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CONTENTS

N OW The Latest in Design and Decor News

20 18

H OT S E AT – H E R I TA G E C H A I R The sculptural form of the Heritage Chair is not just for you to admire, but also to get comfortable in.

NEW SHOP – FLEXFORM Fully-imported products from Italy make their home in this showroom, many of which are the works of designer Antonio Citterio.

22 PEOPLE – FRANCESCA LANZAVECCHIA & HUNN WAI The designer duo behind studio Lanzavecchia + Wai.

22 6

24 PEOPLE – IGNACIO PA S TO R R I O S We speak to the regional marketing director of Dunlopillo regarding the brand’s Talasilver Wave collection.

26 SHOP – STUDIO 216 Shop for leather and wood furniture, from Cierre and Porada respectively, and bask in the beauty of French ceramics and glass accessories from Les Heritiers.

28 O P E N FA R M COMMUNITY

A space with an edible garden, restaurant and takeaway shop by the Spa Esprit Group.

CONTENTS

64 FEATURES

CLEANING HOUSE

S TAY I N G O R G A N I S E D

S PAC E S AV E R S

Get in the groove of cleaning up with these great gadgets and tech!

The wardrobe, living room, and workspace: three spaces that deﬁnitely need to be kept organised.

What do you do with odd nooks and small rooms in the house? We’ve got plenty of ideas for you.

4 11 EXPERT SERIES – GREEN

Part four of a six part feature, our Expert Series with Aubergine Catering and Events gives us reason a-plenty to chow down on leafy greens.

86 2016 TRENDS

86 8

If you’re looking to redecorate, we’ve got a list of colours, silhouettes, and materials that are ready to make a splash this new year!

120 SHOWHOUSE SHOWCASE – SENIBONG COVE The Isola Grandeur precinct, which is found in Johor-based luxury development Senibong Cove, boasts a stunning view of the sea.

CONTENTS

H OM E S

126

134

OLD PLACE, NEW LOOK This designer-homeowner chose a 30-year-old apartment for her ﬁrst home, and made it contemporary and trendy.

146

HUMBLE HOME

GREY AREAS

THE BIG CHANGE

This Scandinavian-themed home keeps its decor modest without compromising on stylish features.

A dark and mellow colour palette sets the tone for this restful abode, where its occupant can get some downtime from work.

The walls of this apartment were taken down to transform it into the bigger, better home of its owners’ dreams.

REGUL ARS

EDITOR’S NOTE

161

ECO WARRIOR

162

EXPERTS SAY

164

KITCHEN

166

FIX IT

167

WHERE TO BUY

168

FLASHBACK

140 photography TAN WEI TE art direction DON TAN

VERTICAL WONDER The designer of this apartment made sure to showcase its unique sloping ceiling, in creating a space perfect for two, or 20. 10

154

NOW

CHECK OUT

OPEN FARM COMMUNITY A SPACE WITH AN EDIBLE GARDEN, RESTAURANT AND TAKEAWAY SHOP BY THE SPA ESPRIT GROUP

Surrounded by the lush foliage of Dempsey Hill, the 35,000sqf Open Farm Community (OFC) is built with just two elements in mind: farming and food. The root of this latest venture by Spa Esprit founder Cynthia Chua is in urban farming, represented by an expansive garden producing herbs, vegetables, and fruit. The produce goes straight to the kitchen, where chefs incorporate them in modern cuisines such as fermented carrot tartare, coal-baked barramundi with cucumber coleslaw and roasted eggplant, and lemon tart with basil ice-cream. The concept allows consumers to connect with their food – as its made, they are able to see, touch, hear, smell and taste it. Cynthia envisions OFC to be a venue that strengthens our understanding and respect

for food and its origins. “We want to provide a platform where families can come together and explore the many facets of food through art, tours, workshops and, of course, eating,” she says. Alan Barr and his team at Grey Matters, together with celebrity chef Ryan Clift and urban farmers Edible Garden City, worked on transforming two decrepit buildings with a wild landscape into a space that supports Cynthia’s vision. The space features an outdoor dining area with a massive red timber screen, white-red Bloom Parasols by Sywawa Design, and a yellow ping-pong table that has become a focal point for guests. The dining areas outside are right next to the farming plots, creating a vibrant beer-garden atmosphere. Guests can also order from Common Man

Coffee Roaster, a small takeaway shop. Behind the open area is a colonialindustrial building, where guests dine in a rustic-industrial setting and are able to watch the chefs at work or look out to the garden from tall French windows. The ceiling lighting is made of salvaged steel window grilles twined with fairy lights, while the feature wall is a sea of blue and green tiles laid in a diamond pattern. “The interiors follow our signature style, which features a heavy use of materials, patterns, and textures. For instance, we used antique timber floors in the main dining room and terracotta tiles for the roof,” says Alan. The lush garden and its quirky sculptures by ceramist Steven Low add playfulness to the space. Salvaged dock wood is used for garden pavers and planting beds, and rain water for irrigation. “Our intent is to create a community, not just a restaurant. We wanted a space to show how urban farming practices do work and are sustainable,” says Alan.

RIGHT

In the farm-tokitchen concept, on-site farmers tend to the herbs and vegetables grown in the garden. RIGHT, BELOW

The recreational activities at OFC include table tennis and lawn bowling. RIGHT, BOTTOM

Red and pink porcelain tiles line the face of the coffee bar at Common Man Coffee Roaster.

VISIT OPEN FARM COMMUNITY AT 130E MINDEN ROAD, SINGAPORE, TEL: 6471-0306.

ABOVE

Grey Matters planned the architecture of OFC to support the horticulture, and for recreation areas to blend with the gardens. RIGHT

Silver tipped lamps were used to create a warm starburst glow on the tiles of this feature wall. FAR LEFT

Alan Barr of Grey Matters says such a large piece of land was destined to be an urban farming community project.

text ELIZA HAMIZAH photos OPEN FARM COMMUNITY

NOW

Encountering a new surface Microsoft has unveiled a new tablet which can also be used as a surface. Sporting a generous 12.3 inch PixelSense Display and the option of choosing between the 6th Generation Intel Core M, i5 and i7 processers, the tablet is thinner and lighter than any of its predecessors. With Windows 10 Pro, you can run apps and desktop programs on the Surface Pro 4. Nine hours of battery life and the optional Surface Pro 4 Type Cover ensures that you can get more work done without interruptions. The Surface Pro 4 also comes with the Surface Pen boasting 1024 levels of pressure sensitivity and magnetic storage.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT W W W. M I C R OS O F T. C O M

Made in Italy A brand inherently proud of its heritage, Flexform features milky travertines, woody slates and linen curtains, all sourced from the shores of Italy itself. The result is a luminous atmosphere that offers the experience of relaxed elegance that comes from a well-designed space. Flexform ensures that the most beautiful raw materials and the most elegant manufacturing quality come together in creating all their products.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.F LE XFORM.IT

Ikea comes to Cheras Spanning 42,000 square metres with over 8,500 products for sale, IKEA’s Cheras store is officially open! The opening ceremony, themed “Malaysia’s Biggest Housewarming Party” garnered visitors and press by the thousands. By opening another store in Cheras, IKEA is not only set to service immediate neighbourhoods, but also the bustling city of central Kuala Lumpur. This allows the Swedish furnishing giant to make strong headway in staying true to their vision of creating better lives for everyone by providing furniture and living solutions, closer to home.

FO R M O R E IN FO R M AT ION, VISIT WWW.IK EA.CO M

Tiles of a different elegance

One thing that never goes out of style is the retro aesthetic, and that’s just what’s great about HÖUM’s stylish pieces. To great fanfare, pun intended, HÖUM recently gave away twenty of their M and R series fans in conjunction with renowned home furnishings fair, HOMEDEC. And if the reception towards the contest was indicative in any way of locals’ preferences in home decor, it’s that retro is always in no matter what year it is. To hear participants say it, HÖUM’s fans are perfect in all corners of the home: from stylish interiors, to office spaces, to bedrooms, to kitchens. Both functional, as well as aesthetically pleasing, the M and R series of fans are great for adding colour into one’s home. They’re also exceptionally great in terms of quality, with powerful motors that generate plenty of airflow to keep you cool no matter what the weather.

Stones have been used in buildings since time immemorial. Marble was used in the building of Taj Mahal and St. Peter’s Basilica, limestone in the English Houses of Parliament and St. Paul’s Cathedral, and travertine in the Colosseum. They are not only a natural source of decoration for architectural structures; they’re also classical and contemporary in the same setting. Petra Antiqua was founded in Italy in 1990, working on antique marble at a local level. They specialise in decorating natural stones found in Italy. Travertine inlaid with gold and marble with silver are only some of the products that the brand offers. Each product is made by master craftsmen who turn raw, naked stone into precious, refined elements that grace the home, filling each space with exuberance and classy elegance. Niro is proud to be the exclusive distributor of Petra Antiqua. “We believe that exclusive and innovative designs will bring elegance and beauty to all projects. We are also excited to provide for local consumers and business associates who prefer handcrafted and customised designs,” Niro Ceramic Group’s Managing Director, Mr Bong Kuan Shin, says.

FO R M O R E IN FO R M AT ION, VISIT WWW.HO UM.ASIA

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.NIR O GRAN I TE. CO M

Fan-fare at HOMEDEC with HÖUM

NOW

A new township with an old-world charm Touting the theme “Yesterday Once More”, IJM Land has launched its new project: Bandar Rimbayu. A township that is connected to five major highways, Bandar Rimbayu is slated to create accessibility, and is yet secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city. The township is now 15% completed; once fully completed, it will sport a fully-equipped International School, and a clubhouse along with new commercial and retail outlets.

FO R M O R E IN FO R M AT ION, VISIT W W W. IJM LA N D . C O M .

Art and family in Hong Kong The third edition of the Hong Kong Art Gallery Week was held in collaboration with the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, K11 and Art Loop, and was joined by children from all over the city. The event saw more than 50 member galleries presenting a diverse and international program with speakers, artists, and participants from Hong Kong, as well as from overseas. The Hong Kong Tourism Board also supported the Art Gallery Week in recognition of the event’s efforts in promoting the city’s growing status as a regional arts hub.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.H K-AGA.ORG

Tr a v e l l i n g w i t h t h e best sounds You don’t want to be weighed down with cumbersome cables when you’re out and about. Enter the Harman Kardon Soho Wireless headphones; their lightweight, portable design will bring you high performance in a stylish package. The ear cups are made to provide utter comfort, while the touch controls on the bottom of the ear cups give you easy control of your music, melding superb craftsmanship with sophistication.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT W W W. HA R M A N K A R D ON . C O M

A c a c i a ’s Fa b r i c Library FABRICS MIGHT NOT SEEM TO BE ANYTHING OF GREAT CIRCUMSTANCE, BUT THEY ACTUALLY AFFECT THE WAY YOUR HOME LOOKS IN PROFOUND WAYS. THEY DRESS YOUR CURTAINS, YOUR BEDS AND WINDOWS. ACACIS’S FABRIC LIBRARY BOASTS AFFORDABLE FABRICS, ALL PRODUCED WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY IN MIND.

Acacia releases at least 12 to 14 collections yearly, and each of these collections are comprised of great arrays of fabrics, ranging from silks, satins, black-outs, sheers, linens, and even those that are plain or textured. This ensures that there is something for every individual to take a shine to for their windows or upholstery. The Fabric Library is designed to be the People’s fabric, particularly

as Acacia is one of the most beloved brands by all house-proud homeowners. Individuals across cultures, tastes, and aesthetics are able to delve into the offerings in the library, and use them in furnishing their homes whether in the city or country. Acacia’s fabrics are as cosmopolitan or as homey as you want them to be. All it takes is a little bit of imagination to put your look together.

The fabrics in Acacia’s library are made to stand for the highest possible quality. Their fabrics are not only easy to clean, but are guaranteed great longevity, making for timeless and long-wearing furnishings at home.

FOR MORE INFORM ATI O N , V I SI T WWW.ACAC IAFABRI CS. CO M

Re s t A s s u re d , i t ’s I n s u re d THE HOME SHOULD BE A HAVEN FOR RESPITE, AND THAT’S WHY IT’S OF UTMOST IMPORTANCE THAT IT’S PROTECTED.

It’s a common enough saying: home is where the heart is. The truth is, part of what makes the concept of home so important is precisely the amount of heart a homeowner puts into making it truly, home. After all, we invest money, time, and effort into making our homes comfortable, turning them into spaces that we grow with. And if home is truly so important, shouldn’t it stand also that everything possible is done to ensure that the home is protected from unforeseen circumstances? If there’s one thing to remember when insuring the home, it’s that your insurance plan is only as reliable as the name that offers it. A reliable insurance company must share your ideals and goals. You share the same priorities: ensuring that your home and all

your property is protected. The company must boast strong ratings and figures. It must be a figurehead in the international insurance scene. It must be accountable, and it must be a name you know you can absolutely and always trust. Ask around your circle for names. It’s likely you’ll be directed towards MSIG when you do. And why not? The subsidiary of parent company Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited (MSI), an international insurance group with operations in over 39 countries, MSIG comes highly recommended, with over a century’s worth of experience in the field. Further strengthening the brand name, MSIG also boasts strong ratings from leading international rating agencies, Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s Investors Service,

and A.M. Best Company. With a total net premium of over 23 billion USD, and total assets of over 140 billion USD, you can rest assured that MSIG truly means business where your home’s protection is concerned. In terms of home protection, MSIG’s All-In-Home insurance plan covers the home, your treasured belongings within, and even extends so far as to cover the home’s occupants and family members. It’s comprehensive, simple and flexible in the insured amount, permitting for extended coverage as your assets continue to grow. With MSIG, you can most certainly rest assured that commitment to coverage and dedication to the safety of your home is the final word.

FO R M OR E IN FO R M AT ION, VISIT WWW.MSIG .CO M.MY/PER SONAL-INS U RANC E /P ROD U CTS /ALL-IN-H OME /

And the award goes to The Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID) and Nippon Paint Reka Awards 2015 kicked off with a blast. Boasting a total of 141 entries in 15 categories including one specifically for students, the awards celebrated the nation’s talents in the industry. The Reka Awards 2015 is the third manifestation of the platform and each award winner brings innovation and creativity to greater heights, supported by articulate workmanship. The awards are also expected to encourage better cooperation between interior designers, clients and contractors in the design process, resulting in delightful spaces that will generally improve the quality of life for everyone.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT WWW.MIID.O R G .MY

The meeting of east and west The Chinese have been drinking rice wine since the Shang Dynasty in 1600 B.C. As time passed, alcohol became the drink of choice for the poets and artists, as it loosened inhibitions, allowing creativity to emerge. To evoke the lives of the poets of old, Liuligongfang’s Living Artist, Chang Yi, created a collection of wine glasses that combines Western luxury with stems of Chinese synthetic crystal. Named Moon Shadows, the collection sees the seamless bridging of artistic design and precision glassware.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.LIU LI.C OM

Any way you want it Air conditioning units can be a real hassle to install, particularly when certain models require specific positions for their connective piping. The Midea Neola Air Conditioner completely negates this problem with ingenious design; it’s meant to be connected to the left or right of the outdoor unit. Its technology also maximises cooling output, reaching your desired temperature in the shortest time possible.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT WWW.MIDEA.CO M

50 years and counting Pensonic, a leading manufacturer of electrical home appliances in Malaysia recently held a celebratory dinner to celebrate and appreciate its employees, business partners and shareholders, the people who were instrumental to Pensonic’s success 50 years ago. The event was held in Pensonic’s new head office, which is located in Simpang Ampat, Penang. The building sits on six acres of land, complete with R&D laboratories, ample learning spaces, an auditorium, and a showroom and demonstration room for visitors to experience Pensonic products in a casual setting, among other spaces.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT WWW.PENSO NIC.CO M.MY

Free like an eagle Living like a Bohemian Porada’s Boheme bed head is upholstered with fabrics from their Fifteen Collection, framed in solid Canaletta walnut. You can also opt to add LED backlighting to make the structure look even more ethereal.

