Squarerooms May 2017 [Preview]

I N T E R I O R S

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I D E A S

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S O L U T I O N S

www.squarerooms.com.sg

Lean mean machines

An essential guide to buying home appliances

in perfect order

How to keep your kitchen tidy at all times

Smart buys

Stylish tools every home chef needs

the hardworking kitchen

Simple tweaks to maximise every square inch of your cooking space

MAY 2017

ISSUE 145 S$5.50/RM10

Win!

$10,000 worth of prizes More details on pg.103

Your path to becoming a well-informed homeowner

We show you everything you need to know and where to start with your new home!

Home Starter Kit here!

1

Find

Tips for buying a new home

2

Finance

Advice on budgeting for your home

3

Prepare

What you need to know to get your home ready

4

Renovate Information on remodelling your home

www.squarerooms.com.sg

Check out these essential guides to help you find and furnish your new home.

step 1

step 2

Find

4 house hunting tips everyone should know

Finance

5 things you need to know about home loans

step 3 step 4

prepare

Renovate

4 things to note when collecting the keys to your BTO

Renovation questions every homeowner should ask

For more inspiration & practical solutions, read our other posts on www.squarerooms.com.sg

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STYLE

KITCHEN SMARTS

WE TAKE THE GUESSWORK OUT OF SMALL KITCHEN DESIGNS WITH THESE CLEVER RENO IDEAS THAT EXUDE STYLE AND FUNCTIONALITY IN EQUAL MEASURES TEXT Disa Tan

STREAMLINED SURFACES

While open-concept kitchens have become the norm for a larger-looking space, breaking the boundary walls shouldn’t be the only way for a visual upsize. These wide slabs of tiles from Hafary can minimise the appearance of grout lines. Our advice is to go for a matching design for the backsplash to unify the look.

30 MAY

THIN IS IN

IMAGE COURTESY OF KOMPACPLUS

Using slimmer countertops such as these high density composite and non-porous panels from KompacPlus can evoke a sleeker and visually lighter appearance. It can be applied as a backsplash too and this consistency blurs the line between where the surfaces end and begin, which ultimately draws out an illusion of space.

CLEVER STOWAWAY

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE EWINS HOME

IMAGE COURTESY OF HAFARY

One downside to small kitchens is probably the lack of countertop space. Atim, a patented aluminium system, available at The Ewins Home, is here to help. The tabletops of various sizes are tucked away neatly within a standard drawer compartment so it’s like having a handy island unit.

MAY 31

STYLE

ORGANISATION PLAN

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE EWINS HOME

IMAGE COURTESY OF DULUX

If you have established a certain routine of working in your kitchen, being organised in terms of storage will cut down much time and effort. Kitchen solutions brand BelNet, available at The Ewins Home, offers a simple linear design to help users maximise their space with easy-to-use modules and storage accessories. This kitchen equipment system makes light work out of cooking and food preparation with everything at your fingertips.

FIND THE FOCUS

Pull the eye to a dramatic artwork or an eyecatching backsplash in your kitchen to divert the attention away from a petite space. The rest of the colour scheme for the walls, countertops and cabinetry should be complementary as well so that the eye rests firmly on the focal point.

Light can work wonders for a small space and this can be achieved with a high sheen countertop or even cabinetry.

The Fiord Dekton XGloss Natural surface is a great example of a worktop with lots of lustre. The light-enhancing surface draws in natural light like a charm and visually elevates the size of the space.

32 MAY

IMAGE COURTESY OF DEKTON

LIGHT AND LUSTRE

IMAGE COURTESY OF THE EWINS HOME

SHUT OUT CLUTTER

Even with the perfect layout or innovative space-saving tips, a small kitchen can’t escape from the perils of clutter infestation.

It happens from time to time when you don’t keep up with the mess. A simple solution would be raumplus sliding doors from The Ewins Home that can “wipe out” clutter in a single move.

By closing the doors, this is a lifesaver for lazy or messy kitchen users who no longer have to worry about unkempt counters.

MAY 33

KITCHEN

KITCHEN CONFIDENCE WE TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT TWO MADE-OVER KITCHENS TO SEE HOW CAREFUL PLANNING AND PRECISE EXECUTION CAN CONTRIBUTE TO EFFICIENT AND STYLISH SPACES TEXT Stanley Lim PHOTOS Wong Weiliang

CASE STUDY 1 / DESIGNER Meter Square / LOCATION Compassvale Crescent / PROPERTY 5-room BTO unit

36 MAY

DUE TO ITS ROLE AS a functional space that is dedicated to food preparation, and occasionally, social gatherings, the kitchen should meet its owners’ personal needs.

