download current issue
TRANSCRIPT
May2016
Mix Interiors 164
REVEALING ALL Clerkenwell Design Week 2016
Keyn_Mix-ad-single-page_May2016_aw.indd 1 19/04/2016 14:34
CLER
KEN
WELL D
ESIG
N W
EEK S
PEC
IAL
MIX
INTER
IOR
S 164
MAY 20
16
INDUSTRIAL CRAFT Designing the Keyn Chair Group
Experience Keyn at our pop-up showroom: 102-108 Clerkenwell Road, London EC1M 5SA 24-26 May 2016
www.hermanmiller.co.uk/cdw16
Keyn_Mix-ad_dps-May2016_aw.indd 1 19/04/2016 15:39
The @Just magic2 range satisfies the exact requirements when it comes to ergonomics, timeless styling and ease of operation. The swivel chairs withheight-adjustable upholstered backrests or mesh backrests offer optimum comfort with an aesthetic appearance.
DAUPHIN @JUST MAGIC2: ERGONOMY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
Dauphin HumanDesign® UK LimitedClerkenwell I 3rd Floor I 11 Northburgh Street, GB-EC1V 0AH LondonPhone +44 207 2537774 I Fax +44 207 2531629www.dauphinuk.com I [email protected]
AZ_Mix_UK_@Just magic2 _jf_2016.04.26.indd 1 26.04.2016 11:47:26
1
Mix Interiors 164
10Upfront
14 Seven...
20 The month that was
25 Forward thinking
27 Material matters
28 Desert island desks
31 Spotlight
32 The Big Question
34 35 under 35
46The round
table – Energy
52 Profile
52 Forpeople
60Case
Studies60
Natixis, London
66 Jupiter Asset
Management, London
72Review
72 Regional review
South West
77 Milan
79Focus
79 Clerkenwell Design Week
104Just an idea
Forpeople52
66
Inside
2 3
A word from Mick
Get in touchEditor
Mick Jordan
Editorial support
Rebecca Sabato
Director
David Smalley
Designer
Rob Jozefowski
Managing director
Marcie Incarico
Founding publisher
Henry Pugh
Contributors
Mark Eltringham
Steve Gale
Address
Mix Media Limited
2 Abito
85 Greengate
Manchester
M3 7NA
Telephone
0161 946 6262
Website
www.mixinteriors.com
@mixinteriors
Subscriptions
To ensure that a regular copy
of Mix Interiors reaches your
desk, please call 0161 946 6262
or e-mail:
Annual subscription charges
UK single £45.50,
UK corporate
(up to 5 individuals) £140,
Europe £135 (airmail),
Outside Europe £165 (airmail).
Printed by S&G Print
ISSN 1757-2371
I usually write my introduction words on
the train up to Mix Towers in Manchester.
And, usually, it’s not too arduous. Once you’ve
got a thread, it’s just a case of typing in a few
words and letting the spelling and grammar
fairies do their magic.
This month has been far more of challenge,
however. To start with, I felt compelled to say
thing about the sad demise of Dovetail and the
subsequent, unnecessary rumour mongering. I
know this affected a lot of people deeply – and
I really feel for those caught up in the middle
of this maelstrom. But every time I tried to
write anything it felt clumsy or trite or full on
bull in china shop!
So, two days later, and just an hour from
deadline I was still devoid of any introduction.
No new ideas would come to me – until
Prince’s ‘Purple Rain’ appeared on the radio.
You’ll see that we’ve devoted this month’s 7
Best to the diminutive genius – and it suddenly
struck me that, just a few months ago, in
this column, I wrote: ‘I would like to pay a
short tribute to the late, great David Bowie.
I know it’s a massively overused word, but he
really is a legend. Groundbreaking, innovative,
brave, game changing…I could go on and on.
RIP.’ Sadly, in my eyes you could simply insert
Prince where David Bowie’s name is. Same
rules apply.
Back issuesContact us to buy back issues:
The coverThe logo
We love the way a space can make us
feel. We love bringing spaces alive,
providing sophisticated structure
to surroundings whilst continually
connecting to people. The organic
design of our logo characterises this.
The light and shadow represent depth,
vision and transparency because these
values define us.
www.spaceandsolutions.com
The cover image
Herman Miller’s Keyn Chair Group is
a range of meeting and side chairs
that offer responsive movement and
immediate comfort for collaborative
spaces. Achieve a range of looks by
combining a four-leg, cantilever or
four-star base with a choice of shell
and frame finishes and an extensive
choice of materials.
www.hermanmiller.co.uk
May2016
Mix Interiors 164
REVEALING ALL Clerkenwell Design Week 2016
Keyn_Mix-ad-single-page_May2016_aw.indd 1 19/04/2016 14:34
CLER
KEN
WELL D
ESIG
N W
EEK S
PEC
IAL
MIX
INTER
IOR
S 164
MAY 20
16
Mix Interiors 164
The way in which we work has changed dramatically, it demands new thinking in how employees and technology connect with each other in the new workplace. A collaboration between Frem, prominent psychologist Dr Craig Knight, and award-winning designer Rock Galpin, the Matrix 6 Collection leads the way in integrated office technology. During Clerkenwell Design Week, Frem will launch their latest innovation in office technology: the Matrix 6 Collection.
London Showroom 20-24 Kirby Street Farringdon London EC1N 8TS frem.co.uk
802830_Frem_Furniture_Range_Press_Ad_297x230.indd 4 03/05/2016 17:54
4
6 7
Mix Interiors 160 Mix Interiors 160
This is Bodyfl ex. From where I’m standing, it
looks like a major breakthrough in comfort and value.
MaxFurniture-BodyflexAd-MIX.indd 1 27/04/2016 17:00
1
2
3
467
5
Not only does this chair encourage the user to automatically make full use of its ample lumbar support, the high-tech backrest keeps them cool and when work is done, the unique suspension system even assists in getting up.Exclusive to Mikomax in the UK, Dutch company, Koplus B.V. manufactures a
range of ground-breaking designs, such as the Tonique task chair, shownright. This is a beautifully-designed,realistically-priced chair featuring asynchronised body-weight mechanism.To fi nd out more about the Mikomax range, please call Barry Foley on 020 7608 1788 or visit www.maxfurniture.co.uk
Great products. Service to match.
ABTTM is an innovative material off ering robust support and fl exible comfort.
9 degrees of natural fl ex in the backrest for subtle and fl exible support as you change position.
Adjustable back tilt resistance to suit individual body weight.
Intuitive seat depth adjustment counterbalances body weight for a smooth seating experience and transition in and out of the chair.
Optional stylish armrests with comfortable soft and smooth PU padding.
Tilt adjustment lockable in 3 positions.
Gas lift seat adjustment.
Stand Up
Hush
Tonique
Futuro
Tonique
Max Furniture l 25 Britton Street, London EC1M 5NY l www.maxfurniture.co.uk Tel: 020 7608 1788 l Email: [email protected]
1 2
5
3
76
4
MaxFurniture-BodyflexAd-MIX.indd 2 28/04/2016 16:04
8 9
Mix Interiors 160 Mix Interiors 160
KI EuropeNew Fetter Place8-10 New Fetter LaneLondon EC4A 1AZE: [email protected]: www.kieurope.com
Introducing EC4Combining the elegance and robustness of solid oak and steel, KI’s EC4 collection of workplace
furniture brings an accent of nature to the modern office landscape. With all the inherent capabilities of a workstation system, EC4 brings a stylish touch to the open plan office, meeting rooms and third spaces.
EC4, biophilic design & #loveyourworkspace
Natural analogues such as EC4’s solid oak legs and oak laminate detailing act as reminders of the natural world. This indirect connection plays a role in enhancing wider biophilic design, which has been shown to reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought and improve wellbeing.
10 11
Upfront Upfront
THE COMFORT ZONE
Our friends at Mesh Office Seating haven’t been
resting on their laurels. Back from exhibiting
at CIFF (China International Furniture Fair in
Guangzhou) and to coincide with their 10-year
anniversary and 800,000 sales of their flagship
chair, Ergohuman, Mesh have launched a brand
new venture with global manufacturer Comfort
Seating.
With substantial investment and a commitment
to enhance their growing dealer network’s
opportunities, Comfort Europe will start to
manufacture in the UK from Summer 2016,
offering their range of ergonomic seating with,
we are told, additional product collections
coming soon, where lead times across Europe
will reduce dramatically. Interesting times
ahead for Ayrshire's finest.
PEBBLES In our next issue we'll be putting the Spotlight focus on the
product designer. As a prelude we thought we would bring you a
lovely story from the heart of Clerkenwell. Silverline, the leading
British steel storage manufacturer, has taken steel into a new
and unexpected dimension. Using the full potential of its latest
investment – the Amada Laser machine – Silverline's London
based designer, Kalina Kalarus, has created a charming desk tidy
set called ‘Pebbles’. Kalina told us that 'Pebbles embodies the
flexibility of the machinery and bespoke character of Silverline as
a UK manufacturer'. Make your own mind up and visit the Gallery
during CDW where a few of the limited edition sets, inspired by
organic forms of stones, will be up for grabs
12 13
Upfront Upfront
Showroom_Broad Yard Turnmill Street Clerkenwell EC1M 5RR
Huddle Shed_Rustic
frovi.co.uk
Furniture for social spaces
LAUNCHING
16 NEWDESIGNS
We’re showcasing a colourful haven of our latest designs, don’t miss it: 24-26 May 2016
BOSS DESIGN EXPANDS ALEXA COLLECTION
Boss Design has now added a sofa option to its popular Alexa collection,
with this latest addition designed to complement corporate
reception and executive lounge areas.
Designed in-house by Boss Design, Alexa is available in
two and three seater options, with multi-density CMHR
polyurethane foam and twin needle stitch detail.
Boasting a hardwood internal frame with sprung
seat and back, Alexa also incorporates steel legs
and is available in a black, white and bronze metal
finish.
Mark Barrell, Design Director at The Boss
Design Group, comments: 'The new Alexa sofa
gives designers and specifiers further scope
to add style and sophistication to both formal
and informal spaces, without compromising on
comfort or aesthetics.
'As the corporate arena continues to soften its look
and feel, Alexa is perfect for creating a relaxed yet
refined corporate interior.'
CHANGING LONDON
This Autumn, NLA will launch WRK/LDN, a
major Insight Study, exhibition and events
programme examining the changing nature of
work in London and its impact on future offices
and spaces of the city.
Over the next three months, NLA will conduct
in-depth research to uncover the most
innovative workspace initiatives and projects in
the capital, highlight key trends and emerging
businesses locations, and analyse the types
of buildings and spaces London will need to
provide to meet future demands. The research
will bring together a variety of different
workspace developers, providers, architects,
consultants and business users, through
industry roundtables, interviews and project
reviews.
The results will launch in the Autumn, with
a major public exhibition and private view, a
publication and three-month programme of
events, including conferences, talks, debates
and building visits.
14
Upfront Upfront
1 LIKE A PRAYER Prince played guitar on Madonna’s ‘Like a
Prayer’. Furthermore, according to co-writer
Patrick Leonard, there was loads of material
the Purple One recorded for the song, but
Madge and co cut most of it out!
Weird and Wonderful things you probably don’t know about PrinceWe were shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely death of Prince earlier this month. Controversial, enigmatic, groundbreaking, innovative, fearless and unbelievably talented, he was everything we want our rock stars to be. Here’s our own little homage to a true one-off.
1
5
7
5 TOP OF THE POPSIn July 1984 Prince topped
the movie box office chart,
album chart and singles
charts, with the film ‘Purple
Rain’, the soundtrack to the
movie and ‘When Doves Cry’
respectively.
6 THE ARTIST KNOWN AS?Even though he was referred to as
either ‘The Artist’ or ‘The Artist
Formerly Known as Prince’, the
symbol Prince used actually had a
name – ‘Love Symbol #2’. It was
copyrighted in 1997, but when
Prince's contract with Warner
Bros. expired at midnight on
December 31, 1999, he announced
that he was reclaiming his
given name.
7 CHARITY CASEPrince almost gave one of his best known and
most loved songs – ‘Kiss’ – to an unknown
band named Mazarati. He eventually kept it for
himself, stating, ‘It’s too good for you guys’.
Discover more at:
wiesner-hager.comDiscover more at:
nooi The frame linking chair with the best connections.
Linking chairs is child‘s play with nooi: Simply stack adjacent chair legs over each other and you‘re done!nooi with integral frame linking for fast, easy handling. Discover more at: wiesner-hager.com
nooi_Mix_UK_04-2016.indd 6 14.04.16 10:42
2 STEVIE NICKS Prince originally asked Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie
Nicks to write the lyrics to ‘Purple Rain’. She
said the enormity of the track was too much
for her. He also asked her to sing on the track
– again she declined, saying, ‘I wouldn't know
where to start.’
3
4 RELIGION Prince belonged to the
Jehovah’s Witness faith and
later in his career refused to
swear in his songs or regularly
sing older songs that
championed sexual freedom,
such as ‘Darling Nikki’ and
‘Little Red Corvette’.
3 BASKETBALLDespite his diminutive stature
(he was just 5’2”), Prince was
a talented basketball player
and represented one of the
best school teams in the
Minnesota state.
4
2
6
16 17
Upfront Upfront
[email protected] 020 7836 3636
HQ 01634 290 988www.progressfurnishing.co.uk
LOOSE FURNISHING DEMOUNTABLE PARTITIONS BESPOKE JOINERY
PROGRESSW O R K P L A C E S O L U T I O N S
COPY CATS RUNNING OUT OF TIME
We noted in the Times (sic) that it may be time to buy your Eames chair or Arco
floor lamp before they get too expensive. Copying others’ designs has just
got more challenging, thankfully.
As we covered in our Intellectual Property feature in November,
the world of copyright protection is changing. The same copywrite
afforded to other creatives, particularly in art and music, will be
extended to product designers. For mass produce products IP
protection currently exists for 25 years – but this will change to 70
year after the designer’s death.
The Intellectual Property Office stated that the changes were
going to be in line with Europe and brought into force last month
(April) but have now been postponed until the end of July.
ACID’s Dids Macdonald OBE, who had campaigned for the shortest
possible transition period, said: 'When the change comes into effect,
the consequence will be that rights holders can license these works or
prohibit further copying. Anyone who is not the copyright holder or their
licensee will need to seek permission, or a licence, to make copies lawfully.'
There will be a six-month period until January for manufacturers and retailers to
dispose of copycat versions, made or imported before October. Any companies
caught selling or making relevant stock after January next year could face criminal
charges. More of this when we look at product designers in our next issue.
MIXOLOGY
On the 23rd June this year you may be enjoying the French Open, or the National Portrait Gallery
awards, you may be excited about the European referendum – or your focus could be very much
on one of the best parties in London, Mixology. As we speak we are packaging up the entries ready
to be studiously considered by this year’s judges (see our April issue). Continuing the trend in our
awards, the hottest class of entries are once again project-based. Clearly a sunnier disposition in
the world of property has helped, but we like to think the design community feels that getting one
of the four Mixology Projects of the Year is worth getting their hands on. For small project (up to
15,000sq ft) the judges will be considering 17 projects, for medium sized projects (up to 49,000 sq
ft) there are 15 projects, for large (over 50,000sq ft) we're into double figures and similar for public
sector projects. So, if we have the pleasure of your company on the 23rd June, before you beautify
yourself, don’t forget the referendum!
THIRDWAY BRINGS IN A FRESH APPROACH
London-based commercial design and build company ThirdWay has recently
started a 'healthy' new working relationship with healthy meal delivery service,
HelloFresh, developing a complete design concept for its new offices.
Based on Worship Street, Hackney, the new offices are part of a recently
refurbished building, which originally operated as a paper mill. HelloFresh will
be the first tenants in the newly renovated space and are hoping that the office
will reflect their core values and unique identity.
ThirdWay has been appointed to completely oversee the project, lead on design
concepts, right through to the sourcing of raw materials and the complete build,
which fits with the brief of ‘telling the HelloFresh story’.
