Designer Insight: SHH Architecture and Interior Design
SHH Architecture and Interior Design was founded in 1991 and has since become an award-winning global practice based in London and working on both residential and commercial projects around the world. We spoke to Susie Mclaren about the inspiration behind her work and recent projects SHH has completed.

Tell us about a recent project that you are really proud of?
We recently completed the total restoration and furnishing of a 36,000 sq ft private residential home with a seven-acre garden in London. It was originally built in the 1880s, so we were privileged to have the opportunity to re-establish the house into a family home. As both the architects and interior designers, we included all the furniture and home furnishings, down to the bespoke bed linen and tableware – we were able to seamlessly integrate every detail. It was a beautiful house with amazing grounds that had been sadly neglected for many years but has now been lovingly restored, including modern features such as a new ‘wellness wing’ with a pool and an extensive spa area.

What have you got planned for your business in the future?
We’re keen to continue to develop and improve our client experience; there are a number of areas we’re exploring, including assisting clients with the visuals of a project – we’ve now gone far beyond CGI, using animation to help them appreciate the scale and flow of a room or throughout a house. We consider it a part of our studio’s DNA to ensure our architects and designers always have access to the latest technology to best serve our clients.
What interiors have inspired you lately?
Monique Gibson recently completed the Tribeca Aerie project. I love the bold confidence of her work, alongside the mid-century influences and clever use of colour.
The Goodtime Hotel in Miami Beach is pure theatre and looks like a softened David Hockney painting; it’s fun, bold and entertaining – an inspiration in confidence.

Do you have a dream project or client?
We have several dream projects at the moment – one is a listed 1960s house; the client is very bold and an extrovert, so we are having a lot of fun being super inspired and creative.
Another is a Grade I listed house in central London – the connection between us and the client is so close, resulting in beautiful collaborations and work. Our dream client is open, involved, expressive and appreciative. It would be lovely to work in the Caribbean again as it has been a while and was so much fun!
What is your favourite Instagram account to follow?
The super talented design brothers @Ronanbouroullec – their use of colour and form is breathtaking. I also love lighting designers @Atelier001 – their account showcases some truly organic and luscious imagery, whilst @Vessellondon is a wonderful gallery for glass and ceramic art and @roomelondon has great fun in combining fashion, textiles and furniture.

Do you have a favourite accessory, wallpaper, paint or fabric?
For wallpapers, I love everything by Michael Cailloux, whilst the Soie de Lune fabric range from Miles de Lange is a big favourite in terms of textiles.
See the company’s full profile on The List by House & Garden. Follow them on Instagram here.
Published at Fri, 28 May 2021 15:38:13 +0000