Home Designer & Architect - May 2024

Keller producing kitchens that don’t cost the earth

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Charge Point Operator Believ Spotlights Its Tasty Offering For Businesses At The 2024 Food And Drink Expo

Boconcept Secures Prestigious Title As FourTime Winner At The Luxury Lifestyle Awards

‘On-Demand’ Online Ordering Has Become The Norm For Construction Industry Buyers, New Report Finds

Mette Lange

Foreword by Kenneth Frampton Essay by J.M. Cava

20 June 2024

215 illustrations | £30

© Thames & Hudson

Earth, Sky & Water Houses in the Nordic Style

Escape into nature with 13 of Danish architect Mette Lange’s best projects - each designed in dialogue with the surrounding landcape, with architectural emphasis on beautiful natural materials.

Danish architect Mette Lange designs unique houses with natural materials to enhance comfort, longevity and joy. These are beautiful, unpretentious homes nestled in spectacular scenery that allow the dwellers to retreat from busy urban life.

Earth, Sky and Water presents 13 houses designed by Mette across three chapters: By the Water, In the Forest and In the Countryside. First-person project texts describe Mette’s unique practice of camping on-site at the start of each design process, and detail the thinking behind each house’s main features. Inviting photography takes readers inside these homes and draws particular attention to the choice of materials. In keeping with her socially responsible ethos, Mette has also designed schools for the children of migrant workers in India, where she spends part of each year. These projects, presented in the book alongside her own home in India, inform her practice at home in Denmark.

Mette has kept her studio small in order to remain fully involved in each project at every level. As well as a visual feast of deceptively simple Scandinavian summerhouses that will leave the reader yearning for one of their own, the book offers a blueprint for aspiring architects on how to run a small studio. Renowned architecture writer and fan of Mette’s work, Kenneth Frampton, contributes an a foreword.

Mette Lange is an architect based in Denmark and working in the distinguished tradition of Danish domestic architecture. This is her first book.

Keller producing kitchens that don’t cost the earth

Dutch kitchen manufacturer, Keller Kitchens, is well known for its pioneering approach to sustainability and is delighted to announce that parent company, DKG, has been awarded Level 5 on the CO₂ Performance Ladder; the highest possible.

This award was the culmination of eight years of dedication since the company’s initiative to become as sustainable as possible began in 2015. With substantial investments along the way that run into many tens of €Millions, DKG operate a continuous programme of investment to maintain their industry-leading approach to sustainability.

The steps and investments made to this point are numerous; key steps include ceasing the use of gas completely; it has been replaced by generating electricity from, amongst other means, the installation of over 8,000 solar panels at the plant in Bergen op Zoom, Netherlands.

Apart from in-house energy generation, other significant steps taken have included developing one of the most energy efficient and state-of-the-art kitchen factories in the world. Harnessing the latest technologies has been a key driver in quest for sustainability and efficiency. One such example (amongst many), is the deployment of robotic warehousing of materials and off-cuts down to the smallest usable pieces, backed by multi-saw technology.

Materials used come from the most sustainable and, therefore, most renewable sources possible. All packaging used is both recycled and recyclable and, as far as possible, all noxious or harmful substances have been eradicated from processes. This is made possible by employing laser edging and

water-based lacquers and wood stains in one of the most advanced coating and finishing plants in the industry.

Reaching CO₂ Performance Ladder Level 5 had external challenges for the business; as part of this programme is the chain of custody for sustainability outside the factory gates, both upstream and downstream.

DKG is involved in numerous external CSR initiatives that contribute to sustainability in different ways. One such example is a Carbon Farming Project which started in 2021. This project is underpinned by the promise to extract CO2 from the atmosphere working with farmers local to their factory. The commitment is to extract 150 tonnes of CO2 from the air over a 5-year period providing benefits for both the environment and farmers with greater crop returns.

DKG is producing kitchens that don’t cost the earth, from a sustainability standpoint. True and mature sustainability production methods bring with it efficiencies that deliver cost benefits over time. DKG pass on to their partners in retail and contracts alike the fruits of those efficiencies in terms of quality and price and the company is fully aligned with the Dutch government’s ambition to achieve a fully circular economy by 2050.