Patrick Drake, HelloFresh’s Head Chef and Co-Founder, commented: 'ThirdWay
really wowed us with their creativity and ability to understand our brand and i's
values from the get-go.
“We’re still a relatively young company and we have a huge focus on innovation
and sustainability, so we really want an office space which reflects this. We’re
thrilled to be moving forward with ThirdWay on this project for us.'
The project is set to take around 16 weeks, 12 of which will be site-based.
Site work began in early April.
18 19
Upfront Upfront
T H E G A L L E R Y, 3 3 - 3 5 C L E R K E N W E L L G R E E N , L O N D O N E C 1 R 0 D U
+ 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 7 1 8 6 1 9 3 0
I N F O @ B Y - B A I L E Y. L O N D O N
W W W . B Y - B A I L E Y. L O N D O N
F U R N I T U R E F O R G R O W N U P S
BB_advert_220x305mm.indd 1 03/05/2016 11:28
THE ROUND TABLE
On the day the nuclear disaster at Chernobyl had its 40th anniversary (26th
April) we gathered a varied and brilliant group of people to talk about energy –
specifically energy within the workplace and hospitality sectors. It’s fair to say
that our esteemed panel should immediately be employed by the Department
of Energy & Climate Change (and would do a better job than Amber Rudd, no!) –
then, along with the nationalisation of the utilities, we should be sorted.
The roundtable was sponsored and hosted by Hansgrohe who clearly know their
stuff and continue to set the pace when it comes to energy-efficient products.
They now have a wonderful showroom in Clerkenwell, which is definitely worth
a visit.
Go to page
46
20 21
Upfront Upfront
WHEREALLIANZ MARINE & AVIATION, LONDON
‘We wanted to be in the centre of the London
insurance market – this insurance sector is still
very much a face-to-face market, and although
we do have on-line trading, most of the big ticket
business is negotiated face-to-face.’ And Allianz
Marine & Aviation’s clients were more than happy
to visit the company’s impressive new home in
The Gherkin. AND NOW in 60 Gracechurch St,
London.
WHO MARIO BELLINI ‘The way I started working – and
still work – is to never ever start with a drawing
or a sketch. As much as you can you should start
with something in your head, and then discuss
that with the client once you are clear of what it
is you are going to produce.’ Virtual reality from
legendary designer Mario Bellini. AND NOW One of
his current projects, due for completion in 2018,
is the 'New Eco-City' of Zhenjiang in China.
WHATTHE BLACKBERRY ‘People who use them a lot
could suffer from osteoarthritis. Well, that could
seriously screw up the single figure handicap
or the tennis for a start.’ The Blackberry’s first
negative reports are published. The business
tool of the future? Maybe not. AND NOW
Global smartphone market share and share in
international markets have declined significantly.
WHERE DUNDAS & WILSON ‘We are not trying to be any
better or any worse than any other firm. We are
trying to be ourselves. I think this scheme really
does our brand justice in terms of our heritage.
This is, however, about quality.’ Dundas & Wilson
mixed the classical with the contemporary to
great effect – and still remained refreshingly
humble. AND NOW In May 2014 Dundas &
Wilson, Scotland’s most established law firm
,joined forces with the sixth largest global law
firm, CMS.
WHO BRIAN MURRAY, BOSS DESIGN ‘If you haven’t
got the people, you haven’t got the business –
it’s as simple as that. At the same time, you’ve
got to have something worth selling – if you’re
‘me too’ right now, you’re basically screwed.’
Prophetic words from Boss Design MD Brian
Murray. AND NOW Boss Design has recently
announced that Jeff Thompson has joined its
North American manufacturing division as
President.
WHATALEX JONES, INTERSTUHL ‘I hate travel with
a passion. I have never wanted to live and work
overseas. Flying is as appealing to me as a kidney
infection.’ Interstuhl MD Alex Jones has his feet
firmly on the ground. AND NOW Alex is taking
flying lessons.
WHERETOWER HAMLETS FOOD BANK ‘Seeing the
gratitude and awe on the client’s face when we
initially presented our concept design document
was so rewarding and made us thankful that
we had the opportunity to help with such a
worthwhile cause.’ Gensler’s design for Tower
Hamlets Foodbank really did make a difference.
AND NOW Denise Bentley, Co-founder & CEO
picked up the Mixology award, Giving & Social
Impact.
WHO MICHEAL YOUNG, MARK SIMPSON ‘‘I don’t
understand how anyone from South Shields can
support Newcastle. Well, I thought probably
because it’s on the River Tyne and not the
River Wear, but I decline to get drawn on local
semantics.’ Maybe not our best idea to sit
Sunderland fan and leading designer Michael
Young down with Newcastle supporter and
BDP Design Director Mark Simpson. AND NOW
Newcastle United and Sunderland are busy
fighting relegation.
WHATTHE ROUND TABLE ‘People don’t want an
office that is designed to be an office. They
want to be transported to somewhere else.’
Peldon Rose’s Ben Murray talking sense at
our inaugural Round Table. AND NOW Head of
Digital, CloudShift Group.
The month that wasHere we take a
look back through
the Mix Interiors
archives 1, 5 and 10
years ago
2006 2011 2015
Solutions with a difference...
Clerkenwell Showroom104-110 Goswell Road, EC1V 7DH T:020 7422 8220 F:020 7426 2014
22 23
Upfront Upfront
ULTRAMODERNUltrafabrics, manufacturer and marketer of high performance
polyurethane fabrics, has announced the opening of its second
factory in Japan. The new factory is in Gunma Prefecture, 90 minutes
from Tokyo.
Ultrafabrics celebrated the grand opening of the new state-of-
the art facility with executives, employees, and local officials in
attendance. Plans for the project began in 2014, with construction
beginning in 2015. The mill will be in full production mode this month.
The decision to expand in Japan was due in part to the proprietary
technology provided in Japan and the artisan nature how the
products are made. ‘Employees are an integral part of the quality
and care that goes into our products,’ said Ultrafabrics owner Clay
Rosenberg. ‘The meticulous hands-on process is one-of-a-kind, we
needed to stay in Japan.’
To showcase its range of textures and colours, Ultrafabrics will be
creating a pop-up space on St John’s Square during Clerkenwell
Design Week.
The unique space will be called the Ultrafabrics Takumi Gallery
and will highlight this special American/Japanese relationship,
showcasing the latest colour and trend story in a gallery.
CREATIVE MORGAN
As many of you will be all too aware, the Morgan showroom in Clerkenwell is a
lovely space and the team work hard to put on great events.'Their latest was a
‘Creative Spark’ seminar in April, in association with Leon Black. The evening took
the form of short presentations by speakers from different creative fields and a
lively open discussion with an audience of around 100 guests.
“Only 1 in 4 people believe they are creative at work' was a startling
opening fact from Jill Ellul, founder of Innovation Consultancy,
Mojoco. And yet 'Creativity is a survival strategy' proposed
Designer, Charles Leon.
'Take notice of when we have our best ideas' For Jill Ellul, it’s
doing the ironing, but it could be while driving, in the shower
or taking a long walk. When doing activities that allow our
mind to wander, we delve into our sub-conscious, which is
the magic key to creativity. When our subconscious leaks
into our conscious, this is intuition or feeling. This is just
as valuable as our conscious mind, which is more likely to
judge, refine and apply logic.
Managing Partner of MBJ London, Julian Baladurage, has
identified three common threads that account for 90% of
the start-up companies he invests in. Their ideas are born
out of extreme frustration, open innovation or day-dreaming.
He firmly believes that for every 100 people gathered in a room,
there are 500 good ideas.
Phot
ogra
phy
Oliv
er P
erro
tt
Disk tables
www.jennifernewman.com
N e w s h o w r o o m8 ClerkeNwell greeNl o N d o N e C 1 r 0 d e
24 25
Upfront Upfront
Designers under 35 years old are the focus in this month’s edition. This talented crew are
the future, and they should know that 35 is just
the beginning of a life of thinking and creating,
maturing like fine wine. ‘It takes a very long time
to become young,’ as Picasso put it.
This group is sometimes called millennial,
or generation Y if you prefer the American
term, but does this mean anything? Flattering
journalists have described them as creative,
flexible, open-minded, socially responsible and
tech-savvy people, but there are real issues
behind them, such as tuition debt, job insecurity,
recession, always-on technology, low pay, high
cost of housing, and terrorism (or its malignant
shadow). Pretty gloomy, but was it better for
baby boomers from the 70s onwards?
Here is my personal and very biased
experience of the same topics, seen from my
London-centric standpoint.
University fees did not exist, and maintenance
grants paid for the essentials of life including
rent (in my case).
When we left university, most seemed to get
a job in their calling, but there were recessions in
every decade. If we managed to stay employed
through the first two, it was the 90s recession
that did for many, including me. It was never
quite the same after that.
Technology? This is the most visible change
right across the board. Imagine a London
architecture practice in the early 80s completely
devoid of any computing power whatsoever,
with a handful of telephones hard wired to the
wall. Letters were drafted by hand, and finished
by a secretary who could use an IBM golf ball
typewriter. We all worked on drawing boards
and runners collected our tracing negatives and
returned the printed copies.
Desktop PCs crept into our lives, and were
shared like kitchen appliances. They instantly
revolutionised the way we could waste time
and money. Slowly we learnt to clumsily tackle
written documents, spreadsheets and, at huge
cost and effort, drafting (without colours) on tiny
expensive screens.
I held my first mobile phone in 1990, but
waited two more years to own one, which
generated short calls and long bills. No texting,
no email, no internet.
The digital age was still on a tricycle, and the
internet was unknown. We used fax machines
well into the 90s, and always followed up with
hard copies, which we stuffed into envelopes
each day to ‘catch the post’. We adopted email
quite early – in 1996!
Social networking consisted of making
arrangements by actually speaking to people,
or visiting a spot where you knew your friends
would be. In my case a pub on Clapham Common.
This was my Facebook, where our stories were
told and sometimes ‘liked’.
Housing was actually affordable even though
we felt otherwise, and, if you took the plunge,
borrowing was easy because everyone believed
that house prices would escalate for ever –
which they did simply because you could borrow
the money. And look where that got us.
I don’t know if this sounds charmingly laid
back, or just bloody inefficient. It’s probably
both, but there were unquestionably bad times
and truly rubbish things to put up with.
For example, terrorism wasn’t born in 2001
with 9/11. There were frequent bombings in
London from the 70s onwards – I heard 13
personally, and lost count after that.
Food in London was notoriously crap,
and wine selection seemed to freeze around
Beaujolais Nouveau and Mateus Rosé.
Then there were the strikes, the three day
week, society’s guilt and pain as railways and
utilities passed into private hands, and mine
closures. There were weekly rallies and protests,
and to top it all the Falklands War.
Should millennials be grumpy about the
future? Maybe, but there is lots of good stuff
about being young now. Talent is visibly rising to
meet the challenges, I see that in the people I
work with every day. Young designers astonish
us by bending technology to create things we
never dreamt of. Standards are rising along with
the value they add. As millennials predominate in
the near future their votes might even begin to
dispel inequality, if they are actually cast.
Close behind is Generation Z, after which
who knows? We have reached the end of
the alphabet.
See page 34 for a closer look at this year's
35 under 35.
Steve Gale is Head of Business Intelligence at M Moser Associates. [email protected]
Forward Thinking
I don’t know if this sounds charmingly laid back, or just bloody inefficient.
It’s probably both.
M Moser's Steve Gale, thinks it takes a very long time to become young!
Design: Bruce High: High Design
by New Design Group
3 Nelson Trade Park South Wimbledon, SW19 3BL
t : 0208 540 9513 [email protected] www.newdesigngroup.co.uk redefining value
26 27
Upfront Upfront
Bisley Keep Mix Mag Full Page Advert Outlined.indd 1 12/02/2016 16:11
Material MattersIn this month’s column, the team at Material Lab reveal the latest
looks achieved through surface technology and design.www.material-lab.co.uk
Light knitting with Fay McCaulIs it possible to use light as an actual knitting material? London-based knitted
textiles expert Fay McCaul has made what seems impossible, possible by mixing
fibre optics and iridescent acrylic with traditional knitting methods to create
luxury interior fabrics. The unique textiles are entirely hand-made with row
upon row of knitted pockets that house reflective materials, with fibre
optic pieces delicately created by finger-knitting each illuminated
stitch. Responsive to movement and light to create different
effects and shifting colours, the made-to-order fabrics can be
completely customised to create feature partitions, blinds,
wall installations and even panels in furniture.
www.faymccaul.com
Modernist mosaics give instant impact with Motiu Living Patterns window vinylsBarcelona-based graphic designer Nia
Delfau is transforming glass surfaces
with her new brand of patterned, self-
adhesive vinyl sheets. Motiu Living
Patterns are inspired by Catalan
modernist mosaics, and allow the
creation of intimate spaces through light
play. Reflecting up to 99% of ultraviolet
rays, each unique pattern creates a
different mood through the amount of
sunlight that passes through. Easy to install
and instantly impactful, Motiu Living Patterns are
the result of Nia’s personal fascination with pattern in a
modern interior.
www.motiu.es
Graphic Relief’s luxury moulded surfacing creates unique textures and effectsGraphic Relief’s stunning surfaces are the ultimate
in high-end bespoke interior design. Combining
engineering skill with art, design and manufacturing,
materials ranging from aluminium and concrete
to bronze and glass are transformed into
incredibly impactful and beautiful surfaces
through unique moulding technology.
A collaborative process, every surface
is made to individual specifications to
achieve a desired effect.
www.graphicrelief.co.uk
Simply Serene Spaces with new Flare rangeJohnson Tiles’ new Flare glazed ceramic
wall tile reveals the luxury in simplicity to
create warm, welcoming interiors. One
of the latest additions to the Absolute
Collection and designed to complement
all ranges, Flare embraces the neutral
palette to bring a sense of calm to busy
spaces. Available in a flawless satin or
gloss finish, Flare’s appeal lies in its simple
sophistication. Three serene shades of Simply
White, Eggshell and Linen are enhanced by
the single large-format sizing of 1200x400mm
for both formal and relaxed contemporary
interiors.
www.johnson-tiles.com/catalog/range/flare
Upfront
6 RESCUE OUTFITOn a day-to-day basis, I’d be living in board shorts, especially
a really practical pair with pockets for everything. But I’ll be
saving one perfect outfit all the while for the day I’m finally
rescued. The key elements? A classic 50s sundress, a pair of cat-
eye sunglasses and just a hint of Marilyn’s favourite – Chanel
Number 5 Premier.
5 SOLAR-POWERED IPHONENaturally, I’ll be out of range for calls, but with a solar-powered-
battery it’s the iPhone add-ons that would see me through: a
torch (indispensable); a camera (already thinking of the story
rights for when I get back), but most of all the MP3 player. I’d
keep the playlist simple – Prince for the morning, Bowie for the
afternoon and a spot of Coltrane for those long, lonely evenings.Desert Island Desks This month’s desert island castaway
is Gurvinder Khurana, Director & Co-founder at Align.
28
4
3 WOMAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUNI’d definitely need a gun for protection and
the only real contender is British movie classic
Bond villain Scaramanga’s Golden Gun. The
component parts would all have uses – a pen
to write my novel with and a cigarette lighter
to light fires for cooking and warmth. I don’t
smoke, so the in-built cigarette case would
have to find another use. Storing gin maybe?
4 CAST-IRON FRYING PAN FROM CRANEI love to be creative when I cook and I’ll be
mixing up my diet with fish, seaweed, berries
and fruit. I’ll need a very hardy pan to cope with
the environment. Designed by Barnaby Tuke
and made in Picardie, these super-resistant
pans originated in commercial kitchens and
have great green credentials to boot – no
lead or Cadmium and they’re made from 30%
recycled materials.
