A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme
The University of Birmingham Dubai has appointed Office Inspirations and Orangebox to help create a comfortable and inspiring working environment for students and staff at its new campus, due to open in Autumn 2021. Following a successful tender process, the companies will provide furniture, fixtures and fittings across the state-of-the-art
Living spaces have been getting smaller over the years. We can’t overlook the perks of this growing trend. For instance, it’s a great way to start if you’re passionate about adopting a minimalist lifestyle. More so, it can help you reduce your carbon footprint. A lot of homeowners with tiny
Located on Nottingham’s picturesque riverside opposite the Lady Bay nature reserve and West Bridgford lies a brand-new waterfront development – The Yacht Club. Whilst the apartments ooze sophistication and style, the location offers an abundance of uninterrupted scenic waterside views. Overlooking the tranquil River Trent, the surroundings are striking no
Over the past 12 months, there has been an increase in searches for colourful kitchens, with ‘black kitchens’ leading on a 128% increase and ‘green kitchens’ following close behind at 126%. Although a colourful kitchen can be beautiful, there are many things to consider to ensure you get it right,
Providing for the demand for industrial-chic office interiors, F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap 800 Wearcoat has helped to create a stripped-back warehouse feel with a visually striking floor finish in a unique London workspace. A self-levelling floor compound for upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors in light
WorkSpace secures initial project pipeline of £12.7m across fit-out, build and facilities management. Up to 20 new full-time permanent jobs expected to be created. One of the UK and Ireland’s leading and longest established construction companies has launched a new, dedicated, fit-out led division in response to market opportunities throughout the UK
Prospective homebuyers house hunting and homeowners looking to optimise living spaces can look to top reasons from property experts as to why the kitchen should be a top consideration, as the heart of every home. It is fair to say that every house would be incomplete without the presence of
Located high up above the river, lies a spacious and inviting penthouse apartment that overlooks an entire city – beautifully embellished with bold, striking interiors that encompass modern city living. The Waterside Penthouse, part of The Waterside Apartments development in West Bridgford enjoys expansive views of the tranquil River Trent,
Brock Carmichael has worked with C. Gars Ltd. for over six years as it expanded operations across the UK to now six locations. Its latest location is in the heart of London offering one of the World’s best selection of luxury cigars and spirits to a discerning clientele. Situated within
A Dudley-based furniture manufacturer has secured new funding to kickstart its recovery plans and expand its interior fit-out division. Zero Point Eight secured a £120k investment from BCRS Business Loans through the Midlands Engine Investment Fund’s (MEIF) Small Business Loan Fund – backed by the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS). Since being established five years ago, furniture manufacturer Zero Point Eight’s joinery division has built a strong reputation for designing, manufacturing and installing furniture, alongside fulfilling bespoke orders using woodworking and assembly techniques. Directors Mark Baker and William Evans say the company now has its sights set on recovery and growth following a difficult year due to the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are delighted to have secured MEIF funding, which will initially enable us to manufacture pre-existing joinery and furniture orders, ” said Mark Baker. “We also plan to expand our interior fit-out division, which was established two years ago and is focused on providing turnkey interiors to the private residential care, NHS, education, retail, hospitality and commercial sectors, which includes manufactured furniture, ceilings, walls, mechanical, electrical and floor installations. With 45 full time staff at our base in Netherton, we also plan to recruit an additional two people in the coming year. Our hope is to return to pre-coronavirus turnover levels by the second quarter of 2021.” Lynn Wyke, Senior Business Development Manager at BCRS, also commented: “We are so pleased to have supported Zero Point Eight, allowing the company to achieve its growth and recovery plans. As a lender of social and economic impact, it is excellent to see that the company not only expects its turnover to return to pre-coronavirus levels this year, but also that two additional jobs are to be created, which will be vital in helping our local communities recover too. We are committed to supporting businesses across the West Midlands region that are unable to secure finance from traditional lenders.” The Midlands Engine Investment Fund project is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank. The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS), which closed to new applications on 31st March 2021, was managed by the British Business Bank on behalf of, and with the financial backing of the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and industrial Strategy (BEIS). Businesses based in the West Midlands and surrounding areas can secure loans from £10,000 to £150,000 from BCRS Business Loans to support growth and recovery plans.
