How do your “guest services” fit into your space 

In design projects, bathrooms are often overlooked or treated as an afterthought. However, we believe every space is equally important in the design process. A successful design emerges when spaces flow seamlessly, guided by a thoughtful narrative. ‘Like a good story, every element of design plays a crucial role, especially in bathrooms where space is limited. While trends can be appealing, I believe timeless design is more important- one that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional’, says Ieva Karaliute, Interior Designer at 20.20.  

In a restaurant project we recently completed for Chef and Writer Maria Bradford, we considered the entire guest journey from entering via the main High Street, through the Courtyard and through every corner of the two-story restaurant. Our focus was on the customer-facing parts and how we layer the brand and interiors with enough care, detail and attention. We suggested the hand soap in the bathrooms to be coal, as this is what was used in Freetown and by Maria in her childhood. This tiny idea creates meaning, and it adds to the story that we’re designing throughout the space. Hollie Down, Creative Director at 20.20, said ‘When designing the guest services at Shwen Shwen, we wanted them to be part of the guest experience. Every touchpoint and every element should be considered from the point of view of the customer, and it’s another part where we could have subtle nods to the inspiration behind the restaurant concept’.

How to make bathrooms a bit more sustainable  

Depending on the brief and a restaurant or venue’s stance on being eco-friendly, we would always suggest sensor lights and sensor taps, and we have also specified the latest trend in bathroom design recently, the wash station mirrors. These are bespoke units, where the water and soap dispensers are located behind the mirror, above the sinks, and the hand dryer is also provided. These are both reducing the waste of taps or driers being left on, but also look tidy because the wash basins are clear of tapware, soap dispensers and hand towels.  

Our favourite examples of loos 

We are really proud of The Mezz Restaurant and The Mezz Bar bathrooms within the AO Arena in Manchester. This project was launched in 2024; see photos below of what we created there. The design continues the aesthetic from the restaurant and bar, and is as important in our design as the rest of the space.  

We also recently completed 7 spaces at AstonVilla FC, the bathrooms, as seen below all again continue the storytelling within the spaces, are celebratory and practical for the customer’s use.

To conclude 

When creating successful interiors, it's crucial to consider the needs of both the client and the end user. Every element matters—from colour to scent to sound. It's the details that make all the difference. Whether designing a premium hospitality space or back-of-house toilets, every space holds equal importance. Each area should be thoughtfully considered to ensure it meets the needs of its users and aligns with the overall design vision. 

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