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291 TANJONG KA ONG ROAD S NGAPOR 43 074 CONTAC US A 6440 9766 EMAIL enquiry@blacknwhitehouse com

HOMEANDDECOR.COM.SG

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TOP OF THE CLASS ID FIRMS 2018 TRENDING NOW

Festive Styling Ideas from Story of Yanxi Palace

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S$6.00

DEC 2018

Ultimate Hacks For A Fuss-Free Year-End Party

PROJECT: SINGAPORE PENTHOUSE

CONTENTS

DECEMBER

26 hot buys The latest designs for the modern home.

NOW

DESIGN NEWS, PLACES TO V I S I T, T H I N G S T O B U Y

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23 VIRIDIAN TIDINGS Go for a classy, mellow look this festive season, with a monochromatic scheme and a dark, sexy shade.

S HOPPI NG

24 ORIENTAL CHIC The unending fascination with Chinoiserie sees this style taking off with large-scale motifs.

NEW STORE

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

32 THE STONE GALLERY BY HAFARY This 13,000sqf store has a wide variety of stone finishes. 34 DREAM ON Hip furniture retailer Dream

Interiors moves east, and gets a sexy makeover. 36 FLAMING QUEEN AND S’PORE TRADING POST New stores by the high-end fragrance retailer and purveyor of colonial furniture.

HOT SP OT 42 THE RADISSON COLLECTION, STRAND Centenarian hotel in Stockholm gets youthful renewal.

42 A combination of storied history, stunning views and a modern outlook, for this hotel.

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER

SPECIAL D E S I G N I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M THOSE IN THE KNOW

91 TOP OF THE CLASS Some of the most established designers and their recent works. 92 ARCHITOLOGY INTERIORS Architology delivers creative prowess and dynamism in every project it undertakes. 94 CUBE ASSOCIATE DESIGN Sarah Tham is known for her highly creative yet practical design solutions ever since she founded her firm in 1998. 96 DESIGN INTERVENTION Helmed by design duo Nikki Hunt and Andrea Savage, Design Intervention has earned a name for creating truly bespoke homes. 98 DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN Founded in 2005, Dwell is a fullservice interior design studio that delivers exceptional craftsmanship and service.

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1 00 EIGHTYTWO A boutique interior design firm which prides itself on providing bespoke designs to fulfil clients’ unique requirements. 1 02 ENOCH ID Known for his passion for creating plush interiors, Eddy Kuswandi is fastidious with details. 1 04 FREE SPACE INTENT Free Space Intent’s design mantra has always been to give fresh, bold interpretations of current trends. 1 06 JOEY KHU INTERIOR DESIGN With over 20 years of industry experience, he has a penchant for introducing luxe touches in a contemporary way. 1 08 METAPHOR STUDIO The team is inspired by Asian design, and has a strong portfolio that includes residential and hospitality projects in Southeast Asia.

110 RENAISSANCE PLANNERS & DESIGNERS Established since 1994, it has a dynamic team that delivers what it calls “360-degree design and building solutions”. 112 SPACE SENSE Practicality counts alongside creativity in Kelvin Teo’s designs, so clients can expect thoughtful layout and space planning. 114 UPSTAIRS_ The team delights in pushing boundaries in traditional craft and material innovation for all its projects. 116 COLLECTIVE DESIGNS Selina Tay places great emphasis on the flow of light, air and energy, maximising elements for a liveable home. 117 KNQ ASSOCIATES The boutique studio is passionate about transforming living spaces into “emotive” homes to engage owners on a deeper level.

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118 ONE-STOP CONCEPT Founder Norman Yeo engages personally with his clients and designs with passion. 119 SPACE MATTERS This interior design firm is helmed by founder Ken Lee, who combines architectural and design flair in all his projects.

12 0 SPACEONE INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTANCY Known for bold, ultra-luxe contemporary touches, the firm also specialises in customised furniture. 12 1 THREE-D CONCEPTWERKE Be it a home or commercial space, Three-D Conceptwerke seeks to integrate design seamlessly into the lives of its occupants.

122 WEE STUDIO The team prefers minimalist design and living, and offers a holistic interior design experience, from conceptualisation to completion. 123 WOLF WOOF Carmen Tang constantly pushes the envelope and seeks to redefine interiors by giving them character.

CONTENTS

DECEMBER

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62

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HOMES THE NEW MODERN

on the cover

82 Vermilion hues for an elegant feel. PHOTOGRAPHY VERONICA TAY ART DIRECTION NONIE CHEN

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46 OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD A peek into the contemporary chic home of Grafunkt co-founder Jefery Kurniadidjaja. 56 CRESCENT INSPIRATION A semi-circular form may be rather unusual for a home but, when it is in response to a unique site, everything falls into place.

62 BEYOND THE RISING SUN A home that embodies Nihon influences without a stereotypical Japanese interior.

CONTENTS

DECEMBER

FEATURES T H E L AT E S T I N D E S I G N AND DECOR TRENDS

FE AT U R E 68 LIFE OF THE PARTY It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Take party-planning up a notch with these 15 handy tips. 82 PALATIAL PARTY PALETTES Chinese period drama Story of Yanxi Palace inspires bold decor styles with its Morandiesque hues.

18 EDITOR’S NOTE 20 H&D.COM.SG 21 DIGITAL EDITION EXCLUSIVES 124 WHERE TO BUY 12 6 BUYING GUIDE 12 8 THE HARD TRUTH

68 Spruce up the look of your home, in time for this festive season!

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PHOTOGRAPHY

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INTERNATIONAL EDITIONS HOME & DECOR INDONESIA MPG MEDIA PUBLISHING Jl Palmerah Utara 55 Slipi, Jakarta 11910 Indonesia AD SALES ENQUIRIES Tel: +62 21 5366 7777 E-mail: info.homeanddecor @mpgmedia.co.id

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D I G I TA L DEVELOPMENT

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Home & Decor is published by SPH Magazines Pte Ltd, 1000 Toa Payoh North, News Centre, Annexe Block Level 8, Singapore 318994, Tel: 6319-6319, Fax: 6319-6345 Distributed by Circulation Department, Singapore Press Holdings Ltd. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, Singapore registration no.: 197801823M. SPH Magazines registration no: 196900476M MCI (P) 041/05/2018

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed or implied in Home & Decor are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. For back issues, e-mail: circs@sph.com.sg. Subscribe online: www.homeanddecor.com.sg.

EDITOR’S NOTE

It’s about this time of the year that the dreaded realisation of my unachieved resolutions dawns upon me, and I have to come to terms with the fact that another year has swished by in the blink of an eye. That’s when I turn to retail therapy in an attempt to console and encourage myself to start anew, when the next year begins. While it may sound like an excuse to go shopping, the truth is I do enjoy getting new accessories for the home in December. There’s nothing like making the home feel more festive, to put everyone in the mood for evenings of great conversation over a sumptuous dinner spread or drinks around

YO U N G L I M E D I TO R

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é­ Ðđ é  ʨ "ÐÞ é­ é Þ âÐÉʣ , ĝÉ ÈĀâ ¦ °Éù°é°É§ ÈĀ ¦Þ° É â and family more often during this time. It gives us the opportunity to catch up with one another, É ĝÉ Ðîé ú­ é ù ÞĀÐÉ ­ â been up to over the past months. Yet, planning a gathering can be tedious and the cleanup afterwards can be just as troublesome. That’s why my team and I have created the ultimate guide to help you throw a fussfree year-end soiree. Use it as a checklist to mark all the things you need to do and get; you’ll also ĝÉ Û ÉéĀ Ц ­ ÂÛ¦î é°Ûâ ÐÉ ­Ðú to engage your guests, as well as delectable recipes for preparing a quick and easy dinner spread with cocktail aperitifs. Happy holidays!

photography ANGELA GUO art direction NONIE CHEN location SPACE

HOME FOR THE H O L I DAYS

www.frag.it Kant Desk /Adrian Peach Kati P Armchair /Mika Tolvanen

P5 Studio 213 Henderson Road #01-08 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159553 studio@p5.com.sg

REAL-TIME DESIGN UPDATES WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/ HOMEANDDECOR.SINGAPORE Read new content on home decor and more, daily.

SIGHTS & INSPIRATION CHECK US OUT AT @HOMEANDDECOR_SG

8 balcony design ideas Maximise your balcony space with these stylish ideas! www.tinyurl.com/8balconysg

Unique ways to include mirrors in interior design Using a mirror as a room divider is a clever idea. www.tinyurl.com/mirrordecor

HOMEANDDECOR .COM.SG

Check out popular blog posts of the month MORE INTERIOR STYLES FROM OUR ONLINE IMAGE LIBRARY

THIS MONTH ON OUR INSPIRING HOME OFFICES BOARD… WWW.PINTEREST.COM/ HOMEANDDECORSG

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NOW AVAILABLE AT

IN THE DECEMBER DIGITAL ISSUE… BEYOND THE RISING SUN This apartment has Nihon ĆĢƉ ŖäĢÚäʼn ūĆőĂĩŖő ÙäĆĢú ʼnőäŅäĩőűłĆÚÁěěű UÁłÁĢäʼnä͠

BONUS GALLERIES & VIDEOS CRESCENT INSPIRATION Áėä Á ūÁěė ÁŅĩŖĢà őĂĆʼn Ăĩġä͡ ūĂĆÚĂ ĂÁʼn Á ŖĢĆńŖä ʼnĆőä ÁĢà ʼnäġĆͿÚĆŅÚŖěÁŅ ùĩŅġ͠

OCCUPATIONAL HAZARD Áėä Á ÚěĩʼnäŅ ěĩĩė ĆĢʼnĆàä őĂä Ăĩġä ĩù <ŅÁùŖĢėő ÚĩͿùĩŖĢàäŅ UäùäŅű WŖŅĢĆÁàĆàĔÁĔÁ͠

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DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN P. L . INTERIOR DESIGN & CONSULTANCY DESIGN & BUILD | ADDITIONS & ALTERATIONS WWW.DWELL.COM.SG

RIVER VALLEY | 11 KIM YAM ROAD | T 6883 1005 | TALKTOUS@DWELL.COM.SG BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

D E S I G N N E W S , P L A C E S T O V I S I T, T H I N G S T O B U Y

VIRIDIAN TIDINGS Not looking forward to a barrage of tacky and garishly coloured ĩŅĢÁġäĢőʼn Ɖ ĩĩàĆĢú your home as decor this Christmas? If you prefer a classier and mellower look this festive season, consider toning things down with a monochromatic scheme and a dark, sexy shade. The simple forms of these paper ornaments (pictured), from online store Nordstjerne, evoke the familiar warmth of traditional Christmas decor, while its dark forest green hue ushers in a more mysterious and sensual feel. These lovely paper baubles and pinetree shaped cutouts look equally mesmerising hung ĩĢ ƈ Ņ ÙŅÁĢÚĂäʼn͡ Áʼn őĂäű do laid on their sides on Á Úĩƅ ää őÁÙěä ěĆĢäà ūĆőĂ jade-coloured velvet. N ord st jerne’s Christ m as collect io n of paper orn am en t s with leather string retails for $15 , and is ava ilable on www.nordst je rn e.eu .

text YOUNG LIM

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WA L L PA P E R O F T H E MO N T H

O R I E N TA L CHIC There are many reasons for the unending fascination with Chinoiserie, from its spiritual roots to the intricate and complicated forms it depicts. Inspired by traditional art forms originating from China and Japan, the cultural motifs reflected – like pagodas, lanterns and lucky cranes – are interpreted in brush strokes or calligraphic style, creating a look that is multi-dimensional and intricate. The latest iteration of this interior trend sees the patterns being repeated on a larger scale, which gives the space an overwhelming atmosphere that feels opulent yet tasteful. This bold style looks even more impressive when utilised in a small area, such as a narrow corridor or a guest bedroom. There’s nothing conventional about the approach, but, when you have a personality that is larger than life, your home definitely needs accents that are just as impressive.

GIOCO DI GINKGO LEVANTE COLLECTION

You can modernise the oriental style with sophisticated-looking accessories in bold forms and that have rich texture.

the expert says

N I N A B E AL E Interior Stylist

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“This style was favoured by many European monarchs in the 18th century, as people

wanted to bring scenes from the exotic Orient into their homes. When you have a look that is as bold and

photos BUNGALOW 55, WWW.WALLPEPPER.IT

eye-catching, you can play it up by adding accessories that are just as captivating.”

The First Smart Technology Water Heater in Singapore

*HW SRZHUIXO ZDWHU SUHVVXUH DQG FRQVLVWHQW WHPSHUDWXUHV

A. O. Smith, the leading global water heater brand with over 140 years of innovation history has launched their high-performance, digital water heater range. 7KH À UVW VWRUDJH KHDWHU ZLWK D FHQWUDO GLJLWDO FRQWURO Unlike conventional electric water heaters, digital heater tanks have ten built-in sensor points. Check out how much balance hot water you have, activate the instant hot water function if you run out, and program timers for forgetful family members who never remember to switch that heater off!

7KH ZDWHU SUHVVXUH Ă RZ UDWHV DQG temperatures of A. O. Smith water heaters are more stable and consistent than conventional gas or instant water heaters because of their mechnical structure. They are ideal especially for bathrooms with a shared heater, concurrent users and rainshowers. Even with a regular hand shower, the water pressure difference is substantial.

*UHDW IRU IDPLO\ PHPEHUV ZKR WUDYHO RIWHQ Everyone overseas and you’re alone at home? Switch your settings to ‘single’ mode to heat only half a tank and save money and energy. Have guests from abroad and your home is running at full capacity? Virtually multiply your tank capacity so you don’t run out of hot water! Cutting edge water technology is affordable and readily available in Singapore. Start your research today at www.aosbath.com

A. O. Smith Heaters are available from $560 at AOS Bath Pte Ltd 178 Paya Lebar Road, #05-10 | T: 6842 0030 | www.aosbath.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

TAK I N G S I D E S Add an understated touch of luxury to your living room with the Ascanio coffee or side table designed by renowned architect Antonio Citterio for Italian luxury furniture brand Flexform. With a solid Canaletto wood or solid ash structure, and a marble or wood top, this table can be positioned near your sofa or armchair for added countertop space, as you lounge and relax at home. The Ascanio coffee table is available in three sizes and retails from $2,980 at Flexform, #01-01, 200 Newton Road.

C R E AT I V E C O L L A B O R AT I O N Partnering cult-classic director and artist David Lynch once again, premium Danish audio brand Bang & Olufsen is featuring artwork from David’s War Between The Worlds, a series of works on paper he did in the 1970s, on its products. Out

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of the four models, two – the Beoplay M5 wireless speaker and Beoplay P2 portable speaker – are available in limited quantities in Singapore. The exclusive s p e c ia l ed itio n B eo p l ay M 5 retai l s for $1,175 at Bang & Ol uf s e n Gra n d Hyatt and online at www. b a n g - o lu fs e n . com /d av id ly nc h .

SCENT MY S T O R AG E

Wouldn’t it be lovely if you could have your favourite scent everywhere you went? These scented Diptyque drawer liners may be small, but it can perfume your wardrobe for months. You can even slip one of these fragrance-infused papers – part of the Diptyque 34 collection – in your wallet, bag and shoe cabinet. These Diptyque scented drawer liners retail for $95 and is available at Diptyque boutiques i n Takas himaya S .C. and Tang s Vivoc it y, a s well as E scent ials At Parago n. You can als o bu y them at www.escentials.com.

All-rounder Some say music is food for the soul, so why not complete your home by filling it with melodies to keep you feeling joyful and relaxed? With Dynaudio’s first intelligent wireless multi-room music system – named Music – you will get pristine sound quality in every corner of your home. Comprising a family of four intelligent wireless speakers, Music adapts to any room, position and ambient noise levels to ensure desirable sound quality is delivered. You can even personalise your playlists at a touch of a button. Dynaud io’s M us ic co llect ion ret ails from $849 at AV One Showroom, #01-01/ 10/21/22, 1 Coleman Street, The Adelphi, and Stereo, #04-06 Plaza Singapura.

Ad d to ca rt

L i gh t o f So un d Despite its nondescript name, Lighting Stores is far from boring. Every product carried by this multi-brand European store is handmade, featuring high-end materials like marble, crystal glass and brass. Its products range from Babel, an oversized and romantic chandelier, to Botti, a unique ƉĩĩŅ ěÁġł ͳłĆÚőŖŅäàʹ ĆĢʼnłĆŅäà Ùű ĔÁŹŹ musician Chris Botti. With worldwide ʼnĂĆłłĆĢú͡ űĩŖ ūĆěě ƈĢà Ćő äÁʼnĆäŅ őĩ úäő your hands on brands like Delightfull, Luxxu and Boca Do Lobo. Types of lighting encompass suspension, table and pendant lamps, and wall sconces.

BURN NO MORE Accidentally burning your clothing during the ironing process may be a thing of the past, with the launch of the world’s first zero-burn iron. Philips Perfectcare Expert Plus pressurised steam generator features a patented Optimaltemp technology that ensures fabrics that can be ironed never get burnt. This feature also uses a Smart Control Processor to heat steam to an optimal temperature for any fabric and allows for a more efficient process where pre-heating is not required. Even if you forget to remove the heated iron atop your clothing during the process, the appliance can regulate temperature settings to ensure there will be no burnt fabric.

Check out www.shop.li gh t in gstores .eu .

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TRENDING 1

Couch Surfing

Like a bedroom without a bed, a living room will look oddly empty without a sofa. As an important centrepiece of your living space, the ideal sofa should be comfortable, spacious and look good. Ticking all those boxes are these four plush seating options.

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Philips Perfectcare Expe r t P l u s pre ss ur is ed steam generator is available at major depa rt me nt an d elect ron i c sto re s for $499. Find out more at www. ph i lips .com .s g .

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1. Delta III Circle sofa, from $3,150, from King Living. 2. Hug Love Seat High sofa, from $6,735, from Space. 3. Moroso Gentry Extra Light sofa, from $11,000, from Xtra. 4 . Margot II Tight Back sofa, $2,699, from Crate and Barrel.

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EXHIBITION

Southeast Asia In The World

The Asian Civilisations Museum welcomes three permanent galleries in December that explore artistic exchanges within Asia and globally: Ancestors & Rituals, Christian Art, and Islamic Art. The Christian Art gallery is the only one in the world that focuses on Christian art in Asia, with pieces demonstrating cross-cultural exchange in the use of Asian materials and techniques to depict Western imagery. Venue: Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place From: Dec 1

L i s ten G o o d The Bose Soundbar 700 delivers both detail and depth for music and television. The proprietary Adaptiq technology allows the soundbar to acoustically calibrate according to the surroundings; microphones will “listen” to the sound in the room before adjusting the

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speakers accordingly. The soundbar is clad in a metal grille, with a tempered glass top, and connects via Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The Bose Soundbar 70 0 ret ai ls for $1,199 at authorised Bo se de alers. Vi sit www.bo se.sg fo r mo re information.

