SquareRooms Issue 106 (February 2014)

I N T E R I O R S

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I D E A S

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S O L U T I O N S

Issue 106 | FEB 2014

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Issue 106 Contents spaces

FEB

FEATURES 19 Elements – yay or neigh?

Fengshui predictions for the year of the horse 32 Focus – open success We check in with industry experts for kitchen planning advice 34 Practical – furniture facelifts Ingenious ways to turn trash into treasure

SPACES

renos under $50K

perfect chemistry

48

The camaraderie between homeowner and designer shows in the shining design sensibilities of this condominium unit

40 yesterday once more Old school charm and industrial chic come together in this home for two

Six homes that were transformed for S$50,000 or less

56 chic intervention A modern space that reflects two distinct cultures of its occupants while staying relevant 62 ode to the past The interior of this walk-up apartment pays homage to its pre-war heritage

bare basics

22

On the cover Awash by nostalgia, the most prominent design feature in this light-filled HDB flat unit is the mosaic tile bar counter.

Design The 80’s Studio Photography Justin Loh, Shining Head Media Styling Jasmine Goh Art Direction Kevin Wong

68 boutique stay This family home boasts the best of hotel luxe

spaces

62

As an open-concept kitchen is visible to guests, having more closed storage solutions can keep the space clean and neat.”

Elden Lim, consultant manager, Substance Living (p.32, Focus)

spaces

68

spaces

56

ZENITH

Above All Perfection The RUBINE Kitchen Sink Collection

Zenith Series Effortless cleaning. Commodious. Perfect.

Rubine s.r.l, Via Ponchielli 26, 10024 Moncalieri, Torino/Italy Email: enquiries@rubine.it Website: www.rubine.it Facebook.com/rubineitaly Marketed by: Casa (S) Pte Ltd, 15 Kian Teck Crescent, Singapore 628884 Tel: 6268 0066/ 6662 6715 Fax 6266 8069

February 2014

www.squarerooms.com.sg publisher foo mei siah associate director (business development) kelen koh creative director aris lai

Departments

38

6 Editor’s Note The editor has her say 8 News What’s in, what’s up and what’s hot

operations manager emmeline lee

EDITORIAL

For editorial matters, email sr-ed@key-editions.com editor disa tan writer jasmine goh

10 Tech New tech gadgets in February

interns amanda tan | chew hui ling

12 Browse New stores to hit our shores 14 Catalogue Cushions for a loungeworthy appeal r’s Editok!

Pic

contributors deborah jane goon | joseph lim justin loh | kenneth goh

ART

art director kevin wong designers khaili teoh | michelle lim

17

17 Month by Month February is a good month for... no reno revamps!

28 Look Incorporate stripes at home 38 Spotlight The right coffee table for your household 74 ProAds Intelligent interior design solutions from our advertisers 121 Expert Advice How to enhance the look of your space with paint 131 Resources ID and shop listings

month by month

ADVERTISING & MARKETING

for advertising enquiries, email: enquiry@key-editions.com senior business manager james soh business executive melvin low assistant managers (marketing & communications) maggie mok | darran ong executive (marketing & communications) dionna chew executive (sales & marketing support) loke pei ling coordinator (sales & marketing) audre teo

28

for subscription enquiries email: subscription@key-editions.com

121 expert advice look

We are always looking for homes with style. If you think your home has flair, please send photos and your contact information to the editor: disatan@key-editions.com

SquareRooms is published by KEY EDITIONS PTE LTD 20 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469277 Email: info@key-editions.com Tel: (65) 6445 3313 Fax: (65) 6445 3373 Printer & Colour Separation: KHL Printing Co. Pte Ltd Tel: (65) 6543 2222 Fax: (65) 6545 3333 Business Registration No. 197801823M Distributor (Singapore): MediaCorp Pte Ltd Distributor (Malaysia): Pansing Marketing Sdn Bhd Although every reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information contained in this publication, neither the publishers, editors and their employees and agents can be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions, howsoever. We shall not be liable for any actions taken based on the views expressed, or information provided within this publication. You should always seek professional advice from the appropriate advisor, professional or institution. Copyright 2004.

