2020-10-01 Home & Decor

TREND 5

INTO THE WOODS

Timber is always in fashion, but the focus this year
was on design that put craftsmanship and undisguised
construction in the spotlight, while celebrating the
inherent qualities and character of natural wood. This
is part of a larger movement with an obviously more
crafted approach to design – and to which the warmth
of timber lends itself particularly well.

C A RA B OT T I N O BY C A RA\
DAV I DE FO R M ED ULU M

Italian design studio
Cara\Davide built these
cabinets using a traditional
system of wooden slats
that defines graphic
architectural forms.

www.medulum.it

SCALLOPED BY TEDWOOD SCHOFIELD FOR ERCOL

Crafted from solid oak, the British designer Daniel
ScallopEd collection by Schofield’s Tenon Table
Ted Jefferis of TedWood for Ercol is based on an
Furniture utilises a clever oversized wedged tenon
scalloped leg detail to joint, creating a strong
remain visually light. visual identity from the
method of construction.
www.tedjefferis.co.uk
www.ercol.com
48

THE NEXT GENERATION

The London Design Festival isn’t just a showcase for established

designers. It is a hotbed of new creative talents just waiting to be

discovered, too. Here are three of the most talked about.

TRISTAN HIBBERD

A recent graduate from
Kingston School of Art in
London, Tristan Hibberd’s
work explores the fine line
between sculptural form and
engineering prowess. His
Pivot Coat Stand – which
exemplifies this approach and
won a Joined + Jointed’s J+J
Generations 2019 Award – was
exhibited at the 100% Design
showcase. The playful piece
features a series of poles that
rotate on solid timber orbs at
their base to create a visually
spectacular, elegant object.

@tristanhibberd_design;
www.joinedandjointed.com

ALEXANDER SCHUL JESPER ERIKSSON

Young German designer London-based designer
Alexander Schul has tapped Jesper Eriksson, born in 1990
into global concerns about in Paris, has made a name
plastic consumption, looking at for himself by exploring coal
new applications for recycled as something more than a
plastic. His Substantial functional raw material. The
furniture collection – on second iteration of Coal: Post
show as part of the Guiltless Fuel, a collection of furniture
Plastic exhibition – won him that explores the potential
the inaugural Ro Plastic of coal as a design material,
Prize, founded by renowned was showcased at Mint design
Milanese gallerist Rossana gallery. Elemental chunks of
Orlandi. This pleasingly coal were polished on the
utilitarian chair is made from surface to resemble black
sheets of high-impact marble and paired with refined
polystyrene, and has been glass and metal elements.
designed to be easily and
efficiently manufactured. www.jesper-eriksson.com

www.alexanderschul.com

text MANDI KEIGHRAN 49

VOICES

Masks. Sanitiser. The funny thing is, while we
Technical glitches.
“Oops, you’re on mute”. distance and isolate ourselves,
Unmuting to say “thank you,
bye!” This is our new normal. Covid-19 has only exposed us to
One that has many of us trying
hard to recognise people what we tried to shield ourselves
from their eyes, mannerisms,
posture and way of walking. It’s from before: a vulnerable supply
online shopping, food delivery
and slowing down in socially- chain, unsustainably cheap
distanced queues, too. And
Friday night family dinners labour, poor working conditions
across two tables or meals with
only your best pals. for migrant workers, vulnerable

The world feels a little families, and more. They’re all
smaller. Although the effects of
Covid-19 vary across countries out in the open now. The new
and social groups, it is a global
experience that hits much normal is opening our eyes.
more immediately than, say,
the climate crisis. We have a As city dwellers, perhaps
lot more shared experiences
now, even more so among city we are all more connected now.
dwellers. Some adjustments
are bigger than others, and We’re no longer passing each
some that are just too big to
only term an ‘adjustment’. So other carelessly on the train,
many businesses have had to
pull down their shutters, and but bumping into each other at
many residents are at a loss
and unemployed. Indefinite virtual events we care about. You
postponements and clinging on
THE NEW to the next announcements are meet the neighbour you didn’t
NORMAL also part of the new normal.
FOR CITY know at the nearby restaurant
DWELLERS During these times, I’ve been
glad to see people mobilising when you both try to skip food
Fang Low, CEO and themselves to save small
co-founder of co-living businesses, like the Singapore delivery middlemen. And you
company Figment, talks Restaurant Rescue movement.
about how the post- The F&B business was never understand the dynamics of
pandemic situation has easy to begin with, but more
transformed how we relate people better understand that your home more than ever.
to each other – and opened now. So I hope this will be part
our eyes to compelling of the new normal, too. All the For Figment,
issues we need to address. ground-up projects born in this
crisis, such as how struggling being in the
50 Singapore independent cinema
The Projector has uploaded its business of the
films for online streaming, I boutique co- objective
hope they continue. living in heritage

shophouses, we’ve Figment currently

come into more operates 14

contact with our shophouses in
members than ever Singapore. Each
before. Previously, contains four to
most left their six suites. Their
monthly leases

homes for work, range from

but now they are $1,950 to $3,190.

all in the same

space for many hours of the

day. They tell me that they’ve

taken the opportunity to get to

know each other better, and

have started using their shared

living spaces as workspaces, too.

And that they’ve comfortably

settled into these charming, old-

world neighbourhoods.

