HomeSmiths: Creating a Cosy and Practical Care Home Design

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a cosy and practical care home design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, HomeSmiths.

HomeSmiths were appointed as interior designers for Kingsley Healthcare's flagship luxury care home, King's Court in Holt, Norfolk. Their remit included all finishes, the design of the bespoke furniture, free standing furniture specification, soft furnishings specification as well as art and accessories. The home has 66 bedrooms, lounges and dining rooms on each floor as well as a cafe, salon, library, cinema, garden room and private dining room.

What was the client's brief?

This was the client’s flagship luxury care home. The client was keen to take the interiors to a different level whilst still keeping in mind the practical requirements of a care home.

What inspired the design of the project?

The colours, the architecture and the history of the local area.

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

The double height café space behind reception. Acoustics were a consideration and also how we would still create a cosy feel to the seating area. The preserved moss wall works as a feature as well as dampening noise and the layout of the furniture and rich upholstery fabrics add warmth.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

The train carriage we recreated on the second floor in the dementia community. The corridor between the main dining room and lounge was very wide with space for additional seating. Instead of loose furniture we designed this train feature with the windows showing views one would see from the North Norfolk Line. Hearing that a train loving resident enjoys taking his meals there when his wife visits, gave me goosebumps. This is what it’s all about! The original submission includes a photo of the carriage, and I have added an additional one of me at fit out.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

I think it’s fair to say that after all the hard work, most designers get a buzz from seeing a project make finalist in a design award and the SBID awards have a great reputation.

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

Recognition from an internationally respected design accreditation body.

Questions answered by Jacqui Smith, Creative Director at HomeSmiths.

How Saunas Can Improve Mental Health

In recent years, our approach to well-being has undergone a significant transformation. Mental health has become a central focus in home design, with saunas emerging as powerful tools for psychological restoration. Drawing from biophilic design principles that connect us with natural elements, these amenities offer more than mere luxury—they provide essential spaces for mental rejuvenation.

The Therapeutic Power of Natural Aromatherapy

The traditional sauna experience has been strategically elevated through the incorporation of natural aromatic elements, particularly eucalyptus oils and the rich, grounding scent of teak wood. Scientifically validated, eucalyptus oil offers remarkable psychological benefits. Its compound 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) has been shown to reduce cortisol stress levels by up to 27%, interacting with neurotransmitter receptors to stimulate dopamine and serotonin production—providing a natural mechanism for mood enhancement and mental clarity.

Teak wood's complex fragrance adds sensory depth, releasing a warm, slightly sweet aroma that mimics ancient forests, triggering a primal sense of safety and relaxation.

Physiological and Psychological Synergy

Saunas provide a powerful convergence of physical detoxification and mental relaxation. The heat experience promotes circulation, eliminates toxins through perspiration, and soothes muscle tension. This physical relief directly contributes to mental calm, creating a virtuous cycle of well-being.

Eucalyptus oil amplifies these benefits by:
- Supporting respiratory health through antimicrobial properties
- Counterbalancing intense heat with a cooling sensation
- Reducing inflammation and mental tension

Creating a Multisensory Healing Environment

Enhanced by thoughtful lighting and strategic aromatherapy, the sauna transforms from a simple heat chamber into a holistic healing sanctuary. As essential oils diffuse, they create a microclimate of healing—eucalyptus oil penetrating deeply to offer respiratory and mental clarity, while teak wood's aroma provides a grounding counterpoint.

The Elemental Philosophy of Healing: Salt, Fire, and Therapeutic Transformation

Inspired by ancient Greek elemental philosophy, the sauna design integrates Himalayan salt walls with the transformative power of fire, creating a sophisticated therapeutic environment that addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The Himalayan salt wall becomes a dynamic healing element when heated, releasing negative ions that offer significant health benefits. Scientific research demonstrates these ions can:
- Neutralise stress-associated positive ions
- Enhance serotonin production
- Improve air quality
- Reduce respiratory inflammation

When warmed, the salt wall activates its inherent mineralogical properties, creating a microclimate that mimics natural salt caves. The fire element, conceptualized in ancient philosophy as a force of revitalization, transforms from mere heat into a sophisticated healing mechanism.

