INEX June/July 2020 by Red Hut Media Ltd

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Here at Inex, we have been talking a lot about biophilic design across the past few months – not just professionally, but also personally; sharing ideas on how we can introduce elements of the outside into our own interiors. So, it made perfect sense this month to reach out to one of the biggest titans and advocates of biophilia. Yes, whether you’re an interior designer or not, you know precisely who we’re talking about – Oliver Heath. In this edition, Eden Goode, Researcher & Writer at Oliver Heath Design, discusses our increasing reliance on biophilia within the built environment, and – following the COVID-19 pandemic – how we’re seeking indoor spaces that follow biophilic design principles more than ever before. Turn to page 42 to read the feature-length article.

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WELCOME TO

Moving back to the office, in June, many of us safely returned to our workplaces. Whether it’s on a part-time basis or full-time, we’re slowly easing back into work; of course, with a few changes to our office spaces. In this month’s Furniture feature, Tony Antoniou, Managing Director at London-based workplace design studio Rainbow, paints a picture of how our office spaces could look in the near future and discusses how, through design, we need to adapt to newfound workplace needs and boost the wellbeing and safety of employees following the coronavirus pandemic. Flick to page 26 to read his account on the office post-coronavirus. Meanwhile, on page 81, Soundtect looks at how designers can alleviate some of the returnto-work stress and COVID anxiety with acoustically sound spaces for a more calming atmosphere in open-plan offices. Here, the brand explores how designers can dampen down the noise to create a tranquil atmosphere with acoustic solutions. I hope you enjoy this edition. 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.

Cover: Eden Goode, Researcher & Writer at Oliver Heath Design, discusses our increasing reliance on biophilia within the built environment. See page 42.

Editorial: Rebecca Kemp rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Digital Advertising: Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Jim Moore jim@crossplatformmedia.co.uk Print Design Manager: Jack Witcomb jack@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Rebecca

Rebecca Kemp rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

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CONTENTS JUNE/JULY 2020

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INSIGHT

WELLBEING & SUSTAINABILITY

EXRATED

An architect, interior designer and an associate at design and consulting firm Stantec, Velimira Drummer has a wealth of knowledge under her belt. This month, Inex’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, sat down with her to discuss the ins and outs of her career.

Graham Martin, Chairman & CEO at EnOcean Alliance, discusses how with wireless solutions, smart spaces in offices can contribute to both productivity and satisfaction of the workforce.

FURNITURE

Architect firm, gpad london, and Landscape Designer, John Davies Landscape, have delivered an exemplary display of sustainable development in an inner-city environment via an rooftop garden design.

KITCHEN

INSPIRE

Tony Antoniou, Managing Director at London-based workplace design studio Rainbow, paints a picture of how our office spaces could look in the near future and discusses how we need to adapt to newfound workplace needs.

The materials used for kitchen surfaces have a tremendous impact on the design of the room overall, both visually and practically. Here, RAK Ceramics and CRL Stone take a look at some of the biggest trends.

Inex talks to Eden Goode, Researcher & Writer at Oliver Heath Design, about our increasing reliance on biophilia within the built environment, and how we’re seeking indoor spaces that follow biophilic design principles more than ever before.

FFE

WOOD & SURFACES

ACOUSTICS & BAFFLES

Natalie Davenport, Head of Marketing at Häfele, looks at some of the changes happening to the housing market and how they’re altering the way we design the nation’s housing.

With design priorities changing and hygienecritical spaces being sought, James Latham has explored some beautiful new materials with health and hygiene in mind.

Following the coronavirus pandemic, many are returning back to the office. Here, Soundtect looks at how designers can alleviate some of that stress with acoustically sound office spaces.

HEALTHCARE

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

IN FOCUS:

In this article, Louisa Eyles, Commercial Marketing Manager at Amtico, explores the vital role flooring has to play in modern healthcare design.

C O N T E N T S

Inex rounds up the latest innovative products and solutions entering the interior marketplace.

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Iron Mountain European Headquar ters, Social area Photography: Tom Fall on

Meet the designer: VELIMIRA DRUMMER

An Architect, Interior Designer and an Associate at design and consulting firm Stantec, Velimira Drummer has a wealth of knowledge and experience under her belt. This month, Inex’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, sat down with her to discuss the ins and outs of her career journey and to learn more about her background in design.

Can you please provide us with a description of your professional career?

I grew up in the Bulgarian city of Varna, and studied architecture at the Technical Universities in Munich and Aachen, before beginning my professional career in Germany, working mostly on residential, mixed-use and healthcare projects. I moved to London in 2004 and joined the practice that would later be acquired by Stantec, where I am currently Interior Leader, Associate and Senior Architect at the London office. 7

What inspired you to become an interior designer?

I have always loved sketching and creating. My decision to take a career path as an architect, and not as an artist or a scientist, was influenced by my grandfather who was a well-recognised architect in Bulgaria and used to take me to places he’d designed. He combined the modernistic architecture of the ‘60s with traditional elements. For me, the study of architecture was a love-hate relationship at the beginning; until I discovered the power of placemaking to improve people’s lives and the satisfaction connected with it. I N E X

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After a career as a general architect in Germany, I started to work in London on the development of interior strategies for largescale hospital buildings. The complexity of these buildings, the mixture of healthcare and hospitality, the importance of wayfinding and art all inspired me to do more interior design work. Later, working in the Middle East and being exposed to the rich interiors typical of the countries of the region made me realise architects can learn a lot from interior designers in terms of richness of colour and materials. I started to combine what I learned with my approach of simplicity, and every project became a stepping stone in my career.

Who has been your greatest source of inspiration throughout your career?

The first and most enduring influence was my family. I learned from my parents and grandparents that it is important to be persistent in your work in order to achieve your dreams. I have also been fortunate enough to live in different countries and to work on major international projects around the world. My experience with different cultures and my love for history and architectural traditions have added to the richness of my understanding of what a space should provide on all kinds of levels, including aesthetics, flow, wellbeing and socialisation. The people I have been lucky enough to work with – and for – over the years have all added to my inspiration too.

How do you approach your projects?

A project begins with the development of the space planning based on the client’s brief. The next touchpoint for any project is the location because every design must connect the end-user to their sense of self. Perceptions of place and cultural identity are a critical part of that equation. In general, in every project, I tried to incorporate something new – be it the way a space is planned or the way materials and colours are composed. Further sources of visual inspiration are other sectors unrelated to architecture – like scenography, fashion and art installations. Seeing work unrelated to my field adds a different dimension to the project. I’m also fortunate to work for an international company, so I also tap into that resource to ensure my designs benefit from learnings from previous projects and global best practice. I N E X

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Iron Mountain European Headquar ters, Social area Photography: Tom Fallon

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Who is your favourite interior designer and why?

Actually, I cannot say I have a single favourite architect or interior designer. I admire designers who meet the requirements for a project but also create a sense of place in an efficient yet innovative way. I have always admired the sculptural work of Zaha Hadid.

Pho

Would you say that you have a design style?

I think all architects and interior designers have a design toolkit that sits at the heart of their signature style, but this is a starting point – not a template – so elements that I would recognise as unique to my work may not be obvious to others. I would say that my style is all about creating spaces that are flexible enough to meet varying client requirements while providing cohesion that connects all users with a sense of place. Another important element of my work is the creation of a procession of spaces full of light and visual cues. I aim to create interiors that are efficient but also elegant, simple and inspirational – a combination of functionality and hospitality, easily navigable by all users. An especially important element of my design work is the use of light as a material in its own right. I also always look for opportunities to bring the natural environment into the built environment.

What do you believe is the biggest challenge for today’s interior designers?

I think the biggest challenge is communicating the real value of what we do as professional interior specialists. Interior design is more than simple decoration – it is about the interior life of a building, and interior designers need to be involved in large projects from the very beginning of the process. In general, the interiors we create can help to support a company’s brand, improve productivity, enable knowledge sharing and deliver health and wellbeing benefits.

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?

I enjoy designing commercial projects, but I think my greatest achievements are the healthcare projects where I know my work will have a positive impact on people’s experience, sometimes during the most challenging times of their lives. The Newcastle PFI Hospitals; The South West Acute Hospital in Enniskillen; the London Clinic Cancer Centre and the Guys Cancer Centre (in cooperation with RSHP) all fall into this category. My work on projects in the Middle East, Hong Kong and North America have also been important accomplishments and great learning exercises. I N E X

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(Images) Cancer Centre at Guy â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s otography: Morley von Sternberg

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Can you talk us through one of your most recent design schemes?

