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YOUR SAVVY GUIDE TO HOME REMODELLING THE A-Z OF DESIGN TERMS TIMELESS MUST-HAVE FURNITURE ICONS 10 STELLAR ID STUDIOS TO TURN TO

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editor’s note

L e t ’ s ta L k a b o u t d e s i g n

Yo u n g L i m e d i to r

specialised knowledge that comes with years of training and experience. That is why I am constantly in awe of interior designers and their craft. Thankfully, there is also a growing interest among Singaporean firms and the Government to groom a generation of talented local designers, not just for interiors, but products and furniture as well. In the following pages, you will find our roundup of 10 outstanding young interior design firms you can consult in order to build your dream home, as well as interesting competitions for anyone interested in design to participate in. Enjoy our discussion on design, and we’ll see you soon in October.

photography AngelA guo art direction nonie chen

We may not think much of the subject, but design affects every part of our lives. In fact, the better a design is, the more subtle it becomes and the less aware we are of the pivotal role it assumes. This is especially true in the realm of interior design, because professionals in the industry are trained to create interiors that integrate so seamlessly with one’s lifestyle, that it becomes an extended representation of the homeowner. Knowing where to place switches so they are within reach without becoming an eyesore, or how to direct the flow of movement in a room so its inhabitants do not end up crashing into a wall, are

@ourdesignintervention

75E Loewen Road, Tanglin Village, Singapore 248845 | Tel: +65 6506 0920 www.designintervention.com.sg

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SePTeMBer

Meow Nap

now

design news, places to v i s i t, t h i n g s t o b u y

21 EtchEd in history Cassina’s Capitol Complex series of tables and chairs may be over 60, but is still relevant today. 22 colour of thE month A rich and luscious teal for a cosy and somewhat decadent feel.

s ho pp ing 24

grEat buys Our monthly roundup of the hottest new design products for the home.

n ew s ho p 34

P5 Check out the look of the new Molteni & C and Dada flagship store near Orchard. 35

bungalow 55 See Bungalow 55’s timeless tropical designs at its new Dempsey store.

Style up your pet’s space with this new range of cat furniture.

h ot s p ot 36

thE st rEgis hong Kong The luxury hotel imagined by renowned designer Andre Fu pays tribute to the city’s culture. 38

ZubEr maison The wallpaper manufacturer opens a shop in the heart of Paris. 40

Joali maldivEs In the Indian Ocean, this hotel celebrates both the joy of living, and the beauty and fragility of nature, through art. 42

bEEfbar Paris Art Nouveau and Art Deco meet in this trendy Parisian restaurant. 44

olivia rEstaurant & loungE Homestyle Catalan fare at Tanjong Pagar. 46

maduro Live jazz lounge and bar with private invite-only den.

40 42

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p eo p l e

cardboard King

Chetna Bhatt, founder of jewellery and home accessories brand Ashepa, shares how growing up in Kenya influenced her creations.

Tales From The Past One artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of paying tribute to his familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history through paper sculptures.

While most people take photos to create lasting memories, this intrepid artist found a unique way to remember people by. 54

mothEring naturE Nature Squared co-founder Tan Lay Koon talks about natural resources, and finding artisans who know how to work the delicate materials.

uP closE

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

max it out Nikki Hunt of Design Intervention shares tips to get the maximalist look for your home.

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Homes the new modern

on the cover

A coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lofty ambition becomes the highlight of their new home. PHOTOgrAPHy V eronica tay ArT DIreCTION nonie cHen

smart Parts This home in Taipei exemplifies how abstract forms can come together to create harmony and function. 70 hitting thE right notE

A Tiong Bahru flat outfitted with a baby grand piano is infused with modern and retro elements.

staying aloft Designing their matrimonial home from scratch, for a couple with architectural background. 92

in thEir ElEmEnt A unique collection of scientific elements

sets the tone for this contemporary BTO flat. 98

drEaming big Inspired by the design of Manhattan lofts, the interior designer created elements in this five-storey house to replicate the look.

104

modErn mEEts victorian This home pares down the maximalist Victorian aesthetic to create a clean-lined space.

78 young ParEnts

This couple welcome a timeless, largely monochromatic look for their second family home.

contents

SePTeMBer

features t h e l at e s t i n d e s i g n and decor trends

f eat ur e 10 6

rising stars Our top 10 young and stellar ID firms that are turning heads with their fresh approach. 114

lEarn thE lingo An A to Z of key terms to allow you to communicate with your interior designer with ease.

1 24 in storE 1 25 whErE to buy 1 26

buying guidE 1 28

106

In The Making Find out more about 10 talented ID firms and the designers to watch for.

thE hard truth

120

stEwards of dEsign Find out about the design contests on our shores that promote creativity and showcase talent. 18

h&d.com.sg 19 digital Edition ExclusivEs

114

Say What You Mean Ambience, zoning and other words, in our ID dictionary.

Everyday Good Life Kick back and relax with beads cushion filled with fine beads that bring a unique comfortability while providing durable, firm support with its knitted fabric cover.

Choose from a wide variety of colours to match your home: Grey Beige

Charcoal Grey

Dark Brown

Navy

Denim Hickory

Sit down in horizontal position

Sit down in vertical position

It wraps from the shoulder to the waist.

It spreads circularly, allowing the body to sink in slowly.

With the stretch material facing up (soft surface)

With the canvas material facing up (rough surface)

Canvas material (rough surface)

Stretch material (soft surface)

Denim Navy

Polyester Grey

Scan QR code to watch product demonstration!

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10 home office ideas Home offices from around the world to get your creative juices flowing. www.tinyurl.com/y2qse847

an eclectic scandinavian-style hdb flat See how the designer infused this home with character, based on the homeowners’ personalities. www.tinyurl.com/y4mnkypq

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ETCHED IN HISTORY What makes a piece of furniture especially iconic is not the designer behind it, but how it has played a role in shaping our past and its relevance to our lives today. Cassinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Capitol Complex series of table and chairs is such a collection. Designed by French architect Pierre Jeanneret in 1951, the furniture was intended for use in Chandigarh Capitol Complex in India. The designs have borne witness to the development of the land, since the days of early Indian independence. History aside, the bold look of the inverted V legs makes this series deserving of a place in your living room. The Capitol Complex table, office chair and chair are available at Space Furniture. Visit www.spacefurniture.com. sg to find out more.

c o lo u r o f t h e m o n t h

A tA l e of teAl

c o lo u r o f the month

With the erratic weather we have been experiencing of late, it seems the world is finally recognising the existence of global warming and the negative effects it can have on our lives. As a result of this growing awareness, people are embracing the idea of “going green” in every sense of the term, from cutting down on plastic waste, to adding more greenery to living spaces. However, the preferred shade of green as we head towards the last quarter of the year is tending towards a darker hue mixed with a hint of blue, resulting in a rich and luscious teal. This sumptuouslooking colour makes for a great wall colour if you are looking to let your accessories and furniture stand out. It evokes a cosy and somewhat decadent feel without the overpowering presence that comes with other rich hues, like mauve or magenta.

pantone 5473C

pantone 7419C

pantone 527C

Dark hues appear softer and less intimidating when presented on velvet fabrics, such as in this collection of velvet-upholstered chairs and sofas from French brand Maisons Du Monde.

the expert says

Wong L i an gy ua n Colour Specialist, Haven Lifestyle

“teal is a popular colour among homeowners because it suits those who like either green or blue. it looks good on the walls or when used on soft furnishings, curtains or upholstery. teal also looks good in pictures, which means you can always get great shots of interiors featuring a teal background. instead of combining it with complementary colours, i’d go with contrasting ones for a lively and energetic feel.”

photo Nacho Uribesalazar aNd casa decor

What a Viu

Welcome to the bathroom of tomorrow. The idea: Soft, organic inner forms meet geometric, precise outer contours. A fusion of different materials – ceramics, wood, metal, glass. The purpose: Perfection from every angle, technology for maximum comfort. The result: Viu. Design by sieger design, realised by Duravit. What a Viu! Duravit Asia Limited (Singapore Branch), Phone +65 6238 6353, info@sg.duravit.com, www.duravit.com, Econflo Systems Pte Ltd, Phone +65 6396 3738, sales@econflo.com, www.econflo.com, Ferrara Asiapac Pte Ltd, Phone +65 6235 0020, infor@ferrara.com.sg, www.ferrara.com.sg, Sansei Singapura Pte Ltd, Phone +65 6292 8321, sales@sansei.com.sg, www.sanseionline.com, Bathroom Gallery, Phone +65 6546 5900, sales@bathroomgallery.com.sg, www.bathroomgallery.com.sg, Hoe Kee Hardware Pte Ltd, Phone +65 6749 4521, sales1@hoekee.com.sg, www.hoekee.com.sg.

Haute walls High fashion and furnishings collide in A Perfect World by Jean Paul Gaultier and Lelievre Paris. This new range of fabrics and wallpapers features ethereal illustrations of nature, from flowers to creatures of the sea. Used sparingly on an accent wall, they will add a touch of Parisian flair to your home. Prices for the collection start from $177 per sq m. To order, visit www.lelievreparis.com.

take shade Sculpted by hand using cast-cotton, the Nana Lure lamp by Pelle Designs could pass for a giant banana leaf. Except this man-made leaf functions as a light which you can have standing or suspended, giving off a warm luminance we never imagined it could. This art lamp retails for $39,400. To order, visit www.pelledesigns.com.

Ode tO Nature A collection between Ethimo and Paola Navone, Rafael is a modular system comprising lounge seating, daybeds and coffee tables. Inspired by the world’s most fascinating outdoor locations, the pieces come in unique shapes and strong lines – all to shine a light on the multifaceted aspects of nature. Materials like teak, marble and lava stone were used to maintain authenticity. To order, visit www.ethimo.com.

News Virtual Reality Instead of a small square chip as your only point of reference, you can now visualise your home surfaces in different laminates via Lamitak Homes, an app presenting digital mock-ups.

Seamless Tile The Hafary app – the first mobile app of its kind here – offers easier access to images of and information on over 5,000 tiles and surfacing materials, great for discussions with your ID.

Lamitak Homes will be made available to visitors to Lamitak Studio soon.

The Hafary app is available for download at Google Play or Apple’s App Store.

Sleep Catch-up Simmons is offering weary executives a chance to catch up on some rest with 45winks, its sleep suite service where guests can recharge with a 45-minute power nap. The suites feature mattresses with different firmness – firm, medium or plush – along with luxurious pillows, sheets, pyjamas and assorted sleep aids. 45winks by Simmons is at Simmons Gallery Capitol Piazza. Book a session at https:// 45winks.simmons.com.sg

Art And More The Way Of Seeing exhibition showcases the works of 17 acclaimed individuals and groups of Chinese and foreign artists who question the understanding and perception of contemporary art. Some of the artworks are being publicly exhibited in China for the first time. The Way Of Seeing runs till Oct 6 at Chao Art Centre, 4 Workers’ Stadium East Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing China.

Lush Lounge Word on the street is that the Maximalist look is going to be the next big thing in interior trends next year, and what better way to stay ahead by welcoming this plush-looking Mood Armand sofa into your living room. Cleanlined and chic, the generously proportioned sofa – available as a standalone or sectional – features contrast piping, subtle metal legs and goose-down-filled cushions, exuding a delightful Maximalist feel without going overboard. The sofa retails from $12,100, and is available at Flexform, #01-01, 200 Newton Road.

CheCkMate, YOu Must Enjoy a game of unconventional chess with this Star Wars-themed chess set from Royal Selangor. With iconic characters like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbecca, R2-D2 and C-3PO, the pewterfinished Rebel Alliance and their tinted Imperial counterparts face off on this tempered glass chessboard. Chess pieces are also available separately as paired sets. Royal Selangor Star Wars-themed chess set retails at Royal Selangor retail stores and www. royalselangor.com for $2,500.

ConVenIent CooKWAre serViNg aNd stOriNg FOOd is easier with teFal’s New iNgeNiO raNge OF COOkware. its COlleCtiON OF FrYiNg PaNs, wOks aNd sauCePaNs COMe with reMOVaBle haNdles, sO that the uteNsils are MOre sPaCe-saViNg. Tefal Ingenio range is now available at major department stores and selected electrical stores.

KitcHen tools Smeg, maker of the iconic Fab fridge, is putting its fun products within easy reach with the launch of its local Web store. You’ll ﬁnd plenty of lust-worthy kitchen appliances as well as its premium limited-edition range “Sicily is my love” (with dolce&Gabbana). Shoppers can enjoy special promotions such as mid-year sales when they choose to shop at its online store. Visit www.smegshop.sg

ad d to ca rt

BatHroom goals

artist OF the MONth

This Manchester United-themed collection by Kohler gives Red Devils a bathroom to be proud of. Sporting the distinctive black and grey palette – with hints of devilish red – it is made up of items like showerheads (which bear the football team’s logo), bathroom mixers as well as a sleek bathtub.

FreeDoM Fighter Having concluded his first solo exhibition here at Richard Koh Fine Art in July, Svay Sareth continues to capture the attention of Singapore audiences through his works. The Cambodian artist is known for his use of materials associated with war to create works that express political messages of resistance and freedom. Find out more about him at https://rkfineart.com.

For more information on the Manchester United X Kohler bathroom collection, visit www. kohlerunited.com.