This design bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific understanding, creating an atmosphere that simultaneously warms the body, purifies the respiratory system, and uplifts the spirit—embodying a holistic approach to wellness.

Social Connection and Sensory Sharing

Saunas transcend individual healing by addressing the social dimension of mental health. Larger spaces become safe, informal environments for reconnecting with friends and family, fostering conversation and bonding away from everyday distractions.

Studio Anqet: Driving forward Wellness-Centered Design

Studio Anqet's vision of wellness design emerges as a transformative approach in this sauna project, embodying a holistic philosophy that transcends traditional architectural boundaries. Founded on the principle that physical spaces profoundly impact mental and emotional well-being, the studio has carefully crafted an environment that is more than a mere functional area—it is a therapeutic landscape.

The design philosophy reflects a deep understanding of biophilic principles, where natural elements are not simply decorative but integral to the healing process. By selecting materials like teak wood, Himalayan salt and incorporating therapeutic essential oils, Studio Anqet demonstrates a commitment to creating spaces that actively contribute to human wellness. The sauna becomes a testament to their belief that design can be a powerful tool for psychological restoration.

Each design choice—from the strategic placement of lighting to the careful selection of aromatic elements—is intentional. The studio's approach goes beyond aesthetic considerations, viewing the space as a living, breathing ecosystem designed to support mental health, reduce stress, and promote a sense of connection with natural rhythms.

A Holistic Approach to Design

By integrating natural elements—earth (wood), fire (heat & warm lighting), and sophisticated aromatherapy—modern saunas create a balanced environment that resonates with our innate need for nature connection. They are no longer mere rooms, but carefully crafted ecosystems designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.

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.

Blind Veterans UK is a military charity helping generations of vision impaired veterans overcome sight loss. Their home in Ovingdean Brighton was no longer fully meeting their needs so they purchased the former home of the RAF Benevolent Fund in Rustington with plans for refurbishment, seeing it as the perfect coastal location for their new centre for wellbeing.

In 2021, the charity approached HomeSmiths to work with them on the refurbishment. Having permanently lost the sight in her left eye in 2012, it felt like the perfect project for Creative Director, Jacqui.

The brief for the new Rustington Centre was to work with the architect to remodel the current building in a way which would provide veterans with a wellbeing space for support and rehabilitation. It would for a while offer permanent accommodation and a level of nursing care for some veterans moving from the Brighton centre, but the longer-term goal was to provide hotel style accommodation for members visiting for short stays.

The scope of the project included reception and café, lounge, dining room, activities room, sports bar/cinema, library, hair salon, therapy room, gym, quiet lounge as well as 36 bedrooms.

The design needed to be supportive of sensory and cognitive decline with a particular focus on how the built environment can support people living with sight loss. Tonal contrast was used throughout; furniture finishes against floor and wall, switches and controls, structural pillars, doors against architrave and handrails against walls. Additional touches were incorporated within the bedrooms with contrast leading edges on curtains, bed runners, contrast handles on the furniture as well as internal lighting for wardrobes.

Enabling veterans to be able to access all areas of the building was key. There are two lifts between ground and first floor. By changing the texture of the flooring from cut pile to ribbed carpet, veterans using mobility canes can detect the change of finish and know where the lift is. Further thought was given to flooring choice here where a similarly toned flooring was chosen so as not to appear as a step or hole to anybody using the space. The flooring finish in the lift is of similar tone so as not to suggest a change in level and be supportive of any visitors living with a degree of cognitive decline. Signage was clear, using large and tactile font. A back lit coffee cup sign works as a piece of art in the café as well as a wayfinding aid. An essential oil diffuser sits in the therapy suite providing a sensory cue as to which part of the building the veteran is in.

The charity hosts activities and events throughout the year so flexible communal spaces was key. The main lounge and dining area features a mixture of free-standing furniture. Additional black out window treatments were specified in the far corner windows so that the space could be used for film nights and similar. The bifold doors in the lounge adjacent activities room open to create a big space with additional seating for larger events.