During this time of

confinement, we should count

our blessings when our homes

can serve as daily inspiration for

a thriving creative life.

Also, being grounded, little 1, 2 & 3 2
trips to parks and beaches The Shang
are all the more precious. I’ve House on 1
noticed our curbside plants Pegu Road in
wilding about now that they’re the Balestier 3 photos IVAN TAN (WWW.IVANTAN.COM)
not trimmed so often, and I area was
quite like it. The new normal is co-created with
noticing and cherishing details. furniture brand
Scene Shang.
The new normal is seeing It features
things as they are. vintage and
bespoke
furniture, and
Peranakan-
inspired
artworks.

photos EDWARD HENDRICKS 4 4&5
5 Canvas House
on Blair Road,
co-created
with Ministry of
Design, features
mostly white
furniture against
whitewashed
architectural
canvas, making
elements of
the heritage
shophouse’s
original
design pop.

Fang Low is
the CEO and
co-founder of
local co-living
company
Figment.

51

PLAYFUL
DISPOSITION

Built on the bones of a former farmhouse,
this home-cum-atelier of a designer couple and their four
children is a chic combination of bright colours, industrial

aesthetics, and fluid indoor-outdoor connection.
ASIH JENIE finds out more.

52

A view of the
stairwell from
the ground
level reveals the
unique ceiling
treatment and
perforated black
metal staircase.

OPPOSITE

Whitewashed
surfaces with
concrete, corten
or weathered
steel and
artworks create
an interior that’s
akin to a gallery.

53

How do you balance the Inviolatella Borghese the most of Casa C’s location
family life with four Urban Park. with open plans and floor-to-
children while running ceiling windows.
an atelier and a workshop? The house, designed
In Italian designer Antonella primarily for moments of “We designed a dynamic,
Gnetti’s case, it helps to conviviality with family and open space with a deep
have the home and office in friends, showcases Antonella connection to the landscape
the same place. Created by and her partner’s art collection, and kept the volume of the old
multidisciplinary architectural as well as her bespoke furniture farmhouse, but completely
studio Alvisi Kirimoto, her and decor atelier, Opficio renovated the interiors,” shares
Casa C is a three-storey home Lauchli. The sporty couple architect Junko Kirimoto,
and design studio built on the wanted a tranquil place to who co-founded the studio
architectural bones of a former retreat to while still maintaining with fellow architect Massimo
farmhouse on a hill in the a connection to the urban Alvisi in 2002.
north of Rome. It has a built- pulse. Tasked with translating
up area of 6,092 sq ft with a the duality of this brief in Both the ground and the top
6,588 sq ft garden overlooking the property’s interior and floors are mostly conceived as
landscape, Alvisi Kirimoto made large, open spaces – the former
housing the living, dining and

54

ABOVE OPPOSITE

The angles The airy ground
brought about level showcases
by layering the the owners’
balustrade, art collections,
the yellow which the
ceiling and the furniture was
perforated curated to
metal staircase complement.
are decidedly
eye-catching.

LEFT

The communal
top floor can be
used as a living
room or a one
huge workspace.

55

kitchen areas, as well as the staircase. Made with expanded
owners’ artwork collection while metal panels, it adds a serious
the latter is dedicated to the rock and roll, industrial vibe
master suite and an extensive while keeping the overall visual
study. The first storey houses lightness of the interior with
bedrooms for the couple’s its perforated surfaces. As light
four children. filters in via the generously
sized skylight, the staircase
The architects designed demonstrates dramatic
a unique spatial experience shadow play.
for each floor by articulating
the ceilings differently. The The porch near the kitchen
ground floor has a whitewashed blurs the boundaries between
ceiling with concrete flooring the inside and out while the
and corten steel walls, the first vegetable garden in front of it
features a cheery yellow ceiling, links the transition between
and the top floor makes the the park, the urban landscape
most of its height by exposing and the house. Alvisi Kirimoto
the former farmhouse’s original custom-designed Casa C’s built-
wooden structure. Connecting in furniture to complement the
all three levels is a cool black owners’ furniture and artwork

56

A metal ribbon
runs along the
perimeter of
the top floor,
defining work
surfaces and
various furniture.

OPPOSITE, TOP

Homeowner
Antonella Gnetti.

OPPOSITE,
BOTTOM

Vibia Wireflow
pendant lights
and Cappellini
Hi Pad dining
chairs add visual
excitement to
the dining area.

57

A vegetable
garden next
to the outdoor
dining area
links the house
and its greater
environment.
58

LEFT 59

This study
corner’s custom
shelves can
be moved
about on the
pegboard wall.

FAR LEFT

Alvisi Kirimoto’s
custom desks
on wheels and
bookcase.

BOTTOM

The corridor
leading to the
master bedroom.
The powder
room (left)
separates it
from the living-
study area.

collections, which add pops of
colours to an otherwise neutral
palette. Each of the children’s
bedrooms has a study area
outfitted with flexible furniture
such as shelves and study desks
fitted with castors that can be
easily adjusted and modified as
they grow.

The top floor is where life and
work collide for Antonella and her
partner. A strategically positioned
powder room serves as a buffer
between the master suite and
the extensive living-study area,
where Alvisi Kirimoto installed
custom “floating” cabinets made
with cork along the wall. These
are connected with one another
via a metal ribbon that forms a
continuous work surface along
the perimeter of the study,
and folds into a magazine rack,
benches, a chaise longue, and a
flap top that conceals a kitchen
with a sink and a stovetop.