1 THE SLOW CHAIRI’ll be spending a lot of time looking for passing
ships on the horizon, so I’ll need a great chair –
and what fits the bill better than Vitra’s Slow
Chair? Comfortable enough to sit, sleep, read or
loll in and so elegant too. I love everything about it,
but particularly the woven style and the two-tone
colours, which remind me of all the beautiful silks I
grew up around.
5
Tel 01925 850500Email [email protected] www.sixteen3.co.uk
The Gallery21-22 Great Sutton St. EC1V 0DY/ProjectGarden of St. James, EC1R 0EA
2
1
3
2 A LIFETIME’S SUBSCRIPTION TO VOGUEA monthly parachuted-in edition of
VOGUE Magazine will punctuate the long
wait nicely. I’ve always loved fashion and
my design style has often been influenced by
the nuances of fashion tailoring, styling, colouring
and by the strong images created by leading-edge
fashion photographers, especially people like Nick
Knight and Tim Walker.
6
3130
Mix Interiors 164
32 The Big
Question
34 Profiles
Spotlight
33
Spotlight
32
Spotlight35
und
er 3
5
The Big ?uestionWhilst the UK is currently enjoying an embarrassment of riches when it comes to young creatives,
there is a marked shortage of emerging young sales talent. What can be done to rectify this?
Paul Rogers Rhubarb SolutionsSales professionals are few and far between because as an industry we have not invested in training. There are too many old school sales people who trade upon a history without passion for design and quality. The fundamentals of sales have changed, technology allows customers to easily gather information that sales teams historically provided. We need driven, supportive client relationship mangers who have a passion for and value quality furniture.
Simon Castle OrangeboxNurturing sales talent and providing them with coaching/mentoring and career development plans is key with company culture and DNA being fundamental to progression. Identifying great people that possess the right attitude and attributes for me also outweighs industry experience a lot of the time. If you have the patience to train and development someone with the core skills to understand our industry, the loyalty they repay you with can be beneficial
T H E F U R N I T U R E S P E C I A L I S T Sw: www.umbrellafurniture.com e: [email protected] t: 020 3119 3144
Come and join us atBrewhouse Yard tocelebrate CDW
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Umbrella editorial banner CDW 2016.pdf 1 25/04/2016 13:45:24
Richard Blackwell BisleyI’m not sure that youngsters see selling as a career. I think they see it as having about the same kudos as becoming a waiter and that anyone with a product catalogue and a thick skin can become an instant success. The tendency of course is that many underachieve and get overpaid for their efforts before they move to their next job. Putting effort and money into training and developing sales people for them to then take their newly developed skills to a possible competitor can be disheartening. Perhaps we should have ‘Sales Apprentices’!
Martin Mongan Hansgrohe We’ve recently undertaken a great deal of training with our guys. It’s about not going in to clients with pre-conceived solution. It’s about listening more and speaking less. We’ve adopted this approach over the last 12 months and our sales guy now have a completely different outlook – and it’s really working for them. Pre-qualification is the most essential part of the entire process. You simply can’t get to the right solution quickly in what is a technical, complicated business.
LAUNCHING AT
STYLE YOUR SPACE
London Showroom7 Clerkenwell Road, LondonEC1M 5PA, United KingdomT +44 (0) 20 7253 0364F +44 (0) 20 7608 0160
to reserve your place at Boss Design’s series of exclusive CDW events
VISIT MYRIAD.SPACE
A modular system to change the market.
David ClementsFUTURE Design Firstly the distinct lack of training new young individuals to make a success out of becoming a sales professional. The major requirements are the ability to work effectively, be positive, be tenacious, be presentable, be professional, be fully educated and knowledgeable on the product. If an individual puts these in place they will succeed. The 'talent’ is confidence and consistency. Secondly, I believe sales people should be paid on results and able to earn well above average amounts if they succeed.
Jonathan Hinton Ultrafabrics I think one of the challenges manufacturers face when recruiting sales people into this business is demonstrating that it is a career, not a job. Young sales people are attracted to the scene, the entertaining, the potential high wages, but rarely have had the opportunity previously to actually learn the nuts and bolts of sales. This then leads to young starters being employed as ‘runners’. Unfortunately this inevitably leads to lack of job satisfaction and the start of the jumping from company to company that has become part of this industry.
34
Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35
We went to the market and asked
senior figures from leading design
firms, dealers and manufacturers to
nominate their ‘rising stars’.
Over the next few pages we’ll be revealing the next generation of talented designers, sales professionals and invaluable (albeit often unrecognized – until now) team players.
Their bosses and colleagues tell us why these fine young things deserve a little bit of recognition, and therefore represent this years 35 under 35.
Each of the people in our list is under 35 years of age (at time of going to press) and continues to impress bosses, colleagues and clients alike.
.
ROSIE HASLEM Spacelab
Rosie Haslem leads Spacelab’s Workplace Consultancy team, enabling diverse clients to transform their businesses through new ways of working. Pioneering in-depth analysis methods and workplace strategies, she has helped to improve the work lives of almost 20,000 people.Rosie shares her knowledge and insights with the industry and business community. She frequently speaks at events and shares her thought leadership to raise awareness of the impact that space has on engagement, productivity and the bottom line.As a Director at Spacelab, Rosie’s fresh approach is helping to drive the future of the rapidly growing practice.
DAN GARDNER KKS
Not only is Dan an outstanding member of our KKS Strategic team, but he exemplifies a calm and mature individual whose pragmatic nature is filled with humour, best displayed nearing a deadline or at a darts match final! Dan is our rising star nominee for the way he embraces an occupier's requirements, combining both data and logic, while creating interactive tools and reports, using technology to demonstrate quantitative and qualitative information. Designers have no option but to engage with his work, making the briefing process all that more robust when moving to the creative phase of a project.
PAUL ARNOLD Camira
Good design needs to be sustainable. Since joining Camira in 2012, Paul has been fundamental to the on-going development of the textile manufacturer’s sustainability ethos. Paul is passionate about creating beautiful new products from waste materials and working with like-minded organisations to build a more circular economy. No better example of this is the Survivor Sofa, a collaboration with the RSA’s ‘Great Recovery Project’ to renovate a skipped settee. As part of Camira’s takeback scheme and using fabric off-cuts, Paul developed a new ‘closed-loop’ herringbone fabric which was used to recover the furniture. The fabric will be launched commercially in 2017.
CHRIS CRAWFORD Gensler
As a Gensler Associate and leader of the media practice area in EMEA, Chris takes pride in delivering intelligently designed workplaces for a wide variety of leading tech and media companies. Since graduating in 2013, Chris has become a valued member of the workplace interiors team. With a passion for cutting edge design, he is committed to growing the media practice area in the EMEA, and also co-spearheaded the pro bono design for Tower Hamlets Foodbank– winner of Mixology’s best Giving and Social Impact award. His noteworthy achievements include the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS) Future Designer of the Year award in 2014.
ROB WHITNELL Parcour Consulting
Rob is a Business Development Manager at Parcour and has been an integral part of the team for over four years. Rob has a passion for interiors, furniture and workplace design and has been instrumental in landing exciting new clients and projects. He immerses himself in each project and has a broad range of expertise, which has seen him working not only on furniture and soft seating packages as well as move management, workplace surveys and asset management. Rob is an all-rounder, understanding the technical, project management and creative aspects of project delivery and success. He certainly has a bright future to look forward to and one to watch around Clerkenwell.
36 37
Spotlight Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35FARRELL JACOBI The Furniture Practice
Nominated by Informare. Farrell approaches her role within a dealership in the way it be. She works hard to learn about businesses, manufacturers and products so she can recommend, advise and facilitate the needs of the architectural and design community with authority.
INTRODUCE COLLABORATIVE SPACES
01254 673400 [email protected] www.pulse-design.co.uk
EDEN consists of 1 and 2 seater high back units, low back options and a modular range
MIX_MAY_2016.indd 1 26/04/2016 11:45:58
JASON OAK SpaceInvader
Everyone starts as a diamond in the rough and Jason is no different. He came to SpaceInvader straight from university and, with each passing year, has become more polished and more capable. Five years on, he is now one of our most talented designers both creatively and technically, and with an incredible thirst for knowledge. As a result he has successfully designed and delivered some great projects including our multi award-winning scheme for the Regatta HQ. Conscientious and a natural problem solver, Jason has a proven track record of working on some of our most challenging projects. He is a joy to work with.
AMANDA HALAKA Kinnarps
Amanda Halaka has only been with Kinnarps a few months but we are delighted that she is now Kinnarps’ A&D Relationship Manager, with a responsibility for taking our unique Scandinavian products to the specifier market. Amanda has gained her commercial acumen from a time with Foxtons – the estate agents – but her heart is in design, having graduated in 2010 with a BA Honours in Interior Architecture Design. Whether developing designs for esteemed French linen house, Porthault or accumulating over $1M of sales for Bo Concept in Sydney, Australia, we know Amanda’s international experience, combined with her gentle personality and eye for detail make her Kinnarps’ rising star.
NATASHA CRUDER KKS
Tash has a rare quality of engaging with people, making them feel at ease, whilst at the same time probing for the most creative solution possible. She has consistently grown year on year, bringing maturity to her design schemes. Don't be fooled by her elfin-like outward appearance, Natasha is a force to be reckoned with: determined, experienced, professional and hugely talented. Tash is our rising star nominee for the dedication, design flair and fun she brings to every element of her life at KKS. Complacency is not in her vocabulary.
BECKY SPENCELEY Gensler
Her ability to work with global firms, from the technology sector to the financial services sector, with high levels of creativity to deliver flexible, adaptable and innovative spaces, has seen Becky appointed to Associate after only two years with Gensler. As a member of Gensler’s Design Performance Group, being able to maximise what interior design can deliver to support its users is at the heart of Becky’s work. Becky is also the co-designer of the award-winning Tower Hamlets Foodbank project - which won best Giving and Social Impact at Mixology 2015. Her strong conceptual ideas and passion for storytelling has led to Becky playing a lead role in design pitches and creative design projects, effectively capturing a company’s brand and ambitions to deliver distinctive and appealing workspaces that attract talent from around the world.
SARAH HAIGH Opus 4
Sarah has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the design ranks at Opus 4. She initially cut her teeth on some major house account clients, including the silver circle corporate law firm, Macfarlanes, and transport giant, First Group. It has taken Sarah less than three years to progress from being an enthusiastic Junior Designer to demonstrating enough flair, passion and drive to head up the design team. Andrew Jackson, Marketing Director said: 'Sarah has been a breath of fresh air to our business. Not only has she transformed the way we think about design, the feedback we get from our clients is phenomenal. Her innovative designs, attention to detail and positive attitude have been the determining factor in us securing the biggest contract in our 20 year history.'
38 39
Spotlight Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35
styles in carpet tiles
THE HANDCRAFT COLLECTION.
Bringing together the scraps and stitches of nature’s tale, the Handcraft collection presents
four carpet tile designs inspired by the rich artistry of nature and true craftmanship. Create
interiors that invite the outside in with Moss, Leaf, Willow and Grind. Made from 100% ECONYL®
regenerated yarn and featuring back2back recycled backing.
More information? www.modulyss.com I 0800 096 2702
Moss 983 I Leaf 983 I Willow 983
JAMIE FITZGERALD Colebrook Bosson Saunders
Jamie’s been with us for six years now and seeing him grow both as a person and through his career has been really rewarding for everyone, especially his manager, Vicky Richardson. He started off young and hungry in Sales Support and has progressed steadily into his current position as Account Manager for the likes of KI, Spacecraft, Sedus, Task and Wagstaff. He’s built a great client list, won major projects, and is genuinely well liked and respected by clients and colleagues alike. Jamie’s got excellent knowledge of systems furniture and ergonomics, he gets the job done and provides outstanding customer focus, he’ll definitely go far.
EMMA KENNEDY KKS
Emma was initially sceptical about the value of our strategic offering at KKS, preferring to dive straight into solving a design problem without understanding the reasons behind a solution. Today Emma is our rising star nominee for her complete commitment to the almost forensic approach she takes in her analysis of large development schemes, combining a deep talent for understanding both the human quality and technical requirements of a building – Emma understands completely that she must interpret the needs of the occupier within the built environment. An unusual talent for one so young.
ALICE O’KEEFE Gensler
A Gensler Associate, Alice is a talented interior designer with 10 years of experience that spans several of Gensler’s practice areas, including hospitality, retail and workplace. Her development of loyal client relationships is a testament to her spirit and passion for design, and played an instrumental role in the repositioning and rebranding of several hotels, casinos, restaurants and retail spaces across the globe. Described by Gensler Principals as an 'Outstanding, award-winning, and highly creative designer of evocative spaces'. Alice is known by her clients and colleagues alike for her ability to listen and produce designs that have become the character around which clients build their brand.
LEANNE WOOKEY NoChintz
Leanne Wookey is a board director at NoChintz. Impressively, this board level role was achieved after less than 10 years in the industry, at the tender age of just 30. Leanne is an expert in commercial design, working closely with developers (Urban Splash, Peel Holdings, Capital and Centric and Henry Boot Developments) as well as architects and owner-occupiers to design and deliver fantastic workspaces suitable for the 21st century. In her time with the company she has helped bring in some of the best designers around to help reinforce NoChintz's ever-growing team. Her accolades to date include being part of the team that won two Mixology Design Practice of the Year Awards.
VANESSA LEE BuckleyGrayYeoman
Vanessa is passionate about design and creativity, believing that good design brings better quality of life, as well as bringing commercial advantage to our client’s business. Since joining us in 2008, Vanessa's work has covered a variety of sectors and scales, from The Bishopsgate Goodsyard masterplan to smaller mixed-use developments. Most recently, the award winning Henry Wood House, a 75,000 sq ft refurbishment and fit out for The Office Group. With the client she developed the brief and helped develop a new standard for the client. In 2015 we were very proud to see Vanessa awarded the AJ Curtins Inspiring Graduate Prize.
SEAN O’HAGAN Specialist Joinery Group
As Contracts Director for Specialist Joinery Group, Sean juggles a plethora of roles. He oversees every aspect of project delivery from design development and product engineering to ensuring that we keep our 100% snag free delivery promise on site. Sean’s passion for joinery, precision and quality is exemplified in his wide portfolio of projects, which includes National Grid, Estée Lauder, Rolls Royce, EDF Energy, CCI, Hammerson PLC and Google. His claim to fame is working alongside global country star Garth Brooks to build 150 emergency relief homes in Haiti for the international charity Haven.
40 41
Spotlight Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35
CHLOE RICHARDSON Herman Miller
Chloe joined Herman Miller in 2006 as a design engineer, after completing her degree at Nottingham Trent University. She has a fantastic enquiring mind which balances creativity with strategy, so I suggested she move into the Product Management team to gain commercial and customer experience. She quickly showed a deep understanding of our products, as well as an innate sense of market need and future strategic direction. She was promoted to Director of Product Management in 2015, and under her guidance, the Product Management team have helped develop numerous products, including the recent Ratio desking system and Keyn Chair Group.
ROB CANNON Hunters
Rob's career with Hunters is a true example of working your way up through the ranks. He joined us a short-term temp in 2005, covering a member of staff on sick leave and quickly established himself an important member of the permanent team. He is now our senior project manager, successfully overseeing multi-million pound installations with blue-chip clients and is renowned for his client focused, can-do attitude and meticulous attention to detail. He is a valuable asset and a key member of the future growth of Hunters.
SARAH BUNCH HLW International
As a Senior Interior Designer Associate in London, Sarah's strong love of design, ability to work with a varied range of clients, her exceptional client care and service, plus her personal ambition to deliver all projects to exceed expectations, sets her apart from others. Her all round seamless approach has most recently delivered projects for a wide range of clients, from Brit Insurance, Jupiter Asset Management, MasterCard and Regus Group. On top of this, Sarah is one of the most respectful and caring people in the industry, she loves getting involved and her hands dirty in fundraising and CSR activities and helping mentor and encourage younger designers to realise their ambitions.