Established in February 2011, Modulux provides a wide selection of architectural and designer lighting, including indoor and outdoor LED lighting, for both commercial and residential premises. With a dedicated team of creative talents, Modulux is committed to be one of the leading players in the lighting industry. Their products encompass quality and creativity that fulfil and exceed the expectations of clients with various needs. With their wide portfolio of services, Modulux strives to always attain complete customer satisfaction, offering excellent service for each and every client.

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editor’s note

We all love new stuff, don’t we? New garb, new look, new car; shiny new things are just sooo exciting. That’s why makeovers are fun. And we can never seem to say ‘no’ to one because change is, well… exhilarating.

One of the most life-changing endeavours to embark is taking on a fresh look or style for your home. It doesn’t necessarily even have to constitute as a full-scale renovation. It can be simple updates that don’t even require you to whip out the measuring tape. And we have all the answers in this issue: from real renovations to no-reno solutions.

Our February issue addresses how you can refresh, revitalise and revamp your home. For those looking for a total change, check out pg 22, Bare Basics. We have six homes that underwent overhauls for under S$50K. For the not-so-ambitious, we have compiled no-reno ideas on page 17, Month by Month. Without a contractor, designer or a wad of cash, you can still transform the look of your home with just pure ingenuity. We even managed to find ways to give old furniture facelifts! Don’t miss that on page 34, Practical.

And so, I leave you to another exciting issue of SquareRooms.

Have a fabulous February!

Your editor,

6

FEB

news

new in stores Cool updates for your living space

clean streak

kitchen heroes

This Lunar New Year, enjoy discounts that range from S$100 to S$200 off Bosch’s food preparation appliances.

This promotion couldn’t have arrived at a better time since homemakers would probably need an extra hand in the kitchen for the festivities. There’s the MUM86R1 HomeProfessional, with a 1600-watt power and two horsepower motor to boast. There’s also the compact MUM48CR1, which provides patisseriemaking functions. Better and improved, the new MUM57830 features a flexible whisk, adjustable beating whisk and dough hook.

Promotion ends 2 March 2014. Retailing at all leading electrical and departmental stores

Drawing inspiration from modern architecture and design influences, Domicil’s fresh new range of Box tables is all set to impress. The collection consists a cuboid side table, a rectangular coffee table as well as a two-piece L-shaped and cuboid coffee table set. The tables are characterised by clean monolithic lines and high-gloss lacquered surfaces, accented by a dash of silver with brushed stainless steel as the base. Available in black, moss green, storm blue, wenge and ivory.

Located at 56 Tanglin Road #02-01/02, tel: +65 6735 0511, www.domicilishome.com

fusion flavours

IKEA embraces the unexpected with the launch of TRENDIG 2013, which showcases the playful collaboration between Chinese culture and Scandinavian design. Colours and patterns take centrestage in this limited collection. Shades of exotic red and green are unified with natural blonde materials, resulting in a truly eclectic furniture piece to accent your room with.

Available at all IKEA outlets islandwide

fresh additions

Dream has recently introduced several new labels into their family of brands, namely NLXL, SPELL, Mineheart and Ladies and Gentlemen. What makes NLXL so special is their one-of-a-kind premium quality wallpaper. Unique furniture items are SPELL’s expertise, with bold and playful designs to give your room that extra pop of personality. Mineheart’s Lovable collection is created as an expression of love, comprising poetic and whimsical works of art.

Lastly, Ladies and Gentlemen’s products strike an open-minded balance between design and function.

Located at 456 River Valley Road, tel: +65 6235 0220, www.dream-int.com

8

FEB

Get the unobstructed view you've always dreamed of with Le Home Creations' invisible window grilles. Without compromising on safety, its 316 graded stainless steel cable keeps your kids and pets out of harm's way and blocks objects from falling out. All that without obscuring your window view!

now you see it, now you don't.

