Dffffrttfdd

HOMEANDDECOR.MY

LEATHER UP • STYLES • CARE TIPS • DESIGNS

JULY2019 RM8

FRESH FROM MILAN

The hits on the salone del mobile exhibition floor

CONTENTS

J U LY

42

NOW

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

16 COLOUR OF THE MONTH Here’s a hue of the moment that is as hot as the weather right now.

VISIT

23 DADA TOYKO FLAGSHIP Vincent Van Duysen shapes the Italian designer furniture company’s first store in Japan.

26 GRAND BAYVIEW HOTEL ZHUHAI A new East-meetsWest hotel that exudes contemporary Asian luxury with a touch of playfulness.

2

28 RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO Only a few months old, this luxury hotel is an oasis in the middle of the ocean.

30 KAFE UTU Named after the Kiswahili word for humanity, Kafe Utu is the place to experience the warmth of African hospitality.

44

MILAN DESIGN WEEK 2019 The trends we observed at Salone del Mobile 2019.

CONTENTS

J U LY

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

P EOPLE 31

THE ARCHITECT AESTHETE Santiago Calatrava’s creations are visual spectacles that breathe new life into surrounding landscapes.

36

CLASS ACT Nicolas Roche talks about the standout furniture in the showroom of the French brand Roche Bobois, as well as its stellar service.

12

EDITOR’S NOTE 14

WISHLIST 88

HOME IMPROVEMENT 90

FEAST 96

FLASHBACK

FEATURES T H E L AT E S T I N D E S I G N AND DECOR TRENDS 38

SENSE, SENSIBILITY, AND SUSTAINABILITY We talk a walk through the Philippines’ foremost design trade show, Manila FAME. 54

LESSON IN LEATHER Get to know this fabulous material, how to spot the real deal, what is trending, and how to properly care for it.

4

36

CONTENTS

J U LY

60

SECOND NATURE This home by Architect Fabian Tan allows the homeowners to wholeheartedly embrace the natural climate.

80

TREETOP LIVING The home of a couple who have fulfilled every child’s dream – a tree house as a home.

66

CREATIVE MIND Armed with a strong design philosophy, this homeowner took on his home renovation sans interior designer.

HOMES THE NEW MODERN

on the cover

72

BOHO CHIC Once a cluttered space, this flat now embraces colours and an eclectic style.

PHOTO F U S E CONCEP T

60

6

REAL-TIME DESIGN UPDATES WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ HOMEANDDECORMY Read new content on home decor and more, daily.

SIGHTS & INSPIRATION CHECK US OUT AT @HOMEANDDECORMSIA

5 Ways to get your bathroom vanity lighting right Very important for day-to-day self-styling! http://tinyurl.com/y5ma3hf9

5 Dark homes that look absolutely luxe Who says bright is right? When it comes to these dark homes, contrasts are king. http://tinyurl.com/y6b9ycx2

HOMEANDDECOR .COM.MY

Check out our popular blog posts of the month

PHOTOGRAPHY Styledby.pt

MORE INTERIOR STYLES FROM OUR ONLINE IMAGE LIBRARY

DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY OR SUBSCRIBE AT

WWW.HOMEANDDECOR.COM.MY/MAGAZINE

DOWNLOAD OUR DIGITAL EDITION Get Home & Decor on your mobile devices to read on the go!

Download your copy or subscribe at http://www.homeanddecor.com.my/ magazine. Available from the App Store and Google Play.

NOW AVAILABLE AT

IN THE JULY DIGITAL ISSUE… BONUS HOME

BONUS STORIES

PARISIAN RENDEZVOUS We round up the top five home decor trends that dominated the Jan 2019 edition of the Maison&Objet fair.

PERFECT HARMONY This couple merged their different styles, contemporary and industrial, into one unified design.

A PROVENCAL PARADISE Chateau La Coste in the south of France is where art, architecture, and wine converge with nature.

EDITORIAL

PHOTO RETOUCHER

VIDEO EDITOR

EDITOR

(vincent@bluinc.com.my)

(samanthaheung@bluinc.com. my)

Emmelyn Cindy Mah (emmelynmah@bluinc.com.my) WRITER

Ng Yi Xiang

Vincent Low

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Law Soo Phye

Mohd Zakwan (zakwantaufiq@bluinc.com.my)

(soophye.com@gmail.com)

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Datin Azliza Ahmad Tajuddin

(azliza@bluinc.com.my)

(yixiang@bluinc.com.my)

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Intan Suzyanna

GROUP GENERAL MANAGER

JUNIOR WRITER

(intansuzyanna@bluinc.com. my)

(faizal@bluinc.com.my)

Aric Ting

(aricting@bluinc.com.my) CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Jennifer Choo

(jenjenchoo@gmail.com)

INTEGRATED ADVERTISING SALES ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Joyce Lee

(joycelee@bluinc.com.my) SALES MANAGER

CREATIVE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Michelle Yow

(michelleyow@bluinc.com.my)

Frederick Lim

(fred@bluinc.com.my) SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Yasmin Sarah Hamdan

(yasminsarah@bluinc.com.my

DIGITAL ADVERTISING OPERATIONS ASSISTANT MANAGER

Monique Tan

PHOTOGRAPHY CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Yong Kenn Keong

(keenkyyong@bluinc.com.my)

(tanernyee@bluinc.com.my) EXECUTIVE

Fatin Amirah (fatinamirah@bluinc.com.my)

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER

Edmund Lee Chia Yek

(edmundlee@bluinc.com.my)

DIGITAL CREATIVE PRODUCTION

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR

Patrick Chan

(patrickchan@bluinc.com.my)

Robin Yong (liewyongkang@bluinc.com.my)

Tan Guo Xiang (tanguoxiang@bluinc.com. my) JUNIOR PHOTOGRAPHER

Arifah Hadirah Norzihan (arifah@bluinc.com.my)

Muhammad Zulfikry Md Rehan (zulfikry@bluinc.com.my)

10

HOME & DECOR SINGAPORE

Samantha Heung

Ainuddin Fikry

(ainuddin@bluinc.com.my) VIDEOGRAPHER

Ahmad Zulkamal Mohd Salleh (zulkamal@bluinc.com.my)

Mohd Nazrul (nazrultahir@bluinc.com.my) JUNIOR VIDEOGRAPHER

Emest John Lee

GENERAL MANAGER

PUBLISHING SERVICES & CONSUMER MARKETING DIRECTOR

Satvinder Kaur

RA Ramesh

(raramesh@bluinc.com.my) SENIOR HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER

Habibah Muhammad (bib@bluinc.com.my)

EDITOR

Young Lim (younglim@sph.com.sg) ASSOCIATE AD SALES DIRECTOR

Patrick Chew

(skaur@bluinc.com.my)

SENIOR FINANCE MANAGER

(patrickc@sph.com.sg)

PRODUCTION MANAGER

(shireengoh@bluinc.com.my)

HOME & DECOR, copyright and trademark registered by SPH Magazines Pte Ltd. All rights reserved.

Shireen Goh

Kong Ah Kuan

(ahkuan@bluinc.com.my) ASSISTANT MANAGER, CONSUMER MARKETING & SUBSCRIPTION

Siti Khairun Niswan

(niswan@bluinc.com.my) CONSUMER MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Nik Nur Syahirah Ahmad Radzi (syahirahradzi@bluinc.com. my) EXECUTIVE, CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION

Nik Rahimi Bin Nik Mustafa (nikrahimi@bluinc.com.my) ASSISTANT TRAFFIC MANAGER

Lee Phaik Ling

(phaikling@bluinc.com.my) TRAFFIC EXECUTIVE

Fabian Ong

(fabianong@bluinc.com.my)

(emestjohn@bluinc.com.my)

TRAFFIC & PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE

Ahmad Fauzan

(chengloong@bluinc.com.my)

(fauzanserinara@bluinc.com.my)

Mohd Faizal Abdul Hadi

SPH MAGAZINES PTE LTD 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre Annex Block, Level 8.

Singapore 318994 Tel: +65 6319 6319, Fax: +65 6319 6345, email: magadpromo@sph. com.sg website: www. sphmagazines.com.sg

Chan Cheng Leong

HOME & DECOR MALAYSIA IS PUBLISHED BY BLU INC MEDIA SDN BHD (7408-K), UNDER LICENSE

BY SPH MAGAZINES PTE LTD, PUBLISHER OF HOME & DECOR SINGAPORE. Lot 7, Jalan Bersatu 13/4, Section 13 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: +03 7952 7000 Call +603 7952 7000 to buy back issues SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES: subscription@bluinc.com.my AD SALES ENQUIRIES: homeanddecor@bluinc.com. my PRINTED BY PERCETAKAN LAI SDN BHD, No 1, Persiaran 2/118c, Kawasan Perindustrian Desa Tun Razak, Cheras 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, tel: +603-9173 1111 DISTRIBUTED BY Pansing Marketing Sdn Bhd

The trademark and content may not be used or reproduced in any form or by any means without the written permission of SPH Magazines Pte Ltd and Blu Inc Media Sdn Bhd. 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.

INTERNATIONAL EDITION HOME & DECOR INDONESIA ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER – DESIGN & ARCHITECTURE Ferry Tanok MPG MEDIA PUBLISHING Jl. Hang Tuah II, No. 2 Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta 12120, Indonesia tel: (021) 722-4632 Fax: (021)739-5922

E DI TO R’S NOT E

M O R E T H A N J U S T A P R E T T Y FAC E Every year, millions flock to Milan to take part in the Salone del Mobile, what is lauded to be THE interior design, furnishings, and fittings show to be at. And why not? The show is held in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with a history in design that spans generations. A city of artists, dreamers, and designers, Milan has seen the birth and consequent expansion of fashion since long before our generation ever thought to brand it with sleek styles and the unyieldingly bello aesthetics of Italian couture. It comes as little surprise, then, that the furniture design industry has flourished

E M M E LY N C I N DY M A H E D I TO R

12

so well from here. Fashion and furniture are intrinsically linked, and how wonderful it’s been thusfar!

The world has grown increasingly aware of its limited resources and the importance of sustainability, and designers have followed suit! From the surge of designs that cater to a conscious and ‘green’ lifestyle to innovations that involve taking what you need and no more - see: Philippe Starck’s Smart Wood chairs with Kartell humanity has rolled into an age of giving back to mother nature.

Furnishings are no longer just pretty things to be admired - now, a good piece serves its purpose and visually enhances a space. A perfect piece does all that, and returns to dust without pollution once its time is past. Naturally, other trends abound, and we bring you through them with our story on page 44!

A little closer to home in our Southeast Asian neighbour the Philippines, Manila FAME serves to show us just how far Filipino design has come. Turn to page 38 to find out what we experienced at the recent show held in April, just two short months ago! In all the buzz of new innovations and designs both far and wide, we also pay homage to a material we absolutely love in design: leather. Our feature on page 54 will show you our favourite picks as well as how to identify the type of leather you’re looking at! And, if you’re planning a dinner party, turn to page 90 for some appetisers from around the world.

As always, we’ve got a selection of homes for you all; we hope they’ll inspire you on all your renovations and interior styling endeavours.

Have a happy, happy July!

JOY THE MINIMALIST ELEGANCE

contemporary kitchen design, attention to details

WISHLIST

ARMED WITH STYLE

1

3

An armchair is a simple necessity, a monumental masterpiece to have in a home. Pay homage to the timeless and classy designs with these armchairs:

2 1

8

5

4

8

6

9

7

1. GG Jacquard armchair, from Gucci Décor. 2. Imola chair, from BoConcept. 3. Cassina 053 Capitol Complex armchair, from Space Furniture. 4. Thomas outdoor armchair by Antonio Citterio, from Flexform I Studio 216. 5. Velvet armchair with emboidered owl, from Gucci Décor. 6. Carl Hansen & Søn CH468 Oculus Chair by Hans J. Wegner, from Studio 216. 7. Tosca armchair by Antonio Citterio, from Flexform I Studio 216. 8. Jacob Armchair, from XZQT. 9. Veneto armchair, from BoConcept

14

text NG YI XIANG

D E S I G N N E W S , P L A C E S T O V I S I T, T H I N G S T O B U Y

P L AY S TAT I O N Remember the time when you were a child, and the playground offered a world of endless possibilities and fun?

That is what the Imaginarium cupboard, designed by local interior design studio The Carpenter’s Workshop, offers you as an adult now.

Created for the Freeplay design competition (jointly organised by furniture store P5 and Danish furniture brand Montana), and made with Montana’s shelving modules, Imaginarium is a portable cabinet that can be used in all situations and home settings. Young parents can use it as a counter for nappy changing, while single homeowners can convert it into a bar for holding beverages and tipple.

Imaginarium is available for order at P5 Studio, Singapore. Visit #01-08 Henderson Industrial Park, 213 Henderson Road, Singapore or www.p5studio.com.sg for more information.

Image STUDIO PERIPHERY

C O LO U R O F T H E M O N T H

A BURST OF F L AVO U R

C O LO U R O F THE MONTH PANTONE

We know, we know. This shade of orange has come to be closely associated with a particular mobile service provider here, but, that aside, there is something quite appealing about this tangerine hue when used in light doses around the home. Contrasted against a textured wall and a neutral solid palette, orange actually injects vitality into a space, making a room feel spacious and inviting. Still not convinced it’s the colour for your living room? We suggest experimenting with it on soft furnishings and patterned fabrics, especially those from labels such as Missoni Home and Marimekko, which are known for using orange in artful and lovely ways. The effect looks even better, when paired with the beautiful patterns of wood grain.

