Queen Mary’s Hospital Collaborative Wall Graphic
Having previously worked with Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust on the design for their new Acorns Children’s Center, we recognised the value of a co-design workshop in delivering an inclusive, collaborative wall graphic. The aim for the workshop was to work alongside staff and service users from Adults with Learning Disabilities(ALD) to develop an artwork that could provide a positive focal point in the waiting area.
A photographic competition captured the attention of many and provided the perfect starting point for the design. We believe less is more when it comes to a successful workshop which is why we chose to break the workshop into three simple components; painting, cutting and collaging. Layer by layer, service users worked together to create the essence of the photograph building in depth, perspective and texture. We wanted everyone involved to feel empowered to think like artists and designers and be confident they had all had an important part to play.
Material musings
A winning combination by design studio Softroom of light timber cladding, grey wool upholstery, brass detailing and leafy privacy screens.
How can digital fabrication enhance traditional craftsmanship?
Using CNC machines to reproduce a one-thousand-year-old style of Japanese joinery.
Danish dining
As strong advocates of reclaimed and recycled materials, this Danish restaurant designed by Genbyg ticks a lot of boxes. Whether it’s the re purposed windows slotted together to create a large central plant filled greenhouse, the shelves behind the bar made from file drawers salvaged from Denmark’s National Museum or the lamps formed using old milk cans, we love the care taken by the design team and founders of Vakst to create a space built on principles of environmental sustainability.
Breathing Colour
Breathing Colour by acclaimed Dutch designer Hella Jongerius at London’s Design Museum, is an installation-based exhibition that takes a deeper look at the way colour behaves, exploring shapes, materials, shadows and reflections. The way we experience colour depends on the quality of light. However, the quality of light especially daylight, changes throughout the day. To reflect this, the exhibition includes spaces and installations that explore the relationship between colour and light at different times of the day.
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Advanced Paediatric Care Pavilion
Perkins + Will have employed evidence based design techniques to meet the heeling needs of the children at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Advanced Paediatric Care Pavilion. The building is divided into three distinct zones- family, patient and caregiver though all three flow together seamlessly. ‘Wonder Rooms’ throughout the hospital encourage children to take their minds away from their illness or injury allowing them to interact with tactile textured surfaces and other playful objects for a multi-sensory experience.
Seating landscapes
Looking into unconventional seating solutions has led us to Les Angles designed by Stephanie Marin – a geometric set of cushions which fit together to form a faceted seating landscape. Together they are a flexible pavement able to cover floor, ceiling or walls. Thanks to the wool properties, they are also a great insulating and soundproof solution.
The Silence Room
We’ve all been there – crowded shops, bags of shopping and in need of a quite haven to escape to. Look no further than The Silence Room, by Alex Cochrane Architects designed for shoppers at London department store Selfridges to find peace and quiet amid the bustling emporium. Oak veneered modular benches, LED lighting and acoustic panelled walls have been used simply and effectively which we have no doubt will entice people back time and time again.
Lyles London
With strong references to the original Tea Building and British manufacturing and design of the mid-20th century, Lyle’s has an uncomplicated, simple aesthetic which we are very taken with. B3 designers have chosen to highlight the architectural features of the Tea Building using a modern palette of materials to great strength. Poured concrete flooring with white crackle glazed tiles and painted brick create a sophisticated, yet un-intimidating space where people can relax and dine. The attention to joinery details is present throughout with subtle contrasts in woods using rich Iroko and warm oaks. Nods to quality British designers such as the reclaimed Ercol stick back chairs gives the design longevity and authenticity.
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