Pencil & Monk Design a Traditional Indian Styled Beach House

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a traditional Indian styled beach house design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Pencil & Monk.

We are entrusted with revamping a beach house in Uthandi, Chennai. Our client desires a contemporary retreat infused with traditional Indian style. Situated by the sea, the property’s expansive landscapes provide an ideal backdrop. Our goal is to blend modern interiors with Indian elements, evoking tranquility and a connection with nature. The client envisions an outdoor open bar area for social gatherings, accommodating both intimate and larger events against the magnificent sea views. Our team of experts in interior design, landscape architecture, and project management will ensure the successful execution of the client’s vision.

What was the client's brief? 

The client had a special desire. They dreamed of transforming the space into a special spot that would bring them a sense of refreshment and renewal. They wanted a space that's close to nature. To step outside and feel the gentle breeze, see the trees swaying, and hear the soothing sounds of nature - that's the kind of experience the client was aiming for - to make this place a true abode of calmness amidst the chaotic city life. Their thought was for us to craft a space that's not only a getaway from the city's hustle but also a way to connect with the beauty of the natural world and that is exactly what we delivered.

What inspired the design of the project?

The house finds its home in a neighbourhood wrapped up in lots of plants and trees. The beautiful surroundings gave us some big ideas for how the house should look and feel. We thought, "Why not bring a little piece of this nature inside the house?" So, we put on our creative hats and started planning. We envisioned a house where you don't just see nature from the windows, but where nature is a part of every nook and cranny. We wanted to create a place where the outside and the inside blend together. The goal was to make anyone who enters the house feel a little bit closer to the natural world.

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

The toughest challenge we faced while designing was the fact that a lot of walls in the existing space had to be broken down. The layout didn’t work for us. We had to open up a lot of spaces. We had a lot of surprises during the whole process. We also had a lot of issues involving the labour force working on site. Material laying also proved to be very challenging.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Since the area of the site was vast, the team came up with a creative proposal for the outdoors - to utilise the terrain and existing landscape to create an outdoor bar. The bar is the major highlight of the property. The existing landscape was highlighted using creative lighting designs.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

Receiving an SBID award equates to global acknowledgment and elevating our design on an international stage. When someone looks at what we've designed, we want them to go, "Wow, that's quality right there!" We want them to see the spaces we've designed and think, "Wow, this is really working well!" And most importantly, we want our clients to look at what we've done for them and say, "Wow, this is exactly what we wanted!" We're not just aiming to impress folks around the block – we're thinking global. We want design enthusiasts from all over the word to see what we've done and feel that spark of admiration. We believe SBID gives us the platform to achieve this.

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

It’s been an absolute honour to be listed as one of the finalists at SBID awards. It’s a major boost to the company and the team steering the company. Winning this award would mean global recognition for the firm and the talent of the team being recognised by design lovers across the globe.

Questions answered by Siddharth Chandrasekar, Founder of Pencil & Monk, and his team Ravi Kumar, Abhirami Vaithiyanathan, and Viswanathan.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a relaxing and Oriental spa design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Lude Design.

As a strategic partner of Renhe Zudao Spa, Lude Design participated in the design of the new project in Hangzhou, China. As a relaxing space, the foot spa must be a livable and tourable place that the body and mind yearn for. With the Chinese culture and aesthetics throughout the project, the design starts from nature and returns to it, arousing a new understanding of elegant oriental living.

What was the client's brief? 

Established in 2004, Renhe Zudao Spa is an upscale commercial healthcare spa chain brand that features a cinema-style vibe. It is currently credited as a leading registered agency of the Hangzhou Health Care Service Industry Association. Since its establishment, it has opened numerous stores. Renhe Zudao Spa boasts a fashionable and elegant decoration style that creates a comfortable and warm health environment. Their professional and skilled massage manipulation and thoughtful and attentive service have gained a word-of-mouth reputation and over 15,000 members in 18 years of development. Renhe Zudao Spa perfectly integrates a natural healthcare approach with cutting-edge technology, setting a new benchmark for the foot bath and healthcare industry.

What inspired the design of the project?

The inspiration for this design is drawn from Jiangnan, which is a blend of natural landscapes and urban features. The city of Hangzhou is known for its strong cultural identity and regional symbols, but it also has a dynamic and constantly evolving nature. We embrace change and innovation and blends modern consciousness with avant-garde concepts. Through active exploration and experimental design practices, we strive to create something truly unique.

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

As the spa was constructed during the peak of the pandemic, workers could not all come on-site, so the construction could not be completed efficiently.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Our team specialises in identifying unique brand cultures and crafting effective business models that help our clients thrive even in the midst of an epidemic. We offer both design services and brand consulting to our valued clients.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

As a brand consultant for our clients, we also have a professional consulting company that offers us valuable predictions and suggestions. With their guidance, we have participated in numerous international competitions, such as SBID, and have won several awards. We are optimistic about achieving further success in the future.

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

The field we have been specialising in is relatively niche and our design style is quite distinct. Being on this shortlist has given us confidence that we can make a name for ourselves on the global stage. We hope to enter the following year’s SBID award with better projects.

Questions answered by Bin Liu, Design Director of Lude Design.

