2020-10-01 Home & Decor

HOMEANDDECOR.COM.SG

TRENDING

Ideas from
the London
design scene
WHY MOVE TO
THE SOUTHERN
WATERFRONT

OCT 2020 THE WFH
EDITION
S$6.00
EXPERT HOME OFFICE
SET-UP TIPS

9 ON-TREND LOOKS FOR
THE STUDY SPACE

HOW TO CREATE A
LEARNING ZONE FOR KIDS



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that nourish the soul and

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CONTENTS

OCTOBER

NOW

DESIGN NEWS, PLACES TO

VISIT, THINGS TO BUY

19
HERE THOU ART,
ROMEO
Flexform’s incredibly
versatile sofa Romeo
is designed to look at
home in any space.

SHOPPING

20
GREAT BUYS
Our monthly roundup
of the hottest new
design products
for the home.

HOT SPOT

26
HANSIK GOO
Chef Mingoo Kang’s
Hong Kong outpost is
a contemporary
take on 14th century
traditional Korean
architecture.

28
CONRAD
HANGZHOU
inspired by the
surrounding water
landscape of the
Chinese city of
Hangzhou, features
beautifully flowing
interior spaces.

24 28

Conrad

Hangzhou

Poetic curves, colour
palettes inspired by
the four seasons and
compelling narratives
blend together in this

luxury hotel.

4



CONTENTS

OCTOBER

PEOPLE 41
UP CLOSE
31 What’s German
MEDITERRANEAN
MODERNITY
metal sculptor and

Paris and Monaco- photographer Rainer

based design studio Lagemann’s personal

Humber & Poyet has a philosophy?

knack for translating

complex narrative and FA I R R E P O R T
concepts into emotive 4 2
spaces unique to LONDON
DESIGN FESTIVAL
their location.

The 17th edition of

36 the London Design
WELL, WHY NOT? Festival was, once

Thai fashion designer again, a celebration of

Bhanu Inkawat on the talent from the UK.

Asian way of life and

the inspiration behind 50
his brand Greyhound THE NEW NORMAL
Original’s collaboration FOR CITY
DWELLERS
with Ikea.

Fang Low, CEO and

38 co-founder of co-living
A PURPOSE TO company Figment,
REPURPOSE
talks about how

42 Cherin Tan, founder the postpandemic

of interior design firm situation has

LAANK, talks about transformed how we

LAAT, her unique relate to each other.

upcycling furniture

label co-created with

PHUNK co-founder

Alvin Tan.

38

A Purpose to

Repurpose

Award-winning
interior designer

Cherin Tan
on breathing

a new life
into unwanted

items.

DESIGN

IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FROM

THOSE IN THE KNOW

6



CONTENTS

OCTOBER

52 76
PLAYFUL SPARKING JOY
DISPOSITION Decked with treasured
Built on the bones of a keepsakes, the eclectic
former farmhouse, decor of this home tells
this home-cum-atelier the story of its owners’
is a chic combination of blended tastes,
bright colours and heritage, travels and
minimalist surfaces. love for toys.

HOMES 60 84
CHARM OF TIMELESS
THE NEW MODERN THE CALM ELEGANCE
Cool, muted hues and In this terrace house,
delicately curved luxury is born out of
shapes help to create a medley of beautiful
the zen atmosphere views, privacy and
of this Balmoral materials meant to
condominium age gracefully.
apartment.
on the
68 cover
COOL CONTRAST
Brimming with 60
character, creative
touches and bold Monocot Studio has
colour choices, this created a cool-toned
apartment is proof that cosy study overlooking
an open layout can still
be cosy. the greenery.

PHOTOGRAPHY
VERONICA TAY

STYLING
NONIE CHEN

52

8

CELEBRATING

YEARS

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

F E AT U R E PROPERTY

89 114
9 STYLISH STUDY IS THE GSW
LOOKS TO GET SINGAPORE’S
INSPIRED BY HIPPEST ADDRESS?
From the United States, With exciting plans
Mexico and France to for the Greater
Australia and China, Southern Waterfront
these spaces have announced by PM Lee
everything to Hsien Loong, property
please the eye and punters are heading
boost creativity. south in anticipation of
prices shooting north.
96
WORKPLACE 14
WISDOM AT HOME EDITOR’S NOTE
Now that life and work
collide at home in our 17
study, it is up to us to H&D.COM.SG
define the boundaries.
Here are tips from 16
some of the world’s DIGITAL EDITION
most prominent office EXCLUSIVES
furniture brands.
25
104 IN STORES
WORK AND PLAY
Setting up your child’s 118
room for optimal WHERE TO BUY
learning? Here’s what
you need to know. 119
BUYING GUIDE
110
STYLE AND 120
SUBSTANCE THE HARD TRUTH
Sleek, stylish pieces for
a home office that will
contribute to a job
well done.

96

89

9 Stylish
Study Looks

From the
minimalist to
the cleverly

intricate.

FEATURES

THE LATEST IN DESIGN
AND DECOR TRENDS

10

For a strikingly
modern home.

Quality designs at accessible prices.

Studio: 19 Keppel Road, #02-06 Jit Poh Building 089058
Tel: 3138 1999 | www.castlery.com

EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORIAL
SUPPORT
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Young Lim Veronica Tay SENIOR MANAGER,
([email protected]) ([email protected]) ADMINISTRATION &
EDITORIAL SUPPORT UNIT
ASSISTANT EDITOR EXECUTIVE Juliana Chong
Asih Jenie PHOTOGRAPHERS ([email protected])
([email protected]) Tan Wei Te
([email protected]) ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
WRITER Cynthia Lee
Melody Bay PHOTOGRAPHERS ([email protected])
([email protected]) Phyllicia Wang
([email protected])
CREATIVE
Vee Chin
SENIOR ART DIRECTOR ([email protected])
Nonie Chen
([email protected]) SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE
EXECUTIVE
ART DIRECTOR Wendy Wong
Kristy Quah ([email protected])
([email protected])

12

MEDIA PRODUCT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER
SOLUTIONS I N N O VAT I O N Eugene Wee Ignatius Low
([email protected])
DEPUTY HEAD DIRECTOR, PRODUCT GROUP MARKETING HEAD
Diana Lee & INNOVATION GROUP EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Sharon Cheong
([email protected]) Faith Yoong Caroline Ngui
([email protected]) CORPORATE
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR PRODUCT MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS HEAD
Sean Chen Carol Low GROUP EDITOR Chin Soo Fang
Raymond Goh
BANKING, INSURANCE & OPERATIONS ([email protected]) VICE-PRESIDENT,
INVESTMENT HUMAN RESOURCES
Ellen Lee TEAM HEAD Irene Lee
Alice Chee
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS & ([email protected]) Home & Decor is published by
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SENIOR MANAGER The views and opinions
Chloe Chow expressed or implied in
Home & Decor are those of the
MARKETING MANAGER authors or contributors and do
Goh Sze Min not necessarily reflect those
of the publisher.

