Inex August 2016

AUGUST 2016 ISSUE 36 inex-online.com Download the Inex app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search ‘Inex-online’

in[sight]

ex[rated]

in[spire]

ex[pose]

Author and Interior Designer Lori Dennis explains the importance of being ‘green’ within interior schemes

Inex profiles Walter Bailey’s ‘The Sheltering Earth’ installation at the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden

Kobe UK highlights this autumn’s must-have fabric trends to create a room to remember

Louis Poulsen has updated Verner Panton’s Panthella lamp into the scaled-down Panthella MINI

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3 EDITORIAL

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Editor in Chief: Hannah Frackiewicz hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Editorial Assistant: Rebecca Kemp rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com Digital Advertising: Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Michael Abrahams michael@mixedmediainfo.com Studio Manager: Chris Lilly chris@mixedmediainfo.com Production: Jack Witcomb jack@mixedmediainfo.com Artworker/Sub-editor: David Perry david@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts: Simone Jones simone@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director: Sam Ball sam@mixedmediainfo.com Publisher: Mixed Media Information Pear Platt, Woodfalls Farm, Gravelly Way, Laddingford, Kent. ME18 6DA Tel: 01622 873229 Fax: 01622 320020

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espite ‘sustainability’ continuing to be a watchword in the industry, not every designer or client can truly deliver this in practice.

Luxury items may overrule responsiblysourced products, left-over materials may be inevitable, or quite simply an eco-friendly scheme may not meet the practical needs of the user.

Yet for one interior design practice, green interior design is at the core of its business. Lori Dennis was brought up with an appreciation for conserving energy and making do with the resources she had available. Together with her passion for interiors, it was this mind-set that prompted her to start up her own sustainable design firm. To find out more about her recent projects and the biggest challenges in her career, turn to page 14.

Elsewhere in this issue, C.P. Hart explains how to incorporate a ‘spa feel’ in a bathroom setting, Modish Living advises on how to make best use of your clients’ gardens this autumn and Inex reviews a recent trip to Decospan’s headquarters whose products are distributed in the UK by James Latham.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, you can also access all of Inex’s features and product inspiration at your fingertips via the magazine’s state-of-the-art app.

To download your version free of charge, simply search ‘Inex-online’ on the App Store or Google play.

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Top left: Modish Living advises on how to create the perfect external setting for your clients this autumn Cover: Taking colour inspiration from the last project that Verner Panton was working on before his death, Louis Poulsen has created the Panthella MINI Top: Brewers Home, connoisseur of colour, provides its top tips for bringing those beautiful autumnal tones into your clients’ spaces.

Above: Decospan’s Nordus collection meets the needs for today’s sought-after Scandinavian style

Terms and Conditions No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photography or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor’s hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literacy, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearence or non publication of any advertisement.

Hannah Frackiewicz hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Follow us on Twitter: @INEXonline Download the INEX app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'Inex-online'.

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Offering a pure and slender appearance, Diana has a timeless appeal. Manufactured from solid beech & hardwood it is ideally suited to cafe, brasserie, restaurant or domestic environments.

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AUGUST DIARY

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INSPIRE With the autumn months looming, Kobe offers its advice on this season’s fabric trends, from rich, royal velvets to light and sophisticated sheers.

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PAINTS Connoisseur of colour, Brewers Home, offers its top tips for paint hues for the upcoming season and the effects these colours will have on your clients during the darker, colder months.

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INSIGHT Renowned Interior Designer Lori Dennis talks to Inex about what inspired her to take her first steps into the interior design world. Remarkably, it all started with a colourful Popeye bed spread.

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EXRATED Inex profiles Walter Bailey’s ‘The Sheltering Earth’ installation at the Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden.

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DESIGNJUNCTION PREVIEW Located at its new long-term home, this year’s designjunction guarantees a stellar line up of UK and international exhibits.

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EXPOSE Louis Poulsen is launching a new, scaled-down version of Verner Panton’s notorious Panthella lamp.

Here, Inex explores the design of the Panthella MINI.

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FLOORING Biophilic design is the phrase on every interior designer’s mind. In this issue, Inex talks with biophilic design expert Oliver Heath and Interface’s World Woven Designer David Oakey, who explain how to incorporate biophilic design quite literally from the ground up.

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SPA With health and wellbeing at the forefront of bathroom design, spa-inspired bathrooms are increasingly becoming popular among clients. Here, C.P. Hart explains how to incorporate a ‘spa feel’ in a bathroom setting.

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EXTERIOR PRODUCTS From lighting, flowers and plants, to outdoor furniture, a garden is a perfect setting for your clients to relax in. But, when summer is over it shouldn’t be a long-forgotten part of their dwelling. Here, Modish Living offers its advice on making the best use of your clients’ gardens this autumn.

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LONDON DESIGN FAIR PREVIEW Tent London and sister event, Super Brands London, returns this year to the Truman Brewery under the new umbrella of London Design Fair.

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SURFACING James Latham invited Inex to its supplier’s Belgiumbased headquarters last month. Here, Inex talks of its experience to Decospan’s headquarters and what makes wood an environmentally-friendly selection for sustainable projects.

14 Top: Oliver Heath

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and David Oakey explain how to incorporate biophilic design from the ground up Middle: One of Lori Dennis’ favourite moments from her project at Villa del Sur was the pool house turned gentleman’s lounge Bottom: C.P. Hart has witnessed consumers being much more aware of the benefits of wellness products

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7 DIARY

northmodern Center Boulevard 5, Copenhagen 18-20 August northmodern is Scandinavia’s new innovative furniture and lifestyle trade show. Inspired by the Danish modern movement and Copenhagen’s unique positioning as a top cultural destination, northmodern showcases the most exciting international talents working today along with the best of Scandinavian design heritage. northmodern.com BITAC Global 2016 Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort, Cancún 28-30 August BITAC Global attracts top hotel company decision-makers, hotel owners, operators and project managers. Prominent independent and branded hotels, gaming and resorts, cruise ships, large corporate brands, management and development companies participate in BITAC Global to find innovative products and services. bitac.net

Craft In Focus RHS Garden Hyde Hall 26-29 August Selected from the finest contemporary craft makers and artists in the UK, Craft In Focus brings you around 100 exhibitors for this four-day craft extravaganza. See outstanding work and craftsmanship from talented, professional British makers while enjoying a garden of inspirational beauty with sweeping panoramas.

The UK has a wealth of individual designers, makers and artists who produce wonderful, original items that simply can’t be found among the mass-produced goods on the high street. rhs.org.uk Formland Melbourne Convention & Herning, Denmark 18-21 August Formland is the place to enjoy the latest collections within Nordic design combined with trends and tendencies for 2016. At the latest Formland, the visitors were inspired and updated with the latest trends, colours and plenty of news. formland.com

Seattle Art Fair CenturyLink Field Event Center, Seattle 4-7 August Seattle Art Fair showcases the vibrant culture and diversity of the Pacific Northwest. In addition to being a destination for new and established collectors and international art patrons, the fair shines a light on Seattle’s thriving art scene. The fair features local, regional and international art galleries presenting top-tier modern and contemporary art. seattleartfair.com

Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design Thirlestaine Long Gallery, Cheltenham 20-29 August Celebration of Craftsmanship & Design has become the largest selling exhibition of high-quality bespoke furniture in the country and every year it draws visitors and exhibitors from around the world. The emphasis is on furniture, but each year this is complemented by work from several other disciplines such as jewellery, art and glass. Established in 1994 by Betty Norbury, the show has evolved and grown significantly and now displays the work of around 70 designers and makers. celebrationofcraftsmanship.com

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8 INSPIRE

Create a room to remember After the warm summer season we can now look forward to the cooler autumn months. Think fresh, crisp early mornings and cool relaxed evenings. As interior designers create their vision, coming up with new and exciting ideas for colours, finishes, lighting and patterns, David Harris, Managing Director at Kobe UK, offers some inspiration and takes a look at some of the newest decor trends for autumn 2016.

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lamour is always on trend and the Art Deco period is the perfect choice. Reflecting the lavish opulence reminiscent of this age, endless opportunities can be created using a rich array of innovative fabrics featuring statement pieces, combined with timeless plains and semi-plains in sumptuous velvet, woven jacquard, cool linen and soft silk and satin.

To complement this look go for a palette of soft and luxurious shades ranging from metallic tones to gentle graceful hues, with distinct and intricate designs of geometric, floral, medallion and trellis patterns.

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Whether it’s for a domestic or commercial interior choose a sophisticated, luxurious, easy-to-carefor, washable material in a palette of neutral pastels and rich deep tones.

Play around with contrasting colours in the paintwork, furnishings and wellchosen accessories in gold and bronze metallic hues for a touch of glamour.

Alternatively, go for contrasting tones in bright, bold colours such as mustard yellow and orange.

Time to experiment For a stunning look which adds up to a room to remember, don’t be afraid to experiment with dark colours to create a mood of mystery as the

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Left: Glamour is always on trend and the Art Deco period is the perfect choice Bottom left: Velvet’s luxury can be seen in both texture and drape Right: Before the dark closes-in, bathe a room in light with soft sophisticated sheers Below: For a stunning look which adds up to a room to remember, don’t be afraid to experiment with dark colours

latest room trends head for drama and elegance. Choose a sumptuous, moody blue, opulent bronze, or the fiery glow of red, golden-brown or even daring dark green and go for room high fabrics for a dramatic effect.

Room highs are the stylish, extra wide fabrics for window decors. The fabric is more than 300cm high with the pattern printed or woven horizontally across, making matching patterns and sewing seams a thing of the past.

Before the dark closes-in, bathe a room in light with soft sophisticated sheers, which will still be popular in autumn, especially those of fine chenille and soft satin feel fabrics in delicate pastel tones with complementing intricate trellis and contemporary medallion designs.

Versatile velvet Always a winner, particularly for autumn/winter months, velvet has never come in such a breadth of choice or variation. Be inspired by the versatility of this regal fabric.

Opulent velvet was the textile of choice for nobility of days gone by, but these days you don’t have to be an aristocrat to enjoy its sumptuous look and feel as there’s a velvet for every style of interior.

It’s a theme that undeniably looks expensive, mysterious and often romantic and while crushed is still cool, new velvet-style fabrics come in many guises: printed, woven INEX-ONLINE.COM

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Left: Whether it’s for a domestic or commercial interior, choose a sophisticated, luxurious, easy-tocare-for, washable material in a palette of neutral pastels Below: Choose colours from pastel tints to enrich a living space

or in a geometric velvet on a mesh background, or quilted along with a host of other textured effects. Its luxury can be seen in both texture and drape, hanging elegantly as a curtain and conforming excellently to curves in upholstery.

Transform a room from drab to delightful using plush plain and fine powder printed metallic velvets in a range of exciting patterns like toile de jouy florals, medallions and Greek and Roman-inspired ornaments.

Choose colours from pastel tints to shades of gold and brown to enrich a living space. Alternatively, if at the end of a busy day to get far away from the city lights, velvets in colours that reflect the light back into the room are a great option. Go for pale green or pink or golden tints of yellow and hues of blue and violet.