JOE HUDDLESTON Overbury
Nominated by Interface. Joe is currently involved in a wealth of national projects, specialising in office fit-out and workplace transformation – providing high-end and bespoke design solutions to impact staff-wellbeing in offices country-wide. Joe recently produced a free 10-step industry guide to wellbeing and is also involved in live studies to capture data, which will help measure wellbeing in the workplace. Additionally, Joe is dedicated to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of professionals in the industry through his work with the British Council for Offices. As a member of the BCO NextGen Committee in the Midlands, Joe helps to provide a platform for young talent to air their ideas and grow into future leaders.
AARON CLARKSON Boss Design Group
Born in the UK in 1989, Aaron studied Industrial Product Design at Coventry University and graduated with First Class in 2013. Throughout his studies Aaron took a keen interest in furniture and upholstery, designing furniture for smaller spaces for his final major project. He worked in China in 2012, exploring mass production as well as culture differences of consumers around the world. A product-based background gave him a practical and considered approach towards design, exploring various manufacturing techniques and materials as well as interesting forms. Upon graduating, Aaron worked for luxurious furniture brand Duresta, gaining experience in traditional furniture manufacturing as well as exhibiting at the NEC, before moving on to the innovative furniture brand Boss Design Group.
AMY SKIPSEY Orangebox
Amy has been a rising star within Orangebox for 15 years. Since starting as a showroom assistant in 2001 Amy has grown and developed into a sales role and now manages a team of 5 with a responsibility for £13 million revenue with a personal turnover of £4 million. To a large number of our client base she is the face of Orangebox. Trust is everything and she has earned it the hard way, supporting our dealers through being honest, responsive and hardworking whilst working as part of their extended teams. In addition through her personality and professionalism she has managed to build an enviable collection of corporate relationships and accounts.
42 43
Spotlight Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35
It’s time to re-work your office.
www.koleksiyoninternational.com
New York / Dallas / Chicago / London / Istanbul / Darmstadt / Vienna / MoscowSt.Petersburg / Melbourne / Barcelona / Cairo / Bogota / Lima / BreukelenBaku / Almaty / Nicosia / Benghazi / Amman / Jeddah / Bahrain / Doha / Tehran
MERCEDES-BENZ TURK, Boytorun Architects, İstanbul, 2015
SARAH BRYAN HLW International
Sarah is one of HLW’s fast rising stars what with her passion for design paired with an excellent ability to listen to her clients and deliver spaces which are all about them. This care and passion run right through her all round approach from design and delivery. When Sarah talks however, those that listen are mesmerised both by what she is saying but the unmistakable smoothest sexiest voice in the industry! A real team player Sarah has fantastic experience designing projects across multiple sectors with recent great success in delivering for organisations such as CCI and HPE, connecting client teams between the UK and the US.
ANDREA WILLIAMS-WEDBERG
Area Sq
Andrea started out her career in 2007 as a Junior Interior Designer at Area Sq which – after spending time with a number of leading design agencies – she returned to in 2013 as a member of its senior team. Andrea specialises in commercial design, interpreting a client’s aspirations and translating them into interiors which reflect a company’s personality, ethos and culture. Andrea has a real passion for creating exciting, innovative designs through problem solving. One of Andrea’s significant achievements includes design management of 90,000 sq ft for Bechtel, which is among the most respected engineering, construction and project management companies in the world. Her work for leading organisations include Access Industries, SVG and Iris Worldwide.
SIOBHAN O'LEARY Perkins+Will
Nominated by Humanscale.Siobhan moved to the UK from Dublin in 2011 and joined Perkins+Will 2012. Her client list includes Google, IMG Media, Discovery and, recently, QBE Insurance & A+E Networks. Siobhan was the lead designer for the office floors of News Corp UK headquarters in 2014 delivering 470,000 sq ft CAT A & B fit-out. She worked with the team to develop an overall narrative to unify the company while designing unique identity for each of the seven brands to complete the fastest and largest project at the time in London. Her work is often flamboyant and she likes to take risks. She has become a key champion for excellence in design within our London studio.
ALEX KENDRICK MMoser
Alex studied architecture in Brighton, and left with his 1st class degree to earn a living in graphics and photography. He started with us as a graphic designer but took on more roles, and three years later is in charge of our burgeoning visual communication department. His photography, film-making, video editing and, of course, graphics inspire his team, and keep the rest of us on our toes. He has made us realise that the skill we wanted was not just graphics, but the ability to capture and communicate ideas.
SAFIA LAHER Scott Brownrigg
Safia has an excellent balance of confidence and creativity. She is a talented designer with outstanding attention to detail and unique leadership skills – she seamlessly adapts her management style to suit every individual, which is very insightful and achieves the best results. Safia is highly respected by her colleagues at all levels – both as a designer and as a friend. She has a professional, proactive and positive attitude, always providing calm and considered responses, which is appreciated by her colleagues and clients alike. Safia is a natural leader who deserves every success she has earned. She is also lots of fun, especially after a few cheeky cocktails! Her creative flair and sense of fun shines through her work – she recently delivered a fantastic fit-out for Volkswagen.
ROSIE RICHARDSON Gensler
As Gensler’s EMEA Practice Area Leader for Financial Service Firms, Rosie has over 13 years’ experience as an interior designer, specialising in workplace and office design, focusing in particular on the financial services, professional services and media sectors. Rosie has a strong conceptual background and thrives in challenging and fast-paced environments, this allows her to work directly with clients to develop ideas into the technical solutions needed to achieve the project’s vision. Rosie is seen by her clients as their trusted advisor for their design projects.
44 45
Spotlight Spotlight35
und
er 3
5 35 under 35
Enhanced acoustic performance
Improved indoor air quality
Combining comfort, performance and appealing aesthetics, Tessera and Westbond carpet tiles are the ideal choice for today’s workspaces. Designed and manufactured in the UK, these ranges exceed indoor air quality standards whilst offering enhanced acoustic performance via the addition of SOFTbac®. Available in a choice of attractive colourways, Tessera and Westbond carpet tiles can help create a safe, productive and less stressful working environment. To find out how Forbo is committed to improving the health of one and all visit: www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/CHO
COMMITTEDTO THE HEALTHOF GRAHAM
LAURENCE SHANKS Area Sq
Laurence Shanks joined the Area Sq team as a Junior Designer in 2009 after working for an architecture and public art company, based in LA. After two and a half years he then moved to Munich, into a position with Gensler, working on the Google headquarters there. After this project came to a close he moved back to Area Sq, where he was promoted to the position of Lead Designer for the regions side of the business – he is now a Senior Designer. Laurence is an energetic, personable and passionate asset to the Area Sq design team. He has achieved so much in his career already, and we know he’ll continue to make positive waves at Area Sq, and in the industry.
SHELLEY QUINN HLW International
Shelley is one of HLW's international globetrotters – joining the London team after previously being based in our Los Angeles Office. An amazing designer with a clear and articulate design eye, she has joined the London design community with amazing verve and has delivered projects both locally and throughout Europe, exceeding her clients such as Willis Insurance and GTM Lawyers expectations. She brings to London a vibrant Californian zest for life, adventure, people and design and truly is a rising star both within the London Industry but globally also.
HARI MILBURN I-AM
Hari’s a shining star who’s been at I-AM for two years. She’s living proof that design is a sparkling and joyful thing, as opposed to the deadly serious, religious discipline that it sometimes appears.Hari’s tender years belie her innate talent, and her positivity lights up the studio. I-AM runs on team spirit and collaboration, and no one exemplifies that more than Hari, always sparking opportunities for gathering with each other and the design community. Hari's an inspiration, from her spirit, to her work, to her fund-raising – including two (count ’em) marathons this year. With people like her in design, the future’s bright.
THE TEAM at BDP
We are blessed with an abundance of talented young designers at BDP in our London and Manchester studios. Around 30% of our London team alone fall into the ‘rising star’ category and it is impossible to single out one, two or even three of them. So we have cheated and nominated all of them. Our photo shows Virginie Huque, Chris Gibbs, Iliana Mitova, Amy Simpson, Justine Hall, Anna Carnevale, Tut Zhu, Anca Niculescu, Cora Granier, Sophie Brown and Luke Barran-Bisset (with apologies to Nathan Potts, Rebecca Finney, Charlotte Smith, Alice Wardle and Sejal Mistry in Manchester).
GEMMA NEWELL tp bennett
Nominated by Humanscale.Prior to joining tp bennett, Gemma spent six years honing her creative skills in the high-end luxury world of super yacht and private jet interior design. With nine years' industry experience, her portfolio ranges from luxury yacht interiors to large-scale financial projects in Canary Wharf.Working in the luxury design sector has given Gemma a critical eye for detail, allowing her to bring refined and bespoke detailing into the world of commercial interiors. Gemma uses her knowledge and experience across a number of disciplines to produce creative design solutions. Gemma’s skills include concept and detailed design, as well as furniture and finishes specifications.
KEELEY SMITH Camira
Keeley Smith, affectionately known as the ‘Camira Girl’, has a passion for interior design. Promoted last year from Northern Area Business Manager to UK A&D Sales Manager Keeley has worked on projects such as HSBC, National Grid, AstraZeneca and Regatta; with top practices including BDP, Gensler, Sheppard Robson, TP Bennett and Space Invaders. Keeley has a design degree and was a practising designer before moving into commercial roles in furniture and now fabrics. Keeley loves networking and attends all major industry events in the UK and overseas. She provides insight into product development, colour and trend direction, and harnesses the power of social media to reach her global followers.
46 47
The
Round table
The Round Table
We have to start this month’s round table discussion by saying a huge thanks to our panel. Ironically, thanks to their knowledge, expertise and passion, we’re only able to bring you a mere snippet of the total conversation. We’re extremely grateful that our guests didn’t hold back and conserve their own energy!
We begin the discussion by asking our guests why, when research shows that, typically, energy consumption is only a small percentage of expenditure, is it so important to businesses throughout both the workplace and hospitality sectors?
Vanessa: I think when it comes to the hospitality sector it is quite important because the cost of electricity and water are actually key costs. Wherever hotels can reduce the outputs without impacting on guests, they will do. Water consumption is certainly something that we have to put a lot of thought into. Therefore, the taps and products that we specify have to be right. From my point of view, I’d always choose top products in this area, such as the taps – and I’m not just saying that because we’re sat in the Hansgrohe water studio! I think there are thing you can economise on. The bed is not one of them – and the tap is not one and the shower is also not one. If you have a good shower and good water pressure and a good night’s sleep, then you have a returning customer.
Steve: I recently asked an engineer at our place what the overheads for a regular workplace
– the sort of projects we get involved in – were. He reckoned it was about 1%. That’s a pretty small figure – so if someone can save you half of 1% of you overhead, it rarely reaches the top three of your priority list.
Mark: In hotels, however, it is the second biggest overhead after people. It’s one of the top five strategic agendas of all major hotel groups. A 200-room hotel in central London will have an electricity bill of approximately £50,000 per month and a water bill of £200,000-£300,000 per year. These are really big numbers. This is so important because the revenue that a lot of hotels used to make from selling breakfasts and through guests watching films has disappeared. Now people grab a Costa and download movies to their tablets. That revenue stream is now extremely flat.
Taking that one stage further, for every £100,000 you put on the bottom line by reducing water and energy costs, you will get a £1 million + on the asset value. So this is very high on the agenda right now.
Mandip: Do you think that’s coming through to the design and specification?
Mark: We’ve seen hotels that have opened brand new rooms and have put halogens in – and then, three weeks later, tell us to go in and rip them out and replace them.
A 200-room hotel in central London will have an electricity
bill of approximately £50,000 per month
and a water bill of £200,000-
£300,000 per year.Mark Sait
Una Barac Scott Brownrigg
Steve Gale MMoser associates
Vanessa Brady SBID
Mark Sait Save Money Cut Carbon
Paul Hunter Chetwoods
In our latest Round Table
we've gathered a varied
and brilliant group of
people to talk about energy
– specifically energy
within the workplace and
hospitality sectors.
Taus Larsen Zedfactory
Ben Reed Hansgrohe
Graham Spurr Hilson Moran
Mandip Shanker Hansgrohe
Martin Townsend BRE
48 49
They also use the
energy consumption of a building as a
way of front-loading the investment of the
building.Vanessa Brady
The Round TableThe Round Table
Martin: One of the big issues here is the relationship between how the customer feels – the health and wellbeing of people within the space – and the efficiency of the space. So if you drive your building based on efficiency – water efficiency and energy efficiency – it could actually affect how people feel in the space.
Paul: I think with regards to the workspace, when you looked at energy on its own, it wasn’t really a big selling point. Now, with the growth of health and wellbeing has really started pushing that agenda from the other side. People are now realizing that 80% of their costs are in the staff and staff retention is vital, therefore the things that will encourage staff to work in an office – such as air quality and daylighting – are the big drivers. When you talk about the facts and figures and energy consumption on its own, people can switch off quite quickly – but when you start talking about how people experience a space, people do get excited far quicker. I think similar things are starting to happen in the hotel sector as well, in terms of people’s experience in a more competitive market.
Una: I think operators do care and are interested in this. For example, we work with a major hotel chain who do insist on the quality of the taps they specify as well as the flow rate. It doesn’t matter whether it is their luxury brand, mid-market or budget. Obviously, high-end brands are often more eco-conscious because they can afford to be. It is important to these major companies – and we’re talking about some of the biggest brands in the world here – to reduce their carbon footprint. We’re having to really think when specifying – especially hen it
comes to products such as showers and taps and the lighting.
Martin: I don’t think this is just about operational carbon – it’s also about embedded carbon as well. When you start to look at the efficiency of the fabric of a building, all the technologies you’re placing into that space, you’re actually starting to look at the carbon impact of that. Some of the materials that are being used nowadays are actually quite carbon intense – but over the lifetime of that building and through the efficiency of that building, you’re going to see a far better return.
Graham: I think the game is moving from operational carbon to embedded carbon as well. People need to be quite mindful of that.
Una: I totally agree with that.Mark: At a strategic level, water is very
much on the agenda. We’re now seeing a lot less carbon targets and people who have missed their carbon targets – and are now saying ‘You know what, let’s focus on water’! When it comes to a number of the major (hotel) groups it’s not costs, it’s actually volume and consumption. I’ve seen a lot of these groups flip their carbon strategy into water consumption.
Vanessa: They also use the energy consumption of a building as a way of front-loading the investment of the building – so you won’t see property value advertised just by square footage or by location any more, it will be efficiency and function, because property that has been designed and fitted out to use less energy will make it more valuable to the occupier. It’s a really important point.
We move on to discuss the clarity – or lack of clarity – in the message of energy conservation.
Mandip: We still find people who are specifying products but are quite confused in terms of what the levels are and what they should be doing. They don’t know where that information is – and then you have conflicting bodies with different agendas. I don’t think this is as clear as it could be.
Martin: I think it’s now time to jump from trying to focus the attention to the supply chain and developers about what does good regulation and good design look like to the consumer. How do you get the consumer to start to become more intelligent about whether this is a good house or a good building? How do you get the people who use those spaces to understand what it means to them?
Mark: Through the pain of money!Taus: We’ve been doing this for so long!
We’ve now shifted our pitch away from ‘this is low in carbon, this is going to save the planet’ and we’re now pitching ‘this is going to save you money this quickly!’
Mark: As long as your energy bill is smothered to death by the property you buy, it’s not even going to get into the top ten things you do. With office space in central London at £75 per square foot, it’s hard to persuade landlords to do something about this.
With that we’ve come full circle.
ConclusionThe workplace and hospitality sectors may well consider energy and water conservation from a slightly different perspective, but it is essential that all commercial stakeholders have energy usage high on the corporate agenda, regardless of their ultimate motivation.
ww
w.t
hew
ater
stud
io.c
o.uk
50 51
The Round Table continued
Mesh Office Seating just got even better. As part of theglobally reknowned Comfort Seating Group, ComfortEurope are now manufacturing in the UK, offering not onlythe same great choice of ergonomic office seating, butlead times are also exceptionally fast.