Enjoy picture perfect views with invisible window grilles.

The latest revolution in window and balcony protection, call +65 6848 2542 or visit www.lehome.com.sg for more details on these amazing window grilles.

More benefits: Better air ventilation n Anti-rust n Can last up to 20 years n Withstands impact of up to 360 pounds n Choice of window gap space from 2 to 6 inches n Built-in alarm system (optional) n Stainless steel cable smooth to the touch n Five years warranty

Blk 1006 Aljunied Avenue 5 #01-04 Singapore 389887 n Tel: +65 6848 2542 n Fax: +65 6547 8946 n Web: www.lehome.com.sg Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/invisiblegrille

news healthy flooring

The first to provide healthy wood flooring solutions for all homes, Supreme Floor’s IONWOOD prides itself for the ability to release negative ions into the air, resulting in numerous benefits on a person’s overall well-being such as improving blood circulation. It strengthens the immune system to keep illnesses at bay. In addition to the natural healing properties, the robust surface also makes it impervious to pesky scratches and termites.

Located at 30 Marsiling Lane, Supreme Floors Building, tel: +65 6555 5522, www.ionwoodsupreme.com

wood works

Ideal for modern lifestyles, Mountain Teak’s new Bebop collection brings together vintage elements and versatile characteristics to accommodate small space living. The furniture items are incredibly functional thanks to the compact size and open shelving. As it can be used from both sides, it acts as a display sideboard that also offers plenty of storage options. High quality materials are used, with wooden compartments crafted in full solid recycled teak and powder coated iron and sliding doors made of sturdy iron mesh.

Retailing from S$1,050 to S$1,550 at Tan Boon Liat Building, 315 Outram Road, tel: +65 6224 7176, www.mountainteak.com

oriental charm

Festivities often mean large gatherings, and the aftermath of dirty dishes isn’t something many would look forward to. To combat the issue, homegrown creative agency The Local has jumped into the lifestyle retail scene with its quirky collection of Disposable China Collection. Produced in a single print run only, the range consists of cups, plates and napkins.

Incorporating oriental elements into the design, the disposable party ware serves as a reflection of local culture.

Retailing at Goods of Desire and other selected locations

10

FEB

best of both worlds

Aptly named as Combi Door, this brilliant fixture is a two-inone combination of a built-in gate and a door that only requires one key to open it. Unlike conventional gates, the immaculate design allows it to open inwards so corridor walkways will not be obstructed, which makes it particularly friendly for elderly and the wheelchair-bound. It comes equipped with a special hinge to prevent the house from being broken in. Available in fire-rated or non fire-rated and in a selection of designs and colours.

Retailing at Combi Door Pte Ltd, 10 Admiralty Street #01-90, Northlink Building Singapore 757695, tel: +65 6481 0161, www.combidoor.com.sg

Your Best Kitchen helper…

Turbo Italia Sporting stylish designs and special features,Turbo Italia range of cooker hoods, hobs and ovens are the best helpers for any modern day kitchen.

Highly suitable for Asian cooking, the Turbo Incanto hobs are available in a wide variety of sizes to kit out your kitchen to perfection. Be spoilt by our wide range of conventional, canopy and chimney hoods for all your cooking needs. Complete your kitchen with a Turbo Italia hob, featuring as powerful as 5.2kW wok burner and angled at 45° for gas efficiency. √√ Very Good Water consumption: 9.70 litres/kg Cotton 60 Type of product: Clothes Washing Machines Brand: TURBO Model: TW812 Reg no: WM-2011/008431

