AN ECLECTIC COMBINATION OF COMFORTABLE AND ORGANIC FORMS 

Designed by Bishop Design

Designs used: King Edison pendant lamp

Ketch Up was to encapsulate the homegrown Russian brand's philosophy, spearheaded by the most renowned chef in Russia, MasterChef TV presenter and international restaurateur Alexander Belkovich, of creating a dining experience that would provide, not only a tastebud teasing F&B offering, but an engaging and party-like atmosphere intriguing of all the senses. Our ultimate goal for the interior was to represent all traits of a modern life set within a megalopolis, creating a lifestyle more so than just a restaurant, that everyone can enjoy.

The venue was to become an integral addition to the recently established Bluewaters Island. Envisaged to be a hotspot destination for tourists and residents alike, Bluewaters adopts a unique edge to Dubai’s personality as it aims to become irresistible to all. Ketch Up was to synergize with the aspirations of Bluewaters and become a dining venue that would naturally attract an audience, not solely through their food and beverage offering, but moreover an alluring design that would pose impossible to resist.

There was a strong desire to encompass different experiences across the venues two levels, yet maintain a seamless physical and visual journey for the guests as they explore every crevice. The chefs and the offering were to be the focus on the lower level, whereby a more exclusive nightlife vibe could be experienced upstairs through the incorporation of lounge seating, dedicated bar and uninterrupted panoramic views of Dubai’s ever-expanding skyline. Thoughtful consideration was dedicated to creating a synergy that would run throughout the entire venue, and how guests could migrate between the two separate yet homogenous entities without feeling alienated.

Every element within is well thought-out and functional, however at the same time incredibly refined and aesthetically pleasing.

The interior design style and direction was to appreciate and integrate natural materials and live vegetation combined with slightly more aggressive shapes and structures. Furniture is an eclectic combination of comfortable and organic forms which create an original setting, and engaging unique lighting features suspend from the ceiling in a captivating visual showcase.

A key design feature is the beautifully formed stairwell which connects the ground and upper levels. The wood panelled installation stands as a seamless transportation as guests migrate through the differing offerings, all the whilst maintaining a visual and physical synergy throughout. The whole visual dynamic starts to morph as one transcends from the food orientated theatrics below to an elegant night-time destination, infused by music and mixology.

The bar area boasts a fret cut panel ceiling which becomes inverted across the embossed floor in the creation of a positive and negative inversion. Perforated copper along the bar creates a softer dynamic against the rough patterned lines. Beautifully capped hand formed crackled glazed lava stone expands across the bar top surface, providing a bold colour punch yet is refined through the hand crackling. This unique volcanic material strikes a balance between raw and refinement with its beautiful vibrant spirit. A great social hub has been created as guests are naturally drawn in from the moment they enter the staircase threshold.

Materials for each zone have been selected to visually highlight the different experiences within. Solid naturally diverse red cedar tables establish the casual dining status below, whereas plush velvets and opulent leathers encourage customers to sit back & relax upstairs as the sun sets over Dubai’s dramatic skyline and the evening hours take precedent.

The contrast between the two entities give way to maximum satisfaction for all customers, whether they crave a morning coffee, lunch by the sea or an extended evening sitting with unbeatable views. The venue also becomes an entity that morphs throughout the day, allowing varying offerings to different crowds. It’s this versatility that has elevated Ketch Up as a constant F&B hotspot destination.

Ketch Up fits perfectly into its demographic, offering up a captivating food and drink experience. A hybrid of restaurant/bar & daytime/night-time that is accessible for all end users who appreciate the relaxed daytime dining encounters, as well as those craving the livelier side of Dubai and what that can offer through exclusive experiences.

Bluewaters Island and inherently Ketch Up has been frequented by both local’s and expats, an uncommon trait as the majority of venues in Dubai have a tendency to become too one-sided in their offering. With the split levels, any customer can enjoy the atmosphere Ketch Up has to offer. The food may be casual, but the experience created is an unprecedented addition to Dubai’s food and beverage scene. Perfectly accompanied with mesmerizing views, Ketch Up has become a desirable destination for all.

