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HOMEANDDECOR.MY

N BR EW A LOND O K

TRAVEL

Hotels Across Terrains FEAST CHOCOLATE AND COFFEE AT SHANGRI-LA

MATERIAL Magic

Flooring, Wallpaper, and Fabrics in Five Hot Styles

FOR DISTRIBUTION INFO Antonio Tien Loi Tel. +65 91865033 info@tienloi.it FLEXFORM KUALA LUMPUR The Gardens, Level 2 Unit S-203 Linkaran Syed Putra 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Tel. +60 2202 1798 flexform@studio216.co

Home at last.

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

NOW

DESIGN NEWS, PLACES TO V I S I T, T H I N G S T O B U Y 12 COLOUR OF THE MONTH Trojan Gray makes for a perfect base colour in the children’s bedroom.

B IG NAM E S 26 ITALIAN AT HEART Calligaris celebrates their 95th year in style.

38

14 NEO RETROLICIOUS Celebrate the swinging ‘60s with these bold and colourful home additions filled with style and a heady dose of fun.

Prints and patterns by theme.

12

26 14

2

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

DESIGN

37 48

11 EDITOR’S NOTE

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

PEOPLE

13 WISHLIST

32 WHITE GOLD Making Limoges porcelain is a long process guided by the skilled hands of craftsmen who have mastered rare, centuries-old techniques, and adapted them to the new needs of the industry.

104 HOME IMPROVEMENT 106 FEAST 112 FLASHBACK

35 RUGGED AND BEAUTIFUL Founder of Eclectic Moroccan Living, Kevin Goldman shares his thoughts on how to keep Moroccan rugs in top condition.

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54

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37 10 QUESTIONS WITH KELLEY CHENG Home-grown designerphotographerentrepreneur talks about the things in life that get her going.

FEATURE

48 FLOORED BY DESIGN Pros and cons of various flooring options.

54 A GOOD CUPPA Accessories to help you brew the ultimate cup.

TRAVEL

100 TEXTURES AND TERRAINS Mountains and valleys to sandy dessets.

TOPS ON TOP A product designed by Cosentino®

Cindy Crawford on Silestone Eternal Calacatta Gold

On Top Feel the new velvety texture

Discover more at silestone.com Follow Us W CosentinoTV F Cosentino Asia ô Cosentino.Asia

COSENTINO CITY SINGAPORE, 34/35 Duxton Road. Singapore 089499. Tel: +65 6713 9543 - email: csea@cosentino.com COSENTINO MALAYSIA - Unit 5.05, Menara MBMR No. 1 Jalan Syed Putra. 58000 Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia – Tel: +60 17 288 3427 – email: malaysia@cosentino.com COSENTINO INDONESIA - PIK Avenue Mall. Cre8 Office 6th Floor Suite 22. North Jakarta 14470. Indonesia – Tel: +62 855 110 3691 – email: indonesia@cosentino.com

CONTENTS

OCTOBER

58 NO PAIN, ALL GAIN M Square Creation’s home for a newly married couple is a match made in heaven.

66 CARTE BLANCHE Teresa Sapey’s home is a designer masterpiece bathed in light and bold strokes of white.

76 LIVING ART This futuristiclooking home is a colossal sculpture that houses generous spaces and elements inspired by fengshui principles.

94 SENSE AND SENSUALITY When it comes to this apartment home belonging to a young couple, a practical, yet bold and modern aesthetic serves as the perfect canvas for showcasing art and statement pieces.

HOMES THE NEW MODERN

on the cover

84 A TOUCH OF REFINEMENT

Classic touches, an improved layout and pops of colour add vitality to this elegant holiday pad for Silvia Kurniady and family.

PHOTOGRAPHY VERONICA TAY ART DIRECTION NONIE CHEN

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

photo SHUTTERSTOCK

photo H&M HOME

SIGHTS & INSPIRATION

6 Colonial looks we love Always a great look for our Tropical Malaysian climate, the Colonial aesthetic is one that incorporates plenty of wood and weave, and is outfitted with lots of lush green palm. http:// tinyurl.com/y7z3pspy

CHECK US OUT AT @HOMEANDDECORMSIA

Statement lights and their place in your home Functionality aside, your choice of lamps and lighting fixtures can make or break your space.

That’s why it’s important to pick one while mindful of its potential place in your home, how well it will dance with your other furnishings, and what kind of temperature it’ll impart. http://tinyurl.com/ y8opc68x

HOMEANDDECOR .COM.MY

Check out popular blog posts of the month

photography VENON WONG

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IN THE OCTOBER DIGITAL ISSUE… NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK The definitive list of 30 icons of the 21st century.

BONUS STORIES

DESIGN FOR LIFE How architect David Adjaye uses buildings and the landscape to tell his stories.

THE BEST OF MILAN DESIGN WEEK We reveal the top five home decoration trends spotted at the Milan Furniture Fair and its satellite events across the city.

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10

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E DI TO R’S NOT E

A N D I A M A M AT E R I A L G I R L When I was a girl, my family was unpleasantly disturbed one fine weekend by a sound reminiscent of slow-cracking glass. This curious event was soon followed by the horrifying sight of our bedroom tiles popping, a spontaneous occurance that seemed, to a child, the epitome of Jumanji come to life.

I would later come to understand that such an occurance, although rare, was not entirely unheard of. A shift in temperature, poor workmanship, wear and tear; all could have contributed to the untimely ‘explosion’, and we were none the wiser. Eventually, my longsuffering mother would figure

it out, and new tiles would be bought to replace the old ghastly mess.

That incident in particular lends itself to my insistence for quality where the basic building blocks of a home are concerned. Far from it being a crack at vanity, my belief is that an investment in high-quality and long-wearing goods is always worth it in the long run. This mindset has yet to lead me astray, and so I’m inclined to stick with it and share it!

To this end, we’ve put together a story on the pros and cons of some flooring materials. Check it out on page 48. And if you’re currently undergoing renovations and are in need of some inspiration, I invite you to turn to page 38 to check out our favourite wallpaper, fabric, and flooring pairings, from jungle fever themes to mid-modern Andy Warhol-esque aesthetics.

October is also when we celebrate World Coffee Day, so for all you caffeine junkies out there, we’ve got a spread of coffee accessories to amp up your latte solutions at home. Check it out on page 54, and to top it off, turn to page 106 for some amazing desserts from Chef Adrian Gan at ShangriLa Kuala Lumpur. As always, we’ve got a selection of homes to thrill, to inspire, and above all to share with you all the possibilities of the home. We hope you’ll be inspired by them for your next redecorating endeavour!

Have a happy October, friends!

E M M E LY N C I N DY M A H E D I TO R

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C O LO U R O F T H E M O N T H

A N E W S TAT E OF CALM Gray tones can be overwhelming when used on their own, and that’s why it’s important to balance them with touches of lighter or brighter hues. Yet, homeowners are repeatedly drawn to the dull shade because of its surprising ability to inject a sense of tranquillity into a space. The Trojan Gray from paint specialist Nippon gives the colour a new look with hints of pastel blue and yellow. The resulting tone is not just soothing to the eye, but also has a delightfully vibrant and dynamic feel. Allow the colour to stand out, by contrasting it with a mix of offwhite and pale pink, as well as accents of matte and rose gold.

TROJAN GRAY NP N 1996D

Be sure to balance the use of gray on the walls with accents of white and beige, as well as pops of green.

the expert says

N IN A B EAL E Interior Stylist

12

“The use of a gray & blush pink palette is popular among homeowners as it creates a modern, yet soft & inviting touch. What’s more, these new and ontrend colours can work harmoniously together in a classic

or contemporary home as well.

However, be careful because one can tire of colour easily, so I would recommend using the more neutral Trojan Gray as a base for the larger upholstered items in the room,

text YOUNG LIM photos NIPPON PAINT, BUNGALOW 55, SINGAPORE

such as sectional sofas or armchairs. This can be extended to adding gray or gray and white throws, with a mix of black and white cushions. You can also add a touch of beige to the ensemble to bring the whole look together.”

WISHLIST

2

1

BATHED IN INDULGENCE The bathtub is the heart of your bathroom. Designed to provide you with the simple luxury of a pampering soak, here is where one can indulge in a warm milk bath. For maximum pleasure, put together a bathroom equipped with accessories that bring a sense of relaxation.

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1. Towel Ring, HBA-HR-02, from Hausten.

2. Victoria + Albert Pescadero bathtub,from GC Building Technologies.

3. Grohe Euphoria SmartControl shower system, from Lixil.

4. American Standard free-standing bathtub, Acacia Evolution Collection, price upon request, from Lixil.

5. Bath bombs, from Buih & Co. 6. Mermaid Gemstones, from Buih & Co. 7. Victoria + Albert Cabrits bathtub, from GC Building Technologies.

8. Patterned Bath Towel, from H&M. 9. Paysage photophore candle holder, from Diptyque Boutique at Pavilion.

10. Victoria + Albert Barcelona 3, Tombolo bath rack and Barcelona backrest, sold separately, from GC Building Technologies.

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8

4 5 6

10

7 text NG YI XIANG

LIVING

1

3

4

2

R E T RO - D E L I C

10

Celebrate the swinging ’60s with these bold and colourful home additions filled with style and a heady dose of fun.

5

6

9

7

8

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1. Louis Poulsen PH5 Mini pendant lamps in hues of green and orange, RM2,844 each, from Xtra.

2. Verpan Luna rug by Verner Panton, RM2,085, from Space.

3. Bell table lamp

by Tom Dixon, RM3,300, from Xtra.

4. Caruso cabinet

by Miniforms, starting price RM19,380, from Xtra.

5. Lokki bowl, RM105, from Marimekko.

6. The Pico Retro Pop display cabinet, RM1,767, from Born In Colour.

7. Classicon Bibendum armchair by Eileen Gray, from RM26,925, from Space.

8. Accordion TV console, RM5,970, from Journey East.

9. Arflex Leafo armchair by Jaime Hayon, from RM10,215, from Space.

10. Bazaar Desk, RM5,550, from Journey East.

P R I C E S A R E C O N V E R T E D F R O M S G D ( R M 3 = 1 S G D ) A N D M AY VA R Y LO C A L LY.

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

WHERE IT M AT T E R S If manners maketh the man, where courtesy can elevate a man above his coarser brethren, so it is that it’s the details that define a wellmade piece of furniture, especially in an age where we are desperately trying to revive the art of craftsmanship. This is beautifully demonstrated in Tomas Maier’s last home collection for Bottega Veneta, in which he cleverly balances texture, design and functionality in a series of lighting elements, as well as tables and chairs. Seen here is a dining room setting in the brand’s new maison at Madison Avenue in New York. The dramatic largescale chandelier (60cm across and 35cm in height) is cast in brushed bronze using the lost wax technique, creating a tactile intrecciato texture, which has become a hallmark of the lauded leather goods specialist.

The new B ot tega Ven et a hom e col l ect ion c a n be viewed at www.bot te gaven et a .com /my.

photo BOTTEGA VENETA

M AG I C MIRROR

Duka has added a new mirror-effect chromed glass to their existing range of glass shower enclosures.

Created through a vacuum chrome plating process, cathodic spraying, and with no application of silver or aluminium onto the surface, the glass has the

intriguing feature of acting as a “two-way mirror” that is reflective only on the outside and transparent from the inside. This allows for one to enjoy the surrounding brightness and space while maintaining their personal privacy within the shower.

