H+R Issue 02 | Hospitality & Residential - Architect & Interiors Design

DESIGN GROUP

IDEAS FOR THE WORLD VERITAS DESIGN GROUP A VERITABLE FOUNT OF IDEAS | HASSELL SUSTAINABLE DESIGN RENEWING SYDNEY’S INNER WEST VITRA MAKING A POINT | MOOOI FLOWER POWER | PETRA ANTIQUA SEE WITH YOUR HANDS, TOUCH WITH YOUR EYES | LASVIT FLORAL FIXATION

ISSUE

02

FEB - MAY | 2016

SINGAPORE | HONG KONG | MALAYSIA | INDONESIA | THAILAND

HRADI.ASIA

NETBOX

publisher’s note

I THINK, THEREFORE I DESIGN. The idea of the good idea is that it compels us to engage with our everyday environments in a more in depth manner; in doing so, we develop an awareness of the shifts in these settings and how they might inform or even improve our outlook on life in general.

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o appreciate design is to appreciate the life-altering power of good ideas. Through their respective creative undertakings, designers and architects strive to communicate with audiences by bringing to the fore concepts and practices that make us question the world as we know it. The idea of the good idea is that it compels us to engage with our everyday environments in a more in depth manner; in doing so, we develop a heightened awareness of the shifts in these settings and how they might inform or even improve our outlook on life in general.

For this second issue of H+R, we were visited by a few eureka moments ourselves. Taking the leap, we went ahead and substantially increased the magazine’s format for greater visual impact. Bigger, thicker and featuring more contemporary European brands than ever, H+R will hopefully continue to whet your collective appetite for extraordinary examples of hospitality and residential projects strewn throughout the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

Taking a look at a score of projects and personalities fast redefining our experience of design within the region, it’s my pleasure to welcome the Veritas Design Group to the magazine’s pages. The diverse and dynamic portfolio that we have the privilege of sharing with you, encompassing projects such as Kuala Lumpur’s W Hotel & Serviced Apartments and the award-winning Sinkeh Hotel in Penang, stunningly affirms VERITAS’ ongoing reputation as Malaysia’s leading architecture and design firm. As an additional treat, Founder, Group President and veteran architect David Mizan Hashim also shared his personal insights on the architectural profession as well as his thoughts on the challenges of building in Malaysia today.

Leaving you on this delightful note, I’d like to wish all of our readers a belated Happy New Year from all of us here at H+R. Here’s to a memorable, exceptionally designed 2016!

Kenneth Khu k@kennethmedia.asia

Fat Sofa Designed by Patricia Urquiola B&B Italia

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OFFICE CONCEPT - V9N1 FEBRUARY EDITION 2016

DESIGNTONE: FULL STEAM AHEAD

A COLLABORATIVE WORKING SPACE

FONTERRA GBSA OFFICE PROPAGATING A FUN AND VIBRANT WORKING ENVIRONMENT

COMMUNAL BLISS

A CELEBRATION OF INSPIRING DESIGN AND REFINED CRAFTSMANSHIP, THE HAWORTH COLLECTION SHOWCASES AN IMPECCABLY CURATED SELECTION THAT INCLUDES OPENEST, A COLLECTION

BY RENOWNED DESIGNER PATRICIA URQUIOLA THAT STUNNINGLY ELEVATES THE CONCEPT OF THE ADAPTABLE OFFICE.

FIND OUT MORE AT ... ... www.officeconcept.asia/digital-edition/

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84 Eden Designed by Antonio Citterio Flexform

David Mizan Hashim Founder and Group President VERITAS Design Group

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Cone Chair Designed by Verner Panton Vitra

Heracleum Small Big O Designed by Bertjan Pot Moooi

team & partner

editorial MANAGING EDITOR Kenneth Khu DEPUTY EDITOR Pang Yin Ying EDITOR Mandy Chin design ART DIRECTOR Eric Phoon SENIOR DESIGNER Sandy Liew contributors WRITERS Adele Chong, Dorothy Lung sales & marketing SENIOR SALES MANAGER Edmond Lee SALES EXECUTIVE Kelvin Ong publication PUBLISHER Kenneth Khu enquiries ADVERTISING advertising.hr@kennethmedia.asia SUBMIT EDITORIAL get.featured@kennethmedia.asia CONTRIBUTOR join.us@kennethmedia.asia SUBSCRIPTION subscribe.copy@kennethmedia.asia

credits PHOTOGRAPHERS: Paul Gadd & Sharon Lam Except otherwise noted, all photos and drawings are owned by VERITAS Design Group. acknowledgement EDITORIAL KOMATHI RAMAKRISHNA, LAU SU VIN & LILLIAN TAY LAYOUT/GRAPHICS Hairulnizar Pardi ILLUSTRATORS Hafiz Shah & Zaffrul Shahriman COVER Star Residences, Kuala Lumpur

website www.hradi.asia | www.kennethmedia.asia contact KENNETH MEDIA SDN BHD 1002 Block D Tiara Kelana Jalan SS7/19 Kelana Jaya 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia.

T: +603 7887 4525 printer PERCETAKAN IMPRINT (M) SDN BHD No.538, Jalan 20 Taman Perindustrian Ehsan Jaya, Kepong 52100 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia. permit number KDN PP18850/09/2015(034307) MCI(P) 116/01/2016 magazine H+R | HOSPITALITY+RESIDENTIAL is published three times a year and is circulated throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Opinions expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. copyright notice All rights, including copyright, in the content of this publication are owned by Kenneth Media Sdn Bhd, Malaysia. You are not permitted to copy, broadcast, download, store in any medium, transmit, show or play in public, adapt or change any in any way the content of this publication for any other purpose whatsoever without the prior written permission of Kenneth Media Sdn Bhd, Malaysia.

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PUBLISHED BY

WE MAKE CARPET TILE, BUT WE SELL DESIGN. Interface Hospitality challenges you to think differently and to move away from tradition. Open your mind to a whole new concept modular flooring. We offer you design possibilities and creative freedom to create spaces as unique as the destination.

Visit interfacehospitality.com to find out more.

mélange | product

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COOL KNITS

YOU SPIN ME

CLASSIC CURVES

This sofa was destined to be a surefire hit. A Space Furniture and Kartell collaboration, this chic design brings together textiles experts Kvadrat and French designer brothers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, culminating in the best of the best of home design.

Showcasing double jersey knit textiles designed by the Bouroullec brothers especially for Kvadrat, this piece, part of an exclusive sofa and armchair collection upholstered by the latter, practically screams relaxed style.

Leave it to Dutch design house Moooi to dream up a chair that turns the seemingly mundane act of turning while sitting into the very picture of cool.

Created by Bart Schilder and endowed with a unique swiveling feature, this leather-clad chaise positively glorifies round shapes and voluptuous curves. Boasting freedom of movement, the Bart Swivel chair pays sensuous homage to peppy loungers who can’t keep still by blurring the lines between sitting and constant activity.

The Swan chair needs no introduction. Possibly one of the most iconic chair designs ever launched, this shapely number debuted in 1958 when its famous creator Arne Jacobsen was commissioned to design Copenhagen’s Royal Hotel. Gracing the lobby and lounge areas, the innovative Swan was an instant sensation owing to its curvy framework. Mounted on an aluminium star swivel base, its moulded shell of synthetic material comes handsomely upholstered in either fabric or leather, cementing its iconic status.

KARTELL.COM SPACEFURNITURE.ASIA

MOOOI.COM

FRITZHANSEN.COM

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ROUND ‘EM UP

MONDO MAGNIFICO

MAKING A POINT

Everything that glides off Patricia Urquiola’s drawing board is sheer magic and these brilliantly devised seating designs are no exception. Spotlighting round, soft and sinuous shapes, this delightful series is heavy on play while facilitating uncompromised ease. Nodding to B&B Italia’s history of mixing innovation with original shapes, Urquiola’s quirky floorstanding seats appear to engage in dialogue with one other. The use of slow-return viscoelastic foam steals the show though, moulding itself to the sitter’s body and retaining a customised shape.

While the Mondo armchair by Italian brand Flexform may appear run-of-the-mill at first glance, it is anything but. Brandishing a curved, woven reed back, the solid wood frame epitomises old world elegance with a contemporary twist. Quality permeates every inch of this pleasing chair, which comes with removable fabric upholstery or leather covers. Made with durable Canaletto walnut or ashwood, its sturdy construction isn’t exempt with regards to superior standards either.

A leading industry brand, Vitra has its share of stellar classics in the showroom. Designed by Verner Panton in 1958, the Cone chair is surely one of the most notable of these thanks to its namesake seat mounted at its point on a stainless steel swivel base. But the visually compelling shell isn’t all looks, boasting a deftly padded surface for comfort. Accompanied by the Cone stool or table or on its own, the Cone is truly a work of art.

BEBITALIA.COM

FLEXFORM.IT

VITRA.COM

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QUICK CHANGE

FINE DINING

GAME ON

Does a modern sofa bed seem like a contradiction?

Italian brand Flexform begs to differ. Eden is a new and improved interpretation of the piece by Antonio Citterio. Melding design, innovation and functionality, it shifts easily between sofa and bed with two sides that unfold, giving way to a headboard. Sofa cushions transform into pillows, eschewing the need for additional padding, while tasteful materials - hide leather-covered wood and removable fabric or leather upholstery - finish the look.

The dining table resides at the heart of every home.

The place for communal gatherings, good company and meaningful conversations, it is a piece of furniture that carries a great deal of emotional weight.

Acknowledging its significance, Marcel Wanders of the Dutch design house Moooi has created the Zio dining table. The stained solid wood frame is a highlight, as are the smooth family-friendly edges, exuding equal parts elegance and warmth.

Brooklyn-based design Jason Miller has a penchant for creating delightful works that combine functionalit and quirk. The Castle lamp exemplifies this sensibility by referencing turrets as well the castle chess piece.

Incidentally, for those familiar with the game, the lamp’s cross-like glass structure also refers to the rook’s orthogonal movements. Elegant and almost otherworldly, this stunning statement-making piece is the key to instant ambience in the most lacklustre space. Checkmate!

FLEXFORM.IT

MOOOI.COM

ROLLANDHILL.COM

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NATURALLY BRILLIANT

SOVEREIGN’S SETTEE

SUNNY TIMES

Bohemian glass is given the place of honour with this remarkable glass light installation from the arty Czech brand Lasvit. Aptly dubbed ‘Dancing Leaves’, this poetic work, made with 800 glass pieces handblown to resemble leaves carried aloft, was recently showcased in The Peninsula Hotel in Paris. Paying tribute to the sycamore trees gracing the French capital, the heart-stopping elegance of Lasvit’s creation is brought to the fore with the presence of silver leaves emanating from its core.

Portuguese luxury furniture company Jetclass specialises in neoclassical designs that bring together the richness of the past and the contemporary cool of the present day. The Royal Sofa is one of the more notable highlights in the brand’s collection of eyecatching pieces. This beautifully structured design places due emphasis on comfort by featuring an expansive width while majestically handcrafted elements and top-quality upholstery make the Royal a lounger fit for a king.