7583C

PANTONE COOL GRAY 3C

PANTONE 7522C

The Angelica (above) and Campanone (below) outdoor lamps are designed by Paolo Grasselli for Modo Luce. Visit www. modoluce.com for more information.

the experts

WON G L I A N GY UA N Colour Specialist, Haven Lifestyle

16

“Local homeowners are careful about using bright colours on walls, but orange is an ideal shade that treads the fine line between bright and dark perfectly. It really depends on the other colours you pair it with, so you can tone it down with pastel hues or use it to make a strong statement against a solid black or navy gray background.”

NEWS

PUMPING HEAT LG’s latest advanced dryer incorporates the company’s industryleading DUAL Inverter Heat Pump to deliver both efficient and effective drying.

The pump employs two cylinders that work simultaneously to compress the refrigerant, enabling the appliance to achieve faster drying times,

enhanced performance, and stellar energy efficiency. The LG dryer also offers more convenience with its Auto Cleaning Condenser feature which uses powerful jets of water to remove lint and dust from the condenser automatically, making regular manual cleaning a thing of the past.

For more information, visit www.lg.com/my

TUB OF LUXURY

SWEET RAYA TREAT The H&D team recently indulged an exclusive Raya luncheon by Consentino at their largest showroom in Asia, and got some hands-on experience making Raya favourites. Guided

by Chef Hasan Ramli bin Usri from Royale Chulan Damansara, the team tried their hands at making traditional treats such as ‘Ondeh-Ondeh’ and ‘Biskut Dahlia’ in Cosentino’s live kitchen space, getting a feel for the brand’s extensive range of high quality surfaces.

The Aloe tub by Kos stands out for its minimalist, durable design and harmonious shape.

Smooth lines create spacious volume that guarantees maximum relaxation for occupants, allowing the body to move with ease for complete wellbeing. The cosy shape, with its silky surface texture and matte effect, is a sculptural and elegant piece, perfect for elevating any modern bathroom.

For more information, visit www.zucchettikos.it

For more information, visit www.consentino. com

17

TRENDING

OPTICAL SENSATION This rug is sure to take you on a visual ride that you will not soon forget.

Evident by its name ‘Convex’, the circular sensation from Illulian features a pattern that gradually bulges out in the middle giving off the optical illusion of a convex mirror. An illustrated series of black and white checkers, the piece works great as an eye-catching accent for any contemporary interior. Hand-knotted in Nepal by master artisans, the Convex rug will also appeal to your physical senses.

MORE STORAGE

BEYOND EARTH Against the backdrop of a deteriorating Earth and the possibility of settling on other planets, the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival themed ‘TOMORROW’ addresses the aforementioned issues with “Building Beyond: Designing Spaceships, Habitats, Lunar, and Martian Bases”.

The programme explores the potential of space as an environment for future human habitation, and was presented by world-renowned Space Architect, Dr Barbara Imhof. Dr. Imhof shared on how these space settlements or colonies will look like and the possibility, viability and sustainability of their construction.

For more information, visit www.klaf.my

18

Make proper use of ‘dead’ space around the home with IKEA’s PLATSA modular storage system. The PLATSA system features customisable units that can be combined or pulled apart to make sure you have a solution to fill a particular space, be it under a flight of stairs or an oddly sloped roofline. You can choose the type of storage to incorporate too, from handles to legs to perfectly match your space.

For more information, visit www.ikea.com.my.

TAILORMADE For more information, visit www.studio216.co

With personalisation an ever-popular concept, it’s good to know that one can have the Taylor family of cabinets from Flexform made their way from an extensive range of build materials and finishes.

Configure it to fit into any space at home too, with a number of different vertical or horizontal configurations. Choose from beautiful cowhide or Canaletto walnut veneer for the sliding door and contrast your piece with a marble top if you so desire; the combinations are endless!

SHINING LIGHT

Getting fit Samsung Malaysia Electronics announced the Galaxy Fit, a fitness wearable designed to get you into an active and balanced lifestyle.

Track your activities like biking, hiking, and running, or manually select from more than 90 different activities in the Samsung Health app. With a thin and lightweight body, the Galaxy Fit is easy to style and comfortable to wear all week long.

Its Full-Colour AMOLED Display also allows you to see what’s on the screen even in full, bright daylight.

‘A Radiant Heart’ by Liuli might seem insignificant at first with its simple square outline, but take a moment to look into its confines and you will be stunned by the amount of detail enclosed.

Encased within the crystal block is a carving of a peacock in full spread with a plenitude of minute details. Take the grand tour and inspect it closer, and you will come to see that it is three dimensional, adding significant depth to a decorative piece.

For more information, visit www.liuli.com.sg

For more information, visit www. samsung.com/my

19

NEWS

PERSON OF THE MONTH The evolution never stops at Dyson, and

EVOLVED SUCTION

the brand’s latest Dyson V11™ cord-free vacuum is a testament to that. Advanced microprocessors onboard the Dyson V11™ vacuum bring a new level of intelligence for cleaning.

The appliance is now able to monitor its own performance up to 8,000 times a second, and adjust its suction power depending on your floor type. The V11™ also features the High Torque cleaner head, Dyson’s most powerful cord-free cleaner head For more information, visit www.dyson.my

ever featuring stiff nylon bristles for when you just need that deep cleanse!

FRUITY INJECTION Samsung customers can now enjoy Apple TV channels and iTunes movies and TV shows on selected Samsung Smart TVs with the all-new Apple TV app and AirPlay 2. “As the first TV manufacturer to integrate the Apple TV app on a Smart TV platform, Samsung continues to offer 20

our customers incredible value and access to the Apple TV app experience on the largest screens,” says Samsung Electronics’ Visual Display Business unit Executive Vice President, Won-Jin Lee. For more information, visit www.samsung.com/my

A m e lia L e e Diagnosed with fibrocystic breasts, Amelia was to stave off dairy, soy, fried, processed foods, and collagen. With all the dietary restrictions and the constant bodily pains, her impulse was not to complain, but indeed, to find alternative ingredients that allow her to still enjoy the conventional foods she loves. Her most notable creation, the Whole Wheat Banana Bread was the catalyst that started the domino effect, eventually leading to the creation of BREAKFIRST, a business selling a range of healthy breakfast foods that spreads the message of balanced and sustainable eating.

On how to live healthy, Amelia says: “Don’t stress. Healthy looks different on everyone, and not one eating habit fits all. Do your own research and adopt a lifestyle that works for you. Ultimately, only you know what your body needs, so listen to and honour it,” says Amelia. For those wanting to engage in a healthier diet with BREAKFIRST, she recommends the signature Whole Wheat Banana Bread, but if you are looking to satisfy a nut butter craving, get the Pumpkin Seed Butter.

As for the future of the brand, Amelia is looking to establish a stronger social presence by participating in more pop-ups and bazaars, and even partnering with other like-minded brands.

Check out Amelia Lee and BREAKFIRST at www. breakfirstbyamy.com

PRECIOUS GEM Designed in the style of a glistening jewel, the Diamond sideboard from Boca do Lobo is a green emerald stunner. The sideboard also features three highly-sculptured doors leading to a gold leaf interior with practical shelving and two drawers.

The glamour extends right down to the base with a mahogany construction lined with bronze mirrored pieces.

IN THE CLOUDS Infuse your child’s room with a sense of dreamy wonder with the Cloudy vanity console by Circu. As the name might suggest, the vanity features soft rounded corners and a panel that is shaped like the puff of a cloud. The quirkiness continues with a light pink glossy varnish and velvet flock. The gold trim around the mirror also adds a touch of class, perfectly rounding off the stunning furniture piece For more information, visit www.circu.net

For more information, visit www.bocadolobo.com

REV

IEW

STYLISH TRUE WIRELESS IN-EAR HEADPHONE BY 1MORE 1MORE’s stylish True Wireless In-Ear Headphones are entirely free of wires and tangles, featuring a sleek design that has recently nabbed the 2019 iF Design Award.

The earphones are also feature-packed and utilise an advanced Titanium Composite Driver for crystal clear studio-grade audio quality. With each earbud providing up to 6.5 hours of usage and a charging case that allows for three more full charges, you can jam out to your tunes for longer! The headphones’ lightweight construction also allows for users to easily pocket them, or store them in a purse without the added heft that conventional over-theear headphones come with. text ARIC TING

21

IN THE MOOD FOR S O P H I S T I C AT I O N For the wine connoisseur with a huge collection that simply begs to be displayed, there’s Tuscani’s Wine Cellar selection.

T

For more information, visit www.tuscani.my/ wc.php

22

here’s no way around it, and it would be useless to deny that a wine cellar is the perfect stylish touch to any modern kitchen. Imagine this: your guests are on the move for a dinner party at your house.

Your dining room is perfectly set up, and the food for the evening is ready to go. The table is gorgeous; the flowers are in vases, and the candles are lit. Somewhere in the living room, your playlist is making the customary rounds, and everything is in order.

The doorbell rings, and you turn from your kitchen with all the grace of a Hollywood superstarlet, drink in hand and perfectly-chilled wine ready

for the pour. Such is the perfect dream of sophistication, and one that plays oh so beautifully into every modern kitchen.

Enter Tuscani’s Bellona collection of wine chillers with style and substance both. A Nano Air-Cycle Cooling System ensures enhanced functionality and high performance in terms of its built-in air circulation system, keeping your wines temperate and your dinner parties perfectly supplied.

Single, dual, and multitemperature models meet all your cellaring needs with ease, while natural and permanent ventilation removes even the possibility of bad odours.

In terms of design, these stylish chillers want for nothing; solid beechwood shelves display your prized bottles while keeping them safe, and a protective varnish serves to reduce vibrations. A stylish internal light panel allows for you to see, at a glance, the bottles on display. And because the chillers come in a variety of sizes and heights, you can rest assured that they will fit seamlessly into your interior aesthetic! And why stop at wines? Craft sodas in pastel shades will look just as beautiful – if not even moreso!

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH photos TUSCANI

H OT SP OT

Woody stools by Francesco Meda; Trim was designed by Dante Bonuccelli for fast-paced contemporary life; Vela, also

by Bonuccelli, uses technology to add functionality; Slide by Armani/Dada was inspired by an informal yet refined dinner atmosphere; and VVD

by Vincent Van Duysen reflects the contrast between the slim profiles of the side and end units, and the thickness of the worktops, with an interplay of solids and voids.

“Evoking the sense of cosiness is something very important that humans desire, and that is something that I want to translate into my architectural and design work”, says Van Duysen.

Thanks to big windows looking out to green areas, light diffuses through the whole Dada

DA DA TO KYO F L AG S H I P Vincent Van Duysen crafted the Italian designer furniture company’s ultra elegant store in Japan – its first in the country.

L

ast December, the Dada flagship store opened in the Minami Aoyama district, located in the heart of Tokyo. Spread over 400 sq m, the store is the Italian brand’s first in Japan, and is located next to the Molteni&C flagship and the gardens of the Nezu Museum, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma.

Both the Dada (part of the Molteni Group) and Molteni&C stores are set in a spacious 700-sq-m compound. Shaped

by Belgian designer Vincent Van Duysen, the Dada space is home to a range of six kitchens: Hi-Line 6 Frame Door comprises pieces in Titan aluminium, pewter, steel and oak; Prime features recessed openings, a snack bar and

AB OV E

The design of the showroom offers visitors a look at how Dada’s kitchens can blend seamlessly into the living areas.

TOP L E F T

Concealed lighting helps to maintain a clean, uncluttered look.

text KARINE MONIE images COURTESY OF MOLTENI&C

Tokyo flagship store. Natural and sophisticated materials, such as glass, bronze and raw metal, prevail and are combined with hues of sand, warm greys, as well as touches of green.

Most of the decorative elements were made to measure, giving the open-concept layout a tailored and seamless look.

Visit www.p5.com.sg to find out more about Dada kitchens.

23

SERVING STYLE AND SUBSTANCE KDK ceiling fans are perfect all-rounders with their appealing designs and advanced features.

L

iving in the tropics where homes can get uncomfortably hot without proper ventilation, you would be remiss for not installing a ceiling fan. However, while most can offer up a decent breeze, not all hit the mark in the looks department.

Dive into KDK’s world of fantastic ceiling fans that serve up good looks with tons of innovative features to boot.

Minimalism is the name of the game when it comes to designing the brand’s fans; this

24

starts with the colour palette, which features simple silvers, whites, dark browns, and greys.

All the aforementioned hues allow KDK’s fans to better complement the overall colour palette of any home interior, while simultaneously avoiding clashing.

Clean, simple and sleek lines devoid of pull cords and extra blade colours also dominate the design language of KDK’s ceiling fan lineup. It gives them a timeless appeal which works well with every type of interior, ranging from a gracefully ageing

home to a thoroughly modern and contemporary abode.

The appeal of KDK’s fans doesn’t just stop at their looks.

They are also a great investment for those looking towards a greener lifestyle. Forwardthinking innovations like the use of Direct Current motors on selected products mean tremendous energy savings, relieving strain on both Mother Nature and your electricity bill.

