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TRENDING

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OCT 2020

9 ON-TREND LOOKS FOR THE STUDY SPACE HOW TO CREATE A LEARNING ZONE FOR KIDS

award winning team employs a personalized, multisensory methodology craftingÂ joyful, liveable homes that nourish the soul and soothe the body.

Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Interior Design (Residence) International Property Awards 2019

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Best Bespoke Interior Design Tatler Design Awards 2019

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CONTENTS

OCTOBER

NOW

DESIGN NEWS, PLACES TO V I S I T, T H I N G S T O B U Y

19 HERE THOU ART, ROMEO Flexform’s incredibly versatile sofa Romeo is designed to look at home in any space.

S HO P PING 20

GREAT BUYS Our monthly roundup of the hottest new design products for the home.

H OT SP OT 26

HANSIK GOO Chef Mingoo Kang’s Hong Kong outpost is a contemporary take on 14th century traditional Korean architecture. 28

CONRAD HANGZHOU inspired by the surrounding water landscape of the Chinese city of Hangzhou, features beautifully flowing interior spaces.

28 24

Conrad Hangzhou Poetic curves, colour palettes inspired by the four seasons and compelling narratives blend together in this luxury hotel.

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

PEO PL E

MEDITERRANEAN MODERNITY

What’s German metal sculptor and photographer Rainer Lagemann’s personal philosophy?

Paris and Monacobased design studio Humber & Poyet has a knack for translating complex narrative and concepts into emotive spaces unique to their location. 36

WELL, WHY NOT? Thai fashion designer Bhanu Inkawat on the Asian way of life and the inspiration behind his brand Greyhound Original’s collaboration with Ikea. 38

A PURPOSE TO REPURPOSE 42

Cherin Tan, founder of interior design firm LAANK, talks about LAAT, her unique upcycling furniture label co-created with PHUNK co-founder Alvin Tan.

UP CLOSE

FAI R R E P OR T 42

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL The 17th edition of the London Design Festival was, once again, a celebration of talent from the UK. 50

THE NEW NORMAL FOR CITY DWELLERS Fang Low, CEO and co-founder of co-living company Figment, talks about how the postpandemic situation has transformed how we relate to each other.

A Purpose to Repurpose Award-winning interior designer Cherin Tan on breathing a new life into unwanted items.

DESIGN

I D E A S A N D I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M THOSE IN THE KNOW

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

PLAYFUL DISPOSITION Built on the bones of a former farmhouse, this home-cum-atelier is a chic combination of bright colours and minimalist surfaces.

Decked with treasured keepsakes, the eclectic decor of this home tells the story of its ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; blended tastes, heritage, travels and love for toys.

Cool, muted hues and delicately curved shapes help to create the zen atmosphere of this Balmoral condominium apartment.

In this terrace house, luxury is born out of a medley of beautiful views, privacy and materials meant to age gracefully.

CHARM OF THE CALM

HOMES THE NEW MODERN

SPARKING JOY

TIMELESS ELEGANCE

on the cover

COOL CONTRAST Brimming with character, creative touches and bold colour choices, this apartment is proof that an open layout can still be cosy.

Monocot Studio has created a cool-toned cosy study overlooking the greenery. PHOTOGRAPHY VERONICA TAY STYLING NONIE CHEN

CELEBRATING

YEARS

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

FE ATU R E

P R O P E RT Y

9 STYLISH STUDY LOOKS TO GET INSPIRED BY

IS THE GSW SINGAPORE’S HIPPEST ADDRESS?

From the United States, Mexico and France to Australia and China, these spaces have everything to please the eye and boost creativity. 96

WORKPLACE WISDOM AT HOME Now that life and work collide at home in our study, it is up to us to define the boundaries. Here are tips from some of the world’s most prominent office furniture brands. 104

WORK AND PLAY Setting up your child’s room for optimal learning? Here’s what you need to know. 110

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

114

With exciting plans for the Greater Southern Waterfront announced by PM Lee Hsien Loong, property punters are heading south in anticipation of prices shooting north. 14

EDITOR’S NOTE 17

H&D.COM.SG 16 DIGITAL EDITION EXCLUSIVES 25 IN STORES 118 WHERE TO BUY 119

BUYING GUIDE 12 0

THE HARD TRUTH

Sleek, stylish pieces for a home office that will contribute to a job well done.

9 Stylish Study Looks

FEATURES T H E L AT E S T I N D E S I G N AND DECOR TRENDS

From the minimalist to the cleverly intricate.

For a strikingly modern home.

Quality designs at accessible prices. Studio: 19 Keppel Road, #02-06 Jit Poh Building 089058 Tel: 3138 1999 | www.castlery.com

EDITORIAL

PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Young Lim (younglim@sph.com.sg)

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CREATIVE SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Nonie Chen (noniec@sph.com.sg) ART DIRECTOR Kristy Quah (krisquah@sph.com.sg)

PHOTOGRAPHERS Phyllicia Wang (wanglx@sph.com.sg) Vee Chin (veechin@sph.com.sg) SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE EXECUTIVE Wendy Wong (wwong@sph.com.sg)

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O P E R AT I O N S

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BANKING, INSURANCE & INVESTMENT Ellen Lee

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CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Ignatius Low GROUP MARKETING HEAD Sharon Cheong CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS HEAD Chin Soo Fang VICE-PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES Irene Lee

Home & Decor is published by SPH Magazines, a division of Singapore Press Holdings Ltd, 1000 Toa Payoh N, S318994, Tel: 6319-6319 SPH Magazines registration no: 196900476M MCI (P) 088/09/2020 Distributed by Circulation Department, Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. Printed by timesprinters, Singapore registration no.: 198402868E All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed or implied in Home & Decor are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. For back issues, e-mail: circs@sph.com.sg. Subscribe online: www.homeanddecor.com.sg.

EDITOR’S NOTE

J OY O F H O M E D E S K I N G With the consistently low number of Covid-19 infections among the community in Singapore, the government recently eased preventive measures, enabling more employees to return to the workplace from 28 September, 2020. However, workers, whose jobs can be performed from home, may only return to the office for up to half their working time and working from home remains the default for most. For those who have been using their dining table as a makeshift work station during the Circuit Breaker period, it is time to come to terms with the fact that

working from home part of the time throughout the week is going to be the new normal that we need to get used to. Creating a conducive space at home for work, with access to essential devices, such as a printer or scanner and other office supplies, has become a necessity. This issue is dedicated to helping homeowners plan for a proper home office or study space, whether it’s an entire room or just a corner in your living- or bedroom. Find out what the experts on have to say, and how you can make a functional space look chic and stylish. Enjoy your time working from home and we’ll see you again in November.

photography ANGELA GUO art direction NONIE CHEN

YO U N G L I M E D I TO R - I N - C H I E F

E H T F O T R A P E B

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TA ST E S O C I E T YS G

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Which mesh router is better? Editor-in-Chief Young does a review of two popular routers. tinyurl.com/meshrouter

Shop Singapore-inspired home goods Hit up these stores for furniture and home accessories infused with local flavour. tinyurl.com/sgfurniture

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#Her World Her Story

60 suc pas

inspiring real-life stories omen haring their llenges, bitions

Every month from March to August, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be featuring 10 women in print and online. Read about their struggles and triumphs, and watch their videos on wwww.herworld.com/herworldherstory/ and our IG account @herworldsingapore

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We want to hear your story too. Tell us about it on your IG profile, and add the hashtag #HerWorldHerStory so we can find it and share it.

HERE THOU A R T, R O M E O

STORE AND DISPLAY With multiple configurations and finish options, the Studio Storage system from British brand Very Good & Proper (VG&P) is suitable for working spaces both in commercial and residential settings. Studio Storage features a royal blue metal structure with integrated display panels fitted with either cork or whiteboards for office or family communications, as well as open shelves and cabinets to store documents and equipment.

ERGONOMIC PORTABILITY

These days, your couch, dining table and kitchen countertop might serve as a work surface. None of these is ergonomically designed for the correct posture. Rizr, a portable sit-to-stand desk by local brand MaNa, offers 12 height settings, lightweight case, a tilted surface and screen adjustment with a noslip grip to keep your laptop in place while working.

The Studio Storage retails at ÂŁ2400 ($4,330) from VG&P, verygoodandproper.co.uk.

TILE OF THE MONTH

PEACE & QUIET Having worked from home these past few months, we realised that there is so much noise in our domestic environment. One way to minimise this distraction is by installing acoustic tiles in the wall of the study. Commonly found in offices, the acoustic tiles of today have evolved to look at home at, well, our homes. An example is the Mura Wave Tiles from Woven image. Featuring 4mm-thick 50x50cm tiles made with recycled PET, the acoustic solution absorbs sounds, creating peace and quiet in your study area, and adds texture to your wall. Available in 12 colours. Mura Wave Tiles is sold in a box of nine tiles for $640 from Woven Image, www.wovenimage.com.

Rizr is launched on Kickstarter at an early bird price of $139 (until 21 Oct, UP $279), www.mana.sg/rizr.

TRENDING

IN FULL BLOOM Add a dash of whimsy and delight to your living space with these sculptural chairs fashioned after the shape of flowers in full bloom. From the abstract and organic forms to the anatomically correct blossom, these chairs can serve as the centrepiece in a minimalist interior and or playful complementary piece among your houseplants and echoes the nature outside. Plus, it creates an instant Instagram-worthy profile picture.

1. Bouquet Small Armchair by Tokujin Yoshioka, $13,450 from Moroso, available in Singapore by Xtra, www.xtra. com.sg

3 . Getsuen Armchair by Masanori Umeda, $11,220 from Edra, available at Space Furniture www. spacefurniture.com. sg.

2 . Flower Armchair by S. Santantonio, â&#x201A;Ź2,640 ($4,238), from Giovannetti, www. giovanetticollezioni.it.

4 . Bloom Easy Armchair Swivel, from US$3,430 ($4.650), from Kenneth Cobonpue, www. kennethcobonpue. com.

5 . Quetzal Chair by Marc Venot, from â&#x201A;Ź3,098 ($4,976), from Missana, www. missana.es.

PERFECTLY TUNED The best task chairs in the market are precision-engineered to support your body for an extended period of time, hence: the hefty price tags. ErgoTune, a local brand specialising in adjustable seating solutions, offers a more affordable option. The ErgoTune chair features a height-adjustable backrest, an Auto-Tuning Lumbar Area Support (ATLAS), a fourlevel reclining mechanism and rotatable and adjustable armrests. In short, all that highend office chairs offer, with a more comfortable price point. The ErgoTune Chair retails from $399 to $599 from www.ergotune.com.

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH What: Lim Tze Peng’s A Century Of Ink When: Now until 28 October Where: www.odetoart.com

SMART LAUNDRY Forget the hassle of stacking your washer and dryer individually – LG’s WashTower is an integrated all-inone unit for your laundry. The washer and dryer are separate units but communicate with each other, so that when you load your laundry into the washer, the dryer automatically sets the optimal course and preheats itself to save you time. They also share a single, intuitive interface for easy control. For more information, please visit www.lg.com/global/exhibition/ appliances.escentials, TANGS at Tang Plaza, and www.escentials.com.

Born on 28 September 1921 in Pasir Ris, Lim Tze Peng is a living legend in Singapore’s art scene Renowned for his Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy. The 99-year-old is still a prolific artist, spending

a few hours a day painting. Embracing technology, he is embarking on a journey into the digital sphere with a solo virtual exhibition Lim Tze Peng’s A Century Of Ink, hosted by Ode to Art gallery. The exhibition showcases his latest artworks as well as never-before-seen private collections.

FRESHEN UP Keep your clothes and bags fresh on the go with the DIY Fabric Spray bundle, a collaboration between Hong Kong fashion label Tove & Libra and UK organic skincare brand Neal’s Yard Remedies. The spray comes with three organic essential oils in lavender, palmarosa, and orange, which you can mix to concoct your personalised blend. The bundle

ANTI VIRAL

also includes a linen and cotton pouch by Tove & Libra to hold all of your essentials. The spray bundle retails for $78 on www.simplewellness.com.sg and at Neal’s Yard Remedies Boutique in Takashimaya.

Local interior specialist company Jestac has launched a line of antiviral vinyl wallpaper and flooring called Lonprotect, which uses advanced antiviral technology from Japan that deactivates contagious viruses by 99.9 per cent within an hour, making it ideal for high-traffic surfaces. The active agents in Lonprotect’s vinyl chloride resin layer destroy the living envelope of the virus, preventing it from replicating. Lonprotect is available in over 200 flooring designs and six wallpaper designs. Price by request, find out more at www.lonprotect.com.

NEWS From Tuscany with Love

KIMIA, a hi-tech wearable knee rehabilitation kit designed by NUS graduates Aaron Ramzeen and Ricky Guo has been crowned as the national winner of the 2020 James Dyson Award. KIMIA simplifies and streamlines the rehab process.

Edra, the trailblazing Tuscan design brand has landed in Singapore shore thanks to Space Furniture. The prominent furniture retailer unveiled the new Spazio Edra, a dedicated display at its Space Furniture Asia Hub showroom on Bencoolen Street, in September. The sculptural pieces

More at www. jamesdysonaward.org

Architecture Saving Our World Taking place over six weekends from 25 September to 31 October, the 2020 edition of Archifest is a hybrid of physical and digital events. It takes the theme of Architecture Saving Our World and presents a lineup of more than 100 programmes comprising popups, ground-up initiatives and

A Rehab Kit for the Win

displayed at the showroom include iconic pieces like the Rose Chair by Masanori Umeda, On The Rocks Sofa by Francesco Binfare and the polycarbonate Ella Chair by Jacopo Foggini. Visit www. spacefurniture.com.sg for more information and private viewing appointments.

projects across the island, as well as the staple pavilion. This year’s winning design by ADDP Architects and OWIU Design, titled Reclaiming Connectivity, is a virtual pavilion that invites festival-goers to experience an interactive 3D virtual tour accessible through Archifest website www.archifest.sg.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

999 ELEPHANTS Vitra’s iconic toy elephant turns 75 this year. Developed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1945; it never went into production until 2007, when it quickly gained a cult status. In 2018, Vitra launched the wood version to much fanfare, and this year, marking the semisesquicentennial (that’s three-quarter of a century) anniversary, Vitra has launched a special series in grey-stained wood, bringing the intricately produced collector’s item even closer to its living counterparts. The Eames Elephant in grey-stained plywood is a limited, numbered series of 999 pieces, sold for $2,530 each at Vitra Store by W.Atelier and www.vitra.com

NATIONAL IDENTITY Find these familiar? You probably will if you’ve lived in Singapore long enough. This limited-edition NDP 55 collection by design-forward furniture brand Grafunkt and fabric design studio Onlewo features a stool and ottoman upholstered in a tilepattern reminiscent of the benches and tables usually found in Singapore’s public spaces. The pieces are modular, so they look great on their own or arranged as a group. Either way, it’s sure to be a talking point among your guests. The Grafunkt x Onlewo NDP 55 collection retails from $420 at www.grafunkt.com or at Grafunkt’s Funan Mall store.

text ASIH JENIE & MELODY BAY

I N S TO R E

A L L W I T H I N R E AC H A cluttered desk reflects a cluttered mind – so says many workplace experts, who advise to tidy up your desk at the end of the day so you can have a fresh start the next day. This principle applies, too, at home, where most of us are working from these days. And the secret to a tidy desk? Have an ample storage. The Barley-N-MY Study Table from Star Living offers a clean-cut, mattewhite work surface on a powdercoated base that is attached to a whole cupboard finished in light-coloured Oak melamine that serves as storage, filing cabinets and drawers for all your document and electronic, storing everything you need within your reach, and making it super easy to tidy up at the end of the day.