EW

MIELE BLIZZARD CX1 THE BLIZZARD CX1 IS PERFECT FOR PEOPLE LOOKING FOR A

J AVA J I V E

POWERFUL VACUUM CLEANER WITH AIR FILTRATION CAPABILITIES, AND WHO ALSO WANT TO SAVE ON BAG COSTS.

ĩƅ ää ěĩŪäŅʼn͡ őŅäÁő űĩŖŅʼnäěù

ISA BELLE TOW Home & Decor Writer

őĩ őŅŖä Úĩƅ ää ěŖŰŖŅű ūĆőĂ őĂä 'ŰłěĩŅÁőĆĩĢʼn ̠̞̟̦ ÙĩŰ ùŅĩġ aäʼnłŅäʼnʼnĩ͠ ;äÁőŖŅĆĢú ùĩŖŅ ʼnĆĢúěä ĩŅĆúĆĢ Úĩƅ ää ŪÁŅĆäőĆäʼn ùŅĩġ őĂä ŖĢŖʼnŖÁě ěÁĢàʼn ĩù aĆÚÁŅÁúŖÁ͡ <ÁěÁłÁúĩʼn͡ őĂä #ĩġĆĢĆÚÁĢ äłŖÙěĆÚ ÁĢà HĢàĆÁ͡ őĂäʼnä ěĆġĆőäà äàĆőĆĩĢʼn ÁŅä őĂä łĆÚėʼn ĩù őĂä űäÁŅ ùĩŅ őĂäĆŅ ŅÁŅĆőű͡ ʼnÚÁŅÚĆőű ÁĢà äŰőŅÁĩŅàĆĢÁŅű ÁŅĩġÁőĆÚ łŅĩƈ ěäʼn͠ 'ÁÚĂ ÙĩŰ Úĩġäʼn ūĆőĂ őūĩ äŪäÁě Úĩƅ ää őÁʼnőĆĢú úěÁʼnʼnäʼn ÁĢà Á Ùĩĩėěäő ĩù Úĩƅää ʼnőĩŅĆäʼn ĩù őĂä ùÁŅġäŅʼn͠ The Nespresso Explorations 2018 box retails for $98 at any Nespresso boutique and online at www.ne s p ress o.co m.

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The review: The Blizzard CX1 is the German brand’s first bagless cylinder model. Instead of a regular dust bag, it is fitted with a 2-litre dust container that you can easily remove and empty. The Vortex technology produces cyclonic air flow of more than 100kmh. This separates coarse debris and fine dust, with the former landing in the dust container, and the latter in the separate container with a fine dust filter. Miele always integrates its many accessories into the body of its vacuum cleaners, and the Blizzard CX1 is no different. The upholstery and crevice nozzles are neatly fitted at the back, and a dusting brush is integrated with the handle, which make reaching for these tools convenient.

As usual, Miele didn’t disappoint in terms of performance. My floors were left spotless, even though I selected the lowest of its four-level power setting. Emptying the dust container, though, was a little trickier. It’s true that the Click2open function makes emptying easy, but the opening is fairly wide, so some practice is needed to ensure that dust doesn’t fall everywhere. The Blizzard CX1 is also rather bulky, but for a reason – to fit components like the Gore Cleanstream filter that traps fine dust, and the Hepa Airclean filter (only in the higher-end models). The verdict? The Blizzard CX1 is perfect for those looking for a powerful vacuum cleaner with air filtration capabilities, and who also want to save on bag costs.

TILE OF THE MONTH

NEWS

;ĆŅʼnő #ĆÙʼn Keen to see what the restored Raffles Hotel would look like? Time to book your stay in advance! Ahead of the reopening in mid-2019, Raffles Hotel has started accepting suite reservations for stays from Aug 1, 2019. With 115 suites on the property, the refurbished space will sport redesigned bathrooms and modern technologies, while maintaining the old-world charm of the heritage building. Find out more about the opening offer at www. raff lessing ap ore.com .

Rustic Charm

Get the edgy look that rustic homes can give you with the right choice ĩù ƉĩĩŅĆĢú àäʼnĆúĢ͠ `Áàä ĆĢ ŅÁŹĆě͡ äŪäĢ ŖłäŅÙĆÁ őĆěäʼn ĂÁŪä ĆĢőŅĆÚÁőä ūĩĩàúŅÁĆĢͿĆĢʼnłĆŅäà łÁőőäŅĢʼn őĂÁő ÁŅä ŅäġĆĢĆʼnÚäĢő ĩù őĂä ƉĩĩŅÙĩÁŅàʼn ĩùőäĢ ʼnłĩőőäà ĆĢ ÚĩŖĢőŅűͿʼnőűěä ěĩùő ÁłÁŅőġäĢőʼn͠ ©ĆőĂ Á ĂĆĢő ĩù őĂä ūäÁőĂäŅäà ěĩĩė ÁġĆà Ćőʼn ġÁőőä ƈĢĆʼnĂ͡ äŪäĢ ŖłäŅÙĆÁ őĆěäʼn ěäĢà Á ŪĆĢőÁúä ÚĂÁŅÁÚőäŅ͡ ūĂĆěä äŰŖàĆĢú Á ġĩàäŅĢ őĩŖÚĂ͠ Seven Superbia is available at Soon Bee Huat, 257 Changi Road.

Ćő ÁĢà Ćł Speciality tea brand 1872 Clipper Tea Co has upgraded its flagship store to become a 12-seat tea bar. Furnished with bar chairs upholstered in distressed leather seat covers and quartz tables, the space lends a casual and relaxing vibe, as you enjoy aromatic brewed tea and sip on a fragrant cuppa. Choose from a selection of hot teas, cold brewed teas, iced tea mocktails and iced tea lattes that are brewed in-house. Pop by 1872 Clipper Tea Co tea bar at # B 4-07, I on Orch ard.

New Look

Looking to brighten up your bedside table? The latest design by Italian lighting specialists Studio Italia, the Valentina is a collection of small-sized wall, table and pendant lamps featuring a metallic-finished body and crystal-like shade made from hardy polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The cordless table lamps are unique in the collection – with a tap on the head, the LED can be dimmed from a strong reading light to a soft ambient glow.

The twenty-five-year-old Courts Ang Mo Kio store has been newly refurbished. The 35,000sqf, twostorey space has a newly painted exterior, and the interiors are now well-equipped, including a cooking demonstration station. Customers can even consult in-house experts on repair issues, maintenance and smart home solutions, with Court’s solution provider, Guru. There’s also interior design consultation with Courts Design Studio to help with homeowners’ renovation needs.

For more information, visit www. st udi oi t a li a d es i g n .co m.

Courts Ang Mo Kio is located at 73 0 Ang M o Kio Avenu e 6.

LIGHT IT UP

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text DOMENICA TAN, ELIZA HAMIZAH & ISABELLE TOW

N E W S TO R E

THE STONE GALLERY BY H A FA R Y This 13,000sqf store has a wide variety of stone finishes.

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rom marble and granite to exotic stones like agate and onyx, well-known tile specialist Hafary has opened its latest showroom, The Stone Gallery by Hafary, to focus on a range of natural stones. The 13,000sqf space showcases an impressive selection of the natural material in all colours and patterns. Get design inspiration at every corner too, as there are many home-inspired settings within the large space. Housing collections from four established Italian stone brands – Antolini, Salvatori, Petra Antiqua and Kreoo – the

TO P These super luxurious stone options cost over $50,000 per slab! A BOVE Be inspired by the design of numerous stone feature walls in the showroom. R IG HT Elegant and opulent bathroom settings are showcased at The Stone Gallery by Hafary. 32

store showcases curated pieces that are unique and classy, with options suitable for all types of uses. For example, 60-year-old brand Antolini has one of the best quarries in the world, and the brand carries over a thousand types of marble, granite, onyx, limestone, precious stones, shellstones and gemstones, which are shaped by international designers to offer interesting options for commercial and residential uses. Salvatori collaborates with architects, designers and builders too, to come up with new ways of application and innovative solutions for interior design. Having worked with renowned brands including Armani and Louis Vuitton, Salvatori assures customers of its quality, practicality and style. There are also one-of-akind pieces such as antique marble options by Petra Antiqua, which are elegant and artistic, having been refined by skilled craftsmen. Shop for furniture made of stone too – such as those made of marble and wood – from Kreoo’s collection, which includes coffee tables, chairs and even bathroom sinks, in fluid forms. When choosing your favourite slabs, have it laid out at the showroom’s fully carpeted pre-laying zone, so you can view large slabs easily and better visualise how it will look in your home! The Stone Gallery by Hafary is located at Level 7, World Furnishing Hub, 18 Sungei Kadut Street 2. By appointment only.

text DOMENICA TAN

N E W S TO R E

DREAM ON Hip furniture retailer Dream Interiors moves east, and gets a sexy makeover.

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avvy furniture shoppers and design lovers will remember the iconic Dream Interiors originally situated at the rather oddlooking Crystal Court in River Valley road. Aside from the garish Postmodernist-slash-Art Deco-slash-Deconstructivist style architecture, which made the store stand out like a sore thumb amid the row of colonial shophouses, the former Dream Interiors was a well-loved haunt because of its collection of cool designer furniture pieces by legends, such as Le Corbusier and Jean-Marie Massaud. Not only could you wander the hallways filled with interesting sofas and armchairs, imagining how they would look like in your own space, you could also ascend the oversized spiral stairs to explore the kitchen and office setups on the second floor. Naturally, the uproar following the store’s sudden disappearance from the location it had occupied for the last decade was to be expected. Thankfully, homeowners and design enthusiasts didn’t have

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to wait long for Dream Interiors to return. This time round, Dream Interiors can be found at the spanking new premises of Vanguard Campus. The 2,000 sq ft studio space is designed to resemble the layout of a loft home, complete with full-length glass windows, high ceilings and exposed overhead piping. Amid the suave and industrial-looking interiors lies an assortment of modern furnishing collections from upscale brands, such as Living Divani, Porro, Brokis, Technografika, Woodnotes and Walter Knoll. Shoppers looking for design inspiration will appreciate the clear segmentation of interior zones, from entertainment areas and living-room settings to walk-in wardrobe and bedroom spaces. Appointments are essential, so remember to drop them a call before turning up at Dream’s door. Dream Interiors is located at Vanguard Campus, 1 Kallang Junction. Call 6235-0220 to make an appointment, or visit www.dream. com.sg.

text YOUNG LIM

A B OV E With walk-in wardrobes a popular option among local homeowners, the setting here offers plenty of design inspiration. TOP, LE F T The darker tones and understated urban vibe is a marked difference from the vibrant look of Dream’s previous showroom. LEFT Be inspired to jazz up your reading corner, with one of the suave seating appointments from Living Divani.

N O L S IA Y C D E P S

MY HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE WITH THE DYSON PURE COOL Young Lim, editor of Home & Decor Singapore, decided to get the Dyson Pure Cool Purifier for his new home. Find out more about his experience. Now, I had heard of Dyson’s purifier fans before. I remember being quite impressed with Dyson when it launched the first purifier fan in early 2016. Not only did the fan look pretty sleek and sophisticated, it also generated cool air and trapped fine dust particles. However back then, I wasn’t impressed enough to get one for myself but as I’ve just recently moved into a new apartment, I was in dire need of a fan and air purifier, and Dyson’s Pure Cool seemed to tick all the boxes in what I was looking for. Coincidentally, Dyson also just released the latest version of the Pure Cool (a 2018 update) in April, so I decided to give it a try. What’s different with the new Dyson Pure Cool? Among the new things included in the 2018 update, are a new LCD display that reports pollutants in the home in real time, doublelayer filters comprising activated carbon and

HEPA filters capable of capturing 99.95 per cent of microscopic allergens and pollutants as small as 0.1 microns, and a 350-degree oscillation to circulate clean air all around the room. What’s my first impression? The LCD display in the Dyson Pure Cool is a total game changer, because the sensors within the fan start measuring the amount of VOC (volatile organic compounds), nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter that are 0.1 and 2.5 microns in size. Why it’s important to know how clean your air is. The air you’re breathing in at home may seem clean, but in a study involving 27 households in Singapore, researchers actually found that one gram of dust contains a potent mix of bacteria, mold and dust mite allergen. Now one gram may not seem like much, but the average household is actually filled with as much as 18kg of dust every year. How did the Dyson Pure Cool fare in terms of its purification? When I switched the purifying fan on, it went to work immediately to clean up the air. The LCD display originally indicated 100 units of particulate matter in the air (the average for a reasonably clean room being around 15-25) and within the span of an hour, the number

dropped to 25. Another interesting change was I couldn’t detect the smell of new paint in my newly renovated home anymore. The Pure Cool works just as well when cooling the air. I was also impressed with the 350-degree oscillation capability of the fan. While most fans can only turn from left to right, or 180 degrees, the Dyson Pure Cool rotates almost fully around the room, effectively releasing 290-litres of clean air into the space. So you no longer have to place the fan in a corner, instead consider placing it near the centre so it can help to cool all around the space. The Dyson Link For smart capabilities, the innovative Pure Cool can be paired with the Dyson Link app. It enables you to track indoor and outdoor pollution, temperature and humidity levels. You can also use it to control the machine and receive alerts when it’s time to change the filters. The app’s updates are also automatically loaded into your mobile device, ensuring that you are always enjoying the latest version.

THE DYSON PURE COOL PUR I FYI NG FAN I S AVA I LA BL E FR OM HT TPS: //SHOP.DYSON . COM .SG/ AN D A LSO AT AL L M AJ OR DEPA RT MENT A ND EL ECTR ICAL STORES.

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N E W S TO R E

THE OLD & NEW

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here are lots to see at the Singapore Trading Post’s Jelita showroom, from plantation chairs and botanical candles to a wide range of cushion covers that come in designs such as Indian block-print motifs and vibrant prints of tropical palm trees. These give us a peek into the lifestyle of colonial Singapore, which Singapore Trading

A NOSE FOR SOMETHING

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part from its eyebrowraising name, Flaming Queen is known for bringing in high-end fragrance and aromatherapy brands. Already a popular pit stop for guests at Mandarin Gallery, the multi-brand store has now opened its fourth branch, located in

Paragon. The new store is home to crowd favourites like Belgian brand Baobab – loved worldwide for its natureinspired scents, impressive candle sizes and colourful wicker baskets that the candles come in. You will also find Italian label Dr Vranjes Firenze, whose mouthblown glass bottles make great home decor pieces. To top it off, Flaming Queen also carries home accessories by French-Peruvian brand Du Cote du Parc. The range includes handmade serving trays, tissue boxes and bath sets. A great idea for gifts this Christmas! Visit the newest Flaming Queen store at #03-K3 Paragon, tel: 63698887, www.flaming-queen.com.

text ELIZA HAMIZAH

Post is largely inspired by. To maintain an authentic collection, it sources items – be it rustic-style furniture or Chinese vases – from original trading-route stops such as China, India, Vietnam, Myanmar and Indonesia. Visit Singapore Trading Post’s second outlet at #02-18 Jelita Shopping Centre, https://singaporetradingpost.com.

N O C L IR IA -A C D E S SP

KEEP YOUR COOL Find out how you can save time and money by ensuring that your air-conditioner is well-maintained.

Air-conditioning systems are an integral part of local households, as they provide relief from the hot and humid tropical weather we experience in Singapore. For instance, they help to cool down bedrooms before homeowners turn in for the night, and are essential to our comfort. However, this reliance on air-conditioners means they are constantly subjected to long periods of usage. Over time, this could result in issues of low performance, such as not being able to maintain cool air at a constant temperature, leaks

and breakdowns. Without proper maintenance, the air-conditioner can even be harmful to health as it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, as well as spread dust and germs into the air. If you’ve experienced an unpleasant odour emitting from your air-con, this could be due to mould or bacteria lurking in the system. If no action is taken, this might lead to health issues such as allergies and respiratory problems. What can you do to prevent these problems from arising? Air-con cleaning and servicing specialist SD-Aircon, which offers Japanese-style premium service where punctuality and detailed execution are among the key highlights of its services, advises that regular cleaning is important, in order to keep your family safe and healthy in a cool home. Not only does thorough cleaning help remove bacteria and mould, it can also translate into reduced energy consumption. When dust particles get trapped

in the air-conditioning unit, the appliance loses its effectiveness, and needs to “work harder” to get to the desired set temperature. If you’re worried that the cleaning and servicing works might dirty your home, fret not. The experienced specialists at SD-Aircon are well-equipped in ensuring service execution is as seamless and fuss-free as possible. Also, all items in the room will be covered before cleaning is done. So don’t wait till the air-conditioner breaks down before servicing it. Make an appointment with the team from today. Quick tip from SD-Aircon: Set the air-con at 25 deg C, if you’re a homeowner who is used to lower temperature settings. This is because an increase of 1 deg C can save you almost $25 per month in electrical bills.

CHE CK OUT SD-A IR CON AT WWW.S D-AI RCON.COM/ EN GLI SH, # 02 -07 M38 , 38 JA LA N PEMI MPIN , AN D 6467-4778.

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ILOOM Libre 400W 7-Storey Bookshelf, $199; Libre 600W 7-Storey Bookshelf, $209; Boston For 3 Fabric Sofa, $1,899. Available at Metro Centrepoint. Sequinned Reindeer (sitting), $483; (standing) $549. Available at Metro Centrepoint

Decor Tip A stunning red tree will lend energy and sophistication to a room with dark accents.

SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW FULL M MAGAZINE

AS SEEN IN M MAGAZINE 01. Painted Glass Ball With Poinsettia Hanging Ornament, $10.90. 02. Glass Finial Hanging Ornament, $12.90. 03. Glass Ball Hanging Ornament With Branch Pattern, $12.90. 04. ‘Joy’ & ‘Noel’ Glass Ball Hanging Ornament, $10.90. 05. Glass Finial Hanging Ornament With Snowflake Pattern, $10.90. 06. Plastic Teardrop Hanging Ornament With Bow, $6.90. 07. Candy Cane Hanging Ornament, $9.90. 08. Glass Ball Hanging Ornament With Snowflake Pattern, $10.90. 09. Plastic Snowflake Hanging Ornament, $6.90. 10. Plastic Snowflake Hanging Ornament, $6.90. 11. Plastic Mirror-Finish Snowflake Hanging Ornament, $9.90.