The eagle is the symbol of freedom, soaring in the sky without a care in the world. He is the master of the skies, the bearer of majesty. Bring the spirit of the eagle into your home with NestNordic.com’s Eagle cushion, alongside a whole host of other animals like wolves and stags.

FO R M O R E IN FOR M AT IO N , VISIT WWW.PO R ADA.CO M

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.N ESTN O RD I C. CO M

40 years of Armani Mr. Giorgio Armani is a man of simple tastes where food is concerned. He loves healthy, unfussy cooking with fresh ingredients. “I am Italian after all,” Mr. Armani stresses. “I love simple Italian cooking.” It is the love of simple, food good that brings Mr. Armani to the idea that a fashion brand should share a dining experience evocative of the brand. Such gave rise to the 28 food and beverage outlets under the Armani label, conceived to offer variety while committed to the core philosophy that entertainment does not have to be formal at all.

FO R MORE INFORMATION, VIS IT WWW.ARMANIRE S TAU RANTS .C OM

FAB FINDS

A family of Lilliputians spend a fine day out touring an amazing architectural landscape â&#x20AC;&#x201C; created by pitchers, dishes, bowls and cups!

FROM TOP

Grey plate (23cm), RM135; blue plate (17cm), RM59.70; pink bowl (10cm), RM36; blue plate (27cm), RM134.70, and grey bowl (19cm), RM102, all from Galanga Living. Brass onion trivet, RM534; apple ornament, RM534, and lotus root ornament, RM354, all from Atomi. Orange Olson bowl, RM50.85; platter, RM104.85; hand-painted coral bowl, RM53.85; Marin orange plate, RM44.85; Marin blue plate, RM44.85, and ďŹ&#x201A;oral plate, RM28.50, all from Crate & Barrel. Blue oval plate, RM117; pink plate, RM57, and pink cup, RM60, all from Galanga Living. OPPOSITE

Silver-plated double carafe, RM1029.60, from Mobel Story.

FROM RIGHT

Ricordi & Sfera Pottery cup (L in cream), RM231; Alexa LixďŹ eld grey porcelain vessel, RM330, and Ricordi & Sfera Pottery teacup (S in grey), RM219, all from Space. Mouse white coffee pot, RM462, and black teapot, RM462, both from Mobel Story. Fulico swing cup, RM177 for a pair, from Atomi. Georg Jensen Beak thermo jug, RM480, from Space.

F R O M T O P, C L O C K W I S E

Wooden spoon, RM62.85; olive-wood mortar and pestle, RM149.85; olive-wood nibble bowls, RM56.85 each; Cole coasters, RM56.85 for a set of four, and Studio tureen with ladle, RM269.85, all from Crate & Barrel. Pink cups, RM60 each, from Galanga Living. Alphabet dish, RM54; Demitasse cup and saucer, RM444, and Frill cup, RM54, all from Atomi. Round tray with handle, RM910.80, from Mobel Story. OPPOSITE

Hexagon marble tray, RM1047, from Galanga Living. Georg Jensen Aldo Bakker cast steel oil pipe, RM450, from Space.

text ELIZA HAMIZAH photography DARREN CHANG styling & illustration DON TAN

THE

DECORATIVE EFFECT

The big three of fabric prints and patterns – florals, geometrics, and stripes – are sure ways to revitalise a home or personalise a space. If you’re unsure about where to start, this helpful guide to where and how to use them will definitely get you in the mood for decorating!

Florals Floral prints get a bad rep for being Grandma’s favourite, but they don’t have to look dated or gaudy. Choose the right style for your space: A soft-hued, country fabric may not work in a modern minimalist home, while a stylised Art Deco print may look out of place in a traditionally decorated room. If you are new to florals, don’t commit to prints on permanent fixtures such as sofas – use them on cushions and curtains, instead.

1 Liberty, Jeffery Rose Tree, from Bode. 2. Flamingo Club, Cubana collection by Matthew Williamson, from Janine. 3.Deco Art collection, from Acacia Fabrics. 4. Palmetto collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 5. Momentum 5&6 collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 6. Habanera, Cubana collection by Matthew Williamson, from Janine.

HOW TO USE Motifs in fresh blue or slate grey, as well as those with a bold or graphic style, are good contemporary options. For a more masculine treatment, choose moodier shades instead of pastels, and pair them with solid colours or geometric prints.

7. Multiform collection, from Acacia Fabrics. 8. Aztec collection, from Acacia Fabrics. 9. Momentum 3&4 collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 10. Momentum 5&6 collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 11. Momentum Sheers & Structures collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 12. Miramar by Matthew Williamson, from Janine.

Geometrics The symmetry and consistent nature of geometric designs allow them to complement almost everything. Larger geometric prints can be used on carpets or rugs, whereas smaller prints look better on soft furnishings such as cushions. However, note that certain patterns might disappear into the folds of accessories, such as drapery.

HOW TO USE Indian or Southwestern-influenced prints can create a focal point in a rustic space, while strong graphic lines may help to draw the eye away from architectural shortcomings. However, try not to use too many geometrics as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re quite attentiongrabbing on their own â&#x20AC;&#x201C; break them up with plain prints, ikat designs, or more organic patterns. 10

Stripes

Stripes are the most versatile and accessible print out of the three, and a great alternative to plain fabric. The difference in impact is in the stripesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; width, colour combination, and direction. For instance, a navy-white combination has a coastal feel, while a multicoloured print evokes fun and casualness. Pinstripes offer a masculine touch (try it on an armchair!), and broad stripes make a room appear grander. HOW TO USE Vertical stripes create the illusion of height, so using them with curtains can make ceilings look higher. Horizontals, whether applied on cushions or beddings, are bolder and emphasise the pattern.

13. Zambezi collection, Harlequin, from Goodrich Global. 14.Varadero, from Janine. 15. Sinbad collection, from Acacia Fabrics.

UV Pro Inside Out, from Acacia Fabrics.

TIPS This advice will leave you patternconfident in no time!

in your space with neutral-coloured sofas, chairs and ottomans.

• When picking fabric, consider the furniture you will be using it with, the size and colour of motifs, and the theme of the room.

• Some pattern designs are much stronger than others, so mixing a weak design with a strong, well-designed pattern can highlight the weaker one. Sit them together to see if it works or not.

• Patterns don’t have to match! They simply have to complement each other. The easiest way to mix patterns is with colour. Feel free to mix florals, ikats, or modern motifs, as long as they share a common palette. • Neutrals work well as a base when using large-scale prints. Start with a neutral hue for the walls and floors, and use bold prints in either a rug or key pieces of furniture. Then, fill

text ELIZA HAMIZAH

• In smaller spaces, patterns should be used primarily as accents, such as using the same print for a throw cushion and a lampshade. A larger space allows more freedom to be adventurous, so upholster your sofa in a bold print, but balance it out with neutral throw cushions or curtains.

(WANDER)LUST FOR DESIGN Travelling in style now carries a whole new meaning. Many of us travel thousands of miles just to experience the beauty of a space – be it a design hotel, a famous museum or a restaurant that promises a great meal, and an experience. The Home & Decor team shares the inspiring design-centric spaces we’ve been to that we’d love for you to check out, too!

Asia

The village of Probolinggo is situated across the scenic Mount Bromo in East Java, Indonesia. The natural formation of the clouds hovering seductively through the mountain range creates a breathtaking view!

1 A cafe housed

5 The Dongdaemun

within the Bukchon Hanok Village in Seoul, South Korea, offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding landscape and skyline of traditional architecture.

Design Plaza – designed by architect Zaha Hadid – in Seoul, South Korea, is a cultural hub that celebrates design and houses a variety of public spaces within.

2 A cafe-cum-art

6 The walls of this

gallery in the Heyri Art Village, Paju, South Korea, is designed with protruding cabins positioned at different angles.

accessories shop in Seoul, South Korea, feature displays of dried plant samples.

3 Sky and water

converge at the 100m-long inﬁnity pool deck of the Point Yamu by Como resort in Phuket, designed by Paola Navone. 4 Even the stairs are

covered in amazing grafﬁti art and murals at the Ihwa mural village in Seoul, South Korea.

7 Creative street art

and installations are abundant at the Ihwa mural village in Seoul, South Korea, and offer numerous Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. 8 The entrance of

the Avista Hideaway Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand, is decorated with a silver mosiactiled feature which shimmers under the sun.

9 This isn’t a vintage shop, but the funky “lobby” of the Wontonmeen Hostel in Hong Kong, in the Lai Chi Kok area. 1 0 The unique architecture of FiveDime restaurant in Taipei showcases sculptures inspired by female aboriginal dancers. The sculpted facade is made of driftwood, iron sheeting and ﬂagstone. 1 1 The Unescorecognised Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul, South Korea, is known for its rich heritage, majestic architecture and gardens.

1 2 The 798 Art District in Beijing is an art lovers’ haven, with galleries such as the Sheng Shi Sky art gallery, which is housed in a former industrial factory. 9

1 3 The Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Japan, looks like it’s straight out of a Ghibli ﬁlm! Studio co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, who designed the building, was inspired by quaint architecture in rural Italian towns. 1 4 The Silk at Dago, a boutique hotel in Bandung, Indonesia, is adorned with quirky art pieces showcasing both Indonesian and Western culture.

Europe

Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic St Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cathedral in all its splendour, as viewed from office and retail complex One New Change.

1 5 A large wooden cabinet stores and displays bottles of artisanal oil and vinegar at a stall in Borough Market, London.

1 8 The cafe at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London is opulent with ornate ﬁnishes, stained glass and artworks.

1 6 British artist Rebecca Louise Law’s gallery along Columbia Road in London features her amazing sculptural art pieces that she composes from natural materials.

1 9 A special Alice in Wonderland showcase at the V&A Museum of Childhood, a place adults will enjoy, too!

1 7 Venture out of central London, to the Ladbroke Grove area canal, for a change of scenery.

2 0 Just one of the many tongue-in-cheek and, sometimes, thought-provoking works of grafﬁti art around East London.

2 1 As seen in the Thames Foyer of The Savoy in London, the gorgeous interiors of the hotel exude an old-world charm.

2 2 A luxury goods department store housed in a Tudorstyle building built in the 1920s – that’s the charm of Liberty in London!

2 4 The Monologue shop along Redchurch Street in Shoreditch, London, stocks everything we want for our home.

2 3 Spotted on a residential street in Notting Hill, London, a high-impact, contrasting colour combination that will stop you in your tracks!

2 5 How convenient – an outpost of Labour and Wait, a popular East London lifestyle store, at the Dover Street Market fashion temple in London.

2 6 Died and gone to design heaven at the furniture and homeware department of the famed Le Bon Marche department store in Paris.

2 8 Designed by the fashion house of Maison Martin Margiela, the La Maison Champs Elysees hotel in Paris is full of trompe-l’oeil visual effects!

2 7 A landmark of Prague architecture – the Dancing House, also known as Fred and Ginger (named after Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers) – deviates from the traditional style of the surrounding buildings with its daring, curved structure.

2 9 The soaring towers of one of the tallest buildings in Copenhagen – the Bella Sky Comwell hotel. 3 0 The Rotunda area of the Trapholt Museum of Modern Art and Design in Copenhagen features furniture from the golden era of Danish design.

FEATURE

CLEANING HOUSE photo SAMSUNG

It may be a long shot to call cleaning enjoyable, but with the right tech, the chore becomes a breeze! Why not give yourself the gift of a clean, comfortable home to start the new year fresh?

Clean Floors There’s nothing more comforting than the feel of cool, clean floors beneath your feet. No one likes the sticky, mucky sensation of grimecovered floors, especially at home. And while there’s something to be said for good, old-fashioned sweeping, one can’t really beat the level of convenience and thorough cleanliness offered by vacuum cleaners. There is a catch, however. Old school vacuum cleaners have their limitations, and can be remarkably finicky to use. With wires, hoses, bulky bodies, and such to wrangle with in the midst of cleaning, it’s easy to get tangled up. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case, with

the rise of technology and robot vacuums who’re all set to make our lives that much easier! Robot vacuums. They’ve been in the market for quite some time now, and while it’s true that some earlier incarnations of the product have been less-than-effective, to say the least, today’s robots are immensely intelligent. Gone are the days of robot vacuums that stay stuck in corners like cats in trees; today’s robot vacuums segue around corners and scan their surroundings, effectively mapping your home in a bid to come up with the best possible cleaning route. Score one for technology; it’s a winner indeed.

THE MOPPING DEBATE

SAMSUNG POWERBOT VR9000 The Samsung POWERbot VR9000 is an expert in the field of cleaning house. As its name would suggest, the POWERbot boasts 20 times more suction power than competitor brands, eating up dirt and dust with gusto. EasyPass wheels allow the POWERbot to transition easily from carpets to hard floors, while an onboard digital camera and 10 smart sensors map your home to create the optimal cleaning path. If it’s effectiveness and convenience you’re after, you need look no further than this great home helper.

Here’s some food for thought. Mopping may not be as great a cleaning method as we may have been brought up to think! Like sponges, mops become soiled over time, riddled with contamination from its very first use. What further adds to the grime factor is the fact that many mops are stored before they are fully dry, thus becoming prime breeding grounds for bacteria. And if you’re the sort to mop the entire house with just one pail of solution each time you clean, you’ll have noticed that the water becomes increasingly dark with each rinse of the mop – increasingly soiled and contaminated, and decreasingly effective. What happens, then, is that you’re simply transferring bacteria and grime from one part of the house to another when you mop that way. Minimise the cross-contamination! If you’re using old-fashioned mops, be certain to change your mopping solution as you go. Use hot water to kill bacteria. Squeeze your mop dry and let it sun before storing it for the next use. You won’t kill everything living in your mop, but you will be able to extend its life before a necessary change is required. One way to clean better is to replace your manual mops with steam cleaners. With heating capabilities, these great inventions can kill bacteria and unwanted microorganisms in your home, ensuring your space is well and truly clean.

WE RECOMMEND THESE: KÄRCHER SC1 PREMIUM STEAM CLEANER Small and compact, the Kärcher SC1 Premium steam cleaner is easy to move around the house, and kills 99.99% of the bacteria living in your floors and carpets.

MORPHY RICHARDS 720020 STEAM MOP Your floors will thank you for the attention with this steam mop! With a capacity of 400ml, cleaning is made easier sans the need to refill at every turn of the corner. It’s also suitable for most surfaces: carpets, floors, work surfaces, windows, tiles, grout, ovens, and upholstery.