There are subtle plays and twists evident throughout on elements that we consider to be the norm but have now been adapted to create visually striking effects. Twists include the Richard Orlinski sculpture which greets guests as they enter in its exhibition of a slightly wild nature; naturally enticing them as they become infatuated by the beautiful and dynamic structural forms. Copper cooking pots have been flattened in the creation of an artistic wall installation, and a concrete based flooring inlayed with distressed carpet with poured resin over the top, giving the impression of an encapsulated carpet that encompasses the entire surface.

The bar capped lava stone was quarried from a national park in Volvic, France. Vehicles are restricted from entering the heritage area, so the stone had to be acquired by hand. The stone is so unique in the fact that it is the only one in the world that can withstand 100,000 degrees which allows the glazing to show crackled & cracked without the material becoming physically distorted.

We have intelligently translated Ketch Ups origins into a day and nighttime location frequented by residents and tourists alike. Elegant with an edgy attitude, Ketch Up has become an alluring dining destination for all those craving unique experiences. Where the secret to success is in the details, from the hand formed crackle glazed lava stone surfaces to the wood paneled staircase which becomes an enchanting transformation for guests as they travel along the venues vertical dynamics, Ketch Up is Dubai’s latest F&B hotspot that satisfies all dining and party desires.

A UNIQUE RESIDENTIAL INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT

Designed by Lucinda Loya Interiors

Designs used: Air Is Not Enough art print, Madame Blush art print

In a word, Lucinda Loya is passionate. Spanning design, career, family, charity, her passion is prevalent in all walks of her life. With this passion, Lucinda has built a name for herself as a premiere interior decorator, her Houston-based Lucinda Loya Interiors is one of the most sought after design firms in Texas.

The house is located in Cherokee triangle in the Highlands. The home was built in 1875 as an Italianate mansion that had later been divided into a multi-family apartment building, which is very typical of the historic neighbourhood. The design approach was to enhance the authenticity of its bones but at the same time, bring life back into the home that may have been lost through the years with loads of personality. A colour explosion, and contemporary art with attitude, lends itself to quirky, playful. Grandma Chic takes you there!

The interiors seem very ‘modern European’ because modern European is a huge influence on Lucinda’s design aesthetic. She likes implementing characteristics of antiquities and art from all over the world. Her style is eclectic and can lean modern, contemporary and even transitional, along with anything in between. What matters most is that each project is true to itself, the client and remains unique. Others may confuse modern and contemporary. Knowing the difference is the key to creating an eclectic and timeless aesthetic."

A colour scheme did not exist in this house, the only thing I avoided was primary colours as they were not at all an option. Other than that, there were no limits. Although this may sound like an easy task, my approach was very organised and chaotic. Nothing came first when designing this house, that is why it was an organised chaos. Like a symphony, everything came together as long as I stayed true to my time periods.

AN ECLECTIC STYLE

Designed by Mia Karlsson Interior Design

Designs used: Black Feather Pendant Lamp,  King Edison Wall Lamps, King Arthur Mirror Dome Lamp

What started with a simple exploration of reinstating an original full-height kitchen window, evolved to include the renovation of this entire property from flooring, fittings and furniture to a new kitchen & bathroom. One of the biggest considerations for the project was ensuring the design worked in perfect harmony with our clients’ extensive art collection.

For the bespoke kitchen, every detail was oriented around creating a workable environment for the client to enjoy, with all the necessities and extras one could ask for. In the bathrooms we created an eclectic mix of fittings and fixtures with a touch of Dutch charm. With the majority of the artwork being bold coloured street art, the decision to work with darker hues for the joinery and walls in each room worked best to highlight each piece.

Playful lighting such as an ostrich feather lamp in the lounge, globes with miniature chandeliers for the bedside lamps and a skull kitchen island pendant gave a nod to the client’s appreciation for juxtaposing the old with the new, and complemented the art perfectly.  