All in all, Alvisi Kirimoto
has managed to balance
the warmth of Casa C’s old
bones with its owners’ hip
personalities, resulting in a
playful, cleverly and impeccably
articulated farmhouse-meets-
urban-pulse concept.

photos SERENA ELLER VAINICHER

The dry kitchen
is made more
spacious with
the use of
plywood for the
cabinetry and
a well-chosen
colour scheme.
60

CHARM OF
THE CALM

Cool, muted hues and delicately curved
shapes help to create the zen atmosphere
of this Balmoral condominium apartment.

MELODY BAY does a walk-through.

61

ABOVE

Blue enhances
mind flow and
productivity –
and a relaxing
atmosphere to
study or work in.

LEFT

Clean curves,
whether
structural or
otherwise,
evoke emotions
such as feeling
relaxed. In this
home, they
also prevent
the area from
looking boxy or
closed in.

FAR LEFT

Part of the
archway is done
in plywood.

62

WHO LIVES HERE

A family of three
HOME Two-bedroom condominium

in Balmoral
SIZE 1,150 sq ft

Large windows
in the study
allow natural
daylight into
the rest of
the apartment.

It was when they were especially in communal
browsing on Instagram areas like the kitchen. Mikael
that homeowners Rudi and addressed this by incorporating
Wayne came across Mikael features such as a kitchen
Teh, the principal of Monocot island, which doubles as a
Studio’s work. They decided table for family meals. It was
to engage his services for the also specifically designed to be
design and renovation of their portable, so that it can go with
two-bedroom condominium them to their next home.
apartment in Balmoral after
falling in love with his sense The couple loves colours and
of style and use of colours. wanted a palette with a muted
Together with their son, they yet timeless and poetic feel.
were able to move into their Together with Mikael, they went
home in March this year. through a rigorous selection
process, testing nine different
Since space was at a paint samples before settling
premium, they had to be super on the ones they wanted. But
practical. Rudi and Wayne the result was worth the effort.
wanted spatial flexibility, The colour scheme of cool

63

neutral hues and pastels creates ABOVE
an ambience that’s calming
and contemporary. A similarly
neutral palette
The cool tones are also well- runs through the
balanced with the use of plywood bathroom and
throughout the house, which the wet kitchen.
lends warmth while keeping
the whole look visually bright LEFT
and spacious. The light blond
engineered wood features mainly Black makes the
in the kitchen cabinets, the island bathroom pop.
counter, an archway, the shelving
in the study and the wardrobe in OPPOSITE
the master bedroom.
The generous
To take the design up a use of wood
notch, Mikael included rounded combined with
elements throughout, creating the abundant
pleasing curves that meet the greenery adds
eye, whether you’re sitting in warmth to
the study or passing under the the study. The
archway, and minimising the feel calming green
of boxiness. of nature helps
to promote
The renovation took security and
three months and $70,000. relieve both eye
Mikael also helped to curate and mind stress,
the furnishings, selecting a so one can think
mix from Muji, Muuto, Louis from a better
Poulsen, Herman Miller and perspective.
more: “I chose the pieces based
on how well they went with
the design. The &Tradition
Flowerpot pendant lights,
for example, complement
the curves and colours in
the kitchen.”

64

65

66

LEFT

A backlit oval
mirror mingles
beautifully with
the other more
angular shapes
in the bathroom.

BOTTOM

Little details, like
this sconce, help
to continue the
theme of round
elements, even
in the bathroom.

OPPOSITE

As their colour
reflects light
instead of
absorbing it,
the light tones
of plywood
help to prevent
the wardrobe
from visually
overwhelming
the space.

MIKAEL INCLUDED ROUNDED ELEMENTS
THROUGHOUT THE APARTMENT, CREATING

PLEASING CURVES THAT MEET THE EYE,
WHETHER YOU’RE SITTING IN THE STUDY OR

PASSING UNDER THE ARCHWAY.

photos MONOCOT STUDIO & STUDIO PERIPHERY 67

Modern, vibrant
art pieces
enliven spaces.

OPPOSITE

The open layout
and communal
setting are
perfect for
gatherings.

68

COOL
CONTRAST

Brimming with character, creative touches and bold
colour choices, this apartment is proof that an open layout
can still be cosy. MICHELLE LEE delves into its design strategies.

69

70

OPPOSITE

The colours
and mood of
the kitchen were
determined by
the terrazzo tiles
on the island.

RIGHT

The lady of the
house’s parents
were delighted
with the
transformation
of her mum’s
antique sewing
machine.

FAR RIGHT

Industrial-style
dining chairs
add a modern,
edgy spin to the
wooden dining
table from
Prestige Affairs.

BOTTOM

Personal
objects, like the
guitar, add to
the decor.