Innovative features like a motion sensor on KDK’s Moshon line also contribute to that eco-

P

K L D IA K EC

S

F OR M O R E INF OR M AT I O N , V IS IT WWW. K DK .CO M . M Y

friendly lifestyle, allowing the fan to scan the room for occupants and adjusting its speed according the level of activity and how many people there are. If the room is empty, the Moshon gradually slows, right down to a full stop after 20 minutes.

The Sensa line, however, comes with a Temperature Sensor which allows the fan to detect temperature changes and adjust the fan speed accordingly

to provide optimum airflow while conserving energy. Conveniences like these not only serve to lighten the load on energy consumption, but also to relieve you of the worry of leaving appliances on while you are away from home.

While you lounge in comfort under your KDK fan, take advantage of the sophisticated ‘Yuragi’ feature which is available on selected remote control ceiling

fan models. This rhythm breeze function uses a variety of changes in the air speed over four-second intervals to create a simulated natural breeze that helps to dramatically increase comfort levels indoors.

With ample style and substance paired with unparalleled reliability, there is much to be gained with any one of KDK’s brilliant lineups of ceiling fans.

25

H OT SP OT

chance outcome, the happy accident that comes from always engaging the right creative mindset”. He says: “We believe it is by bringing together complementary creative energies that we achieve the exceptional.”

Honouring that idea, the Grand Bay View Hotel Zhuhai was inspired by crosscultural Western and Eastern references, geometric patterns and traditional Chinese motifs, and it features nautical touches (as it is a waterfront hotel) exemplified by details like pearl-like metal facades and blue fabrics and carpets.

To welcome guests, Lee and partner Craig Nealy recreated an underwater setting in the intimate lobby. “I wanted to create something that was fun, that created the feeling of living really within the sea,” says Lee.

good to know At 55km, the bridge connecting Hong Kong, Macau and Zhuhai is the world’s longest sea bridge.

It is 20 times longer than the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

G R A N D B AY V I E W H OT E L ZHUHAI This project exudes contemporary Asian luxury with a touch of playfulness.

26

B

ehind the new look of China’s Grand Bay View Hotel in Zhuhai is designer James Lee, who founded L’Avventura & Associates in 2014. The collaborative creative group brings together designers from around the world to work on hospitality and residential projects.

With over 20 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific region’s hotel design industry and an approach focused on

creating authentic spaces with a soul, Lee – who was born in Jiangnan and received a master’s degree in interior design at the Chelsea College of Arts in London – was immediately identified as the perfect match to give new life to the 21-year-old hotel, which is located in the southern province of Guangdong.

The concept that Lee puts at the heart of every project is serendipity, attributing the success of projects to “the

AB OV E

An East-meetsWest approach was taken for the design of the public areas.

Both romantic and Zen-like, the spaces feature translucent screens, and untreated wooden panels and layers. “This is really about expressing a new Asian luxury that is elegant and subtle,” he adds. “The design plays with the nature of light, of intimacy and our sense of time and history, and I’m happy that we managed to create something that is so true to that concept.”

The designer also relied on simplicity – which is at the root of complexity, he says – for this project.

“We succeed when you can’t see what we’ve done,” says Lee. “We may unearth the story but we let it tell itself. True meaning lies in the invisible.”

For more information on the hotel, visit www. grandbayviewhotelzhuhai.com.

LEFT

Subtle touches of gold and a mix of textures help to channel a sense of understated luxury.

A B OV E

White and black marble were used to give the bathrooms an opulent feel.

B E LOW, L E F T

The guest rooms are tastefully designed, with the use of bold lines and contemporary colours.

B E LOW, RIGH T

Impressive artwork, such as this light installation, abound within the common areas in the hotel.

text KARINE MONIE photos FUJUE PHOTO

27

H OT SP OT

RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO Only a few months old, this luxury hotel is an oasis in the middle of the ocean.

28

T

o reach this unparalleled property, fly to the southern end of the Maldives archipelago, near the equator. From there, a speedboat is the only way to reach the Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, located on the Gaafu Alifu Atoll – one of the world’s largest and most remote island atolls. Once there, the feeling is clear: This is paradise.

A member of Raffles Hotels & Resorts – whose story started in 1887 with Raffles Singapore, the property that introduced

private butlers – Raffles Maldives Meradhoo features an architectural style in line with its context. Offering views of the Indian Ocean, the 38 villas built on the sand and based across two separate islands (Main Island and Overwater Island) are the perfect place to relax and admire the fascinating panorama.

Scheduled to open in the second half of 2019 on the Main Island, the Raffles Royal Residence will be home to expansive living spaces and a

lavish marble bathroom with a sunken bathtub and outdoor shower, as well as a private pool and its own private beach.

In all of the hotel’s airy spaces designed by Yee Pin Tan, creative director of BLINK Design Group, the style is modern classic and concepts of fengshui and biophilia were introduced. The colours – mainly blue and sand – evoke tones of the ocean, sky and beach. Painted in blue, windows help to frame sublime views.

With glass flooring panels,

the terraces encourage the observation of marine life beneath one’s feet at every moment. Art curator Henny Scott invited 14 artists to create 78 artworks inspired by the sea theme and Maldives landscape.

Non-traditional materials such as bamboo, ceramic, lacquer, fabric and soil were incorporated into the artworks.

Thanks to the hotel’s resident marine biologist and team of marine butlers, guests can learn more about the underwater world. With

the resort’s Padi-certified dive centre, guests are assured of being ready to explore the pristine waters.

The natural beauty of the surroundings clearly inspired the design of the property, including the food and beverage establishments. The alfresco restaurant Thari is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Peruvian and Japanese fusion restaurant Yuzu features an immaculately decorated space overlooking the water; The Firepit gives guests the opportunity to have dinner under the stars; while Yapa Sunset Bar – adjacent to Yuzu – and the Long Bar offer openair beverage experiences. Also set over the water, the Raffles Spa offers luxury facials by Biologique Recherche, and a manicure and pedicure concept

by Margaret Dabbs London.

In this dream environment, guests also have access to a fitness centre, seaside yoga sessions and a vast array of water sports. Both through its concept and aesthetic, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo honours the beauty of nature.

For more information visit www. rafflesmaldives.com/meradhoo.

O PPOS I TE

A circular dining room allows guests a 360-degree view of the surrounding ocean.

LE FT

The resort is situated on two separate islands of the Gaafu Alifu Atoll.

B E LOW

The beachfront villas open out to white sandy beaches.

B OT TO M

The open and inviting nature of the architecture and interior design complements the breathtaking vistas around the resort.

good to know Although sunny all year round, the monsoon season in the Maldives spans May to October. The best time to visit is between November and April.

text KARINE MONIE images RAFFLES MALDIVES MERADHOO

29

H OT SP OT

LEFT

When designing the space, brothers Kurt and Jon Wagner envisioned a place where customers would feel at home.

B E LOW

A decor highlight of the cafe would be the wall photographs, depicting four African women from different nomadic tribes.

They were taken by Mario Gerth, a German documentary photographer.

KAFE UTU SINGAPORE Named after the Kiswahili word for humanity, Kafe Utu is the place to experience the warmth of African hospitality.

30

A

s someone who grew up in various African countries – namely Liberia, South Sudan and Kenya – Kurt Wagner yearned for a taste of authentic Africa in Singapore, where he now resides.

Kurt Wagner is the owner of Kafe Utu, a three-storey cafe near Keong Siak in Singapore.

Together with his brother, Jon, Kurt conceptualised a menu and cafe design that is true to the diverse and vibrant cultures of Africa.

Kurt says: “We believe that Kafe Utu is the only place in Singapore serving authentic African cuisine.

“Our African dishes are true to their origins, using the freshest ingredients, and prepared lovingly to give you a true taste of Africa. Our dishes come from Monrovia, Marrakech, Lamu, Malindi, Bhanga and beyond.”

Try their signature “Mama

text ELIZA HAMIZAH

African” dishes, which include a Swahili fish curry and a Liberian peanut chicken stew.

The decorative wooden door, panels and mirrors in Kafe Utu were carved by hand for the cafe, by a master craftsman from Malindi and in motifs that reflect Zanzibari traditions. You’ll also spot water glasses that have been handblown by the experts at Kitengela Hot Glass, in their workshop just outside of Nairobi.

Another impressive feature is the 8m banquette, cut from a single ancient African Mahogany tree grown in Singapore.

Kafe Utu also takes its coffee seriously. Its house blend, Ubuntu, is selected, blended and hand-roasted in small batches from beans grown in Uganda, Mexico and Brazil. The result is a rich buttery texture with hints of cashew nuts and red wine.

Complementing this is creamy milk from Hokkaido.

Visit Kafe Utu at 12 Jiak Chuan Road, Singapore, www.kafeutu. com.

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

THE ARCHITECT AESTHETE Santiago Calatrava’s creations are elegant, dramatic landmarks aimed at breathing new life into their surrounding landscapes, each one a feat of engineering that sees architectural works metamorphosise into innovative, sculptural structures. Ever the aesthete who produces sculptures, ceramics and paintings alongside buildings, Calatrava takes the approach of using advanced technology and engineering as vehicles for beauty and art, where form takes precedence, instead of creating purely utilitarian architecture.

31

SP OT L I G H T

1

His designs are astonishing visual spectacles, particularly his bridges; they have brought him international acclaim and established his reputation. Revolutionising bridge construction, he transforms those connectors into works of art that are catalysts in reviving derelict neighbourhoods, thereby injecting hope into forgotten spaces and even acting as a symbol of reconciliation.

Consider the Woman’s Bridge he built in Buenos Aires, Argentina, which is a 102m-long pedestrian bridge. It has a central section suspended by cables from an inclined pylon able to rotate 90 degrees to permit free passage of water traffic, which helped to revitalise the city’s run-down port area.

An emblem of regeneration is his upcoming 1.4 million sq ft Peninsula Place, which is part of the new Greenwich Peninsula cultural district – London’s single largest redevelopment project formerly home to a gasworks, power station and other industries that left much of it a barren wasteland. It will be composed of a train and bus station, theatre, cinema, performance hall, well-being hub, winter garden, bars and shops, over which will soar three high-rise buildings of workspaces, apartments

32

1

and hotels, all linked to the Thames by a new land bridge.

1 . The Peninsula Place in Greenwich Peninsula cultural district is London’s single largest redevelopment.

Calatrava is much more than his profession.

2 . Spanish architect Santiago

4. The tower rendered in watercolour.

3. The tower at Dubai Creek Harbour by Santiago.

2

Bridging Spaces With over 50 monumental bridges to his name, Calatrava identifies the unique challenges that come with bridge building, and how they form an integral part of the landscape. He says: “We must think of the fact that bridges, while being an urban piece of work, serve a very important purpose: They are able to connect places, and frequently integrate urban spaces within cities themselves. This is no reason for them not to be beautiful.

“Think about, for example, cities like Paris or London, and what they would be like without their bridges. They would probably be other cities.

I’ve had this fact very clear

4

3

in some of my projects. It has happened in Valencia, where the interventions that we have carried out farther than the City of Arts and Sciences have contributed to integrating city areas, rather than have them separated. The same has happened in Dallas, where the structures we built have not only played a fundamental role in the betterment of access and circulation, but also allowed for connection between shores.”

Thinking Big Born in 1951 in Valencia, Spain, and passionate about drawing, Calatrava would likely have become an artist if he hadn’t discovered the works of Le Corbusier when he went to Paris to study fine arts – only to find his school closed due to the civil unrest that rocked the city in 1968.

After studying architecture at the Polytechnic University of Valencia in 1974 and taking a postgraduate course in urbanism, he pursued civil engineering at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich to explore building construction, with the aim of overcoming the boundaries of architectural convention.

In 1981, he earned a doctorate for a thesis entitled “Concerning the Foldability of Space Frames”, which investigated how, through

33

6

5 . An art installation that Santiago created for his collection Vertical Sculptures.

6 . The Xihu bridge is one of three bridges that Santiago was commissioned to build for the city of Huashan in China.

5

high-tech engineering, structures could move and transform themselves. The same year, he set up his own architectural and engineering practice in Zurich, then later opened offices in Paris, New York and Dubai.

Today, ideas of motion continue to pervade his work, having started in the early 1990s to add mobile aspects to his buildings through doors, windows and roofs that could shift and open up in new ways, modifying a structure’s shape.

His creations curve, arch, twist, fold and lean. In New York City, his World Trade Center Transportation Hub consisting of steel ribs and

34

glass – its shape representing a bird released from a child’s hands – features a colossal operable skylight framing a slice of the sky, which opens on temperate days and annually on Sept 11. For his expansion of the Milwaukee Art Museum, he created a moveable brisesoleil with massive louvres that open and close like the wings of a giant bird.

He explains: “When we speak, we usually gesture with our arms and hands; when the wind blows through nature, trees and foliage move, ripples and waves are created in water bodies. Nature is something that transforms itself; something that is alive,

REMARKABLE DESIGNS City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, Spain (2004)

place, the six-lane bridge showcases an arched pylon laced with 58 cables extending in web-like sweeps to either side to effectively distribute the forces.

Consisting of an opera house, science museum, planetarium, two bridges and two gardens on a 35ha site, the arts complex rejuvenated an underdeveloped and neglected area of the city.

