Poggenpohl Hampstead Design a Soft and Elegant Kitchen

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a soft and elegant kitchen design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Poggenpohl Hampstead.

Poggenpohl Hampstead were commissioned to design, specify and install a luxury kitchen into a family home in Essex.

What was the client’s brief? 

To create a luxurious kitchen space showcasing Gaggenau appliances, featuring a soft and elegant colour scheme, and incorporating high-quality, durable countertops. The kitchen should provide a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, creating a comfortable and visually pleasing environment for cooking, entertaining, and daily activities.

What inspired the design of the project?

It was important to have discussions with the client and view their previous kitchen for touchpoints on things they really loved and wanted to retain. We then wanted to frame the views through the large arched windows, and not disturb the eye with use of wall cabinets. The use of full height cabinetry in a metallic champagne coloured aluminium allowed dynamic colour shifts to the area throughout the day as the material has wonderful refracting properties of light.

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

The bridged sink countertop in front of the arched window. We worked with the countertop supplier to not only ensure the weight was considered, but also that pipework for water inlet/ waste outlets had routes and access for servicing. Additionally the height was carefully planned to ensure the waste trap was not visible from inside or outside the kitchen at varying levels.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The flexibility and freedom permitted by the client, the end result has a lot of technical aspects which tested the team to achieve something which covered all the client requirements whilst retaining a kitchen which can withstand daily use. The client was very happy, which ultimately is the goal of any project and this has already led to multiple referral clients.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We have often entered the SBID awards as they are a prestigious, trusted, and recognised company viewed by many industry professionals. With the client’s permission we wanted to showcase our work to a wider audience and demonstrate the journey Poggenpohl has been on. The company ethos, design flexibility and material libraries have rapidly increased in the 12 years I have been part of the team, and we are proud to have a product which is exquisitely engineered to last for decades.

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

We were thrilled that the judges felt the kitchen merited being a finalist, and hope the public vote reflects this too. As the Poggenpohl brand continues to grow in diversity of design, it is our intention to showcase our finished work more regularly via professional and prestigious avenues such as SBID.

Questions answered by James Kalozois, Studio Manager at Poggenpohl Hampstead.

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a secretive, Art Deco-inspired bar design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, LW Design.

LW Design were tasked to design a unique bar hiding in plain sight, a prerogative of an authentic speakeasy bar. The near impossible-to-find entrance, lavish and decadent styling, and secretive-vibe inside-outside lounge make Blind Tiger, Dubai the most sought-after evening venue. Any credible speakeasy has a discreet frontage and no discernible entrance. Blind Tiger is no different. Slightly hidden and tucked away, the bar and lounge have unexpected views across the beautiful Turtle Lagoon and the turtle rehabilitation project.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client’s brief for Blind Tiger was to design a unique bar that embodies the essence of an authentic speakeasy, hidden in plain sight. The directive was to create a space reminiscent of a secretive drinking den from the Prohibition era, characterized by rich, indulgent surroundings and an atmosphere of clandestine intrigue, fun, and mischief.

What inspired the design of the project?

The design of Blind Tiger was inspired by the concept of paying homage to the ‘Queens of Speakeasies.’ The space was envisioned as a tribute to this era, blending Art Deco-inspired detailing with a vintage vibe. The goal was to create a luxurious and decadent atmosphere that captures the essence of the Prohibition era, with deep blue wall panels, chinoiserie-style wallpaper, antique ceiling mirrors, and meticulously crafted joinery and furniture.

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

One of the toughest hurdles the team at LW Design overcame during the Blind Tiger project was the need to execute the design and interiors within a short timeframe and a tight budget. Despite these constraints, the team was committed to maintaining the sophisticated and glamorous detailing expected of the Prohibition era. They had to ensure that the design’s authenticity and opulence were not compromised by the budget limitations.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The highlight of the Blind Tiger project for the team was successfully transforming the original executive club lounge of Jumeirah Al Naseem into a sophisticated, glamorous, and playful speakeasy bar. The combination of the near-impossible-to-find entrance, lavish styling, and secretive ambiance created a sought-after evening venue that captured the spirit of the Prohibition era.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The team entered the SBID Awards to showcase the exceptional design and execution of Blind Tiger. The project’s unique concept, meticulous attention to detail, and successful transformation of the space made it a strong 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 LW Design and their business. It validated their dedication to design excellence and their ability to overcome challenges such as tight budgets and time constraints while delivering a stunning and authentic result. The recognition from the awards highlighted their expertise and creativity, enhancing their reputation within the design community and among potential clients.