A well-thought-out configuration and proper fittings are the keys to optimising a kitchen, regardless of its size or style.

Here are two real-world examples that demonstrate that an efficient kitchen layout, even within a small space, can be totally achievable.

COSY FUNCTIONALITY Overall Fronted by a conjoined preparation island and dining table, this openconcept kitchen delivers with a simple layout and clean design. The space features plenty of fixed storage options for the owners’ extensive collection of cookware and appliances. To create an open concept, an L-shaped wall between the living room and kitchen was removed.

Hood and hob As the hood was purchased prior to their apartment’s renovation, cabinets were built around both sides of the appliance to create a pseudo-recess as a space-saving measure.

Meanwhile, an induction hob was chosen as an easier-to-clean alternative to a regular gas stove.

Fridge and oven housing Customised features, such as built-in recesses for the microwave and oven help to conserve precious space.

The same applies for a customised partition wall, which conceals the refrigerator, while doubling up as a full-height chalkboard wall.

LED cove lights One key characteristic of every functional kitchen is proper illumination.

Here, a row of LED lights installed under storage cabinets ensures safety by providing essential task lighting for cooking and food preparation.

Island power sockets Eubiq power sockets mounted on the island’s front help to maximise the amount of additional countertop space available, all while providing power for household and kitchen appliances alike.

MAY 37

SAVVY

Household essentials Ensure things run smoothly by equipping your abode with only the best home appliances Text Stanley Lim

40 MAY

Hobs and hoods For any food enthusiast who loves cooking at home, no kitchen is complete without the combination of a hob and hood, and for good reason. The former is essential for heating up or keeping food warm, whereas the latter is needed for removing unwanted fumes and smells.

However, be sure to take note of your personal cooking preferences and habits as they are important determinants of what hob and hood types are suitable for your home.

What are some important features to take note of when selecting a hob?

Safety is a key concern when it comes to choosing a hob. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned chef or occasional cook, ensuring that your new hob comes with the right built-in safety measures, such as safety timers, should always be a top priority.

Heat control is another crucial feature to consider.

For home chefs who prefer optimum heat control, traditional gas hobs are the go-to option, thanks to their precise control knobs. For those who prefer a flat cooking surface, induction and electric hobs do a good job with their digital temperature control interfaces.

How do I determine if a hood is the right one for my kitchen?

Our Picks Gaggenau VL 414 Vario downdraft hood POA at BSH Home Appliances

Part of Gaggenau’s Vario 400 series of cooktop appliances, the VL 414 downdraft hood offers a unique alternative to its vertically-mounted cousins that homemakers are so used to seeing. Perfect for expansive kitchen islands, the VL 414 is capable of drawing in cooking vapours and odours before they have a chance to pervade their surroundings.

A good hob is best paired with an efficient hood for the ideal cooking set-up. The ideal hood is one that is larger than its accompanying hob, so that it provides maximum ventilation by covering the entire cooking area. The design of a hood matters as an overly large model can result in a cramped space as well as energy inefficiency. Island and chimney-type hoods are more suitable for large kitchens that see heavy usage, whereas slim-line or retractable models are a better (read: space- and energy-efficient) buy for smaller cooking spaces.

Bosch PKU375FB1E Grill Domino hob $1,699 at Bosch online store

Other than general-purpose gas and induction models, hobs that cater to specialised cooking methods are also available on the market. The Bosch PKU375FB1E Grill Domino hob allows homeowners to hold a barbeque indoors with its lava grill function that makes use of lava stones and/or water, instead of charcoal.

MAY 41

SAVVY

Ovens and microwave ovens Ovens and microwave ovens can appear to function similarly.

However, look beyond the surface and you’ll find that they are very different kitchen appliances.

While modern-day ovens make use of electricity to generate heat within their chambers to cook, microwave ovens instead rely on their namesake radiation that causes water molecules within food to vibrate and eventually rise in temperature.

Which is better, an oven or a microwave oven?

Our Picks LG MJ3965BGS NeoChef convection microwave oven

It depends. One has to consider the functional differences between conventional and microwave ovens, as well as their roles in the kitchen.

While conventional ovens generally take a longer time to heat up meats, they tend to produce better-tasting results due to their ability to distribute heat evenly throughout food layers.