Adventure is out there Tap into the inspiration and creativity of a wanderlust world traveller, to create somewhere that reflects the true nomadic explorer.

Think vivacious hues, bold patterns and innovative designs for an adventurer’s wow factor.

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Using experiences from travels across the globe this summer a dynamic look will feature an assortment of rich tones and tribal patterned designs, which can be mixed and matched to create an exciting heart to any home.

Choose an exotically rich colour palette of warm rustic tones and ethnic prints and combine it with exquisite textures and traditional crafts. Go for a blend of materials from tough leather, velvet and suede, to softer silks and linens and combine various embroidered and ikat patterns to give an authentic, well-travelled feel.

This look will create a warm and relaxing home, but bring in exotic luxurious comfort that only a seasoned traveller can feel. It’s a sense of having the world in the home and a home everywhere.

Whatever the design style as we start the new season, it’s exciting to look forward to something new. So, whether it’s the calm and peaceful or the exotic and thrilling, autumn has never has never looked more promising. en.kobe.eu «

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Greens and browns are a lovely way to reflect the goings-on outside, with leaves turning those autumnal shades. Equally, a light, earthy brown alongside a warmer, dusky pinktinged brown creates a natural feel with a bit of comfort. These are two shades which ideally contribute to a classic, rustic or almost gothic feel in the home. Dark shades of green and brown complement rustic wood materials, tiles or even stone, so are perfect for either a dining room or a sophisticated bathroom scheme.

Dusty colours and smoky tones are coming through strongly this autumn, in particular pinks. The slightly toned-down nature of these colours makes a scheme feel timeless and gentle, plus easy to coordinate with. People often associate pastels with giving a rather cool feel to the room, but with a hint of something darker, pastels become a sophisticated alternative to either cleaner pastels or those neutral tones you may treat as your ‘go-to’ for matching with furniture or carpets. Bedrooms, in either a residential or commercial setting, perhaps in a hotel, often benefit

Colour inside the lines Autumn is a time of change and, whether it’s outdoors or indoors, one of the most noticeable of those changes are the colours. Here, Brewers Home, connoisseur of colour, provides its top tips for bringing those beautiful autumnal tones into your clients’ spaces.

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he changing seasons bring with it a change in colours; suddenly the view from a living room window is quite different to the view met with in summer, and a huge contrast to the sight of winter awaiting. Where bright flowers bloomed in summer, autumn leaves now replace them, and the colours that come with this season are simply beautiful – especially when bringing that palette inspiration indoors.

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On-trend colours for autumn People often look to warmer colours when the autumn months arrive, and as a result, blues, greens, browns and reds are always on top of the autumn trend list.

Depending on the room that’s being decorated, it can be a nice idea to match fairly bold colours.

But equally, picking one colour your client loves and combining two different shades creates a lovely light-meets-dark effect.

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greatly from using these colours, as it creates a feeling of pure simplicity that allows interior designers complete creative freedom when it comes to fabrics and accessories, such as cushions, duvet sets, pillows and any extra furniture.

Even when opting for a more neutral look, it’s still good to have those pops of colour. One really exciting addition to the autumn 2016 palette is orange, which many restaurants are beginning to use to catch the eye of a passing potential customer. Whether simply a tinge within a red paint or as bold as you can get, orange creates a vivid talking point. How much you use it is personal preference of course, but alongside more neutral tones, or even clashed against a bold blue or sunny yellow, this playful colour addition transports people into a nostalgic calm whilst providing a strong stimulation effect. This colour is very much trending for autumn 2016.

For those clients who don’t much like the brighter tones, and perhaps more appropriate for a living room or hallway, we love those deep red paints with a hint of orange

or a burnt orange colour scheme.

Red of course is associated with passion, danger and anger – some fairly strong emotions – but, as soon as the shades are combined, their effects nullify. Many paints that combine hints of two different colours keep your eyes questioning themselves: is that red or orange; is that blue or green? Your clients could feel like they’re in a different room each time they walk in.

Dark blues or violets are colours that are always very popular during the autumn season. These shades have a naturally calming effect and go beautifully with either contemporarylook or classic furniture. The combination of dark and light violet brings an almost spring-like, bluebell fields-inspired feel, whilst still maintaining the warmth that’s needed in interiors in autumn. brewershome.co.uk «

Top left: People often look to warmer colours when the autumn months arrive, and as a result, blues, greens, browns and reds are always on top of the autumn trend list Far left: The combination of dark and light violet brings an almost spring-like, bluebell fieldsinspired feel Above: Greens and browns are a lovely way to reflect the goings-on outside Left: Dusty colours and smoky tones are coming through strongly this autumn, in particular pinks

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14 INSIGHT

Luxurious moments happen in the details Lori Dennis was aware of her passion for interior design from a young age. Raised by a struggling, single mother and grandmother, she was taught early on to conserve energy, never waste and recycle; all the ethics that her design practice works by today.

What inspired you to become an interior designer?

Growing up, my family didn’t have a lot of money; my room was small and sad – a cot for a bed and a few second-hand toys. One day I had a defining moment. My aunt gave me a set of colourful Popeye sheets for my bed and it totally transformed my dreary room into something bold and happy. I’ll never forget it. From that day on, decoration and design captivated me. Everywhere I went I examined details of landscape, architecture, fabrics and wallcovers dreaming of the day I could be a part of these creations.

Years later, I built a dream for myself. I married the idea of green living with designing sustainably and wrote the book on it, ‘Green Interior Design’.

from, who is making them, do we need to completely demo something, or save it from the landfills and repurpose?

Luckily, our society is becoming more conscious about environmental issues and our firm also throws in health awareness in our designs.

We spend most of our days indoors, breathing the air, drinking the water and absorbing whatever we’re sitting or lying on. We try to make these elements as toxic-free as possible.

As a specialist in ‘green interior design’, how important do you feel it is for interior designers to be environmentally-friendly?

Let’s face it, interior design can be extremely wasteful; buildup and tear down. Being a sustainable design firm means including an aspect of green in every project we do. It’s our holistic mindset of how we use resources, where they come

Where does your inspiration come from?

This might be cliche, but it’s true, nature is the ultimate designer and it’s found around the world, in every shape and colour, sometimes both perfect and imperfect. Of course, we

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are all products of our environment and I try to change it up as much as possible. The Mexican Riviera or South America has been pulling at my heart strings over the past few years and now I’m heading to Thailand in the fall. The relaxed indoor/outdoor lifestyle and colours are what draw me in.

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Do you have a favourite aspect of your job?

I love the diversity of a variety of tasks and challenges with each project. I’m never stuck in groundhog day.

One day I could pick out fabrics or be sketching, and the next I could be on a job site in the middle of construction, or staging a bookshelf for a photoshoot. One year I’m working on a modern Mediterranean scheme, and the next a contemporary French farmhouse. I get to be creative and use both sides of my brain. Working in a relaxed environment is the bonus.

Do you have a design style?

We don’t really have a quintessential style. We play off the wants and needs of our clients and their space, so we create something special and unique for them.

What do you believe is key when designing for highend interiors?

We consider luxury to be comfortable furnishings made with quality materials. These are things you touch and feel.

There also needs to be something that is one of a kind, be it an antique or piece of art. These are wonderful conversation starters. Another aspect of luxury and comfort is the ease of technology – remote-controlled window shades, sound systems, lighting and media centres.

Above: Lori’s client for Bond at the Beach was a bachelor who held a high power position in a financial institute Left: Lori Dennis owns a sustainable design firm which includes an aspect of green in every project Above right: Some rooms in Bond at the Beach are very ‘zen’ Right: The sitting nook and dining room in Bond at the Beach give off a lustrous vibe

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16 INSIGHT Left: Lori gave Villa del Sur an upgrade to make it feel contemporary and fresh Below left: Luxurious moments happened in the details at Villa del Sur, like the jewellery-inspired vanity hardware Below: Villa del Sur’s clients decided they wanted to move back to their old Mediterranean house in California and remodel it

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?

I’m grateful to have had my project profiled in multiple magazines, websites and books. I founded Design Campus, the country’s largest design summit and online educational website, and starred in HGTV’s The Real Designing Women.

But, I’m most proud to have created a successful work and life balance. My family is the most important thing to me and I cherish every moment with them.

What advice would you offer newly-qualified interior designers trying to break in to the high-end industry?

Any designer trying to break into the high-end industry might focus heavily on marketing and getting their work out there. Study other successful designers and see how they present themselves. Get inspired by them and add your own special touches. Have an online presence – people can’t find you if they don’t know about you.

How would you define interior design?

Interior design is a marriage of form and function. Beauty and practicality. Personal expression and personal behaviour.

Can you please explain the brief that you received for Bond at the Beach?

Our client for Bond at the Beach was a bachelor who held a high power position in a financial institute. This was his second home and he wanted it to be calm, cool and collected.

His home was steps away from the beach, which inspired our neutral colour palette of various shades of browns, greys and warm whites. We incorporated elements like wood, glass, metal and live plants. Some rooms, like the living room and bedrooms, are very ‘zen’, calm and chic, while others like the sitting nook or the dining room really give off a lustrous vibe.

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Can you please explain the brief that you received for Villa del Sur? Our clients for Villa del Sur originally hired us for a newly-constructed home in Virginia. We selected all the finishing materials and purchased a whole house worth of furniture, when they decided they wanted to move back to their old Mediterranean house in California and remodel it.

How did you fulfil this client’s brief?

This was quite a puzzle! We started by giving the old house an upgrade to make it feel contemporary and fresh for them.

Luckily, we were able to place all but a few pieces of furniture and lighting that was already purchased and it worked out perfectly. Some of our favourite moments are the pool house turned gentleman’s lounge and the transformation of the master suite and the bathroom.

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18 INSIGHT

What do you feel makes a luxury bathroom scheme?

Again, it’s a balance of being able to comfortably use the space coupled with beauty. In the bathroom at Villa del Sur, our clients’ heights were drastically different.

She was close to 5ft and he was a big man at 6ft5. Two shower bars, that were adjustable, were added and a stick step was incorporated for her to stand on at the vanity while she got ready. Those functioning items aside, luxurious moments happened in the details, like the jewellery-inspired vanity hardware, billowing soft drapery near the freestanding tub and the layers of glass and marble throughout.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career?

I would say Villa del Sur – and it was worth every minute.

Each year presents us with a new challenge, so we have to remain resilient and think outside of the box.

Top: Lori incorporated elements like wood, glass, metal and live plants into Bond at the Beach’s scheme

What can we expect to see from Lori Dennis over the next year?

We are in the midst of designing a lighting collection and branching out to work on a commercial space for a wellknown athlete’s fashion line.

Above: Villa del Sur was one of Lori’s biggest challenges throughout her career Left: Some of Lori’s

Are there any particular schemes that you would like to work on in the near future?

We’ve recently completed a contemporary French farmhouse, a blue and white transitional Georgian-style and now we’re designing a modern Americana-style home.

