All or Nothing

The pendulum of interior trends has swung between minimalism and maximalism for an age and while neither will ever be genuinely off-trend, they can both go incredibly wrong. It’s essential to understand the features of each style that has given rise to their longevity.

Let’s explore how you can rock the all or the nothing!

Why minimalism works:

Minimalism works so well because it offers your space two primary features of design: total functionality and a bold starkness. Creating a minimalist interior is a foolproof way of evoking a feeling of space to breathe and a gathering of your thoughts without the anxieties overcrowding can bring.

How can I encourage minimalism?

Less is always more so exercise a level of restraint when choosing what to display on open shelving. Pare down your items until you’ve only a select few visible, alternate these if you like, but only have a handful visible at any one time. Remember the spaces surrounding can be as important as the focal ponts themselves. Consider your interior as your own personal art gallery mix it up when you’re bored with the current exhibition!

Celebrate the architectural bones of your house. Minimalism should be about exposing what’s underneath so use this opportunity to design around the features of your home, rather than to conceal them. Practicality goes hand in hand with minimalism, so make sure you’re using the most of the space your home has to offer, before welcoming in anything extra.

Practice the ‘less is more’ philosophy in your daily life not just in your interior spaces, and you’ll find it transferring across to other aspects of your life seamlessly.

Why maximalism works:

We adore the unlimited versatility of maximalism. You can fill every square foot of a wall with artwork, and it will still look on-trend. However, the secret of maximalism is forgetting what you’ve read, heard and know about design and filling your space will the pieces you love. This is incredibly important, as you’re going to be surrounded by them all the time.

Our only guidelines would be to take a uniform approach to an entire space, rather than just one area of your interior. As mentioned above it’s all or nothing!

How can I encourage maximalism?

Create a gallery wall! A signature feature of the maximalist style. Fill your wall with bright, colourful pieces of varying shapes, sizes, and frames. Again, avoid listening to design trends and go with what you think looks good!

Go vintage! Maximalism is a fantastic opportunity to try a boho or eclectic style, and your local vintage furniture dealer will almost definitely have something that could be used as a feature piece for your space. While it might be risky, it’s important to remember that committing to maximalism can pay off incredibly. So why not!

While we’ll always have a soft spot for simple elegance in design, we’ll never shy away from using bold patterns.

Regardless if you want to go down the minimalist route, or express your personality with the brashness of maximalism, it’s your choice get in touch today and see how we could help you!

Using Minimalism as a Stress Reducer

Far too often, our homes or offices become cluttered. Our belongings fill the rooms, and the space begins to invite a sense of claustrophobia. It’s a feeling best avoided our spaces should be a place to feel relaxed, where positive energy is created, and visual discord doesn’t cloud our thoughts.

One particular way of easing the negative influence clutter can cause is by embracing minimalism. We’ve put together a few ideas for building a space that embraces minimalism and evokes a sense of tranquillity.

Space Enhancing Furniture

Observe the next house you enter you’ll come to realise that we often choose furniture that’s larger than we need. Usually, the homes of most couples won’t need a vast reclining suite or that dining table with enough room for a dozen guests. Why not opt for more minimal and versatile furniture?

This could include console tables or an extendable dining table they offer brilliant space maximising solutions and still have the potential to entertain guests when needed. Keeping your interior free of overbearing furniture – the space surrounding is as important as the furniture itself.

Maximise Efficient Storage

One of the best investments you can make in adopting a minimalist approach is efficient storage solutions. They’ll ensure everything is kept out of the way, and precisely where you need it. This could begin with creating a well-organised wardrobe, and the use of sliding doors not only will they look more contemporary, but they’re also far more space efficient than traditional hinged doors.

Simplify Your Palette

While colour may seem arbitrary to minimalism, often in the best minimalist spaces, it’s one of the key factors to how the space will feel.

By having too many bright and or clashing colours, even the emptiest spaces can feel inhibited and stressful. In keeping a colour scheme to only a few hues, you can build a feeling of consistency without being overbearing. And by employing only a few colours, it doesn’t have to feel bland, as you can still combine textures that create a sleek impact.