The design needed to be relevant and relatable to existing blind veterans, honouring the past but also looking forward to the future. Material from the Blind Veterans UK archives was used to create art to honour the past and celebrate notable veterans. Box framed uniforms representing the three services feature in one of the bedroom wings. The contemporary metal sculpture commissioned for reception shows service men and women and a talking point as you enter the Centre. With an overarching theme of wellbeing, it was important to celebrate the achievements of veterans, past and present. Past veterans are recognised for their wellbeing achievements as well as honouring the achievement of the founder of the charity, Sir Arthur Pearson. The outstanding sporting achievements of blind veterans are featured in the Sports Bar where the canvases double up as acoustic panels as a noise mitigation measure. Appropriate for the coastal location of the centre, the café art features sailing achievements of certain veterans.

The design consultation with the veterans was very much part of the process. At the beginning of the design process, Jacqui, together with the architects and landscapers met with a group of veterans to discuss the design. Using high contrast large format plans as well as a Lego model floor plan, the design team were able to present their ideas in the most accessible way. At the detailed design stage, large format samples of fabrics and flooring were used providing the presentation with texture. Sample chairs were supplied by Shackletons for the presentation so that veterans could experience the comfort and support of the proposed seating. Each board was talked through on a 121 basis, with Jacqui guiding the hand of the veteran around the floor plan, with the samples to hand to aid orientation and provide context.

The Rustington Centre is a home for blind veterans as well as lovely environment for those who work there. The refurbishment has provided Blind Veterans UK with a new light filled centre for wellbeing which serves the needs of the charity now and into the future as they continue to help rebuild the lives of veterans after sight loss.

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?

I really enjoy working alongside my clients and helping them create a home or a space that makes them feel happy. A really fun part of a project is the conceptual phase. Having received a brief, I then create a design that meets the client’s requirements. I put together ideas and consider what would make the space unique and special for them. Once a project is complete, it is the best feeling seeing my designs come to fruition and to see how happy my clients are with their new space.

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

One of my most memorable highlights would be the completion of a development project consisting of four houses in Southbourne. I was heavily involved in this project from the planning stages to organising the final photo shoot. The individually designed interiors gave me the opportunity to source materials that reflected my ethos towards sustainability and Biophilic design.

It was a large responsibility to produce a technical design package for construction, ensuring the project would run as smoothly as possible. I am delighted that the project has been very successful and I have received some really positive feedback from my clients and prospective buyers.

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

I worked for a wonderful design practice in London that specialised in Hotel, Spa, Fitness and Wellness Design. These design projects have been my favourite so far because they enabled me to create spaces that directly affected the wellness of their clients using Biophilic ideologies as the key influence.

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

Interior design is naturally subjective, and when combining this with time and budget constraints, managing client expectations is something that can be challenging.

I always aim to specify materials and fixtures that are the best quality and have the least environmental impact. These tend to come with a higher price tag, so it can be a challenge to convince clients to spend that little extra for better quality.

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

This has always been what I wanted to do, so I have openly accepted any challenges that have come my way. However, in order to produce accurate drawings and information packs required for construction on site, I spend a lot of time at a computer. This is a very important part of the job, but I really do enjoy being out and about spending more time on site and interacting with people.

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

This industry is constantly evolving so it is important to stay relevant by keeping an open mind, learning and exploring new trends, solutions, materials and technologies. Take your time to learn from others and get as much experience as you can. Work in different sectors and network. Be open to all the opportunities that come your way and always say yes. Don’t run before you can walk. Cliché, but it is worth the wait.

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

The industry will hopefully continue moving forwards in relation to sustainability and the development of environmentally friendly design solutions. It is great that the topic is being taken seriously, from suppliers and designers to clients. The design choices that we make are having an environmental impact and it is important that we get in touch with our innate connection to nature through Biophilic design. This is why I believe the colour of the year 2025 is ‘Mocha Mousse’, a warm, chocolate brown that reflects our natural environment and the ethos of Biophilic design. I believe we will be seeing more rich, darker colour pallets, with an increase in the use of darker furniture and antique pieces. I believe this will create a more eclectic mix of old and new which lends itself to the ideology of re-using and making more environmentally conscious choices.

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.

