CITY LIVING - VOLUME TWO 2019 by GAIN CITY

Cityliving

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VOLUME TWO 2019 ISSN 2630-5127

9 772630 512000

HOME SOLUTIONS FOR BETTER LIFESTYLES

LIVE IT UP Elevate Your Home Entertainment

BEDROOM BLISS Sleep Well Every Night

AIR-CON SAVVY Air-conditioned Kitchen Know-Hows STANDOUT RENOS Bold Home Ideas To Steal

TRENDWATCH 2019 Hottest Interior Styles & Appliances

kitchen

special

Design planning tips, material selection guides, tiny kitchen hacks & lots more cityliving.com.sg

Cityliving

SECOND HOMECOMING

Staying true to its winning formula of providing comprehensive info and insights, the second edition of City Living continues to be an invaluable resource for home product recommendations and renovations.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re back for the second edition of City Living and there are still endless topics for us to explore in the realms of home improvement and renovations. This time, we are tackling the heart of the home: the kitchen. In recent years, we are seeing the trend of homeowners making their cookspace the centrepiece of their home. From gutting the walls for an open-concept kitchen to installing an Instagram-worthy island unit, we count the ways in creating a stylish yet hardworking kitchen in our useful guides. There are also savvy ideas on how to outfit your island counter with style and functionality, and tons of kitchen planning tips! Speaking of kitchen planning, are you clueless on how to get started on your own kitchen renovation? If you need a more straightforward opinion, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got you covered with our guides on choosing the best custom carpentry layout, kitchen surfaces and even on where to place your appliances. And with the kitchen being integrated with the rest of the living and dining zones, should you have it air-conditioned?

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We offer you deeper insights if you want a cooler cookspace. Not neglecting the rest of the home, we have also included savvy solutions and product recommendations on how to amp up your home entertainment experience. Plus, a handy guide on when you should purchase your TV set and the important factors to consider. With all these and more, our magazine aims to bring you a truly integrative and informative read on all parts of the home. We hope to equip you with all the tools and tips to make your renovation a truly successful endeavour. See you next time!

Disa

Your Editor, Disa

cityliving.com.sg

Up to

Airborne

PM2.5, Bacteria, Viruses

& Mould Removal Removal of airborne particles

Bacteria

Because everybody deserves to breathe better quality air

Bacterial Inhibition Dust Removal

Viruses

Mould

Deodorisation

Enjoy cooler and cleaner air with Panasonic’s 5 Ticks Multi-Split Air Conditioners. It’s nanoeTM technology purifies the air, removing up to 99% of harmful PM2.5 particles and bacteria, bringing cleaner air to you and your family. Rated at maximum energy efficiency, Panasonic’s 5 Ticks Multi-Split Air Conditioners also helps you to save more by combining energy-saving ECONAVI and Inverter technologies. Panasonic Air Conditioners, giving you Quality Air for Life. For more details, visit www.panasonic.com/sg/consumer/air-conditioners/ Join us at www.facebook.com/sgpanasonic

Scan to find out more

Panasonic Singapore. 202 Bedok South Avenue 1 #02-02, Singapore 469332. Tel: 6222 7222 Fax: 6299 1212. For details, visit www.panasonic.com.sg Cityliving

VOLUME TWO 2019

WHAT’S New

WHAT’S Essential

12 NEW & NOTEWORTHY PRODUCTS Latest arrivals and most-wanted home products

COVER STORY

20 KITCHEN ORGANISATION A friendly guide to organising your kitchen appliances 22 24

TRENDWATCH 2019 Hot interior styles & how to nail the look

ISLAND ADDITIONS Accessorise your island with these savvy upgrades

44 UPSIZE YOUR TINY KITCHEN Practical ideas for a compact cookspace

GET IT RIGHT Fixes for common kitchen planning errors

32 MULTI-FUNCTIONAL KITCHENS Cook, entertain and do more with these ideas 37

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BUILDING BLOCKS Best-laid plans for custom carpentry DESIGN BY MATERIAL Selecting kitchen surface needs SWEET SLUMBER Enjoy better rest with the right bedding BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE How to keep your leather sofa in tip top form

Sleek kitchen appliances are paired to perfection with the gorgeous material ensemble of this open-concept kitchen. Design Danielle Teo from Rezt & Relax Interior Design Photography Wong Wei Liang Featuring Misterio BQ8815 countertop from Vicostone; Globula track light in chrome black from Sol Luminaire; Ariston chimney hood, Ariston three-gas burner hob & Whirlpool 4-door fridge all from Gain City.

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VOLUME TWO 2019

WHAT’S Smart

WHAT’S Cool 58

SHOULD YOUR KITCHEN BE AIR-CONDITIONED? Find out if you need one and how to prep your space for an AC AIR-CON BUDGETING An overview of how much you’ll be spending on an AC system

PLAY IT COOL Optimise your AC settings for a cost-saving and efficient performance

68 TOP AIR-CONDITIONER MODELS Seven best-selling AC models to narrow your search 72

NEW & IMPROVED Latest AC technology and features

74 77

BEST TIME TO BUY A TV Shop smart with this savvy guide WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A TV? The ultimate TV checklist

78 ELEVATE YOUR HOME ENTERTAINMENT Speakers that create the ultimate listening experince 81 82

SOUND BARS VS SPEAKERS A list of pros and cons to help you choose TECH & MORE Exciting tech buys

WHO’S Home

WHAT’S Special 95 NEW HOMEOWNER PACKAGES Group buys & reno resources

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FAMILY CARD Gain City’s loyalty & rewards card

CELEBRITY HOUSE TOUR Singer Ling Kai and Director Randy Ang’s edgy HDB flat

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C I T Y L I V I N G . C O M . S G

PUBLISHER Kenny Teo

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Alex Wong

HEAD DIGITAL MARKETING

Terence Ang

EDITOR Disa Tan

PUBLISHING ADVISER Foo Mei Siah

ASSISTANT EDITOR Yuen Yi Ying TECHNICAL ADVISOR Teo Meng Hwee

DIGITAL MARKETING Gerald Foo Irlynn Adrianna Tan Sau

CONTRIBUTORS Cassandra Lau, David Cheong, Rossara Jamil & Sheena Hu ART Aris Lai

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Nicky Koh

CITY LIVINGTM IS PUBLISHED BY

GAIN CITY BEST-ELECTRIC PTE LTD 8 Ang Mo Kio Industrial Park 2, Singapore 569500 Tel: +65 6565 1212 | Fax: +65 6555 1212 | Website: www.gaincity.com Business Registration No. 199304709Z

PUBLISHING CONSULTANT

MEDIA GROUP PTE LTD For editorial matters: publishing@gaincity.com For advertising enquiries: advertising@gaincity.com

WHERE TO FIND US? • Gain City outlets • Bookstores: Kinokuniya, Times, Popular, Newslink • Petrol Stations: Shell, Caltex, SPC • Convenience Store: 7-Eleven • Supermarket: Giant

Printer & Colour Separation: KHL Printing Co. Pte Ltd Distributor (Singapore): Pansing Distribution Pte Ltd MCI (P) 083/10/2018. City Living™ Magazine is published by Gain City Best-Electric Pte Ltd (Registration No. 199304709Z). Copyright of the material belongs to Gain City Best-Electric Pte Ltd and all rights are reserved by said party. This publication, in part or in whole, is not to be reproduced, stored, and transmitted, digitally or otherwise, without prior consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed or implied are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Although all precautions have been taken, we shall not be held liable for any actions taken based on views expressed, or information provided within this publication. © 2018

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SNew? NEW & NOTEWORTHY The best and latest home and entertainment products to give your living space a sleek boost. All available at Gain City.

Cityliving

WHAT’S New?

entertainment centre THESE TOP-NOTCH SYSTEMS ALLOW YOU TO GET MAXIMUM ENTERTAINMENT OUT OF YOUR BINGE-WATCHING AND GAMING SESSIONS.

Don’t worry if your living room is too bright or has an odd shape. The LG OLED C9 TV has sensors that can assess the surroundings to automatically adjust brightness, contrast and sound levels.

Boasting excellent picture quality and true colours at any level of brightness, the Samsung QLED Q80R (available in 55-, 65- and 75-inch models) keeps your focus on the screen with One Invisible Connection, which keeps messy cables out of sight.

Even if you’re just watching YouTube or regular TV, the Philips’ P5 Perfect Picture Engine makes all content look a lot better by improving sharpness, colour, contrast and more.

With Sony’s Sound-from-Picture Reality™ TVs, detailed images are combined with sound from actuators that seemingly comes directly from the screen for a dynamic watching experience. Available on A9G (Acoustic Surface Audio+), A8G (Acoustic Surface Audio) and X9500G/ X8500G 55” and above (Acoustic Multi Audio). You don’t need a big space for an immersive audio experience. With a powerful built-in dual subwoofer, the Sony HT-X8500 lets you enjoy deep bass sound with minimal clutter. Whether it’s a live sports game or an actionpacked movie, five dedicated sound modes optimise the audio to whatever you’re watching. For an additional kick, you can even choose to upscale stereo sound to virtual 7.1.2ch surround sound, at the touch of a button.

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WHAT’S New?

smart & speedy MAKE LIGHT WORK OUT OF HOUSE CHORES WITH THESE INNOVATIVE HOME PRODUCTS.

Run a speedy load of laundry with the Samsung QuickDriveTM washing machine. Its innovative Q-DrumTM has a main drum and backplate that rotate independently, spinning clothes in a dynamic action for a quick and powerful wash without compromising on performance. And with the Samsung SmartThings app, you can schedule your desired laundry timings, or start your washer even when you’re out and about, and complete your wash in 39 minutues with the SuperSpeed mode. Worried about high electricity bills while using the dryer to speed up the drying? With the highest level of energy efficiency in Singapore (9kg condenser category*), the LG’s TD-H90SD and TD-H90WD Heat Pump Dryers bring you convenience without breaking the bank.

The Philips SpeedPro Max Aqua can vacuum and mop, a unique feature that lets you attack different stains efficiently. LED lights on its head makes it easy to spot dirt, and you can pivot quickly with a 360-degree suction nozzle designed to pick up debris with both forward and backward movements. On a full charge, the stick vacuum lasts up to 75 minutes, the longest running time available in the market today.

Using a Visionary Mapping 2.0 system, the Samsung Powerbot quickly works out the best route around your house so it can get your floors cleaned before you get home. You can even start it with the SmartThings app and set a schedule so it powers up while you’re at work or running errands outside.

Nippon Paint Odour-less EasyWash is resistant to stains, fungi and fading. It’s washable, covers hairline cracks and has a smooth, protective surface that makes it easier to clean walls. What more could you want? *Based on NEA data for energy consumption per wash(kWh)

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Tackle every surface with the Tefal Airforce 360 All-in-one stick vacuum. Its ergonomic design and generous set of 11 accessories lets you reach high areas, go low under sofas, scrub out stubborn dirt or vacuum dust off delicate upholsteries.

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WHAT’S New?

modern comforts ELEVATE THE LEVEL OF COMFORT AND AESTHETICS OF YOUR LIVING SPACE WITH THESE SAVVY PRODUCTS.

Warm Welcome Combining Italian technology and design, the Ariston Andris2 range of storage water heaters makes shower time a joy. With a contemporary look by designer Umberto Palermo, the three models have won the “Good Design” award by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. The Andris2 Top is also Singapore’s first wifi-enabled storage water heater which you can control with an app for hot water when you want it and extra energy savings. The Lux and RS models round out the range, and all three are equipped with patented AG+ silver technology to kill bacteria in the water for greater hygiene. The Top and Lux models also have a chip to measure water temperature and a hardy titanium heating element that comes with a lifetime warranty.

Quiet Please The whisper-quiet LG PuriCare 360° Air Purifier (launching in the third quarter of this year) is great if you have kids in the house. A multi-filter system removes six types of particles in the air and the clean breeze can reach areas low to the ground where children sleep or play. An LED panel will even change colour as the air improves to give you added peace of mind.

Pick Your Seat

Fast-cooling, energy-efficient, and easy-toclean, the ACs in Mitsubishi Electric’s 5 Ticks MSY/MUY-GN series are also very quiet, which makes them perfect for installing in your TV room or sleeping space.

Nazario’s leather sofas have the magic trifecta of quality, craftsmanship and good prices. The designs and leather are Italian — only semi-aniline and torello leather are used, not bonded leathers which are mostly synthetic — and the sturdy frames are made with tropical hardwood from Malaysia, where the sofas are made to strict standards. The cost savings from producing these pieces regionally are then passed on to you.

Cutting It Close Combining both convenience and blade-close shaving, the Philips Shaver S9000 Prestige is loaded with smart features for your grooming needs. For the closest-possible shave, multi-directional contour heads are equipped with strong and sharp blades to cut hairs even along tricky areas like your jaw and neck. There’s also a sensor that checks hair density 15 times a second to adjust power for maximum efficiency.

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WHAT’S New?

express meals PUT FOOD ON THE TABLE QUICKLY WITH THESE LOVELY KITCHEN ASSISTANTS. The Philips Avance Collection Airfryer XXL HD9654/91 and Philips Viva Collection Airfryer HD9723/11 spins hot air in the chamber like a tornado to quickly cook and crisp up fried food. Fry up quick and delicious family meals with little to no oil, or roast, bake and grill with a healthier approach as well. The XXL is the range’s largest and can accommodate a whole chicken, and the Viva Collection Airfryer is the brand’s most compact to free up precious counter space.