Clean Bedding Most beds are just teeming with life. Like death and taxes, mites in your bed are an inevitable fact of life, causing any number of allergic reactions for those with grave sensitivities, most commonly asthma, eczema, and rhinitis. Dust mites feed on dead skin cells, which are in abundance in our beds, and also thrive in dark, damp

environments. In short, we’re not really alone in our beds at night. It’s generally agreed upon that the best way to exterminate dust mites, or at least greatly reduce their numbers, is by vacuuming. Vacuums specially targeted towards the removal of dust mites boast High Efﬁciency Particulate Air (HEPA) ﬁlters, which must remove

99.97% of all airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. These vacuums are powerful helpers indeed, and can help to remove not only dust mites, but also dust mite eggs and dead skin cells from your bedding and mattress. It’s much more convenient, and deﬁnitely more effective than sunning a heavy mattress, too!

photo IKEA

DYSON V6 MATTRESS VACUUM The Dyson V6 mattress vacuum aims to remove allergenic dust mite droppings through powerful suction. Through years of research, the brand has come to understand that it is, indeed, suction that reigns supreme in ridding mattresses of mites. The vacuum is equipped with a HEPA filter, and removes mites, their droppings, and our dead skin cells, leaving you with air that is cleaner than what you breathe. A powerful motorised brush bar brushes your mattress with its stiff nylon bristles, ensuring the removal of dust mite allergens and dirt.

SHARP PLASMACLUSTER MITE CATCHER Sharp’s Plusmacluster mite catcher has a Heat & Clean function, effectively eliminating dust mites and other allergens in your bed by releasing heat up to 60˚C. Sharp’s Plasmacluster ions are also released in the process to deactivate bacteria and other harmful microbes in your bedding. The machine’s Cyclone Suction boasts powerful centrifugal force which can clean your mattress even through your bedding and linens!

Great Household Helpers These are a great help if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to up your spring-cleaning game with convenience and productivity.

BOSCH DISHWASHER After a cookout, and especially at this time of year, washing up all the pots, pans, and dishes can be a bit of a hassle. Manual washing can take an especially long time, what with the scrubbing, soaping, rinsing and drying. Thankfully, dishwashers do the job and do it well, cleaning your used pots and plates with hot water to easily dispose of cooking scum as well as bacteria. Boschâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s built-in dishwashers operate quietly, so you can do your dishes at any time of the day without fear of disrupting the peace and quiet.

SHARP 3-IN-1 AIR PURIFIER Your home is only as clean as the air that circulates around it. And if you live near a highway, or a construction site, or are expecting another bout of lung-abusing haze, an air purifier is most certainly the way to go. Sharp’s brand new 3-in-1 air purifier comes equipped with high-density Plasmacluster ions which remove airborne mold and viruses. They also suppress the activity of airborne viruses, while removing dust mite allergens, as well as other dust particles in the air. What’s even more amazing is the air purifier’s ability to catch mosquitoes, as is particularly pertinent in our tropical climate. An attached UV light, coupled with the colour black, attracts mosquitoes, while powerful airflow and suction captures the pests, and traps them on a strong glue sheet. The technology here reduces up to 91% of Culex and 73% of Aedes, as well as 72% of housefly species.

SHARP NO HOLES WASHING MACHINE Experts recommend changing your sheets once a week, so don’t slack off! As one would expect, Sharp’s No Holes washing machine boasts a tub with no holes. This protects your laundry from damage, so you can wash your bed linens as often as you like! The technology behind the tub’s lack of holes also ensures minimal mold and bacteria growth, as well as minimal water and detergent wastage – great for frequent to semi-frequent washing!

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH

FEATURE

STAYING ORGANISED! January beckons a new year, and it’s a great time to organise your home for the hectic year ahead, and make sure that everything remains in place.

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to get organised? We know how hard it is to keep to your resolutions, but we are here to help. Here are a few storage and organisation solutions to help you stay on top of everything for the rest of the year! Once you have applied the Marie Kondo method of decluttering to your belongings, and consigned, donated and recycled what you do not need, it’s time to tackle the objects that remain and the new ones that are sure to come. Don’t fret; we have the perfect solutions for you.

FO R M OR E IN FOR M AT IO N O N MAR IE KO NDO , V IS IT H T T P : / / T IN YUR L .CO M/ NNV H 2 6 V

LIVING ROOM

MORSTOP TV UNIT The television is often the centre of the home, and with the amount of technology associated with it, namely gaming consoles and other home entertainment peripherals, you’ll need a console table that is spacious enough to accommodate everything. The MORSTOP TV unit makes sure you won’t need to worry about tangling cables, as there are outlets in the back to lead them out and hide them from view. Available from Ikea.

PS 2014 SIDE TABLE WITH LIGHT Don’t let this clever little thing confuse you: it’s a side-table, lamp, and magazine holder all in one. Hybrids like this make the best of the limited space around us, particularly in small homes where you read, sit and perhaps eat in one place. The perforated surface allows you to easily thread charging cables through so they don’t become a tangled mess. Available from Ikea.

CHIVA FUNCTIONAL COFFEE TABLE This coffee table is the stuff of dreams for you, if your second nature is multitasking. You can easily slide up the panels on the tableâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface to access a deep and wide storage area, where you can store your coffee table books, remote controls, and other knick-knacks. The raised panels can also act as work stations if you like to work on your laptop in your living room! Available from BoConcept.

MOOOI ELEMENT 005 POUF Designed by Jaime Hayon, this pouf is shaped like a cactus, but also acts like a sculpture with a nifty storage compartment accessible from the top. You can also stack this up with other objects to reach the height that you want, so it can become anything you wish it to be: a table, a stool or perhaps a huge tray. Available from Space.

WARDROBE

B&B ITALIA BACKSTAGE WARDROBE The magic of this wardrobe lies in the fact that its doors allow the user to “enter” the wardrobe, so it can be used as a walk-in wardrobe. You can fit almost every accessory into the wardrobe system, like trays, adjustable mirrors and even jewellery holders.

BISSA CABINET If you are a stickler for shoes being stored neatly, this would be the ideal cabinet for you. Not only are you saving floor space when you store your shoes in this cabinet, you’ll also be able to easily adjust the shoe compartments by adding or removing the dividers. There is also ventilation space to ensure that your shoes have greater longevity.

Available from Space.

Available from Ikea.

NORDLI DRESSER You can combine one or more modular chests of drawers to achieve the perfect storage solution that suits your needs. The integrated damper catches the running drawer and ensures that it closes slowly, silently, and softly, while the feet are adjustable to compensate for any irregularities in floor height. Available from Ikea.

LILLĂ&#x2026;NGEN LAUNDRY CABINET The two windows in this laundry cabinet make it easy for you to sort and deposit your laundry into the separate compartments. This will allow you to split your lights from your darks, or perhaps those that need to be put away and those that are headed for the washing machine. Available from Ikea.

HOME OFFICE

CLASSICON PEGASUS HOME DESK Small and ingeniously designed, this little desk is the answer for the modern individual that works at home with every digital device in their arsenal. The table top is made of thick, bending leather so you can access whatever you need that has been stored in the compartments below. There are also specialised ports where you can charge your tablets and your phones with ease. Available from Space.

MOOOI TWO TOPS TABLES Of Marcel Wanders design, this table combines modern ingenuity with a classic silhouette. The desk is grand and stylish with a hidden layer of table space underneath. You can flip the ends up so you have an impromptu work desk whenever you need one. Wall stoppers and hidden cord outlets will also maximise the functionality of the table. Available from Space. text HANNY KEE

FEATURE

SPACE

SAVERS Space is important in any home. But what does one do with extra space and odd, small rooms that come with the house you adore? They shouldn’t hinder you from purchasing your dream home. Convert these rooms based on your needs and hobbies and utilise their shapes and sizes to the fullest. The following tips should help you if you’re looking to prevent space wastage and give your home a little spring cleaning.

CASADECO’S CHANTILLY COLLECTION 70

photo GOODRICH GLOBAL

photography JASPER YU

Live it Up

Types of Rooms ODD SHAPED, WEIRD-ANGLED ROOMS. If remodelling or renovating isn’t in your budget, purchase the right type of furniture or paint the walls in two shades of the same colour. Everything, from the design and shape of a chair, to the colour, and the wallpaper design should help to make a room look good. These rooms can either serve as the study or as an interesting-looking kitchen.

What do you do with all the angles and edges of a hexagon-shaped home? You may think of solutions for how you can work best with the angle, or how you can display or hide them. The shape is emphasised when the walls are kept bare but you can cover it up with a “curvy” sofa against the wall. To prevent cluttering the room, avoid using small, single-piece furniture or accessories.

photography JASPER YU

A Vertical Challenge,

72 photo JASPER YU

TRIANGLESHAPED SPACES.

photography OLIVIER FORGES

photography DARREN CHANG

If it’s not an attic, you could try to convert it into an open bedroom or an art studio. Open spaced bedrooms create a spacious and comfortable atmosphere for you to relax in. Leave accessories like trinkets and books in the study room.

LEFT PAGE

Triangle-shaped spaces add cosiness to the bedroom. ABOVE

A cabinet is built into the wall. It stores the home owner’s stemware collection. RIGHT

Don’t let the space underneath the staircase go to waste. Convert it into a “resting area” if you have the room for it.

HIDDEN ROOMS.

We’re referring to the space underneath the stairs. No one wants to live like Harry Potter at Number Four Privet Drive. Still, it’s not a bad space to fit a reading corner into. Other options include a coat closet, or a roomy space dedicated to your beloved furry pets. Alternatively, you can convert it into an open parking space - for your bicycles.

Time out! You need a study that no one, not even your family knows of. This hidden room looks like a wall or a built-in cabinet at the very least.”

photography VEE CHIN

“THE SPACE.”

How do you make use of extra rooms and spaces? Give these unused spaces a function. You can convert extra rooms into a personal walk-in wardrobe or an attached bathroom. Also try turning extra spaces in the kitchen into unique outdoor dining areas!

If you have add nooks in your room, convert them into a reading area.

photography VEE CHIN

IN BALCONIES.

photography VERNON WONG

Who says you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tend to a garden on your balcony? Create a miniature one using artificial turfs, pebbles and plants.

Add to spaces that lack accessories or furniture with the right console and stationery. These come in handy especially at the entrance of your home or long corridors.

photography DARREN CHANG

AT T H E E N T R A N C E OR IN CORRIDORS.

FOR ODD NOOKS.

photography FRENCHESCAR LIM

Some bedrooms come with extra L or I-shaped spaces. Fill these spaces by creating a cosy bay window or a reading corner. The clever use of space also means you do not let these extra nooks and corners go to waste.

Make way for one king-sized bed which fits all. Homes with high ceilings and those that lack space can incorporate the trending, split-level bedroom or a bunk bed that can cater to a large number of family members. Be inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or go for the platform beds with hidden compartments beneath them.

photography FRENCHESCAR LIM

IN BEDROOMS.

FOR CORNERS.

photo GOODRICH GLOBAL

This space is the perfect spot to use as a reading area. All you need is a side table, a comfortable armchair, and floor lamps.

TIPS FOR ROOM CONVERSION 1. Do some research on what you can use the space for. Choose a room that shares functionality and purpose with the room you have in mind. The maids’ room for example, can be converted into a laundry room, or an extra bedroom, or a meditation room. The existing furnishings can serve a purpose in the new room you’re creating.

NOTE Consider wallpaper and flooring that is able to withstand damp conditions if you’re putting together a laundry room. The placement of a piece of furniture or appliance is important. When well-planned, you can reduce space wastage. Do you have power outlets in strategic spots? Are they placed at the right height and can they be removed? 2. The cost of converting an already furnished room is much more expensive than working on an unfurnished one. Purchase accessories to experiment with materials and styles before investing in a piece of furniture.

NOTE

photo IKEA

Consider reusing the furniture in the room instead of purchasing new ones. Repurpose them if necessary!

How do you convert rooms with existing functions into ideal spaces?

GUEST ROOMS. Do you have one too many guest rooms? Why not use the space as a personal gym, a dance room or a man cave by personalising them with your favourite accessories? If you’re working towards a home

4. Purchase suitable furnishings. Take the shape of your home into consideration. Curvy furniture suits circular homes and rooms better. 5. Smaller details need to be taken into consideration. Make use of dimmers and scented candles, or an aromatherapy diffuser to convert your bedroom into a meditation or spa room.

gym, remember to strip away the floral wallpapers. You may opt to paint the wall with blue or grey, accenting with chic silver on the side. Replace bedside tables with mirrors. CHILDRENS’ ROOMS. Your children are all grown up, and have left the nest! Don’t leave their rooms empty for years. It’s time to convert the spaces into cosy rooms to indulge in your hobbies. For example, a music room, a library, or a meditation room can come in handy!

text NG YI XIANG

photo ELYZA’S WINDOW

HOUSEKEEPERS’ ROOMS. Many apartments come with +1 rooms that are frequently used as housekeepers’ rooms. You can convert this space into a study room for your children, or use it as a playroom, a laundry room, a pickling room, or an arts and crafts room.

3. Know the structure, shape and size of your room. These do not limit what you can do to a space. If you have a small circular room, you can create a relaxation room. Instead of a conventional bed or sofa, opt for cushions with plenty of comforters and blankets in the middle of the room.

GREAT GADGETS We get a closer look at the latest kitchen appliances to show you what makes them stand out from the pack.

Exchangeable side panels allow you to change the look of your machine.

Nespresso Pixie Clips coffee maker Embracing the trend of personalisation, this compact machine features exchangeable decorative side panels and a simple clipping system. Change its look anytime, choosing from 10 designs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which you can purchase from the Nespresso boutique â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that range from textured and patterned to bold solid colours. Each machine comes with two pairs of clips.

A foldable drip tray accommodates cups of different sizes.

Bosch Maxximum kitchen machine

An automatic sensor control recognises if cream or whipped egg whites are stiff enough.

Great for home cooks and bakers, this versatile machine has a 1,600-watt motor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the most powerful one currently on the market. Its features include a 3-D mixing system for quick and even mixing of ingredients and a smart dough sensor, which maintains a consistent mixing speed even when handling stiff dough.

It has multiple attachments and up to 120 functions, such as pasta making, citrus pressing, sausage stuffing and mincing.

Philips Avance noodle maker Make your own noodles and pasta with different flavours and textures in just 10 minutes. This machine comes with four unique shaping discs to make different types of pasta and noodles. No kneading is required!

The four interchangeable noodle-shaping discs can be stowed away easily.

Just add flour and water into this fully automatic machine.

The touchscreen technology allows you to customise the quantity of water for your drink.

The magnetised capsule holder is automated, eliminating the need for manual clamp handles.

Nescafe Dolce Gusto Drop coffee maker With a statementmaking futuristic look inspired by a drop of coffee, this machine is equipped with a 0.8-litre water compartment that slides into its base. You can make both hot and cold beverages.

The adjustable drip tray accommodates cups of varying sizes.

The electronic slider touch control features 10 power levels, and five preset cooking settings to boil, simmer or keep food warm.

Brandt T12010R portable induction hob Its minimalist design gives this induction hob a distinctive look. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also practical and handy, featuring an elevated design and non-slip base. Safety functions include a child lock and safety cut-off.

Electrolux 30L Impresso microwave This five-in-one tabletop microwave in stainless steel and cool black has a streamlined design thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unobtrusive. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also versatile, with many functions, such as auto-cook programs, to accommodate all your cooking needs.

The control panel features digital touch buttons and a knob with a white LED display.

The five cooking modes available are microwave, grill, convection, combination and steam.

text LOUISA CLARE LIM photographer DARREN CHANG assisted by ANGELA GUO art direction LIM YI LING

FEATURE

HAVE A COLOURFUL YEAR! Have a look at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colour forecast.