Our homes should be the place where we go to relax. And a minimalist approach provokes this. In applying some of these decluttering methods, you’ll bring simplicity into your style, and see the benefits almost immediately.

From little things big things grow: Celebrating mechanical pencil day

Next time youre using a pen, glance down and observe its design.

Chances are youve never done this before.

Observe the interplay between its form, function, and shape, the care that has gone into an object most of us use without thought daily.

The same could be said for any object lying around the home or officeand more often than not, you will have never bothered to inspect them. They just work or not.

When we started our careers, architects and technicians work white coats, with a thick, grey streak of lead shavings across their midriff from the constant sharpening of mechanical pencils long, plastic and steel clutch pencils that were an essential tool in draughting designs prior to committing pen to (tracing) paper. The pencils were a personalised companion of our profession, constantly needing adjustment via sharpening boxes uniformly bolted to desks. A fusion of product design and architecture.

 

Some of the best architects of the last century had dalliances in product designFrank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe were incredibly passionate about chair design. At the same time, Britains own Jony Ive, Chief Design Officer at Apple, began his career as an architectural designer. The overlap between the two has grown increasingly fluid, yet the design guidelines remain the samegreat design will always speak of practicality, simplicity and innate intuitiveness.

 

This concept can be seen in the dismantling of every single product we usejust like the pen you write with, the phone in your pocket and the chair you sit onthere is always a constant thread of purity and simplicity of manufacture in almost every piece.

 

As time passes, the transference of knowledge between architects, interior designers and product design will growwhich will only lead to even more daring design adventures.

 

So next time youre using your pen, consider its form, its aesthetics and function, and all of the decisions that passed in it coming off the production line. We may not use the mechanical pencil much these days, but the link between architecture, design and our everyday lives is as strong as ever.

Celebrating Industrial Design: Three Elements Of Great Design

Think about warehouses, exposed brick, beams and formwork, metal roofing and wood flooring that bears the marks of time. You’ve probably already got the exact image in your head. When did this style weave its way into our psyche? Is there a name for it?

There is, and the school of Industrial Design is as prevalent in modern design, if not more than it ever has been. Whether it’s the details of the industrial styling that seem slightly misplaced, or the unabridged rawness to the materials there is a magical quality to industrial design. In combining these elements, it becomes a stunning way to mix modern design with ageing materials to create a look that is sophisticated.

The elements of the style surround us today and aren’t just limited to inner-city loft-style apartments, but office spaces, public seating areas and break-off spaces. As we celebrate Industrial Design Day, we look at three factors that contribute to the style’s status.

Simplicity & Minimalism

In removing clutter from an industrial space, you begin to see the beauty of the details. The reason the industrial design is so popular is that it evokes a sense of calm and minimalism, so heavy, bulky furniture and knick-knacks are best avoided. While a centrepiece is excellent and will look great when carefully considered, it’s better to avoid using too many interior products and fittings as they create a look than is overbearing. The design should welcome movement and space, so it’s essential to respect this notion when designing.

Modern Industrial

When balanced with carefully selected modern fittings, industrial design elements always look great. Combine a rustic style with shiny metals, use hanging lights, wrought iron, brass fittings, brushed nickel or a wooden island that tells a story. It all offers a contemporary twist and will transform your space. Disregard the fact that the elements came from a different era, play with them and create exciting contrasts that stand out.

Rough, Stressed & Unassuming

The premise of industrial design lies in its celebration of materials that would usually be disregarded. The style is not about shinier or brighter; it’s about creating a raw look that doesn’t have an ‘off the shelf’ feel. Think ageing metals, stressed fabrics and matte finishes. Combine metal with wood to create interesting contrasts that create a lasting effect. These materials, when combined, can make old materials look entirely new, and freshen an entire space.

If you’ve found yourself admiring warehouse conversion you’ve seen online or the exposed brick at your favourite coffee shop, maybe it’s time to bring some industrial design into your own space!