For more details visit: www.kellerkitchens.com/en/csr

Keller is well known for offering the widest range of colours (2,050 NCS) and finishes in the kitchen furniture market – along with a vast range of cabinet options, all produced by the most sustainable means possible. The company is proud to be a Carbon Neutral kitchen manufacturer since 2017. *

For further information, please visit www.kellerkitchens.com.

CHARGE POINT OPERATOR BELIEV SPOTLIGHTS ITS TASTY OFFERING FOR BUSINESSES AT THE 2024 FOOD AND DRINK EXPO

Electric Vehicle (EV) charge point operator (CPO) Believ, will be exhibiting at the 2024 Food and Drink Expo, from the 29 April to 1 May, to showcase how its zero-cost charge point installation solution supports businesses within the retail and hospitality sectors, and what commercial benefits EV infrastructure can deliver.

Believ’s end-to-end, fully funded solution supports retailers and eateries from identifying which charging speeds are required to best serve the needs of businesses’ visitors, employees and stakeholders, to planning and installation, and all the way through to ongoing maintenance.

Its ‘always-on’ business model relies on ensuring charge points are always operational and used as much as possible, and therefore inherently mitigates downtime, helping businesses to increase footfall and dwell time. It delivers a competitive host remuneration package, to enhance carpark revenues.

Senior Business Partnerships Manager, Kev Ledger, says EV infrastructure creates a better offering to visitors, while also delivering commercial and environmental benefits to businesses:

“We’re really excited to be at this year’s Food and Drink expo – it’s a fantastic opportunity for us to communicate the far-reaching benefits of installing charge points for businesses,” says Dan.

“Our zero-cost, end-to-end solution means we can help retailers and the hospitality sector to facilitate more sustainable transport options, and reduce emissions – while also removing the capital expenditure and personnel resource challenges that we know many businesses in these industries face. Our offering means businesses not only ensure EV charging attracts customers, but that it also delivers them commercial benefits.”

To find out more about Believ’s offering click the link here.

Need a complete roof system? We’ve got you covered.

BOCONCEPT SECURES PRESTIGIOUS WINNER AT THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE

Luxury Lifestyle Awards, the globally recognised authority on luxury, is thrilled to announce that BoConcept has once again emerged victorious, claiming the esteemed title of Best Luxury Furniture and Homeware Company in the World for the fourth consecutive year.

BoConcept, founded in Herning in 1952, has evolved from humble beginnings into Denmark’s most internationally renowned furniture brand, with over 340 stores spanning more than 67 countries and 6 continents, and the brand continues to expand its global footprint.

Widely renowned for its Danish design principles of functionality, simplicity and craftsmanship, BoConcept has redefined the essence of luxury living. Its iconic designs are crafted in collaboration with some of the most esteemed

designers in Denmark and beyond, ensuring a blend of modern minimalist elegance and timelessness. “Winning the Luxury Lifestyle Awards for the fourth consecutive year is a testament to BoConcept’s commitment to excellence in the realm of luxury furniture and homeware, confirming their status as the most international furniture retailer,” said a spokesperson for Luxury Lifestyle Awards. “Their innovative designs, commitment to quality, and the ability to transform spaces have consistently set them apart.”

PRESTIGIOUS TITLE AS FOUR-TIME

LIFESTYLE AWARDS

The team at BoConcept are not merely furniture makers; they curate extraordinary spaces for their customers, helping them create a home that reflects their individuality. BoConcept provides a comprehensive Interior Design Service, available in store, virtually, or at home, ensuring a personalized touch for every consumer — whether it’s a light refresh or a major transformation. BoConcept is committed to bringing its flexible Interior Design Service and industryleading customisation to spaces both private and public – without compromising on design vision or aesthetics.

“We position our consumer at the centre of everything we do, with an inspiring call to ‘Live Ekstraordinær’ says Mikael Kruse Jensen, CEO.

What sets BoConcept apart is its commitment to customisation. With over 120 different fabrics and materials to choose from, including aniline leather, felt, velvet, oak, walnut, chrome, steel, and more, customers can create tailor-made combinations that resonate with their individual tastes and personalities.

