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property
Taufik Batisha’s top tips on home purchase
Bold designs done righT Guest Editor Nikki Hunt On:
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MAY 2020
HOw COvid-19 will CHange tHe waY OuR HOmeS lOOk wallPaPeR tRendS Of 2020 (and wHat nOt tO dO) keY influenCeRS Of inteRiOR deSign
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75E Loewen Road, Tanglin Village, Singapore 248845 | Tel: +65 6506 0920 www.designintervention.com.sg
CONTENTS
M AY
21 FLUID SHAPES Zaha Hadid’s legacy becomes inspiration for this series of vassels designed by the studio she left behind.
S H OP P I NG 22
NOW
V I S I T/ T H I N G S T O B U Y
WOODVIBESONLY For sustainably crafted surface panels with compelling patterns, sleek, high-quality wooden furniture and quality carpentry works, call on Woodvibesonly.
GREAT BUYS Our monthly roundup of the hottest new design products for the home.
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N EW STO R E
H OT S P OT
LIEBHERR FLAGSHIP STORE Homeowners can now walk in and purchase a professionalstandard refrigerator from their new store on Tras Street.
LUMO This newly opened gastro-bar lights up the local dining and bar scene with Scandinavianinfluenced decor, modern European flavours and experimental tipples.
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DESIGN/NEWS/PLACES TO
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OLIVETTA Western Mediterranean charm meets West Hollywood’s theatrical exuberance in this refined restaurant and bar on the edge of the renowned Melrose Avenue.
LIVING Our picks of charming wooden furniture pieces.
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Welcome Notes Check out this hot new dining spot. 4
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CONTENTS
M AY
DESIGN
I D E A S A N D I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M THOSE IN THE KNOW
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37 44
P EO P L E 35
DESIGNING LUXURY What do ultraluxury hotels Chedi Andermatt in the Swiss Alps, Aman Canal Grande in Venice, St. Regis Lhasa in Tibet, and MBS’s world largest rooftop inifity pool have in common? 40
A NEW LEASE OF LIFE Fang Low, founder of co-living company Figment, shares about his journey and hopes for the brand.
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UP CLOSE Hot food and interior stylist Mariana Velasquez opens up about her life and inspiration. 46
STAR AGENT Don’t be surprised to see Taufik Batisah the next time you go property hunting.
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Property Idol Taufik is topping the charts once again.
three-d conceptwerke pte ltd communicating space through design
interior design l design consultancy l interior styling l a & a works 24 eng hoon street singapore 169774 URL: www.three-d-conceptwerke.com l
l
tel: 6293-8001
l
fax: 6294-8001
email: enquiries@three-d-conceptwerke.com
CONTENTS
M AY
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FASHION SENSE In downtown Toronto, this 418-squaremetre project is a functional, luxurious and timeless home for a stylish, energetic family of five. 58
on the cover
THE LIVING GRID HOUSE The addition of a green facade as part of an A&A project breathes new life into an existing Sentosa Cove home.
66 THE ART OF COSY LIVING
Blending form and function has never look so comfortable and effortlessly stylish in this home of a couple who enjoy entertaining and spending quality time over good music.
Interior designer Nikki Hunt shows off her freshly renovated home. PHOTO JO-A NN GAMELO
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8
THE NEW MODERN
72 MOTHER’S TOUCH
This home reflects the collective aspirations shared by three generations, lovingly put together by the homeowners’ mother. 82
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HOMES
CUTE AND QUIRKY With the right colours and careful planning, it is possible for a small space to be more than enough for a family.
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MOW INTERIOR
CONTENTS
M AY
FEATURES T H E L AT E S T I N D E S I G N AND DECOR TRENDS
FEAT UR ES 88
INTERVENING DESIGN Having steered her team towards achieving countless awards from around the world, Nikki Hunt has proven herself a force to be reckoned with. 90
THE FUTUER OF INTERIOR DESIGN How will the home of 2030 look like, and what changes in our home’s design can we expect in the postCovid days to come? 94
MAVEN’S MARK When she is not busy designing interiors for clients, Nikki Hunt is constantly changing the look of her own abode. 102
ICONS OF INFLUENCE Design Intervention co-founder Nikki Hunt shares five designers who have influenced her style and direction.
1 06
WONDER WALLS A classic that has made a comeback, wallpaper is set to be a key trend for 2020, and now comes with endless design possibilities. Interior design maven and founder of Design Intervention Nikki Hunt weighs in. 1 12
MAX IT OUT Nikki Hunt, cofounder of awardwinning design studio Design Intervention, shares her essential tips on how to get the maximalist look for your home. 16
EDITOR’S NOTE 18
19 DIGITAL EDITION EXCLUSIVES 1 16 IN STORE 1 18 WHERE TO BUY 1 19
BUYING GUIDE 1 20
THE HARD TRUTH
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H&D.COM.SG
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Meet Our Guest Editor Spotlight on Nikki Hunt.
Editorial
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crEativE sEnior art dirEctor Nonie Chen (noniec@sph.com.sg) art dirEctor Kristy Quah (krisquah@sph.com.sg)
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editor’s note
s a f e at h o m e It was the poet John Milton, who in 1634, first said, “in every dark cloud, there is a silver lining.� And now, as Singapore gradually eases from the stringent Circuit Breaker measures set to protect its citizens, I believe it is the opportune time for all of us to find that silver lining throughout the Covid crisis. While social distancing has physically torn friendships apart, it has brought families closer as well. More importantly, it has also made all of us realise just how lucky we are to have a home to stay in while waiting for this proverbial storm to pass. For too long now, urbanites have taken their home for granted,
seeing it only as a place of rest. Hopefully, being stuck at home would have made us appreciate and see our humble abode as so much more than just a collection of rooms. I also hope this experience underscores the need and urgency for every homeowner to invest in making their homes not only look good, but comfortable and functional for all its inhabitants as well. For that reason, we are pleased to have celebrity designer Nikki Hunt as our guest editor in this issue, to share her personal tips on building a lovely dream home. In the meantime, stay healthy and remember to mask up when heading out.
photography AngelA guo art direction nonie chen
Yo u n g l i m e d i to r - i n - c h i e f
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real-Time design updaTes www.facebook.com/ homeanddecor.singapore The latest content on home decor and shopping scoops.
sighTs & inspiraTion check us ouT aT @homeanddecor_sg
conceal your household shelter door 8 stylish ways to conceal and integrate them into your home. tinyurl.com/concealhouseholdshelter
eclectic 3-bedroom home with retro touches Quirky touches and the owners’ hobbies are incorporated into the design. tinyurl.com/eclecticretrohome
homeanddecor .com.sg
Check out popular blog posts of the month more inTerior sTyles from our online image library
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In the may dIgItal Issue‌ Where classic meets modern Take a closer look at this beautiful home bathed in sheer elegance and contemporary accents.
boNus galleries & viDeos neW in los angeles Check out the cosy interiors and warm, sensual vibes of this hot new eatery in West Hollywood.
tropical indulgence Find out how celebrity designer Nikki Hunt creates captivating corners in her new home with wallcoverings and more.
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DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN P. L . INTERIOR DESIGN & CONSULTANCY DESIGN & BUILD | ADDITIONS & ALTERATIONS WW W.DW E LL.COM .SG
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d e s i g n n e w s , p l a c e s t o v i s i t, t h i n g s t o b u y
fluid shapes
1
trending
Make a splash Details matter and when it comes to your bathroom or kitchen, fittings like your faucets that can elevate the feel of your space. If you’re in the market for ones that ace both function and style, these ultra-sleek options are ones to consider.
1 . Axor MyEdition customisable basin mixer, price upon enquiry, from Hansgrohe. 2 . Square Basin Mixer with Rounded Edges, S$280, from Bath & Co. 3 . Pull Out Kitchen Mixer in Black Spout and Chrome, S$688, from Bath & Co. 4 . Toto by Hayon Extended Single Lever Lavatory Faucet, S$1,095, from W.Atelier.
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keeping it WarM
uty in plicity e the minimalist look, the Menu Reverse table lamp will fit right into your home. Made of unpolished travertine, a type of sedimentary rock, and bronzed aluminium, the Reverse lamp is a study in minimalist elegance. The Menu Reverse lamp retails for €549.95 (S$851.50) at www. menuspace.com.
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The reliable Thermos gets a fresh design update in its collaboration with local drawing community Band of Doodlers, this time showcasing Singapore’s flora and fauna in limitededition ‘Go Green’ tumblers and food jars. Painted in a multitude of bright hues, these are sure to add cheer to your day whenever you get a coffee to go. The ‘Go Green’ series retails from S$49 at Takashimaya and major department stores.
Add to cart
keTomei Fans of the ketogenic diet, meet Singapore’s first keto-focused meal subscription service, Ketomei. The local start-up offers low-carb meals that are keto compliant and approved by a certified Nutrition and Health Coach. Featuring a different Western and Asian menu each week, you can get six low-carb dishes, like Lemon Herb Baked Salmon & Beef Rendang, which are delivered twice a week. Meal plan prices start from $180 a week (two meals a day). . Enter promo code ‘Home & Decor’ for 15% off regular meal plan subscriptions, available for first-time users only. Visit www.ketomei.com for more information.
Artist oF the month nAeem mohAiemen Artist, filmmaker and writer Naeem Mohaiemen, now based in Bangladesh and the United States, uses film, installations, and essays to research socialist utopias and incomplete decolonisation. Despite underscoring the historic errors of left-wing politics, a hope for global politics to shift towards the left-wing is always a basis for his work. His feature-length threechannel video installation, Two Meetings and a Funeral (2017), is centred on Bangladesh’s hesitant, contradictory navigation of the 1973 Non-Aligned Movement
ediTor’s choice
meeting in Algeria and the 1974 Organisation for Islamic Countries meeting in Lahore. Two Meetings and a Funeral is on view at Non Aligned from 4 April to 21 June 2020 at NTU Centre for Contemporary Art Singapore, The Exhibition Hall, Block 43 Malan Road, Gillman Barracks.
ArtisAnAl scents If you need a calming sensorial experience on the daily, be sure to pay Le Labo’s flagship boutique, which opened in Takashimaya Shopping Centre earlier this year, a visit. For candle lovers, the fragrance brand’s hand-poured soy-based wax candles with pure cotton wicks come in ten fragrances, from the brand’s ubiquitous Santal 33 with a gentle smoky and leathery scent, to the sea-inspired Calone 17, and the fresh, aromatic blend of Verveine 32 with kaffir lime, eucalyptus, galbanum and violet leaves. The Classic candle retails at S$110, the Vintage candle at S$95, and the Santal 26 in a concrete vessel starts from S$140 for a set of three mini votive candles, available at #B1-31, Takashimaya Shopping Centre.
Tongue-in-cheek minimAlism
ti’s signature tongue-in-cheek designs start conversations and spice up any interior. One of its best-selling range is the collab collection with niche publication Toiletpap The Seletti Wears Toiletpaperr collection runs the gamut of homewares and furniture pieces printed with loud colours and arresting photo collages. Their latest porcelain tableware collection, however, is on the minimalist side, featuring a simple Toilepaperr logo – for those who like their minimalism with a fun little dose of irony. Furniture pieces and tableware collections from Seletti and Toiletpaper range from €16 (S$25 for an enamel mug) to €2,300 (S$3,000 for a two-seater sofa). Shop at www.shoptoiletpaper.com or find local retailers at www.seletti.it
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Dyson has made its first foray into hair straightening tools - the Corrale. With patented flexing manganese copper alloy plates that gather hair, hold them in place and distribute heat evenly, there’s no need to make multiple passes through your tresses, which contribute to more heat damage. the cordless device’s four-cell lithium-ion battery allows up to 30 minutes of cord-free styling, and has three precise heat settings on its Intelligent heat Control tech. the Dyson Corrale hair Straightener retails at S$699 at www.dyson.com.sg.
tile of the month
Photo tommaso sartori
Smooth aS Silk
Rain oR shine Singapore’s regular showers may be a dampener when you want to hang out on your patio or in the garden but with Philippe Starck and Italian furniture company B&B Italia’s latest collaboration, at least your furniture won’t be ruined. the oh, it rains! collection comprises a sofa and a garden armchair, both of which have a large
backrest that act as a screen to offer privacy, and is fashioned with a double layer of water-repellent fabric. In case of inclement weather, it can be folded down on top of the seat to protect the seat and cushions. the oh, it rains! sofa retails from $30,350, and can be purchased (indent order) from www. spacefurniture.com.
AvAnt GArde SurfAce For the luxurious appeal of granite but with stain- and crack-resistant qualities, put Dekton’s ultracompact surfaces on your shopping list. The new Khalo surface draws on the organic and distinctive look of Patagonia granite and bears beautiful pattern in a pale gold, shot with toasted browns and specks of intense black, then topped with a polished finish - great for your kitchen countertop, as a backsplash or as a wall cladding. Dekton Khalo retails at Cosentino, 34/35 Duxton Road. Visit www.cosentino.com. 24
shApe of You
Art in motion Inspired by Samsara, the Sanskrit word for “wandering” or “world”, Sandsara is a kinetic sand sculpture with a metal sphere that traces patterns across a bed of sand to create works of art that change throughout the day. It comes with an iOS and Android app, from which you can program the sculpture, choose the patterns, as well as customise your own design. Crafted with solid wood and available in either a circular or star-shaped frame, it imparts a meditative and artistic quality to your space.
For lighting fixtures with a contemporary and sculptural sensibility, look to Czech lighting brand Brokis, which is known for its hand-blown Bohemian glass lighting designs. One of its latest collections is Geometric, crafted with Brokisglass, a versatile material made from recycled glass shards. Each side can also be fitted with glass of a different colour.