FOREVER INDUSTRIAL Fans of industrial aesthetic rejoice! Cosentino just launched Silestone Loft, a collection of five new colours inspired by the specific industrial look in some of the coolest cities in the world. The grey Camden is an homage to its namesake London neighbourhood; the warm grey Poblenou is a nod to Barcelona; Seaport mimics the gritty cement of Manhattan’s seaside district and Nolita’s white shade is inspired by New York’s North of Little Italy area; while the deep black Corktown is inspired by Detroit. The new colours are produced using a new environmentally friendly technology and come with a 25year warranty.

Silestone Loft collection can be viewed at Cosentino City Singapore at 34/35 Duxton Road. Call 6713 9543 to book a private viewing. Find out more at www. cosentino.com/en-sg.

Barley-N-MY Study Table retails for $999 from Star Living, www.starliving.com.sg.

TA K E N TO B E D Now that we spend most of our time at home, your bed has evolved into a place for not only sleeping, but also for entertainment or even a workspace where you check emails and do some tasks.

Cellini’s Float Adjustable Bed is designed to cater to our increasing demand for flexible and tailored furniture. It features a frame that can be adjusted for a comfortable sitting position and USB ports on both sides to ensure your gadgets never run out of battery. Taking into account multiple users’ different sleeping habits, Cellini has designed the double bed with two mattresses and separate reclining mechanisms that allow you to sit and work while your partner peacefully sleeps. The Natura mattress features breathable bamboo fabric that ensures it always feels cool even on warm and humid nights. Float Adjustable Bed with Natura Mattress and USB Ports are sold as a set at $3,599 (promo price, UP $12,888), available at Cellini, www.cellini.com.sg

H O T S P OT

Hansik Goo Korean chef Mingoo Kang’s latest fine dining destination in Hong Kong is a celebration of communal meals and a contemporary take on 14th century traditional Korean architecture.

hef Mingoo Kang rose to international fame in his native South Korea with his two-Michelin-starred Mingles – currently No. 14 of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2020. Hansik Goo, his latest venture, is a fine dining restaurant in Hong Kong that serves a contemporary take on traditional communal Korean meals. Launched in collaboration with ZS Hospitality, Hansik Goo has a cosy, timber-clad setting designed by multidisciplinary interior design practice JJ Acuna / Bespoke Studio. Taking inspiration for Hansik Goo’s interior design from Mingoo’s artisanal plating, studio founder JJ Acuna crafted a narrative of “Sky, Earth and Bounty”, which split the 2,200 sq ft dining space into three distinct zones. The main dining room (Sky Zone) is dressed in various shades of blue while the bar (Earth Zone) is clad in timber and copper. Separated from

these two areas by a forest green curtain, the chef’s private dining room (Bounty Zone) features natural walnut and birch timber finishes with soothing green accents, as seen in the dining chair upholstery and frosted glass partitions. Creating warmth and uniting the three zones, Korean oak and birch introduce ease and softness. Handcrafted glazed ceramic tiles add a contemporary feel with their glossiness while curated artworks by emerging Korean artists from Soluna Fine Art

reinforce the visual narrative. The design team also took inspiration from Bukchon Hanok Village, an ancient neighbourhood in Seoul with a distinct traditional architecture dating back to the 14th century. The geometric pattern on the wall of the private dining room as well as the limestone and poured terrazzo floor pattern in the main dining room were fashioned after elements found in the village. Visit www.hansikgoo.hk to find out more. LEFT

The bar or Earth Zone, features various shades of brown. The Bounty Zone, a private dining space beyond the bar, highlights green accents.

good to know A BOVE

The Sky Zone or main dining space. O PPOS ITE , LE FT

The fivepanel artwork Breathing of Light 20MA01 by Lee Kyouhong reinforces the design narrative.

Hansik Goo is a play on Korean words that translate to “a family that shares meals” and “Korean cuisine by Chef Mingoo”.

O PPOS ITE , R IGHT

Glossy glazed tiles lend a contemporary touch to an otherwise retro interior.

text ASIH JENIE photos XU LIANG LEON

H O T S P OT

The interior of the restaurant Li’an tells the story of a Chinese woman’s journey from Hangzhou to explore the world before returning to the city to share her tales..

L CONRAD HANGZHOU Nestled in a high-rise designed by UNStudio, this new hotel, inspired by the surrounding landscape of the Chinese city of Hangzhou, features interior spaces created by AB Concept.

ocated in the heart of Qianjiang’s central business district, Conrad Hangzhou is an ode to the beauty of the West Lake cultural landscape, which comprises the West Lake and the hills surrounding its three sides that were declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2011. Renowned for their sensual, narrative-driven interiors, the founders of Hong Kong-based interior architectural studio AB Concept, Ed Ng and Terence Ngan, captured the spirit of the area while reinterpreting

its contemporary sensibilities by exploring how movement translates into space. “When we think of the heritage and cultural aspects of Hangzhou, the beautiful West Lake immediately comes to mind,” says Ed. “It’s this feeling that led to the overall fluid and undulating design.” It took eight years to conceptualise the interiors of the 324-room hotel, which opened last year. The unique shape of the building, created by UNStudio, was a challenge for AB Concept. On every

good to know TO P

The sleek lift lobby dressed in glossy marble and timber. A BOVE

The spa lounge. A BOVE , R IGHT

On the eighth floor is this 20m indoor pool and a fully equipped fitness centre. BE LOW

An artwork depicting the moon with a weeping willow at the Blue Willow brasserie.

floor, the interior designers had to adapt to the changing geometry, using undulating curves, rounded surfaces and sensual forms instead of traditional shapes. The sense of movement is omnipresent, from the floor-toceiling animated metallic panel and hanging glass above the concierge area to the flowing walls and the playful wave-like patterns throughout the hotel. Used as a metaphor for change, the four seasons inspired the design of the rooms and lounge.

The standard Summer Serenade guestrooms feature bathroom shutters decorated with water lily motifs and offer breathtaking views of the Qiantang River. The 25 suites (Autumn Prelude) feature rounded shapes and curves. The executive lounge (Spring Harmonic) is dressed in green tones and timber flooring while the Presidential Suite (Winter Finale) is articulated with refined details. In addition to the spa, indoor pool and fitness centre, Conrad Hangzhou is also home to three restaurants and a lobby bar with unique personalities. Located on the 50th floor of the hotel, Li’An, whose interior features Eastern cultural references that tell the story of a Chinese woman’s journey, is the highest restaurant in Hangzhou. Situated on the 27th floor, the upscale brasserie Blue Willow takes inspiration from the weeping willows of the West Lake. For the

Conrad Hangzhou is part of Raffles City, a mixed-use urban development in Qianjiang New Town by CapitaLand.

sushi bar and teppanyaki station Uka, AB Concept highlighted warm tones. In Jin, a luxurious tea lounge by day and an elegant bar by night, the key design element is the curvaceous grand staircase that leads guests to Blue Willow and Sky Lounge that’s one floor above it. Through the elegant spaces of Conrad Hangzhou, Ed and Terence have successfully woven a rich visual narrative at a crossroad where tradition and modernity, and urban skyline and nature meet. To learn more about the hotel, visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ hghfrci-conrad-hangzhou.

text KARINE MONIE photos OWEN RAGGETT

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I D E A S A N D I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M T H O S E I N T H E K N O W

M E D I T E R R ANEAN MODERNITY The name Humbert & Poyet keeps cropping up in design circles. Based in both Paris and Monaco, the studio is known for the refined, bold designs of Beefbar restaurants around the world, including Hong Kong. Each has a distinctive visual concept and identity that are inspired by its location, thanks to Emil Humbert (right) and Christophe Poyetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademark knack for translating complex 3-D ambiences. Writer Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE finds outÂ more.

SPOTLIGHT

1. Humbert & Poyet’s neoclassical bathroom for the AD Interieurs 2019 showcase. 2. Their Quartiers Mirror (right) and Structure I Lamp for The Invisible Collection, an online platform selling curated pieces by some of the world’s best interior designers. 3. The duo’s brass dining table in a Rue des Archives Paris apartment. 4. The Hoxton, Paris guest bedroom. 5 . The Wine Palace concept store in Monaco has 2,300 bottles as part of the decor.

n Beefbar Paris, Emil Humbert and Christophe Poyet used an existing art nouveau interior as the backdrop for their meticulously opulent design. In Beefbar Mexico, they installed black wood and bronze panelling, custom alabaster lighting, leather walls and a raw granite bar. For couturier Alexis Mabille’s Parisian boutique, the Humbert & Poyet studio thought of the space with cinema decor, imagining plays of mirrors, geometry and textiles that emphasised the creator’s glamorous spirit. Obsessed with attention to detail, the two 30-something founders even design most of the furniture pieces and lighting themselves to offer a total experience to clients across the globe, creating spaces not dependent on time and trends, and expressing an urban Mediterranean lifestyle. They represent a new definition of luxury – one that’s understated yet theatrical, less austere and more enjoyable, mixing eras, from classicism to modernism. Like directors, they design every project like a movie or stage set, with the interiors transporting users and allowing them to immerse themselves in the space, aiming to create a scene with the best lighting and the best decor to tell the right story. Born Legendary The Humbert & Poyet adventure was born from a meeting between two men, two skills and two visions of the profession.

Raised in Paris, Emil is the son of an advertising executive and a ballet dancer. Monacoborn Christophe learnt to compose visually from his photographer grandfather. “We both come from families who practised art professionally or personally,” says Christophe. “We can’t remember the first time we realised design was important in our lives. Creating and designing have just always been present.” A mutual friend introduced the Paris-trained duo in 2007, when Emil had set up his architectural firm and Christophe had just finished studies in interior design. They joined forces to set up Humbert & Poyet a year later, believing they were stronger as a duo rather than each working independently. They already shared the same influences and aesthetic: modernism, mid-century Italian architecture and design, Art

Deco, 1950s and ’70s design icons, and Hollywood glamour, as well as artisanal savoir-faire. “It was natural. I instantly knew we’d work together,” discloses Emil. “We share a common vision, with a great interest in the arts and craftsmanship. Our approach to design is the same: creating compositions and mixing periods. We are always exchanging ideas and challenging ourselves – and in constant evolution. When in front of your equal, with mutual respect for each other’s opinions, the creative process is richer.”

Better Together Both passionate about 20th century high-end decoration, travel, fashion and contemporary art, and art collectors themselves, the pair has fashioned a spectacularly luxurious universe based on blends of marble, wood,

“BRASS, IN PARTICULAR, IS A SIGNATURE OF OURS. WE ENJOY EXPLORING ALL OF ITS FINISHES: BRUSHED, FLUTED, TOOTHED AND MATTE.” – CHRISTOPHE POYET

bronze and brass. “Brass, in particular, is a signature of ours. We enjoy exploring all of its finishes: brushed, fluted, toothed and matte,” notes Christophe. “We use brass to highlight and value the other noble materials it is paired with.” Right from the start, they were successful, thanks to restaurant and store projects in Monaco, which ensured them exceptional visibility. Their effectiveness lies in complementary specialisations: Emil is a qualified architect from the Parisian National School of Architecture and Christophe, an interior designer, who studied at Charpentier Academy’s Interior Architecture/Design School of Applied Arts in Paris. Their combined expertise

allows them to design both the envelope as well as the interior of a place to offer a global perspective. “Our approach starts with inspirations, research and connecting these elements to spaces, and then translating the inspirations into form and material,” explains Emil. “Each project is individual. It’s a balance and an exchange. We are appreciative of all the trust clients give us and the freedom we have to express ourselves creatively. The most challenging aspect of design can be structural, with architectural restoration or spaces where there are limitations, and we have to work around these constraints. But this is often the most rewarding process, too.” Art in Living As artisanal creations Emil and Christophe have customdesigned exclusively for clients appear prominently in all of their firm’s projects, they decided last year to release their first line of furniture, lighting and objects for the Invisible Collection, an online platform selling the works of major figures of contemporary design, which includes armchairs, tables, mirrors and lamps inspired by the Art Deco movement. “We decided to launch

6. The rich textures of the Beefbar Dubai. 7. Humbert & Poyet’s polished brass Ava Floor Lamp for The Invisible Collection stands elegantly on a travertine base.

KEY DESIGNS

our collection to reflect our aesthetic and appreciation of design,” states Christophe. “All the partners we work with are in Italy. Our clientele includes international design aficionados of all ages.” Favouring noble materials, they play with shapes as well as finishes so each piece becomes a unique piece of art. Today, they lead a team of 20 in Monaco and Paris tasked with working on over 30 hospitality, commercial and residential commissions. Recently completed projects include Ultimate Provence, a wine estate in the south of France, and Beefbar Malta, the first beach club concept for the Beefbar brand. In the pipeline are two luxury hotels in South Korea, new restaurant concepts in New

York, London, Milan and Athens, and 26 Carre Or – an ultra-luxe, 19-storey residential tower in Monte Carlo. Located near the Place du Casino, it is the pair’s largest project yet. Showcasing shades of beige, grey and ivory enhanced by luxury marble features, dark woodwork and precious bronze and copper inserts, it will offer panoramic views over Monaco’s landmarks. Emil and Christophe are designing all the interiors – from the lobby to the four-level penthouse, contributing to the facade that will showcase rounded Corian balconies, and even fitting the underground car park with brass mesh walls and lighting because they feel that the garage should be just as elegant as the rest of the project.

BEEFBAR RESTAURANTS After the success of the first Beefbar in Monaco, the concept went global. Proposing an intimate ambience reminiscent of gentlemen’s and wine tasting clubs, the Beefbar restaurants worldwide use materials that are simple, raw and premium: black wood and bronze panels, Humbert & Poyetdesigned alabaster lighting, natural granite bars, earth-toned leather walls and Murano glass chandeliers.

RUE DES ARCHIVES APARTMENT IN PARIS Inspired by the modernist, Art Deco and Memphis movements, paired with classicism, Humbert & Poyet used marble, terrazzo, wood and brass to create a sophisticated family home conducive to entertaining and decorated with beautiful mouldings, an elegant chimney, mid-century and contemporary furniture and modern art.

photos FRANCIS AMIAND

THE HOXTON, PARIS Following on from London and Amsterdam, the 171-room hotel pays homage to French craftsmanship from two crucial eras in Parisian history. The guestrooms combine a classic Parisian spirit with a 1950s atmosphere referencing small industrial workshops, while the cornices, wainscoting and herringbone parquet evoke the building’s original 18th century grandeur.

