Designer April 2022 by designerati Magazine

THE MINIMALIST ISSUE APRIL 2022 260

designer Perfectly Simple

The pure appeal of minimalist design

Super Natural

Oliver Heath on the universal beneﬁts of biophilia

Best in Show

Highlights from kbb Birmingham 2022

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MAKING KITCHEN LIFE EASIER EVERYDAY

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022 / ISSUE 260

Welcome to the April issue of Designer. This month, we take a look at a few of the highlights from last month’s KBB Birmingham. It was a great feeling to be back at the show after what has been a tough pandemic-filled two years since the last one. Relief at being able to get together again was the general consensus, and many of the exhibitors at the show had plenty to shout about with new products on display. There has also been a spike in activity in showrooms across the country, with a host of new openings and redesigned spaces to help fire the creative imagination for architects, designers, specifiers and clients alike. We visit one this month with V-Zug’s new space in London’s Wigmore Street, which manages to bring modern lifestyle ideas to life within the refined surroundings of a historic city space. And we speak to the showroom’s designer Gabriel Pinyon about the ideas behind his striking interior. Whether at KBB or elsewhere, the common thread seems to be optimism, particularly at the prospect of a future less impacted by Covid, and a readjustment to new ways of working that will present new ideas and opportunities. It is a challenge that all sectors seem to be rising to – from hospitality and workspace, to residential – in what is shaping up to be a particularly innovative year for design.

e: martin@thedsgroup.co.uk w: designerati.co.uk

Enjoy the issue!

M ar t in

@designeratiUK designeratiUK

Martin Allen-Smith Editor, Designer

SOCIAL

@designeratiUK designerati

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Making places versatile

usm.com

Play around with colours, shapes and dimensions and design your own furniture with our online configurator USM Modular Furniture 49–51 Central St, London EC1V 8AB, 020 7183 3470, info.uk@usm.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022 / ISSUE 260

CONTENTS 36 08 SOURCE Our monthly round-up of the people, products and events that matter from across the design sector 18 SHOWROOMS We take a look at the brand new V-Zug showroom on London’s iconic Wigmore Street, and find out from designer Gabriel Pinyon about the creative ideas behind the space 22 PERFECTLY SIMPLE Minimalist design is not nearly as straightforward as it might seem, but some creations manage to avoid the urge to over-design and successfully hit the pared-back sweet spot 30 FLOOR FILLERS Often at risk of being overlooked in a design scheme, choosing

42 the right flooring solution can make all the difference to how a space really feels 36 REDISCOVERING FORMER GLORY A workspace retrofit for this listed Mayfair townhouse brings a distinguished old building very much back to life 42 KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022 After two years of near isolation throughout the pandemic, the kitchen and bathroom sector came together once again with the return of the sector’s biggest UK show. From among many exhibition highlights, we have picked out a few 50 SEEING THE BIGGER PICTURE Refreshing a home that was

previously constrained by tight spaces and limiting walls, its new incarnation brings out the very best of open-plan possibilities 56 SUPER NATURAL Sustainable design expert Oliver Heath was a guest on the designerati podcast recently. He explained why he believes design should be less about how something looks, and much more about how it makes you feel 60 A SWEET RETREAT A former sugar factory is saved from demolition and transformed into the most striking of hotel spaces 66 EXIT Giving the iconic Gaggenau Series 400 oven a very individual twist

60 05

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022 / ISSUE 260

EDITORIAL EDITOR MARTIN ALLEN-SMITH martin@thedsgroup.co.uk CONTRIBUTOR ANNA-MARIE CASAS BRAND AMBASSADOR MELISSA PORTER PUBLISHING PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CLARA DEEKS clara@thedsgroup.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR ALLISTAIR HUNTER OPERATIONS DIRECTOR TRACY MEAD

MARTIN ALLEN-SMITH

CLARA DEEKS

STUART SINCLAIR

DOM LITTLER

MELISSA PORTER

ADVERTISING BRAND MANAGER STUART SINCLAIR stuart@thedsgroup.co.uk MARKETING CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER DOM LITTLER dom@thedsgroup.co.uk DIGITAL MARKETING APPRENTICE AMY NICE PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR LEE THOMAS GRAPHIC DESIGNER BEN EMMERSON