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’Tis the season to paint the town red! Deck your tree with flourishes of crimson and scarlet to bring on that holiday cheer.

METRo Centrepoint • METRO Paragon • METRO Causeway Point • METRO.com.SG

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01. SCHOTT ZWIESEL Diva White Wine Glass (set of 2), $35 (U.P. $46). 02. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Platinum Collection 10.25” Dinner Plate, $23.90. 03. ANDREA Seafood Tools Set (10-piece set), $116. 04. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Ritz Series 7” Side Plate, $16.90. 05. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Ritz Series 10.5” Dinner Plate, $29.90. 06. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Ritz Series 9” Dessert Plate, $23.90. 07. CHARLES MILLEN Suite Thia Napkin Ring (4-piece set), $23.90. 08. BRISTOL Napkin, $6.90. Available at Metro Paragon 09. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Adelia 20-Piece Cutlery (24K Gold Plating), $269. 10. CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Ritz Series 7” Salad Bowl, $23.90. All available at Metro Centrepoint unless otherwise stated

AS SEEN IN M MAGAZINE

SOIRÉE BY CHARLES MILLEN Chopsticks Gift Pack (6 pairs in set), $16.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

SOIRÉE BY CHARLES MILLEN Shizu Tea Indulgence Set, $79 Available at Metro Centrepoint

CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Jive Series Coffee/Tea Pot, $79.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

JAMIE OLIVER Pestle & Mortar 16cm, $43.13 (U.P. $59.90). Available at Metro Centrepoint

CHARLES MILLEN Signature Sparks Steak Knife (4-piece set), $79. Available at Metro Centrepoint

SOIRÉE BY CHARLES MILLEN Touche Receptionware, $36.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

WMF Diadem Plus 3-Piece Cookware Set, $99 (U.P. $427). SOIRÉE BY CHARLES MILLEN Hound Coasters (6-piece pack), $16.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

CHARLES MILLEN Signature Savoy Water Absorbent Ceramic Coasters (4-piece set), $29.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

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D For Mi omesthe nim tic a

ANDREA Acacia Cheese Board & Set of 2 Cheese Knives, $89. Available at Metro Centrepoint

NACHTMANN Bossa Nova Crystal Vase (9.6 x H20cm), $39.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

CHARLES MILLEN Signature Vogue — Jive Series Cup & Saucer, $36.90. Available at Metro Centrepoint

tated luxe lettes poshed and silver.

ANDREA Seafood Tools Set (10-piece), $116. Available at Metro Centrepoint

CHARLES MILLEN Signature Adelia 20-Piece Cutlery Set (Gold PVD with Black Handle), $299. Available at Metro Centrepoint

METRo Centrepoint • METRO Paragon • METRO Causeway Point • METRO.com.SG

H O T S P OT

THE RADISSON COLLECTION STRAND STOCKHOLM Centenarian hotel in Stockholm gets a youthful renewal.

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storied history, stunning views, and a modern outlook – it’s hard to achieve such an ideal formula, but The Radisson Collection, Strand Stockholm has done it. The 106-yearold hotel reopened in August after an extensive two-year renovation, and boasts a luxurious interior that is perfectly paired with the building’s original character. Commissioned to handle the project was award-winning Swedish architectural studio Wingardhs, which handled both the interior design and structural changes. “Strand Grey”, a customised grey tone, is the base throughout the hotel, uniting the entire interior concept. A new interior layout joining the main building with the annexe, which was built in the 1930s and hold the hotel lobby and meeting rooms, has also created a better flow throughout the hotel’s ground floor. Scan the communal spaces and guest rooms and you can tell the Scandinavians haven’t missed the chance 42

to flaunt their much-loved furniture designs. Classics like Fritz Hansen’s Swan chair inject an understated elegance to the spaces, which are kept bright and open in true Nordic style. The updates to the hotel are a boon not just to guests, but locals too. A smaller bar with a direct corner entrance from the city welcomes locals who want to enjoy “Greta Garbo”, a cocktail special made with Swedish aquavit that pays homage to the famous regular of the hotel. With its location along the Nybroviken bay, not only will guests enjoy uninterrupted views of calm waters during their stay, but they will also have unmatched access to Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan, which is a stone’s throw away. The gateway to Stockholm awaits your reservation. The Radisson Collection, Strand Stockholm is located at Nybrokajen, 103 27 Stockholm. Visit www. radissoncollection.com/en/ strandhotel-stockholm.

TO P, LE F T The hotel (on the right) sits tall and proud along the Nybroviken bay. TO P The bar draws locals too, with a corner city entrance, and cocktails like “Greta Garbo”.

text ISABELLE TOW Photos RICKARD L. ERIKSSON AND ANDRE PIHL

A B OVE Guest rooms possess a relaxed and homely atmosphere with dark tones and wooden materials, and feature design classics like the 2097 chandelier from Flos.

GIFTS FOR EVERYONE Give those who matter the warm fuzzies with meaningful and well-made presents from Muji this festive season.

With the yuletide season just around the corner, it’s that time of the year again to shower those dear to you with tokens of appreciation. Apart from the joy of giftgiving, December is also an opportune time for refreshing your home decor, in time to usher in another year. For practical and meaningful gifts for loved ones, as well as chic and functional items for homes, Japanese lifestyle store Muji is a favourite destination for festive shopping. Its signature minimalist and understated designs ensure that its products will be agreeable to people with myriad tastes, making it a wonderful one-stop shop! 44

There’s bound to be a Japan lover or two among your friends – you know, the one who knows Japanese and visits the Land of the Rising Sun regularly – so some Hasami tableware (right) will not go unappreciated. Made in, and named after, the most renowned pottery district in Japan, the porcelain range features simple yet distinct cobalt blue patterns, and injects a certain elegance to the mundane act of eating and drinking. Travelling is divine but plane rides anywhere can be excruciating, especially long-haul ones. Ease a frequent traveller’s

Muji Banko ware for those who favour classic design.

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Muji’s circulator fan keeps your room cool and comfortable.

discomfort with Muji’s neck cushion with eye mask (above). Made with 100 per cent cotton in soothing colours, they will bring a bit of bedroom comfort to wearers who are crossing continents mid-air. Is there a little one whom you love? Spoil them this season with their first wheels in the form of Muji’s uber chic tricycle (below). Available in three fetching shades of ivory, red or yellow, the tricycle has a sturdy saddle body that won’t collapse easily, so mums and dads can be assured. It’s not true that all a beauty junkie wants is more makeup and skincare products. Get them an acrylic storage box (right) and they’ll be just as happy.

These boxes help to organise a makeup collection, and also enable the items to be easily retrieved at the same time. Perk up your senses with Muji’s range of interior fragrances (opposite, top). From aroma diffusers to candles, relax and enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy at home. There’s no such thing as an unwanted gift, when yours comes from Muji.

Beads sofa and cover Christmas set makes another great gift.

V ISI T M UJI ’S F LAGSHI P STORE AT #01-10 TO 17 PLA ZA S IN GA PUR A, OR WWW. TI NY UR L.COM/MUJI STOR ES FOR M OR E STORE LI STI N GS.

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For their new home, the homeowners wanted a darker, warmer colour scheme – a world away from the light and airy style of their previous residence. They opted for the Prado sofa from Ligne Roset for their living room.

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Occupational

Hazard ELIZA HAMIZAH peeks into the

contemporary chic home of Grafunkt co-founder Jefery Kurniadidjaja, who believes renovation and furniture carry equal weightage in importance. 47

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple and their young son H OM E Three-storey corner terrace in Serangoon Land area 2,160sqf Built-up area 3,500sqf

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A BOVE Su-Lin says the dining area is her favourite part of the home. “We eat, we gather, we do homework and work at this table.” O PPOSI TE Su-Lin, who does most of the cooking, chose long drawers (to keep away clutter), an easy-tomaintain granite top, and smooth Blum mechanisms, for the kitchen.

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Jefery Kurniadidjaja’s home can be described as liveable chic. Despite the impressive array of designer pieces, such as the Luceplan floor lamp and LC4 Le Corbusier chaise longue in the living room, this corner terrace in Serangoon still exudes a down-to-earth atmosphere. “A home is not a showroom. We collect furniture we love – not necessarily iconic designs – and just mix and match them. It is what gives character to the space,” he says. The Grafunkt co-founder, his wife (operations manager of Grafunkt Teo Su-Lin) and their 11-year-old son (left) live here. Being in the business of

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selling furniture has heightened their sense of appreciation for craftwork and design, but also tempts them to shop. “We stop each other whenever we have the urge to buy something new, and then wait for the sale,” says Su-Lin with a laugh. Being patient is key to having a personalised home, says the couple. It is worth waiting for a piece that not only suits the home, but will also age well – just like the Carl Hansen Safari chair Su-Lin bought at a sale. We chat with the couple for more tips. What’s the story behind this home? Our previous home was light and airy, so, for this space, we want something darker. We toned it down with muted grey, the black kitchen Su-Lin and I have always wanted, and dark walnut. Walnut is warmer and has more pronounced grain, as compared to oak. We also used art to add texture and character, such as the monochromatic Maison Martin Margiela Trompe l’oeil door print in the living room (“It creates an ‘extension’ of the space”) and the washi paper art in the kitchen. I painted that kitchen wall grey to complement the paintings. How did you keep your renovation costs low, at $60,000? We worked with the existing structure and revamped only the areas that we felt needed improvement. For instance, we relied on paint to create 50

The homeowners kept the existing white marble tiles in the bathroom but updated the look with black marble-look tiles in the shower area, and a glass frame. OP P OSI TE Jefery played with angular lines, as well as various shades of green and blue, while keeping to the dark colour palette.

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BELOW Jefery and Su-Lin initially hated the dramatic marble tiles in the powder room. However, the eclectic look grew on them and they decided to furnish it to their taste. BELOW, R IG HT The couple used art and greenery to liven up their property. The parameters of the home, in particular, feature a mix of light foliage. “We want a peaceful and softer environment with some light shade,” explains Jefery.

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the ambience we want, added solar film to block the heat from the windows and, in one of the bedrooms, we kept the original structure of a wardrobe – changing only the doors to create a walk-in closet. However, we did tear down most of the existing kitchen and replaced it with a contemporary, all-black and handleless design. Here, we opted for a marble-look ceramic tile backsplash, which we purchased from Hafary. What is your approach to furniture shopping? It’s tricky (laughs), because you are tempted to buy everything. Beyond what we sell, Su-Lin and I are consumers as well. I always tell my consumers: a home should embrace the lifestyle and taste of the owner. Of course, you shouldn’t design it without care, but

one should not be afraid to aim for something they like. Don’t be too fixated on having the “perfect” house. What are some of the designer pieces you have? In the living room, we have the Eames lounge chair and ottoman, as well as the fabric LC4 Le Corbusier chaise longue. Our dining set consists of the Conde House Hakama table as well as Wing Lux dining chairs. I don’t just love the look and timelessness of the Wing Lux chair, but its ergonomics as well; it’s comfortable even without cushioning, and it features traditional Japanese joinery – no nails in the joints. Su-Lin has a Carl Hansen Safari chair, and we have an array of dining chairs from brands like Vitra and Kartell. These mismatched chairs come out when we have guests over.

The staircase landing is decorated with a yellow ombre & Tradition rug, a print from Lumas, as well as an Ercol Originals love seat. 53

R IG HT “I told Jefery, ‘If the Ruche bed from Ligne Roset is still in store by the time we get our new house, I’m sold. It’s mine.’ And here it is, in the bedroom!” Su-Lin shares. O PPOSI TE Jefery chose these Georg Jensen lamps to illuminate the stairway.

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photography ANGELA GUO art direction NONIE CHEN

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The homeowners’ love for koi was part of the inspiration behind the continuous semicircular form of the house. A similar-shaped koi pond wraps around the perimeter of the house, making it appear as if it is oating on water.

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CRESCENT INSPIRATION A semi-circular form may be rather unusual for a home, but, when it is in response to a unique site, everything falls into place, as LYNN TAN realises.

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The elegance, lightness and porosity of the curved staircase, constructed of mild steel and with timber veneer cladding, complements the “floating” quality of the house. O PPOSI TE The facade treatment reflects the hierarchy of the levels from the ground up: from public to private to public. 58

he homeowners had lived in the former property for decades and that single-storey house required extensive maintenance, due to age. It was relatively small, had a dated cottage style, and did not relate to the site configuration at all. Those reasons prompted the couple to demolish the old house and rebuild. When architect Lim Ai Tiong of LATO Architects/Design was presented with the triangulated site with a narrow frontage, he proposed a bold, semi-circular form that would “make sense for the site”. By creating a half-moon plan abutting the party wall, he achieved a pure geometry that circumvents the potentially awkward angles typical of triangular plots. This may be his first time designing a semi-circular house, but “the homeowners liked the half-moon form right from the start and did not express any apprehension at all”. He adds: “They specifically liked the shape of the house, as well as the koi pond that sweeps around the arc, giving the house a floating appearance.” Nevertheless, an interesting form does not negate the need for practical considerations and programmatic requirements. To maximise the efficiency of the plan, Ai Tiong lined up the more enclosed and rectilinear rooms along the party wall facing the concave part of the curve, while keeping the spaces and furniture arrangement

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 60s H OM E A semi-detached house in Moreton Close S IZ E Land area 4,200sqf Built-up area 6,800sqf

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THE CONTRAST BETWEEN THE CURVILINEAR AND RECTILINEAR FORMS CREATES A MEANINGFUL DIALOGUE. along the curve more fluid and open. The curved wing houses the living and dining rooms, dry and wet kitchens on the first storey, and the master suite comprising the bedroom, bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and study on the second storey. Given their bigger footprint, it is more logical to place these larger and more important spaces within this wing, which also allows views out. Secondary areas such as the family room, powder room, maid’s room, laundry area and guest suites are housed in the rectangular wing, adjacent to the party wall. The contrast between the curvilinear and rectilinear forms creates a meaningful dialogue that ties the whole scheme together, but what occupies the space between the two is equally important. A long corridor separates the wings, with doors at either end to facilitate natural crossventilation. With an incidental space such as that, there is always the danger that it would become a “leftover”, a remnant area, but Ai Tiong recognised the potential in the realm. He articulated it by inserting a statement piece, in the form of a dramatic curved staircase. Unlike the lower two storeys, the attic is a simple rectangular box. “Initially, I thought that I would top off the massing with a third semicircular form, but, surprisingly, after close to 10 study models on the form and composition 60

of the house, I decided that a rectangular volume sitting right up against the party wall seems to complete and balance the whole composition best,” Ai Tiong explains. Working with a nonrectilinear plan entailed getting the right proportion between the curves and the straights, working out the sizes and angles, and resolving and detailing the junctions where the two meet. But at the end of the day, no matter what, “if you compare a square or rectangular space with a curved one, of course the former is more efficient,” Ai Tiong points out. “However, when almost everything in Singapore revolves around efficiency, it is refreshing to have something unique and beautiful and that works well at the same time,” he adds. While this may look nothing like your run-of-themill semi-detached house, the form was derived from site conditions and not as an attempt to create something different for the sake of making an architectural statement. The award-winning boutique architecture and interior design firm’s projects are all modern, but aesthetically varied. “Every project has a unique set of parameters arising from the site, orientation and client’s brief, which in turn, generates a unique design response,” sums up Ai Tiong.

Deep eaves shelter the entertainment room housed in the glass attic.

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BEYOND THE RISING SUN LYNN TAN visits a home that embodies Nihon

influences without being stereotypically Japanese.

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Vinyl oor tiles with a weathered wood effect add texture and give the home a rustic feel. OP P OS I T E Simply applying textured paint on the parapet walls, and laying timber decking over the original tiled oor, transforms the look of the balcony. 63

B

WHO LIVES HERE

A 50-year-old translator H OM E A one-bedroom condominium apartment in Lorong Chuan SIZ E 1,280sqf

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enny Tan’s decision to buy this Chuan Park apartment hinged on whether an L-shaped wall in the kitchen could be removed. The old kitchen was almost completely walled up and was encroaching upon the dining space. The enclosed space was also somewhat dark, as the only source of natural light was from windows at the end of the long kitchen. Benny requested Lawrence Puah, director of Akihaus Design Studio, find out whether it was a load-bearing wall. Having ascertained that it was a non-structural element and could be hacked, Benny went ahead with the purchase. The floor area is considered large for a one-bedroom unit. A significant part of this is taken up by a generously sized balcony that wraps around the entire periphery of the apartment, continuing from the living room all the way to the bedroom. The previous owner had done some renovations and extended the living room out into the balcony. This, and the subsequent removal of the kitchen wall, made a huge difference in terms of opening up the interior spatially. Benny studied in Japan and frequently travels there for translation, research and consultancy work.

“I told Lawrence that I wanted a Japanese theme for my home,” says Benny. Lawrence’s approach involved distilling the key elements of Japanese interiors and re-interpreting them. The neutral palette comprising mainly brown, off-white and grey colours achieves a tranquillity that evokes a natural sense of calm, reminiscent of Japanese interiors. The style is undoubtedly contemporary modern, but the restrained execution and uncluttered character reflect a pared-down simplicity that is synonymous with Japanese style. Benny originally wanted to split the bedroom, so

TO P The master bedroom has a darker colour palette compared to the rest of the home. The feature wall behind the bed incorporates a wardrobe and storage space. LE F T Benny prefers a more natural look, so the furniture items, including the dining table and coffee table, were selected for their unfinished appearance. OP P OS I T E Benny’s home allows him to feel as if he is still in Japan. 65

that his 11-year-old son, Yew Shyan, who comes over weekly, could have his own space. But Lawrence had an innovative suggestion. He says: “Instead of having two small bedrooms, I asked Benny to consider incorporating a movable screen, similar to a Japanese shoji, between the living and dining rooms. This way, the living room could be partitioned into a temporary bedroom when the need arises.� Benny is receptive to the idea but it has been put on hold, as there is a possibility that the condominium may be put up for en bloc sale. The original bathroom was attached to the bedroom and the apartment did not have a common bath. As Benny

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lives alone most of the time, it would not have been an issue, although a bath that is more accessible to guests would be useful. Hence, Lawrence reconfigured the layout and introduced a corridor between the bedroom and bathroom, thereby re-zoning the attached bath as a common bath. The corridor terminates in the balcony behind the bedroom, thus providing common access directly to the balcony. This outdoor space has since been transformed from a neglected and underutilised space into an inviting outdoor terrace where Benny can have breakfast in the mornings or wind down in the evenings, while enjoying a 270-degree panoramic view of the city skyline.

