Finch House shortlisted for SBID International Design Award

Samantha Tong, who works for the Affordable Housing and Healthcare Group, is in the running for this year's Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID) awards for her entry in the 'show flats and developments' category.

She brought the interior of Finch House, a landmark 19th-century Grade II listed building on Wilton Road, to life soon after it was converted from a derelict hospital into an apartment complex for over 55s.

Samantha said she centred her design on the well-being of residents while honouring the history of the "extraordinary" site.

Samantha Tong has been shortlisted for a presitigious design award. (Image: Affordable Housing and Healthcare Group)

Reminiscent of a stately home, a jaw-dropping chandelier cascades through the core of the building, which is full of colour and enhanced lighting, carefully selected to assist ageing eyes with wayfinding.

Open, spacious layouts of the lounges facilitate easy navigation and social interaction. Wide corridors and ample seating areas with inset rugs ensure accessibility for residents using mobility aids.

Stylish furniture pieces supplied by UK company Barons Furniture, were chosen for their comfort, durability and ease of use. Chairs and sofas have firm cushions, supportive armrests, and are designed at the optimal height for seniors to sit and rise with ease.

Read more: ​Restoration of Finch House completed - see inside the former Old Manor

Artwork in the entrance lobby, supplied by local company Inn Gear, tells the story of Finch House and how the Old Manor Hospital site has developed over time.

Renowned artwork such as Salisbury Cathedral by John Constable, paintings of Wilton House, Stonehenge and the racecourse also feature throughout the building.

As well as wood panelled walls, Acanthus and Plain Leaf Plaster Coving, William Morris wallpaper prints and a kitchenette to encourage residents to engage and form friendships over a coffee.

The downstairs owners' lounge in Finch House. (Image: Spencer Mulholland)

Samantha said: "It was important to me that residents felt at home the moment they entered the building, before even getting to their apartment.

"A building of such grandeur, steeped in history, deserved a magical transformation.”

An SBID award is considered one of the most coveted accolades for design excellence and success demonstrates the highest level of design skill and professional mastery.

To complete the final stage of judging, the public are now invited to vote for their favourite finalist designs - accounting for 10 per cent of the overall results.

Voting closes on Wednesday, September 11, at 5pm and a vote for Samantha Tong can be cast by visiting sbidawards.com/award-entries/2024/01-show-flats-developments-uk/finch-house/.