CHALET IN GSTAAD The three-storey ski chalet panelled in rustic reclaimed barn wood showcases open spaces on the top floor to take advantage of mountain views, veined marble bathrooms, a blue limestone fireplace, a cage-like wood and brass staircase, dark-stained oak floors, antique and contemporary furniture, cashmere and velvet upholstery, and alabaster light fixtures.

POEPLE

WELL, WHY NOT? Thai fashion designer Bhanu Inkawat on Thai street style, the Asian way of life – and the inspiration behind his brand Greyhound Original’s playful collaboration with Ikea.

hen Thai designer Bhanu Inkawat, founder and executive creative director of fashion brand Greyhound Original, received an e-mail from Ikea Sweden proposing a collaboration in 2017, he dismissed it as spam. “My first thought was why would a global furniture brand like Ikea collaborate with a Thai fashion brand like us?” After three e-mails, he decided to check with Ikea Thailand and discovered that the invitation was legit. What followed was a rigorous, two-year product development that yielded a limited, bestselling collection christened Sammankoppla. Comprising homeware and accessories inspired by Thai 36

traditional Thai woven straw mats. The Ikea versions are made using recycled bottles and straws. The triangular cushion was also inspired by the traditional Thai handwoven cushion, which has 11 handmade parts. Ikea has been able to simplify and translate this for mass production. The Sammankoppla version is filled with cotton that’s grown using less water.

street style, the collection was designed to be affordable, multifunctional and adaptable. The items retail from $1.90 (a zip pouch) to $129 (a shelving unit inspired by scaffolding). There are also rugs and bags made with woven PET waste, and a jacket for chairs – a wink to Greyhound Original’s fashion roots. It launched here in August and was warmly received by shoppers, who cleaned out some items in just two weeks. We asked Bhanu to elaborate.

WHICH ITEM IN THE COLLECTION WAS THE

HOW DID GREYHOUND

HARDEST TO DEVELOP?

ORIGINAL TRANSLATE

The Sammankoppla Chair Cover. Well, why not? You drape your jacket on a chair all the time. Greyhound Original is a fashion brand, so we thought, “Jacket for chairs – why not?” It must be able to fit most chairs, so we had to come up with a new pattern. There is a zipper running the length of its side so you can zip your chair in, making it warmer and softer. It also has pockets for gadgets like a remote control and a mobile phone charger.

THAI STREET STYLE INTO IKEA FURNITURE?

Greyhound Original is all about basics with a twist. We love mixing art and creativity, and making ordinary things more pleasurable. For this collaboration with Ikea, we wanted to create something that was Thai at heart but not too traditional, so we looked into what was happening with Thai street style, which is very anything goes – and nothing goes to waste. We don’t throw away broken things, we repurpose them, adapt them and make them work again. One of the key points in Ikea’s design brief was sustainability, and this sends a beautiful message to today’s throwaway culture. You have a chair with a broken leg? Replace that leg with an upside-down bucket. You have empty plastic bottles? Why not reuse them as lampshades? You also see scaffolding in Thai Streets, so why not design shelves based on that? We incorporated some traditional Thai motifs, but did so sparingly to fit our urban lifestyle today. You can

“YOU HAVE A CHAIR WITH A BROKEN LEG? REPLACE THAT LEG WITH AN UPSIDE-DOWN BUCKET. YOU HAVE EMPTY PLASTIC BOTTLES? WHY NOT REUSE THEM AS LAMPSHADES?” BHANU INKAWAT, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF GREYHOUND ORIGINAL

WHAT’S YOUR HOPE FOR THIS COLLECTION IN A WORLD

find these motifs on the edge of a Sammankoppla table, on tableware and on the pouches and bags, which have become some of Ikea’s beloved bestsellers. We’ve also created a jacket for chairs – because, well, why not? We’re a fashion brand and, as I said, we love adding twists to basic things. HOW DO YOU THINK THAI STREET STYLE FITS INTO SINGAPORE HOMES AND OTHERS IN THE WORLD?

Another key point in Ikea’s

design brief was tackling smallspace living. These items fit small homes. Some are even multipurpose. In Thailand, we have a floor living culture. We sit on the floor, we sleep on the floor and we work on it, too. This is common in many parts of Asia, including Singapore, but it is a novel idea in the West. It is exciting to introduce this culture to the rest of the world. The Sammankoppla Flatwoven Rugs are designed to introduce the concept of floor living. They were inspired by

text ASIH JENIE photos COURTESY OF IKEA

BROUGHT TO A PAUSE BY THE PANDEMIC?

We’re spending more time at home, so obviously we want to make it more enjoyable. Dress up your chair, have shelves that remind you of the streets, and lamps from plastic bottles. We want these items to bring smiles to your home. Sammankoppla is a limited collection, sold at Ikea Alexandra and Tampines, as well as at www. ikea.com/sg/en. It is available while stocks last.

PEOPLE

A PURPOSE TO REPURPOSE Cherin Tan, founder of award-winning interior design firm LAANK, talks about LAAT, her unique upcycling furniture label co-created with PHUNK co-founder Alvin Tan.

ith so much waste generated by unsold items in the furniture industry, do we really need another new furniture brand? In the case of LAAT, the answer is a resounding yes, thanks to its unique design philosophy. LAAT is a local furniture label founded by two awardwinning creatives: interior designer Cherin Tan, founder of interior architecture firm LAANK, and multidisciplinary artist Alvin Tan, co-founder of art and design collective PHUNK. LAATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose is to repurpose; the label produces furniture collections crafted from unsold items and material waste, breathing a new life into dead stocks and turning them into bespoke items that straddle the realm of design and art. We asked Cherin to share more.

HOW DID LAAT COME ABOUT?

WHERE DID YOU SOURCE

Alvin and I have been long-time collaborators. We’ve worked together on many projects, and in some of them, we created products from various industry scraps and salvaged materials. We thought, “Why don’t we collaborate on a series?” And the idea evolved into creating LAAT as a platform for these collaborations.

THE MATERIALS FOR LAAT’S

IS IT LAAT’S INTENTION TO CREATE OBJECTS THAT ARE BOTH DESIGN ITEMS AND ARTWORK?

We’re more interested in creating artistic value to repurposed items that otherwise would go to waste by giving them a new lease of life as one-of-a-kind items. Because of the nature of the materials, the items cannot be exactly replicated. We also have so much fun exploring the new ways we can make something old and historic new again.

FURNITURE FROM?

Everywhere – salvaged materials, overstocks, dead stocks. Sometimes suppliers we’ve worked with called us and donated their unsold materials for us to turn into something, like lighting fixtures, sanitary fittings, candle holders and so on. We think it is a wonderful thing to repurpose these as furniture materials rather than creating something from scratch and produce more waste in the process. ARE LAAT’S FURNITURE MANUFACTURED IN SINGAPORE?

Yes. We have some very talented and resourceful manufacturers and craftspeople in Singapore. I have collaborated with them for some items in my own home, like a freestanding sink repurposed from a giant planter.

WHAT’S YOUR HOPE AND

WHO ARE LAAT’S

DREAMS FOR THIS VENTURE?

CUSTOMERS?

For LAAT to become a collaboration platform for creatives across industries. Our collaboration so far is quite organic. The first series was inspired by the iconic German performer and singer Klaus Nomi, who died from AIDS complications in 1983. Part of the proceeds from the sale of LAAT’s first series will be donated to Action for AIDS Singapore, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to fighting AIDS and HIV infection in Singapore. For the next series, we will collaborate with different creatives and organisations. We’re keeping our minds open.

Anybody who can appreciate a piece of art, but not shy away from the word “upcycling”. People who can find beauty in repurposing and those who seek something unique.

HOW CAN WE GET LAAT

DO YOU ACCEPT MATERIAL DONATIONS?

Absolutely. The ultimate goal of LAAT eventually is to be a brand that offers not just products, but also solutions. Maybe you have to downsize because you move places and you have some items you’d like to donate or repurpose? Or dead stocks piling up in your warehouse? We’d like to help by giving them artistic values.

FURNITURE?

Our collection is sold at the Art Now Gallery at the Raffles Arcade. You can also reach us directly via our Instagram handle @laat.sg. WHAT KIND OF CUSTOMISATION DO YOU OFFER?

We can customise some elements of the items we have in our series. Each item is unique, and we won’t be able to exactly replicate it once it’s sold out. But if we still have the materials on hand, we can create something similar and customise the colour or finishes.

text ASIH JENIE

TOP

The Keys of Life table (left, $1,850) and the Three Wishes seat bench (right, $1,200) from the first series features playful shapes and sculptural metallic parts repurposed from a supplier’s dead stocks.

BOTTOM

The lamp collection from LAAT’s first series comprises three desk lamps (Total Eclipse on the floor, Lightning Strikes on the bed and High Wire near the wall, each $380) and a floor lamp called The Cold Song ($850), which was inspired by Klaus Nomi’s iconic style.

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U P C LO S E

RAINER LAGEMANN What’s German metal sculptor and photographer Rainer Lagemann’s personal philosophy? He shares the best piece of advice he’s ever heard, what inspires him and a couple of life lessons.

can one be able to capture the nuances and absurdity of the movie. Of course, Walter Matthau, the male lead of the movie, was on another level! What is your guilty pleasure? There are too many to mention, but afternoon naps are one of them. What is one style you hate and never want to see again? Any kind with a military style or is designed to create and establish authority. What is your design style? The design style in my surroundings is very much influenced by the late 1990s and early 2000s - experimental, generous, whimsical and surprising. Less is more. Hence, shapes and lines have to be clean yet purposeful. For me, the quality of materials and the satisfaction of the senses are vital. For instance, when one touches a surface, how does it make one feel? What’s the best advice you’ve received? Be alert and pay extra attention to negative thoughts. Thoughts that cause sadness, anger and, of course, frustration should be questioned. Once we do that, they lose their power. These thoughts are rarely real

What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try but have never summoned the courage to do so? If I have not done it by now, it means I do not want to do it. A lack of courage has never once What inspires you? held me back. I am not a daredevil My inspiration comes from the in the sense of ‘Hey, let me jump visuals around me. Challenges out of an airplane’, but of moving inspire me. Each hurdle motivates from Germany to Chile on my me to ensure I reflect, think own to intern in an underground creatively, and come up with copper mine. I was 18 then and did new solutions to overcome them. not speak a single word of Spanish. Without challenges, there will not That took plenty of courage on be growth. my part. and are often brought about by varying external influences. I believe I will be free when I question my thoughts instead of wholeheartedly believing in them.

What is one movie you have watched more than once, and why? A New Leaf (1971), which Elaine May directed, wrote and starred in. She is a brilliant and witty writer. Her dialogues deserve multiple listening. Only then

text MELODY BAY

What is one thing you had to learn the hard way? I learned that one can’t please everyone. It is downright impossible, and you could lose your identity. You should always live your life for yourself without pleasing or hurting anyone.

DESIGN REPORT

London Design Festival The 17th edition of the London Design Festival was, once again, a celebration of talent from the UK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which has one of the biggest creative economies in the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and beyond with over 400 different events, exhibitions and installations.

he last edition of the London Design Festival, before Covid-19, seemed to mark a shift towards a more conscious approach to design. The best product launches and installations focused on how designers can address some of the most pressing concerns facing the world today, from sustainability to the activation of public spaces in increasingly dense urban areas. British designer Paul Cocksedge transformed one of London’s most pedestrianised neighbourhoods with Please Be Seated, a huge installation of undulating benches offering communal seating and archways for shelter, and delivering a new way for people to interact with the built environment and each other. At the V&A Museum, Japanese

architect Kengo Kuma created a sculptural installation that explored how bamboo and carbon fibre could be woven together as a potential building solution for earthquakeprone areas, and architect Sam Jacob brought one of the Eames’ most famous textile patterns to life in an animation projected into the museum’s vast lobby, replacing the sea creatures of the original pattern with plastic waste objects. Elsewhere, designers showcased products in striking ways. Lee Broom’s Kaleidoscopia installation, for example, featured just 17 Orion lights reflected in infinity mirrors to create a mindbending immersive space. Here, we share our favourite trends, products and emerging designers from the festival.

TREND 1

M AT E R I A L M AT T E R S

Sculptural lighting with a focus on overt materiality was big. From new innovations to more traditional materials used in clever ways, designers had fun playing with the way light interacts with surfaces. These lamps make a huge impact, whether hung as single pendants or clustered dramatically.

S T R A N D P E N DA N T L A M P S B Y L AY E R F O R M U U T O

The Modernist Strand Pendant Lamps by Layer for Muuto are made by spraying an innovative fibrous material over fine steel frames. www.muuto.com; www.layerdesign.com

C OA X B Y J O H N H O G A N FOR ROLL & HILL

Glass artist John Hogan has created a sculptural symphony of glass, metal and light in the Coax pendant lamp for Roll & Hill. www.rollandhill.com A N N I K A BY U P G R O U P

Biomorphic layers of Carrara marble form the elegantly intricate Annika pendant by Italian designer Paolo Ulian for Upgroup. www.upgroup.it

TREND 2

C O LO U R P O P

Bright, bold accents can bring any unremarkable interior to life. This year, it was all about solid primary colours and simple graphic forms. When it comes to playing with such vivid shades, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about finding a balance; a little goes a long way.

MT M IRR OR BY

A P O L LO C H A I R S

VERY GOOD & PROPER

BY BOHINC STU D I O

The MT Mirror by Ed Carpenter, CEO and creative director of British design brand Very Good & Proper, features a bold yellow frame with chunky details inspired by a shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s porthole.

Bohnic Studio took inspiration from the 50th anniversary of the historic Apollo 11 Moon mission for its Planetaria collection, which features these striking blue and red chairs.

www.verygoodandproper.co.uk

www.bohnicstudio.com

H O P P E R C R E D E N Z A BY JAMES BURLEIGH

After more than 20 years in the industry, British design studio James Burleigh launched its first credenza. The Hopper has a hard-wearing laminate finish and comes in over 100 colours. www.jamesburleigh.co.uk

TREND 3

CONSCIOUS DESIGN

Eco-friendly design is a timely trend that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Responsible designers explored all facets of sustainability – from upcycling and recycling to innovative new materials, and crafting objects that make us think about what and how we choose to consume. The best pieces celebrated the inherent characteristics of the sustainable process through striking form and materiality.

C A N O P Y BY L S A I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Inspired by the biomes of the Eden Project, said to be the world’s largest indoor rainforest that’s in the UK, this clever self-watering vase by LSA International is made from 100 per cent recycled glass. www.lsa-international.com

R A E B U R N X L AY E R

British fashion designer Christopher Raeburn collaborated with Benjamin Hubert of Layer to turn surplus military parachutes into evocative rocking chairs and screens. www.raeburndesign.co.uk; www.layerdesign.com

RESPONSIBLE DESIGNERS FESTIVAL EXPLORED ALL FACETS OF SUSTAINABILITY – FROM UPCYCLING AND RECYCLING TO INNOVATIVE NEW MATERIALS, AND CRAFTING OBJECTS THAT MAKE US THINK ABOUT WHAT AND HOW WE CHOOSE TO CONSUME.