Evocative of modern American design, the Sunburst wall clock by George Nelson brings one back in time by recalling a picturesque age defined by economic prosperity and good old American optimism.

Memorably ornate like many of the everyday objects designed by Nelson from the 50s through to the 70s, the Sunburst comes equipped with high-quality quartz movements. Its nostalgic design emerges as a whimsical alternative to pared down modern clock designs.

LASVIT.COM

JETCLASS.PT

VITRA.COM

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FABLED FIXTURE

FLOWER POWER

STYLISH LEANINGS

The award-winning Atollo lamp is practically a myth. This sculptural light work by design great Vico Magistretti first swept design connoisseurs off their feet when it debuted in 1977. Its bold, geometric construction had much to do with its sensational impact; featuring the now iconic combination of a cone-shaped shade and a cylinder base, the Atollo remains a treasured inclusion in some of the world’s most famous design permanent collections.

This new light offering by Dutch designer Bertjan Pot for Moooi is a true showstopper. Taking on the shape of a blossoming Heracleum flower, this brilliantly crafted suspension light was conceived as a lively merger of nature and technology. Its ‘branches’ give off the illusion of perpetual growth, celebrating the natural splendour of complex biological systems.

Devised with white diffusers and a copper or nickel finish, this aesthetic wonder is charm personified.

The Grace sofa conjures up lovely associations. One look at its evocative backrest gives rise to images of light-headed damsels in elegant 19 th century dress reclining stylishly on ornate divans. Yet, beneath its old world vibe exists an undeniable dynamic that invites connections with the realm of modern design.

This is clearly discerned in audibly contemporary elements such as Grace’s exuberant wave-like frame and tapered metallic legs. Available as a chaise lounge and armchair.

OLUCE.COM

MOOOI.COM

JETCLASS.PT

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PIÈCE DE RÉSISTANCE

WATCH THE BIRDIE

STAMP OF APPROVAL

A true melding of the old and the new, Losanges breathes new life into the traditional Persian rug.

Designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, this remarkable floor piece features a geometrical rhombus pattern with an eye-popping palette. A combination of organic and systematic elements, the complex composition was created with the help of craftsmen from Northern Pakistan. Made with hand-spun Afghan wool and comprising varying applications of 13 different colours, Losanges’ impressive handcrafted features render each rug a unique masterpiece.

All too often, big-ticket furniture items are fussed over to the point where scant attention is devoted to accessories that infuse a home with personality. A delicate (and slightly off-character) design by French designer brothers Ronan and Erwan Bourollec, L’Oiseau is a simple work that draws inspiration from the classic wooden objects found in Nordic folk art. Milled from natural maple and sanded smooth, L’Oiseau’s modern outline comes as a fresh alternative to overwrought knickknacks.

Another eloquent number by Paris-based Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the Stampa chair for Kettal showcases an intentionally distressed look. Made of formed aluminium mesh developed as a result of various manufacturing techniques, the piece represents the designers’ intention to create “a chair that could assume the passage of time”. A cupshaped perforated shell and hydro-formed leg with an injection-moulded ring make up the design’s core components, giving it an industrial yet polished feel.

NANIMARQUINA.COM SPACEFURNITURE.ASIA

VITRA.COM SPACEFURNITURE.ASIA

KETTAL.COM

mélange | product - window dressing

SHADES OF COOL Perusing Hunter Douglas’s innovative product range, it’s easy to understand why the window coverings manufacturer has long been considered an industry trailblazer. The Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades is an improved take on the bestselling Duette Honeycomb Shades, a Hunter Douglas favourite that first made waves when it launched in 1985. Imbued with the brand’s core values – energy efficiency and innovation – the former hits the mark with a unique honeycomb-within-a-honeycomb construction that does double-duty by enhancing insulation on cold days and minimising heat intensity when it’s warm out. Made wholly of spun polyester honeycomb structure fabric, the design also harnesses natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. A snappy window covering that promotes ambience while cutting energy costs? We’ll take it.

HUNTERDOUGLAS.ASIA

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mélange | product - laminate surface

SENSATIONAL SURFACES BOASTING EQUAL MEASURES OF DASHING AND DURABILITY, LAMITAK’S RUSTIC PATINA LAMINATES DOES DOUBLE DUTY, PROTECTING AND PERKING UP INTERIORS WITH APLOMB.

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BOTTOM: The Patina collection features two distinct styles, namely Copper Patina and Brass Patina.

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or some time now, contemporary design trends have been increasingly indicative of an inclination towards an inside-outside aesthetic. Formerly relegated to the realm of the outdoors, rough finishes have made the audible shift to cozier domains of homes everywhere, fueled by the growing allure of time-worn surfaces. Unsurprisingly, industry manufacturers have taken avid note, resulting in an expanded selection of intelligently designed products that address visual depth as well as interior preservation.

Created by the established Singaporean brand Lamitak, Patina laminates live up to the promise of impeccably customised interiors in the shabby chic

THIS PICTURE: A sophisticated nod to beautifully distressed surfaces, Patina’s striking patterns give rise to transformative visual effects.

vein. Featuring two flattering styles, Copper Patina and Brass Patina, the series draws elegant inspiration from corrugated iron structures; the look and feel of rusticated barns in the European countryside comes immediately to mind. This unique effect owes much to the metallic sheen glimpsed through the laminate’s eye-catching patterns, which takes a visual cue from well-weathered or oxidised surfaces showcasing hints of rust. Design-wise, Patina’s tonal variation is also greatly advantageous, allowing one to achieve a bold, three-dimensional effect through modest, two-dimensional means.

LAMITAK.COM

mélange | news

SEE WITH YOUR HANDS, TOUCH WITH YOUR EYES PETRA ANTIQUA’S POETIC TAGLINE IS APTLY EVOCATIVE OF THE CREATIVE MASTERY THAT ENDOWS THE BRAND’S HANDCRAFTED PRODUCTS WITH AN AIR OF VISUAL WONDER.

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hough its role is essentially that of backdrop, an interior surface fashioned by Petra Antiqua inevitably takes centre stage. Try as one might, it is difficult to pry the gaze away from the expertly crafted planes while standing before a sample.

Every work bears the same signature touches; subtle textures offer up an aura of artistic depth, irresistibly drawing the viewer in. Therein lies the magic behind the Italian brand’s elegant collection of decorative stones.

Established by the Bressan family in the picturesque province of Vincenza and beginning life as a humble handicraft company in 1990, Petra Antiqua has indeed come a long way as an industry pioneer.

Over a few productive decades, the brand has achieved international acclaim as a manufacturer of artisanal stone and marble products, leaving its extensive commercial footprint on Italy, greater Europe and beyond.

Reinforced by a profound heritage and an age-old dedication to fine workmanship, the Petra Antique’s aesthetic nods to both past and present; the brand’s talented craftsmen pay homage to traditional processes while reinterpreting these techniques to suit contemporary tastes. Each single creation is truly unique, exuding sophistication, unparalleled artistry in addition to an overarching feeling of provenance.

The handmade aspect of a Petra Antique piece can be clearly discerned throughout the brand’s diverse product ranges – as can the high-quality raw materials that boldly define these luxury decorative surfaces, making them an awe-inspiring presence in any home or commercial space.

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TOP LEFT: Featuring a lively cluster of neutrally hued hexagonal shapes, the Odryn series emerges as a classical yet whimsical option.

BOTTOM LEFT: The Maiorca series epitomises understated chic thanks to its winsome beige palette and a leaf-inspired pattern that lends movement to any space.

TOP: Lightly textured and shaded in monochromatic black, the statement-making Fuji series serves as a flattering backdrop for a room’s contents.

PETRAANTIQUA.COM NIROGRANITE.COM

mélange | product - echo textiles

TRENDING TEXTILES JUST GOT SCIENTIFIC SUSTAINABLE, SUBTLY TEXTURED, STAIN RESISTANT AND STYLISH, WOVEN IMAGE’S SPRING 2015 RANGE OF UPHOLSTERY, WALL COVERINGS AND WRAPPED PANELS IS A SCINTILLATING SYNTHESIS OF TEXTILE SCIENCE AND DESIGN.

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THIS PICTURE: Screened off by the EchoPanel Platoon, the enclosed space is furnished with a club chair covered in Woven Image’s Play upholstery with Park-encased cushions.

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hen we think about the healthcare, hospitality and commercial sectors, we often think about function first – and so we should! But because function is so important to these environments, we often forget about the design element that activates a space and creates connections between people and their surroundings.

To make a fabric hygienic for instance, we often have to sacrifice aesthetic integrity and comfort. Or to ensure textile durability, we have to limit our options material and design wise. This is becoming quite a significant issue, particularly within healthcare, hospitality and commercial spaces, where users of these places are demanding the perfect balance of functionality and design.

The design chemists at Woven Image have developed a solution to this increasingly common problem with their 2015 Spring release, the high performance upholstery Park & Play. Protected by the permanent stain- and soil-repelling nano-molecules of globally recognised Nanotex, liquids simply bead and roll off the surface of Park and Play. The addition of Durablock backing supports the Nanotex by providing a liquid barrier, which is perfect for applications where frequent and repeated cleaning occurs. With the further addition of BioAM, this antimicrobial protects against odours and stains caused by microbes such as bacteria, fungi and algae.

And with that injection of science, Woven Image has managed to package these features within the

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TOP: The EchoPanel Mura Pentagon wallcovering is a sustainable, budget-savvy solution which gives the illusion of real, solid cement blocks.

THIS PICTURE: The high-performance Park and Play upholstery duo is a winning combo of easy maintenance, functional design and fashion-forward colour palette.

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on-trend design aesthetic they are well known for. Park, for instance, has a subtle texture reminiscent of a fine linen textile with a soft pleasing handle. The design team have crafted 13 colourways for Park, from natural all the way to citrus, plum and denim tones – hues we are seeing come up more and more on the runways for the 2016 seasons.

Park’s little sister, Play, has been developed in 9 colourways incorporating contemporary brights as an accent to coordinate with Park.

Without compromising on handle, the easy-care attributes of Park and Play, along with their functional design and trend-driven colour palette, are ideal for contemporary healthcare, hospitality and office environments where high performance textiles are required.

ECHOPANEL PLATOON Demonstrating a revolutionary approach to textiles and a commitment to environmental performance, Woven Image has launched EchoPanel Platoon as part of their 2015 Spring release. Australian designed and manufactured, Platoon is a sustainable and contemporary screen solution.

Environmentally speaking, the EchoPanel Platoon is another landmark product from Woven Image. It demonstrates the brand’s ongoing commitment to environmental performance and sustainable interiors. Produced from recycled and recyclable PET, the EchoPanel Platoon is also a GreenTag certified and low VOC product.