WHO LIVES HERE Initially drawn to the idea seamlessly together. One is
of an industrial style, immediately drawn to the
A couple in their 30s the homeowners of this punchy, burnt orange ceiling
HOME Two-bedroom private apartment in Telok Kurau Priscilla suggested because it
apartment in Telok Kurau worked with interior stylist added drama while creating an
and designer Priscilla Tan of intimate feel. The accordion
SIZE 1,350 sq ft Styledbypt to create an oasis glass doors open to give a
of eclecticism and cosiness. feeling of spaciousness or close
Their brief asked for a flexible, to demarcate the space as a
modular space that permitted guest room.
different furniture layouts and
could accommodate many A 2.4m wooden dining table
guests. “My clients were also takes centre stage, perfect for
clear from the start that they both hosting dinner parties and
wanted midnight blue tiles and doubling as their workspace. The
green marble,” shares Priscilla. bay window seat, previously an
awkward balcony area, is also a
The open layout oozes dining bench that conceals the
conviviality, with the living homeowners’ vinyl records. In
and dining spaces blending the living

71

room, shimmery cement- reworking it into a console table
looking wallpaper adds an topped with a green marble slab.
interesting texture that The head of the machine serves
complements the herringbone as a sculptural art piece on the
wood flooring, while TV console.
strategically placed sofa modules
from Knocknock Furniture At the other end of the room
create a laid-back, communal is a sophisticated-looking bar
setting. Sentimental pieces make with a stunning forest green
up part of the decor, too. marble backsplash and tabletop
and gold-toned shelves. Over
These include travel 150 bottles of liquor, including
keepsakes, gifts from friends sake, are proudly showcased
and an antique sewing machine in a custom cabinet with glass
that belonged to the wife’s doors that mimic those of the
mother. Priscilla took it apart, wine fridge.

72

OPPOSITE, TOP BELOW

The bay window The bathroom’s
seat, which black and white
doubles as a decor is daringly
dining bench elevated by the
or guest bed, striking marble
is one of the backdrop.
homeowners’
favourite
lounging spots.

OPPOSITE,
BOTTOM

Green marble
paired with
gold-toned
accents lend
sophistication to
the bar.

“THE MIX OF JEWEL TONES WITH WOOD AND
BLACK ACCENTS EVOKES THE FEEL OF A

PRIVATE BAR THAT CATERS TO THE HOMEOWNERS’
LOVE FOR ENTERTAINING.”

- PRISCILLA TAN, STYLEDBYPT

73

ABOVE

Bright accents
and timber-like
tiles add colour
to the master
bedroom.
74

ABOVE The high-contrast colour things upbeat and lighten the
palette in the kitchen instantly otherwise brooding space.
Connected catches one’s eye; green marble
to the master subway tiles juxtapose with the It’s all contemporary drama
bedroom, orange ceiling, against which in the master bathroom, with
the walk-in a kitchen island inlaid with black-veined, marble-effect
wardrobe is terrazzo tiles from Soon Bee tiles forming the backdrop of
nearly 12m long. Huat stands out. Black accents a double vanity that steals the
– from the cabinetry to a quirky show, especially when teamed
RIGHT statement lighting fixture from with dark blueish-green tiles.
Taobao – balance the bold The common bathroom, on
Priscilla carved colours and anchor the space. the other hand, is decked
out plenty of in patterned tiles and has a
storage space, The modern eclectic concrete sink.
including a atmosphere continues into the
full-height shoe spacious master bedroom and For Priscilla, the choice
cabinet and a the adjoining walk-in wardrobe, of materials was a significant
storeroom that which used to be two smaller part of the inspiration for
conceals the rooms. In response to the the renovation, which cost
distribution homeowners’ preference for over $100,000. She tells us:
board as darker tones, Priscilla clad the “We agreed on a few mood
well as the walls in a midnight blue. board ideas. After going tile
owners’ bicycle shopping, the vision of the home
collection. Timber-like homogenous became a lot clearer. You can
floor tiles and a visually textured get inspiration from materials
feature wall, alongside vibrant when you are stuck with your
furnishings and art pieces, keep design.”

photography LOUIS PORFIRIOS/JOY DE VI renovation SCRATCH 75

SPARKING
JOY

Brimming with treasured keepsakes, the eclectic
decor of this home tells the story of its owners’
blended tastes, heritage, travels and love for toys.

MICHELLE LEE takes a tour.

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 30s and
their adopted dog Tilby.
HOME A five-room HDB Flat in Jurong West

SIZE 1,185 sq ft

76

Decorative
accents,
vintage finds
and keepsakes
are brilliantly
integrated,
bringing character
and meaning into
the home.

77

78

BOTTOM, LEFT It’s important that your home that let light in, lend a sense
reflects your character,” of openness and keep cooking
The sculptural Lindy Lin and Denice Chua, fumes from reaching the rest
wooden swing the owners of this five-room of the home.
chair from HDB apartment in Jurong
Taobao sits West, tell us. And theirs, filled Details such as contrasting
in Lindy’s with vintage souvenirs from black and wood tones, patterned
favourite spot. their travels, toys and other tiles and PU leather cabinet
mementoes, does exactly that. handles jazz up the otherwise
BOTTOM, RIGHT simple L-shaped kitchen.
Lindy, a corporate sales Carmen also added a mesh
Accordion manager, and Denice, a graphic cabinet that conceals the pipes.
glass doors designer, called on Carmen
separate the Tang, design director of Wolf The white, wood and black
kitchen from the Woof, to create a cosy abode scheme extends to the common
other spaces. that meets Lindy’s love for a bathroom, which has the same
lighter palette, and Denice’s geometric floor tiles, and a
OPPOSITE preference for punchy hues and marble-effect hexagonal tile
black accents. on the walls.
An irregular
alcove and a wall A key feature is the The combined living
are home to the decorative cement breeze- and dining area is spacious
couple’s growing block at the entrance that pays but irregularly-shaped.
toy collections. homage to Lindy’s Peranakan Interestingly, its angles gel
heritage on her grandmother’s swimmingly with the eclectic,
side. Beyond it is the kitchen playful vibe of the decor.
with glass accordion doors
“Working around the odd
layout was one of the main