What’s next? Anything is possible! Perhaps a fresh take on the contemporary hip hacienda. loridennis.com « INEX-ONLINE.COM

favourite moments from Villa del Sur was the pool house turned gentleman’s lounge

19 INSIGHT

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All images © Vikki Leedham at The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden

EXRATED

Take shelter As part of a three-month exhibition, a new collection of work by renowned Wood Carver Walter Bailey is on show at The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden in Ockley. Running until 30th October, ‘The Sheltering Earth’ exhibition explores the fragility of shelter.

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cale plays an important factor in Walter Bailey’s new work; towering ‘The Sheltering Stack’ reaches over 5m high up into the sky, matched only in stature by the mature trees and gunnera manicata growing along side.

Central to the collection is the title piece, ‘The Sheltering Earth’.

Created from over 100 individually carved elements, Walter Bailey meticulously arranged the squares to form a dome that entices the viewer to crawl inside. Gazing upwards, viewers experience framed glimpses of the world above – treetops, clouds and soaring birds are visible from inside the safety of the shelter. “The Sheltering Earth explores the fragility of shelter; recognising that the living earth and our humanity is our only true shelter,” comments Walter

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Bailey. He continues: “The earth is currently – and for some time to come – the only shelter for humanity and for the countless billions of species supported by her. Exile and displacement of populations has been with us from the beginning.

As the effects of climate change are increasingly felt, populations will need to move on an ever greater scale; political borders and ideologies will not protect us. Our only protection will be a recognition of our common humanity and a willingness to take care of each other. Currently it is very hard to envisage this.”

Working predominantly in oak and English redwood, Walter Bailey carves intricate patterns using hand tools, chainsaws and fire. A lover of nature, Bailey usually works where he can enjoy an abundance of nature around him. Much of his

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work is largely, or entirely, comprised of lattice patterns which suggest the interaction between nature and human beings. “For me these patterns became a way to map my place in the world,” comments Walter Bailey. “The more I learned of the cosmos, the macro and the micro, the more I understood that I was observing a vast intelligence.”

His work is often finished by scorching the surface of his work with fire; the resulting blackness giving his work a patina of age that ties in with the spiritual expression that is central to his work. The scorching also acts as a natural preserve for the wood – similar to the techniques used in ancient temples.

“The focus of my work is humanity’s relationship with nature, celebrating our links with the dynamic cycle of the seasons and exploring thresholds on the life journey,” concludes Bailey.

Heralded as the first of its kind in the UK, The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden has been exhibiting sculpture in a truly unique and magical environment for over 30 years.

Broad-leaved plants and mature trees support, frame and enhance a changing collection of contemporary sculpture in the stunning garden that Owner/Creator Hannah Peschar and her husband, award-winning Landscape Designer, Anthony Paul created over 30 years ago.

The Sculpture Garden now hosts around 200 pieces by over 50 artists from Britain and the rest of Europe every summer season. From traditional carved stone and wood, cast and welded metals, to more contemporary materials such as glass and fired clay, every material that can be found shown outside is exhibited in a huge variety of styles and themes. hannahpescharsculpture.com «

Top left: Central to the collection is the title piece ‘The Sheltering Earth’ Far left: Scale plays an important factor in Walter Bailey’s new work Top: ‘The Sheltering Stack’ reaches over 5m high up into the sky Above left: Walter Bailey’s ‘The Sheltering Earth’ explores the fragility of shelter Above right: Walter Bailey carves intricate patterns using hand tools, chainsaws and fire Left: Bailey usually works where he can enjoy an abundance of nature

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22 DESIGNJUNCTION PREVIEW Left: Relocating to an exciting, new longterm home in King’s Cross, designjunction will take over the majority of the site Below: Against the spectacular backdrop of King’s Cross, participating brands will be present across four main exhibitions: Cubitt House, The Canopy, Granary Square and The Crossing

designjunction announces brand line up designjunction, now in its sixth year, returns this September from 22nd to 25th as part of the annual London Design Festival. Relocating to an exciting, new long-term home in King’s Cross, designjunction will take over the majority of the site delivering a specially curated programme of design exhibitions, installations, retail experiences, events and workshops based upon the leading theme, ‘Immersed in Design’.

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stellar line up of UK and international design brands have been confirmed to take part in this year’s show including: Design House Stockholm, String, Life Space UX by Sony, Bolon, Another Country, Channels, Morgan, Little Greene, Brokis, Very Good & Proper, TON, Dyke & Dean, Haberdashery, Native Union, Northern Lighting, Rubn, Vita Copenhagen and Melin Tregwynt. Transport for London will also return to the show where it will be launching three new collaborations.

Against the spectacular backdrop of King’s Cross, participating brands will be present across four main exhibitions: Cubitt House, The Canopy, Granary Square and The Crossing.

The exhibitions Cubitt House, the main trade destination, will feature the best in contemporary lighting in a dedicated area called lightjunction, as well as furniture and accessories from leading international design brands. The exhibition will take place in Lewis Cubitt Square, inside a custom, two-floor pavilion designed by London-based Satellite Architects, spanning more than 2500m2.

The centrally-located Granary Square will be populated with 10 purpose-built, monopoly-style houses, showcasing headline projects and installations filled with immersive design concepts. Leading online platform for home design and renovation, Houzz, will also offer free design clinics to INEX-ONLINE.COM

show visitors in its custom coloured ‘green’ house.

The Canopy will be a temporary pop-up venue for 60 premium retail brands, selling everything from fashion accessories, to technology, textiles and stationery – located outside Waitrose under the impressive heritage protected wrought iron structure.

The Crossing, running through Central Saint Martins, will house specially commissioned projects and live flash factory demonstrations, including an immersive installation from lighting brand Tala.

In addition to the four main exhibitions, designjunction will present a special project, Dyslexic Design, to celebrate the positive benefits of dyslexia. Curated by Designer Jim Rokos to support the British Dyslexia Association, this new initiative will showcase selected designers’ works from across different disciplines including: product, fashion, illustration,

architecture and fine art; from Sebastian Bergne and Terence Woodgate, to Kristjana S Williams and Rohan Chhabra.

King’s Cross Creative Quarter To coincide with this year’s event, designjunction is also proud to announce the launch of King’s Cross Creative Quarter (KXCQ). This exciting, new initiative, organised by the team behind designjunction, brings together temporary exhibitions, restaurants, architectural landmarks and renowned cultural institutions, offering visitors to King’s Cross a comprehensive range of special events and offers. Running parallel to designjunction, the King’s Cross Creative Quarter will celebrate all that is creative and cultural in this vibrant, ever-transforming region of London. The KXCQ is in partnership with designjunction, the London Design Festival, Knowledge Quarter and King’s Cross Development. thedesignjunction.co.uk «

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24 EXPOSE Left: Louis Poulsen is now launching a scaled-down version of the iconic Panthella – Panthella MINI Right: Verner Panton originally developed the popular Panthella lamp in partnership with Louis Poulsen in 1971 Below: The miniature Panthella features three light intensities and the latest LED technology

Updating an icon Verner Panton, considered one of Denmark’s most influential furniture and interior designers of the 20th century, originally developed the popular Panthella lamp in partnership with Louis Poulsen in 1971. Following the colours of the last project Verner Panton was working on before his death in 1998, ‘Lyset og Farven’, Louis Poulsen is now launching a scaled-down version of the iconic Panthella – Panthella MINI.

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he scaled-down, updated version of the Panthella lamp has a diameter of 250mm, a 150mm decrease from the original 400mm size. Louis Poulsen’s reimagined Panthella MINI features painted metal shades and will be available from September in eight eye-catching colours from Verner Panton’s own colour spectrum: yellow, orange, mauve, red, pink, blue and two shades of green. Versions in white, black and opal acrylic will also be available.

The miniature Panthella features three light intensities and the latest LED technology. The colours are drawn from the last project Verner Panton was working on before his INEX-ONLINE.COM

death in 1998: ‘Lyset og Farven’ – ‘Light and Colour’ – an exhibition hosted at Trapholt Museum of Modern Art in Kolding, Denmark, which took the form of a complete installation comprising eight rooms in different colours, where the furniture, light fittings and fabrics, created by Verner Panton over a period of 50 years, were framed in a holistic presentation of colours and light.

Colour and imagination were two key elements in the world of Verner Panton, and Louis Poulsen has chosen the new colours for the Panthella MINI from the spectrum that Verner Panton himself had selected for the remarkable universe that was ‘Lyset og Farven’.

25 EXPOSE Below: Louis Poulsen has chosen the colours for the Panthella MINI from the spectrum that Verner Panton had selected for ‘Lyset og Farven’ Right: Verner Panton originally wanted to have Panthella launched with a metal shade, but this was not technologically possible at that time Below right: The Panthella became a bestseller as soon as it appeared on the market in 1971

Panton-fever still going strong “Verner Panton developed the Panthella lamp in partnership with Louis Poulsen in 1971. He originally wanted to have Panthella launched with a metal shade, but this was not technologically possible at that time.

The Panthella MINI is a world-first, based on Verner Panton’s original drawings,” relates Rasmus Markholt, Design Manager at Louis Poulsen.

While most other Danish architects and designers in the 1950s and 1960s were working with wood and other natural materials, Verner Panton’s predilection for new materials saw him develop into a specialist in steel, plastic, Plexiglas and fibre glass.

His design work involving synthetic materials was trail-blazing, and he was a pioneer in the field of designs using circles and rounded shapes before they became mainstream under the banner of ‘organic design’.

According to Rasmus Markholt, this

is one of the reasons why Verner Panton’s lamps – especially the semi-spherical Panthella lamp with its trumpet-shaped foot – has become a true design icon with an edge to it.

“Since the retro wave of the 1990s rolled over us, enthusiasm for Verner Panton’s lamps has risen sharply. His products are in great demand at auction houses all over the world, and we have received many requests for a Panthella lamp in a smaller format, designed to stand on window sills, shelves, tables or other limited surfaces,” comments Rasmus Markholt.

Internationally-celebrated Danish Designer Verner Panton was one of a kind, an avant-garde designer who was deadly serious about his furniture, light fittings and textiles. In his work with lighting, Panton was far in advance of his time, concerning himself with the ambience he sought to create.

During the period of 1955–1998, he developed 25 different lighting solutions, the majority of which were manufactured

by Louis Poulsen. His light designs can be split into two categories: the first being organic, with a host of composite elements, while the second is distinguished by its use of simple geometric shapes. His lamps have built-up a good deal of respect – particularly the Flowerpot and Panthella, which became bestsellers as soon as they appeared on the market in 1968 and 1971. louispoulsen.com «

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26 FLOORING

At one with nature The biophilia hypothesis was devised by Psychoanalyst Eric Fromm and later popularised by Edward O.Wilson. Today, supported by considerable research, the theory is making its way into the creative minds of designers. To gain a further understanding of biophilia, Inex recently met with Interface’s World Woven Designer David Oakey and biophilic design expert Oliver Heath, where they explained how to incorporate biophilic design, quite literally, ‘from the ground up’.

“

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ake a moment and think about the most productive, creative space you can imagine; a space where you feel calm and relaxed.