Benny originally wanted a wooden bath, but Lawrence advised against it because Singapore is humid, unlike Japan. Instead, he used woodlike tiles for the shower walls and oor. OP P OS I T E The existing yard was removed and integrated into the kitchen, making the area more spacious and bright. Lawrence managed to ďŹ t storage into every nook and corner to maximise space. Everything is neatly concealed, including the refuse chute. photography ANGELA GUO art direction KAFFY TAN

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F E AT U R E

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2 INVITATIONS AND MANAGING RSVPS

LIFE OF THE

PA R T Y

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Take party-planning up a notch with these 15 handy tips from dressing the space, to choosing the right music playlist, and engaging your crowd with fun activities. Your Christmas party will be the talk of the town this year!

1

LE F T Peranakan Love table runner, $125, from Onlewo.

SET THE THEME ¦é Þ ĀÐîʙù ĝÿ é ʣ é°È É venue to hold your end-of-year âÐ°Þ ʣ é­ É ÿé âé Û úÐî éÐ pick the theme. Theme parties are especially helpful for those at a loss on how to unite all the elements of a get-together, from table styling, dress code to decoration; a theme serves as a useful guide. r ʙÞ âé°Â ÉÐé Ðù Þ é­ ÐÿʌÐĔ hit Crazy Rich Asians, so why not strike while the iron is hot? Think bright hues and rich materials for menu illustrations and place cards. Really live up to the theme by indulging your guests with an unique door gift, such as vouchers ¦ÐÞ °É ʌ°Éʌé­ ʌ Þ¿ ÿÛ Þ° É ʨ

B E LOW

If themed parties seem pretentious, one way to make it less so is to base it on a characteristic, or plan it around a favourite item. For instance, if you’re a Peranakan, dress your venue with table runners, throws and cushion covers with traditional motifs to emphasise the theme. Or, love salted egg yolk? Bingo, another theme possibility!

Salted Cereal Egg chocolate, $10 for one bar or $36 for a gift set of four bars, from Fossa.

LE F T Three-course Mystery Set Menu, $103.58, from Nox.

photo EKTORY

FA R L E F T Jungle Bloom menu card by Matthew Williamson, $30 (pack of 10), from Papier.

Now that the details of the party have been settled, you are ready to send out invitations! Some party invitations are merely instructive – bearing basic information like date, time and venue – but why not make it more useful by including VZqS ¦îÉ é°ÐÉ É ĝÉ °É§ Ðîé dietary requirements? For this kind of interactive functions, we favour digit l invitations! me digital invitations we like: Printed cards come with lovely illustrations and witty captions, so why should we ÿÛ é ÉĀ  ââ Russian Caravan from digital ones? card & envelope Paperless Post by Rifle Paper ĝ â é­ âé éîâ Co., from quo, partnering Paperless Post. fashion designers like Mary Katrantzou and Oscar  V Éé éÐ ÛÞÐ î ÿÝî°â°é digital card designs. With endless customisation options and handy features like a Google Maps screen capture of the venue for your guests’ reference, it’s pretty hard to beat. Pity the app version is not available in our region. If you prefer the convenience of managing invitations and RSVPs on your phone, consider the free app Evite. Choose a design from its templates, enter the party details É â É Ðîé é­ °Éù°é é°ÐÉ ù° é ÿé messaging, e-mail and Facebook. The app also has a live RSVP tracking function so that you can easily keep count of attendees. Invitd has pretty much the same functions as Evite, but invitations are â Éé ÐÉÂĀ ù° é ÿé È ââ §°É§ʨ xÐî have the option of upgrading to a Premium or Concierge plan with added frills, such as allowing you to share your invite on social media or invite up to 150 guests. Use your invitations to take note of these: ʡ VZqSʯ éé É É ʡ ° é ÞĀ Þ Ýî°Þ È Ééâ ʡ SÂîâʌÐÉ â É ʯÐÞ ­°Â Þ É attending 69

3

MAKING THE MENU œ’°Â˜°Ă‰§ Ă?É Ê­Âœ ۆÞÊĀ ĂˆÂœĂ‰ĂŽ ’†É ‘œ ˜°Ä”Â’ĂŽĂ‚ĂŠĘŁ ‘ÎÊ °Œ Ä€Ă?ĂŽ Â†ĂžÂœ sticking to a theme, that should helpfully narrow your options. ,ÂŚ Ä€Ă?ĂŽĘ™ĂžÂœ ­Ă?âÊ°Ă‰§ †É °Ă‰Ê°ĂˆÂ†ĂŠÂœ †đ†°Ăž ú°Ê­ ÂŚÂœĂşÂœĂž Ê­Â†Ă‰ Ȟȟ Ă?Ăž ȿȟ guests, a home-cooked multi-course meal may be possible to †Þކɧœʨ ĂŽĂŠĘŁ °Œ Ä€Ă?ĂŽ Â†ĂžÂœ âÊĂžÂ†Ă›Ă›ÂœÂ˜ ÂŚĂ?Ăž Ê°ĂˆÂœ Ă?Ăž ÂœĂżĂ›ÂœÂ’Ê°Ă‰§ † ĂˆĂŽÂ’­ larger group, consider ordering from caterers.

HOME-COOKED GOODNESS ĘĄ Finger food: PH Delicatessen Ever wanted to try your hand at making dainty canapes that you so often see at restaurants? PH ÂœĂ‚°Â’Â†ĂŠÂœââÂœĂ‰ ĂˆÂ†ÂżÂœâ °Ê ĂŽÂ‘ÂœĂž ϠâÄ€ to whip them up when you shop at its specialty store that stock all the necessary ingredients.

ĘĄ One-pot meal: Philips Deluxe Collection multi-cooker Even if your menu is a modest three-course meal, the ˜°Ä‘ÂœĂžÂœĂ‰ĂŠ ÂŚĂ?Ă?˜ Ă›ĂžÂœĂ›Â†ĂžÂ†Ê°Ă?Éâ and cooking steps make the ÛÞĂ?Â’Âœââ Œ†Þ ĂˆĂ?ĂžÂœ ʆÿ°Ă‰§ʨ a­°â multi-cooker from Philips truly lives up to its name with its allin-one dynamism that allows you to pressure cook, bake and steam everything from stews and soups to sauces in one pot.

CATERED TO YOUR NEEDS Ä‘Ĺ? %*#!.Ĺ?"++ Ä?Ĺ?Cedele Create a hybrid menu by Ăˆ°ÿ°Ă‰§ Ä€Ă?ĂŽĂž â°§Ă‰Â†ĂŠĂŽĂžÂœ ˜°â­Âœâ with some festive faves from Cedele. From bite-sized Pesto AÎâ­ĂžĂ?Ă?Ăˆ Â†Ă‰Â˜ ­ÂœÂœâÂœ SĂŽÄ‘â ʂȞɀ Ă›°ÂœÂ’Âœâʣ Ë?É€É Ęƒ ĂŠĂ? °Êâ ‘Ă?Ă?Ä…Ä€ Classic Mince Pies ($3.90 per Ă›°ÂœÂ’ÂœĘƒĘŁ Ä€Ă?ĂŽ ú°Ă‚Ă‚ ‘œ âĂ›Ă?°Ă‚œ˜ ÂŚĂ?Ăž Â’­Ă?°Â’Âœ ú°Ê­ °Êâ ÂœÿÊÂœĂ‰â°ÚÂœ ۆÞÊĀ food menu.

Sticky bourbon and honey beef brisket recipe INGREDIENTS:

Smoked salmon and caviar canape recipe INGREDIENTS:

ĘĄ S­Ă?Ă?É )ΆÊ ÂœĂ‚° Ă›ĂžÂœĂˆ°ÎĂˆ âĂˆĂ?ÂżÂœÂ˜ âÂ†Ă‚ĂˆĂ?É Ę‚Ë?É ČźĘŻÂżÂ§Ęƒ ĘĄ VĂ?Ā†Â ÂœĂ‚§°ÎĂˆ †ڰ†Þʣ Ƚȟȟˣ B†ÊÎކ ʂŒÞĂ?Ăˆ Ë?É„Čż ÂŚĂ?Ăž ȿȟ§Ęƒ ĘĄ A†˜œ °Ê ,ʆ°†É â†Î↧œâ Ę‚É€ Ă‚°Ă‰¿âʣ Ë?É…ʨÉ…ČźĘƒ ĘĄ a­Âœ Ăž°Ê°â­ SĂžÂœĂˆ°ÎĂˆ Sausage’s Pork and Leek â†Î↧œâ Ę‚É‚ Ă‚°Ă‰¿âʣ Ë?É„Ęƒ ĘĄ Ă?Â’¿úÎĂžâÊ Ę‚ČżĂ›Â’âʣ Ë?É‚ʨÉ…ČźĘƒ PREPARATION:

Ƚʨ VĂ?Ă‚Ă‚ † âĂ‚°Â’Âœ Ă?ÂŚ S­Ă?Ă?É )ΆÊ ÂœĂ‚° premium smoked salmon and place it on a canape spoon. Ȟʨ Ă?Ă‚Ă‚Ă?Ă› ­Â†Ă‚ÂŚ † ĂŠÂœÂ†âĂ›Ă?Ă?É Ă?ÂŚ Royal Belgium caviar atop the salmon. 3. Garnish with some cream cheese and a sprig of dill. 4. Arrange on a platter and serve together with sausages, cheese and crackers. Shop for all ingredients at RedMan by Phoon Huat, #B1-14, The Star Vista.

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ĘĄ Č˝ ¿§ Â‘ÂœÂœÂŚ ‘Þ°â¿ÂœĂŠ Ă?Ăž Â‘ÂœÂœÂŚ â­Ă?ÞÊ ribs, fat removed. ĘĄ ɢ Â’ĂŽĂ› Â‘ÂœÂœÂŚ âÊĂ?Â’Âż ĘĄ ÉĽ Â’ĂŽĂ› ĂŠĂžÂœÂ†Â’Ă‚Âœ ĘĄ ÉĽ Â’ĂŽĂ› ­Ă?Ă‰ÂœÄ€ ĘĄ ɢ Â’ĂŽĂ› ‘Ă?ÎޑĂ?É ú­°â¿Ä€ ĘĄ ɢ Â’ĂŽĂ› ‘†ÂâÂ†Ăˆ°Â’ Ú°Ă‰Âœ§Â†Ăž ĘĄ Č˝ ʑâĂ› Â’Ă?ÞÉĞĂ?ÎÞʣ Ăˆ°ÿœ˜ ú°Ê­ Čž tbsp cold water ĘĄ Č˝ ʑâĂ› Ă?É°Ă?É Ă›Ă?ĂşÂ˜ÂœĂž ĘĄ Č˝ ÊâĂ› §Â†ĂžĂ‚°Â’ Ă›Ă?ĂşÂ˜ÂœĂž ĘĄ Č˝ ÊâĂ› ‘†’¿ Ă›ÂœĂ›Ă›ÂœĂž ĘĄ É€ âÛÞ°§â Ă?ÂŚ Ê­Ä€ĂˆÂœ

Amos Tang of Lavish Dine Catering “To ensure that there is sufficient food, you should prepare at least 1.5 plates or servings for each guest. This is why we prepare a 20 per !*0Ĺ?/!.2%*#Ĺ? 1Ăť!.Ĺ?"+.Ĺ? all our Christmas orders, so that food doesn’t run out. If you’re cooking and want to prepare more for certain dishes, note that hot foods are usually more quickly depleted than cold ones, especially fried foods like croquettes, and grilled and savoury dishes. Carbohydrates and salads are usually left unďŹ nished.

Ä‘Ĺ? 1Ăť!0Ä?Ĺ?Lavish Dine For a completely stress-free option, let a caterer take care of the entire menu. Lavish °Ă‰Âœ Â†ĂŠÂœĂž°Ă‰§ Ă?Ä‘ÂœĂžâ † چÞ°ÂœĂŠÄ€ Ă?ÂŚ ­Ăž°âÊĂˆÂ†â Â‘ĂŽÄ‘ÂœĂŠ ĂˆÂœĂ‰Îâ Ê­Â†ĂŠ are highly customisable and Ä?ĂŠ †ÉĀ Â‘ĂŽÂ˜§ÂœÊʨ ,Êâ ĂŠĂ?Ă›ĘŒâÂœĂ‚Ă‚°Ă‰§ ĂˆÂœĂ‰Îâ ­Â†ĂšÂœ Â‘ÂœÂœĂ‰ Ê­Âœ Ä?ĂšÂœĘŒ course Holly Jolly Goodness Â‘ĂŽÄ‘ÂœĂŠ Ę‚Ë?ČżÉƒʨÉ€É Ă›ÂœĂž Ă›Â†ĂżĘƒ Â†Ă‰Â˜ four-course Santa’s Joyful "ϠâÊ Ę‚Ë?ȽɅʨȞÉ‚ Ă›ÂœĂž Ă›Â†ĂżĘƒʨ

PREPARATION:

1. Combine all ingredients, ÂœĂżÂ’ÂœĂ›ĂŠ Â’Ă?ÞÉĞĂ?ÎÞʣ °Ă‰ Ă›Ă?Êʨ SĂ‚Â†Â’Âœ in Cookerm close lid and lock. Ȟʨ ZÂœĂ‚ÂœÂ’ĂŠ ÂœÂœÂŚĘŻ;Â†ĂˆÂ‘ ÂŚĂŽĂ‰Â’Ê°Ă?Éʣ set timer for 45 minutes. 3. When complete, remove brisket from cooker and place on a plate. É€ʨ r­°â¿ Â’Ă?ÞÉĞĂ?ĂŽĂž Ăˆ°ÿʨ ZÂœĂ‚ÂœÂ’ĂŠ Sauce Thickening function, and Â’Ă?Ă?Âż Ăˆ°ÿÊÎĂžÂœ ÂŚĂ?Ăž Ä?ĂšÂœ Ăˆ°Ă‰ĂŽĂŠÂœâʣ or until sauce is thick and ÄžĂ?ââÄ€ʨ VÂœĂŠĂŽĂžĂ‰ ‘Þ°â¿ÂœĂŠ ĂŠĂ? Ă›Ă?ĂŠ Â†Ă‰Â˜ warm it in sauce. 5. Serve with green peas or creamy mashed potato. The Philips Deluxe Collection Multicooker HD2145/62 retails for $369, and is available at leading electrical stores, major department stores, and the e-store at www.philips.com.sg.

HOW MUCH FOOD SHOULD BE PREPARED TO ENSURE THE FARE IS SUFFICIENT FOR GUESTS?

Customers can start placing orders from Nov 15, both in-store and online at www. cedelemarket.com.sg/.

Customers who book by Dec 11 enjoy early-bird Christmas specials, such as a Classic Roasted Young Turkey for $1 (U.P. $120) with a minimum spending of $1,000 on the Christmas Festive 1Ăť!0/Ä‹Ĺ? . !.Ĺ?+*(%*!Ĺ? 0Ĺ?333Ä‹ lavish.com.sg.

photo LIVING4MEDIA / SALA, GIANNI

4 KITCHEN HELPERS

If you’re planning to prepare anything home-cooked, it is crucial to assemble an army of appliances that can help you in é­ ¿°é ­ Éʨ ) Þ Þ â°ÿ ­ É Ā tools that will be your partners in crime as you put together your dream party menu.

MIELE OVEN

CUISINART FOOD PROCESSOR

LE CREUSET SKILLET GRILL

Bake everything from sweet treats to savoury meats in a foolproof oven. The Miele Oven 90cm comes with electronically regulated programmes for over 100 international dishes, so you don’t have to worry about manually setting temperature and duration.

Z­ ù Ðđ é°È âÛ Éé â° °É§ʣ shredding and chopping up ingredients with a reliable and speedy food processor.

,ɼ é é­ Ğ ùÐîÞ Ð¦ Ðîé ÐÐÞ §Þ°Â with this durable square skillet grill from Le Creuset. Its satin black enamel interior coating prevents damage and wear.

The Miele Oven 90cm retails for $17,900 at the Miele Experience Centre, #B1-01 Winsland House II, 167 Penang Road, and Miele online shop, https://shop.miele.sg.

IONA SLOW COOKER

In the midst of hectic pre-party preparation, a slow cooker is a trusty machine that will take care of its own cooking, while you busy yourself with other tasks.

The Iona 6.0L Auto Slow Cooker with Double Boiler (GLSC600) retails for $79.90 at Tangs.

The Cuisinart Mini Prep Plus Processor retails for $158 at Robinsons The Heeren.

BOSCH OPTIMUM KITCHEN MACHINE

If you’re planning on making pasta, pizza and pies from scratch, this kitchen machine by Bosch will be your best friend this holiday season.

The Bosch Optimum kitchen machine retails from $1,699 at the Bosch Experience Centre, Tangs and major electronic stores.

The Le Creuset Signature Square Skillet Grill 26cm retails at a promotional price of $239 (U.P. $399) till the end of December.

CUISINART ICE-CREAM MAKER

Make and share your favourite frozen yogurt, sorbet and ice cream by whipping them up in your own ice-cream maker.

The Cusinart ice-cream maker ICE-100 retails for $788 at Tangs.

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5 IN THE MOOD FOR MUSIC

Many elements make a party, but a crucial one that creates the vibe immediately has to be the music. Here are three wireless speakers ĝé ¦ÐÞ ÉĀ ­Ð° Ā Û ÞéĀ ʋ ú even included a dance playlist specially curated just for you! The right wireless speaker for:

A VERY BIG PAD – BOSE SOUNDLINK REVOLVE If you’re planning a large-scale party and need a mammoth venue to hold all your guests, you will also need a powerful speaker that can project music to all corners of the space. The Soundlink Revolve is a wireless 360-degree speaker that is able to radiate uniform sound in every direction, with deep, rich bass. If you’re worried that one speaker won’t cut the mustard, get another! Bose’s Connect app is able to sync and play the same music on two Soundlinks simultaneously. The Bose Soundlink Revolve retails for $319 at authorised Bose dealers.

AN ALL-NIGHT PARTY – BEOSOUND 1 If you plan to boogie the night away, be sure to get a speaker with stamina. With a sleek aluminium conical body, the Beosound 1 is more than just a pretty design. With a 12-hour play time upon a single charge, the Google Assistantenabled Beosound 1 is capable of both playing your favourite tunes and cracking a joke if you wanna lighten the mood. The Beosound 1 retails for $2,400 at Bang & Olufsen’s showrooms at Grand Hyatt, Takashimaya S.C., Tangs Plaza, Isetan Orchard, Challenger Great World City and Challenger Orchard.

