A potentially catastrophic blaze, which consumed the garage containing a parked vehicle adjoining a £1M house in rural Surrey, was stopped in its tracks thanks to the use of 12mm A1 non combustible Magply being chosen as the render substrate board on the contract , the property was constructed using a Structurally Insulated Panel system construction (SIP) with A1 non-combustible Magply being used on the exterior of the building as the substrate panel for the proprietary render system.
Heidi Lichterman’s signature textile designs are a celebration of tactile storytelling—where traditional weaving meets contemporary artistry. With a career spanning decades, Heidi’s passion for colour, texture and light has earned her recognition as one of the UK’s most innovative textile designers.
Berkeley Place enhanced and transformed a beautiful Victorian mansion located in heart of Clifton, Bristol. A full renovation, the family has recently returned from abroad to live in Bristol. The brief from the client was to create a open plan living area on the ground floor with plenty of crittal glazing for light to shine through.
Leica Cine Play 1 is a versatile mini-projector in a compact, timeless design. The Leica Cine Play 1 combines state-of-the-art laser technology with outstanding Leica premium imaging quality in 4K resolution at up to 300-inch screen sizes. Its smart functions, innovative solutions and user-friendly handling guarantee a premium home cinema experience that is always ready to delight viewers at anytime and anywhere and brings maximum flexibility to home and outdoor entertainment.
Turning your Vision into Reality
As interior designers, we’re always seeking that one standout element — the piece that elevates a space from well-designed to truly unforgettable. While many focus on furnishings, lighting, or finishes, there is an architectural feature that has the power to define a project: the staircase.
In the world of high-end residential interiors, a bespoke staircase can do far more than connect floors. It can act as a sculptural centrepiece, a visual anchor, and an expression of artistry and engineering. In the case of a recent Lakes by Yoo property, a staircase designed by world renowned specialist Bisca, did exactly that — becoming the heart of the home’s interior scheme.
Bringing a Project to Life
Set within a newly built lakeside property, the brief for the staircase was clear: to replace a linear, functional plan with something exceptional – something that felt alive. Interior designer Kathryn Levitt engaged Bisca from the very beginning, before construction had started. This early collaboration proved instrumental.
The result was an elegantly curved, floating staircase which twisted gracefully between three floors. Its organic form softened the home’s clean architectural lines while offering a luxurious sense of movement. Wide treads and a shallow rise were combined with seamless lighting integrated within the staircase treads – encouraging an almost theatrical ascent to panoramic views over the surrounding lakes.
“The impact of Bisca’s floating staircase when entering the house is fantastic – it’s brings a real wow factor and has become a talking point of everybody that visits,” said the homeowner.
Design Freedom Begins with Collaboration
For an interior designer, Bisca’s staircase ideas and design concepts offer creative freedom that is hard to find elsewhere. Rather than retrofitting a staircase into an existing plan, Bisca integrates their design into the architectural framework of the building – shaping not just its form, but the experience a staircase brings to the home.
As Bisca Founder and Design Director Richard McLane notes:
“When we find an interior designer with Kathryn’s attention to detail, we know we’ve found a kindred spirit. This kind of collaboration allows our creativity to flourish.”
It’s a reminder that extraordinary design comes from shared vision – and mutual trust.
Creating A Spatial Experience
In this project, Bisca didn’t just deliver a floating staircase design of remarkable beauty – they redefined the home’s vertical flow. Landing structures were redesigned. The base flared to invite movement. Light washed gently across risers, hidden within overhanging nosings. Viewed from above, the staircase unfurled like a ribbon — all curves, grace, and precision.
Material selection was equally deliberate. Bisca used liquid bronze steel with an antique patina, hand-forged tapered uprights, and textured oak treads — materials chosen not just for visual harmony, but for tactility and warmth. The finishing touch? A hand-stitched leather handrail, crafted by Bisca’s in-house artisans.
“They added enormous value throughout,” says Kathryn. “From materials and structure to layout and logistics — Bisca leaves no stone unturned.”
Why Interior Designers Need a Staircase Specialist
Staircases sit at the intersection of structure and style. They not only demand creative vision but also technical precision — which places them beyond the usual scope of interior design. That’s where a staircase specialist comes in.
Bisca doesn’t just fabricate staircases; they design sculptural installations which marry to a property’s architecture. They guide designers through the staircase process, handling engineering, compliance, logistics, and craftsmanship — so your design narrative remains uninterrupted.
“The staircase is one of the few elements that bridges creative expression and structural integrity,” says McLane. “It’s not something that can usually be handled by an interior designer alone.”
Elevate Your Next Project
Interior designers who collaborate with a specialist don’t just get a staircase — they gain a creative partner. Someone who can interpret your vision, amplify your design language, and deliver a centrepiece that anchors the space emotionally and architecturally.
“With Bisca’s input, we shaped more than just the staircase — we enhanced the entire design scheme,” Kathryn reflects. “They understood the intention behind every decision I made.”
Final Thought: More Than a Means to an End
At this Lakes by Yoo property, the staircase became more than a functional element. It provides a journey — of movement, light, and layered craftsmanship. For interior designers looking to create standout moments in their projects, Bisca offers more than design — they offer a transformative approach centred around creativity and collaboration.
To find out more, explore Bisca’s staircase gallery here, or contact their specialist team on 01439 771702 for a free initial design consultation.
Bond Bryan architects are known for creating lasting, sustainable environments that enrich the lives of people and their communities. They are committed to becoming a truly Net Zero practice – both in how they design and deliver their buildings and through the choices they make in running their own practice. As part of their continued commitment to the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge and Architects Declare, they relocated to a more sustainable, carbon-conscious space within Sheffield city centre.
We specialize in the supply and installation of bespoke frameless glass showers, serving clients across London and the Home Counties. Our custom-designed shower enclosures are crafted with premium toughened safety glass and high-quality fittings, delivering a sleek, modern aesthetic that enhances any bathroom space.
As each tile is uniquely handmade the possibilities are endless to create that beautiful useful element to add to your living space. Imagine lighting a scented candle held within a ceramic holder seamlessly integrated into your bathroom wall, reaching for a bar of artisanal soap resting atop a beautifully crafted tile or grabbing a handful of salt from the wall in your kitchen. Each piece is designed to enhance daily rituals.
Collecting gold bullion and collectibles is an age-old practice that combines the thrill of acquisition with the potential for investment. Whether you’re a seasoned numismatist or a budding collector, understanding the nuances of this art form is essential for building a valuable collection. In this article we delve into the reasons for collecting gold, the types of gold bullion and collectibles available, tips for successful collecting success, and seeking a bargain!