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e d i to r ’ s n o t e
all tHe single ladies
Yo u n g l i m e d i to r
the best position to know the types of spaces each member of the family requires. Aside from that, it is also heartening to see more women in the design fraternity, who bring with them a new perspective to interior design, architecture and fields previously dominated by men. In this issue, we pay tribute to the women in our lives, by sharing ways that a home can be designed around the needs of the single lady. There are lots of articles focused on the design of a man cave, so it is time that we start a conversation on the creation of a home celebrating the bachelorette lifestyle. Enjoy!
photography AngelA guo art direction nonie chen
We have heard it before, that behind every successful man there is a woman. I don’t think we give the women in our lives enough credit when it comes to the roles they willingly take on in our lives, as mothers, sisters, wives, best friends, etc. When I joined the interior design industry, it also surprised me that it’s usually the women who take the lead in providing information about what they want in the design of their home, as well as the small details that need to be addressed during the renovation. I guess it makes sense because in many families it is common for the woman of the house to be a full-time housewife, and she would be in
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contents
NOveMber
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now
design news, places to v i s i t, t h i n g s t o b u y
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21 More than Meets the eye Help is here for homeowners who have always been disturbed by the sight of a gaping black rectangle taking centre stage in the living area.
h oT sp oT
22 Colour of the Month Yellow is a great colour you can use to bring out natural textures.
u river Cruises Ships with fresh, modern interiors and uber-cool itineraries shout out to younger travellers.
s ho p p i ng 24
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Dream Nashville A hotel experiencing a revival while paying tribute to its fascinating past.
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great buys Our monthly roundup of the hottest new design products for the home.
ne w sTo r e
30 sCene shang raffles hotel This homegrown furniture and design label launches its second store. 31 MoMa Design store The New York-based iconic brand has opened its largest Asian establishment.
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DreaM nashville Designed by Meyer Davis and located in Music City, USA, this hotel is experiencing a revival while paying tribute to its fascinating past. 36
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louise The latest restaurant developed by design maven Andre Fu of AFSO. 40
la Maison goutai French perfume house opened its first Asian flagship store in Hong Kong. 41
Wall stuDio Premium wall decoration specialist’s flagship store. 42
granD Cafe CapuCines Architects Hugo Toro and Maxime Liautard have given the restaurant a new lease of life with chic, modern decor.
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NOveMber
45
Lightness of Being French photographer Cerise Doucede suspends objects in midair, creating artworks that appear to be frozen in time.
p eo p L e
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lightness of being
vice president of the Orchid Society of South east Asia shares tips on growing orchids.
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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
French photographer Cerise Doucede suspends objects in midair, creating oneof-a-kind tableaus that appear frozen in time. 50
blaZing the trail
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regarded as one of Singapore’s leading contemporary artists, Suzann victor talks about her work and being a woman artist.
John elliott
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teaM builDing Siren Design group Singapore’s Penny Sloane pioneers workplace design in South-east Asia and beyond by creating thoughtful, engaging, fun spaces. 54
3 Days of Design After only six years, Danish festival 3 Days of Design has become a not-to-bemissed rendezvous for everyone interested in the Scandinavian creative scene.
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Jeanette aDrienne Wee Potter and founder of Adrienne Ceramics shares titbits about her personal life and her routine as a full-time creative. 60
there is no better tiMe to be a Designer Mark Wee shares his thoughts about the importance of the Skills Framework for Design program and how it can benefit both the workforce and local companies.
contents
NOveMber
on the cover
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A chic four-room BTO designed with the homeowners lifestyle and personalities in mind. PHOTOgrAPHY Veronica tay STYLINg noni e cH en
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sense & sensuality Design Intervention principal Nikki Hunt’s apartment in London, pays homage to the property’s grand architecture, while fostering a sense of fun befitting a holiday home. 72
one for the teaM Like a marriage, designing a home requires a collaborative effort for the best results. 80
starting froM sCratCh Uncover clever features in this minimalist home designed by its owners.
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art anD soul This couple wanted their home to mirror their artistic sensibilities. 94
style in harMony The look of this bachelorette apartment is the result of a close collaboration between an interior designer and a feng shui master.
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private hiDeaWay Ingenious spatial planning and methods of concealment create this sanctuary of a home.
Homes the new modern
contents
November
features T h e L aT e s T i n D e s i g n anD Decor TrenDs
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For Her Only Who says women only go for pink and pastels when it comes to their choice of interior styles.
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f e at u r e
p r o p e rt y
FOR HER ONLY Get inspired by these bachelorette pads that are anything but predictable.
5 quESTiONS TO aSk YOuR HDb RESaLE FLaT SELLER A list of useful questions from property agents and home buyers.
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SpacE FOR paSSiON The evolution of the modern woman’s lifestyle includes making space and time for personal passions.
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EDiTOR’S NOTE 18
H&D.cOm.Sg 19 DigiTaL EDiTiON ExcLuSivES 114 iN STORE 116 wHERE TO buY 118
buYiNg guiDE 120
THE HaRD TRuTH
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Home & Decor is published by SPH Magazines Pte Ltd, 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre, Annexe Block Level 8, Singapore 318994, Tel: 6319-6319, Fax: 6319-6345 Distributed by Circulation Department, Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, Singapore registration no.: 197801823M. SPH Magazines registration no: 196900476M MCI (P) 098/03/2019
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insta-worthy bachelor pad Every angle of this house is pictureperfect. www.tinyurl.com/hdinstapad
a semi-detached house with two staircase designs Communal spaces and bedrooms are kept separate with the use of staircases. https://tinyurl.com/twostaircasedesigns
homeanddecor .com.sg
Check out popular blog posts of the month more inTerior sTyles from our online image library
This monTh on our bedrooms To die for board‌ www.pinTeresT.com/ homeanddecorsg
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IN THE NOVEMBER DIGITAL ISSUE… ALL MAXED OUT Award-winning local designer Nikki Hunt’s Knightsbridge home in London is not for the faint of heart!
BONUS GALLERIES & VIDEOS VINTAGE TENNESSEE Check into Nashville’s latest boutique hotel and restaurants.
ALL IN THE FAMILY Take a video tour of this family’s new abode, filled with plenty of light and modern design elements. 19
DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN P. L . INTERIOR DESIGN & CONSULTANCY DESIGN & BUILD | ADDITIONS & ALTERATIONS WW W.DW ELL.CO M .SG
RIVER VALLEY | 11 KIM YAM ROAD | T 6883 1005 | TALKTOUS@DWELL.COM.SG BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
d e s i g n n e w s , p l a c e s t o v i s i t, t h i n g s t o b u y
More than Meets the eye
is the perfectionist in you disturbed by the sight of a gaping black rectangle taking centre stage in the living room whenever the TV is switched off? Then you need to check out danish av tech maker bang & olufsen’s
Beovision Harmony. The screen slips behind two sound-system panels housed in oak and aluminium when it is switched off. when you’re in the mood to catch your favourite series, the panels fan out like butterfly wings, and the screen rises at the tap of a button on the remote. Within seconds, the stunning 77-inch lg oled c9 screen, complemented by a state-of-art three-channel dsp-based sound system, comes to life, delivering ultra-sharp images with optimum brightness and crystal-clear sound quality. the beovision harmony can also be used to stream music wirelessly from your mobile device through apple airplay, Chromecast built-in or Bluetooth. it also accesses media service providers such as Netflix, Amazon and youtube through the lg webOS 4.5 platform. the beovision harmony is a one-touch answer to getting a picture-perfect setting, on screen and off, making it the must-have for the homeowner who deserves nothing but the best in life. Beovision Harmony retails for $36,000 and is available in standing and wall-mounted options from Bang & Olufsen. Visit Bang & Olufsen Grand Hyatt at 10 Scotts road, or call 6737-7500.
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c o lo u r o f t h e m o n t h
c o lo u r o f the month pantone 1205C
B u t t e r yS m o ot h We’ve all heard the rhyme Yellow, Yellow, Dirty Fellow, which probably explains why the shade may not be popular. However, as we approach the end of the year – and while landscapes in the western hemisphere are bathed in autumnal hues – we’re seeing a growing demand for this particular shade among trendy homeowners. Such a mellow yellow conjures up images of a dusky sunset as seen through tinted glasses behind steam rising from a cup of piping hot tea. In the living room, this subdued yellow evokes a calming ambience and helps to balance out the other colours in the space. It also adds a sense of depth, making the room feel roomier.
pantone 7612C
pantone 7500C
Mellow yellow brings out the elegant curves of mid-centuryinspired furniture such as this console from Essential Home.
the expert says
Won g L i a ngyua n Colour Specialist, Haven Lifestyle
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“Yellow can be a difficult colour to match and that’s why a lot of people shy away from using it altogether. However, it is a great colour when you are looking to bring out natural textures, such as wood or ceramic and porcelain. There is a sensuality about it, which can be easily brought out as long as you temper it with contrasting hues such as dark brown or black.”
LUXE & LIMITED In a collaboration with Larry Peh, founder and creative director of award-winning design firm &Larry, who was inspired by Wonder Woman’s “invisible” plane, local furniture brand Scene Shang has created a limited edition of its signature Shang System with clear acrylic drawers and beech wood table top and legs. The limited edition is priced at $2,899 and available exclusively at Scene Shang Raffles Hotel, #02-09, 328 North Bridge Rd. For more information: www.shop.sceneshang.com.
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TRENDING 2
TRINKET TROVES These gorgeous jewellery holders add extra shine to your favourite accessories.
1. Leaf up Mame dish by Akamu, US$20 (S$28), from The Artling. 2. Porcelain Acorn Trinket Box Small: Woodland, $16.99, from kikki.K. 3. Legacy
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Bonbonniere, 160mm in chromiumplated zinc alloy, $150, from Georg Jensen. 4. Star Eye hand-shaped trinket tray, $970, from Gucci.
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SuperSize me Once again, Brit designer Paul Smith has teamed with well-loved lighting brand Anglepoise. In this fourth collaboration, Smith’s signature colour-blocked rendering of the Type 75 lamp takes on a more autumnal scheme with deep burgundy, leaden grey and dappled green. The new collection includes a floor lamp size, a first in the collaboration, and a statement wherever you place it. Anglepoise lamps are available at Million Lighting, 203 Kallang Bahru.
All in one Cafe-based Poppy Flora Studio’s new home is not simply an expansion. Its large (2,800sq ft) space in Dempsey Hill is a nature-inspired destination where bouquets and arrangements are made, and workshops and intimate events are organised. Poppy Flora Studio is located at 9A Dempsey Road.
lifeguArd duty A private pool might be on most people’s wish list, but drowning incidents remain a major concern as they occur more often in private pools than in public ones. Coral Manta is a solar-powered computer vision drowning detection system (CVDDS) that watches your pool around the clock as well as sends alarms and alerts to your mobile devices when it detects sinking bodies. The Coral Manta retails for $3,999 from Aquatech. Visit www. aquatech-international.com and www. coraldrowningdetection.com for more information on the device.
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ELEGANT EXPRESSIONS Beauty meets functionality in Christofle’s Graphik collection of barware. Made of silverplated metal, the range includes wine glasses, champagne flutes,
a wine stand, a carafe coaster, a bottle coaster, a corkscrew, a silicone cork, a Bacchus drip ring and even a cork box that can be personalised and engraved.
Christofle’s Graphik collection starts at €57 (S$86) for a champagne flute or water glass to €465 (S$703) for a crystal whisky decanter. Available at Christofle stores worldwide and www.christofle.com.
DESIGNER DRINK Italian appliance maker Smeg has rolled out yet another product to woo the growing ranks of coffee lovers. Rendered in its iconic ’50s silhouette and pastel shades, the drip filter coffee machine allows you to select the aroma intensity of a richly-flavoured cup of joe. Its Auto Start function means your coffee is ready for you first thing in the morning. The Smeg DCF02 retails from $298 and is available at www.smegshop.sg.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
MODERN VISION Danish silverware brand Georg Jensen’s Bernadotte Living Collection of dinnerware and decor pays homage to a former contributing designer. Way ahead of his time, Sigvard Bernadotte introduced clean, geometric shapes and symmetric patterns that ran counter to the 1930s Art Deco movement. The stainless steel vases, serving plates and other items will appeal to the contemporary user with their modern language, despite the fact that the designs were conceived decades ago. The Bernadotte collection, ranging from $60 to $360, is at Georg Jensen, #B1-03A Ngee Ann City, and www.georgjensen.com/global.