BoConcept’s sustainability ambitions are to manufacture products with as little impact on the environment as possible, taking responsibility for every material we use, and working in mutual collaboration with suppliers to seek transparency and traceability across our supply chain.

To experience the latest in Scandinavian design and style, visit one of BoConcept’s 340+ stores worldwide. Whether you’re in search of Danish-designed sofas, chairs, tables, beds, storage solutions, or accessories, the expert team at BoConcept is ready to provide professional advice on home design. Alternatively, customers can book a virtual appointment or contact BoConcept for a personalised consultation.

For more information about BoConcept and its award-winning designs, please visit www.boconcept.com/en-gb/

ONLINE ORDERING HAS BECOME THE NORM FOR CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY BUYERS, NEW REPORT FINDS

Hokodo, the B2B eCommerce Association, OroCommerce and Greenwood Consulting have released a joint report that explores the habits and e-commerce expectations of business buyers.

Out of the 500 surveyed B2B buyers, 53% of respondents who work in construction building materials noted that they make daily purchases. Over 50% of all those surveyed make purchases a few times per week. This valuable insight reveals that B2B buyers are making highly frequent purchases, often ordering daily from the same websites, making features such as repeat purchase options and oneclick checkouts essential for a good user experience.

The report found that the biggest issues facing construction and building materials buyers are a poor user experience (53%), no real-time product availability (33%) and a lack of payment terms (33%). 70% of respondents in this sector even said that they would abandon an e-commerce purchase if no payment terms were offered at checkout, meaning that B2B sellers failing to offer payment terms are missing out on capturing new business and revenue growth.

The majority of respondents to Hokodo’s survey (73%) said that payment challenges at checkout are causing them issues. These include unsuitable settlement methods, or a lack of payment terms on offer. With 79% of construction and building materials buyers agreeing that payment terms are critical for the success of their business in 2024, those that experience payment issues at checkout are far more likely to abandon their cart. An overwhelming majority of respondents in this sector (90%) said that having access to payment terms is either important or very important when choosing a new B2B supplier. For construction companies and other businesses buying building materials, the verdict is clear: payment terms aren’t just ‘nice to have’, but essential for survival.

However, a lack of payment terms is not the only issue that B2B buyers are facing at checkout. In fact, only 2% of all survey respondents said that they face no issues at checkout whatsoever. This suggests that buyers generally have very low expectations of what their suppliers are able to deliver. In turn, low customer expectations can lead to a reduced sense of loyalty, meaning that many merchants risk losing customers to a more reliable supplier.

As well as highlighting the challenges facing sellers of construction supplies and building materials, the new report also makes tangible recommendations that merchants can implement to improve their customer experience.

To tackle the dissatisfaction amongst B2B buyers, the report recommends that sellers request feedback from the customers that use their checkout in order to find out where it can be improved. In doing so, sellers can pinpoint exactly where they’re going wrong and apply new measures to improve the experience – from bettering customer support, limiting checkout complexity or introducing transparency around additional fees, there are several measures suggested in the report that B2B sellers can use to impress and win customers.

Louis Carbonnier, Co-founder and President of Hokodo said: “The findings of this survey reinforce what we at Hokodo have always known: payment terms are a must-have for construction and building materials B2B e-commerce transactions. We’ve spent the past six years developing and refining solutions that address this critical need, empowering merchants to offer flexible payment terms, instantly, at the point of need, even on a customer’s first purchase.”

Christopher Gee, UK Chapter Lead of the B2B eCommerce Association said:

“This report is packed with insights and data that B2B merchants can incorporate into their e-commerce strategies. To retain customers, B2B merchants need to build and maintain trust at the point of purchase.”

Aaron Sheehan, Director of Product Marketing, OroCommerce said:

“Hokodo’s research is a must-read; it pinpoints exactly where your B2B payments and checkout process need improvement and offers hands-on tips to help you enhance those areas.”

Visit Hokodo to download the full report.

END USERS JOIN

#GLAD2024 CAMPAIGN: GLOBAL LIFTING AWARENESS DAY 2024

#GLAD2024 — WILL TAKE PLACE ON 18 JULY.