Lily of the Valley is the fruit of a family project, led by Alain and Lucie Weill, father and daughter, with the aim of creating a dream hotel inspiring Wellness and luxury. This is the very concept of the hotel, which offers to its residents an elegant setting in which they are guided in their weight loss goals with the most exclusive Technogym training solutions.

Entirely imagined and designed by the famous designer Philippe Starck, the hotel fits in naturally with the surrounding nature. With an organic architecture, the place opens up to the surrounding light and the vegetation is part of the hotel's design. He states: "I designed an organic and vernacular village. Everything is so harmonious that it feels like it has always been there. It's a place that welcomes you at any time of your life, at any time of the season."

This small "village" inspired by the gardens of Babylon, the architecture of Provençal abbeys and Californian villas, is made up of small Mineral houses with 38 rooms and 6 suites with nature and the Mediterranean as far as the eye can see. 8 pool suites are also part of the picture: these private villas with swimming pool are set in the Mediterranean environment of the French Riviera. Below, the hotel's own beach with restaurants and bars is available to residents.

2,000 m² are dedicated to sport and fitness within the hotel, and 3 programmes are available for residents who wish to keep fit, accompanying them throughout the year, over 4, 7, 10 or 14 days:
- Optimal weight & serenity
- Intensive weight loss
- Weight loss & sport

All three programmes are supervised by a team of professionals, using the so-called "TGV" method. Developed by Jacques Fricker, it is said to be in three stages and consists of a "high speed" phase, a stabilisation phase and a full fitness phase; all three allow for rapid and lasting weight loss, particularly appreciated for the flexibility and balance of its approach.

Technogym is partnering with Lily of the Valley in the development of this luxury sports area.

Fitness and coaching, present in each of the fitness programmes of the place, are thus proposed and highlighted thanks to Technogym solutions. The Artis line dresses the hotel and allows residents to live an exclusive fitness experience. From cardio equipment to weight training equipment, Artis offers high-end products with a touch of elegance. With customised workouts and a variety of entertainment options, Artis makes working out more motivating and enjoyable for everyone. Working independently on an assigned program or accompanied by the Technogym Coach through the Technogym Live console, residents have access to a simple and ergonomic training experience that adapts to their needs and goals.

Artis equipment includes Artis Run, the treadmill that combines elegance, technology and connectivity. Designed with attention to detail, it is the essence of indoor running. It adapts to the user's running style, with a natural feel that makes for the most comfortable training experience.

In addition to the Artis Line, residents can also take advantage of the Kinesis Personal Vision, the Technogym innovation “par excellence”. Perfect for a wide variety of functional exercises, it can be used to improve physical condition, endurance, sports performance or to accompany a rehabilitation process. Kinesis Personal Vision is designed to train while respecting the body's natural movements, in order to achieve fitness, athletic or health goals in an efficient and personalised way.

For over 35 years, Technogym has been promoting Wellness worldwide, a lifestyle based on regular physical activity, a balanced diet and a positive mental approach. Through its wide range of products, Technogym supports Lily of the Valley in offering high quality fitness solutions to its residents, enabling them to achieve their wellness goals through the best Wellness experience to improve their quality of life.

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 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.

As designers and curators of the spaces we inhabit, we can consider our aesthetics through the lens of our wellbeing and the environment.

These days we are all concentrating on our wellbeing. Within interior spaces, wellness design seeks to enhance the overall health and experience of its occupants. It prioritises comfort, tranquillity and a holistic connection to the natural world.

It can be about simplicity, and building resilience by breaking through what we know, and it can be ways to amplify relaxation and harmony. In our multifaceted world, there is not one definition of wellness, but one cannot deny that buildings have a significant impact on the structure of our lives. As designers and curators of the spaces in which we live, it is increasingly important to look at all creations with a holistic lens into the future.

Here are my top 10 considerations to shape a stress-reducing design.

