space has been transformed into a luxurious and inspiring guest suite. The transformation is a beacon of successful collaboration, proving that when trust and vision meet, truly remarkable things can be achieved.

Erwin Ereno Design Studio is honored to have been a part of HH Sheikha Maryam’s journey. They look forward to continuing to create beautiful spaces that inspire and delight, fostering more collaborations like this one in the future.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a rustic and urban residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Arsight.

Designed by Artem Kropovinsky of Arsight, this interior project in Tribeca curates an intuitive and personalized living space that beautifully interweaves the rough charm of natural materials with high-end features. A testament to creative craftsmanship, the apartment is imbued with unique elements such as hand-troweled fluted plaster walls, a hand-carved kitchen island, and heavyweight linen curtains. The design, valuing authenticity and embracing imperfections, tells a compelling story of human touch and history. This innovative fusion of refined elegance and rustic appeal, underscored by a commitment to sustainability, offers a refreshing divergence from prevailing trends.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief was wonderfully open-ended and truly allowed us to connect with our deepest design inclinations. They sought an interior space that drew inspiration from the heart of nature, a setting that would be not just a living space, but a narrative – a reflection of nature’s unparalleled beauty. They envisioned a space that would harmoniously blend the raw beauty of the outdoors with the comfort of an urban dwelling.

What inspired the design of the project?

Our primary inspiration for this design was the enchanting allure of nature itself. This wasn’t just confined to theoretical concepts; we actively ventured into the wilderness landscapes of Connecticut. Here, we were particularly moved by the timeless beauty of driftwood and stones that had been molded by nature over millennia. These elements, in their most authentic form, became vital components in our design, serving as a tangible bridge between the natural world and the constructed urban environment.

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

The most challenging aspect of this project was ensuring that the raw, natural elements we introduced, such as driftwood and stones, seamlessly integrated with the modern features of the apartment. This meant balancing the ruggedness of these elements with the refined aspects of modern design without losing the authenticity of either. It was essential that the space felt both luxurious and raw, opulent yet genuinely connected to the natural world.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the most rewarding moments was seeing the hand-chiselled kitchen island, an epitome of our design philosophy, come to life. Witnessing raw stone transform into an exquisite functional and artistic centrepiece was a validation of our vision. This island epitomized the harmony between rough and refined, and watching it anchor the space was truly a joy.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We entered the SBID Awards because we genuinely believe in the integrity and authenticity of our design. The SBID represents the pinnacle of interior design recognition in our industry. It’s not just about accolades; it’s a platform that recognizes dedication, innovation, and true excellence in design. We felt that our project, with its unique blend of nature and luxury, resonated with the values that SBID champions.

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

Becoming an Award Finalist at the SBID has been an immense honour. It is not just a testament to the hard work and dedication our team has poured into the project, but it also offers validation from a community of esteemed peers. For our business, this recognition has bolstered our reputation and credibility in the industry.

Questions answered by Artem Kropovinsky, Founder and Principal Designer at Arsight.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a colourful, Armenian-inspired restaurant design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, 4SPACE Design.

The name “VAGA” comes from the word “vagabond,” which means “nomad” and serves as the inspiration behind the concept. 4SPACE created a world-fresh time-traveler vibe that takes you on a journey through traditional Arabic cuisine and colorful Armenian culture – a lifestyle destination that embodies the wandering, explorative nature of the vagabond. The restaurant offers exceptional views of Ain Dubai and a contemporary design that takes your dining experience to the next level. Revelers looking for secrecy can enjoy the private room that offers a world of speakeasy fantasy, perfect for those looking for a little adventure to their dining experience.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for VAGA Restaurant and Bar, designed by 4SPACE, was to create a contemporary dining destination that harmoniously blends Arabic and Armenian cultures. The restaurant was envisioned as a space where diners could embark on a captivating journey, experiencing the fusion of these two vibrant traditions. The goal was to design a restaurant that pays homage to both cultures while providing extraordinary views of Ain Dubai, the world’s biggest and tallest Ferris wheel, on Bluewaters Island.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of VAGA was inspired by the concept of a magical vagabond, a time traveler who traverses different eras and worlds, experiencing grand adventures along the way. This inspiration led to the creation of a space that beautifully weaves together Arabic and Armenian elements, with a focus on kitchen drama, textures, and reflective surfaces. The design represents the wanderlust and explorative nature of the vagabond, capturing the essence of discovery and wonder.