Questions answered by Rachel Kidd, Partner and Design Director at LW Design.

Consult by FD were appointed to renovate this city apartment in central London, Angel N1.

Our clients approached us during the whirlwind of purchasing their new/old apartment tucked away from the bustling streets of central London.

Having previously rented the same home in former years they returned to buy it already armed with a vision and understanding of how it can be transformed to better suit their lifestyles.

As the purchase ambled on, we got busy behind the scenes developing the brief, especially lots of bespoke joinery to best serve our busy clients and their space.

After assembling our dream renovation team, and suppliers, our clients got the keys and we got busy project managing the build.

We’re super pleased with the results and can confidently vouch that the new layouts and details make it feel like a haven.

Step inside the bathroom and the verdant green wall tiles will have you thinking you’re in Morocco.

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.

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

Meeting new people is one of the most enjoyable aspects of my profession! I love designing and crafting each space based on my clients’ desires. I can envision a space before it is created, and every project should be unique and tailored to each client’s specific requirements. Adapting to their needs is crucial to creating exceptional built environments.

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

Being invited to be a guest speaker at London Design Week 2023 to share insights about all things business, strategy, marketing, industry expectations and how to turn your passion into a career. It was great to be sat alongside other leading interior designers.

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

I enjoy working on residential and commercial projects as they offer unique and different challenges. However, what I find most rewarding about residential projects is the opportunity to transform my clients’ living spaces completely. In fact, I remember a time when a client was moved to tears of happiness after seeing the finished result. This is the most meaningful testimonial I could receive.

At KEMSI, it is crucial to incorporate my residential approach into all commercial projects. One of the most exciting projects I have worked on this year is the creative direction of a hotel abroad. Practical commercial projects are about more than just furnishings and objects. They involve designing environments that prioritise the human experience, comfort, and functionality of the people who will use them. When brand experience is combined with creative direction, spaces become more than just physical structures – they become areas where people can come together and connect.

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

As designers, it is our responsibility is to ensure that the spaces we create are practical, beautiful and can be executed as planned. However, during the construction phase, there may be unexpected challenges that arise. In such situations, finding solutions and solving problems collaboratively with clients and all teams involved is crucial to achieve successful results.

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

Working in the design industry can be challenging, especially when it comes to finding time and the ability to switch off. While inspiration can be found everywhere, being passionate about the work can be exhausting, as the brain always works. Juggling family life and running a practice can also be a struggle, but essential time management skills can help achieve balance and ensure you spend quality time with your loved ones.

What would it be if you could give one tip to aspiring designers?

It takes time and perseverance. Things don’t happen overnight. Don’t give up and continue to grow your networks.

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

In the interior design industry, we are all shifting our focus towards being more environmentally conscious and mindful of our decisions. It’s becoming increasingly important to purchase items that are made to last or to repurpose quality pieces instead of throwing them away.

In the field of design and construction, more and more people are looking for ways to manage their properties in an environmentally sustainable manner. This involves adopting eco-friendly practices, using renewable energy sources, and opting for sustainable materials to reduce waste and minimize our impact on the environment.

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

Being accredited by the SBID means our company adheres to the highest technical standards. As part of a community of experts in our field, we work to the highest calibre, ensuring our clients can trust us to deliver their projects. In addition, it provides an opportunity to collaborate and share insights with our community.

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 modern and multipurpose public space design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, KLID.

This is an urban public space in Chengdu, the project is located in public transport hubs. The designer wanted to reduce the sense of apathy between people, and they can read, talk, drink a coffee. The space meets various functions for leisure and communication, or immerse in the world of reading.

What was the client’s brief? 

This is an urban public space. The project is located in an important location with multiple public transport hubs. We want to create an iconic public space where fast moving people want to stay. Function setting: Public hall, Ladder square, Reading, Cafe, Parent-child learning.

What inspired the design of the project?

For the surrounding group of people, the public space is the link that connects the surrounding group lives. The space is inspired by dancing ribbons. The dancing ribbon not only serves as a link between the upper and lower levels, but also symbolises the rhythm and vitality of the city.