For back issues, e-mail:
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Subscribe online:
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13

EDITOR’S NOTE

JOY OF HOMEDESKING

With the consistently working from home part
low number of Covid-19 of the time throughout the
infections among the week is going to be the new
community in Singapore, normal that we need to get
the government recently used to. Creating a conducive
eased preventive measures, space at home for work, with
enabling more employees access to essential devices,
to return to the workplace such as a printer or scanner
from 28 September, 2020. and other office supplies,
has become a necessity.
However, workers, whose
jobs can be performed from This issue is dedicated to
home, may only return helping homeowners plan for
to the office for up to half a proper home office or study
their working time and space, whether it’s an entire
working from home remains room or just a corner in your
the default for most. living- or bedroom. Find out
what the experts on have to
For those who have been say, and how you can make
using their dining table as a functional space look chic
a makeshift work station and stylish. Enjoy your time
during the Circuit Breaker working from home and we’ll
period, it is time to come see you again in November.
to terms with the fact that

YOUNG LIM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

photography ANGELA GUO art direction NONIE CHEN

14

BE PART OF THE

Mdeientinfeglloouwt,fcoooodklionvgearsndwbhaokeinngjo.y

Joginivuesanwoawysf,odrienxincgludseivaelsinavnidtedsistocoeuvnetnst!s,

TASTESOCIETYSG

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omen
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HERE THOU
ART, R OMEO

19

STORE AND ERGONOMIC PORTABILITY
D I S P L AY
These days, your couch,
With multiple configurations dining table and kitchen
and finish options, the countertop might serve as a
Studio Storage system from work surface. None of these
British brand Very Good & is ergonomically designed for
Proper (VG&P) is suitable the correct posture. Rizr, a
for working spaces both in portable sit-to-stand desk by
commercial and residential local brand MaNa, offers 12
settings. Studio Storage height settings, lightweight
features a royal blue metal case, a tilted surface and
structure with integrated screen adjustment with a no-
display panels fitted with slip grip to keep your laptop
either cork or whiteboards in place while working.
for office or family
communications, as well as Rizr is launched on
open shelves and cabinets Kickstarter at an early bird
to store documents and price of $139 (until 21 Oct, UP
equipment. $279), www.mana.sg/rizr.

The Studio Storage retails
at £2400 ($4,330) from VG&P,
verygoodandproper.co.uk.

TILE OF
THE MONTH

PEACE & QUIET

Having worked from home these
past few months, we realised
that there is so much noise in
our domestic environment. One
way to minimise this distraction
is by installing acoustic tiles in
the wall of the study. Commonly
found in offices, the acoustic tiles
of today have evolved to look
at home at, well, our homes. An
example is the Mura Wave Tiles
from Woven image. Featuring
4mm-thick 50x50cm tiles made
with recycled PET, the acoustic
solution absorbs sounds, creating
peace and quiet in your study
area, and adds texture to your
wall. Available in 12 colours.

Mura Wave Tiles is sold in a box
of nine tiles for $640 from Woven
Image, www.wovenimage.com.

20

TRENDING

IN FULL BLOOM

Add a dash of whimsy and delight to
your living space with these sculptural
chairs fashioned after the shape of
flowers in full bloom. From the abstract
and organic forms to the anatomically
correct blossom, these chairs can serve as
the centrepiece in a minimalist interior
and or playful complementary piece
among your houseplants and echoes the
nature outside. Plus, it creates an instant
Instagram-worthy profile picture.

1. Bouquet Small 3 . Getsuen Armchair 5 . Quetzal Chair by
Armchair by Tokujin by Masanori Umeda, Marc Venot, from
Yoshioka, $13,450 $11,220 from Edra, €3,098 ($4,976),
from Moroso, available at Space from Missana, www.
available in Singapore Furniture www. missana.es.
by Xtra, www.xtra. spacefurniture.com.
com.sg sg.
2 . Flower Armchair 4 . Bloom Easy
by S. Santantonio, Armchair Swivel, from
€2,640 ($4,238), from US$3,430 ($4.650),
Giovannetti, www. from Kenneth
giovanetticollezioni.it. Cobonpue, www.
kennethcobonpue.
com.

21

PERFECTLY TUNED
The best task chairs in the
market are precision-engineered
to support your body for an
extended period of time, hence:
the hefty price tags. ErgoTune,
a local brand specialising in
adjustable seating solutions,
offers a more affordable option.
The ErgoTune chair features
a height-adjustable backrest,
an Auto-Tuning Lumbar Area
Support (ATLAS), a four-
level reclining mechanism
and rotatable and adjustable
armrests. In short, all that high-
end office chairs offer, with a
more comfortable price point.

The ErgoTune Chair retails from $399 to
$599 from www.ergotune.com.

EXHIBITION OF THE MONTH

SMART LAUNDRY What: Lim Tze Peng’s a few hours a day
A Century Of Ink painting. Embracing
Forget the hassle of stacking your When: Now until 28 technology, he is
washer and dryer individually – LG’s October embarking on a
WashTower is an integrated all-in- Where: journey into the
one unit for your laundry. The washer www.odetoart.com digital sphere
and dryer are separate units but Born on 28 September with a solo virtual
communicate with each other, so that 1921 in Pasir Ris, exhibition Lim Tze
when you load your laundry into the Lim Tze Peng is Peng’s A Century
washer, the dryer automatically sets a living legend in Of Ink, hosted by
the optimal course and preheats Singapore’s art scene Ode to Art gallery.
itself to save you time. They also Renowned for his The exhibition
share a single, intuitive interface Chinese ink paintings showcases his latest
for easy control. and calligraphy. The artworks as well as
99-year-old is still a never-before-seen
For more information, please prolific artist, spending private collections.
visit www.lg.com/global/exhibition/
appliances.escentials, TANGS at Tang
Plaza, and www.escentials.com.