As we usher in the year 2016, we also welcome a new palette of colours set to grace every aspect of design. These colours are forecasted by a panel of experts in the fields of interior, architectural, fashion, and even graphic designs. Once released, they are then dissipated into the market for consumers to pick and choose from, as they wish. And while they may not be the be-all and end-all of colours, they do serve as a guideline for whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming! 86

FOUNDER BLUE This blue is reminiscent of a certain social media platform that seems to have become ubiquitous in our daily lives. It is the colour of depth and stability, traits that are greatly needed in an age where long distances are negated. This colour evokes trust, and enhances self-expression, thus allowing us to comfortably connect with everyone around us. Available from Nippon Paint

CHERISHED GOLD Gold is a versatile colour. Metallic and shiny, it is the colour of the rich and powerful, but can also be an earthy neutral in different lighting. The perfect partner for sweet pastels and rich jewel tones, Cherished Gold will not only bring a little touch of glamour into your space, it will also keep your space personal and authentic. Available from Dulux.

â&#x20AC;˘ Looking at vast expanses of green, whether in walls, grass, or trees will lessen the strain on your eyes

GREEN TUFT Shades of green are the best hues for restfulness, and as an added plus, they are synonymous with Mother Nature. Green Tuft is a bright apple-green, and is bound to trigger fresh ideas and inspiration whenever you see it. Such a positive colour will uplift spirits and cut a smile into any sour mood. Available from Nippon Paint.

HERITAGE & FUTURE This is a series of red hues that speak to your past. It is reminiscent of Sienna bricks from Italy, the cornerstone of Renaissance architecture and also the height of taste in the modern age. By looking to our heritage, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll definitely be able to build a sure future in design. Available from Dulux.

ROSE QUARTZ Soothing and calming, Rose Quartz is Pantone’s second Colour of the Year for 2016. It is a persuasive, yet gentle colour that reminds us to always be kind and compassionate. It brings us to the smaller, yet infinitely beautiful things that we encounter in life: a serene sunset, a faint blush on the cheeks, and a dainty pink flower.

SERENITY Weightless like the blue skies, Serenity is calming. It brings respite and relaxation during great times of turbulence. It is also known as the first of two, of Pantone’s Colours of the Year for 2016. Serenity aims to unite the eye with a naturallyconnected sense of space, creating an aura of calm whenever you see it. Available from Pantone.

Available from Pantone.

VOLCANIC BLACK It’s the darkest colour that can be found in nature; not a stark black, but one that incorporates earth tones. Best used as a statement colour to turn a solid palette into one that is striking, Volcanic Black can be used with a great variety of top coats to bring different, sparkling effects to life. Available from Nippon Paint.

WORDS AND PICTURES This palette holds the contrast of pastels against graphite. More accurately, it is the juxtaposition between words and images, which are all used in social media. It is inspired by the current atmosphere we are living in now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the need to find balance and harmony between the two. Available from Dulux.

BEING PEACH Youthful, spontaneous, and positive, peach hues bring a sense of joyful curiosity that inspire us to explore the wonders that the world has to offer. If you desire a bright palette filled with personality, this is the colour to go for. Available from Nippon Paint.

DARK AND LIGHT There is something inherently beautiful about the twilight hour. The darkness of the sky is broken by the stark hues of maroon, purples and even blues, pierced by either the first or last rays of the sun. It is the symbolism that every perceived end is actually a new beginning and vice versa, giving us the strength to plough through lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenges. Available from Dulux.

text HANNY KEE

NOW TRENDING:

SILHOUETTES Clean, streamlined silhouettes form the basis for the coming yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trends. Among favourites for decor are minimalistic, multipurpose pieces, seamlessly integrated into an increasingly space-saving, clutterminimising world.

ALLNATURAL

1 92

The Quill rug, of Nao Tamura design for Nanimarquina is inspired by feather stems. Uniquely handmade, the Quill rug falls into easy and natural surroundings, simplicity in essence. Truly representative of the Japanese philosophy of wabi sabi, the art of acknowledging beauty in imperfections, the Quill rug takes on both its rustic and modest traits, and wears them perfectly. Available from Space.

With great emphasis placed on natural looks that derive their beauty from the earth, the season’s looks feature beautifully smoothed wood and stone.

1 With its solid wood frame, the Ester chair is a design of Stefano Bigi’s for Porada’s Fifteen collection. Fabric forms its seat, the customisable material complementing the smooth lustre of the wood, which, in its elegant curve, is reminiscent of well-manicured branches. Available from Studio 216. 2 Solid Canaletta walnut forms the Hilton room divider, put together with interlocking sections. Of Tarcisio Colzani design for Porada, the piece evokes a sense of oneness with the natural world. Available from Studio 216. 3 The Grover dining table from Nestnordic.com boasts an oak or walnut surface, which is supported by matte black epoxy legs. Its natural, unfettered style of design permits for ease where pairing chairs is concerned. Available from Nestnordic.com. 4

4 A Marie-Christine Dorner design for Ligne Roset, the Iso occasional table takes on a structured, rigid silhouette in natural or black-stained solid ash. Its ceramic stoneware surface is non-scratchable and durable, 30% harder than granite. Available from Ligne Roset. 5 The Lupo occasional table of Pierre Paulin design features a solid black-stained oak body, pure lines and oblique legs that are reminiscent of ﬁfties designs. Scandinavian-inspired, the table may be used as a serving or breakfast tray, courtesy of the cutout hand-holds on either end. Available from Ligne Roset.

MULTIPURPOSE

1 With storage space topping many a priority list, the Chiva functional coffee table most certainly ﬁts the bill. When not in use, the panels can be lowered to hide unsightly clutter, keeping the space clean. Available from BoConcept.

A shift in the design paradigm has seen to the perpetrating of a quest: to find solutions to furnishings that serve more than one purpose. The growing need to make use of increasingly scant space well provides plenty of area to expand upon this motion.

2 Omer Arbel’s 38 Series planters for Bocci embody beautifully cascading vines, combining the beauty of nature in plants with lightbulbs to illuminate the space. Available from Space. 3 The Felipe shoe cabinet provides capacious room for his and her shoes. Knobs in the side of the piece allow for coats and umbrellas, making it a functional piece for narrow hallways requiring spacesaving solutions. Available from Nestnordic.com.

4 Of Philippine Lemaire design for Ligne Roset, the Couliss occasional table boasts plenty of storage space within its elephant lacquered exotic Ayous wood chest. Hide belongings from sight with its solid American walnut top. Available from Ligne Roset.

5 Philippe Starck’s D’E-light for Flos provides illumination in more ways than one. An attached charging station permits for the mounting of an iPhone, iPad, or iPod over a 2700K ﬂat panel light. Available from Space.

6 Futons and sofa beds are here to stay, and the Madison sofa bed takes it one step further. With adjustable headrests to accommodate all forms of seating, this piece of furniture ensures ample comfort, coupled with clean, deﬁned lines. Available from BoConcept.

FUNCTIONALLY DECORATIVE

Gone are the days of pieces that exist solely for aesthetic pleasure, or for one purpose alone. These days, a piece of furniture must be both to earn its place in a home, lending beauty as well as appropriate practicality. 2

1 The Amarcord floor lamp is a work of art by P. Salvade for Porada’s Fifteen collection. Solid Canaletta walnut frames clear glass panels, through which bright LED 3000˚K lighting provides illumination, reminiscent of fireflies in the night. Available from Studio 216. 3 4

2 Blending easily into any home of modern decor, the Bolla table lamp by O. Favaretto for Porada provides light encased within a cocoon of natural elements: a solid ash base and a diffuser in either white opal, smoked, or silk glass. Available from Studio 216. 3 Stackable stools are great, but the Idona hanging stool saves on ﬂoor-space altogether. They also make for interesting conversation pieces when not in use, and hung up against the wall. Available from Nestnordic.com. 4 Tarcisio Colzani’s Pearl hanging mirror for Porada features a frame of sixty wooden, solid Canaletta walnut spheres. Available from Studio 216. 5 Of Marie-Christine Dorner design, the Phobos occasional table is simplicity and elegance in one. Copper-plated steel ﬁnished with anti-rusting varnish allows the Phobos its uncommon colour, perfect alongside its uniquely-shaped stand and pivoting top. Available from Ligne Roset. 6 Much like a spool to hold thread, the Kuf occasional table, designed by Michael Koenig for Ligne Roset, well becomes the material of each variation. In wood, either solid European cherry or American walnut, it is romantic and traditional; in aluminium, it is industrial and raw. Available from Ligne Roset.

6 5

CULTURE AND NOSTALGIA Inspiration abounds in design. Where current trends are concerned, designers have been looking beyond the boundaries of culture, and even time.

1 Stackable and stylish, the Persienne modules include stripes both straight and slanted, of Arnaud Lapierre design. Available from Ligne Roset. 2 Pierre Paulin’s Archi armchair embodies the comfortable ﬁreside chairs of the ﬁfties. A reproduction of the CM 194 HD and CM 195 HD chairs, the Archi is a nod at timeless designs, and the perfection of the ‘comfort curve’. Available from Ligne Roset. 3 Inspired by Frankish furniture of the Merovingian dynasty (modern day France, Benelux and partially, Germany), Studio Job’s Altdeutsche cabinet for Moooi is elaborately designed. Symbolic representations of life’s essences: roses, skulls, keys and feathers rest, starkly contrasted, upon a bed of white. Available from Space. 4 The Lucrezia-Erik bed draws inspiration for its wall-mounted headboard from Oriental culture, with a circular lace motif on leather. An Antonio Citterior design for the Maxalto collection, B&B Italia, it speaks of sophistication and modernity. Available from Space.

5 Drawing from ﬁfties steel chairs that embody the retro age, the Nerissa chair with arms provides a burst of colour for muted rooms. Available from Nestnordic.com. 6 More Oriental inﬂuences make themselves visible in Michael Lin’s Formosamacro rug in red for Nanimarquina. Available from Space.

QUALITY AND SIMPLICITY

One thing that hasn’t changed throughout the years is this: that quality reigns supreme. It’s important as ever to invest in furniture that is durable, that will take you through the years with grace and style.

1 Of M. Marconato and T. Zappa design for Porada, the Bilot bedside table makes use of solid Canaletta walnut wood, smoothly polished and beautifully streamlined. Available from Studio 216. 2 Hans J. Wegner’s CH825 Credenza sideboard, while originally crafted of rosewood and teak, is produced with walnut and oak today. Available from Space. 3 The CM 191 occasional table, patented by Pierre Paulin in the year 1959 balances simple aesthetics and clean lines on a black lacquered steel wire base. Available from Ligne Roset. 4 Crafted of Cristalplant®, a natural mineral ﬁller of phosphate of aluminium with polyester acrylate resin, Jakob Wagner’s Link table for B&B Italia is continuity on display. A single piece, moulded without joints, showcases ﬁne workmanship in using the material. Available from Space.

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH

FEATURE

2016’s TRENDING

MATERIALS This year’s, we’re going easy on marble, moving from a’la natural to the glamorous shine of brass and copper. While we usher in these durable new materials, some trends from previous years, however, remain popular!

photo KITAKITA

Hand painted Nori Kebaya mini plates, dinner set, napkin ring, tea cup & saucer, and hand drawn Batik table runner and napkin.

photo KITAKITA

photo STUDIO BEEN

1 1 The Broken Vegetable table runner series by Elisa Strozyk and Gestalten 2 Iban woven baskets.

photos BASKETS OF AFRICA

3 Zulu wire baskets from Baskets of Africa. 4 Stephen Zigurasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bowl Interrupted. 5 PREN 06 is made of maple wood, hand woven by Louise Tucker.

photo STEPHEN ZIGURAS

Handcrafted products made of felt, wool, or linen are in! 2016 is the year to display a wide range of tribal or global products, whether locally-made or brought home from travels. What we saw in 2015: Woven rattan furniture, linenroped armchairs, and artwork of felt, industrial mesh, paper and zip ties (as seen in our January 2015 issue), as well as lots of cotton blend linens in rustic kitchens.

What weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be seeing in 2016: Everything from soft furnishings to home decorations that come with back stories, and handcrafted furniture and decorations made of organic materials such as rattan and sisal. These provide interesting visuals, textures and a touch of locality in a home. Think of tribal African wood decorations, indigenous blankets from Australia or North America, and woven Mengkuang baskets in Malaysia.

photo LOUISE TUCKER

Natural fibres

photos EMIL THOMSEN-SCHMIDT.

photo ORGEO QUAGLIATA

photo FREEIMAGES.COM/DAVID559

Bringing in the greens

3 1 Algae Cells by Orgeo Quagliata.

What we saw in 2015: People brought in the greens with vertical gardens, sky planters, terrariums, and moss gardens. What we’ll be seeing in 2016: We’ve been growing potted herbs thus far, but 2016 will see us growing other things – in particular, algae, on your furniture and as part of your home’s interior. Designers Jacob Douenias, Ethan Frier, Orfeo Quagliata, Jonas Edvard, and Nikolaj Steenfatt all use algae in their designs.

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photo sourced from WWW.LIVINGTHINGS.US

Build a shrine to dote on your beloved plants. With the right amount of sunlight and a watering system, your indoor garden becomes immensely easy to care for. This trend ﬁrst showed up in the year 2015, but its here to stay through 2016!

2 The Terroir Project by Jonas Edvard and Nikolaj Steenfatt. Seaweed is harvested along the beach in Denmark. The chair and lamps are made out of fucus, paper, and ashwood. The process of creation involves drying the seaweed, grinding it into a powder, and cooking it into a consistency of glue. This process utilises the viscous and adhesive effects of Alginate, a natural polymer of brown algae. 3 Living Things by Jacob Douenias and Ethan Frier. Spirulina algae is used to fuel household appliances. They can recycle light, heat and carbon.

photo PATRICK CHAN

Crystalline Salt Wall at Dynaforce Wellness Lifestyle showroom.

Minerals

What weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be seeing in 2016: Natural crystals and Agate are here to stay. And though corals are strictly not minerals, they most certainly have a place in the world of interior design.

photo TIMES TWO DESIGN

What we saw in 2015: While salt crystal lamps were making a comeback, marble coffee tables were also trending. This was followed by Agate, which was the latest to hit the market last year.

photo BOCONCEPT

Mother nature is being brought into homes in various ways. Minerals display nature at its best, and come in both natural and man-made forms like sculptures. Bring out your collection of stones, fossils, ceramics, and crystals to create a display of natural patterns and colours at home.

photo TIMES TWO DESIGN

1 Collection of Objekts by Lauren Renfrow. 2 Ball clock from BoConcept. 3 Thin Agate slice by Lauren Renfrow.

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Wood Wood is in for bathrooms this year! Marble can be cold and slippery, but wood is just the opposite. It offers a warm ambience, perfect for cold mornings spent getting ready in the bathroom. What we saw in 2015: Marble was a dominant material used in bathrooms for the longest time. In 2015, the beauty of marble was emphasised in open-concept bathrooms integrated into master bedrooms. Without any partitions, these bathrooms are encased in showroom-like glass walls or doors.

photo WONG WEI LIANG

What we’ll be seeing in 2016: We deﬁnitely hate to see marble go. Although we’re not completely eliminating the use of this material, we can expect bathrooms to be furnished with warm wooden countertops and wall panels to provide a cosy, sauna-like atmosphere.

