recycling spaces


Re-modelling is increasingly being recognised as an effective way to breathe new life into tired spaces


come back to their new and improved home. I find more and more clients


are thinking strategically too. By renovating instead of moving it allows them to remain in the community that they are happy in, children in good schools, neighbours and good amenities. By renovating, it also allows them to have a new home without incurring fees for estate agents, legal fees, stamp duty, removal costs and all the stress that is associated with moving. Clients can be unaware however that the decision to renovate can also be a painful one (albeit less than moving), both emotionally and financially. A home can be turned into a building site and the owner may have to find alternative accommodation, albeit temporarily. Another reason I find clients


alternative to relocating. At Y2DC we have never


been so busy. With a surge of new clients in the capital – which seems to have its own micro climate of homeowners - it seems renovating an existing property is by far more appealing to clients than opting for the thought of upping roots and relocating. However, a designer’s job can soon become stressful when a renovation throws up all sorts of obstacles that have to be overcome; window locations, structural changes, listed buildings consent, the list goes on. But at the same time it’s the most enjoyable job for me. Once we have addressed these issues and addressed the issue of budget, we find most clients will take a well-deserved break and then


renovating is to make their homes ‘greener’ and more energy efficient. They look to install the state of the art insulation and energy systems, which guarantee’s them an efficient home in terms of low energy use. It has become quite a trend for the conscientious home owner to take the environment very seriously. This is not something that is reserved to people who take a very active role in eco-friendly practices. Every day individuals are also taking a keen interest in finding ways they can reduce their carbon footprints and more importantly reducing their fuel bills in these times of rising energy costs. One could even say that it has become fashionable for people to show their commitment to the environment and this is no bad thing. Anything that helps fortify plans for a greener future has to be looked on as a positive.


Looking at the bigger picture, a few changes at home can make a big difference. If everyone renovated their homes and interiors for example, then the amount of energy saved due to less removals, high standard insulation used would constitute a significant reduction of energies used. Sadly in part due to costs, we as an industry do not seem to do enough eco renovations but an example of what can be done range from energy-saving light bulbs to rainwater harvesting. The trend in pursuing an eco-solution to renovating a property has led to a


Interior Design Today 27


new breed of designers to be born. You can now find an abundant listing of eco renovation firms on the internet which must signify a high demand for this service. So, just as our wardrobes and hairstyles need updating from time to time, it stands to reason that we as designers should update what we’re offering to our clients. After all, by renovating a home you bring


Nico Yiannikkou


Nico is creative director of Y2DC Ltd. He has sixteen years experience of working in the field of high end interior design. He has worked for two of London’s premier designers, Gordon Lindsay and Mary Fox Linton on a mix of high-end residential and commercial work before setting up his own company in 2007. Past projects include; The Dorchester, London, Athenaeum Hotel London, The Grove Hotel Rickmansworth Hertfordshire, One Aldwych London, numerous ultra prime London private residences and Federation Towers Moscow. Current projects include Starwood Sheraton European hotels, a 12,000 sq ft Corcheval chalet, an apartment at One Hyde Park London and the soon to be completed London Bridge Tower ‘Shard’- Shangri La, London. "Y2DC’s design philosophy is to embrace a complete way of life and living, one that is tailored to the client’s needs, thus offering something luxurious and unique,” Nico says. “Our ultimate goal is to develop and nurture a global brand that embodies and captivates the ultimate luxury lifestyle. Seeking then harnessing the finest materials with the most skilled of craftsmen allows Y2DC to sculpt a harmonious living environment”.


a new lease of life to it and a surge of new energy, allowing the occupiers to fall in love with their home all over again. So whether homeowners are looking to add value to the largest investment most of us will ever make or are looking to save the environment, it’s clear to see that at the moment, more are definitely renovating rather than relocating. ■


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