KBB Design | Society of British & International Interior Design https://www.sbid.org/category/kbb-design/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:06:58 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://www.sbid.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/cropped-SBID-Breakfast-Meeting-Logo-32x32.jpg KBB Design | Society of British & International Interior Design https://www.sbid.org/category/kbb-design/ 32 32 Snug Kitchens: Creating an Open-Plan Kitchen for Family Living https://www.sbid.org/snug-kitchens-creating-an-open-plan-kitchen-for-family-living/ Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:30:40 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=85914 The post Snug Kitchens: Creating an Open-Plan Kitchen for Family Living appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features a timeless family kitchen design by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Snug Kitchens.

Snug Kitchens transformed a traditional home in Newbury, Berkshire, into an open-plan haven for a young, growing family. Collaborating closely with local architects, interior designers, and builders, we created a versatile kitchen that serves as the home’s social hub. The design emphasises durability and sustainability, featuring bespoke British-made cabinetry, walnut internals, and heat-resistant porcelain worktops. A forward-facing cooking space, ample storage, and a large island for game preparation were key elements, catering to the client’s love for hunting and family needs. This project seamlessly blends practicality, aesthetic appeal, and environmental consciousness.

Category: Kitchen Design

Design Practice: Snug Kitchens

Project Title: Mulberry House

Project Location: Newbury, United Kingdom

Design Practice Location: Newbury, United Kingdom

Photographer: Darren Chung

What was the client’s brief?

Our brief was to design and install the kitchen, pantry, utility room and surrounding cabinetry for Mulberry House in Newbury, Berkshire. Our clients were keen to create an open-plan space that functioned as a social hub, adaptable for entertaining larger groups and for busy everyday family living. This required the kitchen to marry the functionality and practicality of everyday family life with the warmth of the adjacent snug and dining areas.

Photographer: Darren Chung

What inspired the design of the project?

The client’s young family was at the centre of this project. In the early design stages, we focussed on the architecture of the property when zoning the space to achieve balance between the kitchen and surrounding areas. In order to cater for our clients love for cooking and socializing, it was integral we achieved the perfect flow through the property before looking into the design. Functionality and practicality at the forefront throughout this project, this included material decisions especially in high use areas like the breakfast bar and worktop. Stylistically we studied the property’s architecture and concluded a traditional in-frame beaded shaker kitchen best suited the space.

Photographer: Darren Chung
Photographer: Darren Chung

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

A late addition to this project was an aircon unit being installed in the pantry which significantly lowered the ceiling height. To work around this, we removed the plinth from the open shelving units and sat them directly on the floor. This worked to our advantage as it meant the pantry shelving could be floor to ceiling, maximising the available space.

Photographer: Darren Chung

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

We love all the small bespoke details we were able to incorporate into this project. Due to our client’s generous budget, we worked with the finest in-frame walnut veneered cabinetry, complete with solid antique brass handles to create a timeless look. It was vital the spaces flowed seamlessly, to achieve this we used the same skirting as the rest of the room and ran the room coving around the front of the tall units to give a ‘built-in’ feel. Where ventilation for in-built appliances was required, we used brass mesh that we powder coated to match the brass handles. Overall, we loved working with our clients to create a space that allows them to grow together as a family.

Photographer: Darren Chung

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

We believe this project demonstrates all things, Snug Kitchens. Our holistic design approach, bespoke hand-crafted British cabinetry and how we seamlessly integrate with an extended project team. We collaborated closely with Absolute Architecture to establish the interior architecture of the property. The Hive Interior Designers helped bring a strong vision to the overall scheme of the property and along with our detail orientated designers we created a functional and stunning design.

Photographer: Darren Chung
Nick McColgan, Director at Snug Kitchens

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

We were extremely proud to be selected as a finalist for the SBID awards this year as it is a recognition of the hard work our whole team puts in. We strive to always add value to every client’s home, enhance their lifestyle and ensure the project runs seamlessly from concept to completion.

Questions answered by Nick McColgan, Director at Snug Kitchens.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring historically themed hotel bedroom designs by Atrio, click here to read it.

The post Snug Kitchens: Creating an Open-Plan Kitchen for Family Living appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Atrio Design Blend Artistry and Historical Significance with Modern Luxury https://www.sbid.org/atrio-design-blend-artistry-and-historical-significance-with-modern-luxury/ Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:30:50 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=85897 The post Atrio Design Blend Artistry and Historical Significance with Modern Luxury appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

This week’s instalment of the Project of the Week series features historically themed hotel bedrooms by 2024 SBID Awards Finalist, Atrio Design.

Atrio Design was commissioned to design six uniquely themed rooms at Baloci Hotel in Birmingham, each celebrating a significant historical figure or era. The rooms—Alexander the Great, Rumi, Taj Mahal, The Persian Room, Babylon, and Marco Polo Suite—blend artistry and historical significance with modern luxury. Each space features distinctive designs and cultural motifs, providing an immersive and enriching experience. Guests can enjoy opulent furnishings, custom art, and themed decor, ensuring both comfort and a deep connection to history. This project marries historical storytelling with high-end hospitality, creating a unique and memorable stay for all visitors.