Now, there’s a very good chance that you aren’t thinking about your office right now,” comments biophilic design expert, Oliver Heath. This is the question he commonly quizzes architects and designers with. “They always laugh,” humours Oliver. This clearly demonstrates that there remains an opportunity for today’s INEX-ONLINE.COM

Above: The biophilia theory has trickled down to the minds of today’s designers, such as Interface’s World Woven Designer, David Oakey Centre: Taking inspiration from nature’s organic landscapes brings colour to the World

designers to be designing offices for exactly this purpose.

In simple terms, biophilia is a genetic inheritance from hundreds of thousands of years that we spent living, surviving and thriving in savannah regions.

“The savannah theory suggests that as human beings we quickly recognise landscapes that can help us to survive and thrive. When we look at a vast, open, rich, healthy, green savannah, we know we have everything we need to flourish.

By contrast, think of a fairytale setting; a dark, dense woodland with lots of trees; an enclosed, threatening environment. We can quickly recognise these threatening environments,” explains Oliver.

Quite simply, biophilia comes from our genetic ability to recognise areas that constitute safe spaces and allow us to survive and thrive, eliminating the stresses of having to seek out basic resources; many traits that are still within us.

Woven collection Top right: Interface’s World Woven collection has been designed with biophilic design at the forefront Right: The use of a bright colour or a busy pattern can excite us, but we have to take into account the psychological effects of these colours and patterns

Biophilic design This theory has trickled down to the minds of today’s designers, such as Interface’s World Woven Designer, David Oakey. “My simple term for biophilia is: bio is natural and phila is feel; does it feel and look natural?

Even bringing chairs utilising natural wood into a design scheme classes as an element of biophilic design to me,” comments David.

The benefits of biophilic design are recognised in dense urban environments. “It may be a struggle for people to incorporate plants and greenery within a workplace

27 FLOORING

environment which are often associated with cost and maintenance, and some establishments don’t always benefit from natural light,” explains Oliver. “What’s important is to recognise the ways that designers can add human benefit to places. If direct connections to nature are unobtainable, indirect connections are the best ways to incorporate biophilic elements into a design. So, it’s about natural materials, colours, patterns and textures and finding ways to allow people to experience those qualities.”

As an example, Interface’s World Woven collection, designed by David Oakey, has been designed with biophilic design at the forefront of the concept. “There are intentional defects in World Woven’s carpet tiles, linking to the randomness of nature,” explains David.

Flooring installations, such as Interface’s World Woven collection, are a great technique for incorporating biophilic design into a workplace that lacks the ability to benefit from direct connections to nature. “Humans feel better connected with nature,” explains David. “It’s good for us, so why not bring this in to our artificial interiors?”

“Biophilic design is creating a set of design patterns that find ways to strengthen our connection to nature, either from direct connections of natural light, greenery or airflow, but also through indirect connections such as colours, textures and patterns,” establishes Oliver. David has incorporated biophilic elements into Interface’s World Woven collection in exactly this manner. Taking inspiration from nature’s organic landscapes brings colour to the World Woven collection.

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28 FLOORING

conditions of cardiovascular disease and mental health issues, it is fundamental for designers to incorporate health and wellbeing elements into buildings. “We know buildings have a big impact on our mood, behaviour and energy levels.

There’s a big opportunity to introduce health and wellbeing, in particular restorative benefits of nature and natural elements, within buildings,” supports Oliver.

When we are encountered with areas of greenery, nature and plants and look out onto open spaces it makes us feel calm and relaxed, eliminating associated stress-related illnesses. Natural, open spaces incorporated into elements of a design scheme can also contribute to a stress-free environment, as Oliver explains as ‘indirect connections’.

David Oakey thrives on biophilic design, taking direct inspiration from natural colours, patterns, textures and generally weathered surfaces we find in the natural surroundings we find around us. David has the ability to seek out global trends and incorporate these trends into patterns, textures and colours within carpet tiles. His biophilic approach is reinforced by Interface’s manufacturing technique’s ability to present small elements of colour and texture, along with different pile heights, into its carpet tiles which stages a sense of natural randomness that mimics what we find in nature.

Diversity and change Looking into the future, David predicts: “In 20 years or so, flooring designs will actually be projected on the floor and will have the ability to change from day-to-day and seasonto-season.” David explains further: “One main movement we all witness when studying nature is its diversity and change; it changes from morningto-night, day-to-day and season-toseason, and those are elements that we should introduce into our interiors.

“Even if we buy something new, it makes us feel better; all we have done is make a simple change. So, if you come into your office one morning and there has been a change within the floor in either colour, pattern or texture, this will have an effect on you.”

Stress-reduction The use of colours, patterns and textures within a carpet installation can also have a profound effect on our mood. “Mixing carpet tiles too much isn’t healthy for people,” comments David. The use of a bright colour or a busy pattern can excite us, but we have to take into account the psychological effects of these colours and patterns. “It’s like when you see INEX-ONLINE.COM

flowers bloom,” comments David. “It’s beautiful, but when it’s there for a long period of time it can be draining.”

The use of biophilic elements within a concept has proven stressreductive effects on people within the workplace. This is of vital importance within today’s work places where we are all unceasingly ‘switched on’.

Technology has further exacerbated our connection with nature. Oliver explains: “We live in an ‘always on’ culture; always looking at a big screen, going to bed answering emails and scrolling though social media. The blue light that emanates from our phones and tablets is very similar to the energising light that meets us in the morning, resulting in our sleep being effected by the quality of light.” The bedroom, once a sanctuary associated with calmness and restoration, is now a place that inhabits televisions, mobile phones and e-readers all emanating a blue light that conflicts with the effortless form of communication that we get from looking at nature.

With the World Health Organization (WHO) predicting that by the year 2020 the two main contributing factors to illnesses are stress-related

29 FLOORING Far left: The use of biophilic elements within a concept has proven stressreductive effects Below left: David Oakey thrives on biophilic design, taking direct inspiration from nature Left: The use of colours, patterns and textures within a carpet installation can also have a profound effect on our mood Below: Biophilic design is about natural materials, colours, patterns and textures and finding ways to allow people to experience those qualities

“It’s quite literally an opportunity to introduce biophilic design from the ground up,” elaborates Oliver.

Biophilic-inspired floor installations offer a prospect for designers in search of a flooring solution for a workplace, hospital space, school or home to add a sense of physical warmth, texture and colour to a scheme. Interface’s biophilic design hub, Human Spaces, offers a deeper understanding of biophilic design and its benefits. The Human Spaces report, ‘The Global Impact of Biophilic Design in the Workplace’, is backed up by 30-40 years of data and research that demonstrates the increase in productivity, wellbeing and creativity when we introduce natural elements into a workplace. “Productivity can go up by 6%, wellbeing can go up by 15%, creativity by 15% and absenteeism can be reduced,” explains Oliver. “All these tangible, financial benefits that occur when stress is reduced. Today’s employers seek employees that want to be at work doing their best and that’s what biophilic design has the opportunity to deliver.”

A similar result has been taken from education environments; children’s learning can increase by 20-25%, absenteeism can be reduced by 3-5 days, test results can be improved between 5-14% and research has also suggested that biophilic design has a beneficial effect on reducing ADHD. A deeper level of understanding of biophilic design is foreseen for the future. There are many designers that are interested in the principles of biophilic design and there are elements that experienced designers have known about for some time. “What’s different is the understanding of the term ‘biophilic design’ and the evidence-based research that supports it,” concludes Oliver. interface.com « oliverheath.com « INEX-ONLINE.COM

30 SPA

Spa-inspired bathrooms As wellness in the bathroom is growing in importance to consumers, whirlpool and hydrotherapy elements are becoming a lot more popular and requested. Once an unnecessary luxury, hydrotherapy products are now getting credit for their health and relaxation benefits. Here, Dan Cook, Designer at C.P. Hart, explains the movement the company has witnessed within the ‘home spa’ trend.

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ome spa elements are becoming much more accessible and fit for purpose in the modern home, going beyond the ever-popular hydrotherapy bath systems. Thanks to new innovations, people can now enjoy the luxury of steam integrated into their shower enclosures, INEX-ONLINE.COM

eliminating the need for additional space. Similar developments have seen more affordable sauna offerings being introduced to the domestic market. As consumers become more aware of wellness technologies, including chromotherapy, they are being specified at the planning stage of a new bathroom.

Music systems are also a popular choice, as people reassess how they interact with their bathroom, no longer seeing it as just a functional room. There are modest products on the market that may not be ‘all singing, all dancing’, but will still enhance a bathroom experience such as colour-changing LEDs, a shower steam generator or a multi-function showerhead.

Most baths can be updated to incorporate whirlpool jets and lighting which can be cost-effective if a client does not wish to replace their whole bathtub. It also means clients can experience hydrotherapy in a smaller space, simply by adapting their existing tub.

Above left: Home spas and wetrooms are expected to see a great deal of growth over the coming years Above: Rain showers, multiple jets and more minimalist, ‘smart’ items are also seeing continued growth Below: Consumers are much more aware of the benefits of wellness products, so are willing to introduce these elements into their homes

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32 SPA

Above: C.P. Hart’s most popular products for home spas continue to focus around chromotherapy, as well as steam and sauna rooms and technically-advanced showers Left: When considering a colour palette, keep it as light as possible Right: Home spa elements are becoming much more accessible and fit for purpose in the modern home

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Consumers are much more aware of the benefits of wellness products, so are willing to introduce these elements into their homes. While, perhaps, three years ago a sauna was an extravagant product and unnecessary in the everyday bathroom.

C.P. Hart is seeing a rising interest in sauna and steam.

Home spas and wetrooms are expected to see a great deal of growth over the coming years – it is no longer a ‘specialist’ product, and consumers are keen to embrace more technological possibilities in their homes, as well as viewing their bathroom areas as spaces to relax and unwind, as opposed to a solely utilitarian area.

C.P. Hart’s most popular products for home spas continue to focus around chromotherapy, as well as steam and sauna rooms and technically-advanced showers, such as the ATT system by Dornbracht or the Hansgrohe RainBrain.

Rain showers, multiple jets and more minimalist, ‘smart’ items like the Dornbracht Smart Water and Effegibi Touch and Steam and Topkapi are also seeing continued growth.

The launch of Touch and Steam and Topkapi by Effegibi

33 SPA

demonstrates how technology is the driving force behind today’s designs. This neat innovation boasts everything required for a steam experience in one stylish panel.

Controlled using a touch interface, users can also make the most of inbuilt chromotherapy lighting with different colour options.

In terms of aesthetics, C.P. Hart is seeing an increasing use of natural stone, which is perfect to add warmth and detail to a space. Furthermore, a real trend is emerging for porcelain tiles that look like stone and wood, which don’t require the maintenance that stone does. In terms of texture, the use of deep wood grain on furniture veneers, or rough textures on tiles makes everything tactile and

touchable, which is a nice feature in a ‘natural’ bathroom. Lastly, brushed finishes on brassware look great and are in keeping with the tactile nature of a natural bathroom.

Achieving the ‘spa look’ It should also be said that even if your client doesn’t have a large space, a ‘spa look’ is still achievable.

Incorporating wall-mounted products into a bathroom design will keep the space looking ‘light’. Ensure that surfaces are kept clear, and it will be surprising at how open a spa bathroom will feel.