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

The project is located in the TOD plan of Changgongyan, Tianfu New District, Chengdu. Guided by public transport, TOD（Transit-Oriented-Development）project has lots of mixed functions such as commerce, office, residence, rail transit, etc., becomes an indispensable urban unit in contemporary life. We wanted to create a place for people to stop, have a cup of coffee and read a book in the urban nodes where people are moving fast. Break the strangeness between people and increase the interaction between people.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The main function of this case is to socialise. The space can meet various functions for leisure and communication, or immerse in the world of reading alone, or the ladder square of cultural salon activities. People stay, communicate and gather here. We used lightweight aluminum, which is used to make metal panels that are light and hard enough to make ribbons. The dancing ribbon not only serves as a link between the upper and lower levels, but also symbolises the rhythm and vitality of the city.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The reason we decided to participate in the SBID Awards is because we have a deep passion for design, and we also wanted to challenge our creativity and skills. This competition provides a platform for showcasing our work, and we hope to use this opportunity to absorb more design inspiration, engage with other talented designers, and receive feedback from professionals in the field. We believe that taking part in this competition will help us continuously improve, not only in terms of design but also in areas such as problem-solving, teamwork, and time management.

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

Being an Award Finalist for our interior design project has been an incredibly rewarding experience for both me and my business. It signifies a validation of our creative vision and the hard work we’ve put into crafting unique and impactful spaces. The recognition from such a prestigious international award has boosted our confidence and reinforced our commitment to pushing the boundaries of design innovation.

This accolade has not only brought heightened visibility to our business but has also opened doors to new opportunities for collaborations and projects. The acknowledgment as a finalist on an international stage has provided us with a platform to showcase our expertise and design philosophy to a global audience, further establishing our brand as a symbol of quality and excellence in the field of interior design.

Questions answered by Kris Lin, Interior Designer at KLID.

Agora, a unique cocktail bar and social club situated in the Edition Hotel in downtown Dubai, is quietly making its mark by offering a serene blend of sophistication and comfort. Designed by 4SPACE, a respected architecture and interior design firm, Agora takes inspiration from the ancient Greek concept of a gathering place and marketplace.

Agora represents a noteworthy transformation, drawing influence from the charm of the Gatsby era and the timeless allure of ancient Greece. The primary aim was to create an atmosphere of depth, luxury, and tranquillity, resulting in a venue that is truly exceptional while remaining warmly inviting.

Agora’s concept seamlessly integrates two sources of inspiration: the extravagant world of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and the classical elegance of ancient Greek architecture. It offers a haven where guests can momentarily escape their daily lives and immerse themselves in a world of sophistication and opulence, promising a sensory experience with a difference.

Each detail of Agora’s interior design has been carefully considered to ensure both aesthetics and comfort. The space features bespoke furniture, meticulously crafted to provide the utmost comfort for our guests.

Agora’s colour palette is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of luxury and timelessness. It includes forest green fabrics for a touch of mystery and richness, subtle copper accents to add warmth and elegance, and Indian green marble tabletops that infuse the space with classical beauty and timeless grandeur.

Agora’s ceiling is adorned with captivating wallpaper cladding, adding a contemporary and artistic touch to the space. The existing floor, embellished with a striking black marble mosaic, exudes timeless elegance, perfectly complementing the dark colour palette and preserving a sense of luxury.

Agora’s standout feature is the stunning bead curtain hanging from the ceiling. These carefully arranged and suspended beads serve as a dynamic visual centrepiece, adding an element of intrigue and movement to the space and encouraging patrons to engage with the design on a sensory level.

Bespoke pendant lights throughout the space create a warm and inviting ambiance, ideal for relaxation and socialisation.

Agora is defined by its exceptional use of custom-made furniture, including cylindrical chairs and elegant bar chairs. These pieces elevate the ambiance, enhancing sophistication and luxury without ostentation.

In the outdoor area, Agora introduces delicate curtain beads to infuse playfulness and intrigue. Suspended pampas grass arrangements from the open-air ceiling add texture, softness, and a soothing ambiance to the outdoor space.

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.

Rachel Usher Interior Design were commissioned to design a large contemporary family kitchen and open plan living space.

The multi-disciplinary interior architectural team re-defined the existing format, opening up apertures allowing an abundance of natural light to fill the property and playing to the scale of the buildings vernacular.

Synonymous with a Rachel Usher Interior Design is the interaction of materials evident throughout all of the bespoke hand-crafted joinery, including shadow gap detailing and hidden light sources to highlight texture and contrast.

The final scheme was brought together with the appropriate application of light, texture and materiality.

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 neutral and biophilic salon design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Cocoon & Bauer.