Fo r mo re i n fo r matio n , v isit www.c avaller i.co m

REVVED UP

I N T E L L I G E N T VAC U U M I N G

Dyson has unveiled their most advanced motor technology to date.

The all-new Dyson digital motor V10 is almost half the weight of its predecessor, the Dyson digital motor V8. It is Dyson’s fastest and most power-dense digital vacuum motor, spinning at up to 125,000 rpm.

Sitting at the heart of the new Dyson Cyclone V10TM cord-free vacuum cleaner, it drives powerful suction with all the versatility that comes from its cord-free format.

For m o re i n fo r mat io n, v isit www.d yso n .my 16

ECOVACS ROBOTICS revealed their latest innovation in floor cleaning last week at IFA 2018, one of the world’s leading trade shows for consumer electronics based in Berlin. ECOVACS Artificial Intelligence and Visual Interpretation (AIVI) is a newly developed AI technology that has been designed to meet a growing demand for minimum manual intervention cleaning, and incorporates object and environment recognition in addition to spatial recognition. ECOVACS AIVI can recognise and avoid objects on the floor, and with the help of Smart Navi™ technology, the robots can better adapt to a user’s home environment to provide a more ideal solution for floor cleaning.

For m ore i nform at i on, vi si t www.ecova c s .com /my

SAMURAI B AT M A N

In a multi-genre mash-up, Batman and samurai meet where feudal Japan collides with cutting-edge technology and Neo Tokyo in spectacular fashion. Designed by Singapore-based XM Studios and their creative partners in collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, the Batman – Samurai Series reimagines DC’s most famous vigilante in samurai-mode.

It is a limited edition, and so only 300 pieces are available worldwide, with physical pieces available starting November at Royal Selangor retail stores.

For m o re i n fo r mat io n, v isit www.royal s e l an g o r.co m

AF R I C AN B E A U T Y Driven by Howard Carter’s 1922 discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb and Isak Dinesen’s account of 1920s life in Kenya, 20th Century Africa held much fascination for art, literature, and adventure. Royal Selangor’s Savannah collection evokes the linens, khakis, and lavish tents of this bygone age, featuring handsome barware and wine accessories.

For m ore i nform at i o n , vis it www. royal sel angor.com

P I LO T P R O J E C T The Malaysian Future Housing Case Studies, a part of the Kuala Lumpur Architecture Festival 2018 (KLAF2018), saw its launch at DC (Damansara City) Mall. The launch of the event was realised by KLAF2018 Royal Patron YAM Tengku Zatashah binti Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and Deputy Minister of Housing and Local Government YBM Senator Dato’ Raja Kamarul Bahrin Shah Raja Ahmad, together with Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia’s (PAM) President Ar. Ezumi Harzani, and KLAF2018 Director Ar. Ang Chee. MY.HSE is a core Pilot Project and Exhibition for KLAF2018 that will showcase efforts to develop and prototype new housing typologies, aimed at addressing the imbalances and inadequacies of current housing solutions and pressing critical issues.

For mo re i n fo r mat io n , v isit www.K LAF2 018 .co m

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Dreams of the Mediterranean

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Aimi R a z a k The worlds of yoga, spiritual wellbeing, and home decor come together with Sisu, the brainchild of Aimi Razak. As a graduate in Industrial Design, Aimi has always wanted to create products incorporating both her passion for yoga and design. She found it hard to find products for healthy lifestyles, and took the change to produce them with stunning graphics without a compromise in quality. The products also needed to be both aesthetically pleasing, with strong purposes.

Take a gander at that blend of passions and check out her latest multipurpose runners that are perfect as both yoga mats or as table runners!

TRENDING

Just off the Anatolian coast in the south of the Aegean sea, Rhodes island is renowned as home to one of the seven wonders of the world, ‘The Colossus of Rhodes’. This simple woven design from the No9 Collection by Jim Thompson is named after the island. Despite being informed by traditional Greek embroidery, it is in fact woven with large floating yarns that are intrinsic to the construction of the fabric, giving the fabric a three-dimensional look. Available in five colours, it is the perfect fit for curtains in any Grecian beachside villa.

Fo r mo re i nform at i on, vi si t www.t at um com pany.com

M A D E I N M A L AYS I A Following up on a successful 33rd Anniversary Campaign in April, Sharp Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (SEM) has launched the Sharp My AQUOS campaign, bringing in more perks and offers to the Malaysian consumer.

The My AQUOS campaign highlights Sharp’s Madein-Malaysia products, particularly their line-up of popular AQUOS LED TVs manufactured at the brand’s Batu Pahat factory in Johor. “Although we are a Japanese brand, we have had a long and successful history in Malaysia since 1974. The continuous loyalty and strong support from Malaysians make us we feel like we are almost a local company, a homegrown Malaysian brand that promotes Made-in- Malaysia products to the world,” said Mr Robert Wu, Managing Director of Sharp Electronics (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.

For mo re i n fo r mat io n , v isit www. s i su sto re.co m

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Fo r mo re i nform at i on, vi si t my.sharp

V RE

IEW

M OV I N G I N T O T H E F U T U R E

At IFA 2018, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced their outline for committing to the development of groundbreaking products and services that will shape the next era of connected living. Samsung showcased how breakthrough technologies that are powered by AI and IoT can bring greater convenience to people’s lives, eliminate complexity to enhance everyday experiences, and offer a level of security that gives peace of mind. “Samsung is uniquely positioned to provide consumers with a full range of cutting-edge AI and IoT products and services based on our wide-ranging portfolio of TVs, displays, audio, home, and of course mobile devices,” said HS Kim, President and CEO of Consumer Electronics Division, Samsung Electronics.

For mo re in fo r mat io n , v isit www.samsu n g .co m/my

SHARP OBJECTS BY GILLIAN F LY N N Fresh from a brief stay at a psych hospital, reporter Camille Preaker faces a troubling assignment: she must return to her tiny hometown to cover the murders of two preteen girls. Dogged by her own demons, she must unravel the psychological puzzle of her own past if she wants to get the story—and survive this homecoming.

Just as you think you have the story figured out, the author flips the script when you least expect, making this psychological thriller a roller coaster ride over and over again. If you love Gone Girl, this should be high on your ‘To-Read’ list. The book is also being adapted into an HBO original starring actress Amy Adams as the unreliable narrator.

WO R K W E L L With humble beginnings in 1905 producing general ledgers, Kokuyo has risen to become a successful listed company and a leading household name in Japan when it comes to designer office furniture and cutting edge stationery. Fast forward to today, over 110 years from inception, Kokuyo embraces the blurred lines between work and well-being. With fluidity and flexibility as a theme for their customisable furniture, users can create and recreate spaces with ease. Experience the brand’s offerings at Menara Suezcap, KL Gateway!

For m o re i n fo r mat io n, v isit www.ko ku yo - fu r n itu re.com 22

text ARIC TING

LEFT Elba Designer Hood PRIMO EHG9325ST(BK)

PRIME SUCTION THE ELBA DESIGNER HOOD P R OV I D E S U LT I M AT E SUCTION P OW E R AND PLENTY OF S T Y L E TO B AC K I T UP!

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Conventional hoods on the market are awkward things that jut out, often times unattractively, from the bottom of your cabinet. Some are even completely exposed, which compounds the problem as their utilitarian construction breaks the aesthetics of any otherwise stylish kitchen. For those unwilling to compromise on looks and are looking for ultimate suction power, Elba has just what you need!

Enter Elba’s Designer Hood PRIMO EH-G9325ST(BK), which puts both functionality and design at the forefront. Don’t let its stylish minimal design fool you, as it is packed full of features that make cooking an absolute pleasure! High suction power allows the hood

to displace 1,400m3 of air per hour, essentially keeping your kitchen fume free!

Control that powerful suction with the hood’s 2-speed Sensor Touch Control, which replaces the conventional push buttons of old with modern touch-based designs. There is also a boost function which ramps up the fan for three minutes, helping combat the fumes of even the heaviest of Asian cooking!

On top of that, thethis model of deisgner hood has a built-in ioniser and charcoal filter which eliminates both contaminants and odours, purifying the air that it takes in and re-releases; this means you can say goodbye to the prospect of a stuffy kitchen. An

text ARIC TING

Air Exchange System also helps ventilate the contaminated air, further improving the air quality within your kitchen. You can also save on electricity with the hood’s Time Delay feature, which automatically switches off the system after three minutes in operation. Turn the 3-minute delay into a game with your family for who can cook a complete dish within the allotted time!

With an attractive minimal design and a host of built-in functions to match, the ELBA Designer Hood PRIMO EHG9325ST(BK) is the ultimate kitchen companion, and certains one you deserve.

For m ore i nform at ion , vis it www.el ba.com .my

Italian-born Calligaris makes it easy for customers to express their personas by offering a wide variety of furniture and accessories, all under the very same roof.

L

overs of Italian design will be pleased to know that they can find a broad range of furniture at Calligaris – both functional and trendy, as well as decorative accessories in a myriad of shapes, colours, materials, and finishings. With Calligaris, it becomes possible to create one’s dream home at a reasonable price; think jewel-coloured upholstery paired with sleek framed gold coffee tables, and accessories to boot.

The brand, which celebrates creativity and individuality, has collaborated with designers both young and established.

Their line-up includes promising names like Valerio Sommella, Aldo Cibic, and Pininfarina. Through these collaborations, the brand has created some of the most trendy, young, fun, and creative designs for their latest CoDe collection, as well as one of their most iconic, and possibly most complicated designs like the Orbital table.

Levante table and Basil chair.

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Italian

at Heart

ABOVE Palm W upholstered stool ABOVE RIGHT Dakota Extendable and Foldable Table RIGHT Omnia Extendable Table and Etoile Chair.

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BELOW LEFT & FAR LEFT Orbital dining table by Pininfarina.

Atollo coffee table.

Jungle CS/4104-RC200 table with ceramic top.

BOTTOM Saint Tropez chairs.

The inspiring story behind Calligaris came to be in 1923, when Antonio Calligaris produced the brand’s first product: the Marocca chair.

Back then, the Italian firm was a small artisan workshop specialising in the production of caned seating. When the 1960’s rolled in, automatic machines were introduced, and the establishment gained the power to produce one cane seat in a matter of minutes! This enabled Calligaris to distribute their products to customers across Italy and Europe through dealers.

The year 1986 saw yet another breakthrough.

Under the helm of Alessandro Calligaris, the company began experimenting with the combination of materials thanks to cutting-edge technologies. In the following years, Calligaris would begin to expand overseas and also start producing upholstered sofas and beds, accessories, and lighting.

The story of Calligaris’ success takes the brand to the present, where over 800 catalogue products are available across 100 countries. Worldwide, and 95 years from their establishment, the brand has 620 sales points and three flagship stores. To this end, the brand celebrates their anniversary with an updated logo and a new website in continued efforts to inspire homeowners in furnishing their spaces – all brought together with a “My Home” booklet.

Selected pieces can even be customised in finishes according to customer preferences!

In collaborating with professional designers, architects, trendsetters, and artisans, Calligaris has provided homeowners with an opportunity to narrate a story within their homes, sealing them with iconic, new, modern-contemporary, intelligent, and exciting designs.