An easy solution to enhance the natural light in the space and helping the space to feel bigger is to use mirrors. When considering a colour

palette, keep it as light as possible, being careful about heavy contrasts with finishes and products. However, don’t play it too safe with colour choices as this can make a room look insipid and washed out Obviously, when considering a home spa area for a client, bear in mind general issues like water pressure – but most importantly space restrictions. Steam rooms require insulated walls and so need to be specified at the planning stage, however saunas are available as complete cabins that are almost ready to go. Therefore, it is much easier to add the product later, even after a bathroom has been completed. All you need to do is find a place for it. Any shower elements will require specific planning with suitable water pressure and electrics being considered from the offset.

For the invigoration element associated with spas, choose body jets, waterfall showerheads and mist jets for a showering zone. There are lighting and music options that can be integrated into a bathroom for early morning wake ups and late evening relaxation. cphart.co.uk « INEX-ONLINE.COM

34 EXTERIOR PRODUCTS

Make use of external spaces this autumn If your clients are thinking of hibernating once the summer is over, advise them to resist the urge. Spending time outdoors is not only relaxing and good for your health, these spaces are also a beautiful extension to the home.

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onsumers traditionally buy garden furniture in the spring or early summer months, with a view to enjoying as many sunny days as they can over the summertime. For some consumers, picking up a bargain mid to late summer can be a great way for planning for the following year. But gardens don’t just have to be about the summer months.

With autumn around the corner, this is the perfect time to start thinking of how to extend your clients’ garden fun a little longer throughout the autumn season.

Get comfortable and warm A big hit this summer has been luxurious outdoor garden sofas. They’ve frequently appeared in luxury lifestyle magazines, and look like they are here to stay. Often they will be made from durable PE rattan, or timber-style polywood, which makes them ideal for keeping out all year round. The cushioned seating makes them perfect for entertaining and relaxing with family and friends. So when the days get colder, your clients don’t have to just retreat indoors, but they can get cosy.

You will often find that in Scandinavian countries, they will sit outdoors all year around, and they do this through accessorising. Although garden sofas have soft large cushions on them, they can still feel a little cold in the autumn time. By adding a few sheepskin rugs over them, you’ll very quickly take the chill away. Sheepskins are perfect to sit on when it’s cold. Also, drape some wool throws around a sofa, which will allow your client and their guests to either keep warm by placing them over their knees, or to snuggle up in to. A natural fibre wool throw is perfect for keeping your clients warm.

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35 EXTERIOR PRODUCTS Far left: Often outdoor garden sofas will be made from durable PE rattan, or timber-style polywood, which makes them ideal for keeping out all year round Centre: Sheepskins are perfect to sit on when it’s cold Left: Gardens don’t just have to be about the summer months Below: By adding a few sheepskin rugs over outdoor garden sofas, you’ll very quickly take the chill away Bottom: A natural fibre wool throw is perfect for keeping your clients warm during the autumn months

Create the right lighting As the days get shorter, and the evenings darker, try adding some lighting around your clients’ gardens.

There are many lights that can be either hardwired or simply placed around a garden using battery power or solar power. Solar-powered lights are often not as effective in the autumn as they are in the summer months, but whatever your clients’ external lighting scheme, look to enhance the atmosphere with tea lights. Tea lights work best with a little shelter from the wind, so using old jam jars is perfect for creating a soft outdoor atmospheric light. If your clients are looking at a more fun and colourful finish, then place the tea lights in colourful jars. Pinks, reds and oranges are perfect for creating a warm feel and glow.

Flowers, plants and borders Not everyone is naturally greenfingered, however making sure there is still some colour in your clients’ gardens in the autumn time will make it even more pleasurable for them to stay outside. A quick trip to a local hardware store is a nice, easy way to get some plants ready to put straight

in to the ground. Or for a contemporary look, try planting some evergreen shrubs into pots and place them around a seating area. Soft concrete grey plant pots carry a natural contrasting colour scheme, which is particularly stylish and chic this season. Plant pots do need some care, so for a nonmaintenance option, consider artificial plants. It’s amazing how fabulous some artificial plants can be.

Don’t forget to treat outdoor furniture Outdoor dining tables are often made from hardwood and will come ready treated when purchased. However, if your clients want their wooden garden furniture to stay looking as good as new, then get treating furniture before the wet, cold winter kicks in. Cuprinol is a commonly used hardwearing finish for outdoor furniture. Using the clear finish will maintain a natural look, however if you’re looking to add a splash of colour to your clients’ gardens, then use a finish with colour. Adding the very popular sky blue finish to furniture is a great way to completely transform the look of drab furniture into something light and colourful. modishliving.co.uk « INEX-ONLINE.COM

36 LONDON DESIGN FAIR PREVIEW Left: Tent London and sister event Super Brands London will return to Truman Brewery in vibrant East London under the new umbrella of London Design Fair

Curation, collaboration and connections From 22nd to 25th September, Tent London and sister event Super Brands London will return to Truman Brewery in vibrant East London under the new umbrella of London Design Fair. For the first time, the fair will be staged over three floors of this iconic industrial space rather than two. Its 12,500m2 space will showcase 250 independent designers and brands, 200 global brands and 15 country pavilions in ever-more creative formats.

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his will be clear to see in one of the fair’s most exciting new installations. “We were invited to propose a project by the trade commission of the Trentino region of Italy,” says Jimmy MacDonald, London Design Fair Founder and Director. “The result is Trentino Collaborations, which connects four British designers with four Trentino-based manufacturers to create new products for retail.”

Max Lamb is producing granite furniture with a quarry company, Sebastian Cox is working with hard wood rather than green wood, for the first time and using a weaving technique from Trentino, Lucy Kurrein is designing leather upholstery, also Giles Miller will take his first foray into natural stone tiles. “The point is to create a profitable exchange, both artistically and economically,” comments MacDonald.

“This is a significant project to launch in our 10th year because its core – connecting designers with manufacturers – is something we’ve always done. Relationships are fundamental to us,” says MacDonald. “We stand out as a fair because we understand the design industry and we’re passionate about it. We work hard to create content you won’t see anywhere else. London Design Fair should be an inspiring and useful experience for everyone who exhibits and attends.”

Another installation at the London Design Fair celebrates the successful career trajectories of first-time exhibitors.

In 10 at Tent, 10 now-established designers will show the pieces they debuted at Tent London alongside their latest collections. “This is a chance to take a moment and INEX-ONLINE.COM

appreciate how far we’ve all come.

Both the designers and the fair itself – we’ve grown up together,” says MacDonald.

This year’s London Design Fair will see the launch of the inaugural British Craft Pavilion, an exhibition that showcases 25 craftsmen from across the British Isles selected by the Crafts Council. These include ceramics by Paul Wearing, vessels by Wood Turner John Shorrock and glass sculptures by Stuart Akroyd.

As well as promoting British design to the rest of the world, Tent London is the most international show at London Design Festival, launching new brands and designers in the UK through its 15 country pavilions. For the first time, London Design Fair has invited a country to exhibit as India unveils the best of its contemporary design in ‘This Is India’, which sees Spandana Gopal, of Tiipoi, co-curate alongside Jimmy MacDonald, Founder and Director of the London Design Fair, with exhibition design by Kangan Arora.

Further confirmed countries include Design Prize Switzerland, Scotland Craft & Design, 100% Norway, Portugal, Design In South Italy, Nordic Design Collective and Swedish Design Pavilion.

Celebrating 10 years, the Super Talks programme will mirror the global direction of the fair. As the go-to event for visitors to learn about international trends, designers, diversity and influences from eminent industry figures from around the world, the global talks programme will include talks from Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Design Museum and many more.

All of this content adds up to making Tent London a crucial part of London Design Festival for influential retail buyers, architects, interior designers, project specifiers and media from all over the world. For the first time in 2016, ensuring they have the best possible experience, the first two days of the fair will be trade-only, followed by two days open to both trade and the public. londondesignfair.co.uk «

38 SURFACING

product selection itself, but extends to the entire lifespan of the product, from sourcing and manufacturing, to logistics and even down to the status of the showroom that the product inhabits. Meeting consumer demands, Decospan aims to neutralise its footprint in years to come and currently utilises 30% of its energy from solar panels with the remaining 70% sourced as green energy. The company also uses its unusable off-cuts to heat its business premises and machinery. With waste kept to an absolute minimum, Sales and Marketing Director PieterJan Desmet, son of Founder of Decospan Urbain Desmet, adopts the attitude that “a great butcher utilises every part of a cow, this is how Decospan approaches its manufacturing”. Enhancing its ecofriendly status even further, Decospan also owns two wind turbines as a source of sustainable, renewable energy.

Today’s designers and clients are becoming ever more environmentally and socially aware about their choices. So much so that many of today’s hoteliers are opting to create

Specifying for sustainable projects Improving health and wellbeing in internal environments is of utmost importance for today’s interior design community.

Employing natural materials within interior schemes articulates our relationship between indoor spaces and nature. James Latham, importer and distributor of wood-based products, invited Inex to its supplier’s Belgium-based headquarters to visualise first-hand just how the natural beauty of wood can impact an interior scheme.

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hen it comes to the origin of wood, both James Latham and its supplier Decospan are conscious of their wood’s birthplace. Whether it be larch, oak or walnut, James Latham has assurance that Decospan sources its woods from wellmanaged forests. With 90% of its veneers FSC or PEFC-certified, James Latham has full confidence that its veneers are being delivered by an environmentallyconscious manufacturer by using Decospan.

Environmentally-friendly selections are of vital importance for both today’s interior designers and their clients. This isn’t narrowed down solely to the INEX-ONLINE.COM

Above: James Latham has seen the soughtafter Shinnoki brand prevail Right: ‘Look’likes’ is aimed at interior designers and architects in search of an environmentallyfriendly solution to using real wood Above right: Designers in search of a more natural veneer are drawn to the Querkus brand for its unique, innovative matching techniques Far right: Following the trend for Scandinavian, modern interior design, Decospan’s Nordus range offers the highest quality soft and birch wood

39 SURFACING

eco-friendly schemes within hotel interiors. These ‘green’ schemes attract a new generation of hotel guests and evoke our natural, instinctive bond between other living systems. Wood is the prime material evident of these ‘green’ schemes.

With so many hotel guests inspired by hotels from their travels across the years, it is evident that these hotel interiors are influential. As a result, the ‘green’ scheme is making a rapid movement into residential schemes.

Appropriate applications Finding the right balance between high-end and sustainability can be a difficult task for today’s designers.

Addressing this issue, Decospan produces its products in a choice of three versatile distribution ranges – Architectural, Classic and Commercial.

Intended for high-end applications is the Architectural range, which hosts striking, well-defined grains with a clear colour and structure. Exemplary for decorative use, this range has a continuous gradient and is produced using impeccable logs.

With the raw, natural trend evolving amongst consumers, natural defaults within wood, that once would have been dismissed, are proving popular in interior schemes. Which is precisely what Decospan’s second range, Classic, presents. Original characteristics that are specific to the chosen wood are palpable alongside small knots, which Latham has witnessed as a recurrent request from its clients.