Additional Lengths, a leading hair extension and hair care products brand based in Teesside, sought to relocate their salon and store from their original site on the outskirts of Stockton to a more central location in the town centre. They approached Cocoon & Bauer with a straightforward yet powerful brief: to create a unique and awe-inspiring ‘Super Salon’ that had never been seen before in the region. The client wanted their new building in Wellington Square to be stripped back to its bare bones, creating a breath taking and unforgettable environment which would leave customers in awe the moment they walked through the door.

What was the client’s brief? 

Our client approached us with a brief of bringing their vision to life and designing a space that was functional for Additional Lengths. Previously, Additional Lengths had a retail store and a salon, but these spaces were separated. Our task was to combine the two spaces, allowing them to expand their retail and salon space.

Photo backdrops were an important factor to the space, which will be changed every season and will allow clients to get their photographs taken in front of different backdrops for social media with their new hair. Lighting was an important feature that the client requested, as it was important for the space to be appropriately lit for purpose, but also to allow each bespoke element to become a feature. The overall aesthetics needed to hit the brief of being modern, clean, and neutral but reflect pops of colour from the branding.

What inspired the design of the project?

The beginning of any project is so exciting – it’s the stage where we can lay all our initial ideas on the table and start sketching on a blank plan. We got the layout to work and then we started to add some meat to the bones. To keep the space neutral, we used a lot of oak in the space, which compliments the neutral tones and allows the pinks and purples throughout the interior to pop. With the space having high ceilings, we knew the display and salon area had to make a real impact. To contrast the neutrals, the design also features greenery and introduces biophilic design. Quirky features such as the ‘Fuel Bar’ and the ‘Additional Lengths’ phone box added a fun element – (unfortunately, if you call AL the phone box doesn’t ring).

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

Due to the concrete flooring of the space, we couldn’t move the services or amend the fall of the pipe work. We added a step up to the backwash area, so this coincided with the plumbing. The backwash area sits on a step up, which zones off this area and makes it a real feature.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

I have a few highlights, there were a lot of bespoke elements (pretty much everything) to this project and seeing this project stage by stage, was so exciting! Our team going in at the end and cleaning, staging, and making final touches just made the whole project complete. Seeing the Additional Lengths team’s reaction was also a highlight, as this had been kept a secret from most! Having happy clients is one of the best feelings.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We wanted to showcase this project and enter the SBID awards to show off our hard work that we are very proud of.

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

Being a finalist is a huge deal for all of us – we were all so excited when we got the news. We’re very thrilled to attend the awards and be part of this opportunity.

Questions answered by Casey Hall, Interior Designer at Cocoon & Bauer.

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

The interaction with such a varied range of people. Learning about new and old clients, and liaising with supply chain and contractors who share a wealth of knowledge, experience and who have amazing stories!

Alongside learning about people and their background, imparting my own knowledge on how we can improve their dwellings in a positive way, not only through aesthetics and function, but the improved mental health through designing a supportive environment to the individual, it is very satisfying.

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

My most memorable career highlight from the past year was launching my own business at the start of this year.

I am grateful for all the opportunities and experiences I had as a director at my previous studio, yet craved the autonomy of my own business. It is the greatest most enjoyable challenge I’ve set myself yet.

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

At House of Red we cover a wide number of services, so most projects are varied which keeps things interesting. However, it is always great fun when you have a client who is quite adventurous with their style and open to new ideas. This allows you to become really creative within the design process, pushing your innovation which feeds into continuous learning for new techniques and materials.

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

The best and also the most challenging, can be the clients! Ensuring it does not affect your confidence or dampen your passion. Every path has its puddle, so it is important to learn how to navigate through a project with them in a positive manner using effective communication.

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

Success is never a straight line! You will find your own stumbling blocks and decide what areas you genuinely enjoy in the industry yourself rather than coming with preconceived ideas.

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

Say yes to as many opportunities as possible. Be proactive in placing yourself outside your comfort zone on a regular basis to provide continued growth, learning within great new experiences which keep your passion for design and creativity ignited.

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

Creatives are very entrepreneurial so I believe we will see a couple of areas evolving. Firstly, great collaborations between known designers and supply chain that support a positive impact on sustainable products to influence the design world and clients at greater speed. Helping to bring more design desired pieces to the table whilst ensure aesthetic is not compromised. Hopefully these collaborations will also help to drive price point down if greater demand on volume is seen.

Secondly, an increase in the number of AI tools that we use as designers. We are slowly becoming more open minded and changing our practices by integrating AI tools into our daily tasks to increase work flow, especially when covering mundane tasks. I believe it to be an area we will need to start to embrace more to help support our clients within the design process.

