HAVEN 201202 by The Edge Haven

ISSUE #53. FEBRUARY + MARCH 2012

COMPLIMENTARY WITH THE EDGE NOT FOR SALE

Mixing art and antiques for a classic abode

ISSN 1675-6266

European ďŹ&#x201A;avour

PP 13134/04/2012(029368)

ISSN 1675-6266

PP 13134/04/2012(029368)

+ A perfect meal plus a view in Rome + Penchant for the old + A soul-touching garden

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PHOTOGRAPHY.

KENNY YAP A beautiful French antique mirror adorns one of the terracotta walls in a cosy sitting area of this home.

contents

regulars

features 6

Timeless classics Some things never go out of style. Take on a new look this year with some chosen wallpaper and furnishing items.

A platform for local artists

COVER STORY Picture-perfect Interior designer Razif Shamsudin has made himself a home filled with all his favourite things

Old world chic A home that harks back to a bygone era

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TASTE When in Rome...

GREENSCAPE A garden of peace, faith and hope Inch Lim strikes a chord with the people for whom he created his showpiece in the 2011 Gardening World Cup

KitaKita crafts a unique niche market

Editor’s note

Interior designer Raymond Lee visits the Hotel Eden and enjoys a spectacular meal at its La Terrazza Restaurant

London dazzles Interior designer Raymond Lee visits the LAPADA Art & Antiques Fair in the city

BOOKSPACE

CHECK EM OUT

Stockists directory

ADVERTORIAL It’s not a gate, it’s a DELUX Unigate

EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Dorothy Teoh Au Foong Yee (afyee@bizedge.com) Sharon Kam CONTRIBUTORS Anita Kandhavel, Raymond Lee, Rosalynn Poh, Wong King Wai, Wong Mei Kay, Yvonne Yoong PRODUCTION EDITOR Ooi Inn Leong CHIEF COPY EDITOR Pushpam Sinnakaundan ART DIRECTOR Sharon Khoh GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Joanne Soo PRODUCTION MANAGER Thomas Chin PRODUCTION TEAM Hong Kin Siang, Yong Onn, To Yen Suang EDITOR

ASSISTANT EDITOR

ADVERTISING & MARKETING CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER SENIOR MANAGERS

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

ore often than not, we come across homes that look nice enough but lack “soul”. They seem more like show units waiting for some-

one to bring them to life. So, it was quite pleasant for us to find not one but two distinctively different homes that reflected the personal taste of the owners. If you ask me, your home’s interior design, whether it is done by you or a professional, must speak of your personality. Most of all, you and whoever else steps into the house should feel comfortable. Featured in this issue of haven are the two homes, both in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, whose owners have embraced the rich beauty and artistry of timeless pieces and combined these with unique paintings and some of their favourite things. One has a classic European look (Page 22) while the other is Malaysian old world (Page 33). The décor of these homes may not be everyone’s cup of tea — especially when there is potential for clutter and to look like a junkyard of old furniture — but we found it to be beautiful and remarkably charming. On Page 16, we feature a unique shop that showcases the products of Malaysian craft entrepreneurs. Called KitaKita, the shop in Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur, is the brainchild of Nori Abdullah, daughter of former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, her sisters-in law and a friend. We would also like to congratulate our Greenscape contributing landscape architect, Inch Lim, on his success at the Gardening World Cup in Japan last year. His Garden of Peace, Faith and Hope was both a philosophical and emotional creation (Page 48). Interior designer Raymond Lee shares some of the things that inspired him on his recent travels, including to the LAPADA Arts and Antiques Fair in London (Page 8) and Hotel Eden Roma in Rome (Page 42). Enjoy!

COORDINATOR

Au Foong Yee (019) 210 9798 Alison Lim (012) 212 3442 Sharon Teh (012) 313 9056 Heidee Dato’ Hj Ahmad (019) 388 1880 Sharon Lee (016) 330 1571 Geetha Perumal (016) 250 8640 Eddy Mochtar Ata (016) 291 9943 Ian Leong (012) 359 1668 Angie Tay (012) 2622698 Gregory Thu (012) 376 0614 Ng Ching Yin (012) 232 8035 Aznita Anuar (03) 7721 8006

RESEARCH + CORPOR ATE COMMUNICATIONS HEAD EVENT PROJECT MANAGER EVENT EXECUTIVE NEWS LIBRARIAN

Lim Shiew Yuin Sue Ann Lee Alia Burhanuddin Tan Wellyoung

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This classy Professor Armchair is an attention grabber in black and white genuine cowhide. Retails at Halo for RM6,888. You can never go wrong with the classic rose motif. The Royal Albert Old Country Roses collection by Royal Doulton adds an elegant touch to a traditional English tea. Pieces are priced from RM98 to RM4,488.

Timeless classics

SOME THINGS NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE. TAKE ON A NEW LOOK THIS YEAR WITH SOME CHOSEN WALLPAPER AND FURNISHING ITEMS FOR AN AGELESS AND GLAMOROUS EUROPEAN LOOK. DESIGNED WITH A UNIQUE YET TRADITIONAL FLAVOUR, THESE DELIGHTFUL PICKS WILL LOOK GOOD IN ANY SPACE. TEXT. YVONNE YOONG

The Concord Wallpaper collection boasts a sleek style that will never go out of trend. Retails at RM274 per roll at Janine. Traditions of British heritage are reflected in the Black Penny Halo cushion cover with its distinctive design complemented by a feather-filled inner cushion. The cover comes in three sizes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 30cm x 30 cm (RM288), 45cm x 45cm (RM388) and 60cm x 60cm (RM588). Available at Halo.

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Take a walk down memory lane with the Primavera wallpaper collection retailing at RM332 per roll at Janine.

Bring a breath of fresh air into the room with the Early Tulips wallpaper from Sandersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vintage collection (RM332 per roll) matched with soft furnishings clad in the Early Tulips fabric (RM253 per metre). Available at Janine.

This unique shed deer Antler magazine rack will grace an English-style interior to stunning effect. Available at Halo.

The Tree Poppy fabric ushers in a touch of the exotic at RM253 per metre. Available at Janine.