Enjoy haute cuisines at home with the versatile Ariston Gourmet Flexi Table Top 6-in-1 Appliance (MWC 339 BL). Its outstanding 33L cavity size offers the combined features of baking, crisp, crisp fry, grill, steam and microwave functions. It is definitely more than a traditional oven which bakes confections as it can also crisp pizzas and pies in a few minutes. The crisp fry function allows you to cook tempura quickly without any oil. With 40 easy-to-prepare automatic recipes with the Chef Menu feature and the Auto Clean function, cooking up gourmet meals is made effortless and time-efficient.

Cooking and clean up is easy with the Brandt BXP6555X pyrolytic oven. Omega Grill technology circulates heat evenly for quick and consistent cooking, and once you’re done, you can trigger the Pyro-Express cleaning function which uses residual heat from cooking to burn up remaining food debris in the oven.

Instead of waiting for food to thaw, PrimeFresh freezing on the PANASONIC NR-DZ600MBSG fridge keeps ingredients at a cool -3 degrees Celsius so you can maintain flavour and freshness in foods even if you don’t use them right away.

Have all the cooking tools and appliances but not sure how to get started? With this digital cookbook, you can rustle up quick meals under 60 minutes. Feed the family with over 46 wholesome recipes such as Asian delights like Nonya Curry Chicken to Western fare like Honey Glazed Chicken. It also includes recipes for finger foods, baked confections and traditional desserts so you can easily whip up a full course! Scan here to check out all the FREE recipes:

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SEssential? HOT & FUNCTIONAL KITCHENS From trending looks to standout kitchen islands, turn your cookspace from bland to beautiful.

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WHAT’S Essential? Design by Weiken.com@Midview City

organising appliances

FOR THE BEST FLOW

CONFUSED ABOUT WHERE TO PLACE YOUR STOVE, FRIDGE, SINK OR OTHER KITCHEN APPLIANCES? THIS GUIDE WILL HELP YOU OUT.

Fridge

The fridge, stove and sink are three of the most-used fixtures in the kitchen, and experts share that for the best workflow, they should ideally be located close to each other like the points of an equidistant triangle. However, if possible, you might also want to situate the fridge close to the kitchen entrance for quick access to snacks and drinks.

Keep the fridge away from the stove and sun, otherwise it’ll have to work extra hard to keep the contents cool.

Dishwasher

Whether you get a countertop model or built-in machine, this should go next to the sink where there’s easy access to plumbing and to prevent drips through your kitchen as you transfer rinsed items into the dishwasher. Depending on your dominant hand and kitchen layout, you might want it to the right or left of the sink, but it might also be a good idea to have the machine close to where you store plates and cutlery so you can put clean items away quickly. Having it close to the stove is useful as well as you can conveniently pop pans, lids and containers inside for washing. To prevent obstruction during loading and unloading, avoid placing dishwashers near entrances and under spaces you need to stand, like the hob or sink.

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Design by ICON INTERIOR

Stove

It may seem like a good idea to position the stove by the window where there’s good ventilation and light, but it’s actually better to put it against a wall where there’s no chance of wind blowing out the flames or drapes catching fire if you’re using a gas stove. Even if you’re using an induction hob, don’t forget that the wind can also blow cooking fumes and grease spatters into your kitchen! Be sure to install a backsplash against the wall to protect it from heat and for easy cleaning.

Image courtesy of Mesh Werk Studio

Miscellaneous small appliances

Deep shelves let you group appliances that work together, like your coffee-maker, kettle, and toaster which you will probably use in the morning. Place the ones you use most often on the middle rack, which is most accessible. Other appliances like your stand mixer, blender, waffle maker or ice-cream machine can be relegated to other shelves. Image courtesy of Interior360

Ovens

It would be nice to have all your “hot” appliances — like your microwave, oven, and hob — together if you have adequate space for it. If you do this, try to stick with one brand of appliance. Manufacturers like Whirlpool and Ariston invest heavily in making sure that the control panels, knobs, badges, handles, displays and doors all align, so that they look symmetrical and elegant in any configuration. You might also want to elevate your oven so you don’t have to keep bending to check if the food is done.

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WHAT’S Essential?

kitchen design

DONE RIGHT

LEARN HOW TO FIX AND AVOID COMMON KITCHEN PLANNING MISTAKES! Design by Mesh Werk Studios

Poor Lighting

You need bright lights in the kitchen to handle knives safely, ensure food doesn’t burn, and wash dishes properly, but in your excitement to choose cabinetry and appliances, lighting often becomes an afterthought. Don’t leave planning for lights to the last minute as it involves wiring work. You don’t want to have to hack the ceiling or walls or have unsightly cables dangling about.

FIX! Other than overhead lighting, installing task lighting will increase visibility at your prep, cooking and washing zones. Do also consider LED lighting under drawers and shelving to better locate kitchen items easily.

Design by Versaform

A badly planned layout

A poor kitchen layout will impede the use of the kitchen, make you work much harder than necessary, and ultimately stop you from enjoying it. Your kitchen should work specifically for you, with a workflow and layout designed to cater to your needs. FIX! Ideally, you’d want your sink, fridge and stove to be arranged in like points of an equidistant triangle for maximum efficiency. If that’s not possible, be sure to make sure they’re all relatively close to each other and not at opposite points of the kitchen. Also, check to make sure every cabinet door can open properly.

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Design by houseofchais

A sink that’s too small

A tiny sink means you have to wash your dishes before you can wash your veggies and vice versa, which is not always practical if you’re busy minding kids or entertaining guests. Even though going with a big sink may seem like a gamble, it’s sure to pay off in the end. Besides, you can always do your prep work on other surfaces but you can only wash things in the sink. Be sure to get a tap with an extendable or swivel neck which will help you reach all corners of the sink.

Design by Versaform

FIX! If a small counter is giving you pause, go for a larger single-bowl sink rather than a double-bowl one, and be sure to choose an undermounted option where the edges are below the counter to eke out a little more counter space.

Not enough storage

Insufficient storage is one of the most common kitchen design problems stemming from poor planning. This can easily lead to clutter, mess, and frustration. Yet even in really small kitchens, generous base and wall cabinets should be achievable with careful and imaginative planning to fully maximise the space. Design by BoConcept

FIX! Even if you’re not going to need all that storage, which is unlikely, installing cabinetry to the ceiling visually elongates your kitchen. Be sure to factor in space for appliances you already own or intend to get.

Not enough counter space

A lack of worktop space, or worktops not being positioned where you need them, can prove to be frustrating as worktops are needed for just about every activity you’ll carry out in your kitchen. FIX! When getting more counter space is not an option, adding a slim table or an island to your kitchen may suffice, or, better yet, get a rolling cart which also gives you extra storage underneath.

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WHAT’S Essential?

now

TRENDING

GET ON BOARD WITH 2019’S TOP INTERIOR TRENDS WITH THESE PRODUCTS.

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green living

Image courtesy of Julien Fernandez

Image courtesy of Paper Collective

The idea of living in an indoor garden is catching on. Even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have green thumbs, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to decorate your space with botanical prints as well as rattan, cane and natural wood pieces.

Image courtesy of Atomi

Samsung The Frame LS03 (available in 55and 65-inches)

Nippon Paint MozzieGuard

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

modern art deco Image courtesy of Covet House

Sony HT-MT300 Image courtesy of Out There Interiors

The sumptuous velvets, fringing and curved shapes from the 1920s are back. This time however, contemporary touches like boho rugs and simple furnishings balance out the glamorous style and prevent the room from looking dated.

Sony Master A9G

Image courtesy of DelightFULL

Philips Premium Collection Multicooker

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SAVVY & HEALTHY COOKING These new products from Philips will turn your cooking space into the kitchen of your dreams.

Feed your fried food cravings with a healthier approach with the Philips Airfryer. The Philips Avance Collection Airfryer XXL HD9654/91 and Philips Viva Collection Airfryer HD9723/11 come with Twin TurboStar technology, which swirls hot air like a tornado to crisp up food, removing up to 90 per cent of fat while keeping in juiciness. Besides frying, the Airfryers can bake, grill and roast. Go for the Avance Collection Airfryer XXL if you’re feeding a family. Its large capacity lets you fit an entire chicken or 1.4kg of fries at once, and the Keep Warm feature keeps your food toasty for 30 minutes. To free up valuable counter space,

the Philips Viva Collection Airfryer is the brand’s most compact model to date. It’s 20 per cent smaller than the previous model, yet it still cooks up the same amount, the equivalent of about 800g of fries. No preheating is required so you can start cooking immediately. Whip up quick meals with the Philips Premium Collection Multicooker HD2145/62. It can sear, bake, slow cook, pressure cook and even make yogurt. It also speeds up your cooking time by as much as six times! To prevent delicate ingredients from turning

to mush, you’re able to add them later in the cooking process. A dual control system keeps the temperature constant, and, with multiple safety features, little supervision is needed. There’s even a sauce thickening function to intensify the flavour of sauces and soups. If you like a dish, save cooking settings for three dishes using the MyFavourite function so they can be recreated in future. For days when you’ll be extra busy, use the 12-hour Keep Warm function or the 24-hours preset timer and come home to a delicious meal.

Cityliving

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

pale palette Samsung UHD RU7400 (available in 43-, 50-, 55- and 65-inches)

Image courtesy of Chaplins Furniture

Muted pastel hues go with everything and are subtle enough to withstand the test of time. Avoid an overly cutesy look by adding edgy accessories and artwork.

Panasonic CS-MXS9UKZ

Image courtesy of Pixers

Ariston Farm Fresh 557L Side-by-side Refrigerator (AS5NI573HGS)

Philips FC8795/01

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Gain City Magazine_Jumbo Flexi FA (pathed).pdf 1 21/5/2019 12:53:53 PM

CMY

SMART & STYLISH

Whirlpool’s 6th Sense JumboFlexi is the fridge that does it all. Clad in a timeless stainless steel finish, the Whirlpool 6th Sense JumboFlexi fridge doesn’t take up much space with its 69cm depth, but offers up to 591 litres of generous storage. This model is also the first in Whirlpool’s lineup of refrigerators in Singapore to offer both top and bottom French doors. Stylish French doors open wide to reveal spacious and adjustable shelves, letting you slot in pots and bags of groceries with ease. 6th Sense FreshLock technology intuitively selects and adjusts the temperature to keep food fresh, and the 6th Sense FreezeLock feature reduces risk of freezer burn to preserve maximum

flavour, texture and nutrition for frozen foods. With convertible freezer compartments, you can also choose the freeze settings for different foods. SoftFreeze (-7°C) lets you get food from freezer to pan without defrosting, and MildFreeze (-12°C) keeps ice

cream at the perfect texture. If you’re storing food for later use, lock in the nutrients with DeepFreeze (-18°C). If you’re in a hurry, you can also select the fridge’s Fast Freeze and Fast Cool features to accelerate the chilling process.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

Image courtesy of House Doctor

clashing metals Design by Icon Interiors

Ariston Gas on Glass Hob (TH 931 D2/A B) Design by Mesh Werk Studio

Matchy metal details have a tendency to look dated and overstyled. Mix different finishes for a more casual look thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also easier to shop for.

Samsung Family HubTM LG TD-H90SD

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Gain City Magazine_GOG (17 June).pdf 1 18/6/2019 3:36:55 PM

EMPOWER YOURSELF IN THE KITCHEN Ariston Gas on Glass Hobs are designed to provide perfect cooking results with superior safety compliance and assurance.

CMY

GAS SECURITY VALVE

4.5kW POWER BURNER

8MM SCHOTT GLASS

MULTI CUT-OUT SIZE

SAFETY Prevents gas leakage

PERFORMANCE Designed with high heat efficiency

DURABILITY Withstand high heat and hard knocks

FLEXIBILITY Customisable to your ideal hob size

Ariston Cooking Singapore Find out more at www.aristonchannel.com.sg

HARD WORKER

You can’t do without a good hob in a kitchen, and Ariston has just what you need. Low on maintenance but high on safety features, Ariston’s Gas Hobs are perfectly tailored for busy kitchens. The durable glass top, made of 8mm Schott glass, is easy to clean up and can withstand knocks and high temperatures of up to 700 degrees Celsius. You can also customise the width, depth, and cut-out sizes for the hobs to make sure the hob is suited for your needs and kitchen. As with all cooking appliances, safety is a top priority. Ariston Gas Hobs have a 100 per cent ignition rate to guard against gas leaks and explosions. They are also sealed with a thickened steel sheet to prevent liquids from seeping into the burner. Additionally, the gas valve cuts off gas supply after 30 seconds if there’s no flame

burning, a useful feature that prevents gas leakage if wind extinguishes the flame or the burner hasn’t been properly turned off. To further prevent accidents, the gas hose is firmly held in place with a brass connector, and all hob components have been tested to be non-combustible, which prevents flames from spreading in case of a fire. Ideal for Asian-style wok cooking, these

high-power gas hobs are also engineered with a 4.5kW brass burner which offers heat retention and even heat distribution for superior cooking results. Its high melting point ensures resistance to deformation; as it can withstand high temperatures of up to 980 degrees Celsius. Most of all, these burners emit less CO2, which reduces your carbon footprint for a healthier environment.

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WHAT’S Essential?

IDEAS FOR A

multifunctional kitchen CREATE A MULTI-USE KITCHEN THAT’S A JOY TO COOK AND ENTERTAIN IN. Design by The Monocot Studio

Walk Right Through

Boasting a true open concept, this kitchen flows right into the living space with an adjoining dining table and cement screed flooring throughout, creating a casual atmosphere that invites guests to wander into the kitchen. Dark woods, forest green walls and industrial-style furniture can make the area look heavy, but under-cabinet lighting keeps the space from feeling oppressive.