Turning Torso, Malmo, Sweden (2005)

Based on one of Calatrava’s sculptures, the spiralling mixeduse residential and office tower evokes the imagery of a twisting spinal column, and is composed of nine box units positioned elegantly around a core.

Bridge of Strings, Jerusalem, Israel (2008)

something new and poetic.

The same thing happens with buildings. They are not static.

They transform over time and can capture an instant.”

After almost four decades in the business, what excites him about architecture is that it has the capacity to propose buildings and infrastructure, which, apart from their function, are able to convert spaces into something inspirational.

He describes the role of the architect: “Above all, the works of architects must possess the capacity to express hope and optimism, an especially important feature in public works.”

Serving as a gateway to the city, the harp-like bridge with a single slanting pylon and cables arranged in a parabolic shape carries the light rail across a dense urban area, and aids in resolving traffic issues.

Liege-Guillemins TGV Railway Station, Liege, Belgium (2009) Seamlessly integrating interior and exterior, the high-speed train station with no facade in the traditional sense is characterised by transparency, through a monumental vault roof and a glass-and-steel construction.

Museum of Tomorrow, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (2015)

World Trade Center Transportation Hub

Palacio de Congresos, Oviedo, Spain (2011)

Along with two office buildings, a five-star hotel, an underground shopping mall and a parking garage, the conference and exhibition centre features a glass-andsteel covered elliptical form for optimal acoustics, as well as a cantilevered roof and facade structure with operable light-adjusting elements.

Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge, Dallas, USA (2012)

Converting the riverfront into a central gathering

The highlight is a cantilevered roof that has huge mobile wings, with a facade structure stretching almost the full length of the pier and a reflection pool surrounding the building. Its sustainability credentials include using seawater to cool the interiors and photovoltaic panels for solar energy.

World Trade Center Transportation Hub, New York City, USA (2016) The steel-and-glass elliptical oculus houses a 330 ft skylight enabling natural daylight to flood into the structure and filter down through all floors to reach the PATH train platform 60 ft below ground.

Museum of Tomorrow

text Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE

35

PEOPLE

CLASS ACT Nicolas Roche talks about the stellar pieces in the showroom of the furniture brand founded by his grandfather and great-uncle.

38

A

t the recent official opening of Roche Bobois in Singapore, the top French retailer of luxurious home furnishings, guests were given a sneak preview of its latest collections. That elicited admiration from the crowd, with each collection being given a fascinating introduction.

And we can see why.

No matter the age of the series, each exudes audacious beauty and form, as well as a sense of timelessness (designs that date back to the ’70s amaze with how they still look at home in any contemporary space and setting).

Taking pride of place in the swanky 5,300 sq ft roadfacing showroom along Bukit Timah Road is the latest piece de resistance, Globe Trotter, a bold travel-themed collection

by Dutch designer Marcel

Wanders. “Globe Trotter tells a story; it’s about travelling and exploring places and discovering new things, with whimsical motifs and influences drawn from Marcel’s explorations in London, Paris and Istanbul,” says Nicolas Roche, creative director of Roche Bobois who was here to grace the opening of the showroom.

While the collection’s rugs and room divider make a statement with striking patterns and hues, there are also pieces which are more delicate in shade and tone. “Certain pieces, like the rugs, boast a bold tapestry, reminiscent of frescos in Europe but, at the same time, there are others in the collection that carry softer, subtler colours. Once again, this whole collection celebrates the French art de vivre around the world,” adds Nicolas, whose job entails choosing collaborators for new collections.

The Globe Trotter is just one of the many standout series which shows Roche Bobois’ penchant for collaborating with top fashion names and haute couture houses; it has also teamed up with renowned names such as Missoni Home, and Ora Ito. Founded in 1960, Roche Bobois has more than 265 showrooms in over 55 countries – its opening in Singapore marks another milestone in the brand’s ambitious expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. The Singapore branch also takes a holistic approach to decorating

homes, providing interior design services to advise and help clients transform their ideas into reality for their dream home, be it an apartment or a spacious landed property. Customisation is key and clients get to choose from a broad selection of fabrics and finishes. “Our showroom staff are more than just sales persons – they are experts in the field who can provide inspiration for your home, and smart solutions for even small apartments,” says Nicolas, who graduated as an architect from France’s prestigious Ecole du Louvre and joined the family business in 2006 as director of contemporary furniture collections.

With a strong personal interest in sustainable development, he is also the in-house expert on all things eco, and oversaw the development of the company’s own qualitative assessment software tool, Eco6, in 2012.

“The software was first based on six criteria relating to the different stages of the life cycle of a particular product. It highlighted the environmental impact and allowed us to focus on how to reduce them,” explains Nicolas. “It’s since been updated to Eco8 and is now based on four stages of the life cycle: ‘material profile’, ‘manufacturing’, ‘use’ and ‘end of life’. A product is considered to be eco-designed when it has a rating of three or higher, so all products that have been

determined to be ‘eco’ feature our ‘eco-conceived’ badge.”

One cannot talk about Roche Bobois without mentioning another of its iconic pieces, Mah Jong, by now the indisputable signature of its collections.

Created by Hans Hopfer, known as the inventor of seating landscapes back in 1971, the sofa set is based on the “total freedom of function and form”, allowing for limitless options as you combine or stack the seats into an armchair, sofa, or even bed to create a space to rest, play or lounge around in.

Avant-garde when created, Mah Jong still stands as an iconic piece and, over the years, has been “dressed” by Kenzo Takada and Jean Paul Gaultier. “Mah Jong is not just a statement-making design, but it is about playing around with colour, composition and modularity,” says Nicolas.

ONE CANNOT TALK ABOUT ROCHE BOBOIS WITHOUT MENTIONING MAH JONG, THE INDISPUTABLE SIGNATURE OF ITS COLLECTIONS.

Roche Bobois is situated at #01-02 Boon Siew Building, 75 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore.

A B OV E

Highlights from the Globe Trotter collection designed

by Marcel Wanders.

LE FT

Luxurious furnishings to browse at the French brand’s showroom.

O PPOS I T E

The signature Mah Jong modular seating system.

text JACQUELINE TAN

39

F E AT U R E

SENSE, SENSIBILITY, AND SUSTAINABILITY It’s been thirty six years since Manila FAME first opened its doors to the public, and sixty nine editions have since passed. With history spanning decades, it’s nonetheless clear to see on the exhibition hall that the design standard of the Philippines has long moved into the future. Home & Decor takes the tour!

38

W

alking through the halls of the World Trade Centre in Metro Manila is an experience quite unlike any other. Manila FAME bears all the hallmarks of a traditional furnishings and lifestyle expo, yet there is something remarkably different in the air, which is thrumming with life and exuberance; this is further reflected in the furniture pieces that line the exhibition booths across the spaces.

As the second-longest running trade event featuring homeware, furnishings, holiday decor, fashion, and gift items in the Asia-Pacific region, Manila FAME has more than carved a place for itself in the annals

AB OV E The design commune featured an array of designer works from fashion to furniture.

TOP Volante module lounge chair by Finali Furniture and Home Accessories Co.

of exhibitions this side of the world. To date, it remains the only show in the Philippines recognised by the Union des Foires Internationales, a union of the world’s leading tradeshow organisers.

A jaw dropping sixty-nine editions of Manila FAME have come and gone, and though the exhibition has adapted and changed throughout the years, it is this storied history that carries through the halls of the exhibition. Certainly, it is clear to see that the show has come a long way since its inception.

Despite the forward step of designs and the challenge of a competitive global market, the ideals, relationships, and visions of the past have transcended time and settle with ease in the present. To the exhibition’s prolific visitor base, which includes a local, regional, and international mix of businesspeople, designers, homeowners, and even celebrities, the exhibitors remain as eager and hungry to share. The close ties between organisers and exhibitors 39

remain at the forefront (for, indeed, everybody is a friend in sunny Manila). And the endgame remains the same: to show the region, and indeed the world that the Philippines has arrived.

The goal is simple: Manila FAME serves as a cultivating ground and springboard for innovative Philippine products, allowing designers to break through into key international markets.

Leading the charge in bringing Manila FAME into the 21st century is Pauline Suaco-Juan. With 15 years underbelt as Editor-InChief of a respected fashion title in the Philippines, Pauline’s new role as Executive Director of The Centre for International Trade Expositions and Mission (CITEM) is one that requires in-depth knowledge in terms of modern design. Her charge, then, is to promote Philippine export products and services in the global market through its roster of signature events and international participants, of which Manila FAME is key.

“Manila FAME has endured through time because of its capacity to adapt to the current trends, and the demands of the market,” She says. “Each edition is different as new designers and creative collaborators are tapped to curate its special settings.”

A B OVE Philippines’ designers explored unconventional shapes and materials in their work on display.

40

The proof is certainly in the pudding, as far as we’re concerned.

The designs that mark the exhibition space reflect a growing subset of the design conscious. Long gone are the days of traditional weave and crafts that sing of the nineties. Today’s weaves and crafts recall the aesthetics so favoured by the global market: clean, minimalist, modern designs that have lost none of the unique identity and flavour of the Philippines. Here, designers have little issue drawing inspiration from the handicrafts of their ancestors, and integrating the age-old methods and art styles into modern-day accessories and furnishings fit for any aesthetics-driven home.

It makes sense, especially when one considers the role of Manila FAME in the interior design landscape of the Philippines. “The highly-curated show boasts diverse product offerings that uphold quality craftsmanship, eco-sustainable production, and design principles.”

It is this adherence to quality that serves to pull and draw. After all, there are high stakes at hand here, and a big name to maintain. “It is the benchmark for aspiring designers who plan to capture the international stage.”

TO P LE FT A weaving demonstration.

ABOV E Sea urchin chandelier, from Cebu Home Craft.

L EFT Driftwood room divider, from Cebu Home Craft.

41

SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

Natural materials feature prominently in the designs on show at Manila FAME. In a land as vast and as plentiful in natural resources as the Philippines, it makes sense that local designers draw inspiration from their surroundings and the materials available to them. Wood, rattan, and leather take centre stage, dyed in precious gemstone hues to emulate the rich and colourful design that one might find in the Philippines, historically.

“The fusion of sustainability and modern functionality is increasingly evident in Philippine design,” Pauline tells us. And this cannot be any more evident. Indeed, as the days progress, it becomes increasingly clear that what the rest of the world views as sustainable, the Philippines views as simple good sense. Reusing, recycling, and upcycling is a part of life, and one that has endured through the ages.

Representing the Finali brand of Cebu, Bong Salazar shares: “A common feature in our designs is our use of indigenous materials that take on the modern vibe

of the present. Sustainability definitely plays a role, as most materials are indigenous to our locality.” Such is certainly a progressive route to take; indeed, the same sentiments are echoed across the board, with numerous exhibitors and brands opting for locally-sourced and sustainable materials that tell a story of the land upon which they thrive.

Apiong Bagares who leads the design direction of Homecraft, another longtime mainstay of the Phillipines’ design scene, says, “Homecraft strives to provide ethically-made products from sustainable materials: natural fibres, waste wood, upcycled fabric, and recyclable materials such as stainless steel and pewter.”

This dedication to the natural world is certainly backed up in design. Homecraft’s products speak of culture and craft, bound together in the bounties available to influential Philippines-based designers Tes Pasola, Detlef Klatt, and Nix Alañon, and in-house designer Jane Sayson. “At the foundation of our design philosophy is the desire to use second life and natural materials.”

LE FT Denim range fish ornament, from Cebu Home Craft.

RIGHT Pincussion bentwood chair, from Cebu Home Craft.

42

DESIGN SENSIBILITY

It is clear to see on the design floor that the up and comers of the furnishings industry here have taken their cues from the international market. Says Pauline: “While Filipino designers are becoming more acquainted with global design trends, there still exists an inclination to give great value to fine craftsmanship, which is the heart of Filipino design sensibility.”

And this is certainly true. If there’s one thing that immediately draws the eye about the designs on the floor, it’s that they are rich in cultural nuances, and yet wanting for no restraint. If it is the goal of Philippines’s designers to step into an age of modern aesthetics, they’ve more than proven their mettle with success on their heels. To this end, Manila FAME serves to push the industry along.

“We launch hundreds of new collections every edition,” Pauline adds. “These are produced through the collaboration between leading and emerging Philippine manufacturers and acclaimed local and international product designers.”

HELPING THE COMMUNITY

The web of production and design stretches out across the vast expanse of the Philippines’ many islands. There is a real sense of community here. “Our creative director Mr. Angelo Cadungog plots and navigates his unique ideas and exposures through the local scenery, as well as his travels all around the world,” Bong Salazar tells us. “He also does this through his interactions with end users and his peers, as well as with skilled artisans.”

In an industry where the artisan hand is one most treasured, it makes sense that furniture designers and producers tie up their businesses with skilled craftspeople and artisans. Indeed, such is the model adopted by many among Manila FAME’s exhibitors. “Cebu Homecraft values craftsmanship and works closely with craftsmen and artisans. The in-house sample makers that we work with are artists in their own right, and they work with artisans off-site, taking part in the development process, and at the same time, facilitating skill sharing,” says Apiong Bagares. “Being a medium-scale operation, we outsource to communities in different parts of the island. This allows us to help communities affected by slow economic opportunities, or provides a seasonal source of income.”

RI GHT Mocha tubchair from Cebu Home Craft.