Find out more and unleash your creativity on ourcustom seating configurator at comfort.global.
BIGGER, BETTER, BRIGHTER, FASTER
DESIGNED BY YOU MADE BY COMFORT
WWW.COMFORT.GLOBAL | 01560 324440
mix-paperdolls.qxp_Layout 1 03/05/2016 00:15 Page 6
If you haven’t guessed from reading the roundtable on the previous pages, we think energy usage will be a constant in the world of design in the next hundred years or so. We felt a flirtation with some terms wouldn’t go amiss.
BREEAM Points scoring system for sustainable building assessment for a wide range of developments grading buildings into categories which is driving developers and designers innovative ideas and solutions.
Water Regulations State that systems should be designed and installed to ensure that the system cannot waste water, be misused, cause contamination or have undue consumption. Therefore, in conjunction with Breeam and other sustainable programmes, clients, owners, developers, designers, installers
and end users have a duty to ensure best practise solutions are provided.
Room control Systems for the hospitality sector and or residential which control temperature, lighting and daylighting in association with occupancy, although these initially have a higher capex cost these will inevitably drive down the opex costs and ultimately reduce energy consumption.
Heat recovery systems Utilising the waste heat from the room either form the air or the drainage system to pre-heat water or ventilation systems reducing the energy required for heating are being widely used across all sectors.
Grey water recovery From showers in commercial property is seeing an increase as a result of cyclist provision within buildings and surrounding areas. Thus generating sufficient water for WC flushing and irrigation.
Sources: Mix Research, SaveMoneyCutCarbon.com, Hilson Moran.
Have you ever wondered what the point in saving water is? Whatever your levels of concentration at school you would no doubt have remembered that water evaporates over the sea and the clouds dump their load on the hills and the water ends up in our pipes via the reservoir. Therefore surely there's no urgent need to save water. Not so. Here a few of the more shocking facts that should encourage all of us to use a little less water and therefore reduce energy use. Oh, and whilst we have our climate consideration hat on, turn off the engine whilst waiting in the carpark at the train station!
1,000m3of water saved is calculated to save
1.15 tonnes of CO2
3%UK water industry uses 3% of the UK electricity generated
capacity and contributes approximately 1% to national
greenhouse emissions
A tonne of CO2 is around 550metres cubed – about the size of a typical
three-bedroom house or 3 double decker buses
Hotel asset owner are seeking market rates of 10 – 12 x EBITDA on asset value, so every £100K that can be re-duced of energy and water bills, in theory the asset value can have a sale value increase of circa £1m. Energy and water is typically the second or third largest OPEX in a
hotel, under staff costs
£14,516 paAssuming hotel guests use a shower for six mins per 24 hour stay
per room – if you move a 200 bedroom hotel from a standard 18ltr/pm shower head to a 9ltr one, the annual saving to the
hotel in water, and energy used to heat the water is £14,516 pa, the water consumption savings is 3,942,000ltr and the carbon
reduction is 34.95 tonnes.
52 53
Profile Profile
We assume what they mean by this is when
we meet senior people from revered firms or
superstar designers. Well, today we’re meeting
with two gentlemen who could certainly put
the fear into our friends, but we know will once
again prove our old adage that, it’s these very
people who are happy and confident to talk
passionately about what they do. And that is
just about all any design journalist could
wish for.
We’ve headed out to south London’s
Kennington to meet with forpeople –
described by the firm’s founder Richard
Stevens as ‘Maybe the biggest design firm in
London you’ve never heard of!’ Interestingly,
and in keeping with our introduction, Richard’s
email also states that he is the Creative
Director at British Airways – so maybe we
should be a little nervous on this particular
occasion.
Not that Richard or Associate Director
Joohee Lee would want or expect that. Instead
we’re immediately made to feel at ease, with
our hosts more than happy to relax over a
coffee and chat. We should say that our chief
reason for meeting with Richard and Joohee
is to discuss the new chair the firm has
developed and designed with Herman Miller.
Anyone who knows their workplace furniture
will be only too aware that any Miller chair
launch comes with a huge amount of industry
anticipation.
Before we move on to that, we ask our hosts
to tell us more about forpeople, whose client
roster includes leading automotive companies
(it even has its own automotive department)
and an enviable list of blue chip companies
across an incredibly diverse number of sectors.
‘We’re currently split across four studios in and
around Kennington,’ Richard tells us, ‘and we’re
waiting to go into our new studio just around
the corner. It’s 13,000 sq ft and it’s taken us
five years to find and develop it. We’re coming
up to 100 people now – over 70 of which are
creatives.
Having been around a while, we tend not to get nervous when meeting people for the first time. Friends often wonder if we don’t feel at least a few jitters before meeting ‘important’ industry folk. ‘How do you judge if someone is important?’ we ask.
People Watching
In Short
1994 Richard Stevens
graduates from
Coventry University
2003
Joohee Lee graduates
from the Royal College
of Art
2004
Richard Stevens starts
Founds Forpeople
2012Joohee Lee joins
Forpeople as Associate
Director
2013Richard Stevens
appointed Creative
Director, British
Airways
54
Profile Profile
‘We were originally hoping that the
studio launch would coincide with the chair
launch. We’ve worked extremely closely with
Herman Miller to develop the space. It won’t
be a showroom for them but it will be a real
testament to the understanding that we’ve
gained from working with them about how you
develop a space for people to work in.’
‘I joined around four and a half years ago
and at that time there were just 22 people,’
Joohee recalls. ‘It feels as though we’ve been
hiring new people every week since!’
‘We’re only 13 years old so we’re still
making mistakes and learning,’ Richard
continues. “It’s never been our intention to
grow and to build a massive design firm. What
amazes me is the diversity and the quality of
work. We’re very discreet – we never wanted
to be in Shoreditch. We really liked the
idea that we were on a residential street in
Kennington and anyone walking past wouldn’t
know what it is we did.
There were four founding members
– which is partly the reason for the name.
We work as one team, exploring lots of
different complicated problems for lots of
different clients in lots of different sectors.
We pull all this talent and these different
viewpoints together and the output is always
exciting because of that.
A lot of design agencies will specialize in a
particular area – so when they are asked to
design an airline interior, for example, all these
airline interior designers, who’ve just done an
airline interior for someone else, coming in and
doing another! We pull from all these different
areas and people offer their expertise to the
problem. And that has kept our staff turnover
really low. If someone’s had enough of working
We’re very discreet – we never wanted to be in Shoreditch...
on one kind of project, they can move across to
another. This really benefits us.
‘We said, right from the start of forpeople,
that we would not use the projects that we
work on with clients to promote ourselves
– we’d invest everything back into the
relationship, because the relationship with
each person that we work with is the most
important thing. I think the Herman Miller
project is an amazing example of that.
Culturally, they’ve always been like that
– it’s all about the people.’
Richard shows us some of that impressive
body of work – dating back from before the
formation of forpeople. ‘We were working with
Boeing and Teague, who were designing the
Dreamliner at the time. We were asked to find
what they should be designing
56 57
Profile Profile
based on insights around people’s anxieties
and needs when they travel on airplanes – it
was an amazing opportunity and we called the
project ‘Airplanes for People’. That name stuck
with me – it said everything – so that’s where
the name really came from and that’s why
this project with Herman Miller is ‘Chairs for
People’. It speaks of Herman Miller and it also
speaks of us. You don’t need to see our logo
everywhere!
‘For the last three years I was seconded
to British Airways as Creative Director. We’ve
been their retained creative agency for 12
years. That’s been an amazing experience –
we’ve done kind of everything for them.
‘We started by developing a new First Class
interior with them, working with a lot of people
we’d worked with previously from different
sectors – such as the leading automotive
production trim specialist. That’s also the level
of craft and expertise we’ve brought in to the
project with Herman Miller.
‘Herman Miller has traditionally worked
with high profile names. We’re not about that
and I think they struggled with that to start
with. We’ve been working together since 2009
and certainly at the beginning they weren’t
sure how to communicate this considering
they were working with an agency that didn’t
really want to talk about itself. There’s been
quite a lot of soul-searching on both sides.
‘I think that resonated with them
immediately is that we don’t have any process
and a series of diagrams that we use to sell
ourselves. As people, we feel emotion about
something and we then try to work that out in
our heads and then we realise it in whatever
way is most appropriate – that’s what we do.
It’s completely collaborative.
We insist on working with everyone we possibly can within
our clients’ businesses.
Innovative modular desk systems in brass, copper and hot rolled steel designed by Paul Crofts
Visit our new Clerkenwell showroom1 Sans Walk, London EC1
in Metal
+44 (0)20 7388 8599 [email protected] www.isomi.com
Launching at Clerkenwell Design Week
On_Office_Isomi_Metal_single_modules.indd 1 13/04/2016 17:24
We have a lot of people with a lot of emotional
engagement and the ability to emotionally
engage with problems and a lot of commercial
understanding – the understanding of the
needs of people.
'If you ask people what they think we are
they certainly wouldn’t say we’re a design
agency.
'I believe that’s allowed us to grow –
because people don’t see the limits to what
we can do. We are this creative company, but
we’re also a sort of private members club,
where people feel a part of and once you’re ‘in
the club’ there’s a whole world of knowledge
that can be gained which isn’t conflicting
with confidentiality. I think our clients really
respect that. We’re not about entering
awards; we’re about putting all our efforts
back into the relationship. It’s completely
collaborative. We insist on working with
58 59
Profile Profile
The key to this product is the quality of
thinking and craft we’ve been able to produce – not just as one-off beautiful pieces.
everyone we possibly can within our clients’
businesses.’
To prove the point our hosts tell us that
they worked closely not only with Herman
Miller’s sales and marketing people, but also
with the engineers in the UK and Michigan
and even with key dealers in both the US
and London.
‘This is the first group of Herman Miller
chairs conceived and developed outside the
US,’ Richard proudly tells us. ‘The level of
expertise in that company is amazing. I don’t
think anyone else has that kind of knowledge.
Once you are in through the doors at Miller
they just start chucking knowledge at you –
and that’s truly inspirational for us. They’re so
great to work with. They don’t see a limit to
where we can bring our creativity.’
The result of forpeople’s first foray into
designing for the workplace is the innovative
Keyn Chair Group. The new and unique group
provides a solution for both meeting and side
chairs, offering responsive movement and
immediate comfort, with an unprecedented
number of specification options.
‘I think we were able to work – and are
always able to work – with a freedom,’ Joohee
considers. ‘We don’t limit ourselves to one
sector and our designers understand that
you have to design with the user in mind. You
should never design anything in isolation – you
should always look at where does what you’re
asked to do fit within the overall experience.’
‘Our relationship with Herman Miller
started because of this approach,’ Richard
takes over. ‘They liked the way we approached
a problem, approached a brief – how we
sought to observe and understand people first.
I think this is under-recognised skill amongst
designers.
‘The key to this product is the quality of
thinking and craft we’ve been able to produce
– not just as one-off beautiful pieces, but as
mass-produced products that Herman Miller
can make anywhere in the world.’
Such is Richard and Joohee’s generosity
when it comes to time and sharing of
knowledge and expertise, that we quickly
realise we’ve got two stories in one here. We’re
afraid you’ll have to wait for the full focus on
the development of the Keyn Chair Group – but
we promise it’s well worth that wait.
Excitingly, the Keyn Chair Group will be
launched next month right here in London.
‘It means a hell of a lot to us that the chairs
are going to be launched in Clerkenwell,’
Richard grins. It means a hell of a lot to
us too, Richard.
60 61
Case Study Case Study
Get CarterWe have an exclusive for you. Despite reports to the contrary, the desk is not dead! Far from. While this may come as a bit of a shock to Shoreditch’s bearded fashionistas, the desk, the table, the system – whatever you want to call it – is still key to the success of many a project.
Although we’re all for innovative, agile new
settings, we’re also acutely aware that a
beanbag, a ping pong table or a bar stool does
not suit all businesses – far from. Rather than
being sector specific, workplace solutions
should always – and we do mean always –
be tailored to the client’s own business, its
culture, its wants and its needs. Sometimes
a beanbag will do the job – but often what
is really required is something a little more
robust.
When Natixis Global Asset Management
moved into its first UK office, a 16,500sq
foot space opposite St Pauls Cathedral,
interior design firm Mf Studio was enlisted to
create an all-encompassing space for the UK
workforce of 140 people. Natixis requested an
elegant and refined London environment – and
that is exactly what the company now has.
Natixis Global Asset Management ($870.3
billion AUM) is a multi-affiliate organisation
that offers a single point of access to more
than 20 specialised investment firms in the
Americas, Europe and Asia. The firm ranks
among the world’s largest asset managers.
Through its Durable Portfolio Construction
philosophy, Natixis Global Asset Management
is dedicated to providing innovative ideas on
asset allocation and risk management that
can help institutions, advisors and individuals
address a range of modern market challenges.
Whilst budgets and a speedy design-to-
install timescale were key, the overall look and
feel of the environment were of course
EssentialsClient Natixis
Created In 2007 from a merger
between Natixis
and Ixis
Assets €801bn under
management
CEO Pierre Servant
Interior Design MF Design Studio
Project Manager Interactive Space
Furniture Supply Task Systems
Systems Furniture ICF
Soft Seating Marelli, Boss Design,
Lyndon Design
Carpets Christy Carpets
62 63
Case Study Case Study
of utmost importance. For its first UK stand-
alone office, Natixis wanted a very strong
design statement. MF Studio took inspiration
from the office’s proximity to St Paul’s, as
the cathedral is reflected in the glass façade
of 1 Carter Lane. The design concept was to
recreate that reflection in the new reception.
A photograph of St Paul’s was etched onto a
glass using the latest technology in etching,
and the subtle image is impressively lit from
above and below by LED lights to create a
dramatic backdrop.
MF Studio then set about designing and
developing a bespoke desking solution, to add a
personal and domestic touch to the open plan.
Task Systems was brought on board for its
unique ability and experience in manufacturing
bespoke desking on a large scale. Task created
a design in collaboration with Mf Studio to
incorporate desktop storage, electrics and
custom lighting for each individual workspace.
With such a large number of people to
provide for, it was essential to get the desking
right – both for the sake of the utlisation
of the space as a whole and also for the
individuals who drive the company forward.
It was imperative that the systems allowed
the space to work to its full potential.
A solution came in the form of a specially
created bench desking system, based on the
Uni Table range by ICF. Finished with acoustic
screens and storage above and below the
desk, the system provides concentrated
workstations for over 120 in the open
plan space.
Each screen was upholstered in a slick
Ice grey fabric, complimenting the colours of
Natixis’ own branding and matching the task
chairs in the main office. The screen height
was carefully considered, and provides privacy
while also allowing people to speak with
colleagues. When sitting up straight, it’s easy
for staff to see above the screens.
The storage comprises lockable cabinets
– one below the desk height for personal
belongings and one above for filing and
With such a large number of people to provide for,
it was essential to get the desking right.
[w] www.protocoluk.com [e] [email protected] [t] 0208 591 6770
&
65
Case Study Case Study
64
Smart breakout areas are dotted
around the space, and are furnished with soft seating from Marelli, Boss Design
and Lyndon...
stationery. Also boasting acoustic absorbing
panels, again upholstered in Ice grey, the
storage further assists in dampening down the
sound of multiple phone calls and chatter, so
prevalent in open office space.
Each desk was fitted with cool, retro
inspired, fitted glass shaded table lamps.
Although the space does have lighting at
ceiling level, it was felt that the lamps would
provide ambient, warm light as well as
providing an extra lighting option for those
that need it at their desk.
The mix of the acoustic screen, the storage
boxes and the table lamp provides each
individual at Natixis a high spec, private space
to perform concentrated tasks, despite the
open plan nature of the main office scheme.
For the private offices, Task has provided
Parallel Executive tabletops on adapted,
bespoke bases, which add a luxurious touch,
alongside the classically styled Una Executive
chairs, upholstered in a sophisticated brown
leather.
Each private office also provides for
collaborative work at small round meeting
tables, also flanked by Una Executive seating.