The countless industries that use lifting equipment are being urged to unite in support of Global Lifting Awareness Day on Thursday 18 July.

Driven by the Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA), #GLAD2024 is an established event where its members, manufacturers, and suppliers lead those sharing material that promotes safe and high quality load lifting across the world. Social media posts, videos, articles, and in-person activity are bound together by the hashtag.

However, LEEA and supporting stakeholders recognise that the continued growth of the concept — and realisation of the association’s wider vision of eliminated accidents, injuries, and fatalities — is collectively in the hands of those that use lifting equipment. Accordingly, messaging is being positioned more squarely on the point of use than in four prior stagings of the event.

Cranes, hoists, rigging gear, and height safety hardware is central to safe operations in a myriad of end-user sectors, including civil engineering, construction, material

handling, metals, military, offshore, subsea, and renewables, to select just a handful. It is towards these applications that LEEA’s daily work and #GLAD2024 campaigning points.

Ross Moloney, CEO at LEEA, said: “To take GLAD from an idea to a globally recognised movement required us to garner support from major stakeholders in our industry, many of which are LEEA members and long-time collaborators. Empowered by their support, and that of fellow trade authorities, media, and a select group of users, we must now energise more people with lifting equipment in their hands and on their person, as well as those responsible for sourcing it.”

The latest campaign messaging harmonises with the launch of new promotional graphics that centre on the truism that end-user marketplaces need the lifting industry and vice versa in terms of elevating the profile of the annual awareness day. Already in circulation are two immediately recognisable #GLAD2024 graphics that share the slogans:

‘You Need the Lifting Industry’

‘The Lifting Industry Needs You’

Moloney explained: “There are kindred spirits at both ends of the supply chain. The lifting industry needs equipment users to spread our message, central to which is that the

safe application of our technologies and solutions is their lifeblood too. Where would construction be without cranes, or wind energy without height safety equipment, or wet logistics without all kinds of lifting gear? You Need the Lifting Industry; The Lifting Industry Needs You.”

This year’s campaign trail is already advanced, with the two pillars of earlier announcements being that LEEA will focus its strategy on skills and employment and do so under a new #GLAD2024 logo. It is encouraging everyone to contribute by using graphics and the hashtag to celebrate their involvement with the industry, at all levels of the supply chain.

Industry representatives are reminded to share their content so LEEA can add it to the website where information about apprenticeships, military recruitment, diversity, sustainability, and technology has been posted during previous years.

HUMANSCALE EARNS B CORP CERTIFICATION, REINFORCING LONGSTANDING LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABILITY

Humanscale, the leading designer and manufacturer of innovative high-performance ergonomic products that offer wellness and comfort wherever work happens, today announces it is certified as a B Corporation™ (B Corp™), recognizing the company’s commitment to planet positive manufacturing.

“At Humanscale, we believe that it’s our responsibility to ensure that both people and the planet are better off because we’re here,” said Bob King, Founder and CEO of Humanscale. “We have led the industry in embracing systemic change for multiple decades, from implementing transparency labels on our products and eliminating many of the commonly used RedList chemicals, to launching the world’s first task chair made from reclaimed fishing nets. By putting in the hard work and making tough decisions, we hope to lead the rest of our industry to be more responsible.”

Humanscale pursues independent, thirdparty validated certifications to break through misleading claims about sustainability and create transparency, which is essential to achieve real progress. B Corp Certification means that a company has met B Lab’s rigorous standards for social and environmental impact, made a legal commitment to stakeholder governance, and is demonstrating accountability and transparency by disclosing this record of performance in a public B Corp profile. Humanscale’s additional notable third-party certifications include the Living Product Challenge (LPC), Declare, Health Product Declarations (HPDs), LEVEL®, and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). All Humanscale factories are TRUE® Zero Waste certified and are third-party audited to ensure each one diverts

at least 90% of waste away from landfill, the environment, and incineration.

“Humanscale is proud and honored to receive this certification from B Lab and join the esteemed global B Corp community who are taking on the hard work required to be a force for good,” said Jane Abernethy, Chief Sustainability Officer of Humanscale. “It is our hope that Humanscale’s certification will encourage other companies to follow suit in making a real, positive difference for the future of our planet.”

