Basha-Franklin
Get to know Basha-Franklin, an independent, next-generation interiors and architecture practice.
We're excited to introduce Basha-Franklin, a visionary London-based design studio known for its holistic approach to interiors and architecture. In this interview, we delve into their transformative design philosophy, which emphasizes creating life-enriching environments that serve both people and the planet. Basha-Franklin’s work spans diverse scales, from intimate interiors to expansive architectural projects. Each is crafted with purpose, creativity, and a deep respect for harmony within surroundings. Join us as we explore their unique insights into building spaces rich in meaning, generous in spirit, and crafted to leave a lasting positive impact.
Myo St Paul's Project
Do you have a personal preference for a particular type of project, whether it's architecture, interior design, or something else? What aspects of those projects do you find most enjoyable?
Our ideal project is one where design makes a powerful, positive impact—not just for the end user but also for the client and the planet. We’re a diverse, collaborative team of architects, interior designers, and technical specialists, and we thrive on the results that a holistic approach can achieve. We're currently working on an exciting project: a fully turn-key, owner-occupied commercial building on Hanover Square. Our team is involved in every step, from planning and architecture to interior design, artwork, and final styling.
It’s incredibly rewarding to tackle a project like this, where every detail is part of a cohesive vision. This building will truly showcase what’s possible when inside and outside are designed with seamless, joined-up thinking.
Your company’s mission is to create transformative designs that benefit both people and the planet. How do you incorporate sustainability into your projects?
We’re driven by a deep commitment to maximizing the positive impact of design on both people and the planet. Our team is passionate about pushing boundaries to achieve better outcomes, and that commitment starts from day one—it’s a core value we seek in every new hire. We’ve developed our own Environmental Management System (EMS) to guide our approach, ensuring that every design decision is rooted in measurable, scientific criteria. This EMS is designed to embed environmental considerations into our daily work and decision-making, promoting sustainability throughout each project.
Every project we take on is designed to meet high BREEAM and WELL standards. We align closely with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on four key SDGs related to sustainable architectural and interior design outcomes. Our approach is about making incremental but meaningful progress and understanding that sustainable design is an ongoing journey rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
To keep innovating, we have a dedicated R&D group that explores cutting-edge materials and techniques. Sometimes, these materials don’t have all the traditional certifications, but if they represent a step forward in sustainability, we work them into our projects wherever possible. For us, it’s about continuous improvement and finding creative ways to make a real difference.
Velonetic, The Lloyd's building Project
Is there a particular project where sustainability played a critical role? Can you share an example of a project where stringent sustainability requirements were essential to its development?
We recently completed an exciting project for Landsec at Myo One New Change in late 2023. Landsec is a client truly committed to enhancing the environmental quality of all their developments, and this project reflects that forward-thinking vision.
The design tells a purposeful story of innovation and evolution, blending vibrant colors and textures with sustainable materials to create a multi-sensory experience. With features like natural light, ventilation, and abundant greenery, the space promotes tenant well-being and earned WELL Platinum certification.
High-quality finishes and materials were selected not only for their visual appeal but also for durability, reducing maintenance needs and enhancing long-term value. To further reduce environmental impact, we used eco-board sheet material made from agricultural waste for all substrates and streamlined our design to limit material use and the number of trades required, cutting down on carbon emissions and energy consumption.
Smart sensor technology was also installed to monitor airflow and energy usage, providing enhanced operational control and performance insights for the space.
Let's dive into critical aspects of sustainability in the Myo One New Change Project
Low Carbon Impact
The Myo One New Change building boasts an impressive A3 embodied carbon benchmark rating, the lowest for any building in the UK, setting a new standard in sustainability. Remarkably, waste transportation accounts for only 1% of the total embodied carbon emissions over the building's entire life cycle.
Circularity
Circularity is at the heart of Myo's design. The striking Cemento wall features WILL, a groundbreaking material made from 90% reclaimed stone and non-toxic binders, creating a flexible, sustainable surface. The base panels are formaldehyde-free and CNC-formed for precision. For the feature walls, Buxkin, a recycled leather made from Italian shoe industry offcuts, brings a luxurious, tactile feel. This organic material is both stylish and eco-conscious.
Waste Avoidance
In collaboration with local designer Orla Lawn, Basha-Franklin created Spelk!, a non-toxic, water-based coating used as artwork throughout the building. Spelk transforms traditional timber boards, which would have otherwise been discarded, into unique, handcrafted panels that evoke the beauty of luxurious veneers and marble.