LEFT: Australian designed and manufactured, the environmentally-friendly EchoPanel Platoon is offered in 4 colourways - PLATOON SCREEN 362, PLATOON SCREEN 402, PLATOON SCREEN 442 and PLATOON SCREEN 542.

RIGHT: Pivot joiners, attached to the top and bottom of the EchoPanel Platoon, allow it to open in both directions.

WOVENIMAGE.COM

mélange | news

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN RENEWING SYDNEY’S INNER WEST 38

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THE RENEWAL OF SYDNEY’S DISUSED SUMMER HILL FLOUR MILL SITE WILL FOSTER COMMUNITY CONNECTION AND ACTIVITY BY LINKING IT WITH SURROUNDING NEIGHBOURHOODS, PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND BIKE PATHS FOR THE FIRST TIME, ACCORDING TO INTERNATIONAL DESIGN PRACTICE HASSELL.

RIGHT: Converted grain silos form a focal point for the residential development.

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ASSELL is overseeing architecture, interior design, urban design and landscape architecture for the EG Funds Management development, which will feature 360 modern apartments and terraces, a small retail precinct, commercial studio spaces and public parks and gardens on the 2.5 hectare site.

New bike paths, pedestrian walkways and streets will connect people to the Flour Mill, neighbouring villages of Summer Hill and Lewisham and a new light rail stop, encouraging physical activity and increased public transport use.

HASSELL Principal Matthew Pullinger says theFlour Mill of Summer Hill will be a highly connected, vibrant residential community and a much sought-after precinct for people to live, work and play.

“The development will open up the almost 100 year-old former industrial site, while retaining and reusing the concrete silos and other significant heritage buildings, along with an existing avenue of Brush Box trees,” Mr Pullinger said.

“The mix of housing options was key to developing a diverse and vibrant community. We have incorporated a range of

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housing types, from three level terrace houses along Edward Street complete with courtyard gardens, to mid and higher-rise apartments overlooking the new public park and with views towards Sydney’s CBD. The silo apartments have been particularly sought after and stand as the focal point of the site,” Mr Pullinger said.

The Flour Mill of Summer Hill will promote environmental sustainability, with photovoltaic panels, shading screens and natural ventilation reducing energy consumption throughout the precinct, and the collection and reuse of rainwater minimising water use.

“The building has been designed to encourage very high levels of natural airflow throughout each apartment, reducing the need for airconditioning, while screens assist with sun control as well as maximising privacy,” Mr Pullinger said.

“Communal gardens also add to the green aspect of the development while encouraging and fostering a sense of community.

“The balconies, courtyards and landscaped gardens not only provide additional space for residents, they create a seamless

BOTTOM: The character of the existing silos has been preserved and updated in the design of sustainable new residential apartments.

transition from private outdoor space to the communal areas.”

A third of the site has been reserved for publicly accessible open space, parks and gardens for both residents and the wider public, including: • A public square at the heart of the precinct, framed by heritage buildings • A significant new park with picnic benches, shelters and BBQ facilities • Interconnected walking and bike paths, including connections to Hawthorne Canal Mr Pullinger said the heritage significance of the flour mill site and the need to retain a sense of its industrial past was key to the HASSELL master plan and design of the apartments.

“This development responds well to the trend towards people wanting homes that are located in places of high amenity and provide plenty of space while fostering a communal feel,” Mr Pullinger said.

“Being close to public transport, shops and parks is appealing, but is also enhanced by the benefit of living in an existing community with a strong local identity and a contemporary design that incorporates and pays homage to its history.

“We are proud to have had a role in an important project that will extend the legacy of the historic Summer Hill Flour Mill, while paving the way for a bustling new heart that will serve the area for years to come,” he said.

Flour Mill of Summer Hill will be delivered in two phases, the first consisting of 127 premium studios, one, two, and three bedroom apartments, and three and four bedroom terraces. The initial stages were well-received by the market, with over 96% sold to date, and around 65% being sold to owner occupiers – an indication of their strong appeal. Construction of stages one and two has commenced.

“THE BUILDING HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE VERY HIGH LEVELS OF NATURAL AIRFLOW THROUGHOUT EACH APARTMENT, REDUCING THE NEED FOR AIRCONDITIONING, WHILE SCREENS ASSIST WITH SUN CONTROL AS WELL AS MAXIMISING PRIVACY”

ABOUT HASSELL HASSELL is a leading international design practice with studios in Australia, China, South East Asia and the United Kingdom.

Its integrated approach to design draws together architects, interior designers, landscape architects, urban designers, planners and specialist consultants to produce truly exceptional results for clients.

With a portfolio encompassing everything from university buildings to sports stadiums, residential communities to critical-care hospitals, airport terminals to contemporary workplaces, HASSELL combines sector specific knowledge with diverse project experience to deliver a fresh approach to design.

RIGHT: A public square forms the heart of the precinct, highlighting the pedestrian link from the new light rail to the adjacent Summer Hill village.

HASSELLSTUDIO.COM

mélange | news

KETTAL 5O YEARS OF OUTDOOR FURNITURE I

n 1966, Manuel Alorda began Kettal and thus, has been designing and manufacturing outdoor furniture for the past 5 decades. While Kettal’s predominate material source is aluminium, it has not been without a combination of skilled engineering and creativity to manufacture the innovative pieces that contain a level of aesthetics while serving functionally and durability.

It wasn’t until 1994 when Kettal began working with well renowned product designers, such as Oscar Tusquets. In more recent days, the in-house design team known as Kettal Studio, has collaborated with designers such as Jasper Morrison, Patricia Urquiola, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Doshi Levien, Hella Jongerius, and Rodolfo Dordoni.

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meeting

A VERITABLE FOUNT OF IDEAS

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David Mizan Hashim Founder and Group President VERITAS Design Group

For the past 30 years, David Mizan Hashim has been designing buildings, something he had always wanted to do since childhood. His noteworthy A&D career has included creating residential spaces, office buildings, hospitals, hotels and other building types in Malaysia and overseas for the VERITAS Design Group, of which he is President and founding Director.

David has not only been the Principal-inCharge of many award-winning architecture and interior design projects by VERITAS, but was among 5 finalists in the Ernst & Young Malaysian Master Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in both 2005 and 2008, not to mention having earned impressive architectural credentials from Ivy League schools.

H+R got up close and personal with the head honcho and discovers that stories like David’s show that success, like DNA, is constructed from a few basic building blocks: focus, drive, and the oft-quoted line about staying true to your life’s calling.

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Were you always interested in architecture?

It’s funny you asked that because of all my architect friends and colleagues here in VERITAS, it seems that I have wanted to be an architect longer than anyone. Most of my friends or colleagues grew interested in architecture when they were in their teens or when they were already in college. According to my mother, I had insisted on being an architect since I was about eight or nine years old, and I have never changed my mind since. And I don’t think that is necessarily a good thing, because sometimes I think if I had decided to become a painter, perhaps I would now be a world-famous painter or maybe if I had fallen in love with music, that I would be a worldfamous conductor today.

What’s your design process like? How does it start?

I would say every project starts in a different way.

There is no SOP. Every project has its own point of inspiration. Perhaps, for example, it could be a cultural inspiration, or a contextual connection. I may have been thinking about the heat or the wind, and I think the project should respond to the local climate condition in a special way. Or it could be something unique about the Client such as his family or heritage.

So I think the only thing I can say that is consistent in the design process is that there is nothing consistent.

And if ever it were a formula, then you wouldn’t need an architect anymore! Hopefully the process is always fresh, exciting, sexy and delicious.

What are some of the hardest design lessons you’ve learned?

I think the toughest one, especially when I was younger and less experienced, was that I was too influenced by what the Client thought was right and what the Client wanted. When you are young, you are always trying to please and sometimes this compromises your instincts. If you try to be too accommodating, and the end-result is unsatisfactory, the Client will blame you! So I have had situations like that where I had to learn the hard way that it’s important to hold on to your principles and values. And even if the Client doesn’t agree with you, you can still try to influence their view or educate them..... politely!

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LEFT & RIGHT: The scale of the 280,000m2 high-density development with a complex program comprising 2 hotels, residential, office and retail, becomes an opportunity to transform the civic realm and urban experience of KLCC

“I BELIEVE THAT IS PROBABLY A VERY STRONG PRINCIPLE OF VERITAS IN THAT WE ARE QUITE TRUTHFUL IN THE WORK WE DO. AND THAT PHILOSOPHY OF DESIGN IS ALSO A PHILOSOPHY FOR BUSINESS. WE DON’T SEPARATE DESIGN FROM BUSINESS; IT’S A CONTINUITY.”

Are there any particular design trends or themes that you are seeing your clients wanting today?

One of the important themes is environmental sustainability, especially following the recent Paris conference where Malaysia committed to achieving the goals as outlined in the agenda. In addition, there are themes that are market-related. For example, now in Malaysia there is an oversupply of high-end residences, and there is a demand for more affordable homes as the country is entering more challenging times, so affordability is on the uptrend.

Then there is the fact that as the world is becoming more global, so more foreign architects are coming to Malaysia, and their ideas are coming with them.

This is actually a positive development because it will result in greater diversity in the country in terms of design.

Another trend would be innovation and creativity as they are becoming more valued. This means to say that if you have two buildings built at the same time with the same budget and in the same area, the one which is more visually innovative will have an edge in terms of selling price and rental.

What do you consider to be your motto or design philosophy?

You know, the name of the company is VERITAS, which is a Latin word for “truth”. And I think there must be truth in design, as the American architect Frank Lloyd-Wright put it. This refers to the integrity of building materials that don’t need to be disguised or camouflaged as something they are not. This simply means that stone, wood or metal should all be used in their natural way. Therefore stone is stone; you don’t use plastic dressed up as stone, like Formica. Therefore, all the materials that make up the building are truthful and the structure is truthful to itself. I believe that that is probably a very strong principle of VERITAS in that we are quite truthful in the work we do. And that philosophy of design is also a philosophy for business. We don’t separate the principals of design from business; it’s a continuity.

What was your favourite or most meaningful project in the hospitality and residential sectors to work on? Why? There is one project that has really stood out for us and has won a number of awards, for which I am very proud. It’s a project in Penang, called The Light Collection. It’s a project that really embraces nature.

We created an artificial lagoon of sea water near the Penang waterfront, into which we placed villas and apartments. This five-foot deep lagoon serves as a natural habitat for sea life. We pumped in filtered sea water and filled it with coral, coral fish, stingrays, sea turtles which are up to 3 to 4 feet long, and even sharks.

Did you face any challenges in designing for the hospitality and residential sectors outside of Malaysia that you didn’t expect? If so, what were they?

Definitely in the residential sector because in every society and culture, lifestyle is a little different. For example, in many conservative Middle Eastern cultures, a living room must be large enough to accommodate two different seating areas as the men and women never sit together. In Chinese cultures fengshui is very important, while in Indian culture, vastu shastra, the Indian equivalent of the fengshui, is very important. In some urban cultures, the bedrooms are very small as people only sleep there as they spend all the waking hours socializing in the living or dining room. So, we find that whenever we work in a different culture, the first thing we need to understand is their values and lifestyle. For example, in a culture where people eat with their hands, you need to have an open, dry kitchen, near to the dining area.