For m ore i nform at i on, vi si t h t t ps : //www. cal l i gari s.com /en_gb/shop/ ku a la - lu m pu r

text NG YI XIANG

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L E AT H E R , L U X U R Y, AND FINE D E TA I L S The smallest details matter; don’t end up in states of agitation over uneven stitching!

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ike art, furniture forms the focal point of your home. That’s why many homeowners opt for only the best pieces of the highest quality, with a focus on the materials used, craftsmanship, and aesthetics that reflect their individual personalities.

Rozel provides these homeowners with a wide selection of Italian-inspired luxury furniture crafted of genuine leather. The brand’s three collections: Rozel Lifestyle, Rozel Signature, and Rozel Gold give homeowners access to exclusive, timeless, and fresh designs, lending seamless and cohesive looks to living, dining, and sleeping spaces with ease.

To that end, the Rozel Signature Collection is a masterclass in indulgence, inviting young entrepreneurs to find solace in their homes with power recliners and adjustable backrests. Even the most finicky of people would appreciate the finer details, evident in the finishing stitches of Rozel sofas upholstered in Federica leather. And thus, homeowners can personalise

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text NG YI XIANG

their homes with a choice of trendy colours: orange, yellow, soft pink, and green. The collection features compact and unique furniture catering to all-practical, minimaliststyle spaces, a perfect fit for both medium-sized homes and high-end condominiums.

Bovine leather sofas are also available from Rozel’s entry-level Lifestyle collection for those with budgetary constraints. These are available from just RM5,000 to RM10,000, with top-ofthe-line Rozel Gold sofas priced above RM20,000. And so, homeowners can look forward to lounging on sofas upholstered in the highest quality aniline leather, held together with perfect seams and stitches.

Furniture is a huge investment; it’s important to choose the right pieces for your home. To find out what’s best for your budget and aesthetic, homeowners are encouraged to drop by Rozel’s showroom to find inspiration in the unique lifestyle setting that looks, and feels like home.

I D E A S A N D I N S P I R AT I O N F R O M T H O S E I N T H E K N O W

WHITE GOLD Making Limoges porcelain is a long process guided by the skilled hands of craftsmen who have mastered rare, centuries-old techniques, and adapted them to the new needs of the industry, ensuring that it is – more than ever – synonymous with prestige and innovation.

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imoges porcelain is famous the world over.

Created 250 years ago, it is unique thanks to its history, quality, creativity and the techniques linked to its production. Located in westcentral France, the city of Limoges itself is at the heart of a land of opulent forests, fresh waters and generous white clay, which are ingredients necessary for making porcelain.

Although porcelain originated in China, its presence in Limoges can be explained by the discovery of a kaolin deposit of stunning purity in 1768. Hundreds of manufactures – such as Bernardaud (today representing 80 per cent of production in Limoges), Haviland and Royal Limoges – were established thereafter, making Limoges a hub of the French porcelain-making industry. It has amassed specific skills and production processes that haven’t stopped evolving, as pastes have become lighter, thinner and stronger.

The singularity of Limoges porcelain lies in the convergence of its unexpected properties, which have traditionally associated

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it with tableware: pure whiteness, delicacy, hardness, durability, translucency, impermeability, crystalline sonority, ease of cleaning, and the ability to withstand extreme temperatures.

Inalterable once fired, it is impervious to air, water, humidity and time. Belonging to the ceramics family of earthenware, stoneware, bone china and terracotta, porcelain is also regarded as the most prestigious of its category.

Labour of love Resulting from the subtle alchemy among various mineral components fired successively at very high temperatures, the realisation of a piece of Limoges porcelain requires nearly 30 steps combining state-ofthe-art techniques and artisanal virtuosity.

Craftsmen draw, shape, enamel, assemble, decorate or inspect by hand, and rely intensely on their senses: sight, touch and hearing. Following the design, the first step in porcelain-making is to create the object in plaster at a scale 14 per cent larger than the actual size of the finished piece, due

to shrinkage during firing.

This model serves to make the master mould, which is used to create mass-production moulds in plaster, resin or polyurethane-coated steel.

Sometimes, multiple moulds are needed for one product; the number can go up to more than 50 for the most complex pieces. The basic recipe for porcelain paste is 50 per cent kaolin, 25 per cent quartz and 25 per cent feldspar. This is diluted in water, then ground, mixed, sifted and filtered. Presented in slab form, it is then transformed into liquid, semi-hard or powder pastes, depending on the manufacturing technique required, such as casting for hollow pieces, calibrating for round and raised pieces, and isostatic pressing for flat pieces.

Once removed from the mould, the object dries for between 12 and 24 hours. Spouts or handles are added by hand,

and fettling involves removing seams that appear where two or more moulds meet, or eliminating imperfections.

Fire away The first firing in a gas-fired kiln takes 24 hours at 980°C to harden and dehydrate the piece. Then, it is hand-dipped precisely and evenly into a glaze to become smooth and shiny, or left unglazed for a matte look known as “bisque”. The second 24-hour firing at 1,400°C vitrifies the paste and glaze.

The challenge is to replicate the original drawing and shades as accurately as possible, as the colours of metallic oxides change during the firing stage, and a deviation of just one degree can mean the difference between success and failure.

Techniques used depend on the type of decoration: lines, fittings and valuable pieces are hand-painted, while silkscreen-

printed decals are used for complex motifs, which are transferred manually to white porcelain. Incrustations using acid engraving or gold relief sometimes adorn bespoke work.

Each object is individually checked for quality; over 25 per cent of pieces are rejected due to stains, cracks, spots of missing glaze or deformations, though some defects can be repaired.

The artisans spend almost onequarter of their time performing quality-control checks, such as tapping a cup lightly to listen to its resonance, so as to ensure that it meets house standards.

It takes one week and over 50 people to complete a teapot, and an additional three to five days for the decoration.

Reign supreme These days, we find original shapes and decorations, designs that are increasingly geometrical, the use of bright colours, the introduction of a new typology of objects (such as lighting, furniture, trinket bowls, perfume diffusers and jewellery), and complex artworks designed by contemporary artists.

All of these are pushing manufacturers to surpass limits of creation, innovation and technical know-how, by questioning a time-honoured material in an original way.

Approximately 1,000 people are employed directly and 1,500 indirectly in the Limoges porcelain industry, a sector in vibrant health that offers jobs in both traditional and hightech domains, with a turnover estimated at more than €80 million (S$127 million). The craft remains attractive to younger generations, as the Limoges area boasts a wide-ranging and complete group of educational institutions – specialised art, design and ceramics schools, research centres such as the

ALTHOUGH PORCELAIN ORIGINATED IN CHINA, ITS PRESENCE IN LIMOGES CAN BE EXPLAINED BY THE DISCOVERY OF A KAOLIN DEPOSIT OF STUNNING PURITY IN 1768.

TOP & RIGHT Pieces from Bernardaud’s Divine Galon and In Bloom collections.

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LEFT The Louvre collection by Bernardaud.

AFPI Limousin, ENSA Limoges, CFA Ceramics Limousin, European Ceramics Centre, as well as scientific and technical organisations dedicated to the promotion of ceramics research – granting access to all levels of training and areas of

Q &A

luxury and international decorative arts scene.

Tell us more about Bernardaud’s legacy in porcelain-making.

Bernardaud was established in 1863 and is still a family business today – I am the fifth generation. I feel very fortunate as I have been able to build on both the legacy of my predecessors and the two-pronged approach that is the company signature: Drawing from the traditions of a heritage craft, we seek to innovate and march to the beat of our own drum. Today, Bernardaud has grown into a major player in the French

What are the greatest challenges of porcelain-making?

Our greatest challenges are innovation (see the latest Balloon Animals made in collaboration with artist Jeff Koons – we wouldn’t have been able to produce that 10 years ago), and entering new markets (ballistics, cosmetics, architecture).

Porcelain, as a material, has so much to offer.

It has never been as beautiful and strong as it is today. However, it is quite difficult to produce as it shrinks during firing, and undergoes many deformations we have to master. We spend a lot of time and energy pushing technical boundaries to meet

W IT H MIC H E L B ER N A R DAU D, C H A IR MA N & C EO OF B E R N A R DAUD

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text Y-JEAN MUN-DELSALLE photos BERNARDAUD

knowledge, from basic trades to experimental research.

Whether a decorator, modeller, designer, physicist, chemist, designer, 3D developer, computer graphics artist or engineer, all porcelain-making professions are taught locally in close connection with the neighbouring ateliers and businesses of the porcelain sector, which provide apprenticeships, ensuring that these ancestral processes have a bright future.

21st-century challenges.

All the ingredients are getting better because all the technologies are also evolving.

Who are the different artists and designers you’ve worked with over the years, and how do they bring a new perspective to porcelain-making?

Bernardaud has always worked with artists and designers. It is completely part of our DNA, and we are very keen on these collaborations because they inspire us to go beyond our comfort zones and bring porcelain to unknown areas.

We have collaborated with Jeff Koons, filmmaker David Lynch, performance artist Marina Abramovic, writer Sophie Calle, photographer JR, and so many more.

PEOPLE

RUGGED AND BEAUTIFUL Founder of Eclectic Moroccan Living Kevin Goldman shares his thoughts on how to keep Moroccan rugs in top condition.

“On a micro level, dirt shreds the fibres of the rug and causes it to degenerate over time. So the longer the dirt is left in the rug, the deeper it becomes embedded, which exponentially increases the damage,” explains Kevin.

He also recommends that homeowners shake out their rugs at least once a week.

Azila Rug

TYPES OF MOROCCAN RUGS: • Many modern interior enthusiasts look to Beni Ourain rugs. In minimalist white or cream colour, this premium rug, made of sheep wool, features elegant stripped-down geometry lines.

• The Azilal, Boujad, and Zemmour rugs are easily recognisable from their unique Berber symbols, bold abstract forms, and tribal designs.

• Boucherouite (pronounced boo-sher-wet) is a type of handloomed rug made from strips and yarn from recycled clothes, wool, cotton, and nylon. Its textured surface, colour, and artistic design makes it a unique piece for the home.

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“Take note of your furniture layout before buying a rug. It’s extremely important to get a rug of the correct size. The trick is to ensure that the rug fits under each of the main furniture pieces you have in a room. It should at least provide coverage for the front legs of both your sofa and single seaters,” says Kevin.

BE LOW Boujad Rug

RIGHT Bread basket range

H&D: How would you work multiple rugs into a single room?

K: There are various ways to incorporate multiple rugs into a room. This includes mixing rugs with different textures and selecting rugs of the same colour family to unify the space. Use a mix of large-scale designs with small prints to vary the patterns incorporated into a room.

You might want to make a statement in your room by putting two vastly different rugs side-byside to create a sense of eclecticism in a room.

ABOVE Boucherouite Rug. RIGHT Moroccan Boucherouite cushions are available in three sizes with prices starting from RM349 to RM599 each.

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H&D: What accessories can we pair them with?

K: Stimulating, inviting, and at times simply majestic, your own Moroccan living room is an expressive oasis of eclectic design, colour, and creativity. Rugs can be complemented by smaller home accents such as pouffes, cushions, baskets, and more. Your living room can look fashionable with other Moroccan overtones like large adorned mirrors and light fixtures. You may also consider smaller decorative items such as straw baskets, ceramic plates, and jars.

H&D: Give us some suggestions for where to place our rugs.

K: Ensure the best environment for a rug by putting it in a place that is dry, without a lot of direct sunlight, not too hot, not too humid, nor too damp. It should not get an excessive amount of daily traffic. Most importantly, ensure that proper cleaning is done.