Microwave ovens tend to consume less electricity than regular ovens, and they are a better fit for small kitchens if all you need is a convenient appliance for re-heating or defrosting frozen food items.

$969 at major electronics and department stores

Capable of serving as a fryer, warmer, microwave, and even a yoghurt-maker, the LG NeoChef microwave oven is probably an instant winner in any small kitchen that is big on function.

Teka HE 720 oven

$1,050 at major home appliance stores

Samsung MC28M convection microwave oven with HotBlast

$439 at major electronics and department stores

The main selling point of this powerful microwave oven from Samsung is its HotBlast cooking technology, which blows hot air directly into the food to ensure crisp exteriors with juicy centres.

42 MAY

Equipped with Teka’s HydroClean technology, the Teka HE720 is capable of cleaning up after itself. All you need to do is pour in a glass of water, warm up the oven cavity, and wipe off any loose stains after the interior cools down.

Our Picks Samsung RS58 with Twin Cooling Plus side-by-side refrigerator From $2,150 at major electronics and department stores

Thanks to its separate cooling systems, the Samsung RS58 ensures optimal food freshness by preventing odours from mixing between the freezer and fridge compartments. An anti-bacteria activated carbon filter also ensures that internal air is kept clean and hygienic at all times.

Bosch KAD92SB30 two-door black glass refrigerator $4,799 at major electronics and department stores

Don’t be distracted by its sleek black glass doors, the Bosch KAD92SB30 refrigerator is an effective appliance that is capable of keeping your food fresh with its various VitaFresh storage compartments for different groceries.

Refrigerators What are some important add-on features that should be considered when buying a refrigerator?

Ignoring size and configuration, which are contingent on a kitchen’s physical space, there are several key features that can make or break a decision to purchase a particular refrigerator. Examples of these finer details can include organisation systems, water dispensers, and freshness preservation technologies.

Efficient organisation systems, such as adjustable shelves and bins, can make sorting and compartmentalising groceries an easier task.

Convenience can also take the form of a cold drink at the touch of a fingertip with a built-in water dispenser.

Last but not least, freshness preservation features are important when it comes to eliminating harmful bacteria and unpleasant odours.

LG GS-J6011SB sideby-side refrigerator $4,999 at major electronics and department stores

If you store plenty of frozen food, the LG GS-J6011SB can help with its ability to reduce freezing time by 32 per cent with its fast-freezing mode. Additionally, its double-layered door system allows home chefs to gain quick access to ingredients with a touch of a button.

MAY 43

SOLUTIONS

HIDE & SEEK Storage implements, nifty add-ons and neat tricks to keep your kitchen in perfect order TEXT Fidz Azmin

H

IMAGE COURTESY OF BLUM

ome to everything from pantry provisions to appliances and accessories, the kitchen can be a tricky place to keep tidy. But it’s not the end if you spend more time seeking for a particular tool than actually preparing the meal. All you need to do is whip this space into shape with smart storage solutions – and ensure every item has its very own secret hideout.

46 MAY

Overcome tricky areas such as awkward corners and narrow gaps with interior fittings that are built for the task.

tip!

Don’t underestimate overhead cabinet space. Those nearer to the ceiling make great stowaways for appliances that seldom see light of day, while glass display ones are perfect for showing off your pretty porcelains.

Clamp canister, $47.95 at Crate & Barrel

1 IMAGE COURTESY OF HÄFELE

Gain maximum access to your provisions and pots and pans with high capacity storage solutions.

IMAGE COURTESY OF HÄFELE

S&P oil/vinegar bottle set, $26.95 at Crate & Barrel

2

C O N TA I N A N D C O N T R O L When it comes to pantry provisions, containers help in establishing order.

Apart from combatting clutter behind closed doors, they also allow speedy access to any ingredient you need to whip up today’s dish of the day. Classify your supplies in terms of usage too: keep salt and pepper shakers within arm’s reach and tuck away rarely used items on the top shelf. You should also label your containers to save time on rummaging and figuring out what’s stored inside.

Metro 6 jar spice rack, $42.95 at Crate & Barrel

K I T YO U R C A B I N E T S Create order inside your cabinets and drawers with nifty interior fittings. They’re a lifesaver because they let you zero in on your weapon of choice with nary an effort. Imagine finding the can opener precisely where it’s supposed to be. The options are endless too. Choose simple fixes such as internal dividers to sort your everyday cutlery from those reserved for special occasions, or clever in-drawer systems that can be configured according to your needs to pack maximum storage punch.