Therefore, when it comes to designing for the residential sector, you need to know the style in every culture. By contrast, there’s not so much of a challenge in the hospitality sector, as hospitality is about travel or tourism. When people travel, it’s more or less the same. Whoever goes to Hong Kong, will also be going to India or Japan. So, we don’t see too much difference in the hospitality sector, though of course, you still need to take into account the climate, the view, and the cultural and historical context.

What Asian cities are you watching in terms of architecture and design?

For me, the biggest cities in Asia are the ones where the most exciting work is happening, like Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo and Beijing. Twenty years ago, Chinese architects were just copying the West, but now they are starting to learn about the

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BOTTOM LEFT: Entire entrance lobby match by carefully selected marble wall and floor to create a warm and contemporary feel to the residence

BOTTOM: Rich colored tone timber louver design in a wave pattern feature ceiling

value of their own heritage. There are now worldclass architects coming out from China. In fact, a recent Pritzker Architecture Prize winner was a Chinese architect.

There are also the secondary cities like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur; and Vietnam is picking up steam after almost 5 years in the doldrums. There are a lot of new and exciting developments happening in Ho Chi Minh City, Danang and Hanoi.

You have a range of both residential and commercial clients. How selective are you with the clients that you work with?

We’re becoming more selective as time goes on. We have the luxury of that as we’ve quite a lot of work as our reputation is growing day by day. When I was younger, I would take anything that comes along but now we’re actually saying “thank-you, but maybe we pass.” In fact, what we do now is that we judge every new project that comes in by the 5 core values we have in our company to see if these values can be kept. Integrity is the first one: we ask ourselves if we can maintain our integrity when we undertake a project.

The next one is design....is the Client really allowing us to express ourselves, or they don’t value design?

Environment is the third...are we going to be destructive to the environment, or will this project complement nature? Will our Client allow us to experiment with sustainability and introduce green features to the building? The fourth one is audacity....can we challenge the Client? Can we force him/her to think out of the box....can we be different?

And the last one is service. Will a project allow

TOP: Balcony and window views wrap around the bedroom

us to provide excellent professional service as well as improve on the quality of our service? These five core values are encapsulated in the acronym IDEAS. So, if a project does not pass any one of these values, we very politely and humbly decline it.

How many projects are you working on currently?

In addition to our Headquarters in Malaysia VERITAS has offices in USA, Australia, Vietnam, India and Saudi Arabia so we are currently working on many different architectural, planning, interior design and landscape projects around the world. So if I have to add them all up, I would say they would number at least 200+. Some would still be on the drawing boards, while most would be under construction.

How do you stay sharp, physically and mentally?

I do exercise regularly. I use to run marathons but now I only run about 6 km every other day. And I read a lot, especially during the weekends. I read architectural magazines, design journals, business publications and newspapers, which I think keeps me sharp mentally.

Describe what makes a good architect in just one sentence.

I think a good architect is one who is always willing to learn and is not arrogant about his capability and knowledge.

RIGHT: Breakout siting areas along circulation spaces provide occupants with a place to pause and chat

THEVERITASDESIGNGROUP.COM

showcase | veritas design group

ELEVATING THE QUALITY OF OUR BUILT ENVIRONMENT FOR THE PLEASURE OF HUMANITY.

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THIS PICTURE: Nature reclaims the timber walkway.

“Truth” in Design and Practice

VERITAS is not just the name of the design practice we established 25 years ago. In Latin, veritas means “truth”. This is the principle that inspired the creation of VERITAS and continues to be the guiding principle of our design practice today.

What it means to demonstrate “truth” in design and in practice has always been a central pre-occupation for us. This 25th anniversary monograph has given us the opportunity to reflect on this challenge and the degree to which we have succeeded in our quest.

The activity of a design practice can be divided into two essential components. The first is design itself; which is the creative process through which the built environment is conceived. The second is practice; which is the professional business activity that supports and sustains design. Both parts are inter-dependent and symbiotic. The most successful work occurs only when both are in complete harmony and balance.

Within the realm of design at VERITAS, the spirit of truth is demonstrated in many ways. We believe in the power of creativity & discipline. We approach each new design challenge with a sense of duty. We strive to discover fresh new solutions, to avoid conventional typologies or styles and to strive for cutting-edge innovation, often in the face of many obstacles. A spirit of honesty drives our emphasis on a considered and responsible design response to context, culture and the environment. We sincerely believe that we have a duty to contribute to “improving the built environment for the pleasure of humanity”.

Within the realm of practice at VERITAS, the spirit of truth is manifest in the way we interact among ourselves, with our Clients, end-users and the stake-holders of our creations. We believe that all such relationships are built on mutual trust, honor and respect. In this paradigm, there is no hierarchy of one party over the other. All are equally important in their respective roles to create socially and environmentally responsible design. Both the “patron-client” and ”starchitect” relationship formulas are alien to our egalitarian way of thinking and working. The history of design is evidence that the greatest work is the outcome of talented designers collaborating as equals with similarly strong-willed Clients and stake-holders.

The duality of truth in design and practice has been central to the VERITAS culture from our rise as a small architectural firm based in Kuala Lumpur, into a large multi-disciplinary design firm providing planning, architecture, landscape, interior design, quantity surveying and environmental consulting services in several offices in Malaysia and overseas. It will certainly continue to dominate the agenda of VERITAS as it completes on its third decade of design practice and expands throughout the region and the world David Mizan Hashim Founder and Group President VERITAS Design Group

THEVERITASDESIGNGROUP.COM

The work of VERITAS strives to engage the confluences of the social, cultural and economic contexts of the time in artistic discourse. Based in Kuala Lumpur, this architecture practice shows the Malaysian spirit of muhibbah that embraces multiple viewpoints conceptual, aesthetic and methodological. Ascribing to no single language nor fixed style, it instead underpins its diverse design approaches with an underlying connectedness to context and careful attention to detail whilst allowing each project to dictate its own solutions. The firm negotiates a balance between

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the explorative and the rational, aspiring to produce buildings and spaces that, beyond serving pragmatic functions, engages the civic domain and questions the accepted archetypes embedded in the community’s psyche. VERITAS’s oeuvre traces several recurring characteristics: a reinterpretation of elements drawn from a multicultural context, a human-centric ethos, an innovative mix of local materials and traditional techniques with new technologies and finally, a resonant response to the genius loci.

PROJECTS PROFILE

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LEFT: At the 5 foot way, the tall frontdoor is of recycled timver against a bare concrete wall and glass window.

RIGHT: The old conserved front block is linked to the new addition with light steel and timber decks.

GEORGETOWN, MALAYSIA

SINKEH HOTEL

SINKEH HOTEL 105 MALAY STREET, GEORGETOWN

Located at the boundary of the Core Heritage Zone gazetted as a Unesco World Heritage site in the historical heart of Georgetown, this project would function both as a space for the arts and a small hotel. The intention was to have the hotel business support the activities in the art-space. The history of the building, its previous function as a home and then a warehouse, was somehow to be acknowledged as well. challenge coming to an understanding of what renovating a heritage building meant. The challenge was in finding an acceptable balance between past and present, how much and which aspects of the building should one keep and how much to remove, at which point of the building’s historical evolution does one cut off and preserve or restore?

The rear half of the shophouse was compromised in integrity and structure due to age and had to make way for a completely modern structure. The courtyard is where the old wing of the front portion confronts the new, where one will be able to experience fully the unapologetic intervention of a modern structure in a 19 th century house. Conceptually its where the present faces the past, the premise of the entire design. It is also the space to be outside while actually being inside.

It’s a place where one can experience most dramatically the changing light conditions throughout the day. The long-winded monsoon rains, which will also have its own canvas here to fully express itself.

The original building is a typical Straits Chinese townhouse which, apart from the air-well, provide little access to natural light. A distinguishing feature of this existing shophouse is that the party wall peels away from the side to reveal a narrow sliver of land next to it that was not built up. The design opens one side of the house out into this space and on the other side, pulled away from the party wall, thereby maximizing the potential for natural light to infiltrate the otherwise dark spaces. The design opened one side of the house out into this space, and on the other side, pulled away from the party-wall, thereby maximizing the potential for natural light to infiltrate otherwise dark spaces.

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LEFT: Every room no matter the size, is flooded with morning light and views of the historical roofscape or time-worn party wall.

RIGHT: First floor plan

THIS PICTURE: Past and Present comes together in the interplay of new and old materials.

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THIS PAGE: Hotel reception with old exposed timber beams

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SUNWAY NEXIS MIXED DEVELOPMENT KOTA DAMANSARA Sunway Nexis is a mixed development conceived in response to latent market demand generated by the Tropicana Indah & Cova Suites catchment population in Kota Damansara. This development is a complete lifestyle centre, encompassing leisure, entertainment, recreational & work facilities.

On plan, the massing is neatly divided into 4 three storey blocks around a cruciform-shaped pedestrian walkway sheltered throughout by a glass skylight.

Planning the pedestrian circulation in such a way affords users a strong sense of orientation & directionality. It maximizes the commercial potential of all 4 faces of the development as each would have its own frontage.

of Health & Sustainability’, a catchphrase distilling the interests of a consumer movement focused on health & fitness, the environment, personal development, sustainable living & social justice. The first of its kind, it is an extensively landscaped deck that cleverly induces cross-ventilation by the provision of 8 specially designed mushroom-shaped skylights. The topmost glass panes of these quasisculptural pieces heat up, creating hot zones that induces a flue effect, pulling air beneath upwards thus creating air circulation. Tiered alfresco dining areas overlook this landscaped deck. The SOHO tower furthers this theme of sustainability by virtue of its orientation that minimizes solar gain on the east & west facades.

The piece de resistance of the development would be the LOHAS deck, a landscaped deck that aspires to the spirit of LOHAS which stands for ‘Lifestyles

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THIS PAGE: Sunway Nexis mixed development comprising a retail & office podium & 2 office towers.

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA

SUNWAY NEXIS

TOP LEFT: Site plan and roof plan

TOP RIGHT: The placement & volumetry of the drop-off area aspires to be in proportion to the massing of the tower behind.

BOTTOM: Black-tipped Mild steel fins provide vertical emphasis over the overhang covering the walkway of the 5 footway.

The corner unit Is given a glass treatment which extends into a protective shelter over the corridor.

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THIS PAGE: The ordered gardens of the LOHAS deck.

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THIS PAGE: These sculptural, mushroom-shaped canopies multi-task as a climatic control device & element of delight as a gathering space & shelter in the garden.

TOP: The leaf motif is repeated throughout the development. Here, the trusses and mullions of the glass skylight is expressed as fronds of a leaf.

BOTTOM: To promote natural ventilation, giant fans are installed in the public spaces of the development.