The final range, Commercial, as the name suggests, is produced for commercial applications. This budget-friendly range hosts more typical properties of wood, such as small, centred and larger, prominent knots. The discolouration of this range can contribute to rustic, organic schemes whilst keeping in budget for economical projects.

Collections With a wide variety of choices, Decospan’s brand collection comprises Shinnoki, ‘Look’likes’, Nordus and Querkus. Each of these brands hold their own individual

benefits, such as the Shinnoki brand.

James Latham has seen this soughtafter brand prevail with considerable interest from its clients. Shinnoki, translated as ‘real wood’ in Japanese, has been specified for many highprofile properties with its popularity underpinned by the likes of football stars, John Terry and Steven Gerrard.

Ready for application, the Shinnoki range of veneers is prefinished and of a high-quality Architectural grade.

Due to its prefinished status, Shinnoki proves popular with the industry’s designers specifying for the hospitality sector where down-time must vitally be kept to a minimum. Although this range displays a higher price point, the agility of Shinnoki is highly beneficial to interior designers and architects alike.

Following the trend for Scandinavian, modern interior design, Decospan’s Nordus range offers the highest quality soft and birch wood.

This collection presents a ‘raw feel’ with eight designs which are perfect for creating contemporary settings.

Available with matching edge bands, Nordus can host numerous paint or oil finishing possibilities, offering a truly versatile collection.

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40 SURFACING Left: Architects and interior designers are welcome to bring their clients along to the Treehouse to visualise first-hand their specified wood species Below left: The Treehouse exhibits Decospan’s collections and even utilises some of the manufacturer’s products such as the striking elm and bamboo panelled staircase leading up to the Treehouse

Oak has been a popular wood preference for many years due to its rich aesthetic. Decospan’s Querkus brand, Latin for ‘oak veneer’, comprises the finest oak which has been sustainably designed and harvested from FSC-certified European white and reclaimed oak. Designers in search of a more natural veneer are drawn to the Querkus brand for its unique, innovative matching techniques.

Taking the company’s creativity one step further, Decospan’s ‘Look’likes’ collection oozes innovation. Hosting the appearance of real wood, this inspiring collection is aimed at interior designers and architects in search of an environmentally-friendly solution to using real wood. Due to the traceability of tropical wood being a troublesome process, this brand was developed as an alternative to using real tropical wood. Exotic ‘Look’likes’ such as ebony, macasar and teak are available with an FSC label.

Available as panels, ply, the company’s innovative Decoflex and wallpaper, this flexible brand comprises three collections – Classics, Exotic and Art. Offering innumerable creative design options, this collection is appropriate for all interior schemes, offering interior designers full creativity while being environmentally-friendly.

Decospan’s exclusive, innovative Decoflex is extremely easy to work with. Offering a flexible structure, this product is a versatile choice for interior designers looking for a wood product to wrap around bent surfaces. Available in a wide range of choices, this product can be specified in numerous wood species from bamboo, oak and pine, to teak, walnut and birch.

Meeting interior designers’ needs Igniting all your senses, all these products are available to see, touch and smell at Decospan’s innovative ‘experience centre’. Appropriately named, Decospan’s Treehouse is far from your run-of-the-mill showroom.

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41 SURFACING

Designed by design studio Pink Eye, with the concept’s innovation owed to Pieterjan Desmet, the Treehouse exhibits Decospan’s collections and even utilises some of the manufacturer’s products within the build itself – such as the bottom floor’s toilet doors which are produced from Decospan’s vintage oak and the striking elm and bamboo panelled staircase leading up to the Treehouse.

Upon entering the Treehouse, visitors are immersed into a natural

environment. Bathed in natural daylight, visitors are greeted by interactive panels showcasing some of Decospan’s products. Further enhancing this organic scheme, these interchangeable panels are nestled amongst natural moss and are changed every two to three months to offer visitors a variety in the products they come to observe.

Architects and interior designers are welcome to bring their clients along to the Treehouse to visualise first-hand their specified wood

species. Furthermore, Decospan offers designers and their clients the option to personally select their own log to produce into a veneer.

Decospan’s ranges are available through James Latham, which has recently announced the opening of a brand new 60m2 showroom in the heart of London. Located in the Business Design Centre, James Latham’s new showroom will reveal its opening in summer 2016, showcasing Decospan’s innovative, responsibly-sourced veneers, from the Shinnoki range to Decospan’s ingenious ‘Look’likes’ brand. lathamtimber.co.uk « decospan.com/en «

Above left: The interchangeable panels are nestled amongst natural moss Above: Decospan offers designers and their clients the option to personally select their own log to produce into a veneer Left: Designed by design studio Pink Eye, with the concept’s innovation owed to Pieterjan Desmet, the Treehouse exhibits Decospan’s collections

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42 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Extex to exhibit at Best of Brittania, London Following the success of its latest captivating collection ‘Jewel’, luxury outdoor fabric brand Extex is delighted to be exhibiting its beautiful range of cushions at this year’s Best of Britannia show in London.

Above: Offering a selection of sumptuous new cushion designs crafted from weather-resistant plain and woven chenilles with a synthetic foam filling, Extex’s beautiful collection of innovative cushions will add a decorative touch to outdoor living areas Left: Extex is delighted that it has been hand-picked to showcase the best of British textile design

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elebrating British design and manufacturing, the Best of Britannia show embraces brands with heritage and craftsmanship as their key values, and Extex is delighted that it has been hand-picked to showcase the best of British textile design.

Taking place from Friday 30th September to Sunday 2nd October, Extex is excited to be exhibiting its extensive product offering to both consumer and trade visitors at the show, and will be welcoming feedback on its distinctive designs. Offering a selection of sumptuous new cushion designs crafted from weatherresistant plain and woven chenilles with a synthetic foam filling, Extex’s beautiful collection of innovative cushions will add a decorative touch to outdoor living areas.

Extex fabrics are designed and produced by Marina Mill, a family business based in rural Kent, England, that has been specialising in designing and producing bespoke fabrics (including expertly hand-printed replications of historical fabrics for royal castles and households), since the company’s Founders, Keith and Stephanie Rawkins, started the business in 1967. extex.co.uk « info@extex.co.uk « 01634 718871 «

43 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Boss Design task chair set to revolutionise office seating Boss Design continues to innovate with the unveiling of Trinetic – a unique task chair that incorporates a brand new type of movement to create a superior, natural user experience. With ergonomic and commercial benefits, Trinetic will be the benchmark against which future task chairs are compared. Trinetic has no manual user adjustments. Instead, it uses three independent pivot points that combine to create a chair that ‘follows’ rather than resists the user. This promotes better support through a wide range of body movements and has been proven to increase contact with the user’s body through the full length of the seat and back surface compared to traditional synchronised mechanisms. boss-design.com 0207 253 0364

Polyflor helps create geometric floor design for Solihull School High-performance flooring from Polyflor’s luxury vinyl tile and sheet vinyl flooring ranges was recently used to create a geometric flooring design at Solihull School’s new sixth form centre. Pearlazzo PUR homogeneous sheet flooring was used to produce a hexagonal patterned floor design in the centre’s break-out and dining area, whilst Expona Control PUR luxury vinyl tiles created a pathway through the common room area and into the adjoining corridors and staircases. Four shades from the Pearlazzo PUR collection – mineral, rain cloud, charcoal and sunrise – were selected to create the geometric flooring design, with hexagon shapes created by Polyflor’s in-house design service using precision waterjet cutting technology. polyflor.com 0161 767 1111

Affinity255 creates dream floor for Natural Bed Company showroom Luxury vinyl tiles from Polyflor’s innovative Affinity255 PUR flooring collection were recently used to create a stunning herringbone design floor at Natural Bed Company’s showroom in Sheffield. 290m² of Affinity255 PUR vinyl flooring in the seasoned grey oak design was installed in the shop floor area. Whole planks of the grey wood effect luxury vinyl tiles were laid in a simple yet eye-catching herringbone pattern which perfectly complemented the store’s pared-down, Scandi-style. Available in 16 contemporary and traditional wood effect designs, Polyflor’s Affinity255 range of hard-wearing luxury vinyl tiles for heavy commercial environments are ideal for use in retail spaces where high levels of foot traffic is expected. polyflor.com 0161 767 1111

Polyflor creates eye-catching design at Havering College Flooring from Polyflor was used to create a unique, geometric floor design for a new STEM learning centre at Havering College of Further and Higher Education in Hornchurch, Greater London. Highperformance vinyl flooring from Polyflor’s Classic Mystique PUR range was installed in the Havering Innovation in Science, Engineering and Technology Hub. Three complementary grey shades – smokestone, nocturne and quartz – were selected to produce this striking design.

Polyflor’s in-house design service team used waterjet technology to cut the vinyl flooring into pieces so this design could be put together.

Available in 16 colours, the range is enhanced with PUR, Polyflor’s exclusive and robust polyurethane reinforcement. polyflor.com 0161 767 1111 INEX-ONLINE.COM

44 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Left: The Constellation range takes its inspiration from the latest, most vibrant and exciting colour trends in furniture, with a comprehensive choice of eight shades to choose from Below: The range has a contemporary appearance, allowing for eye-catching designs to be created in the floor space

Constellation range set to inspire designers with fibre bonded carpet Interior designers and specifiers are set to be inspired by an exciting new fibre bonded carpet range that has been released by Heckmondwike FB.

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he Constellation range takes its inspiration from the latest, most vibrant and exciting colour trends in furniture, with a comprehensive choice of eight shades to choose from. This includes red, orange, green, blue, purple, grey, black and plum, which are available as ‘planks’ that provide endless scope for use in office, leisure and educational environments.

The range has a contemporary appearance, allowing for eye-catching designs to be created in the floor space.

It can also be combined with Broadrib planks or carpet tiles from Heckmondwike FB’s range to create a more tonal, softer installation where required.

Sharni Verity, Marketing Manager for Heckmondwike FB, said: “Constellation brings a strong element of design into robust, high-performance flooring. The new range has great visual appeal and opens up huge opportunities for capturing the current trend for planks, as well as the much wider use of colour in carpets.”

She adds: “Designers can have great fun experimenting with the planked look, especially when the darker and brighter colourways are combined to create the perfect contrast.”

As part of Heckmondwike FB’s Creative Flooring range, Constellation is ideal for a wide variety of commercial flooring applications. It can be cut on-site without the risk of fraying and this allows individual flooring designs to be created and installed with ease.

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Also available in Heckmondwike FB’s Creative range are Array, Montage and Night Sky. Together with Constellation, they offer a myriad of choice of styles and colours, bringing a strong element of design into robust, highperformance fibre bonded carpets.

Constellation carpet tiles are British-made and provide outstanding performance, as well as being backed by a 10-year limited wear warranty, which means they can be specified in complete confidence.

As with the rest of Heckmondwike FB’s collections, Constellation offers an antistatic and anti-slip performance, excellent acoustic properties to help reduce noise levels and strong thermal performance.