The University of Birmingham Dubai has appointed Office Inspirations and Orangebox to help create a comfortable and inspiring working environment for students and staff at its new campus, due to open in Autumn 2021. Following a successful tender process, the companies will provide furniture, fixtures and fittings across the state-of-the-art campus. Students and staff will be able to work and relax in stylish, efficient social learning and study spaces. From the open and welcoming atrium space to the digital-focussed library, Orangebox will supply a range of tables, chairs, sofas and other fixtures which mirror those which have already proved popular with students in Birmingham. Dubai-based Office Inspirations will install the furnishings on the iconic new campus, recreating the style and atmosphere of study and social spaces on the University’s Birmingham campus. University of Birmingham Dubai Provost, Professor David Sadler, said: “Our new building has been designed as a comfortable and exciting venue for learning, where innovative, multidisciplinary teaching will provide students with the inspiration to successfully progress their studies – whether collaboratively or individually. “Office Inspirations and Orangebox will help us to deliver a comfortable and inspiring learning environment in Dubai that students and staff will enjoy. Everyone – students and staff alike – is eagerly looking forward to moving into our brand-new, bespoke campus building later this year. We believe that, in our new academic home, we will deliver an educational experience like no other in Dubai.” Designed to reflect real-world working practices, the new campus will encourage students to carry out research in interdisciplinary teams across all academic subjects. Flexible study spaces will ensure students have a learning environment suited to their needs; whether in large lecture theatres and laboratories or smaller seminar and tutorial rooms. Anne Barron , Dubai Regional Manager with Orangebox, said: “Orangebox are honoured to have been appointed as a partner and contractor on this prestigious project for University of Birmingham and its new Dubai campus. Having worked together on various projects in both the UK and UAE, we are delighted to continue the relationship offering engaging and social spaces within such esteemed educational institute.” Michelle Plant, Sales Manager at Office Inspirations said: “Office Inspirations are delighted to have been taking part in creating comfortable and inspiring working environments for the new campus of the University of Birmingham in Dubai. We aim to meet all expectations and comfort for both students and staff members and are indeed looking forward to pursuing this collaboration with such a reputable educational institute. We are determined to offer exceptional experiences like no other in Dubai.” With architecture inspired by the historic Aston Webb buildings on the Birmingham campus, the Dubai facilities will use shaded open-air courtyard spaces to create an enjoyable and productive student experience. The buildings will sit next to parkland offering sports pitches and an open air event space, whilst new student accommodation is a short walk away, across the parkland. As the first global top 100 and UK Russell Group university to establish a campus in Dubai, The University of Birmingham Dubai delivers the highest-quality education underpinned by a growing research focus in a leading global educational hub. Prospective students can find more information on applying for courses at the University of Birmingham Dubai at https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/dubai/study/apply/index.aspx
Living spaces have been getting smaller over the years. We can’t overlook the perks of this growing trend. For instance, it’s a great way to start if you’re passionate about adopting a minimalist lifestyle. More so, it can help you reduce your carbon footprint. A lot of homeowners with tiny apartments often look for space-saving furniture that will complement other home décor elements. This type of furniture is the key to keeping your home organized and will make your stuff easily accessible. Fortunately, brands like Furco.co.uk are proactive about providing functional solutions for small spaces. It’s imperative to invest in the furniture pieces we’ve listed below. 1. Sofa beds Sofa beds are both practical and comfortable. They are now a favorite piece for small apartments and families of all sizes. A sofa bed will offer a 3-in-1 function comprising of a bed, sofa, and storage option. The creative storage solution is useful for storing your bedding and other items. Corner sofa beds are versatile and will come in handy when you’re alone or in the company of your family or guests. 2. Floating desk A floating deck is a practical, convenient, and cost-effective solution for reading and working. Some wall-mounted models feature storage sections. The good thing is that this piece of furniture will only take minimal space in your home. You can install a floating desk in your living room, bedroom, or home office. It comes in different variations, so it’s best to assess your needs and the space you can spare before making a purchase. In case you’re planning to use it for work, go for an option that is large enough for your PC and a few supplies. 3. Wardrobes Built-in wardrobes remain one of the top modern living ideas. You can incorporate double hanging to maximize your space. Another space-saving hack is to place storage baskets on top of the wardrobe for storing accessories. Install hooks on the inside of your wardrobe door to keep jewelry and other accessories. It’s ideal to use the floor space in your wardrobe creatively too. Try decluttering your wardrobe from time to time. This will save you time and space. 4. Wall-mounted ironing board We usually pass a message to others with our choice of clothing. Clothes that are crispy and wrinkle-free will boost your confidence, thereby making you irresistible. This type of ironing board is a must if space is at a premium in your laundry room. Install a quality one in the right spot, and remember to fold it once you’re through with ironing. New models of wall-mounted ironing boards have features such as flexible board, adjustable height, built-in hanger, and can even double as a mirror. 5. Murphy bed A murphy bed will ensure that you have enough space to entertain your guests and sleep comfortably. This furniture piece relies on a smooth mechanism that enables it to emerge and retract seamlessly. It’s suitable for individuals who want to use their guest room as office space without trading one for the other. Most murphy beds come with features like shelves, drawers, and desk flaps.