Category: Hotel Bedroom & Suites Design

Design Practice: Atrio

Project Title: Baloci Hotel

Project Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

Design Practice Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego

What was the client’s brief?

The client envisioned a luxury hotel that offers guests an immersive journey through history. Each room was designed to narrate a unique story, blending authentic historical elements with contemporary luxury to create a distinctive and memorable experience. The interiors needed to be visually striking, historically accurate, and rich in storytelling, all while maintaining high-end comfort and elegance.

Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego

What inspired the design of the project?

Our inspiration stemmed from world history and cultural heritage. We carefully selected themes that celebrate Alexander the Great, Rumi, the Taj Mahal, and Babylon, among others. Each room was crafted to embody the essence of its theme through intricate details, materials, and craftsmanship. To enhance authenticity, we incorporated custom finishes, bespoke furnishings, and artisanal decor, ensuring that every element contributed to the immersive experience.

Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego
Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego

What was the toughest hurdle your team overcame during the project?

One of the biggest challenges was achieving a seamless balance between historical authenticity and contemporary luxury. Integrating modern amenities into historically themed spaces required careful planning to ensure they complemented rather than disrupted the overall ambiance. Additionally, sourcing specialized materials and artisans to create authentic textures and finishes added complexity. To address this, we collaborated with ELF Decor UK to develop decorative plaster and stucco feature walls, enhancing the character of each room while maintaining a luxurious aesthetic.

Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego

What was your team’s highlight of the project?

One of the standout moments was designing the Babylon Room, inspired by the grandeur of the Ishtar Gate. Featuring deep blue and gold tones, intricate bas-reliefs of mythical creatures, and opulent textiles, this space truly captures the splendour of ancient Mesopotamia. Seeing the final execution, complete with detailed craftsmanship and artistic wall finishes, was a proud achievement for our team.

Photographer: Alberto Zamaniego

Why did you enter the SBID Awards?

The SBID Awards represent the highest standards of excellence in interior design. We wanted to showcase how the Baloci Hotel pushes the boundaries of historical storytelling through design while maintaining uncompromising luxury. This project reflects our passion for immersive, detail-driven interiors, and entering the awards was an opportunity to share our vision with a global audience and gain recognition for our craftsmanship.

What has being an Award Finalist meant to you and your business?

Being an SBID Award Finalist is a prestigious acknowledgment of our commitment to exceptional design and innovation. It has reinforced Atrio Design’s position as a leader in luxury hospitality interiors and has opened new doors for future collaborations. This recognition fuels our passion for creating unique, story-driven spaces and motivates us to continue elevating interior design to new heights.

By thoughtfully integrating historical themes, artistic details, and high-end finishes, the Baloci Hotel offers guests a unique and enriching experience, making every stay a journey through time.

Andrii Yeksarov, Founder and Creative Director at Atrio Design

Questions answered by Andrii Yeksarov, Founder and Creative Director at Atrio Design.

We hope you feel inspired by this week’s design!

If you missed the last instalment of Project of the Week, featuring a soft and welcoming family home design by Studio 95 Interiors, click here to read it.

The post Atrio Design Blend Artistry and Historical Significance with Modern Luxury appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
GRAFF Reveals the Riva Chandelier Shower Designed for Personalised Elegance https://www.sbid.org/graff-reveals-the-riva-chandelier-shower-designed-for-personalised-elegance/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 09:30:40 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86745 The post GRAFF Reveals the Riva Chandelier Shower Designed for Personalised Elegance appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

Luxury bath and kitchen fixture company GRAFF debuts the Riva Chandelier shower, the latest addition to the Riva collection, presenting a spectacular silhouette and exquisite customisation options for the bathroom. Designed with slender, cylindrical shower heads of staggered lengths, the Riva Chandelier shower mesmerises like a glittering contemporary chandelier.

GRAFF
GRAFF

With clean lines and a delicate aura of modern glamour, each element of the Riva Chandelier Collection is an ode to harmony, with textured, diamond, and oblique finishes that caress the light in a play of unparalleled reflections. The coordinated accessories complete the ensemble, creating a flawless aesthetic that celebrates contemporary beauty.

GRAFF

GRAFF CEO and Founder Mr Ziggy Kulig comments “Embodying GRAFF’s Art of Bath philosophy, the Riva Chandelier Shower represents the heights of beauty, luxury, quality, and engineering. Available in a rich palette of finishes and a wide array of shower plates, the Riva Chandelier Shower demonstrates that GRAFF is passionate about bringing dream spaces to life with boundless choices for personalisation.”

GRAFF
GRAFF

The Riva Chandelier Shower features versatile options of shower plates with timeless appeal, designed to complement and elevate a wide range of interior styles. Options include traditional plates with knurled control knobs, contemporary plates with flat push-button controls, and a single knurled temperature knob, with round contemporary plates that combine push-button functionality with a matching knurled temperature control knob. Additionally, there are square contemporary and traditional elements, with push-button and traditional control knobs.

Riva shower plates can be mixed and matched in a variety of combinations for a truly customised luxury experience. The Riva Chandelier Shower is available in 26 handcrafted finishes, including striking two-tone options such as Polished 24K Gold and Architectural Black.

The Riva Chandelier collection is available to buy in the UK now, POA.