85 Great Eastern Street, Shoreditch, London EC2A 3HY
tasksystems.co.uk
T: +44 (0)20 7749 1960F: +44 (0)20 7749 1961
NEW SHOWROOMCOMING SOON
In addition to the working spaces, Task has
provided Uni meeting room tables and paired
them with a mix of classic Una Executive and
Una Management chairs. Smart breakout
areas are dotted around the space, and are
furnished with soft seating from Marelli, Boss
Design and Lyndon, for informal meetings or
for visiting clients to perch at.
Natixis is suitably delighted by the results
of the fit out. And justifiably so – the project
recently won a coveted BCO Regional Award
for projects up to 2,000 sq m in London and
the South East. Now that’s a well managed
asset.
66 67
We’ve weaved our way through the billboards and diversions that mark Victoria Station’s major refurbishment, and now find ourselves out in the bright sunshine, taking in the already transformed Victoria Street. We walk past cool bistros, bars and shopfronts – this is definitely an area ‘on the up’.
Planet Suite
On reaching our destination – the Zigzag Building – we take a moment to look both at the contemporary architecture and the new street level amenities, which include Jamie’s and Iberica. Like we said, on the up.
We’re here to visit the first tenants of the
new building – Jupiter Asset Management.
HLW has created a vibrant new workspace
for the British business that offers a new
contemporary aesthetic to this traditionally
conservative sector.
Jupiter is an established fund management
group that seeks to add value for their clients
through the delivery of outperformance over
the medium to long term. Its origins go back
to 1985 as a specialist investment boutique
founded in London. Since then it has expanded
beyond the UK as retail and institutional
investors have been attracted to its active
approach to asset management.
The highly successful group moved from
a tired office space in Hyde Park Corner to
become the first tenants of this new BREEAM
Excellent rated building earlier this year. The
new home has been designed to reflect an
evolution of the Jupiter brand and status as
market leaders, utilising the 56,000 sq ft space
to increase collaboration and interaction among
its 430 staff.
Appointed to deliver full scope interior
design services, HLW International’s design
scheme draws heavily on the building’s
architectural features and surroundings
referencing, in particular, the buildings
juxtaposition with Victoria Street and St
James’s Park.
We enter the bright, open reception space
on the 9th floor, where we are joined by HLW
internationals Associate Sarah Bunch, who
tells us more about the facilities here. We
are located in the main reception to Jupiter’s
business suite situated across three levels –
levels 7 and 8 are the working floors and then
9 is the business suite and staff hub area.
Case StudyCase Study
EssentialsClient Jupiter Asset
Management
Founded 1985
Founder John Duffield
Net Income £132.1m (2015)
Interior Design HLW International
Sit/Stand Systems Furniture Assmann
Task Seating Humanscale
Woven Vinyl Flooring Bolon
68
Case Study
The exposed soffits offer a great contrast
to the elegance of the rest of the suite.
Acoustic panels help with the sound quality
within the meeting rooms, a number of which
have retractable walls for larger meetings
and conferences. The meeting rooms towards
the core of the building that do not have the
benefit of the natural light here are boosted
with impressive additional light fittings.
Facing the meeting rooms is an interactive
exhibition space, curated by Jupiter’s own
art committee, showcasing upcoming
artists, each of whom is given a three-month
‘residency’. We walk back past the reception
space and through to a cool, open breakout
area, which comes with low and high benches
for informal meetings and a striking green
rug by the Clerkenwell Rug Company.
The concept throughout is ‘urban v
nature’, mixed with a play on the angles of
the building and permeates through to the
choice of materials and planting. HLW were
very careful about which plants they chose,
some spaces lacked natural light so they had
to ensure that the plants would still thrive in
those conditions.
As we mentioned a little earlier, this is
a BREEAM Excellent rated building – and
Level 9 is split into two with glass partitioning
separating the client suite from the staff hub.
The flexible multifunctional space contains
a large recessed presentation screen as well
as furniture and joinery pieces, commissioned
specifically for Jupiter and developed by Opus
Magnum, that can be broken down to allow for
both client and staff functions.
We’re led over to the windows, where we
find an astonishing, uninterrupted view from
this elevated level. HLW chose this part of
the building for the client suite because it
has the best views, ’Sarah Bunch tells us.
With views that stretch as far as Canary
Wharf the design also takes advantage of
the Zigzag’s angular facade, making good use
of the abundant natural light and drawing
visitors to those outside world.
Beyond the flexible reception space there
is a suite of impressive, equally flexible
meeting rooms. We are told that there are
17 in total here (with no number 13). The
architect’s intention was to include a chilled
beam system with exposed soffits, which
were designed to be seen. HLW celebrated
the soffit by keeping a central section
exposed which also provided the meeting
rooms with extra height.
Jupiter very much bought into the idea of
taking things further still when it came to
sustainability with HLW to achieving SKA
Gold for the project.
Speaking of plants and nature, both
the 8th and 9th floors have the benefit of
amazing plant-abundant outdoor terraces
complementing the views across Victoria
and beyond, and bright colours, taken from
nature-tropical birds, form part of the
aesthetic and are presented to accentuate
Jupiter’s branding.
Looking out across the views, we ask why
Jupiter chose this particular area. ‘Victoria
is becoming a real hub for financial services,’
we’re told by Sarah. ‘Another financial firm
is moving here soon – so there will be more
asset management companies in this building
and this area, which is helping to re-shape
and re-purpose what was historically a
centre for civil service due to its proximity
to Westminster.’
We’re told that Jupiter’s former home has
been due for redevelopment for a number of
years, therefore the firm had been looking
for an alternative location. The Zigzag
Building provided the right floorplates, in
the right area. Previously spread across
six floors the leading asset management
Entry levelDesk Transformer
Mid range Desk Riser
PremiumSit-Stand Bench
PremiumSit-Stand Desk
FurniPlus provides smart, ergonomic office furniture and accessories. We offer a flexible
working solution to suit any budget, ensuring every client can benefit.
Call us for a brochure or information on the
benefits of becoming a FurniPlus dealer.
08450 944 339
FLEXIBLEINNOVATIVEINTELLIGENT
70
Case Study
The project has been a real success and
we feel we have a space that will support us in our continued growth.
firm wanted to foster integration and team
cross-fertilization, which the new premises
now offers. Now that they are across two of
three floors employee communication and
interaction is already reaping benefits to the
business. The location was also important
to Jupiter as it provide better transport
and amenities for both their employees and
clients.
The brief to HLW was to create a fresh
and original environment that encouraged
teams to collaborate through the
introduction of multiple, formal and informal
breakout spaces. Quiet zones have also
been incorporated to complement the open
plan working environment and facilitate
concentration and private conversations.
Staff wellbeing was a key objective and
permeates throughout, from the introduction
of sit/stand desking for all staff, through
to the large town hall social space – where
we now find ourselves – which can be re-
configured for internal and external events as
well as staff dining. To call this a canteen or a
teapoint would be doing it a major disservice
and, despite the fact that it’s now late in the
afternoon, we find a number of people having
internal, informal meetings here. There is
even an adjacent, highly popular, table tennis
room to encourage employees to take a break
from their work – although as we take a
peek into the room we find a number of guys
huddled around a table tennis table that
is filled with papers. Now that’s flexibility!
A special mention has to go the brilliant
upturned plant pot light fittings above the
booths here.
The clean, open plan working floors have
a nice buzz to them, with smart breakout
spaces and teapoints punctuating the work
zones. It’s also nice to see people actually
using the sit/stand systems.
Speaking of the new move, Edward
Bonham Carter, Vice Chairman of Jupiter
Asset Management said: ‘Our new office in
The Zig Zag Building, designed for us by HLW,
reflects Jupiter’s brand and our dynamic
and successful business. Our staff have
thoroughly embraced the more contemporary,
collaborative working environment and
our clients have been impressed by the
welcoming, professional quality of the top
floor meeting suite. The project has been a
real success and we feel we have a space that
will support us in our continued growth.’
We challenge you to feel something new—like the remarkable softness
that only comes from Ultrafabrics®.
www.ultrafabricsllc.com
Come and experience the future at the Ultrafabrics Takumi Gallery in St. John’s Square.
71
72 73
Review Review
Location £/sq ft
Manchester 32
Birmingham 30
Edinburgh 30
Bristol 29.50
Leeds 27
Cardiff 22
REGIONAL REPORT: SOUTH WESTAs we go to press the first independent mayor in Britain is up for re-election. On the 5th May George Ferguson will hope his efforts over the last four years will count as he seeks re-election. Mr Ferguson, probably known by many in our sector, is a past President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, co-founder of Ferguson Mann Architects in 1979 and founder of the national UK wide network of practices, Acanthus, in 1986.
He is credited with many projects including the Bristol Millennium project and the Tobacco Factory. His latest spirited view to be expressed is on cycling, more specifically the Lycra louts. A keen cyclist himself, he’s not referring to you, only to those that mount pavements and don’t use lights or bells. More specifically he believes road insurance should be compulsory
for cyclists. We believe that Mr Ferguson, with his strong business vision and his positive views on environmental issues, will have done enough. Something that cannot be said for Philip Raby who, as we go to press, was on the receiving end of a 79% no vote for the plan to have an elected major in Bath and NE Somerset.
After backing a double of Leicester to win the Premiership and Mark Selby to win the Snooker World Championships we think our £1 bet on George Ferguson is safe.
Severn Powerhouse – what is it?You may have heard of the Northern
Powerhouse – led by the Chancellor, George Osborne, and developed by various concerned groups who aim to take advantage of all things
good in the North of England, giving the business world in particular a viable alternative to London. Encouraged by early success in the North, Bristol and Cardiff city regions have developed their own version, taking the general view that there is a clear case for cities to take a greater role in their social and economic destiny.
The history books will probably be kind to George Osborne as he has done much and probably gone further than most would have thought possible on the issue of devolution. We believe that the Northern Powerhouse project has been a positive force in the North of England but many doubt that the Severn Powerhouse will have the same success and will certainly be some way off. According to the RSA City Growth Commission it is a 'viable case for devolution'.
Cheltenham
Swindon
Bournemouth
Exeter
TorquayFalmouth
Plymouth
Taunton
Bath
Bristol
Prime office rents as of Sept 2015
% of UK Population % of UK Economic Output Median Age
Unemployment Working age population with no qualifications
Regional profile of the South West
10.3% 13.9%
6.0% 6.9%6.0%7.0%
North East
West Midlands
South East
South East
South West
South West
8%42.941.034.0
8%
South West
West Midlands
London
Bristol Bath Exeter
When asked how satisfied about public gardens and other green areas just over 77% reported medium or high level of satisfaction, compared to 48% in the North east
74 75
Review Review
2015-03-24 Mix Interiors emb.indd 1 24/03/2015 09:35:30
Sources: Mix research, Kim Findlay pledge chairs, CBRE, ONS
Willmott Dixon focus on the South WestThe privately-owned contractor and developer has been buoyed by recent successes in the South West and the leap to invest in a new office in Exeter. Recent projects included the new home of the Met office’s super computer at the Exeter Science Park and four schools in Plymouth. Managing Director of the region, Neal Stephens, said: ‘With many projects already delivered and more in the pipeline, we feel now is the right time to establish an Exeter base to serve our customers and work with our local supply chain. We’re making a strong commitment to local spend, with over 65% of project budgets designated to companies within 35 mile radius of a scheme, ensuring investment stays local to sustain jobs and support regional prosperity.’ Wilmott Dixon will be at Mixology on the 23rd June as one of our sponsors.
What is Co-workingCo-working is usually a shared office environment where the individuals are not necessarily employed by the same organisation. Attractive to individuals in the professional sector that either travel frequently or work at home. A perfect example is the impressive DeskLodge in Bristol. Very cool!
One Brunswick SquareProperty consultants Alder King and GVA have been appointed to market 52,000 sq ft of Grade A contemporary office and retail space in Bristol’s Brunswick Square, an area fast becoming the city’s creative heartland.
One Brunswick Square is currently undergoing comprehensive speculative refurbishment and remodelling. The building will retain its Georgian red brick façade while the interior will provide four floors of highly flexible, open plan office space with exposed ceilings and services specifically designed to appeal to the city’s creative sector.
Simon Price, head of agency at Alder King, said: 'This refurbishment is targeted at Bristol’s flourishing creative sector, which makes up an estimated 10% of the local economy and values space that is quirky and characterful.
'The area between Newfoundland Street and Stokes Croft is already a well-established creative hub and One Brunswick Square aims to sit in the heart of this, offering space of the highest calibre behind a fully restored period façade.'
The refurbishment includes the development of new main entrance and reception area opening onto Brunswick Square and two ground floor café units. When completed in September 2016 it is expected to have a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and an EPC rating of B.
DeskLodge
Exeter Science Park
One Brunswick Square
Bristol was named the UK's first 'cycling city' in 2008 and was given £11 million by the Government to improve bicycle access.
The number of people riding a bike to work in Bristol now outnumbers those in Sheffield, Nottingham, Newcastle and Liverpool combined.
77
Review
76
Focus
HOWE uk82 Clerkenwell Road, London
Tel: 020 3608 [email protected]
www.howe.com
SixE LEARN PearsonLloyd
efficientelegantergonomiceaseeconomicenvironmental
FOR ACTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
COME VISIT US AT CLERKENWELL
DESIGN WEEK
Sunglasses, gelato, pizza, piazzas, Negroni, Aperol Spritz, the cathedral, flamingos,
the last supper, those teeny little cars and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds
of designers. Milan has a lot going on.
You would think it might be overwhelming or daunting but it isn't. Visiting the Milan Furniture Fair is tiring, no doubt about that – hours on end of stomping from location to location takes it out of you, however if you appreciate design and creativity in any form then the experience is overwhelmingly uplifting.
At these shows there is always a focus on searching out new trends. This year, if we’re honest, we’re not sure we saw any. Just because one chair is painted neon orange (although cool) does that mean there's a new trend for furniture that leaves an imprint at the back of your retina when you look away? Probably not, but what Milan did this year was illustrate that great design is timeless – there was still plenty to see and be inspired by. Here are a few our favourite things!
USMUSM unveiled a cute display of its new product range – the pressed felt Inos storage containers. Various objects, the kind you’d want to pop in a box – like scissors or forks or a massive engagement ring, dangled, rotating slightly in the cool air-conditioned breeze. A kind of mobile. At the Mobile.
The Inos boxes themselves are neat. Made of pressed felt, obviously they’re measured to fit snugly into USM Haller storage, but these could be used anywhere standalone.
MUUTOOne of the best, most joyous lamps we’ve seen since we made circuits at school to learn about electric currents. ARTEKArtek was showing off, in a typically understated fashion, the new REB Kaari series of shelves,
barely designed by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec. A selection of elements from brand heroes Stool 60 and Wall Shelf were pinned up to a wall to create a graphic display of the perfect elements that are the epitome of Artek’s signature style. THONETAt Thonet the fluro number caught our eye. How could it not? It’s nice to see that a classic like this Lehnstuhl isn’t considered above a bit of fun. Although, will this age as well as the natural beechwood original? Check back in 30 years.
KRISTALIAKristalia showed a variety of great products including the new Colander Chair and the beautifully simple Maki Table.
VITRAJasper Morrison reached peak normal at Vitra with his Occasional Lounge Chair, Soft Modular Sofa and a very familiar All Plastic Chair.
GLAS ITALIAGlas Italia’s Shimmer table range was spellbinding – those simple cuts and shapes cast out a graceful glow. By HRH Patricia Urquiola, fyi. There was also an insanely cool riveted glass cabinet by Piero Lissoni that was so different – Urquiola so modern, Lissoni so classic. Both so cool.
DIESEL LIVINGDiesel Living were some strewn socks away from being the most boyish stand in the world. Loved it. There was a space themed dining room complete with moon surface patterned lamps, plates, cabinets. Spacemen, rockets and geological gems accessorized to perfection. And cactus. Space cactus!