Technology complements the modern lifestyle by making life easier for homeowners. Automatic fittings – for example, cabinets with electronic folding mechanisms that open at a touch – make working in the kitchen less of a hassle. They’re also simple to operate and help maintain a neat appearance within the space.

Häfele Singapore

MAY 47

SHOP

BRING TO THE TABLE MAKE EVERY MEAL AN OCCASION WITH THESE PRACTICAL AND STYLISH COOKING AND SERVING WARE

STYLING Nicco Lim ART DIRECTION Geraldine Tan & Linda Setiono PHOTOGRAPHY Wong Weiliang

WARM UP Turn on the rustic charm at the table with wooden and clay serveware.

54 MAY

SMOOTH MINIMAL Your meals will always be elegant affairs with these sleek tableware and cutlery.

Hue low bowl, $11.95, Mercer bowl, $10.95, Mercer mug, $9.95, Easton placemats, $18.95 each, Mercer dinner plate, $11.95, all from Crate & Barrel. Porcelain teapot, $19.90, glass teacup, $8.90, both from Muji. Aero flatware, $129.95 (for a set of five), from Crate & Barrel. Jamie Oliver salt & pepper mill set, $56.90, from ToTT Store. Mercer appetiser plate, $5.95, from Crate & Barrel.

Featuring Rico Mogollon DXP 1364K laminates from Lamitak.

(Opposite page, clockwise from left) Glass jar with Acacia wood lid, $21.90, from ToTT Store. Acacia wood bowls, $13.90, Acacia deep plate, $16.90, all from Muji. Jamie Oliver wooden serving board with enamel dip bowl, $46.90, Jamie Oliver Acacia wood cheese board, $41.90, Jamie Oliver terracotta bowl, $10.90, Jamie Oliver terracotta baking dish, $9.90, all from ToTT Store.

Salt & pepper pot, $4.90, salt & pepper mill, $19, soy sauce pot, $13 and square wooden tray, 18.90, all from Muji. Boska cheese board, $45.90, from ToTT Store. Acacia small bow, $5.90, from Muji. Glass jar with Acacia wood lid, $17.90, from ToTT Store Featuring (on wall) Maracaibo WPL2929MT laminates from Jennings, (on table) Lalo Ramblas DXP 1331C laminates from Lamitak.

MAY 55

SHOP

STONE WORKS Impress your guests by serving your hors d’oeuvres on some exquisite marble and stoneware bowls and boards.

(Clockwise from top left) French Kitchen marble fruit bowl, $109.95, from Crate & Barrel. Boska cheese slicer, $37.90, Boska soft cheese knife, $37.90, from ToTT Store. Savannah low bowl, $24.95, Marin dark grey bowl, $16.95, French Kitchen cheese board with slicer, $39.95, soft cheese knife, $16.95, hard cheese knife, $16.95, all from Crate & Barrel. Slate board, $18.30, from ToTT Store. Marin dark grey salad plate, $16.95, from Crate & Barrel.

Featuring Isa Nogal Americano WY 1272D laminates from Lamitak.

56 MAY

COOK’S ESSENTIALS These classic copper and cast-iron cookware are beautiful enough to transition from the stovetop to table.

Talk about convenient!

(Clockwise from left) Measuring spoon, $6.90, glass measure cup, $19, from Muji. Stab cast-iron cocotte, $111.25, Mauviel copper saute pans, from $62.50, from ToTT Store. Apron, $49, stainless steel mixing bowl, $13, whisk, $6.90, all from Muji.

Harper rose gold spoon, $129.95 (for a set of five), from Crate & Barrel. Loaf tin, $20.93 and Mauviel copper stew pan 0.8L with lid, $360.10, both from ToTT Store.

Featuring Vera Florentina Marble DXP 4319G laminates from Lamitak.

MAY 57

SPACES

LIVING ROOM

From brights to tans, an abundance of colour characterises the eclectic look of the entire apartment. In the living room, a collection of vibrant furnishings and paintings were deliberately placed against a neutral backdrop to create a museumlike quality in the space.