AN HONOUR TO EUROPEAN HISTORY 

Designed by SRA Interior Design

Designs used: Goat rug, Edith Cushion, Isabella Cushion, Lords and Masters cushion

Once home to the Italian Embassy from 1927 through 1977, this neo-renaissance building was restored to its former glory in 2018. Its rebirth comes in the form of exquisite luxury apartments, featuring 134 residences located on renowned 16th Street in Washington DC.

Inspired by adaptations of 18th century mansions in Paris, Modera Sedici’s design honors the building’s distinguished European history while incorporating contemporary Italian design elements, aimed at creating a cosmopolitan appeal. All amenity spaces and the model apartment reflect the former Embassy’s Italian nature by SR/A's thoughtful design and additional personal touches.

A balanced aesthetic between classicism and modernism was created between the wall treatments, furniture and artwork selections. For the final personal touches, SR/A choose to pull from European subjects and humor, enhancing this witty yet sophisticated vibe, with selected pieces provided by Mineheart.

The end result? A European cosmopolitan aesthetic that reinvented D.C. apartment living and elevated the standard of design. At SR/A Interior Design, we are proud to have played a role in the momentous feat in which history was preserved and glory was restored.

A PRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCE

Designed by 3 Design

Designs used: Kings Wood Mural

3 Design are a UK based practice of professional fully qualified interior designers specialising in innovative and creative design solutions for the commercial and leisure sectors. 3 Design has a reputation for completing projects on time and within budget that is second to none. Our 25 years combined expertise and experience extends to hotels, bars and restaurants.

The Riverside Lodge Hotel, Irvine (formerly part of Menzies Hotels) is perfectly located for walks, history and a casual game of golf.

The theme of the hotel was rustic, Scottish riverside lodge, the wallpaper was basically made for the room!

A COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT IN BELGIUM

Designed by Real. Space Agency

Designs used: Hero Statue Lamp, Muse Statue Lamp, Goddess Statue Lamp

WARM MOMENTS WITH A GALLO-ROMAN TOUCH REAL.
space agency gave the restaurant next to the Gallo-Roman Museum in Tongeren a successful makeover by combining ancient themes with a contemporary setting. Bistro Bacchus has become a place to immerse yourself in the Gallo-Roman experience.

TIME FOR A TOTAL MAKEOVER.
The Gallo-Roman Museum in Tongeren is a real gem for everyone who wants to learn more about prehistorical times and the Roman occupation of the region. Its inspiring exhibitions, which combine archaeological artefacts with storytelling and interactivity, earned it the title of European Museum of the Year in 2011. When Bistro Garden acquired the restaurant next to the museum, real. space agency was asked to give its interior a total makeover. The aim was to evoke Bistro Garden’s pleasant family moments within a Gallo-Roman context.

THE ROAD TO A TAILORED CONCEPT.
From the outset, it was clear that the restaurant’s look and feel should reflect the museum’s content. To get inspiration for the future interior, a logical first step was therefore a visit to the museum itself. Next to that, we carefully studied the restaurant space, as we needed to take certain characteristics into account - like the high ceiling, the amount of daylight and the acoustics. Moreover, visitors should be able to enjoy breakfast, lunch, tea time, snacks as well as dinner here.

WHEN ANCIENT MEETS CONTEMPORARY.
By combining ancient themes with a contemporary setting, real. space agency managed to give the restaurant a truly inspired makeover. The archaeological artefacts that were found in and around Tongeren clearly formed the first and foremost source of inspiration. The large frame on the ceiling refers to the grid that is used to locate objects during excavations. It ‘breaks’ the height of the room, while being an excellent carrier for lighting elements. Next to that, the recurring Roman arches add to the thematic atmosphere, which is even more pleasant thanks to the comfortable sitting booth.

MATERIALS FROM THE GALLO-ROMAN ERA.
We have chosen materials that underline the Gallo-Roman influences. The terracotta bricks refer to the ancient earthenware that has been found in the region, while the use of wood is connected to the old crafts and local products. Moreover, the rusty elements refer to weathered ironwork from the Gallo-Roman era. Blue and red have been amply used, as these are the colours of the old frescos that have been discovered in Tongeren.