Breaking Free From Your Lunch Break

Humans need to keep moving to stay healthy. We weren’t designed to sit in front of a screen for 8+ hours each day and studies have shown how damaging it is, not just to our posture, but to stress levels and emotional wellbeing! Many modern office spaces see their ‘break-out space’ as a critical factor in combatting this, as a way of allowing their employees to get away from their stressors during the working day.

As well as a place for meetings and informal catch-ups a well-designed break-out space makes sense from an organisational perspective too. It creates a place for stimulating conversation, with impromptu discussions, often leading to the best ideas, which then spread to support projects within the workplace. The impact of a break-out space is incredibly influential and should not be dismissed as ‘just a lunch spot’.

Still, many modern offices forget their workforce will function better after a break, with the notion often being lost during the busy working day where time pressures are felt. However, by using foresight, and encouraging a time-out in a well-designed space productivity will increase, as time away from the screen offers employees a time to refresh returning more alert and relaxed, the more consideration put into the break-out space, the more productive and alert a company’s workforce will be. And, as a company’s office space will say a lot about the company, creating a variety of spaces, like a break-out area companies give themselves the best opportunity to retain key staff and attract great new talent. This could include filling your break-out area with comforts from the home, which offer a connection with space reminding staff to switch off. Other ideas include bringing in elements from the natural environment, timber benches, warm lighting and cosy furniture. They all combine together to provide a relaxed feel, full of comfort and relaxation.

So while working hard is essential, it’s just as necessary to take a few moments from your day to enjoy your break which is precisely why ‘Take Back The Lunch Break’ day was created. Whether these moments come in the form of exercise, getting close to nature, seeing a friend or enjoy a meal does your workplace have a break-out area that invests in their employee’s wellbeing?

Outdoor Co-Working Space? Tell Me More!

With stress, depression and a raft of mental health issues accounting for almost 14 million days of lost work in the UK last year, increased support of employee wellbeing in the workplace has never been greater. As office spaces encourage more natural light and airflow – thankfully, heading away from traditional, cubical styled, fluorescent-lit offices we ask ourselves, how can contemporary co-working spaces further improve their inhabitant’s wellbeing?

While the co-working phenomenon would have sounded crazy in the not too distant past, we’ve seen first-hand how the co-working trend is transforming modern office design, and how the experimentation with office design knows no bounds. One particular aspect of the pattern has seen incredible prominence in the last few years: the outdoor office. Like a beer garden at your favourite pub, they add another element of tranquillity to your workspace and combine the regular practicality of a well-designed office with the beauty and ease of nature.

While your business may not have the budget (yet!) to have a 9-acre rooftop garden for staff (like Facebook), an outdoor office can be as simple as you like. And there are fantastic ideas that offer alternatives to traditional indoor spaces; this could be as simple as utilising your workplace patio or courtyard with picnic tables and umbrellas, positioned in areas flooded with natural light, combining them with a selection of plants.

If your office space has limited outdoor options, think about ideas that could be used in the future that do away with conventional design, however, if you have ample space, an investment into an outdoor space could prove invaluable.

Regardless of the layout you decide upon, be sure to maximise natural light as a priority. In doing so, employees will likely become more productive, as there is a natural preference to be in nature rather than a traditional office. This is why the notion of outdoor space in the co-working industry is becoming so popular not just a fad.

All staff can enjoy the benefits of an outdoor space, which can then also provide a location for meetings that were usually reserved for bland, cubicle styled rooms. This is where the notion of an outdoor office further blurs the line between business and leisure: meaning employees will become less stressed while producing a higher quality of work.

So as time passes, and different interpretations of the ‘outdoor office’ are welcomed, the likelihood of them playing a role in your company’s culture should be investigated as the benefits are hard to surpass. Just ask the guys at Facebook!

A LESSON FROM THE ANCIENT GREEKS: BALANCING BAD ACOUSTICS

Considered pioneers of acoustics and sound travel, the Ancient Greeks used their in-depth knowledge when designing the stunning amphitheatres that still stand today. It’s a shame their designers aren’t still working, as some contemporary spaces will overlook acoustics, as it’s often viewed as a ‘cost option’.