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SEPUTEH 9 MIXED DEVELOPMENT KUALA LUMPUR

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BOTTOM: Typical Floor Plan

TOP: Vivo Residences comprise 4 towers of 42 & 44 storey serviced apartments astride 6 levels of podium carpark. The tallest landmark along Old Klang Road & the banks of the Klang river.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

SEPUTEH 9

The Seputeh 9 mixed development is a self-contained mixed development project on an 8 acre plot of land on the banks of the Klang River. 4 high-rise blocks of serviced apartments are elevated off street level onto a podium and parkscape that softens the connection between apartments and retail/soho areas on the ground and first floor. The Old Klang road area mainly comprise low-rise buildings, views to the surrounding areas are relatively free of visual obstructions and this presents an opportunity to sculpt the massing of these apartments towards the best views.The challenge of the development was to work out the correct ratio in floor area between the different program components. The apartment blocks provide a ready, live-in catchment population that would shop in the retail areas of the podium mall, play in the recreational facilities which include a podium top landscaped parkland, and work in the soho units.

On plan, each tower is a chamfered rectangular block with the shortest sides facing one another. The main spaces of the apartment block are arranged diagonal to one another, to face away from one another and towards the best available views. A sheer wall runs along the full height of the apartment building. The different rooms are thus discrete elements organized around a diagonal core with structural components located .

THIS PAGE: The design is an exercise in manipulating scale & density to determine best & optimum distribution of light, views & requirements between each unit.

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SAUJANA RESIDENCE SHAH ALAM, SELANGOR

The Client’s brief called for a spacious, light-filled family house where the family can enjoy constantly changing perspectives of the undulating golf course greenery from all the major living spaces, bedrooms, even bathrooms and kitchens.

This 2-storey private residence comprises two wings that nestle a central koi pond. The C-shaped plan allows all the main rooms in the house to enjoy the sprawling golf course and lake views at the back, while the south-facing front facade has a porte-cochere with steel I-columns and a dramatic glass wall with timber screens, set against textured granite walls.The multi-functional; steelframed timber slatted sliding screens serves as sun-shading and to reduce glare besides providing security. The warmth and transparency of the timber slats soften the effect of the extensive glazing needed to afford the maximum vistas desired by the Client.

The lofty entrance foyer where the main stair is located serves as a central spine linking the two wings of the house. Bush-hammered granite walls and floors from the exterior are brought inside into the foyer lending the space a transitional feel between the outside and the inside. The granite wall extends upstairs and screens the house from the front street.

The upstairs study with generous glazing is situated amongst the canopy of existing trees on the fringe of the golf-course, to create a sense of openness and immediate connection with the outside..

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TOP LEFT: Ground floor plan

BOTTOM: The C-shaped configuration of the residence allows all the main rooms of the house to open out to vistas of the golf course

SHAH ALAM, MALAYSIA

SAUJANA RESIDENCE

TOP: The residence comprises 2 wings, one of which overlooks a swimming pool

BOTTOM LEFT: First floor plan

BOTTOM RIGHT: The porte-cochere of steel I-columns and a dramatic glass wall with timber screens, set against textured granite walls

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TOP: The upstairs study with generous glazing to create a sense of openness and immediate connection with the outside

BOTTOM LEFT: A louvred screen modulates light levels of the kitchen

BOTTOM RIGHT: The space of the house extends out over the pool and garden and golf course beyond

RIGHT: Detail of suspended timber brise-soleil and steel supports at study balcony

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TOP: The living area overlooks the koi pond

BOTTOM LEFT: The permeable glass wall is screened off by a timber filigree of louvres and light

BOTTOM MIDDLE: Detail of steel channels supporting the glass panes

BOTTOM RIGHT: Detail of the cantilevered staircase at foyer

THIS PICTURE: The lofty entrance foyer serves as a central spine linking the 2 wings of the house

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10 DAMANSARA VILLAS KUALA LUMPUR

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THIS PAGE: The discreet & understated perimeter frontage of the 10 Damansara

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

10 DAMANSARA VILLAS

The site is a sloping, 1.17 acre square-shaped plot of land situated in the lowdensity leafy enclave of Kuala Lumpur. The square aspect ratio of this site lends itself well to a terraced courtyard configuration. 10 generous bungalow units are arranged around a calm centre where water features, an infinity saltwater swimming pool, clubhouse and shared facilities are situated.

Given the fairly intimate site, the design worked the naturally sloping terrain by using level changes as gentle visual buffers. This sensitive landscape intervention

by VERITAS Landscape is the soft connective tissue that eases the journey between units. Distributed between 3 stepped terraces that rise 2 to 3 metres between each level, each unit presents a polite view to one another without directly looking into the spaces of the adjoining unit, ensuring privacy. Units become progressively larger as one moves up the terrace, culminating in a duplex penthouse overlooking the entire development.

The design draws upon the fashionable modern contemporary design vocabulary with rectilinear volumes and minimalist detailing. To aspire to such visual simplicity meant designing the layout & storey heights to minimize the appearance of beams and columns. Accordingly effort was made to discipline the structure of the building, aligning beams to the wall line, recessing columns & discreetly tucking structural members under ceiling boards.

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LEFT: All units are centred around an elevated amenities deck. Leafy greenery visually softens the connection between units.

TOP: Views from the duplex units overlooking the development.

BOTTOM LEFT: Site plan

BOTTOM RIGHT: Villas overlook the shared pool deck & recreation space

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GLENMARIE GARDENS GATED COMMUNity SHAH ALAM

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THIS PAGE: Glenmarie Gardens Gated community is a development planned around the concept of the lush greenery.

SHAH ALAM, MALAYSIA

GLENMARIE GARDENS GATED COMMUNITY

TOP LEFT: Each unit is given to pockets of intimacy. Here a trellis & portal frame views both ways as the living spaces of the interior segues into the outdoors.

TOP RIGHT: As much as possible, the living spaces of each bungalow unit is visually connected to the pool and gardens via overhanging balconies and full height glass doors.

BOTTOM: The user moves seamlessly from the garden to the tropical resort pool deck.

Glenmarie Gardens is a medium-density residential development comprising 70 units of 2 to 3 storey bungalows on a 26 acre plot of land. The masterplan of the development is planned around the a circulation loop that wraps around the L-shaped site plan, affording each plot of land a well-proportioned aspect ratio, with a general land area that ranges between 8000 to 14500 square feet; unit sizes range from 6000 to 8000 square feet.. Connections between units are designed with emphasis on the pedestrian experience with the provision of wide walkways. Principles of traffic calming are employed to prevent vehicular traffic from overwhelming a user’s evening stroll. The quality of this spatial experience is maintained by keeping boundaries porous and fences low to emphasize openness & foster the atmosphere of a friendly community. Alongside a meandering circulation spine unfolds a succession of 7 types of bungalows, each customized to meet the needs of a different family unit. The idea of living in a garden as its namesake suggests naturally finds its expression in the language of tropical modern architecture. A vocabulary of louvers & full-height glass openings, wide eaves & long overhangs marry seamlessly with the well-used set-pieces of resort architecture, most notably the provision of a private pool and deck. Each unit is given to moments of intimacy alluding to the courtyards of Southeast Asian vernacular architecture, perhaps suggesting that every home can be a holiday destination too.

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TOP: Site plan

BOTTOM: Referencing the language of tropical modern architecture, each bungalow unit features high-sloping roofs, louvres & deep eaves.

THIS PAGE: The development is pedestrian-friendly, with wide walkways & low fences to foster an open & friendly community.

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THE LIGHT COLLECTION JELUTONG, PENANG

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THIS PAGE: Every Water Villa faces the manmade waterfront canal.

PENANG, MALAYSIA

THE LIGHT COLLECTION

Situated on a waterfront precinct integrating residential, retail, recreational & commercial components into 1 self-contained development, the Light Collection I is unique for the way it sets the parameters by which its planning is decided. Constructed on a parcel of reclaimed land parallel to the Jelutong Expressway, running partway along Penang’s Selatan Strait, the project’s natural environment and factors governing orientation, views and massing/layout is largely designed by the human hand. The rectilinear shapes of the plots, the extents of the buildable areas and the aspect ratio of the plot boundaries are manmade. Roadways & connections to the island are planned, & plot boundaries are determined in the same way. The scale of the overall development warrants an exercise in urban design; the Light Collection I is one by-product of this interesting master plan.

Waterfront developments often suffer from the dearth of a different kind of real estate- every square feet of buildable space clamors for a waterfront view. It is therefore interesting that the development creates its own waterfront where it cannot borrow it through height or waterfront width. The Light Collection I’s piece d’resistance is the manmade waterway that runs the length of the linear development, an intertidal canal that distantly recalls the setting of Penang’s Clan jetty. The waterways are seeded with coral beds to encourage the natural proliferation of marine life.

The planning of the development is centered on this waterway, with a view towards maximizing the south-facing orientation towards the open straits.

176 apartment units interspersed over 8 stories are arranged north of the site & enclosed along its length by 27 units of water villas, strung along a gentle ellipsis on plan the widen the perspective towards the centre of the waterfront.

These units, which in area & specification are type A, 3-storey townhouses have ample pedestrian links and views towards the waterfront. The facilities are arranged in a cascading series of spaces aligned with the short axis of this waterside promenade, comprising a floating gym box overlooking the infinity edge swimming pool, suspended over the pristine waters of the canal. Every unit incorporates the open plan as part of the layout of its living, dining and kitchen spaces. Full-height glass windows & balconies open out to unobstructed views of the waterfront. In this way, the waterfront enriches the development spatially in more ways than one. The Light Collection I sets the terms by which built form negotiates with the natural environment, and is amply rewarded for it.

TOP: Site Plan

BOTTOM LEFT: Facilities are housed in a series of cascading terraces overlooking one another, flanked by dramatic doublevolume sun decks.

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BOTTOM RIGHT: Detail of alternating frosted & clear glass window panes that conceal and reveal in turns, framed by aluminum mullions and transoms.

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THIS PICTURE: Entrance elevation to the waterfront villas.

One is made aware of water features & surrounds at every part of the development.

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THIS PICTURE: Long views across the manmade waterway.

Both communcal recreation space and green area, the 8 storey high apartments confront the Water Villas across a body of water seeded with corals and marine life.

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TROPEZ RESIDENCES DANGA BAY, JOHOR

Danga bay is the redevelopment of mangrove swamplands into a commercially viable urban district within the designated Zone A of the Johor Bahru City Centre, Iskandar Malaysia. Tropez Residences is phase 1 of this master plan’s residential component poised to house and service the catchment population that will live and work by the bayside.

The site was hitherto undeveloped prime land situated close to the bayside, with unbroken views towards the Straits of Johor and immense potential for highly marketable waterfront living. Standing at 38, 39 and 29 stories respectively, the massing of the 3 apartment towers had to contend with the sizeable density and plot ratio and was dealt with deftly by fanning Tower A and Tower B along the edge of the 5-storey podium to maximize desirable views. Tower C is set back to take in views of the city centre skyline. Accordingly, each tower is spaced apart to maximize light, air, and views unobstructed by surrounding buildings. In doing so the development unabashedly embraces the scale of the tower from the planning of the circulation down to the proportions of the full-height windows, and the elevation continues this commentary on scale, alternately highlighting and recessing differing units in different proportions.