BACCHUS INVITES YOU AT HIS TABLE.
Named after the Roman god of wine, Bistro Bacchus has turned into an inviting place where you can immerse yourself in the Gallo-Roman eating experience. On the menu, you will discover tasty Belgian classics and typical Roman ingredients, so you can eat like stately Caesar or brave Ambiorix. It’s clear that this bistro has become an essential stop for everyone who wants to taste what Tongeren and its rich heritage are all about.

ITALIAN RESTAURANT WITH A TWIST 

Designed by 3 Design

Designs used: Fresco Mural Wallpaper

3 Design are a UK based practice of professional fully qualified interior designers specialising in innovative and creative design solutions for the commercial and leisure sectors. 3 Design has a reputation for completing projects on time and within budget that is second to none. Our 25 years combined expertise and experience extends to hotels, bars and restaurants.

Tony Macaroni is a lively and family friendly restaurant. with it's large windows, stylish decor and a huge upstairs area it makes for a bright and lively place to eat.

The design work is typically very tradiPonal Italian deli/restaurant, with a tiwst. We added the Fresco Wallpaper by Mineheart all the way along the restaurant over new booths with fabulous Jean Paul GaulPer fabrics.

A MIX OF CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY

Designed by Bishop Design

Designs used: King Edison pendant lamp

The Client brief required the Interior to be a ‘gateway’ of expectation to the service and product all the while expressing a quiet confidence. The Interior was to be a mix of classic and contemporary, an Italian Milano’s gentleman’s living room combined with a New York speakeasy. “Speakeasy” has become a trendy term but “Living it Easy” even if only during the evenings is a source of refuelling. Comfort was to be a guarantee yet reflecting an Original Style. Lighting was to be classic yet contemporary with an urban touch. We were to create an “Urban Gentlemen’s Lounge” accessible to all, it was to be the contemporary evolution to what would otherwise be deemed a classic old-school watering hole if placed in another era. “The Lounge” is the true comprehensive manifestation of hospitality. It is not a bar, nor is it a restaurant, it is a merge of the two in one cohesive expression of an evening out. Little Black Door was to have an Atmosphere, which is a combination of a multitude of social and hospitality variables with its primary ethos both from an overall brand perspective and more specifically in relation to the interior design, product and service being a focus on “Urban Understated Elegance” - contemporary ideas based on historically successful hospitality foundations and social protocols.

The materials to be used were to be durable and cost-effective. Easy to maintain and/or touch up if necessary. They should evolve well with time and with the general expected wear and tear. It was a specific requirement that the materials in general especially tables should avoid being easily scratched, dented or marked. Similarly, the floor finishes should be such that the rigors of a busy night would not show any dirt or footprints and/or wear and tear.

The Interior oozes a ‘provocative exclusivity’ whilst full of atmosphere and a refreshing approach to the suggested “speakeasy,” accentuated through the finest of design touches inclusive of contemporary floor finishes such as Lindura and Senso, not to mention the alluring lighting features carrying the renowned Mineheart name, all allowing for an enhanced visual experience. Little Black Door is a place to ‘live it easy’ a source of refueling, a consistent necessity to carry on with the upcoming rigors of the next day. “What happens behind the Little Black Door, stays behind the Little Black Door” however, what the Interior looks like behind each door should have a different feeling worth being spoken about. The Interiors aesthetics evoke a somewhat ‘steam punk’ dynamic. Walls are adjourned with a combination of weathered plastered slip bricks, ornately cast concrete mouldings, intricately detailed wrought iron works juxtaposed with industrial elevator grates, natural stone clad columns which complement the exquisite chestnut claddings of the main/back bar counter.

The Interior is a mix of classic and contemporary, an Italian Milano’s gentleman’s living room combined with a New York speakeasy with the soul of Kate Moss as its muse. She walks into the place, lights a cigarette and enjoys the libations of a martini as she stares at the photography. It has a colour palette of sumptuous earth tones, rustic bronze and predominate metals that demonstrate a connection with black and white photography that adorn the walls, whilst the lighting is ornate yet with an urban touch.

