A Place called Home

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

Interview by Peggy Lui Copywriter by Suzi Yamaguchi Photos courtesy of AB Concept

It was a quiet rainy day when Terence picked me up at the Karuizawa JR station, a normally bustling tourist destination. I felt a pang of desolation seeing that many shops are still temporarily closed in the downtown area because of the pandemic. Terence suggested, “why don't we buy some dessert and go home for the interview!“. There is no reason for me to turn down such an offer because Japanese desserts are really delicious, I mean ‘really delicious’. I could say it is heaven living in Japan with all the different kinds of amazing desserts, that is if you like sweets.

During the pandemic, Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, the founders of Hong Kong-based interior architectural studio AB Concept, escaped to their cottage in Karuizawa, Japan. Karuizawa, situated in the south-eastern part of Nagano Prefecture, is a haven for lovers of beautiful mountainous views, serene nature, and mysterious history.

"We didn't know the pandemic would have us stay here this long, and although Japan used to be our favorite place in the world, we didn't expect to stay here for good. So many things have changed. Through this experience, I discovered that I love to take photos of nature and am now geared up with a full set of equipment for photography. I have developed various new hobbies, I have even learned to do yoga now,” said Terence.

The lifestyle that used to drive us has changed. We no longer have a need to wear bespoke tailored shirts to business meetings, and we now spend more time doing things we enjoy.

Karuizawa is located on a plateau in a beautiful natural environment at the foot of Mount Asama and boasts a vibrant

creative community, attracting an array of artisans and international inhabitants. They engaged a local architect to design the stylish timber and stone 200 sq m two-story three-bedroom chalet nestled in the mountain in the

luscious forest.

After removing my shoes at the traditional Japanese genkan, I was welcomed into the open-plan living and dining area separated from the kitchen with a marble island bench. I immediately felt the comforts of a mountain chalet with the natural tones and scent of the cedar walls and ceiling. The high ceilings and expansive windows taking full advantage of the spectacular views which momentarily took my breath

away.

The interior is an eclectic mix of antique and modern, sprinkled with arts and ceramics sourced from local artisans and a collection of objects and trinkets: memorabilia from their adventures to different parts of the globe. The dining table was designed by architect George Nakashima and overlooking the dining table is a stunning painting by Finnish artist Juri Markkula: RGB Series (Blue) (2015). I was especially drawn to the circle wood feature laid by the window as it signified infinity which is how I felt in this space. I could stay here forever - infinite. In order to make the most of the breathtaking 180-degree views, they built a 50 sq m deck furnished with Sebastian Herkner Mbrace chairs and Corten steel fireplace from the Netherlands. I felt like I was floating above the forest as I cherished the euphoria of feeling my body in union with the elements, recharged by the energy only nature can induce.

Ng mentioned that they have purchased the adjoining plot of land where they will be building a larger residence, leaving the chalet for friends and family. I look forward to visiting their new abode to report back in the near future.