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH

43

F E AT U R E

HIGHLIGHTS FROM MILAN DESIGN WEEK 2019 Read on for the 10 hottest trends from the most widely anticipated design event of the year!

1

S

alone del Mobile 2019 exhibits an impressive show of support to mother nature, with individual design studios and brands showcasing inspiring ways for incorporating greens into the home. We also observed a pronounced appreciation for natural veins in marble and patterned Terrazzos. Designers have embraced sustainable and raw materials, handcrafted furniture and textured textiles with aplomb. The 58th edition of Salone del Mobile also placed emphasis on perfect forms, architectural shapes, and technological designs, all displayed in inspiring ways reflected by the individual booths, installations, and pop up stores exhibited within and without Fiera Milano.

2

TRENDS FROM MILAN’S 2 0 1 9 F U R N I T U R E FA I R

1 . Lee Broom’s Eclipse, a light collection inspired by the skies, available at Space Furniture.

2. Urban-style standing lamp Uptown by Foscarini.

44

3 . Ciempies, a woven textile series focusing on tactility,

by Ana Maria Gomez.

4. Playful Mash.T Design Studio’s Ventura Future exhibit.

Milan Design Week 2019 wasn’t radically different from 2018’s, with some trends that had developed, while others burned out. There were fewer examples of leather and fur, as brands shift to responsibly sourced materials with fewer wasteful processes. Ecoconscious and sustainable

materials, sculptural shapes and technology-crafted designs were still big in this edition.

Brands chose many colours, ranging from pastels to vibrant shades. Muted hues set the scene at Brera Design Apartment, alongside soft textures at Planetario, a project

by Cristina Celestino for Besana Carpet Lab. Bolder colours were displayed at The Cassina Perspective, a new catalogue by Cassina at its Milano showroom.

Here, we have picked out a range of exciting products available on the market that will have your home looking on-trend.

3

4

5

8

GET THE LOOK

9

8 . A cheerful design can easily brighten up your day, like the Qeeboo Kong XS lamp

by Stefano Giovannoni. It has a gorilla holding a torch, making this a fun table lamp perfect for apartments and workspaces.

Available in pink and blue.

Qeeboo Kong XS lamp, from Journey East.

F U N & P L AY F U L

Designers reminded us all to have some fun this year.

London studio Supergroup debuted its inaugural collection, Superscene, for Hem with support by Modern Design Review. Its exclusive sets of handmade clouds, flowers and rainbows will bring a playful angle to your home. South Africa’s Mash.T Design Studio presented a lively collection of African-inspired objects, vivid colours and unique materials.

Sol and Condition X furniture collections by Kristel Laurits also showcased whimsical colours and patterns.

9. Are you one who likes to rearrange things in your home?

If so, you will be intrigued by &Tradition’s MH1 Shuffle Table designed by Mia Hamborg. As its name suggests, you can shuffle the “beads” along the stem of the table, so it looks different each time. A mix of colours also adds a fun touch!

6

MH1 Shuffle Table, from Made & Make.

5. Kristel Laurits’ Sol collection of shelves and sidetables.

6. Glassware by Kristel Laurits.

7. Mash.T Design Studio’s Ventura Future jars.

7

45

1 0. Turkeybased April Key Design presented Ocean Drive, a collection of modern and bold neon decor art pieces.

Versace also pulled off an equally stunning look with a soft and playful cotton candy cloud installation in neon with the launch of their new furniture collection.

photo APRIL KEY DESIGN.

12

photo NEON SIGNAGE AT KARTELL BOOTH.

10

11

Design Concept: Neons are here to stay!

Look forward to a future that embraces the art of the 70’s. While the look attracts attention on its own, it’s also easy to evoke a 70s vibe incorporating the latest trend with fringed furniture.

46

ACCESSORISE WITH:

13

12 . GG Jacquard armchair, from Gucci Decor.

13. Boca do Lobo Union standing lamp for Rug’Society.

photo RUG’SOCIETY.

POP ART

12

photo DIVINA MELANGE 3 BY KVADRAT, KINNASAND SHOWROOM

14

15 17

16 . Unveiled during the Salone del Mobile with a special installation at Garage 21, the new Kvadrat/Raf Simons collection introduced four new textiles. The sixth collection features an exploration of natural fibres such as wool, cotton, linen, and viscose.

CREATE THE LOOK:

19

18

photo DEDAR, ANDREA FERRARI

Bring home the sentimentalities! Boost nostalgic sense in your living space by throwing in a couple of knotted, rough-textured rugs, lighting fixtures, and cane furniture amidst technology-driven designs such as seamless televisions like LG’s Signature OLED TV R and Bang & Olufsen’s Beovision Harmony television.

16

15. Braided leather is used in the creation of this contemporary, tripartite screen.

The Mandala

by Zanellato/ Bortotto for Louis Vuitton.

photo SPACE FURNITURE

Design concept: Merging technology-driven designs with handcrafted furniture and textured accessories.

photo SPACE FURNITURE

H E AV Y- B O D I E D TEXTURES

17. Moooi Tokyo Blue is an exploration of denim fabrics, leathers, and a host of novelties

by Moooi Carpets and Moooi Wallcovering. It was featured along with the world’s first singing chandelier by Kranen/Grille, The Party. The brand presented A Life Extraordinary at Brera: Mediateca Santa Teresa during Salone del Mobile.

18. N.200 by Michael Anastassiades for GTV. 19. Dedar Milano Atlas fabric, from Tatum.

47

20

S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y IN DESIGN

photo SERGIY KADULIN

Sustainability has remained a prominent trend in design and architecture.

An exemplary, no-waste exhibition was Carlo Ratti’s The Circular Garden at Orto Botanico di Brera.

Mushroom arches were grown over six weeks, then shown at Fuorisalone and sown into the soil they stood on. Paola Antonelli curated La Triennale’s XXII Triennale with the theme Broken Nature: Design Takes on Human Survival.

It features international projects using design solutions and will be on display till September 2019.

G R E E N E R PA S T U R E S

22

21

20. Debuting for the first time at Euroluce, Ukrainian design studio Sergey Makhno Architects showcased a collection of handmade ceramic lights amidst plenty of green foliage in their booth!

Design Concept: Lighting fixtures with plants and vertical greens in the foreground.

It’s as good a time as any to incorporate a few houseplants into your home.

Picture beautiful and lush houseplants with green foliage in woven baskets in your living room.A string of pearls or devil’s ivy add a dramatic touch to your staircase. Go ahead and channel your inner artistry and have fun curating them into your home. Here are some ideas to get you started:

21 . Carlo Ratti’s Circular Garden, featuring mushroom arches.

22. This inspiring Botanical Frame from Ohsum Mossum adds a threedimensional, “pop-up” art that goes well in your home of differing styles. This is achievable through a moss frame workshop held by Ronnie Khoo.

48

. . .

The key trends on show throughout Milan Design Week 2019 and Euroluce paid homage to nature through unique lighting designs from Artemide and impressive installations.

Special emphasis was also placed on eco-friendly and sustainable products and materials.

2 3 . Your choice of trailing houseplants will project a personalised look in your space. Brighten up your stairwells with the Palma hanging lamp by Antoni Arola for Vibia!

23

24 . Louis Vuitton’s Objets Nomades Ribbon Dance sofa by André Fu.

G E T T I N G D I G I TA L

Technology is certainly changing the way designers create furniture and objects.

The blend of craft and technology was seen in the A.I. chair for Kartell by Philippe Starck and AI studio Autodesk, as well as the gravity-formed furniture collection entitled Melt by Wonderglass and Japanese design studio, Nendo.

Ribbon-styled seating systems Cowrie chair by Made in Ratio and Ribbon Dance two-seater sofa by Andre Fu for Objets Nomades were also created using new technologies.

25. Cowrie Walnut 2 chair by Made In Ratio.

24

25

GET THE LOOK

26

2 6 . Make a statement with Miniform’s Caruso, a quirky and fun console or sideboard that has an in-built sound system, which you can control via your smartphone.

Miniform’s Caruso, from P5 Studio.

H E A D I N T H E C LO U D S

Many designers had their gazes fixed on the sky, finding comfort in environmental connections.

Celestial shapes and symbols were copious.

Foscarini presented Nuee by Marc Sadler at Euroluce alongside Beep by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba, and Sun - Light Of Love by Tord Boontje. Lee Broom’s Eclipse collection relays lunar musing in both title and theme.

The Brogliato Traverso + Magis Lost lamp and Melogranoblu’s Arabic-esque system As If By Magic brought stellar sparkles to the mix.

49

27

28 . The Bulbo armchair by the Campana Brothers for Louis Vuitton resembles a flower with its layered petals.

C LO U D N I N E , F LO R A L SUBTLETY AND THE I N T R I C AC I E S O F T H E OCEAN

28

Design concept: The subliminal beauty of subtlety furniture design.

An inspiring space doesn’t have to flaunt the obvious. In some cases, you don’t need to have a vase of flowers or pronounced floral wallpaper to reflect the budding trend of blooms.

The recent trends have taught us not to shy away from organic designs in contemporary colours.

Both Louis Vuitton and Gucci Décor shed some light, and gave natureinspired furnishings the attention that they deserve in styles that are truly unique.

29. Drift off on the fluffy cloud shaped Bomboca sofa

by Fernando & Humberto Campana, accompanied

by Mandala Zanellato/ Bortotto, the Flower Field cushion by Atelier Oï, the Blossom stool

by Tokujin Yoshioka, and the Bell lamp

by Barber & Osgerby for Louis Vuitton.

3 0. Catch the waves inspired by the Adriatic sea with the Anemona table

by Atelier Biagetti.

photo TOMMASO SARTORI

27. Presenting at Palazzo Serbelloni during Fuorisalone 2019, Louis Vuitton ventured forth with bold jewel colours that brought out the striking forms of their new Objets Nomades collection, which included the latest additions from Atelier Biagetti.

photo TOMMASO SARTORI

photo STEPHANE MURATET

29

30

33 28 .

31

50

32 . Gucci Décor set up a temporary decor store in line with Salone del Mobile.

In contrast against the subtlety of Louis Vuitton, Gucci Décor’s temporary decor store in Milan flaunted a bold and

unconventional nature-inspired look that paired the subtle forms of nature with whimsical wallpaper.

33. Heron print wallpaper, from Gucci Decor 3 4. Heron, Neutral Collection, from Rug’Society.

32

34

photo RUG’SOCIETY.

GET THE LOOK 3 1 . Bring the ocean into your home with textured Blue Coral on a stand or the Oceania Blue porcelain bowl from Katharine Pooley boutique.

S M A R T WO O D

Kartell Windows celebrated 70 years of the Italian furniture brand best known for using plastic materials. Included was a glimpse of the Kartell Smart Wood Collection. Swedish brand Hem introduced Max Table by British designer Max Lamb, a large multipurpose table made from untreated Douglas fir. Natuzzi paid homage to Mother Earth for its 60th anniversary through Ross Lovegrove’s Ergo collection.

35. Marble table Graphium by Garcia Cumini.

URBAN OUTFITTING

Urban living was styled to perfection by Studio Salaris at Zanotta’s Salone del Mobile booth. It featured living spaces in cosmopolitan cities such as Rome, Shanghai and Paris. New products from the brand include the Florin headboard frame by Roberto Lazzeroni, Graphium small marble table by Garcia Cumini, and Tusa armchair by Rodolfo Dordoni. Foscarini’s stunning new Uptown light by Ferrucio Laviani mimics the shape of a skyscraper.

36 . New collection from Zanotta home.

37.

Kartell wooden chairs.

37

35

36

photo TERRAZZO WALLPAPER, FROM MINDTHEGAP

38

GET THE LOOK 41. Cattelan Italia Atlantis table, from XZQT. 42 . Accessories from Katharine Pooley boutique.

39

Design concept: Surfaced areas, furniture and soft furnishings.

Be enamoured by the natural charms and timelessness of marble and colourful terrazzos that have made their way onto our countertops and even upholsteries, rugs, notebooks, and coasters.

3 8 . Terrazzo wallpaper, from Mindthegap 39. White Terrazzo Pen Holder Stiftehalter Hübsch Interior.

40

photo RUG’SOCIETY.

42

photo EINRICHTEN-DESIGN.DE

41

N AT U R A L APPEAL

4 0. La Land Rug, from Rug’ Society.

51

4 3. Bioplastic structure Conifera, by COS and Arthur Mamou-Mani, at Fuorisalone.

4 4 . The Socialite Family’s pyramid-shaped pillows.

4 5 . Wall&Deco Somewhere wallpaper by Silvia Stella Osella.

43

44

45

A PA S S I N G G R A D E I N GEOMETRY

Geometric patterns and structures were everywhere this year. The most Instagrammable was Conifera, a 3D-printed, bioplastic structure by COS and Arthur Mamou-Mani. Diederik Schneemann’s Cherished series included a collection of 3-D postcards cut into square or octagonal shapes and fit into a screen divider. The Socialite Family’s pyramidshaped pillows, Diamond Mirror by Marcel Wanders, and Somewhere wallpaper by Silvia Stella Osella for Wall &Deco were also inspired by clean lines and geometric shapes.

46 GET THE LOOK 46 . Combine fluid design with geometric lines to get the Cassina Beugel chair, which has a more ergonomically correct line and is supported

52

by a tubular metal frame. It comes in colours including black, natural, taupe, petroleum green and purple-red.