79

challenges,” Carmen points out. brimming with vintage finds, LEFT
“Built-in furnishings were kept including an old projector
minimal to keep the place from that used to belong to Denice’s The master
feeling cramped.” Thoughtfully uncle, a red letterbox from an bedroom is a
placed furniture and a divider antique shop in Haji Lane, and mix of retro
also aid in zoning the open an antique Siemens Brothers charm and witty,
layout of the home. & Co telephone on the wall. modern touches.
“I bought that from London’s
The neutral base palette Portobello Road Market in 2013 OPPOSITE
is punched up with a cheerful and it still works. The customs
mix of patterned rugs, bright officer thought it was a bomb as Shelves of
cushions, movie posters and I’d stuffed it into my backpack!” toys and a
shelves of toys. One’s gaze is recalls Lindy with a laugh. Journey East
instantly drawn to a sculptural Qeeboo seat
wooden swing chair from What was previously give the study a
Taobao that sits in Lindy’s a walkway with a built-in playful charm.
favourite spot. The home is also wardrobe that led to the

80

DRESSED IN SOOTHING MINT AND
LIGHT WOOD, [THE MASTER BEDROOM]
IS SIMPLY BUT TASTEFULLY FURNISHED

WITH A CURATED SELECTION
OF QUIRKY FINDS.

81

82

master bedroom is now a ABOVE LEFT
cosy study that provides the
pair with more opportunities Patterned tiles Wood-effect
to showcase their massive and a shower tiles in the
toy collection in two display curtain with shower area
cabinets. Concealed by a barn a cheeky contrast with
door, the master bathroom can slogan enliven the rest of the
be found here, too. the common space. The
bathroom. pipes have been
Beyond that is the new painted black to
master bedroom. Dressed in blend in with the
soothing mint and light wood, overall design.
it is simply but tastefully
furnished with a curated OPPOSITE
selection of quirky finds,
including a superhero robot- Black laminate,
inspired lamp from Kickstarter. eye-catching
The bedroom is connected to a floor tiles and
large, stylish walk-in wardrobe thoughtful
via a black-framed glass door details zest up
that now occupies what was the light wood-
originally a children’s bedroom. toned palette.

When it comes to building
a home that you love, Denice
and Lindy have this to share:
“It is important to be on the
same page as the designer.
You also have to be prepared
to scrap things that aren’t
cost-effective, and be flexible.
We were initially into the
mid-century modern look,
but changed things up to fit
our tastes. We like a little bit
of everything. Talk to your
partner and be open to ideas.
If you’re stubborn, you’ll wind
up with a home that looks like
everyone else’s.”

The pair moved in after a
three-month renovation, which
set them back by $62,000,
including the furniture.

photography VEE CHIN art direction KRISTY QUAH 83

PROJECT SHOWCASE

TIMELESS Both working in the that quickly became dated.
ELEGANCE banking industry, the Tasked with the design,
couple who owns this
In this terrace house, luxury is born out of intermediate terrace house in Metaphor Studio came up with
a medley of beautiful views, privacy and the Buona Vista area wanted it a timelessly elegant interior
to be warm and inviting as they that maximises the views of the
materials meant to age gracefully. frequently entertain friends surrounding greenery while
and family. They also wanted it providing ample room for
84 to be quite different from their gatherings as well as privacy
previous HDB home, where the when and where needed.
interior featured bright colours Comfort was also paramount to
the design, and Metaphor Studio

WHO LIVES HERE achieved this thermally, aurally, ABOVE
spatially and visually. To begin,
A couple in their 40s, their two children the design team switched the The dining
and a helper. placement of the kitchen and the room’s glossy
laundry area from the rear of the marble floor
HOME Two-storey intermediate terrace house house to the front, relegating the contrasts
SIZE 3,125 sq ft vacated space for a double-height nicely with the
sunken living room. sunken living
room’s cement
Clad with timber louvres, the screed floor.
living room enjoys lots of fresh
air and an uninterrupted view of ABOVE, LEFT
the neighbourhood’s greenery.
The switch also effectively An open,
blocked the noise coming from uninterrupted
the street, so the owners could view of the
enjoy private time as well as neighbourhood’s
entertain guests uninterrupted. greenery, as
seen from
The material used the front of
highlighted a palette of muted the house.
greys, comprising exposed
aerated concrete block walls, LEFT
cement screed floors and black
steel structures, all of which The kitchen
contrast nicely with the glossy sports a timber
marble of the dining and upper finish and
floors. Then there’s the leather- features ample
clad furniture, the handsome storage space.
timber finish of storage spaces
spread around the house, and the OPPOSITE
owners’ artwork collection. Now
this is a space with a timeless The sunken
appeal that will age gracefully living room,
with its inhabitants. where the
owners
frequently
entertain friends
and family.

text ASIH JENIE photos COURTESY OF METAPHOR STUDIO 85

THE

HAPPY
SGUHIDOE P P I N G

BRINGING YOUR Five years ago, Schubert Ho and
DREAM HOME TO LIFE Annie Chan (right) had one
humble mission: to help others
Whether you’re a new homeowner or looking to give your space envision and realise their dream
a new look, the design experts at Anhans Interior Design will help homes. With sixteen years of
to bring your vision to life. industry experience under their
belts and a passion for design,
the husband-and-wife team set
out to start up an interior design
firm that would make their
vision come to life. Thus, Anhans
Interior Design was born.