About GRAFF

GRAFF’s luxury taps and shower collections elevate the bath space with designs that are both timeless and cutting-edge, complementing endless architectural and interior styles. Available in 21 luxury finishes such as Brushed Brass, Polished Nickel, and 24K Gold, and with a choice of three Tuscan marble inserts, GRAFF basin mixer or shower controls offer bespoke and unique customisation possibilities. Backed by a rich heritage of European artisanship, GRAFF products transform the bath space into a masterpiece of tranquillity, wellness, and spa like experience. With a focus on design, sustainability, and high technology, GRAFF caters to the senses with features such as chromotherapy, bringing bath and shower experiences to luxurious heights.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post GRAFF Reveals the Riva Chandelier Shower Designed for Personalised Elegance appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Sensa by Cosentino® Expands its Protected Natural Stone Catalogue with Four New Quartzites https://www.sbid.org/sensa-by-cosentino-expands-its-protected-natural-stone-catalogue-with-four-new-quartzites/ Thu, 19 Jun 2025 09:30:01 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86676 The post Sensa by Cosentino® Expands its Protected Natural Stone Catalogue with Four New Quartzites appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

Cosentino, global leader in the production and distribution of innovative surfaces for architecture and design, launches four stunning quartzites to its range of protected natural stones, Sensa byCosentino®. An ambitious commitment to this premium line, that combines the beauty and natural elegance of quartzites and granites with an exclusive anti-stain treatment that acts at the molecular level for minimal maintenance.

Sensa by Cosentino - Oihana

Cosentino introduces four highly aesthetic quartzites that, like the entire brand portfolio, boast the avant-garde Senguard NK anti-stain protection, developed exclusively by Cosentino. Thanks to this technology, the entire Sensa portfolio offers a high level of protection against harmful substances, is scratch resistant and easy to maintain. All new designs come with a certified 15-year warranty.

Sensa by Cosentino - Itara

This performance is accompanied by an incomparable aesthetic. Marau, Oihana, Itara and Cristalo, are designs full of personality, ideal for creating depth and beautiful spaces. These quartzites also feature “Mirage” texture, which, thanks to an abrasive treatment, produces a glossy finish over the entire surface.

Sensa by Cosentino - Cristalo
Sensa by Cosentino - Marau

Slabs are available in large formats (from a minimum of 110 x 71 inches) and in thicknesses of 20 and 30 mm, perfect for multiple surface application, including bathrooms, kitchens and furniture coverings.

Sensa by Cosentino® is perfect for the most demanding users and professionals, lovers of the unique beauty of natural stone, who need a resistant material with outstanding performance.

Sensa by Cosentino - Marau

Marau: Satin quartzite in a cool grey with nuances of blue, gold, burgundy, and cream. Marau’s striking pattern blends broad veins and sharp lines, creating a dynamic visual effect.

Sensa by Cosentino - Oihana

Oihana: Oihana has white veins that slide across the deep black surface, altering the pattern with touches of grey, cream, and brown. The clear lines create dynamism, captivate the eye, and evoke unexpected depths against the intense black background.

Sensa by Cosentino - Itara

Itara: An emerald green quartzite with white and copper accents that draw soft, peaceful waves. It is a refined and sophisticated stone with a life of its own.

Sensa by Cosentino - Cristalo

Cristalo: A stunning natural stone with translucent white to light grey hues and subtle veining. This silvery shades evokes a boundless expanse of ice and snow, creating a relaxing atmosphere in any space.

About Cosentino

Cosentino Group is a global, Spanish, family-owned company that produces and distributes high value innovative surfaces for the world of design and architecture. It works together with its clients and partners to provide with solutions that offer design and value, and inspire the life of many people. This objective is possible thanks to pioneering and leading brands in their respective segments such as Silestone®, Dekton® or Sensa by Cosentino®. Technologically advanced surfaces that allow the creation of unique environments and designs for the home and public spaces.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post Sensa by Cosentino® Expands its Protected Natural Stone Catalogue with Four New Quartzites appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Ledbury Studio: How Three Versatile Metals Create Completely Different Looks https://www.sbid.org/ledbury-studio-how-three-versatile-metals-create-completely-different-looks/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:30:08 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86508 The post Ledbury Studio: How Three Versatile Metals Create Completely Different Looks appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

If you think that using metal in the kitchen will create a cold and clinical look, then it’s definitely time to think again. In the right hands, metal is actually one of the most flexible materials around and can be used to bring a wholly warm and inviting vibe. And unlocking the natural beauty of metallic finishes is both the passion and speciality of Charlie Smallbone, founder of Ledbury Studio.

By hand ageing and patinating everything from copper and brass to zinc and stainless steel, Charlie and his team of artisans craft unique kitchen designs. What they have in common, however, is these are simply beautiful kitchens in which to cook, gather and spend time.

Here are the three wildly different but equally luxurious kitchens created from stainless steel, copper and zinc…

Ledbury Studio

Stainless steel for the Oxford kitchen

The Oxford kitchen is proof positive that cool and masculine stainless steel can-in the right hands – be made to radiate warmth. The brushed effect on the cabinetry softens the feel and appearance of the metal, which is here further elevated by aged brass accents. Charlie was tasked with matching the metals to the La Cornue range cooker, which was done meticulously by hand, demonstrating the artistry of custom craftsmanship. Teamed with a Carrara marble, English walnut and fluted glass, the overall effect is breathtakingly luxurious.