This elegant Ampleforth chest-cum-lamp table opens at the top and has one drawer. It is designed by Halo chief designer and co-founder Timothy Oulton. Prices are from RM4,900 (small). REFER TO STOCKISTS DIRECTORY FOR DETAILS ON FEATURED STORES

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LONDON DAZZLES INTERIOR DESIGNER RAYMOND LEE VISITS THE LAPADA ART & ANTIQUES FAIR IN THE CITY TEXT + PHOTOGRAPHY. RAYMOND LEE

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IT WAS A dazzling time indeed in London recently. After having had the opportunity to view the wonderful jewels, art, antiques and clothes of the late Elizabeth Taylor at Christie’s in Mayfair, I continued on to the LAPADA (The Association of Art and Antique Dealers) Art and Antiques Fair in Berkeley Square. And as Lorenzo Quinn’s amazing sculpture greeted me at the main entrance of the fair [1], I knew I was going to be bowled over. John-Paul Bogart, whom I had met in Paris in his rue du Faubourg Saint Honore gallery a while ago, was at his booth representing Martin du Louvre and he had stunning early 20th century sculptures on show [2]. Antwerp dealer Herwig Simons had several dramatic pieces that would make an exciting addition to any collection. The bold display technique used to showcase his items was very impressive [3]. John and David Hansford of Hansford based in Lincoln, Lincolnshire, England, showcased a furniture collection that was stunning, to say the least. I was enthralled by the cabinets they had on display [4 + 5], particularly a Swiss 17th century cabinet with the ﬁnest marquetry detailing. Exquisite!

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Also mind-blowing was Peter Petrou’s eclectic collection of contemporary works of art. The Daniel Rohr Colander Table, priced at a whopping £48,000, was just amazing. I wonder if I could convince a client here to acquire it for his study! [6]. Another jaw-dropping piece was this bench designed by Studio Job (comprising two designers, a Belgian and a Dutch) featuring macassar ebony inlaid with bird’s eye maple. Their work was also recently featured in a V&A Museum exhibition, Telling Tales [7]. Over at Art Air by Hatchwell Antiques, the collection of aeronautical items would certainly make conversation pieces. A wall-mounted turbine from a Rolls-Royce Spey engine took centre stage at the booth. You will find Hatchwell Antiques’ showroom in the swanky Chelsea neighbourhood in Central London [8]. Sarah Myerscough’s Mayfair gallery presented her signature modern pieces by some of Britain’s finest artists and craftsmen. Dramatic ceramic plates and vases with a hint of Orientalism by Malcolm Martin and Gaynor Dowling took my breath away [9]. Tanya Baxter of the Kings Road Gallery in London showcased modern contemporary artworks by Chinese artists such as Ling Jian and Feng Zhengjie. They also represent many other Asian artists from Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar [10]. A new section at the fair this year was LAPADA MODERN, which represented a growing number of established contemporary and modern art dealers and dealers in 20th century design and contemporary works of art. The booth featured several noteworthy limited edition prints by artists such as Picasso, Matisse and Miro. There was also furniture from the art deco period. An interesting glass-top oak coffee table caught my eye, among many other pieces [11]. The spectacular Matisse prints displayed on the walls of John Dinan and Graziella Chighine’s booth were certainly showstoppers. They specialise in botanical, natural history and China trade subjects plus unique 20th century lithographs and etchings. Unique handmade frames are also their forte [12 + 13]. Over at Mai Trading of Redhill, a collection of ban chiang vessels made a dramatic impact. These are owned by Mark J West of Cobb Antiques at Wimbledon Village, which also specialises in antique European glassware from the 18th and 19th centuries. This booth was indeed dazzling [14]. Art deco furniture was all the rage at Gazelles of Lyndhurst. Its set of well-matched pieces for the dining room included a very handsome sideboard, long rectangular dining table with matching chairs and brilliant light fixtures. The outfit is owned by Allan Bellamy and Peter Richmond,

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who both have much experience in and in-depth knowledge of pieces from the 1920s right through to the 1940s [15]. At Katie Jones, it was a delight to discover contemporary art pieces from Japan in lacquer, metal, ceramics and textiles, featuring such artists as Shinya Yamamura, who was in London to give a short talk at the gallery stand [16 + 17]. Lucy Johnson’s large stand had very beautiful pieces of early English and continental furniture and modern British paintings. Her knowledgeable staff made me feel very much at home and was most helpful. I was most attracted to a 17th century walnut and ebony Italian tabletop cabinet of small drawers placed on an acrylic stand. Totally divine! [18 + 19] On the way towards the main entrance was Wakelin & Linfield’s stand, featuring a very elegant 19th century Japanese screen, 19th century English furniture and Chinese blue and white export ware ceramics [20]. At M & J Duncan’s stand were two outstanding pieces of furniture. The 1830s centre table from Sri Lanka had a spiral design top, inlaid with ivory and ebony and various veneer specimens. Its tripod base was modelled with goose heads bearing depository labels for “T. Johnson & Sons Ltd/Belfast”. The other piece was an exceptionally fine oval-shaped mahogany George III wine cooler attributed to Gillows [21]. Constantine Lindsay’s booth showcased several interesting 19th and 20th century British and European paintings [22] while over at Butchoff ’s very prominent stand was a pair of the most beautiful 19th century French gilded mirrors placed next to rather grand jardinières mounted on high pedestals to best effect [23]. It was soon time to leave the fair. The weather outside was exceptionally warm, inviting and just perfect for an early evening cocktail. No doubt, I shall return next year as London is one city that never fails to inspire and dazzle me, time and time again.

RAYMOND LEE RUNS XCEPTIONAL INTERIORS REFER TO STOCKISTS DIRECTORY FOR DETAILS ON XCEPTIONAL INTERIORS

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It’s not a gate, it’s a DELUX UniGate WHILE MANY HOMEOWNERS will give much thought to the design and beauty of their homes, very few will give a second thought to this most important part of their house. And this usually is a costly mistake, especially after a few years. So, what is this error that so many homeowners make? It’s neglecting their gates — choosing them last or going for cheap options without thinking of the damage and the drawbacks. As a result, they now have to deal with damaged flooring; easily brittle structures that come apart after exposure in the Malaysian weather and of course having to replace them quickly (which costs more money). The solution though is simple. Get it right the first time and save money, time and heartache. Introducing the DELUX UniGate — a revolutionary breakthrough in folding gate technology.