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HANDY HELPER

The Tefal Airforce 360 All-in-one is packed with features and accessories to help you keep your house spic and span. Clean all surfaces with ease with the Tefal Airforce 360 All-in-one. The ergonomic stick vacuum comes with 11 accessories so you can clean everything from delicate fabrics to groundin dirt on rugs and other flooring. Reach high areas on a shelf with an elbowed extension accessory, or go low with a reduced fork that lets you suck up dust under a sofa. A quick three-hour charge powers the vacuum for 30-minutes of robust, cord-free

GainCity Ad_pathed_submission.pdf

3/5/19

vacuuming. Just one push of a button starts up the machine and there’s no need to keep your finger on the trigger. When you need more power, just turn on the Boost mode. Strong cyclonic suction separates dust and dirt, and a high-performance filter removes 99.99 per cent of dust to keep air in your house clean. Once you’re done, hang up the compact stick on the wall-charging base and you’re good to go another day.

2:12 PM

Cityliving

WHAT’S Essential?

Work It Out

At first glance, you may not notice that what looks like a regular desk or dining table is actually an extension of the kitchen island. With power points installed under the bench and the fridge and kitchen nearby for snacks and drinks, this space can double as an office for those working from home.

Design by KDOT Associates

Besides offering ample prep space and doubling as a banquet table during dinner parties, this elongated cement screed island adds dramatic flair to this sleek, modern kitchen.

Design by Brim Design

Statement Piece

Hidden Surprise

You’ll often find pantry goods, cookware and cleaning supplies in kitchen cabinets, but the upper deck of this contemporary cookspace also has a flat-screen TV on a sliding track! It’s a great idea for those who like watching TV while cooking, or whose dining table is situated by the kitchen, as well as for those who simply lack wall space. Design by UPSTAIRS_

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KITCHEN STARS

Equipped with nifty features, Brandt’s standout induction hob and built-in oven make cooking a breeze. Cooking in an oven can be tricky, but Brandt’s built-in pyrolytic oven BXP6555X has been designed to deliver perfect results every time. It allows for exceptional control of heating temperatures, which also helps with energy saving, and its exclusive Omega Grill technology helps heat circulate evenly to ensure that what you roast, grill or bake turns out beautifully. Clean-up is easy with Brandt’s patented Pyro-Express function, which decimates bits of remaining food in 59 minutes using residual heat from cooking so you don’t have to go around looking for crumbs in nooks and crannies. This speedy mode is 50 per cent more economical than conventional pyro-

cleaning processes. With its stainless steel exterior, the BXP6555X gives your kitchen a contemporary yet timeless appearance, and apart from its aesthetics, safety features were also considered during the design process. The oven’s door is lined with four layers of glass so it feels cool to the touch from outside. It also has a soft-closing door, another feature that makes this a family-friendly oven. Sleek and modern, Brandt’s induction hob BPI6309B has style and substance and is

the perfect addition to complete your kitchen. Equipped with three cooking zones activated by touch-sensitive controls, the hob’s high heating capacity lets you whip up any dish you desire. 10 safety measures offer peace of mind as you enjoy the cooking process. Perfect for use in most homes especially HDB BTO flat dwellings, both the Brandt BXP6555X and BPI6309B have been granted the “Origine France Garantie” label, and you will receive a two-year standard manufacturer’s warranty from point of delivery.

A NEW ERA OF INDUCTION TECHNOLOGY With the perfect harmony of style and substance, Brandt Induction Hobs provide an unrivalled performance and high heating capacities. Suitable for HDB, the perfect induction for your ideal kitchen. www.brandt.sg

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

Artistic Flair

Image courtesy of DelightFULL

Instead of shutting off the kitchen with a wall, this creative island and dining area set-up has a raised display nook in front to add personality to the space while hiding kitchen clutter.

Stylish Practicality

Image courtesy of akiHAUS

This spacious open-concept kitchen has a nifty feature. A discreet cabinet hides a set of sliding black-framed dividers that section off the wet kitchen to prevent cooking fumes from wafting around. Shutting the dividers also helps conserve energy when the air-conditioner is running in the hall.

Read and Relax

Design by EightyTwo

Located right in front of a feature wall bookcase, the kitchen island is the perfect place to enjoy a cuppa as you unwind with a book. Flanked with low stools that can be pushed under the counter for unobstructed preparation of meals, the island, which resembles a large dining table, can easily accommodate six when guests come over.

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island

ADDITIONS

CONSIDER ACCESSORISING YOUR KITCHEN ISLAND WITH THESE ADD-ONS TO MAXIMISE ITS EFFICIENCY.

Stylish Storage Gorgeous crockery and cookware needn’t be hidden away, but they don’t have to take up precious counter space either. A built-in shelf under the island keeps them easily accessible and adds a decorative touch to your island. Image courtesy of Brayer Design

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

Design by Free Space Intent

Task Lighting While soft, ambient lights are fine for the dining area, overhead lighting on the island is more useful while you chop vegetables, wash dishes or cook food.

Image courtesy of Lagoon

Clever Drawers An extended ledge offers additional space for food prep, doubles as a dining space for light meals and also has handy drawers to store cutlery and coasters.

Equipped with a wine chiller and a slot on the counter that serves as a wine bucket, this island is a breakfast spot by day and bar by night.

Image courtesy of Burbidge

Bottle Space

Drawer Organisers Keeping your drawers tidy with durable and spacious cutlery trays is a must.

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DESIGNED AND CRAFTED FOR EXCELLENCE Build the kitchen you want with high-performance appliances from EuropAce’s Otimmo line.

Europace understands that hobs are the focal point of the kitchen, and every home deserves a perfect kitchen. Thus, the brand’s Otimmo range of slim-line built-in hobs, hoods, and ovens are modern, exquisite, and highly functional, fitting seamlessly into any design preference or size of kitchen you may have. Installed under your worktop, the hobs have a flexible cut-out size that accommodates 99 per cent of existing cut-out sizes. They’re topped with high-quality Schott glass surface that comes with a lifetime warranty, and the hobs have even been tested in a European lab to be extremely resistant to heat and hard knocks. Equipped with powerful, adjustable 4.5kW brass burners, the hobs are perfect for Asian cooking. On the other hand, the Otimmo

oven, which can be installed as a wall or base unit, has intuitive preset programs that let you achieve your desired baking and roasting results every time.

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WHAT’S Essential? Design by Distinct Identity

HANDY ADD-ONS Image courtesy of Kitchen Design Centre

EXTRA CABINETS

Most cabinets have a strip between the floor and lowest shelf called a kickboard, but instead of wasting this space, have a carpenter install a drawer for extra storage. Image courtesy of Carpenter’s Woodworks

Ceiling-mounted Rack If you’re using the island for cooking, an overhead rack offers storage for pots and pans and visually balances the cooker hood so it doesn’t stick out so starkly from the ceiling. Design by Renozone

TIP-OUT DRAWER

Fake drawer panels under the sink are as annoying as unusable, decorative pockets on jeans. There may not be much space available behind the panel, but you can install a hinged drawer to store sponges and brushes. Image courtesy of Häfele

NARROW SHELVES

Space for Appliances If you’ve always wanted a dishwasher or dryer, an island gives you extra space to stow away bulky appliances.

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Even after careful planning, you may have narrow gaps between appliances and cabinetry. Make use of every nook with a slim shelving unit.

WARM

COMFORT

For a relaxing shower experience, find out whether an instant or storage water heater is most suited for your needs. Taking a shower or bath is one of the best ways to start and end your day, so you’d want it to be as enjoyable as possible. While having good water pressure is key, getting the ideal water temperature plays a big part in creating a rejuvenating experience, and for that you’d want a good water heater. Italian brand Ariston Thermo offers two stellar ranges for you to choose from. Both boast sleek, award-winning designs that help you save energy while packing other smart features such as the antiscalding feature with Constant Temperature (CT) technology. To prevent burns, the current will cut off when the inlet temperature of the water hits 40 degrees Celsius. The AURES range is an instant heater while the Andris2 is a storage water heater, which to get depends on several factors.

THE AURES CONSTANT TEMPERATURE (CT) RANGE

This line has been awarded “Good Design” by The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, it is also the first to be certified by PSB Singapore to be energy-saving, helping you save up to 16.4 per cent more power compared to regular heaters. There are four models equipped with Constant Temperature (CT) Technology, which uses various sensors to measure the flow and temperature of the water coming in so the heater can adjust its settings to maintain your desired temperature.

GO FOR AN INSTANT WATER HEATER FROM THE ARISTON AURES CT RANGE IF: You would like to enjoy constant water temperature throughout your shower You want to heat up the water instantly Your house is short on space to house a storage water heater GO FOR A STORAGE WATER HEATER FROM THE ARISTON ANDRIS2 RANGE IF: You want to shower with Ag+ Silver Ions with Anti-bacterial properties for greater hygiene You prefer rainshowers and bathtubs The water heater will be shared between a few bathrooms

THE ANDRIS2 RANGE

Like the AURES collection, this line has won the same “Good Design” award thanks to its modern, clean look by Italian designer Umberto Palermo. It consists of three models, including Singapore’s first wifi-enabled storage water heater, the Andris2 Top, that can be controlled by an app. This innovation lets you schedule when you want hot water, get alerts when the water is ready and save 25 per cent* of power while you’re at it. The Andris2 Lux and RS models complete the range. While all heaters in the line boast excellent temperature control, the Top and Lux models come with a smart chip that constantly measures water temperature. Their titanium-heating element is so hardy it comes with a lifetime warranty. The three models also come with a patented AG+ silver technology that has antibacterial properties for greater hygiene.

* Against other standard Ariston models

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SMART LIVING

Create a stylish, convenient and enjoyable home with innovative products from Samsung. Whether you’re moving into a new place or refreshing your home with new appliances, Samsung has everything you need for smart living.

INTELLIGENT ENTERTAINMENT

Enjoy unparalleled entertainment with the latest Samsung QLED 8K Q900R TV and Samsung Harman Kardon HW-Q90R Soundbar. The TV, available in 65-, 75-, 82- and 98-inch sizes, provides for an immersive viewing experience with 8K resolution — 16 times the resolution of full HD — and 8K AI Upscaling1 converts any content into stunning 8K resolution with AI machine learning. The TV even looks great when not in use with a Magic Screen2 mode, which allows you to personalise your screen with an interactive display that matches your home décor. Plus, it shows information such as the time and date on the stunning background. For seamless

connection with other Smart appliances, the TV comes with SmartThings3 and Bixby4 voice assistant to let you control smart devices such as speakers, lights and more5. Pair the TV with the HW-Q90R Soundbar, which transports you into every scene with Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X™ technologies. The sleek speaker recreates the effect of 7.1.4 Channel audio by directing sound at different points of the room, and a wireless subwoofer pumps out powerful bass to round out the sound. Adaptive sound also optimises the sound and dialogue, so you’ll be able to hear voices clearly even with the volume turned down low.

1 Viewing experience may vary according to types of content and format. ‘AI Upscaling’ may not apply to PC connection, and certain conditions of Game Mode.

depending on the environment where the TV is installed including, but not limited to, wall designs, patterns, and/ or colours.

The Magic Screen background setting feature may vary

Each device must be connected to Wi-Fi® or other

wireless network. For interoperability through SmartThings, all the devices should be registered with a single Samsung Account. Compatible with phones with Android 6.0 and higher or iOS 10.0 and higher. Internet connection is required.

CONNECTED LIVING

Internet connectivity is extending to different appliances, and the award-winning Samsung Family Hub™ 6 is equipped with the truly progressive Internet of Things (IoT) technology. This feature lets you control your SmartThings-compatible devices3 via the 21.5-inch full HD LCD touchscreen of the fridge. You can also share calendars, photos and memos with others, or get Bixby4 to read you updates on your schedule or the weather, all from your fridge. The 550-litre fridge even lets you stream music from its AKG speakers and mirrors your Samsung TV or smartphone. Using the SmartThings app3, you’re able to start the Samsung QuickDrive™ washing machine. Other smart Wi-Fi® functions includes finishing your laundry by a specific time7 8 so you can come home to clean laundry, providing recommendations for wash cycles8 and helping with troubleshooting if problems arise. Without compromising on cleaning performance, QuickDrive™ reduces washing time by up to 50 per cent and energy consumption by up to 20 per cent9. Its Q-Drum™ has a main drum and backplate that rotate independently,

ensuring that clothes get uniformly spun about by the dual forces, resulting in a quick and efficient wash. This speedy appliance completes a load of laundry in 39 minutes10 with SuperSpeed mode. The Samsung Powerbot vacuum is another device that can be controlled with the SmartThings app3. Using a Visionary Mapping 2.0 System , the robot vacuum can work out the optimal route around your house for fast cleaning. An improved selfcleaning soft action brush ensures no corner is left untouched, picking up fine dust and cleaning crevices effectively. It also comes with grinders located on the centre and side of the brush to cut up tangled hair and pet fur; saving you the trouble of manually pulling them out by hand. When the house feels warm, turn on the Samsung 5 Ticks Multi-Split air conditioner. You don’t even need to be home to do it as the quiet, energy efficient AC has built-in smart Wi-Fi® connectivity. Use the SmartThings app3 to get the AC running before you get home, turn it off while you’re out, or start up the Virus Doctor mode to get rid of contaminants11.

