designerati February 2024

275

February 2024

[designerati.co.uk]

KITCHENS B AT H R O O M S INTERIORS

kbb Birmingham 2024 Get set for the kitchen & bathroom sector’s biggest show

LUXURY BLEND Combining materials and ideas for a super-luxe result

Made to Measure Designer Tristan Auer on the vital importance of bespoke

VAIA The Graceful

Leading Designs for Architecture

February 2024

275

[designerati.co.uk]

KITCHENS B AT H R O O M S INTERIORS

16 22

kbb Birmingham 2024 Get set for the kitchen & bathroom sector’s biggest show

10

LUXURY BLEND Combining materials and ideas for a super-luxe result

Made to Measure Designer Tristan Auer on the vital importance of bespoke

03

Welcome...

to the new look designerati

Welcome to the first issue of 2024 in what promises to be a packed year ahead for designerati and the whole K&B sector.

We’re starting as we mean to go on, with a look ahead to the upcoming kbb Birmingham show.

This biennial industry showcase brings together many of the leading kitchen and bathroom brands for a golden opportunity to see the latest products up close and to chat about future plans with colleagues, customers and suppliers.

There’s a first look at some of the exhibition’s must-see brands on the following pages, but do be sure to catch our

indispensable guide to the show next month, including the full line-up of headline products in our designerati Design Trail which will steer visitors in the direction of all of the most innovative highlights.

Elsewhere in this issue, we speak to French interior designer and architect Tristan Auer about the origins of his bold interior ideas and why the process of creative vision can be something akin to stage direction. Plus, there’s also our usual line-up of the latest new products and idea-packed case studies.

Enjoy the issue!

“KBB BIRMINGHAM OFFERS A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY TO SEE THE LATEST PRODUCTS UP CLOSE”

Meet the designerati team EDITORIAL Martin Allen-Smith, Editorial Director martin@designerati.co.uk ADVERTISING Chantell Tandy, Sales Executive chantell@digitalsavvymedia.co.uk MARKETING Abby Sale, Marketing Apprentice abby@digitalsavvymedia.co.uk FOR PRINT AND ONLINE COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES CONTACT: Clara Perry, Managing Director clara@digitalsavvymedia.co.uk 01206 696492 ART DIRECTION AND PRINT DESIGN Jeff Cooper jeff@wemakemedia.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe to designerati please contact: subscriptions@digitalsavvymedia. co.uk 01206 696410 designerati.co.uk/subscribe Published ten times a year

by Digital Savvy Media Ltd (Company reg. 14728898) The Nexus, Systematic Business Park, Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 7QL digitalsavvymedia.co.uk

Martin Allen-Smith Editor, designerati

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Contents February 2024 - Issue 275

6 SOURCE Our round-up of the people, products, and places that matter from across K&B design, including a new showroom for kitchen brand Olive & Barr, National Trust-inspired flooring from Amtico, and creatively curved basins by Bette

10 LUXURY FOR LIVING A more detailed look at some of our 2023 designerati awardwinners and finalists begins with the Super Luxe Kitchen Design of the Year by David Conlon of En Masse Bespoke Interiors who explains some of the detail contained within this very special scheme

16 KBB A look ahead to next month when the kitchen and bathroom industry’s leading brands present their latest innovations at kbb Birmingham 2024

22 MADE TO MEASURE Nothing about the work of designer Tristan Auer is ‘standard’. Bespoke has always been the cornerstone of his creative career, as he explains to Martin Allen-Smith

32

27 MULTI CIRCULAR

32 TOUCH AND FEEL

VitrA has created a sink that is not only physically but also materially circular with what it claims is the first 100% recycled ceramic washbasin in the world

The very latest in material products will be on show this month when the Surface Design Show opens its doors at London’s Business Design Centre (6-8 February)

28 MEETING THE BRIEF A project with a detailed client wish-list meant combining highlevel functionality with a style that would fit its Victorian home surroundings. Shehryar Kahn, Director at Sheraton Interiors, talks us through the scheme

22

34 EXIT An award-winning student project examining how careful planning of places and spaces can help sufferers cope better with young-onset Alzheimer’s

16

SOURCE

5

NIKOLATESLA UNPLUGGED

NEVER SO EASY. Enhance your kitchen with the new NikolaTesla Unplugged extractor hob - effortlessly controlled with its easy to use knobs, making even the most complex cooking simple. All in the unmistakable style of Elica.

2023

Design Fabrizio Crisà

elica.co.uk

designerati.co.uk

Our latest digest of people, places, and ideas

Source

6

Celebrating Heritage British flooring manufacturer Amtico has launched its second collection in collaboration with the National Trust. Following the launch of the first collaboration in 2022, the new Amtico Décor x National Trust 2023 edit is inspired by elements of the architecture and ornate features of Kedleston Hall, a national Trust property in Derbyshire. The six decorative flooring designs are all created from Amtico’s premium Signature LVT collection with a 1mm wear layer.