The brief for a recent project to design Iron Mountain’s London HQ was to reflect the company’s headquarters in Boston, while also incorporating design touches that are more in tune with UK workplace styles. The design included a ‘heart space’ in the centre of the office that uses natural colours and materials to create a sense of openness and bring the outdoors in. These employees to work collaboratively, take time out to work alone quietly, socialise or simply step away from their desk to gain a feeling of being ‘outside’ the office. I N E X

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Biophilic elements – including plants, a backlit ‘moss wall’, green colour accents and the use of timber – all supported a sense of wellbeing in the work environment.

Have you witnessed any recurring requests from your clients?

I think the biggest recurring theme is flexibility. We live in a fast-paced world where technology is creating constant evolution in the way we live and work. Clients want to know that the spaces we’re designing can adapt to change and offer a timeless sense of style.

Do you have a preferred colour palette you enjoy working with?

Colour schemes need to work for the project typology and the branding of the client. In general, I prefer lighter schemes with a splash of accents to create visual cues. I avoid following colour trends and focus more on creating universal colour schemes suited for the particular project. 1 2

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(Images) Naufar, Wellness and Rehabilitations Centre Doha Qatar, Entrance Photography: Nigel Downs

What advice would you offer to those that are considering a career in interior design?

Do you have any favourite suppliers for your interior schemes?

I am always open to exploring new suppliers and products that are ecological, aesthetically pleasing and fit the budget of the scheme.

Think holistically, be flexible – think outside of the box, respond to the client’s needs, but also create a unique interior environment with a memorable sense of place. Be innovative in everything, dream big and learn from the best.

What do you believe is the biggest challenge for newly qualified interior designers?

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

It can be hard at first to balance your creative approach to the project with the need to understand the client’s requirements and the user’s needs. Interior specialists often choose the career because they have an instinct for design, but learning to tailor that instinct to the project, the client and the end-user can be challenging.

The design for my next Intuitive Surgery project has just completed in Bordeaux, and I am already working on the design of their Geneva premises. So my immediate responsibilities in the months ahead are all about evolving the corporate template to meet the requirements for different locations and local teams. On the healthcare side, I am also leading the development of the interior architecture for international healthcare schemes. stantec.com

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S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y

Working in a comfortable environment makes employees tangibly more effective, healthier and happier. It’s a win-win for the employer where investing €35 per employee, per year in building automation helps to bring close to €6000 per employee, per year benefit to companies. Smart spaces in the office can deliver individual benefits to each and every member of staff, says Graham Martin, Chairman & CEO at EnOcean Alliance.

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y & W E L L B E I N G

SMART SPACES BREED WELLNESS IN THE WORKPLACE

t is undeniable that attitudes and patterns of work are changing. Employees are progressively less motivated by salaries and more concerned about the job itself and the working environment. Factors like health and wellness are more attractive than stress and cash. Whilst the option of working from home is a major bonus, smart workspaces will bring similar benefits when working in the office. With close to half the UK workforce working remotely – and up to 90% wishing to work remotely at least part-time – there is ample opportunity to save costs by downsizing head office facilities. But spending time in the office is still important. This brings the challenge of allocating the reduced space, and tailoring spaces to the dynamic needs of employees. Even though many employees choose to work from home – at least some of the time – a great workplace still attracts new staff and improves retention. It; therefore, comes as no surprise that leading companies are investing to create comfortable (and creative) environments for their employees, including building automation systems that monitor and control key parameters such as temperature, humidity, air quality and light levels. With the cost of building automation for smart buildings around €35 per person, per year, it’s a major outlay, but the benefits are huge: estimated at nearly €6000 per person annually (Harvard Business School, 2017). Technology trends like big data and artificial intelligence, building information modelling (BIM), power over ethernet (PoE) and wireless, batteryless controls are changing the way we build and operate workplaces. Tomorrow’s offices will not only work as smart buildings but go further and create smart spaces: from meeting rooms and conference suites, right down to restrooms and individual workstations. 1 5

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Sensors help to optimise working environments

Smart spaces

This requires exact data from every room or area of the building; for example, intelligent lighting control can be used to modulate illumination levels over the course of the day. Controlling the colour temperature offers an additional method to adjust lighting in tune with body clocks. The necessary data comes primarily from sensors which are the key to building automation and IoT applications. Wireless solutions are essential to ensure data is made easily available in existing workplaces as well as new buildings. The cost, disruption and environmental issues involved in routing new cables and replacing batteries are extremely high. That’s why energy harvesting-based, wireless sensors have become the choice for the building and data service community. If such sensors are combined with a building automation (gateway) and moved to the cloud, raw data can be accessed from anywhere. This sensor-driven, real-time connection between real locations and their digital twin helps to analyse and improve workplace situations. Integration of a wide range of components is simplified by leveraging the extensive interoperability offered by industry organisations like the EnOcean Alliance. I N E X

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Efficient and effective use of space is vital given the cost of today’s new office buildings. With digitalisation, a wireless and maintenancefree solution is a very smart approach when it comes to retrofitting existing buildings. According to Florian Schiebl, Chief Operating Officer of Thing-it: “Sensors deliver hard facts that help determine and understand changes in work patterns around the clock. This makes it possible to quickly modify the room strategy to lower real estate costs and provide an ideal workspace for different teams and situations.” Sensor-based knowledge further helps bring operating processes in line with demand. For example, cleaning and maintenance processes become more flexible, adapting to occupation levels and uses of the space. Maintenance-free self-powered wireless sensors and actuators are installed with minimal effort and provide their room data to local control systems and/or self-learning, cloud-based AI devices via a smart gateway virtually and in real-time. This digitalisation platform provides a central, flexible and hardware-independent control system for smart spaces.

Success with IoT-based scenarios

Smart spaces with live data and wireless communications can be applied to a broad range of areas in the workplace, such as:

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Intelligent linking of existing or retrofitted building technology with a self-learning control platform in the cloud offers the greatest potential for operating existing properties, where lighting, temperature and air quality can be automatically adapted to the specific room bookings and on-demand use.

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Live data is key

Restrooms

Sensors on soap dispensers determine the fill level and send an automatic notification to the janitorial staff as soon as the threshold value is exceeded. This allows the soap to be refilled as needed and increases user satisfaction. A door contact sensor determines how often the restrooms are used and prompts staff to clean the room as needed according to the same pattern when a threshold value is exceeded.

Conference rooms

Energy usage in conference rooms as well as cleaning and maintenance depending on how often they are booked and used. Motion sensors with a special algorithm installed in the room, supply the necessary data. The networked devices in the conference room can also be controlled via an app on a tablet or a smartphone, based on preprogrammed scenarios. For example, the projector automatically starts up in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;presentationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mode while the blinds are lowered. The lighting is also adapted to the scenarios, switching the lights on if the room is being used for a meeting or turning them off and lowering the window blinds for presentations. Heating or cooling in unused conference rooms is minimised and can be reactivated a few minutes before the next room booking. 1 7

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Analysis in the cloud

All raw data supplied by the sensors and actuators can be used locally but now can also be combined in the cloud and made usable via a software solution, thus enabling in-depth analysis of ways to further optimise services and increase efficiency. In other application scenarios, sensors can, for example, detect whether proactive maintenance of technical equipment is necessary. In addition to the solutions described, service providers can also manage conference rooms, room bookings or building security via the new smart services. This also includes optimising the management of parking spaces in office car parks based on sensor data. Sensors help make building spaces smarter and services more useroriented. Resources can thus be better planned and used, which saves time and money. Additionally, this type of service provision ensures higher employee satisfaction by increasing the quality of service and, at the same time, helping to preserve the value of the real estate. As well as technology companies such as Microsoft, IBM, NTT Communications, Tencent and Softbank, many other businesses are also offering IoT solutions for smart buildings based on interoperable EnOcean radio standards. Traditional building automation providers have also added data analysis and cloud services to their standard offerings. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just the J U N E / J U L Y

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07: Disinfectant supply

01: Door detection open/close

08: Soap supply

02: Presence detection

09: Occupancy detection (desk/seat)

03: Toilet paper supply

10: People activity

04: Towel supply

11: EnOcean IoT gateway

05: People counter

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energy harvesting aspect driving this success. The large, multivendor, interoperable product ecosystem and ease of installation and operation are also helping to fuel this growth. The future looks 1 8

bright for smart spaces based on intelligence gathered by wireless, battery-free sensors and acted on by low-impact controls. enocean-alliance.org

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y & W E L L B E I N G

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T 0162 253 4041 E info@itcnaturalluxuryflooring.com W www.itcnaturalluxuryflooring.com

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ANOTHER GREEN WORLD: AN URBAN OASIS NESTLED IN OLD STREET DEVELOPMENT Within the built environment, our focus is increasingly shifting towards both sustainable developments and staff wellbeing, and rightly so. Integrating green spaces is one of the most effective ways of successfully doing this. The exterior spaces at Stylus, 116 Old Street are a great example of how this can be done successfully and imaginatively within urban developments.

