The British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) has announced the winners of the 2024 BIID Interior Design Awards. The ceremony took place yesterday [Thursday 17th October] at the spectacular Drapers’ Hall in London for the third consecutive year and was presented by architectural and social historian, Dr Lucy Worsley, in front of an audience of over 200 design industry professionals.
Seven regional category prizes were awarded, as well as Interior of the Year for the best interior design project in the UK and the Anna Whitehead Prize, awarded for the best achievement in sustainable interior design.
BIID President Angela Bardino commented: “The expansive range and exceptional quality of this year’s projects was outstanding. The awards strive to provide opportunity and exposure to residential and commercial design projects across the country – of any size, any budget. This year’s eclectic mix of superb quality work is a true celebration of the best of British interior design. Congratulations to all the winners for entering your remarkable projects that inspire and excite our community.”
Interior of the Year & Scotland & Northern Ireland
James Brookman Design – No. 5
JBD proposed a sophisticated, flexible workspace to reflect Plan.com’s professional services and youthful culture. Located on the Isle of Man, JBD highlighted the client’s priority of connection and well-being by focusing on physical, visual and functional connectivity, and incorporating biophilic elements such as a living wall. Innovative features include suspended structural floor plates for optimal daylight, acoustic dampening solutions and multifunctional event spaces. The neutral palette creates visual impact with signature colour accents, whilst flexible layouts cater to various working options. The result is a coveted workspace that aligns with Plan.com’s ethos and promotes productivity, wellness, and collaboration.
Scotland & Northern Ireland Region Win: The judges were impressed by ‘the space’s dramatic use of lighting and integration of key features across all levels. The central rotunda is a standout feature, drawing the eye upwards and creating a dynamic sense of openness that elevates the entire workspace.’
Interior of the Year Win: ‘Every corner of the building offers something new to discover, making this project truly exceptional. The design not only creates a productive and welcoming environment, but also serves as a strategic effort to attract and retain younger talent, making it a key asset for the Isle of Man.’
Scotland & Northern Ireland Highly Commended
Ampersand Interiors – Woodhall House
The historic Edinburgh house seamlessly blends modern comfort with rural charm, inspired by Arcadian influences. Hand-painted murals and pastoral tones captured the bucolic surroundings, whilst bespoke solutions addressed space and functionality challenges. Ampersand used an array of textiles to add depth and personality and repurposed unused spaces for music and social activities. The final design resulted in complete client satisfaction and surpassed all expectations for a tasteful and skilfully executed interior.
The judges praised ‘the beautiful colour palette’ and noted that ‘the home feels not only stylish, but also lived-in and personal. The clever use of space, attention to detail, and overall cohesion made the project stand out as a welcoming family home.’
Central London
DaeWha Kang Design – St Andrew’s Holborn
The redesign of historic Grade I-listed St. Andrew’s Church, London effortlessly balances its original features and updates it in line with modern needs for a serene and functional space. The studio embraced the theme ‘intensity within calm,’ by weaving contemporary elements inspired by Christopher Wren’s aesthetic into the design. Parametric designs and advanced fabrication techniques modernised the traditional motifs, without clashing with the original architecture. The redesign enhances accessibility, and the new lighting system adds flexibility for different events. Alongside preserving the church’s architecture, measures were taken to reduce energy and material usage to keep the design more sustainable. Overall, the renovation met the client’s vision and future-proofed the church as a vital community asset.
The judges admired the ‘sensitive transformation of the space, noting that the design not only overcame significant challenges, but made the building feel refreshed and welcoming. The thoughtful use of light creates an inviting, tranquil atmosphere that brings out the beauty of the historic architecture while embracing the church’s role as a vital community hub.’
Central London Highly Commended
Angel O’Donnell – Centre Point, Vantage Collection
The Centre Point residences’ redesign integrated modern elements with the building’s brutalist architecture, infusing colour, practicality, and modernity. Inspired by its iconic structure, the interiors feature bespoke furniture and art, reflecting geometric patterns and concrete aesthetics. The design combines vibrant colours, organic shapes, and noble materials like walnut and velvet, for a visual and sensory experience. Innovatively using the space as a canvas, the team crafted a story-driven, visually striking environment, prioritising sustainability and craftsmanship throughout, highlighting the project’s commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
The judges applauded the ‘creative integration of art and bespoke details’, noting that ‘the design is bold, expressive, and full of personality, turning the space into a work of art in itself.’
Greater London
Ola Jachymiak Studio – Beam Café
Located in Muswell Hill, the Beam Café showcases a mid-century aesthetic with Mediterranean influences, characterised by natural materials and a warm, cosy ambience. The design features a standout custom-made oak wood bar, resembling a 3D jigsaw puzzle and strategically placed terracotta accents. Innovative elements like concealed hand dryers and custom-tiled pedestal covers promote functionality whilst maintaining visual appeal. The neutral colour palette is punctuated with vibrant accents, boosting comfort and visual interest for a welcoming customer experience.