Designer Magazine is published monthly by The DS Group 7 Faraday Close, Oakwood Industrial Estate, Clacton-On-Sea, Essex CO15 4TR thedsgroup.co.uk Tel: 020 3538 0268

ACCOUNTS FINANCE DIRECTOR CHRIS CORKE accounts@thedsgroup.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER DONNA FENNELL ADMINISTRATOR KIM BLACK To subscribe email subscriptions@thedsgroup.co.uk or phone 020 3538 0268. Only those who meet the terms of our controlled circulation are eligible to receive a free copy of Designer Magazine. If you do not reach the criteria, subscription rates are UK £35, Europe £70, Worldwide £115

THE MINIMALIST ISSUE APRIL 2022 260

designer Perfectly Simple

designerati.co.uk On the cover: The Timperly cork upholstered dining chair by British designer Christian Watson

The pure appeal of minimalist design

Super Natural

Oliver Heath on the universal beneﬁts of biophilia

Best in Show

Highlights from kbb Birmingham 2022

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Why compromise? +44 (0)1761 241133 sales@bathroom-engineering.co.uk www.bathroom-engineering.co.uk The Boat House, Wirral Park, Glastonbury, Somerset, England BA6 9XE

Choose the design and the finish to match your high standards.

Bathroom Engineering Ltd. is a joint venture and the sole U.K. trading division of TECE GmbH

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022

Front and Centre

Superfront’s kitchen collection includes the brand’s signature products for the upcycling of Ikea cabinets including doors, end panels, handles and furniture legs for Ikea’s Metod frames. With sustainability at the core of the brand, Superfront also continues to offer doors for the Faktum kitchen cabinet frames, which were discontinued by Ikea in 2016. Pictured is a Superfront Kitchen from the Wood Collection in Biscotti, consisting of wood veneered doors and drawer fronts, sides, tops and plinths as well as the Bar handle that stretches across the width of the fronts for a seamless look.

Photography: Osman Tahir

Superfront / superfront.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022

designerati.co.uk

OUT OF THIS WORLD The classic UFO bathtub by Benedini Associati adds the element of surprise to an outdoor space. On a terrace, or in a yard or garden, its large stainlesssteel disc can accommodate multiple people. It is available in a two-tone version with white interior and dark grey exterior, with one or two backrests in white outdoor Cristalplant. The bath – which ﬁrst landed a couple of decades ago – is part of Agape’s Outdoor Collection which also includes basins, showers and accessories all intended for outside use.

Photography: Andrea Ferrari

Agape / agapedesign.it

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022

Seat of Learning

Designer Tristan Lohner has worked with manufacturer Fermob to create a fresh, sleek and contemporary take on the school chair. STUDIE brings childhood memories flooding back, while imposing its own minimalist style. The chairs are lightweight, with an aluminium frame and available in a choice of 21 colours. The seats are curved for extra comfort and are designed to be easily stacked.

New Hues

In a continuation of their collaboration with AXOR, British designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby have extended their AXOR One collection with a curated palette of coloured taps. Inspired by a specific set of naturally occurring interactions between light, colour and water, the range features six new colours. Launched in 2021, AXOR One features over 30 products including basin mixers, bathtub mixers and a range of shower items, all characterised by slender silhouettes, flat surfaces, soft corners and balanced proportions.

Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby explain: “Each colour balances the ability to become part of a calm visual field with limitless scope for self-expression and individuality, reflecting the way in which bathrooms and small cloakrooms are increasingly becoming places that are less about neutral utility and more about original and impactful design. The colours have been chosen to complement the widest range of bathroom finishes, from enamel and concrete, to marble and wood.” The new colours will be available for pre-order via AXOR’s Signature service.