The Geometric collection retails from €2,500 (S$3,863.80) and is available at www.brokis.cz.
The Sandsara project starts at $8,780 (S$506) on Kickstarter and is due to ship in August 2020.
PHOTO LG ELEctronicS SinGaPorE
news
Sweet victory LG Electronics has taken home a total of 19 accolades this year at the Red Dot Design Award competition. Most notably, the international design competition’s Best of the Best award in the product design category, which goes to LG’s 65-inch GX Gallery series OLED TV (model 65GX). The ultra-slim art-inspired slender TV is designed to sit flush on the wall and delivers a remarkable viewing experience with a new α (Alpha) 9 Gen 3 AI Processor, unmatched color expression and infinite contrast of OLED.
Sleek and Polished Italian furniture brand Poliform is now available at Space Furniture. The collection includes systems and furnishings for the entire house, featuring sleek, modern fittings that can be customised for the detail-oriented homeowner. Visitors will be able to see the collection in ‘day’ and ‘night’ spaces to get a feel for how the furniture will look in their home.
To see the collection, visit Space Furniture at 77 Bencoolen Street.
Past & Present The prestigious AHEAD Asia award for the Best Renovation and Restoration has been awarded to the redesign of Raffles Singapore. Following a two-year revamp led by acclaimed interior designer Alexandra Champalimaud of Champalimaud Design, the national monument was given a contemporary update that blends the hotel’s storied history with modern implementations that further enhance the guest experience.
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Sculptural Form Designed by Benjamin Hubert from British design studio Layer, the Beosound Balance defies all expectation with its rounded silhouette made of solid oak and knitted textiles. Its user interface can be hidden when not in use, so the Balance looks more like a sculpture than the powerful speaker it really is. With seven carefully-placed drivers and beam-forming technology, the Balance lets you choose between directed or room-filling sound for an immersive music experience. The Beosound Balance retails for S$3,200 at the Bang & Olufsen Grand Hyatt flagship store and selected B&O retailers.
Earthy ScEntS
Nothing says self-care like lighting a scented candle, and now you can care for the earth, too. Pass it On candles sit in holders made of biodegradable seedinfused paper, so you can plant them after the candles have burned down. Their first scent collection is inspired by iconic destinations that are endangered due to climate change, like the Great Barrier Reef (wood sage and sea salt) and the Amazon (goji and tarocco blood orange). The Pass it On plantable candle collection retails from S$29.90 at www.pass-it-on.co.
Exhibition of thE month materials & design
Dark SiDe oF the moon Astronomy buffs can now have a piece of the moon in their living room – well, not quite literally, but a detailed model of the cratered lunar surface recreated in jewellery-grade concrete using data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. Available in two sizes for display on your wall or desk, the intricate detail of the model is bound to be a talking point when guests come over. The Lunar Surface retails from $79 (S$112.60) on www.kickstarter.com.
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text Asih Jenie, melody bAy & michelle lee
What: Asians Civilisations Museum, Materials & Design Galleries Where: Asians Civilisations Museum, Level 3 When: Permanently from April 4, 2020 The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) has unveiled new and permanent galleries, which marks the last leg of a multi-year revamp. Located on the third level and collectively themed Materials & Design,
it comprises the new Fashion and Textiles, and Jewellery galleries as well as the refreshed Ceramics gallery with over 300 artefacts that offer an insight into Asian identities, histories and cultures.
a n a ll-new onl ine e xp er i enc e!
w w w. h o m e a n d d e c o r . c o m . s g
n e w s to r e
LEFT
One of Liebherr’s latest and greatest is the Monolith refrigerator, which paints an impressive image with its 2.13m height. bELow
The expansive kitchen island at Liebherr flagship store features integrated wine coolers.
Liebherr F L ag s h i p s to r e Homeowners can now walk in and purchase a professional-standard refrigerator from their new store on Tras Street.
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well-loved name among chefs and sommeliers, the Liebherr brand is known for its refrigerators, freezers, and wine coolers built to exacting German standards. The good news is that homeowners in Singapore can proudly own Liebherr’s professional-grade refrigerators, now that the brand has opened its flagship store on Tras Street. The new store, situated in a shophouse, is designed to look more like someone’s kitchen in a beautiful home rather than a showroom. Guests are welcomed into a warm, wood-panelled 28
space in tones of walnut and oak, complete with a kitchen island and bar. The exposedbrick backdrop behind the bar makes for an arresting focal point, stretching two storeys in what was once the shophouse’s airwell. These homely touches form the canvas to showcase Liebherr’s products, which can stand alone on their own or be integrated into the kitchen itself. Guests can experience for themselves how the refrigerators can be concealed by panelling, or how the wine coolers can be accessed from beneath the kitchen island. In pride of place is the new Liebherr Monolith refrigerator – aptly named for its impressive height of 2.13m – which was launched together with the showroom. An extensive range of other cooling options is text MELody bay
available as well, including the BluPerformance Side by Side refrigerators which combine a fridge, freezer, and wine cooler that can store up to 48 bottles of Bordeaux. Their combinations are modular, too, so discerning clients can customise the configuration of the fridge and freezer for an optimal kitchen workflow. The Liebherr flagship store is located at 70 Tras Street. For more information, visit www.liebherr.com.
N E W S TO R E
customised in various fabrics, marble types and wood finishes. Take a piece of Ukraine home with Guskha Wool’s rugs, throws and coverings that combine local traditions, stories and expertise in weaving woolen products with contemporary and unique designs. Handwoven by local skilled artisans with decades of experience, each piece is created using 100 percent wool sourced from the brand’s own farm as well as a curated pool of local farmers. As for those who need a little help with space planning, design consultation or even have an old piece of wooden furniture that could use a touch of refreshing, you’ll be glad to know that Woodvibesonly offers these services, too.
WO O DV I B E S O N LY For sustainably crafted surface panels with compelling patterns, sleek, high-quality wooden furniture and quality carpentry works, call on Woodvibesonly.
Visit Woodvibesonly at 81 Geylang Bahru #1-2674 (by appointment only),
T
here’s nothing quite like wood to add warmth, character and natural beauty to a space. If you’re looking to up your home decorating game with beautiful wood furnishings, be it parquet flooring, an arresting feature wall or chic furniture, make your way to multidisciplinary workshop Woodvibesonly. The warehouse unit is currently home to two in-house brands, Oliowood and Mokkomokko, as well as Ukrainian label Gushka Wool. Oliowood occupies the first level and upon stepping in, visitors will find its beautiful handcrafted surface panels lining the walls. In a nod to sustainability, these give reclaimed wood, namely unused off-cuts and small wedges from timber construction, a new lease of life. In fact, Oliowood promises no trees cut in the process of creating its designs.
tel: 9816-9906 or find out more at
Salvaged solid wood pieces are meticulously restored and assembled to create customisable eye-catching tessellated panels. These can be fashioned into stylish tables and stools, used as flooring or as decorative wall panels that add depth and visual interest to your space. Wood types run the gamut from teak, mahogany, oak and walnut to other specialty hardwoods. Head up the steps and you’ll find timelessly stylish solid wood furniture by Mokkomokko on the mezzanine level. Comprising the same folks behind Oliowood, the team sources for quality materials from around the globe, like Burmese teak and marble. Made with excellent craftsmanship and woodworking techniques, the designs gravitate towards clean lines and functional forms favoured by modern users. They can also be text Michelle lee
above
Discarded wood gets upcycled into beautiful decorative panels that can be customised to suit your space.
www.woodvibesonly.com.
right
Mokkomokko’s handcrafted solid wood furniture deliver on both form and function. botto M
Newly woven products are washed in the clean mountain river and dried in the Ukranian mountain air, which according to Gushka Wool, enhances their durability, fullness and colour.
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LIVING
K N O C K O N WO O D
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1. Thomas Bina Juana Bookcase, $4,010 nett, from The Beuro. 2. Twist Bed, price is $2,300 from Mountain Living. 3. Spot Bedside Table, $299, from Castlery. 4. InAnkara Grey Wash Frame Chair with Fabric Cushion, $1,799, from Crate and Barrel.
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5 . Oliowood Black Wood Marquetry Feature Wall, from Woodvibesonly. 6. Resident Offset Stool Designed By Philippe Malouin, from Made and Make.
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H O T S P OT
LUMO This newly opened gastro-bar lights up the local dining and bar scene with Scandinavian-influenced decor, modern European flavours and experimental tipples.
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here’s a new hangout spot in Boat Quay. Taking its name from the word for “light” in the international auxiliary language Esperanto, Lumo is a 1,600 sq ft cocktail bar and restaurant that specialises in modern European fare combining wood-fire cooking with modern methods, as well as innovative cocktails. Driven by the concept of light, from the menu to the design of the place, owner Alex Chok shares, “We envisioned interiors that capture and instill the feelings of community, a defining principle of Lumo, through the values and symbolisms of light. We hope to create a welcoming social space that exudes positivity and creativity.” Collectively designed by Lumo’s team, the 70-seater
joint is split into two distinct spaces – a bar and an open kitchen that embrace the chic simplicity of Scandinvanian themes. The bar area features dark marble table tops, a black veneer-clad wall and sleek leather furnishings that give the industrial feel of its concrete flooring and wooden slats a degree of modern
sophistication. A contemporary LED light fixture mirrors the curvature of the counter, and together with warm lights under the countertop, cast it in a soft glow. The open layout as well as informal seating options, from high stools and U-shaped booth seats upholstered in olive green leather to a long communal table, allude to an ambience that encourages lots of social interaction - much like a cool house party. Full-height glass windows allow for views of the street outside, further adding to the sense of openness. To check out what’s cooking, walk through a mirrored passageway that leads to the open kitchen. Here, you can park yourself at the counter or at one of the dining tables to watch head chef Martin Wong and his team sear or smoke meats over a wood-fire grill. While you’re there, don’t miss out on Lumo’s repertoire of playful breakfast-inspired cocktails. And if they don’t impress those of you with adventurous taste buds, head bartender Josiah Chee’s Impossible Meat-infused concoction will. Lumo is at #01-00, 50 South Bridge Road. To find out more, visit www.lumo.sg.
text Michelle lee photos Koh Sze Kiat/oddinary StudioS and da PhotograPher
toP
High tables, including the bar counter, are at a height of 95cm - suitable for both seated meals or standing and mingling. BeloW le Ft
The Aged Chicken Midwings Aigre Doux are dryaged for three days, then smoked with applewood on the grill. BeloW r ight
The open kitchen with steel furnishings and a marble counter imparts a luxe, industrial vibe.
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h o t s p ot
o L I V E t tA Western Mediterranean charm meets West Hollywood’s theatrical exuberance in this refined restaurant and bar on the edge of the renowned Melrose Avenue.
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oining the deluge of restaurants and bars on Melrose Avenue is the Mediterraneaninspired Olivetta, which brings an old-world splendour to Los Angeles’ famous shopping and dining street. Featuring a coastal European menu by executive chef Michael Fiorelli, it straddles the line between fine dining restaurant and late-night bar, and is helmed by restaurateurs Matt and Marissa Hermer. For the project, the duo tapped on design studio Fettle headed by Tom Parker and Andy
Goodwin - which dreamed up a mesmerising space with decadent interiors highlighted by bespoke lighting, custom wallpaper and artworks by renowned artists. An open layout seamlessly melds its four sophisticated dining areas. “The key for us was to take this feeling of glamour and add to it the punchiness and vigour of modern West Hollywood. The balance between that old-world, relaxed chicness and the more playful, bold locale was really interesting,” says Tom. The front of the 150-seater establishment
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The Barroom embraces jewel tones, art and luxurious furnishings. top ri ght
The vibrant bespoke wallpaper by artist Adam Ellis draws inspiration from destinations in the South of France. ri ght
Details, like tassels hanging off velvet and leather seats, add to the glamorous ambience. o pposi te
In the Sunroom, bougainvillea vines recall northern Italy’s public gardens, while the gloss stucco finish of the walls takes reference from Greek islands.
hints at its interiors with a charming verandah with a terracotta walkway. Flowers and foliage hanging from the ceiling and marble bistro tables overlooking the street allude to a welcoming vibe. In the lounge-bar dubbed The Living Room, aqua hues echo the Mediterreanea Sea. This, together with plush leather and velvet seating, mohair walls with great acoustic qualities, and a pillshaped bar, characterise the space. Artworks ny Stephanie Morton, Jack Lewis and Emily Baker add a contemporary juxtaposition to the old world vibe. Leading from the lounge’s crittall windows is the Sunroom, an idyllic courtyard outfitted with an marble fireplace and a striking art piece by artist Larry Bell. Wicker seats, glass
pendant lights, ceiling fans and lush greenery balance the chic formality of marble-topped tables with a laid-back mood. The Dining Room is a lesson in maximalism, with a blend of rich colours, sumptuous fabrics, tasselled lampshades and blown glass lights. The ceiling is draped with fabric in a nod to luxury hotels on the French Riviera. You can’t miss the arresting wallpaper adorned with flora and fauna, a key feature customdesigned for this project by London-based artist Adam Ellis. Theatrical and glamorous, the Barroom impresses with a magnificent marble bar, fabriclined ceiling, blue mohair walls and vibrant art pieces, including mixed media works by Blakeney Sanford and Shana Frase. Enjoy post-dinner drinks in refined style, with a DJ setup and a cabaret stage that come to life with nightly live music and performances as the evening progresses.
good to know West Hollywood’s Design District is also home to numerous design studios, art galleries, international and independent homeware stores, and the Pacific Design Centre.