H I G H L I G H T BY H I G H S O C I E T Y

Italian manufacturing start-up High Society used upcycled by-products from the hemp, tobacco and wine industries to craft these minimal lampshades. www.high-society.it

TREND 4

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Everything old is new again, it seems, as brands reinterpret iconic pieces in new colours and finishes. Contemporary designers have taken inspiration from the influential Bauhaus design movement, which celebrates its centenary this year. Think strong geometric forms and a focus onÂ functionality.

R E F L E C T B Y V E R PA N

The elegant Reflect lamp by Verpan was developed from never-before-seen sketches from the archives of iconic mid20th century Danish architect and designer Verner Panton.

U N D E R G R O U N D VO L . I I B Y K I R K BY D E S I G N

www.verpan.com

Kirkby Design teamed up with Transport for London (TfL) to create Underground Vol.II, a distinctive collection of upholstery velvets derived from the original designs historically used across the TfL network. www.kirkbydesign.com

F F C H A I R S BY FRIENDS & FOUNDERS

These Bauhaus-inspired FF chairs by Copenhagenbased Rasmus and Ida Linea Hildebrand of Danish/Swedish design company Friends & Founders feature a chromeplated steel tube structure and curved backrest, giving them seriously retro vibes. www.friendsfounders.com

TREND 5

I N TO T H E WO O D S

Timber is always in fashion, but the focus this year was on design that put craftsmanship and undisguised construction in the spotlight, while celebrating the inherent qualities and character of natural wood. This is part of a larger movement with an obviously more crafted approach to design â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and to which the warmth of timber lends itself particularly well.

C A R A B OT T I N O BY C A R A\ DAV I D E F O R M E D U L U M

Italian design studio Cara\Davide built these cabinets using a traditional system of wooden slats that defines graphic architectural forms. www.medulum.it

SCHOFIELD FOR ERCOL S C A L LO P E D BY T E DWO O D

Crafted from solid oak, the ScallopEd collection by Ted Jefferis of TedWood Furniture utilises a clever scalloped leg detail to remain visually light. www.tedjefferis.co.uk

British designer Daniel Schofieldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tenon Table for Ercol is based on an oversized wedged tenon joint, creating a strong visual identity from the method of construction. www.ercol.com

T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N

The London Design Festival isn’t just a showcase for established designers. It is a hotbed of new creative talents just waiting to be discovered, too. Here are three of the most talked about.

T R I S TA N H I B B E R D

A recent graduate from Kingston School of Art in London, Tristan Hibberd’s work explores the fine line between sculptural form and engineering prowess. His Pivot Coat Stand – which exemplifies this approach and won a Joined + Jointed’s J+J Generations 2019 Award – was exhibited at the 100% Design showcase. The playful piece features a series of poles that rotate on solid timber orbs at their base to create a visually spectacular, elegant object. @tristanhibberd_design; www.joinedandjointed.com

JESPER ERIKSSON

ALEXANDER SCHUL

Young German designer Alexander Schul has tapped into global concerns about plastic consumption, looking at new applications for recycled plastic. His Substantial furniture collection – on show as part of the Guiltless Plastic exhibition – won him the inaugural Ro Plastic Prize, founded by renowned Milanese gallerist Rossana Orlandi. This pleasingly utilitarian chair is made from sheets of high-impact polystyrene, and has been designed to be easily and efficiently manufactured.

London-based designer Jesper Eriksson, born in 1990 in Paris, has made a name for himself by exploring coal as something more than a functional raw material. The second iteration of Coal: Post Fuel, a collection of furniture that explores the potential of coal as a design material, was showcased at Mint design gallery. Elemental chunks of coal were polished on the surface to resemble black marble and paired with refined glass and metal elements. www.jesper-eriksson.com

www.alexanderschul.com

text MANDI KEIGHRAN

VO I C E S

THE NEW NORMAL FOR CITY DWELLERS

Fang Low, CEO and co-founder of co-living company Figment, talks about how the postpandemic situation has transformed how we relate to each other – and opened our eyes to compelling issues we need to address.

asks. Sanitiser. Technical glitches. “Oops, you’re on mute”. Unmuting to say “thank you, bye!” This is our new normal. One that has many of us trying hard to recognise people from their eyes, mannerisms, posture and way of walking. It’s online shopping, food delivery and slowing down in sociallydistanced queues, too. And Friday night family dinners across two tables or meals with only your best pals. The world feels a little smaller. Although the effects of Covid-19 vary across countries and social groups, it is a global experience that hits much more immediately than, say, the climate crisis. We have a lot more shared experiences now, even more so among city dwellers. Some adjustments are bigger than others, and some that are just too big to only term an ‘adjustment’. So many businesses have had to pull down their shutters, and many residents are at a loss and unemployed. Indefinite postponements and clinging on to the next announcements are also part of the new normal. During these times, I’ve been glad to see people mobilising themselves to save small businesses, like the Singapore Restaurant Rescue movement. The F&B business was never easy to begin with, but more people better understand that now. So I hope this will be part of the new normal, too. All the ground-up projects born in this crisis, such as how struggling Singapore independent cinema The Projector has uploaded its films for online streaming, I hope they continue.

The funny thing is, while we distance and isolate ourselves, Covid-19 has only exposed us to what we tried to shield ourselves from before: a vulnerable supply chain, unsustainably cheap labour, poor working conditions for migrant workers, vulnerable families, and more. They’re all out in the open now. The new normal is opening our eyes. As city dwellers, perhaps we are all more connected now. We’re no longer passing each other carelessly on the train, but bumping into each other at virtual events we care about. You meet the neighbour you didn’t know at the nearby restaurant when you both try to skip food delivery middlemen. And you understand the dynamics of your home more than ever. For Figment, being in the business of the boutique coobjective living in heritage Figment currently shophouses, we’ve operates 14 come into more shophouses in contact with our Singapore. Each members than ever contains four to before. Previously, six suites. Their monthly leases most left their range from homes for work, $1,950 to $3,190. but now they are all in the same space for many hours of the day. They tell me that they’ve taken the opportunity to get to know each other better, and have started using their shared living spaces as workspaces, too. And that they’ve comfortably settled into these charming, oldworld neighbourhoods. During this time of confinement, we should count our blessings when our homes can serve as daily inspiration for a thriving creative life.

1, 2 & 3 The Shang House on Pegu Road in the Balestier area was co-created with furniture brand Scene Shang. It features vintage and bespoke furniture, and Peranakaninspired artworks.

photos IVAN TAN (WWW.IVANTAN.COM)

photos EDWARD HENDRICKS

Also, being grounded, little trips to parks and beaches are all the more precious. I’ve noticed our curbside plants wilding about now that they’re not trimmed so often, and I quite like it. The new normal is noticing and cherishing details. The new normal is seeing things as they are.

4 & 5 Canvas House on Blair Road, co-created with Ministry of Design, features mostly white furniture against whitewashed architectural canvas, making elements of the heritage shophouse’s original design pop.

Fang Low is the CEO and co-founder of local co-living company Figment.

PLAYFUL DISPOSITION Built on the bones of a former farmhouse, this home-cum-atelier of a designer couple and their four children is a chic combination of bright colours, industrial aesthetics, and fluid indoor-outdoor connection. ASIH JENIE finds out more.

A view of the stairwell from the ground level reveals the unique ceiling treatment and perforated black metal staircase. OPPOS ITE

Whitewashed surfaces with concrete, corten or weathered steel and artworks create an interior thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s akin to a gallery.

ow do you balance family life with four children while running an atelier and a workshop? In Italian designer Antonella Gnetti’s case, it helps to have the home and office in the same place. Created by multidisciplinary architectural studio Alvisi Kirimoto, her Casa C is a three-storey home and design studio built on the architectural bones of a former farmhouse on a hill in the north of Rome. It has a builtup area of 6,092 sq ft with a 6,588 sq ft garden overlooking

the Inviolatella Borghese Urban Park. The house, designed primarily for moments of conviviality with family and friends, showcases Antonella and her partner’s art collection, as well as her bespoke furniture and decor atelier, Opficio Lauchli. The sporty couple wanted a tranquil place to retreat to while still maintaining a connection to the urban pulse. Tasked with translating the duality of this brief in the property’s interior and landscape, Alvisi Kirimoto made

the most of Casa C’s location with open plans and floor-toceiling windows. “We designed a dynamic, open space with a deep connection to the landscape and kept the volume of the old farmhouse, but completely renovated the interiors,” shares architect Junko Kirimoto, who co-founded the studio with fellow architect Massimo Alvisi in 2002. Both the ground and the top floors are mostly conceived as large, open spaces – the former housing the living, dining and

ABOVE

The angles brought about by layering the balustrade, the yellow ceiling and the perforated metal staircase are decidedly eye-catching.

OPPOS ITE

The airy ground level showcases the ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; art collections, which the furniture was curated to complement.

LEFT

The communal top floor can be used as a living room or a one huge workspace.

kitchen areas, as well as the owners’ artwork collection while the latter is dedicated to the master suite and an extensive study. The first storey houses bedrooms for the couple’s four children. The architects designed a unique spatial experience for each floor by articulating the ceilings differently. The ground floor has a whitewashed ceiling with concrete flooring and corten steel walls, the first features a cheery yellow ceiling, and the top floor makes the most of its height by exposing the former farmhouse’s original wooden structure. Connecting all three levels is a cool black

staircase. Made with expanded metal panels, it adds a serious rock and roll, industrial vibe while keeping the overall visual lightness of the interior with its perforated surfaces. As light filters in via the generously sized skylight, the staircase demonstrates dramatic shadow play. The porch near the kitchen blurs the boundaries between the inside and out while the vegetable garden in front of it links the transition between the park, the urban landscape and the house. Alvisi Kirimoto custom-designed Casa C’s builtin furniture to complement the owners’ furniture and artwork

A metal ribbon runs along the perimeter of the top floor, defining work surfaces and various furniture. O PPOS ITE , TOP

Homeowner Antonella Gnetti. O PPOS ITE , B OT TOM

Vibia Wireflow pendant lights and Cappellini Hi Pad dining chairs add visual excitement to the dining area.

A vegetable garden next to the outdoor dining area links the house and its greater environment.

LE FT

This study corner’s custom shelves can be moved about on the pegboard wall. FAR LE FT

Alvisi Kirimoto’s custom desks on wheels and bookcase. B OTTOM

The corridor leading to the master bedroom. The powder room (left) separates it from the livingstudy area.

collections, which add pops of colours to an otherwise neutral palette. Each of the children’s bedrooms has a study area outfitted with flexible furniture such as shelves and study desks fitted with castors that can be easily adjusted and modified as they grow. The top floor is where life and work collide for Antonella and her partner. A strategically positioned powder room serves as a buffer between the master suite and the extensive living-study area, where Alvisi Kirimoto installed custom “floating” cabinets made with cork along the wall. These are connected with one another via a metal ribbon that forms a continuous work surface along the perimeter of the study, and folds into a magazine rack, benches, a chaise longue, and a flap top that conceals a kitchen with a sink and a stovetop. All in all, Alvisi Kirimoto has managed to balance the warmth of Casa C’s old bones with its owners’ hip personalities, resulting in a playful, cleverly and impeccably articulated farmhouse-meetsurban-pulse concept.

photos SERENA ELLER VAINICHER

The dry kitchen is made more spacious with the use of plywood for the cabinetry and a well-chosen colour scheme.

CHARM OF THE CALM Cool, muted hues and delicately curved shapes help to create the zen atmosphere of thisÂ Balmoral condominium apartment. MELODY BAY does a walk-through.

ABOVE

Blue enhances mind flow and productivity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and a relaxing atmosphere to study or work in. LEFT

Clean curves, whether structural or otherwise, evoke emotions such as feeling relaxed. In this home, they also prevent the area from looking boxy or closedÂ in. FAR LEFT

Part of the archway is done in plywood.

WHO LIVES HERE H OME

A family of three Two-bedroom condominium in Balmoral SIZE 1,150 sq ft

Large windows in the study allow natural daylight into the rest of the apartment.

t was when they were browsing on Instagram that homeowners Rudi and Wayne came across Mikael Teh, the principal of Monocot Studio’s work. They decided to engage his services for the design and renovation of their two-bedroom condominium apartment in Balmoral after falling in love with his sense of style and use of colours. Together with their son, they were able to move into their home in March this year. Since space was at a premium, they had to be super practical. Rudi and Wayne wanted spatial flexibility,

especially in communal areas like the kitchen. Mikael addressed this by incorporating features such as a kitchen island, which doubles as a table for family meals. It was also specifically designed to be portable, so that it can go with them to their next home. The couple loves colours and wanted a palette with a muted yet timeless and poetic feel. Together with Mikael, they went through a rigorous selection process, testing nine different paint samples before settling on the ones they wanted. But the result was worth the effort. The colour scheme of cool 63

neutral hues and pastels creates an ambience that’s calming and contemporary. The cool tones are also wellbalanced with the use of plywood throughout the house, which lends warmth while keeping the whole look visually bright and spacious. The light blond engineered wood features mainly in the kitchen cabinets, the island counter, an archway, the shelving in the study and the wardrobe in the master bedroom. To take the design up a notch, Mikael included rounded elements throughout, creating pleasing curves that meet the eye, whether you’re sitting in the study or passing under the archway, and minimising the feel of boxiness. The renovation took three months and $70,000. Mikael also helped to curate the furnishings, selecting a mix from Muji, Muuto, Louis Poulsen, Herman Miller and more: “I chose the pieces based on how well they went with the design. The &Tradition Flowerpot pendant lights, for example, complement the curves and colours in the kitchen.” 64

ABOVE

A similarly neutral palette runs through the bathroom and the wet kitchen. LEFT

Black makes the bathroom pop. OPPOS ITE

The generous use of wood combined with the abundant greenery adds warmth to the study. The calming green of nature helps to promote security and relieve both eye and mind stress, so one can think from a better perspective.

LEFT

A backlit oval mirror mingles beautifully with the other more angular shapes in the bathroom. BOTTOM

Little details, like this sconce, help to continue the theme of round elements, even in the bathroom. OPPOS IT E

As their colour reflects light instead of absorbing it, the light tones of plywood help to prevent the wardrobe from visually overwhelming the space.

MIKAEL INCLUDED ROUNDED ELEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE APARTMENT, CREATING PLEASING CURVES THAT MEET THE EYE, WHETHER YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE SITTING IN THE STUDY OR PASSING UNDER THE ARCHWAY.

photos MONOCOT STUDIO & STUDIO PERIPHERY

Modern, vibrant art pieces enliven spaces. O PPOS ITE

The open layout and communal setting are perfect for gatherings.

COOL CONTRAST Brimming with character, creative touches and bold colour choices, this apartment is proof that an open layout can still be cosy. MICHELLE LEE delves into its design strategies.

OPPOSI TE

The colours and mood of the kitchen were determined by the terrazzo tiles on the island.

RI GHT

The lady of the house’s parents were delighted with the transformation of her mum’s antique sewing machine.

FAR RI GHT

Industrial-style dining chairs add a modern, edgy spin to the wooden dining table from Prestige Affairs. BOTTOM

Personal objects, like the guitar, add to the decor.