Cassina Beugal chair, from Space Furniture.

47. Shield by Galloti & Radice.

Shield, from Studio 216.

47

T H E WO R L D K E E P S G O I N G ROUND

48

52. Round or square, the pink-toned Mona tables from Diabla’s Abstrakt Mona collection by Jonathan Lawes resembles a beautiful canvas with a white, pink, gris, or Anthracitecoloured legs.

53 . Alessandro Stabile paid homage to Vinnie Colaiuta, one of the most famous drummers in the history of contemporary music with the Vinnie coffee table for the My home collection, The piece resembles a drum cylinder.

50

54 . The Arcom side table by Giulio Iacchetti for the My home collection stands out with simple and traditional geometric shapes.

49

49. Agape’s In-Out freestanding bathtub.

photo STAFFAN SUNDSTRÖM

4 8 . Ivano Redaelli’s Glamour round bed.

51. The Formations installation not only explored the notions of scale and colour blocking; it also reflected a new sustainable vinyl collection, iQ surface, designed

by Note Design Studio for Tarkett.

Made out of 25.5 percent recycled material, it can be used as a flooring material and also as an architectural surface for walls and furniture.

Circles and spheres continued to make the rounds, influencing designs from lighting to furniture, sanitaryware and beyond. The Pigreco lamp was introduced in the labyrinth-inspired booth by Italian designer Davide Groppi. Made in Italy luxury brand Ivano Redaelli showcased its Glamour round bed in a contemporary and comfortable ambience. Though Agape’s In-Out freestanding round bathtub isn’t a new design, it has remained popular as an award-winning design, with marble materials added since its debut in 2009.

5 0. Pigreco table lamp

by Davide Groppi.

50

PA R A D I G M S H I F T

Design concept: Furniture, lighting and sculptural decorations.

The chic embodiment of architectural and primary shapes in art form is enhanced by the amazing colour-blocking techniques of pastel hues.

52

56

GET THE LOOK 5 5 . Shed some light. The Glas Italia Bisel table collection consists of high and low tables as well as consoles.

Designed by Patricia Urquiola, the pieces appear different under the light, which bounces well off their multilayered and multichromatic glass surfaces.

5 6 . Kartell Venice chair by Philippe Starck, from Lightcraft.

53 54

55

text GRACE DAVIN, additional reporting DOMENICA TAN AND NG YI XIANG

53

F E AT U R E

LESSON IN LEATHER Want to live luxe with leather? Get to know this fabulous material, how to spot the real deal, what is trending, and how to properly care for it.

Three common leathers and how to spot them

1

ANILINE This is one of the most highly prized types of leather, often lauded for both its looks and texture. The material’s surface readily shows scars and pore marks which is also why it is also often referred to as ‘naked leather’. The leather is also soft to the touch and extremely comfortable due to lighter processing. However, it must be said that these kinds of hides are not protected against staining, so it is not recommended if you have young ones in the home.

2

S E M I -A N I L I N E A good deal tougher than its aniline cousin, semianiline possesses added protection courtesy of a light surface pigment coat that is both soil and stain resistant. The extra coating also imparts a more consistent colour, though natural markings are less apparent. This can dampen its appeal depending on your preference. That said, semianiline leather does have the advantage of being more cost-effective in comparison.

TOP GRAIN VS. FULL GRAIN

3

PIGMENTED Pigmented or protected leather is the most widely used variant of material, and is found in many things from furniture to car seats.

This is due in no small part to its polymer surface coating which makes it the toughest of the three. As with every advantage, there will be compromises; like semi-aniline, the added coating takes away the natural look and feel of the material. However, there is no question of the hide’s durability.

54

1 These two terms are commonly associated with the section of the hide the leather comes from and the kind of processing it goes through. Full grain leather is derived from the topmost layer of the hide and is prized for its durability and natural look.

2 Contrary to its name, top grain leather is actually hide that has been sanded down to remove imperfections and imprinted with imitation grain to impart a more uniform look.

Keeping it real

2

RIGHT PRICE Genuine leather comes with a price, and if a leather-upholstered piece is too cheap to be true, it probably is. If you are adamant about taking the leather route, invest in the real deal that will easily outlast their fake leather counterparts and even fabric counterparts.

Here is how to tell if you are investing in the real deal or a faux imposter.

1

CHECK THE LABELS The most obvious first step is to simply read what is stated on the label. If it says faux leather, leatherette, vegan leather, pleather, or Naugahyde, it is a fake leather that is usually made out of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane.

3

T H E D E TA I L S Look at the edges and assess the grain of the leather; both of these are obvious indicators. Genuine leather has rough edges compared to pleather which has perfectly-smooth ones. Fake leathers have no natural grain too, so if you don’t see scars or pore marks, it is probably an imposter.

4

H AV E A F E E L Give the leather upholstery a little push.

Real leather is more pliable and forgiving compared to its synthetic counterparts. Run your hand across the material too; if it’s real, you can feel the irregularities caused by the pores and natural scars as opposed to the cold smoothness of the synthetics.

LEFT The Sorento Power Recliner set from the Rozel Gold Collection is upholstered in genuine leather of the highest quality; it also reclines at the touch of a button.

55

On trend Tan leather is making waves and rising in popularity! This style has recently begun popping up across social media, often accompanied by ample greenery and wood accents.

This a trend worth buying into, as these vintage low slung beauties are effortlessly timeless and can easily outlast this fleeting phase of popularity. They also age well with time, and every scuff, scratch and wrinkle will add to the overall appeal instead of detracting from it.

Leather Picks Ready to invest in a leather beauty of your own? These are our top picks!

56

1

N AV I G L I O S O FA F R O M A R F L E X With its svelte feet and extended overhangs, the Naviglio modular sofa gives off the illusion that it is floating. Designed by Umberto Asnago, its curved top cushions absolutely ooze comfort and beckons for you to sink right in. Available in a range of configurations, sizes and upholstery, it will adjust easily to your space and preferences.

Available from Space Furniture.

2

F E L I X S O FA F R O M K I N G L I V I N G Clad your Felix sofa in Hudson leather, a new hide collection from King Living which is inspired by the great Hudson River. These great leathers look like Nubuck, but maintain the low maintenance requirements typical of King Living’s standard offerings. Sink into the embrace of the lovely soft hide which is further bolstered by the sofa’s ability to extend its seat and chaise using the brand’s effortless TouchGlide® Control Technology.

Available from King Living.

3

A L A D I N S O FA F R O M C A L I A I TA L I A With its wide, squared proportions and full leather upholstery, this trendy sofa commands one’s attention. Get comfortable with headrests that can be adjusted to your liking and wide arm cushions that cradle you. Have yours in your choice of leather, fabric or microfiber.

Available from XZQT

4

N I N F E A D E S K F R O M P O R A DA This is no ordinary writing desk. The first element that will catch your eye is the round mirror framed in brushed brass and propped up by a solid metal base. The true star of the show, however, is the Cuocietto leather table top framed in solid canaletta walnut wood. Choose from a total of nine different finishes, each providing a lush textural sensation for all who occupy the desk.

Available from Studio216.

57

Leather Care Buying your first leather piece is like making an investment. It is one that can last a lifetime if you give it the proper care and maintenance.

GENERAL GUIDE In the shade Leather furniture wants to be placed in an area of the living room with no direct sunlight.

Like other natural materials, leather can easily dry up if exposed to intense sun rays overtime, potentially causing it to crack. The same can be said for other heat sources which have the same drying effect.

Overall wipe Unlike fabric, leather is easy to deal with when it comes to removing surface dust.

Simply use a damp piece of microfiber cloth to give it a quick wipe down. A word of caution, however; certain leathers are absorbent, so choose an inconspicuous spot to check. If it proves to be absorbent, switch your cleaning practice to include a duster or a dry cloth.

Vacuum the crevices Like every piece of furniture with folds and crevices, you can assume that various particles will get in them, which may damage the material over time through friction if it is coarse. Use the special attachment that usually comes with your vacuum cleaner to suction out these trouble areas after you wipe down the leather.

58

S TA I N S A N D S C R ATC H E S Quick action You don’t want to let accidental spills stay too long on leather due to the aforementioned absorbent nature of the material. In the same vein, with a microfiber cloth, blot the spillage instead of wiping it so as to not spread it further, then let it air dry.

Forever dye Limit moisture Even if you get a nasty stain on your leather investment, don’t be tempted to tackle it with extra cleaners like soaps, detergents, or solvents. Doing so can cause irreversible damage to the material.

Stick to dry and damp cloths, but if the stain persists, consult a specialist to get it properly removed.

Leaving wet ink or printed materials on leather is a surefire way to leave a permanent reminder on the material. These stains are hard to remove and can easily ruin the look of your leather investment. Thus, prevention is the only solution.

Alternatively, keep a protective layer over your leather piece and remove it when you have guests over.

text ARIC TING photos DEPOSITPHOTO

59

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple and their three kids and one dog HOME Corner terrace house S IZE 3,600 sqf

60

SECOND NATURE This home

by Architect Fabian Tan allows its owners to wholeheartedly embrace the natural climate.

61

ABOVE The family room area with French bay windows is a new addition.

RIGHT Lounge day beds were added so that the family would have extra space to relax.

62

e seldom value what we have in abundance, and this is especially true for appreciating our tropical climate. Ask the average Malaysian and they’ll say they would rather be in air-conditioning indoors as opposed to communing with the sweltering heat outside. On the flip side, those from cooler climes seem to value the appeal of integrating the outdoors into everyday living - Like this European couple with three daughters, who wanted their home in Kuala Lumpur to have a more seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors despite living in a standard terrace house.

The couple decided to contact Fabian Tan of Fabian Tan Architect after visiting their friend’s house which Tan had renovated, which they loved. “They were very attracted to my works because of the clean lines and minimalist style. I was attracted to the project partially because, when I visited them at their old place, the wife seemed to be quite the interior decorator with a very nice collection of east and west furniture and decor items. I think we have chemistry for aesthetics and that is important in any project for the client-architect relationship,” enthuses Tan. Despite this rapport, the project

was not without its challenges. There were quite a lot of restrictions of it being a strata title-type project, where the facade of the house could not be modified. But, these restrictions inspired Tan to see how he could work around them. “The original layout was dark and the flow did not have much of a relationship to the surroundings.

Because it was a corner lot and had an existing pool, I needed to see how to work with the structure, but also alter openings and opening up spaces to connect better with the garden and pool. Main alterations were made to the ground floor, deck, and pool area, where large regular square openings were made to view the garden and pool, and the walls were thickened to achieve a certain sense of depth,” explains Tan. Tan goes on to add: “I like depth in buildings, as it creates a certain sense of grounding. The stair area was also opened up to give more light.

The powder room, store room, wet kitchen, and yard were repositioned to the side of the house to provide a seamless living, dining, and dry kitchen experience with an outdoor dining area at the rear. As the clients love the outdoors, they usually eat in the outdoor dining area instead of in the indoor formal dining room. The

“FOR THE SECOND FLOOR, WE ADDED A NEW FAMILY ROOM AREA WITH FRENCH BAY WINDOWS AND LOUNGE DAY BEDS FOR ADDED RELAXATION, AS WELL AS A MUSIC ROOM FOR THE HUSBAND.”

63

rear portion of the house was also renovated to face the pool and garden with a barbeque area. Most of the spaces were maintained for the first floor, and for the second floor, we added a new family room area with French bay windows and lounge day beds for added relaxation, as well as a music room for the husband.”

To enhance the lightness of the space, Tan used good quality simple finishes like terrazzo for the flooring and pristine white for all the built-ins. He then re-polished the timber floors on the first and second floor.

The house, which now responds naturally to its surrounding of the garden through large unobstructed doors, allows for a well ventilated space both in and out of doors. Tan waxes lyrical about how this quality has become his favourite part of the project. “I like the ground floor living spaces that

blend into the outside pool and garden. The thick walled doorways are equally spaced and when the sliding glass doors open, you don’t see any obstructions from inside of the house. I’ve managed to salvage a very traditional design and modernised it as best as possible. The French windows, with steps as book shelves, also add warmth to the family room on the second floor. I was glad that the family was very receptive to the stairway with no railings, which makes the space more open and very clean.”

Despite being limited due to budget restraints and facade restrictions rules, Tan nonetheless made an effort to imbue the project with the meticulous detailing. “There are some little details in the building which I love, like the main entrance door with a little door panel to let more light through; sort of like a door within a door

TOP The pristine all-white kitchen has plenty of space to conceal messiness while looking stylish to boot.

LEFT The living room now opens up to the outdoors via sliding doors.

64

concept. The huge kitchen island also adds to the feeling of luxury.

The owner is also particular about messiness, and I tried to conceal the storage as much as possible. One example is the openable breakfast station in the kitchen. The uplighted void in the stairway adds to the owner’s character, with glass objects for the light to shine through. The bathrooms were also done up with custom-made bathtubs and walk in wardrobes for his and hers,” he concludes.

Ultimately, the stylish interiors were a collaborative effort between the client and Tan who worked closely with the wife (the home decorator of the house) on certain placements and furniture selections. Evidently, the open living spaces that bind the indoor-outdoor relationship are an unmitigated success: “They enjoy the house a lot. It suits their open lifestyle. Whenever I visit, the sliding doors are usually open, the outdoor fans are open, the children take regular dips and hang out more often than indoors. Most of the time, the wife also cooks at the dry kitchen island overlooking the pool, and they have dinner at the rear dining area daily.”