The project also incorporates pre-cast cement tiles that offer high durability and fireproofing. These tiles can be broken down and reused at the end of their life, minimizing waste and ensuring longevity. Additionally, using PEFC and FSC-certified wood fiber panels by Valchromat, made from recycled softwood, contributes to a sustainable and biodegradable material choice.
Health and Wellbeing of Occupants
Myo prioritizes occupant health and is rigorously committed to low-emission materials. All ceiling panels, wall panels, flooring, decorative timber, and furniture are third-party tested to ensure they contain low or zero VOCs. Similarly, paints, varnishes, glues, sealants, and caulking are independently certified for their low environmental impact, providing a healthier indoor environment.
Social Value
More than just a workspace, Myo is designed to inspire. Every detail, from the carefully curated color palettes on each floor to the thoughtfully designed nooks and crannies, fosters an atmosphere that encourages productivity, creativity, and well-being. With intentional spaces supporting choice and wellness, Myo creates an environment where businesses and people can thrive, creating a genuinely uplifting workplace.
Driven by well-being, sustainability, and adaptability, human-centric design embraces "hotelisation" to challenge ideas of what workspace can and should be.
At what stage of the design process does sustainability become a focus of your projects? Is it something you prioritize from the conceptual phase, or does it come into play later when working on graphics or selecting materials?
Sustainability is at the core of our design process from the very beginning. Early in every project, we work closely with the client to identify key sustainability goals and accreditations, ensuring we’re aligned on expectations. The sooner sustainability strategies are woven into the design, the more impactful the results will be. A key consideration right from the start is determining what can be retained or reused—this not only drives the project but also contributes to reducing waste and enhancing sustainability.
For example, on our 25 Hanover Square project, we’ve made the decision to remove and repurpose a significant portion of the existing façade, seamlessly integrating it into the new design. This approach is a great example of how thoughtful, sustainable design can have a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the project itself.
Can you list three materials you think you use the most in your projects?
We’re passionate about materials that not only look beautiful but also have a low environmental impact. Three materials we especially love are Valchromat, natural stone, and timber. They all offer incredible versatility and are low in carbon, making them ideal choices for sustainable design.
These materials are also low in VOCs, contributing to healthier indoor air quality. Plus, they can be repurposed and reinvented, ensuring they stay valuable throughout their lifecycle. Universally appreciated for their natural beauty and biodegradability, they’re not just eco-friendly—they’re timeless and adaptable, bringing lasting value to any project.
Do you believe that working closely with consultants, such as those specializing in materiality and suppliers, is crucial for the success of a project? How important is this collaboration to achieving your design goals?
Collaboration with consultants and suppliers has been essential in elevating our project specifications. We view each project as a chance to co-create, bringing fresh ideas and adding unique value. Materiality plays a crucial role in shaping the user experience, and we’re always striving to choose materials that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
By partnering with specialist consultants, we gain access to a broader supply chain and a wealth of possibilities, unlocking new potential and ensuring we deliver the best outcomes for every project.
A new kind of luxury – A bespoke turnkey apartment at the iconic One Park Drive.
Are there any projects that stand out to you as particularly enjoyable or challenging, either because of the design itself or the obstacles you had to overcome along the way?
We recently completed an exciting project for Velonetic within the iconic Grade I listed Lloyd's of London building. The project was both a thrilling opportunity and a creative challenge as we worked to blend the rich history of this landmark with the cutting-edge future of digital insurance.
To showcase this pioneering digital shift, we created an innovative hub that seamlessly integrates education, work, and hospitality. This dynamic space supports both function and flair.
State-of-the-art – Interactive work and exhibition space designed for a pioneering digital insurance firm.
Velonetic Project Distinctive Design Elements:
Working within the constraints of a Grade I listed building presented unique challenges, but it also inspired creative solutions. One such feature is the impressive grid coffer ceiling, a striking architectural detail with 1800mm square grids. To preserve this heritage feature while allowing for flexibility, we designed and installed a Display multi-lane system, carefully creating a secondary floating grid beneath the original ceiling. This solution, developed in close collaboration with the manufacturers, provides adaptability for the space while maintaining the building’s historic integrity.
Another standout feature is the fully demountable vitrified enamel bar, which serves as the heart of the space for socializing and entertaining. The rich depth of color, reflectivity, and texture of the material made it an incredibly engaging element that leaves a lasting impression, perfectly capturing the essence of the project.
Visionary materiality: Sustainability and longevity meet progress and innovation.
Can you point to a project where the choice of materials and finishes became the central element of the design? How did these aspects influence the overall outcome?