NIFTY UPGRADES

Whether you’ve got a big family or simply prefer to complete your chores in one day, Samsung’s latest technology can easily handle large loads. Consider a Samsung SpaceMax™ refrigerator if you need maximum storage at minimum space usage. It has the typical side-by-side fridge dimensions but boasts more storage space within. The four models of the SpaceMax™ series have one of the largest capacities compared to similar side-by-side fridges, letting you store up to 647 litres12 for large weekly grocery hauls. Digital Inverter Technology extends the lifespan of the fridge while saving

Bixby service availability requires Samsung Account login and data connection. Available functions and features may vary by country, region, and language. Bixby is limited to selected languages and certain accents/dialects. Not all accents, dialects, and expressions are recognised, and actual performance may vary depending on pronunciation, voice level, and the surrounding environment.

Subject to device compatibility.

Family Hub™ requires an internet connection and download of Family Hub™ App. Family Hub™ App is compatible with Android 4.4 and higher or iOS 9.1 and higher. Apps and services are subject to change without notice. Data usage fees may apply. 6

The wash cycle will be recommended solely based on

energy, and with their sleek looks, these stylish fridges fit right in with any decor. With a large 17kg capacity, the Samsung AddWash™ washing machine saves you from doing multiple loads of laundry. An auto detergent dispenser makes the laundry process even smoother by automatically adding the correct amount of detergent and softener to each load so there’s no waste or extra rinsing needed. All you need to do is top it up once a month13. The machine also comes with a complimentary pedestal with built-in storage that lifts the machine so you don’t have to bend down when loading your laundry into the washer.

desired end time, and may not be appropriate based on the type of fabric of the clothing articles being washed.

WW6800M on Super Speed Cycle based on 40C course (5kg wash load). Individual results may vary.

8 User is solely responsible for any consequence(s) that may result from user’s implementation of the recommended wash cycle, including but not limited to any damage to the articles caused by incorrect or incomplete information provided by the user.

11 Virus Doctor neutralises up to 99% of harmful contaminants in the air. Tested in Kitasato Environmental Science Center (Japan) & Yonsei Univ. (Korea) / Korea test lab (FITI/KEMTI) and Japan test lab (ITEA). Effective on 4 viruses, including Subtype H1N1, and certain bacteria. Data has been measured under specific testing conditions and results may vary based on environmental factors.

9 Based on Intertek test results, Samsung WW7800M (QuickDrive™ system) saves up to 50% washing time and up to 20°C energy as compared with WW6500K (conventional system), based on Cotton 40% course, half load (washing performance within ±3%). Tested in accordance with IEC 60456:2010, individual results may vary. 10

Based on Samsung internal testing of Samsung

Only applicable to models RS62R5004M9/SS and RS62R5004B4/SS

Based on internal tests on 6kg load using standard concentration of detergent in normal cycle, assuming approximately 3-4 loads per week. Individual results may vary.

WHAT’S Essential? Image courtesy of DelightFULL

upsize

YOUR TINY KITCHEN CREATE A SPACE THAT’S PRACTICAL, SPACE-SAVING, BUDGET SAVVY AND INVITING.

Image courtesy of Wye Valley Railroad

Make it bright and inviting

Embrace a sociable, open-concept layout. Who wouldn’t want to hang out in this cheery kitchen?

Hide your appliances

Reduce visual clutter by storing all your appliances behind folding or sliding doors. Also, install built-in appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, washers and dryers for a seamless look.

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Image courtesy of Prozfile

Embrace the cosiness

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid of darker tones in a small space. The wooden cabinetry gives the space a luxurious and warm feel while a framed glass wall prevents the kitchen from feeling closed in. DITCH THE HANDLES Having no drawer pulls means nothing to bump into in a tight kitchen.

Image courtesy of Luxe Walls

Experiment with pattern

A tiny kitchen is the perfect space to make a bold statement, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll cost you less too. Image courtesy of A Beautiful Mess

Image courtesy of EDL

Get a metal backsplash

Hang up your stuff

A metal backsplash, paired with magnetic hooks and knife strips, lets you hang up kitchen tools anywhere.

A vertically-hung wire rack or pegboard frees up counter space and lets you arrange all your miscellaneous items in any order you want.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

building BLOCKS CHOOSE THE BEST CUSTOM CARPENTRY DESIGN BASED ON THESE TESTED-&-PROVEN KITCHEN LAYOUTS.

Design by Icon Interior

L-Shaped The L-shaped kitchen is perhaps the most common given the spatial layout of most apartments in Singapore. You will see this layout used in rectangular kitchens, where one countertop arm can go as long as you want.

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SPACE-SAVING TIP A great solution for small homes, this L-shaped kitchen combines an enclosed cooking zone with a breakfast counter connected to the dining area.

Design by Joey Khu Interior Design

One Wall Normally seen in small homes, one-wall kitchens make it difficult to have two cooks at one time. It’s most ideal for those who do light cooking. SPACE-SAVING TIP Place the sink between the refrigerator and hob to streamline the workflow. Having built-in cabinetry is also a good idea in keeping the food prep area clutter free.

Design by Richfield Integrated

Galley A galley is what the kitchen on a ship is called. It’s characterised by its efficient layout where there are parallel counters. Best used in small or compact spaces.

SPACE-PLANNING TIP The total distance in between the three points – hob, sink and the refrigerator – should be no less than 3m to make it easy to manoeuvre from these three points during a cooking session.

Design by Free Space Intent

Horseshoe Named for the U shape it creates, the horseshoe kitchen provides the most storage and countertop space. It’s most suited for larger kitchen spaces, but can be employed in small kitchens too. STORAGE TIP If you already have enough worktop space, consider full height storage solutions or overhead shelving to frame the wall.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential? Image courtesy of Cosentino

choosing

SURFACES A QUICK GUIDE TO THE SELECTION OF ALL YOUR SURFACE NEEDS IN THE KITCHEN.

Engineered Quartz Suitable for: COUNTERTOPS AND BACKSPLASHES

More commonly known as its commercial brand names like Caesarstone and Silestone, engineered quartz is a material that is nonporous, hygienic, and requires minimal maintenance. It is manufactured by fortifying crushed natural quartz with polymer resin to produce a hard-wearing worktop with high durability, resistance to stains and scratches, and a wide range of colours and patterns.

Design by A Solid Plan

Choose this if you like the look of natural stone but want something that is easier to maintain because of all the heavy cooking that you do.

Nanotech Material Suitable for: COUNTERTOPS AND CABINET FRONTS

Fenix Nanotech Alloy (NTA) is a new metallic material that has all the properties of NTM. With multi-layer coating and nanotechnology, NTA has a metal structure but is resistant to scratches and fingerprints, soft to the touch, and extremely matt. It is also highly resistant to solvents and household cleaning products.

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CHIC CONVENIENCE

Panasonic’s made-in-Japan fridges combine quality and technology to keep food at optimum freshness. Freezing technology that keeps meat, fish and cooked food at a cool -3C. This slightly freezes the foods to retain flavour and nutrients, but unlike deepfreezing, it doesn’t damage food cells so you don’t end up with mushy vegetables or meat that leaks juices all over as it comes to room temperature. You can also slice or cook ingredients right away with no need for defrosting, cutting down your prep time significantly.

Daily cooking and shopping for groceries can really sap your time and energy, but you don’t have to compromise on freshness and taste with Panasonic’s new made-in-Japan fridges. The NR-F654GT, NR-F603GT and NR-F503GT models are designed to keep food fresh for up to a week, utilising a unique PrimeFresh

As food safety is crucial, the fridges employ two systems to keep the air hygienic. The Ag Clean feature deactivates mould, odours and bacteria, while nanoeX uses ions to further purify the air, as well as maintain moisture and vitamins in food. Everything can be found

easily as the fridges allow for organised sorting with six doors and fully extendable drawers. For the NR-F654GT and NRF603GT models, the freezer compartments even come with three shelves which let you locate your things quickly and fill up the drawer to capacity. Inverter technology keeps running costs low, and ECONAVI boosts energy savings by using seven sensors to detect energy waste. Ideal for large families with small kitchens, these fridges offer generous storage while occupying only a modest footprint. They’re available in four colours. You can’t go wrong with classics like mature gold, mature white and mature brown, but for something stunning and unique, you’ll absolutely love the onyx mirror.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Essential?

Image courtesy of GF+A

Tiles Suitable for: BACKSPLASHES

Tiles are easy to maintain, and can be washed down whenever needed. With the huge variety of tiles available for you to choose from, you can create a kitchen that is truly one of a kind. Tiles come in different shapes and sizes, and can be mixed and combined to form different patterns and designs.

Choose this if you want a design unique to your home. Image courtesy of Alustil

KompacPlus Suitable for: BACKSPLASHES AND COUNTERTOPS

Despite its slim profile, KompacPlus panels are extremely strong and sturdy. These high-density composite panels are only 6mm thick, and offer a sleek, modern look for your kitchen. Non-porous and stain resistant, KompacPlus panels can be mounted directly on the cabinet carcass or even over existing finishes.

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Image courtesy of R&C Design Solution

sweet

SLUMBER

GET BETTER REST WITH THE RIGHT BEDDING FROM GAIN CITY. HERE’S A QUICK STARTER TO FIND WHAT YOU NEED.

id you know that Gain City is your onestop solution for all your home furnishing needs? As such, a whole floor has been dedicated to bedding and mattress accessories at Gain City Megastore @ Sungei Kadut. There’s something for all budgets whether low-, mid- or high-end. Head over and staff will be happy to help you find the mattress of your dreams.

When to Replace Your Bedding MATTRESSES

In general, experts advise changing your bed every 10 years, although in a humid climate like ours, you may want to do so earlier, especially if you don’t have air-conditioning. If your mattress feels uncomfortable, starts smelling musty or you see mould on it, it’s definitely time for a change.

PILLOWS

Get a new pillow when yours starts to feel lumpy, flat, or is about

one to two years old, says the National Sleep Foundation in the US. While two years seem like a short time, think about all the drool, oil, dirt and sweat that gets soaked into your pillow. That’s the stuff of nightmares.

COMFORTERS AND LINEN

These have a longer lifespan because they get cleaned more often (hopefully), but if they’re starting to get thin or rip, you deserve to have new ones.

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WHAT’S Essential? Image courtesy of R&C Design Solution

BEST BEDS AND PILLOWS FOR YOUR SLEEPING POSITION FOR BACK SLEEPERS BED Get a firm mattress as you need good spinal support. Something too soft could over-extend your spine and cause lower back pain. PILLOW A pillow with medium firmness feels comfortable but props your head up high enough to prevent snoring and acid reflux. You may also want to have a pillow under your knee to reduce pressure on your back.

Find the right fit! SOME TIPS FOR TESTING OUT A MATTRESS. ALWAYS TEST IN PERSON

You can’t tell if something’s comfortable from reading the specs. If you share the bed, get your partner to test it too. You may also want to think about the size of the mattress, taking into account how it will fit into your space.

GO IN COMFY CLOTHING

Wearing something comfortable will immediately set you at ease and help you imagine what it’ll be like crawling into bed at night in your pyjamas.

GET A PILLOW

No bed feels truly comfortable if your head isn’t supported properly.

LIE IN YOUR PREFERRED POSITION

Try not to be self-conscious and rest in your natural position for about 10 to 15 minutes.

QUALITY COMES FIRST

Cost is a consideration, but getting sleep is essential for good health, which is priceless. If the mattress you like turns out to be too costly, try to assess what you like about it and find mattresses within your price range that have similar qualities or materials.

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FOR SIDE SLEEPERS BED Something that conforms to your curves will prevent pressure points on your shoulders and hips. PILLOW Find a pillow with a high rise as you need to support the gap between your neck and shoulders. As such, you might also find that a pillow that’s firmer may be more comfortable.

FOR TUMMY SLEEPERS BED A mattress with medium or firmer density seems most popular with stomach sleepers as you don’t want something so soft that you sink in uncomfortably. Go for spring or latex which prevents extra stress on your neck and spine. PILLOW You’d want something flat and on the soft side as your neck is already craned in an odd position. Also, your pillow should preferably be washable as you’re more likely to breathe into or drool on it.

how to

SLEEP BETTER HAVE TROUBLE SLEEPING? GET WELL-RESTED SLEEP EVERY NIGHT WITH THESE 5 TIPS.

HANG UP SOME BLACKOUT CURTAINS

Blackout curtains help cut light and noise so you can get more sleep, especially during the daytime. They’re great for light sleepers as well as shift workers who may need to get some shut-eye at odd hours. Blackout curtains also help keep the room cool, letting you feel more comfortable as you snooze while also helping you save on electricity bills.

ESTABLISH A WIND-DOWN ROUTINE

Get yourself ready for restful sleep with a nightly calming routine. Let your mind unwind by not thinking about work and other worries at least two to three hours before sleeping. Put away your tech devices as they emit blue light that keep you awake, then maximise your relaxation with a nice shower, read, meditate, stretch, enjoy some aromatherapy or put on your favourite music.

KEEP YOUR ROOM COOL

A stuffy and hot room not only makes it hard to sleep but could also wake you up through the night. Most sleep studies say to keep your room at 20 degrees Celsius or less for the best rest, but you can experiment with different temperatures to see what works for you. Check out the What’s Cool section for advice on finding the right AC unit for your needs.