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The resulting interstitial space between towers atop the podium is a generous one matched by the array & ambition of amenities. Users may choose from up to 4 swimming pools, nestled amid a network of themed tropical gardens, each with its own interest & specific use. The Beehouse gazebos are sculptural hive-shaped shelters and intimate meeting spaces. The Water Maze is designed with the delight of younger users in mind. Residents may play tennis, squash or basketball, use the gymnasium, meander along manicured lawns and water features, or opt instead to take the lift to the sky deck on the rooftop of each tower to take in panoramic views of Singapore. Within the remit of the targetted income bracket, the diversity in unit types (1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments) can house a healthy cross-section of single/ nucleus social & family units.

The economies of scale matter in the big picture of any development, and Tropez Residences is a residential project that tackles this by embracing the essence of what being big means- self-contained and complete.

BOTTOM LEFT: Aerial view of the apartment block

BOTTOM RIGHT: The drop-off area is elevated a few steps above the entrance driveway to create the intimacy of an indoor space

JOHOR BAHRU, MALAYSIA

MIDDLE: View from the main road

TROPEZ RESIDENCES

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LEFT: View of the apartment’s approach at night

TOP: Skyframe by the tower blocks

BOTTOM: Cabanas by the pool side

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TWINS DAMANSARA HEIGHTS

The site is a trapezoidal island flanked on 2 sides by busy roads, a long strip of low-rise government offices on the north-east and a 20-storey commercial office building, the tallest building and a memorable landmark of the Damansara Heights area. The topography of the site is undulating and a long-established low density residential area is located at the west of the site. Twins Residency signals a change in the development character of the area as its scale directly influences the surrounding infrastructure of the area.

Comprising 340 units targeting the aspirational middle class of Damansara, the identical towers of its namesake rise unobstructed above the area with long views of the surrounding residential & commercial townscape. Modern amenities include a swimming pool, private function hall, games room, gymnasium, children’s playground, a café, children’s playground, tennis court and lounge area.

Each tower has an elliptical floor plan opened on the shorter sides to admit light and ventilation into the centre lift core. The elongated shape of the floor plan ensures optimum views for each of the 4 units on the floor plan. Planning is efficient and rigorous. Having to contend with changing levels as Jalan Johar slopes down towards Jalan Damanlela, the design instead tries to capitalize on this segregation by making privacy and exclusivity the defining feature of the project by raising public amenities above ground level yet below the noise and traffic of Jalan Johar.

Elevational treatments are minimal, a fully-glazed façade with generous balconies that simply express the internal floor configuration of the apartment units. Modern amenities include a swimming pool, private function hall, games room, gymnasium, children’s playground, a café, children’s playground, tennis court and lounge area.

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LEFT: Typical floor plan of the apartment

TOP: Feature wall

DAMANSARA, MALAYSIA

TWINS

LEFT TOP: Bridge to the recreational area

LEFT BOTTOM: A glass lift connects to a timber-decked bridge leading to the recreational area

RIGHT: The form expresses the logic of the layout’s orientation to the surrounding areas

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TOP: Looking up to the twins

BOTTOM LEFT: Dancing shadows across the floor of the floor deck, from the openess of the facade on upper levels

BOTTOM RIGHT: The gymnasium overlooks magnificent views of the surrounding areas

THIS PICTURE: Night view from the highway nearby

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JW MARRIOTT (now CAPRICE) MALDIVES GAAKOSHIBEE ISLAND, MALDIVES

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TOP LEFT: Visitors of the Water Villa can step down directly into the sea

TOP RIGHT: Trailing along the tapering end of the island is a string of water chalets

MALDIVES

CAPRICE

TOP: Bird’s eye view of the crescent shaped Gakoshibee Island

BOTTOM: Site plan

The Gaakoshibee Island is a tropical paradise fringed by pristine beaches and dense tropical vegetation, encircled by a reef rich in exotic marine life. Set in this backdrop of tropical splendor, the retreat is to be a 5-star resort comprising overthe-water beach villas, a fully integrated spa, diving and water sports centers and several dining and entertainment outlets; that there would be only 100 rooms to this 18-hectare island attests to the sanctuary of seclusion this resort intends to be.

The design of the retreat seeks not to conquer the landscape but to glorify the exalted harmony of the parts which make up the whole of the realm of Gaakoshibee.

The Retreat seeks not to be objects on a landscape but to be a continuity of an unfolding paradise. The architecture of the resort embraces the ocean; structures float on the water on stilts, with nothing standing between the visitor and the ocean. Occasionally stepping down to the level of the water and making no apologies for it, the open and outward looking aspect of the structures heightens one’s awareness of the surroundings. The architecture’s relationship with the surroundings become symbiotic and the vast surroundings complete the architecture.

The design is distinctly tropical modern without being rustic—the lines are clean, minimalist, uncomplicated. The island traces a shape of a crescent on the azure Indian Ocean on plan. The scheme extends the lines of the island into a string of water-straddling chalets arrayed in a semi-circle, each opening up to a private view of the ocean.

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LEFT: The deck area of the beach villa extend outwards towards the waterfront

BOTTOM: The edge of the villa’s pool edge blends seamlessly with the sea

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W HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENTS KUALA LUMPUR

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THIS PAGE: At street level, the ‘W’ signature becomes a motif for the facade’s screen

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

W HOTEL & SERVICED APARTMENTS

Making a commentary about the streetwall of Jalan Ampang, The buiding is recessed from Jalan Ampang’s streetwall, to create a plaza and a more generous drop-off area in front of W hotel.

Due to the depth of the site, instead of conventionally arranging the buildings such that all public spaces face the front a deliberate decision was made to stack the programs atop one another. This means that there will always be a buffer zone or separation between the intersection of the programs and that both hotel and drop-off area for the residential components (serviced apartments) are separated.

This relationship between the different parts of the building is expressed via the different façade treatments for the car park. Façade treatments are also determined according to the needs of that particular program. For example, the hotel’s façade has more glass per surface area than the residential apartments. Nonetheless, the drop-off areas are shared between the hotel and residential apartment.

Therefore, the façade expresses the sequence of programs as one moves through the building. A pool deck on the 12th floor is orientated towards the rear of the building, away from the traffic noise of Jalan Ampang.

LEFT: Site plan

RIGHT: Different programs of the hotel are expressed differently on the facade of the building

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TOP: Night view of the building and penthouse from Jalan Ampang.

BOTTOM: The double-volume poolside captures spectacular views towards the KLCC area

RIGHT: The pool deck of the hotel is located at the rear of the hotel podium to screen it off from the bustle of Jalan Ampang’s traffic

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SENJA AMAN INTEGRATED WELLNESS RESORT TELUK BAHANG, PENANG

The site is located at the far end of the Batu Feringghi stretch of luxury beach hotels. Relatively secluded from the Georgetown and Tanjung Bungah conurbation; approximately 1 hour’s drive from the centre of Georgetown. The distance separating the resort from the centre of Georgetown and other transport links makes it a destination resort; one which needs to have natural attractions to draw the interest of potential hotel guests. The development strategy of the resort is to make the best of the difference in character from the Batu Feringghi hotel strip; the seclusion of the site, the unspoiled stretch of public beachfront of Teluk Bahang and the natural attractions that the natural seclusion of the site affords. With a view towards selling the apartments to sustain the development of the hotel resort, the Senja Aman Integrated Wellness Resort is divided into many different room types to appeal to the entire cross section of the potential market. The design criteria of the room are site dependent—one site fronts the Teluk Bahang Public Beach whilst the other, fronting the main road is surrounded at the back by the Teluk Bahang Forrest Reserve. All 4 programs are divided into 4 blocks. A pedestrian bridge linking both sides culminates in a 5-storey pavilion with public amenities such as the gymnasium and coffeehouse restaurant, buffer programs that can be shared between both complexes.

The ground floors of all beach-facing blocks are orientated towards the water. Due to the imperative to maximize the number of attainable water-facing villas, the Water Villas is designed with a long footprint, with a mezzanine ‘loft’ bedroom floor overlooking the living room below, evoking the urban typology of a townhouse, albeit one with a floor to double-volume ceiling view of the water. The continuous line of sight extends the waterline from the swimming pool to the sea, and this theme is echoed in the rest of the unit designs where as much as possible boundaries between the sea and room are removed to create a space continuous between the indoors and outdoors.

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PENANG, MALAYSIA

SENJA AMAN INTEGRATED WELLNESS RESORT

TOP: View from Jalan Teluk Bahang. The pattern on the screens highlights the woven aspect of the building.

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LEFT: View of the development from Andaman sea. Every room, a view to the sea, every window a picture perfect sunset.

TOP: Site plan

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TOP: View towards the swimming pool and green hilly side at the back

BOTTOM: The deck visually extends the edge of the infinity pool, allowing it to seemingly merge of the line of the sea

TOP: Hotel corridor

BOTTOM LEFT: Internal view of the arrival lobby.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Aerial view showing the relationship between both sides of the masterplan

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STAR RESIDENCES KUALA LUMPUR

Located in Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, at the heart of Kuala Lumpur with high-density development area, Star Residences is designed to reshape and create a new character to the urban fabric responding to the neighborhood. With components comprising of retail and service apartments, Star Residences is challenged by its context to be able to fit into the site; the site planning takes the opportunity to place retail activities on the street edge with a grandeur walk of fame along the main road of the site to boost the public urban landscape experience and environment. Pockets of landscapes urban courtyards are introduced within the retail frontage to enhance the commercial activities and to create a new urban nodes and landmarks that links to various component of the development.

In response with the dense development surrounding, the tower blocks are wellarranged to maximize the best and unobstructed vistas from the units, whilst optimizing distance between the towers for privacy and sense of openness for the occupants. The tower blocks are designed to be as efficient as possible and correspond to the unique triangular shape of the site. Tower 2 and 3 layout are angled to maximize the allowable setback and to optimize view to KLCC. The angular geometry is meticulously to create slimmer look and to reduce the apparent massing of the tower blocks, respecting the proximity pedestrian vista along the site. With this strategy, cool breezes are captured and allowed to penetrate through the development between the towers. To liven up the activity program for the occupants, an approximate 100,000 sqf area is dedicated to the Lifestyle Facility Floor and Sky Park decks on the roof top of each tower. To encourage tourism and with the support from the government, Star Residences introduces the walk of Fame that stretches more than 200m from the intersection of Jalan Ampang and Jalan Yap Kwan Seng right to the perimeter of the Star development.

