On Thursday 22nd February 2018, Rethink Interiors had the pleasure of attending the NEWH TopID Event, held at the Roca London Gallery. This was an evening to celebrate the top three UK interior design companies that have supported NEWH UK Chapter over the past year.
Upon arrival we had the opportunity to network with our peers over a glass of bubbly; and also have a look at the ‘Timber Rising’ exhibition which is currently on display at the Roca London Gallery. This exhibition showcases many architects and explores ways of improving urban life with an emphasis on sustainability and wellbeing.
It was then time to take our seats so the presentation could start! Jonathan Leah of Woods Bagot talked us through their project ‘Davos Hotel, Switzerland’. With a sophisticated, neutral colour palette that deliberately avoids the traditional Swiss colours and patterns, the public area schemes and guestrooms definitely look like interiors we would like to visit; although we understand there were some tweaks made to the design once the hotel ultimately became part of the Hard Rock Hotel brand.
Ariane Steinbeck of RPW gave us an insight of their latest projects, their work ethos and company values. It was interesting to see a snapshot of their current inspirations and project visuals. It was refreshing to learn that their Instagram images are all taken by their team with a weekly theme in mind.
David McCarthy of AD Associates showcased some of their most recent ocean liner and cruise ship projects. We found this presentation particularly intriguing as we have had limited exposure to marine projects. It was inspiring to learn more about some of the design challenges that can be incurred, such as deck items that need to reduce in height to accommodate bridges!
Libby Bull, NEWH Scholarship Director, reiterated how NEWH is all about the students and how we, as professional interior designers, can really assist students with providing work placements / internships to them in order to gain experience, as well as the sourcing of samples for their projects. This inspired us to have a sort out of our library to be able to assist!
Following on from the presentation there was opportunity to network again over drinks and canapes. It was fantastic to see such a great turn out and share an evening with our contemporaries.
Thank you to Beverley Petzing of Malone Fabrics for the invite to this event.
For more information about NEWH UK visit their website newh.org/chapters/united-kingdom/