Wash your bed linen EAT AND DRINK THE RIGHT THINGS BEFORE BED

Finish eating a few hours before bed to allow your tummy time to rest. This means avoiding a heavy dinner, fried or spicy foods as well as large portions of meat, which can be hard to digest and cause heartburn. For dessert, go for fruits like kiwis, cherries and bananas as they have compounds to promote sleep. Skip chocolate as it can stimulate your system. To round things off, you may want a warm cup of herbal tea instead of caffeinated teas and coffee. Avoid any alcohol as it has been linked to poor sleep.

FIND A MATTRESS WITH GOOD SUPPORT

Gain City offers a wide variety of mattresses to suit different preferences, so if you don’t know where to start, ask a staff for help. He or she will be able to help you choose a mattress with the right firmness to support your body naturally. Your preferred sleeping position will help determine whether you should go for a spring, memory foam, latex or hybrid bed as each works differently to prevent stress points while you sleep. Try lying on a mattress you like for at least 10 minutes and imagine how you will feel after lying on it for eight hours.

Do this every week to prevent grime from clogging your pores. The Whirlpool SupremeCare Washer (FSCR10431) and SupremeCare Dryer (HSCX10431) are quiet, can handle large loads, and have an extra wide door to accommodate bulky bed linen. Clever 6th Sense Technology adjusts settings for excellent fabric care and efficiency, taking out the guesswork so you can rest easy.

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WHAT’S Essential? Image courtesy of Nazario

best seat

IN THE HOUSE KEEP YOUR LUXURIOUS LEATHER SOFA IN TOP FORM WITH THESE TIPS FROM NAZARIO.

good leather sofa may be a splurge, but, contrary to popular belief, leather is actually rather hardy and easy to maintain with some tender care. Besides, leather gets softer over time and develops a lovely patina that adds character to your space, something cloth sofas just can’t do. If you’re looking for the perfect leather couch, Nazario offers a range of stylish selections designed for comfort and longevity at affordable prices. The leather and designs are Italian, and the frame is made with sturdy hardwood. Ahead, Nazario shares tips on sofa care, leather maintenance and selection.

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Choosing good leather FEEL IT

Touch is one good way to determine quality, and as you’ll be sitting on this sofa for years to come, make sure you like how the leather feels.

MAKE SURE THE LEATHER IS STURDY

Leathers come in different thicknesses, which affect its durability. If the material feels thin, it may not be able to withstand daily use, especially if you have young kids and pets.

AVOID BONDED LEATHER

Check to make sure what you’re getting is not covered with bonded leather, which is a semi-synthetic leatherette. Nazario’s sofas are made with torello and semi-aniline natural tanned leather.

How to keep your leather couch pristine

IN GOOD SHAPE Help your sofa maintain and regain its nice form by occasionally giving it a massage. Adjust the cushions by using both hands to gently smooth the sofa from the bottom to the top. If the sofa has arms, use outward strokes from the centre to the sides to ease any wrinkles.

STEP : KEEP IT OUT OF DIRECT SUNLIGHT

Harsh sun rays can cause the colour of your leather sofa to fade, and it can also dry out the leather. If the sofa will be in a sunny room, protect it by hanging up curtains to give your couch some shade.

STEP : PET-PROOFING

Compared to cloth sofas, it’s easy to clean off pet fur from the sofa using just a duster or cloth. You can also place a machinewashable blanket on the sofa for your pet to snuggle on.

STEP : CONDITION AND CLEAN REGULARLY

High temperatures as well as low humidity can dry out the leather, so be sure to dust it often and condition it occasionally with commercial leather products. Your precious sofa is not an ideal candidate for DIY treatments.

STEP : DON’T BE OVERZEALOUS WITH CLEANING PRODUCTS

Disinfectants, corrosive cleaners and other medicated solutions can damage the leather, so if you’ve spilled food or drinks on your seat, try to wipe off as much as you can without spreading the stain, then clean the surface with a damp cloth. The good thing about genuine leather is that it has natural oils that repels stains, so you will have some time before a stain sets in, but if it does, take heart in the fact that as the leather ages, the stain will also become less obvious.

STEP : REDUCE THE HUMIDITY

While low humidity is not good for your couch, high humidity can cause you leather sofa to get mouldy. Keep the windows open to have cool air circulating or install a dehumidifier to reduce dampness.

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WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;SCool? AIR-CON BASICS & BEYOND Make an informed choice in shopping for your air-con with practical advice and the latest air-con know-how.

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WHAT’S Cool?

should your kitchen

BE AIR-CONDITIONED? FIND OUT IF YOUR KITCHEN COULD USE AN AIR-CONDITIONER AND HOW TO PREP YOUR COOKSPACE FOR ONE.

hen it’s hot and humid, turning on the stove to prepare meals may be the last thing you want to do. However, you don’t have to live with the heat. Air-conditioning your kitchen is

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actually doable, but unlike installing a unit elsewhere in your house, putting an AC in your cooking space requires more consideration. An air-conditioning specialist shares top dos and don’ts.

Tips to Keep Your Kitchen Cool PREP YOUR DAYTIME MEALS AT NIGHT Cook or meal prep for your breakfast and lunch the night before so you can spend less time heating up food when the sun is out.

Look for those with air-purifying and ionising features. It will help to improve the air quality in an enclosed kitchen, especially when the AC is turned on and the windows are shut.

Get your AC serviced regularly. Instead of servicing the air-conditioner every three months, it’s best to increase the frequency to every two months when the AC is in your kitchen. Do also clean the airvents and filters diligently every month.

Avoid frying up a storm. One of the top reasons homeowners want an AC in their kitchen is for baking, as the dough for baked confections needs to be prepared in a cool kitchen. The heat from the oven shouldn’t affect the AC’s cooling performance, but it’s a different story when it comes to heavy cooking. Strong and oily fumes will get sucked into the AC vents and oily residue will stick on the coils. The only way to combat this is to do regular servicing.

The ideal position for your indoor unit (FCU) should be on the wall opposite or away from heat sources such as your hob or oven. It should also not be installed above main appliances like the fridge as an unforeseen leakage can cause damages. You should install an electric chimney hob to extract oily residue and cooking fumes when the AC is running.

USE SMALL ELECTRIC APPLIANCES Put your Philips Multicooker or Airfryer to good use, use a small toaster oven or pull out a forgotten sandwich maker. These appliances usually emit less heat and can save energy if you’re not cooking a large meal. TURN ON THE FAN Set the exhaust fan on high to pull away hot air and steam.

MAKE NOCOOK MEALS Put together a salad or a wrap, make a smoothie, enjoy cold tofu or chilled soups. The Internet is teeming with recipes. GET BLINDS OR CURTAINS Keep out blazing sun rays with shades that also add to the decor of your cooking space.

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WHAT’S Cool?

AC Troubleshooting

It’s always best to call in the professionals when your AC behaves strangely, but try these easy fixes first to see if you can solve the problem yourself. THE AC DOESN’T TURN ON Check the circuit breaker to see if there may have been a trip. You may also want to decrease the temperature setting to see if that may coax your air-conditioner to start. YOUR AIR-CON IS LEAKING Check that the drainage pipe is not clogged up with dirt or mould. Also check to make sure the air-con filters are clean. YOUR AIR-CONDITIONER IS MAKING A LOT OF NOISE Some noise is fine, but if your unit sounds like it’s rattling loudly, something may have gotten trapped inside. It could be because of a

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broken pipe, which you’d want to wait till your AC has stopped running to remove, or it could be a loose bolt or screw which you could tighten. THE AC SMELLS BAD A burning smell may mean the machine has overheated, which is often due to dirty filters. It could also indicate a clog somewhere which you should get a technician to check for you. YOUR AIR-CONDITIONER ISN’T BLOWING COOL AIR Again, check to make sure the filters are clean. A dirty filter reduces air-flow and overworks your outdoor unit. The outdoor unit may also be choked up with leaves, twigs

GET HELP! Extend the lifespan of your air-conditioner with professional servicing. Gain City offers professional servicing and repairs for both residential and commercial premises. All services are offered at competitive prices and will be carried out by skilled and experienced technicians. and other debris, or you may also have placed your furniture or plants too close to the outdoor unit for air to circulate properly.

and till 31 August 2019 Promotion is valid in City only Ga th wi s up nis exclusive for sig

TERMS & CONDITIONS: The package is valid for ceiling height not exceeding 2.6m; separate charges will apply for additional colour(s) added. Call for non-obligatory quote for residences 1400 sq ft and for landed properties. Payment can only be made in cash and/or by Visa or MasterCard credit card issued in Singapore. Package does not include sealer.

2 3

TERMS & CONDITIONS: 1Promotion is valid till 31 August 2019 and is exclusive for sign-ups with Gain City only. 2Upon completion of payment and survey. Colour is subjected to availability. 3 Painted with recommended system. 4Promotion is only applicable to landed property exterior painting. 5Pricing is based on Vinilex 5000 and applicable for a typical Studio Apt to 5-room HDB room size. 6Applicable with painting packages only and ceiling with height less than 2.6m.

CALL OUR PROFESSIONAL PAINTING SERVICE HOTLINE

6319 7222 9369 7222 OR WHATSAPP/SMS US AT

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WHAT’S Cool?

how to budget

FOR YOUR AC

CONFUSED ABOUT HOW MUCH YOU’LL BE SPENDING TO INSTALL AN AIR-CONDITIONER? HERE ARE ALL THE FACTS YOU NEED TO KNOW TO MAKE A WELL-INFORMED PURCHASE.

orking out the costs for air-conditioning your house can seem daunting at first, but the pay-off is tremendous and can greatly improve your standard of living. Ahead, a quick starter guide to help you with planning your AC budget*.

Step 1: Figure out what you need

First, find the square footage of the room you are trying to cool and multiply that figure by 35**. This will give you the ballpark BTUs (British Thermal Units) to look for. Shady room? Decrease that number by 10 per cent. Sunny room? Increase that number by 10 per cent. Add 4,000 BTUs if you are putting the AC in the kitchen. If more than two people will be in the room regularly, add 600 BTUs per person.

* All facts presented here are for illustrative purposes; please speak to an air-con specialist regarding your air-conditioning needs. ** Source: www.gaincity.com

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GOODBYE NON-INVERTER ACs Non-inverter ACs are gradually being phased out. That’s because inverter ACs are a lot more energy efficient. Instead of running at full power the whole time the air-conditioner is switched on, inverter ACs are able to gauge the temperature in the room and adjust its power consumption accordingly. This means inverter ACs are also a lot quieter as well.

Step 2: Do your research

Consumers should take note of the materials used in the installation process. In particular, pay attention to these three parts within the makeup of the air-conditioner: copper pipes, insulation and wiring. Others may use inferior materials compared to premium grade materials. This could affect durability and safety, and it could breach government regulations and incur penalties!

Step 3: Don’t cheap out

Some retailers use materials of lower quality or even reuse old air-con piping, so they are able to lower their prices. Such inferior materials and poor workmanship will hamper the performance of the air-conditioner and in worse scenarios, cause premature aging and impair the efficiency of the unit. It’s always recommended to install the air-con with brand new piping and with materials of premium quality. It should also be noted that piping that are more than five to 10 years old may be inadequate to work with the latest air-con models. This explains why some retailers are only able to offer a one-year workmanship warranty as compared to an extended three-year installation warranty offered by other air-con specialists or retailers. Quality installation is important to ensure the air-conditioner works efficiently in the long run. Shoddy installation might cause frequent breakdowns and heavy replacement costs later on. If your new aircon installation requires a bracket, please ensure you engage a BCA-certified installer to do so for peace of mind.

INSTALLATION TIP The air-conditioner should not be installed on top of any furniture or any electronic devices. In the event of leakage from the air-conditioner, it might damage your wood or custom-built furniture. Same goes for electronic devices such as floor speakers or the TV. Scan here to learn more about how to install your air-conditioner correctly.

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COLOUR COMES HOME Bring your walls to life with Nippon Paint’s wide selection of colours for all surfaces.

Choosing paint is one of the highlights of decorating your home, but the array of options can be a bit dizzying. Besides considering the colour and material you’ll be painting on, you may also want to look at the benefits of different paints to see which is ideal for you. Nippon Paint has several offerings that are almost odour-less, make clean-up easy, and even repel mosquitoes. Here are some suggestions for your top needs.

IF YOU HAVE KIDS OR A NURSERY

Choose Nippon Paint Odour-less Medifresh Benefits:

Little ones are bound to get their hands all over the walls, so it’s best to get something that has antibacterial protection. You’ll want something that’s washable and easy to care for as well, so walls stay spotless even if your kids make a mess during playtime.

Five years of antibacterial protection Washable Almost no odour Near zero emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

HIDE IT!

If you’ve got coloured walls and don’t like the look of the PVC casing from air-con installation, consider covering it with paint to minimise its appearance. Gain City can help you arrange for professional painting services by Nippon Paint.

IF YOU PREFER AN ALL-IN-ONE PAINT SOLUTION

Choose Nippon Paint Odourless All-In-1 Benefits: Excellent coverage and hiding power

As Nippon Paint’s best-selling paint, this all-rounder will give you superb results every time. Plus, those adverse to paint smells will appreciate its almost odour-free quality.

Resistance to fading and chalking Long-lasting colours Covers hairline cracks Easy to apply and touch up

IF YOU LIVE NEAR A FORESTED AREA

WITHOUT PAINTING

Choose Nippon Paint Mozzie Guard Benefits: Repels Aedes Aegypti Mosquito

At certain times of the year, bugs may be a problem, and with mosquitoes, you certainly don’t want to take any chances!