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

It provides our business with professional recognition which in turn supports the credibility of the company, and helps to cement a feeling of trust for new and existing clients. It is also a great platform which helps to champion continued learning in the industry whilst proving a support network for the industry. We are proud to be SBID accredited.

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 traditional and tranquil retail design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Aurora Design.

By using bamboo as the main theme, Jin Tea creates a modern retail environment for tea. The projection of bamboo leaves sets a serene atmosphere, while varying heights of bamboo leaves and slabs and bamboo shadow glass walls, adding texture and an oriental charm. Transitioning through the bamboo shadow creates a deep landscape, with the design integrating modern and traditional elements, hidden functionalities, and an enhanced sense of dimension. Jin Tea embodies the dynamic vitality and charm of traditional culture.

What was the client’s brief? 

The client wants to create a wonderfully blended tea retail space infused with Eastern culture, offering a harmonious integration of tradition and modernity, and providing visitors with a tranquil and emotionally resonant experiential environment.

What inspired the design of the project?

Eastern Elegance and Balance:
We emphasize the infusion of Eastern elegance into the design, utilising elements like bamboo shadows and green lighting to create a sense of beauty rooted in Eastern culture. Simultaneously, the article underscores the significance of balance by integrating ancient civilisations with modern aesthetics, thereby crafting a romantic and joyful space that offers urban dwellers a relaxing environment.

Feminine Perspective and Emotional Expression:
We have honed an ethereal beauty from a feminine perspective, projecting emotional perception. The design strives for simplicity and understated elegance, conveying a sense of inner calm and contentment while resonating with the modern urban dweller’s yearning for nature and tranquility.

Modern Interpretation of Tea Culture:
We endeavor to draw inspiration from Yunnan’s rich tea culture, intertwining traditional tea heritage with contemporary space to present fresh design concepts. By eschewing conventional embellishments in the tea space, we create a pleasant and tranquil ambiance, allowing individuals to experience serenity and relaxation amidst the bustling cityscape.

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

The design challenge lies in seamlessly integrating traditional tea culture with modern aesthetics while catering to diverse market demands. Among these, the material aspect challenge involves identifying materials that can effectively depict bamboo leaf shadows and bamboo silhouettes, as well as combining the bar counter’s slate and the green bamboo shadow glass wall, ensuring texture and a natural effect. On the other hand, understanding market demands requires us to fully consider consumers’ experiential and emotional triggers in the tea space, while providing personalised shopping experiences. Timing and communication are also challenges, seizing the right timing in design execution and thorough communication with clients to ensure alignment between design direction and expected goals. In facing these challenges, creativity and innovation will be key factors for success.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The innovation of this project lies in its ingenious fusion of traditional tea culture and modern design. Through the projection and interplay of bamboo leaf shadows, an ethereal and tranquil atmosphere is crafted, imparting consumers with the serene and distant tranquility of nature. Moreover, the bar counter combines rock slabs and green bamboo shadow glass walls, infusing an Oriental charm that enriches the space with tactile richness and natural variation. Expansive installations of bamboo-mimicking hard materials envelop the surroundings, creating a deep and immersive scenic arrangement that imparts a sense of dimensionality and dynamic “illusions.” Utilising a minimalist approach with concise leaf-like contours and gradient green lighting, an aesthetic of understated simplicity is established between reality and illusion. This distinctive design combines tea culture and modern aesthetics, yielding fresh outcomes in the market and captivating consumers seeking unconventional experiences.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

SBID International Design Award is a highly regarded international design awards, participation allows our work to gain broader international recognition and exposure. It enables our design creations to undergo professional evaluation, offering feedback from experts and peers. This helps us understand the strengths of our design and areas for improvement, fostering personal growth and enhancement. SBID International Design Award’s ceremony, exhibitions, and events also provide designers with a platform to engage with peers, industry professionals, and potential clients. This can lead to the emergence of new business opportunities and collaborative partnerships.

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

The shortlisted entries are showcased globally, offering an opportunity to capture the attention of industry professionals, media, and potential clients. Winning this award can serve as a source of pride for the team, boosting confidence and bestowing us with honor. By shortlisted in high-level design competitions like SBID International Design Awards, we can set an example for the entire design industry, propelling its advancement and elevating design standards.

Questions answered by Yang Xuewan, Chief Designer and Founder of Aurora Design.