INTERIOR DESIGN PROJECT FOR YOUR TRIBE PECKHAM. Completed - London, United Kingdom
A Designer at Heart was in charge of the design of communal areas, bedrooms and communal kitchens for a student accommodation in London, United Kingdom
Sustainable materials were featured wherever possible. We used Smile Plastics (made of recycled yogurt pots) on a workshop table in the amenities, LED lighting and second-hand furniture. Manufactured timber-based furniture (MFC, Laminate and MDF substrates) are FSC and/or PEFC certified. The use of vintage pieces contributed to sustainability and eclectic aesthetic. In line with biophilic design principles, we provided plenty of real plants, alive or preserved. Sustainability also means ensuring long-lasting quality. Therefore, in the bedrooms we developed a modular system with black metallic frames and melamine panels. The metallic frame is reusable, so, in case of damage only the panels will need replacing. In the bedrooms we specified an olive-green feature wall paint (which is the most gender-neutral colour according to Italianbark and enhances the brand proposition of celebrating individuality). We have also designed a signature metallic mesh headboard. These smart and cost-effective choices have contributed to a recognisable look without exceeding the budget and still preserving all the features needed in PBSA (drawers at the desk, shelves, wall protector panels, integrated sockets at key points, under-bed storage, etc). Particular attention was dedicated to the dressing. We procured all accessories such as cushions, books, magazines, ornaments, plants, artwork and cookery, and we personally dressed the spaces before the students’ intake. This final step brings the space to life and injects personality.
A Designer at Heart was appointed from RIBA Stage 3 to RIBA Stage 5 for the design of apartments & amenities of YourTribe Old Kent Road, a 267-beds PBSA development in Peckham, by Aitch Group. This building is the second in a series of London-based projects. The community-driven concept features a "club-like" membership, allowing students to use amenity spaces across all locations to foster a broader sense of community. A Designer at Heart created the interior brand identity and guidelines. The scope included: analysis of the brand, interior design concept, technical development, cost control, assistance during construction and final dressing. Our creative challenge was to set-up identifiable parameters to make the brand recognisable while maintaining each building uniqueness. We believe the brand should not be evaluated through a single project; its value is delivered by a holistic vision across all its locations. We faced this challenge blending industrial elements with comfort and sophistication and bringing a hospitality know-how in the amenities (that adds complexities in an institutional building). Student feedback was implemented during the design process with changes such as a closed wardrobe instead of an open one as per their preference, dedicated study room and a whole gaming hub in the basement. Amenities also include a fully equipped reception area with Back of House facilities and private meeting area, a multifunctional lounge with servery facilities, Private Dining Room with outdoor terrace, Gym and Laundry. Bedrooms typologies include studio flats and cluster apartments with shared kitchens.