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TILE OF THE MONTH ARTIST OF THE MONTH
RETRO MODE
Suzann Victor
Nostalgic for the terrazzo floors of the HDB flats of yore? Recreate the good old times with these tiles from Rice, which reflect the range of colours and sizes of the original crushed marble floors that originated in Venice.
A multimedia installation artist born in Singapore and trained in Australia, Suzann is known for her kinetic works that move in space. Widely regarded as one of Singapore’s leading contemporary artists, she is one of 11 female artists who will be presenting their
works in the major exhibition, Shaping Geographies: Art | Woman | Southeast Asia, that opens later this month. Shaping Geographies: Art | Woman | Southeast Asia will run from Nov 24 to Dec 31, 2019, at Gajah Gallery Singapore.
Atlas Concorde Marble Gems porcelain tiles retail at Rice, 213 Henderson Road #01-03. Visit www.rice-fields.com.
Add to cart
Few things can compare to a night of restful sleep when you want to escape the stressors of daily life, and this web store has everything you need to slip into a deep slumber. Stocking natural French linens, from duvet covers to sleepwear, British online store Piglet helps prime your body and bed relaxation. Visit www. pigletinbed.com.
COFFEE, PLEASE! Enjoy a fresh brew at home with the Philips series’ latest, fully-automatic 3200 Lattego EP3246/70 Automatic Coffee Machine that does espresso, black coffee, Americano, cappuccino and latte macchiato. It also comes with a ceramic grinder and an aroma seal to keep beans fresh for longer. Philips 3200 Lattego EP3246/70 Automatic Coffee Machine retails for $1,399 at major electrical stores and authorised dealers.
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news Get fizzy with it Sodastream, maker of sparkling water, is sending its team of six Singapore ambassadors to its base in Israel. Known as TribeSodaStream, they will visit Sodastream’s factory and visitor centre, along with historical sites such as the Old City of Jerusalem.
Tropical dreamscape Luxury fashion house Hermes celebrates our island’s lush greenery with Return to a Loving Dream, its newest artist window by Argentinian Alexandra Kehayouglou. The installation features handwoven tapestries inspired by Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve’s mangrove swamp.
Visit www. singapore2020expo.sg.
Return to a Loving Dream is on display at Hermes Liat Towers till mid-November 2019.
photo Edward hEndricks
Visit www. sodastream.sg.
Desert oasis WOHA Architects has been appointed the designer of the Singapore Pavilion for the 2020 World Expo in Dubai. The Nature. Nurture. Future. Pavilion aims to be a lush oasis stacked with tropical trees and shrubs in the Arabian desert.
Birthday tiME Yankee Candle lights up its 50th birthdaY – and 10th Year in singapore – with a seleCtion of Candles in its most popular sCents in a speCial anniversarY edition. The 50th anniversary large jar candles retail for $39 each – or three for $84 and six for $150 – at Yankee Candle stores.
hot seat Take care of your household’s wellbeing with Kohler’s award-winning C3-520 electronic bidet from the Family Care collection of bathroom products. Using ultraviolet
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sterilisation to remove 99 per cent of bacteria, it maintains a high standard of hygiene while ensuring a cleaner, refreshing alternative to toilet tissue. You can even adjust the water spray for
temperature and pulsating motion. For more information on the Family Care line, visit the Kohler Experience Centre at 52/56 Peck Seah Street or www. kohler.com.sg.
text Domenica Tan, eliza HamizaH anD isabelle Tow
n e w s to r e
scene shang r a f f l e s h ot e l Homegrown furniture and design label Scene Shang launches its second store.
S
le ft
Imagining the second store as “a space given to nature and the ages”, cofounders Pamela Ting and Jessica Wong opted for a patina paint effect on the walls. tOP, righ t
The 1818 collection depicts illustrations of local scenery and legends.
ABOVe
The Scene Shang store transports you to a romantic bygone era. Its apartmentlike space with Raffles Hotel’s iconic arched windows sits on the 132-yearold landmark’s second storey.
ince its revamp, Raffles Hotel has welcomed many new brands, including Scene Shang of Singapore’s second store. As the brand is known for its contemporary take on classic Chinese furniture, both it and the hotel do a beautiful job of paying homage to heritage and history. To set itself apart from the flagship store at Beach Road, this second one carries exclusive designs such as the Invisible System, a collaboration between Larry Peh and the brand’s signature Shang System, as well as a monogram service for jewellery boxes, brass talismans and furniture. The knowledgeable brand representatives will share the stories behind each piece and the rare marbles available for furniture customisation. It’s worth a visit – if only to see how Chinese-inspired furniture can enhance the look of a room. Scene Shang Raffles Hotel
is located at #02-09 328 North Bridge Road. For more inforation, visit www.shop.sceneshang.com.
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text elizA hAmizAh
N E W S TO R E
below, lefT
The highly collectible Kaws BFF is a Moma-exclusive 8m sculpture inspired by pop culture. below, righ T
The Clockclock 24 Golden Hands showcases kinetic art.
Therapeutic shopping cannot be rushed. Take a breather in one of several nooks in the store.
store carries an extensive collection by Danish furniture brand Hay alongside a wellcurated selection of products showcasing the latest in materials, production and design concepts from around the world. These include the iconic Kusama Pumpkins modelled after an artwork by renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and the Clockclock 24 Golden Hands, a store exclusive. Moma Design Store is located at K11 Musea, Hong Kong.
M O M A D E S i g N S TO R E The New York-based iconic brand has opened its largest Asian establishment.
E
xperience art, design and culture in the Museum of Modern Art’s (Moma) largest design store in Asia, which opened in August at K11 Musea, Hong Kong. The 6,000 sq ft store is designed in collaboration with Edge Design Institute, and incorporates elements of the city to make it a unique retail space offering global design objects and gifts, as well as Moma-exclusive and limited-edition products. Paying homage to Hong Kong’s metropolitan city and
cultural influences, Edge Design Institute conceived the store with modern interiors, traditional materials such as bamboo and galvanised zinc, as well as furniture, including pieces that parallel traditional dim sum trolleys and dualfunction tables resembling mahjong tables. There are also nooks where shoppers can take a breather and browse through publications. Design lovers will appreciate that the Hong Kong
text Domenica Tan photos moma Design sTore
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h o t s p ot
left
The new hotel comprises two buildings connected by the lobby.
Dream Nashville Designed by Meyer Davis and located in Music City, USA, this hotel is experiencing a revival while paying tribute to its fascinating past.
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A
t the beginning of the 20th century, the famous Printer’s Alley in the American city of Nashville, Tennessee, was home to two prestigious newspapers, 10 print shops and 13 publishers. During the Prohibition (1920-1933), people flocked to the area to drink alcohol illegally and listen to music. By the 1940s, Printer’s Alley was the nightclub and entertainment district. Today, all of these historic and social references are reflected – with modern
far left
Contemporary artworks line the halls and set the theme of the interiors. left
Bold accents and plush furnishing evoke a chic, energetic feel. below
A glass-clad gable roof fills the lobby with natural light during the day.
good to know The hotel is a short walk from the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, the Frist Art Museum, Bridgestone Arena, Nissan Stadium, and the Broadway strip.
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to p
Clean lines dominate the hotel rooms, giving each a spacious, airy feel.
b elow
There are seven dining areas in the hotel, each with its own design theme. op posite
lef t
Subway tiles in the bathrooms add a vibrant touch.
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Dark colours and rich wood panelling set the scene for enjoyment in the bar.
influences – through the interior design of Dream Nashville, one of Music City’s newest hotels located near the Country Music Hall of Fame. Last March, it opened its doors across two historic landmark buildings that were previously separated, but are now connected through the lobby. One of the structures was formerly Nashville’s first boutique hotel named Utopia that opened at the end of the 19th century. Designed by New York City-based studio Meyer Davis, the interiors blend traditional and contemporary references via architectural elements, furniture and materials. Neon lighting, marble, tiles, mirrors, textiles, wallpapers, and colourful, bright accents characterise the sophisticated atmosphere.
offeriNg visual surprises iN every corNer, Dream Nashville is aN oDe to the city’s past aND preseNt –aND remiNDs us that the eNergy of music city is very much alive. The 168 Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites include the Guest House, Dream Nashville’s largest that’s spread over 130 sq m, and has a mahogany poker table as well as a custom craft beer called Dream Brew on tap. The Meyer Davis team created the spaces with the goal of giving guests the feeling of being at home. A collection of photographs – donated by the Frist family – can be found in various areas. Behind the reception desk, an artwork by David LaChapelle, an American commercial and fine-art photographer, as well as music video and film director, matches the area’s palette of yellow, orange and red. When it comes to cuisine, guests have many options – thanks to the hotel’s seven restaurants and bars, which all feature a different atmosphere. Among them are Stateside Kitchen, a brasseriestyle restaurant helmed by executive chef Michael Kopfman and situated in a glass atrium, and Dirty Little Secret, a nightclub with live music and entertainment. Offering visual surprises in every corner, Dream Nashville is an ode to the city’s past and present – and reminds us that the energy of Music City is very much alive. To find more about Dream Nashville, visit www. dreamhotels.com/nashville.
text Karine Monie photos Courtesy of DreaM nashville
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h o t s p ot
U RiveR CRUises Ships with fresh, modern interiors and uber-cool itineraries shout out to younger travellers.
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ruises usually have a reputation for being the ideal getaway for holidaying retirees and families, but soon you may be hearing a buzz of excitement among younger crowds, too. The reason for this? Uniworld’s U River Cruises’ U fleet of two 120-passenger ships with a more contemporary design –and more culturally and socially immersive itineraries. Both sport a sleek, allblack silhouette with classic 20th century architecture. The monochrome interiors are clad in fashionable leather and fabric, and complemented with modern fixtures, LED sculptures and celebrities’ images on the walls. Passengers can unwind
text elizA HAmizAH
Above
The reception area features an eye-catching star on the ceiling as well as distressed mirrors and gold accents. top, l ef t
U River Cruises targets young professionals between 25 and 45.
with spa treatments, mingle during communal dining, as well as party on the roof deck bar at night; mixologists and international DJs included. “U River Cruises is a convenient way of visiting a few countries in a week while being able to soak in the vibe of some major cites during the night. As our itineraries focus on longer stays, we offer accommodation with podlike configurations so each traveller has their own storage space and TV unit. There are wide spaces and photo booths for mingling among travellers, too,” shares Uniworld CEO Ellen Bettridge. Itineraries for 2020 include an Amsterdam-Brussels trip with an excursion to Belgian master chocolatiers, as well as a Nuremberg-Vienna trip, which includes a graffiti tour. Pop culture lovers will love the Amsterdam-Frankfurt journey and its wine excursion to The Abbey Eberbach where Game of Thrones was filmed. For more information or to book a 2020 cruise, visit www.ubyuniworld.com.
H D B s p e c ia l
maintenance tips to keep your Home looking as gooD as new A home needs to be maintained to keep it looking beautiful. Without proper upkeep and care, common maintenance issues such as wall cracks, dislodged tiles and growth of mould may occur. Here are some tips to help you keep your abode in top form.
CraCks in walls
DisloDgeD tiles
How tHey form
How tHey form
The natural heating up (during the day) and cooling down (at night) of elements can cause thermal expansion and contraction in materials. This process also happens to buildings and walls. Hence, wall cracks could naturally form over time as they both heat up and cool down repeatedly.
Accidents happen and sometimes tiles could become chipped or dislodged if knocked by heavy items or tools. Therefore, it is important to lay a protective sheet over your tiles when moving heavy furniture around or shifting heavy items around your home. Another probable cause is natural deterioration due to thermal expansion and contraction of the tiles and screed surfaces. When this happens, the loss of adhesion between the tiles and screed surfaces could cause the tiles to pop or dislodge.