TOP The new pool is the heart of the home where the family spends most of their time.

LEFT The outdoor dining area is also a popular hang out spot for the family who enjoy having meals here.

text JENNIFER CHOO photography SIMON KOH

65

CREATIVE MIND Armed with a strong design philosophy, this creative homeowner took on his home renovation sans interior designer.

The home is filled with colourful items, such as Kartell FL/Y lamps, a maxi Swatch wall clock, Hay trays, a 1980s cassette player and a Lisa Larson Mikey cat figurine.

66

67

B E LOW

The platform living room provides additional storage space, and adds height, too. Chin Nian designed it so he could have a good window view in the space.

B OT TOM

As he does not cook often, Chin Nian only has an induction stove.

“I don’t have a storeroom so

WHO LIVES HERE

A 40-year-old bachelor Three-room apartment S IZE 753sqf

HOM E

68

every item, from appliances to kitchen hooks, must look good enough to be displayed,” he says.

OP P OS IT E

He chose pieces that sport a utilitarian yet fun design, such as the Truscobrand stackable boxes and blue toolbox from D&Department, which are placed on a Muji steel shelving system.

C

hoo Chin Nian lives and breathes design. The creative head of National Gallery Singapore believes strongly in the Japanese design philosophy, particularly that of Muji creative director Kenya Hara. It is not so much about minimalism, but rather about

starting each design process on a blank slate and finding a strong core that informs the rest of the design. This was how Chin Nian approached his home renovation, which cost RM120,000 (SGD40,000).

“For the basics of the home, I looked to Muji for inspiration and used Adobe Illustrator to draw everything to scale. After stripping away all non-structural walls, I worked on (a core element): a second-hand turntable set on a pastel blue steel-andplywood shelf. This pastel hue, as well as inspiration from one of my favourite brands, Hay, influenced the colour scheme of my kitchen and accessories,” he says.

Another major element of his home design is a voluminous two-sided plywood wardrobe that is connected to the platform living room, as well as master bedroom. This configuration was planned so that the living room can easily be converted into another bedroom.

The renovation took three months, with “lots of trial and error, down to the colour temperature of the lights”.

His advice to homeowners who want to undertake their own renovation? Firstly, know what you want, down to the very last detail; secondly, have a hands-on approach (he visited the site every day!); and thirdly, to find a contractor that not only does good work, but can communicate clearly with you.

69

“I USED TO DEEJAY AT A BAR. IT HAS SINCE CLOSED DOWN AND I THOUGHT, ‘IF YOU CAN’T GO TO THE BAR, WHY NOT BRING THE BAR TO YOU?’ MY FRIENDS OFTEN COME BY TO PLAY AT THE TURNTABLES,” SAYS CHIN NIAN.

70

BELOW

The bathroom sports a neutral, simple design and features large subway tiles.

BOTTOM

A print of David Hockney’s A Bigger Splash sits beside the Muji bed.

R IG H T

Only the most good-looking plywood sheets, and those with consistent grain, were chosen for the cabinetry.

text ELIZAH HAMIZAH photography ANGELA GUO art direction NONIE CHEN

71

R IG HT

Part of the living room wall was knocked down to let in more light, while large homogeneous tiles in the living and dining areas visually enhance the space. The room next to the master bedroom was converted into a workspace for the owner, who’s a homebased artist.

72

WHO LIVES HERE

Single lady in her 30s Three-room apartment S IZ E 580sqf

H OME

BOHO CHIC Once a cluttered space, this flat has been turned into a home that embraces colours and an eclectic style.

73

A

n old resale flat – dim, cluttered and rundown – undergoes an overhaul and the transformation is plain stunning. It’s not unlike most reno stories. Except the owner of this apartment in the heartland has gone all out to make a bold statement with strong colours and design touches. Renovated at an estimated cost of RM165,000, the apartment is heavily influenced by bohemian and retro design elements – interpreted in fresh, contemporary ways by interior designer Jade Kwok of Fuse Concept.

The flat’s charming eclecticism is a befitting style for the homeowner, who is a homebased artist and craftsperson.

74

“We worked closely together to choose the shades and look, and it helped that she was very open to incorporating bold colours and elements,” says Jade. As the unit is situated along the common corridor and not far from the lift, Jade had a wall erected at the foyer for a bit of privacy, whenever the homeowner leaves the door open. A series of glass blocks embedded in the wall serves as a decorative element as well as to let in light. Getting generous natural light during the day is a priority for the homeowner, hence the opened-up spaces – in the form of clear glass panels separating her bedroom and study/craft section from the dining area.

OP P OSITE , TO P

The dining room wall painted in dark forest green and decorated with a neon pink quote is a bold break from the living room, which is painted mostly in white.

THE FOREST GREEN SHADE CONTINUES INTO THE KITCHEN, WHERE RETRO FLOOR TILES AND AN ORANGE SMEG FRIDGE LEND VINTAGE CHARM.

OP P OSITE , B OT TOM

The glass blocks embedded in the wall divider let light into the interior.

75

O P P OS I T E , L E F T

Walls in the master bedroom are painted in nautical blue for a cosy seaside sanctuary feel.

A macrame piece hanging above the headboard acts as a piece of art.

O P P OS I T E , R I G HT

The living and dining areas form one seamless space, and are decked out in woodtone furniture pieces for a modern rustic touch.

THE MASTER BATHROOM IS KEPT SIMPLE AND SMART WITH BLACK AND WHITE TILES, AND THE LONG MIRROR LENDS DEPTH TO THE SPACE.

76

Part of the original wall in the living room was also knocked down to open up and brighten the space. Large homogeneous tiles sweeping across the living and dining rooms visually enhance the space, making it look smart and spacious. Jade also introduced a cosy corner in the living room, a “personal” space in which a rattan chair is placed just next to the window.

Light, sheer curtains add a breezy, restful ambience.

In a bold departure from the calm, soothing tones in the front part of the home, the wall in the dining room calls out with its forest green coat, and a quote in customised hot pink neon lighting is strung across it.

“I suggested a strong shade as a break from the more ‘muted’ tones in the living room,” says

Jade. Colours continue to make a splash in the kitchen, with walls in the same intense green and a Smeg fridge in whimsical orange taking centre stage.

“The owner initially felt the orange was a tad loud but the colour she wanted was not available, hence she settled for the orange – and it all came together very well,” the designer adds. A macrame piece at the kitchen entrance acts as a space divider and hanging artwork.

Jade incorporated groovy lighting features in the kitchen, positioning an exposed panel of lights just above the sink, and track lights for the cooking area.

Mosaic tiles for the flooring lend a decidedly retro feel.

The room next to the master bedroom is now the owner’s workspace; both are

77

LEFT

An opening carved out of the wall provides easy access between the workspace and master bedroom.

RIGH T

The owner’s workspace is designed to be practical yet cosy – with wooden shelving and furniture, and potted plants.

connected via an opening carved out of the wall that used to separate the two rooms. Another macrame artwork hangs above the bed against a nautical blue backdrop for a relaxing seasidesanctuary feel. The master bath echoes the kitchen’s retro sentiments but with a blackand-white look.

“I used wired glass for the bathroom’s sliding door just to keep things a little different, since clear glass is already used for the bedroom’s,” explains Jade.

78

text JACQUELINE TAN photos FUSE CONCEPT

79

LIVING ROOM Colourful mismatched cushions, a handwoven chair from local rattan furniture maker Chun Mee Lee, and a counter for dining give the living area a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lounging in.

The couple sourced their homeware from a variety of places, such as Bali for the lamps and West Elm in Perth for the cushions.

80

TREETOP LIVING This is the home of a couple who have fulfilled every child’s dream – a tree house as home.

81

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 30s HOME Four-room apartment SI Z E 970sqf

82

L

ifted 29 storeys above ground, Tammi Lin and Mykel Yee’s, Singapore home takes on a tree house concept inspired by its lofty perch. Anchored by the lush treetop wallpaper in their living room, the look is brought to life through soothing shades of green and wood accents throughout the house.

Helping the couple achieve their tropical-themed abode was their friend and interior designer, Adrien Ritzal of Adrien Kent Creative Studio.

The designer was able to provide creative direction remotely to the couple.

Communicating via e-mail and Whatsapp, Tammi and Mykel referenced the mood board, interior layout and 3-D renderings by Adrien and executed the renovation all on their own. Take a look at what they achieved with their RM120,000 renovation (excluding furnishings).

M A N C AV E In contrast to the rest of the house, the library sets a moodier tone with a darker olive shade on its colourblocked walls.

83

MASTER BEDROOM The couple chose a predominantly white palette for their master bedroom for a serene vibe. To create a walk-in wardrobe area, they hacked the wall separating the adjacent bedroom and combined the spaces. Their storage bed is from Muji and the pendant lights are from Crate & Barrel.

A partial wall separates the walk-in wardrobe from the sleeping area, a design touch that sections each space and lends some privacy.

84

“WE INITIALLY WANTED TERRAZZO FLOORING BUT ADRIEN MADE A REALLY GOOD CALL TO RUN THIS WOOD-LOOK VINYL ACROSS THE HOUSE, WHICH WE SPLASHED OUT ON WITH THE HERRINGBONE ARRANGEMENT.” – TAMMI LIN

85

ABOV E

Pops of colour from decorative plants and brass accents stand out against a white backdrop.

RI GH T

Their bathroom, too, is in sync with the master bedroom’s white theme.

86

KITCHEN By removing the doors of the top cabinets and refreshing the bottom ones with new laminates, the couple were able to save cost by reusing the previous owner’s cabinetry. Herringbone-patterned marble tiles replace the old backsplash, complementing the pastel pink and green fittings and details in the space.

text ISABELLE TOW photography FRENCHESCAR LIM art direction KAFFY TAN

87

H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T

BREAKING BASIC Take your plain furniture and make them hit above their price tag in the looks department.

88

Metallic paint

This is by far the easiest way to up the luxury factor when it comes to your dull coloured furniture. It takes an afternoon’s worth of time and doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. That said, don’t just stick with solid coloured paint; go the extra mile to get your hands on the metallic variety. A subtle metallic gold can result in an almost copper-like sheen which instantly makes a coffee table or console look expensive.

Soft touches

Nothing says luxury like a well-padded surface and the lack of a hard edge. Get ambitious and try your hands at tufting up a small coffee table or reupholstering an otherwise firm armchair. Small additions like laying table runners or simply adding corner cushions to the sharp edges of your tabletops can also make a remarkable difference in how luxurious a piece of furniture feels.

Faux stone

Heavy marble tables are objects of desire. However, for most, reality calls for a more pedestrian variety; that said, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a taste of it.

Contact paper with a marble stone decal makes it easy to get an imitation surface that, bar closer inspection, works just as good as the real deal in elevating the look of your furniture.

Dropping layers

In the case of plain and boring sofas, reupholstering can be a significant undertaking. If you prefer the path of least resistance, it’s time to layer up! Start small with velvet cushions in a variety of colours, then add on a nice woollen throw to finish it off. You can also throw in some textures and patterns, but keep them restrained to not make it gaudy.

Handle it

The devil is in the details and this one can have a significant visual impact.

If your cabinets still have exposed handles, chances are they are of the dull silver or tacky fake chrome variety.

To truly luxe them up, switch them out for brass or even a matte black handle. If you are feeling unique, soft genuine leather straps can also be a worthy splurge.

A different story

Instead of going through the process of making a piece of furniture look and feel more luxurious, why not leave it as is and flip its role instead? For example, turning a plain stool into a side table or a chair into a surface can give off the impression that these are sophisticated custom pieces instead of the mass-produced basics that they are.

text ARIC TING photos DEPOSITPHOTOS

89

FEAST Play up your dinner parties with the right appetiser!

When it comes to starting your meal just right, inspiration comes from all cultures and countries.

CHAR SIU BUNS

• 400 g pork belly or chicken thigh • 3 cloves garlic, finely grated • 2 Tbsp soy sauce • 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce • 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce • 1 Tbsp Shaoxing wine • 1 Tbsp honey • 1 piece fermented Chinese beancurd • 60 g brown sugar

Combine everything. Marinate pork or chicken overnight, covered, in the refrigerator. Allow to come to room temperature, then remove meat from marinade. Cook marinade over stove until thickened by half. Brush meat with marinade before roasting at 200˚C for 15 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with more before roasting for another 15 minutes.

Serve with cucumber matchsticks, sliced scallions and radish, and steamed buns.

CHINESE Rich in flavour and exceedingly delicious, Chinese cuisine is occasionally cumbersome. Because the country and culture occupies so vast a land, it makes sense that the cuisine is as diverse as the people who live within. Locally, our cooks and chefs have learnt to adapt authentic Chinese flavours to Malaysian tastebuds, to spectacular

effect. Nyonya influence pervades this cuisine, most notably in the foods of both Penang and Malacca both.

While some dishes can take days in preparation, the end result is often one that is well-worth the wait; these, however, require only moderate effort with plenty of pleasure afterwards.