Sample cards for Constellation and any of the Creative range are available on request by visiting Heckmondwike FB’s website. constellation.heckmondwike-fb.co.uk « sales@heckmondwike-fb.co.uk « 01924 406161 «

45 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

New Arthur Cityscape – a dynamic multi-function seating solution Designed to capture the essence of a modern city, Arthur Cityscape is a stylish and vibrant addition to Lyndon Design’s flagship Arthur seating collection. Fusing high back and low back seating into one striking piece, this latest modular design offers a unique seating solution that combines both collaborative and privacy features. Arthur Cityscape cleverly incorporates standard and high backed sofas in both compact and large sizes from the current collection, along with new linkable, armless sofas and corner units to produce a total of 25 configurations. From these, a stunning and flexible seating arrangement can be created to suit a variety of interior spaces. lyndon.co.uk 01242 584897

Vintage-style home cinema wins award Cyberhomes has won this year’s CEDIA Award for ‘Best Home Cinema over £100,000’. The award recognises the excellence of a home cinema room designed, built and delivered by Cyberhomes. The interior was just as important as the technology as the homeowner wanted to recreate the feel of the old cinemas. Cyberhomes’ Director, Ion Smith, said: “The challenge for us was to deliver the latest in home cinema technology whilst retaining the vintage look. We were able to incorporate 4K resolution projector technology and Dolby Atmos surround sound. The room was acoustically treated to ensure the equipment performs at its potential and acoustically-transparent fabrics keep the speakers out of sight.” cyberhomes.co.uk 0333 344 3718

Major style boost for premium Hanex solid surface portfolio With 34 new decors, the premium Hanex solid surface range is a toolbox of creativity for design professionals. Mainlining the trends for comfortable neutrals in organic colours and stones, there are two new ranges of Nativo and Therapy together with a significant style update to the flagship collection, including the Bellassimo range. The Nativo range includes four unique decors featuring asymmetrical, atypical chips and tone-on-tone colours. The eco-friendly Therapy range is manufactured from recycled resources and boasts six decors. While the updated luxury Bellassimo range captures the look and feel of natural stone with random veining in four new decors of Flaxen, Silkwood, Sedimentary and Slate Grey. hanex.co.uk 0845 603 7811

Meisterstück Emerso showcased for the first time in the UK at 100% Design Designed by multi-award-winning Designer Arik Levy, the Meisterstück Emerso will be showcased for the first time in the UK at this year’s 100% Design. The ensemble of the Meisterstück Emerso bathtub and washstand feature captivating and extraordinary style elements: the freestanding, fully enamelled Meisterstück Emerso bathtub has a high back rest and slightly rising edge, which is like looking at a silk ribbon rolled in on itself. The bathtub is entirely made of Kaldewei’s superior steel enamel with seamless coating, flushfitting waste cover and discreet overflow outlet. The Meisterstück Emerso washstand is also available and fully complements the bathtub to create the perfect statement design in any bathroom. kaldewei.co.uk 01480 498053 INEX-ONLINE.COM

46 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Wood treatment that lasts With the weather becoming more and more unpredictable each year, the damage being caused to exterior timber is at its worst. That said, with the increase in people decorating their garden with decking, wooden structures, garden furniture and more, the need to finish them with the right solution is of utmost importance.

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he dilemma for most landscape enthusiasts, designers and property owners alike is which product to apply. A common frustration with many finishing products is that once applied, they begin to flake, disperse and even peel off, in some cases in under a year. Thankfully there is a solution to this problem. Solid Colour Stain (SCS) from Owatrol is a coloured opaque finish for wood available in 34 different colours which provides impressive UV and weather resistance. When applied correctly to bare wood, it is guaranteed not to peel or flake on vertical surfaces for 15 years (five years on horizontal surfaces). It has extremely high resistance to UV rays and provides a long lasting protection that is unrivalled.

Above: Michael chose to use Robin’s Egg for a stylish look for his pool house which complements the tiled roof and light coloured patio perfectly Left: Solid Colour Stain (SCS) from Owatrol is a coloured opaque finish for wood available in 34 different colours

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Protecting a pool house for years to come with SCS A customer in London recently completed a pool house renovation and the results are impressive. He used Net-Trol to clean the wood and restore its original colour before protecting and finishing with Solid Colour Stain.

Step 1: Use Net-Trol to clean the wood Wood which has been left untreated will, over time, turn grey due to damage caused to the fibres of the surface of the wood by exposure to the sun and rain. In addition, the wood will accumulate dust, dirt and other surface contaminants which build up over however long it has been exposed. These can interfere with a finish being applied and prevent it from doing its job correctly, so it is necessary to first clean the wood.

Net-Trol wood cleaner and colour restorer is easy to apply and performs two basic tasks: firstly, it removes dirt build-up, and secondly it restores the wood’s natural colour. To clean his pool house, Michael first applied the Net-Trol to the wood when wet, scrubbing it into the surface of the

wood before leaving it to work for 10-20 minutes and then rinsing with water. He worked in sections with such a large area to clean.

Step 2: Protect the wood with Solid Colour Stain Once the wood was clean, it needed at least 48 hours to dry before a finish could be applied. Michael wanted a coloured opaque wood finish which would keep his pool house looking at its best with minimal required maintenance. It gives an opaque coloured finish and has excellent adhesion with long-lasting performance.

To apply Solid Colour Stain, Michael applied an initial coat and waited at least four hours before applying a second and final coat. He worked in sections, continuing to a logical break point at a window or door frame and worked from top to bottom on each vertical section. Michael chose to use ‘Robin’s Egg’ for a stylish look for his pool house which complements the tiled roof and light-coloured patio perfectly.

Owatrol UK produces a range of high-quality, long-lasting coatings which offer exceptional protection and a superior finish. Solid Colour Stain and all Owatrol solutions can be found and ordered from Owatrol’s e-commerce website and goods will be delivered on the next working day. owatroldirect.co.uk « sales@owatroluk.com « 01923 219122 «

47 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Morgan launches new Rio 3D tables The new Rio tables, designed by studio INTEGRATE and Morgan Studio, feature a glass top that floats over an intricate 3D printed ‘lacework’ basket and solid timber legs. The ideal partner to the Rio 3D printed chairs, the new tables offer a combination of practicality, ground-breaking aesthetics and innovative techniques, with a rational structure and form. This unique application of 3D printing in commercial furniture was developed

by Architect and New Technologies Designer, Mehran Gharleghi, in collaboration with Morgan. Morgan will take part in the London Design Festival this year, exhibiting at stand A19 within Cubitt House at Design Junction. morganfurniture.co.uk 01243 371111

Stylish form with BLANCO’s MIDA-S tap Making the most out of the sink area has never been easier with BLANCO’s new MIDA-S tap. This model has a gently rounded spout on a slender body for easy washing and filling tall pots and vases. This tap is particularly suitable for compact sinks and has a large working radius thanks to the 360° swivel spout and practical, extendable spray hose.

The MIDA-S tap is available in 10 different finishes – chrome, anthracite, rock grey, alumetallic, pearl grey, white, jasmine, champagne, tartufo and coffee – and can be combined with any of the products from the BLANCO Silgranit sink range. blanco.co.uk 01923 635200

Video puts Crown Trade’s Historic and Classic shades in the picture Crown Trade has produced a new video to help specifiers looking for inspiration for projects with a classic or historic theme. Available to view at www.youtube.com/user/CrownTradeTV, the film showcases hues from the Crown Trade Historic and Classic collections. The video builds on Crown Trade’s new style guide, which brings together shades from the two collections into one 14-page booklet.

Noted for its historical accuracy and authenticity, the Crown Trade Historic Colours collection is a selection of 120 shades influenced by eight distinctive architectural and design styles. A more recent introduction is the Crown Trade Classic collection – a selection of 30 beautiful, timeless shades in classic neutral colours. crowntrade.co.uk 0330 024 0310

Osmo meets the demands for wooden decking Osmo UK offers a range of decking oils to protect and maintain the beauty and quality of exterior decking. The range provides resistance against water and dirt, while offering a satin oil-based protective finish. Made from natural plant oils, organic pigments and water-repellent additives, the micro-porous finish allows the wood to breathe, a factor that is essential for exterior wood. The eco-friendly ingredients help to regulate the wood’s moisture content, reducing swelling or shrinking whilst enhancing natural characteristics. The finish also prevents cracking, flaking, peeling or blistering. Available in 10 shades and one clear teak oil, there is a Decking Oil to complement and protect a number of wood species. osmouk.com 01296 481220 INEX-ONLINE.COM

48 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Wall-to-wall inspiration with MATCH panels Rarely can we say that a new product changes the face of interior design for professionals in the commercial world. However with MATCH, that statement is entirely true. This new designer panel range from Vicaima removes the limitations experienced with more commonly used decorative finishes and allows limitless design possibilities with multiple applications ranging from wall panels to furniture.

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ATCH is a revolutionary decorative panel that uses innovative H2P technology and advanced production processes to create tailor-made graphic or pictorial solutions directly onto veneered and other base layers.

In this way, a collection of decor elements can be brought together to create synergy to a theme or chosen style, such as wall panels, integrated door systems, displays and furniture, untethering creative flair and removing the boundaries to realising unique concepts.

Depending upon the desired application, Vicaima MATCH is INEX-ONLINE.COM

available in a selection of panel types with differing physical and mechanical properties, appropriate to their desired performance and covered by EN standards.

These include plywood, MDF with improved resistance to fire or moisture, among others.

The combination between the composition of the product and the advanced manufacturing technology used with the surface materials allows Vicaima to achieve unparalleled results. This is perhaps particularly illustrated in the use of surfaces utilising natural veneers, where the product is able to reproduce colours and original and unique designs to spectacular effect.

Above: MATCH Acqua Triangles from the Geometric collection Below: MATCH Kaleidoscope from the Lux collection

These new MATCH panels have been designed to provide a flexible answer to a broad scope of commercial project requirements with an offering that includes: a choice of base materials including MDF, Superpan and Plywood, and a selection of surface layers and coatings, all in a choice of industry applicable dimensions. With outstanding performance, product flexibility and the ability to create a truly unique space, MATCH introduces a new level for commercial interior design. It’s the ideal inspiration for hotel and leisure applications, corporate environments, schools and public places, industry displays and exhibitions together with so much more.

For specifiers needing a little steer to spark their imagination and who may not wish to create a totally bespoke design, MATCH also provides a wealth of stimulus with some truly creative collections.

Containing 36 individual patterns within six contemporary and inventive themes, these include the opulence of Black Marble, the optically challenging Origami, through to the traditional and authentic Portuguese Tile. vicaimamatch.com « 01793 532333 « match@vicaima.com «

49 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

TTA promotes high hygiene characteristics of tiled surfaces

The Tile Association and its members are promoting the hygiene advantages of correctly installed tiled surfaces, especially in commercial kitchens and food preparation environments. Tiled surfaces are entirely safe to install and use in hygiene-sensitive installations, particularly if large format porcelain tiles are used with epoxy grouts.

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rian G Newell, Chair of the TTA’s Technical Committee, points out that porcelain tiles are effectively impervious, with less than 0.5% porosity and that epoxy grouts are also impervious, to the extent that they can have an approval for use in nuclear power stations, since they are not porous to radioactivity.