Diy solution
For minor hairline cracks, repainting the wall with a flexible sealant or elastomeric paint will do the job. Such paints are widely available in the market. For wider cracks, consider hiring a contractor to carry out repair. Or why not consider wallpaper? It’s an easy and stylish way to spruce up your walls and hide those cracks. HanDy tip
Re-painting your walls regularly (every four to five years) with good quality paint will help seal and prevent hairline cracks from enlarging. You could also take the chance to refresh the look and feel of your home!
to put in a bit of effort to prevent the possible growth of mould in damp or shady areas like the bathrooms. Diy solution
Help is at HanD
If your tiles were laid by HDB, they will help repair or replace them for up to 15 years. Alternatively, you could engage a contractor to remove and re-tile the affected areas. growth of moulD How it forms
Living in Singapore means having to deal with the high humidity of our tropical climate. For homeowners, this also means having
You can create a DIY cleaning solution to get rid of mould. Mix two tablespoons of baking soda and one cup of water in a spray bottle. In another spray bottle, prepare a solution of diluted white vinegar. Spray the baking soda solution liberally on the affected area, followed by the vinegar solution. Leave for a few minutes, then wipe and leave to dry.
HanDy tip
Install a shower curtain or screen around your shower tray to shield the other areas of your bathroom from getting drenched. This also helps to protect the shelves and cabinets in your bathroom from getting wet. When not in use, leave the bathroom windows and doors open to allow natural ventilation and prevent moisture building up. Visit https:www.tinyurl.com/ hdbmaintain for more home maintenance tips for your flat.
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Lo u i s e The latest restaurant developed by design maven Andre Fu of AFSO.
icture this: Louise is an eccentric French expatriate living in Hong Kong. She loves throwing gorgeous dinner parties and serving her guests the best food she can find. Sounds great? Hate to break it to you, but Louise is a fictional character. You can, however, still experience such a dinner party at Louise by Julien Royer. The Hong Kong restaurant came to be when Andre Fu of AFSO was tasked with designing it for Michelinstarred chef Julien Royer. Imaginatively conceptualised as a private home, it is the perfect stage for chef Julien’s take on French comfort food Housed in a two-storeyed heritage property in the gardens of the former Police Married Quarters in Aberdeen Street, it has two main rooms: The Parlour with a long Brazilian marble bar, original Thonet chairs and rattan furniture, and The Drawing Room, a private space with tropical paradise-themed wallcovering and a sunny yellow palette. The location, the vibrant tropical hues and the glam classical French interiors give it a nostalgic, intimate atmosphere. A collection of antiquities and art — all chosen to reflect “Louise’s” quirky travel finds — also fill the restaurant. This elaborate design and concept may be a departure from Andre Fu’s usually minimalist style, but we are so loving it. Visit www.louise.hk for
more information.
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left
The bevelled marble bar was carved from emerald Verde marble, originally from Brazil.
good to know Chef Julien co-owns Odette in Singapore, which topped the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2019.
to p
Natural light streams through the picture windows overlooking the restaurant’s tropical garden. above
The Parlour features grey bespoke banquettes, antique sconces, and a modern ceiling.
b ot tom, le ft
The tropicalprinted carpet was a bespoke AFSO design. righ t
This Cole & Son wallpaper creates a moody ambience.
text eliza hamizah
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h o t s p ot
La Maison Goutal The French perfume house opened its first Asian flagship store in Hong Kong.
F
rench luxury perfume house Goutal, founded under the impetus of creator Annick Goutal, has opened its first Asian boutique in Hong Kong. Located in Causeway Bay’s Fashion Walk mall, the three-monthold’s gilded storefront casts a warm glow on bustling Paterson Street. Its lavish design by Frank Leung of architectural firm Via oozes French baroque architectural and artistic inspiration as seen in the pastiche of “luxurious textures, artworks and crafted details” curated to match the brand’s vision. The star attraction is undoubtedly the floorto-ceiling Perfume Organ in the centre. Inspired by
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The U-shaped marble bar with brass stools creates an indulgent setting in the intimate Sensory Lounge, one of the immersive spaces in the boutique.
B ot tom, l ef t
One of the key highlights is the floor-to-ceiling Perfume Organ. B ot tom, righ t
The brand’s monogram with founder Annick Goutal’s initials.
the musical instrument’s multi-layered structure, the wraparound installation presents a mesmerising display of the house’s creations, with individual bottles sitting in 600 transparent cylinders. The founder’s iconic fragrance bottle – a fluted glass body with a gold trapezoidal cap – is also referenced in the glass panels, gold wall sconces and shimmering gold leaf chandelier. The exquisite immersive space, with the added sensory experience of the house’s heady perfumes, is sure to vicariously transport shoppers to France. La Maison Goutal is located at Shop 20, G/F Paterson Street, Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay.
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text isaBelle tow photos tan hai han
H O T S P OT
TOP
The showroom is filled with cheery shades. BOT TO M, RIGHT
The wall coverings come in vibrant hues and unique textures. BOT TO M, LEFT
Large swatches allow visitors to get a feel of how the coverings will look when applied to a large area.
K WA L L S T U D I O Premium wall decoration specialist’s flagship store
nown for its high-end European-sourced finishes, Singapore wall decoration specialist Wall Studio now has a standalone showroom in The Herencia. Formerly located within W. Atelier’s showrooms for eight years, the new gallery allows visitors to see and touch products in a relaxed, inspiring setting. The interiors of the 750 sq ft showroom have been designed to enable everyone,
from architects and interior designers to homeowners, to get an up-close look at offerings. As the exclusive distributors of Sibu Design Laminates, an Austrian brand, its showroom features large display racks of 3-D panels from the brand. Other products in Wall Studio include Italian decorative paint finishes such as the water-based, eco-friendly Oikos paint, and textiles from Thai industrial craft brand Ausara Surface. Over the years, Wall Studio has amassed an impressive line-up of hospitality and commercial projects involving the use of products it carries. Notably, its Sibu Design 3D panels were used for the Chloe store at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, and Oikos decorative paints were used for Miu Miu at Paragon and Love, Bonito at Funan Mall,
text ISABELLE TOW
which used blended stone and genuine lime plastering finishes respectively. From velvet to Marmorino finishes, Wall Studio not only provides the right decorative paints to help you achieve these gorgeous effects, but the services as well. Wall Studio is located at #05-06 The Herencia, 46 Kim Yam Road.
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h o t s p ot
L Grand Cafe CapuCines Architects Hugo Toro and Maxime Liautard have given the restaurant a new lease of life with chic, modern decor that still retains all the characteristics of its glamorous past.
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ocated on Paris’ Grands Boulevards, Grand Cafe Capucines – founded in 1875 – was one of the most legendary brasseries of the 19th century. That same year, the Palais Garnier (Opera Garnier) and the Olympia Hall for concerts were inaugurated, and Grand Cafe Capucines was the perfect dining destination after a musical performance or a ballet. Charged with reinventing the restaurant in 2016, the duo behind Paris-based interior and furniture design company Toro & Liautard preserved the establishment’s old spirit and added modern touches such as mosaics, the golden brass adorning the columns,
and textiles as well as lighting, all designed by Hugo Toro and Maxime Liautard. They created four spaces, each with a unique atmosphere. On the ground floor, where the light from the sculptural ceiling unites the various areas, a large main dining room pays tribute to the glamorous aesthetic of historic brasseries. It’s here that diners can savour classic French dishes at any time of the day or night. Dressed with plants and filled with natural light, thanks to the glass ceiling and wall that provide a view of the boulevard while protecting guests from the hustle and bustle of the city, the winter garden is a refuge
lef t
The facade is dominated by its red awning and bold lettering. BelOW
Maxime Liautard (left) and Hugo Toro. righ t
Intricate mosaic patterns on the floor were designed specifically for the establishment. OppOsit e
Golden brass panelling and plush velvet upholstery lend a luxe modern touch to the dining area.
good to know
for diners wanting to still observe the goings on outside. Furnished with stools, the American bar was introduced during the renovation and is now the ideal corner for a cocktail. On the upper level, the Indian Lounge offers a more intimate ambience with its 400 mini light bulbs, and green velvet seating and decorative silk elements. Toro and Liautard wanted to keep the visual codes from the past in a contemporary space. To achieve that, they did some research and drew inspiration from the restaurant’s location near theatres and cinemas. References to its history, especially the link to the Lumiere brothers, Auguste and Louis, who were among the first filmmakers in history, were particularly important. In fact, Grand Cafe Capucines’ Indian Salon was the first place the brothers projected a short film and had people pay to watch it. “We didn’t try to do something new. Instead, we strove to design a space that corresponds to the soul of this place”, say Toro and Liautard. For more information on
The restaurant’s iconic look is the epitome of Art Nouveau design underscored by the use of bold curves.
text Karine MOnie photos leny guetta
Grand Café Capucines, visit www.legrandcafe.com.
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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
LIGHTNESS OF BEING French photographer Cerise Doucede (above) suspends objects in midair, creating one-of-akind tableaux that appear to be frozen in time, and reinventing the art of portraiture by conceiving environments that teem with inanimate objects suspended in space, like swirling thoughts giving expression to the personalities of each of her subjects. Blurring the lines between fact and fiction, Cerise draws us into their imaginations by carefully composing magical scenes where teapots, shoes, butterflies or even matadors appear to levitate as if asking viewers to suspend belief for just a moment.
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spotlight
Lost in thought, the characters project their fears, obsessions and fantasies onto chaotic settings in intimate locations at banal moments – like during meals – where surrounding objects, taking on a life of their own, fly, collide and unite. Scenes of daily life being an inexhaustible source of inspiration for Cerise, she takes a step back to create her own hallucinogenic version of reality, which sublimates the most ordinary instances. Reinterpreting The World Her Egarements (Distractions) and Quotidien (Everyday Life) series present improbable scenes where contemplative subjects appear happily lost in daydreams that provide a momentary escape from their otherwise mediocre lives. But it was with Genese (Genesis), realised in 2009, that she decided to stop all other activities to concentrate solely on photography. Her version of the story of the creation of the universe – where God is a woman who creates the sky, sun, moon, animals and fish in her garage – reveals her slightly off-beat vision of religion. “A very important factor, when I start a new work, is to follow the idea I’ve chosen and to create a series that evokes the same story at different angles. I don’t make images to make an image – I’m continuing a story,” she says, “The notion of a series is primordial. I’m a sort of collector of photos; I find it hard to know when a series is finished.”
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In the beginning, she used family members as models (imposing on them roles she based on her memories of them) before asking friends and finally, strangers. Each time, she also chose locations that meant something such as their home, garden or workplace. Cerise’s portraits of strangers required her to spend time dialoguing with them in order to enter into their world and uncover the places where she could create an image. Then, together with them, imagine a decor
“A very importAnt fActor, when i stArt A new work, is to follow the ideA i’ve chosen And to creAte A series thAt evokes the sAme story At different Angles.” – cerise doucede, french photogrApher
matching their personality. “Even if my images are complex to create, they are easy to understand, and what particularly pleases me is allowing the viewer to make up a story and ask himself questions. Thereafter, how deep the questioning goes is out of my hands,” Cerise says. It takes her up to three days to set up a scene, and she spends most of the time reflecting before taking the shot. She jots down her dreams, things that touch her or words that inspire her, sketches, and even sticks on items that might come in useful in notebooks until she becomes obsessed with a single idea that may consume her for weeks on end. When it’s finally time for the shoot, she arms herself with her Nikon D3S, and lies in wait for the decisive moment to stealthily capture the exact attitude she’s looking for, when her subject starts to think about something else. At that particular moment, the dream 1&3. Untitled pieces from the Egarements collection.