Nestled on the ground floor of the Conrad Hotel, comprising of 260 sqm, the venue is a refreshing departure from the city’s existing bevy of nightspots. The name Little Black Door, and the overall concept, was about wanting to create something understated and elegant and “Little Black Door” suited exactly what was wanted. Knock to enter, cross the threshold and you’re guaranteed a different experience – “a great night.” The experience starts, as you might guess, at the lounge’s imposing Black Door, while a rap of the Lotus Lion knocker grants guests access. Little Black Door is a ‘gateway’ of expectation to the service and product all the while expressing a quiet confidence.

We find the interior to be unique to the region, current and refreshing in its use of the specified Interior finishes and design styling. We consider the Interior aesthetics to be exciting and evocative whilst offering an eclectic intoxicating mix of comfort, intriguing surface textures and a diversifying use of materials urban and raw, yet elegantly sophisticated, all culminating in the creation of the venues ‘original style’.

Taking into consideration the requests as outlined in the Client brief, the budget given for this project was in the region of USD $ 750,000 which was distributed more or less evenly but with more emphasis on the statement finishes and key component items within such as the lighting, furniture, bar and sound-proofing.

The design is nothing short of a decadent mix of a cheeky discrete staircase; diverse elegant tables; candlelit fireplaces; Venetian patterned carpet rugs; naughty story-worthy powder rooms; classic backlight London bar lighting; a crystal whiskey decanter lite hallway; a copper rose-gold bar; and the numerous custom made metal crystal chandeliers, the latter of which best articulates the conceptualization of “Urban Understated Elegance”.

Little Black Door, also known as LBD, is made from experiences.

Based on the overall premise of “Urban Understated Elegance”, Little Black Door prides itself on detailed aesthetics, quality materials and ambiance with a DJ booth centering the bar. It is clearly evident that music is a focus and with a ceiling covered by recording studio sound-proofing; it is signal to the patrons that Little Black Door is prepared to accommodate wherever the beat levels may go - “It’s where Brooklyn meets Vienna.”

“In addition to describing its style and material ethos so that Paul’s mind could ride his own wave of ‘creativity and naughtiness’’. The Client was emphatic in stating that “In addition to Paul’s immense design credentials; it was his ability to add the right element or originality, quirk and especially raw cosmopolitan authenticity, which very few Interior Designers can match, which was a blessing to the project.’’

Although avoiding any reference to the over-commercialized “Speak Easy” concepts that have flooded the hospitality market over the last decade, Little Black Door still exercises great discretion with no signage and limited marketing promotion amongst friends and regular patrons. With a black door, which is anything but little, its signature Lotus Lion door-knocker is its sole emblem of arrival as the client believes that “word of mouth” is the most honest form of brand growth.

CHARACTER AND ELEGANCE FOR NEWLY RENOVATED APARTMENT

Designed by Och Ach Concept

Designs used: Madame Blush (gold edition), Orange Pencil, Submerged-1, Submerged-2, Submerged-3

The apartment in a newly renovated tenement house located in the heart of Krakow is an ambitious project in many respects.

The apartment, located just a 10-minute walk from the Wawel Royal Castle, was to become a living space for its owner, a Legal Advisor by profession.

The large size of the apartment (area 110 m2 with a height of over 3 m) provided great arrangement possibilities.

Work on the project required the use of unconventional connections. Already at the beginning of cooperation with the owner, we assumed that the apartment must have both classic and modern elements.

The combination of classic furniture "with the soul", bought at antique shops or at auctions with modern furniture pieces to size was a challenge.

With such a combination, it is not difficult to overfill, which is why every element of the apartment's equipment has been carefully selected to fit the whole.

The dominant elements in the interior have been restored chandeliers, and they are complemented by aged mirrors used in the bathroom and kitchen,

where they were used in an unusual way to finish the wall above the stone countertop. Other lighting elements were supposed to be the background for antique chandeliers.

For this reason, LED lighting and a stretch ceiling in the bathroom were used. Unusual Mineheart paintings complement the interiors perfectly!

In my projects I often reach for expressive colours. Here, the choice fell on shades of blue and green, which added character, elegance and warmed the designed space.