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What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Travel allows me to stay at the forefront of design by exposing me to diverse cultures, trends, and innovative ideas from around the world. Each new destination offers fresh inspiration, whether it’s through architecture, art, or local craftsmanship, keeping my design perspective dynamic and forward-thinking. The global experiences I gather help me incorporate unique elements into our work, ensuring it remains relevant and cutting-edge.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

I see several key trends shaping the future of interior design. First, there’s a strong focus on creating “happy interiors,” spaces that promote positivity and well-being. This ties into the growing emphasis on at-home wellness, where design is used to enhance mental and physical health. Additionally, wellness is making its way into the business world, with companies prioritising environments that support employee well-being. Lastly, I believe there’s a return to classic, timeless design—moving away from fleeting trends and investing in enduring aesthetics that never go out of style.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

My signature style is rooted in timeless and classic design, creating spaces that feel both enduring and elegant. I love layering rich textiles – such as luxurious fabrics and textured materials – to add depth and warmth. Standout art pieces are key in my approach, serving as focal points that tell a story and evoke emotion. I also incorporate antiques with superior craftsmanship, blending history with modern sensibilities to create unique, well-curated environments. The result is a harmonious balance of sophistication, comfort, and personality that transcends trends.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

Technology in the Care sector is increasingly influencing the way we approach design within our Commercial projects. To support an ageing population, we must stay at the forefront of innovation, incorporating smart technologies and accessible design solutions. This means creating spaces that aid independence, such as incorporating adaptive layouts, assistive devices, and user-friendly technologies. By considering the needs of both residents and operators, we can design environments that not only enhance quality of life but also make it easier for care providers to deliver the best support possible.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

What sets us apart is our unwavering attention to detail and our ability to inject warmth into every project. We take a holistic approach, considering every aspect of a space to ensure it feels cohesive and purposeful. Our passion for design is evident in everything we do – we genuinely care about the outcome, and it matters to us that our work not only meets but exceeds expectations. It’s this dedication and personal investment that make our projects truly stand out.

Do you have key partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, or brands?

I believe in investing in long-term relationships with both suppliers and clients, and I’m proud to still work with many I first engaged with over 16 years ago. People and relationships are at the core of what I do, built on trust, loyalty, and a commitment to best practices. These enduring partnerships create a strong foundation for mutual success and continuous growth.

For example, recent collaborations include Julian Chichester X Bernard London – The Monterey Collection – a capsule collection launching in March at London Design Week and in April at High Point Market.

“This collection provides a unique opportunity to deliver a collection that combines heritage with innovation – exquisite pieces that are not only visually stunning but also functional and worthy of a Global stage.”

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What’s your secret to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Curiosity and adaptability. We are constantly researching, experimenting, and collaborating with artisans, suppliers, and brands to inform and improve our designs and interiors. Attending global design fairs, embracing new materials, technologies, and listening to both clients and guests allow us to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

How do trends influence your design style?

While we stay informed about trends, I wouldn’t say we blindly follow them. What we do instead is analysing their longevity and adaptability, incorporating elements that align with our design ethos. Over the past two decades, we’ve seen shifts from minimalism to maximalism, then the rise of biophilic design, for example. The key for us is balancing contemporary influences with timeless elegance.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs and everyday work?

We have published a manifesto and a new updated manifesto is about to come! It will reflect our commitment to creating responsible designs that respect the environment while maintaining luxury and comfort. Sustainability is embedded in our design process, from material selection to energy efficiency. We prioritise locally sourced materials, recycled and upcycled elements, and work with manufacturers who adhere to sustainable practices… it’s not easy but it’s our duty and responsibility in the industry.

Would you say you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

Rather than adhering to a fixed style, we embrace a distinctive approach—one that seamlessly blends functionality with immersive, holistic experiences. Our designs are characterised by a warm, layered aesthetic, rich tactile materials, and a deep connection to the cultural and historical essence of each location. Every space is unique, yet a refined and thoughtful sensibility runs through all our work, creating an authentic and meaningful design narrative.

How do technology and innovation influence your work?

Technology is integral to both the design process and the final guest experience. Design is about crafting with the most effective tools available, and we embrace innovations that enhance efficiency and unlock creativity. By leveraging technology, we can focus on what truly matters—creating exceptional interiors that elevate the guest experience.

What has been your company’s proudest achievement so far?

It’s hard to choose just one, but being entrusted with projects for globally recognised brands and seeing our designs come to life in iconic locations is incredibly fulfilling. While winning industry awards and being featured in prestigious publications are significant milestones, the true reward comes from the positive feedback of guests who experience and connect with our spaces.