POOLSIDE GATHERINGS – JBL LINK 20 Holding your shindig by the pool? Keep the music playing as you’re splashing around, with a waterproof speaker like é­ 7 ; ;°É¿ Ⱦȼʨ r°é­ É ,SwɃ waterproof rating that makes it safe to be dropped in metredeep waters, the can-shaped Bluetooth speaker can also be voice-activated as it has built-in Google Assistant, which means you don’t have to switch tracks or adjust the volume with your damp hands. The JBL Link 20 retails for $289 at authorised JBL retailers. PLAYLIST: https://open.spotify.com/ playlist/2ebaNkXFPOjQUdHF5il7Pi

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TOOLS FOR THE BOOZEELECTION!

LEMA WINSTON BAR

6

Âœâ°§Ă‰ÂœÂ˜ ‘Ā Â’ÂœĂ‚ÂœÂ‘ĂžÂ†ĂŠÂœÂ˜ "ĂžÂœĂ‰Â’­ Œ†⭰Ă?É Â†Ă‰Â˜ Ă‚ÎÿÎÞĀ designer Christophe Pillet, this Chinoiserie-chic Lema Winston Bar houses a bottom cabinet with mirrored interiors, leatherand bronzed metal-cladded bottle holders, and a retractable surface for cocktail preparation.

HIT THE BOOZE

Get the party started, and put your guests in the festive mood with some delicious cocktails that complement the Christmas meal perfectly. Andrew Loudon, head bartender at Tippling Club, shares one of his favourite Christmas dessert-inspired cocktail recipes. Just like the German dessert Rumtopf, which is made of various fruits soaked in rum and infused with sugar, Andrew’s Rumtopf Fizz is a colourful Ăˆ°ÿ Ă?ÂŚ ÂŚĂžΰÊ Â†Ă‰Â˜ †Â’Ă?­Ă?Ă‚ʨ

Lema Winston Bar retails for $30,000 at W.Atelier.

COFFRET CIEL EL TERRE CASE

)Ă?ÎâÂœ ÂœĂżÂ’Ă‚Îâ°ÚÂœ †Â’Ă?­Ă?Ă‚ ‘Ă?ĂŠĂŠĂ‚Âœâ °Ă‰ Ê­Âœ Ă?Ä‘ĂžÂœĂŠ °ÂœĂ‚ Ă‚ aÂœĂžĂžÂœ limited edition Cognac casket on tray. Made from swamp oak and featuring marquetry ÂœĂˆÂ‘ÂœĂ‚Ă‚°â­ĂˆÂœĂ‰Êâʣ Ê­°â Ä?ĂšÂœĘŒĂ›°ÂœÂ’Âœ storage case is simple, yet elegant. +Ăť.!0Ĺ? %!(Ĺ? (Ĺ? !..!Ĺ?%/Ĺ?,.% ! Ĺ? 0Ĺ? US$13,923.68 (S$19,200) at www.theinvisiblecollection.com.

ROYAL SELANGOR SAVANNAH COLLECTION

TIPS INGREDIENTS AND PREPARATION:

ĘĄ aĂşĂ? Ă‚°ÊĂžÂœâ Ă?ÂŚ âÊކ°Ă‰ÂœÂ˜ §Ă?Ă‚Â˜ÂœĂ‰ or dark rum, placed in mason jars, 250g each ĘĄ Ă›ĂŽĂ‰Ă‰ÂœĂŠ Ă?ÂŚ âÊĂžÂ†ĂşÂ‘ÂœĂžĂž°Âœâʣ raspberries, dried apricots and red cherries each ĘĄ Ƚȟȟ§ Ă?ÂŚ ÂŚĂžÂœâ­ Ă›Ă‚ĂŽĂˆâ ĂŠĂ? ‘œ †˜˜œ˜ ĂŠĂ? Ê­Âœ ÂŚĂžΰÊ Ăˆ°ÿ †‘Ă?ĂšÂœʨ (Leave to sit in a cool dark Ă›Ă‚Â†Â’Âœ ÂŚĂ?Ăž Ă?Ă‰Âœ ĂşÂœÂœÂżĘƒ ĘĄ ȿȟĂˆĂ‚ VĂŽĂˆĂŠĂ?ی Ăˆ°ÿ ĘĄ ȞȟĂˆĂ‚ ; q Ă›Ă?ÞÊ ĘĄ Č˝É ĂˆĂ‚ Âœ§§ ú­°ÊÂœ ĘĄ ȞȟĂˆĂ‚ Ă‚ÂœĂˆĂ?É ŸÎ°Â’Âœ ĘĄ ȞȟĂˆĂ‚ âΧ†Þ âĀÞÎÛ Add all ingredients into a shaker and shake well. Strain over ice, into a glass. Top with soda, and grate a small amount of fresh nutmeg over the top of the drink and you’re good to go for a party of 10!

TR IC KS O N INF USIN G F E STIVE F OO D WITH ALCO H OL Plan ahead and use fresh fruits where available. Using alcohol-infused fruits can add avours to desserts. H OW M UC H ALCO HO L SH OU L D B E CATER ED, F O R A PA R TY? It depends on the size of the party, but having a varied selection is recommended. Include a range of options like champagne, wine, beer, spirits and mixers. When it comes to cocktails, pick ingredients that you can use for various cocktails.

With designs inspired by African art and nature, Royal Selangor’s Savannah collection comprises stylish barware and wine accessories. They are made with ‘Þ°§­ÊĘŒÄ?É°â­ Ă›ÂœúÊÂœĂžĘŁ Â†ÂżÂœĂ‚°ÊÂœ Â†Ă‰Â˜ §Ă‚†ââʨ There are motifs of panthers on bottle coasters, a lion on a wine pourer and even a crocodile carved into the wine funnel and decanter. The Savannah collection is available at Royal Selangor.

THOMAS PHEASANT BEVEL TALL CABINET BAR

Made of solid mahogany, complemented by bright bronze and polished É°Â’ÂżÂœĂ‚ĘŒÄ?É°â­ÂœÂ˜ ­Â†ĂžÂ˜ĂşÂ†ĂžÂœĘŁ Ê­Âœ Ă‚ĂŽĂżÂœ Bevel Tall Cabinet Bar designed by American interior designer Thomas Pheasant will add a touch of glamour to your home, as you showcase your prized alcohol collection. Thomas Pheasant Bevel Tall Cabinet Bar is available at Proof Living for $30,240.

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DOUBLE EXTENDABLE TABLE

Hosting a party of up to 14 people? é­É° Þ ¦é Ðî  ÿé É Â é  in solid teak and walnut is a suitable option. Sleek and linear in design, it complements many interior styles.

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The Ethnicraft Double extendable table is available at Soul & Tables for $4,220.

SPACE FOR ALL

For the festive get-together when everyone will gather round the dining table for food and drink, while soaking in the holiday atmosphere, ensure that your dining room can accommodate large groups – and that family and friends will be seated comfortably. Here are three dining tables that fit the bill.

DOMINO EXTENSION DINING TABLE

Ğ ÿ° Â É ù Þâ é°Â option, King Living’s ÐÈ°ÉÐ °É°É§ é Â É ÿé É ʣ °¦ ĀÐî ­ ù additional guests. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor îâ ʣ °é ú°ÂÂ È é °đ Þ Éé entertaining requirements. Available in a choice of ceramic or Alucompact table top, the Domino extension dining table retails from $3,055 at King Living. Price upon request.

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NATUZZI PHANTOM DINING TABLE

â°§É Ā  °É§ ,é ° É designer Mauro Lipparini, the Phantom dining table by Natuzzi is made of wood and glass. Unique and distinctive, the design creates an illusion ú­ Þ °é â Èâ éÐ ĞÐ éʨ Natuzzi Phantom dining table is available at Da Vinci Lifestyle. Price upon request.

8 ON THE TABLE

Setting the dining table is the Ä?ĂžâÊ âÊÂœĂ› °Ă‰ ú­ÂœÊÊ°Ă‰§ Â†Ă›Ă›ÂœÊ°ÊÂœâʼ Whether you’re going for a traditional or contemporary-style Christmas setting, a classic and Ă‚ÎÿÎĂž°Ă?Îâ âÂœĂŠ Ă?ÂŚ Â’ĂŽĂŠĂ‚ÂœĂžÄ€ °â ÂżÂœÄ€ʨ a­Âœ ­Ăž°âÊĂ?Ğœ ;† VĂŽÂ’­Âœ Â’Ă?Ă‚Ă‚ÂœÂ’Ê°Ă?É brings a touch of elegance, with its stainless steel and black Ä?É°â­Âœâʨ a­Âœ ČżÉ„ĘŒĂ›°ÂœÂ’Âœ â°Ă‚ĂšÂœĂžĂşÂ†ĂžÂœ âÂœĂŠ °â ĂˆÂœÂ†Ă‰ĂŠ ÂŚĂ?Ăž â°ÿ ˜°Ă‰ÂœĂžâʨ The La Ruche collection retails for $7,960 at Christoe.

9 FLOWER POWER

photo BLOC MEMOIRE space styling and owers HELLOFROMFLOUR food styling POUT & CHOW tableware LUZERNE GLOBAL

Now that you have the essentials ready, style the table and make sure you achieve the look and feel you want with the right accessories. Larry and Jophia Ong — a husband-and-wife duo who run bespoke event styling Â’Ă?ĂˆĂ›Â†Ă‰Ä€ )ÂœĂ‚Ă‚Ă?ÂŚĂžĂ?ĂˆÄžĂ?ĂŽĂž ĘŠ Ă?Ä‘ÂœĂž âĂ?ĂˆÂœ Ê°Ă›â †‘Ă?ĂŽĂŠ Â˜ĂžÂœââ°Ă‰§ Ê­Âœ âĂ›Â†Â’Âœ Ăž°§­Ê ú°Ê­ ÄžĂ?ކ Â†Ă‰Â˜ other sorts of centrepieces.

What are some tips when styling a dining table? Before curating a dining tablescape, have a clear vision; this is important because it helps in achieving visual harmony and a balanced look. Decide on the colour palette, then source for unique tableware, accessories, decor and owers, which will bring your vision to life. We love incorporating lots of texture, ďŹ nishes and details. This will help maintain visual interest. Use varying heights and layers in your design to give the setting more depth, and make it look more appealing. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

What is a good mix of items to work with? There isn’t a ďŹ xed “recipeâ€? per se. Think of the table as a blank canvas, and build upon it with elements like tableware, centrepieces, owers and textiles. This is the perfect opportunity to create something truly beautiful that your guests can enjoy and appreciate; a well-curated table setting can really set the scene for your entire party.

For a oral centrepiece, how should I mix and match colours and variety to create a balanced look? The choice of owers has to be consistent with the overall styling and colour palette. This will help create a cohesive aesthetic. Imagine the oral centrepiece as a painting. Play on colour and size to create a balanced look. We like our arrangements a little more sculptural and rustic. As a result, we usually avoid owers that are full and rounded. It would be more interesting to add owers and foliage that look exotic. The contrast in shapes and textures will help make a statement.

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10 TAKE A WHIFF

Myriad emotions can be evoked through the sense of smell, so scenting your home can help add to the festive ambience. Here’s a چÞ°ÂœĂŠÄ€ Ê­Â†ĂŠ Ä?Êâ Ê­Âœ ­Ăž°âÊĂˆÂ†â âϠâĂ?Éʼ

ROOM FOR DESSERT

ZÂ’ÂœĂ‰Êâ ĂžÂœĂˆ°Ă‰°âÂ’ÂœĂ‰ĂŠ Ă?ÂŚ Ê­Âœ ІÚĂ?ĂŽĂžâ Ă?ÂŚ Christmas sweets.

Macaron Noir tea scented candle (190ml) from TWG Tea, $90.

Diptyque Exquisite Almond (70ml) from Escentials, from $55.

BY THE FIREPLACE

Scents that set the mood of sitting around a crackling hearth.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian Paris’ Baccarat Rouge 540 candle (198ml) from Escentials. Price upon request.

Windsor Forest candle (67ml) and %ĂťĹ?1/!.Ĺ?ĨĂĀĀ)(ÄŠĹ?".+)Ĺ? . 0.!!Ĺ? & Evelyn, from $33 and $88 respectively.

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DRESSING THE ROOM It’s that time of the year when your home is dressed to the nines, so don’t hold back when you are switching up soft furnishing items like drapes and cushion covers. We suggest rotating styles – for curtains, cushion covers and tablecloths – depending on the ambience you want to create. Soft furnishings can also be easily stowed away when you want to revert to simpler styles after the festive season. Here are three styles to try.

THE LATEST TREND IN USING FABRIC PRINTS IS TO GO LARGE IN PROPORTION AND BE AS INTRICATE IN DETAIL AS POSSIBLE. AS THE SAYING GOES “GO BIG OR GO HOME”.

A TWIST ON CLASSIC HUES

LOW-KEY YULETIDE

SOPHISTICATED SAFARI

For traditionalists who want to stay away from tacky and obvious ÐÞ é°ÐÉâʣ é­ â é ÿéîÞ ¦ Þ° â will do the trick.

Keep it subtle yet glamorous, ú°é­ âÐ¦é ­î â É ÂîÿîÞ°Ðîâ ĝ É°â­ âʨ

Wow your guests with vivacious prints and colours, inspired by Africa. They are so easy to match, too.

Pierre Frey Amorgos Linen curtains, from Romanez

Designers Guild Tremezzo Zinc fabric, from Romanez

Monkey Paradise tablecloth, from Luxq

Designers Guild Manipur Azure fabric, from Romanez

Designers Guild Delft Flower Noir fabric, from Romanez

Pierre Frey Miwok fabric, from Romanez

Designers Guild Barden Claret fabric, from Romanez

Designers Guild Varese Cameo fabric, from Romanez

Velvet Feather cushion cover, from Luxq

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Tala Enno porcelain bulb, $710, from Journey East

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THE RIGHT LIGHTING While natural lighting is perfect for brunch gatherings, soirees usually require a dimmer, cosier ambience. These lamps will help create a more relaxed atmosphere for your guests to unwind in. The Qeeboo stool will be a sure hit at fun parties, while the Kartell and Anglepoise pieces are well-loved design icons. You can also light up candles for a more intimate setting.

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AB OVE Qeeboo Mexico stool and oor lamp, $600, from Journey East

L EF T Kartell Battery table lamp, from $313, from Million Lighting

R IG HT Lee Broom Eclipse table lamp, $2,400, from Space Furniture

Online exclusive Foremal Dog candlestick, $12.90, from Ikea

R I G HT Anglepoise Type 75 Mini Copper desk lamp, $422, from Million Lighting

L E FT Artemide Empatia Table lamp, from $1,449, from Million Lighting

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INSIDER TIPS

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CONVERSATION STARTERS Get-togethers are where inhibitions melt away and friendships are made. While many would agree that alcohol is the simplest icebreaker, it should not be your only playing card. We share three out-of-the-box games that will keep your family and friends entertained.

photo THE INSIDE ACCESS INNER CIRCLE CHARADES: You

know the rules of charades. Now re-enact a scenario or story that only the people in your clique know. Close friends will laugh over funny memories, and newbies will learn more about the rest.

LIKES & DISLIKES: People love to talk about themselves! Get everyone to write down their likes and dislikes on paper; fold the answers and put it in a bowl. The person who picks a paper up will have to guess who it describes. For every wrong answer, the person downs a shot. SARDINES: This is a twist on the popular hide-and-seek game, and is especially fun if your home is spacious or full of nooks and crannies. First, Û° ¿ ÐÉ Û ÞâÐÉ É §°ù é­ È ĝù minutes to hide. The next individual ­ â ĝù È°Éîé â éÐ ĝÉ é­ ĝÞâé person, and join him/her in the chosen hiding spot. Soon, there will be plenty of people who are trying not to laugh while crammed into the same closet, bathroom or space under the bed. Those hiding should try to remain Ýî° é ú­°Â é­ Þ âé °â ĝÉ °É§ é­ Èʨ a­  âé Û ÞâÐÉ éÐ ĝÉ ù ÞĀÐÉ ­° â ĝÞâé °É é­ É ÿé ÞÐîÉ ʨ

14 KEEPING YOUR GUESTS OCCUPIED

It goes without saying that good food and a chiclooking home is quintessential to a successful party. But to make it a memorable one, organise some hands-on activities.

WE ASK PROFESSIONAL PARTY-PLANNER ARRON GOH, FOUNDER OF THE INSIDE ACCESS, TO SHARE WITH US TIPS ON THROWING A SUCCESSFUL PARTY.

How do we get quieter guests to open up? Introduce them to people with similar interests, so they will feel comfortable to engage in a conversation they are passionate about. When introducing guests, give a brief description of what each guest does in his or her professional or personal life; this reduces the awkwardness of self-introductions. How do we make guests feel comfortable and wanted at a party? Always make sure that someone who has just arrived is in a conversation, before leaving him or her alone. Check in regularly to make sure the guest is comfortable, by offering a drink or introducing him to someone. Give us some foolproof icebreakers. A quick tour of the home is a great, casual way to interact with the early birds. A box of conversation cards and a nice cheese platter to mingle over before sitting down for dinner are good ideas, too.

Visit www.theinsideaccess.asia.

INTERACTIVE COOKING

Making your own kueh pie tee is a lot Ц ¦îÉ é îđ éâ É ú°Â ʣ éÐÐʣ é parties. Your guests can get hands-on ú°é­ Þаɧ âîâ­°ʣ âéîĔɧ â ÈÐâ â and choosing toppings for pizzas, too. Alternatively, you can hire a private chef. In Atipico’s Learn & Eat sessions, founder and chef Matteo Pertoldi prepares a four-course meal for guests as they chip in and learn during preparation, cooking and plating. Visit www.atipico.sg.

PRESSED FLOWER ACTIVITIES EMBROIDERY WORKSHOPS

Give your guests something to bring home when you organise a workshop at home. Zoey Wong, ¦ÐîÉ Þ Ð¦ B ¿ ʨúÐÞ¿âʣ Ðđ Þâ basic introduction to illustration É °đ Þ Éé È Þа ÞĀ âé°é ­ âʨ The end result is an art piece they can hang proudly their walls. Visit @naked.works on Instagram. 80

If you have a laminating machine, éÞĀ § é­ Þ°É§ Þ° ĞÐú Þâ É leaves for your guests to laminate and turn into bookmarks or keychain trinkets. It’s quick and fun. Prefer a professional to guide you? Call Sense of Arts, which has a collection of beautiful dried ĞÐú Þâ Þ É§°É§ ¦ÞÐÈ ù° Þ Éé Âî delphiniums to yellow gerbera petals. Visit www.senseofarts.com.

