HIX LDN 2024 see Islington’s iconic Business Design Centre reimagined as a hotel experience by leading hospitality design studios
What does a sense of place mean to you as designers?
“I think it’s the spirit of a place; if you understand what it used to be and means to people who visit or live there, then you can draw a lot of inspiration from that. It’s facts and history, and everything that has happened there, yes, but it’s also how individual guests interpret it, which means there’s really no one correct answer. Each guest will bring their own experiences to the table and leave with different ideas, which can be very powerful. Design rooted in the local culture, history, and social fabric gives the space authenticity and a sense of belonging, and by reflecting the unique characteristics of a location, you create a connection that resonates with both residents and visitors, telling a story through design. In terms of the BDC, key aspect of the location we wanted to capture were the sense of entertainment that the building, Islington High Street and Upper Street have carried through the centuries to the present day. The idea is to evoke emotions and memories of decadence, entertainment, even escapism, but to do so responsibly, in a considerate, biophilic and sustainable manner.” said Una Barac-Tinegate
Tell more about your concept?
“It embraces the allure of acrobatic and equestrian circus performances with a sophisticated combination of vibrant nostalgia and playful elegance. There are bold colour palettes, intricate patterns and ornate décor reminiscent of vintage fairgrounds that look to transport guests into a realm of wonder. Complementing these interior elements are flowing champagne waterfalls, which are a nod to Alberto Cavalcanti’s film ‘Champagne Charlie’ – based on the George Leybourne character who performed in the area – as well as the lively spirit and traditions of 19th century music halls. There’s also a biophilic dimension, so the hotel looks to foster a unique ecosystem, bringing together historical architecture with modern sustainability efforts.
The expansive glass roof overhead allows us to flood the interior with light and create the ideal environment for growing various plants. These plants are cultivated via a rainwater harvesting system that ensures a fresh, organic supply for the bar and restaurant – both of which are farm-to-table concepts, linking back to the agricultural legacy of the building. To take it a step further we would cultivate fauna, alongside flora. Fauna would be represented in butterflies, as they are a dynamic and live extension of the beautiful flora species, providing unique point of interest and a “draw” factor.
We’ve also thought about this biophilic aspect in terms of design, and how we can make this a very human-centric concept. It considers things like guests who have flown in from different time zones, and how they can adjust quicker to the new environment with help from elements like lighting and materiality. Alongside the guests we are also driven by the needs of the team of hosts, bar and waiting staff, chefs, and people who work in this hotel every day. You can spend an extraordinary amount on the architecture and interior fit-out, but it is the hotel team that make it a real success, because happy hospitality teams equate to happy and returning guests. In FlutterLab, much as in any of our hotels we place the importance on both guest and team needs, driven to create a perfect environment to sleep and relax in, to eat and drink, to work and play.” said Una Barac-Tinegate