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 30s HOM E Two-bedroom private apartment in Telok Kurau SIZE 1,350 sq ft

nitially drawn to the idea of an industrial style, the homeowners of this apartment in Telok Kurau worked with interior stylist and designer Priscilla Tan of Styledbypt to create an oasis of eclecticism and cosiness. Their brief asked for a flexible, modular space that permitted different furniture layouts and could accommodate many guests. “My clients were also clear from the start that they wanted midnight blue tiles and green marble,” shares Priscilla. The open layout oozes conviviality, with the living and dining spaces blending

seamlessly together. One is immediately drawn to the punchy, burnt orange ceiling Priscilla suggested because it added drama while creating an intimate feel. The accordion glass doors open to give a feeling of spaciousness or close to demarcate the space as a guest room. A 2.4m wooden dining table takes centre stage, perfect for both hosting dinner parties and doubling as their workspace. The bay window seat, previously an awkward balcony area, is also a dining bench that conceals the homeowners’ vinyl records. In the living 71

room, shimmery cementlooking wallpaper adds an interesting texture that complements the herringbone wood flooring, while strategically placed sofa modules from Knocknock Furniture create a laid-back, communal setting. Sentimental pieces make up part of the decor, too. These include travel keepsakes, gifts from friends and an antique sewing machine that belonged to the wifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mother. Priscilla took it apart,

reworking it into a console table topped with a green marble slab. The head of the machine serves as a sculptural art piece on the TV console. At the other end of the room is a sophisticated-looking bar with a stunning forest green marble backsplash and tabletop and gold-toned shelves. Over 150 bottles of liquor, including sake, are proudly showcased in a custom cabinet with glass doors that mimic those of the wineÂ fridge.

OPPOSITE, TOP

The bay window seat, which doubles as a dining bench or guest bed, is one of the homeowners’ favourite lounging spots.

BELOW

The bathroom’s black and white decor is daringly elevated by the striking marble backdrop.

OPPOSITE, BOTTOM

Green marble paired with gold-toned accents lend sophistication to the bar.

“THE MIX OF JEWEL TONES WITH WOOD AND BLACK ACCENTS EVOKES THE FEEL OF A PRIVATE BAR THAT CATERS TO THE HOMEOWNERS’ LOVE FOR ENTERTAINING.” - PRISCILLA TAN, STYLEDBYPT

A B OVE

Bright accents and timber-like tiles add colour to the master bedroom.

A BOVE

Connected to the master bedroom, the walk-in wardrobe is nearly 12m long. R IGHT

Priscilla carved out plenty of storage space, including a full-height shoe cabinet and a storeroom that conceals the distribution board as well as the owners’ bicycle collection.

The high-contrast colour palette in the kitchen instantly catches one’s eye; green marble subway tiles juxtapose with the orange ceiling, against which a kitchen island inlaid with terrazzo tiles from Soon Bee Huat stands out. Black accents – from the cabinetry to a quirky statement lighting fixture from Taobao – balance the bold colours and anchor the space. The modern eclectic atmosphere continues into the spacious master bedroom and the adjoining walk-in wardrobe, which used to be two smaller rooms. In response to the homeowners’ preference for darker tones, Priscilla clad the walls in a midnight blue. Timber-like homogenous floor tiles and a visually textured feature wall, alongside vibrant furnishings and art pieces, keep

things upbeat and lighten the otherwise brooding space. It’s all contemporary drama in the master bathroom, with black-veined, marble-effect tiles forming the backdrop of a double vanity that steals the show, especially when teamed with dark blueish-green tiles. The common bathroom, on the other hand, is decked in patterned tiles and has a concrete sink. For Priscilla, the choice of materials was a significant part of the inspiration for the renovation, which cost over $100,000. She tells us: “We agreed on a few mood board ideas. After going tile shopping, the vision of the home became a lot clearer. You can get inspiration from materials when you are stuck with your design.”

photography LOUIS PORFIRIOS/JOY DE VI renovation SCRATCH

SPARKING JOY Brimming with treasured keepsakes, the eclectic decor of this home tells the story of its ownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; blended tastes, heritage, travels and love for toys. MICHELLE LEE takes a tour.

WHO LIVES HERE

HOME

A couple in their 30s and their adopted dog Tilby. A five-room HDB Flat in Jurong West SI Z E 1,185 sq ft

Decorative accents, vintage finds and keepsakes are brilliantly integrated, bringing character and meaning into the home.

I BOTTOM , LE FT

The sculptural wooden swing chair from Taobao sits in Lindy’s favourite spot.

BOTTOM , RIG HT

Accordion glass doors separate the kitchen from the other spaces. OPP OSI TE

An irregular alcove and a wall are home to the couple’s growing toy collections.

t’s important that your home reflects your character,” Lindy Lin and Denice Chua, the owners of this five-room HDB apartment in Jurong West, tell us. And theirs, filled with vintage souvenirs from their travels, toys and other mementoes, does exactly that. Lindy, a corporate sales manager, and Denice, a graphic designer, called on Carmen Tang, design director of Wolf Woof, to create a cosy abode that meets Lindy’s love for a lighter palette, and Denice’s preference for punchy hues and black accents. A key feature is the decorative cement breezeblock at the entrance that pays homage to Lindy’s Peranakan heritage on her grandmother’s side. Beyond it is the kitchen with glass accordion doors

that let light in, lend a sense of openness and keep cooking fumes from reaching the rest of the home. Details such as contrasting black and wood tones, patterned tiles and PU leather cabinet handles jazz up the otherwise simple L-shaped kitchen. Carmen also added a mesh cabinet that conceals the pipes. The white, wood and black scheme extends to the common bathroom, which has the same geometric floor tiles, and a marble-effect hexagonal tile on the walls. The combined living and dining area is spacious but irregularly-shaped. Interestingly, its angles gel swimmingly with the eclectic, playful vibe of the decor. “Working around the odd layout was one of the main

challenges,” Carmen points out. “Built-in furnishings were kept minimal to keep the place from feeling cramped.” Thoughtfully placed furniture and a divider also aid in zoning the open layout of the home. The neutral base palette is punched up with a cheerful mix of patterned rugs, bright cushions, movie posters and shelves of toys. One’s gaze is instantly drawn to a sculptural wooden swing chair from Taobao that sits in Lindy’s favourite spot. The home is also

brimming with vintage finds, including an old projector that used to belong to Denice’s uncle, a red letterbox from an antique shop in Haji Lane, and an antique Siemens Brothers & Co telephone on the wall. “I bought that from London’s Portobello Road Market in 2013 and it still works. The customs officer thought it was a bomb as I’d stuffed it into my backpack!” recalls Lindy with a laugh. What was previously a walkway with a built-in wardrobe that led to the

L EFT

The master bedroom is a mix of retro charm and witty, modern touches. OPP OSITE

Shelves of toys and a Journey East Qeeboo seat give the study a playful charm.

DRESSED IN SOOTHING MINT AND LIGHT WOOD, [THE MASTER BEDROOM] IS SIMPLY BUT TASTEFULLY FURNISHED WITH A CURATED SELECTION OFÂ QUIRKY FINDS.

master bedroom is now a cosy study that provides the pair with more opportunities to showcase their massive toy collection in two display cabinets. Concealed by a barn door, the master bathroom can be found here, too. Beyond that is the new master bedroom. Dressed in soothing mint and light wood, it is simply but tastefully furnished with a curated selection of quirky finds, including a superhero robotinspired lamp from Kickstarter. The bedroom is connected to a large, stylish walk-in wardrobe via a black-framed glass door that now occupies what was originally a children’s bedroom. When it comes to building a home that you love, Denice and Lindy have this to share: “It is important to be on the same page as the designer. You also have to be prepared to scrap things that aren’t cost-effective, and be flexible. We were initially into the mid-century modern look, but changed things up to fit our tastes. We like a little bit of everything. Talk to your partner and be open to ideas. If you’re stubborn, you’ll wind up with a home that looks like everyone else’s.” The pair moved in after a three-month renovation, which set them back by $62,000, including the furniture.

ABOVE

Patterned tiles and a shower curtain with a cheeky slogan enliven the common bathroom.

L EFT

Wood-effect tiles in the shower area contrast with the rest of the space. The pipes have been painted black to blend in with the overall design. OPPOSITE

Black laminate, eye-catching floor tiles and thoughtful details zest up the light woodtoned palette.

photography VEE CHIN art direction KRISTY QUAH

P R O J E C T S H OWC A S E

TIMELESS ELEGANCE In this terrace house, luxury is born out of a medley of beautiful views, privacy and materials meant to age gracefully.

oth working in the banking industry, the couple who owns this intermediate terrace house in the Buona Vista area wanted it to be warm and inviting as they frequently entertain friends and family. They also wanted it to be quite different from their previous HDB home, where the interior featured bright colours

that quickly became dated. Tasked with the design, Metaphor Studio came up with a timelessly elegant interior that maximises the views of the surrounding greenery while providing ample room for gatherings as well as privacy when and where needed. Comfort was also paramount to the design, and Metaphor Studio

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 40s, their two children and a helper. HOM E Two-storey intermediate terrace house SI Z E 3,125 sq ft

achieved this thermally, aurally, spatially and visually. To begin, the design team switched the placement of the kitchen and the laundry area from the rear of the house to the front, relegating the vacated space for a double-height sunken living room. Clad with timber louvres, the living room enjoys lots of fresh air and an uninterrupted view of the neighbourhood’s greenery. The switch also effectively blocked the noise coming from the street, so the owners could enjoy private time as well as entertain guests uninterrupted. The material used highlighted a palette of muted greys, comprising exposed aerated concrete block walls, cement screed floors and black steel structures, all of which contrast nicely with the glossy marble of the dining and upper floors. Then there’s the leatherclad furniture, the handsome timber finish of storage spaces spread around the house, and the owners’ artwork collection. Now this is a space with a timeless appeal that will age gracefully with its inhabitants.

text ASIH JENIE photos COURTESY OF METAPHOR STUDIO

ABOVE

The dining room’s glossy marble floor contrasts nicely with the sunken living room’s cement screed floor. ABOVE, LEFT

An open, uninterrupted view of the neighbourhood’s greenery, as seen from the front of the house. L EF T

The kitchen sports a timber finish and features ample storage space. OPPOSIT E

The sunken living room, where the owners frequently entertain friends and family.

THE

HAPPY SHOPPING GUIDE

BRINGING YOUR DREAM HOME TO LIFE

Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a new homeowner or looking to give your space a new look, the design experts at Anhans Interior Design will help to bring your vision to life.

Five years ago, Schubert Ho and Annie Chan (right) had one humble mission: to help others envision and realise their dream homes. With sixteen years of industry experience under their belts and a passion for design, the husband-and-wife team set out to start up an interior design firm that would make their vision come to life. Thus, Anhans Interior Design was born. Designing a brand new space or remodelling a home can be daunting for the uninitiated â&#x20AC;&#x201C; something every interior designer knows well enough.

That’s why Anhans (sounds like ‘enhanced’) Interior Design is committed to making the renovation process a positive experience for all homeowners. From designing to building, the team helps clients navigate every step of the journey: consultation, space planning, site surveys, turnkey projects, defect checks and complete project management. “Home renovation is stressful enough as it is,”

design director Mr Ho explains. “With our team being involved in the entire design process from conceptualisation to completion, our clients can rest easy.” Over the last five years, Anhans Interior Design has built up an impressive portfolio of projects, varying from cosy two-bedroom apartments to penthouses, three-storey terrace houses and commercial spaces in Singapore and Malaysia. With

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every project, the team takes a careful and considered approach to design – placing an emphasis on functionality, efficiency and clever space planning. Whether in a residential, commercial or corporate space, Anhans Interior Design realises the importance of seamlessly integrating design with their clients’ lifestyles. “Every client is different,” Mr Ho notes, “but our objective always remains the same: to bring them comfort and improve the spaces where they live, work, relax or entertain.” Collaboration is a key philosophy, one that they have cultivated over the last five years. The team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life – budget notwithstanding. In addition, they also tap into a pool of trusted contractors and suppliers to ensure high standards of craftsmanship. Ultimately, Anhans Interior Design regards their passion for design as an art, and every project as an opportunity to create dream spaces for their clients.

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F E AT U R E

9 STYLISH STUDY LOOKS TO GET INSPIRED BY From the United States, Mexico and France to Australia and China, these spaces have everything to please the eye and boost creativity.

hen it comes to offices, some key concepts are: comfortable, cosy, flexible, functional and airy. Some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best interior designers have shared with us their vision of what makes a working space eye-catching and unique. Whether using a neutral palette based on black and white or pops of bright colour, pure lines or soft curves, made-to-measure furniture or iconic statement pieces, there are infinite possibilities. We spotted nine refreshing and inspiring examples. 88

M O N O C H R O M AT I C W I T H P O P S O F B R I G H T C O LO U R SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA INTERIOR DESIGN: GREG NATALE

Nestled in a 1960’s building in Sydney, Australian interior designer Greg Natale’s offices are spread over three floors. “Stylistically, I have always been fascinated by Paul Rudolph’s design for the Halston house on the Upper East Side,” confesses Greg. “There was a perfect blend of public and private spaces in the building, and this was something that I wanted to explore in creating my own commercial headquarters.” In the designer’s office, the Vapor rug, which was designed by Greg himself, was customcoloured for this room. The Eames moulded chairs and the Eames walnut desk are from Herman Miller while the black and gold credenza is also his creation. Decorative elements by Tom Dixon, Kelly Wearstler and Missoni Home are paired with Burgundy lamps from James Said and a painting from Scott Petrie. “Predominately, the space works with a monochromatic base palette, over which I layered metals and pops of colour in the artworks,” Greg says. “The space is also textured with perforated ceiling panels, fluted glass and subtly patterned rugs.”

“I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN FASCINATED BY PAUL RUDOLPH’S DESIGN FOR THE HALSTON HOUSE ON THE UPPER EAST SIDE.”

photos ANSON SMART

– GREG NATALE, INTERIOR DESIGNER

photos EDGARDO CONTRERAS

M A S C U L I N E LO O K W I T H A SENSE OF DRAMA MEXICO CITY, MEXICO INTERIOR DESIGN: ROY AZAR ARCHITECT

“I WANTED TO DESIGN AN INTIMATE SPACE WHERE I CAN BE SURROUNDED BY FAVOURITE OBJECTS THAT REPRESENT MEMORIES,” –ROY AZAR, FOUNDER OF ROY AZAR ARCHITECT

Both an architect and an interior designer whose eclectic style results from a passion for experimentation, Roy Azar created this project located in one of the most soughtafter areas of Mexico City. One of the main objectives was highlighting the owner’s contemporary art collection, so Roy decided to use clean architectural lines and neutral backdrops.

“The office’s focal point is an 8.23m-long curio cabinet displaying a collection of books and objects,” Roy notes. The 5.48m-long desk is made of grey parchment with bronze legs, the walls are upholstered in a dramatic black-and-white malachite print while the graphic pillow is by Pierre Frey. “I wanted to design an intimate space where I can be surrounded by favourite objects that represent memories,” Roy adds. “The large table ensures to have everything at hand.”