FUn tHAt FItS tO Mark the NatiON’s BirthdaY last MONth, the atas wOrkshOP lauNChed #1, a white Oak taBle iNsPired BY the CheCkers taBle COMMONlY seeN at VOid deCks. it’s great FOr sMall sPaCes, aNd YOu’ll lOVe the QuirkY lOOk tOO. Available in two sizes and retailing from $700, #1 is available for viewing and ordering from now till Oct 6 at #04-04, Richfield Industrial Centre, 122 Eunos Avenue 7.

editor’s cHoice

PaMPer YOur Pets Pet parents can now spoil their fur babies further! With Etch & Bolts’ latest pet furniture collection, cats and dogs can lounge comfortably on stylish customised furniture. the six-piece collection includes sofas, beds and seats in a variety of wood and fabric options, designed to ﬁt beautifully in modern homes. Etch & Bolts pet furniture retails from $199 at 3 Little Road and also at www.etchandbolts.com. 28

eCO-FrieNdlY Ready to branch out from the anti-straw movement? Consider shopping for groceries at The Source Bulk Foods. The bulk foods retailer stocks up to 350 products ranging from premium whole foods to household products. The Source Bulk Foods is located at #01-05A Cluny Court. Visit thesourcebulkfoods.com.sg.

stylisHly loud & clear

Flexi Fridge A number of useful features make Electrolux’s 617-litre Nutrifresh inverter multi-door fridge a dream to own. The Flexfresh drawer is a flexible space to store everything from cheese and wine to seafood and frozen items – simply click a button to choose among various modes. Hate the long defrosting periods? Use the Ultrachill mode (minus 2 deg C) which keeps meat and seafood fresh without deep freezing (minus 18 deg C). We’re in love with its sleek look. The fridge retails for $4,299 at all major retailers. For more information on the Electrolux refrigerator, visit www. electrolux.com.sg.

MetaLLic Magic If chrome fittings are too basic for your fashion-forward bathroom, then metallic surfaces like Brushed Black Chrome, Brushed Bronze and Polished Gold Optic will strike your fancy. There are also Matte White and Matte Black to choose from. Part of Hansgrohe Finishplus – a range of surface finishes – these five colours are available for two faucet collections: Metropol and Talis E. For more information on Hansgrohe Finishplus, visit www.hansgrohe.com.sg, or visit Hansgrohe Aquademie, 69 Mohamed Sultan Road.

Enjoy your favourite tunes with Master & Dynamic’s MW65 active noisecancelling wireless headphones. With a charge that can last up to 24 hours in battery life per use, this sophisticated headphone set also offers rich, warm sounds and leather finishes for a flawless listening experience.

MW65 active noise-cancelling wireless headphones are available for $759 at authorised Master & Dynamic retailers.

trending

Pretty Precious

1. Mosaique watches and jewellery marquetry box in mahogany, $11,300, from Hermes 2 . Coral, The Jewelry Box by Alya Tannous, $526, from The Artling 3 . Selma white jewellery box, $319.95, from Crate & Barrel

Gone are the days when your bling sits in some nondescript container for convenience’s sake. It’s time to give your valuable gems the home they deserve, in a beautiful vessel that is as functional as it is breathtaking to behold. Have a look at our picks for some inspiration.

tile of tHe montH

italian inspiration Give your home a handcrafted feel with Mai Adagio, Italian Renaissance-inspired tiles with a floral motif. Resembling maiolica, or tin-glazed pottery, the tiles feature striking blue paint against opaque white glaze. Mai Adagio retails at Hafary, 105 Eunos Avenue 3, www.hafary. com.sg.

Call OF the great OutdOOrs Set sail for the high life with Christofle’s summer collection, featuring the iconic Mood silverware service with a limited edition Mediterranean bleu handle. Created to make cocktail-mixing a breeze, the collection also includes cocktail stirrers, picks, glass coasters and ice tongs. The Outdoor Cocktail range retails from $149 and is available at Christofle’s boutique at #02-11/12 The Shopping Gallery Hilton.

text DomeniCa Tan, eliza HamizaH anD iSabelle Tow

N E W S TO R E

Take a walk through the store and check out the luxurious furniture collections. See page 19

I P5 New Molteni & C and Dada flagship store.

n conjunction with its 10th year anniversary, local furniture retailer P5 has launched a new store in town, which serves as Italian luxury furniture brands Molteni & C and Dada’s flagship. This milestone also marks P5’s growth, from a quaint store in Purvis Street to retail space in Mohamed Sultan, and now a 6,000 sq ft showroom in the heart of town. The cosy, understated and homely interior, with its welcoming ambience, houses a collection of classy and timeless furniture and furnishings. With a spacious open-concept layout that features home settings such as living room, dining room, kitchen and bedroom, the store allows

shoppers to easily visualise the elegant and cushy pieces in their home. Dada’s VVD and Hi-Line kitchens take centre stage in the store, where a fully functional kitchen set-up encourages homeowners to explore design ideas that have the kitchen as the mainstay in the home. There is also a showcase of Molteni & C’s Gliss Master wardrobes, which automatically light up as you approach them. If you’re eyeing a flexible, functional and classy walk-in wardrobe, this might just be the one for you. P5 is located at #01-01 Winsland House, 3 Killiney Road, www.p5.com.sg

text Domenica Tan

above

Lounge on cushy modular sofas and designer armchairs. below

Take inspiration from the classy kitchen design in the showroom.

N E W S TO R E

B u N g a lOW 5 5 See Bungalow 55’s timeless tropical designs in its new Dempsey store.

fter seven years at Cluny Court, furniture and home accessories boutique Bungalow 55 has moved to a new nest. Perched on a spacious third storey unit in Dempsey, the 1,350 sq ft boutique is surrounded by tall trees and blessed with a constant stream of natural light. This sets a serene backdrop for the brand’s tropical glam pieces that are personally sourced by founder Nina Beale from America, Australia and Europe. She also

runs an interior styling service, which was one of the reasons for the move. “The home styling consultations have now become a significant part of Bungalow 55. We needed a larger space to accommodate our furniture, and to design a better client experience. When I saw the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the jungle, I was sold!” she says. Nina’s collection consists of unique items that are hard to find in Singapore, such as ab ov E

Handcoloured prints of sea creatures and botany can add to an elegant atmosphere.

The round Pineapple Table is a made-toorder item. bE low

Nina says styling consultations are based on clients’ lifestyle and interests, so as to “create homes and not a showroom of design pieces”.

text Eliza HamizaH

nature-inspired pieces – for instance, the Costa Verde hanging lamp constructed out of plant fibres – as well as customisable furniture like the X-Desk, named after its crossed wooden legs. To maximise the space, Nina used her signature round tables to create a figure-of-eight flow. This fits the counter and client consultation area and creates a relaxed, happy atmosphere. When asked how she would describe Bungalow 55 customers, she says: “Someone who is discerning, interesting, fun and has a sense of humour!” Visit Bungalow 55 at Block 8D Dempsey Road, or go to https://www.bungalow55.com.

h o t s p ot

the st Regis h o n g Ko n g Unveiled in April, the luxury hotel imagined by renowned interior designer Andre Fu pays tribute to the city’s culture.

ocated in the commercial and cultural hub of Wan Chai, a few steps from the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and Golden Bauhinia Square, The St Regis Hong Kong occupies a 27-storey building with 129 guest rooms and suites. “Hong Kong has long been considered the point of convergence for East and West, and we are thrilled to open the first St Regis property in this exciting destination,” says Lisa Holladay, global brand leader for St Regis Hotels & Resorts. “The hotel’s incredible architecture and design beautifully capture the beauty of the city through the lens of St Regis’ signature glamorous spirit and sophistication.” Mixing classic and contemporary elements, the refined yet inviting spaces, shaped by renowned interior designer Andre Fu, were inspired by the rich culture and heritage of the city, and reflect a residential feel. Born in Hong Kong and educated in England, Andre drew on personal memories for the design. “Living, studying and travelling between both countries over the past 30 years is why my tastemaker sensibility reinterprets traditional notions of national identities or ‘East-meetsWest aesthetics’ in a new hybrid,” he says. “For me, it is about combining a seamless alignment of cultural and design sensibilities, modern luxury and craftsmanship to shape the world around us.” In every room and suite

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The doubleheight ceiling in the lobby area sets the scene for decadence.

featuring wood flooring and Asian touches, floorto-ceiling windows offer harbour and city views. In the bathrooms, deep soaking bathtubs invite guests to rest in a timeless atmosphere where everything has been made to feel like home. In addition to the 12,000 sq ft of event space across five venues, The St Regis Hong Kong offers several culinary options, including French haute cuisine restaurant Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Envol (helmed by awardwinning chef Olivier Elzer); Cantonese restaurant Run (led by renowned chef Hung Chi Kwong); the Drawing Room, which offers an allday dining and afternoon tea experience; and The St Regis Bar, with bespoke cocktails and more than 800 wines and 100 champagnes. In all areas of The St Regis Hong Kong, Andre has combined diverse artisanal and cultural details to achieve an aesthetic that epitomises effortless luxury.

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The metal grillwork and marble cladding lend the bathroom a chic New York flair. left

Entertainment areas have always been a focal point for the hotel brand, and the ones in this new hotel are designed with a cosy and convivial air. below

Floor to ceiling windows offer views of the cramped but captivating city.

Visit www.marriott.com/hotels/ travel/hkgxr-the-st-regis-hongkong/ to find more about the hotel.

good to know The first St Regis hotel in New York was opened by John Jacob Astor IV in 1904. Today there are 42 hotels under the brand, in cities like Singapore and Lhasa.

text Karine Monie photos the St regiS hong Kong

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Zuber maison The wallpaper manufacturer opens a shop in the heart of Paris.

n the sixth arrondissement of the French capital, the heart of the enchanting area of Saint-Germain-desPres is now home to an 80 sq m shop, where a series of sublime wallpapers adorns walls and the ceiling. Designed to look like a small jewellery box, the space is an invitation to discover the aesthetic flair and elegance of Zuber, the oldest wallpaper manufacture in the world. Established in Rixheim, Alsace, France, in 1797, Zuber continues to print each and every creation by hand. In addition to wallpaper, the manufacturer also produces its designs on fabric and leather. Today, its archives comprise an impressive collection of 130,000 inspiring designs and 150,000 woodblocks – carved by its workers between 1797 and 1830. Located at 36 rue Bonaparte, the Parisian Zuber shop is the latest addition to Zuber showrooms in Nice, London, New York, Shanghai, Moscow and Dubai. With different motifs – from poetic landscapes to fantastical bestiaries and architectural

treasures – Zuber’s wallpapers are displayed throughout the boutique. The timeless and sophisticated atmosphere enables visitors to imagine how those creations fit into different decorative styles, whether traditional or contemporary. Custom orders (for which customers can select different colours or textures) take four to six weeks to manufacture. All products can be exported internationally and, today, they are in private and public interior collections all over the world. Heritage and expert craftsmanship are reflected in every piece. Introduced in 1804, Zuber’s signature scenic wallpapers showcase about 30 different panoramas. Favourites include Eldorado,

Isola Bella, Hindoustan and Vues d’Amerique. Zuber’s Paris location showcases both classic and new creations, such as two collections launched in 2018: Birds, which was inspired by 19th-century designs of the natural world; and Carrare, which imitates marble with a twist of glamour, thanks to the paper’s powdered gold finish. Friezes, borders, skirting, rose windows and other decorative elements can be added around the wallpaper for a more personal touch. Rich in colours, motifs and textures, Zuber’s creations are an ode to a French skill and finesse that dates back more than 220 years. Visit www.zuber.fr/en to find out more about Zuber.

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The showroom also operates as a museum featuring all the designs Zuber has produced since it was established in 1797. le ft

Zuberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prints can be applied onto paper, fabric and even leather.

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Not surprisingly, the interiors of the showroom are decked out in the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coveted wallpapers.

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Zuberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floral print collection features intricate details and striking colours.

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Zuber is the last company in the world to produce wallpapers using the 18th-century woodblock printing technique, and with its own pigments.

Designs are presented on folding screens, allowing visitors to picture how they look when applied on walls.

text Karine Monie

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J oA L I M A L d I v e s In the middle of the Indian Ocean, this hotel celebrates both the joy of living, and the beauty and fragility of nature, through art.

The interesting roof design is modelled after the ebb and flow of waves.

n the Maldives’ Raa Atoll, Joali is more than just a dream hotel for sun seekers, surrounded by white sand beaches and pristine blue waters. It is also the ideal spot for contemporary art aficionados hoping to catch a glimpse of some spectacular artworks while on holiday. Featuring a series of experiential art pieces that refer to the island of Muravandhoo’s surrounding nature, Joali Maldives – located on the island – aims to sensitise travellers to its fragile ecosystem, which consists of rich marine life, coral reefs, exotic birds and tropical vegetation. Designed by architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Istanbulbased Atolye4n, together with design studio Autoban and Tokyo-based interior design firm Glitt, Joali was built around trees – to save as many as possible – and created around the concept of joy of living. The hotel provides guests with an art map to explore a collection created by 13 artists selected by art curators Zeynep Ercan and Asliala Onur of Istanbul-based company, No Lab. The sculptures and experiential pieces showcased throughout the exterior and interior spaces of the hotel are a true ode to nature. Passionate about wildlife and saving endangered species

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The contemporary look of the interiors is balanced with soothing colours inspired by the ocean. righ t

The Manta Ray Treehouse designed by artist Porky Hefer.

in general, and particularly inspired by the manta rays present all over the Maldives, South African architect and designer Porky Hefer created a steel structure clad with wood and local palm above the ground, accessible through a suspended walkway. Inside this Manta Ray Treehouse, up to 10 guests can dine, while admiring the sublime sunset. “My job is always to try to get people more interested in nature,” says Porky. To view his underwater coral sculptures, American designer Misha Kahn invites guests to dive down and swim in between the pieces created with vibrantand pale-coloured mosaic tiles,

which reflect the coral bleaching occurring in the ocean. “I have drawn the inspiration from the waters around us,” he says. “Coral is a delicate symbiotic system, just like art is with colour and form.” South African art collective Ardmore drew inspiration from the grey heron of the Maldives, creating several sculptures and patterns designed for the hotel. Thanks to all these pieces, Joali is a place to experience art in a different way, and to realise the beauty of nature through the eyes and imaginations of talented artists and designers. Visit http://www.joali.com to find more about the hotel.