Designing a brand new
space or remodelling a home can
be daunting for the uninitiated
– something every interior
designer knows well enough.

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That’s why Anhans (sounds design director Mr Ho explains. every project, the team takes a
like ‘enhanced’) Interior Design “With our team being involved careful and considered approach
is committed to making the in the entire design process from to design – placing an emphasis
renovation process a positive conceptualisation to completion, on functionality, efficiency and
experience for all homeowners. our clients can rest easy.” clever space planning. Whether
From designing to building, in a residential, commercial or
the team helps clients navigate Over the last five years, corporate space, Anhans Interior
every step of the journey: Anhans Interior Design has Design realises the importance of
consultation, space planning, site built up an impressive portfolio seamlessly integrating design with
surveys, turnkey projects, defect of projects, varying from cosy their clients’ lifestyles. “Every client
checks and complete project two-bedroom apartments to is different,” Mr Ho notes, “but
management. “Home renovation penthouses, three-storey terrace our objective always remains the
is stressful enough as it is,” houses and commercial spaces same: to bring them comfort and
in Singapore and Malaysia. With improve the spaces where they live,
work, relax or entertain.”

Collaboration is a key
philosophy, one that they have
cultivated over the last five years.
The team works closely with
clients to bring their vision to
life – budget notwithstanding.
In addition, they also tap into a
pool of trusted contractors and
suppliers to ensure high standards
of craftsmanship. Ultimately,
Anhans Interior Design regards
their passion for design as an
art, and every project as an
opportunity to create dream
spaces for their clients.

www.anhans.com facebook.com/anhans.id anhans.id

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F E AT U R E

9 STYLISH
STUDY LOOKS

TO GET
INSPIRED BY

From the United States, Mexico and
France to Australia and China, these spaces

have everything to please the eye
and boost creativity.

When it comes to offices,
some key concepts are:
comfortable, cosy, flexible,
functional and airy. Some of the
world’s best interior designers have
shared with us their vision of what
makes a working space eye-catching
and unique. Whether using a neutral
palette based on black and white or
pops of bright colour, pure lines or soft
curves, made-to-measure furniture
or iconic statement pieces, there are
infinite possibilities. We spotted nine
refreshing and inspiring examples.

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MONOCHROMATIC WITH
POPS OF BRIGHT COLOUR

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA “I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN
FASCINATED BY PAUL RUDOLPH’S
INTERIOR DESIGN: DESIGN FOR THE HALSTON HOUSE

GREG NATALE ON THE UPPER EAST SIDE.”

Nestled in a 1960’s building – GREG NATALE, INTERIOR DESIGNER
in Sydney, Australian interior
designer Greg Natale’s offices
are spread over three floors.
“Stylistically, I have always been
fascinated by Paul Rudolph’s
design for the Halston house on
the Upper East Side,” confesses
Greg. “There was a perfect
blend of public and private
spaces in the building, and this
was something that I wanted
to explore in creating my own
commercial headquarters.”

In the designer’s office, the
Vapor rug, which was designed
by Greg himself, was custom-
coloured for this room. The
Eames moulded chairs and the
Eames walnut desk are from
Herman Miller while the black
and gold credenza is also his
creation. Decorative elements
by Tom Dixon, Kelly Wearstler
and Missoni Home are paired
with Burgundy lamps from
James Said and a painting from
Scott Petrie.

“Predominately, the space
works with a monochromatic
base palette, over which I
layered metals and pops
of colour in the artworks,”
Greg says. “The space is also
textured with perforated ceiling
panels, fluted glass and subtly
patterned rugs.”

photos ANSON SMART

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photos EDGARDO CONTRERAS

MASCULINE LOOK WITH
A SENSE OF DRAMA

“I WANTED TO DESIGN AN MEXICO CITY, MEXICO “The office’s focal point is
INTIMATE SPACE WHERE I CAN an 8.23m-long curio cabinet
INTERIOR DESIGN: displaying a collection of books
BE SURROUNDED BY and objects,” Roy notes. The
FAVOURITE OBJECTS THAT ROY AZAR ARCHITECT 5.48m-long desk is made of
grey parchment with bronze
REPRESENT MEMORIES,” Both an architect and an legs, the walls are upholstered
interior designer whose eclectic in a dramatic black-and-white
–ROY AZAR, FOUNDER OF style results from a passion malachite print while the
ROY AZAR ARCHITECT for experimentation, Roy Azar graphic pillow is by Pierre Frey.
created this project located
in one of the most sought- “I wanted to design an
after areas of Mexico City. intimate space where I can
One of the main objectives be surrounded by favourite
was highlighting the owner’s objects that represent
contemporary art collection, memories,” Roy adds. “The
so Roy decided to use clean large table ensures to have
architectural lines and neutral everything at hand.”
backdrops.