L A I D - B AC K W I T H B O H E M I A N TO U C H E S

MAX HUMPHREY

“The study was designed for the actress and social media influencer Meghan Rienks in Los Angeles, and she needed a fun, bright space where she could work”, says interior designer Max Humphrey. “I was inspired by bohemian design trends and wanted to mix modern furniture like the Blu Dot desk and Wayfair chair into the traditional space. I put smaller vintage rugs on top of larger, neutral rugs for a

photos LAURE JOLIET

INTERIOR DESIGN:

layered look. I brought in pops of colour and pattern with the smaller accessories like Loloi pillows. The final step was bringing the outdoors in with lots of plants and greenery from Rolling Greens,” he shares. The peace sign sculpture by Noir Furniture and the arrow curtain rods by Bend Goods complement the look. “Meghan has good vibes and perfectly embodies the spirit of Southern California”, Max says. “She works hard, but at the same time, she’s relaxed. Your office has to reflect your personality as much as possible.”

B L AC K A N D W H I T E SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES INTERIOR DESIGN: NICOLEHOLLIS photo DUSTY LU portrait CHRISTOPHER DIBBLE

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

“I WAS INSPIRED BY BOHEMIAN DESIGN TRENDS AND WANTED TO MIX MODERN FURNITURE LIKE THE BLU DOT DESK AND WAYFAIR CHAIR INTO THE TRADITIONAL SPACE. ” – MAX HUMPHREY, INTERIOR DESIGNER

“For our studio, we desired a white canvas where we could clear our minds of daily clutter and focus on creating a new concept for each and every design project,” says San Francisco designer Nicole Hollis, founder of Nicolehollis. “The studio is located in a historic building built in 1924. With its natural light and minimalist sensibility, the space acts as a laboratory where we can experiment. It is important to keep the studio uplifting and inspiring. We often have furniture designers, artists and fabricators drop off materials and furnishings – it’s always rotating”. The dining area off of the kitchen allows employees to gather at lunchtime. It also acts as an informal meeting place for the designers to review floor plans, samples and materials. The black table in familystyle dining is by James Perse, and the Chandelier 046 is by Dimore Studio. Just outside the windows is a beautiful view of Twin Peaks, a famous San Francisco landmark. 91

A M I X O F V I N TAG E A N D CONTEMPORARY

PARIS, FRANCE INTERIOR DESIGN: BISMUT &

photo FRANCIS AMIAND

BISMUT ARCHITECTES

In the Sixth Arrondissement of the French capital, brothers Daniel and Michel Bismut – the duo behind Paris-based studio Bismut & Bismut Architectes – decided to transform part of the entrance to a 3,229 sq ft Haussmann apartment to enhance its function. This part of the entrance, which opens up to the living room into a small study with a big leather desk, was formerly only used as a transitional space. Known for focusing on

the essentials and taking care of the volumes, lines, spaces and materials, Bismut & Bismut Architectes wanted to create rhythm and a sense of warmth in this space by adding subtle contrast and a mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. A work by German photographer Hans-Peter Feldmann adorns the wall above the custom-made, floating desk by Bismut & Bismut. The Cherner chair (1958) by Norman Cherner and the Snoopy table lamp (1967) by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni (distributed by Flos) add a historical touch to the whole.

CLEAN LINES AND NEUTRAL TONES SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

photo CHRISTOPHER STARK portrait PARKER FITZGERALD

INTERIOR DESIGN: ECHE

“MY OFFICE WINDOW LOOKS OUT ON TO A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN FILLED WITH TOPIARIES, AN ANTIQUE WATER FOUNTAIN AND CRUSHED BLUE GRAVELS.” - ECHE MARTINEZ , FOUNDER OF ECHE

“When it came to our offices, which are nestled in a 1908 Mediterranean-style building that served as the home of Therien Antiques, we wanted a clean space for client meetings and all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into designing spaces,” says Eche Martinez, founder of San Francisco-based design firm Eche. “The challenge was to create a space that spoke to our vision while providing a neutral enough backdrop for the important process of discovery and inspiration.” The desk is a vintage piece by Italian furniture manufacturer Studio Diapason, and the two pedestals are carved from a single piece of Carrara marble, making the glasswork surface look like it’s floating. “My office window looks out on to a beautiful garden filled with topiaries, an antique water fountain and crushed blue gravels,” Eche adds. “On nice days, it’s a perfect place for lunch or postwork drinks – one of the best-kept secrets in the Design District area!”

SOFT ELEGANCE NEW YORK, UNITED STATES INTERIOR DESIGN:

photos WILL ELLIS

THE NEW DESIGN PROJECT

“THE NEW WORK PROJECT IS AN INTIMATE, ONE-OF-A-KIND, DESIGN-LED WORKSPACE FOR INDIVIDUALLY MINDED CREATORS AND INNOVATORS” - JAMES DAVISON, FOUNDER OF THE NEW DESIGN PROJECT

Nestled in a historic building in Williamsburg – Brooklyn’s cultural hub populated with shops, cafes and restaurants – The New Work Project is a coworking space for individuals and businesses in the creative industries. Shaped by The New Design Project, a design studio helmed by Fanny Abbes and James Davison, it consists of workstations, conference rooms, lounges, gallery desks and private studios, adorned in black-and-white with brass detailing. Mid-century modern furniture and elegant lighting fixtures are combined with custom pieces by The New Design Project and others created in collaboration with local designers such as J.M. Szymanski and textile company Eskayel. “The New Work Project is an intimate, one-of-a-kind, design-led workspace for individually minded creators and innovators,” says James.

ART DECO VIBES SHENZHEN, CHINA INTERIOR DESIGN: DARIEL STUDIO

“COLOURS, PATTERNS, GEOMETRY AND GRAPHICS ARE EVERYWHERE – ON THE WALLS AND FLOORS AND UP TO RUGS AND FURNITURE THAT HAVE BEEN SPECIALLY DESIGNED FOR THIS PROJECT.”

photos DERRYCK MENERE

- THOMAS DARIEL, FOUNDER OF DARIEL STUDIO

Located in the heart of Shenzhen, China, and nestled in a landscaped garden, this 9,256 sq ft top-floor luxury penthouse was designed by French designer Thomas Dariel, founder of Shanghaibased Dariel Studio, who drew inspiration from the art deco movement. “Colours, patterns, geometry and graphics are everywhere – on the walls and floors and up to rugs and furniture that have been specially designed for this project”, Thomas says.

In this office, the interior designer introduced art deco codes with a contemporary twist. “Above all things, the space ought to be inspired and inspiring”, he adds. “It features a highly cultural and artistic environment dedicated to enlightening the user who will enjoy Koloman Moserinfluenced graphics, as well as pieces by surrealist artists such as Kay Sage, Francis Picabia or Ettore Sottsass.” Through all his projects, Thomas mixes cutting-edge innovations and references from the past while giving tribute to both French and Oriental cultures.

photo LINCOLN BARBOUR portrait PARKER FITZGERALD

SUBTLE CONTRAST PORTLAND, UNITED STATES INTERIOR DESIGN: JESSICA HELGERSON INTERIOR DESIGN

Located in an 1870’s historic gothic revival building in downtown Portland, Oregon, this luxurious private office was designed to feel open. “It was a light and beautiful approach to separation,” explains Jessica Helgerson, founder of her eponymous studio. “The clients wanted one room but a feeling of separation. We introduced beauty, sparkle and brightness to contrast all the sombre dark bricks and cabinetry. Glass is the way to do both.”

Beautifully made by Portland glass artist Andy Palko, the sculpture Optic Twist Screen #1 divides the space elegantly and playfully without closing it off. This piece is made up of over 100 various blown shapes strung on a steel cable. “The suspended forms articulate undecipherable phrases in a personal, figurative, three-dimensional handwriting,” explains Andy. “The shapes below act to echo, reverberate and multiply the visual messages received.”

text KARINE MONIE

F E AT U R E

WORKPLACE WISDOM AT HOME Now that life and work collide at home, in our study, it is up to us to define the boundaries. Here, we look at some of the wisdom and tips from some of the world’s most prominent office furniture brands.

ID MUSEUM HOMES

e’re 10 months in 2020, and most of us in Singapore have spent more than half of it working from home and navigating the new normal (are you sick of that phrase yet?) and the next normal. In the recent years before the pandemic, there had been a trend in adopting and infusing the comfort of home in the office environment, most notably through the design of the furniture, which features softer finishes, generous proportions and greater flexibility, among other things. In the first quarter of 2020, the general consensus seemed to be that people loved working from home and wouldn’t mind doing it permanently. The tune has changed by the second quarter when we realised that our domestic environments need tweakings to be able to accommodate work. A recent survey of 1,500 corporate employees in Singapore, Australia, India, China and Japan revealed as many as 60 per cent of those aged 35 to 49 years old and two-thirds of those aged below 35 say they missed the office, as reported in The

Business Times article written by Jeremy Sheldon, head of market at JLL Asia-Pacific. One of the main reasons for this, as relayed by respondents in Singapore, was that they saw the office as a professional environment that allows for a clear distinction between personal and professional lives. At home, that distinction is elusive, but not impossible to achieve. One way is to do the reverse of the aforementioned furniture trend - borrowing some of the wisdom from office furniture brands and applying them at home. “The home study will have to function as our offices and schools, at least for the time being. That brings with it a cognitive challenge: finding focus in chaos,” says Angela Ng, marketing manager Asia at Vitra. “Rooms and daily routines have to be rethought to maximise productivity. Is my workspace soundproof for online meetings? Does my chair facilitate ergonomic sitting for hours on end? Can I vary my working position during the day with a height-adjustable work table or by moving to a different space within the home?”

S E T T H E B O U N DA R I E S

Ideally, a workspace at home is a separate study or home office, but in reality, we are bound by constraints – space, budget and so on – to various degrees. Some may be lucky to have a dedicated study corner or room, some may be able to convert a spare room into an office while others make do from the dining table or the kitchen counter. But setting

a boundary is universally important, and it is best when this boundary is tangible, to provide the acoustics and privacy conducive for working and learning. “Segregating spaces with acoustic screens is a great way to do this,” says Kate Clarke, sales manager at commercial interior finishes company Woven Image. “They not only

absorbs sounds, but also separate work from play.” These screens can be set up and packed away in a jiffy, which is handy if someone needs to clear the room for a Zoom yoga class just after a meeting. For a more permanent solution, opt for modular acoustic panels for your wall, you’d be surprised at how well some of the design fits your home.

COCOON 1750 FREESTANDING ACOUSTIC SCREEN

DESKTOP ACOUSTIC SCREEN

A simple threepanelled and two-joiners screen weighing just 2kg for your desktop. $260 from Woven Image www.wovenimage. com.

Comprises six panels and 10 pivot joiners made with 100 per cent PET (60 per cent of which recycled). Weighs 9.5kg and is available in four colours.

Textured acoustic panels that add tactility to the space. Sold in a box of six, weighing approximately 5kg.

$802 from Woven Image.

$748.50 from Woven Image.

ASCENT TILES

DESK THAT DOUBLES AS OTHER FURNITURE

G E T T H E A L L - I M P O R TA N T ERGONOMY “A fully equipped home office may not be possible for everyone because of lack of space,” says Samantha Giam, product marketing director at Steelcase Asia Pacific.“Some of us may prioritise the most vital components, for example, a height-adjustable desk that allows change of posture throughout the day, paired with a task chair that supports these body movements. It will also be valuable that these furniture pieces are highly customisable, so that they integrate well into our living space.”

S U R FAC E VA L U E

Height-adjustable, mobile, compact, collapsible, convertible – What kind of desk should you have in your study or home office? We’ve selected some typology to consider based on your home situation.

COCOONED DESK FOR ACOUSTIC AND PRIVACY IVAR STORAGE UNIT WITH FOLDABLE TABLE $200, from Ikea, www.ikea. com/sg/en.

LAYOUT WORKWALL price by request, from Herman Miller, www.hermanmiller.com.

CLOUD 1.5 DESK from US$4,406 ($5,978), from Herman Miller, www. hermanmiller.com.

KAARI WALL CONSOLE $1,145, from Artek, available at Vitra Store by W.Atelier www.watelier.com.

HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE DESK FOR SIT-TO-STAND

LAPTOP DESK FOR MAXIMUM PORTABILITY

NESTABLE, $1,258 from Vitra Store by W. Atelier and Shopee, www.shopee.sg/vitrasg.

“PRIORITISE THE MOST VITAL COMPONENTS,, FOR EXAMPLE,, A HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE DESK THAT ALLOWS CHANGE OF POSTURE,, PAIRED WITH A TASK CHAIR THAT SUPPORTS THESE BODY MOVEMENTS .”

TRAVIS HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE 661 RANGE from $8,000 from Wilkhahn, www.wilkhahn.com.

WHEELED DESK FOR GREATER FLEXIBILITY

– SAMANTHA GIAM,, PRODUCT MARKETING DIRECTOR AT STEELCASE ASIA PACIFIC.

RISEFIT WORK DESK $2,899, from Okamura, www.okamura.com.sg. 100

HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE DESK $1,495, from Steelcase, https://sg.steelcase.com.

MIGRATION SE PRO $1,298, from Steelcase, https://sg.steelcase.com.

DESK WITH BUILT-IN STORAGE

$2,638 from Emko, available from P5 Studio, www.p5studio.com.sg.

soon to Kokuyoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lazada store, www.lazada.sg/ shop/kokuyo.

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M AC H I N E F O R S I T T I N G

“The chair Is a machine for sitting,” legendary architect Le Corbusier famously said. And this machine for sitting is the most important thing to have in your study. Shauna Stewart, market manager Singapore & Malaysia at German office furniture brand Wilkhahn, agrees “A good quality ergonomic task chair is the most essential piece in a home office.” She elaborates: “For a chair to be considered ergonomic it must have four adjustable features: height, tilting mechanism, armrest and lumbar support, so the chair can be tuned to its user’s natural body movement.”

These features are what make an office chair ideal f long periods of sitting, and the reason behind their he price tags. “An ergonomic chair supports our postur and reduces fatigue,” says Yuki Kanamori, deputy editor-in-chief at Japanes workplace publication Worksight and research coordinator at furniture brand Kokuyo. “Adjusted a the right height and positi the armrests alone suppor a total of 16 per cent of the user’s body weight. “This way, they reduce strain on our elbows and wrists,” he adds. So, invest wisely.

WILKHAHN IN CHAIR

Featuring a patented technology called Trimension, which allows the seat to move as the sitter does, ensuring perfect synchronisation while keeping its centre of gravity balanced. Plus, it features a beautiful back frame. From $895 from Wilkhahn, www.wilkhahn.com.

VITRA PHYSIX CHAIR KOKUYO ING CHAIR

The Ing Chair features 360-degree gliding mechanism that activates our body movement, helping to release the stiffness. Thanks to this technology, sitting on an Ing Chair is said to have a similar effect to sitting on a balance ball. $1,388 from Kokuyo’s Lazada store, www.lazada.sg/shop/kokuyo.

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A lightweight, streamlined and compact task chair that offers excellent comfort for users with a small body frame. $1,538 from Vitra Store by W. Atelier and Shopee, www.shopee.sg/vitrasg.

