Child Studio and Plenaire create imaginary holiday resort

Two photos. Left, outdoor sunning area with outdoor shower, standing lamp and coffee table. Right, large round bath surrounded by step with a platform with a round chair above it.

(Image credit: TBC)

last updated 9 July 2022

Many of us are not expecting to see a beach for a while, so London-based Child Studio has bought the seaside to us. In its lockdown project, Casa Plenaire, the duo have created an imaginary fantasy summer hideaway.

Keeping self care and wellbeing at the core of the initiative, Child Studio, made up of Che Huang and Alexy Ko, have joined forces with sustainable British skincare brand ‘Plenaire’ (translating to in the open air) for this rendered retreat. Child Studio works within the realms of spatial design, interior design and art direction, and for Casa Plenaire the team has developed a cinematic narrative with a ‘collage-like’ set of rooms, that appear to be lived-in with open books and the shower turned on.

The architectural folds of the paradise are inspired by archetypal villas of Balearic islands and Santorini houses – archways and undulating sun kissed spots, while peppering the rooms are midcentury pieces by Pierre Paulin, Eero Aarnio, and Greta von Nessen.

Bathroom with sink, wooden chair, coffee table next to large window with an ocean view.

Bathroom with counter sink, wooden chair &amp; table, large doorway onto patio and large window with ocean view.

‘The concept was born in response to the current uncertain times, where we find ourselves confined to our homes. We dream about far-away destinations, constructing stories from the personal collection of memories and desires,’ explain Huang and Kos. The virtual escape holds a calming palette, sandy walls and ceilings plus a clear blue sky – more meditative energy for our busy minds.

With our next trips and travel seeming far off, Child Studio has bought the sun, sea and sand a little closer in reach – ‘Casa Plenaire is designed to evoke the memories of a perfect holiday’ – we’re ready to pack our virtual bags.

Sujata Burman is a writer and editor based in London, specialising in design and culture. She was Digital Design Editor at Wallpaper* before moving to her current role of Head of Content at London Design Festival and London Design Biennale where she is expanding the content offering of the showcases. Over the past decade, Sujata has written for global design and culture publications, and has been a speaker, moderator and judge for institutions and brands including RIBA, D&AD, Design Museum and Design Miami/. In 2019, she co-authored her first book, An Opinionated Guide to London Architecture, published by Hoxton Mini Press, which was driven by her aim to make the fields of design and architecture accessible to wider audiences.