Fluid Shapes

Curves, undulating lines and organic forms characterise fluid shapes. They evoke a soothing aesthetic and can be incorporated into furniture, décor and spatial arrangements to promote a sense of flow. Eschewing rigid structures encourages a dynamic interplay between the environment and those living in it and lightly influences a more intuitive lifestyle. Considering the shapes and shadows in a space can have a transformative impact on the ambience of an area. Through incorporating forms that reflect the organic world a designer can seamlessly guide the eye through the environment, fostering a sense of unity and cohesion. In my more recent Notting Hill project pictured above, we selected curved furniture and amorphous coffee tables to achieve harmony. The chandelier above was conceived piece by piece and compliments the furniture below. It also mimics the oceanic design of the bronze doors adjacent.

Take for example the Rolex Learning Centre in Switzerland. It was designed by the Japanese architectural practice SANAA, led by Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa. The RLC is essentially rectangular in plan but appears to be more organic in shape because of the way its roof and floor undulate gently. Instead of steps and staircases, there are slopes and terraces. Without dividing walls, one area of activity gives way to another, embodying the aim and philosophy of the building's purpose - to set the scene for different kinds of collaborative, cross-disciplinary research. The incorporation of organic forms not only promotes visual appeal but also creates a sense of continuity and balance. The environment feels responsive and supportive. Harmonising with elements of natural light, ventilation and biophilic design, fluid shapes can establish an interconnected space that resonates with personal renditions of comfort.

Colours

By choosing colours that resonate with a sense of balance and calm, interior designers can positively influence the psychological and emotional well-being of the occupants and foster a holistic and rejuvenating environment. Embracing a palette inspired by nature: calming blues, earthy greens, warm neutrals and deep browns, helps to establish a harmonious connection with the world.

In enhancing our spa, we've delicately infused touches of soft jade green into the cushions and marble table tops. Ancient Egyptians revered this shade, associating it with rebirth, renewal, and immortality, as temples dedicated to 'chronotherapy' adorned with coloured glass have attested. The enduring presence of this hue in design speaks to its ability to evoke serenity. Moreover, gradients and subtle colour contrasts contribute to a visually dynamic experience, further enhancing the spa's ambience.

It is no surprise that the Pantone and Dulux colours of the year are respectively warm, delicate hues reflective of our yearning for that which nurtures us - humanity, community and cosiness - during such uncertain times.

Lighting

The close link between sleep and good health is well established. Since the pandemic, insomnia has increased with almost 23 million people in the UK suffering from sleep issues. Sleep is an area where technology can make a positive contribution since considerate design and the incorporation of lighting control can promote better sleep hygiene by tuning into the body’s sleep/wake circadian rhythm. This creates the right environment to wind down at night and wake up naturally in the morning.

I encourage large windows and glazed walls in interior architectural design to create a connection with the outdoors. Aim to position furniture with a strong focus on soaking up the sun and sky - keep windows clear and unobstructed, and choose thoughtful window dressings to ensure fresh air and maximum ventilation. Florence Nightingale advocated natural light and ventilation in hospitals in the 19th century for a very good reason - it heals us. The picture above is a chandelier from one of our Lancasters projects in Hyde Park. We worked with a lighting design company to create this bespoke chandelier and strategically placed the downlights so they would perfectly frame the room and add ambience to enhance the space.

As inhabitants, we should be quickly able to pivot and welcome nature into our home, so keep things within reach. You shouldn’t have to strain and make yourself uncomfortable to achieve comfort. Ambient and subdued light in the evening is a primal indicator to our brains; it is ingrained in our psyche that these hues are connected to a slowing down of the mental processes.

Textures from Nature

Natural materials such as wood, stone, porcelain and bamboo, bring a tactile and organic quality to the environment and connect occupants with the soothing elements of the outdoors. Their use not only adds a sense of warmth and authenticity but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly design.

Incorporating textures reminiscent of natural landscapes, like soft textiles, woven fabrics, and other tactile surfaces can increase the sensory experience within the space. By introducing earthy materials into interior design, designers can create human-centric environments that appeal to our ingrained preferences. A considered approach to materials aligns strongly with the holistic principles of wellness-oriented spaces.

This consideration, paired with the practicality of sustainability is one of our passions in the KP Studio. We have partnered with and are ambassadors for the Campaign for Wool, ensuring the studio uses as many natural fibre textiles in projects as possible. This is not only to achieve the holistic design approach explored above but to continue the wonderful wealth of craftsmanship in our nation. His Royal Highness, King Charles, has stated it is abundantly clear that changes need to be made in the way we produce and dispose of clothing and textiles, “if we are going to get anywhere near to meeting the United Nations climate change goals set for the industry, a major part of that change has to be moving from a linear system to a circular one, where textiles and clothing are produced sustainably, enjoy long use and are made using natural materials.”