Ledbury Studio
Ledbury Studio

Copper for the Cotswolds kitchen

The brief for the Cotswolds kitchen was to create a design of contrasting textures. To meet this, Charlie chose planks of crown oak for the furniture, which provides a tactile difference with the stainless-steel appliances. For further contrast in the open-plan space, he designed a breakfast and drinks cupboard, clad in patinated Verdigris copper. This showcases the natural variation that occurs when copper ages with all the resulting colour and pattern creating a striking focal point in the dining area of the room.

Ledbury Studio

Zinc for the New Forest kitchen

The owner of this Edwardian villa in the New Forest definitely didn’t want a classic kitchen and tasked Charlie with creating something a world away from the standard Shaker. His response was to team beautiful book-matched walnut veneer with hand-patinated zinc panels. The zinc panels are edged in the same walnut and the cupboards feature aged-brass handles. The zinc helps to make a focal point not only of the island, but also the breakfast cupboard behind – and has been used to clad the fridge-freezer in the corner, bringing the whole design together.

Ledbury Studio

Prices for a Ledbury Studio kitchen start from £70,000.

About Ledbury Studio Ltd

Charlie Smallbone needs little introduction. The founder of iconic brand Smallbone of Devizes, he has been pushing the boundaries of kitchen design for over 40 years. Charlie’s latest venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of original materials whilst creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post Ledbury Studio: How Three Versatile Metals Create Completely Different Looks appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Roundhouse Design: What is the Best Layout for a Chef’s Kitchen? https://www.sbid.org/roundhouse-design-what-is-the-best-layout-for-a-chefs-kitchen/ Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:30:18 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=85655 The post Roundhouse Design: What is the Best Layout for a Chef’s Kitchen? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

When designing a kitchen for serious cooking, drawing inspiration from the layouts preferred by professional chefs can be incredibly valuable. Since chefs spend countless hours in the kitchen, their expertise offers practical insights that can enhance both the functionality and efficiency of your kitchen design ideas.

Over the years, Roundhouse Design has collaborated with numerous talented chefs, designing both their personal kitchens and the chef-friendly working kitchens in our showrooms. One thing has become clear – when it comes to creating the ultimate chef’s kitchen, the galley layout reigns supreme.

A galley kitchen is a corridor-style layout with two parallel countertops and a central walkway. In narrow kitchens, a single galley is often preferred. Whether single or double galley, this design consistently proves to be the top choice for professionals, offering exceptional workflow efficiency and maximising space in kitchens of all sizes. But what makes this layout so effective, and how can it be adapted to suit different homes? Let’s explore why chefs love the galley kitchen and how you can make it work for your space.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

What are the benefits of the galley layout?

Chefs prefer the galley kitchen layout because it is designed for maximum efficiency, by which we mean minimal walking around the kitchen. With everything positioned within arm’s reach, exactly where you need it, the galley layout minimises unnecessary movement and allows for a smooth workflow. Not great for your step count, but excellent for getting dinner on the table quickly and easily. Ideal for high-intensity cooking, this linear layout keeps prep, cooking and cleaning areas within a few steps of each other. In a single one-wall galley kitchen, you’ll move from side to side – almost like a crab! – whereas a double galley layout provides additional workspace and storage, allowing you to pivot effortlessly between both sides.

Does the galley layout work for any size kitchen?

The galley layout is very versatile and can work in most kitchens, including small kitchen ideas, but there are a few points to consider. In an ideal world, a galley kitchen should be around 3-4.5m long to accommodate all the essential appliances, storage and sink, with sufficient workspace between. Any shorter, and prep space could get tight; any longer and you’ll lose efficiency. On width, aim for a 1.2m minimum walkway between cabinets and the opposite wall in a single galley and at least 1.8m walkway between the two parallel runs for a double galley layout. This will allow people to pass each other comfortably and doors to be opened without obstructing the aisle.

How do chefs adapt the galley layout in their own homes?

Many chefs love to entertain while cooking and will opt for an open-plan galley layout, whereby an elongated island sits parallel to a long run of units. This provides all the benefits of a double galley layout but within a much more sociable setting. To make their home kitchens more family-friendly, chefs will often add extra prep spaces and prep sinks on the bespoke island to encourage communal cooking and share skills.

Roundhouse Design
Roundhouse Design

How can I organise my kitchen like a chef?

Whatever layout you go for, it’s easy to bring a professional touch to your kitchen. Chefs swear by the working triangle rule, where the sink, cooker and fridge are positioned in a triangle formation for optimal efficiency. When planning storage, aim for a clear view of cupboard contents in one glance – clear storage containers and a label maker are chef essentials. Walk-in pantries with open shelves are also great for gathering ingredients quickly, like professional chefs do in the food stores of commercial kitchens.

Finally, keeping your workspace clutter-free is essential when you’re cooking up a storm. A boiling water tap removes the need for a kettle, while magnetic knife strips and custom in-drawer compartments for utensils and herbs help to minimise countertop clutter, ensuring everything you need is always within easy reach.