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Accommodation at the resort includes one- to four-bedroom villas.

text Karine Monie photos Joali Maldives

good to know Joali is one of the first art resorts in the Maldives, and features 73 private beach and water villas, as well as residences.

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L B e e f B a r pa r i s Art Nouveau and Art Deco meet in this trendy Parisian restaurant.

ast November, Beefbar finally arrived a few steps away from Paris’s most famous avenue, the Champs-Elysees. With restaurants in Monaco, Budapest, Dubai, Hong Kong, Cannes, Mykonos and Mexico City, Beefbar – founded by Riccardo Giraudi, who aimed to create modern luxury in a chic yet friendly atmosphere – now extends its winning formula of offering Michelin-starred cuisine amid a designer setting to the posh French capital.

The focus of the interior design is on creating a warm atmosphere with touches of refinement and simplicity. As with its other outlets, Beefbar Paris was designed by architecture studio Humbert & Poyet (founded in 2008 by Parisborn Emil Humbert and Monacoborn Christophe Poyet). “We communicate constantly throughout a project,” says Christophe. “Our symbiosis forms the foundations of our projects and ensures the space that we’ve imagined works.”

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Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a hint of old-style glamour in the main dining hall of the restaurant. ri ght top

Richly-hued marble wainscoting adds to the luxurious feel in the dining hall. ri ght below

Gold accents inject a contemporary flair to the overall look of the reception area.

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Even with the dizzying amount of detail in the design, the restaurant exudes a lighthearted and inviting atmosphere.

The starting point of this Parisian restaurant was the main Art Nouveau room, which was in a state of disrepair but had been registered as a historical monument since 1983. Its arches, pilasters, friezes and enamelled ceramic panels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which adorn the space â&#x20AC;&#x201C; were restored to their former glory, thanks to the help of the best artisans. Designed in 1898 by architect Emile Hurtre and painted by Jules Wielhorski, the exceptional atrium was abandoned and walled during World War II to be hidden from the Nazis, before being rediscovered in 1983. Entirely repainted in green and bronze in reference to its past, featuring vegetal and geometric patterns, this

historical room inspired Humbert & Poyet to create a contrast between old and contemporary, while balancing sobriety and eccentricity throughout the entire restaurant. In addition to the atrium, the brasserie houses a meat cellar with walnut, marble and brass features, and a bar decorated with leather and mirrors cut into slats. Grandiose yet comfortable, Beefbar Paris mixes several influences, from Art Nouveau elements and Art Deco details (in marble, brass and lacquered walnut) to a modern loft-style ceiling to great effect. Visit www.beefbar.com to find out more about Beefbar Paris.

good to know Beefbar is a chain of restaurants specialising in steaks, founded by Riccardo Giraudi in 2005. Its first flagship in Southeast Asia is located in Hong Kong.

text Karine monie photos francis amiand

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An array of natural textures evokes a breezy Mediterranean vibe. BeLow, fa r Left

Black Rice with Grilled Calamari. BeLow, Left

The Gin Me!! cocktail from sommelier Miquel Sabria’s bar is mixed with olive brine, rosemary and elderflower tonic. Bot tom

Thanks to co-founders Miquel and Alain Devahive, locals get to enjoy the delights of Catalan fare.

o l i v i a R e s tau R a n t & lo u n g e Honest and wholesome homestyle fare at this Catalan restaurant.

rom South Korean and Japanese-fusion to Italian, your dining options are almost limitless, if you happen to be in the vicinity of the shophouses in Tanjong Pagar. With newcomer Olivia Restaurant & Lounge in Keong Saik Road, the diverse dining setting is made even more vibrant, with a zesty new Catalan neighbour. The brainchild of Spanish chef Alain Devahive and sommelier Miquel Sabria, the same duo behind the nowdefunct restaurant Catalunya, Olivia Restaurant & Lounge is conceived as a traditional Catalan home kitchen

that serves hearty homestyle cooking. The restaurant’s open kitchen has been made the focal point, so diners can view the kitchen staff preparing meals. Recruiting the expertise of celebrated Barcelonabased interior designer Lazaro Rosa-Violan, the restaurant evokes the warmth of the city’s Mediterranean location with a palette of ochres, browns and blues. Trained as a painter, Lazaro decorated the 75-seater with key design pieces such as ceramics and low-hanging lamps, many of which were handmade by craftsmen and artists in Barcelona.

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Open since February, some of the dishes that have emerged as must-tries include the Black Rice with “Carbinero” Red Prawn Carpaccio ($32), a Spanish take on a quintessentially Italian dish, and Olivia’s Homemade Creamy Cheesecake ($14 for a slice), a unique dessert creation by sous-chef Celina Franco. Pair your meal with one of Miquel’s curated Spanish and international wines, and you will walk away with a satisfied belly. Olivia Restaurant & Lounge is located at 55 Keong Saik Road.

J OIN T HE H&D T RIB E N OW E n joy styl i s h living on th e go , w i th trend reports, des i gn er i n ter v i ews a nd i n ter i o r des i g n features, all in th e pal m of yo u r h an d.

Home and Decor Singapore @homeanddecor_sg www.homeanddecor.com.sg

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Maduro Live jazz lounge and bar with private invite-only den.

he birth of Maduro is the result of one of Singapore’s most successful real estate brokers rekindling his love for music and his desire to create a place where a community of wine and whisky connoisseurs can meet. This man is none other than Peter Ng, who is not just a reputable niche property broker dealing with shophouses in Singapore and international developments, but also a classically trained pianist who has played alongside musical talents like Frances Yip and Anita Sarawak.

Opening Maduro is a dream come true for Peter as it brings him back to the days when he visited private members’ clubs while working in London. It is also a step back into the world of music, which he had lost touch with when he gave up the piano to focus on real estate. A spot to sit back, relax and enjoy fine alcohol and jazzy tunes by a three- to four-piece band, Maduro is decked out in mismatched velvet couches in a variety of colours from pink to mustard. These are complemented by marble-top coffee tables and the occasional leather armchair. The walls are dressed with brightly hued paintings, which are part of Peter’s eclectic

text Domenica tan photos maDuro

art collection, to lend the listening lounge a homey, cosy ambience that sets the tone for a soothing wind-down. Unknown to many, Maduro also hides a by-invite-only “private den” that’s located adjacent to the listening lounge, and is exclusive to VIPs including businessmen and corporate clients. What better way to end your Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays than with live music performances at Maduro, booze in one hand, and delicious bar bites from French bistro Atout in another. Maduro is located at 40C Harding Road, Level 3, www.maduro.sg.

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The colourful, cushy furniture in Maduro creates a vibrant yet cosy ambience.

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i d e a s a n d i n s p i r at i o n f r o m t h o s e i n t h e k n o w

C a r d b oa r d King while most people take photographs as a way to create lasting memories, this intrepid artist found a unique way to make his. on a mission to remember the residents at his grandparentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; home village in shaoxing, China, one person at a time, warren king, 49, crafted a series of life-size human figures out of nothing more than cardboard and glue.

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It was in 2010 that he and his brothers visited Shaoxing for the first time, and met the locals who had memories of their grandparents from 50 years ago, before they left for Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War. “The feeling was profound and surreal, and somewhat contradictory,” he recalls. “I felt such a strong connection to those people, who were like a part of the past that was lost. But at the same time, our differences – in clothing, physical appearance, mannerisms – made it obvious that there existed a huge chasm between us. Something found, but at the same time, the realisation of something lost. It was a pivotal experience for me, one that inspired me to become an artist. Through my work, I am attempting to understand the fragile connections to people and culture, and examine whether those connections, once broken, can be restored.” thrill of nostalgia The child of Chinese immigrants who went to the US for graduate school, Warren was born and raised in the suburbs of Wisconsin. His uncles and aunts were accomplished businesspeople and scientists, and his parents were hardworking, strict disciplinarians, who expected him to excel academically and to support the family engineering business. He studied engineering and eventually became a structural engineer working on large-scale commercial buildings like stadiums, hospitals, offices and carparks. Subsequently, he worked as a

software company executive for 15 years; becoming an artist was never a consideration. “Art came much later in life,” he admits. “Even after my first exhibition, being called an artist felt awkward. But I’ve been working at this for a few years now. After experiencing how people can be genuinely touched by what I have to convey, and getting an idea of the range of subjects that can be explored, I can finally say that I feel compelled to continue.” A Different Path The turning point came in 2012 when Warren and his family decided to live abroad. They moved to Sweden and lived there for four years. Being out of his normal environment

opened his mind to new possibilities, and he began to seriously consider doing art. It was there that he made his first Shaoxing Villagers – he became a full-time artist in 2013. In fact, he had discovered his talent for working with cardboard earlier, as he used to make toys and disguises for his two children when they were young, using whatever materials were readily available around the house. His first piece was a Darth Vader helmet, and soon after that, he was making props and costumes for his children’s school theatre productions. After a few years of making cardboard masks and helmets, he turned his attention to human figures, capturing facial expressions

5 1. Warren King became an artist only later in life. 2. Aside from human faces, Warren also experiments with making animal ones. 3. Warren’s work is lifelike and realistic, in terms of form and proportion.

4. Warren’s piece, entitled Grandfather’s Friends. 5. The artist used the image of a lion to symbolise his grandfather.

“the range of emotions and stories that can be conveyed is limitless, and i’ve barely just started.” – warren king, cardboard artist

and their nuances. “What I find most interesting about working with cardboard are the limitations,” he discloses. “With wood, clay or stone, you can create virtually any shape. But with the way that I choose to work with cardboard, the range is severely limited. I don’t crush or mash it but, instead, I preserve the layers and the corrugation. And I don’t bend it unnaturally. That means it can be curved in only one direction, parallel to the corrugations. With these rules, spherical shapes are therefore impossible. So using cardboard to make a human face,

which is full of rounded shapes, requires a completely different thinking from the mindset associated with traditional mediums. It’s about creating an illusion of roundness, about breaking complex shapes down into simpler geometries. “But this is what I find so compelling about the material. These limitations don’t inhibit my creativity; they are the source of it. By making it necessary to abstract or simplify a shape, I force myself to really understand the components of an expression or gesture.”

simple does it Without using a computer and rarely sketching before beginning an artwork, Warren works entirely by hand, employing the most basic tools: scissors, a few different kinds of knives and glue. With most of his figures, if you look at them from the back, you find that they are hollow shells with little structure or mass. They are just a surface, to which he has recently begun adding colour and graphical elements, in the form of cut paper images glued on, to introduce a new dimension. Inspired by intricate scenes portrayed on lacquerware or carved wooden panels, and patterns adorning robes worn by royalty, he uses paper cutouts to relate narratives important to him. For each, he’s telling a story, whether from personal experience, or based on characters from history, folk tales, or his imagination. “Cardboard, being a sculptural material, as well as a flat paper surface, seems uniquely suited for this type of storytelling,” Warren notes. “What I’m looking for is something that sheds light on, or raises a question about, my connection to my culture and ancestors. The things that really interest me are cultural and ethnic connections, how we try to preserve them and how they shape us even after they’ve been severed. And then I try to develop ways to visually express these connections.” For example, he created an installation of five characters seated around a low table, which was inspired by his memory of seeing his father and his siblings and mother gathered at their old family home in Taiwan, reunited there to prepare for the passing of his ailing grandfather,

who is represented by a lion at the table. Although Warren loves crafting masks and animal sculptures – he has created lions, roosters, lizards, frogs, hedgehogs, monkeys and horses – to try out new techniques or just for fun, making human figures remains his main focus. “The range of emotions and stories that can be conveyed is limitless, and I’ve barely just started,” he says. “But I think the main reason is that nothing else is nearly as challenging. There’s far less leniency when you make human figures. If something is off, anyone can sense it. And a millimetre of adjustment can change a whole expression.”

As cardboard is not as durable as canvas, he explains how he intends for his artworks to stay in pristine condition over time. “It’s true, cardboard won’t last as long as stone or metal, but its durability is generally underrated. When I started, I used common cardboard from old boxes, but what I found is that there is a huge range in quality. So I switched to non-recycled material, which made a big difference. “Nowadays, I use museumquality board, which is acid-free and very strong. On top of that, I coat the finished pieces with an invisible varnish. So I think they should last for quite a while… as long as no one leaves them outside in the rain, or sits on them!”

6. Warren is also exploring the use of cardboard as a medium for other types of artwork, such as panels and screens. 7. Shadows help create a sense of dimension in his artworks. 8 . This work, titled 400 Apples A Day, was inspired by the life of the Empress Cixi. 9. Another creation from Warren’s series entitled Grandfather’s Friends.

text Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE photos WArrEN kiNg

people

Mothering nature Tan Lay Koon, co-founder of Nature Squared, talks about the challenge working with natural resources like feathers, and egg and oyster shells, and finding artisans who are able to work with such delicate materials.