The range includes Venetian Parquet, available in wood or stone, which takes inspiration from the intricate patterns featured on Lady Mary Curzon of Kedleston Hall’s iconic 1903 peacock dress. With its roots in traditional Indian embroidery, the peacock feather has been reimagined in this contemporary take on parquet.

Another design is Temple Diamond which takes influence from the intricate ceiling decoration found in Kedleston Hall’s Grand Saloon. The traditional-meetsmodern design is available in three contrasting marble combinations.

Amtico / amtico.com

SOURCE

Olive & Barr Opens Third Showroom British handmade kitchen company Olive & Barr has opened its third showroom with the addition of a new Gloucestershire location.

Founded by cabinet maker Al Bruce in 2018, Olive & Barr is known for its signature Shaker style, combining traditional joinery with modern techniques. Having already established showrooms in South London and Malvern, the company is expanding its reach to the South-West.

The 1,000 sq ft space has been designed to create a home-from-home feel and showcases a fully installed shaker kitchen and boot room. The showroom design centres around a large island painted in Railings by Farrow & Ball, walled by a selection of bespoke cabinetry.

Bruce said: “Due to substantial growth, we are delighted to be expanding our portfolio, with a new showroom opening in Elkstone Studios, Gloucestershire. The showroom will cater to our South-West customers, providing an expansive and beautifully designed space in which they can admire our handcrafted shaker kitchen cabinetry first-hand and discuss their dream kitchen with our talented team.

“We are extremely thankful to our existing clients who have supported us thus far and are looking forward to establishing lasting relationships with new clients and local businesses as we embark on this new chapter.”

Find out more at designerati.co.uk Olive & Barr / Elkstone Studios, Elkstone, Gloucestershire / oliveandbarr.com

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R E C I R C U L A T I O N 03

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R E D I F I N E D 24

SPECIALISTS

WESTIN .CO.UK

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9 Covering All Basins Bette has introduced two new

D E S I G NDE ERScounter-top M I GANGEARZ IM NAE G/bowl AD ZE I NSwashbasins EI G/NDE ERSAITGI N . CEOR. A U TKI . C O . U K

designed by German studio Tesseraux + Partner. BetteCurve has an organic, slightly outwardly curved shape, which slopes inwards at the top with a rounded edge. The curvy shape is envisaged as a pebble that has been gradually smoothed and hollowed by water. The inwardly sloping top also has the benefit of helping to keep splashes within the basin.

Meanwhile, BetteLiv is a EDITORIAL EDITORIAL minimalist interpretation of the EDITOR MARTIN EDITOR ALLEN-SMITH MARTIN ALLEN-SMITH martin@designerati.co.uk martin@designerati.co.uk classic wash bowl with a slightly EDITORIAL EDITORIAL ASSISTANTASSISTANT GEORGE DEAN GEORGE george@designerati.co.uk DEAN george@designerati.co.uk BRAND AMBASSADOR BRAND AMBASSADOR MELISSA PORTER MELISSA PORTER reduced depth. In addition to glossy white and other gloss finishes, both PUBLISHING PUBLISHING MARTIN MARTIN CLARA CLARA MELISSA MELISSA basinsPERRY are available 32 mattPORTER ALLEN-SMITH ALLEN-SMITH PERRY in PORTER PUBLISHING PUBLISHING DIRECTOR CLARA DIRECTOR PERRY CLARA clara@thedsgroup.co.uk PERRY clara@thedsgroup.co.uk MANAGINGMANAGING DIRECTOR ALLISTAIR DIRECTOR HUNTER ALLISTAIR HUNTER colours and four shimmering effect OPERATIONS OPERATIONS DIRECTOR TRACY DIRECTOR MEAD TRACY MEAD colours of blue satin, forest, midnight and daylight. The waste covers are ADVERTISING ADVERTISING SENIOR SALES SENIOR EXECUTIVE SALES EXECUTIVE also enamelled in the same colour as CHANTELL CHANTELL KESTON chantell@designerati.co.uk KESTON chantell@designerati.co.uk the basin itself, and the basins can also be finished with BetteGlaze Plus MARKETING MARKETING CREATIVE MARKETING CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER DOM MANAGER LITTLER DOM dom@thedsgroup.co.uk LITTLER dom@thedsgroup.co.uk which has a water and dirt-repellent SENIOR MARKETING SENIOR MARKETING EXECUTIVEEXECUTIVE TYLER CHASE TYLER tyler@thedsgroup.co.uk CHASE tyler@thedsgroup.co.uk effect to reduce the cleaning CHANTELL CHANTELL DOM DOM required.