There’s plenty to learn from the best layout ideas for a chef’s kitchen. While we can’t promise Michelin-star meals, our made-to-measure service ensures that a bespoke kitchen from Roundhouse will create a professional-grade cooking space that elevates your culinary experience and makes light work of dinnertime. Whether you’re looking for a modern kitchen design, small kitchen design, or a more tailored kitchen cabinet design, pop along to one of our showrooms to find out more.

About Roundhouse Design Ltd

Founded by architects, Roundhouse is a multi-award-winning British company, creating beautiful bespoke kitchens and furniture. Their stunning kitchen designs feature a signature understated aesthetic, influenced by contemporary and traditional design, using innovative materials, texture and colour. Each project is made to measure from a wide range of stunning finishes. Expertly crafted by skilled designers and makers in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Malvern, Worcestershire. Visit any of seven Roundhouse Design kitchen showrooms; Wigmore St, Clapham, Fulham, Richmond, Cambridge, Guildford & Cheltenham.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post Roundhouse Design: What is the Best Layout for a Chef’s Kitchen? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Athena Stonecare: What Does It Mean to Seal Your Stone? https://www.sbid.org/athena-stonecare-what-does-it-mean-to-seal-your-stone/ Thu, 29 May 2025 09:30:17 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86380 The post Athena Stonecare: What Does It Mean to Seal Your Stone? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

Most natural stone should be sealed before and after installation, and all of our restoration treatments include the application of a sealant. There is a lot of misconception about what this means for the stone, how it works and why it doesn’t give 100% protection. Here we explore the world of natural stone sealants.

Impregnating sealants penetrate the capillaries of the stone and protect from within. They can leave the stone with a natural, or colour-enhanced appearance, but always with the stone surface exposed.

Athena Stonecare

Why this type of sealant is used:

Because 99% of natural stone is porous, this sealant is essentially designed to stop any spillages onto the stone penetrating the internal structure of the tile and causing damage or a deep set stain. There is a video on our YouTube channel which demonstrates the difference between water poured onto a sealed and an unsealed marble surface.

Athena Stonecare

What it means in practice:

Accidents happen. Our clients have split everything from coffee machine descaler to limescale remover on their natural stone and it is always restorable. When stone has been properly sealed, the damage is usually only surface level. Take a look at our portfolio pages to see this in action.

Surface sealants form a physical barrier between the stone and the environment. Modern sealants are either wax or polymer-based, which can achieve matt, satin or gloss finishes to the stone. Such sealants however cannot be applied outdoors or in wet areas as they are affected by moisture. They are also ineffective if applied to a polished surface as they cannot penetrate the surface sufficiently to bond.

Athena Stonecare

Why this type of sealant is used:

Surface sealants are usually used to create a shine to a tile that would otherwise be very dull. Riven slate, pillow edged limestone, tumbled travertine and other textured surfaces will be naturally matt finish. The texture and unevenness don’t allow these finishes to be polished mechanically, so a topical sealant is required if a satin or glossy sheen are required.

In other situations, such as terracotta, a surface sealant will also act to bind and consolidate a rough textured finish. This will mitigate the potential for the surface to flake apart or create dust by breaking down.

Athena Stonecare

What it means in practice:

In practice, aside from the aesthetic changes these sealants can provide, apply them to textured stones will give another line of protection to staining. Rough textured and matt finish stone will be naturally more porous than honed and polished finishes. Applying a surface sealant on top of an impregnating sealant will provide a ‘sacrificial layer’. Any chemical spills will react with this sealant rather than the surface of the stone.

Athena Stonecare

How long will the sealant or impregnator last?

Contrary to popular belief, impregnating sealants themselves don’t degrade naturally over time. The pores and capillaries that were originally sealed will remain so. However, abrasion caused by foot-traffic will create and expose new pores and capillaries which will require additional sealant. Usually, the more people or pets in the property the more frequently the protection will need to be reapplied.

Impregnating sealants can also be denatured by high alkaline or acidic liquids. Chemical spills can cause damage to a stone surface but also render the previously applied sealant to become ineffective. This is why it is worth having the stone restored and resealed as soon as possible after a spillage has occurred. The damage from the initial accident won’t worsen but the exposed stone will be more vulnerable as a result.

Surface sealants on the other hand are designed to be a sacrificial layer. They aim to protect the stone surface from the external environment. This means that liquid spillages and abrasion will impact the sealant and not the stone surface. These sealants will also be impacted by repeated cleaning regimes. Over time, you can expect this sealant to degrade and it will need to be reapplied in order to keep the stone safe from internal damage and maintain the level of shine that they provide.