Judges loved the attention to detail, noting how ‘the thoughtful use of space and calming design elements made the café a joy to visit. The custom features, including the striking jigsaw-inspired bar, were particularly praised for their intricate craftsmanship.’
Midlands & East Anglia
Chantel Elshout Studio – Old Hill View
This transformation of a Dutch barn into a family home respected the site’s natural and historical context by carefully blending modern and rustic elements. The studio repurposed traditional materials, integrating bespoke design elements like oak-framed windows and a circular shower, and used sustainable products to enhance energy efficiency. Using skilled craftsmanship, the interior was reconfigured to promote communal living and private retreats. The design created a welcoming, sustainable home that fosters a connection with nature, reflecting the family’s desire for a serene, lifelong sanctuary.
The judges admired how well ‘the design makes use of the space’, highlighting ‘the clever flow between rooms and the unique, curved ceiling that adds character and intimacy to the home. The playful yet practical design elements make it a truly special place to live.’
North & North West
Jeffreys Interiors – The Tempus Hotel
Jeffrey’s Interiors transformed the cattle sheds on a 150-acre estate in Northumberland into The Tempus, a unique hospitality venue. The design goal was to offer an enriching guest experience in each of the 15 eclectic-themed bedrooms, from tropical to Eastern-inspired décors, with vibrant colours and imaginative elements. A Van Gogh-inspired lighting installation and a variety of themed spaces like a bar and orangery, ensure each visit feels like an adventure. Despite a complex design, the venue maintains visual cohesion and modern luxury, maximising the original estate’s features, and achieving high acclaim post-launch.
Judges were captivated by ‘the energy and creativity of the design’, praising the ‘bold use of colour, texture, and pattern. The hotel feels entirely unique, delivering an experience that is exciting and different from other venues in the region.’
North & North West Highly Commended
Jojo Bradley Interiors – Georgian Villa
The Georgian Villa design process focused on redefining three reception rooms into distinct functional spaces: a dining area, an entertainment/TV space, and a children’s area for TV and studying, reflecting the clients’ day-to-day needs. The project considered traditional and modern elements of the home, utilising durable, sustainable materials, and vibrant designs.
The judges felt ‘the design successfully brings a sense of vibrancy to the home, using bold patterns and textures to create a beautiful, curated environment that feels both timeless and full of life.’
South East
Raw Clay, The Boathouse
Combining a historical appreciation for Victorian boathouses with a focus on sustainable, human-centric design, The Boathouse mirrors the river Wey’s flow and environment. It employs natural, ageing materials like clay, metal, and glass across three themed floors – inspired by a riverbed on the lower ground, water on the ground floor and a tree canopy on the first floor. Details such as ripple patterns and wood textures integrate the river theme throughout the structure. Adaptable spaces like The Attic serve a dual purpose to optimise the area. Celebrated for its thoughtful design, the project supports local artisans by reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
The judges were impressed by ‘the strong design narrative and the seamless integration of social value and environmental sustainability. The project is a beautiful example of how thoughtful design can connect a space to its natural surroundings.’
South East Highly Commended
The Vawdrey House – Forest House
The remarkable transformation of Forest House showcased warmth and modernity through the design. The intimate kitchen and living areas utilise hidden black oak cladding concealed doors, and the striking powder room and retained wood-burning stove use glazed tiles and concrete for nostalgia. The studio used vintage and contemporary furniture, with a Robert Haussmann chandelier for added charm. Craftsmanship was paramount, evident in joinery and lighting, whilst sustainability was prioritised through re-used and eco-friendly materials.
The judges appreciated how ‘the design captures the essence of the surrounding forest, using subtle details to create a tranquil, luxurious atmosphere that feels effortlessly connected to nature.’
Anna Whitehead Prize for Sustainability & South West & Wales
Studio 9 Design – Cwm Tawel Estate
The Cwm Tawel Estate project celebrates Welsh heritage with elements inspired by Pembrokeshire’s landscapes. Restoring four properties, the studio focused on preserving the rustic allure with modern comforts for peaceful retreats immersed in nature. Studio 9 faced the challenge of building a restorative and contemporary environment that optimised space and maintained harmony across the properties. The project showed attention to detail with bespoke joinery and intentional eco-friendly practices such as using local materials throughout to ensure authenticity and elegance. The result exceeded expectations, offering luxurious holiday rentals honouring Welsh tradition and sustainable practices.
South West & Wales Region Win: The judges were impressed by the project’s ‘effortless fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, with inviting textures and a focus on local craftsmanship. It stands out as an exceptional example of how regional heritage can be elegantly woven into a modern design.’
Anna Whitehead Prize for Sustainability: ‘What made this project truly special was its commitment to sustainability. The use of eco-conscious materials and local resources created a luxurious yet environmentally responsible retreat, setting a benchmark for future sustainable designs.’
The BIID Interior Design Awards is delighted to be supported by Headline Sponsor Havwoods, Sustainability Sponsor Swatchbox and sponsors, Decorex and Abels, supported by Interior Design Declares.
For more information about the BIID Interior Design Awards and this year’s winners, please visit: https://biid.org.uk/biid-interior-design-awards