SOLE AGENT: HAPPINESS PTE LTD 52 LOYANG WAY, S508745 T6542 2822 F6542 2922 SHOWROOM: 55 JALAN BESAR, S208808 T6294 3771 T6294 1938 AVAILABLE AT: COURTS, BEST DENKI, HARVEY NORMAN, AUDIO HOUSE, CITY GAS, GAIN CITY AND ALL GAS, ELECTRICAL & HARDWARE/SANITARY WARE DEALERS www.turbo-italia.com

tech

get savvy

The latest tech gadgets to check out this February eye for an eye

Small in size but big on function, Canon proves to be a notch above the rest with its latest line of ultra-compact network cameras. Namely the VB-S30D, VB-S31D, VB-S800D and VB-S900F, all four cameras are equipped with a myriad of functions, such as detecting camera tampering and motion, which ensures maximum security and makes them super flexible in all sorts of recording situations.

simple touches

Bang & Olufsen has launched some very hotlyanticipated products; sound systems that will change the way music are played. Accessing your digital music collection in your cloud-based devices or computer, the BeoSound Essence allows you to play your tunes with a simple touch. Place its remote on the wall, on your coffee table or your study desk, or wherever’s convenient.

Skip between playlist tracks or internet radio stations or mute and adjust the volume. The one-touch navigation simplifies your music enjoyment.

Lauded as the world’s smallest full HD pan-tilt-zoom surveillance camera, the versatile VB-S30D fits just about anywhere and yet, keeps the home safely monitored.

Retailing from S$799 to S$1,199 at Canon authorised dealers

Another product highlight is its iconic and the longestliving headphones in the market, the timeless 30-year-old Form 2. It has now been updated with a microphone, three-button remote and offers better comfort. Renamed as Form2i, one thing that hasn’t changed is its authentic and clean sound performance.

For more details, visit www.bang-olufsen.com

classy contenders

Rolling out twin smartphone technologies Xperia E1 and Xperia T2 Ultra and T2 Ultra dual, Sony delivers bang for the buck value while excelling in specs. A music machine at heart, Xperia E1 offers surprisingly loud and clear audio that is immune to even a blaring motorcycle zooming past. The solid interface offers a vibrant display combined with lightning speeds for the ultimate entertainment experience.

Speaking of entertainment, it’s hard to beat Xperia T2 Ultra and Xperia T2 Ultra dual in this aspect. As the world’s most portable large-screen smartphone, you can now bring your favourite movies and songs along with you while you’re out and about. Despite the wide screens, you’ll get the assurance of long-lasting battery life as it shuts down functions to save power when not in use.

Available from Q1 2014 at all Sony stores and authorised outlets

12

FEB

Take the guesswork out of planning your kitchen! urbanKITCHEN by Blum brings efficiency, maximised spaces and a smooth workflow to your kitchen.

Discover more storage space for your HDB kitchen today!

Email us at urbankitchen.SG@blum.com to make an appointment. connect.blum.com/urbankitchen

UK

catalogu e

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Create lounge-worthy zones with these soft touches Sourcing Khaili Teoh & Chew Hui Ling Co-ordination Chew Hui Ling

1 Peppe Pillow, S$144, from Fred Lives Here 2 Pots Surf Cushion Cover, S$110, from The Shophouse 3 Kota Embroidery Pillow Cover, S$27.50, from CB2 4 Towers Navy Blue Cushion Cover, S$88, from The Shophouse 5 Birdigemi Cover, S$89, from Benares 6 Wooly Felt Pillow Aqua Cover, S$43.50, from CB2 7 Queen B Cover, S$35.50, from CB2 8 Blavinge Cushion Cover, S$9.90, from IKEA 9 Ikat Dots Black Cover, S$109, from Benares 10 Wykeham Cushion, S$119, from Laura Ashley

14

FEB

catalogu e

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1 Pin-up Pillow Black and White Cover, S$24.50, from CB2 2 Ombre Velvet Orange Cover, S$49, from Benares 3 Indigo Cushion, S$49, from iwannagohome!

