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In Profile:
New Concept Furnishings

In Profile:

New Concept Furnishings

Shortlisted: City Space (Apartment / Penthouse) Award

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2025

IDA 2025
New Concept Furnishings

Name: Tahmina Begum
Company Name: New Concept Furnishings
Position Within Company: Interior Designer
Website: https://newconcept.design/

Tell us a little about your background in design:
From a young age, I’ve been drawn to the world of design. My formal journey began with a foundation year in Art & Design, leading me to pursue a degree in Interior Architecture at Westminster University. Following graduation, I’ve worked on a diverse range of residential and commercial projects across London, gaining invaluable experience. Working for a property developer early on allowed me to handle both residential and commercial projects, which enriched my understanding of multifaceted design challenges. I have collaborated extensively with suppliers, contractors, and other industry experts, learning something new and gaining fresh insights from each project.

How would you describe your personal design style?
I would describe my personal design style as a reflection of everyday lifestyle and practicality. I find inspiration through travel and diverse lifestyles, which greatly influence my creative vision. I love working with a neutral colour palette, incorporating pops of colour to create depth and layering, while mixing textures to add a unique and personal touch to each space.
My approach involves blending my clients’ ideas with my own style to craft spaces that feel both personal and modern. I gravitate towards a contemporary aesthetic, often incorporating rich, dark wood textures to bring warmth and sophistication to the design.

Where does your design inspiration come from?
My design inspiration is deeply rooted in my love for travel. Exploring new places and immersing myself in different cultures always fuels my creativity. I’m especially inspired by restaurants—their atmospheres, distinctive design details, and the emotions they evoke. Each destination carries its own aesthetic, which often influences my approach to interiors.

Hotel designs, particularly in affluent cities, are another major source of inspiration. I’m drawn to moody, dark interiors that convey a sense of timeless elegance and quiet luxury. Fashion also plays a key role in shaping my creative vision. I admire its boldness and innovation, and I often translate those elements into my work—blending global influences with refined style to craft spaces that feel both unique and inspiring.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I believe design is moving towards a more simplistic yet bold approach. This direction emphasises clean, minimalistic aesthetics while incorporating striking elements that make a statement. There’s a growing trend of juxtaposing various textures, materials, and styles to create layered interiors that are both visually captivating and highly functional. This balance between aesthetic appeal and practicality is becoming increasingly essential in modern design.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. 
• Sustainability and Eco-Consciousness: Prioritising environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient solutions, and designs that minimise waste to create spaces that are sustainable for the long term.
• Wellness-Centric Spaces: Designing with a focus on mental and physical well-being by incorporating natural light, biophilic elements, and spaces that promote relaxation and mindfulness.
• Adaptability and Multifunctionality: Creating flexible spaces that can evolve with changing needs, especially as homes become multifunctional environments for work, relaxation, and entertainment.
• Technology Integration: Seamlessly blending smart technology into design, ensuring it enhances convenience and comfort without compromising aesthetics.
• Cultural and Individual Expression: Celebrating diverse influences and personal narratives in design to create spaces that are authentic, unique, and reflective of individual or regional identity.

New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?
My advice for starting a design project is to begin with a concept board. It can often feel overwhelming to know where to start, but by reviewing the brief and identifying the key requirements, you can develop a Pinterest mood board to gather inspiration. This process helps you establish a clear vision for the project, select a cohesive colour palette, and define your preferences, providing a solid foundation for the design journey.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design & Architecture Awards are highly significant within the industry. They not only celebrate exceptional talent and creativity but also provide a platform for designers to showcase their work on a global stage. Being part of these awards elevates a designer’s profile, fosters professional credibility, and connects them with a network of industry leaders. They highlight innovation, set benchmarks for excellence, and inspire others, making them an essential event for recognizing and advancing design and architecture worldwide.