66 MAY

eclectic

EXCITEMENT Somewhere between minimal and vibrant, this three-bedroom apartment treads a fine line between two distinctive styles TEXT Stanley Lim PHOTOS A.W.A Design Office

SPACE

3-bedroom condominium unit MUTIARA CREST L O C A T I O N Jalan Mutiara Road RENO PERIOD

3.5 months HOME TO

MAY 67

SPACES

Telford single-seater armchair from HipVan ROOM DOORS (above)

Serving as an interesting replacement for regular door handles, powdercoated white valve knobs add a touch of whimsy that fits perfectly with the apartment’s overall aesthetic.

68 MAY

A

s different as chalk and cheese, eclecticism and minimalism are two stylistic approaches to interior design that most would think as mutually exclusive, and for good reason. The former is associated with a vibrant, free-flowing aesthetic whereas the latter is largely characterised by tranquil features that are pared down to their essence.

However, by incorporating eclectic and minimalist features into a single space, this cosy family home located in River Valley completely inverts the idea that both styles are incompatible.

“The unit was conceived as a minimal and intimate space that is capable of meeting the

homeowners’ need for functionality through simple fittings,” says Allan Wang, the principal designer of A.W.A Design Office, “But with their collection of eclectic artworks, objects and furniture, it gave us the opportunity to create unique ‘destination points’ within the rooms while ensuring the visual unity of the apartment.”

True to this unique design approach, the living room resembles an art gallery with its collection of vibrant knick-knacks.

“Having a mixture of different textures and colours helps in achieving the desired aesthetic – especially the combination of vivid-hued leather sofas and fabric cushions, which stand out against the surrounding white walls. The same applies for

DINING AREA (right)

A relatively simple affair, the dining area primarily serves a gathering area for friends and family.

Understated, functional furnishings, such as a solid wood dining table and white plastic chairs, were chosen so that they would not draw attention away from the more interesting aspects of the general living space.

the splashy watercolour painting mounted behind the sofa,” Allan explains. “Put simply, vibrant elements are an important consideration when it comes to bringing a pop in mood and interest to the house.”

In order to ensure a sense of seamlessness throughout the different spaces, consistency was another aspect that Allan turned to when brainstorming for the apartment’s design.

For instance, two doors that lead to the bedrooms were given a white paint scheme and flushed with the adjoining wall to create a smooth, minimalist look. However, the original door handles were replaced with customised powder-coated valve knobs for a whimsical touch that reinforces the balance between eclecticism and minimalism.

This equilibrium extends into the guest room, which is decked out in wooden surfaces that blend in with similarly-textured tiles arranged in a herringbone pattern. Here, the minimalist aesthetic can be found within the clean outlines of a peg wall shelf and its accompanying rectangular shelves. Constructed out of plywood, the panels

Entrance foyer floor

Painted concrete tiles coated in oil and water sealant KITCHEN & E N T R A N C E F OY E R

When viewed alongside each other, the purpose of each zone is immediately made apparent by their visual and stylistic differences. While the kitchen clearly conveys a sense of purpose with its cement screed walls and abundance of vertical storage options; the entrance foyer instead directs visitors into the home with its chevron floor pattern that gives the space a sense of movement.

MAY 69

SPACES

Foyer feature

Solid plywood strips LIVING AREA

Save for a divider and a wall-hung cabinet, the rest of the living area is free of built-in fixtures. The blank walls have been dressed up by homogeneous tiles from Hafary and for consistency; the bay window-turned-TV console is flanked with the same treatment.

74 MAY

less is

MORE Measuring less than 600 square feet, this bachelorette’s pad looks double its size with its clever space configuration and wall accents TEXT Disa Tan PHOTOS Versaform

SPACE

1-bedroom condominium unit SOUTHBANK L O C A T I O N CONDOMINIUM North Bridge Road RENO PERIOD

5 weeks HOME TO

MAY 75

SPACES

Communal area walls

Woodgrained-effect homogeneous tiles M U LT I - P U R P O S E A R E A

Instead of fully utilising the living zone, part of it has been allocated for the study and a clear area for the homeowner’s Pilates sessions. That explains the huge custom-made framed mirror and this reflective addition amplifies the volume of light and space.

76 MAY

H

ow do you work with a “clean-cut” and “simple” theme? These were the only design specifications given to the Versaform design team after they were engaged for this resale condominium unit’s renovation. Though the design was very much open to interpretation, the team decided on a relaxed and open style that would best suit the homeowner’s fuss-free and healthy lifestyle.

They also noted her interest in Pilates, which she wanted to practise at home.