“LOCATE A PLACE WITHIN YOUR HOME THAT GIVES YOU PLENTY OF NATURAL LIGHT AND GOOD VENTILATION. DECORATE WITH SOME PLANTS IF POSSIBLE, TO HELP TO LIGHTEN THE MOOD WHILE WORKING.” – YUKI KANAMORI, DEPUTY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF WORKSIGHT AND RESEARCH COORDINATOR AT KOKUYO

O P T I M I S E T H E I N TA N G I B L E S

COELUX LONG SKY

In the case of completely enclosed or subterranean spaces, CoeLux may very well be the next best thing to natural light. It combines three elements to achieve a convincing daylight effect: an LED technology for illumination, an optical system for the blue, and a millimetrethick nano-structure material that renders them to appear natural together. Custom size is available by request.

“Environment plays an important role in productivity,” says Yuki. A conducive environment is made not just with tangible design elements, but also intangible ones, most importantly, air and light. “Locate a place within your home that gives you plenty of natural light and good ventilation. Decorate with some plants if possible, to help to lighten the mood while working,” he adds, alluding to the study that biophilia (connection to nature) can help boost our wellness, which in turn will increase productivity. After sundown, make sure you have adequate artificial lighting that closely mimics natural daylight to reduce the strain in your eye from staring at your computer screen.

Price by request from P5 Luminaire, www.p5luminaire.com.sg.

DYSON LIGHTCYCLE DESK LIGHT

Emitting powerful light (over 1000 lux), with glare protection and low optical flicker, this desk light surpasses the recommended illumination levels for artificial light.

VITRA LAMPE DE BUREAU

Constructed from bent sheet steel, this desk lamp by design legend Jean Prouve reflects the light rays and pleasantly illuminates the desk surface. $495 from Vitra Store by W. Atelier and Shopee, www.shopee.sg/vitrasg.

$799 from Dyson, www.dyson.com.sg.

text ASIH JENIE

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F E AT U R E

WORK AND PLAY Setting up your child’s room for optimal learning? Here’s what you need to know.

hen it comes to kids’ learning time, their environment is essential. It should support quiet, focused study yet be an enjoyable space to be in. This means fewer distractions, calming colours, plenty of storage space and ergonomic furniture for good posture. Designing your children’s study can be a fun project, especially when you do it together and include their input. After all, it is their space and having a say means they’ll have more ownership (read: it’ll be easier to get them to clean the room). It also makes for great bonding! While picking out colours and themes, don’t forget to include these practical considerations.

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1 . & 8 .Kartell bookworm shelves with bookends, from $810, and Moooi Paper Desk by Studio Job, from $5,930, from Space Furniture.

2 . & 6 . Julian bookshelves by Lilliewoods, $340, and Arod Study Table, $799, from Hipvan. photo CIRCU

3 . Evane Desk with Storage (Ash Wood), $289 from Fortytwo.

P L E N T Y O F S T O R AG E

Although schools are gradually moving towards an online-based learning approach, having space for textbooks, other publications and stationery is still a must. While most desks have built-in storage, there are always more options in the form of brightlycoloured cabinets and shelving. These also help to keep gadgets and toys out of sight, so there are fewer distractions when it’s time to study.

4. Bubble Gum Desk with Little Mermaid Chair, price upon enquiry, from Circu. 5 . Wood desk and armchair by Oliver Furniture, $1,641, from Kuhl Home.

7. & 9. Cloud Study Table, $279, and Eiffel Study Table, $399, from Star Living.

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photo CIRCU

A D E Q UAT E L I G H T I N G

Having sufficient overhead and task lighting can help prevent eye strain and myopia developing from an early age. Your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desk should have a task lamp that can be directed to wherever more light is needed. There shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be any shadows.

1 0. & 13 . Finnstarr work lamp, $19.90, and Ypperlig LED table lamp, $59, from Ikea. 1 1. Diana Table Lamp, price upon enquiry, from Circu. 15

1 2. & 1 5. Weevil Table Lamp, $99, and Yeelight Serene Lamp, $239, from Hipvan.

1 4. Nomi Study Lamp, $49, from Fortytwo.

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16 . 3M Post-It DEF3X2 dry erase surface 3x2ft, $79.90, from Fortytwo. 17. & 18. Skadis Pegboard, $35, and Mojlighet Noticeboard/ Whiteboard with basket, $49.90, from Ikea. 19. Dekodur Distil Tank Magnetic Laminate, price upon enquiry, from Catalyste.

R O O M F O R C R E AT I V I T Y

Every child needs room for self-expression. “Give them space to doodle, brainstorm and put up school notices on a magnetic laminate board,” advises Tony Tan, Catalyste corporate communications manager. Other options: noticeboards, whiteboards or pegboards with attachments, so your child can rearrange favourite stationery and other small items. 16

“CHILDREN NEED AN AVENUE TO EXPRESS THEIR CREATIVITY. SOMETHING THAT’S IMMEDIATELY ACCESSIBLE AND LARGE ENOUGH SO THEY CAN SKETCH, DOODLE OR WRITE TO THEIR HEARTS’ CONTENT.” – TONY TAN, CATALYSTE

photo PINS DESIGN STUDIO

CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER 107

21 20. & 22. High Rise Kids Loft Bed with Step Ladder, $4,710, and Semi-high Study Kids Loft Bed, $3,426, by Lifetime Kidsroom from Kuhl Home.

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21. & 23. Hilda N3 Junior Set, price upon enquiry, and Rail N2 3’ Single Bed with Table, $650, from Star Living.

S PAC E - S AV I N G FURNITURE

Loft bed and desk combinations aren’t just an avenue for endless fun and creativity, they save you lots of space, too. The bed’s elevation usually means there’s sufficient space under it for storage or even a desk, making it a great choice for smaller rooms.

ERGONOMIC FURNITURE

Chairs that provide adequate lumbar support can help prevent slouching and facilitate proper spine development. Also factor in height-adjustable furniture that can adapt to your growing child, saving money in the long run. 24

24. , 25. & 2 6 . Loberget/ Sibben children’s desk chair, $27.90, Skarsta desk, $399, and Eldberget/ Malskar swivel chair, $49.90, from Ikea. 27. & 28. Blot castors chair, $299, and Fondue side chair castors, $245, from Comfort Design. 2 9. Oriel Kids Rug 1.5 x 1m, $135.20, from Hipvan. 30. & 31. Mykonos Sunrise hemp rug, $590, and Peekaboo blue rug, $590, from Living DNA.

CHOOSING A RUG Rugs add visual interest to a room, provide an alternative space for your child to play and even save your floor from dents. For your child’s study, pick one that’s easily washable and has a pattern or texture, so stains or marks aren’t as visible.

31 text MELODY BAY

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F E AT U R E

STYLE AND SUBSTANCE Sleek, stylish pieces for a home office that will contribute to a job well done.

home office is no longer an afterthought. With working from where we live part of the new normal, the study or office plays an integral role in your productivity. Of course, as space is a common constraint for most of us, it is essential that equipment is not only functional, but also compact enough to be put away – and good-looking enough to

RUARK AUDIO R3 COMPACT MUSIC SYSTEM

Almost identical to the R5 High Fidelity Music System, the Ruark Audio R3 Compact Music System is smaller but delivers a just as deliciously resonant sound from its high fidelity two-channel Class A-B amplifiers in a handcrafted case with a woven fabric grille. It’s designed to closely reproduce songs the way they were recorded, so it sounds as if you’re right next to the stage – even when you’re toiling away in front of your laptop on a Tuesday afternoon. Did we also mention we’re in love with the mid-century/modern design and the rich walnut shade? The Ruark Audio R3 Compact Music System retails for $1,299 at www.hachi.tech and www.musica. boutique, as well as at the Musica Boutique, #04-26 Ion Orchard.

contribute to the aesthetics of the rest your home’s decor. Luckily, you have many options. No longer clunky and utilitarian, essentials for home offices now come well-designed and are even made with organic accents. The good news? We’re helping you to pull together every aspect, from choosing your speakers to the best printer for you. Here are our favourites.

B&O BEOSOUND A1 SPEAKER

This Bang & Olufsen portable compact speaker with an 18-hour battery packs a punch, thanks to its three internal microphones and Bluetooth 5.1 capability. Enjoy crystal-clear voice calls that sound as if the person is right next to you, and seamlessly switch back to music between meetings. Waterproof and dust-resistant, it is designed for the remote home office. The Beosound A1 speaker retails for $389 at the Bang & Olufsen Grand Hyatt Singapore flagship store, as well as the official B&O Lazada flagship store.

EPSON LABELWORKS LW-C410 LABEL PRINTER Need help remembering where everything is? Meet your new best friend. Thanks to Bluetooth, it’s a far cry from the clunky label printers of the past. If you suddenly feel the urge to get creative, the Epson Home & Craft Label app can help you produce custom frames for beautifully personalised labels.

LG PURICARE 360° DOUBLE AIR PURIFIER Everyone knows fresh air is vital for a clear head. The LG PuriCare 360° Double Air Purifier, which eliminates pollutants with its sixstep filtration process, also has a Clean Booster function to refresh the air around you. The system includes a nozzle that rises from the top and rotates up to 70 degrees, as well as a fan to disperse the air up to 7.5m away, ensuring that a much larger area gets clean air. The LG PuriCare 360° Double Air Purifier retails for $1,199 at the LG Lazada and Shopee stores,as well as at Best Denki, Courts and Harvey Norman.

The Epson LabelWorks LW-C410 Label Printer retails for $169 at Epson’s Lazada and Shopee flagship stores, and authorised Epson retailers.

HARMAN KARDON AURA STUDIO 3 SPEAKER Who says speakers have to be boring? With its transparent, tinted glass domed body, the wireless Harman Kardon Aura Studio 3 is a work of art. Delivering 360-degree sound, thanks to its 100W subwoofer power, it’s also a source of ambient lighting for a laid-back home office vibe. The Harman Kardon Aura Studio 3 retails for $399 at https://sg.harmankardon.com.

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JABRA ELITE ACTIVE 75T EARBUDS

RUHENS V WATER PURIFIER No more waiting for hot or cold water again! The Ruhens V dispenses H2O at up to five different temperatures, including 4 deg C for a cold brew or 60 for afternoon tea without scalding your tongue. Its compact size – only 16cm wide – means it won’t take up too much space on your desk either.

If you want the flexibility of movement and space while listening to a client call, the Jabra Elite Active 75t wireless earbuds are just the thing. The two microphones in each earbud and excellent call quality, plus 7.5 hours of playback, can take you through several Zoom meetings and the rest of your workday before you hit the gym. The earbud shape was designed for maximum comfort based on thousands of ear scans from users around the world, so you can wear them securely and comfortably all day. The Jabra Elite Active 75t retails for $318. For locations, go to www.jabra.sg/wheretobuy/ authorized-distributors.

The Ruhens V retails from $2,549 at www. ruhens.com.sg.

LG PURICARE MINI AIR PURIFIER Compact, wireless and weighing about the same as a 500ml bottle of water, the LG PuriCare Mini Air Purifier can go wherever you need a breath of fresh air. It incorporates LG’s 4-Step Air Filtration System, which detects and removes 99 per cent of particulates as small as 0.3 micrometres. Did we also mention how sleek it looks with its leather carry strap? The LG PuriCar Mini Air Purifier, with a recommended retail price of $349, is available at the LG Lazada and Shopee stores, as well as at Best Denki, Courts and Harvey Norman.

LG ULTRAWIDE 34” FHD IPS DISPLAY MONITOR

Perfect for Zoom meetings and webinars, this offers 33 per cent more screen space when compared to a regular 16:9 monitor. It also presents a greater contrast in colours and a wider range of brightness, which translates to a more immersive screening experience. Multitasking enthusiasts can even customise the screen space with the OnScreen Control and Screen Split functions.

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The LG Ultra Wide 34” FHD IPS Display Monitor retails for $699 at Best Denki, Challenger, Courts, Harvey Norman and Gain City.

NESPRESSO VERTUO

EPSON ECOTANK L4160 PRINTER

This Red Dot Design awardwinner features an integrated ink tank design that allows for the smallest footprint possible. It’s also easy to refill; the individual bottles with unique nozzles fit only into their respective tanks.

What’s a home office without a coffee machine? The Vertuo system by Nespresso offers 27 unique blends that give you everything from an espresso to a mugful. All you have to do is drop in the capsule and the system automatically detects the type of coffee for brewing. It then adjusts the temperature, amount of water and duration of infusion to deliver a perfect perk-me-up. The Nespresso Vertuo retails from $368 at all Nespresso boutiques.

The Epson EcoTank L4160 printer retails for $399 at Epson’s Lazada flagship store.

CANON SELPHY QX10 COMPACT SQUARE PHOTO PRINTER

Print high-quality images anywhere from your smartphone with Canon Selphy QX10’s dyesublimation technology that reproduces the vibrant colours of a traditional photograph. Their glossy finish will protect them from water and dirt, too. You can even design stickers with the accompanying app, and use them to personalise everything from your laptop to your study wall.

MI PORTABLE PHOTOPRINTER Print shots for office decor or as mementos easily with the Mi Portable Photo Printer from Xiaomi. Its 500mAh battery can produce 20 sticky photos in a single charge and support up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth, so other family members can use it as well without having to connect via your mobile device. The Mi Portable Photo Printer retails for $99 at the official Xiaomi Lazada store and authorised Mi stores.

The Canon Selphy QX10 Compact Square Photo Printer retails for $255 at www.shop.canon.com.sg.

text MELODY BAY

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PROPE R T Y

IS THE GREATER SOUTHERN WATERFRONT SINGAPORE’S HIPPEST NEW ADDRESS? With exciting plans for the Greater Southern Waterfront announced by PM Lee Hsien Loong, property punters are heading south in anticipation of prices shooting north.

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ingapore may be an island, but with much of our coastline reclaimed and used for major industries like shipping and building a financial hub, actual seafront homes are rare these days. In online forums, some purists insist that only projects genuinely situated by the sea, like Sentosa’s The Oceanfront and its landed properties, and Keppel Bay’s Reflections, Caribbean and Corals trio of condominiums should be considered properly seafront, eschewing those with a huge

1 . Reflections at Keppel Bay, one of the few actual seafront condominiums in Singapore. 2. The Marina Bay District’s transformation could add value to the Greater Southern Waterfront.

highway between the projects and waterways. With property being a bit of a national obsession, it’s no wonder that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had us all abuzz during the National Day Rally last August. By 2027, PSA International’s Tanjong Pagar, Keppel and Pulau Brani terminals, along with the Pasir Panjang terminal in 2040, will be moved to Tuas, freeing up prime land for redevelopment. “It will be an opportunity to reshape the Greater Southern Waterfront (GSW) into a new place to live, work and play,” said PM Lee. Covering 30km of the coastline, from the Gardens by the Bay East area to Pasir Panjang, the GSW occupies 2,000ha of land – six times the size of Marina Bay and double that of Punggol. There will be a new business cluster in this coveted city-fringe location, currently home to multinational firms such as Google, Unilever and Cisco. It will include a new attraction similar to Universal Studios and a Downtown South resort on the revamped Pulau Brani. Most excitingly, this “Punggol by the Bay”, as christened by PM Lee. will see 9,000 new private and public housing units, with waterfront promenades, greenery and open spaces developed on the current Keppel Club when its lease expires at the end of 2021. Serbina Goh, associate division director at PropNex Realty, has produced an e-book to keep buyers abreast of the goings-on in the GSW. In Singapore’s well-regulated

property market, with our government constantly keeping tabs on the market and planning ahead for the future, Serbina says investors can enjoy huge potential upsides simply by “following the government’s direction and entering into developments with the right entry price.” “One of the important aspects that has helped to add value to the district is the transformation of the Marina Bay district over the years,” adds Ceekay Soh, PropNex Realty’s associate group director. Once home to bowling centres and steamboat restaurants, it

has since become a massive reclaimed land with Marina Bay Sands and the Marina Bay Financial Centre. “The improved connectivity with added MRT lines such as the Downtown and Circle Lines have proven to be a big plus, too. We can also expect more benefits with the Thomson East Coast Line coming up, as well as the Circle Line that will finally become a full circle in 2025 with the addition of the Prince Edward, Cantonment and Keppel stations.” Since the announcement about the GSW, Serbina has seen an increase in interest from buyers who are planning ahead.