1. A darkcoloured surface created out of pink scallop shells. 2. Blue feathers are used in the creation of the Exploring Eden collection designed by Bethan Gray. 3. The Exploring Eden collection also includes the use of jade abalone shells. 4. The various surfaces made out of abalone shells, blue pheasant feathers, capiz and goose feathers. 5 . Tan Lay Koon also happens to be an avid diver.

t was in 2000 when Tan Lay Koon made the brave but risky decision to leave her cushy job in the finance industry at the height of the dot.com bubble. Paul Hoeve, her business partner at accounting and consulting giant Arthur Andersen, quit as well, and both thought about doing something radically different in their next career move. At the top of Lay Koon’s list of possibilities was establishing a company that would somehow benefit society, along with creating minimal environmental impact. “We were particularly concerned that insufficient attention was being paid to sustainability,” she explains. “We felt that most people were either apathetic or driven by a single issue (like climate change, social development or protecting endangered species). Few initiatives took a holistic multifaceted view of sustainability, balancing social, environmental and economic factors.” That was when they launched Nature Squared, a London-based company specialising in bespoke luxury surfaces made with sustainable materials such as bamboo, mother of pearl, tobacco leaves and reeds. Can you tell us how you Came to foCus on turning natural materials into high-end surfaCes?

Given that our focus is the use of waste or fast-growing

materials in the immediate environment of our source communities, the idea of transforming them into surfaces using superlative craftsmanship was a pretty obvious one to us. Perhaps less obviously, we chose to pitch it to the highest end of the market, targeting superyachts and private jets. We felt that our product should be uncompromising in its beauty and quality. DiD you have any form of Design training before embarking on this venture?

I had no formal training in design, but nearly two decades of working with leading designers on cutting-edge

projects have been amazing on-the-job training. What drew me to this business is the fact that I find natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s design endlessly fascinating. Having grown up in Malaysia, lived in Switzerland and the UK, and travelled extensively worldwide, I have been privileged to observe and appreciate natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diversity. I am also a keen diver, as is my business partner, Paul. Everyone who has watched Blue Planet II can appreciate the breathtaking beauty of the underwater world. But as a diver, you experience it with heightened sensory awareness. The structures, colours and textures are all magnified. The Fibonacci golden ratio

“All this is reflected in the quAlity levels in whAt is visible, As well As in the high technicAl content thAt is invisible.”

hatcheries; sea urchin spines from local fishermen; tobacco leaves as the sub-standard (for smoking!) plantation produce. We are currently working with one of the world’s oldest conservation agencies to identify communities where it has active projects, as we aim to create a virtuous circle where conservation efforts result in tangible financial gains. wHat’ s tH e m ost de licate / fr ag ile mate rial tH e co m pany Had to wo r k

manifested in a seashell is much more attractive than in a banana skin! How do you go about sourcing sustainable materials?

We usually start by identifying a by-product of another industry or activity that would otherwise be discarded as waste, or by finding a fast-growing and abundant material. Then we identify and assess our source(s) to ensure they meet our standards for both environmental and social welfare. Our mussel and abalone shells come from communitybased farms in South Africa (where they are discarded when the animals are canned); our eggshells from farms and

witH so far?

Feathers - our latest development! My daughter, like most kids, was fascinated by them and would pick them up wherever she found them. So I had been staring at a motley collection for a couple of years. I found their delicacy and subtlety sublimely beautiful but couldn’t think of a way to work with them that would meet our sustainability and traceability criteria. I felt very strongly that they needed to be from birds that were eaten, but almost all such birds are mechanically plucked. On the other hand, picking up moult feathers would not provide the quantities we would practically need. Thankfully, I discovered to my delight that my friends, Christina

Tooley of Chevron Hackles and Andy Gray of specialist game butchers MC Kelly, were able to supply me with feathers. Both embraced the idea of hand-plucking pheasant feathers from local sources, before the meat went into the food chain. The feathers were otherwise destined for landfill. Once we had the feathers sourced, I also wanted a way to preserve their colour and texture. And our first project with feathers, with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, provided the perfect opportunity. We created the spectacular dashboard for its new Phantom in 2018 with a mesh of woven feathers. wHat is tH e main difficu lt y witH tr ain ing skille d cr af tsm e n today ?

The challenges of working with natural materials are myriad. Nothing is ever the same. So from a design perspective, it needs careful curation to ensure a harmonious whole. This is what distinguishes craftsmanship from handicraft. We are all familiar with charming but somewhat clumsy souvenir-quality products made from natural materials. Even our most rustic products contain an unsuspected level of selection and editing. So we need a superlative level of skill and judgment in our craftsmen. We have no peers at our quality level, hence all our training is undertaken in-house. We control our production process from A to Z: We own our production facilities and have over 150 master craftspeople, supported by draftsmen, engineers, project managers, CGI capability, all fully

employed by us. In addition, we have our own lab and invest significantly in R&D. All this is reflected in the quality levels in what is visible, as well as in the high technical content that is invisible. When we looked for a base for our business, one of our key prerequisites was a good level of craft skill. We originally found this in Colombia, before moving to the Philippines. One of the reasons for this move was the willingness of Filipino craftspeople to learn and to embrace the often giant steps we needed them to make. In many developing societies, manual work has become devalued. Office work preferably in an airconditioned environment is seen as progress. Our aim is, in a small way, to redress that view, to demonstrate that enhancing heritage hand skills confers dignity and worth, as well as ensures cultural continuity and development. We started with six craftsmen; we now have over 150 and our staff turnover is almost non-existent. So our model works for us. Can you te ll us how th e Co ll ab with De sig n e r b e than g r ay Cam e about ?

Bethan calls it our water cooler moment! Her studio and ours are two doors apart in London. She was filling her kettle in our corridor as we were entering our studio. Peeking through our open door, she became fascinated by what she saw. We then found common ground in our dedication to craft, and in valuing the material’s journey through the design process. We were looking for new collaborations that would

widen our market base. Since we worked primarily on bespoke ultra high net worth projects, we could showcase little of our work. We wanted our work to become more accessible and collaborating with furniture and other product designers was the obvious next step in our journey. Can you nam e th r e e oth e r De sig n e rs you ’ D b e inte r e ste D to Co ll abo r ate with?

Chi Wing Lo is a furniture designer whose work I have long admired. His architectural approach and clever use of materials resonate with me. He is inexorably identified with Italian design but I would love to explore efforts that would be a bridge between his spare yet rich design and our rich yet humble materials. I would also love to work with Elaine Ng Yan Ling of The Fabrick Lab, based in Hong Kong. Elaine is a forwardthinking materiologist whose commitment to sustainability is very closely aligned with our own. She is

as meticulous about detail, as she is visionary in concept. I admire Jiang Qiong Er’s uncompromising pursuit of contemporary elegance based on traditional techniques and materials for Shang Xia. Its tagline “Heritage and Innovation” could be our own. And her French-Chinese associations resonate with me. After more than 20 years together with my French husband, I can attest to the synergies of French and Chinese aesthetic sensibilities! Visit https://naturesquared.com/

6. The company collaborated with Rolls-Royce to create a dashboard covered in feathers. 7. A close-up look at the use of tobacco leaves in a wall application. 8. The tobacco leaf wall treatment makes for a perfect cigar-lounge setting. 9. Jade stone bookstands and an abalone shell pen tray from the Exploring Eden collection.

to find out more about Nature Squared.

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The founder of Singapore-based jewellery and home accessories brand Ashepa shares how growing up in Kenya influenced her creations.

What gets you out of the bed in the mornings?

Working with people on a different continent and a fivehour time difference means I usually wake up to encouraging progress from my artisans back in Kenya; their excitement is contagious. A good Kenyan coffee blend helps too.

Of these four – sky, ocean, mountains and animals – what inspires you most and why?

Animals. I feel privileged to have experienced so much nature first-hand growing up, and it has inspired a lot of my creativity. My collection incorporates elements found in nature, such as the ripple effect found on an Impala horn

replicated on a bangle. I hope it encourages other people to consider the impact nature has on their lives.

Describe your personal design style.

I would say that I have a definite Afro-lux vibe! I love playing with earthy tones and textures, so we have mudcloth cushions and beaded pots interspersed throughout the home, which we then pep up with brass tones. My Ankole collection sums this up best.

Name an interior trend you don’t want to see again.

Far be it for me to besmirch anyone’s individual style! However, ’70s style of vinyl flooring is my personal peeve.

text ELIZA HAMIZAH

Which room in the house do you spend the most time in?

Our living room is the core of our home. All the other rooms feed off it, so I can be seated in there and still feel connected to the rest of the household.

What would you like to have as your last meal on earth?

I have a crazy sweet tooth and I couldn’t leave earth without one last taste of sugar. My great-grandmother used to make a sweet flatbread called puran poli that was from her childhood in India. She passed that recipe on to my grandmother and, now, my mother.

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vo i c e s

Max It Out Nikki Hunt, co-founder of award-winning design studio Design Intervention, shares her essential tips on how to get the maximalist look for your home.

has dominated the design aximalism is landscape since the mid-1990s, definitely on-trend when homeowners were drawn now, judging by the to its subtlety and understated number of recent articles in aesthetic. However, with the design magazines and the dawn of a new millennium and news, declaring a new age the rise of technology, there of opulence, a resurgence of is an increasing desire for colour or a rediscovery of this individuality and the ability to decadent style. stand out from the crowd. While Of course, as a selfbloggers and influencers make confessed maximalist aesthete use of digital technology to at heart, I could not be achieve this, interior designers happier about this! At Design now turn to maximalism as a Intervention, we have been way to create unique, one-of-achampioning this modern kind spaces. maximalist style for a few years Minimalist interiors are now. But the year 2019 is seeing this look becoming mainstream. imbued with serenity, while maximalist ones Even Ikea radiate energy. (yes, the purveyor Minimalist of streamlined the interiors embrace Scandinavian lines) objective simplicity, while has launched a the maximalist new collection with Nikkiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bold style room delights distinct maximalist of creating plush in featuring leanings. And designer interiors unexpected quite frankly, after has garnered elements. well over two international Minimalist rooms decades of clean acclaim, such as being included are understated, lines and neutral among the and maximalist palettes, a change Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 100 ones are luxurious. is long overdue. Designers in the Minimalist Andrew Martin interiors include So what exactly Design Review. only what is iS thiS New functional, MaxiMaliSM? while maximalist ones This design style mixes are filled with details and eras, patterns, textures and embellishment. Where materials. It incorporates minimalists celebrate the elaborate detailing and unfettered lifestyle, maximalists showcases treasured artefacts. celebrate life with all its Maxed-out interiors are multinuances and idiosyncrasies. layered, delivering a dynamic However there is one and multifaceted environment important similarity and it that is uplifting, revitalising. may astound you. Everyone They make for empowering knows that minimalism is statements and always feel all about removing clutter utterly unique. When you adopt but it may surprise you to this approach for your space, it learn that decluttering is reflects your courage to live life essential for a chic maximalist to its fullest. interior too. That is why The minimalist interior

maximalism is not chaotic when done right; it is a result of deliberately curated choices. The great artist Joan Miro once said: “The works must be conceived with fire in the soul but executed with clinical coolness.” And there could not be a more perfect guideline for the would-be maximalist. With minimalism, there is a distinct aesthetic and clear, easy-to-follow rules. Maximalism embraces everything, all eras, all colours, patterns and textures – and that can be a little daunting.

My top 6 tips for the Modern MaxiMalist Colour One of the easiest ways

to bring energy to a room is with colour. Maximalism is about all colours in any combination. There is no right or wrong. Just pick a colour or colours you love. If your choice is a mix of bold colours, make sure you incorporate some neutral elements to add balance.

Pattern This can be done

through rugs, upholstery or wallpaper, or a combination of all three. Experiment with layering patterns of different scale. Ensure sufficient, negative space, so your eye has a place to rest.

Texture Combining different

textures can take maximalism to the next level. Metallic elements, sumptuous velvets, feather trims and tassels can all be combined to bring visual and tactile diversity.

Symmetry With so much visual stimuli, symmetry will keep the room looking balanced, allowing you to add multiple layers, yet still retain a harmonious feel. A cohesive element It is

important to establish a link, or visual thread, that runs throughout the scheme so the

interiors feel connected, even with a mix of colours, patterns and textures. This could be a colour, or a motif.

Restraint At Design Intervention, our mantra is “just because we can, doesn’t mean we should”. Successful maximalist style is a meticulous balancing act. These rooms can be bright, bold and mismatched, yet each element is carefully curated to achieve a style that inspires and revitalises, rather than overpowers.

smart parts This home in Taipei exemplifies how simple, abstract forms can come together to create harmony and function under one roof.