Images cour tesy of John Davies Landscape 2 1

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ith the initial concept produced by John Davies Landscape, it was then developed collaboratively with architect firm gpad london, creating awardwinning landscaping for the media-style workspace, and demonstrates how a small space, if carefully designed and utilised to its fullest, can have a large impact.

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The garden design followed the same rationale as the office redevelopment. Testament to its success, it won The Grand Award, the most prestigious accolade, and the Best Public or Commercial Outdoor Space at the 2020 Society of Garden Designers Awards. It was also among the winners in the Roof Gardens and Living Walls category at the BALI National Landscape Awards. 2 2

The design of Stylus was founded on bridging the old and the new. This was crucial as a redevelopment of a building dating to the Victorian era, which also had to relate to its contemporary surroundings. The front facade of the former Margolin gramophone factory was the only original feature retained; however, it was a key guiding inspiration for the rest of the building. Linking the Victorian era with the state-of-

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the-art office space and the surrounding Silicon Roundabout media and tech hub, the design evokes the anachronisms of steampunk. gpad london and John Davies Landscape worked closely together to make sure the landscaping would reflect the ethos of the new development. Greenery was maximised by including terraced areas on both the third and fourth-floor roofs, as well as a narrow basement courtyard sandwiched between the building and an adjacent ground floor car park. Introducing biodiversity into the heavily built-up cityscape of the surrounding area was also a significant consideration. 2 3

The fourth-floor terrace is an intensive roof garden with a scheme of insect-friendly flowering perennials, ornamental grasses and broad-leaved cockspur thorn (Crataegus prunifolia). The south side of the terrace features a brick party wall with skyline chimneys, dropping down to the third floor. This has been transformed into a hydroponic green wall system with flowering perennials and shrubs such as fuchsia and buddleia, mounted on bespoke steels fixed to the framework of the building. To provide consistency, some of these plants are repeated at ground level helping to unify the scheme as a whole. I N E X

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A bespoke system of floating triangulated planters, with sloping walls, was created to complement the contemporary ethos of the workspace. Corten steel was chosen as a primary material, echoing the industrial past of the building and informing the relationship between old and new. The fronts of the planters vary in height, establishing a gentle rake forward from the back to give the effect of ‘presenting’ I N E X

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the foliage to inhabitants. Plants have been inserted into letterboxstyle apertures within the outerfacing walls of the planters to make the terrace appear greener when viewed from road level. Wooden benching is integrated into the front of the planters to create a secluded, reflective break-out space for workers. The basement courtyard presented a significant challenge, as it had to function as a fire 2 4

escape route and an office breakout space. Landscape Designer John Davies comments: “Because of the tiny footprint, we had to plant vertically and decided to introduce a second hydroponic system; however, this time into a much shadier environment. We introduced stone seats to encourage workers to linger, yet they could not obstruct the escape route in this narrow space.”

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He continues: “The original vision included two basalt water walls bisecting the green wall, flowing into a rill running underneath floating stone seats. Unfortunately, we were forced to abandon this; however, we successfully retained the design intent by introducing a walk-on opaque glass floor, evoking a ‘stream of light’ instead of the rill. For me, this is a perfect example of how collaboration can deliver superior quality than what a single party could have achieved alone,” he adds. Lead Architect, Associate Graeme Winestone at gpad london, says: “We wanted to make sure that the fourth-floor roof garden was as visible from street 2 5

level as possible. We even suggested the letterbox holes in the outer sides of the planters, which John sized and detailed, an experiment which turned out to work brilliantly.” The judges at the SGD Awards described the project as hugely creative and “brilliantly executed, demonstrating environmental responsibilities that we should all be embracing”, as well as remarking on the “interesting and unusual mix of plants and textures that offer structure and all-round interest”, with a balance of scale. gpadlondonltd.com I N E X

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TH POST-CO WORK

Tony Antoniou, Ma London-based work Rainbow, paints a pic spaces could look in discusses how, throug adapt to newfound w boost the wellbeing an following the coron

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HE OVID-19 KPLACE

anaging Director at kplace design studio cture of how our office n the near future and gh design, we need to workplace needs and nd safety of employees navirus pandemic.

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020 is Rainbowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 30th year of trading. We were planning a great big summer party to celebrate, and all of us were excited and looking forward to it. How things have changed in such a short space of time. Over our 30 years of trading, we have seen many recessions and many historical events. Three of these; in particular, had a big impact on the economy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the 9/11 and 7/7 bombings and the near-collapse of the banking system in 2008.

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Most companies got through these and returned to normality; some, including Rainbow, actually grew during these periods. However, the COVID-19 lockdown is completely different. The impact on the economy was immediate, severe and all-encompassing. No-one escaped from it, and it was felt by everyone in every age group, from every background, by every business in every industry and any size of company. 2 8

Not only that, but it will continue to be felt for many more years in terms of the debt repayment but also in the way people will work. There are; of course, immediate reactions and considerations that need to take place in order for people to get back to work safely and we are helping companies achieve this through various means, such as protective screening, advice on which desks should and shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be utilised, cleaning and wellbeing stations,

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sanitiser dispensers and help planning larger corridors and one-way movement. Personally, for the immediate concerns, I believe the simplest and probably the best way of achieving social distancing, is to limit the amount of people who use the office by dividing them into shift teams until it is safe for everyone to return. This does depend on how long it will be before it is safe to return, but it is very effective.

Long-term changes

The interesting changes to the workplace though will be the long-term changes, and I am both confident and excited that these will be positive changes. Lessons will have been learned from the lockdown, and I really hope that companies and individuals take all the positives they can from this experience and find a way to utilise these in the new postCOVID-19 workplace. 2 9

Working from home has been one of the major changes for most companies. It has been talked about for many years, and some companies have implemented work-from-home schemes, but these have been few and far between. The COVID-19 lockdown has forced everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand. The major concern has not been the technology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which has been around for quite a few years now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the concern has always been trust. I N E X

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Will staff actually work from home? Will they work full days? If you call them and they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t answer, are they in the garden? Down the shops? The fact is, most people are trustworthy and certainly, if you look after your people, show them respect, value their opinions, listen to their ideas and trust them, you will be rewarded because if working from home suits them, then you are helping them and they will indeed put I N E X

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in the hours and often actually work harder and longer than if you made them commute into the office just so you can see them sitting at their desk. People should be judged on their output, not their input and providing they complete their tasks and the work they need to, does it matter when and where they work from? Going forward, there will be a massive uptake on home working because not only 3 0

can it work and has been proven these last few months, but most people have really enjoyed the time they have spent with their families. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a revelation seeing their spouses, partners and their children so much; they have really enjoyed it, and home working means that can still happen. Instead of spending two hours commuting, they can spend that time with their family on home-working days.