What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on an exciting penthouse project in the heart of London — a stunning three-bedroom residence with a study and spectacular views across the city skyline. The apartment features modern finishes, which have beautifully guided my design direction, allowing for a sleek and contemporary aesthetic.
In addition, I’m completing the furnishing of a private residence within the prestigious Pan Pacific Hotel. Both projects are located in sought-after postcodes, and my focus has been to ensure each design reflects the lifestyle and personality of the clients who will reside there. With a hotel-esque feel — true to my design style — each space balances luxury, comfort, and individuality.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
It was actually the project I mentioned earlier. Like I always say, every project is different — but I tend to fall in love with my latest ones! I think it’s because with each project, I build on previous experiences, and that growth helps every new space become even better — and often my new favourite.
For this flat, I was especially proud of how I used furniture to enhance the layout. It wasn’t the easiest space to work with due to its layout, but I kept the design modern and practical, tailored to suit the client’s needs. What made it even more enjoyable was the creative freedom — and with little restriction on budget, I was really able to push boundaries and bring my full vision to life.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?
Hotel: The Cave Hotel in Kent is hands down my favourite for a getaway. The interiors are moody and stylish, the beds are ridiculously comfy, and it’s the ultimate place to relax. Plus, with a great restaurant and spa right in the hotel, you’ve got everything you need to unwind without leaving the premises. It’s the perfect retreat.
Restaurant: For food, Harry’s always tops my list for classic Italian, but Sumosan and Twiga are also regular faves — I love their mix of Japanese and Italian.
Bar: Tattu! Love their cocktails and scenic views from the top!

Your favourite book, film & song?
Book: Currently reading What’s Your Dream by Simon Squibb, and it’s so inspiring! It’s really pushing me to think big and chase my dreams even harder.
Film: My favourite film has to be Interstellar — it gives me goosebumps every single time! I’m all about sci-fi and thrillers, and that one’s a total winner for me.
Song: When it comes to music, Forever by Chris Brown is my tune. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him live — he’s my absolute fave!

Your favourite food and drink?
Food: When it comes to food, I can’t resist the timeless flavours of Italian cuisine and the delicate artistry of Japanese dishes. Both offer something uniquely satisfying, whether I’m enjoying a rich pasta or savoring sushi.
Drink: I’m a huge fan of passionfruit mocktails – they’re the perfect blend of refreshing and fruity!

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
I love spending my afternoons running errands, grabbing a matcha on the go, hitting the gym for a good sweat, and then treating myself to a delicious, healthy meal to finish it off. It’s the perfect mix of productivity and good vibes!

If you weren’t in this sector, what would you alternative profession be?
If I weren’t in this sector, I’d definitely explore something related to my love for travel – maybe event organising or content creation. Both allow for creativity and the excitement of exploring new places, which really speaks to me!

New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?
My advice for starting a design project is to begin with a concept board. It can often feel overwhelming to know where to start, but by reviewing the brief and identifying the key requirements, you can develop a Pinterest mood board to gather inspiration. This process helps you establish a clear vision for the project, select a cohesive colour palette, and define your preferences, providing a solid foundation for the design journey.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
The International Design & Architecture Awards are highly significant within the industry. They not only celebrate exceptional talent and creativity but also provide a platform for designers to showcase their work on a global stage. Being part of these awards elevates a designer’s profile, fosters professional credibility, and connects them with a network of industry leaders. They highlight innovation, set benchmarks for excellence, and inspire others, making them an essential event for recognizing and advancing design and architecture worldwide.

What projects are you currently working on?
I’m currently working on an exciting penthouse project in the heart of London — a stunning three-bedroom residence with a study and spectacular views across the city skyline. The apartment features modern finishes, which have beautifully guided my design direction, allowing for a sleek and contemporary aesthetic.
In addition, I’m completing the furnishing of a private residence within the prestigious Pan Pacific Hotel. Both projects are located in sought-after postcodes, and my focus has been to ensure each design reflects the lifestyle and personality of the clients who will reside there. With a hotel-esque feel — true to my design style — each space balances luxury, comfort, and individuality.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?
It was actually the project I mentioned earlier. Like I always say, every project is different — but I tend to fall in love with my latest ones! I think it’s because with each project, I build on previous experiences, and that growth helps every new space become even better — and often my new favourite.
For this flat, I was especially proud of how I used furniture to enhance the layout. It wasn’t the easiest space to work with due to its layout, but I kept the design modern and practical, tailored to suit the client’s needs. What made it even more enjoyable was the creative freedom — and with little restriction on budget, I was really able to push boundaries and bring my full vision to life.

Interior Designer: New Concept Furnishings

Developer: Galliard Homes

Associated: O’Shea

Photography: Grant Frazer

New Concept Furnishings has been shortlisted for City Space (Apartment/Penthouse) Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2025.

New Concept Furnishings
New Concept Furnishings

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