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Bazaar London is the customisable furniture brand built for interior designers. Created by the award-winning team behind Accouter Group of Companies (AGC) – Britain’s first B-Corp certified interior design collective – Bazaar London offers you direct access to the same expert craftsmanship, manufacturers, and bespoke pieces that have furnished over 5,000 of the world’s most luxurious residences.

Designed for trade professionals, Bazaar London combines over a decade of design expertise with exclusive trade pricing, a highly customisable product range, and a trusted network of British artisans and manufacturers. Whether you need a unique centrepiece or a full collection of heirloom-quality pieces, we’re here to support your creative vision with precision, reliability, and style.

Design Stories: Furniture With Provenance

Our collections are inspired by real spaces and real stories. From the iconic OWO Residences in London to Atlantis The Royal Residences in Dubai, pieces once created exclusively for these landmark projects can now be made yours.

Take The OWO Collection, born from Accouter’s show residences at London’s iconic Old War Office. Designed to balance classic grandeur with contemporary lines, each item in this collection reflects the building’s storied past and its reimagined future as one of the city’s most prestigious residences.

The Whitehall Dining Table exemplifies this vision. With its high-gloss tabletop and sculptural, wave-like base, it offers a refined yet inviting aesthetic. Designed to anchor a room and draw people together, it transitions effortlessly from grand entertaining to intimate gatherings – illuminated by candlelight or framed beneath a statement chandelier.

In the same collection, The Horse Guard Corner Sofa delivers a masterclass in quiet luxury. Wrapped in cloud-soft neutral upholstery, its clean lines, fluted wood base, and integrated side table offer a serene escape. It was crafted to complement the scale and elegance of The OWO, and now serves as the perfect centrepiece for living spaces that favour comfort without compromise.

Another story unfolds at The Walpole Townhouse, newly unveiled as the headquarters of Walpole – the official body for British luxury. Designed by A.LONDON, this exceptional space is a gathering point for the country’s most esteemed luxury brands and a celebration of British craft.

At its heart is The Walpole Members’ Room, where Bazaar London pieces were commissioned to reflect the townhouse’s refined atmosphere. The Vine Street Swivel Armchair, with its sculptural silhouette and plush form, brings drama and comfort in equal measure. Upholstered in Zoffany and Sanderson’s Suzani Archive Weave Serpentine Fabric, it features a contrasting back that adds bold visual interest – making it a conversation piece in any room.

Complementing this, the Wilson Armchair introduces tailored sophistication. Upholstered in Sanderson’s Sunflower Caffoy Velvet Fabric in Tump by Morris & Co., it offers both elegance and ease. Whether styled in a private study, a home library, or a luxury lounge, it’s made for spaces where detail matters. This same model has also featured at The Old Abbey House Hotel, proving its versatility across both residential and boutique hospitality settings.

Completing the Walpole collection, the Bains Bench was upholstered in a bespoke fabric to match the deep coral tones of the Members’ Room. Understated and elegant, it’s the perfect accent for hallways, bedrooms, or anywhere that calls for quiet luxury.

British Craftsmanship, Eco-Conscious Values

All Bazaar London pieces are handmade in England, and we work closely with a network of skilled artisans who bring each design to life with precision and care. This close collaboration ensures exceptional quality and craftsmanship, meaning our customers can feel assured that their pieces are made from and by the very best in the industry.

We are proud to uphold the values of British manufacturing while championing modern design. Our commitment to AGC’s B Corp certification is woven into every piece: from responsibly sourced hardwoods to low-impact finishes and eco-conscious packaging. Each product reflects our ambition to leave a lighter footprint on the world without compromising on luxury.

The Bazaar Trade Account: Made for Design Professionals

At Bazaar London, we understand that the sourcing process is a craft in itself. Our Trade Account programme is tailored for interior designers, architects, and industry professionals who need partners they can rely on for exceptional products and collaborative service.

By becoming a Bazaar London Trade partner, designers gain access to exclusive benefits including:
– Pricing and trade discounts
– Dedicated account management
– Direct liaison with our design teams

We aim to support your vision, not compete with it. Whether you’re furnishing a single room or sourcing for a global project, our team is here to bring your design narrative to life with confidence and flair.

Applying is simple. Fill out our online form and a member of our trade team will be in touch to guide you through the process.

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RAK Ceramics, one of the largest ceramics brands in the world, proudly announces the launch of its next-generation slab production facility featuring the advanced Continua+ PCR 2180 technology—marking a major upgrade in its large-format slab manufacturing capabilities. This milestone further solidifies the company’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

RAK Ceramics was one of the first in the world to adopt Continua technology in 2012 and the first to introduce large-format slabs in the Middle East with its pioneering Maximus product range. This initial step revolutionized the regional ceramics market and positioned the company at the forefront of slab innovation. Since then, RAK Ceramics has continuously expanded its slab portfolio, leveraging Continua to improve design flexibility, production efficiency, and digital capabilities.