PRODUCTION PRODUCTION KESTON KESTON LITTLER LITTLER

F E B R U AFREYB R / UMAARRYC /H M2 A0 R 23 C H/ I2S0S2U3 E/ 2I 6S 9S U E 2 6 9

ART DIRECTOR ART LEE DIRECTOR THOMAS LEE THOMAS GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHICBEN DESIGNER EMMERSON BEN EMMERSON

Magazine Designer Magazine Bette Designer / my-bette.com/en

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by The monthly DS Group,

by The DS Group, The Nexus, The Systematic Nexus, Systematic Business Park, Business Park, Old IpswichOld Rd, Ipswich Ardleigh,Rd, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 Colchester 7QL CO7 7QL Tel: 01206 585280 Tel: 01206 585280

ACCOUNTSACCOUNTS FINANCE DIRECTOR FINANCECHRIS DIRECTOR CORKE CHRIS accounts@thedsgroup.co.uk CORKE accounts@thedsgroup.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTION SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER DONNA MANAGER FENNELL DONNA FENNELL To subscribe Toemail subscribe subscriptions@thedsgroup.co.uk email subscriptions@thedsgroup.co.uk or phone 020 or 3538 phone0268.

020 3538 Only those 0268. who Onlymeet thosethe who terms meet the terms of our controlled of ourcirculation controlled are circulation eligible to arereceive eligibleato free receive copy a free copy of Designer of Magazine.

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Top: BetteCurve in hazel Left BetteLiv in a silver finish

designerati.co.uk designer designer designerati.co.uk FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 269

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 269

FEMALE FRONTIERS

FEMALE FRONTIERS TOUCH POINTS

Meet the women who are pushing the creative boundaries

Meet the women Innovation in surfaces for who are pushing kitchens & bathrooms the creative boundaries

TOUCH POINTS Innovation in surfaces for kitchens & bathrooms

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

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16/02/2023 14:14 16/02/2023 14:14

designerati.co.uk / project

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Luxury for Living

EN MASSE BESPOKE INTERIORS

11

David Conlon pictured receiving the 2023 Super Luxe Kitchen Design award from Helen Lord, CoFounder of category sponsor UKE Home Solutions, and Rehome, the Kitchen, Bedroom, Bathroom outlet, and 2023 designerati awards host Tom Allen

A more detailed look at some of our 2023 designerati award-winners and finalists begins with the Super Luxe Kitchen Design of the Year by David Conlon of En Masse Bespoke Interiors, who explains some of the detail contained within this very special scheme…

designerati.co.uk / project

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The Sirius offering boasts distinctive Italian styling, along with innovative new technological and design features including anti condensation hoods. Sirius hoods are designed to be a high-end product in terms of design, materials, performance, and reliability, with a mid-range price point. explore the full range at siriushoods.co.uk

SLTC919 Wing

SL927 White Glass

SLT971 Less

Jeeg

Melody

Distributed exclusively in the UK by Westin | 01484 421585 | sales@westin.co.uk | siriushoods.co.uk

EN MASSE BESPOKE INTERIORS

13

Emerging as the winner in a highlycompetitive category, there is material mastery at its finest in this luxury American black walnut kitchen with black ceramic and blue Roma worktops. With top-end spec throughout, the stunning centerpiece of Conlon’s creation is an island that really showcases the craftsmanship at work in this bespoke design.

The homeowners have a young family with three children. Conlon explains: “The living/dining and kitchen area are all open plan, but the idea started when we first visited the property and noticed that all the skirtings and architraves had been produced from American Black Walnut.

This followed through into the dining area with a black marble tulip table and Walnut Cherner chairs. The owner is a watch dealer, passionate about his watches – I

“THE STUNNING CENTERPIECE IS AN ISLAND THAT REALLY SHOWCASES THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AT WORK IN THIS BESPOKE DESIGN”

was keen to introduce some luxury feeling dramatic marble with a gold tap as they are partial to luxury items.”

The space allowed for a long kitchen run of 8.2m to work with. Some of this area needed to double up as storage for the children’s toys, crockery for dining, and books, but Conlon was keen for these cabinets to read as part of the kitchen.

Conlon said: “One main factor we had to contend with were the two large

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“RECEIVING THE AWARD FOR THE SUPER LUXE KITCHEN CATEGORY WAS A REAL HIGHLIGHT” bulkheads which supported the back of the house from when the extension was completed. I opted to use the bottom of the bulkhead as our datum and feature walnut grills above the pocket door set and ceramic hob zone which offered ventilation to all of the appliances, while offering a crafted detail to the furniture.

“I wanted to set the Gaggenau ovens in their own housing really to feature them as they are so pleasing to look at.

The client agreed to a ‘black box’ idea which projected out of the walnut run to showcase these units. We used matte black fingerprint-free laminate here with touch to open drawers and doors.

“All of the kitchen furniture was solid lipped in walnut, then veneered with a random plank veneer with random plank widths to give a raw look. To finish the furniture, we used a non-yellowing matte lacquer. We made our own metal handles and had them finished in black powder coat. All drawers were Blum Legrabox with Blum storage solutions within.”