Athena Stonecare

Looking after your natural stone sealant

It is almost more important to look after the sealant as it is your stone – the two go hand in hand. Our Athena Aftercare guide, is designed to provide your clients with best practice when it comes to maintaining their stone. Following this guidance will ensure that the sealant can continue to do its job to protect any natural stone surface. For a PDF copy email info@athenastonecare.co.uk

About Athena Stonecare

Natural stone is an investment and we are committed to ensuring that its beauty endures. We specialise in working with marble, limestone, travertine, granite, and all types of natural stone, ensuring that stone will continue to be a beautifully sustainable feature within any property. As natural stone restoration experts we work with floors, worktops, shower walls, sinks and vanity units. The ongoing care of stone is important to us too and so we have developed a suite of advice and guidance on how to maintain the finish of any stone surface. This is distributed through stone suppliers across the UK and is also available to anyone who works with natural stone.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post Athena Stonecare: What Does It Mean to Seal Your Stone? appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
Lewis Knox: Playing with Colour and Texture to Create Fun but Grown-Up Spaces https://www.sbid.org/lewis-knox-playing-with-colour-and-texture-to-create-fun-but-grown-up-spaces/ Fri, 23 May 2025 09:30:37 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=85320 The post Lewis Knox: Playing with Colour and Texture to Create Fun but Grown-Up Spaces appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

Playful yet practical children’s bedrooms, designed to adapt with their owners changing needs.

Lewis Knox

Lewis Knox were delighted to be asked by a family who they previously designed nurseries for to create grown up rooms for their children’s developing personalities and needs. Their request was that the children could grow with the room designs. Flexible bespoke design is something Lewis Knox always work into their designs especially kids rooms which need to work extra hard as they develop in age and requirements.

Lewis Knox

Their daughter’s desire for lots of colour and pattern kept our team happy and she was thrilled with the outcome. Our bespoke headboard and scatter cushions sit pride of place with our chosen accessories and furniture, all picked with our client in mind. Her parents are thankful for this space as it provides lots of storage to keep the room tidy and organised as well as a built in desk.

Lewis Knox

For their little boy’s bedroom, a fun as well as practical display/storage solution was required. We designed an imaginative integrated bed with a mix of hidden cupboard storage and open shelving. We designed a den to double up as an alcove for a desk when he grows up and needs space to do homework. We allocated space elsewhere in the room for the bed to be moved when needed with sockets and lighting accommodated for later years. Graffiti inspired wallpaper and a burst of colour in the bespoke pendants, upholstery and furnishings have given him the “best bedroom ever!”

Lewis Knox
Lewis Knox

The colourful patterned Missoni wallcovering adds a great focal point in this bedroom. The bespoke headboard acts as a backdrop for a layering of scatter cushions designed by the team.

Lewis Knox
Lewis Knox

Children’s rooms need to be designed carefully and with three main considerations. Storage. Personality. Longevity.

Bespoke joinery creates a cosy bed alcove and storage for our young client’s toy collection. Recessed reading niches allow him to store his essentials like storybooks and a glass of water.

Lewis Knox
Lewis Knox

When we design children’s bedrooms we always work to at least a 5-7 year life span. However electrics, storage and lighting are designed to last much longer with just the decor and loose furnishings to be adapted to suit their next stage. It’s this planning and detailing our design studio excels in, creating homes for our clients to effortlessly live their lives in and in future years as their families and lives evolve.

Lewis Knox
Lewis Knox

“These clients were a dream, allowing us to create colorful havens for their children. Practicality was still a main priority. We worked hard to create bespoke joinery which will last.” – Simon, Interior Architect.

About Lewis Knox

A dynamic interior design studio providing bespoke architectural and interior design services. More than 30 years experience in the luxury residential sector.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post Lewis Knox: Playing with Colour and Texture to Create Fun but Grown-Up Spaces appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
The Story Behind Unox Casa: Bringing the Finest Professional Kitchens into Luxury Homes https://www.sbid.org/the-story-behind-unox-casa-bringing-the-finest-professional-kitchens-into-luxury-homes/ Mon, 19 May 2025 09:30:45 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86254 The post The Story Behind Unox Casa: Bringing the Finest Professional Kitchens into Luxury Homes appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

Matteo De Lise, General Manager at Unox Casa, has given his insights into the industry.

Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. It was created to bring the performance of the greatest Michelin-starred kitchens into the world’s most exclusive private homes. SuperOven is the first oven to integrate cutting-edge professional technology with iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance.

Unox Casa
Unox Casa

What are the origins of the brand?

Unox Casa was born from a bold ambition: to bring the power and precision of the world’s finest professional kitchens into private luxury homes. Backed by more than 30 years of UNOX leadership in the restaurant industry, it reimagines culinary excellence for the residential setting.

The idea took shape during the pandemic, when the desire for professional-grade appliances at home intensified. Inspired by UNOX founders’ personal experiences – and by dinner guests who frequently asked how to recreate restaurant-level cooking at home – SuperOven was born. It represents the world’s first professional oven designed specifically for luxury living, fusing elite performance with iconic Italian craftsmanship.

Unox Casa

How do your products and services enhance interior design projects?

More than an appliance, SuperOven is a design statement. Available in two models – Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Model 1S, a compact single-chamber version- it merges professional-grade performance with sculptural elegance, turning the oven into a centrepiece rather than a background element. Unlike traditional appliances that recede quietly into the kitchen, SuperOven stands out with intention thanks to its recognisable aesthetic, striking lines, and finishes that transform it into a jewel of contemporary living, a diamond set into architecture.