“ONE OF THE IMPORTANT ASPECTS THAT HAS HELPED TO ADD VALUE TO [GSW] IS THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE MARINA BAY DISTRICT OVER THE YEARS” – CEEKAY SO, ASSOCIATE GROUP DIRECTOR AT PROPNEX REALTY 2

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Here are three ways that can also help you to strategise your way into owning a little piece of the GSW heaven. INVEST IN A NEW HOME NEAR THE GSW

Right after PM Lee’s communique, developers and agents selling condo projects in the region immediately added it to their marketing spiel. Avenue South Residence at Silat Avenue, for example, has positioned itself as “the gateway to Greater Southern Waterfront”. Technically, many other projects close to the 30km coastline can probably claim the same. Besides Avenue South Residence, which gets its temporary occupation permit (TOP) in 2023 and is marketing

its units at $775,000 to $3.519m, other upcoming projects that will benefit from namedropping GSW include Sky Everton (TOP in 2023; $996,000 to $7.106m) and Kent Ridge Hill Residences (TOP in 2024; $754,000 to $3.172m). Describing the GSW announcement as “truly a game changer for Districts 1, 2, 4, 5 and 7”, Serbina advises that it is important to enter as a firstmover buyer before future land prices escalate further, which would mean paying more for your investment. Buying early in the game, and at the right time, often gives investors the greatest capital appreciation. She cites The Sail as an example of the greatest upside she has seen so far. “First-hand owners bought their units at around $800 psf on average during its launch phase, but I’ve seen it go to as high as over $3,000 psf.” B U Y A U N I T AT A COMPLETED GSW A R E A P R OJ E C T

The first mover’s advantage can also extend to buying a resale unit, where prices may be more reasonable. Serbina notes that there is a good mix of completed properties such as Marina One Residences, V On Shenton and Reflections at Keppel Bay. Christine Li, head of research services at global property consultancy Cushman & Wakefield Singapore, told a local newspaper that when construction starts, and despite the minimal impact on existing housing projects in the area due to blocked views and construction noise as well as dust, “housing prices are

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NO WONDER ENVIOUS FOLKS SAY SUCCESSFULLY BALLOTING A HOME AT PINNACLE@DUXTON IS AKIN TO STRIKING THE LOTTERY. 4

expected to appreciate over the long term because of the injection of more commercial and entertainment activities.” Indeed, several Reflections owners told us that they were buoyed by the news of a new mixed development next door. Leo JS, who lives in a twobedroom with a study unit, was contemplating selling and moving to a bigger home, but reconsidered when PM Lee revealed the plans for GSW. “With more amenities in the future, it can only be a good thing and will boost my property’s value.” Current units on sale at the eight-year-old Reflections range from a modest $1.38m for a two-bedroom of 775 sq ft to a whopping $68m for a three-storey, 13,304 sq ft, sevenbedroom super penthouse. If that is overstretching your budget (just a tad!), current prices at the 15-year-old Caribbean range from $1.4m

for an 894 sq ft two-bedroom to $5.5m for a 3,541 sq ft fourbedroom. At the four-year-old Corals, a 624 sq ft one-bedroom is being marketed at $1.35m and a 7,395 sq ft five-bedroom for $19m. GET IN THE QUEUE FOR A B TO H D B F L AT I N THE GSW AREA

3. A resale unit at The Sail @ Marina Bay can fetch up to $3,000 psf. 4. The Pinnacle@ Duxton made news when nine of its resale units went for $1m or more each. 5 . Marina One Residences is one of the completed GSW area projects.

Although there has not been an announcement about when BTO flats at the Keppel Club site will be ready for application, development of the GSW will take place over the next five to 10 years. However, we’re sure it will draw massive interest, thanks to its attractive location, sea view, proximity to the nearby business parks and Vivo City, and walking distance to the Labrador Park and Telok Blangah MRT stations. Expect to pay premium prices similar to what The Pinnacle@Duxton commands. It made the news when nine resale units sold for S$1m or more each

text STELLA THNG images RF123

in 2015, after the flats met their minimum occupation period (MOP). At two to three times their launch prices, this marked the first time ‘regular’ four- and five-room HDB flats had hit the six-figure mark. While envious folks say that successfully balloting for a home at The Pinnacle@Duxton is akin to striking the lottery, the government is looking at ways to tighten sales conditions of future HDB flats at the GSW. These may include having a shorter lease than the standard 99 years, a higher resale levy or a MOP lengthier than the current five years, according to Minister for National Development Laurence Wong. One way to up your chances is to take advantage of the Married Child Priority Scheme (MCPS). If you live in the Telok Blangah or Keppel Bay area, you’re in luck if you are within 4km of the nearest block of the new BTO project. You or your child’s household can then ballot for a unit under the MCPS, which is allocated for up to 30 per cent of the available units for first-time applicants, and up to 15 per cent for second-timers. A Reflections resident is planning to do just that. “I’m holding onto my unit to give my son an advantage when he applies for a BTO flat in the GSW in future. There’s no guarantee, of course, because he’s only in his teens. But, if the new flats are open for application when he’s ready to settle down, why not give it a shot? Now all he has to do is find the right wife!” laughs the eager mum.

117

WHERE TO BUY

BANG & OLUFSEN

HIPVAN

LIU TIAN HUANG

P5 LUMINAIRE

VITRA STORE

FLAGSHIP STORE

www.hipvan.com

Tel: 9438-7918 wilfredleuth@gmail. com

#03-08 Henderson Industrial Park, 213 Henderson Road Tel: 6513-9595 www.p5luminaire. com.sg

SINGAPORE BY W.

#01-05 Grand Hyatt 10-12 Scotts Road Tel: 6737-7500 www.bang-olufsen. com BYND ARTISAN

37 Jalan Pemimpin #08-13 Mapex Tel: 6267-5066 www.byndartisan.com CELLINI

Diethelm Keller Building Level 3 26 Changi North Crescent Tel: 6690-4528 www.cellini.com.sg CIRCU

www.circu.net

IKEA

www.ikea.com/sg/en/ LIVING DNA

#03-02 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road Tel: 6473-1693 www.journeyeast.com

01-10B Space@ Tampines 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent Tel: 8511-3584 www.livingdna.sg

KIKKI-K

MIKKAME

1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-K32 Vivo City Tel: 6873-9891 www.kikki-k.com/sg/ home

www.mikkame.com

#01-01 Vanguard Campus, 1 Kallang Junction Tel: 6538-4688 www.proofcontract. com.sg

MR PORTER

SPACE FURNITURE

www.mrporter.com

77 Bencoolen Street Tel: 6415-0000 www.spacefurniture. com.sg

JOURNEY EAST

NEALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S YARD KOKUYO SINGAPORE

REMEDIES

42 Duxton Road Tel: 6222-7535 www.lazada.sg/shop/ kokuyo

#B1-52 Takashimaya S.C 391 Orchard Road Tel: 6235-3833 www. nealsyardremedies. com.sg

COSENTINO CITY CENTRE

KUHL HOME

34/35 Duxton Rd Tel: 6713-9543 www.cosentino.com

www.dyson.com.sg

#08-01 Century Warehouse 100E Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6270-8487 www.kuhlhome.com

GRAFUNKT

LAAT AT ART NOW

#04-01 to 06 Funan Mall 107 North Bridge Road Tel: 6336-6046 www.grafunkt.com

#02-28 to 32 Raffles Arcade, 328 North Bridge Road Tel: 6734-5688 www.artnow.sg

DYSON

118

PROOF LIVING

STAR LIVING

1 Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6362-7077 www.starliving.com. sg STEELCASE WORKLIFE

OKAMURA SINGAPORE

CENTRE

#01-01/04 Hengda Building 137 Cecil Street Tel: 6224-7995 www.okamura.com.sg

#02-05 Sultan-Link, 57 Mohamed Sultan Road Tel:.6738-5225 sg.steelcase.com

P5 STUDIO

#01-08 Henderson Industrial Park, 213 Henderson Road Tel: 6771-9500 www.p5studio.com.sg

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

ATELIER

#14-08 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road Tel: 6637-9601 www.watelier.com/ living/vitra WILKHAHN ASIA PACIFIC

#05-02 Seng Kee Building, 20 Martin Road Tel:6221-1186 www.wilkhahn.com.au

ALVISI KIRIMOTO

www.alvisikirimoto.it METAPHOR STUDIO

331A Beach Road Tel: 6291-9786 www.metaphorstudio.com MONOCOT STUDIO

35B Seah Street Tel: 8522-7222 www.monocotstudio. com

WOVEN IMAGE ASIA

#02-18A, 1 Club St Tel: 6338-6619 www.wovenimage. com XTRA

#02-48 Marina Square Tel: 6336-0688 www.xtra.com.sg

STYLEDBYPT

www.styledbypt.com WOLF WOOF

#08-74 Midview City, 22 Sin Ming Lane Tel: 9842-1730 www.wolfwoof.com.sg

BUYING GUIDE

YOUR ONE-STOP RESOURCE FOR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

FURNITURE, APPLIANCES & FURNISHINGS

SCANTEAK

IMAGINE BY SK66

60 Sungei Kadut Drive www.scanteak.com.sg

HARVEY NORMAN

SPACE FURNITURE

#01-59 to 63 Millenia Walk Tel: 6311-9988 www.harveynorman. com.sg

77 Bencoolen Street www.spacefurniture. com.sg

#01-22 UB One 81 Ubi Avenue 4 Tel: 6604-8330 www.imaginebysk66. com

ACORN

#02-09 512 Chai Chee Lane Tel: 6445-6144 www.acorn ceilingfan.com BRANDT ASIA

#02-51/52 Oxley Bizhub 65 Ubi Road One Tel: 6508-4639 www.brandt.sg

FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS

#06-01 1 Kallang Way 2A Tel: 6747-2742 www.efenz.com.sg

#01-01 Concorde Hotel Tel: 6468-6333 www.davincilifestyle. com HOME 2 U GALLERY

ELECTROLUX S.E.A.

#07-10 Galaxis 1 Fusionopolis Place Tel: 6727-3699 www.electrolux.com. sg FISHER & PAYKEL

#03-01A Ubi Biz Hub 150 Ubi Avenue 4 Tel: 6547-0100 www.fisherpaykel. com/sg

1 Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6273-2522 www.starliving. com.sg XZQT

DA VINCI LIFESTYLE EFENZ CEILING FAN

STAR LIVING

#02-719/720 Suntec City Tower 4 Tel: 6737-7838 MUJI

#02-198 Vivocity Tel: 6376-8023 www.muji.com/sg

#01-05 8 Pandan Crescent Tel: 6774-8031 www.xzqt.com.sg

MOW INTERIOR DESIGN

#08-02 Tai Seng Point 11 Irving Place Tel: 6246-6614 www.mowinterior.com NEU KONCEPTZ

#03-11 Bizhub 28 28 Senang Crescent Tel: 6746-3723 www.neukonceptz. com.sg THREE-D CONCEPTWERKE

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

24 Eng Hoon Street Tel: 6293-8001 www.three-dconceptwerke.com

RENOVATION MATERIALS CAESARSTONE S.E.A.

#08-06 The Spire 10 Bukit Batok Crescent Tel: 6316-1938 www.caesarstone.sg COSENTINO

34/35 Duxton Road Tel: 6713-9543 www.cosentino.com DURAVIT ASIA

(Singapore Branch) 63 Tras Street Tel: 6221-9315 www.duravit.com HAFARY

105 Eunos Avenue 3 Tel: 6250-1368 www.hafary.com.sg

DESIGN INTERVENTION

NATURAL FOREST

75E Loewen Road Tel: 6506-0920 www.design intervention.com.sg

#10-01B Keck Seng Tower 133 Cecil Street Tel: 6238-5920

LIGHTING LIGHTCRAFT

ROCHE BOBOIS

#01-02 Boon Siew Building 75 Bukit Timah Tel: 6513-1918 www.roche-bobois. com

DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN

11 Kim Yam Road Tel: 6883-1005 www.dwell.com.sg HAIRE LIVING

Level 4 29 Mayo Street Tel: 6441-3345 www.haireliving.com

131 Jalan Sultan Tel: 6297-6658 www.lightcraft.com.sg SOL LUMINAIRE

395 Guillemard Rd Tel: 6612-1221 www.solluminaire. com.sg

NOVITA

#04-00 Techniques Building 8 Tagore Drive www.novita.com.sg TIMPLEX

#01-13 18 Sin Ming Lane Tel: 6898-1120 www.timplex.sg

119

HARD TRUTH

I WHAT’S TRENDING & WHAT WE THINK

SQUEAKY CLEAN

120

n 2019, if you had used a pen to push the lift button or washed your hands 10 times a day, you would have been laughed at for being overly fastidious. This year, nobody blinks if you do that. In fact, you’re encouraged to clean and sanitise as much as possible: after meals, on pulling out a chair, and even after holding on to the rail in public transport. I’ve now become hyperaware of the surfaces I come into contact with when I’m out, and I’m not alone. It used to be that we didn’t give a hoot about touching even bathroom doors, but now people are washing their hands and disinfecting like there’s no tomorrow. The good news for the cleanliness-obsessed is that there is now a whole army of furniture and products, all hygiene-focused. There’s a modular sofa that can be taken apart for safe distancing. There are also devices purported to make sanitiser from tap water, and even a wardrobe that cleans clothes on its own. It seems like everyone is joining in the fight against the pandemic. I guess the question is: are such products going to be a

permanent new part of our lives, or will this turn out to be a fad that will die down as the world gradually returns to normal? It’s hard to tell. The cleanliness craze also raises other questions: is there such a thing as being too clean? Will it be bad for our immune system and mental health in the long run? And, in a world where practically every surface is being sanitised, will bacteria and viruses eventually evolve to a point where our usual remedies will no longer be able to fight them? While these answers seem a long way off, we can moderate things somewhat by keeping a cool head when it comes to fighting the virus with purchases. In a world where “antibacterial” and “antiviral” have become the most frequently used words on product packaging, it’s more essential than ever to think about what we truly need versus what may just be hype. After all, the most effective way to keep the virus at bay still lies in the practices of washing hands and social distancing – and these are free of charge. And then there’s the mask. Can’t afford to forget that.

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