Visit www.olivetta.la to find out more about the restaurant.
text Michelle lee photos tanveer Badal, Frank Wonho, and luciana kelsey
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Designing Luxury
spotlight
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ean-Michel Gathy has been referred to as the “living legend” of hotel design and he is highly-sought after by luxury hoteliers the world over. Just five years after graduating from Belgium, he founded luxury architectural firm Denniston in Hong Kong. “It was difficult in the beginning, especially for a young foreigner, so I started out doing mainly interior projects,” he recalls. His first big break came from Adrian Zecha, the founder of Aman Resorts in 1989 and he was exclusively designing Aman and GHM projects across the world for the next decade. Having built a reputation for designing highly-successful luxury resorts, he started getting commissions from topend luxury brands such as St. Regis, Mandarin, Four Seasons and LVMH among others. Creative flair With projects all over the world, Jean-Michel practically lives on an airplane, travelling as many as 220 days in a year. For him, inspiration is everywhere. “I have a very analytical mind- I analyse and study anything and everything that I see or that I come across while travelling. And when you do this continuously from morning to night, you accumulate a huge library of resources in your mind that just emerge when I sit down to design,” he says. Despite having designed hundreds of hotels, he still manages to create something new every time. “Maybe this is what people call creativity.” Luxury is what you make of it Jean-Michel measures the success of a hotel or resort 36
1. Located on New York’s Crown Building, Aman New York is scheduled to open this year. 2 . The lobby of Aman New York. The hotel is only the second urban location in Aman’s collection. 3 . Completed in 2010, the design of St. Regis Lhasa in Tibet was inspired by the Sera Monastery an dretains some of its site’s existing trees. 4 . View of the indoor pool at the spa at St. Regis Lhasa.
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“MANY ARCHITECTS DESIGN THINGS THAT THEY LIKE BUT THEY FORGET THAT THEY SHOULD BE DESIGNING FOR THEIR GUESTS AND NOT AS AN EGO TRIP FOR THEMSELVES.” 3
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by the extent to which it has been designed with the guests in mind. “Many architects design things that they like, but they forget that they should be designing for their guests and not as an ego trip for themselves,” he emphasises. When it comes to designing luxury resorts for a very discerning clientele, there is no cookie-cutter solution. “Luxury means different things to different people. Some people equate money with luxury, while travelling is a luxury to others. For a banker in New York, time is his luxury. For someone in Hong Kong, space is a luxury. So the notion of luxury is very much dependent on who you are and what you do in life,” he analyses. For Jean-Michel, luxury means comfort and a successful hotel is one that is comfortable for its guests. However, the definition of comfort varies among different individuals. There is also the issue of having different priorities. “A teenage guest may place high priority on having high-speed and seamless access to the internet, whereas his father considers a comfortable bed the most important. So, the art of designing a good hotel is to ensure that you address most of the desires of your guests 37
because it is not possible to address all of their desires,” he explains. “The bottom line lies in knowing exactly what type of hotel it is going to be and what sort of clientele you are going to have,” he adds. The nature of luxury is such that people get accustomed to it; what wowed them before becomes the norm and they expect more. The challenge for architects and designers is to be innovative and stay one step ahead. “Coming up with new ideas becomes more difficult as almost everything has been done before, but it all boils down to creativity. We try to create with new materials and new technology, which allows us to execute designs that we could not achieve before,” says Jean-Michel.
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Designed to see and be seen With over 40 years of industry experience, Jean-Michel observes a change in the way people see and use hotels. “In the past, a hotel was just somewhere to sleep, but now it is a lifestyle venue where people go to dine or to be seen,” he says. To him, a resort or hotel is like “a home away from home”. People try to find something that they are familiar with but also provide a change in lifestyle, so the design needs to evolve accordingly. “Lifestyle has influenced the design of hotels and hotels are a reflection of the people who stay in and who frequent them.” This association with lifestyle means that architects and designers need to be more knowledgeable. “Before, it is good enough to design a good hotel room. Now, you also need to design and create
5 . Completed in 1993, Amanwana on Moyo Island in Indonesia was the first of many Aman resorts designed by Denniston. 6. A view to the ocean from the Jungle Cove Spa at Amanwana. 7. Denniston’s luxury tent concept takes glamping to new heights even before the portmanteau glamping was coined. 8 . The infinity pool with an ocean view at loctaed within the Noonu atoll at the northern part of Maldives. 9. Comfortably rustic materials meet stately scale at Cheval Blanc Randeli. 10. The open bath concept at the Cheval Blanc Randheli.
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the spaces around the rooms, which encompass music, decor, layering of elements etc.,” he points out. There is also a wider palette of materials available, and technology has also made it possible to realise things that were not possible before. Architects and designers need to be in the know in order to be more creative. Having worked on many hotels in Asia, including the conceptualisation of the world’s largest rooftop infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands Singapore, he feels that Asian hospitality is unique in its own way. “In Asian culture, people do not normally entertain guests in their homes, unlike in the West. They prefer to bring their guests to hotels or restaurants, so the image of the hotel becomes very important because it reflects who they are.”
The architect and the man He is currently working on projects all over the world, including a Four Seasons in Tokyo and Bangkok, an Aman in New York, and some exceptional private villas. He couldn’t pick a favourite: “Every project is unique in its own way. It is just like my children; they are all different, but I love them all.” He admires architects I.M. Pei for his control of symmetry and geometry, and Tadao Ando for his brutalist style and the pureness of his works. And he considers Srilankan architect Geoffrey Bawa the father of tropical architecture. What about his own style? “Sometimes dramatic, sometimes intimate, but always charismatic” is how he sums up both the JeanMichel Gathy style and JeanMichel Gathy, the man. 39
people
A New LeAse of Life Fang Low, founder of co-living company Figment, shares about his journey and hopes for the brand.
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o-living certainly isn’t a new trend in Singapore – while there are plenty of well-established players in the market, there are boutique ones that offer a much more upscale option, like Figment. Designed for executives and creatives who value heritage and local flavour, the Figment brand specialises in shophouses that each have a distinct personality. Although they don’t come cheap – a shophouse suite starts from $2,200 a month – Figment homes are well-appointed, intimate spaces that stand
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out from the run-of-themill crowd. Creations by local designers like Ministry of Design and Scene Shang feature heavily in all 15 homes in their portfolio, including the Lorong24A Shophouse Series in Geylang. We sit down with the founder, Fang Low, to find out more about his journey. What inspir e d you start Fig m e nt in th e First pl ace ?
The Singapore skyline we know changes all the time. After working abroad, I came back to find that so much has changed, that Singapore essentially has
construction going on all the time. So in a way, Figment arose as a response to the mounting anxiety that I felt coming back to all this change, to this Singapore that was always changing. But of course, it’s so much more complex than that. Figment is also a mixture of all the different passions that I have, like my love for travel, for instance. I used to couchsurf a lot in different countries, which let me have a sense of what it was like to live local and be a part of the place. Being able to immerse myself in the local architectural vernacular helped
me build memories in that place, and we hope to create the same memories in a Figment home that people otherwise wouldn’t have if they go to a condominium or hotel to stay.
together as one. I believe that these different layers of personality add vibrancy that turns a house into a home, because it’s all about building memories of that specific place.
Is It b ecause th e r e ’ s
You r fam IlY has alwaYs
a lot m o r e char ac te r
b e e n In pro pe rt Y. h ow has
an d local fl avou r In
that shape d You r vIsIo n
th e s e sho phous e s ?
fo r fIg m e nt ?
Yes, the shophouses have a lot of character, but we also layer on different creative personalities. The artist Arthur Tay, the designers, the artisans Roger & Sons who created the furniture, Fossa Chocolate -- there are so many stories coming
When I was growing up, my dad would drive me to random streets in different neighbourhoods to look at shophouses, and to try different dishes. I looked forward to it a lot, and the experience of growing up around these shophouses is
something quintessentially Singaporean. It’s something that I reflect on a lot and want to share with other people. So a lot of that has rubbed off on how I look at things today. Separately, when I was in NYU studying for my business degree, I interned at Christie’s Fine Art auction house. Although it didn’t end well – I ended up breaking a Ming teacup that was worth 45 grand – I realised I didn’t just have a passion for art, I had a passion for shophouses as works of art. Art is a distinctly Western concept, at least in my opinion, but there are so many things in different cultures that were not
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1. Fang Low, the founder of coliving company Figment. 2. The Canvas House on Blair Road features an all-white facade, allowing the focus to be on the doors at the entrance. 3. Created by the Ministry of Design, the Canvas House was blanketed with a layer of white, a symbolic canvas for creating a new future.
4 . In the suites, visitors will see a “time shadow” cast by the bed, which reveals the underlying floor and pays tribute to the movement of time. 5 . A circle of unpainted brick offers a vignette into the history of the shophouse.
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photos edward hendrIcks
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PLENTY OF PEOPLE DO CHANGE WHAT THEY DO AND THE LINES ARE BLURRING, AND WE JUST HAVE TO FIND THEM AND BRING THEM TOGETHER IN THE FIGMENT FAMILY.
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originally intended as art, like teacups and bowls, and they are beautiful anyway. To be able to work with buildings as art, that’s along the same lines. HOW DO E S FIG M E NT DIFFE R E NTIATE ITSE LF FRO M OTH E R CO - LIVING OP TIONS?
photo IVAN TAN, IVANTAN.COM
Figment is moving away from the concept of co-living in a building; we’re much more human-scale, with 4-6 people in the same house. I think that’s essentially the sweet spot. There was a co-living survey done by Ikea, which showed that while people are open to co-living, they don’t want to share their
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private spaces – which is why every one of our rooms has an en-suite bathroom. Neither do they want to share the house with many other people. So for us, capping it at 4-6 people was just right. It’s how I personally want to co-live. I’m sure there are people who value a more condominium-like setup with facilities, but someone who values the local character, privacy and spaciousness that we offer will come to Figment. While a lot of other coliving companies do pool parties and barbecues, we’re not only about having fun. We do private dining events where we get local chefs in to prepare intimate dinners for 10-15 people, each time in a different shophouse. Not just that: we also bring our members out to different exclusive members’ clubs, and they appreciate the access that we provide. There is networking, but on a much more intimate scale for the executives and creatives who live with us. HOW IS TH E DE SIG N FO R E ACH SHOPHOUSE CON CE P TU ALISE D - DO YOU G IVE CARTE B L ANCH E TO DE SIG N E RS , O R AR E YOU VE RY INVO LVE D IN
photo JESS WONG, SCENE SHANG
TH E PROCE SS?
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We do give different designers creative freedom to go out and do what they want. It’s funny you mentioned carte blanche, because the Ministry of Design house is literally all white. For these homes, we pick designers that we trust. They come under referral from other designers, or we go to brands like Scene Shang who are the best fit for
What are your thoughts on the rise of the coliving trend in singapore?
I think it’s not just in Singapore, this is how people around the world want to live. I think that the convenience and flexibility that it offers reflect the preferences of an increasingly mobile expat population. It’s likely that over the next five to ten years, we’ll see co-living becoming more entrenched, much like how co-working spaces are common now. did you face any challe ng e s alo ng th e
works of art. So while the young patron’s circle did not work out, right now I think what we’re doing has more staying power, and it’s validated by the different expats that choose to live with us.
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Wou ld you say you r e xpe rie nce in th e co r p o r ate Wor ld has alloWe d you to u n de rstan d you r targ e t au die nce b e t te r?
I think our audience is very cosmopolitan. My experience of having had classmates all over the world, taking a year and a half off school to travel the world, and the languages I learned on my travels really informed how I could look into bringing together this cosmopolitan tribe today. I’d say it’s a “bourgeois bohemian” audience, like ex-bankers, ex-consultants who are now doing more creative pursuits. Plenty of people do change what they do and the lines are blurring, and we just have to find them and bring them together in the Figment family.
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photos studio periphery
the place – like Shang House, which has all the different heritage elements. It’s more about the people than anything else. These are people we have chosen and curated, and so we give them freedom for the actual designs. I like to say that each of our homes has a distinct personality, which is what attracts a potential member. Maybe they’ll find that the Shang House’s design is more for them, or maybe the one by Studio Juju.
Way Wh e n e stab lish ing fig m e nt ?
What do th e n e ig h bou rs
I envisioned Figment as something more of a movement. A few years ago, I tried to start a young patron’s circle in Singapore, like an art collective. It failed terribly: we didn’t have many people, the organising committee wasn’t very hands-on, but we really wanted to push for a sort of cultural change. After that, taking a break to do my graduate studies led to the idea for Figment, and now we’re doing shophouses as
th in k about th e ho m e s?
Initially they had some apprehension that it was going to be partying, a lot of noise — the usual co-living setup. But we invited them over to look and they really liked the design of the shophouses. We’re planning to host more events, more dinners and get-togethers that we can invite the neighbours to as well. Ultimately, we want to be an addition to be the neighbourhood.
6. Living in a shophouse has its benefits, like a dining area filled with natural light that streams through from the skylight in what was once the airwell. 7. A rattan screen at the entrance of Shang House harks back to the rattanmanufacturing history of Balestier.
text Melody Bay
8 . Designed by Studio Juju, the Still House uses natural materials to instill a sense of calm. 9. Organic shapes and a muted palette characterise the Still House, accented by pops of colour on the doors and wall art.