COST EFFECTIVE, ROBUST & NO FLOOR DAMAGE A conventional folding gate has tracks and every time your car leaves and enters your home, the tyres roll over these tracks causing wear and tear to the fl ooring under the track. In time, the track will come loose from the flooring and may even cause the folding gate to run out of the track. During the rainy seasons, these little ‘holes’ will become sources of a flooded driveway/courtyard. In addition, dirt and dried leaves from your garden can get stuck around the track. You will have to spend precious quality time cleaning. The DELUX UniGate eliminates these headaches. Since entering the market, the DELUX UniGate has become one of the best selling gates in Malaysia. Its trackless feature is one

reason why it’s such a favourite with homeowners nationwide. This means no damage to your flooring as well as no more worries from flooding or having to sweep daily to keep a neat and presentable front gate. The trackless feature also means the gate is able to open to more than 100 degrees — allowing easy access to/from your driveway or courtyard. Your car is safe from accidental nicks and scratches. The DELUX UniGate is made out of lightweight, anti-rust materials with a 24-point wall locking system. It also comes with a Double Safety Feature, which allows you to trigger a panic alarm via remote control. DELUX has taken the extra initiative to make the UniGate child friendly, by incorporating an auto reverse sensor, to detect the presence of children in the vicinity of the gate. It also has a child lock system, so your little ones can’t open the gate unintentionally. With more than 100 designs to choose from, you have a whole range of colours and styles that is sure to complement your home. UniGate’s latest design uses grade 304 stainless steel and glass, to create a modern yet elegant looking contemporary ambience. Each UniGate comes with a one (1) year warranty and is extendable up to 10 years. It has also been awarded the Certificate of Grant of Patent by the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) (MY-144605-A). Come visit our showrooms located in IOI Mall Puchong and Penang. Our friendly consultants and designers will help you find your dream house gate. Or call us at 603-8063 8804 (KL) or 013-220 8804 or 604-501 5147 (Penang) or visit our website www.mydelux.com.my for more information.

advertorial 14

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A platform for local artists

KITAKITA CRAFTS A UNIQUE NICHE MARKET TEXT. WONG MEI KAY

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PHOTOGRAPHY. HARIS HASSAN

Clockwise from top KitaKita carries a unique selection of traditional and contemporary crafts • Intricately handpainted ferns on Lesung bowls by Roshﬁn • Miniature shoe wood carvings by Anai Creation

NESTLED SNUGLY IN the bustling middle-class suburb of Bukit Damansara, in Kuala Lumpur, KitaKita is shaping up to be a gem not only for art collectors, but local artists as well. The shop itself is not large — just 700 sq ft of stark white layout set in a contemporary design. But it is not short of unusual and quaint oﬀerings. The simplicity of the décor is enhanced by the strategic use of glass displays as well as hanging glass shelves that allow more natural light into the already well-lit shop, giving the humble shop an illusion of space. KitaKita was founded in December 2010 by Nori Abdullah Badawi, Mona Jamaluddin, Hana Jamaluddin and Pam Shahril, a group with a deep passion for local handicraft and art, and a desire to preserve, create a new platform and introduce local artists to a wider audience. The name KitaKita is derived from the Malay word “Kita”, meaning “we” or “us”. If the names of some of the founders sound a tad familiar, it’s because Nori is the daughter of former prime minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi while Mona and Hana are the sisters of Nori’s husband, Khairy Jamaluddin.

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The founders of KitaKita ( from left ) Pam Shahril, Hana Jamaluddin, Nori Abdullah Badawi and Mona Jamaluddin

BLEND OF MODERN AND TRADITIONAL

A glance across the shop reveals a blend of both modern and traditional elements. Nori says the team opted for a simple and clean interior to ensure that the main focus of visitors will be the work of the local artists. So from where did they source the unique items featured in their shop? “We are very careful about the crafts we feature in KitaKita. Everything in the shop is handpicked and loved by us. We try to feature a selection of both modern and traditional arts and crafts. “During the initial stages, we had to look for artists through contacts, word of mouth and even through etsy.com [an international e-commerce site for arts and crafts]. After that, we would set up a meeting with the artists — some of us actually ﬂew to diﬀerent parts of Malaysia to visit them before signing them up. It was all very exciting!” Nori says. But as the shop’s reputation grew, she said they didn’t have to go to such lengths to convince artists to feature their works in KitaKita; artists started approaching KitaKita to join the cause. What is the price range of the items in KitaKita, and who sets the prices? Nori says the items range from RM4 to RM4,000, depending on the size, the amount of time it took to make the item and the nature of the craft. All the prices are set by the craftsmen themselves.

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KitaKita only charges a commission (also determined by the artists) of 25% to 30%. The team has plans to contribute 10% of their proﬁts to society. The ladies say that most of the purchases were for gifts as handicrafts lend a personal touch to any occasion due to their unique features. Thus, each item comes with a label that provides brief information on the artist and his brand to add value and increase awareness of the artist. A deep love for crafts is apparent in all of the ladies behind KitaKita. “Sometimes we do get attached to certain pieces and feel slightly sad when they are sold, but then again this is quickly replaced by gladness that our eﬀorts are appreciated,” Nori says.

A REFLECTION OF ‘OUR CULTURE’

What is the criteria for an artist to showcase his works in KitaKita? “Well, there aren’t any particular guidelines but most importantly, the artist’s crafts must reﬂect our culture.” Nori cites the example of a brand named Gadis Manis, founded by a French lady who married a local. Gadis Manis is

1 Royal Selangor arabica coffee scoops 2 Roshﬁn handpainted Pucuk Rebung vases 3 Jurema king palm platter 4 Lollipop Ulat chocker by Livan 5 Handmade dollhouse set by Gadis Manis

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Top + Bottom The range of dining ware from the Nori Kebaya collection in KitaKita

a fashion and accessories brand with a unique local twist to its designs. As she talks about the brand, Nori goes across the room and shows me a handmade dollhouse set in a traditional nyonya house. The three main characters in the quaint dollhouse were of diﬀerent races, reﬂecting Malaysia’s ethnic diversity. What are the challenges in operating a themed shop? “Time is the main constraint when it comes to handmade goods. Sometimes we do get requests for large orders to be completed in a very short time. But of course it is rather impossible to obtain the same level of quality if an order is rushed. I suppose people have to learn to understand and respect that,” Nori points out.