Located on Nottingham’s picturesque riverside opposite the Lady Bay nature reserve and West Bridgford lies a brand-new waterfront development – The Yacht Club. Whilst the apartments ooze sophistication and style, the location offers an abundance of uninterrupted scenic waterside views. Overlooking the tranquil River Trent, the surroundings are striking no matter the season and the location is conveniently within walking distance of West Bridgford, Nottingham train station and the bustling city centre, whilst still being far enough away to maintain a peaceful ambience, for a central yet serene lifestyle. The Yacht club consists of 81 beautifully designed apartments, ranging from one to three bedrooms and each and every property has views of the river and is fitted with contemporary furnishings. All apartments feature either a generous balcony or terrace with views over Lady Bay nature reserve and the picturesque views will remain uninterrupted, allowing natural light to penetrate through, creating a spacious and breathable living space for optimum wellbeing. Jules Hunt, director at FHP Living, said: “Everything about these properties and the location of the development is idyllic. From the stunning surrounding scenery, to the convenient location and abundance of lighting. Every single feature is crafted to enhance the natural surroundings, for a truly beautiful living environment.” Jules continues: “Each room has been designed carefully, ensuring the décor and natural lighting go hand in hand to create a harmonious setting – neutral tones, soft textures and plush furnishings all contribute to a contemporary and chic, yet calming home, which can be adapted to the homeowner’s personality by adding personal touches and finishes.” This open plan living and kitchen area allows a smooth flowing transition from dining to living, creating a social environment which is fantastic for entertaining. Marble flooring adds a fresh yet timeless appearance, contributing to the luxurious tone of this property, whilst the metallic pendant lighting creates a decorative and dramatic addition. Furthermore, the handle-less designs of the cupboards contribute to the sleek and streamlined feel of the room. Soft and neutral hues with hints of mint work well with the large windows, enabling natural light to flood and fill the living and dining area. The master bedroom presents itself as the epitome of luxury. Contrasting textures of soft materials and clean lines add character to the room, whilst the muted background makes way for the deep pop of colour in the headboard. Jules continues: “The deep tones of the royal blue headboard go hand in hand with the views of the water immediately outside of the window, allowing the outdoors in for a tranquil sanctuary.” Smart polished fittings with a mixture of marbled and wooden textures help strike the perfect balance between a clean-cut and homely feel in the en-suite bathroom. The overall minimalistic aesthetic helps create a relaxing environment, whilst the use of natural materials accentuates the warmth and comfort of the room. A combination of neutral tones, natural materials, botanical elements and a statement mirror wall complete the elegant and polished reception area and corridor, which is an impactful and modern aspect of the property. Wherever you are in this delightful home, you are never far from the stunning views of the serene river, glistening in the background.