Fermob / fermob.com

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AXOR / axor-design.com

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The tap that does it all 100°C BOILING, CHILLED AND SPARKLING WATER With a Quooker in your showroom you can offer your customers the only tap in the world that dispenses true 100°C boiling, chilled and sparkling water. Well-known, extremely popular, and already sought after by your customers thanks to our extensive national marketing campaigns. Quooker offers high-quality, innovative kitchen taps that are already being used by millions of households throughout the world. As an official Quooker dealer, our in-house service team will take care of all after sales matters for you, and we can even arrange installation by a Quooker engineer. We also have a unique industry-leading virtual online platform that enables consumers to choose the right product for their kitchen without your involvement. This way, you can focus on what you are good at: selling beautiful kitchens. Contact us for more information on how to become a Quooker dealer.

Quooker UK Ltd. Beaumont Buildings Great Ducie Street Manchester M3 1PQ +44 (0)1617 685 900 enquiries@quooker.co.uk www.quooker.co.uk

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022

Celebrating Colour 12

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Swiss furniture brand Vitra is launching a special limited edition two-tone Panton Chair Duo. A total of 50 chairs will be available in the UK, sold exclusively by The Conran Shop in its Chelsea and Marylebone stores, and online from next month. Conceived by Verner Panton in 1959, the chair was developed in collaboration with Vitra as the first all-plastic chair to be manufactured in one piece in 1967. The limited-edition Panton Chair Duo is a homage to the work of the Danish architect and designer, who used colours as a tool for enhancing shapes, patterns, and emotions. The Duo comes in five different combinations of two contrasting hues – one on the front, the other on the back. The colour combinations reference the legendary Fantasy Landscape, which Verner Panton created in 1970 for the Visiona 2 installation in Cologne.

Vitra / vitra.com

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WHITE TULIP www.duravit.co.uk

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE APRIL 2022

CHART TOPPER

The new Duravit No.1 complete bathroom series aims to work well for any minimalistic and contemporary setting, with compact dimensions and created to add a stylish and versatile option to the entry-level segment. Suited for residential or hotel and project sectors, the range offers numerous combinations and comprises washbasins, baths, furniture and taps for a complete look. A further key component in this price segment is the trapezoid built-in bathtub made from sanitary acrylic, available in three sizes, with the option of left or right corner versions.

Duravit / duravit.co.uk

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tune in every Monday morning

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ATCH W O T N SCA

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE SHOWROOMS

V-ZUG

V-ZUG has opened the doors to its new studio in London’s Wigmore Street. Located inside a 1907 Historic England listed building, the new space has been designed to bring Swiss design, minimalist style and heritage that captures the essence of the V-ZUG brand identity. The showroom centres around the use of a ‘glass box’ in the centre of the space, with clear visual lines offering visibility in all areas. V-ZUG’s core values of minimalism, simplicity and sustainability are reflected throughout the new space. All of the senses have been considered to create an environment which is welcoming, an experience which is pleasurable and a showroom that is inviting.

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE SHOWROOMS

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE SHOWROOMS

Artists and designers from across Europe have been hand selected for the showroom, with a focus on sustainable materials. Even the emergency exit sign has been considered and designed by Swiss Architect Peter Zumthor to be in keeping with the rest of the studio aesthetic. Other elements include curtains by Danish brand Kvadrat made of sustainable fabric designed by Doshi Levien. Worktops have been fabricated by Nerinea of Spain, sourcing material from Italian brand Antolini. The stone used is called Cabalto and is a Quartzite stone selected because of its similarity to a view of the Swiss Alps from an airplane. Showroom cabinetry is by Doca, while elsewhere, a statement chandelier is a stylish focal point by Israeli designer Arik Levy.

Meeting area tables are by British architect John Pawson, while in the bathroom there is a nod to the location with municipal tiles displayed vertically in black which put visions of the London Underground in mind. The showroom was designed by Gabriel Pinyon, Head of Brand Displays for V-Zug. He said: “When I first saw it, I fell in love with the space, with its marble columns and high ceilings. We initially wanted to keep it exactly as it was but although we had to make some changes, the design is very much based on the existing infrastructure. “The aim was to keep things very much open space from any angle, but at the same time, try to create cosy, private spaces. It had to be a showroom that speaks the same visual and design language of the products themselves.”

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Products in the showroom appear almost secondary to the portrayal of the ‘lifestyle’ message that the brand is keen to convey. For example, a bank of appliances displayed in the living space is shown discretely behind a sofa seating area, adding to the sense that this is not just a venue simply to show off products.