A New Era in Slab Manufacturing

The newly operational facility leverages Continua+ PCR 2180, one of the most advanced and efficient slab production technologies available today. This technology ensures high productivity with minimal material wastage and enables full digital synchronisation at every stage of production, allowing for precision and flexibility in manufacturing.

In a bid to enhance sustainability, the facility features a seven-layer horizontal dryer, designed to operate on total heat recovery from the kiln, significantly reducing fuel consumption while optimising energy efficiency. The new line is evaluated to be more energy efficient in comparison to current continua setup.

Industry-First Digital Advancements

The slab production facility boasts state-of-the-art digital glazing technology, enabling the combined application of inks and materials. This innovation enhances design capabilities, offering high-definition patterns, deep digital structures, and advanced dry digital glaze/granule applications. Additionally, the facility incorporates multilayer granule application technology, fully synchronised with digital processes, ensuring uniform and seamless finishes across all slab productions.

Largest Kiln in the Middle East & Smart Manufacturing

RAK Ceramics has also introduced the longest European kiln in the Middle East, stretching 300 metres, reinforcing its high-capacity production capabilities. The facility integrates a smart scheduling storage system, incorporating real-time control and monitoring to enhance operational efficiency. A fully automated quality control system eliminates manual inspections by monitoring tiles at multiple production stages, ensuring unmatched product quality.

With the launch of its first-ever matting line for slab production, RAK Ceramics has standardised processes to maintain uniform finishes across various slab sizes. Additionally, the auto cutting line ensures consistency in customised product formats, optimising the production process.

Advanced Packaging & Sustainability Initiatives

The newly launched facility also features an automatic shrink hood wrapping machine, eliminating manual packaging processes and improving efficiency. Its advanced packing line supports multiple palletisation methods, including A-frames, L-frames, and wooden boxes, with a robotic arm for seamless logistics management.

With an annual production capacity of 4 million square metres, the facility is equipped to manufacture slabs in multiple thicknesses ranging from 6mm to 20mm, with a maximum size of 180×360 cm—currently the largest in the industry. Standard slab sizes include 162×324 cm at 12mm thickness, as well as 80×320 cm uncut slabs for countertops. To further enhance durability, mesh reinforcement is applied to all 162×324 cm slab productions.

A Strategic Leap Forward

The launch of this 100 million AED facility represents a strategic investment in the future of slab manufacturing, reinforcing RAK Ceramics’ position as an industry pioneer. By integrating IoT-enabled smart manufacturing, zero manual intervention for quality inspection, and enhanced digital glazing techniques, the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.

This milestone reflects RAK Ceramics’ ongoing commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to its global clientele, ensuring superior quality, unparalleled design possibilities, and an optimised production process.

Abdallah Massaad, Group CEO of RAK Ceramics, stated, “At RAK Ceramics, our commitment to innovation and sustainability is at the core of our growth strategy. The launch of our exclusive slab production facility reflects our dedication to advanced, efficient, and environmentally responsible manufacturing. By investing in cutting-edge technology such as the Continua+ PCR 2180 technology, we are not only enhancing our production capabilities but also reinforcing our leadership in sustainable ceramics manufacturing. We remain focused on delivering high-quality, innovative products that meet the evolving needs of our customers worldwide.”

RAK Ceramics’ strategic investments in advanced technology and sustainable manufacturing are shaping the future of the ceramics industry. With the successful launch of its state-of-the-art slab production facility, the company is reinforcing its position as a global pioneer, delivering superior products that meet the highest standards of quality, design, and environmental responsibility.

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Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

We try not to have a house style which effectively means every project resembles the other. Having trained as a stage designer initially I have learned that variety of styles makes you more creative and you also never get bored with repetition. It also allows us to work on very diverse projects. What perhaps unites them is the dedication to styling factors in our design philosophy. And every project is another milestone.

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

We have the same principle of collaboration that is a very united team working together. What changes is the way we interact and brainstorm – as we move towards virtual design platforms where everything is immediate and three-dimensional collaboration becomes even more important, especially at the beginning of the project. Our collaboration often involves testing of the new standards for documentation as well and we try to immediately implement it in the workflow – this makes it very hands on as well as creative. Creativity without pragmatism and buildability will always remain just on paper.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

I believe the future is in the combination of technology and experience. Also, multicultural fluency will be paramount as the means of interaction with our clients is rapidly changing. It is not unusual for us to collaborate with our clients on different continents in totally digital format which makes our work so much more than just design behind the desk. This also extends to site supervision and collaboration with the artisans and manufacturers around the world.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

Our sustainability approach is fairly simple – design for long term and stay away from “fast fashion interiors”, use natural materials and stay local if possible. Support smaller companies and work with them to produce unique elements in your designs – this takes sustainability to a more humanistic level which I value greatly.