Over the past 12 months, there has been an increase in searches for colourful kitchens, with ‘black kitchens’ leading on a 128% increase and ‘green kitchens’ following close behind at 126%. Although a colourful kitchen can be beautiful, there are many things to consider to ensure you get it right, and one of the most important is colour psychology. According to the Theory of Colour Psychology and Colour Harmony, colour psychology is important because different colours can have a significant impact on human behaviour. By having an appreciation of the psychological influence of various colours, you can begin to style your kitchen around particular moods and mindsets. Wren Kitchens have taken a look at what emotions different colours can evoke, the right colours to choose in your kitchen, and what to avoid at all costs! How to pick the right colour Give your kitchen cool class, with shades of black styled to offer a sense of sophistication and glamour, while contrasting whites can be used to enhance feelings of simplicity, stability, and clarity, perfect for family time. When colouring your kitchen, monochromatic blacks and whites can be combined effectively to offer complementary contrast, and a dynamic cooking and socialising environment. Additionally, the kitchen is all about experiencing an eruption of senses, whether it be the gorgeous smell of bubbling food or the spectacular taste of your marvellous creations. With this in mind, consider injecting subtle elements of orange, with the bright colour associated with feelings of comfort, food, and fun. The different emotions When styling your space, it’s crucial to consider the entire emotional spectrum, and how different colours can influence certain moods: Calm serenity For total tranquillity, choose shades next to each other on the colour wheel. These are called harmonious. Specifically, blues and greens are great for bringing calmness, balance, and equilibrium to your space, while a threatening red is perhaps one to avoid. Positivity Yellow is considered the colour of confidence and self-esteem, and green is associated with fun and frivolity. Reddish hues can also be used to give you feelings of power and excitement. Love and romance You can make use of pink tints dotted throughout, to bring about feelings of warmth, love, and femininity. However, pink is, perhaps surprisingly, particularly potent, so make sure to use shades in moderation. Concentration In an era where remote working has become the norm, it’s increasingly important to have a space that complements your working life. To help build feelings of focus and concentration, combine soft blues, aimed at calming the mind, violets, proven to heighten awareness, and earthy browns styled towards seriousness and supportiveness. Colour mistakes to avoid at all costs Not considering colour hue – A colour is broken down into different tones, and warm and sharp hues stimulate vastly different feelings. It’s important to take this into account when styling your kitchen. Forgetting about lighting – Your room can look vastly different depending on whether you have overhead lighting, lamps, or natural light illuminating the space. Make sure you consider how lighting changes your kitchen when you’re deciding on your perfect colour. Over-using one colour – The main thing to avoid when decorating your home is over-using colour. This applies to dark, light, and pastel tones, as well as walls, furniture, and features. It is possible to have too much of a good thing, so don’t get blindsided by a colour you love. Combining too many colours in one space – Similarly, don’t fall into the trap of combining too many colours in one space. This can be overwhelming and overstimulating. Blending too many moods can also negate the positive impact of colour; determine how you want a room to make you feel and stick to shades that elevate and enhance these emotions.
Providing for the demand for industrial-chic office interiors, F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s Stopgap 800 Wearcoat has helped to create a stripped-back warehouse feel with a visually striking floor finish in a unique London workspace. A self-levelling floor compound for upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors in light to heavy-duty applications, Stopgap 800 Wearcoat is designed to deliver a standalone wearing surface in industrial settings where floorcoverings are not required to be installed. It is also popular for domestic and commercial projects because of its eye-catching, natural appearance, and it has been used by contractors from M.D.A. Contracts Ltd. to create a hard-wearing floor in the reception, coffee bar and flexible work area at Expressway, a community of business suites underneath Silvertown Way flyover, adjacent to the Royal Docks. M.D.A. Contracts Ltd. Managing Director, Glenn Alexander, explains the choice: “The client’s brief was an easy-to-maintain, modern, concrete look that would stand the test of time. They’d originally requested a pumped screed, but due to height restrictions, we suggested Stopgap 800 Wearcoat instead as it’s trowel applied and it’s the only product out there that gives a polished concrete look.” Upon arrival, old carpet tiles and adhesive residues had already been removed, revealing a sound, and smooth concrete substrate. Dust and debris were then cleared, before a moisture test was carried out, the results of which showed relative humidity levels were below 75%. This allowed the contractors to proceed without the requirement of a waterproof surface membrane to prevent potential floor failure. The concrete subfloor was then primed with two dilute coats of F. Ball’s Stopgap P131 general purpose primer, which is designed to prevent the unacceptably rapid drying of subsequently applied Stopgap levelling compounds and promote their adhesion to the substrate. Following this, the application of Stopgap 800 Wearcoat commenced in the 130m2 space. Owing to the removal of internal walls to create a larger reception, the product had to be applied at varying depths between 5-8mm. A spiked roller was used to eliminate entrapped air and smooth out flow lines to give a more uniform surface appearance. After the levelling compound had cured, contractors returned to seal the floor for its protection and to enable easy cleaning and maintenance. Glenn Alexander added: “The client was over the moon with the final result. They had envisaged a standard, monotone floor, so they were surprised to see the character and depth of the colour and patterns — they fell in love with it. “We use only F. Ball products for several reasons, including the fact that they are guaranteed if there are any issues, and the support you get from their team – you’ve got a trusted manufacturer you know you can rely on.”