MOBILE HOME
Thonet
USM
Muuto
79
Focus
78
Review
H I G H L I G H T S N O T T O B E M I S S E D. . .
• Sign up for a photography workshop and create stand out social media streams (11.30-2.30pm)• Desso and Tarkett invite trend forecaster Scarlet Opus to share insight into key interiors trends and OnOffice brings along a designer to ‘Translate the Trends’. Evening finishes with cocktails/mocktails (6- 8pm)
• Have a go at designing and printing t-shirts or canvas bags (10-12.30pm)• Flooring gets personal with Luminous Carpets – Philips and Desso reveal all (2-3.30pm)• Back by popular demand, Trevor Flynn from Drawing at Work holds an inspiring Creative Drawing Workshop (7-11pm)
• ‘In Conversation’ – design journalist, Katie Treggiden, discusses the growing trend for Personalisation in Interiors with designers (12.30-1.30pm)• Designer makers featured in the Hoxton Mini Press ‘Makers of East London’ book showcase their skills (2-4pm)• The Floor is Yours Open Mic event returns (7-10pm)
24MAY
25MAY
26MAYTo pre-book your place email
[email protected] make sure you’re on the guest list.
Desso has a packed three day programme planned for this year’s Clerkenwell Design Week exploring ‘Personalisation, Individuality and Uniqueness’
Step InsideClerkenwell Design Week 2016
The Mix Online Barometer posed the question as to which commercial interior design event was the most important. As we go to press, Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) is out in front, with Orgatec and Milan's Salone close behind and Neocon and Stockholm just over the first fence.
The Farmiloe Building is continuing its journey, being refashioned as a 40,000 sq ft
commercial development by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, and will therefore no longer be part of the Clerkenwell design jamboree. The exhibition space is being replaced with locations that have names like Design Fields, Platform, Additions and British Collection.
What hasn’t changed is the plethora of world class suppliers to the commercial interior design world who will once again be opening
their showrooms; providing a mix of fun, food, learning and distilled/fermented water (depending on the time of day, no doubt).
The following pages will give you a sense of what to expect from those showspaces at CDW later this month. We hope it will be of use when planning your visit. Do look out for the Mix team – we hope to catch up, as we love chatting and drinking as much as the next chatty drinker.
80 81
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
Iconic furniture brand Knoll is showcasing a selection of exciting new designs straight from Milan’s Salone del Mobile 2016 at its Clerkenwell showroom on Goswell Road.Always at the forefront, Knoll is involved in the construction of a new lifestyle and proposes a return to the pleasure of being at home, to the comfort of a beautiful interior, consistent with our way of life. The return to the pleasure of living is the new revolution of Knoll.
Boss Design will be raising the curtain on a groundbreaking task seating range that will further revolutionise this sector. Also to be unveiled is a soft seating collection from Lyndon Design. Boasting armchair and sofa options, Lexe is designed to add grace and panache to hospitality and corporate settings.
A new modular seating system by Komac will also be revealed.
During the festival Bolon will explore the art direction of the Bolon By You campaign,communicated by London-based designers Doshi Levien, which is all about bringing tactility and physicality to Bolon flooring. This was done by juxtaposing the woven flooring with other architectural materials such as brass, cork, copper and stone, creating a dramatic and evocative campaign.
Assmann has become a popular choice amongst architects and designers, especially when it comes to designing, manufacturing, supplying and installing office furniture. On show during CDW 2016 are their sit/sit and sit/stand solutions as well as the unique Applica workstation.
Celebrate with the German manufacturer on Wednesday, 25 May, at their Turnmill St home.
Humanscale, the global leader in ergonomic products, will be hosting discussions pertinent in the modern workplace, from co-working, to technology and wellbeing. Three new products will be launched - Smart Chair, Quickstand Lite and M/Connect. Whilst entertainment comes from The Comedy Store Players rounded off with The Legendary Humanscale Party (strictly invite only).
Isomi will be celebrating Clerkenwell Design Week by opening the doors to its new showroom at 1 Sans Walk, and unveiling a brand new material story with three desks in metal. The desks, in brass, copper and hot-rolled steel, will be an exclusive CDW preview of a full collection, Isomi in Metal, to be launched later in 2016.
USM has collaborated with Marokka to transform their showroom into a menagerie of 3D printed sculptural animals, as well as an augmented reality installation which will feature a virtual 2 metre sculpture. Visitors will also be able to win one of the sculptures created in the USM showroom via a 3D printer.
Interstuhl is one of the leading European manufacturers of seating solutions and has supplied more than 30 million chairs to customers worldwide. Its products are characterised by their high level of German quality, ergonomic and design standards.Interstuhl will be celebrating its 10 year anniversary in its newly refurbished London showroom. Explore its new, exciting products and keep an eye out for your drinks reception invite for Tuesday afternoon!
International flooring and interiors specialists Gerflor are set to wow the visiting throngs at the Clerkenwell Design Week this coming May with some stunning examples of just how their innovative flooring ranges are making their mark in not only a host of commercial applications, but in the home too.
91 Goswell Rd EC1V 7EX
7 Clerkenwell Rd EC1M 5PA
2 Northburgh St EC1V 0AY
75 Turnmill St EC1M 5SY
13 Northburgh St EC1V 0JP
1 Sans Walk EC1R 0LT
Ultrafabrics® specialises in the engineering, manufacturing and distribution of the highest quality polyurethane fabrics on the market.
The Ultrafabrics® Takumi Gallery will be a pop up space on St Johns Square highlighting their special American/Japanese relationship and showcasing the range of textures and colours.
St Johns Square EC1V 4JP
49-51 Central StEC1V 8AB
What’s the five-a-day in your mind?Tangent welcomes Andy Gibson of Mindapples who will introduce how our minds work and what influences them. He will share practical insights from health, neuroscience and psychology to help us all live and work better.
Thursday @ 1:30pm
21-22 Great Sutton StEC1V 0DY
17 Brewhouse YardEC1V 4LA
The Pavilion, Stand DP 12
Milliken’s events take their lead from the punk and street art that inspired its latest collection ‘Artistic Liberties’. Highlights will include a talk from legendary fashion designer, musician and artist Pam Hogg; also a street art extravaganza with talks and live painting featuring Ben Eine, Jimmy C, Artista, Annatomix and Dan Kitchener.
5 Berry StEC1V 0AA
82 83
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
Celebrating its 40th year, Gresham is one of the largest and most experienced independent designers and manufacturers of workspace furniture in the UK.
At CDW, Gresham is unveiling exciting developments in the company and groundbreaking products, so make sure you visit its showroom to find out more about this innovative company, its products and creatively designed handmade bespoke solutions.
Afternoon Tea...at the Gallery. Marlings Mohawk – the leading creative flooring manufacturer will kick-start CDW16 with an uplifting cup of tea. Come and taste invigorating tea infusions accompanied by refreshing cucumber canapés and a glass of bubbly!
Tuesday 24th May@ 1:30–3:30 pm
65 Clerkenwell Road EC1R 5BL
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
Project Pavilion Stand PR8
Yorkshire-based furniture manufacturer, Knightsbridge, has teamed up with two high-profile designers to develop two stylish collections of furniture, which are due to be launched at Clerkenwell Design Week.
As well as showcasing the two new designer ranges, the Knightsbridge team will also be presenting its extensive portfolio of products that can be tailored and manufactured for hospitality, workplace and healthcare environments.
Leading carpet manufacturer, Brintons, will be a hub of activity during Clerkenwell Design Week, where it will be unveiling its new QuickWeave collection, hosting a range of talks with Houzz and Birmingham City University, as well as providing drop-in advice sessions from the 2 Lovely Gays.
1 Sycamore StreetEC1Y 0SF
Join Interface at its London showroom and exhibition spaces, PR7 and DP7, at CDW to discover its latest global campaign, Negative to Positive, and new global collection, World Woven, by designer David Oakey. Interface will also host a number of high profile speakers, including Munish Datta from M&S and Ryan Gellert from Patagonia.
1 Northburgh StreetEC1V 0AL
CANAL is a British company specialising in design innovation, fabrication and installation of staircases, balustrades, handrails and other architectural metalwork, for both residential and commercial buildings.Join CANAL at CDW for coffee mornings, a masterclass presentation with Milk Architecture, and, back by popular demand, the sushi and drinks evening – now on Tuesday and Thursday!
11-12 Great Sutton Street EC1V 0BX
Get more from Synergy.Our new wool blend fabric is used to create Corrosion, a printed fabric by luxury print designer Torunn Myklebust.See more at Clerkenwell Design Week 24-26 May 2016.
13-16 Britton Street
Mix Interiors Synergy Ad 230x297mm.indd 1 25/04/2016 16:47
84 85
Review Review
65 Clerkenwell RoadLondonEC1R 5BLTel: 020 7242 5709www.gof.co.uk
CLERKENWELL DESIGN WEEK24-26 May 2016
THE BIG UNVEIL
Mix Interiors Steps Cover Up.indd 1 26/04/2016 15:23
86 87
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
Experience our Inspired Collections at our new London showroom1 Dallington Street, Clerkenwell, London EC1V 0BH
@MorganSeatingT +44 (0)1243 371111
www.morganfurniture.co.uk
designed by Morgan Studio
Kyoto
Herman Miller returns to CDW this year where it will be launching the innovative Keyn Chair Group, created by London-based design company forpeople. This new Chair Group provides a solution for both meeting and side chairs, offering responsive movement and immediate comfort, with an unprecedented number of specification options. Experience it yourself at our pop-up showroom.
Lee and Plumpton provides stylish and functional office furniture; from desks to pedestals and storage to office tables. The company has over 40 years of manufacturing and service excellence.
Visit the Berry Street showspace and get an exclusive view of some of the company's impressive new products.
Orangebox continues to produce innovative products – and for Clerkenwell 2016 it will be no different.
The ’boxers have created a ‘living lab’ in its new home in Northampton Road to demonstrate the reality of its ever-evolving Smartworking philosophy. Through five floors it has created both diverse workspaces and places for client presentations.
Connection are specialists in developing innovative furniture and products that ‘Make space work’. CDW will see the company showcase its latest product development focused on visual and acoustic privacy. Connection’s showroom redesign will take you through a full sensory journey of the workspace with the application of intelligent products which are integrated with colour, materials, wellbeing and intuitive technology trends.
102-108 Clerkenwell Road EC1M 5SA
12-14 Berry Street EC1V 0AU
20 Old Street EC1V 9AP
31 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0NA
Allermuir are launching several significant product ranges at their stunning new showroom. The space, set within a converted warehouse and full of industrial character, is the perfect backdrop to the striking new designs which carry Allermuir’s hallmark of traditional craftsmanship combined with innovation. The new products are set to enhance working lounge environments and address issues of acoustic distraction.
Verco are exploring ideas around ‘activity based working’. The company will be featuring pieces from its collaborative collection. You'll find beautifully simple systems for wide-open areas, but also brilliant solutions for informal breakout areas and quiet contemplative zones. Join Verco at the Beech Tree to try your hand at ‘wiff waff ’, or enjoy the fame and glory of becoming the top goal scorer.
10 Northburgh StEC1V 0AT
67 Clerkenwell Road EC1R 5BL
88 89
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
One showroom, Ten companies, All your project needs.
Located in the heart of London’s creative hub, The Vault offers a rare opportunity to work with 10 of the UK’s leading contract furnishing companies, covering all aspects of contract furnishing from floor to ceiling and everything inbetween.
What started as a pop-up at Malmaison, has now become Hitch Mylius' permanent showroom. This year's event will mark their first exhibition in this dedicated space and will focus on the new hm102 Collection, designed by Massimo Mariani, and a series of events in collaboration with Malmaison.
Bisley will be present for the first time at CDW, in an exciting partnership with Acrylicize. This unique collaboration will combine a great heritage brand, with the creative and intelligent thinking that typifies Acrylicize, to produce a truly stunning piece of Public Art located on St John’s Square, presenting Bisley in a truly unexpected form.
From the boardroom to the classroom, James Tobias have been providing organisations with optimum storage solutions for 25 years. The company's product portfolio, which includes the popular StorageWall and Lockers, is designed and manufactured in-house, using sustainable materials from here in the UK.
Talk to James Tobias at CDW for information about its bespoke solutions, tailored around you from the inside, out.
Ocee’s showroom is packed with new products and initiatives. Ocee Ergonomics is a unique holistic design solution operated by independent ergonomists and acousticians; it offers assessments, training, resources and new products, including an extensive acoustic range, Isaac sit/stand desk and QuietPod rooms. FourUs and Harc extensions will also be launched.
ThinkingWorks is known for innovative products for the commercial furniture industry globally. Its cutting edge designs are developed by a highly creative in-house industrial design team, supported by London’s Jones + Partners studio. The company welcomes you to its newly refurbished showroom to unveil the fabulous DIVA timber table. Also to be showcased: okidoki, Benuna task chair, BLADE and Focused workstations.
A scene evokes emotions. It has the ability to capture, create and recreate moments. Mosa Scenes is a stylish and adaptable range of tiles, for the creation of fascinating scenes. The use of Scenes tiles has the power to generate environments of unparalleled imagination, provoked by default or carefully engendered by creation. Mosa proudly hosts a joint presentation (24 May) on Future Work Scenes by PROOFLab, Opendesk and Ineke Hans.
During Clerkenwell Design Week, Frem will launch their latest innovation in office technology: the Matrix 6 Collection.
A collaboration between Frem, prominent psychologist Dr Craig Knight, and award-winning designer Rock Galpin, the Matrix 6 Collection leads the way in integrated office technology.
Domus is the leading supplier of tiles, mosaic, stone and engineered oak flooring for residential and commercial projects. Domus’ award-winning showroom will be open throughout CDW when it will launch Rombini, a new collection from global-leading Italian manufacturer Mutina. Exclusive to Domus, Rombini has been created by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec.
Carl Hansen & Son is adding two new elements to its Embrace Series, designed by Austrian design trio EOOS. The softly upholstered Embrace Chair, which was presented last year, is being joined by the Embrace Lounge Chair – a relaxed, exceptionally comfortable addition that naturally supplements Carl Hansen & Son’s furniture collection. The company will also be launching a matching footstool.
This year Screen Solutions will be launching the Q2 acoustic pod – the successor to Quadro. Q2 retains a unique high-level structure, with frameless acoustic panels that reduce reverberation, improve speech privacy and maintain confidentiality. Contemporary fabrics, ventilation and lighting can all be specified to suit pod activity. Enjoy fish ’n’ chips and refreshments, plus the new look Acoustic Comfort website will be going live.
Global textile manufacturer Camira is exploring the process of natural decay with an exclusive fabric designed by luxury print designer, Torunn Myklebust. Printed onto Camira’s newest wool blend fabric, Synergy, the rusting surface of Corrosion is broken up with geometric triangles, exploring negative space, rust and hard cut shapes. New fabrics on display include Synergy, tie-dye effect fabric Individuo and print design fabric Zig Zag.
8-11 St John's LaneEC1M 4BF
18-21 Charterhouse SquareEC1M 6AH
St Johns Square EC1V 4JP
8-11 St John's Lane EC1M 4BF
20 Old Street EC1V 9AP
32 Clerkenwell RoadEC1M 5PS
56-60 St John StreetEC1M 4HG
20-24 Kirby StreetEC1N 8TS
25 Eastcastle Street W1W 8DF
16a Bowling Green laneEC1R 0BD
45 Gee StreetEC1V 3RS
3-16 Britton St EC1M 5SX
90 91
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
Celebrating its 40th year, Brunner looks forward to opening its doors for another Clerkenwell Design Week.
With its impressive three floor showroom only a stone’s throw from Design Fields, the company anticipates 2016 being its busiest year yet!
You're welcome to head in for a look around – especially as the company is formally launching its new third space BANC system.
Steelcase Worklife Center will operate an Open House from 9.30am–5pm from Tuesday until Thursday.