Metals Experts extol the virtue of mixing metallics with metals. This simply means mixing all your golds, silvers, coppers, and brass together in a room for full effect. What we saw in 2015: Up to this point, homeowners have been injecting metal and metallic furnishings into their homes in small amounts. This year calls for a different way to use these elements. What we’ll be seeing in 2016: Full gold and metallic pieces of furniture dominate the year’s designs! Expect plenty of furnishings and home decorations in various metal and metallic finishes for you to play with. Start with the lightest and most reflective colours, silver, gold, copper, and bronze.

photo SPACE FURNITURE

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1 Multi Spout vase in Gold by designers Sahil and Sarthak. 2 Bronze Cypris mirror, Nina Mair for ClassiCon, available from Space Furniture. 3 Les Heritiers’ Antilope, Gnou, Mouﬂon silver glassware, available from Studio 216.

4 Gold Gulmohar platter by designers Sahil and Sarthak. 5 Pine Cone table lamp from BoConcept.

photo DANIEL EMMA

6 White and Brass Bluff City 14 pendant lamp by Jonah Takagi for Roll & Hill, available from Space Furniture.

Mixed materials

What we saw in 2015: We’re no strangers to the wood and steel pairing, ever so often utilised for tables, chairs and benches. We also saw tinted black or smoke glass tables with chrome frames trending, and have also dedicated an article to leather products with their versatility, allowing them to pair immensely well with chrome, wood, and marble. Wood was also much used as a frame for paper lamps and glass coffee tables. What we’ll be seeing in 2016: We’re expecting no constraints in terms of the types of materials you can mix together in creating your preferred look.

text NG YI XIANG

photo SARA FERRARI

photo ANDREA BASILE STUDIO

Decorate your home with an assortment of materials! How about pairing metal with wood, or stone with glass?

1 NINNA table by Carlo Contin. The table comes with ashwood legs and a marble top, while the seats of its matching armchair incorporate leather straps. 2 Mesh by Sara Ferrari.

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HARVEY NORMAN SPECIAL

NEW YEAR, N E W TA B L E The kitchen may be the heart of a home but it is at the dining table that family members come together for a grand reunion.

Depending on which interior designer you ask, a dining table could be the first consideration when designing a kitchen. Many consider the kitchen and dining area to be an intimate place to drink with friends, have breakfast with the family, or spend some quiet time alone with a book and a cup of tea. It’s extremely important to be seated comfortably at the dining table. Think elbow space. As in restaurants, you’ll find some tables uncomfortably short or tall, which makes eating a difficult experience. Therefore it’s essential for one to try out various dining settings in a showroom before making the purchase. CHOOSING THE RIGHT DINING TABLE: One size does not fit all where dining tables are

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concerned. Consider these when buying a dining table: Shape and size matters. Round, rectangular, triangular, and square tables are available in the market. Choose the right one depending on the number of family members living at home. Get an extendable table to accommodate visiting relatives. A long rectangular table may be practical for large families who love to play board games or do their work at, but it’s not conducive for a family of three. Toddlers: Keep in mind that sharp corners are dangerous for toddlers. Consider buying round tables which are available in different heights and sizes.

Materials. Different materials set the ambience, tone and mood of a room differently. You have the option of choosing a modern-contemporary marble table or traditional wooden pieces. Elderly: Marble and over-polished wood may be too slippery for the elderly who need to grip on solid surfaces to get up and out of the dining area. Consider buying the tables with textured surfaces. The table must be able to tolerate weight and pressure. Varying types of tables for the wheelchair bound: Dining tables with adjustable heights or extensions help the wheelchair bound to get around easily. They also cater to family members of various heights. Otherwise, you can also mix dining chairs with benches to cater for large dining parties.

H A R V E Y N O R M A N C A R R I E S A W I D E R A N G E O F A L F I TA L I A D I N I N G TA B L E S FO R Y O U TO C H O O S E F R O M :

DEAL OF THE MONTH

D E A L O F T H E M O N T H : O P E R A R O U N D D I N I N G TA B L E UP: RM13,999 Promo: RM8,399 Round dining tables encourage interaction with your relatives as they enable you to sit at close proximity. The sophisticated table from the Opera collection exhibits natural wood grains.

C A N O V A E X T E N D A B L E TA B L E UP: RM11,999 Promo: RM7,299 Modern and minimalistic, the extendable dining table from the Canova collection adds a luxurious aura to your dining area with its high gloss surface, chrome detailing and white carrara marble ﬁnishing.

M O N T B L A N C E X T E N D A B L E D I N I N G TA B L E UP: RM10,999 Promo: 6,599 You don’t need a vibrantly-toned piece of furniture to brighten up your dining area. This extendable dining table from the Mont Blanc collection reﬂects light with its koto veneer and high gloss lacquer ﬁnishing.

M U R A N O D I N I N G TA B L E UP: RM6,999 Promo: RM4,299 ALF Italia’s latest collection Murano comes with a unique “Coffee Eco Birch” gloss ﬁnishing that exudes warmth. To add to this already beautiful piece, metal adorns across the surface of the table. Its elegant clean-cut design makes a dining area look spacious. Extendable version available.

HARVEY NORMAN IPC SHOPPING CENTRE +603-7718-5200 | HARVEY NORMAN MID VALLEY +603-2282-2860 | HARVEY NORMAN SUNWAY PYRAMID +603-5622-1300 HARVEY NORMAN PAVILION +603-2142-3735 | HARVEY NORMAN AEON BUKIT TINGGI +603-3326-2631 | HARVEY NORMAN 1 MONT KIARA +603-6203-6380 HARVEY NORMAN SETIA CITY MALL +603-3345-6085 | HARVEY NORMAN PARADIGM MALL +603-7887-3589 | HARVEY NORMAN QUEENSBAY (PENANG) +604-630-8210 HARVEY NORMAN CITTA MALL +603-7846-1025 | HARVEY NORMAN AMPANG POINT SHOPPING CENTRE +603-4260-1020 | HARVEY NORMAN NU SENTRAL +603-2260-7866 | HARVEY NORMAN GURNEY PARAGON MALL +604-229-8886 | HARVEY NORMAN IOI CITY MALL +603-8957-7918

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FEATURE

GLOBAL PHENOMENON

photos ZERO PER ZERO

We read into their designs. These designers focus on the ins and outs of railway systems, cities and the world. Their works make differences to our travelling experiences and at the same time, also make good souvenirs or decorative pieces.

ZERO PER ZERO

Intrigued by the complex railway system of Tokyo during his studies in Japan, Kim JiHwan, art director of Seoul-based graphic design studio, ZERO PER ZERO, developed the concept of reinterpreting them in a fun way on paper. 106

“Other types of maps are quite challenging to manipulate in their shape; however, railway systems are relatively easy to transform. We hope that people who travel the city with our map could leave with great memories,” Kim Ji-Hwan says. With the help of a university friend and illustrator, Sol Jin, the duo held an exhibition in 2007 before establishing their studio a year later. They take on projects revolving around their renowned City Railway System series, which was inspired by the experiences gained from their travels to cities in various countries. The project involves designing railway maps of various countries including Tokyo in Japan, Seoul in Korea, Paris in France, New York City in America, and Barcelona in Spain. These are designed within the symbolic shapes that best represent the country or state, Taegeuk (symbol seen in the Korean flag) heart for New York and the iconic Eiffel Tower.

With advanced technology, digital or mobile maps come in when travels necessitate navigating a precise route to a location. However, a paper map is needed during the planning stage to see an overall view of any place. These maps are available in both silkscreen poster and mouse pad versions. “ZERO PER ZERO not only produces the City Railway System posters, but also creates many modified maps for interior decorations. We find them enjoyable because they transmit the feeling of modernity and travel,” Ji-Hwan says. Stationery lovers can get their hands on planners, box tapes, folders, postcards and travel accessories adorned with maps. “Travel managers”

come in a variety of designs and colours that range from railway maps in gold and black to the striking coloured illustrations of significant buildings. These travel accessories, stationeries, railway maps, world poster maps and foldable city maps are accessible to both Koreans and tourists at design shops, souvenir shops in museums, or at ZER PER ZERO’s showroom, ZERO SPACE.

ZE RO S PAC E IS LOCATED AT 1F , 456-27 MANGWO N - D O N G, M APGU , S E OU L 121-889, SO UTH KO REA. FOR MORE INFORMATI O N , VI SI T W W W. ZE ROP E RZE RO.C OM . ALSO CHECK O UT WWW.H OME AND D E CO R. CO M . M Y FO R AN E XC LU S IVE INT ERVI EW.

photos MASAKO KUBO

“When creating maps, you can focus on certain themes, such as food, sports, and historical buildings, or simplify the landscape so that you can give a different look to the same place,” Masako Kubo says.

MASAKO KUBO

Masako Kubo is a Japanese illustrator based in New Zealand. She went from being an ordinary ofﬁce worker in Tokyo to an established illustrator whose portfolio consists of numerous maps, one of the things she is commissioned for most.

The very first piece she worked on as an illustrator involved a map for a UK newspaper. “I like the process of gathering information about places and putting them together,” Masako says. She’s developed an interest in designing maps since years spent studying illustration at the University College of Falmouth in England. When given a blank sheet of paper, or when told to “draw whatever she likes” Masako admits that she doesn’t know what to do. “I feel comfortable when I have some purpose, theme, or usage beforehand that my creation needs to fit into.” However, with illustration, Masako is able to incorporate her preferences into her drawings and at the same time, use them for a purpose. It gives her the ability to assert and describe

abstract ideas, and as she describes, create “crazy images.” Through this medium, Masako is able to give her works depth, texture, effects (basic graphic dots in varying intensities) and colours that echo the images found in vintage illustration books. The basic framework of illustrating a map for her starts with research on the featured place or country, and the collection of visual references. It is vital to know the type of elements that should go into a map to represent these places and where they should go. To this end, she squeezes in plenty of illustrations and spends time moving these elements around. As the target audience differs, she ties these elements together to make them legible and usable as much as possible.

“As long as it is a commercial work, the concept will be determined by the client’s needs and my role would be to respond to it and to add some suggestions on how to make it look good,” Masako says. A new mother to a baby boy, Masako currently has her hands full. Still, she has had vast experience handling a variety of projects. Her works are used in magazines, books, and packaging, as well as for animation and advertising purposes for clients around the world.

FOR MORE INFORMATI O N , VIS IT WWW.MAS AKO K UB O . CO . UK /

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photo ANA SANTL

photo CYDNEY COSSETTE

photo JULIAN LOVE

“It takes between a few weeks to a few months to make each globe. There is some drying and resting time between steps, so it is not an exact equation that can be worked out,” London-based globemaker, Peter Bellerby says.

BELLERBY & CO. GLOBEMAKERS

It takes a lot of patience and skill to work with delicate materials. The globes produced at Bellerby & Co. Globemakers are not only unique, crafted using traditional methods; each piece is also handmade to perfection.

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Defective globes go straight into the reject pile at Bellerby & Co’s. This includes globes with rips, tears, bubbles, incorrect cartography, mistakes, and those which are wrongly-weighted, causing them to spin improperly. Stakes are high, as are standards. Challenges, however, make the work interesting. Globemaker Peter Bellerby recalls working on his favourite project, an egg-shaped globe bearing traces of sailors’ journeys around the world. The project required him to re-measure and re-calculate every part in the making of the globe, while the actual laying of the gores were, as Peter says, “extra challenging.” But the biggest challenge for Bellerby & Co lies in painting the washes of watercolour on after the gores have been placed on the globes. “If the paint runs incorrectly,

the dark shading around the oceans would bleed into the light land,” Peter explains. With the help of six full-time staffers, a handful of freelancers, and two apprentices, Peter is able to run a successful company, and at the same time, produce handmade globes of quality and perfection. Bellerby produces a variety of globes which are available in either matte or glossy finishes. Their globe collection comprises a 23 centimetre mini desk globe, The Albion, The Livingstone, which is a globe that sits on a brass arm, The Britannia, The Galileo, The Curve and The Churchill. These are crafted using various materials for their bases, including solid brass, aluminium, marble, and various woods. Bellerby & Co also customise their globes based on illustrations,

bespoke cartography, mapping travel routes, poems in calligraphy, and colours. This means one could arrange a one-of-a-kind celestial or terrestrial globe for the home. “We do bespoke bases, engraving on the brass meridian and bases of the globes. We once did tiny illustrations for a customer, to represent every place they’d travelled to, and placed them within the map,” Peter adds. “We hope our globes will be future heirlooms, something that customers want to pass down within their families.” Peter says. One of Bellerby & Co’s globes can be seen on the big screen in Martin Scorcese’s Hugo.

VISIT WWW.BELLERBYANDCO.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR FOLLOW THEM ON INSTAGRAM, @GLOBEMAKERS

photos RED MAP

Each Red Map is like an illustrated short story of a city. It gives you the chance to go back and discover or rediscover the relationships and juxtapositions between neighbourhoods, rivers, and squares, to relive a walk or experience,” Red Maps City Guides founder, Jim Leniart says

RED MAPS

A family trip to Disney World in Florida inﬂuenced his interest in drawing cities in monorails when he was a child. It wasn’t until a friend remarked on his talent in cartography that Jim went on to establish Red Maps. “I was working in real estate in 1998, when a friend saw me drawing a map for a client,” Jim says.

In bright red covers, these maps are easy to keep. The clean and intrinsic detailing of American and European cities makes it an easy read. “If a map is difficult to read, people won’t want to use it. A poorly designed map is basically useless and inconvenient.” Jim believes graphic design is the most important element in a map. At Red Maps, one can find maps based on personal preferences, such as the Opera Lovers map set and the Fashionista map set. The latter set includes London, Milan, New York City, and Paris maps that indicate the best designer boutiques, indie shops, museums, hotels, lifestyle and concept shops, and cultural centres. “I organise the data. This means I categorise museums and shops according to their importance in that particular city. All of that planning

provides the traveller with a fun and easy way to discover what a city has to offer,” Jim, who is a frequent traveller, says. He’s visited cities like Los Angeles and Paris, and collates his knowledge into his work. Buyers won’t need to fear getting outdated maps, as they’re updated every 18 months or so. The more popular titles are updated yearly. According to Jim, it takes up to a month just to update the maps. Jim has received commissions from Legendary Paris department store, Le Bon Marche, RPMC London, the British Fashion Council, and Niche Media. For Niche Media’s Art Basel Miami Magazine, he custom made maps which focuses on Miami Beach, the art fair’s official venues, and the private and public cultural institutions in Miami.

text NG YI XIANG

“Every city is different. As a designer, one has to anticipate how people want to experience a city and how they need the information presented to them. It is all about hierarchies, data and being able to balance that up with an engaging illustration,” Jim says. Frequent travellers like Jim use the combined convenience offered by a map, phone, and guide books to get around a city. It helps to have a map that is rich in colours that is less intense as seen in the maps available at Red Maps. “A physical map lets you see a city in one consistent view,” Jim explains, of the difference between physical and digital maps.

FOR MORE INFORM ATI O N , VIS IT WWW.RE D MAPS. CO M

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FEATURE

COFFEE TABLES Coffee tables are a British invention that were derived from their originals: tea tables, which were taller. These tea tables were seen as early as the seventeenth century and over time, they would evolve to become tea trolleys. Tea tables eventually gave way to rectangular coffee tables due to the surge in the preference for coffee.

AGO COFFEE TABLE All you need is an elegant piece like this coffee table to make a room look stylish. Designed by Carlo Colombo for Giorgetti, the Ago coffee table boasts a top in either gold Calacatta marble, Portoro marble, or various glass options. It is supported by either solid Canaletto walnut or bronze and titanium, liquid metal frames. Available from Space Furniture.