H&D: How do we keep our Moroccan rugs in top condition?

K: There are two ways that you can keep your rugs in good condition; through preventative care or professional cleaning. It’s important to have your rugs regularly cleaned to prevent dirt from damaging them.

Rug artisans would suggest shaking out the rug frequently as their go-to technique, and this is a large reason why the rugs that they keep in their homes last decades. If this is impractical, you can clean the rug on a weekly basis with a vacuum from side-to-side, not end-toend, with the beater bar set high.

Combining these techniques on a routine basis is ideal.

You can also do a quick Google search to find a lot of advice on DIY rug washing, but it’s best to protect the investment that you made by taking it to a professional cleaner who can dial up the perfect way to wash your rug.

U P C LO S E

1 0 QUE S T IONS WIT H

KELLEY CHENG

The multihyphenate designer-writer-photographer-entrepreneur talks about the things in life that get her going.

1 What gets you out of bed in

the mornings?

I love what I do, so the excitement of a brand new day, of course! No, I’m kidding, I’m totally not a morning person, so I get out of bed only after roughly 10 snoozes on my alarm.

So, if I have to pick one thing - my morning kopi-o from my favourite kopi uncle is a big motivation.

2 What gets you to sleep at night?

I read and meditate to help shut my mind for the day. (Actually it’s whisky, really.)

3 Name one artiste that you like to listen to while you work.

I love jazz, and I often have Chet Baker on repeat. Chet Baker’s trumpet is so sad and his voice is even sadder. And most creative people thrive on melancholia right?

I’m so cliche.

4 Your favourite pet.

When I was four or five years old, my family had two parrots, the only pets we ever had - one flew away and one died. They were really cute when they mimicked our words. When the only parrot left passed away, my mum put it in a plastic bag and we

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brought it downstairs to bury it. I was slightly traumatised by the sight of the dead bird in a red plastic bag.

So that’s not a favourite memory obviously. My imaginary favourite pet is Snoopy, which thinks and acts like a human, and looks so cute.

for themselves. For non-profit organisations, I have done a lot of work for TedxSingapore because it provides a really important platform for designers to share their thoughts with non-designers, and that is close to my heart.

5 Of these four elements (Sky/

8 Describe your personal

Ocean/Mountain/Animal), what inspires you most and why.

Ocean. I’ve always loved water. I started swimming lessons at four years old, and it’s the only sport I have participated in competitively.

So water is both nostalgic and relaxing to me. Nostalgia can often be quite inspiring.

6 Describe your fondest memory as a child…

I was 1st in class academically, from Primary 1 to Primary 6. And every time I got 1st in class, my dad would let me choose whatever present I wanted. Rewards are always good motivation to work hard.

7 Name one cause you will

fight for and why, and which organisations you’ve worked with.

I will fight for animal rights because animals can’t talk and can’t fight photos KELLEY CHENG & SARAH CHOO

design style.

I like to have a bit of poetry and art in my visual creations.

9 What would you like to have as your last meal on earth?

My grandma who has died made the most delicious dumplings.

On Dragon Boat Festival days, my relatives would gather at her place, in anticipation of eating the dumplings. My last meal, which perhaps equates to the last memory I will have – would be those piping hot dumplings.

10 What’s the

last picture you took with your mobile device?

It’s a shot of the beautiful evening in Hangzhou, where I was giving a lecture a few weeks ago.

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PAT T E R N

P LAY

Jungle canopies, ocean waves and everything in between, go on a journey of colours and textures with these themed looks that will surely inspire your own home aesthetic!

1920’s Glamour Adopt the sophisticated look of the 1920’s! Art Deco is defined by the use of textiles in solid jewel colours paired with wallpaper in an assortment of patterns including geometry, fans and scallop designs. Soft velvet brings a dramatic charm to your vanity. Re-create the timeless look by accessorising it with a string of pearls, a glass jewellery box with a gold frame, and a standing mirror featuring an ornate design.

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Ombre Home Pastel Abstract trinket box, from Spotlight.

C&C Milano Camelot Collection, from Tatum Company.

C&C Milano Narciso Collection, from Tatum Company.

Mirror, from Kaison.

Ca s e lio Acapulco Collection Canvas wallpaper, from Jotex Fabrics.

Lizzio Sartorial Collection, Windsor Fabric from Tatum Company.

SILESTONE® CHARCOAL SOAPSTONE SURFACE, FROM COSENTINO

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A Nautical flair Set sail across the ocean with different shades of blue, complemented by hints of white, brown, and sunny yellow for a casual and fun aesthetic. Swap out the classic white and blue stripes of the 1940’s for fabrics with water colour effects to capture the gentle motion of the waves.

1. Bouclair Seaside Boat, Natural (16x16cm), from Spotlight.

2. Karloff Shine 4437 Lagon Fabric, from Jotex Fabrics.

3. Shamrock Craft Chunky Rope, Natural (15mm x 2.1m), from Spotlight.

4. Scentsia Soul of the City hand-poured scented soy candle, from Spotlight.

5. Seaside Ceramic Anchor, white (16x23cm), from Spotlight.

6. Academy Collection, Honey 11 Fabric, from Acacia Fabrics.

WOODLANDS COLLECTION WOOD-LOOK TILE, BLACK, FROM NIRO CERAMICS

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Jungle Fever Immerse yourself in the deep greens of a tropical jungle and the vibrant culture of the local tribes who live within!

Integrate splashes of vibrant colour in traditional motifs and textured foliage and watch as the interior of your home is instantly brightened up.

1. Elitis’ Iméra fabric, from Tatum Company.

2. 54” New Paradise decorative palm leaf stem, from Spotlight.

3. Eijffinger Arlette Collection, Donker Paars Curtains, from Goodrich Global.

4. Orange Bird of Paradise decorative flower, from Spotlight.

5. Lavedo Hasina Purple Fabric, from Spotlight.

MARBLEVO COLLECTION TILE, LEGNO, FROM NIRO CERAMIC

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Pop Art Pay homage to the abstract pop art movement of the 1950’s with the use of accessories in diverse shapes and colours. Channel your inner Andy Warhol to express your artistic personality at home.

1. Brink and Campman Interior XIAN Moonlight rug 78305, from Goodrich Global.

2. Cementous Collection GCU04 Dark Roast tile, from Niro Granite.

3. Ombre Home Pastel Abstract Ball candle, Pink (9cm), from Spotlight.

4. Brink and Campman Interior XIAN Totem rug 78502, from Goodrich Global.

5. Marblevo Collection GME 25 Basso tile, from Niro Granite.

6. Ombre Pastel Abstract Ball candle, Turquoise (9cm), from Spotlight.

7. Brink and Campman Interior XIAN Totem rug 78508, from Goodrich.

8. Camengo Editeur East Village Collection, Kensington 4045 Fabric, from Goodrich Global.

DEKTON OPERA SURFACE, FROM COSENTINO

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Nature at its Best Bring the wonders of nature into your home with a selection of florals, set against a rich, oriental tapestry visualising a crystal clear blue sky on a sunny day.

1. Karloff Happiness 4435 Lagoon Fabrics, from Jotex Fabrics.

2. Jim Thompson Fabrics Blue Flora fabric, from Tatum Company.

3. Hawaii Tropical Cotton Rib curtain, from Spotlight.

LUX 2.0 COLLECTION TILE, CELESTA, FROM NIRO CERAMIC

text ARIC TING & NG YI XIANG photos XXXXX

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F E AT U R E

F LO O R E D BY DESIGN

WOOD A timeless option well-beloved by homeowners the world over, wood has the benefit of being as inconspicuous or as blatant as desired. Adaptable and long-wearing, wood can be used for a multitude of aesthetics, from comfortable rustic chic interiors to light-filled New York-style lofts to measured, modern-contemporary homes.

THEY RAISE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

Pros There’s nothing more comforting than the

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THEY’RE PRONE TO SCRATCHES IF YOU

Cons HAVE PETS

Wood is susceptible to scratching, so the damage from your high heels or the paws of your pets will definitely show up in time.

THE UPFRONT COST IS SIGNIFICANT The price point is a very real consideration in home renovations; be prepared to fork out a hefty sum. Just remember that it’s an investment that’s worth it in the long run.

THEY COME WITH NOISE If you have running children at home, wooden floors might drive you slightly batty with the noise it will emit.

photo DARREN CHANG

The floor: more than merely the foundation upon which all homes are built. Whatever you’re looking for underfoot, it’s an irrefutable fact that your choice will ultimately contribute to the final look of your space. From flashy flooring that draws the eye to a pared-down look to suit cleaner aesthetics – you’ll want to make an informed decision. Here’s what you need to know!

look and feel of natural hardwood at home, and most homeowners agree. Because it is such a long-wearing and beautiful material, the use of wood more than instantly warms a space, and raises the value of your home.

THEY LAST A VERY LONG TIME Wooden floors can last up to a century and longer if properly cared for. This means they’ll need an occasional sweep, vacuum, and wipe-down, and maintenance from time to time.

THEY’RE VERSATILE AND COME WITH OPTIONS Plenty of wood options are available in the market today, from different types of wood to the stain and to the cut. You can even get creative with the laying process, from parquet to herringbone and more.

Cons

THEY’RE DIFFICULT TO REPLACE Buy extra tiles ahead of time, as you may need to replace broken ones over the years.

You don’t want to run the risk of mis-matched tiles. They’re also difficult to replace, being heavy and requiring the use of many materials and tools, so call in the professionals.

THEY COME WITH GROUT-LINE MAINTENANCE If your tiles are pale in colour, the grout between each tile will soon show up stark, a dark brown, as dirt and other things are accumulated within. You’ll need to clean the grout on a semi-regular basis to avoid this.

TILE

Pros

THEY’RE COOLING AND PERFECT FOR HOT ASIAN WEATHER Because tile floors retain the heat and cool very well, they’re perfect for our hot, muggy weather. Just install them indoors and away from the sun, and you’ll have cool floors to walk on all day.

THEY’RE EASY TO MAINTAIN Because most tiles are glazed or coated, they’re easy to clean; simply sweep, vacuum, or mop. And even when they’re not, stains are nothing a good wipe-down won’t fix.

They’re durable Tile floors are moisture resistant and very durable, which means areas with high foot traffic like the living area benefit well from its use.

photo VERNON WONG

The mainstay of many Asian homes, tiles have a way of making a space look remarkably neat and tidy. Because they’re available in many different styles and looks, they’re the perfect option for homeowners who are after easy maintenance, cost-efficiency, and good looks.

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MOSAIC For the homeowner who wants more than just a floor, mosaic provides the perfect solution. The mainstay of historical architectural art, mosaic has long been used to add colour, texture, and art to floors, walls, and even roofs. Today, they’re commonly used to inject vibrancy to a space, and can be an amazing addition to any space.

Pros

CAN BE SLIPPERY Especially true after a clean, mosaic tiles tend towards being slippery when wet. Install antislip mats to keep unecessary accidents from happening if you have elderly and children living at home.

GROUT-MAINTENANCE IS NECESSARY As with any tile, grout maintenance is important to maintain a pristine aesthetic. Give your grout a good clean with a combination of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to get it shiny and white again.

CHIPS AND CRACKS OVER TIME Glass mosaic tiles are susceptible to scratches, which will accumulate over time in your floor.