22

FRESHEN UP

Keep your clothes and bags fresh also includes a linen and cotton
on the go with the DIY Fabric pouch by Tove & Libra to hold all
Spray bundle, a collaboration of your essentials.
between Hong Kong fashion label
Tove & Libra and UK organic The spray bundle retails for $78 on
skincare brand Neal’s Yard www.simplewellness.com.sg and at Neal’s
Remedies. The spray comes with Yard Remedies Boutique in Takashimaya.
three organic essential oils in
ANTI VIRAL lavender, palmarosa, and orange,
which you can mix to concoct your
Local interior specialist company personalised blend. The bundle
Jestac has launched a line of
antiviral vinyl wallpaper and
flooring called Lonprotect,
which uses advanced antiviral
technology from Japan that
deactivates contagious viruses
by 99.9 per cent within an hour,
making it ideal for high-traffic
surfaces. The active agents in
Lonprotect’s vinyl chloride resin
layer destroy the living envelope
of the virus, preventing it from
replicating.

Lonprotect is available in over 200
flooring designs and six wallpaper
designs. Price by request, find out more at
www.lonprotect.com.

NEWS

A Rehab Kit for From Tuscany with Love
the Win
Architecture Saving Our World Edra, the trailblazing displayed at the
KIMIA, a hi-tech Tuscan design brand showroom include iconic
wearable knee has landed in Singapore pieces like the Rose Chair
rehabilitation kit shore thanks to by Masanori Umeda,
designed by NUS Space Furniture. The On The Rocks Sofa by
graduates Aaron prominent furniture Francesco Binfare and
Ramzeen and Ricky Guo retailer unveiled the the polycarbonate Ella
has been crowned as new Spazio Edra, a Chair by Jacopo Foggini.
the national winner of dedicated display at
the 2020 James Dyson its Space Furniture Visit www.
Award. KIMIA simplifies Asia Hub showroom spacefurniture.com.sg
and streamlines the on Bencoolen Street, for more information
rehab process. in September. The and private viewing
sculptural pieces appointments.
More at www.
jamesdysonaward.org

Taking place over six weekends projects across the island, as
from 25 September to 31 well as the staple pavilion. This
October, the 2020 edition of year’s winning design by ADDP
Archifest is a hybrid of physical Architects and OWIU Design,
and digital events. It takes titled Reclaiming Connectivity,
the theme of Architecture is a virtual pavilion that invites
Saving Our World and presents festival-goers to experience
a lineup of more than 100 an interactive 3D virtual tour
programmes comprising pop- accessible through Archifest
ups, ground-up initiatives and website www.archifest.sg.

23

EDITOR’S 999 ELEPHANTS
CHOICE
Vitra’s iconic toy elephant turns 75 this year.
Developed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1945;
it never went into production until 2007, when

it quickly gained a cult status. In 2018, Vitra
launched the wood version to much fanfare, and
this year, marking the semisesquicentennial (that’s
three-quarter of a century) anniversary, Vitra has
launched a special series in grey-stained wood,
bringing the intricately produced collector’s item

even closer to its living counterparts.

The Eames Elephant in grey-stained plywood is a limited,
numbered series of 999 pieces, sold for $2,530 each at

Vitra Store by W.Atelier and www.vitra.com

NATIONAL IDENTITY

Find these familiar? You probably will if
you’ve lived in Singapore long enough.
This limited-edition NDP 55 collection by
design-forward furniture brand Grafunkt
and fabric design studio Onlewo features a
stool and ottoman upholstered in a tile-
pattern reminiscent of the benches and
tables usually found in Singapore’s public
spaces. The pieces are modular, so they
look great on their own or arranged as a
group. Either way, it’s sure to be a talking
point among your guests.

The Grafunkt x Onlewo NDP 55 collection
retails from $420 at www.grafunkt.com or
at Grafunkt’s Funan Mall store.

text ASIH JENIE & MELODY BAY
24

IN STORE

ALL WITHIN REACH FOREVER INDUSTRIAL Silestone Loft collection
Fans of industrial aesthetic can be viewed at Cosentino
A cluttered desk reflects a rejoice! Cosentino just launched City Singapore at 34/35
cluttered mind – so says many Silestone Loft, a collection of Duxton Road. Call 6713 9543
workplace experts, who advise to five new colours inspired by to book a private viewing.
tidy up your desk at the end of the specific industrial look in Find out more at www.
the day so you can have a fresh some of the coolest cities in cosentino.com/en-sg.
start the next day. This principle the world. The grey Camden
applies, too, at home, where most is an homage to its namesake
of us are working from these London neighbourhood; the
days. And the secret to a tidy warm grey Poblenou is a nod to
desk? Have an ample storage. The Barcelona; Seaport mimics the
Barley-N-MY Study Table from Star gritty cement of Manhattan’s
Living offers a clean-cut, matte- seaside district and Nolita’s
white work surface on a powder- white shade is inspired by New
coated base that is attached to York’s North of Little Italy area;
a whole cupboard finished in while the deep black Corktown
light-coloured Oak melamine that is inspired by Detroit. The new
serves as storage, filing cabinets colours are produced using a
and drawers for all your document new environmentally friendly
and electronic, storing everything technology and come with a 25-
you need within your reach, and year warranty.
making it super easy to tidy up at
the end of the day. Cellini’s Float Adjustable Bed
is designed to cater to our
Barley-N-MY Study Table increasing demand for flexible
retails for $999 from Star Living, and tailored furniture. It features
www.starliving.com.sg. a frame that can be adjusted for
a comfortable sitting position
TAKEN TO BED and USB ports on both sides
Now that we spend most of to ensure your gadgets never
our time at home, your bed run out of battery. Taking into
has evolved into a place for account multiple users’ different
not only sleeping, but also sleeping habits, Cellini has
for entertainment or even a designed the double bed with
workspace where you check two mattresses and separate
emails and do some tasks. reclining mechanisms that
allow you to sit and work while
your partner peacefully sleeps.
The Natura mattress features
breathable bamboo fabric that
ensures it always feels cool even
on warm and humid nights.