On the local arts and crafts scene, she says: “Malaysian handicraft is very beautiful and rich, but very much undervalued. Our local craftsmen are a very talented bunch, and it would sadden me if their craft were to die with them — they should pass down their skills! “Also, the ability to innovate and incorporate modern designs and culture into their work without losing too much of their traditional elements is very important to ensure that their craft remains relevant to the times.” So what are the ladies’ plans for KitaKita? “The response was good last year and hopefully, we can grow more. There are some plans to market KitaKita to a wider audience through social media. In the meantime, this is where we are — in our little store in Bukit Damansara,” Nori says. The current artists featured in KitaKita are Anai Creation, Angelic Quirk, Artrageously Ramsay, Azraei Azzadin, Blank Canvas Design, Borneo Rocks, Bremen W Catbun, Eddie Yap, Edric Ong, Emikaz & Katrina, Gadis Manis, Gadong Weaves, Galeri Seri Endon, Inkypots, Jendela KL, Jurema, Khalid Batik, The Kinder Soap Company, KitaKita, Lepar Works, Livan, MAGIC, MaLay Tan, Mohd Roslan Ahmad, The Nori Kebaya Range, Nukilan, Roshﬁn, Royal Pahang Tenun, Royal Selangorr, Royal Terengganu Songket, Salaam Wanita, Terusi Art Studio and Touch of Clay. REFER TO STOCKISTS DIRECTORY FOR DETAILS OF KITAKITA

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TEXT. ROSALYNN POH

PHOTOGRAPHY. KENNY YAP

Picture-perfect

INTERIOR DESIGNER RAZIF SHAMSUDIN HAS MADE HIMSELF A HOME FILLED WITH ALL HIS FAVOURITE THINGS THE FIRST QUESTION that comes to mind when you see this terraced house in the mature neighbourhood of Taman Tun Dr Ismail in Kuala Lumpur is, “Where’s the gate?” Still, the gateless entrance to the house looks inviting with its low wall and a giant silver-and-glass hurricane lamp on it. The original design of the house’s façade looks mostly untouched, but there is a simple elegance to the completely white outside walls and trim lawn with an evergreen pine tree and a moss-covered water bowl from Bali. The commanding black wooden main door with a large carved doorknob right in the middle gives a hint of possible treasures

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From left The gateless entrance of the house in Taman Tun Dr Ismail â&#x20AC;˘ The picturesque front garden with rattan lookalike chairs and a moss-covered water bowl from Bali â&#x20AC;˘ A peek into the house from the main door

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beyond. Indeed, there is a feast for the eyes inside as one notices the combination of various types of furniture that somehow blend harmoniously. Stepping into the house is like being transported from the tropics to Europe. Although the overall theme seems to be classical European, homeowner and interior designer Razif Shamsuddin says the interior décor is a mix and match of furnishings and décor items from around the world. There are numerous comfortable living spaces created throughout the warm and inviting home, all showcasing Razif’s beautiful collection of paintings and European antiques. Two art pieces at the landing leading to the back of

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the house — one by an Indonesian artist and the other by an Argentinian — catch the eye as you enter the house. The one by the Argentinian is a 3-D masterpiece, simple in its hues of grey yet enchanting because the use of raw stones gives it a three-dimensional effect. The Indonesian painting, which takes up almost the entire wall, looks more like an architectural piece with unending geometric swirls. Meanwhile, a brightly coloured Renaissance-style painting is fitted perfectly into the corner of the main living area. Indeed, Razif’s collection of paintings anchors the different spaces. The main sitting area is stylishly Parisian with its classy neutral palette, a plush couch and classic upright

Clockwise from left The main living area showcases a harmonious blend of European antiques including a 17th century chandelier, an old urn from Paris and striking paintings from Argentina, France and Russia â&#x20AC;˘ A reproduction of a stunning, old framed mirror and an antique mahogany daybed â&#x20AC;˘ The landing area has two beautiful paintings from Indonesia and Argentina, a Scandinavian dining table and woven horse hair chairs from Argentina

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Clockwise from top left The cozy 10ft by 10ft kitchen with terracotta walls is accompanied by another living space • The sitting area, near the kitchen area, also features a huge French antique mirror • The playfully attractive painting in the sitting area designed by Razif, the classic fan from Thailand and the leather weaved sleeper chair give the kitchen and sitting area a resort feel • Clever use of collapsible tables to save space are utilised for sit-down dinners for 20 pax • The white washed backyard area where the owner has his breakfast and does his washing looks far from most typical terraced backyards. It even spots a lion fountain head from the Philippines

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chairs. A painting, a charming chandelier with slender spokes and an antique wooden cabinet/dresser displaying four pots that Razif had hand-carried from Egypt complete the picture. In a cosy corner in the living room is a mahogany daybed that Razif says is an 18th century European antique. Above it is an ornate, reproduced oval mirror while next to it stands a 17th century lamp. The kitchen and dining area has a country-cottage look with terracotta walls that remind one of South America. A wooden beam runs across the ceiling, adding to the cottage feel. The warm colours also make a great background for a display of wallmounted, stark-white decorative plates collected from all over the world. Razif, who makes clever use of space with the help of collapsible tables, says he hosts a lot of parties and his guests are able to sit all over the house. In fact, he has hosted parties where 20 guests were able to have a proper sit-down dinner. The 10ft by 10ft kitchen opens into yet another sitting area at the back. It boasts a huge mirror that reďŹ&#x201A;ects the quaint back-garden patio complete