ZERO EFFORT REQUIRED

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The laser technology in Ă‚ÂœÂ’ĂŠĂžĂ?Ă‚ĂŽĂż SĂŽĂžÂœ°É… Ę‚Ë?Č˝ĘŁÉ É…É…Ęƒ means this smart robotic cleaner can better detect areas that need to be cleaned, as well as obstacles like sofas. It can adjust its âĂ›ÂœÂœÂ˜ †’’Ă?ĂžÂ˜°Ă‰§ ĂŠĂ? ÄžĂ?Ă?Ăž type, and has eight sets of long and dense bristles that reach into corners and sweep along walls.

QUICK CLEANUPS

When the last guests leave at 3am and you are left with a messy home, you will need these appliances to ­ÂœĂ‚Ă› Â’Ă‚ÂœÂ†Ă‰ Ä€Ă?ĂŽĂž âĂ›Â†Â’Âœ œĔ’°ÂœĂ‰ĂŠĂ‚Ä€ʨ rÂœ Ă›°Â’Âż Ä?ĂšÂœ ĂŠĂ?Ă?Ă‚â Â˜Âœâ°§Ă‰ÂœÂ˜ ĂŠĂ? ĂˆÂ†ÂżÂœ cleaning fast and simple.

Q UICK TIP! Broken glass: Tape may help pick up glass shards, but play dough and Blu-Tack does a better job. This goes for glitter and sequins, too! TWO-IN-ONE

STAINS, BEGONE!

CLEARING THE AIR

The Karcher SE 6.100 Â’Â†ĂžĂ›ÂœĂŠ Â’Ă‚ÂœÂ†Ă‰ÂœĂž Ę‚Ë?É‚É€É„Ęƒ sprays cleaning solution Â˜ÂœÂœĂ› °Ă‰ĂŠĂ? Ê­Âœ Ä?Â‘ĂžÂœâ Ă?ÂŚ carpets, which dissolves dirt and stains, before it suctions both solution and stains away. Equipped with a dry vacuum nozzle for Â’Â†ĂžĂ›ÂœÊâ Â†Ă‰Â˜ ­Â†ĂžÂ˜ ÄžĂ?Ă?Ăžâʣ it can also be used as a multi-purpose vacuum.

a­Âœ Ä€âĂ?É SĂŽĂžÂœ Ă?Ă?Ă‚ Ę‚ÂŚĂžĂ?Ăˆ Ë?É‚É…É…Ęƒ will purify the air by eliminating dust, harmful contaminants from cigarette smoke, É°ÊĂžĂ?§ÂœĂ‰ ˜°Ă?ÿ°Â˜Âœ ÂŚĂžĂ?Ăˆ cooking over a gas hob, as well as formaldehyde and benzene that are present in some candles.

The LG Cordzero )Â†Ă‰Â˜âÊ°Â’Âż Ę‚Ë?É‚É€É…Ęƒ °â ĂˆĂ?ĂžÂœ than just a vacuum cleaner. Placed behind the rotating ‘ÞÎâ­ °â † Ăˆ°Â’ĂžĂ?Ä?Â‘ĂžÂœ Â’Ă‚Ă?Ê­ʨ A water container will wet the cloth evenly, allowing homeowners to vacuum and mop at the same time. To focus on just vacuuming, simply remove the cloth and water container.

THE ALL-ROUNDER

With a powerful rotating brush bar, the Samsung Powerstick SĂžĂ? Ę‚Ë?É„É…É…Ęƒ ĂžÂœĂˆĂ?ĂšÂœâ ˜ÎâÊ Â†Ă‰Â˜ ­Â†°Ăž lodged in upholstery crevices Ϡâ°Ă‚Ä€ʨ ,Êâ ÂœĂž§Ă?ÉĂ?Ăˆ°Â’ "Ă‚ÂœĂż )Â†Ă‰Â˜Ă‚Âœ also allows you to reach under furniture without straining your wrist and back. With additional tools for cleaning bed sheets, mattresses, tabletops and window frames, the device covers all areas. text DOMENICA TAN, ELIZA HAMIZAH & ISABELLE TOW

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H & D C U R AT E S

PA L AT I A L PA R T Y PA L E T T E S

The scenes and costumes from the hugely popular Chinese period drama Story of Yanxi Palace have revived a passion for oriental prints and Morandi-esque hues, inspired by the pigment dyes of imperial apparel. Here are some looks to try, if you want to inject some of that cool courtly atmosphere in your home this season.

Vermilion Views Originally created by dying threads in ground cinnabar powder, the aged vermilion hue evokes a soft yet royal presence in any space it graces. Pair it with complementary accents for an elegant feel.

M A IN CO LOUR

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FR O M LE FT Birdcage table lamp, $190; orange boxes, $60 each; ladder, $75; all from Lim’s Holland Village. Fish painting, price upon request, from IG@ jisthome. Muuto’s Oslo burnt yellow sofa, $7,250; Muuto tangerine tile cushion, $290; Sancal pistachio cushion, $350; Muuto loom throw, $230; Sancal duplex table with tray, $1,800; all from Grafunkt. Mini coral red glazed vases, $42 each, from Scene Shang. Small pink box, $29; medium-sized orange box, $39; all from Lim’s 82 Holland Village. The rest, stylist’s own.

Location Grafunkt

ACCEN T COLOUR

F ROM L EFT Ceramic stool, $60; Fortune stick box, $29; pastel green box, $29; curio stand, $40; short tea jar, $60; all from Lim’s Holland Village. Mini matte blue double gourd vase, $42; apple-green glazed vase, $79; all from Scene Shang. The rest, stylist’s own.

Tantalizing Teal While the bright cheerful sheen of Tiffany blue boxes may seem passe this season, lovers of the colour can still channel the comforting qualities of the shade by updating spaces at home with Chinoiserie-inspired trinkets and bold trims.

M AI N CO LOU R

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ACC EN T COLOU R

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Faded Fuschia Not as sombre as it sounds, this pastel tone can be used to add a pleasant punch of colour to a space filled with plenty of natural textures. Let it blossom with contrasting shades of green and grey.

MA I N CO LO U R

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ACCE N T CO LO U R

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FROM L EFT Brass plum window bookend, $65; mini matte pink vase, $42; all from Scene Shang. Vase, price upon request; pink tea cups, price upon request; all from Mud Rock. Wood stool, $85, from Lim’s Holland Village. The rest, stylist’s own.

Go Cerulean The stately feel of cerulean blue helps to make a large room feel cosier, while adding character and a touch of formality. Round it off with darker shades of blue.

M A IN CO LO UR

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ACCE NT COLO U R

Location GF+A

Tiles on wall, price upon request, from GF+A. Cotton ball lights, $12, from Lim’s Holland Village. The rest, stylist’s own.

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F RO M TOP Tradition formakami JH4 pendant lamp, $430; Challenge side chair (left), $1,650; Kamuy Lux armchair, $1,650; all from Conde House. Sakura bowl, $45 (large) and $19 (mediumsized); shell bowls, $32 each; tall tea jar, $70; all from Lim’s Holland Village. The rest, stylist’s own.

Pure Plum The rich plum hue can make even the largest of dinner parties feel like an intimate table for two. Presented with so much depth and poise, all that’s needed are touches of complementary shades for a perfect finish.

M AIN COLOU R

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Location Conde House

ACC E NT CO LO U R

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Prussian Obsession Prussian blue can be a daunting hue to use when styling a space, but it’s not impossible – as long as the dark tone is balanced out with other colours in greyish tones.

ANTIC LO C KW I S E , F RO M LE F T Large raw rug, $2,000; Muuto XL round coffee table, $1,840; all from Grafunkt. Tea Pets – Pink Turtle, $18.90, from Scene Shang. Blue bowl, price upon request; blue plate, price upon request; jar with handle, price upon

request; all from Mud Rock. Porcelain tea cups, $4 each; blue small tile, $8; cast iron teapot, $19; all from Lim’s Holland Village. Kobo collection – the orchid trays (vanda), $72 each, from Supermama. Square blue tile, price upon request, from GF+A. The rest, stylist’s own.

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Location Grafunkt

ACC ENT CO LO UR

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Jade Jewel One of the most precious and treasured gems in Chinese culture, jade is valued for its dense green hue. Imbue your interiors with this lovely colour by pairing it with pale green and salmon tones.

M AI N COLOU R

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ACCEN T CO LOU R

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Alluring Apricot A challenging option when it comes to choice of colour schemes for the home, it takes a sharp eye to balance out this muted orange shade with other colours to prevent it from overwhelming the entire room. The trick here is to dial it down with tints of brown and pink.

MAI N COLOUR

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ACCENT CO LOUR

Location Grafunkt

CLOCKW ISE, FRO M LEF T Copper bowl, $15; leather round tiffin box, $100; small leather box, $60; yellow dish, $15; rectangle box, $39; handmade sewing box, $60; red goldfish dish, $10; all from Lim’s Holland Village. The rest, stylist’s own. OPPOSITE, FRO M LEF T Pink stool with ceramic tile, $120; birdcage floor lamp, $250; all from Lim’s Holland Village. Sancal Talo small armchair, $1,950; Sancal Talo cushion, $300; all from Grafunkt.

photography VERONICA TAY assisted by GONG YIMIN & PHYLLICIA WANG styling NONIE CHEN

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Bu Shukun contact 111 Devonshire Road Tel: 6284-1011 www.architology. com.sg

FOUR-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN BUKIT TIMAH ROAD *=,/-< " $400,000

The contemporary interior spots a soothing colour palette of light and neutral shades, with brass gold accents adding elegance to the warm surrounds. Two bedrooms were merged into a space for the owner’s hi-fi system. The study area, a section that is hardly ever the focal point of any home, is one of the uniquely conceptualised spaces in this apartment. It was designed with storage space and a corner for a massage chair. A sliding metal mesh screen encloses the study – a distinct feature which creates varying spatial arrangements to lend privacy if needed, but can also be opened.

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FOUR-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN LEEDON HEIGHTS (ABOVE) * = , / - < " $1 60,000

Timeless design is set with a clear definition of space and mindful use of materials throughout the apartment. A light palette and rich, textural touches complete the home and turn it into an understatedly luxurious suite. The living and dining rooms are designed as an interconnected space to accommodate gatherings amongst family and friends. The TV unit and other storage compartments are hidden away to prevent visual distractions.

FIVE-BEDROOM DUPLEX CONDO APARTMENT IN ALEXANDRA ROAD (BELOW) * = , / - < " $450,000

With the dark wood accents of the wall panelling and partitions to the furniture, there’s a masculine air about the contemporary interior. Clean lines and neutral shades complement the darker hues in the home, which has a double-volume space in the living room, keeping the atmosphere airy and bright. The master bedroom, occupying the entire second floor and overlooking the living and dining areas, is a self-contained space.

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S a ra h T h a m contact 22B Ann Siang Road Tel: 6538-8918 www. cubeassociatedesign. com

SEVEN-BEDROOM S E M I - D E TA C H E D HOUSE IN D U N B A R WA L K

Entertaining at home is a big part of this couple’s lifestyle, so Sarah designed a stunning entertainment space. The sprawling area takes on a more masculine vibe, as opposed to the living and dining rooms with a light, airy feel. A striking feature is the teak wood spiral staircase that leads up to the loft unit where the master bedroom is situated. The custom-made bookshelf flows right into the loft for a sense of continuity. It was specially made to display the owners’ wide collection of books.

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F I V E - B E D R O O M D E TA C H E D H O U S E I N B E D O K ( A B O V E )

With a sprawling land area, the home could afford a generouslysized swimming pool that measures 14m by 5m. The original house structure which has been around for over two decades was completely torn down. The spiral staircase is a favoured spot, serving as a choice backdrop for both family members and friends during photo-taking sessions. Sarah kept the original flight of steps but replaced the old handrails with vertical steel structures painted in grey. She also levelled the dining section to form a seamless space with the living room. It was done for practical reasons, as an elderly wheelchair-bound relative lives in the home.

T H R E E - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T I N R I V E R VA L L E Y (BELOW)

The huge space in this old apartment caught Sarah's attention. It was initially a four-bedder but Sarah turned one room into a study space. The living room spots a rather imposing flooring – Palissandro blue marble from Italy, with its pronounced “veins” lending dramatic flair to the space. Sarah’s painting, a sizeable abstract piece of art, adorns the living room and serves as a feature screen above the TV console. Her love for colours is reflected in the choice of furniture she suggested to the homeowners: an unconventional pink sofa and an egg yolk-yellow lounge chair.

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N i k k i H u n t (left) a n d A n d re a Savage contact 75E Loewen Road, Tanglin Village Tel: 6506-0920 www. designintervention. com.sg

FOUR-BEDROOM CONDO PENTHOUSE APARTMENT

Not one to shy away from embracing bold colours and intricate patterns and styles, the homeowner, a fashion designer, is a cosmopolitan citizen having lived in New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong, before settling in Singapore. She wanted a chic home that reects her immense love for colours and fashion. With two young children, a dog and two nannies, she needed the layout to be practical as well. Black and white, and lashes of animal print, are obvious choices. The pink softens the stark contrasting colours, and reects a soft feminine personality.

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T H R E E - B E D R O O M C O N D O P E N T H O U S E A P A R T M E N T AT T H E TOMLINSON IN CUSCADEN ROAD (ABOVE)

ONE-BEDROOM CONDO PENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN ARDMORE PARK (BELOW)

The apartment’s stunning cityscape views inspired the interior design. The owners wanted a stylish home with a metropolitan feel but with more warmth, life and personality than hotel rooms. Their art pieces of the Singapore skyline also served as the starting point for the design. At the penthouse apartment’s main entrance, a vibrant and boldly patterned wallpaper is an arresting element that gives an immediate sense of arrival into a unique space. Mixing fabrics for the upholstery of the dining chairs adds additional layers of interest to the home.

This apartment was designed as a pampering master suite. The owner had asked Design Intervention to design a home that would serve as a retreat from frenetic city life – a space that oozes with serene glamour and soft femininity. Nikki drew inspiration from two Chinese artworks belonging to the owner, one of plum blossoms and the other, a landscape painting. She also designed a tiered coffee table with its frame gilded by hand and LED panels inserted within the onyx top, so the coffee table can serve as a lighting fixture in the living room, too.

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Suwei

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Sherman

(left)

contact 11 Kim Yam Road Tel: 6883-1005 www.dwell.com.sg

TWO-BEDROOM CONDO PENTHOUSE A P A R T M E N T AT THE FLORIDIAN IN BUKIT TIMAH ROAD

At 6m in height, the expansive wall in this penthouse provided a huge canvas for Dwell to exercise creativity. It was turned into an impressive library cum display shelf and AV wall, complete with a 5m custombuilt sliding ladder. A recessed display shelf was also built beneath the TV. The three round coffee tables of graduating heights help create a space for conversation, and are “lighter” and modern in feel, as opposed to a conventional large coffee table.

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F O U R - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT T R I L I G H T IN NEWTON ROAD (ABOVE)

F O U R - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT R E G E N C Y P A R K I N N AT H A N R O A D ( B E L O W )

This is a luxe yet cosy living space that serves as the owners’ weekend holiday home in Singapore. Taking pride of place in the living room is the Barovier & Toso chandelier. It lends elegance and class to the space, while the brown sofa set and modern greytoned carpet keep things snug and warm yet streamlined.

This spacious apartment was designed for a family of five. Its large and light-filled living room allowed for a “library wall”, which was specially built for the owners’ collection of books and art decor. The library also forms a sophisticated backdrop for the living space. An open kitchen “wall” with concealed built-in appliances and counter space was positioned next to the dining table, which is great for daily use or when entertaining guests.

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Te re n c e N e o contact 685A East Coast Road Tel: 6698-7987 www.eightytwo.sg

FOUR-STOREY CLUSTER HOUSING AT WAT T E N RESIDENCES * = , / - < " $150,000

This spacious home strikes a balance between resort living and a homey Scandinavian vibe. Bamboo plants at the porch lend a spot of green and serenity. The interior lets in lots of daylight, creating a bright, airy feel. Living spaces are “opened up�, with the living room extending into the kids’ play area and the dining area.

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T W O - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT E C O S A N C T U A R Y I N C H E S T N U T AV E N U E ( A B O V E ) * = , / - < " $60,00 0

Taken by Nordic design elements during a nine-month stint in Sweden, the owner wanted his and his partner’s apartment to sport a cool, Nordic vibe. Walls are clad in shades of green and blue – from the two-toned feature wall in the living room to the powderblue laminates in the kitchen. The choice of hues is also inspired by the lush greenery surrounding the condominium. Wooden finishes, brass accents and pops of mustard – such as in the kitchen peninsula’s geometric tiles – inject a good dose of warmth.

FOUR-ROOM HDB APARTMENT (BELOW) * = , / - < " $50,000

Nordic nuances are combined with whimsical touches for a cosy, cheery feel. Soft dusky pink paired with white make a splash in the form of dual-toned walls. Shelves and cabinets are made from lighttoned wood, lending a warm cottage ambience. The shoe cabinet was also specially customised to accommodate 20 pairs of footwear.

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Eddy Kuswandi contact 417A River Valley Road Tel: 9828-6859 & 6225-8005 Instagram: @Enoch.ID

FOUR-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT AT B A R T L E Y R I D G E * = , / - < " $150,000

This elegant 1,300sqf holiday pad is small on space, but big on style. To “open up” the interior, Eddy designed an openconcept kitchen, and raised the balcony floor with timber decking, to create the illusion that the living room and balcony make up a singular space. Plush armchairs lend class and cosiness, while pops of blue and yellow hues jazz up the home.

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F O U R - B E D R O O M P E N T H O U S E AT S T R E G I S R E S I D E N C E S ( A B O V E ) * = , / - < " $700,000

This 5,800sqf penthouse has ultra-luxe Art Deco touches, interpreted in contemporary ways. The interior bears masculine touches of dark, heavy wood panelling and accents, contrasting beautifully with the curvedback sofas and richly textured wallpaper. Chandeliers act as the central showpiece, holding the various looks together. Crimson-red hues imbue character and loads of charm, such as the eye-catching red backdrop in the dining room.

F O U R - B E D R O O M P E N T H O U S E AT Y O N G A N P A R K I N R I V E R VA L L E Y ( B E L O W ) * = , / - < " $65 0,000

The high double-volume space calls for a series of grand, imposing chandeliers in the different areas of this 6,000sqf penthouse. Eddy plays it grand yet classy here, designing a large feature wall where the owner can hang one of his prized artworks. The rooftop garden exudes a relaxing resort vibe. To give it an exclusive and luxurious feel, a reective water feature was included, adding depth to the overall look.