Float Adjustable Bed with
Natura Mattress and USB Ports
are sold as a set at $3,599 (promo
price, UP $12,888), available at
Cellini, www.cellini.com.sg

25

HOT SPOT

Hansik Goo

Korean chef
Mingoo Kang’s latest
fine dining destination in
Hong Kong is a celebration
of communal meals and
a contemporary take on
14th century traditional
Korean architecture.

Chef Mingoo Kang rose
to international fame in
his native South Korea
with his two-Michelin-starred
Mingles – currently No. 14 of
Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants
2020. Hansik Goo, his latest
venture, is a fine dining
restaurant in Hong Kong that
serves a contemporary take
on traditional communal
Korean meals. Launched
in collaboration with ZS
Hospitality, Hansik Goo has
a cosy, timber-clad setting
designed by multidisciplinary
interior design practice JJ Acuna
/ Bespoke Studio.

Taking inspiration for
Hansik Goo’s interior design
from Mingoo’s artisanal plating,
studio founder JJ Acuna crafted
a narrative of “Sky, Earth and
Bounty”, which split the 2,200
sq ft dining space into three
distinct zones.

The main dining room (Sky
Zone) is dressed in various
shades of blue while the bar
(Earth Zone) is clad in timber
and copper. Separated from

26

these two areas by a forest green reinforce the visual narrative.
curtain, the chef’s private dining The design team also took
room (Bounty Zone) features
natural walnut and birch timber inspiration from Bukchon
finishes with soothing green Hanok Village, an ancient
accents, as seen in the dining neighbourhood in Seoul with a
chair upholstery and frosted distinct traditional architecture
glass partitions. dating back to the 14th century.
The geometric pattern on the
Creating warmth and wall of the private dining room
uniting the three zones, Korean as well as the limestone and
oak and birch introduce ease poured terrazzo floor pattern
and softness. Handcrafted in the main dining room were
glazed ceramic tiles add a fashioned after elements found
contemporary feel with their in the village.
glossiness while curated
artworks by emerging Korean Visit www.hansikgoo.hk to find
artists from Soluna Fine Art
out more.

good to LEFT
know
The bar or Earth
Hansik Goo is a play Zone, features
on Korean words that various shades
translate to “a family of brown.
that shares meals” and The Bounty
Zone, a private
“Korean cuisine by dining space
Chef Mingoo”. beyond the
bar, highlights
green accents.

ABOVE

The Sky
Zone or main
dining space.

OPPOSITE,
LEFT

The five-
panel artwork
Breathing of
Light 20MA01 by
Lee Kyouhong
reinforces the
design narrative.

OPPOSITE,
RIGHT

Glossy glazed
tiles lend a
contemporary
touch to an
otherwise
retro interior.

text ASIH JENIE photos XU LIANG LEON 27

HOT SPOT

The interior of
the restaurant
Li’an tells
the story of
a Chinese
woman’s
journey from
Hangzhou to
explore the
world before
returning to
the city to
share her tales..

CONRAD HANGZHOU Located in the heart of its contemporary sensibilities
Qianjiang’s central by exploring how movement
Nestled in a high-rise designed by business district, Conrad translates into space.
UNStudio, this new hotel, inspired by the Hangzhou is an ode to the
beauty of the West Lake cultural “When we think of the
surrounding landscape of the Chinese landscape, which comprises heritage and cultural aspects
city of Hangzhou, features interior spaces the West Lake and the hills of Hangzhou, the beautiful
surrounding its three sides West Lake immediately comes
created by AB Concept. that were declared a Unesco to mind,” says Ed. “It’s this
World Heritage Site in 2011. feeling that led to the overall
28 fluid and undulating design.”
Renowned for their sensual,
narrative-driven interiors, the It took eight years to
founders of Hong Kong-based conceptualise the interiors
interior architectural studio of the 324-room hotel, which
AB Concept, Ed Ng and Terence opened last year. The unique
Ngan, captured the spirit of shape of the building, created
the area while reinterpreting by UNStudio, was a challenge
for AB Concept. On every

TOP floor, the interior designers The standard Summer good to
had to adapt to the changing Serenade guestrooms feature know
The sleek lift geometry, using undulating bathroom shutters decorated
lobby dressed curves, rounded surfaces with water lily motifs and Conrad Hangzhou is
in glossy marble and sensual forms instead offer breathtaking views of the part of Raffles City,
and timber. of traditional shapes. Qiantang River. The 25 suites a mixed-use urban
(Autumn Prelude) feature
ABOVE The sense of movement is rounded shapes and curves. development in
omnipresent, from the floor-to- The executive lounge (Spring Qianjiang New Town
The spa lounge. ceiling animated metallic panel Harmonic) is dressed in green
and hanging glass above the tones and timber flooring by CapitaLand.
ABOVE, RIGHT concierge area to the flowing while the Presidential Suite
walls and the playful wave-like (Winter Finale) is articulated sushi bar and teppanyaki
On the eighth patterns throughout the hotel. with refined details. station Uka, AB Concept
floor is this 20m highlighted warm tones.
indoor pool and Used as a metaphor for In addition to the spa,
a fully equipped change, the four seasons indoor pool and fitness centre, In Jin, a luxurious tea lounge
fitness centre. inspired the design of Conrad Hangzhou is also home by day and an elegant bar by
the rooms and lounge. to three restaurants and a lobby night, the key design element
BELOW bar with unique personalities. is the curvaceous grand
Located on the 50th floor of staircase that leads guests to
An artwork the hotel, Li’An, whose interior Blue Willow and Sky Lounge
depicting the features Eastern cultural that’s one floor above it.
moon with a references that tell the story of a
weeping willow Chinese woman’s journey, is the Through the elegant spaces
at the Blue highest restaurant in Hangzhou. of Conrad Hangzhou, Ed and
Willow brasserie. Terence have successfully
Situated on the 27th floor, woven a rich visual narrative
the upscale brasserie Blue at a crossroad where tradition
Willow takes inspiration and modernity, and urban
from the weeping willows skyline and nature meet.
of the West Lake. For the
To learn more about the hotel,
visit www.hilton.com/en/hotels/
hghfrci-conrad-hangzhou.

text KARINE MONIE photos OWEN RAGGETT 29

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IDEAS AND INSPIRATION FROM THOSE IN THE KNOW

MEDITERRA-

NEAN

MODERNITY

The name Humbert & Poyet
keeps cropping up in design
circles. Based in both Paris and
Monaco, the studio is known
for the refined, bold designs of
Beefbar restaurants around the
world, including Hong Kong.
Each has a distinctive visual
concept and identity that are
inspired by its location, thanks
to Emil Humbert (right) and
Christophe Poyet’s trademark
knack for translating complex
3-D ambiences. Writer
Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE finds
out more.