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u p c lo s e
MariaNa Velasquez The celebrity food stylist shares with Home & Decor her daily routine and what her last meal on earth would be.
house. It was a big colonial-style home in Bogota, with a center patio and white bougainvilleas all around. Name one cause you will fight for and why. I want to see a better quality of food being served in the public school systems, including edible school gardens and an education about where our food comes from, preserving the rituals of the table and how to take care of our health. Name one style that you hate and never want to see again… Eighties Goth. What gets you out of the bed in the mornings? That would have to be the cup of freshly-brewed black coffee, that my husband Diego brings to me while I am still in bed. Name one singer you like to listen to while you work. I love listening to Celia Cruz, a Cuban singer, whose voice and passion for music makes my cooking all shake like Celia’s hips. I also love the song Fina Estampa as interpreted by Caetano Velozo. Tell us more about your favourite pet. My friend’s cat Papa Joe - they were my neighbors when I was
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growing up and Papa would request to come visit me by sitting outside my door every morning. He was so smart and loyal and I miss him now that I’ve moved out of my childhood home. Which natural element inspires you the most? I love the ocean, because you can always count on the waves kissing the sand. It is reassuring to know that such constants exist in the world, and that gives me a sense of confidence. Describe your fondest memory as a child. I remember spending a lot of time at my grandmother’s
Describe your personal design style. Organic, vintage-inspired, lose, real and a little messy. What would you like to have as your last meal on earth? A glass of robust Barbaresco wine, a bowl of bucatini pasta with tomato ragu, basil from the garden and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For dessert, a ripe melon drizzled with sherry and a piece of salted chocolate. Name one movie you’ve watched more than once. I am love because its art direction, wardrobe and sentimentality, matches my own style and sensibilities.
H e H o r l g a s i n ec a sp
THe sHower revoluTion Design and function meet seamlessly in a perfectly produced showerhead from hansgrohe’s Rainfinity range, featuring state-of-the-art PowderRain and Intense PowderRain technology.
When searching for a showerhead, homeowners tend to focus on the look of the fixture without putting much thought into the way it performs. But the fact is a well-made showerhead should not only look good, it has to enhance your showering experience as well. A well-made showerhead should not just fit into the style of the home, it should also deliver the right amount of water with just the right amount of impact on the skin, evoking a sense of comfort and luxury for the user. That’s where hansgrohe’s Rainfinity range ticks all the boxes in your checklist for the perfect showerhead. As a world-renowned
tap and shower specialist with 119 years of history in producing quality bathroom fixtures, Hansgrohe is no stranger to offering solutions for all your bathroom needs. The Rainfinity range, from its hansgrohe brand, boasts of several innovations in its design, firstly the large showerheads are available in modern matte white finish and a graphitecoloured spray disc, both of which make ideal complements to any chic interior design style (be it Minimalist, Scandinavian or Industrial). Secondly, homeowners will be pleasantly surprised by the PowderRain water outlet design, enhanced by the subtly arched spray
disc, which serves to deliver droplets of water exactly where it is needed. With PowderRain, each water jet is divided into four ultra-fine openings. Imagine thousands of micro-fine water droplets gently cascading over your body, lightly enveloping your skin in soothing streams of clean flowing water. Another feature of the Rainfinity hand shower is the ease at which a user can toggle between shower modes, thanks to the absolute convenience of hansgrohe’s proprietary Select button. With it, users can switch between the PowderRain, Intense PowderRain and MonoRain modes with just the simple push of a button.
For a deeper soak, opt for the Intense PowderRain option, which concentrates the water output towards the centre of the showerhead, while the MonoRain spray offers a soothing regenerative effect on the arms and legs with targeted powerful Kneipp-inspired jets. Owing to the new technology within the Rainfinity showerhead series, your showers are now quieter, provide more efficient use of water and reduce splashing around the bath area. The microopenings also help by reducing the occurrence of limescale around the showerhead, ensuring that you have nothing to worry about every time you step into the shower.
For more information on the Rainfinity showerheads, visit the Hansgrohe Aquademie at 69 Mohamed Sultan Road, tel: 68845060, www.hansgrohe.com.sg.
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property
Star agent
Don’t be surprised to see Taufik Batisah the next time you go property hunting. Our first Singapore Idol is now a newly minted property agent, and a very successful one too.
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ew people – Taufik Batisah himself included – would have expected his career path to turn out the way it did. The Marine Engineering graduate from Singapore Polytechnic planned to complete his National Service and start sailing, maybe pursue an advanced diploma after a few years. As Lady Luck (or Lady Fame) would have it, he was crowned Singapore Idol in 2004. Since then, he has released several albums in Singapore and regionally, ventured into acting on TV, film and stage, and picked up multiple awards for both his singing and acting chops, including Pesta Perdana 2019 TV Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role - Drama Special, for the telemovie “Gunting”. In 2018, he co-opened a fried chicken joint, Chix Hot Chicken, dishing up fried chicken served Nashville-
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photo 123rf.Com
style. And last October, the multi-hyphenate added a new title – Real Estate Agent – to his burgeoning resume. Taufik is not the first celebrity-turned-property agent, nor will he be the last. Other TV/movie actors turned agents include Benjamin Heng and old-timers Lynn Poh and Yang Libing. Taufik is off to a roaring start. For starters, he passed the notoriously tough Real Estate Salesperson exam on his first try (“I was really blessed!”). Within three months as a property consultant with PropNex Realty, he won three awards: Platinum Achiever for clocking above $100,000 of commission; Top Exclusive Lister for the month of December 2019; and Top HDB transactor. The Hype Records artiste explains that this is not a career switch but rather, branching out into a third interest. Establishing a third revenue stream, he candidly says. It must be a very lucrative stream, we tease. He chuckles and says he’s been very blessed to be part of ‘sitimuszaideanbatisahbros’ (search for them on Instagram) aka ‘The A Team’, which comprises of Taufik’s brother, cousin Zai, and their longtime colleagues Siti and Dean. Together, the quintet cover the whole of Singapore, with each specialising in one region. “I’m still a newbie and I’m grateful for everything they are teaching me. Whatever hat I wear, I am ultimately a worker. I give my
best in everything I do. Just be sincere, the rest will come,” insists the humble idol. Can you tell us more about your personal home investment journey so far?
I’m currently staying in the same Executive Maisonette (EM) in the West, that I bought with my mum nine years ago. When I was younger, my father was in the interior design. I remember seeing him in an HDB flat with a staircase so that became my dream home. When I could afford my own home, I didn’t seek anyone’s advice, I just went for it! Being self-employed, I don’t have much CPF so I have been paying for it mostly with cash. Now, as an agent, I realise that using cash is a good thing. how so?
When one uses the funds in your CPF’s Ordinary Account (OA) to pay for your property, you will eventually need to
return the accrued interest to your OA after you sell it. For me, since I didn’t use much CPF, the accrued interest won’t affect my sale proceeds too much. However, it really depends on every individual’s specific situation. For example, if one has the means, paying with cash even if you have enough funds in your OA will save on from returning the accrued interest in future. But if you need to use your OA to finance your property, that’s fine too! Different buyers and sellers have different needs.
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Taufik was accorded the Top HDB transactor award shortly after his foray into property consulting. below
Taufik bagged three awards within the first three months of his new role.
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photo 123rf.coM
“Whatever hat I Wear, I am ultImately a Worker. I gIve my best In everythIng I do.” -taufIk batIsah
How Has your experience as a property agent been so far?
It has been such an eye opener for me. I always start my presentation by listening to my client’s needs and wants. Then we help them with financial calculations and planning. We’ve done quite a few BTO upgrades to private resale condos or landed properties. We want everything to be very safe for our clients so that they can buy and enjoy their lifestyle with no, or not too much cash top-up when they service their mortgage. We highlight all the blind spots that they don’t see. The feeling of coming into a room when the client
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is sometimes a bit clueless, and just being able to help them with all the important info about HDB necessities wt cetera, I get a different rush from say, performing. This is a different form of value I can give to people. I really, really enjoy it. Some presentations can take up to three hours but to me, it is very fulfilling. Right now, my weekends can start from 9 am and end at 1 am but I don’t feel tired because of the rush. M ost M e M or ab le tr ansac tio n?
My first transaction, definitely. I served a speech and hearing impaired couple selling their
five-room flat in Woodlands. My brother Mus assisted me and I was just in awe of him. He knows sign language as he used to work with a hearing impaired colleague. It was the combination of serving a really nice couple, watching my brother use sign language, trying to understand and accommodate everything, being there with my own brother… Even now, after we do presentations to our clients together, we’d be like, “Wow bro. Who would have thought we’d be working together some day?” M ost valuab le tr ansl atio n so far?
As of February, I had done about 20 transactions. My first-time buyer bought a $1.5 million private condo apartment at a launch project. He has good holding power, it’s a safe investment and he
is enjoying the first mover’s advantage by buying it at the lowest quantum at the launch. What tips do you have fo r you ng h o m eoWn e rs Who ar e first-tim e rs? do you r eco m m e n d Bto o r r e sale fo r that 1st pro pe rt y ?
For first timers, I’ll ask them: Can you wait three years while you ballot and wait for your flat to be built? Can you get the unit of your choice? If yes, do go ahead and wait for your BTO. The whole period from building to transacting to your next property will be about eight years, after serving out your Minimum Occupation Period of five years. But if you require a unit almost immediately, want to choose which estate, floor, orientation, your neighbours, renovated or not, et cetera, then go for a HDB resale flat. After all, there are subsidies for both. We have met firsttime buyers who are frustrated with ballots as they never get it despite trying multiple times, and they don’t want to wait too long for their home. There are many grants available such as Matrimonial grant, Enhanced Housing Grant, Proximity Grant. I’ll calculate everything to give my buyer the peace of mind to buy a HDB resale flat, if they prefer to.
planning to sell it. My wife Sheena wants to move back to the East. I’m giving myself a year more to save and buy a unit at a condo launch project. While waiting for it to be completed, we’ll rent a home somewhere. When it is completed, we intend to rent out our property and hold for maybe two property cycles for better capital appreciation. finally, What le sso ns have you le ar n e d fro m B e ing a pro pe rt y ag e nt ?
As a property buyer, I’ve learned that it is best to use cash instead of CPF (if you can afford it), and that buying a property to live in versus investment are two different things. For your own home, you have emotional attachment to the house. For investment, think location, the rental yield you can command to offset the
mortgage and your holding power. The floor and facing is secondary. If you pick a lower floor and pay a lower quantum, that means you can rent out at a lower amount than someone who bought higher, so that makes your apartment more attractive. When you sell, you can also price it attractively versus someone who bought higher, pool-facing unit. Professionally, I’ve also learned that hiring an agent who has the force of a team behind him can be very powerful. When a client engages any one of us from The A Team, it’s like getting five people’s effort for the price for one, with over 20 years of combined experience and expertise gained from specialising in different parts of Singapore. That makes a big difference in marketing your property and helping you look for your next home.
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The Sitimuszaideanbatisahbros team comprises Tafik and four of his closest friends and family members.
h oW has B e ing a pro pe rt y
o ppos ite
Taufik spends his weekends helping his clients to search for potential units to view.
ag e nt chang e d you r oWn inve stm e nt pl ans?
I wouldn’t say I made a mistake of buying an EM but I’m
text stellA tHNG
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le ft Custom yellow chair with gold metal frame out of a rich mustard leather. op pos it e Cabinetry flanking the fireplace with custom metal hardware designed by Stacey Cohen. The custom coffee table features rounded edges. Sofa upholstery is from Threadcount.
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Fashion sense In downtown Toronto, this 418-square-metre project is a functional, luxurious and timeless home for a stylish, energetic family of five. KarIne MonIe speaks about it to interior designer Stacey Cohen Design. 51
a bove, left Stair runner by Stark Carpet. a bove, r ig ht In the living room, lush soft pink velvet sofa with custom metal console tables and a wood base coffee table with upholstered leather ottoman top for durability and functionality designed by Stacey Cohen.
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o pposi te , le ft Interior designer Stacey Cohen.
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e believe design should be a reflection of the user.” This philosophy, to which Stacey Cohen Design subscribes, is perfectly reflected through this project located in an affluent and picturesque neighbourhood in Toronto, Canada. “Our inspiration came mostly from our client and her sense of fashion”, says Stacey Cohen, owner and principal at her eponymous studio. “We listened to the feeling she wanted to achieve—something that was timeless, but also had a hint of edginess—and then chose and combined luxurious materials
and textures of all sorts that we felt would evoke those feelings.” The owner shared with Cohen her favourite fashion pieces that became the starting point for the creative concept. The interior designer brought this vision to life for the family of five (with children ranging from age 14 to 25), who also has a golden retriever. “I love seeing a space and envisioning how we can completely turn it around”, says Cohen. In the foyer, the interior designer and her team painted out the existing panelling and added walnut doorway arches as an architectural detail. 53
“The biggest challenge was how to maintain the integrity of the existing home’s character while still giving it a modernised and updated feel”, explains Cohen. “We achieved this by leaving the existing structure and interior frame in place while designing unique architectural accents, applying an array of intricate finishes, ambient lighting and custom furniture.” The kitchen is the heart of the house. “It is the place where they all gather”, says Cohen. She completely redesigned the space, which now features white-painted cabinetry with gold details, an oversize dark ebony hood, and an Italian marble inlay backsplash with broken down shapes. The main floor hosts the powder room, the living room— where a fireplace clad in brich veneer and Nero Marquina marble takes centre stage—and the dining room, which features a bar with custom cut-out glass detail. “The archways to the living and dining room were initially wrapped in wainscoting featuring a traditional door frame”, explains Cohen. “We updated this detail by engineering a thick walnut frame to modernise the space.” Both cosy and sophisticated, the family room features a fireplace clad in a porcelain slab, an antique mirror and some artworks. “We agree with Charles Eames that the details are not the details; they make the design”, says Cohen. The private spaces are situated upstairs, including one of Cohen’s favourites: the master bedroom. “It is a soothing place to wake up every morning”, the interior designer says. “I love all the different areas we included such as vanities, work area in 54
The dining room features a custom table and bar area with a glass window. The lighting fixture is by Restoration Hardware.