Its refined and iconic Italian design allows it to effortlessly integrate into a variety of interior styles – from minimalist and contemporary to industrial or high-tech environments. More than fitting in, it enhances each project by bringing depth, sophistication, and the powerful allure of technology made art. Furthermore, the variety of finishes and installation options (flush, cantilevered, or freestanding) enable a high degree of customisation, empowering designers and homeowners alike to create kitchens that reflect their unique style, vision and personality.

Unox Casa

What value does your specialist sector add to the industry?

In every home, the kitchen is more than just a functional space: it is the beating heart, a place of connection, creativity, and expression. Within it, the oven is a cornerstone: the silent ally around which rituals and memories are built.

At Unox Casa, we bring a new dimension to this central element through the advanced technology embedded in SuperOven. This innovation transforms the cooking experience, allowing users to express their culinary vision without being bound by technical complexity. The oven’s user-friendly digital control panel allows activation of over 400 automatic cooking programmes, for which all it takes is to select the type of food and the desired result and the oven automatically determines the settings, adapting them to the amount of food being cooked. The oven itself becomes a guide for homeowners – adapting, suggesting, and supporting each step of the cooking process.

This means clients are free to focus on what truly matters: enjoying time, experimenting with flavours and colours, and living the kitchen not as a task, but as a pleasure. Our sector redefines luxury not just through design and materials, but by giving time and creativity to those who live the home.

Unox Casa

How do you work with interior designers?

We believe that every home tells a story, and our mission is to ensure the kitchen becomes one of its most compelling chapters. That’s why we created the Design Concierge: a dedicated service tailored to the unique needs of interior designers and architects.

Our team of experts works closely with design professionals from the earliest stages of a project, offering 360-degree bespoke support – from technical guidance to aesthetic consultation. Whether it’s selecting finishes, defining installation details, or seamlessly integrating SuperOven into a custom kitchen concept, we ensure the product enhances the space both visually and functionally.

Through this collaborative approach, Unox Casa doesn’t merely adapt to a design – it elevates it. SuperOven becomes a sculptural and technological centrepiece that embodies the designer’s vision and enriches the client’s daily experience. Ultimately, it’s about reimagining the kitchen around those who live it, delivering true excellence in every detail.

Unox Casa

What has been your most significant company highlight or success from the past year?

One of the most significant milestones of the past year has been the global expansion of Unox Casa into new, strategically relevant markets. From our official launch in Turkey, to new openings in many Latin American countries, and a growing presence in the United Arab Emirates, the brand continues to affirm its international vision.

In particular, the debut in the US market during Art Basel marked a major achievement, underscored by SuperOven Model 1S – Black Edition receiving the prestigious Good Design Award. This recognition celebrates not only the product’s technological innovation but also its sculptural elegance – a perfect expression of Italian design excellence.

These new openings reflect our commitment to bringing our iconic lifestyle, Starred Living, to the world’s most discerning homes. Each new market represents an opportunity to build meaningful connections with local design communities and to inspire new ways of living the kitchen as a space of beauty, performance, and creativity.

Unox Casa

What are the latest trends you’ve noticed in your client’s requests?

One of the most prominent trends among our clients today is the desire for kitchen spaces that embody both clarity and purpose: environments that are at once minimalist, multifunctional, and emotionally meaningful. Clients are increasingly seeking orderly, elegant spaces that serve as true gathering points, hubs for family life and social connection.

The kitchen is no longer a backstage area; it is a central stage, where functionality must be paired with refined aesthetics. This means clean lines, hidden technologies, and intuitive layouts that promote efficient movement between appliances and support a seamless daily experience.

In this evolving landscape, SuperOven becomes a silent ally in everyday life, simplifying the preparation of extraordinary meals and inviting everyone, from expert cooks to curious children, to participate in the pleasure of creating together. It’s technology that brings people closer, making the kitchen not just efficient, but truly alive.

Unox Casa
Unox Casa

How do you see the interior design industry evolving in the year ahead?

In the year ahead, the interior design industry is poised to deepen its focus on digitally empowered living, where technology becomes an invisible yet essential presence in the home. As robotic and intelligent systems take on more daily tasks, domestic spaces will evolve to become cleaner, more intuitive, and inherently minimalist – not just in form, but in function. We foresee a continued rise in designs that embrace ‘quiet’ luxury, expressed through a refined blend of natural and synthetic materials, tactile surfaces, and sculptural elements that awaken the senses.

Within this evolution, the kitchen remains the soul of the home – a space for gathering, creativity, and daily rituals. Here, SuperOven emerges as a natural protagonist, perfectly embodying the balance between technological intelligence and timeless beauty. It frees time, streamlines routines, and above all, brings people together through the shared joy of culinary exploration. Objects of design become real enablers of togetherness, where innovation serves the rituals that truly matter.

Is there anything new you are excited to be working on?

We’re particularly excited about the recent launch of the Unox Casa App: a bold step forward in kitchen digitalisation and a perfect embodiment of our vision for the home of the future. As daily life becomes increasingly shaped by smart technologies, people are seeking tools that offer not just automation, but meaningful, intuitive experiences. The Unox Casa App responds to this shift by transforming the SuperOven into a fully connected companion, capable of empowering users wherever they are.