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

The toughest challenge that 4SPACE overcame during the VAGA project was designing and connecting two distinct spaces that represent Armenian and Arabic cultures, while still maintaining a sense of harmony and unity. Creating a seamless transition between the ground floor, which reflects Armenian influences, and the first floor, which is inspired by Arabic aesthetics, required careful design and meticulous execution.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the VAGA project for the 4SPACE team was the creation of the impressive chandelier on the ground floor. Comprising large metallic rings intricately adorned with the Vannic alphabet, this chandelier is a stunning focal point that captures the essence of the restaurant’s concept. Additionally, the unique DJ booth, which becomes the center of attention for diners and late-night revellers, added a dynamic and interactive element to the space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

4SPACE entered the SBID Awards to showcase the innovative and culturally rich design of VAGA. The project’s successful fusion of Arabic and Armenian influences, along with its captivating design elements and attention to detail, made it a compelling contender for recognition within the design industry.

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

Being an Award Finalist in the SBID Awards held significant meaning for 4SPACE and their design business. It affirmed their ability to merge diverse cultural influences into a harmonious and visually striking space. The recognition from the awards highlighted their expertise in creating immersive and experiential environments, enhancing their reputation in the design community and among potential clients.

Questions answered by Firas Alsahin, Co-Founder and Design Director at 4SPACE.

Join Katharine Pooley this Monday the 11th of March, for a panel discussion on ‘Extraordinary Homes & Gardens Around the World’ led by Noni Ware, Executive Editor of House & Garden magazine.

Topics include ‘Extraordinary Estates’, ‘Coastal Homes’, ‘Countryside’ and ‘Urban City Living’ – in a far-reaching conversation with Katharine Pooley and industry visionaries, Janice Parker and Randle Siddeley in celebration of the launch of Design Week 2024.

We invite you to discover insights into design as our experts take you through their most breathtaking projects – some of which have never been shown to the public before. Join us in the McKinnon & Harris Showroom, amongst a sea of spring flowers, for a spot of afternoon tea and bubbles. It promises to be an unmissable Design Week highlight.

MONDAY 11th MARCH 2024
4.15pm
McKinnon & Harris
220 North Dome
The Design Centre Chelsea Harbour
[email protected]

Katharine Pooley

Established over 20 years ago Katharine Pooley’s London-based interior design studio creates innovative designs and exquisite, award-winning, spaces worldwide. Recently named as “British Interior Designer of the Decade” and “International Designer of the Year”, Katharine’s design vision is limitless and unconstrained by genre.

Janice Parker

Janice Parker was born and raised in NYC. While studying she worked in the floral business which solidified her passion for landscape design. In 1984 she launched her eponymous firm, which has been honoured with Interior Design’s Best of Year Award for Residential Landscape in 2020, and Veranda’s Best in Outdoor Living Awards in 2022 and 2020.

Randle Siddeley

Randle Siddeley, The Lord Kenilworth, founded RSL in 1978. Under his guidance, the landscaping company has become globally recognised for its quality and innovative designs. He has gained extensive experience working alongside many eminent architects and designers on private gardens, hotels and commercial developments all over the world and he is much lauded for his beautifully crafted gardens.

McKinnon and Harris

McKinnon and Harris has been handcrafting high performance aluminium furniture for estate, garden, and yacht in Richmond, Virginia since 1991. Today, McKinnon and Harris set the standard for outdoor home furnishings, with the mission to elevate and inspire designers and homeowners through art, design, and craftsmanship. McKinnon and Harris operates showrooms in London, Richmond, New York City and Los Angeles.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a retro styled residential design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Harmony World Consultant & Design.

Harmony World Consultant & Design was commissioned to design interior space for The Catania Wuhan project.

What was the client’s brief? 

In a globalised city, art and life have never been separated. Under the trend of the overall environment, the design of this project tends to create an artistic living space, which can better experience the architectural form and space volume by emphasising artistic decoration and infiltrating art.

What inspired the design of the project?

We provide each viewer with a certain identity of presence in this immersive space, which means that they have various possibilities to reconstruct their feelings as individuals and continue to write stories. This is the meaning of our design.