Assessing the limited square footage of the space, they decided against having too many built-in fixtures, unless necessary, for the communal areas. The living room, dining room and kitchen share the same confines so instead of

built-in cabinetry, the blank walls are mostly clad with homogeneous tiles or a light cement screed treatment. Sporting a woodgrained finish, the tiles strike an interesting visual balance with the cement screed finish; as one emits warmth while the other, a cool starkness. Together, these two contrasting wall treatments work in harmony to draw in light and create a sense of spaciousness.

Tweaking the original configuration of the unit also played a part in ensuring that space is fully maximised according to the homeowner’s needs. For instance, the living area now faces the bay window, and this is for good reason. The bay window has been repurposed as a TV console, and this clever move eliminates the need for an actual console which would only deplete precious floor

Taunch study table from Comfort Design OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN

A simple kitchenette suffices as an occasional cookspace for the homeowner who hardly cooks. The designers embellished the dark blue counters with metallic handles from IKEA for an appealing visual contrast.

MAY 77

SPACES

86 MAY

OVERALL

With its natural surfaces and neutral colour palette, this four-bedroom Executive Condominium was designed as a sanctuary for the Chins to retreat to after a hectic day.

Some slight modifications were done to the communal spaces to create an illusion of a larger space – one of which was to introduce a floor-toceiling mirror at the dining area to reflect the natural light streaming in from the balcony.

familial

COMFORTS Home to two architects and their children, this four-bedroom Executive Condominium is a restful sanctuary replete with nature-inspired elements TEXT Jolene Limuco PHOTOS Chin Yew Chong

SPACE

4-bedroom Executive Condominium unit WATERWOODS L O C A T I O N Punggol Field Walk RENO PERIOD

8 weeks HOME TO

MAY 87

SPACES

Balcony floor

Balau timber F E AT U R E WA L L (right)

To contrast the tones and textures of the solid wood furniture, the homeowners decided to finish an entire wall in raw cement plaster.

The homeowners asked the plasterer to deliberately apply the plastering in big strokes to achieve a look that is reminiscent of large abstract paintings.

BALCONY (below)

Balau timber decking was used to raise the balcony to level it with the living and dining zones. Instead of staining the timber in a uniform tone, the homeowners chose to finish it with a clear matte protective coating to retain the original colour and texture of the wood.

A

s an architect, Chin Yew Chong has worked on large-scale architectural projects like the Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel and the reconstruction of office spaces. So when the founder of RSDS Architects took on the renovation works for his own abode in Waterwoods, it was really a labour of love and clever planning. Together with this wife, Ong Su Ee, who is also an architect (with another firm), Yew Chong took a practical approach when planning the renovation. He explains, “We did not follow a specific theme for our home but there were certain issues that we wanted to solve that led to the final design.”

The family kept to a budget of $35,000 and a timeline of eight weeks to realise their ideal space – a true feat for a well-put-together space that exudes a timeless and cosy vibe.

88 MAY

One of the couple’s main concerns was that the living and dining areas felt small. To open up the space, they decided to introduce a wall of tinted mirrors at the dining area to visually double the space. The balcony floor was also levelled to the living area with raised timber decking to allow the living and dining spaces to spill out into the alfresco zone when the sliding doors are opened.

As Yew Chong works from home, he needed an office that is bright and efficiently laid out to contain the equipment and documents required for his work. Full-height glass panels were installed here for a couple of reasons. One was to create a visual connection between the home office and the adjacent living room. The second was to allow natural light to flow into the previously dark and narrow corridor. This simple tweak ultimately allows

Teak butcher stool from Ethnicraft Online S I D E TA B L E

Since the family wanted to include materials and furniture that show off their original colours and textures, they were conscious of sourcing for quality pieces made from solid timber. One such piece is this side table that is essentially a log that has been cut. Says Yew Chong, “We feel that this could be an art piece by itself, and at the same time, function as a living room side table.”

HOME OFFICE

Non-structural walls between a bedroom and the corridor were knocked down and replaced with full-height glass panels to create a home office. This was done to form a visual connection between the study and the communal space as well as allow more natural light to filter into the previously dark corridor.

MAY 89

GIVEAWAY SPECIAL

We are giving away more than

$10,000

worth of products for your home cooking and dining pleasure HOW TO WIN

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

STEP 4

Go to www.squarerooms.com.sg and register as a member

Click on “Promo” in the menu bar

Choose the giveaway you wish to participate

Click submit

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Promotion ends 26 May 2017 • This promotion is open to all Singapore Residents only • Only winners will be notified via email • Prizes are limited to one per household • SquareRooms’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entertained • Prizes are not exchangeable for cash • SquareRooms and sponsors reserve the right to replace prizes with other gifts of similar value • Key Editions Pte Ltd reserves the right to publish and/or use the details of the entries for future marketing and promotional purposes

WIN!