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Leon Luo

(left)

contact #02-07 Zervex 8 Ubi Road 2 Tel: 6392-8885 enquiry@fsi.com.sg www.fsi.com.sg

THREEBEDROOM RESALE CONDO A P A R T M E N T AT J AYA T O W E R *=,/-< " $15 0,000

This resale condominium unit is home to two avid art collectors who own an art gallery. An airy, spacious gallery feel was created, with the living room and balcony becoming one space. The latter is now the designated dining area. While it was tempting to give the sizeable space a complete overhaul, Raymond saw potential in some of the interior’s original features and left them intact. The herringbone flooring in the living room, for example, was just given a sanddown to make the tone lighter.

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T W O - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT R I V E R S A I L S I N U P P E R SERANGOON (ABOVE) * = , / - < " $60,00 0

For anyone who loves pastels and wants to know how these soft hues can be used to good effect, take a cue from Raymond’s own apartment where he’s been living for close to a year. Concrete geometric tiles – glazed and coloured – adorn the section of the wall just next to the small dining area. Raymond’s love for mosaics also means that they are a must-have feature in his home, like the aqua-blue tiles behind the TV.

T H R E E - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT T H E T R I L I N Q I N B U O N A V I S TA ( B E L O W ) * = , / - < " $9 0,000

The high ceiling inspired the design of a loft, which houses the study space for this family with two young children. Ample storage space is one of the requirements. FSI designed the TV cabinet as a storage space, which also doubles as a feature wall when it’s fully closed. Shelves are built next to the staircase, as well as next to the loft beam, to serve as a display area for knick-knacks. The plush dining area is designed to be intimate, with customised banquette seating.

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Joey Khu contact #02-01 1 Jalang Pisang Tel: 6440-7920 www.joeykhu-id.com

FOUR-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN BEDOK * = , / - < " $12 0,000

You don’t need a sprawling space for a modern tropical theme, as Joey shows in this apartment's design. It’s all about using the right colours, materials and potted plants to pep up the place. Dark brown tones and grey keep things “earthy”, with a mod-rustic feel. Joey also took advantage of the greenery outside the master bedroom, and carved out a decked balcony space. Corners, shelves and walls were specially designed to showcase the owner’s collection of precious artworks and designer toys.

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L O F T- S T Y L E C O N D O A P A R T M E N T I N T H E C E N T R A L B U S I N E S S DISTRICT (ABOVE) * = , / - < " $1 50,000

The design brief for this home was to make it look airy and breezy, and Joey executed it deftly with warm woods, glass and neutraltoned furniture to achieve chic minimalism. He reconfigured the space, and designated the bedroom and study corner to make up the mezzanine floor. Cupboards with lots of storage space done up in light wood tones are built on this level too. Vinyl flooring adds a warm, earthy ambience to the loft sanctuary.

TRIPLEX APARTMENT IN THE EAST (BELOW) * = , / - < " $16 0,000

Raw industrial elements get a swish treatment in this spacious apartment. Cement screed for the living and dining room flooring gives a raw, edgy vibe, while siren-red furniture and fixtures (for instance, the sliding ladder for the full height shelves) inject vibrant pops of colour and character to the space. Cement tiles with coloured motifs in the dining area help frame the space.

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A n g e l a Ta n t r y contact 331A Beach Road Tel: 6291-9786 www.metaphorstudio.com

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO PENTHOUSE APARTMENT IN NOVENA * = , / - < " $1 85,0 00

This chic, barn-inspired penthouse has plenty of woodwork for a good part of the flooring, walls and even ceiling. A mod-rustic charm permeates the entire home where there’s luxury of space. Far from intimidating, the ambience is quietly elegant, comfy and homey. Each space in the house is done up like a bespoke barn, with beams and wall perimeters coated in black to delineate the different spaces. Black feature walls with weave-like rectangular motifs serve as backdrops for the homeowners' artworks.

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LANDED PROPERTY WITH FIVE BEDROOMS AND EN SUITES IN BUKIT TIMAH (ABOVE)

F O U R - B E D R O O M C O N D O A P A R T M E N T I N R I V E R VA L L E Y ( B E L O W )

* = , / - < " $1 .1 M I L L I O N

* = , / - < " $16 8,000

The property has a lush tropical backyard, and the Metaphor team brought the greenery “indoors” by installing glass panelling along the perimeter of this swish home. Display shelves in both the living and dining areas are custom made so that the structures do not pose an obstruction, allowing floor-to-ceiling views of the greenery. The glass panels also allow daylight to stream in, for a bright and breezy feel.

The open kitchen was conceived as an interactive space, where guests lounging in the living room are kept in the know of the prep work that goes on in the kitchen during cookouts. The kitchen is designed to be sleek and minimalist, with warm wood accents lending an intimate ambience. The glass-top dining table is positioned next to the sleek island top, lengthening the workspace area.

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Kelvin Bing contact #01-02 469 Macpherson Road Tel: 6291-1545 www. renaidesigngroup. com

TWO-STOREY BUNGALOW (WITH BASEMENT A N D AT T I C ) I N C R E S C E N T R O A D, K AT O N G * = , / - < " $2 million

A stunning piece of interior work that doesn’t shy away from dark boldness. The spaces in this modern tropical home underwent a major reconďŹ guration to suit the family’s lifestyle and their penchant for entertaining friends and business associates. Standing out prominently is the above-ground swimming pool, built along the perimeter of the house. A stretch of glass panel was also erected above the basement (where the swanky entertainment room is located).

110

T W O - S T O R E Y S E M I - D E TA C H E D H O U S E W I T H AT T I C I N L O R O N G

T H R E E - S T O R E Y S E M I - D E TA C H E D H O U S E W I T H AT T I C I N J A L A N

GAMBIR, BARTLEY (ABOVE) * = , / - < " $1 .5 mi l li on

P I N TA U , M A R Y M O U N T ( B E L O W ) * = , / - < " $ 1.3 millio n

The spacious and breezy interior encapsulates the essence of living in the tropics, thanks to open spaces that encourage natural ventilation and “connectivity” between different areas of the house. The interior unfolds dramatically into a double volume dining area, heightening the modern tropical ambience, while large windows and sliding doors bring in the outdoors. A cantilevered staircase gives the impression of a “floating” flight of steps. The homeowners can soak in the surrounding view in the master bedroom, which has a movable aluminium screen for shading and privacy purposes. A bar and entertainment area is tucked away in the attic, with panoramic views of the Bartley precinct.

Torn down completely after five years and rebuilt, the house’s rectangular plot of land presented the perfect opportunity for Cubism design principles to come into play. The structure evokes a sense of rigidity yet stands as an elegant beauty with its unique orthogonal elements. An open-concept living was conceived, where the living room connects seamlessly with the dining space, promoting bonding sessions among family and friends. It also leads to better cross-ventilation throughout the interior. A slight slope cantilevered approach on the third storey was adopted for shielding against the mid-day sun, effectively reducing the need for mechanical cooling in the ground floor spaces.

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K e l v i n Te o contact #02-00, 19 Tannery Lane Tel: 6858-5258 / 8200-8777 www. spacesensestudio. com

FIVE-ROOM PREMIUM HDB APARTMENT IN B U K I T B AT O K * = , / - < " $ 70,000

An industrial look with warm wood accents and a contemporary style complete this spacious apartment home. Masculine interiors of black, grey and silver, with eye-catching red accents, make for a visually arresting sight. The ďŹ rst thing that catches the eye is the impressive ceiling – LED tube lights criss-cross the wood panel-design wallpaper, with black steel beams that intersect it along its width. “I wanted to make the home look like an apartment in New York, and not a normal HDB unit,â€? shares Kelvin.

112

THREE-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN PUNGGOL (ABOVE)

FOUR-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN BISHAN (BELOW)

* = , / - < " $58,000

* = , / - < " $93,000

This home combines all the things that the homeowners love – despite its limited floor area. Inspired by New York loft apartments, the interior spots an overall monochromatic palette that sets the backdrop for unique design features that reflect the owners’ interest and hobbies. Walls, such as the one separating the living room from the bedroom and kitchen, were hacked down to pave the way for a more spacious and bright interior. The ceiling with artificial beams has painted black lines, referencing the look of wooden floorboards seen in shophouses and loft apartments.

The white walls, dark engineered wood flooring and exposed ceiling beams in the living room reflect this couple’s love for the black-and-white style. The monochrome theme is evident in the kitchen, with the use of black-and-white imported Peranakan floor tiles, black veneer cabinets with gold handles, and black steel open racks mounted against a backsplash of white subway tiles. As the space at the foyer was too narrow and tight to incorporate a walkin closet, the solution was to locate it further to the left of the foyer, with a concealed door complete with wainscoting on the foyer wall.

113

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Dennis Cheok (middle)

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B e r t ra n d K o h (left)

+ 0 1 - . - @ - + = < 1 > - 7..1+-:

Eric Lee (right)

contact 8 Changi South Street 1 Level Two Tel: 6299-0650 www.upstairs.sg

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN THE EAST * = , / - < " $250,000

The sea-facing property was the childhood home of an Indonesian client, who used to study in Singapore. Dennis came up with a showcase of textures, material forms and graphic patterns to refresh the look of the home. Perhaps the most breathtaking design is the tropical-inspired ceiling “fresco” in the living room, with the bold burst of green injecting a sense of calm and tranquillity.

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C O R N E R T E R R A C E H O U S E I N G O L D E N H I L L E S TAT E ( A B O V E ) * = , / - < " $1 . 4 mil l i on

FIVE-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN THE CENTRAL REGION (BELOW) * = , / - < " $10 0,000

This originally nondescript family home, which has been around for 40 years, has undergone a stunning transformation. The project is inspired by the client’s deep-rootedness in Chinese culture and liking for the contemporary style. The house’s facade has an ultra-modern architectural look, with the shell formed by 100-year-old clay bricks reclaimed from demolished Chinese villages. The living space has virtually no walls.

This is definitely no cookie-cutter apartment. The massive task of overhauling the space included tearing down walls and reconfiguring the layout. The owners wanted to relocate the kitchen and carve out a new space for a 12-seat dining table. The layout has thus been reconfigured around an inhabitable wooden "crate" built in the centre of the apartment. Other standout features include old film room doors from the historic Capitol Theatre, with hand-painted words on the metal patina.

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+744-+<1>- ,-;1/6; ? Q \ P W ^ M Z \ _ W L M K I L M [ Q V \ P M Q V \ M Z Q W Z L M [ Q O V Q V L ] [ \ Z a I V L V W _ P M I L Q V O P M Z W _ V Q V \ M Z Q W Z L M [ Q O V N Q Z U ; M T Q V I <I a P I [ L Q [ X T I a M L I S V I K S N W Z \ P Q [ \ Z I L M ; P M X T I K M [ O Z M I \ M U X P I [ Q [ W V \ P M N T W _ W N T Q O P \ I Q Z I V L M V M Z O a Q V \ P M P W ] [ M UI`QUQ[QVO ITT \PM MTMUMV\[ \W KZMI\M I TQ^MIJTM PWUM FOUR-BEDROOM CONDO A P A R T M E N T AT S K Y H A B I TAT I N B I S H A N * = , / - < " $1 80,00 0 8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - :

S e l i n a Ta y contact #01-21, Vertex Building 33 Ubi Avenue 3 Tel: 6280-6161 www. collectivedesigns. com.sg

This private apartment has been thoughtfully designed for a multi-generational family. Vintage laceinspired sheer curtains in the living room keep the space bright. Adding a dose of subtle elegance is the muted-silver wallpaper backdrop in the dining area. The family cooks daily, and the kitchen has been designed with this in mind, with plenty of storage. CLUSTER HOME IN O L D H O L L A N D R O A D, BUKIT TIMAH * = , / - < " $245,000

This home is an intriguing hodgepodge of Eurasian bronzes and woods. Thai gold-shot silks contrast with the clean light walls and cool marble flooring. The interior space has been carefully planned with due consideration for the owners’ collection of art, furniture pieces and sculptures.

TWO-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN NEWTON ROAD * = , / - < " $110,000

The interior abides by a clean monochromatic palette: black, white and grey. Texture is essential in creating a sense of luxury – grey tinted mirror, marble and wallpaper clad the walls. Dark grey custom cabinetry in the kitchen is a foil for the highly polished marble counter. Sheer black curtains shade the house from the sun, but still allow in light to brighten the space.

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369 );;7+1)<-; ; Q V K M \ P M J W ] \ Q Y ] M Q V \ M Z Q W Z L M [ Q O V [ \ ] L Q W P I [ J M M V X I [ [ Q W V I \ M I J W ] \ \ Z I V [ N W Z U Q V O T Q ^ Q V O [ X I K M [ Q V \ W ¹ M U W \ Q ^ M º P W U M [ \ P I \ ¹ M V O I O M \ P M W _ V M Z [ W V I U ] K P L M M X M Z T M ^ M T º . W Z P W U M [ T W W S Q V O N W Z I U I R W Z U I S M W ^ M Z 3 6 9 ) [ [ W K Q I \ M [ Q [ NWK][ML WV \]Z VQVO \PMU QV\W [\aTQ[P IVL KW[a IJWLM[ THREE-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT AT C O M M O N W E A LT H 8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4

TOWERS * = , / - < " $ 50,0 00

, - ; 1 / 6 - : ;

Stanley Tham ( p i c t u re d ) a n d K u s n i n Ta n contact #08-45 Oxley Bizhub 71 Ubi Road 1 Tel: 6222-0966 www.knqassociates. com

One of the main tasks for Stanley and his team was to maximise space in this small condominium unit. The designers went about creating a cosy, liveable home by introducing the botanical theme. Green details feature prominently throughout the living room. To free up space, the dining area was shifted to the patio. THREE-BEDROOM C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT R I V E R B A N K @F E R N VA L E IN SENGKANG * = , / - < " $4 0,000

This 19th-floor apartment (just below the penthouse) has a ceiling height of 4.5m, and that inspired the Manhattan-style theme. While the design exudes classic New York glam, the designers made it very practical with plenty of storage spaces that the owner requires. Timber wall holdings are installed throughout the interior, enhancing the sophisticated NYC vibe.

TWO-BEDROOM CONDO A P A R T M E N T AT T H E BERTH BY THE COVE IN SENTOSA COVE * = , / - < " $30,000

A chic and stylish bachelor pad done on a “sane” reno budget. The designers took into account the owner’s fengshui requirements when planning the layout, and also fulfilled the practical need for a space catered to entertaining. Taking centre stage in the living room is a whisky collection adjacent with the TV feature wall.

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76- ;<78 +76+-8< 6 W Z U I V AM W P I [ J M M V Q V \ P M Q V \ M Z Q W Z L M [ Q O V Q V L ] [ \ Z a N W Z W ^ M Z \ _ W L M K I L M [ 0 M X Z M N M Z [ \ W S M M X P Q [ N Q Z U [ U I T T \ W N W K ] [ W V _ P I \ P M L W M [ J M [ \ " M V O I O Q V O X M Z [ W V I T T a _ Q \ P P Q [ K T Q M V \ [ U I V a W N _ P W U Q V K T ] L M T W K I T K M T M J Z Q \ Q M [ I V L [ W K Q I T Q \ M [ I V L LM[QOVQVO _Q\P XI[[QWV FIVE-BEDROOM S E M I - D E TA C H E D H O U S E IN LUXUS HILLS * = , / - < " $700,00 0

8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - :

N o r m a n Ye o contact #03-148 IMM Building 2 Jurong East St 21 Tel: 6897-1211 www.osc.com.sg

The home of wushu champion and local celebrity Vincent Ng was designed to be a restful sanctuary. The master bedroom features a leather travertine feature wall. Made from 70 per cent crystal, it has an iridescent, quartz-like effect against light, creating a mesmerising visual spectacle – the crystal element also serves to enhance the restful ambience. SIX-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN ASTRID MEADOWS * = , / - < " $700,000

This sprawling apartment is one that’s befitting of owner Mr Nash Benjamin (of FJ Benjamin Group) and his family’s lifestyle and love for entertaining. It’s not surprising that the dining area has been thoughtfully conceived, with an entertainment “station”(complete with a buffet counter and shelves to lay out the dishes, crockery and cutlery). The chandelier and rug lend a plush, sophisticated feel.

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN GOLDHILL * = , / - < " $200,000 (in c lu ding furn ishings)

This apartment has the advantage of being surrounded by greenery, allowing Norman to come up with a contrasting interior. Hence, the interior assumes a more minimalist and sleek look, decked with “wintry” elements. The floor in the living room is covered with big slabs of metal-lookalike tiles, and the dining section features a round table with Ghost chairs, keeping the look simple and pared-down.

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;8)+- 5)<<-:; < P Q [ Q V \ M Z Q W Z L M [ Q O V N Q Z U Q [ P M T U M L J a N W ] V L M Z 3 M V 4 M M _ P W K W U J Q V M [ I Z K P Q \ M K \ ] Z I T I V L L M [ Q O V N T I Q Z Q V I T T P Q [ X Z W R M K \ [ 0 M [ V W \ W V M \ W [ ] J [ K Z Q J M \ W I X I Z \ Q K ] T I Z [ \ a T M I V L P Q [ N W Z \ M Q [ Q V K Z M I \ Q V O ] V Q Y ] M I V L X M Z [ W V I T Q [ M L P W U M QV\MZQWZ[ \PI\ JZQVO W]\ \PM XMZ[WVITQ\a WN \PM KTQMV\ DUPLEX PENTHOUSE IN BALESTIER * = , / - < " $350,000

8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - :

Ken Lee contact #01-30 Suites@Bukit Timah 68 Jalan Jurong Kechil Tel: 9692-3215Â www.spacematters. com.sgÂ

The original interior was stripped down almost entirely and transformed into an industrial warehouse-inspired space. Instead of a conventional dining table, an island bar serves as a centre for both entertaining and communal meals. A double volume void was created in the centre of the interior, with a unique glass mezzanine oor designed to separate the two levels. THREE-BEDROOM HDB EXECUTIVE APARTMENT IN YISHUN * = , / - < " $90,000

The interior draws upon Scandinavian inuences, with soothing colours and a layout that is simple and functional. A “free owâ€? organic approach means that no area is deďŹ nitive here: The living, dining and study areas are all interchangeable, and can be rearranged for a fresh look. Old, vintage chairs were also introduced into the modern, minimalist space, injecting a bit of old-world charm to the interior.

FIVE-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN SIMEI * = , / - < " $30,000

The design of this home is inspired by Marie Kondo’s book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, which is about the Japanese art of decluttering and organising. With its bright and airy space, it’s hard to believe the interiors were once dark and shabby. White brick walls lend a subtle contrast against the cement screed oor, and ďŹ nishes such as glazed tiles for the counter are mostly in light shades.