However, excellent acoustics don’t need to be expensive, especially when they’re integrated at the beginning of the design process.

Poor acoustics aren’t just annoying, they are often unhealthy and can impact aspects of work-life – including productivity and concentration, staff wellbeing and a diminishing a sense of privacy. And as the shift from traditional, cellular offices to collaborative, agile spaces advances, the importance of considering resolved acoustic systems is more relevant than ever.

As we celebrate Save Your Hearing day for 2020, we discuss ideas for improving acoustics in modern workspaces.

Productivity

We are all affected by noise – and not always in a bad way. A sense of thrumming activity, being part of a lively atmosphere can often be a good thing and raise your sense of being in a working neighbourhood. In certain areas this should be designed in, via not only the layout but choice of furniture systems and heights, finishes and materials and so on. However, when you are researching intricate details, or reading through legal documentation, CVs and the like that require your full concentration it is likely that you will need a much lower level of ambient noise. The same is often true of Meeting rooms, client waiting areas including reception. The acoustic design isn’t just layout, but also methods of construction, services design and appropriate use of materials.

It’s often the case that employees will continue to work without realising that noise is actually affecting them.

When creating a space, encourage a holistic approach and consider the comfort and possible needs of the employees that will be using the environment. Do you have an older workforce? Create an appropriate design that won’t compromise the natural work style of an older generation who may prefer to work individually. Is there a particular group of your employees that spend more time speaking over the telephone? Consider appropriate seating arrangements too.

So next time you’re considering the design of a space, consider acoustics too – and at an early stage. Your team will love you for it, as will the Ancient Greeks!

Facilities Management: The Lifeblood Of Great Workplace Design’

As workplace technology evolves, so as does the role of Facilities Management. Rewind to 2010, the term ‘co-working’ – where different companies operate within the same workspace – began to circulate. Since then, its impact on the FM industry has been significant.

As we celebrate World Facilities Management day, where does the future of FM lie?

The essence of quality office design, much like FM, requires a detailed understanding of each site’s variables. As such, the relationship between the two disciplines should be streamlined; the FM team understands the intricacies of management, staff, company structures and lease arrangements, while the architectural team should take this knowledge and translate into a practical, flexible, cost-effective space that is both easy to maintain and attractive to potential tenants.

How can Facilities Managers shape the future of contemporary workplace design at various stages?

The Three Designs

Facilities Managers are usually very aware of design considerations regarding accessibility, usability and universal design.

Accessible design ensures that buildings, products and services are usable for staff and visitors alike. Physical disabilities such as dependence on a wheelchair, lumbar problems, sensitivity to light and noise should all be considered by the design team. The FM can help by highlighting specific needs early on.

Usability: maximising every m2 of the floor as possible, making every – spent count. Are acoustics suitable for the business need? Are the rooms simple to reconfigure? And is there sufficient space for those stackable chairs? Sounds obvious, but without knowing the final end use these are design risks that can be eliminated.

Universal design: are we creating a space that will make guests feel clear on way finding, make them feel welcomed and calm upon arrival, and impressed upon leaving?

Getting the blend of these elements is crucial-not only to aid streamlining of an organisation but for the wellbeing and attitude of the building’s occupants.

The Construction Phase

By involving Facilities Managers in elements of the operations and specification of a project, there is an opportunity to integrate this knowledge into its delivery. As companies shift toward renewable energy sources and energy-efficient design, we’re confident their input will increase too.

Collaborative Spaces & Flexibility

Co-working as a business concept has transformed office design and it’s here to stay. While a collaborative space can lead to an increase morale and creativity, businesses and FM’s must balance the relationship of collaborative spaces and individual working areas.

To adapt to the quick pace of transformation in the workplace, facilities managers need to understand how three particular types of flexibility can influence a space.