TURBO HOBS WORTH MORE THAN $3,500!

8 Turbo 1609R/ LSSV hobs Worth

$460 each

With their easy-to-clean surfaces and sleek appearance, stainless steel hobs are fast becoming a preferred choice for homeowners building their dream kitchens. Turbo’s range of stainless steel hobs have the added advantage of being extremely versatile. Made with Turbo’s revolutionary flame technology that produces flames angled at 45 degrees, the 1609R/LSSV hob can achieve up to five types of flames, from the smallest inner ring flame to stew or double-boil soups to strong wok burner flame for stir-frying vegetables.

104 MAY

WIN!

NOVITA WATER PURIFIERS WORTH MORE THAN $2,300!

3 Novita Countertop Water Purifiers NP335 Worth

$799 each

Meet your daily-recommended water intake with the Novita Countertop Water Purifier NP335.

Providing a smart and easy way to obtain fresh drinking water, this slim and elegant water purifier offers maximum convenience without taking up much space on the kitchen countertop. Equipped with an EzTwist 3 Stage Filtration System for effortless filter replacement, you can choose between the HydroPlus filter for alkaline antioxidant water or the HydroPure filter for purified energy water. What’s more, it comes with an additional faucet so you can easily wash, drink and cook via the faucet with fresh quality water all with one water purifier.

Turn to page 103 to find out how to win

MAY 105

WIN!

WMF CUTLERY SETS WORTH MORE THAN $2,000!

7 WMF 24-piece Philadelphia cutlery sets Worth

$289 each

Every elegant dining room needs a set of gorgeous cutlery to complement it. WMF’s Philadelphia range of cutlery is the perfect match to a stylish home. With pieces that feature simple and unobtrusive designs, the 24-piece set is made with durable Cromargan stainless steel with partially matte finishing, making it rust-resistant, dishwasher safe, sanitary, acid-resistant and long-lasting. Each set contains six pieces of forks, knives, spoons and tea/ coffee spoons.

106 MAY

WIN!

Worth $182 each

SCOTCH BRAND We are giving away 11 Scotch Titanium Kitchen Scissors sets in red and purple.

Worth $45.80 each

A good pair of scissors is an essential kitchen tool that can help you save time when preparing meals – you can use it to cut meats down to size or trim vegetables. Enter the Scotch Titanium Kitchen Scissors. Made with stainless steel that is four-times stronger and sharper, the tool is a godsend for home cooks who are looking for ways to save time on kitchen prep work. The scissors are also designed with corrosion-resistant blades that repel oil and can be detached for thorough cleaning.

CORNINGWARE We are giving away 4 Corningware 4-piece Casserole sets, comprising of a 2.25L and 3.25L covered casserole each with glass cover in magenta.

Well-known for its durable and versatile cookware, Corningware is a reliable brand for home cooks all over the world. Whip up tastier and healthier meals with the Corningware 4-piece Casserole set that lets you cook, serve and store your food all with the same dish. Its versatility enables you to transit your food straight from the freezer to the stovetop or oven and to the dining table. Made with non-porous material, every Corningware piece is easy-to-clean and hygienic, as it does not retain odours or stains.

Worth $85 each

T2 We are giving away 5 T2 Marigold Magic Rose Tea for One sets.

There is nothing like a steaming cup of tea to calm the senses in the middle of a hectic day. And T2’s gorgeous Marigold Magic collection of teaware is the perfect way to serve your tea.

Featuring hints of platinum, vivid hues and eclectic patterns, the range of teapots, cups, saucers and milk jugs are great for times of pause or serving at any dinner party. We especially love the Tea For One sets designed with a teapot, a generously sized cup, saucer and strainer built into one compact piece that will remind any tea lover to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Worth $228 each

SMEG We are giving away 3 Smeg 50’s 2 Slice Toasters Start your day on a perky mood with this retro toaster from Smeg.

The two-slice toaster features a powder-coated steel body and is capable of toasting bread at six browning levels. Coming in six eye-catching colours, this is one kitchen appliance you’d want to show off!

Turn to page 103 to find out how to win

MAY 107