31

1. Humbert SPOTLIGHT
& Poyet’s
neoclassical I1
bathroom for n Beefbar Paris, Emil
the AD Interieurs Humbert and Christophe
2019 showcase. Poyet used an existing
2. Their art nouveau interior as the
Quartiers Mirror backdrop for their meticulously
(right) and opulent design. In Beefbar
Structure I Lamp Mexico, they installed black
for The Invisible wood and bronze panelling,
Collection, an custom alabaster lighting,
online platform leather walls and a raw
selling curated granite bar.
pieces by some For couturier Alexis
of the world’s Mabille’s Parisian boutique,
best interior the Humbert & Poyet studio
designers. thought of the space with
3. The duo’s cinema decor, imagining plays
brass dining of mirrors, geometry and
table in a Rue textiles that emphasised the
des Archives creator’s glamorous spirit.
Paris apartment. 2 Obsessed with attention to
4. The Hoxton, detail, the two 30-something
Paris guest founders even design most
bedroom. of the furniture pieces and
5 . The Wine lighting themselves to offer
Palace concept 3 a total experience to clients
store in Monaco across the globe, creating
has 2,300 spaces not dependent on time
bottles as part and trends, and expressing an
of the decor. urban Mediterranean lifestyle.
They represent a new
32 definition of luxury – one that’s
understated yet theatrical, less
austere and more enjoyable,
mixing eras, from classicism
to modernism. Like directors,
they design every project like
a movie or stage set, with the
interiors transporting users
and allowing them to immerse
themselves in the space,
aiming to create a scene with
the best lighting and the best
decor to tell the right story.

Born Legendary
The Humbert & Poyet adventure
was born from a meeting
between two men, two skills and
two visions of the profession.

Raised in Paris, Emil is the son Deco, 1950s and ’70s design 4
of an advertising executive icons, and Hollywood glamour,
and a ballet dancer. Monaco- as well as artisanal savoir-faire.
born Christophe learnt to
compose visually from his “It was natural. I instantly
photographer grandfather. knew we’d work together,”
discloses Emil. “We share
“We both come from families a common vision, with a
who practised art professionally great interest in the arts
or personally,” says Christophe. and craftsmanship. Our
“We can’t remember the approach to design is the
first time we realised design same: creating compositions
was important in our lives. and mixing periods. We are
Creating and designing have always exchanging ideas
just always been present.” and challenging ourselves
– and in constant evolution.
A mutual friend introduced When in front of your equal,
the Paris-trained duo in with mutual respect for
2007, when Emil had set up each other’s opinions, the
his architectural firm and creative process is richer.”
Christophe had just finished
studies in interior design. Better Together
They joined forces to set up Both passionate about
Humbert & Poyet a year later, 20th century high-end
believing they were stronger decoration, travel, fashion
as a duo rather than each and contemporary art, and art
working independently. collectors themselves, the pair
has fashioned a spectacularly
They already shared the luxurious universe based
same influences and aesthetic: on blends of marble, wood,
modernism, mid-century Italian
architecture and design, Art

5
33

“BRASS, IN PARTICULAR, IS A SIGNATURE allows them to design both 6. The rich
the envelope as well as the textures of the
OF OURS. WE ENJOY EXPLORING interior of a place to offer Beefbar Dubai.
a global perspective. 7. Humbert &
ALL OF ITS FINISHES: BRUSHED, FLUTED, Poyet’s polished
“Our approach starts with brass Ava
TOOTHED AND MATTE.” inspirations, research and Floor Lamp for
connecting these elements to The Invisible
– CHRISTOPHE POYET spaces, and then translating Collection stands
the inspirations into form elegantly on a
bronze and brass. “Brass, in and material,” explains Emil. travertine base.
particular, is a signature of “Each project is individual. It’s
ours. We enjoy exploring all of a balance and an exchange.
its finishes: brushed, fluted, We are appreciative of all the
toothed and matte,” notes trust clients give us and the
Christophe. “We use brass to freedom we have to express
highlight and value the other ourselves creatively. The most
noble materials it is paired with.” challenging aspect of design can
be structural, with architectural
Right from the start, they restoration or spaces where
were successful, thanks to there are limitations, and we
restaurant and store projects have to work around these
in Monaco, which ensured constraints. But this is often the
them exceptional visibility. most rewarding process, too.”
Their effectiveness lies in
complementary specialisations: Art in Living
Emil is a qualified architect from As artisanal creations Emil
the Parisian National School of and Christophe have custom-
Architecture and Christophe, an designed exclusively for clients
interior designer, who studied appear prominently in all
at Charpentier Academy’s of their firm’s projects, they
Interior Architecture/Design decided last year to release
School of Applied Arts in Paris. their first line of furniture,
6 Their combined expertise lighting and objects for
the Invisible Collection, an
online platform selling the
works of major figures of
contemporary design, which
includes armchairs, tables,
mirrors and lamps inspired
by the Art Deco movement.