  • Contractual Flexibility: Employed staff could be outsourced, on fixed contracts, casual or full time – so the amount of people in the company’s workforce is likely to be quite fluid and may change day-to-day
  • Time Flexibility: Employee working hours could vary and be based upon the preference of employee. This could mean a more significant shift to evening staff or early morning. FM teams should cater for this in the management of space.
  • Locational Flexibility: Now more than ever, more employees will likely have the freedom to work from home, in satellite offices or client premises. FM teams should be wary of this and account for a more significant shift toward this in the future.

BRING THE OUTDOORS IN

“There is no greater designer than nature.”

This beautiful quote from British designer Alexander McQueen is now more relevant than ever, as we come to realise how the time spent in solace but surrounded by nature, can feed our creativity. It has the power to remind us of what is truly important and when we combine the elements of our natural world with great design, we open ourselves to incredible possibilities.

On May 8th this year we were to celebrate Public Gardens Day, giving us all the opportunity to be inspired by ideas that could be used to transform homes and workplaces alike. This sadly is under threat for obvious reasons, but we can still look to nature for adding life to our interiors.

Immerse yourself in natural light

It’s vital to encourage light into your space. It evokes feelings of warmth, happiness and the comes with the added benefits of Vitamin D. In promoting more natural light – be it through full height windows, opened out masonry apertures or generous skylights, you’ll forge a natural connection with the outdoors and your space will feel refreshed.

Design A Living Wall Of Art

A fabulous way to invite the magnificence of the outdoors into your interior is by incorporating a ‘green wall’. Textures, shapes and tonal contrasts these bring will add a playful and sophisticated look that will enhance your sense of wellbeing, look great and offer a cost-effective wall finish into the mix.

Build Your Green Family

Without wishing to state the obvious, the most straightforward way of bringing in the outdoors is by enhancing your space with carefully selected plants. Our advice is ‘less is more’ – you are better having magnificent signature pieces in key locations and in suitable height planters than an array of small plants that don’t sit well with the architectural surroundings. Certain types of plants will thrive in different environments, so do your research beforehand.

AS OF NOW, THE CLEVER MONEY IS IN SMART OFFICES

If your office has a thermostat, smoke alarm or movement-sensitive – whether you know it or not – it’s a ‘smart’ office. Which is to say your office has automated, programmable devices that function without input.

In the last ten years however, the definition of a smart building has expanded exponentially. Whilst not quite at the stage of having intelligent doors and elevators with the GPPs (Genuine People Personalities) featured in Douglas Adam’s Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, we’re not far off it.

The revolution started in the home with the introduction of AI equipped home hubs such as Alexa and Google Home, which respond to voice commands, coordinate multiple different devices, and can even initiate a complete set of actions in response to a phrase like ‘intruder alert’.

The key difference is that the devices are not merely automated or programmable, but that they are centralised and integrated – part of the so called ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT)

Now the smart revolution has been rolled out in the corporate world. With sensor hubs similar to a home assistant, HVAC systems, security and utilities can be integrated for streamlined operation and maintenance, monitoring performance, maintenance schedules and pin pointing errors such as leaking plumbing before damage is caused to your building.

Such connectivity is not only of advantage to operators, but to contractors who don’t want to run multiple sets of cables through walls, and to architects, who no longer have to deal with ‘wall acne’ like light switches and thermostats.

And there are economic arguments to match. Fifteen years ago such connectivity would have been in the realms of science fiction and the price of achieving it astronomical. Now it’s not only possible but affordable. As the physical and installation cost of sensors, connectivity and hardware goes down the most ambitions visions come within reach.

At SKK Design we’re up to speed with the latest developments, work closely with specialists in the field and will be pleased to advise you on the design and construction of your smart building.

Like the smart home, the smart office is becoming the norm and staff, like homeowners, are beginning to expect the improved levels of comfort and efficiency it can bring. Such a work environment makes an impressive extension of a company’s brand, and a powerful recruitment tool for potential employees.

Speaking of which, let’s leave the last word with Douglas Adams, from the sales brochure of the Sirius Cybernetics Corporation: All the doors in this spaceship have a cheerful and sunny disposition. It is their pleasure to open for you, and their satisfaction to close again with the satisfaction of a job well done.