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The thing is, for most people, it will only be for a day or two a week, not full-time. People are social animals, and they need and enjoy company. Yes, the lockdown has shown it can work but; more importantly, it has made so many people realise how much they enjoy being at work too. No-one likes the commute, but it is worth it to meet with your colleagues, to have the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;office banterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, to get out of the house for a while and; of course, the social side as well. The after-work drinks, lunchtime at the park and the Monday morning discussion finding out what everyone got up to at the weekend. This is where the office wins hands down, and it cannot be replicated through a screen. 3 1

The commute is one of the biggest hurdles to overcome because right now, no-one wants to be on public transport at rush hour. The office will need to accommodate this. It will need to be open earlier for the people wanting to get in before the rush and close much later for the people who started later to avoid it. This is something that will continue after the lockdown has been lifted too. Those two points mean that going forward, the workplace will need to have much more social space built into its design. Nicer kitchen areas, eating spaces, soft seating areas, where people can meet, eat, drink coffee and chat, plus making use of outdoor spaces that they may have. I N E X

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These spaces will be so important, especially if some people are having their lunch while others who started later are just having their first coffee of the day. Collaboration spaces for bouncing ideas off of each other, team meetings and face-to-face group meetings will be much more appreciated and important moving forward, so these need to be increased – yes, it will not happen immediately but, this is a long-term view. With people working from home both inside and outside the organisation, there will be many more video conference calls taking place, and the office needs I N E X

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to be adapted to accommodate these. You don’t want people making these calls at their desk; they need dedicated spaces where the calls can be made and received to ensure everyone is heard and not continually interrupted. These should include small one-to-one calls and; of course, group calls too, as both will be needed. Wellbeing has really been brought to the forefront of people’s minds over the past few months, and this is brilliant news. Not only for their physical health, but also their mental wellbeing. It’s almost ironic that it has taken a pandemic for people to see how important everyone’s health is. 3 2

If someone is feeling down; however, it’s much easier to notice when face-to-face rather than through a screen, which is another reason why the workplace is so important. Companies must latch onto this and consider the wellbeing of their people – both physical and mental. They need to design spaces into the workplace where their people can look after their physical and mental health. At Rainbow, I introduced our wellbeing consultant a few months ago because I know that having a person that people can talk to who is completely independent of family and work colleagues could make

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all the difference to someone in need, and I believe all organisations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; large or small â&#x20AC;&#x201C; should implement this into their company. It just makes sense and shows you care. If everyone in a company works from home one day a week, that is a 20% reduction in the occupancy of a workplace. Believe it or not, average occupancy of an office prior to the lockdown was between 50 to 70% anyway, so this additional space means companies can reduce the size of their office going forward and with the money they save, and the space they create, even after reducing the size of their office, they should design a workplace that incorporates all the areas I have mentioned, from a great kitchen space, eating areas, collaboration spaces, video conference areas for individuals and groups, wellbeing rooms and fitness studios, plus additional areas they may currently be lacking but should have, such as concentration spaces, informal meeting areas and presentation spaces. All this can be achieved and, for most organisations, it can be achieved without even moving once a proper home-working programme is implemented. There is now a great opportunity to create some fantastic workspaces for your people, where they have the right environment to complete every task they need to throughout the day. Where they can start and end when it suits them, where they can socialise with their colleagues, where they can look after their wellbeing and; ultimately, a space they really like to be in. Always remember, and there is lots of data to back this up, the companies who look after their people are the companies that are successful. I am extremely optimistic and excited about the future of the workplace. rainbowdesign.co.uk 3 3

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Nevez Designed by Lyndon

Lyndon 342 Swindon Rd Cheltenham GL51 9JZ +44 (0) 1242 584897

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K I T C H E N

KITCHEN TRENDS TAKE THE TOP SPOT The materials used for kitchen surfaces have a tremendous impact on the design of the room overall, both visually and practically. Here, we take a look at some of the biggest trends in floor, wall and worktop coverings.

The translucent body of Luce from RAK Ceramics is made with a ver y high purit y of raw materials containing special and high- qualit y clays and minerals

ow more than ever, the kitchen is the heart of the home; a space where comfort and function combine to create a multi-functional room where we can enjoy being together. Surfaces take up a large expanse of any kitchen; worktops, floors and walls are all highly visible and always on

show, particularly in the open-plan setting. This means that from an aesthetic viewpoint, the style and colours chosen really do matter and will have a huge impact on the look and feel of the space overall. The kitchen is also a high-traffic area; of course, so practicalities are just as important. Materials that are easy to wipe clean and that can withstand high temperatures and spillages, and the general wear-and-tear of daily life should be chosen where at all possible. 3 5

How we use our kitchens has influenced design trends; the popularity of open-plan cooking, dining and living spaces; for example, has led to an increase in the use of tiled flooring. Porcelain tiles tick all the boxes from a practical perspective, but also from a style point too, being available in an array of sizes and in a wide range of colours and patterns to offer an extremely versatile flooring option. I N E X

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With a growing trend for darker materials in interior design, Ceralsio Umbria from CRL Stone ensures that the use of grey in the kitchen will never get boring I N E X

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Dark and sophisticated, Ceralsio Belvedere Black from CRL Stone is a ceramic sur face which will make a striking impression in the modern set ting, whether chosen in a natural or polished finish

Taking size first, large-format tiles have grown in popularity, with the RAK Ceramic mega slabs offering endless design possibilities that can be used across kitchen walls, countertops and even furniture. Such slabs create a seamless finish for the ultimate luxurious finish but also produce an illusion of space. However, practicalities surrounding delivery, storage and even installation of such slabs can be a limiting factor to their use. RAK Ceramics recognises that, despite their many benefits, handling such a bulky item can be problematic, so delivers the slabs directly to site. For work surfaces in the kitchen, heat and stain resistance are also of extreme importance, which accounts in large part for the growing popularity of materials including quartz and ceramic. Extremely hard-wearing, these materials are non-porous, stain-, scratch-, heat- and I N E X

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shock-resistant and also very strong and simple to care for, making them ideal for kitchens. Just with porcelain tiles, quartz and ceramic can be chosen in a wide range of colours and patterns, as the CRL Quartz and Ceralsio collections from CRL Stone demonstrate, making these materials an extremely flexible option for kitchen design in contemporary and classicallystyled properties alike. From a style viewpoint, large slabs can be used to create astonishing vertical surfaces on kitchen walls and offer endless possibilities for floors and countertops, visually expanding spaces with fewer design interruptions. Visual appeal is one of the main drivers for the popularity of marble-inspired patterns in the kitchen. The elegance of marble accounts for much of its appeal, yet the material itself is not overly suited to the kitchen environment, due to its high-maintenance needs. 3 8

Alternatives such as porcelain, ceramic and quartz offer the opportunity to embrace this trend; therefore, both from a style and functional perspective. Although they can be chosen as imitations of natural materials such as marble and wood, quartz and ceramic donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be sealed, which means maintenance is straightforward. Revised classy marble and granite patterns displaying elegant veins, used on kitchen walls and floors, create a sophisticated ambience that is the epitome of luxury and sophistication. The ancestral charm of stone makes it one of the most popular materials in contemporary design, with materials such as quartz and ceramic ensuring that this look is solid, durable and extremely versatile. CRL Stone surfaces; for example, are designed to interpret both more minimalist tastes as well as the more refined and stylish ones.

K I T C H E N

Maximus porcelain mega slabs from RAK Ceramics, measuring 135 x 305cm, are heat-resistant , recyclable, light weight , durable and easy to clean

Solid, durable and extremely versatile, RAK Ceramics Cur ton are stone -look porcelain tiles that make a highly at trac tive visual impac t

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Delicately clean and with a subtle v to add contrast , CRL Quar t z Firenze b Stone has all the appeal of marble com with a host of prac tical be

Mixing dark and light tones on worktops is very much on-trend and creates an individual look that is particularly effective across large and open-plan spaces I N E X

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veining by CRL mbined enefits

Inspired by marble but with none of the maintenance issues, CRL Quar t z Messina from CRL Stone brings nature indoors

And with industrial styling being a hot look in contemporary interior design, surfaces made from porcelain, quartz and ceramic enable materials commonly associated with professional kitchens to be included, making a powerful statement with their sheer simplicity. Packed full of contemporary style, concreteeffect big slabs inspired by the simplicity and strength of this industrial material; for example, are an ideal choice for creating a minimalist look and feel. Composite surfaces that

celebrate the dramatic effects and contrasting colours created during the ageing process of raw metal, with a bold and arresting appearance, are perfect for urban and industrial settings. Mixing dark and light tones on worktops is very much ontrend and creates an individual look that is particularly effective across large and open-plan spaces. Using different surfaces for different areas of the kitchen also helps differentiate – important in today’s multifunctional kitchen living areas. Some ‘zones’ within the larger 4 1

space, such as where food is to be prepared, may require a more durable or water-resistant surface than others too, providing another opportunity to mix and match materials appropriately. As always, style and function need to go hand in hand when designing kitchens, and the latest trends in materials for surfaces certainly lend themselves to this approach, giving creative freedom while ensuring the finished space works on a practical level too. rakceramics.com crlstone.co.uk I N E X

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USING BIOPH TO MANAGE HEALTH DURING A GLOB

Here, Inex talks to Eden Goode, Researcher & W reliance on biophilia within the built environment, a seeking indoor spaces that follow biophili

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HILIC DESIGN TH AND WELLBEING BAL PANDEMIC

Writer at Oliver Heath Design, about our increasing and – following the COVID-19 pandemic – how we’re lic design principles more than ever before.