Do you have a signature style or hallmark design approach?

I would describe our signature style as “Wellness in living environments”. Perfect harmony, precise symmetry and ergonomic and logical space planning coupled with abundance of daylight. Artificial lighting highlighting the key forms and emphasising the most important aspects of the interiors is also extremely important.

Do you have key partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, or brands?

It is very important that we do. Ultimately without the artisans, manufacturers and suppliers no interiors can come to life. We tend to take this very seriously and rely hugely on each other’s expertise and support. These partnerships are also very long standing and have been tested by many challenges we have faced on the projects be they budget or time related. What counts is perfection and quality of the final product as well as consistency from project to project.

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How does your team collaborate on major projects?

Collaboration is fundamental to our approach; we understand that an aesthetic vision needs to be anchored in technical knowhow, and we value the expertise of a diverse range of shareholders on every single project who are essential to its success.

We believe in creating a collaborative environment where partners feel empowered to contribute their unique expertise and work closely with the project managers to ensure workshops are facilitated both on site and remotely, to ensure that communication remains fluid and all parties fully informed. As an interior designer, you are often the connective tissue that binds multiple parts together on a big project.

Creative collaborations are also key to our studio’s approach. We work closely with craftspeople, specialist finishers, makers, and with individual artists on all of our schemes to bring distinction to the interiors. Art is fundamental to our practice: we connect artists with the architecture of our spaces to create site specific commissions that are unique to the space. From bespoke botanical plaster murals to hand painted silk roomscapes, to funghi walls, and more recently working on a data-driven articulated sculpture, artistic collaborations are a key component in our work.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

For us this begins by constantly challenging conventional thinking. Internally, I always encourage a culture of exploration and experimentation and am continually asking the team to question why they are making specific choices. For our conceptual ideation, we always reference realms outside of design because that brings a fresh energy to the work we create and we bring in-studio education to the team through our Talk Thursdays programme that introduces alternative approaches.

We do of course actively engage with the design industry through the industry events and biennales, some of which we will be collaborating on next year. Also, given my social sciences background, I am equally interested to attend events that speak to more diverse interests. For example, new technologies or developments in the world of well-being that will eventually impact our industry, and this cross-pollination of ideas helps to encourage innovating thinking in the studio.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

This is a really tough one for us as we work globally, so the very process of producing and being present across global sites is by definition unsustainable, but we actively take steps to make the process more sustainable from each location. We are very conscious of sourcing materials locally where possible, and to find local craftspeople for the construction of key elements in the scheme to lower the carbon footprint of their production.

We also prioritise the creation of unique, high-quality, durable products that are designed for longevity and timeless appeal, to be treated as future heirlooms, rather than those with a built-in obsolescence. We have learned that creating designs that endure can be a more sustainable strategy than focusing on a lot of recycled or energy-consuming methods; there is a balance to be had.

We are continuing to look at our sustainability practices, and this year hope to do a carbon-footprint audit on our projects to see if we can become more conscious of that imprint and where it is most significant so we can then work together with our clients to provide solutions that will reduce it every time.

What advice would you give to emerging designers?

Always follow the map unfolding within you. Don’t be swayed by the ‘shoulds’ and conventions that get in the way of what continually ignites your passion and makes you feel alive when you create. I took an unconventional path to get here, studying Anthropology rather than design at UCL before forging an unplanned multidisciplinary career working across editorials, television and immersive live events, before I eventually decided to deepen into interior design. I thought at the time that my idiosyncratic story would hold me back when in fact I now recognise it as the reason our studio is so distinctive. I would encourage all emerging designers to follow their curiosity and see where it takes them.

What sets your work apart in the industry?

We are committed to designing spaces that transcend trends, so our work is sometimes difficult to define. There is a bold feminine beauty that runs through all of our designs, grounded by a rational masculinity that creates a beautiful tension and lends our work a timeless quality that has an enduring integrity. There is something profoundly personal about our work and that seems to make it very memorable.

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At Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, Karndean unveiled a powerful installation exploring how flooring can support neurodiverse individuals. Using the principles of neuro inclusive design, the experience highlighted how the built environment can meet both hypersensitive and hyposensitive needs—through calm, stimulation, and the thoughtful transitions in between.