The culture of night lifestyle in KL, the city that never sleeps, the lights on the urban landscapes, have inspired and brought up the concept of “Meteor Shower” into the façade of the 3 block high-end residential towers. The concept is interpreted through Mondrian Pattern design that is translated into meteor shower pattern on the facades with the mixed usage of textured color metal and tinted glass. The geometry of the towers allows the architecture to playfully respond to the changing hours by creating different shadows patterns throughout the day. With strategically designed LED lights, the façades then become the distinctive contemporary feature for the project that would lighten up the towers portraying abstract and artistic representation of Meteor Shower. The natural pattern created from the mullions and metal panels, every room is granted with a unique way of shading and natural visual of sky-framed painting.

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TOP: Gymnasium overlooking the skypark decks.

BOTTOM: Star Residences grand drop-off.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

STAR RESIDENCES

THIS PAGE: Meteor shower into the facade of the three block high-end residential towers.

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TOP: Lifestyle facilities floor and sky decks on the roof top of each tower.

BOTTOM LEFT: Pool decks

BOTTOM RIGHT: Artiste posters accupies the elevators to units.

TOP: A typical unit angled to maximize the allowable setback and optimize view to KLCC.

RIGHT: Mondrian pattern design that is translated into meteor shower pattern on the facades.

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Oxley Towers is an ensemble of 3 cascading towers bridged with sky decks - a future landmark on the Kuala Lumpur skyline.

The scale of the 280,000m2 high-density development with a complex program comprising 2 hotels, residential, office and retail, becomes an oportunity to transform the civic realm and urban experience of KLCC. The buildings are set back forming a forecourt. This plaza gathers pedetrians into an “urban corridor” that cuts a path through the city block, creating a human scale at the street, amidst towering buildings. The shops form an “indoor street” sheltered from the tropical weather and links pedestrians from the busy Jalan Ampang to the KLCC park and mosque.

Recognizing its noblesse oblige, a viewing deck and roof-top restaurants enables public access through the usually impervious urban islands of exclusive luxury developments.

The curtain wall embodies a distinctive diagonal grain - a recurring leitmotif in indigenous textiles and weaving traditions of Malaysia.

Window panels and sun-shading fins form a layered, textured façade reinforcing the diagonal pattern which extends to the interior experience.

The asymmetrical composition of 3 tapering and inter-linked towers creates constantly changing perspectives of the building from different viewpoints.

Designed to sustainability standards for Greenmark certification.

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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

OXLEY TOWER

OXLEY TOWERS KUALA LUMPUR

LEFT: Site plan

RIGHT: Perspective view of the three towers.

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TOP LEFT: Recognising its oblige, a viewing deck roof-top restaurants enables public access through the usually impervious urban islands of exclusive luxury developments

BOTTOM: The buildings are set back forming a forecourt. This plaza gathers pedestrians into an “urban corridor� that cuts a path through the city block, creating a human scale at the street, amidst towering buildings.

THIS PAGE: The curtain wall embodies a distintive diagonal grain - a recurring leitmotif in indigenous textiles a weaving traditions of Malaysia.

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INTERIORS COLLECTIONS

CASCADE PETALING JAYA The Cascade is an integrated mixed development located in Kota Damansara in Selangor. This ultra-modern office tower and apartment complex consists of retail, office and living spaces and offers state-of-the-art amenities, breathtaking views and ample parking space. The sleek marble-and-aluminium lobby was conceived as having an open and welcoming ambience balanced with the use of aluminium cladding to give a futuristic look. The Cascade was completed in April 2015 for Mitraland Group.

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OVAL KUALA LUMPUR The Oval apartment was a high end fit out works for an international client who uses it for holidays and business trips. With 3,000 square feet, it has a full glass faรงade surround which required much shading and screening. This however also afforded a grand view of KLCC Park with the twin towers in the background. With a private lift lobby, the design concept was modern and contemporary. Furniture was mostly designer signature series and the soft furnishing were selected luxurious collection.

A main feature in the fit out was a revolving row of mirror screen that performs as a flexible space divider. This is to allow more privacy to the tv sitting area which abuts the living space. The colors and hues of the walls were of deep maroon and purple in contrast to the bright marbled floors.

SYMPHONY HILLS KUALA LUMPUR Symphony Hills epitomises luxurious urban living within a contemporary resort and recreational ambience. Stately homes of exquisite beauty are set along picturesque cul de sac, in lovely clusters with gardens and flow seamlessly into dramatic landscapes of lush greenery. A spectacular floating resort clubhouse at the heart of this sanctuary offers an array of recreational pursuits

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TROIKA KUALA LUMPUR Changing vistas of KLCC unfolds as one meanders through this complex of restaurants linked by bridges hovering 24-storeys high. Combining exposed steel beams and raw fair-face concrete walls with black lacquered steel surfaces and richly-veined Venetian marble, the ambience evoke a confident urban chic with a bold industrial touch, to create moments of surprise along the route which links the separately themed restaurants and bars.

A dramatic open stairs in black-painted steel and local timber, spirals up to the informal Italian bistro with an exposed pizza oven and open show-kitchen.

Terracotta floor tiles and copper trims on the furniture create warm traditional undertones.

The fine dining restaurant commands wide views of KLCC skyline and is finished in a sleek minimalist contemporary style with the luxurious marble-paved path floating over reflecting pools. The interior design is sympathetic to the original architecture design, allowing both to resonate with a quiet elegance.

FLORAL FIXATION > IT’S A WRAP > THE ART OF CONTROL > FRESH VIBES > WHEN AESTHETIC MEETS ACOUSTICS > WELCOMING BIOPHILIA > 124 | H+R | ISSUE 02

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< GROWING VASES BY LASVIT < NC-B RESONATE BY HAWORTH < SE8000 SERIES BY SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC < SBSES7165 SERIES BY LIEBHERR < GEO CEILING BAFFLES BY EKOUS < BIOPHILIA BY INTERFACE THIS PICTURE: The Haworth Collection - Windowseat and NC-B Resonate

AP.HAWORTH.COM

goods | lasvit

FLORAL FIXATION A WONDROUS TRIBUTE TO NATURE, THIS MEMORABLE LIGHT INSTALLATION BY NENDO RADIATES HOPE AND VIVACITY.

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TOP: Created with Czech Bohemian glass, the hanging installation features light bulbs that take on the look of flower bulbs.

“WE DECIDED TO TAKE THE BRIEF IN A PLAYFUL DIRECTION, AND TO SUGGEST BOTH BREATHING AND THE INCOMPLETE BY DISPLAYING THE METAL PIPES USED BY GLASSBLOWERS, STILL ATTACHED TO THE GLASS OBJECTS THAT THEY WERE USED TO MAKE.” – OKI SATO

S

urprising in its diversity and constantly evolving, nature is the ultimate inspiration. In a nutshell, this is the message being conveyed through Nendo’s striking collaboration with Czech premium glass and lighting company Lasvit. Known for innovative works that showcase modern forms with a touch of whimsy, the Japanese design studio gets it right yet again with Growing Vases. Made with Czech Bohemian glass, this playful light installation plays up the allure of its exquisite materiality by taking on the semblance of a fairytale forest wrought with abstract flora and fauna.

Part artwork, part light design, this evocative piece literally turns the go-to concept of the flower and the vase on its head; flowers are refashioned as vessels that bloom vases instead of vice versa.

‘Stems’ that are conventionally confined within a vase protrude directly from the base like mutant appendages; here, Nendo opted to display metal pipes used by glassblowers, alluding to the act of breathing. Exhibited as a glowing cluster and composed of randomly sized frosted light bulbs that emulate the look of flower bulbs, Growing Vases, for Nendo founder Oki Sato, represents the birth of new life. Nature is re-envisioned as a surreal setting - a wondrous environment laden with possibilities and fraught with fantastical happenings.

First shown in Milan during Salone del Mobile 2011, Growing Vases made a triumphant appearance alongside other nature-themed designs in an exhibition titled ‘Cocoon’.

TOP & RIGHT: Arranged as a coordinated cluster, Growing Vases represents an abstract take on the concept of growth and organic systems found in nature.

LASVIT.COM

goods | haworth

IT’S A WRAP

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HAWORTH’S ARCHITECTURALLY INSPIRED WINDOWSEAT CHAIR PROVIDES A MUCH-NEEDED ESCAPE FROM EVERYDAY CHAOS.

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eel a little too exposed while sitting in a public area filled with strangers? San Francisco design team Mike & Maaike can definitely relate.

Created for premium furniture brand Haworth, the Windowseat chair arose from the designers’ drawing boards as a deft response to the need for portable refuge in communal areas. Described as a ‘roomwithin-a-room’, this unusual seat comes equipped with a wraparound canopy frame, facilitating personal privacy in the most bustling settings. Sitters are encouraged to swirl the chair and shift viewpoints, much like one is at liberty to do when sitting in an actual windowseat. While the primary intention is in allowing sitters to redraw into an enclosed respite of their own, the Windowseat also serves as an ideal observation nook for people-watching.

Constructed with molded foam over steel frame, this curious fusion of architecture and furniture was made specifically with hotel lobbies, airports and open office environments in mind. An invaluable addition to any space, public or private, the Windowseat also scores extra points for its dashing silhouette. For versatility’s sake, the piece comes available in three different versions: a lounge with canopy, a standalone lounge and an ottoman.

THIS PICTURE: Please provide caption to this picture. Please provide caption to this picture.

AP.HAWORTH.COM

goods | schneider electric

THE ART OF CONTROL BRINGING CONVENIENCE TO YOUR FINGERTIPS, SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC’S IMPRESSIVE RANGE OF ROOM CONTROLLERS BOASTS A SEAMLESS AND STYLISH APPROACH TO REMOTE MONITORING AND CONTROLLING ENERGY CONSUMPTION.

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EASY INSTALLATION Wired and wireless functionality lowers installation costs, reduces downtime, and substantially accelerates return on investment for typical retrofit projects.

BRAND AWARENESS Reinforce your brand by displaying any logo, image, or message on the screen. When integrated into a BACnet® system, dynamic messages linked to events can be displayed on screen.

CUSTOMIZABLE DESIGN Choose between five screen colours, two casings, and ten textured fascias to find the perfect combination to complement any decor.

MULTI-LANGUAGE SUPPORT Out-of-the-box, multi-language support including English, French, Spanish, Chinese, and more.

DISCREET MOTION SENSOR Onboard motion sensor delivers automatic energy savings based on room occupancy.

T

ired of fumbling with an unsightly collection of inefficient remote devices day after day? You might want to give Schneider Electric’s SE8000 Series a go.

Whether it’s HVAC, lighting or metering systems, the SE8000 Series has it covered with a single compact device. Programmed with a comprehensive selection of optimised automation features, this smart room controller also comes equipped with a state-of-the-art touch screen interface and multi-language support to ensure for fuss-free use in homes, offices and retail environments. Available in several versatile style combinations and featuring a quick, cost-efficient installation process, the device adapts easily to different interiors, regardless of the given aesthetic.