WorkSpace secures initial project pipeline of £12.7m across fit-out, build and facilities management. Up to 20 new full-time permanent jobs expected to be created. One of the UK and Ireland’s leading and longest established construction companies has launched a new, dedicated, fit-out led division in response to market opportunities throughout the UK and Ireland. WorkSpace, part of McLaughlin & Harvey, will offer clients a range of services spanning build, fit-out, facilities management, bespoke joinery, and commercial furniture under one brand. Richard Cheevers, McLaughlin & Harvey Director, said: “The company has built a strong reputation for delivering large scale construction and civil engineering schemes over many years, and recently the directors felt there was a need to create a dedicated division for projects outside the scope and scale of those traditionally associated with McLaughlin & Harvey. “WorkSpace provides a specialist option for what might be regarded as ‘smaller’ projects with a market-leading fit-out capability at its core, but also encompassing build, bespoke joinery, commercial furniture and hard facilities management services. We are delighted to have secured an order book of £12.7m across fit-out, build and facilities management which is a testament to the hard work of our team and the appetite for our offering. “McLaughlin & Harvey has a long-standing heritage stretching back to 1853 with some of the top talent in the industry. We believe WorkSpace can benefit from these undoubted assets to deliver a proposition that combines all of McLaughlin & Harvey’s traditional strengths with the freshness, energy and nimbleness of what effectively is a new enterprise aimed at enabling the company to deliver a full range of right-fit projects of all sizes.” It is expected the new division will create up to 20 new full-time permanent posts in year one, as well as opening up new opportunities for the company’s trusted supply chain. Richard Carron, who has been recruited as WorkSpace Head of Business Development, said: “Whilst our focus will be as a main contractor delivering build and fit-out projects, we believe there is a lot of potential for us to provide high quality integrated packages that also include bespoke joinery, commercial furniture, and aftercare. Our team has extensive experience delivering projects for prestige brands such as M&S, ITV News, NatWest and Charles Hurst Aston Martin and Bentley. We plan to extend our reach further in other key areas such as commercial, hospitality, leisure, education, heritage, and visitor centres.” Referring to the thinking behind the WorkSpace name Richard Carron added: “We wanted a name that would reflect our ability to work in any space; to bring great design concepts to life – whether it’s building, stripping-out, fitting-out, or providing after care.” WorkSpace and McLaughlin & Harvey recently completed a major project at Jewish Care in Stanmore. A unique interior feature of the project was the bespoke wall and ceiling panelling. Each panel manufactured in-house had a unique olive tree design which was CNC engraved and finished with a painted gold leaf. The division has also recently handed over an interior fit-out project at the highly acclaimed Seamus Heaney Homeplace Visitor Centre in Bellaghy, Northern Ireland. Its order book includes work on ITV’s Parliamentary Studios at Millbank, London; ongoing facilities management with M&S throughout the UK; a major FF&E project at a leading English University and a range of other Framework education schemes within Ireland and Scotland.