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3
4
2. Cerise’s grandmother gamely poses for her works. 4 . Untitled piece from the Geneses collection
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if my works prompt viewers to Ask themselves questions or trigger certAin emotions in them And cAuse them to creAte their own stories, then my effort hAs pAid off.” 5
takes over and the entire backdrop surrounding the person comes to life. She notes, “They aren’t professionals and it’s quite difficult to get a neutral gaze. I often have to wait until they become really bored to obtain a certain look, which is the reflection of a certain weariness that says, ‘What am I doing here? “It’s at these moments, when we are left face to face with ourselves, that our minds need to travel or wander off the most. And that’s when I really start to take photos of an expression or gesture that I know will be the right ones.” Veering from the family path Although born into a family of jurists in 1987 in Toulon,
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France, where she currently lives and works, Cerise found it inconceivable to study law. She entered the world of art through drawing, which she started doing at a young age, and for which she had a great passion, having observed her mother painting since she was a child. “I’ve always known that I wanted to practise a creative profession, but I’d never imagined being an artist,” she discloses. “I wanted to be an architect, designer and then, finally, I studied to be a graphic designer, which allowed me to get closer to the world of the image. It’s also there that I started photography to support my projects and it finally became
6 5. At the heart of Cerise’s work is the attempt to show how imagination can open our minds to an alternative reality. 6. An untitled piece from the Genese colleciton.
the goal itself of my creations. The graphic spirit of my images most certainly comes to me from these studies.” After graduating from Speos photography school in Paris in 2010, Cerise was the 2011 winner of the Royal Monceau Raffles Paris Photography Contest and received €20,000 (S$30,185) to work on a personal, never-before-seen project that was integrated into the hotel’s artistic programme. Waking dreams Her photographs are the ideal stage for her fantasies, revealing her own life story. She has the joy of realising her dreams awake, of creating tableaux – scenes that have been rearranged and reassembled to create incredulous, dreamlike images after a period of slow reflection and diligent preparation – to convey her quirky reflections when observing the everyday. She loves these moments where she can reinvent places, reorganise space and appropriate objects to make them say something else. For her, photography is the result of studying real life as well as the unconscious, thus revealing a person’s most intimate traits. Therefore, it’s hardly surprising that she’s particularly fond of the
7. A piece from the 2012 Les Attaches collection. 8. Cerise began her career by photographing her family members such as her sister. 9. An untitled piece from the Quotidien collection.
Surrealists and their work on dreams, hallucinations, and the refusal of all logical constructs of the spirit, the absurd, and desire. “Just the name of the movement itself speaks to me: there’s reality and then there’s what you stick on top of it,” she divulges. She cites her admiration for the artist Marcel Duchamp and photographers Erwin Olaf, Tim Walker and Georges Rousse. Cerise performs little digital manipulation on her photos, limiting herself to erasing the structure on which her objects are suspended.
She purposefully leaves strings visible in her images to display a connection between reality and fantasy. So, while her portraits may be elaborately staged, she manages to enhance her subjects with telling details that somehow draw out their inner thoughts and states. “If my works prompt viewers to ask themselves questions or trigger certain emotions in them and cause them to create their own stories, then my effort has paid off,” she concludes, “The message in my work is that one must take the time to dream.”
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text Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE photos CERISE DOUCEDE
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people
Blazing the trail Regarded as one of Singapore’s leading contemporary artists, Suzann Victor talks about her work and being a woman artist.
F
rom abstract paintings to larger-than-life kinetic installations, the talent of Singapore-born, Australiabased multimedia artist Suzann Victor is uninhibited by the media she works with. One of 11 leading contemporary female artists from South-east Asia showcasing their works in the major exhibition, Shaping Geographies: Art | Woman | Southeast Asia, Suzann belongs to the early generation of Singaporean artists who broke the ground for contemporary art to take root. As the Singapore Pavilion’s first woman representative at the 49th Venice Biennale, Suzann is also a role model for many other local female artists. as an artist, Where DO yOu finD inspiratiOn?
While I am a trained painter specialising in abstraction in oils, innovation remains the starting point for me as I produce public artworks and installations that engage the poetics of space and architecture, the post-colonial, the science and physics of meteorology and kinetic art, as well as the metaphysics of light. While they may seem disparate, they intersect in many ways and I am stimulated by how spaces and architecture can conspire with an artist to create and offer the public something 50
much more than the sum of its individual parts – a kind of material magic. And, of course, the qualities of light affect the physiological and emotional state of the viewer. What DO yOu hOpe tO cOnvey With yOur WOrks?
Each is different and the aims are equally varied. One example is Rainbow Circle, which induces natural rainbows to appear within the National Museum of Singapore. This is achieved by harnessing the science and physics of helioseismology, astronomy, meteorology, hydrology and atmospheric optics to create these real rainbows. This work imagines a world where rainbows have become so rare and threatened that it can only be viewed or experienced as an artefact in a history museum, thus addressing the fragility of the environment today.
resistant to feminist progress. Having said that, an open, liberal climate also inherently presents its own issues of cultural fatigue, contestation or saturation. Overall, from my own experience, I would say that a woman artist does face more challenges when it comes to getting noticed in the art world.
is it Difficult fOr WOmen artists tO get nOticeD in
What DOes hOme mean
the lOcal art lanDscape?
tO yOu?
Yes and no. Each has its own challenges, so it depends on the area in question, and the state it is in at the time of discussion. The socio-cultural context within which a woman artist works has an impact on the receptiveness to her work, too. A conservative environment poses greater challenges to her gaining an audible voice, visibility and affirmation since it is more
Home is a not necessary a physical space or place. The room that I relate to the most is my studio, which is a space for dream-catching and dream-making. Catch Suzann Victor’s work in Shaping Geographies: Art | Woman | Southeast Asia from Nov 24 to Dec 31 at Gajah Gallery Singapore.
text Isabelle Tow
people
John Elliott As the vice president of the Orchid Society of South East Asia (OSSEA) and editor of its publication Malayan Orchid Review, John Elliott assures hobbyists that orchid growing is easy as long as you know the species and follow these tips. why should hobbyIsts care about the specIfIc type of orchId they’re growIng?
There are some 25,000 species worldwide, and about 175,000 hybrids registered around the world since 1856, so knowing and naming exactly what you are growing is essential to success in growing it. All orchids have two parts to their name, the genus name (such as Dendrobium) and the specific name (such as Caesar). Garden centres often sell orchids with the genus name and omit the specific name. Serious growers won’t buy plants without the full name. Moreover, in the case of hybrids, the name allows you to trace the original species with the online International Orchid Register.
Is our natIonal flower Vanda Ms JoaquIM hard to cultIVate?
It is easy but it needs full sun – or at least as much as you can give it – and enough space in a pot or bed for the roots to spread, plus a post up which to climb. Plants will usually only flower when they are a metre or more tall. Regular watering and feeding are important, as these plants grow more or less continuously without a resting period. can orchIds be grown wIth artIfIcIal lIghtIng?
Yes, natural-spectrum fluorescent lighting is best, but needs to be quite close to the leaves – say within 30cm or closer. Artificial lighting is more suitable for small varieties. It is quite challenging to grow orchids well and flower them under artificial lights.
It takes time for a purchased orchid to adapt to its new home. It will in any case usually need a rest after blooming before commencing more growth. Usually, it will only flower again after completing this new growth. So, the trick is to get the orchid growing well in its new home, which comes back to all the issues of how to choose and manage your orchid. It can be difficult, or impossible, to achieve this if the orchid purchased was imported from a country with a cool climate as is not at home in tropical lowlands. It is important therefore to choose orchids compatible with the climate here as well as with your home conditions. where Is your faVourIte place to go orchId shoppIng In sIngapore?
There are four that offer a good range: Woon Leng Nursery, Toh Garden, Song Orchids and Neo Cheng Soon Farm.
a coMMon coMplaInt about orchIds Is that they only
how Many ossea MeMbers
blooM once. how can
are there In sIngapore?
we encourage a pot of
I don’t have an exact figure but there are something like 400 local members, which is up by around 80 from the past 5 years.
orchIds to blooM More frequently?
how long haVe you been a MeMber and VIce-presIdent of the ossea?
I was a member for a time in the early ’70s and rejoined in 1986. I stepped down as president in 2011, and have been vice president since 2015. Visit www.ossea.org.sg to find out more about local orchidrelated events and subscribe to the
Malayan Orchid Review by OSSEA.
text Isabelle Tow
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people
Team building Siren Design Group Singapore’s Penny Sloane pioneers
workplace design in South-east Asia and beyond by creating thoughtful, engaging, fun spaces that blur the lines between work and play.
W
hile most tend to spend their teens wondering about the career path to take in their adulthood, Penny Sloane knew exactly what she wanted to do when she discovered her passion for interior design at the early age of 14 as she began spending any free time rearranging the furniture in her family home. “It was actually the architecture of interiors that really excited me,” she says, “So I studied at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and graduated with a Bachelor in Interior Design before obtaining a Bachelor of Arts and International Studies from the Politecnico di Milano in Italy.” This firm foundation set her in good stead to take on various projects that added to her prolific portfolio. Today, she is the co-founder and managing director of Siren Design Group Singapore, and is credited with propelling the start-up into one of the region’s top award-wining interior design agencies. What specifically dreW you to commercial design?
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Commercial design is all about curating a space with multiple experiences that enable people to thrive at work. As we all
“Single-uSe SpaceS are
up with aha moments. In business terms, that’s critical.
becoming obSolete. thoSe that SatiSfy uSer needS in multiple experience modeS
why do you think such
are rated higher.”
this tyPe of versatile/
sPaces are evolving into fluid/oPen concePt that we’re seeing in both co-
1 . No longer dull and corporatelike, modern offices now sport bright colours and quirky accents. 2 . Penny Sloane. 3 . The designer and her team transform offices with elements of fun and cheerfulness. 4 . Spaces that encourage socialising are essential in offices today.
spend much of our lives at work, the interior environment has an enormous impact on our health, well-being and productivity on a daily basis. To be able to improve this experience for other people is really rewarding. PeoPle are always debating the matter of having too many distractions at work. how do you work around that while creating welcoming, informal offices such as the ones you designed for Justco?
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Our approach is to design spaces with specific zones to enable you to do your best work, and whatever your work style or personality. We create spaces for different purposes based on what you are doing. It might be a space that enables you to focus, a space for collaboration, or a space that frees you to think creatively and to come
working offices and at Progressive comPanies such as google?
Single-use spaces are becoming obsolete. Spaces that satisfy user needs in multiple experience modes are rated higher. As people are working, eating, socialising, exercising, having fun, taking classes and shopping everywhere, the traditional uses of space are less distinct. Our role is to create spaces that harness technology that enables flexibility because, given the opportunity, staff embrace and flourish when there is flexibility. It’s about letting go of control in a design sense, and allowing the user to be the chooser. You need to be able to work where a particular activity is going to take you for the day. Hence, working in such a space enables you to do your best work.
work. We are humans after all! Technology will continue to play an instrumental role, but it is evolving continuously to enable the workplace to become incredibly efficient. For example, there is now technology that recognises you on approach so doors automatically open when you are balancing a cup of coffee and your laptop, and even apps that enable you to be in a virtual room with your colleagues abroad. That is the future. you have a Pr e do m inantly fe male te am . do e s b e ing a wo man h e lP you to co n n ec t with th e eQ asPec t of de sig nin g a s Pace , so that it’ s n ot J ust fu n c tio nal ,
how do you se e
b ut ae sth e tically
co -wor king sPace s
Ple asing , too?
e vo lving in th e
Yes, it does. As there are traditionally more women who study interior design at university, this means there are more female interior designers looking for work. However, we do have guys in our office, and that’s important to us. I think having a diversity of thoughts, ideas and processes that different genders bring is incredibly important.
n e x t decade ?
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The concept of shared economy is here to stay. Many businesses, whether they go into a co-working space or stay within their own premises, now own spaces which enable staff to work while still having the familiar vibe of a cafe, where it feels fun, and not necessarily like
text POLLY SWEET photos SIREN DESIGN
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FA I R R E P O R T
3 DAYS OF DESIGN Product launches, exhibitions, conferences, workshops and showroom openings: After only six years, Danish festival 3 Days of Design has become a not-to-be-missed rendezvous for everyone interested in the Scandinavian creative scene. The 2019 edition – which took place from May 23-25 – featured more than 150 events all over Copenhagen. Spanish designer Jaime Hayon was charged with creating a new graphic identity for the festival. Established brands and young talents were present (including &Tradition, File Under Pop, Hay and Mater) to showcase their inventiveness. We spot five trends and some of the best products on view.
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TREND 1
P L AY F U L C O LO U R S
There is no reason to be afraid of bright colours in an interior space. On the contrary, these tones bring energy and joy. Using a mix of bright colours in a room also allows you to mix and match your existing furniture with new ones when it’s time for a new look.
O S LO S I D E C H A I R F R O M M U U TO
photo FILIPPO BAMBERGHI
Designed by Anderssen & Voll, this chair can easily be used in a home, office, restaurant or hotel, thanks to its embracing back and comfortable seat. In beige, grey, green, pink or blue, the Oslo Slide chair fits any space.