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In the daughter’s room, bed linen from H&M is paired with Stacey Cohen customdesigned dresser. o pp osi te , top In the master bedroom, the interior designer used the layering effect with paneled walls and a floor-to-ceiling upholstered headboard. o pp osi te , botto m The kitchen is both stylish and comfortable.
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front of the bed and the oversize custom wardrobe we designed to house our client’s favourite fashion pieces. The silk oversize rug that we incorporated also adds that sense of luxury and warmth to the space.” Throughout the home, tones are mostly neutral, creating a chic and relaxing atmosphere with a distinct feminine touch. Pops of colours are introduced via a accesories and a few pieces of furniture, such as the mustard yellow leather lounge chair in the family room and the pink ottoman in the master bedroom. Aiming to primarily use locally sourced materials, Cohen and her team focused on terrazzo and brick veneer for this project. Local metal fabricators, art framers and furniture manufacturers were responsible for over 60 unique,
custom-designed creations. “Some pieces are wrapped in natural fibres, others in leather; some were fabricated out of natural stone and other out of various species of woods”, says Cohen. “The idea here was to mix lots of materials and textures to achieve a very refined look.” A strong believer that our physical environments impact how we feel, Cohen put all her energy into making the most of the house’s potential, highlighting its original details with a contemporary twist and creating an aesthetic that is aligned with the owner’s personality. “The synergy and connection with the client is what drives the project to move forward”, Cohen says. Here, that is clearly what happened. text Karine Monie photos Kevin SparKMan & valerie Wilcox
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The Living grid house The addition of a green facade as part of an A&A project breathes new life into an existing Sentosa Cove home. Lynn TAn delves into the design thinking underlying the distinctive facade and million-dollar view.
Who lives here
A family of three and their five dogs hom e A detached house in Sentosa Cove s ize 8,358 sq ft (land area); 6,221 sq ft (built-in area)
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The “living� facade hugs the main entrance and evokes the feeling of entering a garden.
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above
Generous roof eaves, overhangs and planter boxes provide the home with plenty of shade from the relentless sun. ri g ht
The homeowner followed closely to the furniture layout indicated in the drawings and shopped accordingly.
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fter having lived in this two-storey detached home in Sentosa Cove for almost a decade, the homeowner and her grown-up son and daughter felt that it was time for an Addition and Alteration (A&A) so that the home would better suit their needs. Their brief to architect Lim Shing Hui and senior technical executive Tse Lee Shing from L Architects was to update the facade, add a lift abd a family room on the first storey and extend the two bedrooms overlooking the car porch into the existing balcony. In addition to these requirements, the kitchen was an important area because the homeowner frequently cooks for her family and guests. Besides culinary
pursuits, she also enjoys playing the piano, so its placement had to be carefully considered. With these in mind, Shing Hui and Lee Shing reconciled the new requirements with the existing structure whilst abiding by plot ratio guidelines and Gross Floor Area (GFA) restrictions that apply to residential developments on Sentosa Island. Approaching from the road, the house stands out from among the rest of the properties along the row not by being more ostentatious or using more stone and other extravagant cladding, but by its creative use of more modest materials such as square aluminium profiles, grey painted walls and planters to create something unique and interesting.
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“It’s like everyone is vying for attention, so I wanted a facade that is less showy, but makes no less of a visual impact,” says Shing Hui. Part of her inspiration came from her interactions with the homeowner: “I could tell that she had green fingers, so I thought of incorporating plants into the facade.” The facade is more than just the face of the home. It forms an amorphous boundary where the facade ends and the building edge begins. It was also conceived as a living grid that floats in front of the house, striking up a dialogue with the spaces behind it. As a response to our tropical climate, the green facade is like a skin that allows the fenestrations to be set back, thereby mitigating the effects of sun and rain. The elongated site and layout of the home lends itself to a spatial sequence that leads from the entrance and foyer to the dining area, stepping down to the living room and extending out towards the pool terrace and swimming pool, beyond which is the Sentosa Cove waterway. This layering of spaces and the tiered progression heightens the anticipation that culminates in a lovely view of the water elements that reinforce the idyllic island setting. The A&A was also an opportunity to review aspects of the home that could be more practical, such as the relationship between the wet and dry kitchens. Previously, the two were located on opposite sides of the entrance foyer and dining area, which was functionally less than ideal and resulted in the homeowner using the dry kitchen like a wet kitchen. The designers
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moved the wet kitchen beside the dry kitchen, in place of an existing guest room. With some reconfiguration, they also managed to incorporate the helper’s room within this zone. “We added a sliding door in between the wet and dry kitchens to contain any grease and smoke, However, when it is opened, the kitchen counter effectively stretches the full length of both kitchens,” Shing Hui points out. Another improvement is to provide a guest bathroom that is accessible from the exterior so that guests do not need to traipse through the house dripping wet after swimming to get to the shower. The four bedrooms are located on the second storey and their interiors are designed to feel like hotel rooms. The son’s bedroom comprises its own living, dining, pantry and a separate sleeping area that opens out onto a balcony with a view of the waterway. Its
The powder room on the first level surprises guests with its handmade green wall tiles complemented by travertine on the side and provides contrast to the monochromatic colour scheme in the rest of the home. oppos it e top
The circular dining set sits 10 to 12 persons and was custommade using one single slab of marble as per the client’s request. oppos it e
Light fittings were selected so as not to obstruct the vista across the home through to the pool and waterway.
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THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAUGHTER’S BEDROOM, WHICH OVERLOOKS THE CAR PORCH, IS A BALCONY WHERE THE ANIMAL LOVER CAN SPEND TIME WITH HER CATS AND OTHER PETS.
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expansive 1,044 sq ft footprint was created by extending the existing bedroom over the pool terrace and swimming pool below. A skylight above the living area introduces natural light into the long and deep plan. The highlight of the daughter’s bedroom, which overlooks the car porch, is a balcony where the animal lover can spend time with her cats and other pets. The room is located directly behind the facade’s planter boxes, so she can enjoy the greenery from both the balcony and within the room. Being responsible for the architectural, interior and landscape design enabled Shing Hui and Lee Shing to conceive a cohesive scheme where all the elements reinforce one another to create a contextual and aesthetically interesting residence that is also practical.
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The bathtub in the master bathroom has been replaced with an enlarged shower area. The accessible design takes into consideration the long-term needs of the family.
photos Finbarr Fallon
Far top
The layering of the planters and balcony spaces reflects a tropical response.
opposite
The design of the bedroom interiors is kept simple, focusing on the bedhead and the external greenery.
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perfect pa l e t t e Kenneth is an audiophile, so when Darren was designing the living room, he had in mind to ensure the TV feature wall will blend in seamlessly with the various audio devices. Therefore, the walls were laminated in black and the appliances sit on a concrete base. Furniture and furnishing options here are in a pastel palette, with two geometric rugs from Grafunkt put together, a light green fabric sofa and grey lounge chair from Ligne Roset, as well as Sancal coffee tables. 66
THE ART OF COsy LIVING Blending form and function has never look so comfortable and effortlessly stylish in this home of a couple who enjoy entertaining and spending quality time over good music. Domenica Tan finds out more.
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couple who loves to entertain guests over cosy dinners and parties, Kenneth Cheng and Karen Lim — who both work in the healthcare industry — wanted their home to boast a spacious living room where friends and family can spend time in, alongside the dining area and kitchen. “In my previous home, I’m always in the kitchen preparing food and will miss out on what’s happening outside, so with 68
this home, I wanted to keep the kitchen open-plan and create a counter where I can cook while still chatting with my friends,” shares Karen. Working with Darren Neo of interior design firm Eightytwo, they decided on a modern contemporary look, complemented with classicalstyle features such as wainscot panels. Blue is a colour of choice that runs through various parts of the home, to tie the entire look together cohesively.
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The contrast in colours, wainscoting details, a careful curation of the homeowners’ favourite prints and artworks, as well as a pair of gold-hued pendant lamps make the dining room a standout feature in the apartment. o ppos ite
The terrazzo kitchen countertop from Agglotech adds textural details, and pairs perfectly with the light blue cabinetry too, giving the interior an understated appeal.
Who lives here
A couple in their 40s, and their dog home Three-plus-one-bedroom condominium in Holland Road siz e 1,675 sq ft
D i s p l ays o f affection Karen repurposed these old Ikea shelves and cabinet from her previous home and created a stylish display area in the study, showcasing their favourite photos and knick-knacks.
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relaxing s p ot A cosy corner in the master suite offers an area for Karen to wind down and read before heading to bed everyday.
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I n t I m at e and elegant Removing an original bath tub in the master bathroom has freed up space for a larger shower area and vanity, which now includes his and her basins.
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Karen enjoys dressing up in her walk-in wardrobe, which has extensive storage to house her clothing and even bag collections. left
The couple’s pet dog Mimee also has a dedicated cosy corner in the master suite, complete with lots of toys!
photography veronica tay art direction kristy quah
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Mother’s touch This home reflects the collective aspirations shared by three generations, lovingly put together by the homeowners’ mother. Lynn Tan learns more about the family and their home.
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The formal living room strikes just the right balance between ceremonial and casual and is where the family hosts guests. 73
Who lives here
A three-generation family of six home A detached home in Caldecott Hill estate size 10,530 sq f (land area); 16,500 sq f (built-in area)
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estled within the Caldecott Hill estate is a Good Class Bungalow that is home to three generations of the Ong family. Siblings Marcus and Louetta are joint owners, and Marcus lives here with their parents, his wife Melody, and two children aged six and two. They purchased the property more than five years ago and practically rebuilt the home, retaining only a small part of the existing structure. The construction took four years due to some issues with the contractor, but the family finally moved in in January 2018. The family members were all in favour of a home that had a relaxed atmosphere. “It was important to us that the home wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing, but it had to be very livable too,” says Marcus, who is in the heavy equipment manufacturing business. There is a hint of the Balinese style that they had in their previous home, but with a more modern, resort feel. The task of putting the interior together was taken on by Marcus’ mother, Mdm Lim.
a bove
The grand entrance foyer rivals that of a hotel. r ight
Family memorabilia are displayed on an open shelf feature in the living room.
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The family makes it a point to dine together on weekends and this dining table fashioned from one single piece of wood provides ample space for all three generations.
far right
The design of the vertical circulation core is kept open and light so that the sense of space is carried through.
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Styling elements also reflect the interior’s earthy palette derived from the colours of nature. r ight
The dining area opens out to a garden with a reflective pool o ppos ite
Mdm Lim found inspiration from magazines and created a unique interior for every bathroom within the home.
Drawing on her past experience back when her husband was developing houses, she worked with Mdm Chow from Loft Concept on the interior design of the home. Mdm Lim was very hands-on, looking into every aspect along the way, from the selection of materials and customising lights, to shopping for furniture and artwork. The house sits on a sloping terrain and the original car porch in the basement could only accommodate two cars.
By excavating deeper into the slope, there is now ample parking space. The basement is where the family hosts larger gatherings, setting up tables overlooking an outdoor terrace and a koi pond. There is also a wine cellar. Laid across the floor of the first storey are pieces cut from a single slab of marble. Mdm Lim personally sourced for the stone, visiting various suppliers before finally deciding on this particular slab. 77
far top
Black granite was selected for the kitchen counter for ease of maintenance.
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top
A sense of fluidity and spaciousness permeates the home.
“I like the colour and the softer look of the veins,” she says. She had the pieces laid out on site to study the composition before finalising the actual arrangement. Making a grand statement at the entrance foyer is a bespoke crystal pendant light. Mdm Lim had it custom-made to the size that she wanted, which was larger that what was available in stores. The expansive living area exudes an understated elegance. The Marquis sofa, Taylor B armchairs and rustic coffee table strike just the right balance between formal and casual, set against a book-matched marble feature wall backdrop. It is a space where you can get comfortable, but still elicits a certain degree of decorum.
The dining room enjoys views of the reflective pool, which the family opted over a swimming pool. “The swimming pool at our previous home was very underutilised and required quite a bit of maintenance, so we decided to have a reflective pool instead,” Marcus points out. Elevated a few steps up from the dining room is the dry kitchen. It gives off a laid-back café vibe that makes it the perfect place for breakfast in the mornings or a casual lunch for the kids. The bedrooms are located on the second storey. The master suite belonging to Mdm Lim and her husband has separate sitting, sleeping, his-and-hers walk-in wardrobes and bathroom areas. Marcus and Melody occupy the junior master suite, which
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A home that has been lovingly put together provides a nurturing environment for the little ones. top right
The resort theme continues throughout the bedrooms. bottom
Feature panels in the master bathroom are a clever way of concealing the slope under a staircase.
“It was Important to us that the home wasn’t just aesthetIcally pleasIng, but It had to be very lIvable too.” -marcus ong, homeowner
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also includes a study, walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. Interestingly, the home has not one, but two attics. One of them was part of the existing property that serves as a playroom for the children. The other is a new addition that houses a fully- equipped guest suite. Comprising a bedroom, a bathroom and a living area, it opens out onto an outdoor roof terrace. The two attics reveal how part of the old and new have been merged together. Each bathroom is uniquely decked out; featuring anything from chandeliers and bookmatched marble to glittery gold mosaics. While the expressions may be wide-ranging, the colour palette is what ties the sprawling interior together. It reflects Mdm Lim’s preference for earth tones, with variations of brown, beige, off-white, gold and bronze, complemented by accents of black, white and grey. The construction cost and interior works came up to about $5.5 million. Mdm Lim modestly attributes the beautiful results to her “gut feel” she would just buy what she liked and what she felt would fit into the home. But looking at how the whole interior has come together so harmoniously, it is evident that she has an innate flair for decorating, which she has used to create the perfect sanctuary for her extended family.