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LAID-BACK WITH BOHEMIAN TOUCHES

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES layered look. I brought in pops photo DUSTY LU portrait CHRISTOPHER DIBBLE
of colour and pattern with the photos LAURE JOLIET
INTERIOR DESIGN: smaller accessories like Loloi
pillows. The final step was
MAX HUMPHREY bringing the outdoors in with
lots of plants and greenery from
“The study was designed for Rolling Greens,” he shares. The
the actress and social media peace sign sculpture by Noir
influencer Meghan Rienks in Furniture and the arrow curtain
Los Angeles, and she needed rods by Bend Goods complement
a fun, bright space where she the look.
could work”, says interior
designer Max Humphrey. “Meghan has good vibes and
perfectly embodies the spirit of
“I was inspired by bohemian Southern California”, Max says.
design trends and wanted to “She works hard, but at the same
mix modern furniture like the time, she’s relaxed. Your office
Blu Dot desk and Wayfair chair has to reflect your personality as
into the traditional space. I much as possible.”
put smaller vintage rugs on
top of larger, neutral rugs for a

“I WAS INSPIRED BY BLACK AND WHITE
BOHEMIAN DESIGN
TRENDS AND WANTED SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

TO MIX MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN:
FURNITURE LIKE THE
BLU DOT DESK AND NICOLEHOLLIS
WAYFAIR CHAIR INTO
“For our studio, we desired a white
THE TRADITIONAL canvas where we could clear our minds
SPACE. ” of daily clutter and focus on creating a
new concept for each and every design
– MAX HUMPHREY, project,” says San Francisco designer
INTERIOR DESIGNER Nicole Hollis, founder of Nicolehollis.
“The studio is located in a historic
building built in 1924. With its natural
light and minimalist sensibility, the
space acts as a laboratory where we
can experiment. It is important to keep
the studio uplifting and inspiring. We
often have furniture designers, artists
and fabricators drop off materials and
furnishings – it’s always rotating”.

The dining area off of the kitchen
allows employees to gather at
lunchtime. It also acts as an informal
meeting place for the designers
to review floor plans, samples and
materials. The black table in family-
style dining is by James Perse, and the
Chandelier 046 is by Dimore Studio.
Just outside the windows is a beautiful
view of Twin Peaks, a famous San
Francisco landmark.

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A MIX OF VINTAGE AND PARIS, FRANCE the essentials and taking care
CONTEMPORARY of the volumes, lines, spaces
INTERIOR DESIGN: BISMUT & and materials, Bismut & Bismut
photo FRANCIS AMIAND Architectes wanted to create
photo CHRISTOPHER STARK portrait PARKER FITZGERALDBISMUT ARCHITECTES rhythm and a sense of warmth
in this space by adding subtle
In the Sixth Arrondissement contrast and a mix of vintage
of the French capital, brothers and contemporary pieces.
Daniel and Michel Bismut – the
duo behind Paris-based studio A work by German
Bismut & Bismut Architectes photographer Hans-Peter
– decided to transform part Feldmann adorns the wall above
of the entrance to a 3,229 sq the custom-made, floating
ft Haussmann apartment to desk by Bismut & Bismut. The
enhance its function. Cherner chair (1958) by Norman
Cherner and the Snoopy table
This part of the entrance, lamp (1967) by Achille and Pier
which opens up to the living Giacomo Castiglioni (distributed
room into a small study with a by Flos) add a historical touch to
big leather desk, was formerly the whole.
only used as a transitional
space. Known for focusing on

“MY OFFICE WINDOW LOOKS OUT ON TO CLEAN LINES AND NEUTRAL TONES
A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN FILLED WITH
SAN FRANCISCO,
TOPIARIES, AN ANTIQUE WATER FOUNTAIN
AND CRUSHED BLUE GRAVELS.” UNITED STATES

- ECHE MARTINEZ , FOUNDER OF ECHE INTERIOR DESIGN: ECHE

“When it came to our offices, which are
nestled in a 1908 Mediterranean-style
building that served as the home of
Therien Antiques, we wanted a clean
space for client meetings and all the
behind-the-scenes work that goes into
designing spaces,” says Eche Martinez,
founder of San Francisco-based design
firm Eche. “The challenge was to create
a space that spoke to our vision while
providing a neutral enough backdrop
for the important process of discovery
and inspiration.”

The desk is a vintage piece by
Italian furniture manufacturer Studio
Diapason, and the two pedestals are
carved from a single piece of Carrara
marble, making the glasswork surface
look like it’s floating.

“My office window looks out on to
a beautiful garden filled with topiaries,
an antique water fountain and crushed
blue gravels,” Eche adds. “On nice days,
it’s a perfect place for lunch or post-
work drinks – one of the best-kept
secrets in the Design District area!”