4 San Francisco Downtown Cover, S$23.50, from CB2 5 Stockholm Cushion Cover, S$12.90, from IKEA 6 Secretman Chair Pillow, S$91, from Fred Lives Here 7 Motle Cushion, S$49, from iwannagohome! 8 Bobby Pillow, S$133, from Fred Lives Here 9 Zig Zag True Turquoise Cushion Cover, S$78, from The Shophouse 10 Deer Cushion, S$49, from iwannagohome! 11 Red Cowhide Cushion, S$179, from Molecule 12 Green Chakra Cover, S$89, from Benares

16

FEB

month by month

February is a good month for...

no-reno makeovers!

This new year, take on 8 fresh look-changers with no fuss and no muss for your living space Text Kenneth Goh

Instead of wallpaper, pretty up bare walls with washi tape.

Co-ordinate the look by jazzing up other plain surfaces like cabinetry and lampshades in your home with the same embellishments.

Featuring the MT Suite Tape, from S$16.50 each, from major stationery shops

No headboard? No problem. A decal of a bedhead can still be a prominent focal point in your sleeping quarters.

Furthermore, you can request for your (and your partner’s) initials on this customisable piece.

Featuring Baroque headboard decal, S$75, retailing online at decorettestore.com

Modular furniture is great for shaking up the look of your room, with minimal fuss. For instance, you can configure this modular set into various storage options.

Comes with reinforced steel frames for sturdy support.

Featuring the Ascend Dark Navy stacking storage units, from S$449 to S$899 per unit from Crate & Barrel

FEB 17

month by month

If your home is lacking in colour or warmth, throw on a rug on the floor.

It’ll also anchor that area distinctively from the rest of your home.

Featuring the Siglo rug, S$1,645.95 from BoConcept

A fresh approach in the furniture arrangement can also create different room perspectives. Try reshuffling the sofa, side table, coffee table or other furniture.

Featuring Vibieffe Xsmall sofa set, price upon application, from Dream Interiors

BEFORE AFTER

6

Vintage is back and in a good way.

Upcycle old furniture with a new do-over – by taking it to furniture stores that offer upholstery and restoration services.

Featuring Vintage midcentury armchairs with pencil legs, S$450 each, from Second Charm

18

FEB

Give DIY paint jobs an element of fun with these pattern rollers. The six-inch wide roller is embossed with intricate designs which can be used to create patterns on walls, paper and fabric.

Featuring the patterned paint roller starter pack, from S$50, retailing online at decorettestore.com

Cushions are perfect in adding colour and cosiness, especially to a bare sofa or corner.

These psychedelic-hued silk linen cushions are designed by Amsterdam-based graphic artist, Mariska Meijers, and they definitely add drama to a room.

Featuring Jungle Fever cushions, price available upon request, from Lifestorey

elements

yay or neigh?

Fengshui predictions for your health, career and home for the year of the wooden horse Readings by Master Liang Qingfu from YuXuan Fengshui & Handicraft Trading

Having been in the Fengshui line for over 13 years, Master Liang Qingfu provides a wide repertoire of services ranging from consultation of residential and commercial properties, interior design advice, colour scheme proposal, just to name a few. Even as it would appear that Fengshui customs mean adhering to a certain stringent look, Master Liang doesn’t believe that the aesthetics of your home have to be compromised. In fact, he seeks to propose a harmonious balance where Fengshui elements and modern design can come together.

YuXuan Fengshui & Handicraft Trading, tel: +65 6314 1636, web: www.yuxuanfengshui.com email: enquiry@yuxuanfengshui.com

Known and trusted by clients for creating harmonious yet well-designed spaces, Master Liang offers clients valuable advice on harnessing beneficial energy in their homes.

Featuring the RISIS Zodiac Horse 2014 Collection

Yuxuan Fengshui & Handicraft Trading 宇軒

FEB

19

elements

Since this year will be a precarious year for the rodent, you are advised not to engage in vigorous exercise activities like rock climbing. To keep your health in good condition, you should abstain from eating crabs, prawns and squid.

You might encounter issues with your blood and kidney problems. Other don’ts include speeding and to avoid conflicts.