Conlon added: “My original intention

was for the walnut b-bar to be slatted so as you could see through it. But when the old kitchen was removed the waste pipe was not located where the client thought which led to us backing this in a solid Walnut panel. We finger jointed the top and waterfall end to showcase some of our joinery details which shows it was hand-crafted and is a one-off.”

On his subsequent win at last year’s designerati awards, Conlon said: “Receiving the award for the Super Luxe Kitchen category was a real highlight. Sharing this success with members of the En Masse Bespoke team and other designers was a real pleasure.

“A small but significant moment for me was when a member of the table we were on unknowingly referred to my kitchen design as an example of how high the standard of entries were this year! Hearing these comments from a fellow designer meant a great deal to me.”

En Masse Bespoke Interiors / enmassebespoke.com

EN MASSE BESPOKE INTERIORS

A NEW ERA FOR AGA

15

Introducing ERA the glass AGA AGA ERA is a mix of evolution and revolution. It’s where technology meets design and where heritage meets modernity. And it’s where glass is used extensively for the first time to create a striking, unified aesthetic that is beautiful, contemporary and fits perfectly into a modern kitchen.

agaliving.com

12413 AGA ERA Advert Designerati 240x340mm_V2.indd 1

Discover ERA

29/11/2023 15:30

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On the Trend With final preparations underway for next month’s kbb Birmingham show (3-6 March), we take a first look at the trends and key products expected to be shaping kitchen and bathroom design over the months ahead…

The kitchen and bathroom sector continues to push the boundaries of design with new creative ideas and innovative products, a huge range of which will be showcased at kbb Birmingham in March. The increase in more sustainable solutions and technological advances are key themes which are driving consumer demand as well as supporting their changing lifestyle needs.

By keeping interior design intuitive, bathroom environments can look and feel harmonious through accentuated curve features that are inspired by nature.

Complementing these curves and natural features with rich, earthy shades of rust, plaster, warm beige, and shades of green can further enhance the calm and sophisticated feel of the bathroom. This is reflected in new collections at the show from Acquabella and Roca.

Through tactile finishes, consumers can step away from minimalism and add greater detail to their bathroom with slatted furniture, reeded bath panels, and fluted detailing on baths and basins.

In both the bathroom and kitchen sectors, sustainability remains a key feature in interior design projects as consumers are keen to make conscious choices. Tom Reynolds, CEO of the BMA, said: “It has never been so important to encourage consumers to make water-efficient purchases for their bathroom to reduce household consumption.”

There are similar conscious efforts in kitchen trends with the perfectly imperfect kitchen – adding a personal touch

with reclaimed materials and secondhand pieces. By embracing the unique characteristics of old furniture, it can be combined with new solutions to keep the design fresh for years to come. This highlights another trend of using wooden furniture in the kitchen where the natural grain of the wood is showcased.

Homeowners are increasingly looking for creative ways of hiding spaces in the kitchen, whether to rid the room of clutter or create clever multifunctional storage solutions, such as those offered by exhibitor brands such as LochAnna and Rotpunkt.

Similarly, blended appliances can enhance the seamlessness of a kitchen in an open-plan living space. Brands such as Franke and Caple have designed discrete

Don’t miss the designerati Design Trail at this year’s kbb Birmingham – full details of these specially-selected product innovations will be revealed soon on designerati.co.uk and in the March issue of designerati magazine.

KBB BIRMINGHAM 2024

17 appliances to blend into the home and appear decorative whilst still maintaining their high-tech functions or energy-saving benefits.

Surfaces also have a big role to play of course, and kbb visitors can expect to see statement worktops and splashbacks with dramatic colours and veinings from the likes of Konigstone, Quartzforms, and Cimstone among others.

These trends and more will be on show at this year’s kbb Birmingham, taking place from 3-6 March 2024 at the NEC, featuring over 250 exhibitors and expecting to welcome an audience of over 15,000 visitors over four days. Registration is now open at the kbb website for a free visitor pass.

Sam Fisher, kbb Birmingham Event Director, said: “We can’t wait to welcome the KBB industry back to the NEC Birmingham in March 2024. With a whole host of innovative exhibitors set to take to the show floor, this is a must-attend event for retailers, installers, developers, designers and all those seeking the latest KBB products, services, design trends and inspiration for the year ahead.” kbb Birmingham 2024 / kbb.co.uk

This year’s sponsor of the kbb Innovation Awards and manufacturer of kitchen and furniture fittings, BLUM (stands C90, C85, B98), will launch REVEGO, a pocket door system designed to intuitively change entire spaces for multifunctional use.

Better Stands is kbb Birmingham’s parent company Infoma’s campaign to reduce the waste that stands at exhibitions can create. The team is working with customers to phase out all disposable stands at EMEA events by 2024. Better Stands also shows how sustainable business can be better business too. Reusable structures not only reduce waste, but they can reduce the time it takes to construct and take down stands, reduce the cost of design and construction and allow for investment in higher quality and more successful stands. All kbb Birmingham exhibitors are encouraged to either reuse or recycle at the end of the show, to help create a more sustainable event.