Additionally, they’ve also been known to crack when heavy items are dropped on the floor, so keep an eye out for chips that can be dangerous for your family.

photo VERNON WONG

Cons

A SIGHT FOR SORE EYES Because they can be arranged in a myriad of ways, mosaic tiles are the perfect solution for homes that need a bit of colour and style. Said tiles can be worked into repeating patterns, or put together to form a bigger design that can well become the centrepiece of any space.

EASY TO CLEAN A little soap and water on a sponge is really all that’s needed to clean your mosaic installation.

They’re also resistant to stains, mould, and mildew, and won’t be subjected to chemical damage.

PERFECT FOR SMALLER SPACES LIKE THE BATHROOM Because they’re so small, mosaic tiles are easily adaptable, and this makes them the perfect fit for smaller spaces like the bathroom, where they will also add a spark of interest and plenty of colour if so desired.

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CONC RETE The darling of the modern industrial aesthetic, concrete screed floors have, in recent years, gained plenty of traction.

While they do indeed look amazing in combination with other materials like wood and patterned peranakan tiles, special care has to be taken, as it is particularly susceptible to moisture damage.

Pros

photo DARREN CHANG

Cons

VERSATILE AND MODERN Often used as part of the well-loved industrial aesthetic, concrete screed floors are also great for contemporary interiors that include high-end tufted chairs, plush sofas, and smooth velvets. Its flexibility as a material means it can easily be incorporated to any aesthetic you so desire.

Durable and easy to maintain Because concrete is strong and sturdy, you’ll find pets and heels don’t dent the surface. All it needs is really just a seal and wax every 3 – 9 months, to retain a protective layer.

WILL LAST YOU DECADES When properly maintained, concrete floor will last you a very long time. To this end, you won’t need to worry about the woes of retiling and such.

MAY SUFFER WATER DAMAGE Because concrete is inherently porous, some concerns arise as to water damage and its effect on your floors. When exposed to water, damp spots might arise, so you’ll want to keep your floors properly sealed.

A HARD FALL TO SUFFER As tough as it is to crack, concrete is a difficult surface to fall on, so you’ll want to be careful when walking so as to avoid injuries.

SUBJECT TO CRACKING When exposed to temperature, moisture, and settling changes, your concrete floor might just crack over time.

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LAMINATE Popular for its attractive price point, which clocks in lower than natural hardwood, laminate floors nonetheless provide the look and feel of wood and tile. Its ease of maintenance and convenient application makes it easy pick and a good substitute for those with smaller budgets.

Cons

EASY TO INSTALL AND REPLACE

Pros Because most laminates come with snaptogether mechanisms, it’s easy to install, and as such make for a good DIY project. At the same time, it’s also possible to replace just one laminate plank if it’s damaged; you won’t need to replace the entire set.

FUSS-FREE MAINTENANCE Easy enough to clean; simply wipe up spills asap to avoid water seeping in, and give it a good sweep and wipe-down every once in a while with a laminate cleaner.

CAN BE INSTALLED OVER EXISTING FLOORING With its lightweight, snap-together configuration, laminate is installed over a foam cushion underlay, so one can do it over existing flooring without first tearing any of it out.

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CAN CHEAPEN THE LOOK OF A HOME Because you can instantly tell when a floor is laminate, its presence in your home might lower the resale value. Invest in good, high-end laminates to combat this.

SUSCEPTIBLE TO WATER DAMAGE No matter what anyone tells you, water damage is always an issue with laminates.

For this purpose, they should not be used in the bathroom or in areas that are frequently wet. Clean up spills immediately.

CAN’T BE RETREATED LIKE WOOD While scratched wood can be given a new coat of paint, laminate needs to be replaced once it is worn out.

MARBLE Every elegant space wears marble well, and for this reason, this natural mountain material is prized around the world. It has long been used in the building of historically opulent palaces; a material option worthy of royals and the upper echelons of society. Modern day marble is infinitely more accessible, and has yet lost none of its charm.

Pros

UNIQUE AND ONE-OF-A-KIND Because marble is a natural rock, each slab comes with distinct different veins, lending to a final look that is one-of-a-kind. This is desirable, especially to those who want their homes to be special and a class above run-of-the-mill apartments.

STYLISH AND EXPENSIVE-LOOKING There’s a certain quality to marble that is perfect for imparting a level of glamour and style to any home. It’s also important to note that any home with marble is significantly improved in terms of resale value.

PLAYS WELL WITH LIGHT For spaces that are narrower at home, marble is ideal as it is slightly translucent; light penetrates the surface to give the material a bit of glow. This in turn reflects back onto the room, giving it a beautiful brilliance that draws the eye.

EXPENSIVE

Cons As a high quality, heavy rock, marble is expensive both to install and replace, and as such, comes with a high price point that many may be reluctant to pay.

PRONE TO STAINING AND WATER DAMAGE Because marble is porous in nature, it is prone to staining. This is especially true with acidic spills such as lemon juice and other fruit, and need to be immediately cleaned up to avoid staining. Apply a sealer and get professionals to polish your floors TO KEEP IT SHINY. RELATIVELY SOFT ROCK Marble is prone to scratches, and as such need regular polishing to keep the scratches from showing. Because it’s also a softer rock, it can crack or dent with time, so keep your floors sealed to protect them from such damage.

text EMMELYN CINDY MAH

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F E AT U R E

A GOOD C U P PA Beyond the world of instant coffee lies wonders untold.

Making coffee can be an intricate process that can sometimes seem an art form; that said, it is not an inaccessible one. To brew an artisanal-grade cup right, all you need are the right instruments!

Storing The first step to a fresh cup of coffee: keeping your coffee beans or grounds sealed tight and fresh in storage. For this purpose, it’s always preferable to buy your coffee beans whole, but if ground is all you can get, just make sure it’s kept in a dry, airtight container.

A I R T I G H T C O N TA I N E R S O R J A R S If disposable bags do not sit well with your conscience, containers and jars will work just as well so long as they are airtight. Opt for those with rubber seals on the caps as opposed to normal twist-capped vessels, as they are more airtight. Do note that if you are using transparent jars and containers, that they need to be placed in dark and cool places such as kitchen cabinets, away from direct sunlight.

C O F F E E B AG S W I T H DEGASSING VA LV E S The quintessential coffee bean goes through oxidation, which strips it of its aroma, acids, and oils, all of which are essential to the flavour of the coffee. To prevent it from going stale in storage, it is important to invest in airtight coffee bags. They are relatively affordable and come with valves that let oxygen out once you seal it, stopping the oxidation cycle. Spring for reusable ones to be a little more environmentally friendly, too!

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Chemex A favourite among the pour-over crowd is the Chemex, an hourglass-shaped carafe with a wood clad neck which looks great on any countertop.

Style aside, it makes pouring absolutely effortless with its all-in-one design that allows for one to both brew and store the coffee in a singular vessel.

French Press Not merely for tea, french presses are a great investment for those in want of quick brews in the morning. In design, it is much like its tea-making counterpart with the exception of finer filter holes.

To use, pour in fresh coffee grounds and let it soak in water for five minutes at the most. Simply press down on the handle and the sediments will be pushed to the bottom, leaving a pot of fresh coffee with which to perform your

Gooseneck Kettle If you are serious about elevating your pour-over coffee experience, a conventional kettle just won’t cut it. Spring for a gooseneck kettle, which differentiates itself with a long, curved, and narrow spout that allows for precise pouring control. The precise flow of water ensures that all of the coffee grounds are evenly soaked, thereby ensuring optimum extraction of flavour.

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Moka Pot

If you are a fan of espresso but aren’t ready to invest in an espresso machine, give the Moka pot a try!

Masters of espresso, the Italians have been using it since the 1930s. Depending on the size, you can easily get up to six dense cups of espresso which you can drink with milk and sugar, or as is. Conventional aluminium Moka pots are more susceptible to staining due to the metal’s porous nature, so go with a stainless steel variant if you can find it.

Estimating and eyeballing the desired amount of coffee grounds can typically get people to a similar end result; however, nothing beats getting the weight of coffee grounds to water ratio right. To this end, a digital scale is important for brewing a consistently good cup of coffee!

Handheld frother

Kitchen scale

Can’t enjoy your morning brew without a bit of dairy? Take that to the next level with a milk frother. The tiny contraption aerates hot milk, creating a foam layer that makes your cup of coffee thick and creamy. Make sure to use cow’s milk as it possesses the necessary fats for frothing.

text ARIC TING Photo SHUTTERSTOCK

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No PA I N all

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GAIN

M Square Creation’s home for a newly married couple is a match made in heaven.

WHO LIVES HERE

A newly married couple A serviced apartment S IZ E 800sqf

H OME

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irsts in life can be thrilling or terrifying events, and truth be told, a milestone like a first home for a freshly minted Mr and Mrs sounds like it could go either way. But newlyweds Carmen and Kah Weng had the wisdom to realise that the best way to put their first home together as a married couple would be to leave it in the hands of professionals, namely M Square Creation, an

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interior design firm based in Petaling Jaya. “We got to know Carmen and Kah Weng through an online service platform last October.

At first, we thought it would result in nothing concrete, but in March, we were surprised by a message from Carmen. She explained that the late delivery of keys to their new apartment was what caused the delay in getting back to us. Our first meet up went very well as both of them are

really considerate and courteous. They conveyed how they imagined their home would be like and we took on our role is to make their dream real, and of course, within the budget,” recalls Chia Mei Mei, interior consultant at M Square Creation who took the lead on the project.

While the approximately 800sqf unit service apartment was not particularly large, the team was still meticulous in the process of planning

the project so that no detail was overlooked.

“When we meet initially with clients, we have discussions to find out what they are actually looking for. The most important thing we ask our clients is what their preferred colours are.

From there, we implement those points into the concept in order to create the final outcome.

For this project, our client mentioned that they preferred a Scandinavian style and a home

OPPOSITE The first impression of this cozy home is one of quiet restfulness

ABOVE A white and pastel colour palette was used to create a soothing atmosphere.

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Despite the limited space, a walk-in wardrobe was created.

which was practical. Based on their preferred light-toned palette, we managed to create a final outcome that would satisfy Carmen and Kah Weng,” enthuses Mei Mei. As the clients were concerned about maintenance and detailing, the designers chose trusted surface finishing from Admiral, which is anti bacterial and easy to take care of for the build-in joinery. Also, because the overall mood veered towards light tones, the designers applied similar colour edgings to all custom-made cabinets to create seamless edges, as to them details are what create perfection. In keeping with this dedication to details, the designers added other thoughtful features; this included the creation of extra hidden storage inside the master bedroom, and a walk-in wardrobe in the guest room to provide sufficient storage. Additionally, the wallpaper chosen for the feature walls against the master bedroom bedhead and living area tv console are so well incorporated that they can only be noticed upon close inspection. Apart from that, all the lighting fixtures come with two years of warranty to

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Pale wood and white create a modern Scandinavian mood.

The desk was built in at an angle to save on space.

A small but well-equipped kitchen is perfect for a newly married couple.

ABOVE The designers managed to allocate space for different functions with good space planning.

ensure that the couple would live a stress-free life, and instead focus on enjoying their home.