LETTUCE WRAPS

• 1 Tbsp rendered chicken fat or cooking oil • 400 g pork belly, cubed • 50 g dried cuttlefish strips, washed • 5 cloves garlic, minced • 3 scallions, sliced • 10 dried shiitake mushrooms, soaked and sliced • 1 small leek, sliced • 2 small yam beans, grated • 3 small carrots, grated • 1 Tbsp sesame oil • 2 Tbsp dark soy sauce • Light soy sauce to taste • Salt, pepper, and sugar to taste • Baby romaine lettuce, washed and drained Saute pork, cuttlefish, garlic, and scallions in chicken fat or oil. Add mushrooms and leek and continue to stir fry. Add yam bean and carrot and season with sesame oil, sauces, salt, pepper, and sugar. Continue to stir fry until yam bean is cooked, translucent and soft. Serve wrapped in lettuce with chilli sauce as desired.

YAKITORI

• 2 skin-on chicken thighs, cubed • Scallions, sliced • Ginger, sliced • ¼ cup light soy sauce • 1 Tbsp dark soy sauce • ¼ cup mirin • ¼ cup water • 1 Tbsp brown sugar • Bamboo skewers, soaked for at least 30 minutes Bring all ingredients except chicken to a light simmer over a medium fire, and reduce until slightly thickened. Thread chicken pieces through skewers and brush with reduced sauce. Grill over charcoal, brushing with sauce to glaze. Alternatively, cook in a 170˚C oven, pausing to brush and turn the skewers every 5 minutes for 20 minutes total cook time.

JAPANESE Noted worldwide for the freshness of its flavours and a focus on high quality, seasonal ingredients, Japanese cuisine is one that emphasises the bounty of the world. Simplicity is occasionally prized in the cooking, from lightly-treated

fish for sushi and sashimi to the generous use of tofu in the cuisine as a whole. Among the most popular of Japan’s cuisines, however, are skewered meats – yakitori, which is enjoyed locally as a snack, a side for rice, or as an appetiser.

HIYAYAKKO

• 1 block silken tofu, rinsed with clean water • Young ginger, grated • Spring onions, sliced • Katsuoboshi flakes • Ponzu sauce Cut chilled fresh tofu into bite sized cubes. Top with ginger, katsuoboshi, and spring onion. Drizzle over ponzu sauce and serve immediately.

WEST ASIAN Rich in flavours and sharp with spice and citrus, the food of West Asia is oftentimes presented in tandem with an arsenal of pulses and grains. Herbs and vegetables are immensely popular, while beans, lentils, and flatbread

have since made their way around the world as highnutrient, satiety-inducing staples. Serve these starters with some spicy olive oil, oven-toasted flatbread, and plenty of fragrant herbs!

HUMMUS

• One 400 g tin of chickpeas, drained • 2 – 3 cloves of garlic • Juice of ¼ lemon • 1.5 Tbsp tahini • Salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste • 3 – 4 cubes of ice • Sumac, extra virgin olive oil, and flatbread to serve Soak chickpeas in water and gently run them through your fingers to remove the skins.

Put de-skinned chickpeas into a food processor with peeled garlic, lemon juice, tahini, salt, and pepper. Pulse a few times, then scrape down the sides and pulse again before running the machine on medium speed. Add ice cubes, one at a time, to loosen up the mixture. Once you have a smooth paste, turn off the machine and plate up, drawing long strips

in the hummus with the back of a spoon. Sprinkle on some sumac, drizzle over some olive oil, and serve.

COUSCOUS TABBOULEH • • • • • • • • • •

50 g couscous ¼ cup cucumber, diced 10 cherry tomatoes, halved 2 Tbsp fresh mint, chopped 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped 1 Tbsp spring onion, sliced 1 tsp harissa spice powder 2 Tbsp lemon juice 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

Cook couscous; pour 75 – 100 ml boiling water over couscous and cover with a plate or clingwrap. When done, fluff with fork and fold in the rest of the ingredients.

Serve cool from the fridge.

HEIRLOOM TOMATO BRUSCHETTA

• One baguette, thinly sliced and toasted in butter • 1 cup heirloom tomatoes, diced • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil • Bunch of sweet basil, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • Salt and pepper to taste Stir together tomatoes, olive oil, basil and garlic, then season to taste.

Spoon over toasted bread slices and serve immediately.

ITALIAN It’s always about the tomatoes with Italian food, which is why it pays off to get those of the best, highest quality!

Depending on your style of application, you’ll either want to pick green tomatoes (for battering and deep frying) or the deepest, ripest tomatoes for your sauces. Salads

require firm but ripe tomatoes, and an heirloom-tomatoanything is always a dream. For starters, you can serve an antipasti dish of cured meats, olives, and cheeses, or opt for tomato-based treats garnished with plenty of fresh sweet basil.

CAPRESE STACKS • • • • • • • •

3 ripe beefsteak tomatoes 3 medium mozzarella balls Salt and pepper to taste Fresh basil leaves ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp minced black olives 1 cup balsamic vinegar 2 Tbsp honey

Make balsamic reduction; cook vinegar with honey until reduced by half, and set aside until needed. Mix olive oil with olives and set aside. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella balls across the middle to get four slices out of each, and stack them up, alternating between tomato and cheese with one large basil leaf in each layer.

Season each layer as desired.

Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or olive dressing before serving.

93

FRENCH ONION TART

• 1 piece frozen puff pastry • Sharp cheddar, grated • 2 sprigs rosemary, minced • Two medium onions, sliced with rings preserved • Cream or milk for wash • Chives, for garnish Sprinkle cheddar over defrosted puff pastry and top with rosemary.

Top with onion slices, then brush all over with cream or milk. Bake in a preheated 180˚C oven until puffed and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Garnish with chives before serving.

CHEESE BOARD

• Two types of crackers, as desired • Two to three types of nuts • Fruit and berries • Sharp cheddar • Blue cheese • Camembert, slashed and baked in oven with herbs • Honey • Fruit jam • Two to three types of vegetables, cut into matchsticks Set up cheeseboard. Cut your cheese if desired, and arrange in rows alongside mounds of fruit and nuts.

You can slice your fruit and arrange them in stacks as well. A good way to get a pretty cheeseboard is to make sure you have plenty of references! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations; remember, you can’t really go wrong!

FRENCH As one of the oldest and most notable food cultures in the world, French cuisine is often the guiding compass for many new cooks. It is customary to serve French food in multiple courses, and to this end, an impressive starter is

94

one that will blow your guests away! And although cheese is often served as its own course, we think it’s a good idea to bring it out at the start – complete with all the sides and trimmings.

text and recipes EMMELYN CINDY MAH photography PATRICK CHAN

BUYING GUIDE YOUR ONE-STOP RESOURCE FOR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

3M

www.facebook.com/ command.my/ ACACIA FABRICS

Tel: +603-4252-3378 www.acaciafabrics. com A-JUNG ELECTRIC SDN BHD

Lot 16-12, Tower A, Vertical Business Suite, Jalan Kerinchi, Bangsar South, Kerinchi, 59200, Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: +603-2242 2806

EASTERN DECORATOR SDN BHD WHITE

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

Tel: 1300-88-1122 ELBA

BANGSAR SHOPPING CENTRE

Wisma Fiamma No.20, Jalan 7A/62A, Bandar Manjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur,Malaysia.

Tel: +603-6279 8888 Fax: +603-6279 8846 www.elba.com.my

BOCONCEPT

FLEXFORM KUALA LUMPUR BY STUDIO 216

AKEMI UCHI

www.akemiuchi.com

www.bsc.com.my

T112 Bangsar Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2011 0178 BOSCH

www.bosch-home. com.my CAESARSTONE

www.caesarstone. com.sg COSENTINO

Unit 5.05, Menara MBMR No. 1, Jalan Syed Putra, 58000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel: +6017 288 3427

HÄFELE DESIGN CENTRE KUALA LUMPUR

No 42, Jalan SS21/1, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. tel: +603-7733 4526 +603-7733 6526 HITACHI

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

No 2A, Jalan Cochrane, Taman Maluri, 55100, Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-7952 7575 IKEA DAMANSARA

GOODRICH GLOBAL

INTERFAL

M-2-2 Block M Plaza Damas Phase II Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-6201 5757 GUDANG DAMANSARA

S15 Bangsar Shopping Centre, Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2092 2618 GUOCERA

DAIKIN

DURAVIT

HANSGROHE MALAYSIA

www.duravit.com www.pro.duravit.com Tel: +603-7962 0124 016-2037 377

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

The Gardens, Level 2, Unit S-203, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur.

Tel: +603-2202 1798

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

www.daikin.com.my

HARVEY NORMAN

Representative Office Penthouse (Level 27), Centrepoint South, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 03-2096 9581 /9582 Fax: 03-2096 9782 www.hansgrohe. com.sg Email: info@ hansgrohe.com.sg

2 Jalan PJU7/2 Mutiara Damansara Petaling Jaya Tel: +603-7952 7575 No 45 & 47 Jalan SS18/1B Subang Jaya.

Tel: +603-5638 9213 JANINE

S112 Bangsar Shopping Centre Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2094 9530 J & J CHESTERS MALAYSIA SDN BHD

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

KITCH

11, Jalan Dato Abu Bakar, 16/1, 46350, Petaling Jaya Tel: +603-7954-2522 KITCHENAID

Tel: +603-7877-5216 LEGRAND

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

Tel: 1800-822-822 www.lg.com LIGHTCRAFT

98 Jalan Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-9222 2413 LIGNE ROSET

S3 Pamper Floor Starhill Gallery Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2710-3388 LINDS FURNITURE

162 Jalan Maarof Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2094 6055 LUMINARC - DKSH MALAYSIA SDN BHD

B-11-01, The Ascent, Paradigm, No. 1, Jalan SS 7/26A, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia METROJAYA

Tel: +603-2117 5800 www.metrojaya.com. my MITSUBISHI

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

Lot 11, Jalan 219m PO Box 1036, 46860, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Tel: +603-7955 2088 www. mitsubishielectric malaysia.com

KING LIVING

NIPPON PAINT

KDK

Level 1 IPC Shopping Centre, No. 2, Jalan PJU 7/2, Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya

NIRO CERAMIC (M) SDN BHD

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

T104, BSC, 285, Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya, 59000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: -603-2093 6177 PANASONIC

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

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

SPACE FURNITURE

3-12 The Intermark Mall, Kuala Lumpur Tel: +603-2166 2212 STUDIO AT 216 SDN BHD

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

tel: +603-5565 8000 www.toshiba.com.my WHITE ROOM

www.whiteroom.asia XZQT HOME STORE SDN BHD

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

OV301 Oval 3rd Floor, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, No. 1, Lebuh Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Tel: +603-7724 1880

ROZEL

VANGUARD INTERIORS

ROBINSONS

For store listing, go to www.rozel.com.my SAMSUNG

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

No 1A Persiaran Kuala Langat Section 27 Shah Alam Tel: +603-5102 5311 SIGNATURE KITCHEN

Lot 24 Jalan Teknologi Taman Sains Selangor 1, Kota Damansara Tel: +603-6286 7000 SONY (MALAYSIA) SDN. BHD.

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

VISIONARY SOLUTIONS SDN BHD

A-G-08 Block Allamanda, 10 Boulevard, Lebuhraya Sprint, PJU 6A, 47400, Petaling Jaya Tel: +603-7710 5877 VLUZ CONCEPT (M) SDN BHD

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

11th Floor, Centrepoint South,The Boulevard, Midvalley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200, KL. Tel: 03-2295 0200

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

95

F L A S H B AC K

G

S H E LV I N G A R T Take the unconventional route and display your art on shelves instead of mounting them on walls.

96

photography WONG WEI LIANG

photography DARREN CHANG

ot a piece of artwork freshly commissioned or as a gift from a loved one? Your first instinct might be to look for a wall in your home to hang in on. That is all well and good, but if you want a more unconventional approach, look the other way at your shelves instead.

Place your art piece right on existing shelves or install dedicated ones against an empty wall. The floating variety is preferred as it is easy to install and looks minimal, which is great if you want the attention to stay on the artwork itself. If you’re worried about precious art pieces sliding off, install a shelf with a lip for extra security.

Create a vignette of textures and colours if you have a variety of art pieces ready to go. You can layer them according to a theme or go eclectic! Add in a couple of tiny sculptures too, for added dimension.

Aesthetic qualities aside, placing your art on a shelf means less damage is done to your walls, which is a godsend for those renting. It also makes it easy for you to switch the look around whenever you feel like it.

text ARIC TING

Redefining Surfaces.

Redefining Kitchens.

Homes evolve, they become social spaces in which we do not only cook, but live in.

We have created a resistant and durable material with unlimited designs, to create spaces without labels.

New Dekton

Flooring Dekton Lunar Exterior Dekton Kreta Kitchen Island Dekton Soke & Kreta Slim 4mm

Find out more about the 25 year Dekton warranty, look out inspiration and find resources at www.cosentino.com Follow Us: W CosentinoTV F Cosentino Asia Ă´ Cosentino.Asia

COSENTINO CITY SINGAPORE, 34/35 Duxton Road. Singapore 089499. Tel: +65 6713 9543 - csea@cosentino.com COSENTINO MALAYSIA, No 1, Jalan TSB 8. Taman Industri Sungai Buloh. 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor. Tel: +60 17 288 3427 - malaysia@cosentino.com COSENTINO INDONESIA, Ruko Garden House Blok A 35 Jl. Pantai Indah Kapuk RT7/RW2, North Jakarta 14470. Tel: +62 855 110 3691 - indonesia@cosentino.com