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ver the years, there has been an increasing reliance on biophilic design in the built environment as more people are catching on to the positive benefits that an increased connection to nature can have on our health and wellbeing. Biophilic design has been acknowledged as a key aspect to designing the healthiest spaces possible in building certification standards, such as the internationally recognised WELL building standard. As a result, we are seeing biophilic design features across all sectors, from domestic

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settings, to retail and hospitality spaces, in education and healthcare, and probably most of all, in the workplace. If you look at the research behind it, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to understand why. Biophilic design has been found to increase productivity and reduce stress and absenteeism, lower heart rates and aid sleep, enhance test scores and reduce symptoms of ADHD, accelerate healing and reduce the need for pain medication, increase enjoyment of and time spent in hospitality spaces, and enhance a sense of community and belonging. 4 4

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So, where has all this come from? Biophilia, meaning ‘a love of nature’, is a term popularised by American biologist Edward O Wilson in the 1980s when he observed our increasing disconnection with the natural world due to urbanisation. This innate desire for a nature connection stems from human evolution in natural settings, and the theory goes that we should feel healthiest in natural environments where we once thrived. That’s not to say that we would always choose a camping trip over a city break, but often memories of nature spring to mind when we think of somewhere we feel calm and restored. This is particularly true in the current situation we now find ourselves in, under lockdown and craving a connection with the outside world more than ever. During this time, there has been a noticeable rise in the appreciation of nature as our options to go elsewhere have become limited. People are taking up running, have the time to go for long walks, and – for those that have one – gardening has become an enjoyable activity rather than a chore. And how is it making us feel? Well, naturally, better. If nature connections can reduce stress, then surely there is no time like the present to reap those benefits.

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However, whilst increased trips to local nature spots might be helping those of us that feel safe enough to do so, we are all still spending far more time in our homes, with many unable to leave at all. Ordinarily, we would experience diversity and variety throughout the day; however, ‘stay home’ means we are missing out on many of the spaces that enrich our lives. So, now more than ever we should be looking at the impact of our environments on our physical, mental and emotional health, and thinking about how to make them as healthy and as diverse as possible. This leads us onto biophilic design – bringing our ‘love of nature’ indoors. If you’ve heard of biophilic design, the first thing that might come to mind is a space full of lush greenery. Whilst this is an important way to create a natural connection indoors, biophilic design goes much deeper than that. We evolved in rich, diverse landscapes and, as such, variety is key to health and wellbeing. Considering what we can smell, touch and hear, and creating textural, olfactory and acoustic variation is just as important as bringing in real elements of nature. Further, diversity is about creating different zones and ‘destination points’ for certain activities and times of day, just as we’d find in nature.

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As such, biophilic design is a multi-sensory, humancentred approach based on three core principles that look at the bigger picture: • The first is creating ‘direct connections to nature’ by introducing elements of nature or natural systems such as the use of plants, trees, sunlight, water features and fresh air • The second is ‘indirect connections to nature’, which are design strategies that use references to, or representations of nature, such as the use of natural forms, colours, patterns, textures and even technologies • The third is our ‘human spatial response’, which entails mimicking the spatial qualities of natural environments to evoke or enhance human responses – be that exciting, stimulating or calming, restorative spaces. With so many of us working from home, our connections have been stripped back to the bare minimum, yet we continue to function as best as we can. We are experimenting with new methods of communication, and whilst these may not allow for the most effective and innovative conversations, creating more inspiring, nature-filled spaces at home might just go that extra mile towards stimulating imagination and productivity. Who knows how long we’ll be working from home for, or if we’ll get back to full-time office hours, so putting some extra thought into that ‘home office’ you created in your spare room might not be a bad idea.

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However, when it does come to going back to offices, biophilic design can help there too. The thought of a ‘post-COVID workplace’ sounds anxietyinducing, with talk of floor lines to mark distances and limiting the number of people per work area. There are elements of biophilic design that can be used to help with social distancing in a way that also enhances both perceived and real aspects of health and wellbeing. Planted partitions, leafy greenery and water features can bring nature into a space as well as provide some screening and add distance between people. This can also help to infer a sense of wellbeing through the perception of a space being ‘healthy’. Thriving, lush green walls signal life and clean air. Whilst plants can reduce toxins, not viruses, nature connections do reduce stress, which subsequently improves immune system functioning – something we could all do with now. The bottom line here is, if we stand a higher chance of staying healthier, both physically and mentally, by using biophilic design, then why not? Designing for health and wellbeing has never been so important, and in a time where so much is out of our control, having something for us to nurture in our built environment that nurtures us back simply makes sense. oliverheathdesign.com

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From Ocean Pollution to Noise Solution UK based acoustic solutions manufacturer Soundtect® began 10 years ago when their engineering team launched a pioneering process to recycle the carpets they manufacture for exhibitions into acoustic panels as a third generation product.

Soundtect® has grown into a Worldwide supplier of acoustic solutions with a wide range of products for walls and ceilings which not only reduces noise, but adds positive design features to any indoor space.

Soundtect® Ranges include; 3D Panels, CLASS Ceiling Baffles, CLASS Rafts and Freestyle, a semi-rigid felt used for wall applications, hanging partitions, ceiling rafts... in fact just about anything!

0203 040 2939 Showroom: 3, Albemarle Way, London EC1V 4JB

enquiries@soundtect.com

www.soundtect.com

F F & E

MAKING FLEXIBILITY A STAPLE IN HOUSING DESIGN The housing market is being challenged to think differently when it comes to designing homes, with a variety of social and economic trends driving a new approach. Here, Natalie Davenport, Head of Marketing at Häfele, looks at some of the changes.

hile the size of our homes is always a key factor in purchasing decisions, we’re more limited when it comes to space than ever before. In the 1980s, disposable income doubled, and the average living room and kitchen was 15% bigger than the spaces we occupy today. Since then, our homes have been on a downward trend when it comes to size, marketed for their

number of bedrooms rather than total floorspace and footprint. But it’s not just the size of our homes that’s evolving; the people who inhabit them, how we use the spaces, and how long we stay/live there for are all changing too. Brits are spending more time at home than ever; half of all UK adults prefer to stay in and cook for friends than go out for dinner, while remote working has increased by almost 75% in the last decade. 6 1

Homeowners are also living in their properties for 60% longer than they were a decade ago, a trend described as ‘ageing in place’. Furthermore, experts predict that the number of UK households headed by someone over the age of 65 will increase by 54% by 2041. Current housing styles and layouts aren’t made for multi-generational families, meaning millions of over-55s will live – or already live – in homes that pose a risk to their health. And it’s not just adults that need to be considered; research shows children spend half the amount of time playing outside than their parents did at the same age, meaning indoor spaces need to be tailored for younger people, too. With all this in mind, the UK’s housing supply must start to offer something new; living spaces need to make the most of every square inch, be flexible, inclusive and suitable for all ages and needs – and achieve all of this without compromising on look and style. But how? I N E X

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Sliding into place

Sliding doors are one way of striking the perfect balance of these factors. Becoming integral to the look and feel of modern homes while simultaneously solving age-old, space-saving challenges, current sliding door ranges vary from traditional systems to technological solutions, such as e-drive wardrobes, meaning there is a style to suit every home. 6 3

Pocket doors, which are concealed within existing walls, offer greater spacesaving opportunities compared to swing doors or exposed sliding solutions. They allow a user to create larger, open-plan areas for family occasions and socialising, which can then be broken up to allow different generations to achieve privacy and a space to call their own. When not in use, those using the space would be none-the-wiser to their existence. I N E X

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The kitch

Kitchen layouts, fixtures an flexible home, and must all of a homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design to make news is that there are sev For example, hidden storage cabinets which rise at the kitchen the edge, while ma of space. Handle-free cupb the need for protruding acce J-Pull doors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which are a s make it easier for wheelchair their cupboards and drawers

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hen is key

nd fittings are key to a truly be considered at the outset every inch count. The good veral ways to achieve that. e, such as concealed corner e touch of a button give a aking the most efficient use board door profiles remove essories on cabinetry, while sleek addition to a kitchen â&#x20AC;&#x201C; r users, for example, to open s from a variety of angles.