To ensure the apartment would be haven which the couple could look forward to retreating to, the designer created an overall colour mood which was warm, yet understated. The designers also left the selection of loose furniture to the lady of the home as they discovered with great delight that she had an innate talent for the task. “It is undeniable that Carmen is really good on this. She has good taste in decor item selections and generously shared her finds with us. In fact, we were so impressed that we told her she could do this as a part time job for our firm if she had the time,“ laughs Mei Mei. Most fairy tales end with “and they lived happily ever after”, and it would seem that this journey, which

went so smoothly for both designer and client, deserved the clichéd happy ending. It is indeed a reality, as the results have realised and exceeded the homeowners’ expectations. In fact, according to Mei Mei, the handover date was only very slightly delayed and that was because the building management froze any building works over the unexpected holidays declared after the recent general elections, leading to the builders’ inability to access the site. In our hyper-connected age of social media, it only seems official if it happens on the ‘gram and the client has since generously posted a warmly sincere post thanking the designers, which left no doubt that the whole process was enjoyable, and that the designers have created the home of their dreams.

text JENNIFER CHOO photography LAWRENCE CHOO

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Teresa Sapey’s home is a designer masterpiece bathed in light and bold strokes of white.

Teresa’s dining table and chairs are from Heirloom, complemented by a Murano ceiling lamp overhead.

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eresa Sapey, an Italian architect and designer based in Madrid, has had a career designing for luxury clients spanning over 25 years. Chief among them are brands such as Bulgari, Citroen and Disney, and she has been conferred awards by Architectural Digest, Wallpaper and Elle, to name a few.

The Spanish city she calls home is also where the majority of Teresa’s works are sited,

Casa Teresa Sapey was a house that Teresa rented and completely refurbished and decorated according to the way she wanted it.

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including her very own home, Casa Teresa Sapey.

Located in Los Jeronimos, one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in the capital, Teresa’s abode is a microcosm of her world. The walls, floors and spaces are conceived as a white canvas upon which she can create her masterpiece.

“I own a lot of family furniture and furniture designed by me. I also have a

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A Charles and Ray Eames lounge chair blends in with the white palette. A digital work by the homeowner herself sums up what her house means to her.

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collection of contemporary art, as well as paintings. I wanted to bring them together inside a white container where I can display them, but at the same time, I wanted it to be a place where I can feel relaxed,�

Teresa explains.

The 1,615sqf apartment occupies the top floor of a five-storey block facing Retiro Park. The spacious living room enjoys stunning views overlooking the park and there is a distinct gallery feel to it. The walls, floors, ceilings and even furniture are almost entirely white.

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Against this white backdrop is a composition comprising modern and antique furniture in a mix of styles and colours.

The original guest roomcum-study was converted into a dining room. This is, again, an eclectic showcase of furniture and art pieces from different periods, enveloped within a stark white enclosure.

Teresa personalised the kitchen with a horizontal band of bright yellow that sweeps across the kitchen worktop and continues vertically up the wall directly behind it. “The kitchen is characterised by practicality,

The kitchen is personalised with a striking yellow band on the counter and wall, as well as with wallpaper on the ceiling.

OPPOSITE The living room is where contemporary pieces such as the Hands dining table and modular sofa by the designer herself are juxtaposed against heritage furniture such as the wooden console.

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The vibrant colours of the Joan Miro lithographs and Adam Head stools for Vondom

by Teresa Sapey stand out against the white canvas.

The Flexo Tolomeo lamp is designed

by Michele De Lucchi and Giancarlo Fassina for Artemide.

OPPOSITE The entrance to the main bedroom is furnished with an Egg seat from Arne Jacobsen, a La Boheme stool from Kartell designed by Philippe Starck, an Artemide lamp and Teresa’s own Hands lamp.

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functionality and warm colours,” says Teresa. “And as with all good Italians, Illy coffee and De Cecco pasta,” she adds.

The main bedroom was designed to be more private and intimate. This is expressed through the use of another palette of colours, materials and furniture. The floor, up until then white, was carpeted in a colourful rug designed by Teresa, which continues into the bathroom. This reversal is accentuated by the white bed, bed linen and headboard that play up the contrast with the rest of the vibrant furniture, objects and art in the bedroom.

Teresa reveals that the design of her home is somewhat different from the rest of her projects. “My house is for me, myself and I. It is my planet where I disconnect and where I keep my memories.”

W HER E TO GO Teresa Sapey A rc h itec t u re St udi o, www.teres a s a pey.com

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This futuristic-looking home is a colossal sculpture that houses generous spaces and elements inspired by fengshui principles.

LIVING

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The two interlocking circular pavilions, each with an internal courtyard atrium in the middle, emphasises the eight-form of the home, and draws light into it.

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LEFT MDL managing director Massimo considers Villa Otto the best example of MDL’s “integrative philosophy”, where everything “forms an integrated whole, a single experience, to communicate one driving idea”.

WHO LIVES HERE

A local family A Good Class Bungalow S IZE 30,192sqf (land area); 27,404sqf (gross floor area)

HOME

D

esigned by foreign firm Mercurio Design Lab S.r.l. (MDL), with project architect A.M. Architects, Villa Otto is the latest in a series of award-winning bungalows that the Italian studio has designed for the same client. As such, the client had complete trust in the team’s ability in coming up with yet another unique design.

“The owner’s brief focused on the number and size of rooms that he and his family needed. He left the style, massing and organisation to

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TWO SKYLIGHTS COMBINED WITH WATER FEATURES WERE EXPLICITLY INSPIRED BY FENGSHUI. THEY SYMBOLISE THE COLLECTION OF RAIN WATER INTO THE HOME, WHICH IS ASSOCIATED WITH PROSPERITY.

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ABOVE Visitors arrive under a porte-cochere, cross over a footbridge and enter a portal space whose focal point is a 2m semi-spherical bowl sculpture called Vase Otto. The light illuminating it directly from above creates a stunning effect.

TOP RIGHT The futuristic character of this room reinforces the home’s architectural language.

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RIGHT To get to the basement, you approach from the underground carpark and enter the basement lounge through a travertine corridor. The cruciform plan houses spaces for entertaining, such as a karaoke room, bar, wine cellar and home theatre. It is also where the spa and sauna are located.

“ OT TO ” MEAN S EIGHT IN ITALIAN , A N UMBER T HAT IS ASSOCIAT ED WITH PROSPERITY IN CHIN ESE CULT URE . us,” says Massimo Mercurio, managing director of MDL. The homeowner is particular about fengshui and other auspicious symbolisms, which inspired the way everything was designed in his home. “Otto” means eight in Italian, a number that is associated with prosperity in Chinese culture, and the basic massing of the home is also in the configuration of a giant figure eight. The home is sited against a forest backdrop, which reinforces the fengshui principle of stability.

The bold architecture, with its dynamic curvilinear form and stainless steel cladding, gives the home a sculptural presence that elevates it to the realm of art. The adventurous massing also led Massimo into making some bold choices about the materials and the construction system.

He believes that the interior concept of a home should strongly connect to, and complement the architecture.

He draws an analogy with music: “The composition of spaces is a unique piece of

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music that moves as a melody from the outside massing to the interiors. This must be done within the same score and with a common vision, although it may use different tempos in the various movements.”

Massimo considers Villa Otto to be the epitome of MDL’s design philosophy. “Its futuristic design is a glance into the future, and we hope that it will become an icon for a new generation of designers,” he concludes.

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LEFT The home has an equally dynamic elevation to complement the dynamic plan. The transparency of the facade and outward thrusting walls and canopies give the impression of a flying saucer about to land or take off.

LEFT, BELOW The outdoor areas reinforce the curvaceous forms of the home.

RIGHT The joinery, light fixtures, wash basins – right down to the figureeight panel on the door – all mirror the design concept.

RIGHT, BELOW The bedrooms are massive, with the master bedroom occupying about 5,382sqf.

The opulent size “celebrates the privacy of personal space as a kind of luxury”. Despite that, the rooms are largely straight, with the bedrooms having just one curved wall.

photos MERCURIO DESIGN LAB

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Classic touches, an improved layout and pops of colour add vitality to this elegant holiday pad for Silvia Kurniady and family.

A

TOUCH OF REFINEMENT

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Shapes, colours and textures jazz up the living area.

Eddy unified these details with a colour palette of grey, blue and yellow.

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W

hen Indonesian businesswoman Silvia Kurniady needed an interior designer for her family’s holiday home in Singapore, she didn’t have to look hard to find someone she could trust: Eddy Kuswandi, design director of Enoch ID, happens to be a long-time friend of hers.

As Silvia and her family spend most of their time in Indonesia, she left the project to Eddy.

He knew Silvia’s likes and dislikes well, and though the space presented several challenges, he was able to conceptualise and confirm the design concept within three weeks. “What was most challenging was the layout. The balcony was spacious, but it was elongated. There was little space in the living and dining areas to fit in the furniture,” he recalls. “Also, the closed-up kitchen made the space very dark.”

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BOTTOM LEFT Metallic finishes, such as this customised wallcovering, imbue a sense of luxury.

BOTTOM RIGHT The furnishings boast unique details that are bound to spark curiosity and interest.

WHO LIVES HERE

An Indonesian family of four Four-bedroom apartment

HOME

SI Z E

1,302sqf

Silvia and her family visit Singapore regularly, and this apartment serves as their holiday home.

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OPPOSITE One bedroom features porcelain blue and white wallcovering, complemented by furnishings in muted colours. Eddy also designed a pull-out bed so that more family members could sleep over.

ABOVE LEFT It may look like an art piece, but this wall feature also hides the television when it is not in use. The glass door below was customised to look like fan-shaped metal grilles. The fan motif is seen on other artworks throughout the home as well.

ABOVE RIGHT The combination of patterned walls, a statement mirror, and a stylish dark wood console results in a luxurious and welcoming foyer.

To overcome these issues, he levelled the balcony floor with the living area to combine the two spaces. Now, they could accommodate plush armchairs, a sofa and a dining set. The area becomes one large space, seamless in style and perfect for entertaining. Opening up the kitchen and shifting its entrance also allows more natural light to flow in. One of the standout design ideas here is the faux fireplace. A sliding door to the bedrooms and a wall feature flank the fireplace, creating symmetry in the living area.

Carefully placed classic details and patterns imbue elegance throughout the home. Injections of blue and yellow – Silvia’s favourite colours – add a sense of youthful zest. Eddy also ensured that the different design elements tied in with one another. “The artworks have fan details to match the other areas of the home, such as the glass door at the faux fireplace in the living area.

The blue and yellow in the artworks echo those in the furnishings,” he explains.

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Meticulous thought went into the choice of furnishings.

The clear coffee table, which sits in the centre of the living area, helps make the living room feel more spacious.

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OPPOSITE A slim bed frame dressed in textured fabric enhances the elegance of the master bedroom.

ABOVE Splashes of blue brighten up the neutral colours in the master bedroom.

Here, too, there is a focus on symmetry with the use of mouldings and matching furnishings.

LEFT “For the guest room, we wanted to create a calm and relaxed environment,� Eddy says, explaining the use of khaki, beige and grey.

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For the master bedroom, he picked out darker shades of the palette to give it a more restful ambience for sleep. To create a larger space, he merged it with an adjacent bedroom.

“During the design process, Eddy told me not to visit, and that it would be a surprise for me,” says Silvia. “I was very surprised indeed! He had prepared everything for me, even down to small items like the laundry detergent and noodles,” she says. “The style is totally different from my home back in Indonesia. What I like most is the warm, cosy and unique feel.”

text ROSSARA JAMIL photography VERONICA TAY art direction NONIE CHEN

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When it comes to this apartment home belonging to a young couple, a practical yet bold and modern aesthetic serves as the perfect canvas for showcasing art and statement pieces.