We're ranked top 1% in sustainability performance

The demo kitchen, located in the ‘glass box’ area of the showroom is naturally the hub of the space. It is kept simple partly thanks to having an additional ‘prep kitchen’ tucked away out of sight, but nevertheless offers full scope for showing off the capabilities of the V-ZUG products to visitors. Pinyon said: “It shows a ‘reductive’ active space, with not too much or too little on display in terms of product. But this area is a key component of the studio. Kitchen activity is what we do, so it was very important that this fully working space was at the very heart of the design.”

V-ZUG / 27 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 1PN / vzug.com

W: EGECARPETS.COM / E: LONDON.SHOWROOM@EGECARPETS.COM T: 020 7336 0992 / LINKEDIN.COM/EGECARPETSUK

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE MINIMALIST DESIGN

Perfectly Simple Minimalist design is not nearly as straightforward as it might seem, but some creations manage to avoid the urge to over-design and successfully hit the pared-back sweet spot

Steininger’s Fold kitchen is a bold monolithic design that contains many of the key functions within its metallic form – including a hob, sink and storage – which can all be hidden away when not in use. Steininger / steiningerdesigners.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE MINIMALIST DESIGN

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE MINIMALIST DESIGN

Simple-yet-stylish, the four-door blue eucalyptus cabinet from the Abstract Collection by Davidson takes inspiration from the sleek abstract shapes found in modern architecture, turning them into pieces that are pared-back but with just the right amount of detail. Davidson / davidsonlondon.com

The Stoneham island is the centerpiece of this open plan Kitchens International kitchen and includes distinct zones within the space with a place for dining, work station for preparing food and a place for mixing drinks. The curved island in Ivory is contrasted with a walnut panel which gives a natural and organic feel and complements the walnut wall cabinetry. The large room is both luxurious and multi-functional, yet maintains a minimalist feel. A small dining table is incorporated into one end of the island. Kitchens International / kitchensinternational.co.uk

The Zuma Lumisonic is an ultra-compact two-way loudspeaker with a low-energy LED light, housed within a ceiling downlight. Virtually invisible when installed, it offers wireless audio and light, enabling spaces to be kept clear of unnecessary power sockets and wires. Zuma / zuma.ai

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minotticucinelondon 2-3 Market Place, Fitzrovia, London W1W 8DU t 0203 941 0317 info@minotticucinelondon.com minotticucinelondon.com

iconic sculptural timeless

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE MINIMALIST DESIGN

This Cubist-inspired new build by Fletcher Crane Architects in Ealing, West London, keeps its interiors minimal and streamlined with just a few materials for maximum clarity. Rough brick walls are combined with bespoke ash joinery, terrazzo tiles and finely crafted metal balustrades. The décor is characterised by straight lines, with a strong focus on the essentials. The minimal aesthetic is aided with the use of Gira Esprit linoleumplywood design line of switches which enables many aspects of the home to be managed via the Gira System 55, offering up to 300 different control functions. Photography: Lorenzo Zandri. Fletcher Crane Architects / fletchercranearchitects.com Gira / gira.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE MINIMALIST DESIGN

Created by the duo behind awardwinning Cameron Design House, Empty State offers made-to-order lighting products for the wider market. The range is made up of six highly engineered products formed from solid materials and made in-house by hand in the UK. Each of the products follow the themes of modularity so can be matched to any request and design scheme across residential, commercial and hospitality spaces. Empty State / emptystate.com

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THE COOKER HOOD SPECIALISTS WESTIN.CO.UK

Bespoke Island hood in a Roundhouse Design kitchen. Interior design by Studio Clement

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS

The Timperly cork upholstered dining chair by British designer Christian Watson. The chair is from his strikingly minimal debut collection that includes the pared-back use of a range of materials including cork and wool. Christian Watson / christian-watson.com

The design of the bathrooms in the Shanghai Edition hotel keeps things simple with the specification of the Kohler Evok bathtub. The minimalist theme of the scheme by designer Ian Schrager is completed with the rimless Veil wall-hung WC and carrara marble tiling throughout. Matte black shower screen edging gives some extra definition to the space. Kohler / kohler.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE FLOORING