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Scudo, owned by Harrison Bathrooms (stand E54) is a family-run business dating back over 100 years.

The brand launched its new Edition 18 collection in the New Year and kbb Birmingham will be the first opportunity to showcase this. Hero products on display include the new KOKO opulent brassware and BOHO freestanding furniture which features a matt black frame and rustic oak accents.

InSinkErator (stand J84) will be introducing its Next Generation food waste disposers at kbb. Over 90 years on since their invention in 1927 by InSinkErator founder John W. Hammes, the Next Generation is the very latest incarnation which harnesses new technology to help provide a convenient, clean solution for managing food waste.

Now in its tenth year, the Innovation Awards, in partnership with Blum, will be back to highlight the most creative and ground-breaking solutions from brands in the sector. Areas of recognition include new methods and ideas or products that demonstrate innovation. The shortlist comprises a wide-ranging line-up of clever creations from across the kitchen and bathroom sector, all of which will be on display at the show. Pictured is Elica’s LHOV 3-in-1 appliance.

Westin (stand N84) will be launching a number of new products including the restyled Stratus Compact ceiling hood. The British manufacturer will also be displaying handcrafted, British made hoods from The Collection, and ultra-high-performance hoods from the professional range, as well as unique bespoke examples. In addition, as the sole UK distributor, Westin will also be presenting examples of the Sirius range of hoods, a longestablished Italian brand with distinct styling and high-end quality, at a mid-range price point. The Sirius hoods displayed will include models with the innovative anti-condensation technology.

KBB BIRMINGHAM 2024

Bringing the KBB Community Together

Credit: Rotpunkt Küchen

kbb Birmingham 3-6 March 2024, NEC Birmingham

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT WWW.KBB.CO.UK

Organised by:

Lead Media Partner:

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VitrA (stand D60, C64) will be showing a number of new products including the M-Line range of furniture and washbasins.

Consisting of two distinct styles, Edge and Pure, the collection integrates various forms, colours and sizes.

There will also be striking tile designs on show too, including the avant-garde collection Color2.0.

With a rich palette of 12 primary and 9 neutral tones, the range introduces numerous blending opportunities, alongside six size options for maximum flexibility.

Among a range of new products, Sonas Bathrooms (stand F30) will be previewing its GAIA bath at kbb Birmingham. Due for launch in mid-2024, the smooth sculptured freestanding bath draws inspiration from the surfaces of beach stones shaped by the sea. It has also been created with recyclability in mind as it can be mechanically or chemically recycled, regenerating a raw material that can be used again in the production of new products.

The Craft 5-in-1 Compact Oven from ASKO (stand M112) will be presented at kbb and features five different cooking methods, including full steam, microwave, hot air, combination hot air/ steam and combination hot air/microwave. It can also be teamed with an additional warming drawer which can be used for slow cooking, keeping food warm, defrosting food or heating plates.

KBB BIRMINGHAM 2024

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Triflow Concepts (stand E84) will be launching its new Triflow Hybrid Pro 4-in-1 tap range at kbb. The tap has a C-shaped spout design, available in matt black, gun metal, chrome and stainless steel and features a four-temperature selection boiler. It features a LED touch control button which also acts as a safety control.

Appliance brand AEG (stand G70) will be showcasing its new SaphirMatt Hob at kbb. It has a matte black finish on glass that is up to 4x more scratch-resistant according to independent tests. Its striking balance between high-level functionality and sleek aesthetics have earned it a place on the designerati Design Trail – see next month’s issue for full details on this and other must-see products at the show.

Rangemaster (stand J60) will be making its first appearance at the event in 10 years, with the company showcasing its range cooker, sink and tap collections on Stand J60.

It will also unveil a line-up of new range cooker families – the first additions to its portfolio since the successful launch of NEXUS Steam in 2019 – and introduce six new colours, bringing the brand’s palette to 14. Pictured are the Streamline Pro ceiling extractor and the Cosmo stainless steel sink with drainer.

designerati.co.uk / interview

PHOTOGRAPHY: AMAURY LAPARRA

Made to

Measure

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TRISTAN AUER

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Nothing about the work of designer Tristan Auer is ‘standard’. Bespoke has always been the cornerstone of his creative career, as he explains to Martin Allen-Smith Interior design and human emotion are inextricably linked. So says Paris-based designer and architect Tristan Auer whose work stretches across a bewilderingly broad array of disciplines, from top-end hotels to residences, furniture including tables, seats, lighting and fabric, to car and train interiors – but all very much exuding personalised luxury.

He has overseen a remarkably rapid growth for his eponymous studio, from a one-man outfit to today’s team of 45.

“It’s a real challenge, because I learned and studied as a designer, never as a businessman. I have had to learn all of this – making mistakes along the way.”