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photos WILL ELLIS SOFT ELEGANCE

“THE NEW WORK PROJECT IS AN NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
INTIMATE, ONE-OF-A-KIND, DESIGN-LED
WORKSPACE FOR INDIVIDUALLY MINDED INTERIOR DESIGN:

CREATORS AND INNOVATORS” THE NEW DESIGN PROJECT

- JAMES DAVISON, FOUNDER OF THE NEW DESIGN PROJECT Nestled in a historic building
in Williamsburg – Brooklyn’s
cultural hub populated with
shops, cafes and restaurants
– The New Work Project is a co-
working space for individuals
and businesses in the creative
industries. Shaped by The
New Design Project, a design
studio helmed by Fanny Abbes
and James Davison, it consists
of workstations, conference
rooms, lounges, gallery desks
and private studios, adorned in
black-and-white with
brass detailing.

Mid-century modern
furniture and elegant lighting
fixtures are combined with
custom pieces by The New
Design Project and others
created in collaboration with
local designers such as J.M.
Szymanski and textile company
Eskayel. “The New Work Project
is an intimate, one-of-a-kind,
design-led workspace for
individually minded creators
and innovators,” says James.

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“COLOURS, PATTERNS, ART DECO VIBES In this office, the interior
GEOMETRY AND designer introduced art deco
GRAPHICS ARE SHENZHEN, CHINA codes with a contemporary
twist. “Above all things, the
EVERYWHERE – ON INTERIOR DESIGN: space ought to be inspired
THE WALLS AND and inspiring”, he adds. “It
DARIEL STUDIO features a highly cultural and
FLOORS AND UP TO artistic environment dedicated
RUGS AND FURNITURE Located in the heart of to enlightening the user who
Shenzhen, China, and nestled will enjoy Koloman Moser-
THAT HAVE BEEN in a landscaped garden, this influenced graphics, as well as
SPECIALLY DESIGNED 9,256 sq ft top-floor luxury pieces by surrealist artists such
FOR THIS PROJECT.” penthouse was designed by as Kay Sage, Francis Picabia or
French designer Thomas Ettore Sottsass.”
- THOMAS DARIEL, FOUNDER Dariel, founder of Shanghai-
OF DARIEL STUDIO based Dariel Studio, who drew Through all his projects,
inspiration from the art deco Thomas mixes cutting-edge
movement. “Colours, patterns, innovations and references
geometry and graphics are from the past while giving
everywhere – on the walls tribute to both French and
and floors and up to rugs Oriental cultures.
and furniture that have been
specially designed for this
project”, Thomas says.

photos DERRYCK MENERE

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photo LINCOLN BARBOUR portrait PARKER FITZGERALD

SUBTLE CONTRAST Located in an 1870’s historic Beautifully made by
gothic revival building in Portland glass artist Andy Palko,
PORTLAND, UNITED STATES downtown Portland, Oregon, the sculpture Optic Twist Screen
INTERIOR DESIGN: this luxurious private office was #1 divides the space elegantly
JESSICA HELGERSON designed to feel open. and playfully without closing
INTERIOR DESIGN it off. This piece is made up of
“It was a light and beautiful over 100 various blown shapes
approach to separation,” strung on a steel cable.
explains Jessica Helgerson,
founder of her eponymous “The suspended forms
studio. “The clients wanted articulate undecipherable
one room but a feeling of phrases in a personal,
separation. We introduced figurative, three-dimensional
beauty, sparkle and brightness handwriting,” explains Andy.
to contrast all the sombre dark “The shapes below act to echo,
bricks and cabinetry. Glass is reverberate and multiply the
the way to do both.” visual messages received.”

text KARINE MONIE 95

F E AT U R E

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WORKPLACE
WISDOM
AT HOME

Now that life and work collide at home, in our study,
it is up to us to define the boundaries. Here, we look at some of

the wisdom and tips from some of the world’s most
prominent office furniture brands.

ID MUSEUM HOMES We’re 10 months in Business Times article written by
2020, and most of Jeremy Sheldon, head of market
us in Singapore at JLL Asia-Pacific.
have spent more than half of
it working from home and One of the main reasons for
navigating the new normal this, as relayed by respondents
(are you sick of that phrase in Singapore, was that they
yet?) and the next normal. In saw the office as a professional
the recent years before the environment that allows for
pandemic, there had been a a clear distinction between
trend in adopting and infusing personal and professional lives.
the comfort of home in the At home, that distinction is
office environment, most elusive, but not impossible to
notably through the design of achieve. One way is to do the
the furniture, which features reverse of the aforementioned
softer finishes, generous furniture trend - borrowing
proportions and greater some of the wisdom from office
flexibility, among other things. furniture brands and applying
them at home.
In the first quarter of 2020,
the general consensus seemed “The home study will have
to be that people loved working to function as our offices and
from home and wouldn’t mind schools, at least for the time
doing it permanently. The tune being. That brings with it a
has changed by the second cognitive challenge: finding
quarter when we realised that focus in chaos,” says Angela Ng,
our domestic environments marketing manager Asia at Vitra.
need tweakings to be able to “Rooms and daily routines have
accommodate work. A recent to be rethought to maximise
survey of 1,500 corporate productivity. Is my workspace
employees in Singapore, soundproof for online meetings?
Australia, India, China and Japan Does my chair facilitate
revealed as many as 60 per ergonomic sitting for hours on
cent of those aged 35 to 49 years end? Can I vary my working
old and two-thirds of those position during the day with a
aged below 35 say they missed height-adjustable work table or
the office, as reported in The by moving to a different space
within the home?”

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