“We decided to launch

34

KEY DESIGNS THE HOXTON, PARIS
Following on from
our collection to reflect our York, London, Milan and Athens, BEEFBAR London and Amsterdam,
aesthetic and appreciation of and 26 Carre Or – an ultra-luxe, RESTAURANTS the 171-room hotel pays
design,” states Christophe. “All 19-storey residential tower in After the success of the homage to French
the partners we work with are Monte Carlo. Located near the first Beefbar in Monaco, craftsmanship from two
in Italy. Our clientele includes Place du Casino, it is the pair’s the concept went global. crucial eras in Parisian
international design aficionados largest project yet. Showcasing Proposing an intimate history. The guestrooms
of all ages.” Favouring noble shades of beige, grey and ivory ambience reminiscent combine a classic Parisian
materials, they play with shapes enhanced by luxury marble of gentlemen’s and spirit with a 1950s
as well as finishes so each piece features, dark woodwork and wine tasting clubs, the atmosphere referencing
becomes a unique piece of art. precious bronze and copper Beefbar restaurants small industrial
inserts, it will offer panoramic worldwide use materials workshops, while the
Today, they lead a team views over Monaco’s landmarks. that are simple, raw and cornices, wainscoting
of 20 in Monaco and Paris premium: black wood and herringbone
tasked with working on over Emil and Christophe are and bronze panels, parquet evoke the
30 hospitality, commercial designing all the interiors – Humbert & Poyet- building’s original 18th
and residential commissions. from the lobby to the four-level designed alabaster century grandeur.
Recently completed projects penthouse, contributing to lighting, natural granite
include Ultimate Provence, the facade that will showcase bars, earth-toned leather CHALET IN GSTAAD
a wine estate in the south of rounded Corian balconies, and walls and Murano The three-storey ski
France, and Beefbar Malta, even fitting the underground glass chandeliers. chalet panelled in rustic
the first beach club concept car park with brass mesh reclaimed barn wood
for the Beefbar brand. walls and lighting because RUE DES ARCHIVES showcases open spaces
they feel that the garage APARTMENT IN PARIS on the top floor to take
In the pipeline are two should be just as elegant as Inspired by the advantage of mountain
luxury hotels in South Korea, the rest of the project. modernist, Art Deco and views, veined marble
new restaurant concepts in New Memphis movements, bathrooms, a blue
paired with classicism, limestone fireplace, a
7 Humbert & Poyet cage-like wood and brass
used marble, terrazzo, staircase, dark-stained
wood and brass to oak floors, antique and
create a sophisticated contemporary furniture,
family home conducive cashmere and velvet
to entertaining and upholstery, and alabaster
decorated with beautiful light fixtures.
mouldings, an elegant
chimney, mid-century
and contemporary
furniture and modern art.

photos FRANCIS AMIAND 35

POEPLE

WELL, WHY NOT?

Thai fashion designer Bhanu Inkawat on Thai street style,
the Asian way of life – and the inspiration behind his brand

Greyhound Original’s playful collaboration with Ikea.

When Thai designer
Bhanu Inkawat,
founder and
executive creative director
of fashion brand Greyhound
Original, received an e-mail
from Ikea Sweden proposing
a collaboration in 2017, he
dismissed it as spam.

“My first thought was why
would a global furniture brand
like Ikea collaborate with a Thai
fashion brand like us?” After
three e-mails, he decided to
check with Ikea Thailand and
discovered that the invitation
was legit.

What followed was a
rigorous, two-year product
development that yielded a
limited, bestselling collection
christened Sammankoppla.
Comprising homeware and
accessories inspired by Thai

36

street style, the collection was “YOU HAVE A CHAIR WITH A BROKEN LEG? traditional Thai woven straw
designed to be affordable, REPLACE THAT LEG WITH AN UPSIDE-DOWN mats. The Ikea versions are
multifunctional and adaptable. made using recycled bottles
BUCKET. YOU HAVE EMPTY PLASTIC and straws.
The items retail from $1.90 BOTTLES? WHY NOT REUSE THEM
(a zip pouch) to $129 (a shelving AS LAMPSHADES?” The triangular cushion was
unit inspired by scaffolding). also inspired by the traditional
There are also rugs and bags BHANU INKAWAT, FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE Thai handwoven cushion,
made with woven PET waste, CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF GREYHOUND ORIGINAL which has 11 handmade
and a jacket for chairs – a parts. Ikea has been able to
wink to Greyhound Original’s find these motifs on the edge design brief was tackling small- simplify and translate this
fashion roots. of a Sammankoppla table, space living. These items fit for mass production. The
on tableware and on the small homes. Some are even Sammankoppla version is filled
It launched here in August pouches and bags, which have multipurpose. In Thailand, we with cotton that’s grown using
and was warmly received by become some of Ikea’s beloved have a floor living culture. We less water.
shoppers, who cleaned out some bestsellers. We’ve also created a sit on the floor, we sleep on the
items in just two weeks. We jacket for chairs – because, well, floor and we work on it, too. WHICH ITEM IN THE
asked Bhanu to elaborate. why not? We’re a fashion brand This is common in many parts
and, as I said, we love adding of Asia, including Singapore, but COLLECTION WAS THE
HOW DID GREYHOUND twists to basic things. it is a novel idea in the West. It is
exciting to introduce this culture HARDEST TO DEVELOP?
ORIGINAL TRANSLATE HOW DO YOU THINK THAI to the rest of the world.
The Sammankoppla Chair
THAI STREET STYLE INTO STREET STYLE FITS INTO The Sammankoppla Cover. Well, why not? You
Flatwoven Rugs are designed to drape your jacket on a chair
IKEA FURNITURE? SINGAPORE HOMES AND introduce the concept of floor all the time. Greyhound
living. They were inspired by Original is a fashion brand, so
Greyhound Original is all about OTHERS IN THE WORLD? we thought, “Jacket for chairs –
basics with a twist. We love why not?”
mixing art and creativity, and Another key point in Ikea’s
making ordinary things more It must be able to fit most
pleasurable. chairs, so we had to come up
with a new pattern. There is
For this collaboration with a zipper running the length
Ikea, we wanted to create of its side so you can zip your
something that was Thai at heart chair in, making it warmer and
but not too traditional, so we softer. It also has pockets for
looked into what was happening gadgets like a remote control
with Thai street style, which and a mobile phone charger.
is very anything goes – and
nothing goes to waste. We don’t WHAT’S YOUR HOPE FOR THIS
throw away broken things, we
repurpose them, adapt them COLLECTION IN A WORLD
and make them work again. One
of the key points in Ikea’s design BROUGHT TO A PAUSE BY
brief was sustainability, and this
sends a beautiful message to T H E   PA N D E M I C ?
today’s throwaway culture.
We’re spending more time
You have a chair with a at home, so obviously we want
broken leg? Replace that leg with to make it more enjoyable.
an upside-down bucket. You Dress up your chair, have
have empty plastic bottles? Why shelves that remind you of the
not reuse them as lampshades? streets, and lamps from plastic
You also see scaffolding in bottles. We want these items to
Thai Streets, so why not design bring smiles to your home.
shelves based on that?
Sammankoppla is a limited
We incorporated some collection, sold at Ikea Alexandra
traditional Thai motifs, but and Tampines, as well as at www.
did so sparingly to fit our ikea.com/sg/en. It is available
urban lifestyle today. You can while stocks last.

text ASIH JENIE photos COURTESY OF IKEA 37

PEOPLE

A PURPOSE TO
REPURPOSE

Cherin Tan, founder of award-winning interior
design firm LAANK, talks about LAAT,

her unique upcycling furniture label co-created
with PHUNK co-founder Alvin Tan.