Prospective homebuyers house hunting and homeowners looking to optimise living spaces can look to top reasons from property experts as to why the kitchen should be a top consideration, as the heart of every home. It is fair to say that every house would be incomplete without the presence of a kitchen – it’s an area for family time, a hub for entertaining family and friends, and a space to unleash creativity; discovering new tastes through recipe making and dining. It’s where we refuel, scribble lists and notes, have conversations, and make memories during special occasions and milestones – and most importantly, the kitchen plays a significant role in connecting friends and families together, just through living. With many having spent the majority of their time indoors in the past year, the kitchen has taken spotlight as the new ‘social hub’ of the home, and it’s no wonder that post-pandemic, a newly renovated kitchen is estimated to add a value of £10,649 to a home, with kitchen extensions adding a further £11,514. James Hartley, director at North Sands Developments, said: “In the design and delivery of each of our properties, the kitchen is imperative and at the core of the home. As it is such a well-utilised space, it’s vital that it maximises ergonomic living and is a place where homebuyers want to be for multiple occasions throughout the day. This is a key consideration when choosing a kitchen in your new abode, or if you’re looking to design and upgrade the kitchen in your current home. “We’ve looked into the main reasons kitchens really are the heart of every home, to celebrate this central living space and provide insightful considerations for homeowners and potential new buyers.” Here are the top six reasons why a kitchen is at the heart of every home: It is beneficial for bonding Whether its discovering and creating new dishes together, or simply chatting over the table about the events of the day, the kitchen is a key setting for many aspects of living, and helps in strengthening relationships, whilst enabling family members to spend quality time together. Kitchens present a valuable opportunity to generate conversations, without the risk of interference from modern-day technology that’s in the lounge or other areas of the home; and dining time is an opportunity to refuel, whilst also having important discussions with those that you live with. Food is much more than a necessity Whilst food is a key function in everyday life, it is also a passion for many individuals. From maintaining a strict healthy eating diet to leading a vegan lifestyle, nowadays food has the ability to generate many intriguing conversations, whilst connecting individuals over shared mutual topics of interest. As food preparation takes place in the kitchen, it is a key location for the topic of cuisine to be discussed and trialled, whilst educating one another. It allows homeowners to showcase personality As the central point of the home, kitchens are a place to express personality aesthetically through interior design. Visitors can walk into a kitchen and capture the overall essence and taste of the homeowner, whilst dining and being entertained, so it’s an ideal space to put your stamp on and get creative. It provides an additional space for activities A kitchen is a largely interactive environment, so if the space is there for activities – kitchens can be great combined with a play area section, to keep an eye on the children. Why not introduce a reading corner or nook, workout space or office desk if you have the space and want to utilise it? It’s central in every daypart From grabbing a quick breakfast with family in the morning, to unwinding in the evenings with friends around the table of island over a bottle of the wine – a kitchens involvement in day-to-day life is constant, meaning it is a significant and functional area that is so much more than a space to simply prepare and consume food in. It is an evolving space Kitchens are an ever-evolving space, and with the introduction of open-plan living, we are seeing the traditional kitchen setup offer of an oven, hob, worktop and table, develop to include new tech aspects such as boiling water taps, high-spec coffee machines and wine fridges. The latest smart oven appliances, which include models by brands such as AEG, are tech savvy and can be linked to apps with cameras and temperature probes to ensure great cooking. New fixtures and fittings are also being introduced to create a versatile and ambient space, these include mounted wall TVs, built-in lighting and speakers to optimise the dining and entertaining experience.
Located high up above the river, lies a spacious and inviting penthouse apartment that overlooks an entire city – beautifully embellished with bold, striking interiors that encompass modern city living. The Waterside Penthouse, part of The Waterside Apartments development in West Bridgford enjoys expansive views of the tranquil River Trent, the historic Trent Bridge, the world-famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, and miles of city skyline. Developed by Monk Estates, with interiors by Curious Design, The Waterside penthouse features three- bedrooms, open plan living space and a large balcony with spectacular views. Boasting elevation, large windows and an impressive balcony space means that this property unapologetically allows natural light to pour in, dominating each room and playing a huge part in the overall aesthetic. “Everything in this property revolves around its stunning views, and the design of each room has deliberately maximised and captured as much of the natural light as possible, so your eyes are always drawn towards the outdoors when you walk in. Each room within the penthouse has been thoughtfully designed, with neutral tones interspersed with bold splashes of colour, striking ornaments and wall art to finish,” said Steve Parker, director at FHP Waterside Living. The open plan kitchen and dining space offers a combination of practicality and sleek style – with sharp, straight lines creating a classic look, and shades of Art Deco giving a sense of symmetry and balance. The use of minimal colour here – white, black and grey – means this large open space, is versatile for personalisation, and ideal for family living and entertaining. If the living space is comparatively muted with strong, sharp lines, then the master bedroom is glammed up with sparkle, luxury and different textures. Alongside the sprawling views, the king size bed is the superstar of this room – with its elaborate headboard and plush velvet bench. Contrasting rugs with geometric patterns complement the wallpaper – a jazzy yet understated design which is cleverly broken up by star-shaped wall sculptures. The colours go hand in hand – rich silky green complements charcoal grey, and muted beiges and creams add elegance and grandeur to this room which is a cosy place to rest. The property’s en-suite really makes the most of the natural light and picturesque views. A stand-alone bathtub –the epitome of indulgence and luxury – is perfectly placed to take in the vistas. Wherever you are in this property, you are never far away from beautiful views, offering both serenity and vibrance – with the river flowing beneath you, and the city on your doorstep – the lifestyle of The Waterside Apartments is simply unrivalled.