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LEFT Strategic lighting is essential in bringing out the textures, especially when working with a dark palette.

BELOW The owners picked out the Tracks coffee table by Folks, which they purchased from Grafunkt. The multi-layered table is a great conversation starter.

OPPOSITE Large windows bring natural light into the home.

From the King Living sofa to the walls, shades of grey let colourful artworks pop.

WHO LIVES HERE

A couple in their 30s HOME Four-room apartment S IZE 1,000sqf

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ocated close to the bustling city, this four room flat has a bird’s eye view of the surrounding cityscape. The unit is home to two young professionals, a couple who share a love for art and design. When they received their keys, the owners already had an idea of what they wanted for their home: a modern space with textures and dark finishes.

In their search for an interior designer, they got to know Joey Khu, who helms his eponymous interior design studio. Say the homeowners: “One of the main things we wanted was an open-concept kitchen with a long table, as long as it’s possible.”

The layout and limited floor area of 1,000 sqf, however, presented several challenges.

The kitchen was also initially enclosed. Joey knocked down the walls, which allowed 96

him to fit in a bar counter and a six-seater dining table connected to the counter. He then reconfigured the layout to accommodate storage solutions close to the entrance, as well as create a cosy living area. A partition holds the television and hides the living area away from the main entrance.

The couple shared with Joey their preference for dark finishes, but they were concerned that the home might appear small. “I love dark colours too, and my projects do use them as well. What I do is make the first visit to my client’s place before finalising the materials. Their unit is quite bright, so dark colours are possible,” Joey shares.

He proposed finishes in smoky hues, including grey marble flooring and laminates in shades of grey for the living area. The palette continues

With the kitchen opened up, Joey was able to accommodate a dining table for six. The table was customised and then matched with Zartan Eco Stacking chairs from Xtra.

OPPOSITE TOP LEFT This space houses several artworks sourced from around the world, including Poland and the US. The Jottergoods Rivet side table is from Made & Make and the Cassina LC1 armchair from Dream.

OPPOSITE TOP RIGHT The television console in the living area is customised to fit the dimensions of the television wall, and its look gels with the modern interior.

OPPOSITE The stone-tiled backsplash from Hafary complements the rest of the home beautifully.

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TOP LEFT The master bathroom is decked out in dark brown finishes, evoking a soothing and sensual atmosphere.

RIGHT Another room is furnished with storage solutions in grey, with injections of turquoise. Niches and storage cabinets of various sizes bring visual interest to this space.

OPPOSITE The customised master bedroom features laminated panels built with lighting in mind.

The slim hanging lights are from Verde Light.

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into the bedroom and bathrooms. He stained the original wood flooring in the master bedroom a darker brown to match the dark panelling flanking the padded headboard. One bedroom, converted into a study, features a full wall of storage units in grey. These not only store books, but also serve as additional wardrobe space.

Joey conceptualised a space that mixes customised solutions and statement furnishings. The couple also indulged in their passion for art and design in their selection of artworks, furniture and accessories. Peppered throughout the home, the pieces bring colour and dynamism to a home with dark finishes.

“The owners are particular about the materials and details,” Joey says. “What I loved was that they gave me a lot of freedom to make decisions on how to combine the finishes and conceptualise the feature walls and bathrooms.” The home, with its unique mix of details, is an intimate abode perfect for enjoying the city lights.

text ROSSARA JAMIL photography VERNON WONG art direction NONIE CHEN

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T R AV E L

TEXTURES AND TERRAINS Experience the wonders of the world and all that nature has to offer, across terrains at these four amazing hotels.

From mountainous regions to snowcapped splendor and sandy deserts, new marvels lie ahead!

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M O U N TA I N S

B E L L E V U E H OT E L & S PA - C O G N E , I TA LY The least populated region in Italy, Valle d’Aosta is in no want of peace and serenity.

There’s plenty to see and do at Bellevue Hotel & Spa, especially during summer and winter seasons. If you’ve dreamt of snow-capped alpine summits, green pastures, and stone-roofed villages, look no further than Cogne in Valle d’Aosta.

Hole up in one of Bellevue Hotel & Spa’s 39 rooms, or in one of their three chalets; the hotel offers spectacular views of the Gran Paradiso glacier, which one might enjoy surrounded in cosy and classy interiors.

Once enough rest has been had, guests can look to various experiences and activities: spa treatments to rejuvenate the body and amazing food and wine for nourishing the soul.

The hotel is equipped with wine and cheese cellars and a kitchen photos MICHELE DE VITA

garden, housing over 2,000 wine labels and aged Alpine and Parma cheese. Only the freshest of vegetables and herbs are harvested by the cooks; this means a meal at Bellevue is a meal to savour indeed.

Live the dream by taking a page out of the Swiss classic, Heidi. You can even bring home a piece of Italy: perfumes, teas, pewter products, bedspreads, bags made from aged leather, hats, and traditional alpine handicrafts are available from the hotel’s very own boutique, Le Marché aux Puces.

Keep your eyes peeled for speci al of fers ! For m ore i nform at i on v is it , www. hotel bel l evue. it /en /

C AV E S

H E Z E N C AV E H OT E L , TURKEY This is one cave we wouldn’t mind staying in forever.

The natural cave bedrooms in Hezen Cave Hotel possess warm and welcoming charms.

It’s almost impossible to not curl up on a sofa and soak in the cosy and intimate atmosphere in private. Orangetinted lights gently bathe the rooms in a warm glow, complementing the eclectic style of the interior.

While it may be tempting to lounge all day in the bedroom, guests should indeed head over to the hotel’s terrace to enjoy magnificent views of the Ortahisar castle and old cave houses. There is also plenty to do if you’re up for some exploration.

The hotel itself is located in Cappadocia, a hub for history buffs with a thirst for knowledge. Guests can visit and explore the grounds of historical sites, and experience local culture and architecture.

An open-air museum of monasteries and churches, the National Gerome is also worth a visit, alongside the Ihlara Valley and the underground cities of Derinkuyu. Those well-versed in horseback riding can do so across valleys; a delightful alternative lies in a hot-air balloon ride across the beautiful landscapes.

High-quality handcrafts are also available, and those looking to mark their trip with souvenirs can easily take home fine pottery, jewellery, and handmade carpets.

Guests who have explored their fill can enjoy baths in a ground-heated marble PHOTOS HEZEN HOTEL

shower, or a Turkish Hamamstyle bathroom overlooking common gardens. Custommade toiletries complete the experience.

For m ore i nform at ion , vis it www.hezenho tel.com /

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photo PAULINA HOLMGREN photo CHRISTOPHER HAUSER

photo ASAF KLIGER photo ASAF KLIGER

and as such remains intact throughout the year.

Hotel guests can enjoy a number of activities in the summer, where the nights are as bright as day. Canoeing, river rafting, fishing, or boat tours are available at the Torne River, the last of which ends with a comforting cup of coffee in wooden drinkware, made and enjoyed over an open fire at the riverbank.

The seasons of Spring and Fall are also enjoyable at ICEHOTEL, with the magnificent Northern lights creeping into the skies. Guests

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Chandelier at the main hall.

ICEBAR Unique by Sofi Ruotsalainen, Mikael Nille Nilsson & Viktor Tsarski.

can enjoy these sights in a forest camp, away from the distractions of artificial life; they can also learn about local spa traditions and culture with the Jukkasjärvi Sauna Ritual and a five-day Sami Wildlife and Nature Photo trip.

Be sure to check out the list of activities, which differ by season, and look to midnight sun tours in the summer and year-round ice sculpting classes if you’re interested!

For m ore i nform at ion , www. i cehotel .com

MAIN HALL SECRET GARDEN by Alessandro Falca & AnnaSofia Mååg

BELOW Art Suite Cumulus.

Designed by Annakatrin Kraus & Hans Aescht.

Art Suite White Desert designed

by Timsam Harding & Fabián Jacquet Casado

I C E A N D S N OW

A palace fit for the Ice Queen.

Warm up with a round of champagne at the ice bar, meet new friends, visit the ice church, or gallery, then turn in for the night by snuggling up against soft and warm fur throws. Sweden’s ICEHOTEL features cold and warm rooms and chalets; the latest addition to the hotel, ICEHOTEL 365 allows guests a choice of art, and other luxury suites.

There’s always something new to see for repeated guests as the hotel exhibits different art sculptures on a yearly basis.

These sculptures of ice and snow are made by artists from all over the world. Visitors can also lay down their concerns for the hotel; far from melting away into the Torne River, where the hotel sources its ice, ICEHOTEL 365 is built on a former refridgeration plant, 102

photo ASAF KLIGER

ICEHOTEL, SWEDEN

DESERT

QASR AL SARAB DESERT R E S O R T BY A N A N TA R A , U N I T E D A R A B E M I R AT E S Beautiful sunsets and warm fine sand beneath your feet make for a memorable holiday.

Make your way across the Rub’ al Khali, the largest unbroken stretch of sand in the world, in your preferred mode of transportation. Race off, dune bashing at top speed or go on in a leisurely pace with a camel.

The Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort is the perfect picture of a quiet, peaceful and serene retreat, topped off with a spa treatment evoking ancient hammam rituals. Guests can spend a romantic evening watching the sunset from the plunge pool in private villas, and dine under skies dotted with twinkling stars.

The resort offers a selection of rooms, suites, and villas to accommodate all needs and preferences. In the privacy of their pool villas, guests can soak up the sun on a deck, enjoying the amazing views of the desert while attended by a personal villa host to boot. The resort further personalises all guest experiences with a soap and pillow menu.

Look forward to lounging like royalty on daybeds, absorbing the immense richness of embroidered fabrics and Bedouin accents incorporated into the interiors of each villa. Music lovers will be pleased to know that the spaces are equipped with Bose Bluetooth speakers for the ultimate audiophile experience on holiday.

For mo re i n fo r mat io n, v isit www. a n a n t ara.co m/e n /q asr - al- sarab - ab u dh a bi/

text NG YI XIANG photos QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA

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H O M E I M P R OV E M E N T

COVER YOUR WINDOWS

The right window treatments ensure that you get the right balance of style and functionality. Here is what to consider.

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1.

PR I VACY No one likes a peeping tom or the feeling of living in an aquarium, so when you’re in the search for window treatments, it is important to consider how much it blocks the inside of your home from the outside world. Treatments like wooden shutters and curtains with black-out linings give you the best bet at privacy. Layer it with inner drapes or sheers so you can pull back the mains to let in natural light when privacy is not needed.

2.

L I GHT What is the point of windows if you don’t let in the light? When it comes to choosing the right window treatment, make sure your choice offers you the

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flexibility to adjust how much light you want. Blinds, either horizontal or vertical are great in this regard as you can open them to varying degrees, allowing for fine control of how much light you end up letting in. Fabric shades are also a good alternative as they still let in a small amount of light even when closed.

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3.

F U N C T ION A LIT Y Every room in your home, despite being under the same roof, requires unique levels of natural light and privacy. The living room, for example, where your entertainment system lives,

can be affected by strong solar glare, so thick curtains with black-out lining is in order. However, If you intend for a room to be your home office or a space for artistic endeavours such as painting, sculpting, crafts, or sewing, natural light is essential. You’ll want window treatments like sheer curtains or roller blinds that allow for more illumination.