Low odour Deet-free formulation Registered with NEA and a Singapore Green Building Council-certified green product

IF YOU WANT LOWMAINTENANCE WALLS

AFTER PAINTING

Choose Nippon Paint Odour-less EasyWash Benefits: Two times easier to clean than regular paints

Dirt and scuffs show up more on light or very dark-coloured walls. Choose a paint with superior washability to make maintenance and cleaning of dust easy.

Anti-stain formula Excellent coverage and hiding power Near zero VOC Almost no paint odour

GET PROFESSIONAL HELP

No time to DIY or prefer to leave painting to the experts? Opt for Nippon Paint’s professional painting service and enjoy special promos exclusive to Gain City customers.

Enjoy

$50OFF

standard room-painting packages, and you can also pick up a set of WMF pots for just $49 (worth $457) when you sign up for Nippon Paint’s professional painting service.

WHAT’S Cool?

AIR-CON BASICS ACs fall into three main categories. Find out which is best for you.

MULTI-SPLIT INVERTER SYSTEMS

This popular system uses wall-mounted units that are positioned in the best spot to cool the whole room. They’re quieter than other options, but they’re the most costly to install as they need to be connected to a separate condenser often placed in a service yard, balcony, or on a ledge outside. You may even have to drill into your wall to fix wiring.

A rough guide on costs

CASEMENT UNITS

These window-mounted ACs are relatively easy to install through a slot in a window. However, they can be rather noisy as they’re attached to a condenser, and they can also block your view or light.

Multi-split units are often connected to one outdoor unit (OU) which comprises the fan, compressor and condenser. As such, they’re often labelled System 1 for an OU with one AC unit, System 2 for an OU with two units and so on. Depending on the layout of your house and needs, you may also decide to have separate OUs for different ACs within your space. For example, if an AC needs to be turned on all day, you may want a separate OU for it so it operates more reliably and doesn’t tax a shared compressor. However, bear in mind that in addition to buying a separate OU, you’ll have to pay more for servicing and installation.

AVERAGE PRICES* INCLUSIVE OF STANDARD HDB FLAT INSTALLATION COSTS FOR INVERTER ACs:

PORTABLE UNITS

You can move these around the house and they’re relatively cheap, but bear in mind that while they’d be fine cooling small bedrooms and study rooms, they won’t be adequate for larger spaces.

SYSTEM 1

$950 to $1,100

SYSTEM 2

$1,500 to $2,300

SYSTEM 3

$2,600 to $3,600

SYSTEM 4

from $3,800

CASEMENT / WINDOW AC

$800 to $1,000

PORTABLE UNIT

(no installation needed)

*Source: Gain City

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$499 to $600

play it COOL

LEARN HOW TO OPTIMISE YOUR AIRCON SETTINGS TO SAVE ENERGY WHILE COOLING DOWN YOUR SPACE.

DID YOU KNOW? Humidity can make your space seem hotter when it’s muggy and steamy outside, and colder when the weather is cool. Some ACs have a dehumidifying mode (often indicated with a water droplet symbol) that can make your room feel surprisingly comfortable. Alternatively you may want to get a good dehumidifier for your house.

he aircon is the best thing on a hot, muggy day, but those who have it often worry about racking up a big electricity bill. Use your AC in the most energy-efficient way with these top tips from a Gain City airconditioner specialist. USE A MODERATE TEMPERATURE SETTING Try to keep the temperature at about 24 to 25 degrees Celsius for a cooling yet energy-efficient performance. It’s enough to make you comfortable without excessively taxing your unit. POWER UP THE FAN The fan speed should be at a medium or high setting rather than low. Having it too low will not cool the room down as efficiently as the higher settings. This will result in poorer or weaker circulation of cool air. DON’T BLOCK YOUR UNIT Besides making sure nothing is

LET YOUR AIRCON RUN ON AUTO MODE It might seem like a good idea to adjust your own fan and temperature settings, but new ACs these days can figure out the best settings that won’t sap energy. Leave it to your machine, and make minor adjustments if necessary.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR AC ON ALL DAY Coming home to a cool home is nice, but leaving your AC on all day when no one is around not only wastes energy, but also causes wear and tear on your air-conditioning unit. If your AC can be controlled with Wifi, like the Samsung 5Ticks Multi-Split air conditioner or LG ARTCOOL+Wi-Fi models, you can turn it on using an app just before you reach home and make sure it’s turned off when you are outside. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries air-conditioners also boast an auto-stop function after an one-hour absence to cut down on unnecessary energy consumption.

MAINTAIN YOUR MACHINE When your AC is running smoothly, it’s easy to forget that it needs some tender care from time to time. Instead of waiting until it starts making a racket, clean out your filters occasionally so it runs at its optimum level. It’s also better for your health to have clean air circulating.

DRAW THE CURTAINS Look around your house to see if there may be things you can do to reduce heat or help your AC along. Shutting the blinds or drawing the curtains can help. You can also position your air-conditioner away from heat sources such as the fridge, stove, and entertainment devices.

obstructing your AC, check to make sure nothing (such as the beams, pillars, lights or curtains) is blocking the vents either. Even on oscillation mode, it’s a good idea to check that wind can flow freely in all directions, otherwise you may want to lock the vents in a static position that will best ventilate the room.

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WHAT’S Cool?

top air-conditioners

FOR YOUR HOME

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LEARN GEEK SPEAK JUST TO FIND THE PERFECT AIR-CONDITIONER FOR YOUR SPACE. GAIN CITY CARRIES THE BEST MODELS, INCLUDING THESE SEVEN TOP SELLERS.

GREAT FOR

HOMES WITH CONTEMPORARY DECOR

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LG Artcool Plus

This futuristic-looking AC stands out from the rest with a mirror-glass finish that reflects its surrounding decor. It’s equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and the LG SmartThinQ, so you can monitor your electricity usage as well as control it remotely using your smartphone to come

home to a cool house. The air-con has an autoclean function to prevent mould and bacteria from growing in the unit, and the Plasmaster Ionizer Plus feature will help clean your indoor air using three million ions to sterilise bacteria and contaminants.

GREAT FOR

SMART HOMES

GREAT FOR

KITCHENS

Mitsubishi Electric 5 Ticks MSY/MUY-GN series

Tips from the National Environment Agency (NEA)

These five-tick air-conditioners are easy to clean with a special coating inside that prevents dust and oil from sticking to parts. They’re also quiet and energy efficient to help you stay focused and cool in the kitchen without racking up a huge electricity bill.

York 5 Ticks YCHMXC009KASA-FY / YCHMXC012KASA-FY

Equipped with Ionizer Tech, this air-conditioner model lets you breathe easy by providing anions. These negative ions can eliminate dust and smoke and best of all, are helpful for your heath. It stimulates the blood circulation system, improves lung function and could effectively prevent respiratory passage illnesses.

GREAT FOR

HEALTHCONSCIOUS FOLKS

Samsung 5 Ticks Multi-Split with Built-in Smart Wi-Fi

Like many Samsung products, this Wi-Fi-enabled AC can be controlled with the SmartThings app on your phone. Rated “Excellent” for energy efficiency, the AC cools the room rapidly with its unusual design. Its triangular body allows for wider vents at the top so more air can be drawn in to improve airflow. It’s super quiet, operating at 19 decibels (a library’s noise level clocks in at 40 decibels), and it can also reduce dust and germs with a Virus Doctor mode and the Easy Clean 3-Care Filter.

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WHAT’S Cool?

GREAT FOR

OPEN-CONCEPT SPACES

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries 5 Ticks SCM60YT-S and SCM80YT-S

Cool down your space quickly with these two five-tick models that have been tested by the National Environment Agency to have the highest coefficient of performance (COP) factor compared to similar models. Utilising jet engine technology, the powerful ACs are able to maximise airflow without consuming much power, blowing cool air to all corners of the room with the help of louvres that swing in eight directions.

GREAT FOR

FAMILIES

DO THIS! Save energy and money by turning off your AC 30 minutes earlier than usual. The room will still stay cool for some time afterwards.

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Panasonic 5 Ticks CS-MXS9UKZ/CU-3XS27UKZ This air conditioner comes with nanoe™Technology, a revolutionary air purification system, that removes up to 99 per cent of 2.5micrometres (PM2.5) airborne dust particles. It deodorises the space, thereby creating a fresher and cleaner healthy living environment for your family. The air conditioner’s specially designed AEROWINGS flap sends concentrated airflow across the room, gently cooling it from above without any constant cold blast to your skin and body. It also comes with ECONAVI, a highprecision sensor technology, that adjusts the cooling power of the system by monitoring room conditions and activity such as human location, movement, absence and sunlight intensity, which helps to ensure that energy is used more efficiently.

Improve your indoor air quality MAKE SURE YOU’RE BREATHING IN CLEAN AIR BY FOLLOWING THESE TIPS.

TIP! SAVE ABOUT $270 MORE IN ELECTRICITY BILLS A YEAR* WHEN YOU CHOOSE A 5-TICK AIR-CONDITIONER MODEL OVER A 2-TICK MODEL.

SHOP AT GAIN CITY

ADD PLANTS AROUND THE HOUSE They purify the air and are a fantastic way of sprucing up your decor. LET FRESH AIR IN FROM TIME TO TIME Keeping your windows closed all the time is not good for your health. Open those windows and enjoy the breeze. VACUUM AND DUST AT LEAST ONCE A WEEK Choose vacuum cleaners that have advanced filtration systems which prevent dust from circulating back into the air.

CLEAN OUT YOUR AIR-CON FILTERS REGULARLY Dirty air-con filters cause common air-con problems such as poor cooling and foul smells. Check and clean the filters every month at least. CHOOSE A PAINT WITH LOW VOCS Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can irritate your airways and skin. Choose paint products that have low to almost zero VOC emission. USE AC TO CLEAN THE AIR If your air-conditioner has an anti-bacterial mode, be sure to put it to good use to avoid seasonal health bugs.

As Singapore’s largest airconditioner retailer, Gain City is a trusted one-stop solution for all your airconditioning needs. Besides offering great deals and quality AC units, Gain City follows up with professional installation services as well as repair and servicing packages for both residential and commercial spaces. By assembling one of the largest teams of R32 trained and certified AC installers, as well as BCA-certified technicians in Singapore, Gain City can ensure the highest performance and standards for your air-conditioning needs. For more details on their air-conditioning services, visit www.gaincity.com or call +65 6222 1212

*Based on electricity cost of $0.27 per kWh of electricity, assuming a multi-split 7.5kW cooling capacity airconditioner used 8 hours daily. Source: www.e2singapore.gov.sg

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WHAT’S Cool?

new &

IMPROVED

BEEN A WHILE SINCE YOU LAST INSTALLED A NEW AC? HERE’S WHAT THE LATEST MODELS OFFER.

SMART CONNECTIVITYS You don’t have to leave your AC running all day to come home to a cool house. The Samsung 5 Ticks Multi-Split with Built-in Smart Wi-Fi and LG Artcool Plus can be controlled with apps on your smartphone so you can just turn on the AC when you’re ready to head home. SUPER QUIET OPERATIONS Both the Samsung 5 Ticks Multi-Split with Built-in Smart Wi-Fi and LG Artcool Plus run at a whisper-quiet 19 decibels which make them perfect for bedrooms or your home theatre. For reference, the noise level in a library is usually about 40 decibels and a normal conversation is about 50–60 decibels. ENERGY-SAVINGS TECHNOLOGYS Inverter ACs may be the norm now, but in addition to regulating power consumption, some ACs, like the Panasonic CS-MXS9UKZ/ CU-3XS27UKZ and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ SCM60YT-S and SCM80YT-S models, have sensors that can adjust the airflow and temperature depending on human activity or even turn off when no one is around. DIMMABLE LED PANELSS If you need to sleep in pitch-black darkness, the LED light panel on the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries SRK25YTX-S, which indicates that the AC is running, can be dimmed or even switched off.

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AIR PURIFICATION The Samsung 5 Ticks MultiSplit with Built-in Smart Wi-Fi, LG Artcool Plus and Panasonic CS-MXS9UKZ/ CU-3XS27UKZ has an airpurifying mode that neutralises and removes bacteria, allergens, dust and other contaminants to keep your family’s health in top shape. EXCEPTIONAL REACH Aerodynamic flaps on the Panasonic CS-MXS9UKZ/ CU-3XS27UKZ and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ SCM60YT-S and SCM80YT-S get cool air flowing more efficiently and also give you more control to focus the stream in one direction or diffuse it through the space. EASY CLEANING Being easy to clean is an underrated feature. An AC that’s clean runs more efficiently, is less likely to need repairs, and churns out healthier, odour-free air. The air-cons in the Mitsubishi Electric 5 Ticks MSY/MUY-GN series have a special coating that reduces the attachment of dust and oil to their parts, and the LG Artcool Plus has an auto-cleaning function that dehumidifies and deodorises its interior to prevent mould and bacteria from forming.

WHAT’SSmart? ENTERTAINMENT CENTRAL When’s the best time to shop for a TV? Plus, sound systems that will take your entertainment experience to the next level.

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WHAT’S Smart?

best time TO BUY A TV SHOP SMART BY HEADING DOWN TO GAIN CITY TO SCORE A GOOD BARGAIN!

TV sets are big purchases and you want to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Here’s how to get your dream TV without busting your budget.

GO TO ROADSHOWS: Roadshows are the best time to pick up the newest and top-rated models such as the Samsung QLED 8K Q900R, Sony Bravia A8G, LG OLED C9, and Philips 6703 series. You can also get good prices on discounted models as well as enjoy other roadshow offers.