M O N TA N A SYS T E M
photo MUUTO
photo FILIPPO BAMBERGHI
Hand in hand with Danish designer Margrethe Odgaard, furniture brand Montana developed a new colour palette with 30 variations for its iconic shelves, which also come in different sizes and shapes.
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trend 2
J A PA N E S E I N S P I r AT I o N
photo KRisTiNA DAM sTuDio
In recent years, the dialogue between Western and Eastern cultures and aesthetics has become increasingly prominent, as shown by collaborations between designers and brands with very different yet complementary backgrounds. Pure lines and natural materials characterise these simple and elegant pieces.
ANZA from PLEASE WA I T To b E S E AT E D
Meaning “to sit at ease” in Japanese, Anza comprises a pouf, bench and coffee table. The collection was created by Portuguese designer Rui Pereira and Japanese designer Ryosuke Fukusada, who updated a Kyoto-based textile originally produced in the 18th century with a patchwork pattern and new colour scale.
J A PA N E S E D I N I N g S To o L by K r I S T I N A DA m
“The design is a mix of Japanese minimalism and Nordic functionality, and the end result is a beautiful and multifunctional oak chair – such as a dining room chair, a side table for your living room or a bedside table,” says Danish designer Kristina Dam.
K A r I m o Ku C A S E S T u Dy
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photo MonIcA GruE STEffEnSEn
photo PLEASE WAIT To bE SEATED
Based in Japan and developed by the country’s largest wood furniture manufacturer, Karimoku, this new contemporary lifestyle brand launched its first furniture collection in collaboration with Norm Architects and Keiji Ashizawa during the 2019 edition of 3 Days of Design in an exhibition hosted by The Kinfolk Gallery.
F R A m A’ s s E N s E s ExhIbITION
Renowned for furniture and accessories with pure lines, as well as apothecary products created with natural ingredients, Danish studio Frama presented the exhibition “Senses” curated by Louisa Grey (founder of Londonbased House of Grey) during 3 Days of Design.
s E TAG O J h 2 7 F R O m
In Spanish, “seta” means mushroom; the word also describes the small proportions of this quirky lamp, inspired by the artistry of a Japanese lantern. “I wanted to create a lamp that prioritised versatility,” says designer Jaime Hayon. “The Setago’s cord-free feature means it is extremely adaptable, equally suitable indoors as well as outside.”
photo &TradiTion
photo Filippo BamBerghi
&T R A D I T I O N
trend 3
The difference between good and great design lies in the details. For some designers and brands, this philosophy is at the heart of everything. Nothing is left to chance, as even the littlest thing can make a product unique.
ChAIR FROm m A LT E G O R m s E N
Available in Dark Nature, Grey Nature and White Nature, the MG 101 dining chair is part of the Holmen collection designed by Space Copenhagen for Danish cabinet maker Malte Gormsen, which focuses on craftsmanship. photo magnus omme
D E TA I L O R I E N T E D
mG 101 DINING
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trend 4
BONBON frOM H AY
MUTE D TON E S
Hand-woven, the Bonbon Lamp by Serbian-born designer Ana Kras is a one-ofa-kind collection inspired by her drawings. To give shape to unique lampshades – each with slight variations – Ana used the idea of wrapping cotton-wool yarn around powder-coated steel frames.
photo Filippo BAmBergHi
Among one of the best ways to enable the combination of pieces from different collections is the fact that brands and designers often choose soft hues to create a neutral backdrop, ensuring that a product will stand the test of time. Black, white and beige are some safe choices.
N E w wO r k S S H Ow r O O M
photo HAY
In collaboration with Lotta Agaton Interiors, New Works opened its new showroom in the heart of Copenhagen during 3 Days of Design. “Materials are at the core of everything we do at New Works,” the team says. “To create sculptural objects that have their own voice, while complementing each other, honest materiality is key.”
trend 5
w E LC O M I N G S H A P E S
PAU S T I A N M O D U L A r S O fA
Being at home has to be synonymous with feeling comfortable and peaceful. The use of round shapes for furniture and decorative accessories is key, for it can easily transform the atmosphere of a space to be warm and inviting.
Created with different modules and designed by Erik Rasmussen in 1969, this sculptural sofa features a bold form that looks as ontrend today as the year it was launched. The curved back feels especially inviting.
PEPO frOM NOrMANN
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Designed by Daniel Debiasi and Federico Sandri, these ceramic jars – available in black, grey, dusty blue or pink – have an organic silhouette and feature a contrast between the matte and glossy glazing. They can be used for storage, as a vase or as an element of decoration.
photo CAsper sejersen
photo normAnn CopenHAgen
C O P E N H AG E N
text Karine Monie
U P C LO S E
J E AN E T T E
ADRIENNE WEE Potter and founder of Adrienne Ceramics shares titbits about her personal life and her routine as a full-time creative.
What gets you out of bed in the mornings?
Work – or the thought of a new adventure. If I could, I’d prefer to stay in bed all day! What gets you to sleep?
Knowing I did a good job. What is one music track you like to listen as you work?
Come Home by Anderson Paak. Your favourite pets?
I had the sweetest Netherland dwarf rabbit called Marley, but she’s gone to bunny heaven. What natural element inspires you?
I love lakes, so I’ll say water! Fondest childhood memory?
Heading to Popular bookstore with my dad for books and CDs.
Is there a particular style you never want to see again.
Nothing in particular. I think bad styles have to exist for me to know what’s good. What is your personal design style??
Working with layers and different processes, but keeping to a minimal aesthetic. What would your last meal be?
Japanese omakase.
What is one cause you will fight for and why?
I’d like to help our migrant workers. Our country is built largely with their labour but they are often not given good living conditions. We can all help to recognise their efforts by starting in small ways such as volunteering to raise funds
to provide them with basic necessities, like better soaps, towels, and mobile phones. Which room at home do you spend the most time in?
I work really long hours in the studio, which is physically exhausting. Once I get home, I shower and crash in my bedroom. On non-work days, I can hibernate between 12 and 15 hours. Is there one movie that you have watched more than once?
Spirited Away. I am always amazed by the aesthetic and references of the movie – and the theme of a girl finding strength to persevere in a difficult place is inspiring.
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vo i c e s
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THERE IS NO BETTER TIME TO BE A DESIGNER Mark Wee shares his thoughts about the importance of the Skills Framework for Design program and how it can benefit both the workforce and local companies.
ost Singaporeans know who JJ Lin is and many can probably sing his songs. Yet, few will have heard about the singer’s vision of shaping a creative and healing space that transcends the boundaries of art, design and music – and the fact that it was Singapore design firm Parable Studio that made this vision tangible in the form of the JFJ Sanctuary in Taipei. It is here that the singer now produces his music, co-creates music with others, and engages fans by live streaming his work from anywhere in the building. But JFJ Sanctuary wasn’t just designed for aesthetics or acoustics. Parable Studio’s human-centric approach also helps Lin re-imagine his music business and then shapes a new business strategy before going on to create a space that enables his vision. The strategy was to create a tribe by engaging fans beyond the typical concert and album touchpoints. To heighten the fan experience, JFJ Sanctuary studio’s interiors and acoustics offer live streaming on the go, giving fans unprecedented access to his creative process, and the opportunity to cocreate his music and tour experiences. Design has evolveD
It would have been hard to imagine an interior design firm taking such an approach with clients a decade ago. Today, however, firms offer expanded design services and are positioning
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themselves differently. With clients’ expectations of designers constantly evolving, change is inevitable as they now see the potential of working with designers beyond the creation of images, products or spaces. More are recognising that the fundamental value of a designer is to produce solutions that connect with people, and want one who can help them craft their brand experience and reach customers in more holistic ways – across channels – based on the clear understanding of customer needs and desires. DemanD for Design in singapore
What’s more, local research echoes the growing global demand for designers across industries. We expect the number of design professionals in Singapore to grow to more than 12,000 by 2022. Interestingly, for every design job in design firms, there will be two design jobs in nondesign firms by 2022. In fact, most of the demand for design talent will come from tech companies, financial services and business consultancies. Why? Because design skills and mindsets – such as the ability to empathise, reason abductively and prototype rapidly – are now essential to a world where firms must “innovate or die”. As a result, there is a demand for transdisciplinary or “T-shaped” talent, where designers possess deep
the objective
technical skills, but are also adept at non-design skills such as systems thinking, business model innovation, content strategy, and entrepreneurship. In short, clients want designers who aren’t afraid to “talk” business or strategy. Of course, we may never find that “unicorn” with the perfect blend of both skills, but as designers, we must at least be aware of the new demands on the profession and start to dip our toes into unfamiliar waters. groWth MinDsEt for DEsignErs
This growth mindset is important for designers. In a recent interview, Chris Lee, founder of Asylum Creative, a successful multidisciplinary agency, shared that by adding
Skills Framework for Design was launched by Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing during the Design Conversations event organised by the Designsingapore Council in July.
interior design to its skills set, Asylum was able to transform from a graphic design studio into a multi-disciplinary outfit. Admittedly, exploring new grounds can be unnerving. For instance, when I moved from an architectural practice to service design 10 years ago, the work was so new that I was often asked to explain what “service” and “experience” design meant. Back then, there was neither a formal curriculum for service design nor clarity on the
skills required from a good service designer. I believe that young designers are better supported today, especially with the new Skills Framework for Design by the DesignSingapore Council, Skillsfuture Singapore and Workforce Singapore. Developed together with employers, industry associations, as well as education and training providers, the framework identifies new jobs in demand, sets out the possible career pathways, and specifies existing and emerging skills required for these roles. And it’s great to see local design schools reviewing and evolving their curricular so students graduate with relevant skills to meet new market demands. Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Design and Environment, for instance, used the framework as a guide to develop its latest Diploma in Design. Methodology, a design education company that provides corporate training, also referenced the framework when it developed the first Professional Conversion Programme for UX/UI Digital Design and UX/UI Spatial Design Professionals. With the boundaries of design disciplines blurring and new opportunities for design emerging across industries, there really is no better time for designers to grow in depth and breadth in order to become the catalysts and change makers we are meant to be.
Mark Wee is Executive Director of Designsingapore Council
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righ t Whimsical elements and classic English motifs reflect Nikki’s love for British eccentricity and dry humour. op pos it e Recent changes to local planning regulations warrant the provision of a larger, more expensive structure should the existing staircase be demolished, so Nikki retained it, dressed it up and made it a focal point.
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SENSE & SENSuality Design Intervention principal Nikki Hunt’s apartment in the posh district of Knightsbridge, London, pays homage to the property’s grand architecture, while fostering a sense of fun befitting a holiday home.
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a bove, left The living room wallpaper is a humorous take on a Baroque design, with unicorn zebras and giraffes in leopard spots.
o ppos it e , lef t The light colour ensures the room is not overly formal despite its proportions and details.
a bove, r ig ht The wallpaper print depicting neoclassical architectural elements echoes the Victorian streetscape outside the apartment.
o ppos it e , ri ght Nikki Hunt is the co-founder of award-winning interior design studio Design Intervention.
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aving grown up in London, Nikki Hunt, Design Intervention principal, knew exactly where she wanted her holiday home to be. Based in Singapore, she shuttles between the two cities every quarterly to check in on her two children studying in the UK, and to manage commissions by Singapore clients to design their London homes, as well as to participate in trade fairs and award ceremonies. “I wanted to be close to South Kensington or Knightsbridge because of their proximity to the airport. There is nothing worse than getting
off a 12-hour flight and being faced with gridlocked traffic,” she says. The 1,300 sq ft apartment – adjacent to the Victoria and Albert Museum, and within walking distance of Hyde Park and Harrods Food Hall – is the optimum size for her family of four. “If it was too big, I would feel guilty about leaving it unoccupied for extended periods, but I also wanted it to be spacious enough for the four of us to be comfortable and relaxed,” she explains. Other criteria on Nikki’s holiday-home checklist included a live-in concierge to keep an 65
eye on the apartment when the family is away, Victorian architecture with a sense of history, three bedrooms that can accommodate at least queen-sized beds with three bathrooms. “It’s a long wish list, but knowing what I was looking for made finding the ideal apartment much easier,” she rationalises. The apartment is part of the Knightsbridge Freake Estate that was built in the mid-1850s. When designing the interior, Nikki incorporated traditional architectural elements, and drew inspiration from the late British interior designer John Beresford Fowler, who designed beautiful country house interiors in the 1940s and 1950s, and was dubbed the master of the sublime comforts of the English country house. His famous Yellow Room was her starting point, and reinterpreted in the living room with a hint of the contemporary. “London can be quite a grey, rainy city, so I consciously picked an uplifting colour palette. The result: a home
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op p osi t e The living room is a space for the family to come together and the sofa was designed with this purpose in mind.