Before going it alone, Auer learned his trade with some of the industry’s biggest hitters, working at the studios of Christian Liaigre and Philippe Starck for several years.

“After that, I had to reinvent myself and find my own niche. I was passionate about

“AS INTERIOR DESIGNERS, WE HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO HELP PEOPLE TO LIVE BETTER”

bespoke design, but in 2002 it was not fashionable at all – in fact, it was seen as old fashioned in a sense. Now of course, it is a trend.”

He undertook projects with major brands such as Chanel and Cartier. “These brands deeply know and understand the world of bespoke, so I had the wonderful chance right from the beginning to work with bespoke at the very highest level.”

“My studio is full of materials and samples – I call it my treasure – because from all of this anything is possible. That’s the beauty of bespoke design.”

The shift for manufacturers from offering just a limited range to a huge choice of materials and finishes has been a long and gradual change, but one that Auer very much welcomes. “I have known Philippe Grohe [former Head of the AXOR brand] for many years and while designing some of my hotel projects I was always pushing him to make this or that special finish. Now they do all kinds of finishes as part of their range.

“I am sure there will be even more we can do with brass and it’s important that we do so. There are really only a few items that we touch in our homes. There are door handles, there are taps, drawers and cupboard handles – everything else you look at and don’t touch. So those surfaces should be treated as jewels and receive the best finishes possible, not just in terms of the colour and appearance but also the touch.”

The post-pandemic period brought about a lasting appreciation of the value

designerati.co.uk / interview

24 of our home spaces, not just as a shift towards greater hybrid working has become established but also just from understanding the inherent value in ensuring the places in which we live are the best that they can be. “It’s good for brands like AXOR that people are paying such attention, and also that they are looking for products with longevity, that look good and work well for the long-term.

It’s no longer in people’s mindset to buy something for the home and then replace it after a couple of years – that throwaway mentality has gone.”

“It means that when people select something like a tap, it has more meaning now. Quality becomes more important, and that’s a very good thing for any brand known for this such as AXOR.” The holy grail for manufacturers is of course to make not only quality products but ones that also have longevity.

Axor MyEdition tap in matt black

How does anyone go about creating timelessness? “Designers should know,” Auer says. “It is their job to understand the future and what will be the new way of life.

It’s their responsibility. When I undertake a renovation or any other project for a client, I am intended to create something that is fit to last 40 years. That is my goal.

If after five years the client feels they need to change it, then that is not success.

This is why it is important to take time with a design and ensure that it has a legacy. That should be an essential part of learning at design school.”

Working on an average of around 30 projects at any one time is the ultimate test of task-juggling for anyone, so how does Auer manage it? “There are a number of factors that help me. I am passionate about what I’m doing, I’m impatient, and I like to design fast.

“I also really like to tell stories – not just because I decide that there is a story to tell, but because there is a necessity.

The Carlton Cannes project for example was not a personal story of mine – I was not rich enough to spend my own holidays there – but there was a need to take this famous hotel on the French Riviera on to its next stage, to refresh it and preserve it.

“Similarly, for a residential scheme, the story I am telling is not mine. I am doing it for the residents, for the homeowners and their family. In some ways it feels like I’m a tailor, creating suits for my clients that fit them and their lifestyles perfectly.”

As well as being a sign of the demand for his services, taking on so many of these ‘stories’ at the same time is also Auer’s way of keeping boredom at bay.

“Some of these projects last a long time – the Carlton Cannes was seven years of my life for example – and it is important to maintain consistency throughout. Mixing projects and clients in this way keeps things consistently fresh.”

TRISTAN AUER

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Developed by Paris-based designer Tristan Auer as part of the AXOR Personalities campaign, this original bathroom concept takes inspiration from place – not just the sights but the sounds, smells and textures. Auer used the suggested setting of a high-rise apartment in Hong Kong, which he likens to the cityscapes of Ridley Scott’s iconic film Blade Runner.

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Drawing inspiration from the film’s juxtapositions of teeming streets and futuristic skyscrapers, Auer matched a curated selection of materials, eras and surfaces within his design. Among these is the diamond-cut pyramidal pattern of the AXOR Edge tap by Jean-Marie Massaud.

Perhaps the paradox here is that consistency for creatives is often seen in the form of an established, recognisable personal style and yet providing unique solutions is what Auer prides himself on.

So does he have, at least in some form, a signature style? “I have no idea. I still don’t know, and I still don’t care. I have no answer for that because I do my job with my instinct and with the love of the project, my client and the job I’m doing. In fact, I learn from each project and with my clients. Each one cultivates me creatively.

“After all, I started with none of these skills. I had no drawing skills, I knew little about music or art or culture but I have learnt much, firstly thanks to the designers I worked with and also with my clients.”