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Historically, products that aid accessible living – whether for those of an older age, or those with a disability – have long been seen as a bolt on; an afterthought to add to an existing space, with little aesthetic appeal. However, there are product ranges available which turn this notion on its head, arming developers with products which deliver practical, safe and comfortable spaces for multiple generations living under one roof, which also look brilliant. For example, linearstyle induction hobs – where pans are placed in a row, rather than in a group – look modern, save on unit space, and mean those with mobility issues don’t have to lean over one hot pan to reach another. Meanwhile, rise and fall cupboards and sinks work well for all members of the family, while trolley-style, mobile work surfaces look great, provide added safety, and allow for hot products to be moved around a kitchen easily.

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Lighten your mood

A recent article from Forbes provided evidence that lighting has a major impact on our mental wellbeing. Our health can be impacted negatively – both physically and mentally – by poor lighting, with excessive exposure to white and blue light known to impact how well we sleep at night. On the contrary, wellconsidered lighting products and designs can bring more to our lives, improving our moods and playing a key role in creating a flexible feel in our homes. LED lighting systems such as Loox by Häfele offer an innovative range of furniture lighting which can be controlled via an app downloaded to a homeowner’s phone. It allows them to change the colour and brightness of their lighting depending on their mood or the time of day, making it an effective way to tailor and personalise lighting in different spaces based on the look they want to create at any given time. 6 9

There are 340,000 new homes needed to meet the UK’s housing demand. An ageing population, the rise of multi-generational living and a shift in traditional socioeconomic patterns means they must be intelligent, accessible, and above all else, flexible, to cater for the different needs of occupiers today and into the future. As such, developers are being presented with a better opportunity than ever before to work in tandem with designers, architects, manufacturers and installers to deliver people-centred layouts and solutions which will be relevant to families for years to come, and which also look fantastic. Doing so will see UK homes being acclaimed for all the right reasons, becoming the linchpin of truly flexible living. hafele.co.uk/en I N E X

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S U R F A C I N G & W O O D

INTERIOR SURFACES IN A POST-COVID WORLD:

NEW MATERIALS INNOVATIONS MARRY SAFETY AND STYLE Does ‘COVID-secure’ mean sterile and soulless? Or is there a way for creativity, style and elegance in interiors to also play their part in keeping us safer from this and future threats? These are key questions for designers looking to specify beautiful new materials with health and hygiene also in mind.

t is entirely inevitable that a global pandemic should impact on the world of materials and decorative surfaces, just as it’s influencing every other aspect of our lives. It is also inevitable that regular deep cleans will see surfaces put through their paces and so interior products with robust, inherently hygienic properties will be much in demand. The impacts of this situation are going to be felt for a long time.

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Healthy, hygienic and robust

So when it comes to surfaces, one of the most well used but perhaps least recognised materials is KYDEX plastics. This robust thermoplastic laminate is widely used in aerospace applications to make interior components such as seat backs, bulkheads, window blinds and tray tables. And swathes of it can be found in hospital applications â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the lower half of most hospital walls, doors, furniture and over-bed tray tables are all made of or coated in KYDEX. This is largely for two reasons. The first is that it is damage resistant. Tough stains, scuffs and even graffiti can be removed from KYDEX surfaces using strong cleansers with no staining, fading or surface damage. It also contains Microban anti-microbial protection, which halts the growth of microbes and reduces the spread of infection. As a homogeneous product, any damage to the top layer does not adversely affect its anti-microbial properties. This tough, resilient thermoplastic can be colour matched, and produced in a range of textures and finishes including very realistic metallic or wood grains. It is also Class B fire-rated and highly malleable, making the possibilities endless. In commercial interiors; for example, many designers use it to incorporate logos and branding, and exploit its ease for achieving a variety of moulded shapes and finishes including contoured edges and seamless compound corners. I N E X

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Style with function

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling bold and need a surface that is highly customisable and available in a range of striking colours and finishes, but still with hygienic benefits, then Aristech Surfacesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Avonite and STUDIO Collection brands are ideal. Both products are stain-resistant, hygienic and easy to clean and have a multitude of architectural and design applications. Avonite has 65 different looks in a range of decorative colours, all able to be moulded together to create seamless joints for a continuous flow throughout for an eye-catching design. The STUDIO Collection provides a translucent option with 29 designs across nine colour groups. Most of these groups can be backlit with dramatic effect and are; therefore, perfectly suited for prestigious and high-impact applications; for example, reception desks and sales counters within retail or hospitality environments. These are durable and hygienic materials for prestigious, high-end applications. I N E X

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Eye-catching finishes

If a beautiful linen look or perhaps a natural wood grain is in order, then a stylish Italian laminate certainly has the edge. XyloCleaf provides a delicate look backed up with strong hygiene features. Unlike anything else on the UK market, XyloCleaf is a highly original and exclusive range of decors which are created using a unique process of thermal fusing in which decorative papers are treated with melamine resins, that under heat and pressure become part of the panel itself. Scratch and chemical resistance make it ideal for high-traffic areas as it can be cleaned with no deterioration of the surface quality. It is tough enough to be used in aerospace applications, healthcare, retail, education and hospitality.

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Multiple shades and finishes can also be achieved by using another aesthetically strong but robust product, Abet Laminati. At its toughest Laminati Labgrade Plus is resistant to strong chemicals, has a nontoxic surface and is chemically inert. Basically, it can be used in a lab and has all the qualities needed to survive the toughest environments. If the environment isn’t quite that extreme, then a decorative version is available. Although pleasant on the eye, it is still highly durable, scratch-resistant and shock-resistant. Its wide range of applications include hospitals, leisure commercial and retail.

Post COVID-19 return to work

Many businesses are now trying to return to work and find out what the new normal is postpandemic. Each sector will have its own unique requirements. Think of all the touchpoints in a retail environment. Or leisure uses such as gyms that accommodate high volumes of people and will need easyclean surfaces in place. Creating a safe, clean and hygienic environment is a multi-sector issue, which designers will have to address. Now is the time to look at the materials that can help create that environment by providing robust surfaces which can withstand the new demands placed upon them. Being functional doesn’t mean they can’t be stylish, as these products show. All human contact points need to be thought about in a different way now and exploring materials and their properties will make this job a lot easier for designers of the future. lathamtimber.co.uk I N E X

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B A F F L E S & A C O U S T I C S

OPTIMUM ACOUSTICS TO DAMPEN THE NOISE AS WE HEAD BACK TO THE OFFICE The world has been on pause for over two months now, but finally, measures are now being taken to get us all back to work. The question now is not when it will happen, but how.

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ith social distancing still vitally important in the fight against COVID-19, open-plan offices have never been a scarier place to work. We have learnt to live with the noise these modern vacuous spaces can often cause if not addressed with acoustics properly at the design stage, but how will we keep ourselves safe and protected? The open-plan office concept is highly successful for several reasons. It is cost-effective, allows room for expansion and changing team dynamics and creates more working collaboration, but apart from noise pollution, which is a primary cause of stress and reduction in productivity in these modern buildings, now we also have the fear factor thrown in which will contribute to higher levels of stress and illness, rising absenteeism and continuous turnover of staff.