The aparTmenT is parT of The KnighTsbridge freaKe esTaTe ThaT was builT in The mid-1850s.
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righ t The furnishings were designed and made in Singapore. “Designing everything in-house allows us to create a seamless flow and control the quality of what we put in. This is Design Intervention’s signature,” explains Nikki. op pos it e, to p The juxtaposition of prints and colours inject a sense of lightheartedness. op pos it e, b elow le ft The lavish interior reflects the apartment’s history. Back in the day, it was the base for its aristocrat owners while in London. op pos it e, b elow ri g ht As with any work by Design Intervention, nothing is left to chance. Every detail is scrutinised, every element is considered.
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that resonates with a cosy cheerfulness – even on the darkest of winter days.” There is also a touch of the orient, with Peranakan mouldings on the living room ceiling, and silk upholstery, creating what Nikki humorously refers to as “colonial Singapore inspired by British architecture and not the other way around”. Rich with historical references, the dining area has a curated selection of antiques and collectibles that goes back generations. A Georgian extendable dining table from Nikki’s old family home now sits above a zebra hide brought back from Africa by Nikki’s great uncle, while her grandma’s sideboard stands proudly against the end wall. An existing windowless stairwell with a rickety spiral staircase underwent a dramatic transformation with the creation of an opening in the wall dividing the dining area and the stairwell. Now, light from the living room windows reaches into the recesses of the stairwell. One of the bedrooms is done in blue. “In such a dark room, it was impossible to make it feel bright, so I opted to make it rich and cosy instead, using a deep French navy as the main wall
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above, left The tiles in her son’s bathroom are very Victorian. Art Deco details in the bathroom fixtures are reminiscent of classic English gentlemen’s clubs.
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above, right Millwork and cornices were added in a restrained manner to recapture the historical character of the home without overpowering the small bedroom space.
o p pos it e All the architectural details take on the same blue as the walls to expand the sense of space and height.
colour, echoing the blue of an antique rug,” Nikki explains. As a studio, Design Intervention believes in the power of design that transcends good looks. Nikki says: “The true magic of design is in creating interiors that make you happy and this is especially true for a holiday home.” And she knows that she has made magic happen because “every time I walk through the front door, I can’t help but smile.”
text lynn tan photos design intervention
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one for the team
Like a marriage, designing a home requires a collaborative effort for the best results. Lynn Tan gets pointers on how the interior design here was guided by the owners’ personlities.
The couple calls this wall with its eclectic collection of prints behind the Crate & Barrel dining table a “wall of compromise”. The chairs are by Nathan Yong Design, and the abstract ceiling lighting is from Carousell.
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Who lives here h om e
A couple in their 30s A four-room BTO in Bukit Batok size 990 sq ft
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right
A Noden sideboard provides additional storage and display space for their extensive collection of knick-knacks. be low
The blue and white of the kitchen blends in nicely with the rest of the home. o ppos it e
Due to limited countertop space, the homeowners bought a movable island for the kitchen.
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enneth Sim and Lee Xinrong’s journey towards getting their home began when they were still in university. They’d already been dating for a few years when the couple decided to apply for a flat even before graduation. After about a four-year wait, they finally collected the keys to their matrimonial home in 2017. They came across Three-d Conceptwerke while browsing through magazines. The firm’s eclectic style caught their eye, but it was interior designer Meiyi Li’s ability to incorporate an understanding of their lifestyle and personalities into her design vision that ultimately won the couple over. Starting with the dining area, Kenneth and Xinrong have friends and family over for meals quite often. The original was a small corner just beyond the kitchen. Meiyi suggested that it should take pride of place in what would otherwise have been the living room. “The zoning works well. Our guests mostly gather around the dining
area once they enter. This helps to maintain the privacy of the bedrooms,” says Xinrong. and, depending on where they are seated at the Crate & Barrel rectangular dining table with a marble top and aged brass legs, visitors get to enjoy different views: an extended, unblocked vista of the outside from the 33rd floor, the gallery wall behind the table with pictures and images they’ve collected over the years, and a series of turquoise walls, which balance out the warm colours, which Kenneth says, make them feel like they’re on a staycation every time they come home. The living room is represented as a cosy alcove created from the hacking of one of the three bedrooms. As the pair seldom watch TV, its less prominent location suits them just fine. In fact, they took it two steps further by purchasing the smallest TV they could find and putting it in a Grafunkt rattan wardrobe. The master bedroom is a little different from the rest 75
“The oWners purchased WhaT capTured Their hearTs. This, in my opinion, is The besT Way To go abouT decoraTing a home.”
of the flat, which has a darker colour palette. “We kept to a brighter, lighter theme. I also recommended Kenneth and Xinrong opt for a low bed frame that makes the room look and feel more spacious,” explains Meiyi. A pair of French doors add a unique touch. The bathrooms are truly Insta-worthy. The most striking element in the common bathroom has got to be the Ellie Cashman Design floral wallpaper on the upper half of the walls and the beams.
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Teamed with black and white subway tiles and floor mosaics, a freestanding wash basin with gold fixtures, and a round mirror with a gold frame, this showstopping bathroom is a blend of classic, modern and Victorian luxe. The master bathroom sports dark green subway tiles and frosted glass panels in the door. “I wanted a boutiquehotel feel and got a lot of ideas from Pinterest as well as my travels,” says Xinrong. The idea for the hexagonal floor mosaics
left
Not your typical bathroom, please, said the owners. The result: a bold set-up that begs one to linger. opposite
Not many built-in elements allow homeowners the flexibility of personalising their own space. In this case, Meiyi says, “They have a flair for finding the quirkiest items and ornaments. It was really fun watching them go about it.� opposite, below
A dark colour scheme puts the couple in a staycation mood.
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arranged into repetitive floral motifs were actually spotted by Xinrong when she was in Tokyo. She loved it so much, she shared a photo with Meiyi, who helped her to recreate the effect in the master bathroom. The couple finally moved into their new home in mid2018, following eight weeks of renovation that cost $80,000, including furnishings. From its unconventional layout and eclectic furniture to the quirky home accessories and bold wallpaper and colours in certain areas, this home is unique in a multitude of ways. “The owners purchased what captured their hearts. This, in my opinion, is the best way to go about decorating a home,” says Meiyi. “It was a collaborative effort. They ran their preferences by me, and I helped them to narrow down the options.”
above
To avoid cluttering up the space, the master bedroom’s furniture was kept to a minimum. ri ght
The master bathroom isn’t just Instagramworthy, it is also practical. A wallmounted ledge above the wash basin makes up for the lack of a vanity counter.
far righ t
The rattan peacock chair from Decordinary is a keepsake from the couple’s wedding and complements the rattan Grafunkt wardrobe-cumTV console in the living room. o pp os ite
The living room is now more of an alcove with a masculine, cigarroom ambience.
photography darren chang art direction nonie chen
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Starting from Scratch Eliza HamizaH uncovers
clever features in this minimalist home designed by its owners.
The study area is a focal point of the Changs’ living room. Symmetry and geometry were paramount to its design.
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LEft
Jason’s family was supportive of his venture into interior design. o ppoSitE
Inspired by an Internet photo, Jason designed the geometric bookcase with handles as well as storage to conceal printers and files.
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fter receiving the keys to their new home, it was two years before the Changs could move in as Jason and li lian designed and managed the renovation of their five-room flat themselves. He also studied the basics of interior design — from the recommended height of a countertop to the different types of hinges and lighting — as well as the 3-D modelling software Sketchup from scratch. “it felt like i’d done a two-year course on interior design, and our home was my final-year project!” says Jason.
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They went through various changes, and took their time to source the materials they liked and contractors they trusted. Carpentry experts from Cheong Cheng Renovation & Carpentry Work, for instance, were instrumental in achieving the desired sleek, minimalist look. “minimalism requires precision, and i did not want large gaps between wardrobe doors and other built-ins. So while it may have been one of the carpenters’ hardest jobs, they far exceeded my expectations,” says Jason. The renovation included
Who lives here
A couple and their 11-year-old son home Five-room HDB home in Punggol s ize 1,216 sq ft
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replacing the common bathroom door with a laminated bi-fold version that blended with the corridor in order to achieve a concealed, seamless finish. Another challenge was reconfiguring the bathroom layouts to make space for fulllength countertops. li lian especially wanted a hotel-like ambience for the master suite. Jason also included some clever ideas in his design such as a dining table that could be tucked under the kitchen counter, a customised trash chute on the quartz countertop that was linked to a pull-out drawer for easy trash removal,
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a bovE
To achieve a minimalist look, Jason customised a slim TV console with an aluminium frame that concealed the wiring, and stuck with only four colours – light wood, white, grey, and black – throughout their home. rig ht
The wooden table was initially too heavy to pull out. Adding a self-adhesive slider to the bottom of the legs was an affordable, simple solution.
The open kitchen and dining area feature a roller blind to keep cooking fumes out, and a two-part cabinet that conceals the pantry and display area.
“As A designer Who speciAlises in mobile, Web And other types of digitAl mediA design, i Am nAturAlly drAWn to interior design As Well. renovAting my oWn home WAs the best opportunity to try it out.” – JAson chAng, homeoWner
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Textured wallpaper with a geometric motif covers the feature wall in the master bedroom. The lamp was from Taobao.
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and a full-height master bedroom door that could easily be mistaken for a wall. While a muji-inspired palette and concept dominates the look, there is also an underlying geometric theme that started with the 3-D geometric tiles their son Caelen picked for the master bathroom. The idea further manifested into a tall, custom bookcase in the study area and other decor products. “We are happy with what we’ve achieved, but i don’t think i’ll do this again for my next home. Too tiring,” says Jason.
top
The 3-D bathroom tiles from Soon Bee Huat that kickstarted the geometric features throughout the home. top, righ t
To minimise clutter, Jason designed this pull-out toilet roll holder. righ t
Jason extended one of the bathroom walls so he could build niches for toiletries and conceal the wiring and pipes of the wall-hung toilet and LED mirror.
photography vEronica tay art direction kriSty quah
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Who lives here
A doctor and his wife, who’s a lawyer and art historian home Three-bedroom penthouse at Duchess Manor s ize 1,600 sq ft (built-in); 2,799 sq ft (including roof terrace)
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The furniture in the different spaces of this penthouse has been carefully selected to echo the bright shades reflected in the artworks on the walls. The dining set, for example, incorporates a burst of yellow.
Art And Soul This couple wanted their home to mirror their artistic sensibilities. Jacqueline Tan walks through their gallery-inspired home.
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usic, art and food – the finer things in life – were huge considerations when interior design company Collective Designs worked on this three-bedroom penthouse. Renovated and furnished at slightly over $350,000, precious artworks dress the walls. The wife was an art historian and worked in a few art galleries before switching to law as a second career. Between them, they have a sizeable collection of art, sculptures and unique furniture pieces, and wanted to showcase them in a classically simple, well-lit space. A white finish on the cabinetry keeps the space streamlined, while storage options house a collection of unique flatware, cutlery and pottery amassed from their travels. “We also changed the direction the kitchen faced, closing the original entrance that was off the living room, and opening a door on the wall nearest the dining room instead,” says Selina Tay, founder and principal designer of Collective Designs. “This created a better flow between the cooking and dining areas. We also extended the dining room into the small balcony to accommodate an eightseater table. Now, there’s also a bar with plenty of storage for wine, a coffee machine and accessories, plus a wine chiller.” The living room’s bay window, which wraps around its perimeter, is now used for displays. It also serves as a ledge for extra seating when guests come over. The cushy, L-shaped sofa softens
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rIGHt
Being music aficionados, the couple has a dedicated music room to house their vast collection of CDs and vinyls, and her cello. o ppoS Ite , Ab ove
The living room and corridors are light and airy with concealed storage spaces to maintain neatness. Brightly-hued furniture adds contrast. o ppoS Ite , bottom
The study has a Murphy wall bed for when visitors from overseas come to stay.