FLOOR FILLERS

Often at risk of being overlooked in a design scheme, choosing the right flooring solution can make all the difference to how a space really feels

Xtra Step 12mm water-resistant laminate from IDS in XS104 Light Oak. IDS / idsurfaces.co.uk

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE FLOORING

Tarkett’s DESSO Airmaster Savera collection has been designed to capture and retain fine dust particles, helping to create a healthy indoor working environment. Tarkett / professionals.tarkett.co.uk

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE FLOORING

Above: Bilbao from Avenue Floors’ Urbanista Collection. Avenue Floors / avenuefloors.co.uk Right: Moderna plank stickdown from Malmo’s Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring range. Malmo / malmoflooring.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE FLOORING

British manufacturer Amtico has unveiled Spacia Stones – a new set of realistic and fresh LVT flooring designs, available in seven neutral palettes and suitable for installation across a variety of commercial applications. Amtico / amtico.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE FLOORING

Above: The Woven Gradience collection from Interface offers 12 colours all inspired by hues of nature and can be laid in multiple ways to create distinctive flooring patterns. Interface / interface.com Above left: Fendi from Havwoods’ Venture Plank Collection. Havwoods / havwoods.com Photography: David Butler Left: Forbo’s Tessera Perspective carpet tile is available in 14 colourways, including eight neutral tones and six vivid shades, enabling options for office zoning or break-out areas. Forbo / forbo-flooring.co.uk

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winner dezeen awards 2020

GEM, embossed acoustic wall panels. Choose from 15 colourways.

Available in the UK through The Collective Agency enquiry@thecollective.agency +44 (0) 203 633 3138

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE W O R K S PA C E I N T E R I O R S

Rediscovering Former Glory

A workspace retrofit for this listed Mayfair townhouse brings a distinguished old building very much back to life…

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE W O R K S PA C E I N T E R I O R S

Photography: James Balston

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE W O R K S PA C E I N T E R I O R S

aving sat empty for 20 years following an unsympathetic 1980s restoration, London-based Fathom Architects have sensitively revived a Grade II listed Georgian townhouse by crafting a boutique workplace. Addressing the changing nature of offices, the retrofit introduces hospitality aspects with areas for relaxing, socialising and dining as well as a series of outdoor terraces. The refurbishment plays on its residential heritage by establishing a welcoming and social ground level, with a first-floor grand boardroom overlooking the street and private workspaces on the upper levels. Identity is created with a balance of bold design elements and an interior palette which pays homage to Georgian hues of green and grey with rust accents. On arrival, the entrance hall showcases a monochrome patterned floor crafted from Mira and Statuarietto marble with brass trims. Visitors are directed into

a reception area conceived as a warm and homely lounge with oversized oak parquet floor, a grand fireplace and contemporary joinery. A bespoke low-level marble and timber reception desk adds to the domestic feel, along with floor length curtains, rugs and chairs upholstered in rich leather and velvet fabrics. Leading off the reception, a marbletopped tea point and integrated velvet banquette seating area – lined with textured Shantung Silk wallpaper – creates an inviting space for informal meetings, lunch or coffee breaks. The ground floor spaces are given further character with a collection of curated objects celebrating modern craftsmanship, greenery and a series of artworks by contemporary Londonbased artist Sophie Coe. Office layouts reference the historic sequence of rooms to define each level, articulated with custom timber and glass screens. The first-floor boardroom contains a reinstated fireplace and feature pendant light.

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE W O R K S PA C E I N T E R I O R S

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE W O R K S PA C E I N T E R I O R S

Throughout the building, modern services and high specification technology meets current workspace needs. Further tenant amenities include a shower room with changing area, timber panelled WCs and a dedicated kitchen with inbuilt appliances. To the rear of the building, a new lightwell draws fresh air and daylight into the ground and basement levels to create an attractive courtyard garden, with two additional external terraces on the upper floors. Rebecca Thomas, director at Fathom Architects, said: “The way people interact in offices has changed. Our retrofit of 19 Queen Street creates a homely and characterful space to work, not just at desks, but collaborating, socialising and having headspace to think.”