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The abundant greenery reinforces the resort feel of the home. o ppos ite , top
This is one of two attics and is distinguished by its interesting roof form with a skylight. Topping it off is a chandelier comprising hand-blown glass that was chosen because Mdm Lim wanted something “big� for the space. o ppos ite , l e f t
Mdm Lim managed to pull off a gold theme for the attic bathroom. o ppos ite , r ight
Every fixture and fitting were painstakingly sourced for to complement the bathroom theme. o ppos ite , b ot tom
A home created from new and old, for the young and old.
photography vee chin art direction nonie chen
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CUTE AND QUIRKY With the right colours and careful planning, it is possible for a small space to be more than enough for a family. MELODY BAY finds out about the details that went into the design of this apartment.
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Natural light streams into the living room from the balcony, reflected by the light whiteand-oak palette which makes the space look more expansive. LE FT
The handles in the cupboards are tiny wooden birds, which open out to reveal the interior.
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WHO LIVES HERE
A couple in their late 30’s with their daughter and Japanese spitz HOME Three-bedroom condominium in Serangoon SI ZE 893 sq ft
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The combination of a banquette sofa and pull-out drawers beneath provides both seating space and storage for the family LEFT
A ‘happiness, health, etc’ decal greets visitors at the entrance, with the ‘etc’ representing the initials of each family member’s first name.
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ABOVE
Choosing furniture with slim legs helps to prevent a space from looking too cramped.
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ou can live large in a small space as long as you’ve planned the design properly, as Carmen Tang of interior design studio Wolf Woof did for this three-bedroom condominium apartment in Upper Serangoon. Home to a couple in their thirties Tommy and Evelyn, their three-year-old daughter Chloe and Japanese spitz Miko. They had reached out to Carmen after seeing her work on Instagram and falling in love with the character of her designs. Space was at a premium in this home, so Carmen had to consider the layout carefully and work out where to include ample storage, a key requirement in the design brief. It also had to be unobtrusive; the couple wanted a space with a Scandinavian look and natural textures. One side of the living area is dedicated to cabinetry. Two fullheight cupboards line the walls, and next to them Carmen carved out a nook for a banquette sofa. Pull-out drawers underneath serve as storage while the bookcase turns the area into a cosy reading corner. To break up the linearity and prevent the apartment from looking boxy, Carmen used plenty of geometric shapes to create interesting patterns, like the chevron lines on the full-height cupboards and wall lights in the shape of semi-circles. Carmen also added bright pops of colour
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The balcony, which is overlaid with artificial grass, is the perfect place for Miko the Japanese spitz to sun herself.
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Geometric shapes lend the master bedroom visual interest.
and whimsical details. In the cupboards in the living room, for instance, the handles are actually tiny wooden birds nestling in greenery. At the opposite end, sitting in pride of place is a retro-style TV console inspired by The Jetsons. Complete with antennae and tulip leg, the setup’s tonguein-cheek TV-in-TV concept is a talking point every time guests come to the house. “The whole setup is installed securely on the wall, so it’s not just supported by the leg,” shares Carmen. Typographic installations also lend the house a quirky feel. Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a decal with the saying
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‘happiness, health, etc.’ As a twist, the ‘etc’ is also an acronym of the family members’ first names. “It helped to personalise the home so much more,” says Carmen. There’s also a concrete installation of the word ‘eat’ and wooden decor in the shape of cutlery on the wall of the dining area. These touches create a carefree, relaxed ambience reminiscent that of a cafe. The typographic installations and geometric theme continue in the rooms. In the walk-in wardrobe is jazzed up with decals that serve not only as a delineation of the “his and hers” wardrobes, but also lend a playful touch with the icons
of skirts, tops, and jeans. The master bedroom has a more relaxed ambience, though the theme remains in keeping with the rest of the house. Another concrete typographic installation sits over the bed while a geometric headboard lends visual interest. “We kept the rest of the furniture simple and streamlined to avoid cramming too much into the space,” says Carmen. They chose furniture with slim legs, which kept the overall look minimalist – a must for smaller apartments. Their streamlined profiles ensure that the eye is drawn to the rest of the home’s features.
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Organic shapes in the details help to break up linearity and make the space less boxy. FAR LEFT
Decals lend a fun, playful touch to the walk-in wardrobe. L EFT
Inspired by the 1960s cartoon The Jetsons, the TV-in-TV console makes a great talking point.
photography VEE CHIN art direction KRISTY QUAH
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INtErvENING dEsIGN Having steered her team towards achieving countless awards from around the world, Nikki Hunt has proven herself a force to be reckoned with. The co-founder of Design Intervention is Home & Decor’s Guest Editor of the month.
As a residential designer, I spent the last 15 years pondering the concept of home. And now, the “Circuit Breaker” has elevated it’s significance to a new level entirely. For some, home became a safe zone, for others a prison, but for all of us the confinement highlighted the impact of habitat on our health and happiness. As we emerge from this Covid crisis, many of us will be reassessing our life choices, and I wonder if one of them will be the purpose of our homes? The average city dweller spends a staggering 87 per cent of their time indoors. Since our environment affects our wellbeing, the design of these interiors matter beyond aesthetics and certainly beyond a showplace to impress others.
Our homes are personal sanctuaries that restore and revitalise us, giving us strength to tackle the world anew. In the articles that follow, I elaborate on this philosophy, highlight icons that led the way and share the reasoning behind my beliefs. The good news is that we can all implement this approach to design to improve our lives and there is something profoundly empowering in that. It is not about how much money you have, or whether your home is big or small, rented or owned. It is about identifying your needs and making targeted choices to nourish them. In this post-Covid era, health has become our most prized asset. So, it is more important than ever to focus on wellbeing and harness the power of our homes for healthier, happier lives.
photo Jo-ANN GAMELo
Nikki HuNt G u e s t e d i to r
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I Looking ahead: The future of interior design and why it is a reflection of the way we live and think The definition of home has changed significantly over the last decade because of technological advancements and changes in our lifestyle habits. But what’s in store for the homeowner in the next five decades? Nikki Hunt shares her thoughts and suggestions.
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started my design firm in 2004 and in the years since, the Asian design landscape has changed beyond all recognition. Over the past 15 years, I have witnessed a tremendous transformation, both in industry standards and consumer demand. But what I am seeing right now, is the biggest change of all. This change is being driven by science and it is revolutionising the industry entirely. The company at the forefront of this science is not one normally associated with design: Google. MAKING A DIFFERENCE Google is pioneering research into a new science they call Neuroaesthetics – or the brain’s and body’s responses to the aesthetic world. They presented their discoveries during the
Milan Design Week in 2019, in an exhibition entitled “A Space for Being”. They showcased three different rooms, each with subtle variations of lighting, scent, music, artwork, materials and proportion. Before entering, each visitor was fitted with a special wrist band, with integrated sensors, to measure five physiological responses: heart activity, breathing rate, skin conductance, temperature and body motion. Each visitor was asked to spend at least five minutes in the different rooms and data collected revealed in which room they were most at ease. Google has proven that design has a real and measurable impact on our physiology. They showed that a person’s response is determined by their unique genetics and conditioning.
modern science is proving that design is so much more than a visual discipline: it is multisensory and it is as much science as art.
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The living room set-up from “A Space for Being� installation. le ft
One of the key questions the Googlepartnered exhibition sought to answer was how and why different colour-ed rooms evoke different memories and feelings within its inhabitants. oPP oSIt e
Visitors wearing a Google wristband were ushered into a variety of different spaces, such as this openconcept living room, while their emotional reactions were being tracked by the sensors in the wristband.
Moreover, the data revealed that many people were physiologically more relaxed in a room different to the one that they consciously preferred. Technology is completely changing the way people are looking at design. Advances in neuroscience have enabled scientists to measure brain activity, metabolic and hormonal reactions to our environment, proving that habitat impacts health, behaviour, the way we feel and even how we interact with others. These revelations have led to whole new fields of study: environmental design, persuasive design and psychology of design. FROM ANOTHER ANGLE For as long as I can remember, design has been described as a visual art. Now, modern science is proving 91
that design is so much more than a visual discipline: it is multisensory and it is as much science as art. We experience our surroundings through our senses, so by stimulating the senses we can influence how we are affected by the world around us. Changes in light, space, geometry, scents, colour, texture and sound can influence how we feel and even how we behave. The right design choices will help us relax and sleep better – which boosts our memory and immune system and can even help us live longer. Good design will improve concentration, alleviate stress, make us more creative or more friendly. Of course, design cannot change our nature or raise our IQ but it can help us make the most of who we are and be the best version of ourselves. DESIGN FOR HEALING This new science is ground breaking. It shows that design affects us at our very core, calming the mind and healing the body. The science corroborates what many of us in the design field have known intuitively, that good design improves our lives and is a building block of happiness. In the early years of my career, I used to think that design was about making things look beautiful and that good design was synonymous with good taste. But years of experience and this new
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science has shown me that there is no such thing as good or bad taste- only personal taste. If it makes you feel good, it has to be right. At my studio, Design Intervention, we start every project by considering vital human needs such as happiness, comfort, fun, conviviality, beauty and mood right from the onset. We think about behaviour and how each owner will use their different rooms. We prioritise feeling and strive to create the ambience as well as the functionality that will make best use of the spaces, both physically and emotionally. It is a personalised, multisensory approach to design that goes beyond aesthetics to nourish the senses and create joyful, sensual, liveable homes. This is a metamorphic change to the Twentieth Century notion of homemaking as something frivolous. As the new science becomes mainstream, the role of design in our lives is being reassessed beyond aesthetics and beyond function. In the next decade home making will be seen as profoundly empowering and regarded as just as vital to our wellbeing as good nutrition or exercise – a super power to wield against an often stressful world. The aim is a home that makes you feel fantastic, and that provides the ultimate foundation for a better way of living and there can be few goals more worthy than that.
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Nikki uses colour in most of her interior design works, from a pastel green wallcovering in this room to darker shades in others. MIDDLE, LEFT
The dark navy of the carpentry has a calming effect while textural beige lends warmth. bELOw, LEFT
Natural wood, soft lighting and plants all work together to create an inviting ambiance. OPPOsIT E
Whether it’s mixing colours or patterns, Nikki’s tip for creating a welcoming space is that it “must feel right”.
years of experience and this new science has shown me that there is no such thing as good or bad taste- only personal taste. if it makes you feel good, it has to be right.
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Maven’s Mark When she is not busy designing interiors for clients, Nikki Hunt is constantly changing the look of her own abode. She takes LyNN TaN on a tour following the latest round of renovation.
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hen Design Intervention principal, Nikki Hunt, and her husband built this home in 2005, they drew inspiration from colonial black-andwhite bungalows. “I love their casual majesty. Their style exudes a sense of strength, like a protective constant that we can return to no matter how topsy-turvy the world may seem,” she reflects. But while she finds their permanence soothing, when it comes to the interior, she is perpetually tinkering. as a designer, many furniture prototypes come in for testing. With new fabrics, she may redo some curtains to see how they fall or re-upholster a chair to see how it wears. She even brings in project rejects so that she can use them and figure out how best to improve on them. The home has also undergone a series of planned renovations in keeping with the changing needs of the household. “When we first designed the home, we 95
planned it around our young kids. Seven years on, their needs as teenagers changed so we reconfigured the home to incorporate a dedicated study area and spaces where they could have more privacy and hang out with their friends,” Nikki explains. Fast forward to seven years later when another round of redecoration was carried out in 2019 after both kids left to pursue their education overseas, leaving vast areas within the expansive property underutilised. She comments: “Unused rooms always feel cold and unfriendly. I wanted to create a home that resonated with fun and life, one that would refresh and revitalise us.” While Nikki isn’t one to shy away from vibrant colours and bold prints and has always been recognised for her maximalist flair, the previous interior was kept relatively plain. Colour and pattern were used mainly as accents against the paraphernalia of family
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CASUAL GLAMOUR The reception room’s eclectic colours, prints and shapes convey the impression that the room has evolved over time. The casual, handpainted fabrics and mismatched elements cut through the glamorous formality and encourage guests to relax.
Who lives here
Award-winning interior designer, Nikki Hunt, and her family ho me A Good Class Bungalow in Bukit Timah s ize 12,000 sq ft (approx. land area); 8,200 sq ft (approx. built-up area)
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life- school books, cricket bats and riding helmets. Now, with the kids and their stuff gone, she gets to explore a more flamboyant design style that would flood the home with vitality and a sense of fun. “People think that I love maximalist interiors and I will not deny it, but what truly delights me are interiors that exude personality. I cannot abide boring homes that are dull, with no sense of who lives in them,” she shares. And this is exactly what she has done without feeling compelled into complying with typical design rules or adhering to trends. She is also mindful of the distinction between residential design qand commercial design. She believes that while commercial interior designers design to impress others, a home should be about creating an environment that pleases the homeowner. She says: “If it makes you smile, it has to be right.” For Nikki, a home is the backdrop to family life. “The best residential design promotes family interaction, relaxation and a sense of belonging. It makes you feel loved and safe, it nourishes the soul and it is comfortable and honest. This is what I have tried to do,” she concludes.
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FAR L EFT
Nikki’s style inspiration for the terrace is Coco Chanel and she has included a table similar to the one that Coco Chanel had in her Rue Cambon apartment. She believed that wheat is a symbol of prosperity and this table, with its gilded metal wheat sheaf base and round glass top was made famous by the style icon.