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with a white-washed table and chairs and a lion fountain head decor piece on the wall which Razif purchased from the Philippines. Surprisingly, there is no back fence or wall unlike most typical terraced homes in the country. The back of this particular home “opens” straight onto the back lane. Razif says he is in the midst of installing blinds for the area. “All the things you see in this house were accumulated over 20 years. I love everything I have on display in my home. I do not believe in furnishing a house for the sake of doing it. I ﬁnd little things here and there during my travels. Some 99% of the things here did not come oﬀ shelves,” Razif says. A furniture designer himself, Razif is one for upholding individualism. When he designs furniture for his clients, it is one of a kind, he says. Razif is also in the business of importing furniture to supply to numerous outlets in the country. He believes all styles, whether Balinese, English, modern or Parisian, have their charm and it is up to the individual to choose what makes them most comfortable. “It is important to be true to yourself and choose a style that is you and based on your lifestyle. An interior designer should not impose his likes on his clients. We see

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Clockwise from left The staircase leading to the upper ﬂoor showcases a lovely collection of paintings including an antique one bought from an auction in Madrid and another from local artist Latif Maulan • An antique secretary table from France with a collection of ornaments Razif bought from Europe, weave fabrics from Turkey and an intriguing painting by Spanish artist Alberto Morago • Homeowner and designer Mohd Razif Shamsudin

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Top + right One of the rooms upstairs features a Scandinavian looking living space which doubles up as a guest room, complete with 1940 Art Deco pieces, a Scandinavian wall clock and a couch which opens up into a Queen bed • The beautiful upstairs living room has an eye catching faux book case and a lovely framed mirror adding to the cosy feel of the room

SOME DESIGN TIPS BY RAZIF:

Make it your own. There is no need to immediately furnish your house. Start with the basic furniture and slowly add on.

Don’t buy a house you do not like just to make drastic changes to the structure.

Don’t ask for big windows all over the house just to spend thousands of ringgit covering them with thick curtains for privacy.

Any style is nice. Learn to mix and match them.

Collapsible furniture (tables) is great for saving space and you can open them up for parties.

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a lot of houses that are furnished by designers and while they do look beautiful, they do not reﬂect the owner’s style. Make it your own — that is what is important,” he comments. Nevertheless, Razif believes it is essential for homeowners to get professional consultation before embarking on any renovation or having anything done to their homes. As you make your way upstairs, you cannot help but admire the numerous paintings on display along the stairway, including one that was acquired at an auction in Madrid. The living area upstairs is a continuation of Razif’s “art gallery” with an intriguing piece from Spain painted by Alberto Morago as well as other beautifully framed paintings and photographs. In the spacious master bedroom is a lovely French faux ﬁreplace. A huge painting that was purchased in India takes pride of place above it. The bedroom opens out to a quaint balcony overlooking the front garden. Across the master bedroom is another sitting room-

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Top The spacious master bedroom has a lovely faux French ﬁreplace with another stunning painting bought from India, as well as old framed prints strategically placed as a camouﬂage to the built-in wardrobe Right This beautiful wicker bed is a stunning piece reproduction of an antique piece

cum-TV room and guest room, with a couch that opens up into a Queen-sized bed. “The room is perfect for movie nights or just lounging around with my friends,” Razif says. There is also a pretty blue-and-white room next to the guest room that is his sister’s and features a lovely remake of an antique wicker bed. Razif reveals that apart from demolishing the front perimeter wall and removing the (ground floor) toilet, the rest of the home is as how he bought it more than 20 years ago. All in all, every part of this home is well planned and picture-perfect, like it came right out of an interior decoration magazine! It certainly has a lot of comfortable spaces, all seeming to vie for the homeowner’s attention.

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The deference to old world design is initiated from the passageway leading up to the front entrance of the apartment

Old

world chic

RICH IN FAMILY HISTORY, THE INTERIOR OF THIS APARTMENT DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM A BYGONE ERA TEXT. ANITA KANDHAVEL

PHOTOGRAPHY. PATRICK GOH

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Clockwise from top left An antique sewingmachine stand gets a new lease of life as a console table in the charming foyer • Warm and intimate, the interior retains an atmosphere of old world charm • A mosaic of Peranakan tiles adds an element of interest to an exterior wall • Potted plants bring colour and life to a quiet nook in one of the terraces

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SITUATED WITHIN THE Trellises Apartments in Kuala Lumpur’s Taman Tun Dr. Ismail is a duplex penthouse that wears a distinct and charming personality. The same can be said of the penthouse’s lady owner whose effervescence is stamped upon the fabric of this quaint and vibrant home. Highlighted in lively hues, the interior of the penthouse projects various impressions. From paying homage to a nostalgic past to celebrating its owner’s interests and pursuits, the home is an honest expression of the owner’s sense of joie de vivre. “I don’t have a decorating style per se. My design approach is simple — comfort is of primary importance. I believe that if I am at ease and comfortable in my own home, then my guests will be too. However, since I have a penchant for period pieces, it follows that my home reflects this preference,” says the affable owner, who heads her own public relations and communications firm. The deference to old world design is immediately evident from the passageway

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Clockwise from left Paired with a mix of seating, a small kopitiam table bridges the kitchen and living spaces • A bedroom has been converted into a social cum dining area • A quirky terracotta pot captures the owner’s sense of fun

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leading to the entrance of the apartment, and follows through to the main door. Inspired by old Straits Settlement stained-glass windows, the colourful bespoke door with its matching frame serves as an eloquent introduction to the apartment’s appreciation of a bygone era. A small yet charismatic foyer opens into a living area, which features an open plan design with an integrated kitchen. Displaying a quirky mix of period furniture, colonial light ﬁxtures and whimsical objets d’art, the cosy interior is decorated with wooden accents, warm tones and an array of paintings that colour the apartment beautifully. Much of the furniture is family heirlooms that were passed down to the owner by her parents. These sentimental favourites not only anchor the décor in diﬀerent parts of the apartment but also add an organic touch of old world charm to the home. Take for example the restored bamboo planter’s chair that sits in a preferred nook of the living area. The old-fashioned lazy chair that belonged to her father is positioned to allow a view of the adjoining garden terrace, and presents a tempting proposition for anyone looking to curl up and unwind. “This is where I have