Guided by the core philosophy that good design achieves more with less, Humanscale is committed to the health of both consumers and the planet. Humanscale has been recognized as the first manufacturer to receive an International Living Future Institute’s Living Product Challenge (LPC)–considered the most advanced sustainability standard for products—as climate, water, and energy positive with 29 certified climate positive products, accounting for 75% of their product sales.

Learn more about Humanscale’s B Corp Certification here

About Humanscale

Humanscale is the leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance ergonomic products that improve the health and comfort of work life. Through new technology and humancentered design, Humanscale transforms office necessities into minimally elegant, ergonomic tools and furnishings that encourage movement wherever work happens. As a certified B

CORP REINFORCING LEADERSHIP

Corporation, Humanscale is recognized for its planet positive manufacturing, which means leaving the world better off, one product at a time. With 29 products certified climate positive by the International Living Future Institute’s Living Product Challenge (LPC), Humanscale is committed to making a planet positive impact on the earth as well as our customers, offering award-winning products designed with a focus on function, simplicity and longevity.

Click here for more information on Humanscale and our products

FUTURE PROOF YOUR WITH SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS

David Naylor, Schlüter-Systems’ Head of Marketing, explains how Schlüter is helping in the creation of waterproof, long-lasting bathrooms.

Schlüter-Systems is well known as an expert when it comes to creating longlasting bathrooms. Past shortcomings in the design of both new-build properties and retrofits have shown the importance of protecting the fabric of the bathrooms with reliable waterproofing.

This is a point underlined by the NHBC’s forthcoming (July 2024) technical guidance that will effectively rule out the use of gypsum plasterboard or magnesium oxide boards as the substrate for tiling in a wet room or where a power shower is fitted.

The changes require the use of substrate boards which are fully resistant to water and, ideally, will mitigate against the creation of condensation within the wall build-up. SchlüterKERDI-BOARD features an XPS foam core and is faced on both sides with a reinforcement layer and fleece webbing that offers an ideal key for tile adhesive.

Energy-saving and direct cost savings in terms of lower installation costs can be achieved across various product types: for example, intelligent lighting systems such as Schlüter-LIPROTEC are literally plug-and-play, so very quick to fit and set up. There are also products which make it far simpler to create bespoke installations and pieces of fitted furniture such as insulated substrate boards which have been formed to create a ready-to-tile washbasin. Schlüter-KERDI-

BOARD-W is a prime example of this.

There is almost always a balance to be struck between cost and top quality, but customers should recognise that the reduced labour times often delivered by high specification products will offset the higher purchase price. And, whether this is perceived as being at the luxury end of the market or not, better quality often translates into enhanced property values.

For the retailer, being seen to have a product offering with durability as the focus can definitely enhance a retailer’s brand identity – being conscientious in what they stock is only likely to improve their reputation with specifiers and property owners; and avoids them potentially missing out on a growing market opportunity.

YOUR BATHROOM

SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS

Lastly, heat pump technology due to replace conventional boilers, the industry needs to change the way it thinks about space heating and its delivery. Both ground and air source heat pumps work more efficiently at lower flow temperatures. Schlüter BEKOTEC-THERM hydronic underfloor heating facilitates the creation of lower temperature circuits, with the pipework clipped into studded boards which offer an improved annual output factor, while also acting as a decoupling layer. Importantly, the system complies with Government energy saving targets and the Energy Conservation Act.

The industry can expect to see more legislation from Government and the likes of NHBC, aiming to drive improved performance, with product innovation hopefully keeping pace in meeting those challenges. We are seeing new products such as tiles produced from recycled coffee grounds, while fittings which reduce water and energy usage are going to become increasingly attractive; along with those which require lower maintenance. Then with an ageing population, ergonomics and the avoidance of risks or products that promote hygiene and occupational health considerations have become more important.