A system of sliding walls and panels allows the homeowners to easily reconfigure the layout of their living room.

home means different things to different people. For the owners of this place in Taipei, home is more than just a safe haven – it should also accommodate all kinds of living possibilities that bring joy and fulfilment. Meeting this requirement was no easy feat, but Wei Yi International Design Associates, the design company behind this living masterpiece, found a unique way to express these ideals through a series of daring features. “Apart from ensuring that the basic requirements of living are met, a home can be made richer, and interesting design outcomes can be generated from shape, function or spatial form,” say the designers. What has transpired here is a series of box-like and planelike structures concocted into an interesting mix of space, light and colour. To infuse the monotonous concrete frame with visual interest, the designers added interesting details inspired by the architect who designed the famous Red and Blue Chair, Gerrit Thomas Rietveld. “Rietveld’s designs are oriented to simplicity in construction. Take the Red and Blue Chair, for example – the entire piece is reduced to its most abstract forms, yet they function beautifully,” the designers explain. “We applied the same philosophy to this home using simple forms to bring out the integrity of the space.” At 1,938 sq ft, this home provided ample space for the 64

above

The circular forms of the fittings have an Oriental inspiration. left

A swivel wall allows the living and dining areas to blend seamlessly into one space. oppos it e

Despite the minimalist treatment, the spaces still look warm and inviting, thanks to a contrasting mix of straight lines and curves.

designers to express their Rietveld-inspired ideas into a formidable whole. The entire layout is kept open and freeflowing to make way for flexible spatial configurations. Rooms are divided by a system of sliding and revolving panels, giving the space almost endless permutations. For instance, in the living room, a movable wall is set between the main living hall and the dining space. This wall can be swung open to give the homeowners a wide and spacious living area, or closed for more privacy. In terms of aesthetic appeal, the designers went for a bold and unconventional look with a collection of eclectic details. What stands out most are the two large bowl-like features affixed to the ceiling of the main living area. Designed to resemble an art installation, the bowls are coated with a special 66

finishing to create an Oriental effect and appeal. “The bowls give you a kind of visual stimulation no matter which way you look at them. They form an interesting threedimensional piece against the ceiling,” the designers say. “We combine these elements with the lighting design so that they also work as light fittings.” While eye-catching, these simple forms are more than meets the eye, as each of them connotes a specific idea in the designers’ East-meets-West approach. “The boxes and bowls signify different things: Boxes with straight lines represent the rational thinking of Western science, while the round bowls represent the perfection of the Oriental humanistic spirit,” the designers explain. “The blending of Eastern and Western elements opens up a

above

Conventional doors give way to large entryways, making the entire apartment feel spacious. left

Ambient lighting comes from concealed LED strips peeking through slits in the walls. oppos ite

The use of a dark palette adds warmth and cosiness to the bedroom.

Ri ght

White Statuario marble with intricate black veins covers the bathroomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accent wall. Below Ri ght

Teal chalkboard paint allows the homeowners to leave notes and messages on the living room walls.

To enliven The aTmosphere, classic orienTal-Themed colours and TexTures are used.

The decor emanates an overwhelming sense of Zen, thanks to the clever use of muted colours as well as lines and silhouettes.

harmonious dialogue here. The arrangement of the furnishings is not limited by space, objects or direction; their multiple uses give this modern residence new definition. Light is illumination as well as a guide, and it lets you see a space which is simple but full of Oriental elegance.â&#x20AC;? To enliven the atmosphere, classic Oriental-themed colours and textures are used, complemented by decorative wall sconces and furniture. A bright blue sofa that stands out against the teal feature wall adds an immediate wow factor to the living room. The same palette

is used in the master bedroom, where an abstract work of art serves as the headboard against a teal backdrop. In the master bathroom is a bright yellow washbasin with modern appeal. Throughout the home, the colour scheme engenders a sense of cohesive contemporary elegance, and the rough texture of the cement represents perfection within imperfection, making this interior feel most natural. Wei Yi International Design Associates, tel: +886 2 2702 2199. www.lw-id.com

text LILY ELLE WONG photos JMS, via WEI YI INTERNATIONAL DESIGN ASSOCIATES

The owners planned the layout of the interior around a baby grand piano. The three-bedroom apartment became a two-bedder to open up the living section, and floor-toceiling mirrors were installed to create the illusion of space.

Hitting tHe rigHt note This modest-sized flat in Tiong Bahru was reconfigured to fit a baby grand piano. Jacqueline Tan finds out how the owners kept their home spacious, and infused it with modern and retro elements for character.

alk about going back to your roots. The Tiong Bahru neighbourhood was Edwin Goh’s childhood haunt, and it’s where his residence is located today. His father ran a food stall at the old Seng Poh Road Market there, and still does so, at the renamed Tiong Bahru Market and Food Centre. The old estate always had a place in his heart, so it wasn’t surprising that the banker eventually moved into a two-bedroom SIT flat (it was originally a three-room unit) with his partner, Vernon Voon, a lawyer. “The place oozes nostalgia, but we also love the uniqueness, feel and character of the SIT flat,” says Edwin. “It’s a slice of Singapore history, built apparently by Samsui women, has a low density living and, of course, is just right next to the famous Tiong Bahru market!”

Both also fell in love with the longer window panels not found in standard HDB flats. “The windows give us a sense of space of the surroundings and a good view of the beautiful heritage trees,” elaborates Edwin. Setting up their dream home in an SIT flat, which cost about $90,000 to renovate, didn’t come without challenges. They had to plan the layout of the interior around a baby grand piano, which was brought over from their terrace home. “Vernon plays the piano and we wanted a bigger living room that could fit it, so we went for a complete overhaul and reconfigured the three-bedroom apartment into a two-bedder, which also resulted in a bigger en-suite master bedroom with built-in wardrobes,” says Edwin. “We wanted a modern retro design, something that

above

For a contrast with the retro theme that permeates the rest of the home, the owners opted for a vibrant pop of their favourite colour “blue” for the kitchen cabinets. opposite

In a nod to the few remaining coffee shops in the neighbourhood, the owners got a kopitiam-style dining table, customised with slim, sleek legs for a modern touch.

Who lives here

A banker and his partner, a lawyer home Two-bedroom SIT (Singapore Improvement Trust) apartment in Tiong Bahru size 947 sq ft

“The long window panels give a sense of space of The surroundings and a good view of The beauTiful heriTage Trees.” - edwin goh, homeowner

l eft

The master bedroom displays a bold use of colour and floral motif, making a statement in different shades of grey. opposite

The original retro inlaid marble flooring served as a connection to the past, as it reminded one of the homeowners of his childhood home.

also blends with the history and heritage of Tiong Bahru.” They had floor-to-ceiling mirrors installed to create the illusion of space, lending dimension to their living sections from different angles. Their home is decked with treasured furniture pieces from their previous house. They kept their four-poster bed and study table from John Erdos, which have been with them for seven years. They also bought new furniture that have a midcentury, modern retro feel from Commune to complement the existing furniture. The dining table and chairs are from Second Charm, another shop known for modern vintage furniture. The original retro inlaid marble flooring in the living room was also too precious to hack, so Edwin and Vernon decided to retain it and had it repolished. “The beautiful retro marble reminded me of the home I grew up in the ’70s, so retaining it is like having a connection to the past. It’s like owning a piece of history,” explains Edwin. “My dad also told me that this type of flooring was individually laid in the past and you don’t get that nowadays, as everything now is prefabricated.” The living area is also a bold display of different tiles, with Peranakan-inspired ones covering the piano section. “We felt the Peranakan-style tiles blended in nicely with the original terrazzo skirting. Having different tiles also helps to delineate the different sections of the home,” says Edwin.

While they do not entertain at home often, Edwin cooks and bakes quite a fair bit, and they host occasional gatherings with friends. “The kitchen has to be spacious enough for me to do my baking or cooking. As it overlooks the living room, I can also watch TV while busying myself in the kitchen,” says Edwin. Kitchen cabinets are in a vibrant pop of blue (“it’s our favourite colour”) for a contrasting look with the retro feel that permeates the rest of the home. Equally charming – if not bolder, in the use of colour and motif – is their master bedroom. The cosy sanctuary makes a statement in different shades of grey and a partition wall was created to separate the master bedroom from the bathroom. They wanted the wall to stand out as a feature piece and chose to clad it in floral wallpaper. “We wanted something that was bold yet would match with the grey vinyl flooring. The wallpaper has some shades of grey, which matches well with our flooring,” says Edwin.

below & ri g Ht

A partition wall was created to separate the master bedroom from the master bathroom. Dressed in floral wallpaper, the wall is transformed into a feature piece with its grey shades matching the bedroom flooring.

photography angela guo art direction nonie cHen

Who lives here

A couple in their 30s and their one-year-old son hom e Two-bedroom resale condominium apartment in Tanglin si ze 1,100 sq ft 78

Repainting all the walls white was a key step in achieving the monochrome look the homeowners wanted.

Young parents Upon being told that they were expecting, this young couple moved to a bigger place to accommodate the addition to the family. Isabelle Tow pays a visit to their expanded crib.

left

The Bordeaux console table from Boconcept was a perfect fit for the window space. below

The monochrome scheme is hardly banal, with brass touches and classic furniture pieces such as Wishbone chairs for the dining set. opp osite

Originally in glossy black, this pre-existing storage space for shoes and other items was changed to matte white.

hey say parenthood changes your life. Sometimes, it might even force you to change homes. That certainly was the case for Arun and Tania, who were living in their previous apartment for barely 10 months when they learnt they had a baby on the way. While comfortable for two, their 860 sq ft two-bedroom home in Seahill condominium proved too small to accommodate a third family member. Today they reside in a 1,100 sq ft resale apartment in Tanglin, where their year-old son enjoys a nursery of his own. They asked Joy Ouyang, design manager at boutique design firm Eightytwo, for a timeless look with a largely monochromatic scheme, which they could add character to with wares acquired on their travels. Joy, who also designed the couple’s first apartment, noted the evolution in the couple’s tastes, obviously influenced by parenthood. “They opted for a more ‘grownup classic’ aesthetic for their new abode, as compared to the edgy-industrial vibe that their old place had,” she shares. Being a resale unit, there were elements of the home that the couple chose to retain and adapt, and also

to p

Band posters and records by musicians like Jeff Buckley give away the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for â&#x20AC;&#x2122;90s alternative rock music. ab ov e , righ t

Their sitting area is furnished with a modern vintage console from Commune and table lamp from Flos. ab ov e , l ef t

White interiors and furniture keep the master bedroom looking restful.

parts that they did away with altogether. For instance, the island counter in the kitchen built by the previous owners proved useful, so they kept it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; changing its front face from the original tinted mirror surface to a wood-look laminate. The master bathroom saw most of the major works. Everything, from heavily veined marble walls and floors to a sunken bathtub, was removed, and replaced with new tiles, decking and doors. Renovation took only four weeks and set the couple back $45,000.

Most bathrooMs have tiled walls, but soMe paint is also an option nowadays. weather-proof outdoor paints forMulated to withstand huMidity and Moisture will do the job. - joy ouyang, design Manager at eightytwo

Black and white tones abound in the common bathroom too, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made unique with a streak of emerald green.

photography darren chang art direction nonie chen

Staying aloft For this couple, their matrimonial home is not just a place to start life together as a married couple, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also about designing it from scratch. They share with Lynn Tan how their experiences in architecture, and interior and graphic design made this an exciting journey.

The living area features a large tan leather sofa, two round marble coffee tables with gold legs, and a rustic acacia wood console from Commune Home, arranged around a large red and black Persian rug.

Who lives here

A newlywed couple in their 30s and their pet dog and cat home A three-bedroom condominium apartment in Bukit Timah si ze 1,200 sq ft

icholas Teoh and Chew Ru Shan purchased this unit in a condominium development that is over two decades old. In spite of its age, the two instantly saw the potential the unit possessed. It had a rather dated look, but the loft layout – with two bedrooms and a study spread over two storeys, complete with double volume windows and a spiral staircase – provided the perfect canvas for a New York City industrial loft concept. “It is one of our favourite interior styles as it is classic, timeless, aesthetically pleasing and it just has a certain je ne sais quoi,” says Nicholas. Having experience in the area of interior design (Nicholas was trained as an architect while Ru Shan had taken a part-time course on the subject), the pair decided to take on the work of designing their new home on their own. This was no mean feat, as the works carried out were extensive, involving new finishes for most of the floors and walls,

left

The unusual door finish offers a clue to the unique interior that lies on the other side. below

The custom-made dining table accommodates eight comfortably. The tabletop is fabricated using unfinished wood and it sits on a pair of handwelded steel legs painted matte black. oppos ite

replacement of doors, sanitary fittings and light fixtures, and reconfiguration of the kitchen and master bathroom. “Regrettably, we could not get enough natural light into the entrance foyer, but it is a compromise that we accepted because we spend only a couple of seconds there daily,” says Ru Shan. As the apartment is an open-concept loft, the living and dining rooms, and kitchen, are essentially one large space. These areas get plenty of natural light – thanks to the doublevolume windows in the living room and other generously sized windows all around. The master bedroom had an awkward corner that was turned into a niche for Nicholas’ wardrobe, while he relinquished the main wardrobe to Ru Shan. The use of black wire mesh doors ties the two together visually. The master bathroom was reconfigured to accommodate a spacious shower area and a large concrete vanity and basin.

Wire mesh shelves make it easy to spot the various spices and cooking ingredients. The marble-look homogeneous tiles were cut into strips and arranged in a herringbone pattern.

left

The handpainted ceramic basin sourced from China provides a beautiful alternative to the run-of-themill basin, while copper pipes with red valves inject an industrial look that the couple wanted. op posite, above

The design and layout of the study is practical and reinforces the main industrial chic theme. op posite, below

Against the concrete wall inspired by one of the couple’s favourite Japanese architects, Tadao Ando, is a painting by Nicholas’ mum based on one of their wedding photos taken near Lake Tekapo in New Zealand.

“Our furniture and decOr accents are a mishmash Of different styles and are chOsen nOt just fOr their aesthetics, but alsO fOr cOmfOrt.” - nichOlas teOh, hOmeOwner

How did you go about conceptualising tHe wHole scHeme?

Nicholas Teoh: We sat down to discuss some of our favourite interior design styles and soon realised we have very similar aesthetic preferences, which is super fortunate. Thereafter, we started populating a shared Pinterest board with all the ideas and inspirations that we liked. Ru Shan created a mood board for each space, while I translated all those ideas into actual technical drawings. I took those drawings to a contractor and took care of everything related to the renovations, while Ru Shan was in charge of sourcing and purchasing the lights, furniture, soft accents and decor items.

of these elements really help to take the hard edges off the oft-considered cold and masculine industrial style and we are really satisfied with the outcome. How does your Home reflect your tastes and complement your lifestyles?