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The stairwell presents a perfect backdrop for the owner’s own artwork

my morning coffee since the chair brings back so many cherished memories. As a child, my sister and I would sit on the armrests on either side of our father and chat about everything under the sun,” explains the owner. With a built-up area of just under 2,000 sq ft, all the social, functional and living spaces (apart from the master bedroom) — including two generously sized terraces that provide magnificent views of the surroundings — are on the lower floor. Dedicated to the top floor, the huge master bedroom also boasts a large private terrace. The interior of the home benefits from excellent ventilation and plenty of indirect natural light, courtesy of several windows and large sliding doors. High ceilings, not a common trait in most apartments, enhance the sense of spaciousness. “I am a compulsive refresher and regularly tweak the interior. Besides, I am always picking up mementos from my travels and have a need to shift things around until I’m satisfied with a setting. On the plus side, this predilection allows me to de-clutter my stuff,” remarks the owner. “However, most of the artwork is my own or that of my friends and so my connection to these works is as important to me as the works themselves.” The owner has imaginatively exhibited some of her paintings along the staircase, which doubles as an impromptu gallery, while other pieces have been put on

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display in her bedroom. Set off against the rich sheen of Burmese teak flooring and the mature patina of antique heirlooms, the bright paintings inject an enthusiastic burst of colours among the predominantly warm wood tones of the bedroom. Having lived in the apartment for the past 17 years, however, the owner has decided that it is now time to relocate. “I’m planning ahead and moving into a singlestorey unit in a nearby condominium to prepare for the onslaught of my decrepit years,” she says, tongue firmly in cheek. When we wonder out loud if the décor of her new home will differ when she moves in, the owner simply replies, “I believe that a home should be a distillation of one’s interests and personality. Suffice it to say, the interior décor of my new apartment will not be contemporary!”

Clockwise from top Many of the antiques in the master bedroom are inherited pieces â&#x20AC;˘ Contemporary artwork lives in harmony with period furniture in the master bedroom â&#x20AC;˘ The staircase is accentuated with pops of colour from paintings and objets dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;art

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[

TEXT + PHOTOGRAPHY. RAYMOND LEE

]

When in Rome….

INTERIOR DESIGNER RAYMOND LEE STAYS AT THE HOTEL EDEN AND ENJOYS A SPECTACULAR MEAL AT ITS LA TERRAZZA RESTAURANT

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Top Italy’s Hotel Eden Roma is a study in elegance and classic understatement This picture The gardens of Villa Borghese with a view of the Trinita dei Monti and St Peters Basilica in the distance

OPENED BY MUNICHBORN hotelier Francesco Nistelweck and Berta Hassler in 1889, Italy’s Hotel Eden Roma is a study in elegance and classic understatement. Located next to the largest garden of Villa Borghese, it is a 10-minute walk from the Spanish Steps and Via Veneto. On the quiet end of Via Ludovisi, the location of the property is not apparent until you make your way up to the rooftop terrace where the view is breathtaking and the sunsets legendary. It is said that Italian film director Federico Fellini always chose the Eden Terrace to give interviews. When you look out, the vista is amazing. You gaze at the gardens of Villa Borghese and can see most of Rome with a view of the Trinita dei Monti and St Peters Basilica in the distance. The terrace was used years ago to hang out the hotel’s linen, sheets and towels. Now, it shares the space with a magnificent wine cellar called Le Caveau, which stores some of the best wines Italy has to offer. Some special guests who have made the Eden Roma their home away from home are Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Emma Thompson, Naomi Campbell, Gwyneth Paltrow, Anthony Hopkins and Martin Scorsese, to name but a few.

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Clockwise from left The Eden Terrace offers an amazing view of the city • The long bar is where one can enjoy pre-lunch or predinner drinks while taking in the view • The cool, calm interior of La Terrazza

The Eden Roma is diminutive compared with the many grand hotels in this eternal city. After all, it has only 121 rooms. After a quick walk through the elegantly decorated lobby, which is filled with fine Italian antiques, you are whisked up to the sixth floor via an elevator. Greeted by a small foyer, you can proceed to the long bar for a pre-lunch or pre-dinner drink. Here, it is already apparent why the view is deemed priceless. It is a joy to take in while nibbling on some mixed nuts and enjoying a martini. La Terrazza Restaurant is next to the long bar and offers views that are just as spectacular. The design and décor of the establishment is understated and elegant. Plush and comfortable also come to mind. Starched white linen tablecloths sit on tables surrounded by padded dining chairs upholstered in luxurious cut velvet. The walls are a calming silvery grey colour dotted with decorative wall sconces and a few simple old-fashioned art deco posters that do not compete with the view. The restaurant is not particularly large and seats up to 70 diners. It is open every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While waiting for my food to arrive, I decided to walk out to the Eden Terrace, the alfresco section of the restaurant. If not for the scorching heat (it was at least 30°C) and the glare of the sun, I would have chosen to sit out there.

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Left Eden Roma’s executive chef Fabio Ciervo

Back in the air-conditioned comfort of the dining room, I was greeted by Eden Roma’s new executive chef, Fabio Ciervo. Hailing from Benevento, near Naples, Fabio was famed restaurateur Michel Roux’s second-incommand at the Waterside Inn in Bray, England, from 2007. The Waterside Inn has been a three Michelinstarred restaurant for 25 consecutive years. I was most fortunate to have this very talented young chef (he is only 32), who had just come on board Eden Roma, cook for me. Prior to his tenure at the Waterside Inn, Fabio had worked at some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants such as the Three-Roses at The Grosvenor House in London, the two Michelin-starred Cracco in Milan and Martin Berastegui’s three-star San Sebastian in Spain. Fabio is inspired by food from all cultures. Having learned the virtues of Italian food early in life, Fabio learned how to pay special attention to the choice of spices and the importance of delicate cooking from the Orient while France taught him the art of making wonderful sauces. He then explored the futuristic developments now fashionable in Spain. All this, combined with his passion and talent, make for the hallmark of ﬁne dining at La Terrazza.

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From the moment the amuse bouche was presented to the light delicate taste of the Frascati white wine [1], I knew it was going to be a most enjoyable culinary experience. The amuse bouche was a sesame seed-crusted biscuit cone ﬁlled with creamy wasabi, infused with mayonnaise and cherry tomato, topped with finely chopped squid sashimi, drenched with lemon juice and crowned with a spoonful of caviar [2]. It was as delightful to look at as it was to eat.