Music and Audio

With advances in wireless technology, we can enable effortless connectivity between audio, mobile and home devices. This eliminates cumbersome wiring and allows for greater mobility across the home. By 2050, one in four people living in the Western world will be over 65 years old. Our society is shifting towards smart technology to assist the living situations of all, but specifically those with specific assistive needs.

Enabling voice control to close doors and adjust lighting is just one example of a holistic approach. Installations such as this can help individuals with different abilities to live independently and safely in their own homes for extended periods, decreasing reliance on adult social care provided by third parties. Attention to acoustics is essential when minimising unwanted noise and creating serene spaces. As designers, we employ acoustic panels, sound-absorbing materials and spatial planning techniques to create balanced spaces conducive to conversation, relaxation or focus.

We look at the utilisation of an atmosphere and focus on enhancing the experience of the occupants within it. Imperial College Neuroscientist Mendel Kaelen comments that music can help us resolve inner conflict and move towards calm. Sound deeply influences our perception and experience of the world and is an important consideration when scheming therapeutic interiors.

Meditative Art

It’s not just the materials, textures and colours you want to bring in at home - also consider the personal touches scattered around your living space. If you’re hoping for your living room to be a warm and welcoming space, you may find that it is best to avoid polarising statement pieces. At KP, we love the recent emergence of abstract and meditative art. This genre exhibits harmony and completion with rounded shapes and emotive splashes, and emphasises the ability of art to provide mental and visual escapism in tandem with returning ‘home’.

In Mayfair, we stopped by Waddington Custot, to view their more recent show - ‘LoveSongs’, an exhibition from artist Landon Metz. The “rhythmic sequence of biomorphic forms seeping over the raw canvas is immensely calming” quips FT writer Victoria Woodcock. The New York-based, Arizona-born artist has garnered admirers for his ability to meld abstraction with insinuated dynamic movement. Their impact shifts with how the pieces are displayed - incorporating space, sculpture and installation, wrapping around corners and sweeping across the canvas, hinting at the space beyond. This encapsulates the mood of current times - we’ve conquered vast amounts of knowledge and innovation, so why not explore the complexities of our perception? “My hope is someone will have a similar experience in front of the work that I had while making it… the studio practice is a means of metabolising the world, working through things and coming out of it more present,” Metz has said.

Water

The sight and sound of flowing water have been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body. The rhythmic hum can help to anchor our attention and consciousness in the present moment and facilitate mental clarity. Mindful interiors can feature water indoors. Incorporating fountains or waterfalls in spatial planning can create a tranquil atmosphere and dissolve the stress of the day. These installations can also act as natural air purifiers, helping to filter out pollutants and improve indoor air quality. Several of my clients have requested saunas or hammams. The process of water evaporation can increase humidity levels, which can work wonders for respiratory health in dry climates and winter months.

All this is in addition to the most obvious - water is aesthetically pleasing to most of us. It adds beauty and enhances the visual appeal of an atmosphere, creating a sense of luxury and sophistication that taps into our most innate human desires for serenity.

Greenery and Plant Life

Integrating plant life into any atmosphere can truly enhance the impact of a wellness-focused design. Aloe, English ivy, and philodendron are excellent smaller plants to consider for shelving while large plants, or even small trees make an immediate impact on any room, they are also perfect for minimalist design as they can tie a room together without overwhelming the character of the textures within.

One of my favourite examples of biophilic design is the Amanzoe resort on the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece. Laying amongst centuries-old olive groves and boasting panoramic views of the ocean, the pavilions are built into the landscape, with green roofs and lush vegetation hugging the exterior and lightly creeping into the shared spaces within.