NT: We love to cook and host family and friends, so our large dining table and well-equipped kitchen are necessities. We really need the space to keep all our equipment and the large open-ended countertop also allows our guests to help out in the preparations. Fortunately, our home is split across two levels which suits our home dynamics. We

wHat was your approacH, in terms of adHering to tHe concept?

NT: Although our main theme was industrial chic, we did not limit ourselves to fittings and furniture styles that are typically considered “industrial”, which can sometimes be rather impractical and uncomfortable. Our furniture and decor accents are a mishmash of different styles and they were chosen not just for their aesthetics, but also for comfort. In one corner, you’ll find a large Persian or kilim rug, yet on the other, you’ll find a handpainted Oriental Chinese stool. Despite this, they seem to come together really well because we tried to stick to the same colour/ material palette as much as we could. In fact, we find that some

have a dog and a cat, and they do not get along with each other. The dog is afraid of going up the open riser spiral staircase and the cat hangs out mostly in our bedroom upstairs, sparing us the inevitable â&#x20AC;&#x153;warâ&#x20AC;?. What do you think is the most challenging aspect of designing your home?

NT: Having to juggle full-time jobs and also spending time designing, sourcing furniture and finishes, and meeting the contractor to solve any issues that arise. What are the advantages?

NT: Complete design freedom! We get to choose and decide everything, not what our interior designer dictates. Also, no one understands how we intend to use our home and the spaces as well as we do.

do you think it is possible for homeoWners Who have no prior design knoWledge or training to design their home interiors?

NT: Not really. Some homeowners think they have the whole house figured out and have designed it on their Pinterest boards. They feel they can skip the link (interior designers or architects) and head straight to the builders. Drawings are still the universal language that the designer uses to speak to the builders. Ideas and mood images can sometimes be translated wrongly and the end product may not be what the homeowners originally had in mind. can you share tips for those Who do Want to try designing their oWn

What are some lessons

home?

that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learnt?

NT: Think about what the core space of your home will be. Be it the bedrooms, living room or kitchen, there is a space that will set the parameters for the rest of the home, so getting that right is crucial.

NT: There will always be issues that come up, regardless of how well thought out the design is. Being flexible and understanding is crucial to making it work for all parties.

below

A herringbone arrangement adds an element of interest to plain white subway tiles in the master bathroom. opp osite

A large sliding door separates the guest bedroom from the dining area. The same finishes from the living and dining rooms blend into the guest room, bringing the spaces together as a cohesive whole.

photography vee chin art direction kaffy tan

In TheIr elemenT A unique collection of scientific elements sets the tone for this contemporary built-to-order home. Eliza hamizah checks it out.

ike other newlyweds, Andy and Felicia Ang wanted a cosy matrimonial home. One aspect that differentiates their home, however, is Andy’s unique collection – not of toys or art, but of scientific elements. The couple had requested their interior designer, Cadine Lim of Prozfile, to create a physical manifestation of the periodic table. The display is made up of 118 square boxes

with clear acrylic doors. Though it takes up the expanse of an entire wall in the living room, its clean design allows it to blend seamlessly with the rest of the modern contemporary home. Find out more about the renovation which took around two months to complete and, together with furnishings and appliances, set the couple back $100,000.

P r i vac y Measures Interior designer Cadine created a privacy divider that demarcates the living area and the foyer. It also serves as the backing for a television console on one side, and incorporates an inviting display space on the other. The divider’s tinted glass base, as well as the walnut brown laminated trimmings, adds warmth and sophistication.

dining in Andy and Felicia cook often, so storage is priority. Additional kitchen cabinetry lines the space that was originally intended to be the dining area, and the oven and microwave are also installed here. Three bronze pendant lamps and faux leather dining chairs from Comfort Furniture accessorise this extension of the kitchen.

K i tc h e n c r e at i o n The couple worked with Cadine to design a contemporarystyle kitchen which features a dark teal laminate and concretelook Kompacplus countertop. A customised table for six with a marblelook quartz top not only looks elegant, but can also double as extra preparation space. This is one of Feliciaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite furniture items in the home.

Who lives here

A couple in their early 30s hom e A five-room HDB flat in Punggol size 1,100 sq ft

his and hers

e l e M e n ta r y decision Apart from the radioactive elements, Andy plans to collect as many elements as he can. The Gold element was the most expensive. In its cubbyhole is a gold plate purchased from their trip to Tibet, as well as gold cufflinks. “We grew up learning about the periodic table but never had the chance to hold the elements. I found out you could actually collect them, and that’s when I started my own collection. To be able to feel its varying weights and textures is interesting,” says Andy. Next on his list is Caesium, the chemical element that defines time.

While Andy collects scientific elements, Felicia has quite the shoe collection. Cadine designed a mix of closed and open cubbies in the foyer; this ensures additional storage does not look too “boxy”, while allowing hints of colour to come through, as well as giving easy access to frequently worn footwear.

S tay i n B e d Key design factors, such as a timeless colour palette and a sense of openness, characterise the bedroom. Warm vinyl flooring arranged in herringbone style, a minimalist customised bedframe and side table, as well as a clear glass door, complete the look.

photography Darren chang art direction nonie chen

An almostmonochromatic palette in the house sets the backdrop for Manhattan loftinspired design elements, such as the Craftstone wall and large window-like mirrors.

Dreaming big Inspired by the design of Manhattan lofts, the interior designer created elements in this five-storey house to replicate the look. DoMenIca Tan finds out more.

Who lives here

A couple in their 40s and two children home Five-storey cluster house in Bukit Teresa Close si ze 3,390 sq ft

100

oppos ite , ABoVe

A steel ladder was added in the kitchen to allow homeowners access to overhead storage. oppos ite , Be LoW

Ed chose a honed finished quartz for the island countertop so it resembles a block of concrete, which ties in with the design language of the house.

BeLoW

Mimicking the look of large windows in loft apartments, the mirrors on the wall also help create the illusion of spacious interiors.

aced with the challenge of a cramped layout, Ed Ong of Dwell Interior Design had to think out of the box when designing the cluster house that homeowners Dr Low Chian Yong and his wife had newly bought. “I broke one of the unspoken rules and placed the television where the window is,” Ed shares. As the living room faces another unit in the development, the strategy was to ensure privacy by screening the windows. Black roller blinds became the

backdrop for the television, while the original bay window platform was screeded in concrete and cladded with a steel sheet to work perfectly as the TV console. “In the day, when the family is not watching television, light can filter through the translucent black screen. At night, it almost becomes a black wall,” says Ed, elaborating on making full use of all surfaces and planes. On the adjacent wall – which was the intended TV spot in the original layout – he created

101

large “windows” to lend the home a Manhattan loft-inspired look, with the use of mirrors framed in black aluminium. This standout feature immediately catches the eye when one enters the home, and also accentuates the height for a loftier feel. A brick veneer from Craftstone for other wall surfaces adds a raw, textural effect. The kitchen, which was tucked under the stairs, takes pride of place – with a large counter as well as cabinetry and fittings in a palette of black and steel. For the staircase, its wooden stair treads and railings were replaced with concrete screed

102

steps and tension cables for an understated and raw look. The bedrooms were kept simple and in dark hues, for a restful and cosy ambience. As for the attic, Ed turned the space into a family room, where the homeowners and children can study and work together. Despite a dark colour palette, the space has large windows and a light well to allow in generous amounts of natural light. “The homeowners really enjoy this productive space. The kids have even started inviting friends over to study, and they get to spend quality time together as well,” says Ed.

o ppos ite , a boVe

A study table with a metal I-beam structure is situated along full-height windows and offers extra table space in the master bedroom for when the homeowners wish to read or work. o ppos ite , be LoW

Full-height black wardrobes line the wall in the master bedroom so there is sufficient storage for the homeownersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; clothes and accessories. A pair of Arne Jacobsendesigned Louis Poulsen AJ wall lamps add to the overall cosy ambience. rig ht

Carving out a light well ensures natural light enters the house, even when curtains are drawn for privacy.

photos DWeLL interior Design

103

p r oj e c t s h owc a s e

Modern Meets Victorian This home pares down the maximalist Victorian aesthetic for a clean-lined space. isabelle Tow takes a look.

The 5m-tall illuminated onyx panel in the living area is an instant head-turner.

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ny visitor to this terrace home in bukit batok will note the quiet sophistication of its interior design. The homeowners had approached principal designer Yen lau Zeng bin of Carpenters for a modern interpretation of the Victorian aesthetic. instead of the fullblown Victorian look â&#x20AC;&#x201C; typified by dark, heavily ornamented spaces filled with intricate brocade â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the decor was distilled down to specific elements such as wainscoting, in order to maintain a cleanlined modern space. High ceilings in the dining area give the first floor an airy

Who lives here

Three adults and three children h om e Five-room, four-storey landed cluster terrace size 3,000 sq ft

lef t

The design studio carefully balanced the white theme with wooden accents, in order to make the spaces feel warm and inviting.

b elow, le ft

This bathroom (one of five) feels spacious and airy with the use of a basic black and white palette. b elow, righ t

In another bathroom, the designer created an opulent look with black tiles and a stunning marble panel.

photos carpenters

atmosphere. To enhance the effect, the designer created a 5m-tall onyx stone feature wall illuminated with LED backlights to give an ethereal vibe to the space. Natural stone is also used in furnishings that include a marble dining table and marble kitchen counter, both from Hafary. While the home is predominantly in white, the bathrooms showcase a little more colour and adventure. As the home comes with many bathrooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; five, to be exact â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the owners decided that each would have its own theme. From a brick feature wall in one to a striking blackand-gold theme featuring a granite slab by Bellus in another, the bathrooms brim with character. Wanting to give the young ones in the family a designated space to play, they got Zeng Bin to design a cosy playhouse where the children can amuse themselves and display their toys. Platform flooring that doubles as storage compartments is a genius way to hide clutter and maintain a tidy space. The renovation, excluding furnishings, cost $200,000, of which the bulk was spent on extensive tiling works.

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f e at u r e

rising stars A new wave of interior designers have brought forth innovation, awe-inspiring designs and an almost-obsessive appreciation for detail. Here are 10 stellar studios – all established within the last five years – that are turning heads with their fresh approach.

m o noCot The Designer

After cutting his teeth at firms like SCDA and Studio Milou, architecture graduate Mikael Teh set up a number of design studios (including one for a hospitality project in the Maldives) before going solo in 2016. Monocot – previously known as The Monocot Studio – has since won two design awards, and has been involved in many residential, commercial and hospitality projects. These include Sama Sama by Tok Tok at Jewel Changi. The PhilosoPhy

His creations are guided by proportion – both a central principle of architecture and “an important connection between mathematics and art”. They are a delicate balance 106

between the intangible and tangible, and are rooted, for instance, in spatial understanding and memories, encompassing well-designed artefacts and even floral works. His studio name reflects this intersection of art, beauty and science, too: Monocotyledons, commonly referred to as monocots, are a type of flower with parts that come in threes. “You will see multiples of three – dimensions in 300, 600, 900 – in my work,” says Mikael. The Muse

A Single Man by Tom Ford and In the Mood for Love by Wong Kar Wai. “They capture and represent the ambience and emotions that deeply resonate with my design philosophy: nostalgic and artful.” www.monocotstudio.com

“You will see multiples of three – dimensions in 300, 600, 900 – in mY work.” – mikael teh, monoCot

“What I desIgn should, as much as possIble, serve multIple purposes.” –tommy laI, tldesIgn

tldesIgn The Designer

Tommy Lai’s Masters education in architecture, as well as his experience in various architecture firms like Ong&Ong, laid the foundation for the setting up of his own firm. TLDesign was set up in 2018, and is a strong believer in form-follows-function. The PhilosoPhy

Tommy works with detailed 3-D models and 2-D drawings. To create timeless and lasting designs, he opts for natural materials like stone and wood, and picks out everything from carpets to the smallest cutlery item. He particularly loves the challenge of designing small apartments; he once increased storage space within an apartment by 300 per cent, by including spacemaximising elements such as a kitchen larder-inspired wardrobe and an integrated platform bed. The Muse

German designer Dieter Rams’ 10 commandments of good design. “What I design should serve multiple purposes,” he says. www.tldesign.sg

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AT E L I E R H E R E The Designer

Kelvin Lim of Atelier Here learnt the ropes of architecture both locally, at National University of Singapore, as well as in Norway, at the Oslo School of Architecture and Design. His international portfolio expanded further when he went for a three-year stint at a design studio in China. Armed with a repertoire of experience, he set up Atelier Here in 2017.

them expecting “a certain, established style”, leaving the designers freedom to approach every project with a fresh eye.