The starter — seasonal zucchini blossoms stuffed with ricotta and taleggio cheese, black olives and tomatoes [3] — was just the thing to enjoy in the early days of autumn. Lightly battered in tempura style — crispy on the outside and creamy inside — a light pesto sauce and fresh basil gave this dish a refreshing flavour. Next up was the ravioli filled with Vesuvian cherry tomatoes, burrata cheese bottarga and aged parmesan emulsion flavoured with lavender. It was exquisite and one of the most enjoyable pasta dishes I had ever eaten [4]. The main course of red mullet served with Mediterranean crust marinated potatoes, seaweed tartare and kalamata olives came beautifully plated. Perfectly cooked, the mullet was delicately flavoured and very fresh [5]. For dessert, I was offered a poached peach with strawberry sorbet and champagne emulsion on a bed of finely chopped summer fruit salad [6]. It was indeed the perfect end to a most wonderful meal. Of course, it helped that it was in a most elegant setting in one of the most historic cities of the western world. LA TERRAZZA Hotel Eden Via Ludovisi 49 00187 Rome Italy 1872.reservation@lemeridien.com www.hoteledenroma.com

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[

TEXT. WONG KING WAI PHOTOGRAPHY. COURTESY OF INCHSCAPE

A garden of peace, faith and hope

INCH LIM STRIKES A CHORD WITH THE PEOPLE FOR WHOM HE CREATED HIS SHOWPIECE IN THE 2011 GARDENING WORLD CUP

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]

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PROMINENT MALAYSIAN LANDSCAPE architect Inch Lim relishes the opportunity to create a garden that not only looks great but also touches the soul. In the 2011 Gardening World Cup held in the Huis Ten Bosch theme park in Nagasaki, Japan, last October — the second of an annual aﬀair — Lim’s show garden, christened Washinboutei Garden, was a great hit. It garnered him three awards — Gold, Best Design and Peace & Flower, which was the theme of the event. Lim explains that the criteria for the Gold award is similar to the ones used in the UK’s Chelsea Flower Show. According to the Chelsea Flower Show guidelines, to achieve the Gold award, gardens had to score 75% in ﬁve criteria: how closely the garden followed its own brief, which is given to the organisers prior to the event; overall impression; design; construction; and planting. The theme for the 2011 show — “Gardens for world peace and a prayer for Japanese recovery” — was interpreted with so much depth by Lim that many were touched when viewing his garden. Getting to showcase his talent on the international

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stage, where he competed against top-notch landscape architects from around the world, was true serendipity. Lim’s entry in the 2010 Singapore Garden Festival impressed the Gardening World Cup organisers so much that he was invited to showcase a garden at their event. What emerged from Lim’s creative mind was the Washinboutei Garden — which in Japanease means a garden of the three interconnected parts of peace, faith and hope — that featured an underwater bridge. “The Washinboutei Garden was a response to the grief and hopelessness [felt after an earthquake and tsunami devastated Fukushima Prefecture in Japan last year] because you’ve lost everything — your house, your family, everything,” explains Lim. “But underneath it all, a bridge comes along and it disappears under the black water. But you can walk to the other side because the bridge is only 2mm below water. Even though you can’t see it, you can walk across it. This means you have to walk with faith. You have a situation where there is nothing, the bridge is gone, but you have to have faith to walk across a really rough patch in your life and emerge on the other side.”

Clockwise from far left The winning Washinboutei Garden by Lim that incorporates three interconnected parts of peace, faith and hope • The red feature wall that symbolised the deadly tsunami wave • Lim who created a garden that touched the hearts of the people it was meant for • Walking on water, thanks to an underwater bridge

The 60ft by 20ft Washinboutei Garden was raised so that visitors, even those in wheelchairs, could have a better view of it, says Lim. It was divided into three segments. Peace, where everything was orderly, featured fifty 130ft tall mature phyllostachys edulis or in the local language, Moso bamboo. There were also raised mounds of moss — Lim says he wanted these to look like pillows. This segment of the garden symbolised Japan before the earthquake and tsunami. The metal underwater bridge was located in Faith, which also had dark plants like the chocolate cosmo and black calla lily, and a red feature wall that had a black moon and jagged points on top of it. The sharp points represented the waves that pierced the hearts of the Japanese in the aftermath of the natural disasters, Lim explains. Central to this segment was a Japanese weeping plum, locally called Sidare Ume (Latin name Prunus Mume), which added to the atmosphere of despair. Hope — which one entered after stepping off the underwater bridge — was filled with grass. “Grass is the first

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Top The dark waters and the jagged rift of the Faith garden symbolises the devastation of the Fukushima earthquake and tsunami Right In the Hope portion of the garden, grasses are seen in abundance as they are the ﬁrst to grow after a disaster

plant that grows after a disaster,” says Lim. Alongside the grass was new generation bamboo to symbolise a return to order. The type of grass planted included miscanthus sinensis variegates, pampas grass cortaderia selloana and the Japanese variety hakonechloa aureola. Lim had only about 10 days to complete the garden, but lack of time was not the only challenge he faced. “When I did my softscape planning, I sent a list to the organisers with pictures of all the plants I needed. And back came a couple of emails that said only three items on my list were available,” chuckles Lim, who had listed close to 100 plants. “So I arrived in Japan and was taken straight to the nurseries and spend days combing them for the plants I needed.” He was able to put everything together in the end, often working deep into the night to ensure his garden came out perfect. Ultimately, Lim’s hard work paid oﬀ. However, key

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CREATING THE WASHINBOUTEI GARDEN

1 Lim was given a bare patch of land to work with 2 The garden was elevated to allow visitors, especially those in wheelchairs, to have a better view of the garden 3 The Moso bamboo, some of which was 130ft tall 4 Chopsticks were used to fill the gaps in the moss that was laid in the garden 5 The Faith portion of the garden before the underwater bridge was fully submerged

to his win was what came from deep within him. “Most gardens are done for visual and perhaps olfactory eﬀect rather than as things that are intellectual and philosophical,” he says. “I brought in a new dimension and interpreted the garden far more deeply than most people would have. I would call this philosophical gardening — taking a deeper look at what gardens should mean to people and how they should aﬀect people.” The Washinboutei Garden certainly touched the hearts of many who visited it. Tears were shed as visitors, espe-

cially the Japanese, recognised the message that Lim tried to convey. In fact, one visitor told Lim that she would be sending a photograph of it to those still living in Fukushima Prefecture as a sign of encouragement. While Lim is happy that he won three awards in the 2011 Gardening World Cup, he says he is prouder of the fact that the message of hope in his show garden struck a chord with many. “I created a garden that actually touched the hearts of the people it was meant for.”