The Abel Heywood sits proudly in the Bustling Northern Quarter of Manchester City centre and has been a popular destination since it was first developed in 2015, from a derelict and fire damaged cotton warehouse, into a stylish pub and boutique hotel. After tirelessly serving its loyal customers for the past 9 years, the site’s owners, Hydes Brewery, appointed MGI to develop and project manage a refurbishment scheme that will ensure the site will maintain its status as a landmark of the Manchester hospitality industry into the future.

The brief given by Hydes’ Managing Director was to move the site from its previous industrial leaning design toward a modern-traditional public house whilst paying tribute to the history of Hydes Brewery and to Manchester's iconic music heritage.

MGI proposed the introduction of feature wallpapers, Victorian tiling and bright heritage colours in order to create a light and airy atmosphere away from its previously scumble glazed ceilings and worn plaster effect walls. All industrial light fittings were replaced with new antique brass period lighting and industrial shelving units and back fittings removed in favour of new timber back fittings and antique Victorian wall shelving.

Much of the existing furniture was given a new lease of life through refurbishment and reupholstery, with new feature furniture introduced to compliment the proposed layout changes. Feature cast resin tables with vinyl records from Manchester`s most famous bands, or Hydes' brewery beer clips were included to provide points of interest and conversation points for visiting customers. New music and local interest themed bric a brac adorns the walls and compliments the overall finish of the site.

Layout changes to the ground floor were kept to a minimum with only the removal of existing face to face booths and introduction of new horseshoe booths and mid-height fixed seating.

The underutilised first floor of the pub was redesigned to encourage dining whilst the ground floor area remains focused on drinking and light bar snacks. The introduction of bi-fold doors to close off an area of the first floor provides a contained function room space for parties and meetings.

Feedback from the client and customers has been unanimously positive and MGI are confident that The Abel Heywood will continue its reign as king in the north(ern quarter) for years to come.

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

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This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a warm and earthy salon design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Layrd Design.

Layrd Design completed this bespoke salon scheme for Douce. Douce is a 5 seat Salon, Cafe and Bar, this is a truly unique offering for Cambridge. The space is very welcoming with warm earthy tones throughout, from the walnut surfaces, concrete floor, dusty pink, deep greens and coffee colours. They designed a curved bar that was compact and functional to allow for both coffee service and alcoholic drinks. The front of this is clad in stainless steel as a nod to the former Air-Stream that was converted as a mobile salon and was located near to the new space.

What was the client's brief? 

The brief was to take the clients vision for the space and turn this into a feasible and achievable scheme withing their budget. We were tasked with creating a unique salon space that also encompassed a small café/bar space which didn’t overlook or make the salon customers feel uncomfortable. Douce were looking to create a warm and welcoming setting so natural tones and earthy red and green tones were incorporated into the space.

The existing salon space was a mobile airstream located close to the new salon, they wanted the airstream to be included in the design in subtle ways as a hint to the heritage to the company.

What inspired the design of the project?

The existing airstreams and the values of Douce were big inspirations for the design. The need to create a calming, welcoming and timeless interior space.

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

The client had an incredible vision for their concept store. Creating this clear vision into a functioning design that met all of the necessary regulations, within budget, was a hurdle. Also creating a space that worked as a salon and a cafe at the same time and felt cohesive.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Seeing the bespoke Joinery elements all come together and work as they had been designed to work. There is a lot of bespoke elements to the space and you only see it all come together when they are installed.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have been finalists on two other occasions and the recognition and awareness from this is really great for our company growth and exposure. Company and team recognition for the completed project, as well as awareness of the concept store itself, Douce.

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

We are immensely proud to be nominated for the third successive year, it has elevated our profile and brand exposure massively and contributed to our growth as a company.

Questions answered by Will Mayes, Director of Layrd Design.

Offering a one-stop solution for sanitaryware and surfaces that turn an average golf club into a luxurious sports and leisure retreat, RAK Ceramics has helped transform the Cambridge Country Club into a health and wellness destination, as part of a multi-million-pound development.

Partnering with interior architect May Fawzy of MF Studio, RAK Ceramics supplied surfaces and sanitaryware for use throughout the newly built Country Club. Making first impressions count, large format Calacatta Gold tiles feature in the venue’s main entrance and reception area.

“The selection of finishes was meticulously aligned with the original brief, emphasizing the creation of a premium space for club users,” explains Fawzy. “We carefully handpicked materials and textures that not only met our aesthetic aspirations but also embodied enduring quality.”

RAK Ceramics surfaces feature throughout the location, from the RAK Revive floor tiles in the lavish spa and shower rooms and nature-inspired flooring in the bar and restaurant to RAK Detroit metallic finish tiles in the pool area and changing rooms and porcelain flooring and countertops in the golf shop.

Sanitaryware from the leading brand also features, with the designer collection RAK-Petit floorstanding washbasins featuring in the WCs and the public bathrooms all finished with RAK-Precious basins teamed with matt black brassware. “Our objective was to source products that seamlessly merged aesthetics with durability,” continues Fawzy. “We pursued a minimalist design infused with a touch of opulence, a quest that led us to the exquisite offerings within the RAK Ceramics collection.”

Commenting on the finished project, the club’s General Manager, Ben Evans, says: “The new club was created for the Cambourne community, which until now has lacked anything like it in terms of leisure facilities. It’s quickly become a go-to lifestyle destination for our members and their families.”

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 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.