The PhilosoPhy

One consistent quality in all Atelier Here projects is a sense of calm. “I am interested in a certain kind of stillness in interior spaces, and we have a fierce interest in the notion of privacy,” says Kelvin. Being a young firm comes with its perks: Clients do not go to

The Muse

This quote by Italian architect Luigi Moretti: “The home is the only space that can disengage us from daily life with the world, and from its great or trivial adventures.” www.at-here.co

MILLIMETERS STUDIO The Designer

Armed with an education in product design and visual communication, Sherlynn Low worked for kitchen and wardrobe specialists, and bigger brands like Ong&Ong and Como Hotels & Resorts. Those experiences gave her insights into hospitality and commercial projects. Millimeters Studio – a nod to her attentiveness to symmetry as well as it being the base unit used by designers – sealed her foray into interior design in 2016. The PhilosoPhy

Sherlynn constantly challenges the shoulds and should-nots in interior design, such as having exposed ceiling grids

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in commercial spaces and construction scaffolding in homes. “I am inspired by the buildings, structures, and even roadworks I see during my travels, and would think of ways to implement them in my projects,” she says. While she started out designing homes with a dark colour theme – a niche market – Millimeters has expanded into lighter or coloured interiors. The constant? Each home has an element of surprise. The siDeline

Millimeters Studio houses a production facility, Saltt, which designs handles, knobs, small furniture pieces, and decorative sculptures and paintings. www.millimeters.com.sg

er studIo The Designers

“Ideas and messages must be put across clearly and effIcIently. We are traIned never to assume, and ask Whenever In doubt.” – eloycoIs and hans, er studIo

Helmed by principal designer Eloycois Er and project director Hans Chua, Er Studio delves into the technical aspects of design to fine-tune the art of it. This is certainly due to their education in interior design and museum and exhibition design respectively, as well as their experiences at design consultancies, architecture firms as well as design and build industries. The studio was set up in 2016. The PhilosoPhy

A space should resonate with its dwellers, say the duo. They should experience different moods and emotions as they move through their home. To

achieve this, the designers take into consideration natural light sources, a wellplanned circulation path, and a harmonious use of materials and finishes. Er Studio works towards designs that are refreshing, yet timeless. The Challenge

Be it within the team or with clients, communication is key. “Ideas and messages must be put across clearly and efficiently. We are trained never to assume, and ask whenever in doubt. A lot of assurance is needed for clients to entrust their life savings to us, and this practice has prevented us from doing abortive works,” share Eloycois and Hans. www.erstudio.design

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“WE try to rUN tHE FIrM LIKE My GrANDFAtHEr DID WItH HIS oWN FUrNItUrE CoMPANy – IMPortANCE IS PLACED oN qUALIty.” – tAMMy tAy, IMAGINE SK66

The PhilosoPhy

I M AG I N E S K 6 6 The designers

Imagine SK66 was set up in 2016, but its founders are certainly not new to the industry. The original Seng Kwong Furniture Company (1966) diversified and, today, its owners run two brands: SK66 as manufacturers and Imagine SK66 as its interior design arm. The latter is helmed by founders Robert and Tracy Chan-Tack and creative head Tammy Tay.

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“We try to run the firm like my grandfather, Chan Bung Guok, did with Seng Kwong. Importance is placed on quality. A year ago, we were at a restaurant having reunion dinner when my grandmother pointed out the chairs we were sitting on – they were made by my grandfather – and their beautiful workmanship,” says Tammy, explaining that the reference was to show the furniture had stood the test of time. Having its own carpentry factory and carpenters makes it easier for the team to ensure quality is top-notch. In terms of design style, its particular strength is in modern chic and Scandinavian country. The sideline

To complete their homes, clients can shop from the Imagine SK66 store, which sells armchairs, tables and accessories. www.imaginesk66.com

WO L F WO O F The Designer

Design director Carmen Tang is a jack of all trades. The economics major started her career in branding and advertising, before making the leap to interior design in 2014. Wolf Woof is a boutique design studio with a signature style: It marries graphic design with interior design. The PhilosoPhy

Irked by cookie-cutter homes, Carmen gives her clients only personalised design ideas. She does so by incorporating quirky and unconventional use of decals, accessories and

concepts. “I inject creativity, boldness, and elements of surprise into the home,” says Carmen. She has, in past projects, incorporated a “camper van” in an adventuretheme home and created a unique display using a client’s Bearbrick collection. She also designs humorous decals. The Muse

Due to her background, explains Carmen, she does not work within the typical interior design boundaries. She abides by this quote: I don’t think outside the box, because there is no box. www.wolfwoof.com.sg

THE MERRY MEN INTERIORS The Designers

The Merry Men Interiors (TMMI) is a design-andbuild workshop helmed by Clarence Lee, Douglas Choo, Brandon Heng, Gay Zheng Cai and Jeremy Tan. Working alongside The Merry Men Works – an experiential design and production house – they have experience in masonry, electricals, carpentry, solid wood furniture making and more. They design “100 per cent handmade homes”. TMMI started out in 2017. The PhilosoPhy

TMMI says its virtue is that the team “plan like contractors and

think like designers”. This way, they appreciate the complexities of actual groundwork – they propose moves that “make the most sense” – as well as the finesse of design. Their major source of inspiration is the homeowner’s personality. One of their greatest achievements was creating a sliding glass door that could be voiceactivated to switch between opaqueness and transparency. The Muse

Truck Furniture’s founders Tokuhiko Kise and Hiromi Karatsu have an attitude towards life and an attention to detail that greatly inspire the TMMI team. www.tmmi.sg

“WE PLAN LIKE CONTRACTORS AND THINK LIKE DESIGNERS.” - THE MERRY MEN INTERIORS

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PA R E N T H E S I S S T U D I O The Designers

Between the four partners — Sujono Lim, Molina Hun, Yanika Gunawan and Hong Weiming — the studio has over 40 years of experience in architecture, interior, residential, office and hospitality design projects. Their diverse backgrounds allow Parenthesis, which was founded in 2018, to take on projects that require more experimental and collaborative approaches. The PhilosoPhy

Each project is contextual. Parenthesis takes the cultural context and lifestyle of their

clients and translates it into a progressive design. It helps that each partner offers a different perspective. “It offers a positive friction, all of which benefits the vision we have in mind,” says Sujono. As their work is based on critical design thinking, back-end work – such as 3-D renderings and documentation – is handled by an in-house support team. This leaves the four friends room to explore and experiment. The Challenge

“It takes some time for clients to understand (our approach). We keep our methods fresh, but at the same time do not implement a singular way of dealing with projects. It’s dynamic and organic.” www.parenthesis.studio

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YOUNG & AMBITIOUS

B U I L D B U I LT The Designers

After the eye-opening renovation of his home, Nicholas Hu made a career switch from banking to interior design, learning the ropes at architectural firm AWP Architects in the day, and Nafa at night. It was at his first design venture – design studio Bezalel’s Craftsmen – that he met Zack Choy, an interior design consultant with experience in commercial projects, homes and more. They launched Build Built in 2016, which is known for its experiential design process.

The PhilosoPhy

People are its main inspiration, which is why the firm strives to create an authentic relationship with clients. To do that, they encourage clients to get their hands “dirty” during co-creation workshops that involve doodling and Lego bricks, as well as give feedback after virtual reality walk-throughs. These result in homes with out-of-the-box elements.

KnoW THeIr nAmeS. THeSe young, unDer-40 DeSIgnerS HAve ACComPLISHeD So muCH In So LITTLe TIme. We Are Sure To See more of THem Soon.

grocery concept Habitat by Honestbee. Jian Xin starts every design with a user-centric point of view, and adds layers that are physically and experientially interesting.

The Muse

The book Creativity Inc, by Edwin Catmull and Amy Wallace. The president of Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios wrote: “Don’t wait for things to be perfect before you share them with others. Show early and show often. It’ll be pretty when we get there, but it won’t be pretty along the way.” www.buildbuilt.co

PRISCILLA TAN, 34

Wildly popular on Instagram by her handle StyledbyPT, Priscilla Tan started out in fashion and jewellery, and had a short stint in art therapy, before finding her rightful spot in the interior design industry. After designing many homes and boutiques, the creative says she especially finds joy in putting together a good shelfie. Her project made the cover of Home & Decor’s September 2018 issue.

JADE CHAM, 29

Jade’s unique designs – she works with local interior firm The Local Inn.terior – have caught the eye of many on Instagram. Interesting stories fuel her designs, so she looks forward to the monthly shareand-improve sessions organised by The Local Inn.terior, as well as chats with her clients. Her creative habit? Staying away from Pinterest, and instead booking stays in nice hotels (with a measuring tape in tow!).

SI JIAN XIN, 37

This architecture graduate, who is a partner in design firm Wynk Collaborative, has worked on everything from master planning to architectural works. The highlight of his career so far, though, is designing the tech-enabled

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F E AT U R E

L EARN THE LINGO Whether you are renovating your existing or new home, clearly articulating your ideas and preferences makes the process smooth and stress-free. Here are key interior design terms thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll empower you to communicate with your interior designer with ease.

AMBIENCE The ambience or atmosphere is the mood of your home and its spaces. Many elements come together to create the ambience, including the colours, textures, volume of furniture and furnishings, as well as lighting, scents and sounds.

COLUMN Also an architectural element, this vertical structure can either be load-bearing or decorative.

photo ONG & ONG

BEA A beam refers to the horizontal structure that transfers the load onto the vertical column. It is the structure that you observe on the ceiling.

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DESIGN CONCEPT The core idea of how your home looks and feels. It encompasses the style, colour palette and ambience, as well as how the space is planned.

“MODERN DESIGN REFERS TO DESIGN ARISING FROM THE EARLY TO MID-20TH CENTURY, WITH THE FOCUS ON SIMPLE FORM AND FUNCTION. CONTEMPORARY DESIGN IS ALWAYS EVOLVING TO REFLECT WHAT’S POPULAR CURRENTLY.”

photo 123RF.COM

– JOEY KHU, FOUNDER OF JOEY KHU INTERIOR DESIGN

F LO O R P L A N This is provided as a view of your home from above, and shows the walls that can or can’t be hacked away. It also indicates wall length, location of doors and windows, type of doors and windows, and other additions.

GROUT LINES These are the gaps between tiles. The gaps are filled with a material that creates a waterproof seal.

HERRINGBONE A classic pattern consisting of rectangular tiles to form a broken zig-zag design. Not to be confused with chevron, which produces a smooth zig-zag pattern.

I N L AY A material such as stainless steel that is inserted into the surface of a piece of furniture or custom feature wall to create decorative patterns.

photo 123RF.COM

E L E VAT I O N Typically for landed properties, it illustrates the heights, materials and other details as seen by a person looking at the property straight ahead, instead of from above.

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LOA D - B E A R I N G WA L L Also called a structural wall, it supports the building elements. These cannot be removed.

“SOME HOMEOWNERS WANT TO CHANGE THE WINDOWS OR ADD EXTERIOR ROLLER BLINDS. WE NEED TO EXPLAIN THAT FOR MOST CONDO AND TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENTS, THERE ARE STRICT GUIDELINES AGAINST CHANGES THAT WILL AFFECT THE FACADE.” – TERRI TAN, DESIGN DIRECTOR OF DESIGNWORX INTERIOR CONSULTANT

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J U X TA P O S E When different materials, shapes, textures and patterns are combined to enhance their unique properties.

KILIM A flat woven tapestry rug or carpet made in Central Asia and surrounding countries.

text RossaRa Jamil

MODULAR In reference to furniture, it means that parts of one item – for instance, a sofa – can be combined or separated to cater to the space.

NICHE A recess in the wall, which can function as a display area or storage shelf, such as in the bathroom.

OV E R L AY Instead of hacking a surface and fitting in a new material, overlaying is about layering on new finishes, such as tiles, vinyl or laminate flooring, over existing flooring.

PROPORTION Proportion refers to the ratio of an item and how it relates to other things in the space. Often used with the word scale, which means how an item relates to the size of the room, another object or even you.

QUAINT A charming look, due to its unusual design and slightly old-fashioned atmosphere. Usually used for describing eclectic, cottageinspired and vintagestyle interiors.

RENDERING A three-dimensional rendering is a realistic image of the eventual look of your home. It is produced after an interior designerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interview with a client, to understand the needs and wants in the function and style of a home. With the details reflected in the rendering, this visual representation helps to ensure that all client-designer communications are clea

S PAC E P L A N N I N G A plan that defines the areas within your home and how you would use them. This process begins with an in-depth analysis of your lifestyle, your plans for the future and how you would move about your home. The placement of your furniture is also included in the process at a later stage.

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“LIKE CABLES FOR POWER SOCKETS, LIGHTING AND SO ON, PIPES ARE A NECESSARY PART OF THE HOME, BUT NOT ALL HDB HOMES ALLOW THEM TO BE CONCEALED. OLDER FLATS REQUIRE THESE PIPES TO BE EXPOSED.” – MARC WONG, CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF LINEAR SPACE CONCEPTS

TO P - G R A I N L E AT H E R The uppermost layer of an animal’s hide, which is the most ideal for use as upholstery in leather furniture.

UPHOLSTERY Refers to the fabric or leather covers, as well as the inner fillers, of furniture pieces.

VENEER A thin layer mad wood, brick or s that is mounted a less expensive or more durable building material. Unlike veneer, laminate is a more affordable option that mimics real wood, brick and stone. Laminate is made of a printed decorative surface and materials like paper and resin.

WO R K T R I A N G L E Typically used in the kitchen to describe the placement of the refrigerator, sink and stove for a functional and efficient kitchen.

X- C H A I R A type of foldable chair with criss-cross legs. It is also referred to as a director’s chair, as most production companies use such chairs on set. In the home, they are preferred for outdoor use, and for optimal storage when not in use.

YO R K S H I R E CHAIR Commonly used as dining chairs, these seating appointments have stocky legs and are usually made from wood. A common form of a Yorkshire chair is the traditional Western rocking chair.

ZONING Zoning pertains to the creation of separate areas, according to function, within an open space – particularly in an open-plan home. Define zones with the use of lighting, colour, feature wall or furniture.