It is why, Auer adds, working with the right client is so important. “I have to find the right clients. What I give to them they

[SEE DESIGNERATI.CO.UK FOR THE FULL VERSION OF THIS INTERVIEW]

very much give back to me as well. It has to be a collaboration. I never assume to be friends with my clients – after all, I am ultimately delivering a service – but if by chance it goes that way then great. But otherwise, my role is to provide for them a space that is tailor-made to their needs and which has the potential to enhance their lives.”

The bathroom, in particular, has a big role to play in our domestic relationships, Auer says. “Bathrooms can kill a couple.

A badly-designed space can make things stressful and divisive. Instead, always put a stool beside the bathtub so that when one is taking a bath then the other can share some relaxed time with them at the end of the working day.

“These ideas are key. As interior designers, we have a responsibility to help people to live better.”

Tristan Auer / tristanauer.com Hansgrohe / hansgrohe.co.uk / axor-design.com

VITRA

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VitrA has created what it says is the world’s first 100% recycled ceramic washbasin, made from 100% recycled materials. The manufacturer says it has developed the product as part of its wider commitment to using less resources, minimising waste and maximising its contribution to the circular economy.

The new basin utilises broken and discarded ceramics, along with other waste materials from the manufacturing process that would typically end up in landfill. ​ VitrA’s recycled washbasin is available in five different shapes, each with soft, curved edges in a matt clay beige finish.

VitrA / vitra.co.uk

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MULTI C I

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nl c o ot re n Vit s ti rA h 0% as created a sink tha rst 10 with fi what it claims is the

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SHERATON INTERIORS

29 A project with a detailed client wish-list meant combining high-level functionality with a style that would fit its Victorian home surroundings. Shehryar Kahn, Director at Sheraton Interiors, talks us through the scheme...

I had the pleasure of working with a young professional couple who recently acquired a stunning four-bedroom detached property in Rickmansworth.

Their dream was to undertake a complete refurbishment of their new home, including an extension specifically designed to accommodate their ideal kitchen.

This project was particularly exciting as it allowed for the creation of a space that blended the classic charm of their Victorian home with modern functionality and style. Halfway through the construction phase, the couple received the wonderful news that they were expecting their first child. This added an extra layer of joy and significance to the project.

Meeting the Brief

My client’s brief was quite specific and visionary. They wanted a modern, handleless kitchen that emphasized both functionality and aesthetics. The kitchen needed to offer abundant storage solutions while maintaining a sleek and uncluttered appearance.

There also needed to be a large island with seating which was to be a central feature of the design, intended not only to serve as a cook zone and preparation area but also include seating, making it a social hub within the space.

It was also important to ensure that the kitchen blended seamlessly with the openplan space. This meant designing the units to resemble elegant piece of furniture rather than standard, floor-to-ceiling handless slab kitchen units. The inclusion of open shelving was important for the

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“IT WAS IMPORTANT TO ENSURE THAT THE KITCHEN BLENDED SEAMLESSLY WITH THE OPEN-PLAN SPACE” clients, allowing for display space without compromising too much on storage.

The design had to accommodate several must-have appliances and features, including a conventional oven, a compact oven-microwave combo, a downdraft gas hob, a boiling water tap, and ample worktop space for preparation. The island’s design also needed to incorporate seating.

My approach was to integrate these elements into a harmonious design that reflected the clients’ lifestyle and aesthetic preferences, ensuring that the kitchen was not only a functional space for cooking but also a beautiful part of their home where they could gather and create memories.

THE SPEC

Sheraton Interiors / sheratoninteriors.co.uk DB Interior Studio / dbinteriorstudio.com

Kitchen furniture: We opted for the Italian handleless range from Binova. The primary colour was Opaco, a warm cashmere tone in a velvet lacquer finish. To add a unique and bespoke element, I designed bespoke fluted units painted in Little Greene Harley Green (312). These bespoke units were sourced and painted locally, providing a custom, and highquality unique finish.

Worktops: For the worktops, I chose Dekton Radium. The sink run and pantry were designed with a 20mm thickness, while the island was a standout feature, built up to 60mm with a striking mitred waterfall edge on the side facing the garden.

The same material was used for the splashback, creating a striking contrast against the fluted furniture and ensuring low maintenance in the wet zone, which included a Quooker boiling tap.

The island design: The island featured three large sets of drawers, providing ample and flexible storage for the cooking zone. A gas downdraft hob – Elica’s NikolaTesla – was chosen to suit the budget while maintaining quality.

With ceiling heights of 2400mm, we ensured an unobstructed view of the splashback and fluted wall units. The island also included 900mm of prep space on either side of the hob and seating for six people in an L-shaped configuration, fostering a sociable environment.

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Wet zone and lighting: This area incorporated an integrated dishwasher, a pull-out bin with recycling options, and additional storage. Under the wall units, we installed warm white LED lighting for task illumination and to enhance the overall look of the kitchen.