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INDOCHINE STYLE by Barbara Walker Photography by Jay Graham Published by Marshall Cavendish Price: RM98.90 ISBN: 978-981-4351-38-6

A rich and colourful journey through a world inspired by Indian, Chinese and French traditions, this book showcases the best of Vietnamese and Laotian architecture, interiors and crafts. With over 250 stunning photographs accompanied by insights into Indochina culture, imagery and artistry, Indochine Style delivers a feast for the eyes.

HOW TO GARDEN: GROWING ROSES By Alan Titchmarsh Photography by various personnel Published by BBC Books, an imprint of Ebury Publishing, a Random House Group Company Price: RM36.90 ISBN: 978-1-84-607408-0

While a good index allows one to wade through large amounts of information to weed out the answer to one’s problems, sometimes a smaller, more focused book is more practical. This is where How to Garden: Growing Roses comes in. The information contained within the book is straightforward and easy to understand, includes suggestions on the best plants and varieties to grow in particular situations and for a particular effect. The information is to the point so readers can make quick and easy references.

TROPICAL INTERIORS by Elizabeth V Reyes Photography by A Chester Ong Published by Periplus Editions (HK) Ltd Price: RM128 ISBN: 978-0-7946-0019-0

Harnessing both Asian and Latin-inspired styles and modern techniques, Tropical Interiors exhibits contemporary furniture and “authentic” furnishing items made from indigenous materials of the Philippines, including piña, abaca, capiz shell, bamboo, rattan and others. These contemporary items would be as at home in a New York loft as in a tropical paradise. In this book, readers may find decorating and shopping ideas for tropical elegance and flair, urban and eclectic themes and accents in a display that highlights the Philippine style that has become a global phenomenon.

BOOKS COURTESY OF MPH BOOKSTORES (www.mphonline.com)

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ALPHA IS SAFE AND ENERGY EFFICIENT The latest addition to the Alpha Smart series of water heaters — Hybrid Smart 18i — features a stunning, slim-bodied design created with the user’s safety and convenience in mind. Powered by a sophisticated microchip, the water heater runs a self-test on the internal circuit to check if there is any electricity leakage. If the system is safe to use, the five indicator lights turn green. If a problem is detected, the indicator lights turn red and start to blink, cutting off the power of the heater and alerting you to do repairs. The advanced inverter DC pump has also been improved, ensuring powerful water intake and silent operation, thanks to an ultra efficient motor; increased flow rate in comparison to the current market standard as well as maintenance-free usage. To top it all, you can expect energy savings of up to 55%. For more information, please contact (03) 5740 6666

MORE THAN JUST BEAUTIFUL WALLS Nippon Paint has come up with a first of its kind special effects decorative paint — Nippon Momento Wallpaper Paint. The innovative avant-garde decorative paint with rich colours and exquisite textures is akin to wallpaper finish by leveraging the unique and vast spectrum of textures, light reflections and tones. Nippon Momento comes in a selection of top coat finishes aptly named Elegant, Sparkle Pearl, Sparkle Silver and Sparkle Gold. The paint is formulated with low volatile organic compound, is free from formaldehyde and contains no lead or mercury, creating a healthier environment in homes. For more information, please contact (03) 5125 0888

GREEN ECONAVI KEEPS ROOMS COOL One can turn on the air conditioner without feeling guilty about incurring huge environmental costs with Panasonic’s Econavi series of 10 new models. This latest series has a sunlight detection feature that can detect and measure the sunlight and its intensity in a room using a sensor. On top of that, the models come with another ecologically sound feature that helps control air flow volume and room temperature by detecting human presence and level of activity and self-adjusts its cooling power to reduce energy waste. When combined, these two features can give energy savings of up to 50%. Certain models of the Econavi air conditioners also come with air-purifying systems for a cleaner living environment. For more information, please contact (03) 5543 7600/7809 7611

SHARP OFFERS 70 INCHES OF FLAT SCREEN GOODNESS The Sharp AQUOS 70 offers a full high-definition panel and is equipped with Sharp’s renowned Quattron 4 primary colour technology. Sharp is the only brand in the market now that offers 70-inch screens. The company’s Green Front Sakai is the only plant in the industry that fabricates the 10th generation mother glass substrate. In addition to AQUOS 70, Sharp has introduced an AQUOS Net TV line-up that comes with 3D — theLE835X Series. This comes in 40-inch, 46-inch, 52-inch and 60-inch sizes and is equipped with 3D and Quattron 4 primary colour technology. For more information, please contact (03) 5192 5678

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KitaKita G 1.10, 1 Jalan Medan Setia Bukit Damansara 50490 Kuala Lumpur Tel:(03) 2096 1323 http://www.kitakita.my Xceptional Interiors (Raymond Lee) Tel: (012) 398 8302 Email: Raymond@xceptional-interiors.com www.xceptional-interiors.com

SHOPPING HALO UGF-10, Bangsar Village 2 Jalan Telawi Satu, 59100 Kuala Lumpur Tel: (03) 2284 2822 Janine@Bangsar: Bangsar Shopping Centre S112 2nd Floor 285 Jalan Maarof Bukit Bandaraya 59000 Kuala Lumpur Tel: (03) 2094 9530 Fax: (03) 2094 9597 Janine@Great Eastern Mall Lot 9, Level One, Great Eastern Mall, 303 Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur Tel: (03) 4260 2743 Fax: (03) 4260 4437

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The Royal Doulton Bangsar Village Lot 2F-20, 2nd Floor Bangsar Village 2 No 2, Jalan Telawi 1 Bangsar Baru 59100 Kuala Lumpur Tel : (03) 2287 2818

GREENSCAPE Inchscape (Lim In Chong) 16, Jalan Sin Chew Kee Kuala Lumpur Email: inchlim@yahoo.com www.inchscape.com.my