LEFT
Designed to revitalise, the television room incorporates a plethora of colours and materials. “Dorothy Draper believed that bright colours can lift the mood and this is something that neuroscientists have now proven,” says Nikki. It is a room where anything goesrough is mixed with smooth and shiny, big teamed with small, and even wood grain directions have been deliberately misaligned.
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a r t i m i tat e s life Instead of blinds, stickers have been used to provide privacy in the master bathroom. The stickers take their cue from the wallpaper mural but allow light to pass through without compromising their screening effect. From inside the bathroom, the trees outside are still visible through the stickers. “Art and reality merge so it is difficult to determine what is real and what is not,� Nikki points out.
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ri G ht
A study area attached to the master bedroom exudes a laidback formality with its textures, unstructured forms, and imperfect prints.
photos Jo ANN GAMELo
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F E AT U R E
ICONS OF INFLUENCE Who are the influential sources behind a designer’s style? Nikki credits five design luminaries that have influenced her works.
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alk into any room designed by Design Intervention, and you’ll instantly feel a lift in spirits. It doesn’t matter if it’s a feminine bathroom bedecked in pastels and golds, or a stylish home office in sombre tones of navy and walnut – the creations by principal designer Nikki Hunt are brimming with personality and flair. While she doesn’t lean towards any particular style, she prefers projects that have character. “What I cannot abide is sterile, soulless interiors without any hint of who lives in them,” says Nikki. 102
“Some homes may be expensive and well-made, but there is no individuality. It is the personalisation that transforms a house into a home and imparts warmth,” she adds. Her work has garnered several international accolades over the span of four decades, including The International Design & Architecture Awards and Asia Pacific Property Awards. What’s her secret to an endless well of creative energy? She shares five notable icons of style that have had a major impact on her work, in her own words.
ZAHA HADID
COCO CHANEL
A B OVE
Full-length mirrors in this walk-in wardrobe turn the space into an endless fashion runway. LEF T
The black and white panels are very much Coco Chanel’s signature style.
While she is primarily known for her contribution to fashion, this style icon brought her legendary finesse to interiors, too. Coco Chanel famously said that “an interior is the natural projection of the soul”, and that is very much the overriding tenet of my design philosophy. A home is an expression of authenticity, a place that is a true extension of who you are so that you feel utterly secure and at ease. Coco Chanel was also, perhaps, the first designer to understand the importance of texture. Her name is practically synonymous with boucle, the rich woven fabric that is currently undergoing a major revival in the interior world. Tactile elements are a much underestimated design tool – the sense of touch helps to create comfort. She was also the undisputed master of glamour, well-known for her love of crystal, mirrors and anything metallic. She knew that reflective surfaces added layers and movement to a space, and just makes everything feel more glamorous. Have you ever seen pictures of her Paris apartment? The entire staircase was mirrored. It is still there today and it is fabulous. At Design Intervention, our love of details is also inspired by Chanel. She believed that luxury is in the details, accessorising her interiors with objets d’art much like how she used pearls to complete her couture outfits.
Zaha Hadid is undoubtedly the most famous female architect ever. Her work was iconic, ground-breaking, and utterly original – she was known as the “queen of the curve” and her work was typified by fluid, organic forms. But beyond her pioneering spirit, what I admire most about her was her understanding of the true purpose of design. She said: “I don’t think that architecture is only about
This Hadidinspired bathroom features fluid lines and plenty of natural elements, creating a space that calms the mind and soul.
shelter, is only about a very simple enclosure. It should be able to excite you, to calm you, to make you think.” I think this philosophy extends beyond architecture to the whole spectrum of design. She believed that design should make you feel something – that it had the power to touch the soul. Her work inspired me to create homes that make people happy – and that’s why I love what I do.
“ARCHITECTURE IS REALLY ABOUT WELL-BEING. I THINK THAT PEOPLE WANT TO FEEL GOOD IN A SPACE… ON THE ONE HANDIT’S ABOUT SHELTER, BUT IT’S ALSO ABOUT PLEASURE.” – ZAHA HADID
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“A ROBIN BUILDS A NEST FOR ROBINS. A SEAGULL BUILDS A NEST FOR SEAGULLS. THEY DON’T COPY EACH OTHER, OR BUILD THEMSELVES NESTS AS DESCRIBED IN THE THE BIRDS DECORATING MAGAZINE.” – DOROTHY DRAPER
D O R OT H Y D R A P E R A B OVE
Inspired by Draper’s use of colour, Design Intervention created a bright, cheery palette for this room that instantly lifts the spirits.
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Draper was a pioneer in interior design; she is often described as the first American interior designer, dominating the field from 1925 to 1960 as the most influential tastemaker in the United States. Her work was characterised by an intrepid use of colour and bold, over-scaled patterns. She was the first to champion that bright colours can lift spirits – a
Sleek contemporary lines are paired with vintage elements in this home office inspired by Ralph Lauren.
R A L P H L AU R E N
principle that is still very much current today, and one that Design Intervention has adopted too. She approached design as entertainment – a themed, fully cohesive experience – and integrated the architecture, finishes, furnishings and accessories so that they told the same story. This is very much the way we work at Design Intervention as well.
In 1983, Ralph Lauren launched his first home collection and soon established himself as the first fashion designer to present an all-encompassing collection for the home. In the decades since, his home brand has come to define timeless style, with his influence extending throughout the world. He famously said: “I don’t design clothes, I design dreams.” This is a philosophy he has applied to everything he designs. Ralph Lauren doesn’t
IKEA
Perhaps this name on the list may surprise many. But it shouldn’t, because perhaps even more than any of the other names, this Swedish superstore has had more influence on the way we live than anyone else. In 2008, Ikea launched an ad campaign that resonated with me strongly: “you don’t have to be rich to be clever”. It was a simple message, but I loved it and have never forgotten it. As a designer, I am naturally drawn to quality and luxury materials, but I also appreciate simplicity and value for money. What Ikea achieves for the price they charge is unparalleled. I have worked on homes all over the world including those of very wealthy people too, and in my experience, almost everyone everywhere has something from Ikea in their homes. I believe that the home is not a fixed entity. It is constantly evolving, just as our needs, tastes, and daily routines change with each different
stage of life. Sometimes, we don’t need furnishings that will last a lifetime. By mixing inexpensive items with luxury ones, we can make our budgets go a lot further and achieve a lot more. Like Ralph Lauren, Ikea understands that true design captures a lifestyle. But they have made that lifestyle affordable. They coined the term “democratic design”, championing accessibility to good design for everyone. This inspired me a lot, especially when we were approached by HGTV Asia to host a TV show helping ordinary Singaporeans achieve the home of their dreams. It was a challenge as we had to work with tight budgets, tight timelines and small spaces, but it gave me some of the most heart-warming moments of my career to see that good design was making a real difference in people’s lives, improving their wellbeing and happiness.
RIGH T
sell products; he sells a lifestyle, and his designs paint a picture of an aspirational way of living. When he launched his first home collection at Bloomingdale’s, for instance, the displays were like mini movie sets. They weren’t just bed sheets, but room settings with props that invoked an entire lifestyle. What I admire about Ralph Lauren is that he doesn’t see the need to reinvent the wheel or to be original just for the sake of being unique, and this ensures
his designs have longevity. In his room designs, he interweaves textures, colours, patterns and other elements, mixing the old and new from different eras to create a lived-in look with a feeling of warmth and timelessness. Ralph Lauren showed the world that design is so much more than assembling a collection of beautiful elements. It is about a way of living: it sounds simple. But it was pure genius.
The cabinets in this study are actually from Ikea, dressed up and personalised with some beautiful handles that instantly elevate the look.
text MELODY BAY
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F E AT U R E
WONDER WALLS A classic that has made a comeback, wallpaper is set to be a key trend for 2020, and now comes with endless design possibilities. Nikki Hunt weighs in with tips on using wallcoverings correctly.
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T
he ‘80s staple is back in vogue for 2020. Every home needs an upgrade from time to time, even Buckingham Palace, the official home of the Queen of England and probably the most famous family home in the world. Not surprisingly, for a building that dates back to the 1700s, the plumbing and electrics have been upgraded, but what may surprise readers is that
a team of wallpaper specialists has carefully removed some 19th-century wallpaper that is to be reinstalled when the renovations are complete. The idea of loving a wallpaper so much that a family retains it for a couple of centuries might sound bizarre but the Queen’s penchant for wallpaper is bang on trend - the demand for wallpaper has never been stronger.
WHICH IS RIGHT F O R YO U ?
C O N S I D E R YO U R E X I S T I N G C O LO U R SCHEME AND THEME
Note the existing colour palette and interior style of your home. Remember to take into
consideration the view from adjoining rooms so that your new wallpaper complements and enhances the flow of the entire space. E X P LO R E D I F F E R E N T M AT E R I A L O P T I O N S
Advances in both printing techniques and adhesives are allowing manufacturers to move beyond paper to materials like corks, grasscloths and silks, with pretty much no limitations to design. In fact, some advanced materials are able to withstand extreme conditions with product ranges and speciality coatings developed for installation in kitchens, bathrooms and even outdoors.
photo GOODRICH GLOBAL
Start by compiling images of rooms you love and see if a pattern emerges. Are you drawn to calming painterly spaces or rooms with warm organic accents? Are you partial to Chinoiserie, or bold graphics and humorous accents? Chinoiserie lends sophistication while a bold feature can add vitality. Or do you want to achieve a serene effect with subtle tones? How do you want to feel in the room - soothed or inspired? Cheery or relaxed? Pinpointing exactly what you want and what you are drawn to will help narrow your selection.
photo CRAFT AXIS
photo PIERRE FREY
D O YO U R R E S E A R C H
photo BODE
The use of wallpaper is certainly nothing new, especially at Design Intervention, which has championed its use for more than a decade. The home is an extension of your personality and no other design tool can personalise a home as quickly and completely as wallpaper. But with an abundance of choices out there, picking what is right can be confusing.
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WAYS W I T H WA L L PA P E R
This versatile accent can be a game changer in your space. Check out these cool ideas for applying wallpaper for maximum effect.
It isn’t unusual for interior designers to hear about homeowners planning for just one accent wall because of budget constraints - and more often than not, it shows. A feature wall should be contemplated for its design, and not solely based on your budget. When done well, it looks fabulous and allows for the opportunity to use a bolder pattern than you would otherwise consider to create drama and excitement.
photo GOODRICH GLOBAL
H AV E A F E AT U R E WA L L
“INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAMES NOT KNOWN FOR HOME DECOR ARE ALSO GETTING INTO THE ACT, ILLUSTRATING JUST HOW WIDESPREAD THE DEMAND FOR WALLPAPER HAS BECOME.” – NIKKI HUNT
B O R D E R PAT R O L
D E F I N E A S PAC E
Eye-catching wallpaper is great for highlighting an area within a larger space. Especially when used in nooks or cubbies to define the area, it can pack personality into a small space and turn it into a focal point.
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If you aren’t ready to embrace patterns throughout, consider wallpaper borders. Keeping a print to below that of a chair rail height imparts the same look on a smaller scale without overpowering the room. UK brand Cole & Son has a wide range of borders to consider.
E N L I V E N N A R R OW, C O N F I N E D S PAC E S
AC C E N T T H E B AC K O F B O O KC A S E S A N D
Clever placement of wallpaper can help mould the perception of space. This is particularly usefu in a windowless corridor, for instance, where a metallic wallpaper amplifies the light, and a bold pattern on the ceiling and end wall enlivens the long and narrow space.
S H E LV E S
It isn’t just for walls. Use it to back your bookcase or shelf to create an unexpected and interesting backdrop to showcase your book collection and decor items. Plus, it’s an inexpensive trick that usually utilises just one roll of wallpaper.
MIX IT UP
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns. Hanging different and alternating strips of two different patterns can create an arresting and thoroughly original backdrop.
O N C LO S E T D O O R S
If the thought of plastering your favourite motif all over the walls isn’t quite your thing, experiment with your closet doors. It makes for a costeffective option that also turns your wardrobe into a design feature. Consider one that is self-adhesive and easy to remove should you get tired of the design. D R AW T H E E Y E U P WA R D S
The ceiling is one of the most overlooked surfaces in the home. Dressing it up adds warmth and an element of surprise without overpowering a space. It also allows the design to be viewed in its entirety, uninterrupted by doors, windows or furniture - particularly useful in areas where walls are often lined with cabinets.
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PERFECT PRINTS
If you’re ready to let wallpaper play a starring role in your room, these are the latest trends to spark your imagination.
IN PLAIN SIGHT
It is often underestimated, but a plain wall covering can add depth and dimension to a room, which is important since we experience our
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environment through all of our senses. Silk, velvet or even leather offers a feeling of luxury, while natural materials like grasscloth, wood veneer, woven cane, rattan or a fabric wall covering bring organic warmth and texture, which can’t be achieved with paint. Compared to the onedimensional finish of paint, wall coverings reflect light in a different way that is more pleasing to the eye. Visually, the difference may be subtle, but the latter emanates a more intimate and glamorous vibe.
Floral wallpaper is hardly groundbreaking, but it doesn’t have to look oldfashioned. Today’s designs lean towards motifs that are larger than life, exotic tropical prints and bolder colours that will have you seeing this classic in a new light.
photo BODE
photo CRAFT AXIS
B O L D B O TA N I C A L S
PA I N T E R LY WAT E R C O L O U R P R I N T S
There is something delightfully soothing about watercolour-inspired prints, whether you’re using soft pastel shades or bright hues. The imperfection of the brush strokes exudes a carefree and free-spirited vibe for an instantly calming effect.
