a look back to 2024 and our goals for 2025
a look back at 2024:
china town:
the team at 16a has been working on an exciting commercial project located in liverpool’s chinatown which is home to the oldest chinese community in europe.
currently, in the planning stage, we are looking forward to working on the development of a boutique hotel and restaurant space for our client, global school alliance.
home 96b:
2024 saw the launch of “home,” taking inspiration from john lennon's legendary "home restaurant" in new york. the once-neglected art deco bank on liverpool road in maghull has been transformed into a thriving restaurant and bar, right in the heart of maghull.
the team at 16a oversaw all architectural aspects from demolition to the finishing touches and interior design. their dedication promises a unique and inviting space that locals and visitors alike will enjoy.
heinz:
in partnership with usp, 16a created design proposals for reimagining numerous key aspects of the heinz factory at kitt green.
our goal was to promote an inclusive and innovative work environment that would not only improve functionality but also extend from the factory entrance to occupational health, research, and development, plus a canteen.
the initial design philosophy of this project is based on the idea of a dynamic, inclusive workspace. our idea is to build a strong foundation at the factory entrance, which would stand for unity and connectivity. this foundation represents kraft heinz's culture of cooperation and unity in addition to acting as a structural support.
egerton house:
egerton house was a former banana warehouse originally completed in 1874.
16a were commissioned for the refurbishment of the west wing of the building which we completed earlier this year. the refurbishment saw the number of offices grow from 25 to 50 and is part of a series of exciting projects in birkenhead after wirral council secured £25 million in funding from the government, to allow more businesses to thrive in such a prime location on the periphery of the wirral waters scheme.
roderick kearns:
in 2024 we launched roderick kearns, a collection of meticulously curated luxury designer homeware pieces bespoke to our clients and their homes. working with brands such as roche bobois, visual comfort and porta romana means we can deliver a range of high end products ranging from furniture, lighting and decorative accessories.
trend blogs:
this autumn, we launched trend reports focusing on some of the world’s largest design fairs, such as paris design week, pad london, and dutch design week. as a studio, it is crucial for us to stay up to date with trends, ensuring that we make informed choices that align with our clients' needs.
home building and renovation show harrogate:
in november the team took a trip to harrogate where we exhibited at the home building and renovation show. the show has been running for over 30 years now and was an excellent opportunity to gain inspiration and meet new clients.
looking forward to 2025:
the 16a Interiors team is looking forward to starting new residential and commercial projects in 2025 and visiting numerous trade shows, starting with the surface design show in february.
Feel free to reach out by phone, or call into our studios for a complimentary consultation with our team.
Building Identity: The Art and Craft of Architectural Expression
Building Identity: The Art and Craft of Architectural Expression
Architecture holds the power to mold our surroundings and establish an identity for the community it serves. From the design of a building to the materials employed, every detail possesses the potential to mirror the history, culture, and values of the people who inhabit the space.
In this blog post, we will delve into how architectural and interior design can be utilised to forge a sense of place that mirrors a community's identity.
The Significance of Identity in Architecture
Identity is a fundamental aspect of human life. It shapes the way we perceive ourselves and others, providing a sense of belonging and community. The built environment also reflects identity, from the design of buildings to the materials used in construction. Architecture plays a crucial role in shaping a community's identity, as it can mirror the values, traditions, and aspirations of the people who reside there.
Architecture and Community
Architecture can exert a profound impact on a community's identity. When designing a building, architects and interior designers must consider the context in which it will exist. They must contemplate the surrounding environment, the history and culture of the community, and the requirements of the people who will utilise the space. This approach enables the creation of a building that not only functions effectively but also mirrors the identity of the community it serves.
One method through which architects can reflect a community's identity is by using materials. For instance, if a community places a high value on sustainability, an architect might opt for locally sourced materials like wood or stone, which are both environmentally friendly and reflective of the community's connection to the natural world. Similarly, traditional building materials such as adobe or rammed earth might be employed to echo a community's cultural heritage.
Another avenue for architects to mirror a community's identity is through the design of a building's façade. The façade acts as the face of a building and significantly influences how people perceive the space. By incorporating design elements such as colour, texture, and pattern, architects can craft a façade that mirrors the community's identity. For instance, bold colours or patterns may be used to reflect a vibrant culture, while simple, elegant lines may signify a commitment to simplicity and minimalism.
Interior Design and Identity
Interior design is another crucial aspect of creating a sense of place that mirrors a community's identity. Similar to a building's façade, the interior design can profoundly impact how people perceive the space. Interior designers must consider the needs of the individuals using the space and establish an environment that is both functional and reflective of the community's identity.
One approach through which interior designers can mirror a community's identity is through the use of colour. Colour has the ability to evoke emotions and memories, and it can also mirror cultural and historical traditions. For example, a community with a strong connection to the sea might incorporate blues and greens into the interior design to reflect that association.
Another avenue for interior designers to mirror a community's identity is through the use of art and décor. Art and décor can narrate a story and mirror the community's history and culture. For example, an interior designer might incorporate local artwork or crafts to shape a space that mirrors the community's artistic traditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, architecture and interior design play a pivotal role in creating a sense of place that mirrors a community's identity. By taking into account the surrounding environment, the history and culture of the community, and the needs of the individuals using the space, architects and interior designers can create buildings and spaces that not only function effectively but also mirror the identity of the community they serve. Whether through the use of materials, the design of a façade, or interior design, every detail possesses the potential to contribute to a community's distinct identity.
- Joel Anthony Roderick, 16a Founder
Rear Extensions and Level Changes: Key Considerations for Planning and Design
when planning a rear extension for your home, level changes and site gradients are crucial factors that can significantly impact both the design and functionality of the space. if the ground level of your extension exceeds a 300mm increase in height, it's essential to seek planning permission. this regulation ensures that the extension integrates harmoniously with the existing property and surrounding environment, preventing potential drainage issues and preserving privacy for neighbours.
one of the most important aspects of a rear extension with level changes is managing drainage effectively. any increase in height can affect water flow, so it's vital to incorporate proper drainage systems, such as french drains or surface water channels, to prevent flooding or waterlogging. ensuring that the ground slopes away from the house will also protect the foundation from moisture damage.
additionally, achieving flush transitions between the inside and outside spaces is key to creating a seamless flow. Whether through large sliding doors or bi-fold windows, these transitions help open up the living area, connecting your interior with the garden. this design element is especially valuable in summer, allowing for an expansive, light-filled environment that invites the outdoors in, perfect for entertaining or simply enjoying the warmer months