In one of our recent projects in the South of France, we sympathetically restored the Italianate-inspired gardens in collaboration with Atelier François Navarro. A majestic property, the Château de la Croix des Gardes embodies an oasis with sprawling gardens and separated areas reminiscent of a secret garden. This, paired with various wellness amenities including a private gym and spa, a pavilion with a hand-painted mural and a pool room alongside the sprawling swimming pool, creates an otherworldly escape from the stress of daily life. Lush gardens serve as the ultimate sanctuary, offering a respite from the chaos of modern life, thus reconnecting us with our innate humanity.

Scent

The aroma of plants can have calm-inducing qualities: lavender’s soothing fragrance is likely to prove a hit in a bathroom or study, jasmine is a wonderful touch for a spot with lots of sun and rose is good for both mind and skin. I love to position sweet peas in a small vase on my bedside table for their delicate aroma.

Scent is integrated into most of the KPL projects. The shift to a holistic approach to design in recent decades has seen signature scents integrated into many people's lives and the branding of many companies. I created the Katharine Pooley Choisya candle with chandler Rachel Vosper who has a shop in Belgravia just down the road from the Walton Street Boutique. It features scents of orange blossom, bergamot, neroli blossom and translucent white wood.

Other innovative companies like ceramic tile royalty Porcelanosa, have adopted all things sensory. During the 2023 London Design Festival, an experience lab was hosted in their flagship store in Hannover Square in London. Visitors were able to create fragrances that matched moods for different areas of the home. Another company that is lauded for its attention to detail in scent is the Australian brand Aesop. The ancient art of fragrance creation has gracefully crossed the centuries, much like scent carried on a gentle breeze.

Nourishment

Nourishment forms the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. As Hippocrates famously stated, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food". Each component of our diet plays a crucial role in sustaining both our physical and mental health and my clients are increasingly integrating features in their homes that promote healthy eating. Juice bars have been a must in more recent projects. Individuals have been requesting a space adjacent to a gym or spa area, but smartly hidden away from sight, where one can prepare an array of wholesome treats at ease.

I love this trend (my favourite juice is a mixture of spinach, lemon, apple and cucumber) and can see it only growing in popularity. Similarly, vegetable gardens and growing one's food are increasingly more popular as wellness extends beyond the confines of traditional self-care routines. At the heart of this is nurturing a deeper connection with nature and the nourishment it provides.

When I create a space, I aim to provide calm, human environments that nurture the senses while feeling as good as they look. It has been a pleasure sharing these insights into my approach to encouraging tranquillity and calm in design.

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 serene spa design by 2023 SBID Awards Finalist, Rodrigo Vargas Design.

This Spa is the first of its kind, complete with personalised treatments, immersive facilities and approachable wellness offerings. The modern, warm space draws upon the principles of the golden ratio with rounded rooms, curvilinear walls and intuitive design to promote a transformative and holistic experience. Rich texture and luxurious materials embrace the client, while unexpected elements create moments of surprise and delight. Lighting sparkles in hushed golden passageways, leading to an immersive oasis, transporting the mind and body through design. Earth- borne finishes of stone, cerused wood, grass cloth and linen bring the soothing serenity of nature to one’s fingertips.

What was the client's brief? 

There was no brief but the following directive: work within existing planning and programming and time sensitive delivery.

What inspired the design of the project?

We wanted to create a transformative experience that transports you to a different place. A full departure from the wild aesthetic of a casino hotel. Juxtapose the high energy and colour saturated world above to a quiet spa space, a completely calming and rejuvenating experience.

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

The project was in the basement of the casino hotel, and the ceiling above received all of the mechanical from the entire operation above. Heights were low and long, at moments, claustrophobic. We shaped, contoured and divided the ceiling and spaces into a path of discovery and movement.

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

Collaboration with the other teams and ownership, they were understanding and encouraging of our vision.

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

To be part of the greater design community and acknowledge what our community does.

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

We are honored to be considered as part of a larger group including both our clients, vendors and peers, who are interested in the process of creating beautiful spaces. It's wonderful to have our design as part of a whole and not just stand alone.

Questions answered by Rodrigo Vargas, Principal at Rodrigo Vargas Design.

It is also recommended that gym layouts feature zoned areas in terms of the equipment, creating distinctive cardio, strength and stretching or yoga areas. Each of these areas come with individual considerations that will impact the overall layout of the gym.

