This week the Rethink Interiors Design Team has been out and about exploring London Design Week at Design Centre Chelsea Harbour plus neighbouring showrooms.
Monday saw the Design Team meeting at the Lapicida Showroom for breakfast treats and a wander around exploring all the stone surfaces they have to offer. We then popped in to Justin Van Breda’s showroom to see some key furniture pieces and new Fabric Room. Justin talked us through his fabric and wallcovering selection which includes his own range along with collections from the States, and British Illustrator Abigail Borg. We then headed to the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour and started exploring all of the many showrooms there – no mean task, and we were relieved to know we also had the rest of the week to visit and be inspired!
On Tuesday we attended Conversations in Design: Designing Difference hosted by FT How to Spend It. This talk celebrated artist Rita Parniczky, textile sculptor Helen Amy Murray, and founder of ‘The Garnered’ Anna Garner – all women that have created innovative businesses from their passion for design.
The Design Team attended another of the talks on Wednesday, Conversations in Design: Psychographics: The Science of Hotel Design hosted by Sleeper. This talk was particularly relevant to our team and the sector we specialise in!
Maddy Saddler – Senior FF+E Interior Designer
My particular favourites were the Cole and Son animal wallcoverings and the funky patterned fabrics evident on David Seyfried’s furniture! It’s always fun exploring to find new information but also refresh our minds with existing suppliers!
The Science of Hotel Design talk was definitely the highlight for me. It explored the fact that behavioural patterns evolve constantly and how Hotel Design is adapting to this. There were discussions about hotels becoming the platform for communities, how technology is playing a strong role in both hotel design and operations. Comparisons were made on hotel design from 10 years ago which led to the conclusion that design has become a lot simpler due to our lifestyles!
Maria Villar – Interior Designer
I found it really inspiring to see the new colours, patterns and textures displayed in the showrooms. Bright, fresh colours which remind you that summer is almost here! There were lots of bold organic patterns full of plants and animals, along with striking geometric designs in two tone colours.
The Designing Difference talk celebrated individuality and originality. It showcased how striving for these two elements can lead you to create a unique product. I found this inspired me to investigate new materials and how to use them differently.
The Science of Hotel Design talk highlighted to me that the general experience is what makes a guest come back. We should never forget to see everything from the guest point of view when we design!
Kate Martin – Founder + Managing Director
One of the biggest highlights of London Design Week is being able to get out and about as a team and be inspired together! It’s good to take time out of a busy schedule to be enthused by new designs and refresh our knowledge of what there is on offer. Being able to attend talks which are informative and expand our mind-set help us develop and grow as designers. I’m looking forward to visiting London Design Week 2018!
To find out more about Design Centre Chelsea Harbour please visit their website: www.dcch.co.uk