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with the overall aesthetic of the space. It is not only the look, but also the type of treatment that might or might not work. For example, vertical blinds would not look appropriate for a vintageinspired aesthetic, and grand heavy curtains do not work with a minimalist interior.

Consult a certified interior designer so as to avoid making a mistake that you’ll have to live with in the long run.

4.

RO O M D ECO R Functionality aside, no one wants a window treatment that looks out of place in relation to the rest of the room. So, it’s essential that you find ones that match

5.

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text ARIC TING photos SHUTTERSTOCK

E NE RGY CO NSI D E RATIONS Beyond looks and practicality, there is the environment to consider, even when it comes to something like your window treatment. How well a treatment insulates heat or keeps out light ties intimately to your energy consumption.

For the tropical heat, one might consider a window treatment with an insulating layer to keep the heat out to diminish the need for air conditioning. For rooms with smaller windows, use sheer curtains if privacy is not a concern to maximise natural sunlight and minimise the use of artificial light.

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FEAST

FEAST WITH

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL Central to desserts in the modern world: coffee and chocolate, both in posession of bold and robust flavours and aromas, make the perfect partners. We celebrate World Coffee Day with four amazing recipes from Chef Adrian Gan of Shangri-La Hotel.

ABOUT CHEF ADRIAN GAN With numerous accomplishments spanning the world – Switzerland, Austria, Dubai, Beijing, and Hong Kong to name a few, Chef Adrian Gan has more than made his mark in the pastry world.

Having served in multiple big-name organisations such as Hyatt Regency, LeMeridien, and Emirates Airlines to name a few, he is currently Executive Pastry Chef at Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

His beautiful treats are a sight to behold, touching on sensory experiences beyond mere taste – artforms to please both the eye and the creative mind.

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The Perfect Marriage From mochas to the more conventional combination of lattes and cake, the marriage between chocolate and coffee is one long-acknowledged to be sheer perfection. Simple enough, and yet quintessential to every childhood experience – milo and nescafe, cocoa and instant coffee, it is warming and hearty through and through and the perfect balm for any dreary day. The reasoning for this is simple enough: both coffee and chocolate possess strong, bold flavours, and as such stand up to one another without one cancelling out the others’ taste and smell.

CACAO EN ROUGE For dark chocolate mousse • 750 g Dark Chocolate Couverture • 400 g Cream, liquid • 28 g Gelatine • 8 4g Water for gelatine • 1.5 kg Cream, semi whipped For chocolate fudge cake • 2 kg Unsalted Butter • 5.2 kg Sugar • 3.5 kg Egg • 3 kg Cake Flour • 40 g Soda Bicarbonate • 75 g Baking Powder • 750 g Cocoa Powder For raspberry jelly • 900 g Raspberry Puree • 100 g Lemon Puree • 150 g Sugar • 30 g Gelatine • 90 g Water for gelatine For red cacao spray • 100 g Cocoa Butter • 100 g White Chocolate •8g Red Food Colouring, powder.

METHOD

1. Make dark chocolate mousse: Warm liquid cream and pour over dark chocolate.

Dissolve gelatine and add into the chocolate mixture while still hot. Mix, then set aside to cool.

2. Make chocolate fudge cake: Sieve together cocoa powder, baking soda, and baking powder. Beat butter and sugar together until fluffy, adding eggs gradually. Add sifted flour and continue to beat. Pour into a low cake tray and bake at 170°C until a cake tester comes out clean.

3. Make raspberry jelly: Dissolve gelatine in water. Double boil to melt the gelatine. In a separate pot, bring raspberry and lemon

puree to boil with sugar, then lower the heat and simmer for about five minutes. Remove from heat and add gelatine. Pour onto a flat tray and freeze for about three to four hours.

4. Make red cacao spray: Melt cocoa powder and white chocolate separately in the microwave. Combine using hand mixer and blend in red food colouring. Store at 35°C. 5. To assemble: Cut raspberry jelly and fudge cake into rectangles. Pour mousse into desired dessert mould and place raspberry jelly and cake in mousse before freezing.

Once frozen, unmould and spray with cacao butter, and finish with a dusting of coffee powder.

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In All Shapes And Forms In recent days and with an upsurge in quality desserts and coffee, the door to new, unique applications for both ingredients remains open to those who would tread creatively. Incorporating both flavours into a singular dessert takes a special, measured hand and a dash of curiousity. Consider different ways to add the flavour; coffee comes as instant granules, or as espressos, or as actual grond beans, while chocolate can come in couverture or powder form.

A fun way to layer on the flavours is by adding different textures; a chocolate cake, for example, can be tempered with coffee-flavoured liqueur or flavoured cream whipped to soft, foamy peaks. One might even switch things around by making a coffee-flavoured cake, and topping it with a silky chocolate ganache!

MAGNITUDE

tips When it comes to desserts that require assembly, you can play around with your creativity to layer on each element!

Use a ring mould if chocolate cups aren’t available, and chill before unmoulding.

For pistachio chocolate mousse • 600 g White Chocolate Couverture • 400 g Cream • 27 g Gelatine • 81 g Water, for gelatine • 1000 g Cream, semi whipped • 200g Chocolate-based pistachio paste • 12 white chocolate cups For raspberry ‘pate de fruit’ • 950 g Raspberry Puree • 50 g Lemon Puree • 24 g Yellow Pectin • 100 g + 900 g Sugar • 150 g Glucose Syrup • 5g Tartaric Acid • 15 g Water For honey castella • 350 gm Egg, room temperature • 250 gm Sugar, divide to 3 parts • 60 gm Milk, warm with honey • 80 gm Honey • 200 gm Bread Flour For coffee feuilletine • 200 g Feuilletine Flakes • 10 g Coffee Powder • 180 g Milk Chocolate • Zest of a lemon

METHOD

1. Make pistachio chocolate mousse: Warm cream and pour over white chocolate. Dissolve gelatine and add into the chocolate mixture while still hot. Once cooled, fold in semiwhipped cream and melted pistachio paste.

2. Make raspberry ‘pate de fruit’: Warm fruit purees. Combine pectin with 100g of sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the rest of the sugar and the glucose, cooking until it reaches 105°C. Dissolve tartaric acid powder in water, then add to boiling mixture.

Pour into a flat container and allow to set before cutting into cubes.

3. Make honey castella: Preheat oven to 175°C. Beat eggs in a stand mixer, adding sugar in three parts over ten minutes. In a separate bowl, combine milk and honey, then bring to a lukewarm temperature until the honey melts. Sift bread flour and set aside.

Add half the milk mixture to the the

egg mixture, and then half of the bread flour, and beat to combine. Repeat until all the milk and flour is used up.

Bake for ten minutes in mould.

4. Make coffee feuiletine: Melt chocolate with coffee powder. Add lemon zest and feuilletine flakes. Mix well, then roll to form balls.

5. To assemble: Cut the honey castella into small cubes and arrange in the bottom of chocolate cups to form bases. Pipe in pistachio mousse until the cups are filled halfway. Fill the centres with ‘pate de fruits’ and coffee feuilletine. Continue piping to fill, then garnish with chocolate, fruit, and edible flowers.

Picker Upper Did you know: Research has shown that the combination of coffee and chocolate can help to improve focus and cognitive performance.

This means that afternoon cup of mocha could very well be helping you work more effectively and increase productivity! That aside – dark chocolate is known to have good antioxidant effects, and coffee is said to lower your risk of type 2 diabetes, Alzheimers, and depression. The kicker: they’re also both immensely delicious.

Miracle Garden For coffee chantilly • 50 g Cream Cheese • 50 g Sugar • 250 g Cream • 50 g Icing Sugar • One Vanilla Bean • 20 g Coffee Powder • 50 g Milk For panini sponge • 120 g Egg Whites • 160 g Sugar • 80 g Egg Yolks, beaten

• 90 g Cake Flour • 10 g Vanilla paste

METHOD

1. Make coffee chantilly: Dissolve coffee powder in hot milk. Using an electric hand mixer, whisk together cream cheese and sugar. Add cream and icing sugar. Cut vanilla bean in half and scrape out the seeds, adding them to the mixture. Continue to whip until set, then fold in dissolved coffee and milk.

2. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Using an

automatic hand mixer, whisk together egg whites, vanilla paste, and sugar until you get a stiff meringue. Fold in egg yolks and cake flour. Spread over a flat cake tray and bake for about eight to ten minutes. Remove from the oven and toast using a panini machine for about two minutes, until the edges crisp up.

3. To assemble: Pipe coffee chantilly between two panini sponges. Decorate with berries and edible flowers before serving.

Creative Combinations It comes as no surprise that the combination of two powerhouses – coffee and chocolate – can be difficult to match with other flavours, but with some experimentation, clear options reveal themselves. Citrus fruit in particular pair well with chocolate, but also with lighter roasts, while nuts of any kind make perfect partners with both.

Pendant of Arabica For coffee infused apricots • 100 g Dried Apricots, chopped • 100 g Arabica Espresso • 200 g Hot Water • 70 g Sugar • One Cinnamon Stick For apricot and arabica ganache • 350 g Cream • 150 g Apricot Puree • 150 g Coffee Infused Apricots • 550 g Dark Chocolate Couverture • 30 g Unsalted Butter • One Vanilla Bean • 200 g Dark Chocolate, for Dipping

METHOD

1. Make coffee-infused apricots: Boil espresso, water, sugar and cinnamon stick. Remove from heat. Add apricots into espresso syrup. Soak for 30 minutes, then strain.

2. Warm cream and apricot puree with vanilla bean.

Pour over 550 g chocolate couverture and butter. Stir until chocolate has melted and combined with the cream.

Add in coffee-infused apricots and stir to combine. Chill for two to three hours.

3. Once chilled, roll chocolate into round balls. Melt 200 g dark chocolate. Dip chocolate balls in ganache to fully coat.

Allow to set before serving.

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text EMMELYN CINDY MAH photography ROBIN YONG recipes by CHEF ADRIAN GAN, SHANGRI-LA HOTEL

tips You can dress up these chocolate balls with other chocolate shapes to form a necklace; for a more filling dessert, set it all on a base of chocolate cake!

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F L A S H B AC K

CONCRETE COCOON This hard man-made material is anything but grey!

I

photography DARREN CHANG

photography VEE CHIN

n the past, concrete was often relegated to the exterior of homes or was covered up with more eye-pleasing materials if it had in the interior. However, in recent days, its beauty is acknowledged, leaving plenty of homes to feature the material in its raw and unadulterated form.

You can create a home aesthetic around it by using concrete as your main wall or floor treatment. Depending on whether you are going for an industrial look or a Scandinavian-inspired one, all you have to do is layer upon it accordingly with the right furnishing, accents, accessories, and lighting fixtures. A concrete feature wall is also a great alternative if you don’t want to overdo it.

If a concrete jungle is not what your dreams are made of, try starting small by going with concrete accents and side pieces.

In the living room, try a bare concrete coffee table; the dining room, a solid concrete top dining table; the kitchen, a concrete countertop. Keep it subtle and keep it clean, which is what bare concrete is all about.

Don’t forget the accessories! Elevate the look of your coffee table with a concrete board or a concrete candle holder. Do the same with your walls and ceilings by choosing a concrete pendant lighting fixture, or charming concrete hooks for your walls.

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text ARIC TING

Luv. Nordic elegance.

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