INTERIOR SPECIALISTS TOUCH DESIGN GROUP UNVEIL THEIR LATEST INTERIORS PROJECT

Dubbed the ‘Hidden House’ by its architects, Touch Design Group’s latest exemplar project - a pied-à-terre for private clients in Knightsbridge - has provided a fabulous opportunity to showcase the full range of  design and manufacturing skills the company has to offer. Recently shortlisted for a RIBA award, the two storey plus mezzanine townhouse has been sensitively transformed from two former workshop buildings to create a stunning family home, completely invisible from the street.

The project took over a year to complete and is just one of a number of high profile interior projects currently being undertaken by the design company, whose portfolio includes multimillion pound residential developments, Michelin star restaurants and luxury five star hotels.

With their manufacturing base situated in the South West of England, Touch Designs', state-of-the-art workshops provide the full spectrum of facilities required to take on an increasingly ambitious portfolio of projects across the UK and Europe. Combining both traditional artisan skills with cutting-edge technology; architects, interior designers and private clients benefit from an extraordinary range of skills and services under one roof.

One of the only independent designer-makers to have its own large-scale computer-controlled woodcutting equipment.The team’s commitment to sourcing new materials and design inspiration from around the world enables clients to benefit from an exciting blend of creative innovation and aesthetic ambition, all based on the solid foundation of quality craftsmanship.

David Crosby, co-founder and Director at Touch Design Group, explains:

“We’re basically bridging the gap between the old world of craftsmanship and cabinetmaking, and very modern, design-led processes and materials, and saying that our clients can have both. Using customised software to run our woodworking machines means we can create all manner of 3D carving and curved designs – no other company in the region is doing this kind of experimental, innovative work. We’ve also just installed a specialist oven that enables us to produce complex curved designs in other materials, including Corian.

“We pride ourselves on being able to respond to whatever the client wants, in whatever material they want. It’s a truly bespoke service.”

David continues: “Since expanding the team to include architectural designers and a dedicated kitchen studio, we are now equipped to provide everything, all under one roof. The move to our brand new HQ in the South West is a natural transition from our heritage as artisan makers and craftsmen to a fully fledged design studio and integrated manufacturing facility where our clients can have their ideas fully realised.”

With a wealth of knowledge across all aspects of the design and making process, Touch regularly collaborate with designers and architects at concept stage to prototype construction details and systems. This collaborative approach enables both the designers and the makers to push the boundaries of possibilities, whilst the client benefits from outstanding results.

In addition to craftsmanship and technology, materials are integral to the Touch offer. A constant commitment to sourcing the finest materials from around the world ensures that clients benefit from an exciting blend of creative innovation and aesthetic ambition. A dedicated materials library offers private clients and their architects and interior designers an opportunity to explore a huge range of products and finishes, many of which are exclusive to Touch Design Group. Regular trips to international partners, factories and furniture fairs including Milan’s renowned Salon de Mobil, is another strong indication of the company's determination to remain ahead of the curve.

Central to the design of the Knightsbridge home was an extensive range of luxury joinery across three floors.

Complex roof trusses in the form of glulam beams provide the striking skeletal roof structure in the central living area. Each beam was crafted at Touch’s UK based manufacturing house using laminates of birch ply and steel flitch plates. The thirty one beams were then transported to site in specially constructed packing cases.

The tailor made staircase comprises consecutive leaves of veneer with a lacquered finish and bronze handrail. Spanning three floors, the stairs are seamlessly integrated into the wall panelling, at one point cutting through the wall to reveal their cantilevered form.

For more information visit their website http://www.touchdesigngroup.com/