CH147 TRAY TABLE Carl Hansen & Son has released a new version of Hans J. Wegnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tray table. Originally available in a white and black laminate surface, this twofaced tray table is now available in light or smoked oak surfaces. It comes with a collapsible metal stand. Available from Space Furniture.

BARCELONA FUNCTIONAL COFFEE TABLE Now, this is what we call a coffee table. The Barcelona functional coffee table in walnut veneer allows you to store remote controls in a secret compartment underneath a stylish, charcoal grey glass top. The design transforms your compact table into a three dimensional piece in order to cater to guests who are standing. By extending the height of the tabletops, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a hard time identifying cups and users. Available from BoConcept.

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SURFACE COFFEE TABLE Like Tetris or a jigsaw puzzle, you can arrange and fix your own coffee table according to the pieces you’ve purchased. Surface is a collection of low rectangular tables in various sizes and finishing types including satin to gloss and reflective to veneer. Other options include side panels and baseboards in bright chrome steel and bronze painted nickel. Surface is designed by Vincent Van Duysen for B&B Italia. Available from Space Furniture.

VITTSJÖ NESTING TABLES Nesting tables are a practical option. You can use them individually in large spaces, or put them together in smaller rooms. Designer Johan Kroon makes his design even more practical by using stain-resistant tempered glass for the VITTSJÖ’s top. The tables, which come in sets of two, make a stylish statement. Available from Ikea.

VERA COFFEE TABLE If you’re looking for a simple and modern coffee table, the Vera is for you. This coffee table is available in a variety of fun colours like matte light aqua green, matte red, and charcoal grey. It comes with a perfect pairing of either a lacquered or a brushed steel frame. The table top can be used as a tray. Available from BoConcept.

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MARYD TRAY TABLE The MARYD is a foldable bedside table, a mini desk, and a coffee table all at the same time. We suggest using it as a coffee table because it has a detachable top that doubles up as a serving tray. This wooden table was designed by Carina Bengs, and is available in pastel colours. Available from Ikea.

TOBI-ISHI COFFEE TABLE Tobi-Ishi means stepping stones, being literally translated to skipping stones. Inspired by the stones in Japanese gardens, Edward Barber and Jay Osgerbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tobi-Ishi dining table was initially round. Its latest and larger incarnation sports a rectangular top, and is available in 18 different types of finishing. The coffee table on the other hand, is made from oak wood and comes in four different finishing types, light, gray, black, and smoked. The table is designed for B&B Italia. Available from Space Furniture.

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FUSION COFFEE TABLE Designed by Nendo for BoConcept, this coffee table comes from a fusion collection that is inspired by origami. Its clean design reflects Japanese aesthetics while incorporating Danish functionality. Available from BoConcept.

HOW DO YOUR DECORATING SKILLS HELP TO KEEP YOUR COFFEE TABLE ORGANISED? RECIPIO’14 COFFEE TABLE The Recipio, of Antonio Citterio design for Maxalto, is not a two-piece coffee table, although it does resemble a tray sitting on top of a frame. Both rectangular and round versions come with curvy edges.

1. Don’t worry about the ‘clutter’ you’ll make with functional ‘decorations’ like remote controls and books. Accessories like baskets and trays help to keep your coffee table organised. This works well with a large, one-piece coffee table without drawers. 2. Yes, decorating helps to keep your coffee tables organised. How? A vase can come in useful when you need to prop up several books. This is applicable to nesting tables that are placed individually.

Available from Space Furniture.

3. Smaller coffee tables, such as those with trays as tabletops, require great organising skills. Stack up your books or keep decor simple by including a small glass jar for a flower.

TIP The trick to decorating a coffee table is to display your ‘mess’ in an organised way.

text NG YI XIANG

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Expert series with

AUBERGINE CATERING & EVENTS part 4 of 6

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PROFILE “We’ve always believed in an ingredient-led direction. If we choose a cut of meat, then we need to make that the hero of the dish with subtle and sometimes surprising flavour combinations.” The masterminds behind Aubergine Catering & Events are a dynamic duo, chefs and mixologists. Husband and wife David and Jessica Nathan met during a set-up and management stint at a local food and beverage outlet. Sharing an inherent fondness for cuisine and culinary adventures, the duo believes in originality and promote the artisanal movement by way of using very few processed ingredients. Pioneers in their own right, David and Jessica first set up Aubergine Catering in 2002. The aim: to fill the void for custom-made and styled catering in the market, long before the words bespoke and artisanal were buzz words for marketeers. Their food and drink is fresh, beautiful, and above all, a feast of flavour. T H E CO LO U R : G R E E N There’s a reason our parents have been calling for us to eat our greens from young. Popeye had it right with all the spinach he’d eat on-screen! Dark, leafy greens are a delicious way to eat yourself healthy, and are rich in vitamins (most green foods contain vitamins A, C, and E), iron and phytonutrients that help to boost the immune system as well as protect against cellular damage. Green foods are packed full of complex carbohydrates which keep you full longer, and fibres, potassium, and cell salts which facilitate the removal of pollutants from your body. They’re rich in enzymes, which help to promote the digestibility of other foods you might consume throughout the day. And because green foods contain a lot of water, daily consumption can help to regulate your blood sugar levels. That’s not nearly all. The green in many vegetables are derived from chlorophyll, which helps to oxygenate the body, improving cell function. Naturally alkaline, green foods also help in neutralising the acidic effect of unhealthy 116

processed foods on the body. It goes without saying that overcooking anything is terrible for preserving its nutritional integrity, and the same most certainly holds for green foods. Besides salad leaves, which are best eaten raw, vegetables from the cruciferous (cabbage) family like kale and Brussels sprouts provide plenty of vitamins A and C, which are great for the immune system. Kale also boasts cancer-fighting compounds and vitamin K, which is great for bone health, alongside antiinflammatory omega 3 fatty acids. Brussels sprouts, however, provide folate which is great for mental health and brain function, as well as potassium, which helps to balance blood pressure. Kiwi provides fibres, vitamins C and E, and also folate, and avocados lower cholesterol with their monounsaturated fat content. Like green tea, they’re rich in antioxidants. Even herbs are packed with goodness, and basil provides vitamin K and iron, as well as perpetrating antiinflammatory and anti-bacterial qualities.

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Ingredients

Method

FOR BASIL AND ROCKET PESTO • 150 g rocket • 150 g sweet basil • 90 ml olive oil • 1 clove garlic • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated • pinch of salt

1. To make pesto: In a food processor, blend all ingredients to a semi-smooth paste. 2. Boil potatoes in lightly-salted water until tender. Mash using a potato ricer and allow to cool. 3. Combine potatoes, ricotta, spinach, eggs, flour, breadcrumbs, parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. 4. Make two small balls and test cook by placing them in boiling water until they float. Shock in iced water before tasting. If they are too soft and don’t hold together, add more flour or breadcrumbs and test again. 5. Portion all the gnudi and roll into balls. 6. Cook gnudi in boiling water until they float, about two minutes. Shock in iced water. 7. Coat in olive oil and reserve until ready to serve. 8. To serve: heat melted butter in shallow pan. Add gnudi and toss until they start to colour. Add in pesto. Mix well without overworking the gnudi, until ingredients are evenly coated. Top with more parmesan and serve.

GNUDI MIX • 2 – 3 medium potatoes • 250 g ricotta cheese, drained • 150 g minced spinach, drained • 2 egg yolks • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour • 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs • ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated • pinch of nutmeg, ground • salt and pepper to taste • 4 tbsp melted butter, for reheating olive oil for coating

SERVES 3-4.

T H E R E C I P E : P O TAT O A N D SPINACH GNUDI WITH BASILROCKET PESTO Like broccoli, spinach is a vegetable that has gained an unfair notoriety amongst the younger generation and kids alike. It’s lovely, however, and is so very versatile, easily incorporated to salads, soups, and even sauces. “We like creamed spinach, and we also use it in palak paneer,” David says. In palak paneer, finely ground spinach forms the base of a thick, flavourful sauce coating paneer, which is a fresh Indian cheese. The neutral flavour of spinach makes it the perfect choice, resulting in a brilliantly green, and super healthy sauce. “It’s one of the healthiest foods one can consume.” David supplements. He’s right, of course. Spinach provides plenty of vitamins K, A, and C, which means it’s great for your eyes, bones, skin, and hair. It’s also an excellent source of folic acid, manganese, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B2. It’s also said to improve blood glucose control, as well as lowering the risk of cancer and blood pressure. As far as green juices go, it’s highly recommended you add a handful of these gorgeous green leaves. “Adding some spinach to a smoothie makes it better.” David says. It’s available year-round, and is fairly inexpensive, though you’ll want to wash it properly to rid the tender leaves of dirt and grit. “There are a few varieties.” David adds. “We have local spinach, and some that are a bit more fibrous, and we also have imported fresh leaves.” That’s why it’s important to choose your spinach as required by recipe. Stir fries benefit from our local varieties, while baby leaves are great for salads!.

“It’s one of the healthiest foods one can consume.” 118

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH photography LAW SOO PHYE

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SHOWHOUSE SHOWCASE

I S O L A G R A N D E U R @ S E N I B O N G C OV E Luxury speaks for itself at Isola Grandeur, a precinct within Front Concept Sdn Bhd’s Senibong Cove development. Located in Johor, the luxury development recently took home four awards at the Southeast Asia Property Awards 2015 – Best Housing Development (Malaysia), Best Luxury Housing Development (South Malaysia), Best Landscape Architectural Design, and Best Residential Interior Design. We speak to the interior designer for the Isola Grandeur show house, Mel Yeo.

Tell us about Senibong Cove. As an interior designer, what sets it apart from other developments for you? The beauty of Senibong Cove lies in its Master Planning, where carefully curated properties in various typologies are all linked by their closeness to the river and waterways. Whether it is the villas of Isola Grandeur or apartments in the The Water Edge Apartments, they all offer stunning views of the sea 120

and with it, all the other pleasures of waterfront living. With the inclusion of a marina and F&B outlets fronting the development, Senibong Cove truly offers city dwellers a gateway into an idyllic island lifestyle. These unique qualities are not always present in other projects, making the development stand out. Tell us about your personal philosophy for interior design. How

did you apply it to Isola Grandeur? Our approach in design is to strive toward creating a space that is balanced; a balance between form and function, between the sensual and the subtle, between light and shadow, and a balance between being stylish and yet timeless. We always focus on our own deﬁnition of luxury, which is based on clarity and brevity. We want to create

a sense of space that is subtle and hushed, that exudes a sense of quiet conﬁdence instead of relying on excessive ornamentation or trendfollowing gimmicks. This is also in-line with Senibong Cove’s vision of offering low-density and spacious housing to residents. For the Isola Grandeur show house, design elements and furnishing pieces were carefully created and selected to reﬂect this philosophy. A great example lies in the Platner armchairs used in the sitting area. With their decorative yet graceful sculptural design, a cluster of these chairs creates a

sitting area that is quasi formal and functional. At the same time, they create a space that enhances the airiness of the living area, offering a stunning vista of the waterway that lies beyond. Give us the walkthrough of the interior design of the Isola Grandeur show house. What style of design were you looking to highlight? For the Isola Grandeur show house, we wanted to present a contemporary house that is luxurious and rich in texture, but at the same time not ostentatious, and also

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highlight the generous volume of space that the architecture has to offer, as well as its beautiful outdoor spaces. Upon entering the house, the intimacy of the timber wallpanelled entrance foyer with its decorative screen and dark tinted mirrors transits to a double volume dining space, highlighted by a quartet of Moooi’s Raimond suspension lamp. It’s airy and spacious. Below the burst of starlight sits a generous round dining table that offers a luxurious, yet intimate space for sharing a meal with loved ones. The spacious living area is designed to include both a formal sitting area, which is organised around a set of iconic Platner furniture, and a more comfortable and casual B&B Italia Bend sofa, providing its occupants with a more relaxed vibe. With fully-retractable doors offering borderless accessibility from indoors to the outdoor deck and pool, the space seems to ﬂow seamlessly between the luxurious indoor space and the idyllic outdoor area. The entire third level of the show house is designed to feel like a large exclusive space for occupants. The master suite is spacious with a walk-in wardrobe, study and sitting area. In the open balcony, a TV area is connected to a huge outdoor dining area with a functional pantry. This space is ideal for spending quiet evenings 122

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It is not only designed to be an excellent space for family life with its generous volume, but also a great space for those who love to entertain and surround themselves with the joy of being around their loved ones.

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with a meal at the outdoor deck, with a beautiful backdrop of the lush and serene environment that the development has to offer.

idyllic environment, we think the Isola Grandeur show house deﬁnitely appeals to those who yearn for understated luxury.

How do you think the interior design of Isola Grandeur’s show house appeals to the target market of the property? The Isola Grandeur show house is designed for the cosmopolitan who knows how to enjoy the ﬁner things in life. It is a space that offers its occupants a great sense of warmth, a cocoon of comfort and subtle luxury. It is not only designed to be an excellent space for family life with its generous volume, but also a great space for those who love to entertain and surround themselves with the joy of being around their loved ones. With its peaceful and

Where and how did you source your materials for putting the show house together? We wanted our design to reflect and highlight the location’s best elements that mirror the surrounding tropical environment. Whenever possible, we try to use indigenous materials and suppliers for the build. However, we also try to incorporate finer furniture and materials in the home; thus we have used furnishing items and fittings from brands like B&B Italia, Moooi, Maxalto, Flos and Artemide from Italy, and other parts of Europe to blend into the design and create our desired effect.

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH photos ISOLA GRANDEUR

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O L D P L A C E, N EW L OOK This designer-homeowner chose a 30-yearold apartment for her first home, and turned it into something contemporary and trendy.

WHO A 38-year-old bachelorette HOME Three-bedroom walk-up condominium unit SIZE 1,270 sqf

RIGHT

The dining area features a hefty wooden table, under a decorative light ďŹ xture composed of a model plane and dangling exposed bulbs. ABOVE

Lisa works on one of her prints in her home studio.

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LEFT

Many furniture pieces were customised, such as the heavy wooden stool and marble-topped coffee table in the light and airy living room. RIGHT

Near the main entrance, a colourful Murano glass pendant lamp from Venice hangs next to a customised wallhung console. BOTTOM

Lisa turns her favourite sketches, such as this one done in Europe, into prints in her home studio. (OPPOSITE) BOTTOM LEFT & RIGHT

The apartment is decorated with personal objects, such as paintings done by Lisa herself, gifts from friends and travel souvenirs.

Despite having had an extensive makeover, the 30-year-old apartment retains its original retro floor tiles — a rare design these days!

Since Lisa Ng designs homes for a living, the homeowner and design director of Ansana knew exactly what she wanted for her own first home. “I actually did the space planning before I even made my offer for the place, so as to first make sure that I’d have what I needed!” she says. She bought this 30-year-old condominium unit from its first occupant. “It was still in its original condition; old but really well-maintained,” shares the designer. As she is fond of the material, Lisa designed her home to incorporate various wood tones throughout – a bold woodgrain laminate in the kitchen, a highly textured feature wall made of raw plywood in the dining area, and various free-form wood furniture. She also made some structural changes to suit her needs, including turning one of the three bedrooms into an art studio. The talented designer tells us more about what she had in mind for her home.