Fathom Architects / fathomarchitects.com

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CE 20 LEB YE RAT AR ING

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2022 OLD BILLINGSGATE

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kbb Birmingham 2022 After two years of near isolation throughout the pandemic, the kitchen and bathroom sector came together once again for the return of the sector’s biggest UK show. From among many exhibition highlights, we have picked out a few…

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022

Acquabella scooped the ‘best bathroom stand over 50 sqm’ accolade at the show for its clever resort-themed design. The brand’s range was displayed with shower trays as sun loungers and bathroom furniture set in a beachside paradise. Acquabella / acquabella.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022

Above left: InSinkErator hosted its brand ambassador – interior designer Kelly Hoppen – at kbb Birmingham. Hoppen spoke to crowds at the company’s stand during an interview with UK MD Ashley Munden. The brand also presented a wide range of its product offering, including food waste disposers and kitchen taps. InSinkErator / insinkerator.co.uk Above right: Showerwall showed off some of the latest additions to its range of wall panelling which now brings its offering to over 100 different designs. Showerwall / showerwall.co.uk Right: British cooker hood manufacturer Westin presented new launches, including two new ‘universal’ range products available in any colour match. The company also revealed its new branding which will now feature on all products and material. Westin / westin.co.uk

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NOVY EASY Luxury reinvented

Winner category Company

The Novy Easy simplifies cooking in the kitchen. The Novy Easy is the latest addition to Novy’s collection of vented induction hobs. Featuring four high performance flex induction zones and a central surface vent, this simple to use induction hob and extraction combination features a sensor that automatically regulates the extraction speed to make the cooking process easier. novy.co.uk

Winner category Company

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022

Top: Ca’ Pietra presented a selection of its latest tile designs, including Mermaid’s Garden, a matt porcelain tile that was shortlisted in the kbb Innovation Awards at the show. Ca’ Pietra / capietra.com Above: Boiling water tap brand Quooker had its full product range on demonstration at kbb, including the CUBE which delivers boiling, filtered, chilled and sparkling water in a single tap. Quooker / quooker.co.uk

Top: Novy demonstrated a selection of its appliances, including the Easy PRO 80cm vented induction hob, which was also shortlisted for Innovation of the Year at the show. Novy / novy.com Above: Shower brand Merlyn teamed up with interior designer Jo Love of Love Interiors to create an immersive multi-sensory stand experience. The series of shower settings and spaces explored how human experiential needs of sight, touch, sound and smell, can help to elevate wellbeing. Merlyn / merlynshowering.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE KBB BIRMINGHAM 2022

Top: Appliance brand BORA launched its new BORA X BO steam oven at kbb, offering conventional and steam cooking functionality in a single unit. The product also won the Judge’s Choice award at the show’s kbb Innovation Awards. BORA / bora.com Above: Bathroom brand Laufen showed several of its key ranges, including the striking and versatile LUA collection, designed by Toan Nguyen. Laufen / laufen.co.uk

Top: Coalbrook made its trade show debut at kbb Birmingham. The new brand from bathroom distributor Davroc presented a selection of industrial-inspired designs, including the Decca 3-hole wall-mounted basin mixer. Coalbrook / coalbrookuk.co.uk Above: Kaelo introduced new variations of its clever bottle cooling device. It is now available in a flush-mounted as well as an undermount version (pictured) which comes with a lid to hide the space when not in use. Kaelo / kaelo.co.uk

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acquabella.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS

Photography: Bruce Hemming

Seeing the Bigger Picture Refreshing a home that was previously constrained by tight spaces and limiting walls, its new incarnation brings out the very best of open-plan possibilities

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS

he team at FORMstudio were tasked with dramatically reconfiguring this 240 sq m penthouse in South London, converting the space from a dark, labyrinthine collection of rooms to a luxury modern open space, maximising the special potential, distinctive wing roof and views of London and the Thames. Views across the city were spectacular so the decision was taken to house the bedrooms on the first floor, and a large open plan living space on the upper floor. While each floor enjoys incredible views, the open plan layout of the upper floor allows for uninterrupted 360° views across the river and city.