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;8)+-76- 16<-:17: ,-;1/6 +76;=4<)6+A < P M Z M [ Q L M V \ Q I T X Z W R M K \ I Z U W N 7 \ \ Q U W ; X I b Q ; X I K M W V M Q [ N W ] V L M L J a ) L Z Q I V 0 M V O _ P W Q [ S V W _ V N W Z Q V \ Z W L ] K Q V O J W T L ] T \ Z I T ] ` M K W V \ M U X W Z I Z a \ W ] K P M [ 0 M I T [ W [ X M K Q I T Q [ M [ Q V K ] [ \ W U Q [ M L N ] Z V Q \ ] Z M I V L N ] Z V Q [ P Q V O [ N Z W U K ] [ P Q W V [ \ W K I Z X M \ [ W N _ P Q K P \ P M N I J Z Q K [ I Z M [ W ] Z K M L U W [ \ T a N Z W U - ] Z W X M CORNER THREE-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN FA R R E R R O A D * = , / - < " $ 120,00 0

8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - :

Adrian Heng contact #02-05 Talib Court 5 Purvis Street Tel: 9686-0165 www.spaceoneid. com

A neutral colour palette gives this home a timeless, sophisticated look. In the dining area, a bar counter allows the owner and his guests to enjoy the city skyline. Rich leathertextured wall coverings are used in the dining room and master bedroom, while carpets in bold geometric patterns bring out the interior’s wow factor.

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT AT T H E P A R C IN WEST COAST * = , / - < " $100,000

Another bold outing by Adrian. All bedrooms and the study are clad in funky geometric wall coverings, in this contemporary hotel suite-inspired apartment. Adrian did away with the coffee table in the living room, and, instead, designed two small side tables which can be moved around easily to serve as surfaces to perch coffee, drinks and snacks.

S E M I - D E TA C H E D H O U S E IN MEYER ROAD * = , / - < " $2 M I L L I O N

Another luxe hotel-inspired project, this three-storey house (which took 1.5 years to rebuild) is decked out in a modern classic style for a four-generation family. Black, white, silver and grey tones dominate the interiors, which is ďŹ lled with specially customised furniture like plush armchairs, coffee tables, side tables and carpets.

120

<0:-- , +76+-8<?-:3* M Q \ I P W U M W Z K W U U M Z K Q I T [ X I K M < P Z M M , + W V K M X \ _ M Z S M [ M M S [ \ W Q V \ M O Z I \ M L M [ Q O V [ M I U T M [ [ T a Q V \ W \ P M L I Q T a T Q ^ M [ W N Q \ [ W K K ] X I V \ [ < P M \ M I U Q [ Q V \ M Z M [ \ M L Q V M L O a Q V \ M Z Q W Z I Z K P Q \ M K \ ] Z M K W V [ \ I V \ T a X ] [ P Q V O I V L Z M \ P Q V S Q V O LM[QOV JW]VLIZQM[ THREE-ROOM HDB APARTMENT IN WAT E R L O O S T R E E T * = , / - < " $9 0,000

8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - :

Dess Chew contact 24 Eng Hoon Street

This small flat has a white and neutral palette for a clean look. “Nostalgic” materials like glass blocks are used to partition the bathroom. Top on the homeowners’ request list was plenty of storage space to accommodate collectibles and display items.

Tel: 6293-8001 www.three-dconceptwerke.com A D E TA C H E D H O U S E TURNED FOURBEDROOM LANDED PROPERTY IN RIFLE RANGE ROAD * = , / - < " $1.3 M I L L I O N

Known as “The Steel House”, this head-turning structure is a sight to behold. The couple (who have three young children) wanted a homey ambience and communal spaces to bring the family together. When it came to laying the foundation, no piling works were done, Instead, steel columns were bolted down to form the skeleton of the house.

FOUR-BEDROOM WA L K - U P A P A R T M E N T IN YIO CHU KANG * = , / - < " $13 0,000

This apartment carries an old-world charm that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Only minimal natural light entered the apartment previously, so, to remedy this, the design team decided to hack the wall right next to the main door, and install a glass panel. Windows at the balcony were also removed for better ventilation and to allow more light to enter.

121

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8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - : ;

Ye o S e e W e e and JJ Yip contact #03-03 Hong Lim Complex 531 Upper Cross Street Tel: 9388-8890 www.weestudio. com.sg

A P A R T M E N T AT M A R I N A ONE RESIDENCES IN M A R I N A WAY * = , / - < " $ 90,0 00 (i ncl usi ve of furni ture and f ur ni shings)

The Hong Kong-based owner bought this studio apartment as a holiday home. She requested a large screen to partition the home, delineating the living room and bedroom. It was constructed to make way for a bigger opening between the areas.

THREE-BEDROOM C O N D O A P A R T M E N T AT DUO RESIDENCES IN FRASER STREET * = , / - < " $170,000 (in c lu sive of furnit ure a nd fu rn ishings)

This holiday home – for an Indonesian family who frequents Singapore for vacation – is swathed in cosy warm wood accents. It sports a wood feature wall. A breakfast deck was built with the same wood feature detail, paired with a customised marble top, in the kitchen.

FIVE-BEDROOM HDB APARTMENT I N B U K I T B AT O K * = , / - < " $120,000 (in clu sive of furnit ure a nd fu rn ishings)

Light wood accents sweep through the living room. The owners wanted a cosy living area to hold gatherings, and a concealed kitchen entryway. To achieve this, a feature wall covering the entrance to the storeroom and the kitchen was constructed, for a clean, sleek look. Shades of grey were introduced to complement the soothing tone of the apartment.

122

?74. ?77. ?W T N ?W W N Q [ I J W ] \ Q Y ] M L M [ Q O V [ \ ] L Q W N W ] V L M L J a + I Z U M V <I V O = V L M Z P M Z J W T L L Q Z M K \ Q W V ?W T N ?W W N K W V [ \ I V \ T a X ] [ P M [ \ P M M V ^ M T W X M I V L [ M M S [ \ W Z M L M N Q V M I V L J Z M I \ P M N Z M [ P I Q Z Q V \ W Q V \ M Z Q W Z [ \ Z I V [ N W Z U Q V O \ P M U Q V \ W [ X I K M [ _ Q \ P T W I L [ W N K P I Z I K \ M Z TWO-BEDROOM CONDO LOFT APARTMENT IN ALEXANDRA * = , / - < " B el ow $ 40,00 0

8 : 1 6 + 1 8 ) 4 , - ; 1 / 6 - : ) 6 , , - ; 1 / 6 , 1 : - + < 7 :

C a r m e n Ta n g contact #08-74 Midview City 22 Sin Ming Road Tel: 9842-1730 www.wolfwoof.com.sg

The owners (a couple in their 30s) were inspired by the intricacies of old monuments and the clean lines of modern architecture. The result is this tasteful minimalist chic apartment. The loft area is above the living room, fenced by a chevronshaped metal railing. Just below the loft is a nook for the seating area.

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO APARTMENT IN KIM TIAN ROAD * = , / - < " Below $30,000

This homeowner's requirements included ample storage space and – based on a geomancer's advice – metal elements in the dining area, which was to be the "centre" of the home. The choice of a heavy quartz dining table necessitated a strong metal base, and Carmen opted to use metal bars but with coats of regular metallic spray painting in rose gold, to keep within the budget.

THREE-BEDROOM CONDO LOFT APARTMENT IN CLEMENTI * = , / - < " Below $60,000

Luxe doesn’t always mean gaudy and over-the-top opulence, as this compact and elegant three-bedder shows with its gold accents, and glass and marble textures. The unit exhibits space-maximising features with the creation of a loft above the dining area. Carmen played on the luxury of height, by having multiple pendant lights that draw the eye up to appreciate the vertical space.

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W H E R E TO B U Y

#01-05 Grand Hyatt Singapore Tel: 6737-7500 www.bang-olufsen. com CHRISTOFLE

#02-11/12 Hilton Shopping Gallery Tel: 6733-7257 www.christofle.com

GRAFUNKT

MUD ROCK CERAMICS

SOUL & TABLES

#02-34/35/36 Millenia Walk Tel: 6336-6046 www.grafunkt.com

85 Maude Road Tel: 6291-1186 www. mudrockceramics. com

#05-01 Singapore Handicrafts Building 72 Eunos Avenue 7 Tel: 9272-1545 www.ethnicraftonline.com.sg

HELLOFROMFLOUR

www.hellofromflour. com

317 Alexandra Road Tel: 6786-6868 www.ikea.com/sg

269 Beach Road Tel: 6298-0708 www. noxdineinthedark. com

CONDE HOUSE

JOURNEY EAST

#02-42 Millenia Walk Tel: 6338-3248 www.condehouse. com

#03-02 Tan Boon Liat Building Tel: 6473-1693 www.journeyeast.com

ONLEWO

CRABTREE & EVELYN

KING LIVING

#B1-26 Paragon Tel: 6235-7697 www.crabtree-evelyn. com/sg/en

#01-00 Hong Aik Building 22 Kallang Avenue Tel: 6805-4198 www.kingliving.com. sg

IKEA

DA VINCI LIFESTYLE

#01-01 Concorde Hotel Tel: 6468-6333 www.davincilifestyle. com ESCENTIALS

#03-02/05 Paragon Tel: 6737-2478 www.escentials.com FOSSA CHOCOLATE

www.fossachocolate. com

LAVISH

#11-13 Enterprise Centre 20 Bukit Batok Crescent Tel: 6392-2688 www.lavish.com.sg LIM’S HOLLAND VILLAGE

#02-01, Holland Road Shopping Centre 211 Holland Avenue Tel: 6466-3188 www.facebook.com/ limshollandvillage

GF +A

24 Mohamed Sultan Road Tel: 6222-2112 www.gfaglobal.com

LUXQ

www.luxq.co MILLION LIGHTING

203 Kallang Bahru Tel: 6743-2033 www.millionlighting. com.sg

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NOX – DINE IN THE DARK

129 Jalan Besar Tel: 9112-4685 www.onlewo.com PROOF LIVING

#04-16 Ion Orchard Tel: 6509-0555 www.proof.com.sg ROBINSONS THE HEEREN

260 Orchard Road Tel: 6735-8838 www.robinsons.com. sg ROMANEZ

#04-01 APS Building 9 Muthuraman Chetty Road Tel: 6463-9330 www.romanez.com.sg

SPACE FURNITURE

77 Bencoolen Street Tel: 6415-0058 www.spacefurniture. com.sg SUPERMAMA 265 Beach Road Tel: 6291-1946 www.supermama.sg TANGS AT TANG PLAZA

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

AKIHAUS DESIGN STUDIO

#04-02 Block A 10 Raeburn Park Tel: 6221-2808 www.akihaus.com LIM AI TIONG (LATO) ARCHITECTS/DESIGN

#03-10 Hoa Nam Building 27 Foch Road Tel: 6295-1847 www.latodesign.com

310 Orchard Road Tel: 6737-5500 www.tangs.com TWG TEA

#02-21 Ion Orchard Tel: 6735-1837 www.twgtea.com W.ATELIER

#01-01 and #03-01 201 Henderson Road Tel: 6270-8828 www.watelier.com

ROYAL SELANGOR

#B2-92 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Tel: 6688-7167 sg.royalselangor.com SCENESHANG

263 Beach Road Tel: 6291-9629 shop.sceneshang.com

photo 123RF.COM

BANG & OLUFSEN

BUYING GUIDE W

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ACORN

DA VINCI LIFESTYLE

#02-09 512 Chai Chee Lane Tel: 6445-6144 www.acorn ceilingfan.com

#01-01 Concorde Hotel Tel : 6468-6333 www.davincilifestyle. com

BRANDT ASIA

FURNITURE GALLERY

#02-51/52 Oxley Bizhub 65 Ubi Road One Tel: 6508-4639 www.brandt.sg

18 Tampines Industrial Crescent www.furniture gallery.sg

SAMAIRE CEILING FAN

FLEXFORM | STUDIO216

#06-01 1 Kallang Way 2A Tel: 6846-7737 www.samaire.com.sg

#01-01 200 Newton Road Tel: 6909-2128 www.exform.sg GRAFUNKT

#02-34/36 Millenia Walk Tel: 6336-6046 www.grafunkt.com HOME 2 U GALLERY

#02-719/720 Suntec City Tower 4 Tel: 6737-7838

HOUSE OF W.ATELIER

#01-01/02 75 Bukit Timah Road Tel: 6270-8828 www.watelier.com MUJI

#02-198 Vivocity Tel: 6376-8023 www.muji.com/sg

,Ba V,HV Z,#B VZ ARCHIVE DESIGN

#02-08 362 Upper Paya Lebar Road Tel: 6702-7738 www.archiveinterior design.com

#01-02 469 MacPherson Road Tel: 6291-1545 www.renaidesign group.com THE ORANGE CUBE

P5 STUDIO

BLACK N WHITE HAUS

#01-03 LTC Building C 14 Arumugam Road Tel: 6337-7277 www.theorangecube. com

#01-08 Henderson Industrial Park 213 Henderson Road Tel: 6771-9500 www.p5studio.com.sg

291 Tanjong Katong Road Tel: 6440-9766 www.blacknwhite house.com

STAR LIVING

DESIGN INTERVENTION

THREE-D CONCEPTWERKE

1 Pasir Panjang Road Tel: 6273-2522 www.starliving. com.sg

75E Loewen Road Tel: 6468-1942 www.design intervention.com.sg

24 Eng Hoon Street Tel: 6293-8001 www.three-dconceptwerke.com

;,#)a,B# LIGHTCRAFT

131 Jalan Sultan Tel: 6297-6658 www.lightcraft.com.sg

V BHq a,HB A a V, ;Z CAESARSTONE S.E.A.

#08-06 The Spire 10 Bukit Batok Crescent Tel: 6316-1938 www.caesarstone.sg HAFARY

105 Eunos Avenue 3 Tel: 6250-1368 www.hafary.com.sg TIMPLEX

XZQT

#01-05 8 Pandan Crescent Tel: 6774-8031 www.xzqt.com.sg

DWELL INTERIOR DESIGN

11 Kim Yam Road Tel: 6883-1005 www.dwell.com.sg HAIRE LIVING

Level 4 29 Mayo Street Tel: 6441-3345 www.haireliving.com IMAGINE BY SK66

#01-22 UB One 81 Ubi Avenue 4 www.imaginebysk66. com

126

RENAISSANCE PLANNERS & DESIGNERS

9,a ) BZ

#01-13 18 Sin Ming Lane Tel: 6898-1120 www.timplex.sg

TOTO KITCHEN @ W. ATELIER

#01-01 and #03-01 201 Henderson Road Tel: 6270-8828 www.watelier.com

Ha) VZ ACACIA FABRICS

#04-03 Ubi Techpark Lobby A Tel: 6743-0060 www.acacia fabrics.com

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SCENTS & SENSIBILITY

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personality. As a homeowner, you should think about particular traits that you’d like to be known for, and the fragrance that can help you express them. A light and fruity fragrance calls to mind the image of someone young and vibrant, fun-loving and cheerful, and always with a spring in his or her step. Heavy wood and leather tones are great for a bachelor’s pad, complementing the masculine and mature stature of the homeowner. Home fragrances help to convey unspoken messages to anyone who enters ĀÐîÞ âÛ ʣ âÐ É ù Þ Â î§­ °é Ðđ as a lazy person’s way to mask unwanted odours in the house. "îÞé­ ÞÈÐÞ ʣ â Ééâ Þ é lasting impressions in our minds that remain as an indelible part of our experiences. It’s an element that we recall most vividly when thinking back to the past. Most people associate festive occasions with a scent, ú­ é­ Þ °éʙâ é­ âÈ Â Ц ĝ Þ éÞ â at Christmas or that of crisp new notes we receive in red packets during Chinese New Year. When you’re away from home, is it the smell of your loved one’s cooking that you miss most? How about the peculiar smell of your favourite bolster, something you ­ â ­°Â ʪ ZîĔ éÐ â Āʣ if you want to create a positive impression on your guests, the Þ°§­é ­ÐÈ â Éé °â ĝ É°é ÂĀ é­ way to go. "ÐÞ é­Ðâ ú­Ð Þ ÐÉ ÞÉ Ðîé  ù°É§ É ÐÛ É Ğ È unguarded in the house, the fact is that there are so many ways to scent a home without resorting to using a candle or an oil burner. Consider using

WHAT’S TRENDING & WHAT WE THINK

Þ °đ îâ Þâʣ ÐÞ ÞÐÐÈ âÛÞ Āâʣ as well as electric wax warmers É îÂéÞ âÐÉ° ÞÐÈ °đ îâ Þâ and nebulisers. Established ¦Þ §Þ É Þ É â ù É Ðđ Þ scented drawer liners, so homeowners can keep their delicate garments in a pleasantly perfumed environment. Whichever you choose, the key point is that picking out the right fragrance for your personal space speaks as much about the maintenance of your home as it does of the way you present yourself, so be assured that the result will be well worth é­ đ ÐÞé É °Éù âéÈ Ééʨ

good to know Take your scent search a step further by learning to concoct your own fragrance formulation for a beeswax candle. Find out more about the service from Ooh La Lab (www.oola-lab. com) in our video: www.tinyurl.com/ HNDcandle.

illustration KAFFY TAN photo BAOBAB, FLAMING QUEEN

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ver the weekend, while this home stylist was out shopping for Christmas accessories to jazz up the abode, yours truly heard a window shopper utter what is considered a blasphemy for all homedecorating addicts. “Why would anyone spend so much money on a scented candle? Isn’t that just like burning your cash away?” said a burly husband (wearing an Ðù Þâ°ą é É Ğ °ÛʌĞ ÐÛâʃ °É a condescending and judging tone, while his diminutive other half was browsing the latest fragrance candle range from a ĝ É "Þ É ­ ¦Þ §Þ É Â Âʨ I gasped, aghast that someone would have the audacity to make such unwarranted remarks within earshot, and turned to give the couple an icy look. “Scents conjure and leave memories in your mind, they also help to set the mood in a space. Calling a home fragrance a waste of money is just as good as saying buying a bed for your bedroom is a waste of space,” I retorted, even though the question was not directed at me. Drama aside, home fragrances are an important part of home styling. While some people think they are more of a need than want, I prefer to think that a well-chosen fragrance È ¿ â ¦ÐÞ é­ Û Þ¦ é ĝ ɰ⭰ɧ touch to a beautifully decorated space, and is an absolute necessity for all homeowners who are proud of their domain. In addition to creating an atmosphere one desires, a ­ÐÈ â Éé °â ÂâÐ Þ Ğ é°ÐÉ of the homeowner’s taste and

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