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beloW
The master bedroom has a cosy, more personable tone as compared to the rest of the house. op poSI te, top
The rooftop garden offers a tranquil view of the Bukit Timah precinct, and is great for entertaining in the evening.
opp oS It e, fAr le ft
The living room’s bay window wraps around its perimeter, and serves as a display area and a ledge for extra seating. The L-shaped sofa softens the space.
oppoSI te , lef t
Clad in mod wooden tones, the master bathroom was extended to accommodate a full-length tub, as requested by the couple.
the space. The owners also wanted some of the furniture to reflect a vibrant statement hue from the paintings. after much contemplation, yellow won. “it is fun and serves as a great contrast to the classic blue-grey walls!” says Selina. “Overall, we’ve ensured the home gets plenty of natural light by using light-coloured, perforated blinds instead of heavy drapes, and retaining many of the windows for natural cross ventilation. There is also lots of concealed storage space so the place stays as neat as possible,” adds Selina. as both husband and wife, who plays the cello, are also music aficionados with a vast collection of cDs and vinyls, Selina turned one bedroom into a music room. She had
photos ColleCtIve deSIGnS
the floor carpeted while the floor-to-ceiling, built-in cabinetry and heavy drapes helped soundproof it. compared to the rest of the home, the master bedroom has a cosy, more personable tone. The lushly textured wallpaper and elegant purple hues actually distract the eye from the fact that it is not a large space. Finally, a big hit with guests is the rooftop garden with its table for 12. accessible by an outdoor staircase, the open-air sanctuary, with a tranquil view of the Bukit Timah precinct, serves as an entertainment and barbecue area for larger gatherings in the evening. “The layout and design were deliberately kept simple to minimise maintenance,” says Selina.
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style in harmony The look of this bachelorette apartment is the result of a close collaboration between an interior designer and a feng shui master. Lynn Tan picks up a few tips on how to incorporate feng shui requirements into a home’s design without compromising on style.
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omeowner Li Ling is a firm believer that feng shui can help to optimise health and wealth. So, when she collected the keys to her new apartment, she consulted both a feng shui master, as well as an interior designer. Based on her horoscope and the orientation of the place, the feng shui master came up with a list of recommendations – including which of the three rooms to use as her bedroom and her study, as well furniture placement and even the colour scheme to adopt. as Li Ling lacked the element of metal, she was advised to make up for it by using grey, white and gold – all colours associated with metal. “I am alright with grey and white, but decided on rose gold instead of the traditional yellow gold,” she says. “Even my dog is the correct colour,” she says jokingly about Fonzie, her seven-year-old grey miniature schnauzer. Working closely with the feng shui master on the layout, Carmen Tang, design director
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op posite
The choice of light wood colours within the home adds a softer, more feminine feel.
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Who lives here
home
A marketing director and her miniature schnauzer A three-bedroom condominium at Highline Residences si ze 915 sq ft
above, l eft
To maximise space, Li Ling opted for more compact furniture. The living room clocks help to keep her on time when dealing with the overseas markets she works with. left
Built-in cabinets provide much-needed additional storage space and keep clutter at bay.
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above
The walls of the kitchen are clad with a marblelike laminate to complement the marble dining table.
of Wolf Woof, went to great lengths to integrate these elements into her concept proposal. “It wasn’t just simply about addressing the feng shui needs. More importantly, it was about doing it with style,” Carmen emphasises. The dining area is a small and cosy corner right beside the kitchen. The existing glass panel separating the two was removed to create a better spatial connection between the small spaces. The priority for the dining area, however, was to incorporate more metal elements, so Carmen designed a marble dining table with metal legs complemented by a large monochromatic portrait by illustrator Ruben Ireland framed in metal. Her original intention was to copper-plate the metal table legs and poster frame, but as the cost was exorbitant, Carmen settled for a rose gold spray-painted finish instead. Built-in storage runs the length of the wall, from the main entrance, past the kitchen and dining area, and all the way to the TV console feature in the living room that was designed to flush with the protruding column and beam. as Li Ling's unit is relatively small with no provision for a yard or any form of storage, it was important that the design catered for these and concealed any clutter. “I travel frequently, so my home has to be maintenance- and clutter-free,” says Li Ling. When home, she spends most of her time working and taking conference calls in the study, which used to be one of the bedrooms. according to the feng shui master, the southfacing room is ideal as her study, so an existing bedroom wall was hacked and the door was replaced with a glass wall
A south-facing work desk in a south-facing study room is the ideal orientation for Li Ling's work success.
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to open up the space. now, although a defined work space, it remains spatially connected to the rest of the home. another south-facing room is the master bedroom. Working with a grey palette proved tricky because too much would make the bedroom appear dull, so Carmen introduced some rose gold here. The existing wardrobe was retained, with more cabinet space clad in grey and rose gold laminates added. Even the track lighting is rose gold. “Most of the rose gold elements were difficult to source locally, but we managed to find some from Taobao,” shares Carmen. Li Ling admits to heeding the feng shui master’s advice very closely and some of that means limiting the time she spends in the dining area and adjacent kitchen because these are unfavourable for her due to their orientation. She also keeps the windows in the third bedroom and common bathroom closed as they face north. Overall, however, she is pleased that her new home has a softer appeal as compared to her previous home that she shared with her brother. For Carmen, in addition to understanding the client’s personality, lifestyle and preferences, the biggest challenge was incorporating the many feng shui requirements. “The key is to work in the feng shui considerations, while injecting a modern twist that complements the design.”
left
Grey wallpaper with metallic motifs is exactly what the feng shui master prescribed. opp osite
Rose gold elements comply with the feng shui recommendations and add a more modern, luxe touch.
photography angela guo art direction Kristy Quah
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p r oj e c t s h owc a s e
Private hideaway Ingenious spatial planning and methods of concealment resulted in this sanctuary of a home, writes IsABEllE ToW.
W
hile they knew their home provided sufficient space, the owners of this HDB apartment felt it simply hadn’t been functionally optimised. Envisioning a comfortable yet aestheticallypleasing sanctuary as the concept, they engaged Jack Chan, Neu Konceptz director and principal designer, to bring their dream home to fruition. Tapping on Jack’s space planning expertise, they agreed to hacking the master bedroom wall and converting the space into the present dining area. The new layout offers the freedom to better utilise the spaces. A visitor will also be impressed by the seamless appearance of the home. This is a deliberate effect to fulfil the homeowners’ desire for a neat space that conceals unsightly bits and bobs. For instance, Jack concealed air-conditioning trunking and pipes inside carpentry. And vertically-striped wall cladding with hidden doors effectively conceal the bedrooms, keeping them strictly private and separate from the living area that’s designated for entertainment. The greys of the homogenous tiles, woodlook wall laminates and warm wooden furniture, on the other hand, are the result of an inspiration from nature. And a mixture of lighting – spotlights, cove lights and glass suspension lamps – zhooshes up the look of the home. The renovation was $110,000, without furnishings.
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Who lives here h ome
A couple in their 30s Three-room HDB apartment in Yishun siz e 1,184 sq ft
lef T
Straight lines running throughout the home make the areas feel open and spacious. above, lefT
The verticallystriped wood cladding concept is repeated throughout the home, creating a cohesive look. above, rI ghT
Quaint little nooks in the home offer space for private reflection. oppos ITe
The midcentury-inspired look of the furniture evokes an understated, elegant feel. Sideboard is from Castlery, accessories are from BoConcept.
text Isabelle Tow photos Neu KoNcepTz
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f e at u r e
FOR HER ONLY Who says women only go for pink and pastels when it comes to interior styles. Be inspired by these bachelorette pads that are anything but predictable.
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CONtraSt & C O LO u r This bachelorette loves organising memorable parties for her friends, so her HDB flat had to have ample space for gatherings and soirees. It also had to give her the flexibility to use the space to play the piano and practise yoga. As a well-travelled individual, who loves to collect ornaments, posters and pictures, her home also required storage and display areas. Artistroom incorporated storage in several places while freeing up the floor for a spacious feel. Black and white dominate the palette, creating contrast and a sleek feel – and serving as a practical, classic backdrop for coloured and textured decor as well as things she is bound to collect over the years. Timber veneer conveys the Japanese concept of living with nature perfectly.
tIMeLeSS COSINeSS This bachelorette loves to bake, cook and host, so her home had to be well equipped for whipping up her signature bakes and dishes efficiently and comfortably. Instead of upper and lower cabinets, suspended storage units were chosen for a clean look and ergonomic access to foodstuff and equipment. Without the additional countertop of typical kitchen set-ups here, the island is the hub for food preparation, and doubles as a dining table. Additionally, with the main aim of creating a functional space that looks light and sleek, the cosy, warm colour scheme, as well as contemporary concept with Nordic touches make this HDB unit a haven for visiting friends and family.
“aN ISLaNd wIth a hOb, aN OveN aNd a SINk, aS weLL aS a CuStOMISed gLaSS dININg tabLe Make thIS NarrOw kItCheN appear LeSS CLuttered. the ISLaNd aLSO ServeS aS a SpaCe fOr gueStS tO ChILL Out aNd Chat whILe She IS preparINg fOOd.” – JOey khu, fOuNder, JOey khu INterIOr deSIgN
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“tO reCreate thIS bOhO-ChIC LOOk, yOu CaN’t fear COLOur. MIx brIght aNd Muted tONeS SO the SpaCe dOeSN’t appear OverpOwerINg. SeCONdLy, eNSure eNOugh whIte SpaCe tO baLaNCe Out CONtraStINg COLOurS Or patterNS.” – barbara frItSChy, fOuNder aNd CreatIve dIreCtOr, Make rOOM
e a Sy & b r e e Z y This shophouse unit is designed to match the client’s bubbly personality and daring style. The aim was to mix materials and colours for a vibrant yet relaxing vibe – part beach house, part botanical-inspired. Here, the furniture pieces are in a variety of materials such as wood, metal or rattan. Instead of built-in furnishings, the owner wanted standalone furniture, so she could move things around in future. The focus on slim lines unified the look. Even with a palette of pink, yellow and green hues, the home evokes a warm ambience. The pink sofa really pops, creating an Insta-worthy home.
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I N S p I r e d b y J a pa N This being a penthouse with four bedrooms, Monocot Studio had plenty of room to work with. To turn it into a single-bedroom home with a gym, a study and a wet and dry kitchen, the design team hacked 95 per cent of the apartment and reconfigured the layout. The owner also wished for a Japanese-style home with natural materials and as much storage as possible. With a palette of timber and granite, elements of Japanese design such as wood strips that resemble screens were introduced, while light wood surfaces and streamlined designs evoke the mood of a ryokan and an onsen in the bedroom and bathroom respectively. This home demonstrates that minimising the usage of materials achieves a significant impact and creates a cohesive look.
during the large gatherings the owner loves to host. The colours and materials are also defining characteristics. Black surfaces and mesh mingle with red bricks, concrete and wood for a robust, industrial vibe.
photo Studio PeriPhery
aN INduStrIaL edge This apartment had two bedrooms initially. It now boasts a series of free-flowing spaces, much like a studio apartment. To achieve this, UPSTAIRS_ ripped apart existing walls and played with heights to segregate key zones. A plus in this apartment is its unusually high ceiling that allowed placing the bed on a platform that extends to wrap around the sunken living area, and serves as storage and additional seating
text ROssaRa JamiL
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f e at u r e
Space for paSSion Flexipreneur, artist, fitness enthusiast, movie buff... The modern woman’s lifestyle calls for creating time and space for passions and personal expression.
for the artist
Love painting, crafting jewellery, creating textile art or woodworking? Designing a dedicated studio is good for the creative spirit – and in this home by Three-d Conceptwerke, the studio truly is the star. The first thing the owners see when they get home, it is segregated by glass partitions to create an airy vibe, and has glass doors to minimise audio distractions. Also, storage solutions offer great flexibility. Here, trolleys and carts are perfect for organising art and craft supplies. Lastly, this need not be a solitary endeavour. A large studio table makes it possible to have friends and family share in the activities. When all play is done, the table is a dining space for hearty meals.
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for the fitness Junkie
Exercising at home could help you achieve your fitness goals more quickly. Take inspiration from this four-room HDB flat conceptualised by Design Zage. Owned by a couple, it has a gym that is a surprising contrast to the resort feel of the rest of the home. The cool grey, concrete-like vinyl flooring extends from the living area to the gym to create a subtle transition.