Prioritising usability and building performance, the SE8000 is a premium product that perfectly suits upscale settings such as luxury hotels, corporate offices and high-end retail stores. An added bonus of its sophisticated touch screen is the option to display any logo, image or message on the screen. Dynamic messages linked to events can also appear on the screen when connected via a BACnet system. This unique feature promotes optimal brand awareness, proving advantageous for businesses. Saving the best for last, SE8000’s accurate temperature control function culminates in significant energy savings, allowing users to maximise overall usage without breaking the bank.

LEFT: Available in several stylish combinations, the SE8000 complements existing décor and works like a charm in homes and commercial spaces alike.

TOP: Programmed with multiple features that take energysaving and building performance into account, the SE8000 goes above and beyond to deliver a memorable user experience.

SCHNEIDER-ELECTRIC.COM

goods | liebherr

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LEFT: The multi-compartment BioFresh refrigerator offers made-to-measure freshness by regulating temperature and humidity to suit different food types.

FRESH VIBES

AN INNOVATIVE OFFERING BY LIEBHERR, EUROPE’S LEADING MANUFACTURER OF PREMIUM REFRIGERATION, BIOFRESH IS A THOUGHTFULLY DESIGNED GODSEND FOR ADVOCATES OF MODERN, HEALTHIER LIVING.

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or those in the market for a kitchen upgrade, a new refrigerator with state-of-the-art features might be just the ticket. Having a hard time choosing from commercially available options? If you’ve pledged allegiance to fresh organic produce, it doesn’t get any better than the BioFresh fridge.

Responding to the bio-boom trend currently sweeping Europe, this healthier counterpart to conventional fridge models takes top prize for its proven ability to optimise and extend the life of fresh produce. The magic is in the Liebherr BioFresh drawers; in addition to maintaining an ideal humidity level, these keep the temperature at just above 0 degrees Celsius, enabling fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and dairy products to retain vitamins, flavours and an attractive appearance for up to three times longer than in a standard-grade fridge.

Moreover, BioFresh’s technology pays heed to the different climate conditions that various types of food require to stay fresh: The Drysafe compartment is ideal for meat, fish and dairy storage while Hydrosafe accommodates fruits and vegetables that thrive in high humidity.

BioFreshPlus, an advanced model with an electronic panel that allows for three different storage temperatures to be set at once, expands on this feature. Regulating the temperature and humidity also entails a lower rate of decay and keeps produce from drying out, making the BioFresh a more than worthwhile investment.

TOP: BioFresh boasts the ability to store food products for up to three times longer than regular refrigerators.

LIEBHERR.COM

goods | ekous

WHEN AESTHETIC

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MEETS ACOUSTICS CREATING A COMFORTABLE DINING EXPERIENCE IS EASILY ACCOMPLISHED BY INTRODUCING EKOUS ACOUSTIC PANELS INTO A ROOM. THE ACOUSTIC SOLUTION OFFERED BY EKOUS ENSURES THAT UNWANTED SOUND AND NOISE PROPAGATION WILL BE ABSORBED, AND THE RANGE OF ACOUSTIC APPLICATIONS MAKES IT A SUITABLE SOLUTION FOR THE INTERIOR DESIGN AND DÉCOR OF A SPACE.

PROJECT: EXPEDIA, SINGAPORE DESIGNER : D’ PERCEPTION PTE LTD PRODUCT : EKOUS SONATA CEILING BAFFLES

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ACOUSTIC COMFORT IN RESTAURANT Bare walls, concrete floors and exposed ceilings might look great in a restaurant, but what’s the point of a restaurant that looks great if diners can’t hear what’s being said across the table and the staff are taking wrong orders due to the noise level?

Noise in many Asian restaurants is reaching levels above 80dB, which represents a risk to hearing for both diners and staff. The modern day restaurant’s strong focus on minimalist design is a key contributor to noise levels that leave a bad taste in the mouths of both diners and employees. Restaurants can create a more comfortable environment by enhancing the acoustics in the dining areas. This would also reduce errors in ordering due to miscommunication between patrons and staff.

Ekous GEO CEILING BAFFLES is designed as simple decorative ceiling panels that can be positioned in various orientations, shapes and sizes to provide sound absorption. For most projects, a panel of 60mm thickness provides the optimum balance between acoustic performance and finished appearance. The panels are extremely effective and can be installed horizontally or vertically to create a much comfortable dining space.

GEO CEILING BAFFLES are custom sized for individual applications, to create both an aesthetically pleasing installation and to suit the physical constraints of the premise.

LEFT: Pantry Area

TOP RIGHT: Collaboration Area

EKOUS.NET

goods | interface

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WELCOMING BIOPHILIA CLEARLY, OUR CONNECTION WITH NATURE HAS A PERVASIVE INFLUENCE. AND DESIGN CAN BE USED TO EFFECTIVELY BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN THE NATURAL WORLD AND EVEN THE MOST URBAN ENVIRONMENTS. Text > Laura Silverman

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ver since E.O. Wilson introduced the notion of biophilia in his 1984 book of the same name, there has been mounting evidence that humans are innately drawn to the natural world. It has been proven that views of nature enhance healing and that natural light promotes better learning.

Clearly, our connection with nature has a pervasive influence. And design can be used to very effectively bridge the gap between the natural world and even the most urban environments. This phenomenon has been explored and documented in the workplace, in classrooms and in health facilities, where it shows a direct relationship to increased productivity, creativity and wellbeing. This has sparked great interest in how biophilic design might enhance the guest experience in hospitality.

When asked about what impact the global trend towards biophilia is having on the hospitality industry, Lorraine Francis, director of hospitality interiors for Gensler, takes a long pause. “I feel passionate about that and I have an idea about the design science of things, but I think it’s been hard to articulate within the hospitality market.” She cites studies that have been done for the healthcare sector that examine how certain healing and wellness initiatives make financial sense by resulting in less PTO, for example.

But when it comes to hospitality, there is currently very little quantified evidence to support biophilia.

Which is why Francis is embarking on a research project in collaboration with several industry peers to come up with the metrics to make that possible.

The goal of this project boils down to figuring out how to measure comfort, which translates into longer stays and increases repeat business. “You know when you walk into a space and you feel good, and when you walk into a space and you feel like it’s too tall or too wide or there’s some mechanical thing overhead that makes you feel creepy,” she explains.

“It’s really hard to express that feeling, but that’s exactly what we need to interpret for the hospitality industry, because this kind of very fundamental reaction is what affects loyalty and, ultimately, dollars.”

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TOP LEFT: Equal Measure Collection, products EM551, EM552 and EM553, colour Union.

BOTTOM LEFT: Equal Measure Collection, product EM553, colour Cobblestone.

“YOU KNOW WHEN YOU WALK INTO A SPACE AND YOU FEEL GOOD, AND WHEN YOU WALK INTO A SPACE AND YOU FEEL LIKE IT’S TOO TALL OR TOO WIDE OR THERE’S SOME MECHANICAL THING OVERHEAD THAT MAKES YOU FEEL CREEPY,” TOP: Equal Measure Collection, products EM551 and EM552, colour Hill.

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TOP: Equal Measure Collection, products EM551, EM552 and EM553, colour Oldtown.

“THE ANSWERS TO THESE QUESTIONS ARE SURE TO ILLUMINATE A NEW, NATURE-INSPIRED PATH IN HOSPITALITY DESIGN—ONE THAT LEADS TO A MORE EFFICIENT, MORE SUSTAINABLE AND MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE WORLD.”

This means examining every part of the guest room experience, from the bed to the pillows to the alarm clock, and understanding how the neurological system is affected by a direct connection to nature, whether through a window view or a carpet design.

Studies exist that look at the number of steps taken to complete certain tasks; track where people gravitate to in a room; and determine where they sleep better. But Francis also sees the need to understand how this plays out in lobbies and indoor/outdoor public spaces. “How do you get around those long corridors? How do you let light in?” The answers to these questions are sure to illuminate a new, natureinspired path in hospitality design—one that leads to a more efficient, more sustainable and much more comfortable world.

One key touchpoint for Francis is Bill Browning’s 14 Patterns of Biophilic Design, published in 2014 by Terrapin Bright Green, which thoughtfully expounds upon “the relationships between nature, human biology and the design of the built environment.” To facilitate the transition from research to application, it posits a system of patterns that encourages the widespread design implementation of biophilia. “The way that Bill looked at biophilic design for office spaces is a model for our approach to hospitality,” says Francis, “and we need to make biophilia a bigger part of the conversation in this industry.”

TOP RIGHT: Near & Far Collection, product NF401, colour Shale.

At Gensler, Francis oversees a multimilliondollar design business that includes projects like the $40-million renovation and ballroom addition at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, AZ, and the $15-million public space renovation at the Sheraton Kauai Resort in Poipu Beach, HI. She got her start as an engineer and worked for Gensler earlier in her career before founding her own company, Càdiz Collaboration, to provide architectural, interior design and green consulting services to major spas and hospitality brands such as Xanterra Parks & Resorts, for whose El Tovar Hotel she sourced all materials within 500 miles of the property’s location on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. A major proponent of sustainability, Francis is a thought leader when it comes to calibrating the ideal balance between environmental awareness, powerful design and the bottom line. In an effort to make progressive movement in greening the hospitality industry, she founded Hotels+Green. This forum for sharing tips, case studies and best practices helps hospitality professionals stay current on sustainability trends and understand why sustainable hotels not only don’t cost more but can lead to savings, profitability and increased brand loyalty.

INTERFACEHOSPITALITY.COM

event | schiavello

THEME:

SCHIAVELLO CHRISTMAS PARTY

VENUE:

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA.

WEBSITE: SCHIAVELLO.COM

choice | ode to art

NATURE OF LOVE - COLORS B

orn in the town of Ushak, Turkey and now based in the United States, Coplu is a self-taught artist who is widely collected with exhibitions throughout Europe, North America and Japan. His work is a mirror that reflects the feelings, beliefs, thoughts, fears and experiences that we all share in life. The subjects of his paintings are the relationships between ourselves, and the environments we are connected to.

“Generally, there are three strong elements in my Art that I have the privilege to combine, all of which I try to express a vibrancy through - color, humor and technique. Being raised alongside broad cultural diversities, where all feelings and levels of expression were represented by color, they became very much part of my life. Humor is a key element in my paintings as I try to see the funny side in all things - I believe it is one of the most effective ways to open minds and raise consciousness.” Says Coplu.

He recently introduced a new series of Artworks to his art lovers, which contributes to his wonderfully visualized imaginary world with sculptures made with Epoxy Resin, a unique technique that has been deeply studied in order to best realize the emotions and feelings of his characters.

The trees with hearts, called “Natural Love – Colors & Warmth” took more than a year of thought experimentation to find the best materials and to obtain the desired correct finish to the sculpted form. These sculptures evoke the sense of love, of humanity and of the warmth of human nature, as in the tree of love.

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TOP: Coplu, Nature of Love - Color, 2015, Epoxy Resin, 150 x 95 x 95cm

Learn more at odetoart.com