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE RESIDENTIAL INTERIORS

The results are striking. The open plan upper floor consists of a large living area with a huge underlit bespoke sofa, spaces to work, a luxurious kitchen, and a beautiful outside area taking full advantage of the river view. With the clearly defined zones, FORMstudio have taken away the need for dividing walls and created a space that offers huge flexibility for everyday life. In the kitchen area, a 5m island was specified in pure white to take advantage of the masses of open plan space created. Mirroring the length of the island is the dramatic bespoke Westin island hood in stainless steel, suspended from the ceiling with matching suspension rods. The chimney section is perfectly angled to the pitch of the distinctive wing roof. The result is an incredible contemporary luxury space that has been completely transformed from its previous life, and can now take full advantage of its eye-catching location.

FORMStudio / formstudio.co.uk Westin / westin.co.uk 53

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23/03/2022 22:07

DESIGNER MAGAZINE ADVERTORIAL

Saviola

Saviola were the first company to produce a 100% recycled particleboard and are the leading post-consumption wood processor in the world. Their production philosophy is based on the twin notions of recycling and upcycling, that is to say the salvaging and re-using of post consuming wood to give it a second life, without the need to cut down trees, by way of an environmentally sustainable cycle.

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE ADVERTORIAL

Saviola have become well known in the UK since exhibiting at the KBB 2020 show and now having secured nationwide distribution the brand has gained recognition for producing innovative, refined and unique decors. Trendcor Design is a Saviola company based in Frankfurt, Germany, and has a dedicated team of professional experts and designers working to give surfaces the importance they deserve, “ We interprete the trends to make something new. A product that, in turn becomes trendy”. Trend-A-Porter UK is the collective name given to 26 original designs, now available from stock on a next day delivery service, and contains a mixture of abstract and wood grain Saviola. help us save trees decors using the latest technologies to create realistic surfaces combined with amazing haptic textures. Saviola is the first company in the world to have produced the 100% ecological panel, made recycled waste wood. Itembrace offers to the Global Market the most innovative selection of Many ofonly thebywood grain designs the “embossed-in-register” process which and Textures, Finish Foils and CHUCHPL, Edgebanding and Special Surfaces solutions. faithfullyDecors reproduce the characteristics of wood both visually and to the touch, therefore being the best eco-sustainable alternative in the world.

The old furniture is collected in a dump The post consuming wood is collected in Italy and Europe

Life cycle (Circular Economy)

1 2

With ecological panel we produce new furniture

manufacturing process

The raw panel now becomes a "faced" panel

Saviola’s

Wood is separated f rom other materials

Wood cleaning

Melamine paper/design

Press The Ecological panel is 100% recycled wood

Saviola. help us save trees Saviola is the first company in the world to have produced the 100% ecological panel, made only by recycled post-consumer wood. It offers the global market the most innovative selection of decors, texture, laminates and edge bandings for surface solutions.

Saviola are constantly researching innovative technologies and methods to improve their products and each décor is the outcome of that continual process that interprets trends to develop a new original, and it’s boards are the ideal balance between design and sustainability. Respect and responsibility are the fundamental principles that guide the Saviola World and to continue to do business with the greatest consideration for the environment through eco-sustainability and a recycling ethic and we believe that by working together with our customers we can embrace the circular economy. Saviola decors bring a definite European look to the market and this can only be of benefit to British furniture manufacturers looking to compete with German & Italian styles. Saviola has totally different designs with unique finishes and innovative textures and all on 100% recycled board.

Saviola / saviola.com/eng uk@saviola.com

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23/03/2022 22:32

DESIGNER MAGAZINE T H E D E S I G N E R AT I P O D C A S T

SUPER NATURAL Sustainable design expert Oliver Heath was a guest on the designerati podcast recently. He explained why he believes design should be less about how something looks, and much more about how it makes you feel…

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE T H E D E S I G N E R AT I P O D C A S T

Oliver Heath on... BIOPHILIA

“Biophilia means a love of nature, and it explains human’s innate attraction to nature and natural processes. It explains why we’re drawn to nature and why, when we’re stressed, tired, and choose to go on holiday, we tend to choose to go towards nature. It helps us unwind, to decompress, and to help us get back to our best. The benefits that we see there are expressed in biophilic design, which is all to do with how we bring those natural experiences and that connection to nature into buildings to make them more productive, and to reduce negative outcomes produced by stress and fatigue.”