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

The integration of various design elements in the space has become our main design consideration. In order to continue the cultural attribute of the integration of multiple cultures, we also focused on the retro style of multi focus, artistic and cultural heritage and French elegance when creating this house style.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The overall beige tone shows its elegance to the audience. At the same time, the entrance is a master sculpture from the Paris. Through the appreciation of artistic sculpture and the continuity of metal chandelier space, the audience is constantly attracted to explore the space, to re-establish their feelings of space in their minds and create the artistic atmosphere of Home Gallery. It shows the collision and integration of modern and classical art in space as a whole, and the experience of “crossing multi-dimensional space” is completed by the design. Innovation and retro, collision and blending, thus reflecting the instantaneous eternity of the concept of art space.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As one of the most prestigious awards in the world, SBID has attracted the attention and participation of many internationally renowned designers with its strict selection criteria. From a professional perspective, SBID focuses on exploring, summarising and exploring the latest trends in the field of design. It also has high standards and requirements for the design works participating in the awards. Every year, authoritative experts in the industry assess the technical content and aesthetic creativity of the entries, and is committed to commendation, reward and publicity of various excellent designs.

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

The SBID Design Award has a very high competitiveness and influence in the international design industry. Being shortlisted for the SBID Design Award is not only a recognition of designers’ professional ability, but also a recognition of their design achievements in the world.

Questions answered by Hongjun Lin, Managing Director at Harmony World Consultant & Design.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a nature-inspired, family home design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Pia Design.

Pia Design was commissioned for the sensitive refresh and redecoration of this dated but loved Georgian country family house. The clients wanted to keep as many of their existing furniture pieces as possible, opting to reupholster much loved heirloom items rather than buying new. Inspired by the stunning hilltop views of the North Downs surrounding the house, the concept was directly inspired by the natural surroundings and referenced the panoramic views of nature and invited the landscape in.

What was the client’s brief? 

This project was an exemplary case study for us in sustainable design. Our client had collected good quality furniture pieces of the years, some of which were handed down throughout the generations and had a lot of personal meaning to the homeowners. They wanted to keep as much of their existing furniture as possible, whilst being conscious that they want to modernise the look of their home. We successfully reused every single item of furniture, only filling in gaps with new pieces where necessary. Their existing furniture was lovingly restored and reupholstered and the new pieces carefully selected or made bespoke to fit in cohesively with the existing.

What inspired the design of the project?

The entire design of the house from concept to design development was inspired by nature. Firstly, we considered the panoramic views of the South Downs visible from this hilltop house and how the colours would change throughout the seasons – this was reflected in the colours schemes, patterns and textures we selected for the house – from nature murals to a soft, seasonal palette of blues and greens, always offset with pops of warming accent colours. Secondly, the materials we chose were primarily natural, sustainable materials, such as Carrara marble, wooden flooring, and fabrics which were at least 75% natural fibres.

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

I would say that working with the client’s existing furniture and focusing so rigorously on not sending anything to landfill unnecessarily did come with its own challenges – we spent a long time playing around with what furniture could be reused in what room and how to refurbish existing pieces – often reupholstering can be more expensive than buying new furniture, so we had to consider carefully how to sensitively and cost effectively breathe new life into existing furniture that didn’t always feel like the best fit for some design schemes. For example, the client’s existing main bedroom bed was a very heavy, ornate wooden sleigh bed which felt overwhelming against the soft blue colour palette we recommended. We overcame this by opting for a custom, handpainted mural by De Gournay behind the bed, as well as large, bright coloured cushions, to draw the eye to these details as opposed to the heavy bed.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight was undoubtedly when the client saw her home finished for the first time after the re-upholstered furniture arrived back from the workshop. When she reacted to her grandmother’s chaise longue brought back to life, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the room. It was very emotional and hugely satisfying to see the hard work we had put into the project be so appreciated and to see just how personal and meaningful everything in their home was to them, and to hear their feedback on how well they felt we had interpreted their brief and understood just how important retaining these heirloom pieces was to them. Of course seeing our project featured in Homes & Gardens was also a moment of great pride!

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Sustainability is at the heart and soul of everything Pia Design does, and this project has been such a perfect showcase of our commitment to our ethos and a testament to the fact that it is possible to design around what the client already owns without compromising the design aesthetic significantly. I think it would be a great achievement and even further testament to this if the project was deemed award-worthy.

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

Having been an SBID member for a few years now, to have been selected as a finalist, particularly with our sustainable project, has been a huge honour. We are still a young and growing business as well, so to be a finalist has given our team an enormous boost of confidence. I’m sure our clients will be excited to hear about our nomination as well!

Questions answered by Pia Pelkonen, Creative Director at Pia Design.