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Let’s look at the acoustics first to dampen down the noise to create a calm atmosphere. Most businesses with openplan layouts will not have the budgets, especially after a massive dent in their turnover during the lockdown to suddenly start building walls, but with social distancing key, having conversations whilst 2m apart will invariably lead to louder voices, which will; of course, lead to a higher level of noise distraction across the building. Adding acoustic solutions to counteract the noise travelling is; therefore, more essential than ever and luckily most ceilings now, even those with exposed utilities, can easily add acoustic baffles which are so very effective in the absorption and containment of noise in key areas. No more need for heavy ceiling applications, today’s baffles are lightweight, easily installed when retrofitted and so varied in design and size that most offices will find an application that works perfectly for their space and, in these thrifty times, budget. Let’s look at a few examples. From wavy to straight baffles, flat rafts to hollow baffles with lighting integrated, acoustic ceiling baffles are a design feature in themselves adding a calming effect both visually and aurally which will really address the issue of noise and keep these buildings working. So, the potential additional noise pollution has been addressed, but what about safety?

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Social distancing is key for us all to return to work with confidence and the peace of mind that our health is not at risk by returning to the arena. Keeping safe means keeping a distance at the moment but we all know that isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always possible, especially in busy sales offices and call centres, so what can we do? Luckily, furniture and acoustic manufacturers are already looking at ways to help the nation back to work, from Perspex desktop cubes which retain the light to desks and keep the visibility, to acoustic options which not only offer protection when working at your regular station but also absorb the increased noise levels, there are already a number of solutions creeping into the market to choose from. And not only that, a lot of them are portable so if you are hotdesking, then you have the ability to take your safety net or in this instance screen, with you. Another measure is acoustic hanging screens which have been widely used to create quiet spots and mini-meeting areas in open-plan offices. These partitions have often had designs cut out in them to add an additional interest, but it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t essential, and at the moment not even advisable, but with screens more prevalent than ever to stop the spread of noise and disease and with clever use of colour and application, these can be just as vibrant and interesting design features as they always were and should be seriously considered. We are all having to rethink the way we work, but it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that it will necessarily be more difficult, it may even change your environment for the better to a quieter more personal and; of course, safer haven for you to work in for the foreseeable future. soundtect.com

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LEADING THE WAY

Visitors to hospitals or care homes are unlikely to contemplate the type of flooring they are walking on, yet its design and practicalities have never been more important. Louisa Eyles, Commercial Marketing Manager at Amtico, explores the vital role flooring has to play in modern healthcare design. I N E X

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or many, flooring is simply a functional product; however, it fulfils an incredibly important role in a range of applications, whether fitted in a hospital, care home or GP surgery. It needs to provide a durable surface, while still delivering on a design level to complement interior schemes and balance practicalities, such as wayfinding or zoning.

Using colour and pattern for wayfinding

Wayfinding is important for any commercial building, but perhaps none more so than healthcare settings where occupants may need to reach their destination swiftly. It is vital that staff, patients and visitors 8 8

can successfully and easily find their way around; well-designed wayfinding will help people navigate unfamiliar environments, guiding them to their destination. Luxury vinyl tiles (LVT) offer the possibility to explore different colours, laying patterns and textures, which can all be used to give areas distinct identities, or to create pathways in open-plan spaces. For instance, a walkway can be created using an eye-catching colour in a laying pattern that encourages movement, such as parquet. This could encourage visitors to keep moving and, similarly, it could lead to a breakout space or waiting area that is floored in a more calming tone, utilising a simpler laying

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pattern and indicating to visitors they can wait in this zone. Furthermore, using flooring to aid wayfinding can omit or reduce the need for additional signage too, while creating an attractive design feature. Particularly in healthcare settings, wayfinding has to cater for a diverse range of needs. Subtle tonal changes can be used in some environments, while others will require more distinctive contrasting colours. Every project will differ.

Dementiafriendly designs

When designing with dementia in mind, contrasting colours and patterns are discouraged. The floor should be viewed as one continuous

surface, as any large tonal contrasts can be interpreted as ‘a step’ by dementia sufferers, causing them panic and confusion – which could also result in a fall. While keeping the hue of a floor consistent is essential in a dementia-friendly environment, it is equally important that other areas – such as doors, walls and skirting – can be easily distinguished. In particular, the colour of the flooring on stairs should contrast with the walls. A large tonal contrast can also be used as a visual aid to ‘theme’ corridors. LVT offers a wealth of colour options, making it an excellent choice when zoning different areas of a room or building. In terms of interior design colour 8 9

options, cool hues such as blue and green help people to feel calmer; however, it’s important to note that older people may experience these colours as ‘washed out’ and find it harder to differentiate blues and greens. Alternatively, reds, oranges and yellows are stimulating colours, ideally used in activity areas.

Resilience

While there is often temptation to base flooring decisions on aesthetics alone, resilience is crucial for healthcare environments. The product chosen to embellish a property’s floors must stand up to heavy footfall, while simultaneously combatting all the stains, scratches and spillages. I N E X

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Natural materials, although popular for their look, will suffer in terms of their resilience. For example, wood is prone to fading and staining, and will continue to move, expand or shrink long after installation. It is also high maintenance and often requires ongoing treatment. Stone and ceramic flooring, on the other hand, is hardwearing. It can withstand high traffic, while providing natural resistance to scratches and sunlight/UV fading â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but, unfortunately, its slippery nature does not lend itself to environments where safety is key. However, stone or wood flooring LVT that offers the same natural aesthetic, without the limitations, is a hugely popular alternative. This type of flooring offers long-term resilience and design freedom while withstanding heavy traffic and resistance to scuffs and stains. LVT will not splinter or shrink and, with proper care and maintenance, will continue to offer the same aesthetic years after installation. High-quality LVT products consist of several layers, including a vital urethane coating that protects against wear. It is worth noting that not all LVT flooring is the same. While the individual layers that come together to create LVT are important, the density given to the performance wear layer is vital when measuring durability. And, although the thickness of backing layers can vary, this will not improve a floorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-term ability to withstand the constant stresses of a high-traffic area.

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Safety

Safety is imperative in healthcare facilities, not only for patients and residents, but also staff and visitors. LVT is available in non-slip variants to reduce the risk of slips and falls, while also providing resistance to chemicals and spillages. Modern LVT safety flooring uses near-invisible particles, increasing friction levels between feet and its surface. As a result, it can offer exceptional levels of slip resistance while adhering to specific design scheme requirements. The control of bacteria is particularly important in environments such as healthcare, where hygiene and safety are paramount. This has led to the latest safety flooring incorporating antimicrobial technology. Our Signature 36+ and Spacia 36+ LVT safety flooring contains an active ingredient which has shown, under blind independent lab tests, to resist the growth of bacteria such as MRSA and E.coli throughout the useable lifetime of the floor for added peace of mind. Some flooring companies create products with commercial durability in mind. Highquality, hardwearing LVT flooring is often backed by long commercial warranties, with Amtico Signature stretching up to 20 years, offering reassurance that the flooring chosen will stand the test of time, even in the most challenging locations. So, when making a choice on flooring, density of wear layers and long guarantees are essential to a designâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-term success. amtico.com

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KÖNIGSTONE IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS WITH FABRICATION PARTNER AT 100% CAPACITY AGAIN

One of the many benefits of specifying and designing a kitchen from Keller is the vast choice and flexibility within the portfolios. The company knows that individuality in the kitchen design is just as important as quality. This is why Keller prioritises to create reliable, durable and beautiful kitchen schemes. With an incredible 1950 colour options to choose from, it’s easy to create your favourite look. There is also a number of finishes; the newest option is Super Matt, available in all 1950 colours embracing the modern and tasteful trend for subtle finishing. With plenty of options available in furniture, finishes, accessories and colours, Keller can create uniquely personal kitchens.

Leading worktop and surface specialist, Königstone, is up and running with a full order book. The company’s fabrication partner, Midland Stone Centre, has manufacturing facilities back at 100% and is ready to receive customer orders. The company produces high-quality, elegant quartz and natural stone kitchen surfaces alongside the innovative new Königsink. Available to kitchen retailers across the UK is an impressive range of 27 Königquartz colours alongside the range of 15 Könignaturals. In addition, there is a brand-new portfolio of semiprecious stone surfaces. Joanne Bull, Marketing Manager, comments: “After a necessary shutdown, in order to support the national effort, we are delighted to be back up and running.”

kellerkitchens.com + 31 (0) 164 285 106

konigstone.co.uk info@konigstone.co.uk

CHOICE AND FLEXIBILITY IS KEY FOR KELLER

info@kellerkitchens.com

DOOR-OIL PRESERVES AND PROTECTS INTERNAL OAK DOORS IN RENOVATION PROJECT

When a couple bought a 1910 Edwardian semidetached property in Nottinghamshire, their plan was to renovate the home with ‘lots of graft and love.’ The original doors were all intact when the couple bought the house, but they were twisted, broken and covered with paint. Remembering that her mother had used an oil for the doors in her childhood homes, Ruth Shaw decided that this was the way forward. “Reading several reviews, I kept seeing Osmo finishes mentioned as the best,” commented Ruth. “I follow a number of renovation accounts and tradespeople on Instagram, and you only have to search #osmooil to see that it is a very popular choice!”