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f e at u r e

StewardS of deSign The rise of local design competitions brings opportunity for young designers to showcase their talent. Here are some of the brand initiatives to get the creative juices going.

f r e e p l ay b y p 5 Studio Furniture retailer P5 Studio collaborated with Danish furniture brand Montana this year to create eight furniture pieces designed by young design and architectural studios here. The brief was to conceptualise a product from Montanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 42 colours and 36 modules. The winning design was picked to compete with those from South Korea, Japan, China, Taiwan, the Philippines and Australia. The top winnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creation will be included in the Montana International Collection and sold worldwide at a later date.

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Yo u n g D e s i g n e r AwA r D b Y D e s i g n intervention Design Intervention has been conducting the Young Designer Award since 2015. The interior design studio aims to nurture young designers and encourage them to push boundaries in design. Open to interior design students at tertiary level, the competition takes into account the quality of the interior or architectural design concept, functionality

D e s i g n At h o n 2 0 1 9 bY D e s i g n s i n g A p o r e council Since 2016, Design Singapore Council has been running a yearly Designathon for designers and design enthusiasts to create design solutions for the elderly. Designathon We Engage 2019 rallies participants to develop ideas to boost social

and originality, among other criteria. Participants will receive a design brief. For 2019, the brief for participants is to design a home for a couple in their 30s, with two schoolgoing children and a grandmother in a wheelchair. The interior design must accommodate the needs of a multigenerational family. Submission closes on Sept 8.

interaction for people with dementia. The aim is for them to engage socially and improve their subjective well-being. Following the submission of the design proposals, shortlisted teams will take part in a twoday â&#x20AC;&#x153;makeathonâ&#x20AC;? event at the National Design Centre. There, they will also get to speak with industry experts and mentors, as well as work with dementia professionals and caregivers. Participants will also learn about dementia in depth, as well as explore rapid prototyping and materials.

A s i A Yo u n g D e s i g n e r AwA r D b Y n i p p o n pA i n t Nippon Paintâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Asia Young Designer Award begins at the national level. Thereafter, winners from 13 countries across Asia will compete for the title of Asia Young Designer of the Year. An initiative that started in 2008, the award comprises architecture and interior design categories. These young designers get the opportunity to engage with renowned figures in the design industry to gain industry knowledge, mentoring and skills through workshops. More than 100 entries came in for the 2018/2019 contest, of which the theme was FORWARD: Challenging Design Boundaries. Tertiary-level students were encouraged to think beyond the parameters of design, to impact society and add value to how people live and interact in the future.

n e s t b Y n A FA A n D scAnteAk As part of an initiative by Singapore furniture retailer Scanteak, a class of students from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (Nafa) were briefed on conceptualising a unique furniture item that would solve the challenges of small-space living. The students competed in the process, leading to five multifunctional designs suited for modern living in compact spaces. The result of this effort was the commercialisation of the top three designs. The Nest collection is sold in Scanteak.

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in celebration of the 50th anniverSary of Zanotta’S Sacco beanbag chairS, the brand collaborated With retailer W. atelier to initiate a deSign comPetition.

U n l e a S h yo U r d e S i g n ta l e n t S c o n t e S t b y Sitia and d’doUbleS As part of Singapore Design Week 2019, Italian artisan furniture maker Sitia and furniture retailer d’Doubles conducted a competition for Singapore designers. The initiative was supported by Design Singapore Council, the Italian Embassy in Singapore and the Italian Chamber of Commerce. The prize consisted of a professional contract to continue collaborating with Sitia and a trip to the factory in Italy. The winning design would be included in Sitia’s catalogue and global distribution network. The brief was for human-centred “multitasking” office furniture that would encourage collaboration, while being as eco-sustainable as possible. Una by Abigail Chang is a transformable and multi-functional space divider that won among more than 30 submissions.

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S ac c o P r oj e c t by W. at e l i e r a n d Z a n ot ta In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Zanotta’s Sacco beanbag chairs this year, the brand collaborated with retailer W. Atelier to initiate a design competition. With the support of Design Singapore Council, the competition called for all local talents to design and produce a creative take on the Sacco chair. The theme was “Urban Living the Asian Way”. Of the 10 shortlisted designers, Jarrod Lim (below) of Jarrod Lim Design created the winning entry. His winning design, along with the designs by runners-up Karyn Lim and Tiffany Loy, was showcased in the Italian brand’s showroom in Milan.

T h e J A m e s DYs o n AwA r D bY DYs o n Into its 15th year, the James Dyson Award is about empowering the next generation of engineers and designers to solve problems ranging from issues we face in daily life or those on a macro, global scale. While it runs internationally – 27 countries

and regions in all – entries are judged first at the national level, where each national winner receives $3,400. Last year’s award winner for Singapore, Kevin Chiam, created a series of kitchenware (above) to help the visually impaired prepare their meals. This year’s winner will be announced later this month.

Yo u n g D e s i g n e r AwA r D bY i k e A singApore The aim of this award, launched in 2014, was to let tertiary design students showcase their creative home furnishing solutions. The competition has since evolved to give young designers the chance to advocate change through design innovation. This year,

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Ikea Singapore held a Zero Waste Challenge, where participants were to design a product or service that would inspire waste reduction at home. The waste sources to focus on were food, paper packaging, plastic and e-waste. All winners will receive a cash prize, with the top prize winner receiving an overseas trip on top of $1,500 cash.

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kitchen Perfection If you intend to make the kitchen the highlight of your home, then you’ll want to consider investing in one that comes with quality finishes and a sleek design. The Artex kitchen by Poliform is a full kitchen system that comprises an island worktop, hood and storage cabinets – and the entire setup is stunning. Homeowners can customise the large work surfaces and storage facilities with a wide variety of exclusive finishes and materials, ensuring that your dream kitchen will be as perfect as it can be. Artex by Poliform is available at Space Furniture. Visit www. spacefurniture.com.sg for more information.

B ac k to B l ac k Now available in black, Fisher & Paykel’s 60cm built-in oven will integrate seamlessly into the interiors of any modern kitchen. The 11 function pyrolytic oven features a full glass front in pure black, and black anodised aluminium dials, handle and trim. Besides the aesthetics, the oven has 77 litres of usable capacity – 30 per cent larger than most European ovens – and its Active Vent technology allows users to control moisture levels to achieve the best cooking results.

Pac k s a P u n c h Looking for compact furniture to furnish your small home? Consider the Day Storage unit from Jottergoods. Functional yet highly compact – measuring 765mm by 405mm – it is perfect for size-challenged residences. Designed in-house, the Day Storage’s dusky tones and smoke-stained white ash legs give it a sleek contemporary look. The Day Storage unit retails for $750 and is available at Star Living’s showroom at 1 Pasir Panjang Road.

For more information, please visit www.fisherpaykel.com.

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w h e r e to b u y

ASHEPA

www.ashepa.com BODE

#05-10 Tan Boon Liat Building Tel: 6635-3377 www.bode.com.sg BuNGALOW 55

#03-04 8D Dempsey Road Tel: 8318-5358 www.thebungalow55. com CAESARSTONE

#03-357 Suntec City Mall Tel: 9011-3559 www.caesarstone.sg

GRAFuNkT

#04-01/06 Funan Mall Tel: 6336-6046 www.grafunkt.com

DANISH DESIGN CO

#06-03 Century Warehouse 100E Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6270-8483 www.danishdesignco. com DYSON

https://shop.dyson. com.sg FLEXFORm

#01-01 200 Newton Road Tel: 6909-2128 www.flexform.sg

THE BEuRO

#01-01 Winsland House 1 3 Killiney Road Tel: 6337-0050 www.p5.com.sg

#03-10 Tan Boon Liat Building Tel: 6222-4500 www.thebeuro.com

#01-04/05 Shaw Centre Tel: 6311-3622 www.grohe.sg

PROOF LIvING

uRBANORDIC

HAFARY

RICE

GROHE

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

#04-16, Ion Orchard Tel: 6509-0555 www.proof.com.sg

#01-03 213 Henderson Road Tel: 6692-1199 www.rice-fields.com

HANSGROHE

69 Mohamed Sultan Road Tel: 6884-5060 www.hansgrohe.com. sg

COSENTINO

34/35 Duxton Road Tel: 6713-9543 www.cosentino.com/ en-sg/

HARvEY NORmAN FLAGSHIP

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

317 Alexandra Road Tel: 6786-6868 www.ikea.com/sg LAmITAk STuDIO

#01-61, CT Hub 2 114 Lavender Street Tel: 6592-5200 www.lamitak.com

ROCHE BOBOIS

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

Ground level, APS Building, 9 Muthuraman Chetty Road Tel: 6950-0900 www.smeg.sg

#04-07 Tan Boon Liat Building Tel: 6224-0765 www.urbanordic.com vITRA

#14-08 Tan Boon Liat Building Tel: 6861-7366 www.vitra.com W.ATELIER

#01-01 and #03-01 201 Henderson Road Tel: 6270-8828 www.watelier.com XTRA

InterIor DesIgners

685A East Coast Road Tel: 6698-7987 www.eightytwo.sg CARPENTERS

#01-01 Oxley Bizhub 2 62 Ubi Road 1 Tel: 6443-1123 www.carpenters.com. sg DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN

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

1 Starlight Road Tel: 6396-6672 www.prozfile.com.sg

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

SOON BEE HuAT

257 Changi Road Tel: 6440-1900 www.sbh.com.sg SPACE FuRNITuRE

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

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furniture, appliances & furnishings

acorN

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

scaNteak

Haire LiviNG

60 Sungei Kadut Drive https://scanteak.com. sg

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

Harvey NormaN

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

space fUrNitUre

77 Bencoolen Street www.spacefurniture. com.sg

braNDt asie

star LiviNG

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

furniture & furnishings

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

Da viNci LifestyLe

XZQt

#01-01 Concorde Hotel Tel: 6468-6333 www.davincilifestyle. com

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

efeNZ ceiLiNG faN

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

Home 2 U GaLLery eLectroLUX s.e.a.

#07-10 Galaxis 1 Fusionopolis Place Tel: 6727-3699 fisHer & paykeL

#03-01A Ubi Biz Hub 150 Ubi Avenue 4 Tel: 6547-0100

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lighting LiGHtcraft

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

#04-00 Techniques Building 8 Tagore Drive https://novita.com.sg

imaGiNe by sk66

timpLeX

#01-22 UB One 81 Ubi Avenue 4 www.imaginebysk66. com

renovation Materials

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

mow iNterior

caesarstoNe s.e.a.

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

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

NeU koNceptZ

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

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

interior designers

mUji

DesiGN iNterveNtioN

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

75E Loewen Road Tel: 6468-1942 www.design intervention.com.sg

#01-03 LTC Building C 14 Arumugam Road Tel: 6337-7277 www.theorangecube. com

DweLL iNterior DesiGN

tHree-D coNceptwerke

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

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

tHe oraNGe cUbe

coseNtiNo

34/35 Duxton Road www.cosentino.com DUravit asia

(Singapore Branch) 63 Tras Street www.duravit.com Hafary

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

rocHe bobois

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

Novita

NatUraL forest

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

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127

hard truth

what’s trending & what we think

In to stay In

128

ith temperatures soaring and hitting an all-time high recently, and amid growing concern over the need to reduce our carbon footprint, it’s no wonder that people are preferring to stay within the comfort of their home. However staying in doesn’t have to mean leading the life of a recluse, as house parties and intimate home gatherings are becoming the trend here on the little red dot. Perhaps it is also a sign of us experiencing urban burnout – people becoming increasingly apathetic to the bombardment of new places to check out, or to social media telling us where we should be seen next. Too much of a good thing can be bad, because when there seems to be too many new eateries and entertainment spots vying for your attention in the city, the best decision may be to stay put and let the party come to you instead. And it seems homeowners here are becoming adept hosts of their own soirees. Not only does playing host give them the opportunity to dress up and show off their beautiful domain, it also offers them the ultimate control over the guest list, as well as choice of food, beverage and music. More importantly, cosy get-togethers also result in more meaningful interaction, as there’s no need to constantly talk over background noise in order to maintain a conversation. “How does this differ from the dinner parties our parents used to have,” you may ask. One of the biggest differences would

be the presence of Internet connectivity. Any thoughtful host will tell you that the most frequently asked question among guests now is this: “What’s the Wi-Fi password?” It is absolutely essential that your visitors have ready access to free Internet connectivity, in order for them to document and share with their friends the fun that they are having. With this in mind, Ten One Design, an intrepid start-up in the United States, developed a nifty little home accessory to save homeowners the trouble of having to repeat the Wi-Fi password every time a visitor arrives. Simply dubbed the Wi-Fi Porter (https://tenonedesign.com/ porter.php), this namecard-sized panel doesn’t require batteries or charging, and setting it up to the Wi-Fi is a cinch. It can be placed in the centre of the table, or by the doorway. To get connected, guests need only tap their mobile devices lightly on it. For older iPhone models, just point the camera to the QR code on the back of the device. While the price of $50 may be somewhat off-putting for those who are content to scribble their passwords across the wall or onto a piece of PostIt stuck to the table, gracious hosts with uncompromising style will definitely stand to benefit from the sleek look of this device sitting handsomely on the tabletop, complementing a beautifully laid spread and charming floral centrepiece. No doubt it will certainly become a conversation starter – and help your party get off to a great start.

interiors + design consultancy . construction + project management

designed spaces

connect lives

The Orange Cube Pte Ltd 14 Arumugam Road #01-03 . LTC Building C . Singapore 409959 . (MacPherson MRT Exit 'B') Tel: (65) 6337 7277 . www.theorangecube.com . enquiry@theorangecube.com . www.facebook.com/theorangecube