Brock Carmichael has worked with C. Gars Ltd. for over six years as it expanded operations across the UK to now six locations. Its latest location is in the heart of London offering one of the World’s best selection of luxury cigars and spirits to a discerning clientele. Situated within the Smithson’s listed Economist Building this retail unit, on the ground floor of the Bank Building in Smithson’s Plaza, suffered all the challenges a Grade II* listed building can offer. The design needed to remain sensitive to its Brutalist origins, whilst appealing to visitors, and functional, whilst being compact and multi-facetted. Additionally, the restrictions on the sale of tobacco meant most of the products could not be displayed to entice entry. The site chosen for the new retail unit, which was formerly an estate agent, had a considerable number of challenges for Brock Carmichael who were responsible for the design, planning and licensing applications, coordination and delivery to a tight timescale, during lockdown. Alterations to 23a St James’s Street included: • External improvements and restorations to the original features, • The installation of chrome feature display shelving that encased the perimeter of the unit, that integrated a sales point, stock storage, ventilation and 12 personal cigar lockers, • The creation of a glass fronted walk-in Humidor that allows for nearly 360 degrees of stunning product displays, with climate and humidity controls, • A new sales floor and sampling area, • An illuminated glass feature light within the retail space and a new lighting design. Both the humidor and the retail floor area have an impressive and very quiet smoke filtration system. This involved the addition of a very high specification HVAC ventilation system and associated ducting, concealed in perimeter boxing at a high level, with nothing visible or audible from the street. Externally, along with the restoration work, new window displays were created, which needed to serve a dual function, display product and attract customers, but also, in accordance with SSI 2013/85, prevent any display of the tobacco products inside. This was achieved by layering displays of Spirits and Cigar accessories. Additional internal improvements included improved access, new flooring, new lighting, new security systems and an entirely new WC and storage area design. Tobias Bachra, the Lead Designer from Brock Carmichael responsible for the project added; “It was important for us to pay homage to Alison and Peter Smithson who designed the 1964 Economist Plaza ‘a milestone in the canon of modern architecture’. The plaza has stood the test of time and is rightly Grade II* listed. Interior designs for 23a St James’s Street are also reminiscent of their 1956 ‘House of the Future’ for the Ideal Home Exhibition at Olympia with its curves, bold shapes and efficient use of the space available.” He added; “We all really enjoyed working on this project and as part of a team too, with the client, the contractors and engineers.” Managing Partner at Brock Carmichael, Chis Bolland added; “We’re delighted to have now completed our fifth successful project for C. Gars Ltd. now Dominique London, they are a business we love working with. From being early pioneers in internet retail they continue to push the boundaries in luxury retail and hospitality, with innovation as standard.” Client Mitchell Orchant, managing director of C. Gars Ltd. and CCO of Dominique London said; “Two things impress us most about Brock Carmichael, the ability for us to relax knowing they will improve on our vision and get the work done with the minimum of fuss. The second is the people. Our reputation is built on quality and they don’t let us down. For this project, most impressive were their illustrations and images and how they were brought to life exactly as we’d approved.” Plans for the future at St James’s include cigar sampling, whisky tastings and events to add to retail which means the space has to work hard and be flexible. Other work for C. Gars by Brock Carmichael continues.