For the first incarnation of any home gym, it’s also advisable to only fill the space up to 75 per cent. “Fitness is an ever-evolving pursuit and if the user takes up a new discipline in the future, this extra space will allow for new additions, such as specialist machines,” adds Edward.

Cardio Area

Access to equipment

Leaving enough space to get on and off equipment might sound obvious, but it is often overlooked during the planning of a gym layout. This is a particularly important consideration for cardio equipment, with treadmills accessed from the back, and bikes and cross trainers accessed from the side.

Minimum safety clearance

Manufacturers will require that treadmills are positioned with a minimum safety clearance of at least one metre behind for safety purposes. In smaller spaces, this can be challenging and will often dictate the layout of the room.

Ceiling height

Cardio equipment requires ample ceiling height, which may also dictate the layout of a gym, particularly in spaces with pitched roofs.

Power supply

Cardio equipment generally needs to be powered and, therefore, positioned near power sockets. While more flexibility can be added to the gym layout with self-powered equipment, these versions don’t feature touchscreen displays. Installing floor boxes with power sockets is another solution that allows for flexibility in the layout of powered cardio equipment without visible wiring.

Television

It’s advisable that all cardio equipment faces a television as these are the machines that people spend the longest duration on and may like to watch TV or an online class while doing so. It’s important, therefore, to consider the distances between the machines and the TV.

Strength Area

Flooring

As strength areas usually incorporate free weights, such as dumbbells or Olympic barbells, a different type of flooring will be needed in this area to provide protection.

Multi-functional equipment

Traditional strength equipment takes up a lot of space, but modern-day solutions allow gym designers to optimise the number of strength exercises per square metre. Choosing multi-functional equipment can allow more layout flexibility by incorporating many different exercises into a single footprint.

Working area

A lot of strength equipment, such as dual-adjustable pulleys or power racks, requires a certain amount of working area around it. These working areas are not included in the item’s CAD block, which many interior designers and architects rely on to plan a gym layout. As such, it is important to check the recommended working area for each piece of equipment and draw that onto any plans to ensure that users will have space to move around it and exercise to the full potential of the machine. 

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Why did you want to work in the Interior Design profession?

I was always arty and had planned on being an artist when I left school. But my parents told me to get a “proper” degree before I could go to Art College, so I did a degree in Psychology at University College Dublin. It was here that I learnt how much people were impacted by the natural and built environment and so I went on to study Interior Design and open my design practice in my early twenties.

Which elements of your profession do you enjoy the most?

Whilst working on every project is invigorating, I really enjoy the energy and camaraderie encountered on our building sites. I work with many skilled tradesmen and artisans, and I love to see what they produce and to learn from them.

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

Achieving Business All-Star Accreditation and being named South Dublin Interior Design Company of The Year 2023 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

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

I love a tricky building that needs to be completely remodelled for today’s busy lifestyles. I can lose myself for hours as I imagine myself in a client’s shoes working out how to best use the available space.

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

Lead times for materials can be very challenging especially here in Ireland, where we are at the mercy of weather impacted sea crossings. So our building programmes often require careful monitoring and good communication with clients, keeping them up to date.

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

I wish I had appreciated the power of marketing! When I was setting up my business we didn’t have social media to publicise on. We relied on referrals for new projects as well as sometimes investing in advertising or editorials in glossy interiors magazines, which was very expensive. This meant that we really overlooked the power of advertising in the early days.

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

Don’t build toxic interiors! Understand what your materials are made from and how they are produced. Research their impact on the environment and on people’s health.

How do you see the interior Design Industry evolving in the year ahead?

Wellness interior design and Biophilic Design are still very much on trend – although I think that this is more of a movement than a trend and here to stay. So, I think we will see more responsible sourcing of materials and a focus on health and sustainability developing over the coming years.

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

I'm really proud to be accredited by SBID. When you are self-employed it’s easy to forget to celebrate any success and so thank you for reminding me that after 28 years in practice, weathering a global recession followed by a pandemic and then a war, that I still love what I do!

Questions answered by Emma Webb, Founder, Emma Webb Design.

If you’d like to feature your project news here, get in touch to find out more. 

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