Design accents: Open shelves above the half-height oven housing were added, with the back cladded in antique mirror, allowing the clients to personalize the space. A breakfast pantry with a pocket door system, LED lighting, and Dekton worktops was also designed for rigorous use and easy maintenance. Other products specified included brassware by Buster + Punch as well as Blanco’s Etagon Silgranit sink in Alumetallic

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Touch and

Feel

The very latest in material products will be on show this month when the Surface Design Show opens its doors at London’s Business Design Centre (6-8 February)

P

Preparations for Surface Design Show are well underway with a brand-new theme, the return of new & familiar elements such as the New Talent showcase, the Stone Knowledge Hub and the expert speaker programme, as well as the annual Surface Design Awards.

The theme for the 2024 edition – Mindful Living – explores the balance between design intuition and analytical thinking to achieve meaningful experiences. The theme will address what role materials and their properties will play in the multi-sensory space, how the virtual and real worlds continue to merge, and what technological advancements and investments in new design approaches mean for the built environment.

Among the elements where the theme will feature prominently is Surface Spotlight Live, the material showcase curated by design & trend expert Sally Angharad, which will highlight the cutting-edge surfaces, finishes and processes that embrace the

future and harness the vital role materials play in design across all sectors.

The show’s traditional opening night debate will also focus on the Mindful Living theme. This will take place on the main stage where, over the following two and a half days, a range of debates, panels, trend forecasts and insights into the latest material innovations will take place. The Legends Live series of fireside chats with experienced industry professionals also returns.

The New Talent area, curated once again by Jennifer Castoldi, Chief Creative Director at Trendease, will feature some of the very best in emerging creatives displaying an inspiring range of biomaterials, natural materials, textiles, furniture and wallpaper.

Meanwhile, the latest iteration of Stone Tapestry also returns. For four years running, Squire & Partners in collaboration with Stone Federation have been invited to curate an

SURFACE DESIGN SHOW

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explorative natural stone exhibit at the heart of the show’s Stone Gallery.

This year, the interactive installation comes to life through the expertise of The Stonemasonry Company in partnership with Webb Yates Engineers. Stone Tapestry: Beyond the Surface aims to spotlight the aesthetic beauty, sustainability and adaptability of the UK’s native stones.

“THE 2024 THEME – MINDFUL LIVING – EXPLORES THE BALANCE BETWEEN DESIGN INTUITION AND ANALYTICAL THINKING” The design emphasises how a meticulous integration of stone, coupled with design elements that accentuate its natural hues and textures, can significantly elevate sustainability benchmarks compared to conventional materials.

The Surface Design Awards are of course a much-anticipated part of the show, attracting entries from the UK, Europe and Asia. The Awards celebrate and promote excellence in material innovation and the 2024 edition are judged by an expert panel made up of architects and interior designers, all of whom have made a name for themselves in the industry.

This year’s Surface Design Show will see a presentation by Colour Hive entitled CMF

Directions 2025. It will host live seminars featuring two diverse stories from their 2025 forecast exploring the macro drivers, colour palettes and material and finish directions in an inspiring and insightful presentation.

The stories are ‘Soul’, which explores sustainability, wellbeing, and a devotional connection to nature as a response to increased levels of eco-anxiety and ‘Hack’ which looks at how the snowballing of advancements in tech could impact creativity. There will also be an edit of inspirational objects and materials inspired by ‘Hack’.

Surface Design Show / surfacedesignshow.com

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EXIT

EXIT

ONE LAST THING TO INSPIRE...

IMAGE: ELLIE HARDING

[SEE THE FULL STORY AT DESIGNERATI.CO.UK]

A project informing designs for supportive housing for people living with young-onset Alzheimer’s, was among the winners of the 2023 RIBA President’s Medals.

The RIBA Silver Medal for the best design project produced at RIBA Part 2 or equivalent was awarded to Ellie Harding (pictured right) at the London School of Architecture for her project Nobody Wants to Live in a Care Home.

Harding says Alzheimer’s disease is not limited to the elderly and supportive housing options fail to reflect this, meaning people diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s, often with young families, can face difficult choices. Nobody Wants to Live in a Care Home enables families to continue to live together and asks how an architectural understanding of the effects of Alzheimer’s on spatial perception can be used to create better architectural and interior spaces for those living with the disease.

The project explains how an architectural understanding of the spatial confusion

associated with the disease presents an opportunity to radically reimagine a design approach for dementia spaces, prioritising quality of life and cognitive accessibility. This has been informed by the distinction between egocentric and allocentric spatial cognition – whereas a healthy brain takes egocentric, or point-of-view route-based spatial information, and forms an allocentric, or bird’s-eye cognitive map, studies of Alzheimer’s show this translation begins to break down, causing increased reliance on egocentric perception.

Harding said: “I would like to thank RIBA and the judging panel for their recognition of this project, that seeks to improve the lives of people living with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. I was inspired by the lived experiences of a close friend, and I am proud to advocate for better spaces which support the whole family.”

Now in their 187th year, the RIBA President’s Medals recognise the world’s best work of architecture students through design projects and dissertations.

RIBA / architecture.com

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