Mailen Design’s latest quarterly retreat was a perfect blend of inspiration, reflection, and team bonding, all set against the vibrant backdrop of London’s architectural landscape. This retreat was meticulously planned to foster creativity, celebrate our achievements, and align our future goals with our core values of sustainability and innovation.
The day was packed with enriching activities, from an architectural walking tour of North London’s modernist housing, to lunch and a meeting with panoramic views at The Standard, to a pit stop at one of our past hospitality projects and finally a zero-waste dinner at Silo. Each event was thoughtfully chosen to inspire and energise our team, strengthening our commitment to excellence in design and sustainability.
EXPLORING MODERNIST HOUSING IN NORTH LONDON
Our day began with a thoughtfully curated architectural walking tour of North London’s modernist housing, designed by James, one of our young architects. This experience highlighted the principles and philosophies that have shaped modernist architecture, enhancing our appreciation for design evolution and its lasting impact on contemporary practices.
Key stops included Samuel & Harding’s 'The New House' on Arkwright Road, Maxwell Fry’s 'Sun House' on Frognal Way, Wells Coates’ Isokon Flats, and Ernő Goldfinger’s terrace on Willow Road. Our team found immense inspiration in the ingenuity and foresight of these modernist pioneers. Walking through these sites, we saw how modernist architects prioritised clean lines and thoughtful use of materials, creating harmonious contrasts with the surrounding traditional Victorian and Edwardian homes.
The tour reinforced our commitment to integrating sustainable practices and innovative solutions in our projects. It was a reminder of the power of architecture to shape not only the physical environment but also the social and cultural landscapes of our communities. This experience was educational and inspiring, reinforcing our belief in the importance of continuous learning and curiosity in our practice.
QUARTERLY MEETING AT THE STANDARD
Following the tour, we gathered at The Standard for a meeting and lunch at our dedicated boardroom in Townhouse 9. The venue, with its panoramic views of London, offered a perfect setting for an afternoon of reflection and planning.
Having the city's eclectic architectural landscape as the backdrop for our quarterly meeting served as an ever-present reminder of the dynamic environment we contribute to. The sweeping views of London's diverse architectural styles, from historic landmarks to cutting-edge contemporary designs, poignantly mirrored our own commitment to creating innovative and contextually sensitive projects.
After a gorgeous lunch in the room, the meeting began with a review of our significant achievements from the last quarter, celebrating the successful completion of key projects and acknowledging the hard work and dedication of our team that has resulted in an impressive array of award shortlistings. We then went over some of the exciting projects and changes on the horizon for Mailen Design as we set ambitious goals for the future, with several upcoming ventures that promise to push the boundaries of architectural innovation and sustainability across residential, multi-residential, and commercial sectors. The session also covered strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing our collaborative efforts and integrating more sustainable practices into our workflow.
Our afternoon at The Standard not only provided an opportunity to align our goals and strategies but also reinforced our collective vision for the future. As we shared ideas and insights, the importance of teamwork and a unified approach became even more evident, energising us for the exciting challenges ahead.
PIT STOP AT BEER MERCHANT’S TAP
Next, we headed to Beer Merchant’s Tap, a project designed by our talented team. Located in the vibrant area of Hackney Wick, the venue is nestled amidst a mix of old industrial buildings and new creative spaces, creating an energetic and thriving atmosphere that honours the area's industrial past while embracing its artistic present.
Beer Merchant’s Tap is known for its extensive beer selection and welcoming atmosphere, embodying our philosophy of combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. The design reflects the area's dynamic spirit, with interiors that blend contemporary elements with subtle nods to the location's history. It was a pleasure to see our work thriving as a social hub, enhancing community interaction through thoughtful design. The bustling setting and positive feedback from patrons reinforced the importance of creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical, fostering a sense of community and engagement.
ZERO WASTE DINNER AT SILO
Our day concluded with dinner at Silo, the world’s first zero-waste restaurant. From its innovative sourcing of ingredients to its comprehensive waste management practices, Silo’s commitment to sustainability as a core principal mirrors our own ethos at Mailen Design.
The restaurant's design and architecture, featuring reclaimed materials and minimalist aesthetics, create an inviting and warm atmosphere. Exposed brick walls, recycled cork floors, and upcycled furniture contribute to an environment that is both stylish and environmentally conscious. The menu features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients,
meticulously prepared to emphasise minimal waste and maximum flavour, highlighting how delicious and inventive sustainable cuisine can be.
Dining at Silo was an inspiring example of how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of life. The restaurant’s approach to zero waste—encompassing everything from composting food scraps to using reclaimed materials for furniture—resonated deeply with our team. The experience reinforced our commitment to integrating sustainable practices into our projects, demonstrating that responsible design can enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
Sharing this meal was also a wonderful way to connect with our colleagues, celebrating the end of a productive and inspiring retreat in our own backyard. The conversation flowed as freely as the sustainably sourced wine, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.
Our quarterly retreat in London provided an invaluable opportunity to connect with colleagues, celebrate our successes, and draw inspiration from the city’s rich architectural tapestry. It reinforced our commitment to innovative, sustainable design and the importance of fostering a collaborative and dynamic team culture.
As we look ahead, we remain inspired and energised, ready to approach our projects with renewed vigour and a deepened commitment to excellence. Here’s to another groundbreaking year at Mailen Design, where our greatest strength is always our people.
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