The showroom will be turned into a curated exhibit, exploring the ‘New Corporate’. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience forward-thinking furniture designs from Steelcase and Coalesse.
Sixteen3, together with the Gallery, is hosting a dynamic 30-minute session during which you will learn how to spot trends and use them to create products, services and campaigns that people love. David Mattin, Head of Trends and Insights at TrendWatching, will share secrets behind the revolutionary Trend-Driven Innovation concept and methodology.
Tuesday 2:30pm-3pm
Join Edge Design at its London showroom where it will have something to interest architects, designers, dealers and interiors folk alike. Edge is launching three new ranges and celebrating Great British Design with Lydia Addison, David Fox and Jason Lansdale. The company will also be talking all things BIM, looking at 3D Printing and considering 'Working Sensationally'.
Koleksiyon comprises a group of companies with over 40 years’ experience and aims to develop the highest quality ideas, standards and design concepts towards the creation of 'the architecture of furnishing'. As part of CDW, at noon on Thursday 26 May, Koray Malhan, Brand and Design Director of Koleksiyon, will be hosting a reception to present a new discourse on Design and Pathos.
62-68 Rosebery AvenueEC1R 4RR
77-79 Farringdon RoadEC1M 3JU
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
9 Brewhouse YardEC1V 4JR
Forbos passionate about flooring. At CDW, the company will be showing off its completely re-designed showroom, which aims to help customers easily navigate its extensive product portfolio to find their ideal floor covering.
Forbo will also be showing several new products including a textured and colourful Marmoleum collection, a refreshed Tessera carpet tile range and a holistic, multi-product workplace collection.
79 St John St EC1M 4NR
92 93
Focus FocusC
DW
Moving Design
Introducing QuickStand LiteRedefining the Sit/Stand Space
www.humanscale.com/QuickStandLite
6 Bakers YardEC1R 3DD
8 St. Johns Lane EC1M 4BF
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
150 St John StreetEC1V 4UD
This year will be naughtone's first year as a showroom partner at Clerkenwell Design Week! Yorkshire’s finest will have its doors open and The Travelling Gin Co. will be on hand throughout, serving up proper British G&Ts! So drop on in and check out the best of naughtone.
Established in 1957, J+J Flooring Group is a leading manufacturer of commercial specified flooring. With its two brands - Invision broadloom and modular carpet and Kinetex textile composite flooring – the company provides a range of product and service solutions to meet the needs of its customers in the corporate workplace, education, healthcare, retail and hospitality sectors.
Silverline will be treating you to a Latino inspired feast! With a South American twist, get into the spirit of the Rio Olympics and enjoy the best Argentinian steaks in town. Celebrate the last day of the festival with some mouth-watering bbq bites by Gaucho BBQ and vibrant bossanova tunes, with DJ Si Bell on the decks. Spaces are limited – register in advance with [email protected]
Thursday 3pm - 6pm
Always a must-visit for specifiers, the Poltrona Frau Group showroom in St John Street will once again be participating in Clerkenwell Design Week.
Designed by the architect Giulio Cappellini, the Poltrona Frau Group showroom houses the Italian design brands Cassina, Poltrona Frau, Cappellini and Alias all year round.
CD
W
Kusch + Co will be presenting the new Series 9000 ‘Depart’ seating and table range consisting of recliners, low chairs, occasional tables and Island seating, designed by Justas Kolberg to address the agile working needs of today’s workplace. In addition to this, Kusch will be launching the new film of the Series 3600/3650 ARN seating and tables collection, together with a new library table version of the successful San Siro programme and an extensive display of the modular storage range that is Element X.
48/50 St John StreetEC1M 4DG
Jennifer Newman, an ever-present at previous CDW shows with her bold, colourful designs, will be launching the Club Bench range. Designed for heavy use in education, offices and hospitality. Club has an industrial aesthetic, being made from solid bamboo and tubular steel, and available in lengths up to 3m. During CDW, Jennifer will also be opening her new showroom, situated a stones throw away from the crypt in the atmospheric Clerkenwell Green..
Clerkenwell Green
94 95
Focus Focus
A unique and fun range bringing home to office, including tables, chairs
and stools.
Come and explore okidoki family in our
newly refurbished showroom.
London Showroom 32 Clerkenwell Road
London EC1M 5PS
+44 (0) 203 397 4878 [email protected]
thinking.info
Mix Interiors_ThinkingWorks Ad_297x460_2pp_CMYK_May_3.indd 1 29/04/2016 8:50:00 AM
96 97
Focus FocusC
DW
CD
W
Shaw Contract Group’s design hub will open its doors during CDW, welcoming designers and architects to rest and recharge in an environment inspired by contemplative spaces and tranquillity.During the three days, the shortlisted entries of the CASS design competition will be on public display and there will also be the opportunity to explore The Park Collection – colours, patterns and textures that redefine boundaries to create the transition from large crowds to peaceful pathways.
The Water Studio is Hansgrohe’s new destination in Clerkenwell for anyone serious about creating show-stopping bathrooms. Five new Axor WaterDream washbasin spouts from world renowned designers will be presented on 26 May at 5:30pm, followed by a party with the intriguing theme of a Black Forest Spring Festival.
Getting old isn’t what it used to be…Leading task seating manufacturer Viasit invites you to an eye-opening talk. Studio INTO will share how brands, design and services can address needs posed by the ageing population, which holds 80% of the UK’s private wealth.
Wednesday 2:30pm
33 Great Sutton StreetEC1V ODX
12-16 Clerkenwell RoadEC1M 5PQ
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
Parla Design is exhibiting the Goba furniture collection, suitable for commercial and hospitality interiors during Clerkenwell Design Week. The third generation Turkish design and manufacturing outfit marries a century of expertise in craftsmanship with a dynamic and creative approach to design. Visit their showcase on Farringdon Road and get to know the brand.
155 Farringdon Road EC1R 3AD
In addition to inspirational product launches, the central theme for Morgan at this year’s CDW is wellbeing in the workplace.
Events will include an art installation and talk by artist Remi Rough, known for his abstract graffiti art and geometry of colour. There will be daily chair yoga classes and a talk by wellbeing author Michael Townsend Williams.
1 Dallington StreetEC1V 0BH
Sensorium is a creative collaboration between HASSELL and HÅG.
The pleasure garden, ‘Sensorium’, will explore how we view and experience the world around us, whether through everyday technology, or through our physical presence in a space. HASSELL and HÅG will play with smells, textures and sound, leading visitors to question how the senses influence their experience. www.sensoriumcdw.com
63 Central StreetEC1V 3AF
With the ambition to provide an open and exciting palette of colours to inspire renewal in the years ahead, Howe have explored new combinations and made its opinion on the most pivotal hues - so stop by the Howe showroom and have your say about the new colours for the 40/4 chair. Your opinion is valued – and there is even a draw to win a limited edition chair!
82 Clerkenwell RoadEC1M 5RF
Bene is a leading international specialist in the design and furnishing of inspiring office and working environments.
Visit Bene during CDW to discover the latest workplace innovations and immerse yourself in a fictional setting created by design studio The Workers. Follow the clues to discover the fascinating tale behind a groundbreaking new technology, across three showroom floors.
Casala are excited to announce the launch of two new products – Boxter and Cooper – at Clerkenwell Design Week. Casala specialise in contract furniture with functionalities such as stacking, linking, means of transport, numeration and storage possibilities integrated into the design. The production processes and the materials used comply with today’s environmental standards.
47 – 53 St. John StreetEC1M 4AN
5 Albemarle WayEC1V 4JB
Desso has a packed three-day programme planned for this year’s CDW, exploring ‘Personalisation, Individuality and Uniqueness’. The themes underpin the talks, workshops and activities each day and a ‘Transitions’ art installation is being unveiled by London’s new ‘Queen of origami’, talented Foldability designer Kyla McCallum. The installation celebrates Desso’s award winning Transitions collection and showcases Kyla’ unique intricate folded designs.
VR is revolutionising the world around us, from gaming and entertainment through to medicine and architecture. Rene Batsford and Richard Coates will reveal how VR can affect the world of architecture and design. Experience an immersive customer journey simulation on the freshly released HTC Vive. Presented by Aircharge in association with Neutron VR and McDonald’s. Book your demo slot at www.neutronvr.com/cdw (Wednesday 12:30pm)
23-25 Great Sutton Street EC1V 0DN
21-22 Great Sutton StreetEC1V 0DY
Preparing for Clerkenwell Design Week?Explore ege’s new ‘Industrial Landscape’ collection by Tom Dixon.
Tom's first extensive carpet collection for the contract market interprets the rough everyday surfaces of London in seven head-turning carpet designs.
Feel inspired by the beauty of decay in ege’s Britton Street showroom.
13-16 Britton St EC1M 5SX
98 99
Focus FocusC
DW
bespokeSTAIRS & BALUSTRADES
We Are AtCDW 2016
| By Canal Engineering Limited| +44 (0)115 986 6321| www.canal.gb.com
British engineered bespoke staircases, balustrades and architectural metalwork for commercial and residential buildings.Installed throughout the UK & abroad.
London Showroom11-12 Great Sutton St. London. EC1V 0BX
Clerkenwell Design Week | 100% Design
Detail
Fringe
Other venues for CDW
Icon's House of Culture
Conversations
Additions
Platform
Platform
Fringe
Launch of a new initiative to provide opportunities for young people DesigningFutures@CDW is a new project set up by Jade-Ilke Creative Solutions and supported by Clerkenwell Design Week, Sketch Studios and Milliken (and, we’re proud to say, media sponsored by Mix Interiors).
The project has been developed to tackle the issue of access into the design, interiors and construction sectors for young people. The initiative aims to help reduce the barriers for youngsters by creating practical opportunities for them to gain hands-on experience. The project will include work experience and skills training for up to 25 young people placed in participating showrooms for the three days of Clerkenwell Design Week.
Designing Futures@CDW is now calling on all showrooms and businesses in the Clerkenwell area to get involved by becoming a sponsor and
giving work experience to a young person on the programme.
‘Sketch are excited and privileged to be one of the three founding partners of DesigningFutures@CDW,’ Justin Bass, Managing Director at Sketch, says. ‘We understand the need for providing young people with opportunities and guidance at the beginning of their careers – and it’s especially valuable in our industry where we need to find ways to attract more young talent. This is something that’s very close to our hearts here at Sketch, as two members of our current team joined us through projects we previously worked on with Jade Ilke and we also have a number of interns who all provide valuable contributions to the business. We love CDW and we’re looking forward to driving Designing Futures forward, and meeting the new group of young people involved.’
100 101
Review Review
102 103
Mix Interiors 164Mix Interiors 164
S e l e c t i o n sS e l e c t i o n s
modulyss Nature’s bountiful tapestry of colour, shape and pattern invites
the outside in with the beautiful organic patterns and hues of the
Handcraft collection, where nature meets craft, in the latest carpet
tile collection from modulyss. Four designs inspired by nature’s
ability to provide us with beguiling materials that we craft into
beautiful objects, Handcraft celebrates the joy of Earth’s ability to
amaze and wonder in micro-detail.
www.modulyss.com
moduleo The internet has obviously had a huge impact
on the retail sector in recent years, with more
companies opting for experience stores and
creating a pleasant environment for their
customers. With this in mind, moduleo has
worked with a number of its retail clients
on creating innovative spaces for their
customers. For some, moduleo has provided
a blank canvas for them to go on to develop
the space, while with others it has worked on
a more bespoke design to create a real focal
point in store.
www.moduleo.co.uk
Rockfon Underwoods motor group is the largest independent dealership
in Essex and Suffolk. The group is celebrating the opening of
its impressive Peugeot new car showroom in Sudbury, which
has been fitted with Rockfon acoustic ceiling tiles to help
create a stylish interior design to show the cars to best effect
whilst also creating a comfortable, welcoming environment for
customers. Managing Director of Underwoods, Gerry Wiggins is,
we're told, delighted with the results.
www.rockfon.co.uk
Antron Antron carpet fibre, featuring in Straight and Narrow carpet
tiles and Opera broadloom from Christy Carpets, has breathed
life into the offices of Natixis Global Asset Management;
reflecting the striking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the
agility, interaction and collaboration of a modern office. With
relocation into its first dedicated office space, Natixis Global
Asset Management called in the expertise of MF Design Studio
to drive an office design that reflects the company’s business
and culture.
www.antron.eu
Lyndon Design As the network of Everyman boutique cinemas expands across the
UK, Lyndon Design continues to furnish each venue with a bespoke
range of seating that is vital for creating the intimate and luxurious
cinema environment for which the Everyman brand is renowned. A
collection of two-seater sofas and armchairs made from a variety
of coloured fabrics, including velvet, with fully upholstered timber
frame and complete with foam and feather deluxe seat cushions,
are featured throughout the Everyman venues.
www.lyndon.co.uk
Gerflor International flooring and interiors specialists
Gerflor is set to wow the visiting throngs
at Clerkenwell Design Week this month,
with some stunning examples of just how
its innovative flooring ranges are making
their mark in not only a host of commercial
applications, but in the home too. Gerflor is a
company that does break the mould when it
comes to staid, boring designs.
www.gerflor.co.uk
104
Mix Interiors 164
Just an ideaWe might all welcome London's success as a thriving commercial and cultural centre,
but its success comes at a price and we need to look for a better balance than we
currently see between London and the rest of the UK, argues Mark Eltringham.
Mark Eltringham is the publisher of workplace design and management website Office Insight. [email protected]
London is increasingly a victim of its own
success. Its thriving tech and creative firms
continue to spill out of the incubator districts
created for them to find cheaper and more
appropriate spaces in which to grow. In doing
so they are pushing up rents in unlikely nearby
places such as Croydon. In the traditional
business districts in the City and Docklands,
the capital's tech giants are now able to
compete for the first time for some of the most
expensive real estate on the planet. To cope
with demand, the Mayor is rubberstamping
tall buildings like never before, many of them
bloody awful, unloved by Londoners and
heritage organisations alike, transforming the
skyline and creating windswept, arid tundra at
their feet.
London exists, as it has done for some time,
as a semi-autonomous city state within the UK.
It no longer belongs to this country as much
as it does to the world and so has a complex
relationship with other regions. It generates
far more wealth than any other city but also
exerts a disproportionate pull on the UK's
resources, luring talent from the rest of the
country and enjoying far more investment in
infrastructure.
This is even true for HS2, in spite of the
attempts to link it with the currently half-
baked idea of a 'Northern Powerhouse'. The
main beneficiary of HS2 will be London,
enjoying more economic benefits than the rest
of the country combined, which means that it
will widen the economic divide, not close it. Its
main effect for travellers will be to increase
capacity where it is most needed, which means
the commuter lines south of Rugby. Crossrail
will similarly intensify London's scale and
gravity.
The success of London means that many
firms and the people they employ are finding
it increasingly difficult to justify being there
and we are seeing the first signs of a flight.
According to Lambert Smith Hampton’s annual
Office Market Report, cities such as Bristol,
Manchester and Birmingham offer staff and
premises costs for a new-build office of just
over £50,000 per workstation. Measured on
the same basis, a workstation in London’s
Midtown area carries an annual cost of over
£80,000. The report predicts that firms will
find the draw of lower costs too attractive to
justify staying in London.
Their only problem is finding the talent
elsewhere, so it may be fortunate for them
that they're not the only ones questioning
the financial cost associated with working
in London. The average Londoner living in
rented accommodation now spends around a
third of their income just on rent. For those
lucky enough to buy their own place, they'll
find that average house prices are £556,350,
more expensive than South East of England
(£357,016) and East of England (£292,004)
according to Rightmove.
If the Government is serious about keeping
in step with these trends and also relieving
some of the pressure on London, it needs
to switch its focus. HS2 simply won't do
it and is too far off anyway. The Northern
Powerhouse remains primarily a vague bit of
sloganeering. So it needs to invest immediately
in vastly better broadband and local transport
infrastructure that focuses on better
connectivity in regional centres.
London exists, as it has done for some time, as a
semi-autonomous city state within the UK.