Design LSM

Center Parcs are family holiday destinations, so creating a balanced environment for both adults and children is paramount. When Senior Designer Sally Williams was asked to inject a fresh look for Whinfell Forest in Cumbria she wanted to incorporate grown-up elements without being too sophisticated.

Muted taupe, fresh creams and blue greys will form a backdrop and help create a warm, calm atmosphere with splashes of red, orange, plum and acid green providing a vibrant twist. These accent colours will continue to be used in the lighting, cushions and dotted around the furniture. Seat pads for tub chairs and banquette seating will be re-upholstered in vinyl and seat backs in the more luxurious velour. The key feature is the Lakeside Inn building, which is a huge space with an open ceiling and exposed timber rafters. The biggest challenge was how to take advantage of the dramatic architectural features without overwhelming guests by its magnitude. The refit will include large ball pendants, which will be strategically positioned to break up these spacious areas.

Initial design ideas were presented to the client and having previously worked on The Foresters the brief became clear. Inspiration has been taken from the surrounding forest; trees, dappled light, autumnal tones – the approach was to interject these subtly and not be too literal. Sally comments: “I’m most excited about seeing the transformation because it had become tired and dated. I’m convinced that it is going to provide a really lovely family environment which compliments the beautiful location”.

The project completed in seven weeks, as planned. The client is so pleased with the results, Sally has been asked to start work on the Pancake House concept.