Design destinations: Stylish spots this summer (Part 1)

Summer has been a bit of a washout so far, weather-wise at least. If you're looking at a last-minute break, we've put together a few design-led destinations which should be on your shortlist.

Mallorca is a favourite destination all year round, but if you've always headed straight for the beach, it's time to discover the island's capital, Palma. Set around a beautiful bay, with a soaring gothic cathedral built from honey-coloured stone, it's a perfect place for a visit this summer.

Like a smaller version of Barcelona, its architecture ranges from medieval to modernist, with all the galleries, shops, bars and restaurants you could wish for. There's also plenty of choice for design-led hotels but the stunning Nobis Palma is top of our list - bringing together the best of Scandi and Spanish design, it also boasts a spa, cocktail lounge and rooftop bar.

While we may not have enjoyed Balearic temperatures so far this summer, there have still been plenty of opportunities to eat and drink al fresco and we’ve added some great new pieces to our outdoor furniture collection.

The Souvenir Armchair and Side Chair (below) reinterpret the iconic shapes of seating used in Parisian gardens in the 18th century. Bringing a contemporary edge to the elegant, flowing lines that inspired it, Souvenir is stylish, stackable and so comfortable - a perfect choice for any outdoor space this summer. Choose from seven colours.

Or for more relaxed outdoor seating, the Buddy Oasi modular system adds something a little different to gardens, terraces and outdoor hospitality. We love the contrast between the lightness of the legs and the exaggerated curves of the seat. Create a sofa by adding backrests and choose a combination of colours to suit your style with a completely waterproof colour and removable outdoor fabric linings.

For another capital that delivers on the design front, head to Copenhagen. Architecture, shopping, culture and an incredible food scene make it a dream destination at any time of year.

If you're a fan of mid-century design, book a stay at Kanalhuset - a heritage building on Christianshaven island in the centre of Copenhagen, it has 12 boutique hotel rooms and the whole property is filled with vintage Scandinavian furniture and art.

Our furniture collection includes several pieces with a mid-century feel which work so well in contemporary commercial interiors. We love the Bunny Armchair - named for the shape of its unique armrests inspired by rabbit ears. Available in a range of fabrics and stain options for the solid oak legs.

Our Glow Sofa has a streamlined, slimline style that adds a retro touch to a bar, lounge or lobby - choose metal or wooden legs and upholster in a range of fabrics or leathers.

If you're tempted by a trip to the Olympics this summer, there's a Paris hotel which we think deserves a podium place. Le Cinq Codet is housed within the former France Telecom building from the 1930s, and following restoration by acclaimed designer Jean-Philippe Nuel is now a quietly luxurious hotel in one of the city's most elegant arrondissements.

We’ve worked on some fabulous hotel and restaurant projects recently, and it’s clear that choosing the right seating is key to creating an interior with impact, that also works well from an operational perspective and is comfortable and welcoming for guests.

Our Biba Side Chair is a great choice for a restaurant, bar or café - opt for a fully upholstered version, seat only, a cane version, or mix and match.

Lounge seating lets you make a statement with a standout shape or bold fabric - we loved the épinglé velvet used on the Roll Lounge Chair in our recent project for an atmospheric cocktail bar in London’s West End.

The Crabby Lounge Chair (above) is a brand new addition to our collection - combining real comfort with a bold contemporary shape, this would work perfectly in a bar or hotel lobby.

There’s also an option to go for something bespoke - a piece designed to suit your space and bring a unique element to your interior. Our recent project at Hotel Indigo, Newcastle, included these striking bespoke lounge chairs - upholstered in a textured woven fabric from Roma, they make a great first impression for guests arriving in this newly refurbished hotel.

You’ll find many more brand new pieces in our collection later this year, and we’re excited to see them in use in future projects. To keep up to date with our latest collection and new additions to our contract furniture range, join our mailing list and look out for our regular email newsletters, or follow us on Instagram.