“If British Standards are followed, there is absolutely nothing unsafe about tiled surfaces,” says Brian G Newell. Fully vitrified

tiles and epoxy resin-based grouts are not porous and have been recommended in hygienic applications such as commercial kitchens for many years. The ability to clean tiled surfaces is also not compromised by the grouted areas, which normally amount to just 2-3% of the total surface area.

Any type of flooring can be damaged if a sufficiently large or sharp item is dropped on it, although damage is much less likely to occur with a tiled floor

Whistler Leather to launch two new collections at FOCUS/16 Whistler Leather has launched five new ranges of embossed leathers for FOCUS/16. The collections continue a tradition within the company of high-grade leathers for the interiors industry, including intuitively grouped colour palettes and uniquely embellished leathers. With five embossed leathers launched for 2016, Damask Print presents a fine mosaic of metallic finishes on suede, giving a subtle interpretation of the elaborate floor patterns of ancient Rome.

The result is decorative and highly luxurious. Embossed leathers are stamped with engraved plates to achieve the unique designs, with pattern repeats as the plate is moved along the leather surface. These leathers are suitable for residential, contract and marine use. whistlerleather.com 0207 352 4186

surface than with other floor types. Furthermore, if a tile is broken it can be replaced.

Tiled surfaces can safely be cleaned at temperatures in excess of 60°C, since tiles are fired to temperatures far above those used during the manufacturing process. This means that tiles are a good solution in an environment where boiling liquids might get spilt on them. tiles.org.uk « info@tile.org.uk « 0300 365 8453 «

‘Wow factor’ heating Aestus, a leading British manufacturer and supplier of high-quality designer radiators and towel rails, has introduced two new heating solutions, Sigma and Fog, part of the Contemporary Towel Warmer collection. Specifically designed with the style conscious in mind, Sigma and Fog command your attention with their distinct silhouettes, fluid contouring and deceptively simple comb-like styling.

Organic lines and smooth rounded edges define these new heating solutions with each model fully embracing the latest desire for contemporary working art in the home.

Manufactured from mild steel, each model is available in a matt black or matt white finish and is suitable for closed heating systems. aestus.co.uk 01902 387080 INEX-ONLINE.COM

50 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

The perfect night’s sleep Westend Bed Company in South West London is a new family-run showroom dedicated to offering the very best quality mattresses and divans. The new showroom, which is located in Sheen, is home to the largest selection of Hypnos beds in the UK. Westend Bed Company is also the flagship store for Marshall & Stewart’s exclusive Diamond collection.

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s well as the extensive collection of luxury beds, Westend Bed Company also offers a bespoke service which includes a complementary sleep consultation.

This involves a lifestyle evaluation and sleep analysis to help people find the best support and model of bed for them to achieve a truly restorative night’s sleep every night.

Brent Cooper, Managing Director of Westend Bed Company, has worked in the luxury bed industry for over three decades, leading the bedmakers And So To Bed and Hästens to considerable UK success. He said: “We are dedicated to helping people get the quality night’s sleep they deserve and we are incredibly excited to be launching Westend Bed Company to help us achieve this goal.

“Everyone is affected by poor sleep at some point in their lives, but it is alarming how many people simply INEX-ONLINE.COM

tolerate it, not acknowledging that disturbed sleep affects not only the third of their life that they’re in bed, but also the two thirds when they are awake. Prolonged sleep deprivation, whether it is an inability to fall or stay asleep, can cause a host of health issues including back pain, premature ageing, stress, weight gain and mood swings.”

As well as offering the largest selection of Hypnos beds in the country, Westend Bed Company is also home to Marshall & Stewart’s exclusive Diamond collection.

The beds in this collection have been handmade in the UK using the finest natural materials with traditional techniques to ensure the ultimate in quality and comfort.

As part of the bespoke service available at Westend Bed Company, the team also provide exquisite Italian linens and the best quality pillows and duvets to perfectly complement the beds.

Above: As part of the bespoke service available at Westend Bed Company, the team also provide exquisite Italian linens and the best quality pillows and duvets to perfectly complement the beds Right: As well as the extensive collection of luxury beds, Westend Bed Company also offers a bespoke service which includes a complementary sleep consultation

Visit Westend Bed Company at 215 Upper Richmond Road West, Sheen, London, SW14 8QT, and take the first step to achieving the perfect night’s sleep. For more information and trade enquiries on Marshall & Stewart’s Diamond collection, please visit Westend Bed Company’s website. westendbedcompany.com « enquiries@westendbedcompany.com « 0207 723 2925 «

51 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Brick chic Opportunities for creating exciting facades in brick have never been better for architects and interior designers. Ketley Brick has recently launched a range of extruded brick slips and quarry tiles, all frost-resistant and equally suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.

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anufactured in the UK from the same clay, using the same processes as the Ketley Class A engineering bricks, they deliver the same technical characteristics of very low water absorption and very high strength, while having only 30% of the embodied carbon of a cut brick, making them a highly durable, sustainable and cost-effective choice for designers and architects.

A brand new Harvey Nichols store at Birmingham’s exclusive Mailbox shopping centre features Ketley Dudley blue smooth brick slips and pistols to create an eyecatching backdrop to its luxury designer brands. The designer, Virgile + Partners, has created a stunning visual by laying the brick slips in a vertical bond at lower levels and covering the wall above with pistol slips to play with the shadows and give an urban, chic feel to the designer store. The resulting brick wall is a striking feature and has been shortlisted for a 2016 Brick Award.

Virgile + Partners has continued the brick theme in the new International Menswear department of Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge. This time it selected a range of

Above: A brand new Harvey Nichols store at Birmingham’s exclusive Mailbox shopping centre features Ketley Dudley blue smooth brick slips and pistols to create an eye-catching backdrop Left: The new Peyton and Byrne cafe in London’s Great Portland Street features Ketley’s bespoke glazed brick slips on its deli counter

Ketley brick slips in browns and reds, in a variety of smooth, sanded and rustic finishes to create a warm, cosmopolitan look to the wall, which again is highly effective.

The new Peyton and Byrne cafe in London’s Great Portland Street features Ketley’s bespoke glazed brick slips on its deli counter.

Charlotte McCarthy, of Lot Design Studios, has put together an earthy selection of glazed slips to reflect the brand’s artisan range of fresh foods.

A new Maggie Centre in Manchester is another contender for a 2016 Brick Award. Designed

by Foster + Partners to embrace the therapeutic qualities of nature and the outdoors, it features Ketley’s Staffordshire blue quarry tiles and pavers, both inside the centre and on the surrounding landscaped terrace and greenhouse. The project celebrates light and nature and, by using the same flooring material both inside and out, the designers have allowed the building to merge with the surrounding landscape.

Universal Design Studios was also successful in using Ketley products to blend a building into its environment. Using a combination of Ketley Dudley blue brick slips and Staffordshire blue bricks, it transformed a previously dreary business hotel into the uber-cool Ace Hotel in Shoreditch. The clunking street facade was broken up into a series of shop fronts more in scale with the ragged, mostly Victorian, fabric of the Shoreditch streetscape, once a warren of cabinetry workshops and small retailers.

The ground floor walls were clad in Ketley Staffordshire blue bricks and slips, which were laid in complex patterns that appear almost to weave the facade back into the city. This project, which has become a beacon of urban style in this fashionable part of London, was awarded a prestigious Brick Award for ‘Best Refurbishment’. ketley-brick.co.uk « sales@ketley-brick.co.uk « 01384 78361 « INEX-ONLINE.COM

52 PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Left: Timber Effect panels are created from douglas fir planks that are hand worked to achieve different aesthetic qualities Below: The new Linq Hotel features 2500 rooms, a casino, retail space, meeting centre, pool deck, vortex roof and a full service spa – featuring a corridor of custom-finished ArmourFX panels

ArmourFX panels create social media backdrop for Linq Spa, Las Vegas ArmourFX Timber Effect panels were specified for the renovation of the latest Las Vegas strip hotel by Elkus Manfredi Architects. The Boston-based architect has converted the original Imperial Palace hotel into a lavish property specifically designed for a millennial guest.

T

he new Linq Hotel features 2500 rooms, a casino, retail space, meeting centre, pool deck, vortex roof and a full service spa – featuring a corridor of customfinished ArmourFX panels. Elizabeth Lowrey, Principal and Director of Interior Architecture at Elkus Manfredi Architects, explored the idea of ‘instagramable’ backdrops within the property. This was done to redefine the hotel’s purpose in the city, and also with the millennial audience’s heavy use of social media in mind.

“The overall challenge for Elkus Manfredi Architects was to reinvent Caesar’s outdated Imperial Palace INEX-ONLINE.COM

hotel property in Las Vegas into an entirely new experience that appeals to the next generation of Las Vegas guests. From the murals on the walls, the thought bubbles in the meeting spaces, the colour-changing 3535 bar, the carpet design in the corridors, VIP area and ‘living room’, to the tile pattern and wallcovering in the spa – the purpose was to create that ‘instagramable’ backdrop,” comments Elizabeth.

Timber Effect panels are created from douglas fir planks that are hand worked to achieve different aesthetic qualities. The panels offer great design options, often replacing exotic or expensive

timber for commercial projects. ArmourFX Timber Effect panels have been used to replace or match shou-sugi-ban Japanese charred planks or, as in this project, mountain pine beetle blue-stain timber.

Crafted especially for decorative wall cladding, ArmourFX Timber Effect panels are available in four designs and colours. ‘Original’ and ‘Shuttered’ highlight the elegant grain of the wood, whilst ‘Rugged’ and ‘Cinder’ are further hand distressed to give a more aged texture and surface patina. All panels are cast in a unique polymer-modified gypsum resin mix for added durability. In the USA, country-specific colours and finishes are available. armourcoat.com « marketing@armourcoat.co.uk « 01732 460668 «

LEVATO MONO porcelain paver system The Levato Mono porcelain paver system is the pinnacle of external raised flooring technology; enabling the specification of lightweight, slip resistant and attractive raised flooring solutions, combining incredible technical properties with uncompromising aesthetics; making them the ideal choice for commercial and domestic use alike.

20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 30x120 40x120 60x120 ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive over-life savings Highly abrasion and stain resistant Highly slip resistant ; R11 and achieved up to +65 wet in the BS pendulum test Lightweight – 45kgs per m2

High load bearing and impact resistance Timber & stone effects; 40+ finishes available Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and residential use Completely non porous Fire & frost proof Height-adjustable supports from 9mm up to 550mm

www.thedecktileco.co.uk t: 0845 2700 696

e: info@thedecktileco.co.uk

The secret of a memorable night’s sleep

Hypnos ‘secretly’ knows that it is a supremely comfortable bed that is at the heart of a truly memorable night’s sleep.

With over 100 years experience of making made-to-measure beds, using the finest natural materials, and with a Royally Approved reputation for hand crafting the most comfortable beds in the world, it is no surprise that Hypnos beds and their sublime comfort can be found in the finest homes, palaces and hotels.

T: +44 (0) 1844 348200 | E: designer@hypnosbeds.com | www.hypnosbeds.com Hypnos is proud to be Carbon Neutral, complying with PAS 2060.