HEAD ONLINE FOR BARGAINS:

IN GAIN CITY STORES:

Check Gain City’s website

55-inch TVs are the bestsellers at Gain City stores. Head to your nearest outlet to discover new models, get advice from Gain City staff, and enjoy great bargains on display sets. Do also look out for fairs for your favourite brand where some models will be on offer. You never know what you may find!

www.gaincity.com

for weekly and monthly online deals.

To learn more about other roadshows and events, “Like” and “Follow” Gain City’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/likegaincity so you won’t miss out on deals. 74

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MOVING

SOUND

Breakthrough sound technology on Sony’s new TVs takes you right into the heart of the action.

THE X9500G SERIES

With their state of the art screens, Sony’s new TVs are paired with equally impressive speakers to create the ultimate watching experience. Previously introduced in the Sony BRAVIA OLED series, the Soundfrom-Picture RealityTM technology has now been rolled out to four new TV series from Sony. These include two LED variants so consumers can enjoy great pictures and sound at a more affordable price point. On the new MASTER Series A9G and BRAVIA A8G series, actuators positioned

behind the OLED screens move sound to where the action is happening, so you can hear words coming directly from the actor’s mouth instead of from a speaker located off-screen. You’ll also get the Sound-from-Picture RealityTM experience from the LED X9500G and X8500G series, which use tweeters mounted behind the TV along with two full-range Bass Reflex speakers, likewise situated behind the display.

The X9500G Series (available in 55-, 65-, 75- and 85-inch models) has the Picture Processor X1 Ultimate, which can detect and enhance individual components on screen, fine-tuning their brightness and colour to make them appear more realistic.

THE X8500G SERIES 4K HDR TV

Even in fast-moving scenes, everything looks sharp with the X-Motion Clarity feature. In comparison to conventional LED TVs, this 4K Ultra HD TV has up to six times more contrast with X-tended Dynamic Range Pro that deepens dark tones and boosts brightness in bright scenes. With the 75- and 85-inch models, you’ll be able to see the action even if you have to step away for a while as the TVs are designed to minimise colour change when viewed at a different angle. Dolby Vision* and Dolby Atmos* further enhances picture and sound for a flawless experience. With the handsfree voice search, you can now start up your favourite shows quickly.

THE LED X9500G WITH TWEETERS BEHIND THE TV

With the X8500G Series 4K HDR TV (available in 43-, 49-, 55-, 65- and 75-inch models), you can enjoy Sound-from-Picture RealityTM technology on the 55-, 65- and 75-inch models. A new processor powers up the TV and launches apps quickly, while the Triluminous display and 4K HDR Processor X1 work together to bring out vibrant and accurate colour, depth and textures. Using the smart remote with a built-in voice control microphone, you can easily control set top boxes and other devices hooked up to your TV, and like the X9500G Series, the X8500G Series has Dolby Vision*. Dolby Atmos* is also available on the 55-, 65- and 75-inch models.

*AVAILABLE VIA FUTURE FIRMWARE UPDATE

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OLED803

TV displays have advanced greatly over the years, but without quality content to match, the viewing experience can be a bit of a downer. To remedy that, Philips TV has created the P5 Perfect Picture Engine, a processor that improves five areas of image quality to enhance all forms of content.

PERFECT COLOUR

Standard TVs often come with 10-bit colour processing chips, which limit the vibrancy of hues you see on screen. P5 turns up the intensity with 17-bit processing which boasts 2,250 Trillion colours and shades for vivid and life-like tones. That means you’ll take in more than two million times of colour as compared to standard TVs.

areas while making sure lighter parts of the picture don’t get blown out.

PERFECT MOTION

Rounding out the P5’s image-enhancing capabilities is its 4 billion pixels processing power which helps images stay crisp even in scenes with fast action. Most films are shot at 24 frames per second, but that can make car

PERFECT SOURCE

Not everything you view is necessarily produced to cinematic standards, but that’s ok. The P5 can upscale 8-bit content to near 14-bit quality to reduce banding (those awful bars of unnatural colour), and it can also eliminate noise and other defects that inevitably creep in when images are reformatted for your TV screen.

PERFECT SHARPNESS

4K content is great for 4K TVs, but when your source is nowhere near that resolution, the P5’s Detail Enhancer looks for ways to bring out depth and dimension in images to bring your content closer to Ultra HD sharpness and quality.

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PERFECT CONTRAST

Every part of the image gets special attention from the P5. Micro Dimming and Local Contrast help boost detail in dark

chase scenes or nail-biting action sequences appear as a dizzying blur. P5 raises the frame rate to 100 pictures per second, creating more fluid and natural movement.

WHAT’S Smart?

what to consider BEFORE BUYING A TV GO THROUGH THIS CHECKLIST BEFORE MAKING YOUR PURCHASE.

DETERMINE THE SIZE

The space you have on your console or wall for mounting a TV is one thing, but do note that the larger your screen, the further you’ll need to sit for comfortable viewing. In general, the distance between your sofa and TV should be 1.2 to 1.6 times the screen size. The higher the resolution, say with a 4K ultra-high-definition TV, the closer you may be able to sit to the TV without seeing pixels. For most HDB living rooms, a comfortable TV size would be 55-inches.

IS IT A SMART TV?

Smart TVs let you browse for content on YouTube, search for shows and more. They’re little touches that make your downtime so much more enjoyable.

OLED VS LED

Go for an LG OLED TV if it’s in your budget. You’ll pay more, but its vibrance and contrast is unbeatable as each pixel is individually lighted. OLED screens are also thin and flexible, allowing Sony to

implement its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which moves sound across the screen to follow the action, on its new OLED Master A9G and Bravia A8G TVs.

4K IS THE MINIMUM

Packing four times the pixels of high-definition (HD) TVs, 4K televisions, also known as ultra-high-definition (UHD) TVs, are now the norm so you don’t want to get anything less. Samsung has even moved into 8K territory with its QLED 8K Q900R TV. Don’t worry that content isn’t up to scratch yet, powerful processors, like the Philips P5 Perfect Picture Engine upgrades the source so everything looks better.

YOU MAY NEED SOUND BARS OR SPEAKERS

Thin televisions may be good for your decor but they often lack the space to house strong speakers for great sound. If you’re looking for cinematic audio, be sure to factor the price of sound bars and speakers into your budget.

TV CONNECTIONS

Think about devices you need to link up with the TV such as set top boxes, your laptop or phone. How will they be connected? Through HDMI or USB ports, or through mirroring and Bluetooth? Make sure there are enough ports on the TV and check that the features match your needs.

VIEWING ANGLES

Does the screen look faded or lose brightness when viewed from the sides? You don’t want your TV to dictate where you should sit, so find a set that has wider viewing angles. Tip: position your TV perpendicular to light sources like the window to reduce glare and the need for turning up the screen brightness.

WHAT DOES THE TV LOOK LIKE WHEN NOT IN USE?

A TV takes up a lot of space, so you want to make sure it’s visually appealing even when not in use. Samsung’s Magic Screen mode lets you match the screen to your wall or display photos and artwork.

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WHAT’S Smart?

sound systems to elevate your home ENTERTAINMENT

CREATE THE ULTIMATE LISTENING EXPERIENCE WITH THESE TOP SOUND MASTERS.

ou’ve got your topof-the-line TV set, now match it up with an equally sophisticated sound system. These sound bars and surround sound systems are packed with features to deliver studio-quality audio, and it doesn’t hurt that they look good to boot.

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Sony HT-ST5000

Get wrapped up in a sound with the Sony HTST5000, which recreates 7.1.2 audio. The sound bar includes a tweeter and woofer to disperse sound to the far reaches of the room, and proprietary technologies then work to replace lost harmonics and prevent distortion even at high pitches. Besides using the sound bar for movies and games, the speaker has Chromecast built in so you can stream music, podcasts and radio from over 100 audio apps. The Music Button also lets you quickly continue playing your song from Spotify, picking up from where you left off on another device. If you move around the house a lot, group Sony speakers in different rooms with the Sony Music Center app and you can have the same content playing throughout your space.

Sony BDV-N9200

One subwoofer and five speakers deliver layered and powerful 5.1 channel sound so you won’t miss a beat. A cluster of smart technologies let you savour clear highs and rich lows, and as you watch football games on your Sony TV, you can even hit a button to bring out the cheers of the crowd and turn off the commentary so you feel like you’re really there. The Digital Music Arena mode will also bring out the acoustics if you’re watching a concert performed at an arena or stadium.

ABOVE

EXPECTATIONS

LG debuts two clever products to make your home a relaxing space.

Whether it’s for your cleaning, cooling or entertainment needs, LG carries a wide range of products for every room in your house.

UNWIND WITH GREAT ENTERTAINMENT

Put the LG OLED C9 TV anywhere in the room and it will look and sound great. It’s equipped with Alpha Gen 2 Intelligent Processors that can analyse ambient conditions in the room to adjust the optimal level of screen brightness and contrast. This means dark scenes won’t look murky even if you’re viewing them in a sunny room. Dolby Vision and 4K HighDefinition Resolution make the OLED’s vibrant images look even more realistic. The audio is perfected as well, as the TVs can transform two-channel stereo sound into convincing 5.1 surround sound boosted by Dolby Atmos technology. Again, the Alpha Gen 2 processor works its magic to make voices come through more clearly in shows and music programmes. The intelligent processor is

also able to calibrate sound levels based on the TV’s position in the room, although you are free to further adjust the volume settings manually as you please. Equipped with LG’s ThinQ AI platform and Google Assistant, the TV lets you search for content easily and power up smart devices on the Google Assistant platform. No need to get up from your couch to get chores done!

MAKE LAUNDRY A BREEZE

A dryer is one of those things that makes life so much easier and saves a tremendous amount of time. No more having to reach into the washer multiple times to hang up little pieces. All you have to do is transfer your wet laundry, start the machine and come back to fluffy and perfectly-dried clothes. LG’s new dryers, TD-H90SD and TD-H90WD, are efficient and quick. They’ve received five ticks from the National Environment Agency and have been tested to consume the lowest energy in their category. They’re

Wi-Fi enabled as well, which means you can start them remotely with the SmartThinQ app. The dryers are high on fabric care too, drying clothes on low heat to prevent shrinkage and damage. While some dryers stop after a certain time, whether clothes are fully dry or not, the LG dryers have Sensor Dry technology to adjust the temperature and drying time to ensure no dampness remains. The Allergy Care cycle is also a useful feature as it removes 99.9 per cent of dust mites, pet allergens and pollen to keep sniffles and itching at bay.

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WHAT’S Smart?

Boost Your Audio LG SL9YG

Designed in partnership with Meridian Audio, the sound bar is able to upmix two-channel audio into multiple channels without distortion to mimic 4.1.2 channel sound. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies further polish the output for flawless audio, and as the sound bar comes with Google Assistant, you could simply ask Google to turn up the sound, start your smart air purifier, or tell you which artist is singing the song you’re listening to. At just 57mm deep, the sound bar, which has picked up the Best of Innovation honor at the 2019 CES Innovation Awards, can sit flush against the wall to save space. An inner gyroscope senses the speaker’s position and adjusts the sound direction accordingly for optimal projection.

LG XBOOM Go

Enjoy exceptional sound anywhere with the LG XBOOM Go portable speakers. Like the SL9YG system, this series has been designed together with Meridian Audio, and the result is sound that’s better than what you might get from a CD. Built in aptX HD technology lets you stream high resolution audio without the compression from conventional Bluetooth, so even at max volume, you’ll be able to hear clear vocals.

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR HOME THEATRE SET-UP WITH THESE TIPS:

DON’T SIT TOO CLOSE TO A SPEAKER

Even the most highend speaker will sound unbalanced if you sit too close to it. Give the speaker space to work the acoustics of the room for the best results.

ADD SOME SOFT FURNISHINGS

A room that’s too empty will sound echoey, so up the comfort of your space and the audio quality by getting some cushions, a nice carpet or adding curtains.

BUY QUIET APPLIANCES A noisy air-con can really kill the vibe. Get a whisperquiet unit like Samsung 5 Ticks Multi-Split with Built-in Smart Wi-Fi, and definitely don’t run a load of laundry or start the dishwasher while a movie is playing.

Samsung HW-Q90R

With the HW-Q90R, Samsung and Harman Kardon have thought through everything. To reveal the tiniest detail in the audio, the standard set-up of a sound bar and subwoofer is further bolstered by two wireless rear speakers to create the effect of 7.1.4 audio. No matter what you’re watching, the Adaptive Sound mode optimises the audio to match the content by constantly assessing each scene to bring out the mood. One remote conveniently controls both your Samsung TV and the sound system. Alternatively, you could use the SmartThings app to control them both with your smartphone.

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SOUNDPROOF YOUR ROOM

If you really want no distractions, you could get a soundproof door, put cupboards against a thin wall, install acoustic panels or, for a cheap and easy fix, get blackout or noisecancelling curtains.

sound bars VS SPEAKERS HERE’S A LIST OF PROS AND CONS FOR EACH TO HELP YOU CHOOSE.

Over the years, TVs have gotten sleeker and more sophisticated, but one thing they could still use some help with is their speakers. Though slim TVs deliver decent sound, they don’t have the space to house speakers big enough to produce rich tones and powerful bass. That’s where sound bars and surround sound speakers can help. With so many options on the market, here’s a quick guide to help you choose between the two main categories.

