Ira and Olya Sundukovy, founders and design directors at S+S Studio, discuss trends in restaurant design and insights and practices from their latest projects.
Sundukovy Sisters (S+S) Studio is a renowned interior design studio known for its vibrant, artistic and innovative designs for restaurants and hotels around the world. With 20 years of experience and a portfolio of over 200 projects across multiple countries, the studio has received over 16 awards for excellence in hospitality design. Recently, the studio completed the renovation of the iconic Luna Sky Bar at Four Seasons DIFC and the epic re-envisioning of Mercury Lounge at Four Seasons Jumeirah, set to be unveiled this fall. New restaurant venues are set to debut soon in Dubai DIFC, London and Los Angeles.
Avoid seasonal trends
At S+S Studio, we try to ignore and not get bogged down in seasonal trends. We don't follow seasonal colors or trendy materials, but rather we want to create timeless spaces. We don't dabble in trends like “emerald”, “velvet and oak”, “midcentury” or styles that will later be labelled “2024”, we aim for designs that last. We specialise in creating timeless and unique interiors.
We focus on timeless style and continually analyze and predict design trends that will last. Seasons change and tastes evolve, but some design themes stand the test of time and endure.
Here are some key insights from S+S Studio on design trends and approaches.
1. The power of storytelling in design
Interior designers use storytelling as a key tool when designing and decorating spaces to effectively communicate their client's message. Incorporating narrative into interior design is a hallmark of S+S Studio. Each restaurant tells its own story, inspired by history, local culture and the personal journey of the chef/owner. This approach creates visually captivating and emotionally charged spaces that offer guests a memorable experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
2. Maximalism
Ira and Olya Sundukhovi
Maximalist design is not just a style, it's a lifestyle that embraces the philosophy “more is more”. After all, who doesn't like a little excess, especially in these post-COVID times? At S+S Studio, we love to push the boundaries and play with design. Take our latest project for example: it's an interior style called “chinoiserie”, combining French and Asian influences. The design aims to combine oriental mysticism with the classic, palatial spirit of France, fusing these cuisines as well. It's a symphony of rich, saturated details from floor to ceiling, blending the charm of maximalism with a touch of holiday spirit.
3. Minimalism
In a world full of dualities and contradictions, some people embrace the expanse of wildness.
Some people prefer maximalism, while others seek the sophisticated depth of minimalism. Our latest project, an authentic Japanese restaurant in London, embodies this exploration of simplicity and sophistication. Imagine this: metal, rope, wood and straw combine in a rustic yet luxurious fusion, transforming the space into a modern interpretation of a tranquil Japanese village. Here, beauty dances through the play of light, shadow and form.
It creates a harmonious symphony of solemn elegance.
4. Old Money Authentic
The aesthetics of the “old wealthy” are back in fashion. Unlike the flashy trends of the newly wealthy,
This style places an emphasis on classic, sophisticated pieces that stand the test of time. We're moving away from the new and flashy and embracing a throwback that's never boring. For those who are tired of constantly changing their interiors to suit changing trends, the return of timeless style is a welcome change.
5. Punk Luxury
Luxury is undoubtedly a wonderful thing, but today's newly rich crave rebelliousness.
Add a twist to punk luxury. Our latest project, Escape, features a selection of bespoke lighting, creating a romantic atmosphere under a warm sunset. But wait a minute.
A quintessentially flashy setup, with a touch of rebellious artistic flair. Joseph's contemporary installation adds a dash of cheekiness and sarcasm alongside Véronique Guerrieri's whimsical “Baby King” sculpture, inviting your inner child to come play. A charming mix of extravagance and whimsy that will leave a lasting memory.
6. Perfect photo
In today's digital age where Instagram reigns supreme, creating a “selfie approved” space is a must. Restaurants are now designing photogenic spots such as restrooms, staircases and entrances. Who doesn't love a good restroom photo? By perfecting the lighting, angles and highlights, you can create a space that people will want to share online, turning every meal into a buzz moment and giving your restaurant some much-needed social media buzz.
7. Accent lighting
Lighting is not an afterthought in interior design, it is the star of the show. At S+S, lighting is key to our designs, customized to complement each space. Whether it's a soothing sunset ambiance, clean white or calming blue, our lighting solutions bring out the best in any restaurant. It's all about creating an atmosphere that can be felt, not just seen – a place where every corner tells a story and where every guest feels the magic.
9. Sustainability and longevity
Sustainability and durability are key factors in how we approach design today. In the last decade, practices like reducing waste, using local materials and eco-friendly design have been promoted all over the world. But we take it a step further by focusing on durability. For example, we choose natural materials.
Wood and stone will acquire a rich patina over time and age gracefully – this adds elegance and ensures our designs will remain beautiful and functional for many years to come.
10. Artistic interiors
Finally, timeless style is about crafting interiors that feel as bespoke as they are artistic. We are passionate about design that is charismatic, unexpectedly delightful and has a touch of irony. Throughout our 20-year design journey, we have perfected the art of blending flair with subtlety. This approach allows our interiors to stand the test of time without going out of style quickly. It proves that originality is more than just a trend for us; it's the secret to long-lasting design.