The bedroom walls were replaced with glass panels to showcase this gym. The mirrors help to prevent injuries as people can see exactly what position they are in when stretching and lifting. They also help to make a space feel larger than it really is. The vinyl flooring stands up to the abuse of a home gym. It’s also mould-, mildew-, and moisture-resistant.
“hDB flats are DesigneD with an imposeD loaD of 150 kg/m2. Discuss the equipment you want in your home gym with your Designer so he can aDvise you accorDingly.” – Zhuo Jinhai, managing Director, Design Zage
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for the flexipreneur
Whether you are a mother or a woman running a business solo, you’re an entrepreneur juggling a variety of tasks throughout the week. Choosing this route comes with its own challenges, especially if you have young children at home vying for your attention. Instead of working at your dining table, have a
dedicated space to enhance your productivity. Styled by Make Room, this home office features an open-concept plan so parent and children do not feel isolated during working hours. The children can also use it to do homework. Managing clutter is crucial, so allocate enough storage for easy retrieval of documents.
f o r t h e pa s s i o n at e c o o k
“the Baking kitchen shoulD have a countertop that’s the right height for the Baker in the family, as well as the right higher-enD oven with multiple features. plus, pull-out Drawers to store pans anD trays.” – terri tan, Design Director, Designworx interior consultant
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Cooking and baking are more than about showing love and care. They are also creative outlets for exploring new flavours. The kitchen must be equipped and designed well for you to enjoy the process even more. Consider how much equipment you have and allocate storage space for future additions. Whatever the size of the kitchen, ensure you have
sufficient countertop space for equipment and food preparation. Many have an island in the kitchen for this reason, and it often doubles as a socialising station when family or guests visit. This kitchen by Designworx Interior Consultant has a seamless look with tall cabinets that match the colour of the refrigerators, and are flush with the walls.
f o r t h e m ov i e B u f f
f o r t h e fa s h i o n lov e r
The world of fashion may be fickle, but a well-designed wardrobe stands the test of time. Traditional walk-ins come with open shelves and racks so that it’s faster and easier to view everything at a glance. However, some might find that a covered wardrobe, like this one by Black N White Haus, keeps the space uncluttered. To maximise storage, consider a full-height wardrobe
in an L-shaped configuration or along two facing walls. A custom wardrobe gives you freedom to organise your bags, clothes and shoes. If yours is a small space, consider mirror-clad doors to enhance the sense of space. A light palette also keeps the room feeling spacious and elegant. Try and make space for a vanity, which can be used as a workspace when necessary.
text roSSara Jamil
A well-appointed entertainment room not only provides a cosy setting, but also ensures that the movie experience is at its optimum with a few strategies. For example, the watching distance should be at least 1.5 times the diagonal size of the TV screen. Invest in a quality sound system with at least five speakers and a subwoofer. This entertainment room by MOW Interior Design can store more than a thousand DVDs. To meet this design objective, there are more storage solutions behind the sofa. Fabric wall covering and a large rug help to absorb sound. This space also serves as a guest room.
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prope r t y
“ W h y a r e yo u s e l l i n g yo u r f l at ? ”
5 Questions to ask your HDB resale Flat seller These useful questions from property agents and home buyers can help you avoid buying a dud of a flat and may even get you the best bargain ever.
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The first thing Low Po Yu, senior marketing director at ERA Realty Network, tries to find out is the owners’ motivation to sell. “I have been buying resale flats at record lows and selling them at record highs in popular areas such as Clementi because I’m able to better understand the owners’ motivation and work on that,” explains Po Yu, who also uses her intimate knowledge of the neighbourhood to her advantage. “Understanding a seller’s intention to sell will aid in negotiating a good deal,” agrees Daniel Wong, associate group director, Propnex Realty. A seller, who is upgrading to a built-to-order flat or an executive condominium, and
is collecting or has already collected the key to the new home, would likely be more open to price negotiation because he needs to sell the house as soon as possible. “On the other hand, if sellers are not in a rush to sell, they are usually not as motivated and will be firmer on their price, making it more difficult to get a good deal.” Buyers: try chatting casually with the seller or the agent to gauge how desperate they are to sell. For example, one buyer shared that he bought a resale flat at a great discount off the asking place. The seller was a permanent resident (PR) who had moved back to his country. He left the home vacant for a few months because he could afford to
one buyer Was plagued by the seller’s loan sharks for months. he had to make a police report, repaint his neW door, install security cameras, and generally live in stress and fear for his young family’s safety.
“ W h at ’ s t h e h i sto ry o f t h e f l at ? ”
This is a question for the flat’s neighbours and tenants, if any. Po Yu says she always asks the tenants living in the house, and neighbours on the left, right, top and bottom of the flat about its history as they would be able to give you the most honest feedback. And it is worth it because you will need to live in your HDB flat for at least five years to meet the minimum occupation period before you can sell it, so you should find out everything you can about your potential new home. You will get to know your potential neighbours, too. Also, it doesn’t hurt to ask the seller about his neighbours. For example, bachelorette Christie Ng dislikes boisterous, big crowds. Her alarm bells went off when a seller casually mentioned that the nextdoor neighbour had a large, extended family with several
grandchildren spending the bulk of their time with the grandparents, even on weekends. “I’m quite a private person and value my peace and quiet. After my chat with the seller, I paid extra attention to the neighbour’s home and noticed that there were kids’ bicycles and even toys spilling out onto the corridor. Of course, I decided against buying that apartment,” says Christie. “a r e t h e r e a n y loa n s h a r k i s s u e s W i t h t h i s f l at ? ”
Agents are unlikely to volunteer this information. “Go ahead and ask the seller’s agent this question. She or he is obliged to be truthful,” advises Po Yu, who takes it on herself to check front doors, walls and lift lobbies for paint
used to cover up paint splashes – a common trademark of loan sharks. One buyer was plagued by the seller’s loan sharks for months. He had to make a police report, repaint his new door, install security cameras, and generally live in stress and fear for his young family’s safety. “It didn’t strike me to ask about loan sharks when I bought the flat from an elderly couple. I thought I’d gotten a great deal and was pleased that the seller was willing to move out at an earlier date. That allowed me to start my renovation so I could move in sooner, saving me from having to rent a temporary home. Now, I realise why they were so obliging. Their son had borrowed money from loan sharks who constantly harassed them!” laments the
photo 123RF
hold on and wait for a good offer. But without a confirmed sale, the buyer deduced that it meant the seller’s agent was not guaranteed a commission despite marketing it for a few months. He was able to persuade the agent to present his modest offer in a good light and to motivate the seller to let the flat go.
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unlucky buyer who declined to be named. Interestingly, Daniel once met a buyer who intentionally shopped for ‘loan shark units’. “Knowing the sellers were in debt and desperate to sell their home, the buyer managed to buy the unit at $70,000 below valuation. Thereafter, he made a police report and the police pasted a notice stating the previous owners had already moved out. The buyer got a good deal with no trouble and issues,” shares Daniel. “A r e t h e r e A n y e n b lo c p l A n s f o r t h i s b lo c k ? o r A n y h o m e i m p r ov e m e n t p r o g r A m m e ( h i p ) to u p g r A d e t h e f l At A n d t h e b lo c k ? ”
“Asking about enbloc plans is important as it greatly impacts the buyer who is moving in,” says Po Yu. For example, the buyers may be a young couple hoping to live near their parents so they can help to take care of their grandchildren, or to look after the elderly folks. Having to move out in a few years due to enbloc actions could seriously derail their own plans. Do take note that enbloc plans may only affect some parts of the estate such as your block, but not your parents’ block, and the new place you are offered in future may not be as convenient or close to the old folks. Similarly for retiree buyers, this may be where they hope to live out the rest of the lives. Despite a handsome compensation they could receive, some would rather not deal with the upheaval.
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As for HIP upgrading plans, “it is important to ask if there is anything coming up because of the work involved, like upgrading of existing bathrooms, repairing concrete and structural cracks, new decorative doors, and metal grille gates,” adds Daniel. Also, as the HIP is government-subsidised by up to 95 per cent of the cost for Singapore citizens, one can save a lot on renovation costs. Buyer JS, for instance, decided to delay his reno plans and saved a pretty penny by waiting till after the upgrading programme. Do note that PR households are not entitled to the subsidy and have to bear the full cost for any upgrading work, so it may be a better idea to buy a resale flat after any HIP works is completed and already paid for by the seller. “ W h At k i n d o f r e n ovAt i o n h A s t h e f l At u n d e r g o n e ? ”
“Many buyers may not know that a place is sold based on caveat emptor, which means the buyer alone is responsible for checking the quality and suitability of the place before buying it,” says Po Yu. If you do not ask, it is not illegal for the seller’s agent not to reveal any information about, say, electrical fixtures that are not working or faulty plumbing. The onus is on you, the buyer, to check everything properly before making your purchase. “An inspection is usually scheduled a few days before the completion to make sure the unit is in order. HDB will not take any responsibility
text STELLA THNG
“mAny buyers mAy not knoW thAt A plAce is sold bAsed on cAveAt emptor, Which meAns the buyer Alone is responsible for checking the quAlity And suitAbility of the plAce before buying it.’
for any issues either,” adds Daniel. Tip: for a renovated unit with a lot of built-ins like cabinets, wardrobes, and lighting, it is important to ask about the accessibility to the wiring and pipes. For example, air-conditioner pipes may be concealed behind builtin wardrobes. “In the event that you need to replace the pipes because of wear and tear, you may have to hack the whole wardrobe away to access it, or incur extra cost to re-run a new piping route,” cautions Daniel, who also points out that buyers usually pay a higher price for a renovated unit. “However, you don’t want to be caught in a situation where you pay a higher price and still have to incur extra costs for repairs. That is being penny wise, pound foolish!”
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s H ow e r s Pa With Hansgrohe’s Rainfinity range of hand, shoulder and overhead showers, the act of showering no longer plays second fiddle to baths in terms of pampering. Users can indulge in a variety of jet types available, including the nerve-soothing micro-fine
text Isabelle Tow
PowderRain. What’s more, the distinct, matte white body and graphite-hued spray discs complements any modern bathroom. The Rainfinity range is available at Hansgrohe Aquademie, 69 Mohamed Sultan Road.
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OverflOwing POssibilities
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hen was the last time you were captivated by or impressed with a faucet in the bathroom? If the answer is never, then you are not alone. For too long, the status of bathrooms has been relegated to one that is purely utilitarian and undeserving of additional effort in its design or presentation. Today, in an increasingly connected world, where the concept of personal space is constantly challenged, the bathroom is now regarded as a retreat for relaxation and private reflection. Efforts to elevate the experience range from the mundane to the luxurious – large fluffy towels, fine soap, and scented candles. There are plenty of luxurious trimmings on the market meant for the bathrooms of the house-proud. Designer tiles also add sparkle to the space, while premium countertop materials offer a variety of looks without sacrificing durability. Bathroom fixtures, of course, go from elaborate rainshowers to ingenious wallmounted nodes that project jets of water to help massage tired muscles. Taking the luxe treatment a step further is the latest series of custom fixtures from bath specialist Axor by Hansgrohe. The new Myedition taps offer more than 225 different custom combinations that are made possible by the sheer range of materials available for both the
sleek monolithic body of the tap and its crowning plate. For starters, homeowners can choose from the 15 Finishplus surfaces – from polished red gold to brushed black chrome – which make up the body of the tap. They can then further personalise their selection with a premium plate material from the Axor Signature portfolio. Each boasts a level of craftsmanship and uniqueness like no other. Marble from quarries in the Basque region of Spain? You got it. Walnut veneer from the forests of America? That’s available, too. Coupled with Axor’s Powderrain technology, which emits a spray so fine that it has been likened to enveloping one’s hands in a warm cocoon, the Myedition tap no doubt scores solid As for function and aesthetic. There is no question that, here, the humble faucet has transcended its role as a basic hygiene tool to becoming an avenue of creative expression for the discerning individual. In a world where personalisation has become synonymous with luxury, more and more savvy homeowners are seeking ways to make every part of their abode truly their own. Even the smallest and most mundane of details are now subject to scrutiny and reinvention. With Axor’s Myedition, it seems the demand for custom design and material won’t be running dry any time soon.