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Why did you choose this place? I was looking for an old condominium unit that had never been renovated, as I wanted my own design. Also, a place with good cross-ventilation, and views of greenery. It also had to have a north-south facing so the apartment wouldn’t get the heat from the sun. Tell us about the ideas behind your home’s design. As it’s an old place, I had no qualms about doing a major overhaul! The main feature wall (in the dining area) is made with just raw plywood, without any particular finish. Also, I didn’t want to have too much built-in furniture, as I want to be able to buy things and move them around so that there’s more styling involved. What changes did you make to the space? I shifted the door to the studio further away from the kitchen to make room for a pantry in the dining room. I created access to the common bathroom for the guest room, and also enlarged the master bedroom. In the living area, there used to be a balustrade at the edge of the raised floor, but I removed it and concealed the holes with a timber strip design.

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Why keep the old flooring in the living area? I kept the tiles as it tells the story of the apartment. If you hack everything, there’s no authenticity. Furthermore, it’s not easy to find such tiles anymore. Also, it would have cost about RM12,000 to redo it with quality Italian tiles. I would rather spend that on a holiday! How do you use your space? I have my own studio, so I can paint and make prints easily. I use the dining table a lot, to work, eat, check the mail… I always sit here (a seat in the corner near the studio); it’s the best spot in the apartment because of the crossventilation, and views on both sides! The pantry is convenient for grabbing coffee, and when people come over, they can help themselves.

LEFT

Accessed through the dining area, the common bathroom is tucked out of sight thanks to its door that blends into the wall panel design. BELOW

In the converted art studio, a salvaged old door, supported by a metal base, becomes an adjustable slanted tabletop that is ideal for draining water during printmaking. (OPPOSITE) TOP & BOTTOM

Floor tiles from Ecoplus, Mediterraneanstyle wall tiles from Hafary, bold woodgrain laminate from Lamitak and unique cabinet handles Lisa got from Thailand make for an eclectic kitchen.

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Where are your unique accessories and decor from? The handles on the pantry drawers are from a flea market in Florence, while the blueand-white ones on the kitchen cabinets and the pink knobs on the wall-mounted console (by the entrance) are from Thailand. The glass lamp (over the console) is made of Murano glass â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I handcarried it back from Venice. The giant pencils are from Barcelona, and I use them sometimes! The authentic Peranakan tiles on the pantry backsplash are from an antique shop in Malacca. The plane above the dining table was a gift, and I dangled bulbs around it to turn the whole thing into a decorative light fixture. I paint and make prints, so my own artworks fill up the walls!

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ABOVE

Lisa kept her old bed from her mumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house, and painted the frame black to complement the monochromatic theme in the master bedroom. RIGHT

The master bathroom was enlarged, and a glass panel was added on top of the wall separating the bedroom, to allow more light in.

text LOUISA CLARE LIM photography VEE CHIN art direction KAFFY TAN

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HUMBLE HOME This Scandinavian-themed home keeps its decor modest without compromising on stylish features.

WHO A couple, living with the husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parents HOME Five-room flat SIZE 1,100sqf

RIGHT

While a light colour scheme visually enlarges the living area, an orange sofa lends it a splash of colour for contrast. 134

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When you enter this apartment, the phrase “a humble abode” comes to mind immediately. Designed with a pared-down approach by interior design firm Distinctidentity, this five-room flat features an abundance of light wood textures and a white backdrop. The heart of the home is the living room. It thrives on functionality, and is furnished with only what’s necessary. Even the TV set is left out, which the young homeowners, Neo Chun Lei and Chan Lidan, say they rarely use. To maximise the footprint of the apartment, the kitchen walls were torn down. This allows sunlight to illuminate almost every nook and cranny of the common area, making it feel more open and airy. A working space is carved out in the living room and partitioned with framed glass doors – an idea the designer proposed.

The couple eschewed fancy design elements for a pared-down look, which echoes their simple lifestyle.

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RIGHT

Alternating the direction of the wardrobeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s laminates gives it a personalised touch. TOP

Instead of getting new (sometimes impractical) home accessories, the pair used their bicycles as wall decor instead. TOP RIGHT

The study room is connected to the master bedroom, which is used by the homeowners. OPPOSITE

The glass panels of the study zones the area, while creating the illusion of an open space.

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LEFT

The concrete screed on the kitchen’s ceiling beams creates a subtle border that “encloses” the cooking space.

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LEFT

After removing the wall that divided it from the living room, the kitchen now gets ample sunlight and ventilation. BELOW

Distressed woodlook laminate from Lamitak and retro-inspired monochrome backsplash tiles come together harmoniously in the kitchen.

He says: “After talking to the owners, I understood that their lifestyle was very laidback and simple. I wanted to design something that isn’t very loud, but has a focal point.” The glass panels with its white borders bring attention to the space, while staying within the soft colour scheme. It doesn’t overpower the room. Connected to the study is the master bedroom, where the younger couple sleep. The designer built a custom wardrobe for the room and “alternated the direction of the laminates, so it looks different”, says the wife. The original door to the master bedroom – located along the corridor – was also sealed when the space was connected to what is now the study. The renovation works added up to about RM135,000 (excluding fixtures and furniture).

text ANGELA LOW photography VERNON WONG art direction KAFFY TAN

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V E R T I C A L W O N D E R The designer of this apartment made sure to showcase its unique sloping ceiling, in creating a space perfect for two, or 20.

WHO A married couple in their 30s HOME A three-bedroom condominium unit SIZE 1,650sqf

LEFT

The double-volume ceiling enabled the arrangement of pendant lamps from Light + Form Concepts to star as the centrepiece above the Miniforms Gustave dining table from Xtra. Flowers from Poppy Flora Studio. Tableware from Galanga Living. 141

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LEFT

The display shelves are ﬁlled with cookbooks and travel souvenirs to bring a decorative touch to the living and dining space. The Link coffee table is by Miniforms, from Xtra. Vase from Galanga Living. BELOW

Maxmising the small kitchen footprint, the island countertop also enhances functionality, and keeps everything within easy reach. OPPOSITE

The living space is generously illuminated by natural light. If it gets too warm, the couple can lower the motorised blinds installed by 51 Curtains.

When frequent business and leisure travellers Benny Ong and Jocelyn Low are back in town, the couple enjoy staying in. Home is a three-bedroom unit on the top floor of a condominium block built in the 1980s. They had purchased the apartment five years ago because of its lofty sloped ceiling – a rare feature in local housing. Engaging the help of Poh, an architecturally trained designer who runs Plattform, Benny and Jocelyn wanted their first residence to meet their lifestyle needs. A project director by day and 24/7 culinary enthusiast, Benny spends most of his time at home experimenting in the kitchen, which features a generously sized island countertop. “I’m his biggest guinea pig,” jokes Jocelyn, a private banker who, besides tasting Benny’s new recipes, spends her free time at home reading on the sofa from Xtra or playing the piano. The hospitable owners host dinner parties at least twice a month in this capacious apartment. For a playful touch, industrial-style pendant lamps in varying sizes and heights illuminate the dining space. To create the desired ambience, the intensity of the lights can be adjusted to fit Benny’s culinary theme of the night.

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Breaking up the monotony of concrete floors and white walls, the sloped ceiling was clad with timber planks. For design unity, a long wood-clad feature wall visually anchors the living and dining zones, while displaying books and travel memorabilia collected over time. As Poh told the homeowners: “I can build you a house, but you have to make it a home.” The designer employed a timeless palette of white, grey, black and timber throughout the apartment. This consistency works in harmony

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with Mudian’s carpentry work, which features clean lines and smart construction to conceal unsightly clutter. Venturing further into the apartment, two bedrooms were combined to form the master bedroom, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite bathroom. A place purely for rest, the room – which doesn’t have a TV set – is softly illuminated by cove lighting so that the busy couple can catch up on beauty sleep when they are not entertaining guests or travelling the world.

RIGHT

A custom-built desk sits against the windows of the study to free up the space. LEFT

The walk-in wardrobe customised by Mudian was designed to store everything from belts and shoes, to clothes and bags. BOTTOM

The master bedroom features a window seat, where the homeowners can enjoy views of the vicinity.

text STEPHANIE PEH photography TAN WEI TE art direction DON TAN

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G R E Y A RE A S A dark and mellow colour palette sets the tone for this restful abode, where its occupant can get some downtime from work.

WHO A bachelor in his late 20s HOME Two-bedroom walk-up flat SIZE 1,000sqf

RIGHT

The high ceilings, masculine colour palette and simple, industrial-style materials give the walk-up ďŹ&#x201A;at a loftlike feel. 146

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LEFT

Vinyl wood-like tiles were used as ﬂooring throughout almost the whole ﬂat, which has a long and narrow layout. (OPPOSITE) TOP

In a corner of the cosy living room, pallets and crates that Jonathan salvaged from the street become platforms for him to showcase his personality. Cushions and bag from Taylor B. BOTTOM

Along the corridor leading to the bedrooms, the alcove under the building’s common staircase was ﬁtted with bookshelves ﬁnished with woodgrain laminates from Lamitak.

For his home, “the serenity and feeling of isolation of pebble beaches at dawn” was the source of inspiration for Jonathan Ti. “The hospital is sterile, white and fluorescent, so I want to return to a warm, peaceful home and just chill out after a long day at work,” explains the young bachelor, who is a doctor. He engaged the designers at Three-D Conceptwerke, who gave his home a clean, streamlined design, with a masculine colour scheme of grey, black, white and wood tones. Consistent with the uncluttered, understated aesthetics of the home, the designers kept built-in carpentry to a minimum – it’s only in the kitchen and library under the (building’s common) staircase along the corridor leading to the bedrooms. Being almost minimalist in his approach when it came to the key loose furniture items, Jonathan purchased only a dining set and sofa! The two beds, in the master bedroom and guest room, were hand-me-downs from his sister. Also, he salvaged wooden pallets and crates found on his street, then cleaned,

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LEFT

In the dining area, the designers capitalised on the ďŹ&#x201A;atâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high ceilings, using pendant lamps in an attractive colour to draw the eye up. (OPPOSITE) TOP

The generously sized kitchen was enlarged such that it now enjoys more natural light and has ample worktop surface for the homeowner, who is an avid cook. BOTTOM

To keep the look linear and less bulky, the designers did away with top-hung kitchen cabinets and kept all storage under the counter. 150

sanded down and varnished them himself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;That was my first DIY project for the place!â&#x20AC;? laughs Jonathan. In the living area, two pallets form the low coffee table, while the crates are stacked in a corner and act as a display console, giving the space a casual vibe. As Jonathan enjoys cooking and entertains from time to time, he wanted a spacious kitchen. To address this, the designers extended the kitchen space to make it a third bigger in size, and replaced the dividing solid walls with glass panels. Defining characteristics of the old walk-up flat include a long, narrow layout, high ceilings and three-quarter-height internal walls. The original chicken wire that was installed above the walls were replaced with contemporary wire mesh frosted glass panels. This still allows light through, while providing more privacy for the bedrooms. The renovation, which cost about RM210,000 (excluding furniture), resulted in a quietly stylish and atmospheric sanctuary that the busy homeowner can look forward to coming home to every day! 151

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In the master bedroom, a pole system was chosen for the wardrobe, rather than built-in carpentry, and positioned at opposite sides of the room for an open concept. (OPPOSITE) LEFT

Floor tiles that resemble a concrete screed ďŹ nish with etched out patterns, from An Huat, were installed in the kitchen, which features a breakfast counter. RIGHT

Accessed through the kitchen, the formerly separate toilet and shower stall were combined to create a larger bathroom; the vanity was relocated outside that space.

text LOUISA CLARE LIM photography VERNON WONG art direction DON TAN

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T HE B I G CHANGE The walls of this apartment were taken down to transform it into the bigger, better home of its ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dreams.

WHO A couple and their dog HOME Two-bedroom condominium SIZE 950sqf

LEFT

The layout was reconďŹ gured so the kitchen now runs parallel to the living area, separated by glass panels that allow natural light to enter.

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ABOVE & OPPOSITE

The homeowners’ favourite part of the home is the kitchen. Done up mainly in wood laminate, it has sufﬁcient storage and working space for Steve and Jesselyn, who cook and entertain a fair bit.

After living in their two-bedroom condominium apartment for six years, Steve and Jesselyn were ready for a change – and not just a minor facelift, for their living quarters. “What they wanted was a complete overhaul,” says designer Elden Lim from Minimo & Minimology. “Their wish list included a bigger kitchen and wardrobe, more hidden storage and better use of natural lighting.” All of that, however, wasn’t possible with the apartment’s awkward layout, which had odd angles and plenty of wasted space. The designer began by knocking down every wall in the space so he could build new ones to reconfigure the apartment. The study was converted into the kitchen, which runs parallel to the living area, separated by a framed glass partition. The elongated living space features

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photo MINIMO ABOVE & LEFT

Dining stools in bold primary colours brighten up the neutral palette of the cabinetry and wood-look homogenous ďŹ&#x201A;oor tiles. OPPOSITE

A wood-laminate TV feature wall neatly incorporates storage and display zones in the living area.

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photo MINIMO

wood-look walls and flooring, evoking the feel of a cosy, contemporary Scandinavian log cabin. The calm, neutral palette is warmed up and made more inviting with the colours of the paintings and furnishings. The centrepiece of the apartment’s Scandinavian theme is a wood-laminate TV feature wall which visually lengthens the living area with its horizontal lines. The lines also help it appear less bulky, despite incorporating drawers below. Thanks to full-height windows on one end, the place is naturally well-lit. The dining zone takes on a more exuberant vibe. “The dining table top (which features coloured patterns) was handmade overseas and brought back by the homeowners,” says Elden, who replaced the table’s original metal table

legs with a pale plywood base in a laminate finish that better suited the decor. In an unusual move that’s bound to get guests to look up, Elden incorporated display areas near the ceiling for decorative objects. The master bedroom is clearly designed for rest, with dark wood-like vinyl floors, and a wall in a soothing tan shade. Space-saving wall-mounted shelves for books and other knick-knacks eschew the need for a bedside table. Steve and Jesselyn love how these clever design tricks, coupled with a revamped layout, gave them the home of their dreams – for about RM225,000.

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photo MINIMO ABOVE

The painting above the wood-laminate headboard adds a splash of colour to the master bedroom.

F LOOR PLAN B A LC O N Y

BALCONY

LI V I N G

LIVING

K ITCH EN

ST UDY FOY E R

FOYER PANTR Y DINING

D INING M A ST E R BEDROOM

COM M ON BATH

COMMON B AT H

K ITC HE N

STOR E

M ASTER BATH

M A ST E R B AT H YA RD

BEFORE

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M ASTER BED R OOM

YAR D

AFTER

text KITTY CHEW photography JASPER YU art direction DON TAN

ECO-WARRIOR

RENO RIGHT

your contractor! The website, www.wasteisnotwaste.com, is a great resource for finding ways to dispose of your waste. 5. Think for the long term Choose a classic design that’s not trendy or dated – you don’t want to have to change the look of your home in a few years. It will not only be a waste of money, but also of resources. The quality of your renovation should stand up to the test of time.