With so much waste
generated by unsold
items in the furniture
industry, do we really need
another new furniture brand?
In the case of LAAT, the answer
is a resounding yes, thanks to
its unique design philosophy.
LAAT is a local furniture
label founded by two award-
winning creatives: interior
designer Cherin Tan, founder
of interior architecture firm
LAANK, and multidisciplinary
artist Alvin Tan, co-founder
of art and design collective
PHUNK. LAAT’s purpose is to
repurpose; the label produces
furniture collections crafted
from unsold items and material
waste, breathing a new life
into dead stocks and turning
them into bespoke items that
straddle the realm of design
and art. We asked Cherin to
share more.

38

HOW DID LAAT COME ABOUT? WHERE DID YOU SOURCE WHAT’S YOUR HOPE AND WHO ARE LAAT’S

Alvin and I have been long-time THE MATERIALS FOR LAAT’S DREAMS FOR THIS VENTURE? CUSTOMERS?
collaborators. We’ve worked
together on many projects, and FURNITURE FROM? For LAAT to become a Anybody who can appreciate a
in some of them, we created collaboration platform for piece of art, but not shy away
products from various industry Everywhere – salvaged creatives across industries. Our from the word “upcycling”.
scraps and salvaged materials. materials, overstocks, dead collaboration so far is quite People who can find beauty in
We thought, “Why don’t we stocks. Sometimes suppliers organic. The first series was repurposing and those who
collaborate on a series?” And we’ve worked with called us and
the idea evolved into creating donated their unsold materials inspired by the iconic German seek something unique.
LAAT as a platform for these for us to turn into something,
collaborations. like lighting fixtures, sanitary performer and singer Klaus
fittings, candle holders and so
IS IT LAAT’S INTENTION TO on. We think it is a wonderful Nomi, who died from AIDS DO YOU ACCEPT MATERIAL
thing to repurpose these as complications in 1983. Part of
CREATE OBJECTS THAT ARE furniture materials rather than the proceeds from the sale of D O N AT I O N S ?
creating something from scratch LAAT’s first series will be donated
BOTH DESIGN ITEMS AND and produce more waste in the to Action for AIDS Singapore, a Absolutely. The ultimate goal
process. non-governmental organisation of LAAT eventually is to be
ARTWORK? dedicated to fighting AIDS and a brand that offers not just
ARE LAAT’S FURNITURE products, but also solutions.
We’re more interested in creating Maybe you have to downsize
artistic value to repurposed MANUFACTURED IN
items that otherwise would go to HIV infection in Singapore. For because you move places and
waste by giving them a new lease SINGAPORE?
of life as one-of-a-kind items. the next series, we will collaborate you have some items you’d
Because of the nature of the Yes. We have some very talented
materials, the items cannot be and resourceful manufacturers with different creatives and like to donate or repurpose?
exactly replicated. We also have and craftspeople in Singapore.
so much fun exploring the new I have collaborated with them organisations. We’re keeping Or dead stocks piling up in
ways we can make something old for some items in my own
and historic new again. home, like a freestanding sink our minds open. your warehouse? We’d like
repurposed from a giant planter.
to help by giving them

HOW CAN WE GET LAAT artistic values.

FURNITURE? TOP BOTTOM

Our collection is sold at the Art The Keys of The lamp
Now Gallery at the Raffles Arcade. Life table (left, collection from
You can also reach us directly via $1,850) and the LAAT’s first
our Instagram handle @laat.sg. Three Wishes series comprises
seat bench three desk
WHAT KIND OF CUSTOMISATION (right, $1,200) lamps (Total
from the first Eclipse on the
DO YOU OFFER? series features floor, Lightning
playful shapes Strikes on the
We can customise some elements and sculptural bed and High
of the items we have in our series. metallic parts Wire near the
Each item is unique, and we repurposed from wall, each $380)
won’t be able to exactly replicate a supplier’s dead and a floor
it once it’s sold out. But if we still stocks. lamp called
have the materials on hand, we The Cold Song
can create something similar and ($850), which
customise the colour or finishes. was inspired by
Klaus Nomi’s
iconic style.

text ASIH JENIE 39

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UP CLOSE

RAINER LAGEMANN

What’s German metal sculptor and photographer Rainer Lagemann’s
personal philosophy? He shares the best piece of advice he’s ever
heard, what inspires him and a couple of life lessons.

can one be able to capture the
nuances and absurdity of the
movie. Of course, Walter Matthau,
the male lead of the movie, was on
another level!

What is your guilty pleasure?
There are too many to mention, but
afternoon naps are one of them.

What is one style you hate and

never want to see again?
Any kind with a military style
or is designed to create and
establish authority.

What is your design style? and are often brought about What’s one thing you’ve always
The design style in my
surroundings is very much by varying external influences. wanted to try but have never
influenced by the late 1990s and
early 2000s - experimental, I believe I will be free when I summoned the courage to do so?
generous, whimsical and
surprising. Less is more. Hence, question my thoughts instead of If I have not done it by now,
shapes and lines have to be
clean yet purposeful. For me, wholeheartedly believing in them. it means I do not want to do it.
the quality of materials and the
satisfaction of the senses are A lack of courage has never once
vital. For instance, when one
touches a surface, how does it What inspires you? held me back. I am not a daredevil
make one feel?
My inspiration comes from the in the sense of ‘Hey, let me jump
What’s the best advice
visuals around me. Challenges out of an airplane’, but of moving
you’ve received?
Be alert and pay extra attention inspire me. Each hurdle motivates from Germany to Chile on my
to negative thoughts. Thoughts
that cause sadness, anger and, me to ensure I reflect, think own to intern in an underground
of course, frustration should
be questioned. Once we do creatively, and come up with copper mine. I was 18 then and did
that, they lose their power.
These thoughts are rarely real new solutions to overcome them. not speak a single word of Spanish.

Without challenges, there will not That took plenty of courage on

be growth. my part.