PROS

SOUND BARS

Featuring the Sony Sound Bar HT-ST5000

SURROUND SOUND SPEAKERS

Featuring the Sony BDV-N9200

CONS

• They are compact and keep your console area neat. • There are plenty of affordable options that sound great. • Some models have simulated surround sound and are paired with a separate subwoofer so you get a rich 3D sound experience. • Sound bars often offer bluetooth and Wifi connectivity so you can use them with your mobile devices as audio players for music and podcasts.

• Although they can mimic surround sound, sound bars cannot do it as well as home theatre surround sound speakers. • When the sound bar becomes outdated, you have to replace it rather than upgrade individual components.

• These speakers produce true surround sound for a more immersive listening experience. • They generally sound better than sound bars. • You can set up speakers around the room as you like to optimise the acoustics. • You can add on more speakers later when you have the budget or space. • You can upgrade or replace individual speakers more easily.

• These sound systems are often more expensive than sound bars. • The initial set-up process is tricky and you may need help when you add more speakers. • They take up more space and sometimes have plenty of wires so they may add to visual clutter.

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WHAT’S Essential?

TECH

and more GAIN CITY HAS EVERYTHING FOR YOUR IT NEEDS. NOW, THE GAIN CITY MEGASTORE @ SUNGEI KADUT AND ANG MO KIO OUTLET ALSO HAVE NEW APPLE CORNERS FOR FANS OF THE BRAND.

hether you’re after a simple cable or fancy headphone, Gain City’s tech zone carries a well-stocked inventory of products from different brands for your needs. Apple fans may also be pleased to know that as an Authorised Reseller of Apple products, Gain City has launched new Apple Corners in two of their stores — the Gain City Megastore @ Sungei Kadut and Gain City Ang Mo Kio — so you can check out the newly launched Apple Watch, iPhones and other Apple products as you shop for all your other household essentials. The nice thing about shopping for all your items at Gain City is that you’ll have a clearer picture of how things look together, and staff will be able to advise you on all the best buys for your home. They can also help you pick up any additional accessories you may need as well as assist you with installations if necessary.

Cheerful Delights COOL TECH BUYS FROM GAIN CITY THAT WILL PERK UP YOUR DAY. Touted as one of the lightest laptops in the world, the LG Gram 17Z990 laptop lets you enjoy fuss-free connectivity on the go.

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The durable and versatile Osmo Action camera has dual screens to let you capture it all with a touch of a button.

More than just a lock, the Samsung Smartlock Series encompasses so many high-tech features to keep your family safe and sound.

Compact and intelligent, the Osmo Pocket is one of the smallest 3-axis handheld cameras in the world.

One of the hotlyanticipated tablets of 2019, the Samsung Tab S5e is a strong all-rounder in terms of performance and aesthetics.

WHOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Home? NAIL THE LOOK Real-life makeovers to inspire your own renovation journey!

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WHO’S Home?

dynamic

DUO

HOMEGROWN TALENTS LING KAI AND RANDY ANG’S HDB FLAT DWELLING IS A UNIQUE YET HARMONIOUS CULMINATION OF THE MARRIED COUPLE’S EDGY DESIGN TASTES. WITH THEM BEING ON THE SAME PAGE ON MOST DESIGN DECISIONS, THE LOCAL SONGSTRESS AND DIRECTOR ARE TOTALLY THE EPITOME OF COUPLE GOALS.

FACT FILE SPACE 3-ROOM HDB FLAT LOCATION MARINE DRIVE DESIGNER DANIELLE TEO FROM REZT & RELAX

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escribe your own design style and tell us how it translates to the interior theme of your home. Ling Kai: We chose colours and styles that we liked and were quite casual with how we combined things. Randy: We started the design process with Danielle from Rezt & Relax and one of the first things we talked about was colours. We had a palette of blues and grays which we like. I had to start a Pinterest board which I didn’t actually used much before but was going pin, pin, pin! for a while.

LIVING A chevron-patterned laminate wall covering ushers in warmth into the living area which is decked in a calming colour scheme of light greys.

Photography Wong Weiliang

“I love the living area which includes lots of areas to just chill. There’s the couch, daybed and the kitchen island for having coffee. I spend a lot of time working from home so these areas are the best.” LING KAI, HOMEOWNER & SINGER-SONGWRITER

As a couple, how did you make the design decisions together? Was it an open discussion or more of one person calling the shots? L: Amazingly we tend to have the same tastes and similar interests as well, which probably led to us being a couple. We trust

our instincts a lot and very often, we will both say YES! unanimously to something we like. It also helps that Randy comes around with logic and reason (laughs). R: I like to think we did. There were some practical solutions that we needed— like a soundproof studio. We initially wanted

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WHO’S Home?

DISPLAY CORNER Filled with treasured travel finds and books, this cosy corner becomes a multipurpose space for the homeowners to add on to their collections, or to just unwind with their favourite things.

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(well, I wanted) a completely open-concept space; but after having discussions with the ID, having an enclosed room for privacy was very much needed. And we really appreciate that design input. What were some challenges that arose during the renovation? How did you guys get through it? L: I think the most challenging thing was how to open up the space in this apartment. The toilet layout was initially really terrible as it was in the old HDB style, and we are so glad we managed to change it to

something modern and functional. R: We actually left most things to Danielle. She was amazing to work with. I believe the toilet was the biggest challenge; it’s a really small space given it’s an older style three-room flat unit. And because we don’t have a storeroom, we really needed the kitchen cabinets to house more practical storage solutions. Can you share some practical tips that have served you well during the course of your renovation? R: Work with a trusted interior designer. L: I completely agree.

Which is your favourite area or design feature of your home? R: I love the studio; I can spend hours inside. I also like the wardrobe that doubles as a partition between the living room and bedroom. L: I love the living area which includes lots of areas to just “chill out”. There’s space for lounging on the couch and room for reading, or daydreaming by the daybed. Also, a place for having coffee at the kitchen island. I spend a lot of time working from home so these areas are the best.

“We went to the showroom at the Gain City Megastore @ Sungei Kadut a few times. And each time was a learning experience. The service staff was always ready to provide details and discuss our needs.” RANDY ANG, HOMEOWNER & DIRECTOR, ON APPLIANCE SHOPPING AT GAIN CITY

What role did Gain City play in making your renovation journey less stressful? R: We went to the showroom at the Megastore @ Sungei Kadut a few times. And each time was a learning experience. The service staff was always ready to provide details and discuss our needs. L: I’d really like to thank the staff at the showroom — because they were really helpful and honest in making recommendations on home appliances. For example, when we were choosing a washer and dryer, we were so confused by so many choices. Who knew that there were different types of dryers that used different ways of drying your clothes?

KITCHEN Featuring a streamlined order of kitchen appliances housed neatly in a striking blue ensemble of cabinetry, this setup creates a stylish yet spacesavvy layout for the openconcept area. Cityliving

WHOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Home?

BATHROOM We were introduced to different features like the heat pump, condenser, steam and washer/dryer combinations. It was a good thing the staff is really knowledgeable (thanks Dave at Sungei Kadut!) and helped us with our decision-making. Amongst the homegrown talents in Singapore, how do you think either of you stand out? R: I think Ling has the ability to be comfortable standing on a stage and just as comfortable working behind the scenes, working through the night, just writing and producing her songs. L: Randy is really good at what he does and he is really humble about it. He has an amazing imagination and is also a wonderful leader that inspires his team â&#x20AC;&#x201D; I admire that quality about him very much.

A series of tricoloured wall tiles with linen-like motifs defines the only bathroom, which can be accessed via two entrances at the master bedroom and kitchen respectively.

What do you think is your greatest achievement to date? R: Marrying the love of my life. L: (laughs) So mushy!

SILENT ROOM A space for work, play and quiet contemplation, this utility roomturned-study is clad in acoustic wall panels so that Randy can work and Ling Kai can compose her music with minimal disruption. 88

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MASTER BEDROOM Big on space and style, the sleeping quarters is anchored by a symmetrical play of lighting pendants mounted on a soothing blue wall. Adding seating and hidden storage to the room is the padded settee by the window.

What are some of your hidden talents? Surprise us. R: I can spend eight hours or more in a small room playing computer games — is that a talent or a vice? L: I can analyse and run Facebook ads for people. You know when an ad keeps following you online somehow? Yep. I don’t run ads for my music though! Speaking of talent, what other qualities are necessary to be successful in your line of work? R: Marrying the love of my life. L: Again! Wow, you are making me look really good (smiles).

I think to be successful, you have to define for yourself what is success to you. For some it may be money, or a certain amount of public recognition. Perhaps your attitude and character to take things well when things aren’t going great is important too. I’m still figuring it out. Can you tell us more about your upcoming projects? R: I am just about to finish a series of four short films for Temasek; and working on two upcoming dramas for 2020. L: I’m practising for an upcoming musical in 2020 which is still under wraps for now.

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WHOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Home?

reno reveal Other than shopping at Gain City for their home appliances, Randy and Ling Kai also settled all their air-conditioning needs at the one-stop megastore. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a closer look at the fuss-free installation process.

By installing air-conditioners throughout the home, the homeowners can come home to a comfortable living space. They installed air-conditioners in the living room, master bedroom and music room.

Gain City sent their team of BCA-certified technicians to carry out the installation works.

The units were strategically positioned in centralised positions to optimise the cooling performance. The installation works only took a day to be completed.

Plasterboards were installed over the fittings to cover up the piping and trunking, and to create a seamless and neat appearance.

Cityliving

products to love

Ariston chimney hood from Gain City

These home products not only boost the functionality of your space, it fits in well with most styles, even Ling Kai and Randy’s edgy home aesthetic!

Whirlpool 5WQ24NIJAS 4-door fridge from Gain City

55” Samsung OLED TV from Gain City

Bayker Italia Batik Deco Peltro ceramic tiles from Hafary

Mitsubishi Electric System 3 air-conditioner from Gain City

Unica by Target Studio Gio Turchese 06 glazed porcelain tiles from Hafary

Kepler wall lamps from Sol Luminaire

Ariston three gas burner hob from Gain City

Misterio BQ8815 countertop, from Vicostone

Dyson Supersonic hair dryer from Gain City

Scan here to learn more about Ling Kai and Randy’s reno journey with Gain City! Cityliving

COSY LIVING

Even with its small footprint, this compact space is full of design features that look stylish yet hold up to day-to-day life.

odelled after your typical three-room HDB flat, the showroom house at Gain City Megastore @ Sungei Kadut certainly doesn’t resemble your run-of-the-mill home thanks to the special touch of R&C Design Solution. Though it has a modest footprint, the flat doesn’t shy away from making a bold statement. Floor-to-ceiling wood-grain cabinetry draws attention as soon as you step in, but this design feature isn’t just for show as it offers the compact space muchneeded storage space for keeping hypothetical clutter out of sight. The

decision to use a light wood tone also helps to bring more brightness to the space and makes the rooms look wider, shares founder-designer Rebecca Ng. Going with wood was a natural choice as R&C Design Solutions specialises in woodwork and has carpentry workshops in Malaysia and Singapore. As such, Rebecca

was able to forego typical PVC laminates for the cupboards and go with a hardier non-PVC option that her company provides. These durable surfaces are scratchproof, water- and fire-resistant, ensuring their longevity and offering a layer of passive fire protection. For the floors, Rebecca went with 7mm-thick vinyl that is also scratchresistant and waterproof for easy cleaning and maintenance. It’s so hard wearing that it was also used for the floors in the kitchen. In this house, two areas stand out in particular. Despite its prominent placement

RDS RENO REWA

BRING POSITIVE ENERGY TO YOUR SPACE Besides providing customised designs for residential and commercial properties and overseeing renovationworks, R&C Design Solutions offers the integrated option of having a feng shui master to evaluate your space. One of their popular offerings is the Wen Chang table, which is inspired by the Wen Chang Pagoda. It is a special enhancement table to boost academic, career, fame and prosperity, and is derived from the principle of geographical life exploration technique with a detailed

in the living area, the bomb shelter is hidden from view behind wood panels decorated with contrasting groove lines. However, the master bedroom is Rebecca’s favourite part of the house. Although the room is petite, Rebecca managed to put up a feature wall that not only creates a walk-in closet space but also partially hides the bed to give more privacy to the sleeping area. As with most of the home, warm uplights and downlights prevent the space from feeling cramped, and the resulting look is a haven in the city that feels light and airy.

FREE $1,000 GAIN CITY VOUCHER*! PLUS! BRING YOUR FLOOR PLAN FOR A FREE CONSULTATION, AND A CHOICE OF THESE ATTRACTIVE FREE GIFTS*!

combination of specific size and shape. It works best when placed at the Wen Chang sector in the office or room.

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R&C DESIGN SOLUTION Block 1016 Geylang East Ave 3, #01-147 & #01-149 Singapore 389731 Tel: (65) 6268 4826 Fax: (65) 6747 1215 Email: enquiries@rcdesignsolution.com.sg Scan here to visit our website: www.rcdesignsolution.com.sg

10,000MAH POWERBANK (WORTH $49.90), CORNELL OVEN TOASTER (WORTH $69.90) OR A SONA BLENDER (WORTH $49.90). * Terms & Conditions apply

WHO’S Home? LATEST HAPPENINGS & PROMOTION HIGHLIGHTS Don’t miss out on these exciting events and exclusive deals at Gain City!

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WHAT’S Special?

BIG GAINS

at Gain City DISCOVER A WEALTH OF REWARDS AT GAIN CITY WHEN YOU BECOME HER FAMILY CARD MEMBER. 7 GREAT REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN RIGHT NOW!

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