A renovation means a fresh start – and there’s no better time than now to embrace ecophilosophy in your home. Here are five tips for a green renovation you can feel good about: 1. Get an energy audit Before you start your renovation, do this. It will help you to find ways to make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable. Plan for energysaving appliances, LED lighting, and taps and showerheads that conserve water. To find a qualified auditor, check online directories and read the reviews. A referral is always best, so use social media for recommendations. 2. Choose sustainable materials Ask your contractor or designer about recycled glass tiles, which

are a beautiful way to repurpose glass waste. Bamboo wood and cork are good choices, too, as they’re both fast-growing and sustainable materials. Use linen upholstery where possible – the material is naturally sustainable as it requires less water in farming. 3. Choose low-VOC paints VOCs are volatile organic compounds that can release chemicals into your home for years. Minimise this risk by choosing an environmentally friendly low-VOC paint, which you can find from Nippon Paint and Dulux. 4. Dispose of waste responsibly If you are left with a lot of construction and material waste, make sure they are disposed of properly. Don’t leave it up to

text MILITZA MAURY photo CONDESIGN/PIXABAY.COM

AFTER THE RENOVATION Make space for nature Incorporate a green-living project, such as a mini garden, into your home. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can connect with groups such as Edible Garden City (www.ediblegardencity.com) and join its weekend community gardens to learn more about urban farming.

TIP! Create a one-of-a-kind look by sourcing vintage furniture to furnish your home with. Look out for secondhand pieces you can add value to, and find beautiful refurbished furniture at Noden (www.noden.co) and Second Charm (www.secondcharm.net)

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EXPERTS SAY

Q&A

YOUR RENO & DECOR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

design PROZFILE photography TAN WEI TE

We answer your renovation and decorating questions with help from industry experts.

I’m using paint for my feature walls to save money, but what else can I do (easily) myself besides the usual stripes? There’s lots more you can do with paint, to give your space personality, depth and texture, even on a 2-D surface. Besides stripes, another stylish and easy option is to try painting geometric shapes, such as those shown above. Using dark and light tones together on this bedroom wall created an illusion of volume. The best thing is, you don’t need to know how to draw! Designer Cadine Lim of Prozfile first measured the wall, and used the Autocad

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computer program to create the design. She then drew the design on the wall before painting. You don’t need a computer program to do this – measure the surface, and scale the dimensions down so you can draw the design easily on a sheet of paper. Simply scale up the dimensions to transfer the design onto the wall. Consult the colour wheel for colour combinations – but keep it simple, as you don’t want your wall to look like broken-up shards. One tip is to use different intensities of the same colour, such as in the example above.

I like the look of marble, but I heard it isn’t very ecofriendly. What alternatives would you suggest? Marble is a natural material quarried from the earth, so there are definitely environmental costs in the process of doing so. Being porous, more effort is also needed to maintain the material, such as applying a sealant annually. That might make marble not as “green” as other surfacing materials, such as ceramic tiles. Tiles might be hardier, but large amounts of energy are also required to produce them. If you’re going with tiles, choose those which have recycled content. Also consider the end life of the product. Marble, being natural, can be recycled, which you might not be able to do with tiles. To replicate the look of marble, consider using laminates, engineered quartz, or marble-lookalike tiles. Laminates are suitable for both vertical and horizontal applications, but they are not scratch-proof or recyclable. Tiles are not advisable for use on countertops, while engineered quartz such as Silestone and Caesarstone can be used for walls or countertops. Made of natural quartz with pigments and polymer resins, engineered quartz is extremely hard and resilient, has antibacterial qualities, and stands up to stains, scratches and acids. Their durability is also what makes them sustainable, too.

Do tile sizes matter in terms of making my space look bigger or smaller? Does the size affect the price? Yes, tile size – particularly for flooring – definitely matters when it comes to the perception of spaces. A larger tile size means less grouting and joints, which makes the flooring look more seamless. Smaller tiles “break” the space up further. Besides that, “larger format tiles are said to have a more luxurious appeal,” says Terry Tan of Rice. With less grouting, a larger tile size also means easier maintenance. If we were to make a direct comparison of say, Italian tiles, “a larger tile of, say, 90cm by 90cm is generally about 20 per cent more expensive than a traditional 60cm by 60cm tile,” states Terry. Consider the size and shape of your surface area as well. Using huge tiles for a small footprint might not be worth the price tag. You’ll need a wide surface area to better appreciate the (more expensive) larger tiles.

design SPACE SENSE photography DARREN CHANG

EXPERTS SAY

Like most homeowners, I stack my washing machine and dryer on top of each other in my yard area. They are an eyesore, as I can see them from the kitchen. How can I hide them? With home sizes getting smaller, especially in condominium apartments, there is hardly any space now for a dedicated laundry area. Washers and dryers are either stashed away in a cabinet or underneath a countertop. You could build a cabinet to

text REBECKKA WONG

house them, but that takes up significant footprint and could look bulky. Pictured above is a solution that might not hide them completely, but makes them appear visually lighter and more appealing than a solid structure. Kelvin Teo of Space Sense designed this wire cage to screen off the washer and dryer in the yard area of this fiveroom flat. Not only does it do the job, but it also ties in perfectly with the home’s industrial-style aesthetics.

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KITCHEN

Poliform Varenna Phoenix kitchen system Phoenix is distinguished by subtle geometric lines, breathing life to a contemporary and exclusive kitchen. There are no handles in this configuration, maintaining the sleekness of the module in order to meld the aesthetic of a contemporary kitchen for the modern individual. For more information, visit www.poliform.it

IKEA 365+ apron Designer Maria Vinka decided to make this apron good looking and functional enough to be used throughout the year. Made of high-quality textile with excellent absorbency, the apron will retain its colours after multiple washes, and can be used in all environments. For more information, visit www.ikea.com

Brabantia Stackable Glass Jars

The most important tenant of organising is ensuring you can see everything you need at a glance. Brabantiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new series of stackable glass jars come in various sizes, 0.3 to 1.9 litre capacities. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also dishwasher-safe, easy to clean, heat resistant and microwaveable, with a 10-year guarantee. For more information, visit www.brabantia.com 164

Breville Aroma Style electronic coffee machine What’s the first thing you want in the morning? If you ask us, it’s usually a pot of freshly brewed coffee. Breville’s Aroma Style coffee maker can be pre-programmed to brew at specific times, so you can wake up to the smell of your favourite blend. With the thermostat-controlled hot plate, you’ll be able to get your coffee at exactly the temperature you want it to be, while the multiple flow system ensures optimum coffee extraction. For more information, visit www.breville.com

Pensonic Longevity PDB-453 ceramic double boiler Double boilers are two pots in one: a smaller pot that is nestled within a larger one. They are ideal for making sumptuous stews, appetising steamed dishes, and exquisite porridges. The double boiler comes with eight preset computerised control modes, a 2.5 litre pot and three 0.5 litre ceramic pots, so you can be efficient and prepare many dishes in one go. For safety purposes, the boil dry protection feature shuts off the appliance when there is no liquid left in the pot, so you can leave your cooking with no fears. For more information, visit www.pensonic.com

IKEA Chosigt ice pop maker The children will love this! Fill these vessels with fruit juice and make healthy frozen treats. To remove pops from mould, loosen them with a little lukewarm water and gently pull free. For more information, visit www.ikea.com

text HANNY KEE

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FIX IT

CARE TO CLEAN Knowing how to clean your upholstered furniture pieces is essential to keep them looking great.

Maintaining fabric-upholstered furniture is easy to do and doesn’t require much time once you get into the habit of regular cleaning. It may require extra work if you have young children or pets at home, but prudent care is always worth the effort. In the store Before bringing home your new upholstered sofa or chair, take time to ask about the recommended cleaning method for its specific fabric. This will take the guesswork out of dealing with spills and stains in the future. Also, ask if they have additional fabric protectors that can help with the care of your furniture. Vacuum away Vacuum your furniture weekly for general cleaning. Before

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DID YOU KNOW vacuuming, tighten loose buttons or clip threads that can snag the fabric. Use the soft brush attachment to gently whisk the dirt away on cushions, and the crevice tool to get in all the tight spots and corners. If your upholstered furniture starts to look dingy or has developed spots and stains, be sure to vacuum it first before any cleaning procedures. Vacuuming will lift up dirt and dust which, when wet, can further sully the upholstery and add to your cleaning woes. Spot clean Spills are inevitable, no matter how meticulous you are with your weekly cleaning. Gently blot any spills – don’t rub or scrub – immediately with a clean white towel or paper

towel. This will prevent the stain from setting into the fabric. If the stain requires more than a gentle dab, spot clean by following the instructions on the manufacturer’s tag. Always test your cleaning product first in an inconspicuous area. Apply with a soft brush in a circular motion to work it into the fibres, then vacuum when dry. Call a professional Don’t wait for your upholstered furniture to get visibly dirty before calling in the pros. Have it deep cleaned every year or two. Regular professional cleaning not only restores the beauty and comfort of the fabric, but also extends the lifespan of your furniture. Leave stubborn and heavy stains to the experts.

text VERLAINE MARQUEZ photo GOODRICH GLOBAL

Too much sun exposure can damage upholstery, causing it to fade and even fray. Try to position your furniture in such a way that it is out of direct sunlight for long periods of time. If you can’t move the pieces away from direct sunlight, use curtains, shades or blinds to keep the sun’s damaging UV rays off them.

buying guide YOUR ONE-STOP RESOURCE FOR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

MALAYSIA Acacia Fine Fabrics

Gudang Damansara

tel: +603-4252-3378 www.acaciafabrics.com

S15 Bangsar Shopping Centre Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2092-2618

Kimgres Marketing Sdn Bhd

Nippon Paint tel: 1800-88-2663 www.nipponpaint.com.my

Studio At 216 Sdn Bhd

Guocera

Lot 5, Jalan Kilang/ Jalan 217 Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7783-9811

5th Floor Wisma Kemajuan No 2 jalan 19/1B Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7958-7922

Kitch

Niro Ceramic (M) Sdn Bhd

11, Jalan Dato Abu Bakar, 16/1, 46350, Petaling Jaya tel: +6018-599-8233

Lot 2, Persiaran Sultan Section 15 Petaling Jaya tel: +603-5033-9333

www.akemiuchi.com

Harvey Norman

Kitchenaid

Panasonic

Terracotta Tiles

tel: +603-7877-5216

Alpha

For store listing, go to www.harveynorman.com.my

tel: +603-5740-6666 www.alphamalaysia.com

Lot 10, Jalan 13/2 Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7953-7600

Hafele

Bangsar Shopping Centre

18 Jalan Juruhebah U1/50, Glenmarie, Selangor tel: +603-5569-2526

Lot 1888, Jalan KPB7, Kawasan Perindustrian Balakong, Selangor tel: +603-8962-3333

15 Jalan Pendidik U1/31 Hicom Glenmarie Shah Alam tel: +603-5569-4799

Hitachi

Robinsons

tel: 1800-822-822 www.lg.com

The Gardens Mall Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2089-1188

White Horse Ceramic

Samsung

White Room

Suite E-09-01, Level 9 East Wing ICON Jalan Tun Razak Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2165-0000

www.whiteroom.asia

A-Jung Electric Sdn Bhd Suite E-06-08, Plaza Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-6201-9101

Akemi Uchi

www.bsc.com.my

BoConcept T112 Bangsar Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2011-0178

Bilton Industrial Products Sdn Bhd

Suite17.3, Level 17 Menara IMC, Jalan Sultan Ismail Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2031-8751

Ikea

95 & 95-1 Jalan 1/17 Off Jalan Kepong Taman Fadason 52000 Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-6257-6327

2 Jalan PJU7/2 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7726-7777

Bosch

No 45 & 47 Jalan SS18/1B Subang Jaya. tel: +603-5638-9213

www.bosch-home.com.my

Caesarstone www.caesarstone.com.sg

Eastern Decorator Sdn Bhd WHITE ROOM (Eastern Decorator Sdn Bhd) Suite E-3A, Level 3A, Corporate Bulding (Block E), Southgate Centre, No2, Jalan Dua, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-9222-3488

Electrolux tel: 1300-88-1122

Interfal

Janine

12 Jalan 213 Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7784-7277

Goodrich Global M-2-2 Block M Plaza Damas Phase II Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-6201-5757

Lightcraft 145 Jalan Sungai Besi Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-9222-2413

Ligne Roset S3 Pamper Floor Starhill Gallery Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2710-3388

Linds Furniture 162 Jalan Maarof Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2094-6055

KDK 3rd Floor, No 15 Jalan Tandang Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7785-5011

Sharp No 1A Persiaran Kuala Langat Section 27 Shah Alam tel: +603-5102-5311

Signature Kitchen

Toshiba tel: +603-5565-8000 www.toshiba.com.my tel: 1800-88-1880 www.whitehorse.com.my

Vanguard Interiors D1-G/M Jalan Selaman 1 Dataran Palma, Ampang, Selangor tel: +603-4270-3933

Venetta Fabrics and Distribution tel: 06-799 6666

Visionary Solutions Sdn Bhd

Miele

Space Furniture

A-G-08 Block Allamanda, 10 Boulevard, Lebuhraya Sprint, PJU 6A, 47400, Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7710-5877

Menara Kencana Petroleum Solaris Dutamas Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-6205-3899

3-12 The Intermark Mall Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2166-2212

Vluz Concept (M) Sdn Bhd

Stadler FormBlue Orange Resources Sdn Bhd

40, Desa Sri Hartamas, Jalan 28/70A, Kuala Lumpur, tel: +603-2300-1665

J & J Chesters Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Johnson Suisse

tel: 1800-881-770 www.pensonic.com

tel: +603-7620-1600

For store listing, go to www.lorenzo-international.com

Lorenzo

Block B-0-1, Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun Razak Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2166-4121

Pensonic

Teka

Lot 24 Jalan Teknologi Taman Sains Selangor 1 Kota Damansara tel: +603-6286-7000

S112 Bangsar Shopping Centre Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-2094-9530

www.johnsonsuisse.com.my

Feruni Ceramiche

Legrand

The Gardens L2 Unit S216, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 KL tel: 03-2201 1798 www.studio216.co

MML (Malaysian Mosaics Sdn Bhd 1A Jalan 205, Off Jalan Tandang Petaling Jaya tel: +603-7718-7333

NestNordic.com

Storage Systems 15-2-3, Megan Corporate Park, Block B, Jalan 1/125E, Taman Desa Petaling, Kuala Lumpur tel: +603-9057-7933

No.G2-G4, Oval Tower Damansara, Jalan Damansara, 60000 KL tel: 03-7733 7605 www.nestnordic.com

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photography VEE CHIN

FLASHBACK

THE TREND

ALL TILED DOWN

IT’S TIME TO LAY DOWN THE TILES – PATTERNED TILES, THAT IS!

For a long time now, many homeowners have turned away from patterned tiles to avoid making a space too busy. The reasoning behind we did this to give peace to the eyes, by steering clear of anything that boggled the mind. Now, however, is the perfect time to turn that paradigm upside down. Patterned tiles provide motifs that bring a sense of belonging to a certain space. Three-dimensional boxes denote the bathroom of this space, while the rest of the bedroom is identified through its use 168

of timber. The patterns are able to train the eye into splitting one space from the other without the need for clunky walls that make spaces feel more restrictive. Tiles of a certain pattern can also tell certain kinds of stories. Motifs of roses, lilies and daffodils upon the walls identify the homeowner as someone who loves flowers, or has fond memories related to them. Meanwhile, geometric shapes give hints as to one’s culture and heritage, like Nyonya culture which thrives in Penang, Malacca and Singapore. text HANNY KEE

TOP LEFT

Certain motifs tell different stories. TOP RIGHT

Tiles can also be used to show off your culture. BELOW RIGHT

Where you use the tiles can denote the seperation of spaces.