More than just remote control, the App offers a personalised culinary ecosystem. From real-time monitoring of cooking and cleaning cycles to the ability to create and send custom cooking programmes remotely, every detail is designed to simplify routines while unleashing creative freedom. The “Cook Like a Chef” section, a curated library of recipes developed by our own chefs and Michelin-starred partners, turns the App into an endless source of inspiration, like a digital culinary atelier.

What does being an SBID Accredited Industry Partner mean to you?

Becoming an SBID Accredited Industry Partner is both an honour and a meaningful affirmation of our commitment to design excellence. It reflects our dedication to forging deep connections with the UK interior design community, and to supporting professionals who shape the most refined and forward-thinking living environments.

This partnership, which comes at a moment of meaningful growth in the UK, is a new opportunity for dialogue and collaboration – a chance to inspire and be inspired by visionary designers. Being part of SBID allows us to contribute to a shared our idea of the kitchen of the future, where every design choice enhances the lives of those who inhabit the space. For Unox Casa, it is another step in our journey to elevate luxury living to a new starred level.

Matteo De Lise, General Manager at Unox Casa

About Unox Casa

Unox Casa is the high-end residential division of UNOX, the world’s best-selling brand of professional ovens. Created to bring Michelin-level performance to private homes, it introduces SuperOven: a fusion of cutting-edge professional tech and iconic Italian design, transforming kitchens into spaces of inspiration, beauty, and performance. The SuperOven collection includes Model 1, a tech-totem with dual chambers, and Red Dot Award winner Model 1S, featuring a single chamber. SuperOven enables cooking methods not found in traditional ovens such as grilling, steaming, smoking and many more. Its intuitive digital panel boasts over 400 automatic cooking programmes adjusting settings based on food quantity. The oven also cleans itself automatically using water and an eco-friendly, patented detergent.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post The Story Behind Unox Casa: Bringing the Finest Professional Kitchens into Luxury Homes appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>
GRAFF Bespoke Wellness: The Riva Wall Mount Shower https://www.sbid.org/graff-bespoke-wellness-the-riva-wall-mount-shower/ Thu, 15 May 2025 09:30:22 +0000 https://www.sbid.org/?p=86204 The post GRAFF Bespoke Wellness: The Riva Wall Mount Shower appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>

GRAFF, the luxury bath and kitchen fixture manufacturer, unveils the Riva Wall Mount Shower, a stunning new addition to its Riva collection.

Like the Riva Scala, this wall-mounted shower draws inspiration from the meticulously crafted dashboards of European luxury cars and yachts, evoking the thrill of driving a high-performance sports car or cruising along the breathtaking Mediterranean coastline. This exceptional shower system combines luxury, elegance, and a superior sensory experience, setting a new benchmark for bathroom design.

GRAFF
GRAFF

The Riva Wall Mount Shower features a sleek, cylindrical-shaped showerhead that swivels effortlessly, its intricate knurled patterns adding a touch of sophistication. Designed for ultimate personalisation, the shower offers a variety of options to ensure an experience that aligns with each individual’s unique vision and preferences. The showerhead is adjustable up to 15 degrees in any direction, providing tailored comfort for every user.

Ziggy Kulig, GRAFF’s Founder and CEO, explains, “Our passion for bringing dream spaces to life defines Riva showers. The Riva Wall Mount shower is designed for tailoring to the individual’s vision, offering choices comprising the highest levels of quality, design, and engineering, to complement and enhance interiors across the style spectrum.”

GRAFF

Available in both traditional and contemporary designs, the Riva Wall Mount Shower offers shower plates in a range of configurations. Traditional models feature knurled control knobs, while contemporary versions incorporate flat push-button controls paired with a knurled temperature control knob. The collection also includes round contemporary plates and square options that blend both push-button and traditional knobs.

The shower comes equipped with four distinct spray functions – Shower, 4-Spray, 6-Jet, and Cascade – to elevate the overall wellness experience. Additionally, an optional LED fixture is available, further enhancing the collection with a soft, ambient glow.

GRAFF

For a refined touch, the collection also includes four decorative editions: Plaine, Fluted, Knurled, and Oblique, each adding its own unique flair to the design.

Featuring versatile styles for the customized wellness space, Riva shower plates can be mixed and matched for a seamless aesthetic. With 26 meticulously handcrafted finishes to choose from, including stunning two-tone pairings such as Polished 24K Gold with Architectural Black, each component ensures a luxurious and customised shower experience.

About GRAFF

GRAFF’s luxury taps and shower collections elevate the bath space with designs that are both timeless and cutting-edge, complementing endless architectural and interior styles. Available in 21 luxury finishes such as Brushed Brass, Polished Nickel, and 24K Gold, and with a choice of three Tuscan marble inserts, GRAFF basin mixer or shower controls offer bespoke and unique customisation possibilities. Backed by a rich heritage of European artisanship, GRAFF products transform the bath space into a masterpiece of tranquillity, wellness, and spa like experience. With a focus on design, sustainability, and high technology, GRAFF caters to the senses with features such as chromotherapy, bringing bath and shower experiences to luxurious heights.

If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. 

If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.

The post GRAFF Bespoke Wellness: The Riva Wall Mount Shower appeared first on Society of British & International Interior Design.

]]>