For further information, call 01530 813396 or visit www.schluter.co.uk

RENOVATION ROADMAP: FIVE THINGS TO ASK YOUR BUILDER BEFORE STARTING YOUR DREAM HOUSING PROJECT

Embarking on your dream housing project? Your builder is the key to turning those dreams into a reality. Whether you are renovating, rebuilding or embarking on a new build project, your home is a substantial financial commitment, making the journey to choosing your builder all the more important.

Damian Barker, founder and CEO of luxury building specialist, Verus Construction, shares his top tips and go-to questions to ask your builder to guarantee a smooth renovation or new build project.

1. Nail down multiple quotes

One quote isn’t enough, do your research and gather multiple quotes from recommended and well researched builders. Ensure that each quote is all encompassing and covers every aspect of the project, including material costs, labour expenses and any additional tasks required to create your dream home.

2. Reviewing the financial viability of the builder

Before breaking ground, it’s crucial to ensure that your builder is robust enough to complete your project. Make sure to check their financial background, accreditation and portfolio thoroughly to ensure they have the solid foundations necessary to successfully see your project through to completion.

3. Cheap isn’t necessarily the best

Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the

best and may not reflect the true quality or the correct budget. Scrutinise the costs and ask for a breakdown, a builder who can articulate and explain the reasoning behind each aspect understands the true scope of the project.

4. Do your research

Review all the work in your potential builder’s portfolio. Confirm and view at least three projects that have been successfully completed from beginning to end. Visit these projects, and chat with the architects and homeowners to find out more about their experience before signing on the dotted line.

5. Don’t just focus on the bricks and mortar – do you and your builder fit together?

It’s about more than just the build, this is a partnership and an effective working relationship between all parties is essential to a successful build. It’s important to establish strong communication channels, schedule regular meetings, and finalise payment plans to ensure the smooth running and completion of your project.

For more information and to see further projects from Verus Construction, please visit:

verusconstruction.co.uk instagram.com/verusconstructionltd linkedin.com/company/verus-constructionltd

L’ATELIER FANTASIA NAMED WINNER OF LUXURY LIFESTYLE AWARDS FOR BEST LUXURY APARTMENT

INTERIOR DESIGN

L’atelier Fantasia has been proudly announced as a Winner of the Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the category of Best Luxury Apartment Interior Design for Luxe Bénin in Taiwan. This accolade underscores L’atelier Fantasia’s exceptional creativity and ingenuity in crafting unparalleled living spaces that redefine luxury and elegance.

Idan Chiang, the visionary founder of L’atelier Fantasia, has long been celebrated for her unique design philosophy that seamlessly merges neoclassical and modern aesthetics. With a background in sociology, Chiang brings a profound understanding of human dynamics and cultural nuances to her designs, ensuring that each space not only exudes elegance and comfort but also reflects the distinct personality and lifestyle of its inhabitants.

At the heart of Chiang’s design ethos lies a commitment to creating spaces that evoke emotions and tell compelling stories. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of life, she meticulously curates every element of her designs, from furniture and decor to artwork and lighting, to create immersive environments that captivate the senses and inspire awe.

The winning project, Luxe Bénin, situated on the 15th floor, epitomizes Chiang’s unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Inspired by the breathtaking urban panorama, the design seamlessly integrates classical lines with modern design elements, creating a harmonious fusion of opulence and practicality. Floor-toceiling windows flood the living space with natural light, while a curated selection of artwork and decor adds a touch of sophistication and warmth.

Notably, Luxe Bénin features a tea and snack area, designed to evoke a holidaylike mood and provide residents with a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This thoughtful addition underscores Chiang’s commitment to creating spaces that prioritize both luxury and functionality, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of her clients.

We are honored to receive this prestigious accolade from Luxury Lifestyle Awards,” said Idan Chiang, founder and Chairman of L’atelier Fantasia. “At L’atelier Fantasia, we believe that interior design is not merely about creating beautiful spaces, but about crafting immersive environments that resonate with the soul. This award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the world of luxury interior design.”

Inspired by this momentous achievement, L’atelier Fantasia reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of luxury living through visionary design and unparalleled craftsmanship. With an unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation, L’atelier Fantasia looks forward to embarking on new collaborations, creating unforgettable experiences, and continuing to elevate the art of interior design to new heights.

For more information, please visit: www.fantasia-interior.com