Oliver Heath on… A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO DESIGN

“The design world has changed. Once it was all about how you express your identity, your sense of style or power or wealth, using design to tell the world who we are. My practice is more interested in turning that around to a much more intrinsic approach, asking the question ‘how does this design make you feel? And how can it support you in the thing you are trying to do in that space’. This principle applies in schools, where children could learn better, or hospitals where patients got better faster, or workplaces where people could mix and mingle to share ideas. That’s the perspective from which to approach these spaces, and not purely to express those messages of identity. It makes commercial sense too. Around 90% of business costs for many organisations is on staff salaries, so why wouldn’t you want to provide workspaces that make them feel valued, supported and engaged.”

OLIVER HEATH

An industry-recognised expert in biophilic and sustainable design, Oliver Heath is passionate about humancentred design and the role that nature has to play in creating sustainable and regenerative spaces. His Brightonbased architecture and interior design practice uses an evidence-based approach to embed biophilic design principles at every stage of its projects. He has appeared on numerous television programmes during the past two decades, including the BBC’s Changing Rooms and DIY SOS, as well as speaking slots at numerous exhibitions and events, including Ecobuild and Grand Designs. Heath has written four books on sustainable design and is a frequent contributor to publications including The Guardian, The Sunday Times, and House Beautiful. Oliver Heath Design / oliverheath.com

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DESIGNER MAGAZINE T H E D E S I G N E R AT I P O D C A S T

Oliver Heath on… THE IMPACT OF LOCKDOWN

“A lot of us essentially spent the last two years at home. I think the result is that we’ve started to realise that the spaces we surround ourselves with have a very definite impact on our physical and mental wellbeing. Many have experienced a form of ‘cabin fever’ because they haven’t experienced the rich diversity of daily experiences of different spaces that they previously had. So there has been a need to reconnect and rediscover some of these aspects to our lives. There has been an enormous interest in gardening and engaging with nature through walking or hiking. In a sense, the pandemic has speeded up that need to reconnect with the natural world. We’ve realised how important nature is to us, and how reliant we are upon it.”

Oliver Heath on… NATURAL MATERIALS

“Interesting studies have shown that when timber is used in interior spaces, it actually has the effect of potentially reducing heart rates in schools by 8,600 beats per day. So children sitting in classrooms with timber walls have a reduced heart rate, so they feel less stressed, less anxious, and more able to concentrate on the task at hand.

Numerous studies around the world have shown again and again, that the inclusion of natural materials has a palpable impact on people’s physiological response to a given space.”

Oliver Heath on… THE POWER OF SOUP

“Each day at our studio, at around 11am, we agree on what soup we should have. Someone goes to get the ingredients from a local shop and we use a soup machine to make fresh soup. It has become really important for the connectivity of our group – we sit around the table, taking time away from our desks, to eat soup together. It’s a very simple, basic, humanising and democratic decision-making process, but it gives us a chance to have conversations about what’s going on in each other’s lives, what we’re reading or watching etc. So, we have this wonderful routine of spending 45 minutes each day connecting while we enjoy this fresh, healthy soup together. And so many interesting ideas have come from these conversations too.”

THE DESIGNERATI PODCAST

Watch or listen to the full interview with Oliver Heath on the designerati podcast. Subscribe and tune in every Monday wherever you get your podcasts – including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, Google Podcasts and many others – to hear fascinating insights by guests drawn from all corners of the creative sector. Join our host Melissa Porter for a conversation on all things design with some of the biggest design names and brightest new creative talent. designerati / designerati.co.uk

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23/03/2022 22:09

RO OM FOR IM AG INATION

R A K- D E S RAK-Des is a new concept bathroom suite that pays tribute to the Bauhaus school by which it is inspired, the collection includes bowls and freestanding washbasins with the essential minimalist lines. The rectangular washbasins can be installed suspended, individually, or combined with the RAK-Joy vanities.

RAKCERAMICS.COM

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