“Designing for neurodiversity is about more than accessibility. It’s about recognising and celebrating difference,” said Richard Allen, sales director at Karndean Designflooring. “Flooring plays a vital role in shaping how people feel, move, and focus in a space.”

Calm and comfort for hypersensitive needs

One half of the installation was designed to soothe. With soft wood grains, low contrast matte finishes and a muted, biophilic palette, the space showed how calm environments can support those sensitive to sensory input. A cocooning arch form added a sense of safety, ideal for settings like quiet rooms or waiting areas.

Energy and engagement for hyposensitive needs

In contrast, the other half stimulated the senses with bold geometric flooring, vibrant colours, and varied textures. Designed for those who seek stimulation to stay focused, this zone echoed the energy of play areas, gyms or breakout spaces. Every detail encouraged movement, curiosity and engagement.

Supporting transition through thoughtful design

Linking the two was a staircase that gradually blended calm and bold elements, demonstrating how transitional spaces like corridors and hallways can help people move comfortably between sensory states. Step by step, the flooring shifted in colour and texture, serving as both a practical and conceptual bridge. “Many environments are unconsciously designed around neurotypical experiences,” said Richard. “But inclusive design must consider the full sensory spectrum, and we believe flooring can be a powerful tool to do just that.”

Turning insight into action

The installation included talking points to spark reflection and conversation. It supported Karndean’s wider mission—empowering designers with the tools and knowledge to create inclusive spaces. Their RIBA approved CPD, Designing Neuro Inclusive Environments, offers practical guidance on how to integrate neurodiversity into every stage of the design process.

With one in seven people in the UK identifying as neurodivergent, and only one in three feeling comfortable disclosing it at work, there is a clear need to design spaces that support different ways of thinking and being. Flooring, often the most visible and tactile element in a room, plays a significant role in that experience.

“By combining insight, design guidance and products that bring calm and clarity to a space, we’re proud to support the growing movement toward more inclusive, human centred environments,” added Richard.

Karndean’s installation was more than a visual showcase. It brought inclusive design principles to life and reaffirmed the brand’s role as a trusted partner for designers committed to making a real difference.

To find out more and register your interest for the Designing Neuro Inclusive Environments seminar, visit karndean.com/cpd.

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Can you share a project that best represents your design style?

We are particularly proud of our latest development, Three Kings Mayfair, which has just completed. 1.61 London found the unique site that sits behind Grosvenor Square and crafted eight beautiful homes representing the pinnacle of contemporary living at one of London’s finest addresses. Completely private and secluded from outside view, Three Kings Mayfair offers a haven of tranquillity with access via a secure gated entry point. Located in the heart of Mayfair, the development is perfectly connected with Oxford Street and Bond Street within a short walking distance. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, shopping trip or dining out, you’ve got all you need on your doorstep.

1.61 London and Urbanwise set up a new joint venture in 2021 after working together on a number of multi-unit new build residential developments with a combined portfolio value of over £1bn. The two developers partnered with Investment firm Valpre Capital for the delivery of the Three Kings Mayfair project.

How does your team collaborate on major projects?

We have spent years finding a best-in-class team that covers the entire remit of sourcing, funding, designing, rendering and then delivering a development or client led project. These in house skills allow us to create a fully considered vision for a project. Each team member is heavily involved in supporting the delivery of any of the projects we are undertaking through continuous teamwork and collaboration under the leadership of Michael who always ensures that the team are laser focused on delivering the absolute best possible result.

What steps do you take to stay at the forefront of the design industry?

Our clients demand that we continue to innovate and source the best products from around the world and so this is a continual process that happens naturally. There are always areas you can improve on and so we always push to find better designs and solutions to problems. Michael is relentless in his pursuit of achieving perfection.

What trends do you see shaping the future of interior design?

For us we always look to incorporate seamless technology into our designs. From an industry standpoint we see a return to detail rather than minimalism and that is something we love because we take pride in really delivering a highly detailed and luxurious design scheme for our projects.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?

This is becoming a necessity in any new build project where you are looking at the new SAP requirements pushing new heating solutions for example. Our latest development incorporates a green roof and as we move forward, we are having to retrofit rather than start from fresh because planning is forcing such changes.

Do you have key partnerships with suppliers, manufacturers, or brands?

This is something that is very different about 1.61 London. We have a huge procurement arm and do not work through intermediaries. Michael and I are passionate about finding the best products in the market and getting the best possible pricing. We were like this from day one and this has now become a real strength for our business with so many unique relationships that are invaluable to us achieving the types of designs/developments we undertake!

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