What is one movie you have What is one thing you had to learn

watched more than once, the hard way?
I learned that one can’t please
and why? everyone. It is downright
A New Leaf (1971), which Elaine impossible, and you could lose
May directed, wrote and starred your identity. You should always
in. She is a brilliant and witty live your life for yourself without
writer. Her dialogues deserve pleasing or hurting anyone.
multiple listening. Only then

text MELODY BAY 41

DESIGN REPORT

London
Design Festival

The 17th edition of the London Design Festival
was, once again, a celebration of talent

from the UK – which has one of the biggest
creative economies in the world – and beyond

with over 400 different events, exhibitions
and installations.

42

The last edition of the architect Kengo Kuma created
London Design Festival, a sculptural installation that
before Covid-19, seemed explored how bamboo and
to mark a shift towards a more carbon fibre could be woven
conscious approach to design. together as a potential building
The best product launches solution for earthquake-
and installations focused on prone areas, and architect
how designers can address Sam Jacob brought one of the
some of the most pressing Eames’ most famous textile
concerns facing the world patterns to life in an animation
today, from sustainability to the projected into the museum’s
activation of public spaces in vast lobby, replacing the sea
increasingly dense urban areas. creatures of the original pattern
with plastic waste objects.
British designer Paul
Cocksedge transformed one of Elsewhere, designers
London’s most pedestrianised showcased products in
neighbourhoods with Please striking ways. Lee Broom’s
Be Seated, a huge installation Kaleidoscopia installation,
of undulating benches for example, featured just 17
offering communal seating Orion lights reflected in infinity
and archways for shelter, mirrors to create a mind-
and delivering a new way for bending immersive space.
people to interact with the built Here, we share our favourite
environment and each other. trends, products and emerging
At the V&A Museum, Japanese designers from the festival.

43

TREND 1

MATERIAL MATTERS

Sculptural lighting with a focus on overt
materiality was big. From new innovations to
more traditional materials used in clever ways,
designers had fun playing with the way light
interacts with surfaces. These lamps make a
huge impact, whether hung as single pendants
or clustered dramatically.

STRAND PENDANT LAMPS
BY L AY E R F O R M U U TO

The Modernist Strand Pendant Lamps
by Layer for Muuto are made by
spraying an innovative fibrous material
over fine steel frames.

www.muuto.com; www.layerdesign.com

COAX BY JOHN HOGAN
FOR ROLL & HILL

Glass artist John Hogan has created
a sculptural symphony of glass, metal
and light in the Coax pendant lamp
for Roll & Hill.

www.rollandhill.com

ANNIKA BY UPGROUP

Biomorphic layers of Carrara
marble form the elegantly
intricate Annika pendant by
Italian designer Paolo Ulian
for Upgroup.

www.upgroup.it

44

TREND 2 APOLLO CHAIRS
BY BOHINC STUDIO
COLOUR POP
Bohnic Studio took inspiration
Bright, bold accents can bring any from the 50th anniversary of
unremarkable interior to life. This year, the historic Apollo 11 Moon
it was all about solid primary colours and mission for its Planetaria
simple graphic forms. When it comes to collection, which features these
playing with such vivid shades, it’s all about striking blue and red chairs.
finding a balance; a little goes a long way.
www.bohnicstudio.com
MT MIRROR BY
VERY GOOD & PROPER HOPPER CREDENZA BY
JAMES BURLEIGH
The MT Mirror by Ed Carpenter,
CEO and creative director of After more than 20 years in the
British design brand Very Good industry, British design studio
& Proper, features a bold yellow James Burleigh launched its
frame with chunky details first credenza. The Hopper has
inspired by a ship’s porthole. a hard-wearing laminate finish
and comes in over 100 colours.
www.verygoodandproper.co.uk
www.jamesburleigh.co.uk

45

TREND 3

CONSCIOUS DESIGN

Eco-friendly design is a timely trend that isn’t going anywhere
anytime soon. Responsible designers explored all facets of
sustainability – from upcycling and recycling to innovative new
materials, and crafting objects that make us think about what
and how we choose to consume. The best pieces celebrated the
inherent characteristics of the sustainable process through
striking form and materiality.

CANOPY BY LSA
I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Inspired by the biomes of the
Eden Project, said to be the
world’s largest indoor rainforest
that’s in the UK, this clever
self-watering vase by LSA
International is made from
100 per cent recycled glass.

www.lsa-international.com

RA E B U R N X L AY E R

British fashion designer
Christopher Raeburn
collaborated with Benjamin
Hubert of Layer to turn
surplus military parachutes
into evocative rocking chairs
and screens.

www.raeburndesign.co.uk;
www.layerdesign.com

RESPONSIBLE DESIGNERS FESTIVAL EXPLORED HIGHLIGHT BY HIGH SOCIETY
ALL FACETS OF SUSTAINABILITY – FROM UPCYCLING
AND RECYCLING TO INNOVATIVE NEW MATERIALS, AND Italian manufacturing start-up
High Society used upcycled
CRAFTING OBJECTS THAT MAKE US THINK ABOUT by-products from the hemp,
WHAT AND HOW WE CHOOSE TO CONSUME. tobacco and wine industries to
craft these minimal lampshades.

www.high-society.it

46

TREND 4 UNDERGROUND VOL.II
BY KIRKBY DESIGN
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Kirkby Design teamed up
Everything old is new again, it with Transport for London
seems, as brands reinterpret (TfL) to create Underground
iconic pieces in new colours Vol.II, a distinctive collection of
and finishes. Contemporary upholstery velvets derived from
designers have taken the original designs historically
inspiration from the influential used across the TfL network.
Bauhaus design movement,
which celebrates its centenary www.kirkbydesign.com
this year. Think strong
geometric forms and a focus FF CHAIRS BY
on functionality. FRIENDS & FOUNDERS

REFLECT BY VERPAN These Bauhaus-inspired
FF chairs by Copenhagen-
The elegant Reflect lamp by based Rasmus and Ida Linea
Verpan was developed from Hildebrand of Danish/Swedish
never-before-seen sketches design company Friends &
from the archives of iconic mid- Founders feature a chrome-
20th century Danish architect plated steel tube structure and
and designer Verner Panton. curved backrest, giving them
seriously retro vibes.
www.verpan.com
www.friendsfounders.com

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