We’re delighted that Pawel Nawojczyk, Director of Architecture and Interiors at London-based SHH Architecture & Interiors, is a member of the judging panel for the WAN Awards 2024.
Pawel specialises in high-end residential new-build houses and refurbishment projects and believes that his true passion in architecture lies in serving the end user.
“What excites me most are projects that create a personal connection—designs that foster a homely, safe environment where occupants can thrive,” he says.
He explains that the importance of this connection with the end user truly hit home on one of the first properties he worked on in London in 2009.
“It was not only a landmark in terms of professional progression, as my first associate-level involvement, but also a meaningful opportunity to shape a space that truly embodied the needs of its occupants. While design aesthetics and the designers’ preferences are important, the input and interaction with those who will inhabit the space form the foundation of my design philosophy,” he says.
Pawel explains that his goal is “to promote wellbeing and happiness by crafting thoughtful, engaging, and welcoming spaces where both family life and the individual can flourish.”
He is currently working on a property to replace a dated 1960’s house in St Johns Wood that draws inspiration from traditional revival styles as well as a music pavilion exemplifying the seamless fusion of architectural innovation and outstanding acoustic performance.
Read on to discover Pawel’s key past projects.
St John’s Wood property, London, UK
"A beautifully located Arts & Crafts property bursting with character. A full refurbishment and upgrade, including a garden extension and a substantial new basement created under the existing house, breathed new life into the home and transformed it into a fantastic, eclectic space for a vibrant family of seven. This project is particularly dear to me, as it marked a milestone where I realized the significance of the connection between the property and its occupants, shaping my current design ethos."
Dubai Villa, United Arab Emirates
“Situated in one of the city’s most prestigious districts, the 28,000 sq.ft villa was designed in a Mediterranean style with Romanesque architectural influences throughout. One of the most impressive parts of the villa is the rooftop terrace which provides space for entertaining up to 200 guests with uninterrupted views across Dubai.”
Surrey Estate, UK
“We worked closely with the owners to completely refurbish and design the interior of this Arts and Crafts home in Surrey which is set in a large plot and benefits from a truly picturesque location with fantastic views. Their brief was given to the design team through a poem titled “An Ode to Home”. Energy efficiency was key to the client just as it is for SHH. Reclaimed wood was used throughout the project such as the Master Bathroom vanity units and fireplace surrounds, with tree stubs used as basin bases in the pool house, whilst reclaimed leather belts became the feature lining of the Master Suite doors.”
Buxmead Penthouse – London, UK
“We completed the transformation of an empty shell space into a slick, modern penthouse in London. We were invited by prime central London real estate specialist Henigman to design modern, refined interiors that maximise the luxurious nature of this private development.”
Hampstead family home, London, UK
“The brief was to replace an inefficient house, which was deemed architecturally insignificant to Hampstead’s Conservation Area, with a well-appointed and beautifully detailed contemporary home on a re-arranged, slightly larger footprint. The bulk of the house has been redistributed from the southern corner to the western facade, allowing an influx of natural light. The house has been designed with split levels, linking several spaces to the outside and ensuring that the setting on a sloping site becomes an asset rather than a setback, with exit to the outside spaces from three levels.”