SAFETY FIRST WITH AMTICO FLOORING Amtico has expanded its Signature 36+ collection of premium and safety luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring to suit a variety of commercial applications, including healthcare environments. The flooring’s toughened 1mm upper wear layer provides all the resilience and long-lasting properties that Amtico’s Signature collection is known for, while offering enhanced slip resistance for the lifetime of the product. Signature 36+ comprises 24 woods, nine stones and three abstracts to help architects, designers and specifiers create spaces that promote wellbeing and meet safety guidelines. Signature 36+ also contains an active ingredient which has been shown, under blind independent lab tests, to resist the growth of bacteria such as MRSA and E.coli throughout the useable lifetime of the floor. amtico.com/commercial 0121 745 0800 info@amtico.com I N E X

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osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmouk.com 9 4

NORDIC DÉCOR – A NEW DIMENSION FOR INTERIORS The launch of Nordic Décor adds an extra dimension to the diversity of Nordic Copper surfaces and alloys from Aurubis, particularly for interior design.

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opper is the metal of choice for interiors and Nordic Copper standard, pre-oxidised and pre-patinated surfaces, along with various alloys, provide an impressive range of living colours. Now, Nordic Décor takes design opportunities with copper to a new level with eight embossings for rich surface textures and seven grindings for distinctive matt surfaces – each with its own warm natural colour tone. Nordic Décor products are well-suited to a wide range of interior applications, such as wall and ceiling cladding – including elevators – highlight surfaces, bars and counters, as well as external facades. The material can be shaped, edged, milled, lasered, cut and bent. Nordic Décor Embossings are available in Nordic Brass Weathered or Nordic Royal alloys, Nordic Brown and Nordic Brown Light preoxidised copper, and Nordic Green pre-patinated copper. They provide regular patterns of raised or recessed forms, some abraded to reveal highlights of the base material colour for additional design effects. Nordic Décor Grindings are available in Nordic Brass Weathered or Nordic Brown. They are abraded with linear, cross-hatched or curved-swirl hairlines to give distinctive matt surfaces. Nordic Copper is a natural, non-toxic material that is nonbrittle and safe to handle and work. Its inherent antimicrobial qualities make it ideal for touch surfaces in buildings. It has a melting point of 1083˚C, ‘A1 (non-combustible material)’ fire classification to EN 13501-1 and, therefore, ‘Class 0’ surface spread of flame, making it suitable for wall and ceiling surfaces in communal areas. nordiccopper.com 01875 812144 nordiccopper@aurubis.com

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UPHOLDING MILL TRADITION WHILST IMPROVING THERMAL PERFORMANCE In the 11th century, the Grade II* Listed Blue Mills in Witham, Essex, was recorded in Domesday as the water mill at Benton Hall, a subsidiary manor of Blunts in Witham.

he original 16th-century cottage is attached to a Georgian house – at the front – a sequence of early Victorian extensions, and a later Victorian house in 1872 – at the rear. It was important to the owners that an effective resolution would complement the existing architecture of the building. They reached out to Selectaglaze for advice on the best possible treatments for the

primary windows; a mixture of timber sash windows, fixed lights and inward or outward opening casements. The irregularities around some of the bay windows meant that a considered approach was required. Once the owners were happy with the bespoke solutions suggested, the install went ahead. Despite

the property being listed, Maldon District Council confirmed that no formal listed building consent was required for the works. A total of 22 windows have been treated thus far using a number of window styles: fixed light, vertical sliding and sidehung casements. Two windows in the wood-panelled room were treated with Selectaglaze’s heritage Series 47 hinged casement system, which was able to sit tight behind the wooden shutters, allowing its continued operation. The aluminium profiles were coloured in a woodgrain finish which colour matched the existing surrounds perfectly. selectaglaze.co.uk 01727 837271 enquiries@selectaglaze.co.uk

REPLACING KITCHEN DOORS AND DRAWERS? Changing kitchen doors can be a great way to create a new kitchen without the cost and hassle of starting all over again. It is now easy to freshen up doors quickly if they are getting tatty. Getting exactly the right replacement kitchen doors and drawers is not as difficult as you may think. The range of colours and styles of kitchen doors has grown dramatically over recent years with the quality of manufacturing improving all the time. With replacement doors ranging from vinyl wrap to solid wood; the choice is yours; not to mention there are hundreds of colours and styles to pick from. You will be amazed just how much a kitchen will change with a simple door replacement.

WOOD WAX FINISH Osmo has the solution for all interior wood surfaces! • Water and dirt resistant • Especially suitable for furniture and DIY projects • Suitable for children’s toys according to EN71.3 • Mix of transparent, intensive or custom colour tones • No sanding necessary for future applications – simply re-apply! • Microporous, breathable finish. Doesn’t crack, peel or flake

granitetransformations.co.uk 0808 149 5914

www.osmouk.com

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ECO-CONSCIOUS ACOUSTICS FROM SOUNDTECT Noise pollution is the primary cause of a reduction in productivity and can contribute to stress and illness; which can also play a part in absenteeism and a continuous turnover of staff.

he typical noise level in an open-plan office is 65 dB and, shockingly, that’s only 30 dB less than a lawnmower. And background noise, even at low levels, has been found to increase stress levels and undermine short-term memory, reading comprehension and willingness to engage with others. Workers have been seen to be 60% less productive in a noisy office – which is a worrying statistic to any business owner. The working world currently seems to have a love-hate relationship with open-plan offices, most of which centres around noise, but the openplan office concept is highly successful for several reasons. It is cost-effective, allows room for expansion and changing team dynamics, creates more working collaboration, reducing the need for separate meetings. It creates a ‘buzzy atmosphere’, enhancing

the office culture and enjoyment at work. Every business wants more happy workers as they influence an organisation’s success and performance. So, here’s the conundrum – the open-plan concept is the right solution for increasing engagement and creating happier, more productive employees, but the noise byproduct affects individuals, driving them to grab their headphones and retreat into their own world, or even work from home. So, considering acoustics at the planning stage is essential when embarking on an office refurbishment. The great news is, acoustic improvement products are no longer boring and hidden, they’re stylish, colourful and are used in a variety of applications; meeting pods, partitions and decorative forms such as wall panels and 9 7

ceiling enhancements. Soundtect specialises in the manufacture and supply of many different solutions which can be tailored to be as funky as you like to complement any office design theme. And while we are about it, let’s not forget the environment. Soundtect is proud of its environmental credentials – its products use over 70% recycled polyester. The products are a thirdgeneration product which began life first as a plastic PET bottle, and then recycled into exhibition carpets before being woven into superior quality, high-performance acoustic felt. Recently, Soundtect launched a new printed wood finish for its Freestyle range. This lightweight, semi-rigid sound-absorbing panel has revolutionised the acoustic market and although there are many other manufacturers with a similar product, Soundtect is the pioneer of all sides being printed, and the results are very believable. No more need for heavy wooden ceiling baffles or the perfect wall surface solution for that rustic, unfinished feel that is popular right now. So, the solution is straightforward; to improve the cognitive performance of your team in an open-plan office environment, more consideration needs to be given to noise dynamics and how you can reduce them with effective acoustic solutions like Freestyle and, as you are also buying into a sustainable solution offered by Soundtect, you are also lessening environmental pollution at the same time. soundtect.com 0845 548 0518 enquiries@soundtect.com I N E X

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R E D E F I N I N G C O N T R A C T I N T E R I O R S S T Y L E L I B R A R YC O N T R A C T. C O M

INEX June/July 2020

Articles inside

Using Biophilic Design to Manage Health and Wellbeing During a Global Pandemic