CHINOISERIE CHIC
photo PIERRE FREY
photo GOODRICH GLOBAL
This style brings in elegance with a light-hearted and playful feeling. Chinoiserie prints have been seeing a resurgence, but this trend has never really gone out of fashion, if you ask us. Chinoiserie wall coverings are traditionally hand-painted on silk but you can find budgetfriendly printed paper options from various manufacturers including Zuber and Thibaut.
G O O N R E P E AT
Repeated prints and patterns can add energy and drama. A monochromatic palette will prevent the pattern from overpowering the space, especially by including more “negative space” - blank or plain elements. Think white floor and ceilings that afford the eye plenty of places to rest amidst a sea of pattern.
Unlike many conventional designs that bear a repeating pattern, mural wallpapers, whether abstract or scenic, tell a story and transport you to a world beyond walls. Traditionally, such murals have been hand-painted but you can check out manufacturers like Pierre Frey or Coordonne for more affordable options.
P L AY W I T H G E O M E T R Y
Repetitive patterns can also come in the form of crisp geometric shapes, which add eye-catching vigour while making your room feel more ordered. There are plenty of ways to incorporate this versatile look in your home, from using subtle colours for a softer look to matching patterns with other decor items in your room, so it’s ideal for a variety of aesthetic sensibilities.
text NIKKI HUNT & MICHELLE LEE photos DESIGN INTERVENTION
photo PIERRE FREY
photo GOODRICH GLOBAL
MARVE LLOUS MUR ALS
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M
aximalism is definitely on-trend now, judging by the number of recent articles in design magazines and the news, declaring a new age of opulence, a resurgence of colour or a rediscovery of this decadent style. Of course, as a designer who is fond of the look, I could not be happier about this! At Design Intervention, we have been championing this modern maximalist style for a few years now. But
MAX IS IN
Always having a finger on the pulse of trending design, Nikki predicted the arrival of a new wave of maximalism. Here, she shares her essential tips on how to get the maximalist look for your home.
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the year 2020 is seeing this look becoming mainstream. Even Ikea (yes, the purveyor of streamlined Scandinavian lines) has launched a new collection with distinct maximalist leanings. And quite frankly, after well over two decades of clean lines and neutral palettes, a change is long overdue. SO WHAT EXACTLY IS THIS NEW MAXIMALISM?
This design style mixes eras, patterns, textures and materials.
It incorporates elaborate detailing and showcases treasured artefacts. Maxed-out interiors are multi-layered, delivering a dynamic and multifaceted environment that is uplifting, revitalising. They make for empowering statements and always feel utterly unique. When you adopt this approach for your space, it reflects your courage to live life to its fullest. The minimalist interior has dominated the design landscape since the mid-1990s, when
A BOV E
A dining room from many eras featuring baroque glass table and chandelier, textured dining chairs and oriental floral paintings. LEFT
A maximalist home may embrace colours, textures and opulence. but it is also deliberately curated. RIGH T
Bold tropical print, sculptural table lamp, parquet flooring and organicshaped coffee table are part of the same theme: nature.
DECLUTTERING IS ESSENTIAL FOR A CHIC MAXIMALIST INTERIOR TOO. MAXIMALISM IS NOT CHAOTIC WHEN DONE RIGHT; IT IS A RESULT OF DELIBERATELY CURATED CHOICES.
OP POSITE
A pleasing simmetry in a maximalist study.
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L EFT
This maximalist bedroom balances bright yellow with black and white, and keeps its many textures in gold and brown to keep the palette cohesive.
the objective Nikki’s bold style of creating plush designer interiors has garnered international acclaim, such as being included among the World’s Top 100 Designers in the Andrew Martin Design Review.
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homeowners were drawn to its subtlety and understated aesthetic. However, with the dawn of a new millennium and the rise of technology, there is an increasing desire for individuality and the ability to stand out from the crowd. While bloggers and influencers make use of digital technology to achieve this, interior designers now turn to maximalism as a way to create unique, one-of-akind spaces. Minimalist interiors are imbued with serenity, while maximalist ones radiate energy. Minimalist interiors embrace simplicity, while the maximalist room delights in featuring unexpected elements. Minimalist rooms are understated, and maximalist ones are luxurious. Minimalist interiors include only what is functional, while maximalist ones are filled with details and embellishment. Where minimalists celebrate the unfettered lifestyle, maximalists celebrate life with all its nuances and idiosyncrasies. However there is one important similarity and it may astound you. Everyone knows that minimalism is
My top 6 tips for the Modern MaxiMalist Colour One of the easiest ways to bring energy to a room is with colour. Maximalism is about all colours in any combination. There is no right or wrong. Just pick a colour or colours you love. If your choice is a mix of bold colours, make sure you incorporate some neutral elements to add balance.
about removing clutter but it may surprise you to learn that decluttering is essential for a chic maximalist interior too. That is why maximalism is not chaotic when done right; it is a result of deliberately curated choices. The great artist Joan Miro once said: “The works must be conceived with fire
in the soul but executed with clinical coolness.” And there could not be a more perfect guideline for the would-be maximalist. With minimalism, there is a distinct aesthetic and clear, easy-to-follow rules. Maximalism embraces everything, all eras, all colours, patterns and textures – and that can be a little daunting.
Pattern This can be done through rugs, upholstery or wallpaper, or a combination of all three. Experiment with layering patterns of different scale. Ensure sufficient, negative space, so your eye has a place to rest. Texture Combining
different textures can take maximalism to the next level. Metallic elements, sumptuous velvets, feather trims and tassels can all be combined to bring visual and tactile diversity.
Symmetry With so much visual stimuli, symmetry will keep the room looking balanced, allowing you to add multiple layers, yet still retain a harmonious feel. A cohesive element It is
ab ov e
A bedroom that delights in mixing Indian with French heritage. le ft
Green interior elements recalls the greenery outside.
important to establish a link, or visual thread, that runs throughout the scheme so the interiors feel connected, even with a mix of colours, patterns and textures. This could be a colour, or a motif.
Restraint At Design Intervention, our mantra is “just because we can, doesn’t mean we should”. Successful maximalist style is a meticulous balancing act. These rooms can be bright, bold and mismatched, yet each element is carefully curated to achieve a style that inspires and revitalises, rather than overpowers.
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I N S TO R E
M O R E WAYS T H A N O N E Whether to avoid visual clutter or to maximise a small space, you’ll want to get acquainted with Tatami, a sleek multipurpose fixture by customised home furniture company SP Homes. The raised platform comes outfitted with versatile and thoughtfully designed functions, from a built-in table that can be pulled up when needed, to panels that reveal compartments for ample storage. You can also customise its components to suit your requirements, whether as a dining spot, study area or to create a cosy corner for hanging out. For more information, visit www. sphomes.com.
L A I D - B AC K L U X E Homegrown furniture company Castlery takes inspiration from the mid-20th century with the Hudson collection that marries chic functionality with an undeniably timeless appeal. The line-up, from TV consoles to side boards and beds, are fashioned with dark-stained solid acacia wood with antique brass finish details. While they draw on the mid-century modern aesthetic, the versatile and sophisticated pieces complement a variety of interior styles, whether a contemporary-luxe space or a cosy Scandinavian home. The Hudson collection retails from $329 for a coffee table to $1,299 for a bed. For more information, visit www.castlery.com.
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text MICHELLE LEE
THE WRITE TYPE Dry erase boards or white boards can come in handy when you need to jot down messages or your grocery list in the kitchen, for a brainstorming session in the office or even for the kids to doodle on. But what if you’re short on space or prefer minimal clutter? With 3M’s Post-it Dry Erase Surface that can be cut to fit and be installed on a variety of materials, you can turn flat surfaces like your wall or table into a whiteboard. It comes with a proprietary dry erase coating that promises to be stain-proof, and makes for smooth writing and clean erasing.
The 3M Postit Dry Erase Surface retails at $71.91, and is available at Popular Bookstores, Evergreen Stationery stores and the official Lazada e-store.
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60 Sungei Kadut Drive www.scanteak.com.sg
Harvey NormaN
space fUrNitUre
Level 4 29 Mayo Street Tel: 6441-3345 www.haireliving.com
#01-59 to 63 Millenia Walk Tel: 6311-9988 www.harveynorman. com.sg
77 Bencoolen Street www.spacefurniture. com.sg
acorN
#02-09 512 Chai Chee Lane Tel: 6445-6144 www.acorn ceilingfan.com braNDt asia
#02-51/52 Oxley Bizhub 65 Ubi Road One Tel: 6508-4639 www.brandt.sg
furniture & furnishings
#06-01 1 Kallang Way 2A Tel: 6747-2742 www.efenz.com.sg
#01-01 Concorde Hotel Tel: 6468-6333 www.davincilifestyle. com Home 2 U GaLLery
eLectroLUX s.e.a.
#07-10 Galaxis 1 Fusionopolis Place Tel: 6727-3699 www.electrolux.com. sg fisHer & paykeL
#03-01A Ubi Biz Hub 150 Ubi Avenue 4 Tel: 6547-0100 www.fisherpaykel. com/sg
1 Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6273-2522 www.starliving. com.sg XZQt
Da viNci LifestyLe efeNZ ceiLiNG faN
star LiviNG
#02-719/720 Suntec City Tower 4 Tel: 6737-7838
#01-05 8 Pandan Crescent Tel: 6774-8031 www.xzqt.com.sg
interior designers DesiGN iNterveNtioN
mUji
#02-198 Vivocity Tel: 6376-8023 www.muji.com/sg rocHe bobois
#01-02 Boon Siew Building 75 Bukit Timah Tel: 6513-1918 www.roche-bobois. com
75E Loewen Road Tel: 6506-0920 www.design intervention.com.sg
imaGiNe by sk66
#01-22 UB One 81 Ubi Avenue 4 Tel: 6604-8330 www.imaginebysk66. com mow iNterior DesiGN
#08-02 Tai Seng Point 11 Irving Place Tel: 6246-6614 www.mowinterior.com NeU koNceptZ
#03-11 Bizhub 28 28 Senang Crescent Tel: 6746-3723 www.neukonceptz. com.sg tHree-D coNceptwerke
24 Eng Hoon Street Tel: 6293-8001 www.three-dconceptwerke.com
caesarstoNe s.e.a.
#08-06 The Spire 10 Bukit Batok Crescent Tel: 6316-1938 www.caesarstone.sg coseNtiNo
34/35 Duxton Road Tel: 6713-9543 www.cosentino.com DUravit asia
(Singapore Branch) 63 Tras Street Tel: 6221-9315 www.duravit.com Hafary
105 Eunos Avenue 3 Tel: 6250-1368 www.hafary.com.sg NatUraL forest
#10-01B Keck Seng Tower 133 Cecil Street Tel: 6238-5920 Novita
DweLL iNterior DesiGN
11 Kim Yam Road Tel: 6883-1005 www.dwell.com.sg
renovation Materials
lighting
#04-00 Techniques Building 8 Tagore Drive www.novita.com.sg
LiGHtcraft
131 Jalan Sultan Tel: 6297-6658 www.lightcraft.com.sg
timpLeX
#01-13 18 Sin Ming Lane Tel: 6898-1120 www.timplex.sg
119
A
WHAT’S TRENDING & WHAT WE THINK
HOME, TRULY
120
s I write this, I am sitting at my dining table. It’s strewn with sheets of paper, half-empty water glasses, trailing cables, and crumbs – certainly not the vision of a sparkling clean, food-laden table we had imagined when we first bought it. Martha Stewart would not be pleased. I’ve also just had to ask my husband to turn down the volume on an episode of Money Heist because I have to concentrate on work. The dining table has become our command centre of sorts, a place where we answer emails, watch Netflix, and eat our meals. We spend at least nine or 10 hours here by default. What’s happened to us? I’m sure this situation sounds familiar to readers around the world – working from home, dealing with kids who want attention every other minute, worrying about our parents and friends we are unable to meet. With the social distancing measures in place, the world for each of us has shrunk down to our house. Where life was once neatly segmented by location – work in the office, exercise in the gym, socialising at the bar – everything now happens within a few square metres, and the boundaries have blurred. Those who are lucky to have a quiet home office and enough rooms can maintain some semblance of normalcy. However, for most of us who suddenly find ourselves having to not only continue working and living as usual, but also managing the household and other family members, things can be really tough. It can be tempting to try to oversee and do it all, but we all know that path only leads to
frustration and burnout. Instead, perhaps it’s better to use this crisis as an opportunity to remind everyone to do their fair share of upkeep, and to carve out structure and routine in the home that can set the tone for the future. It’s a good opportunity to start getting the kids to pitch in with chores, even if it’s something as small as wiping off the table after dinner. After all, it’s their home too. I don’t know about you, but being home all the time has also become an opportunity for fostering a deeper appreciation of thw neighbours. Sure, they do flood the group chat from time to time, but they’ve also provided plenty of valuable information (like where to collect masks and whether our local NTUC has long queues) and more importantly, offered help. I have seen neighbours donate vegetables, offer to buy meals, and give advice on how to reset a circuit breaker – small gestures that offer a muchneeded reminder that we’re all here for each other. At dusk, I see the lights of their homes all around me like fireflies in the night, and it’s a comforting sight to behold when one is in isolation. So despite being confined to these four walls – or perhaps because of it – home has taken on a greater significance than ever. It’s no longer just a place to eat and sleep after coming home from work. This crisis has become an opportunity to remind ourselves of the importance of what home truly stands for: a sanctuary from an uncertain world, a shelter where we can make sure our loved ones are safe, and a place where – despite everything else – we can still feel the warm friendship of each other’s presence through the walls.
photo 123RF.COM
HARD TRUTH
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