Relationships will be rocky this year and you can expect tiffs and quarrels.

Don’t put any water features in the north area of your home as this can aggravate the situation.

Also, avoid hacking away walls in the north-east area. If not, the ones in the south region are fine. You should not clutter your front entrance area with a shoe cabinet. This will disrupt the energy level in your home.

Your health will experience highs and lows so make sure to keep the illnesses at bay with more exercise.

Those born in the year 1973 and 1961 should put their focus on their family and try to foster better relations with friends and relatives. It’s best to keep a low profile during February, July and October.

For your home, you should place plants in the east region to boost the flow of energy. It is also recommended for you to display gold or metallic ornaments at the north area. This will help to improve on relationships and your health.

Best number/s: 7 Best colour/s: Beige and white Most compatible with: Rat

Generally, your health will be quite good this year. There will still be small illnesses to expect but it won’t be anything major. You are advised to take care of your diet, for instance, no spicy foods, and not to work late nights.

Since the tiger has a strong character, you should be extra vigilant when it comes to investments or doing business. Be very sure and consider carefully before taking the plunge.

In terms of improving your career prospects, you can put an ornament of a dog on your table. A world globe will also help your career flourish.

Best number/s: 4 Best colour/s: Blue Most compatible with: Boar

Best number/s: 3 Best colour/s: White and black Most compatible with: Ox

Even though it is your year, the horse will still encounter adversaries this coming 2014. Therefore, you are advised to think twice before making important decisions as there might be grave consequences. To avoid conflicts, watch your temper, watch your words and be tolerant this year.

Just keep your emotions in check and you will have a smoother year.

The good news is after June, your luck will change. However, take heed to be cautious when befriending new acquaintances. There might be a few bad eggs that will cause trouble in your life. So, be extra careful when it comes to the company you keep.

Best number/s: 2 Best colour/s: Beige Most compatible with: Sheep

20

FEB

It is considered a favourable year for the sheep to dabble in investments and business ventures. You can even consider moving house or changing your vehicle. All these changes will be good in improving your luck. For your health, take care of your back. You will also be prone to headaches. Be sure to address all these ailments before it escalates.

Since the horse is a good ally of the sheep, displaying a horse ornament on your work table can be advantageous. Concurrently, you can also showcase elephant ornaments at or near your front door.

Featuring Authentic Models globe bookends, S$336, from The Wright Gift

Best number/s: 8 and 6 Best colour/s: Red Most compatible with: Horse

Your diet could work against you this year so be sure to watch what you eat.

Avoid spicy and sour foods as your intestines might be affected.

If you can afford the time, travel across international waters and see the world. This might help to alter your luck for the better. And the more you travel, the more advantageous it will be. Best months to travel are June and August.

For harmony at home, avoid wearing red. It could rock the peaceful energy.

Featuring Zuny classic bookend elephant (tan/ white) ,$$99, from The Wright Gift

Best number/s: 5 Best colour/s: Yellow, beige, white and blue Most compatible with: Horse

Rabbits might encounter leg injuries this year so running, cycling or playing football should be carried out with caution. It is not an ideal time for you to switch occupations so start your job hunt next year.

If you have crystals or fish tanks in the north-east area, remove it. Instead, shift it to the south-west area. You are also advised to add a red floor rug at your front entrance. This will help enhance the energy level at home.

Best number/s: 1 Best colour/s: White Most compatible with: Dog

Featuring ULLGUMP rug (low pile), S$49.90, from IKEA

Chickens should have more confidence in themselves and not second-guess too frequently. If you feel this is right, stop deliberating and go for it.

However, you are advised not to set up your own business this year as chickens make better planners and organisers than bosses.

For those who drive, keep your cool and drive responsibly when you are behind the wheel. If you often lose your temper while you are driving, you are more susceptible to committing driving offences or in worse scenarios, getting into accidents. To enhance the energy at home, display a dragon ornament at the south area.

Best number/s: 3 and 4 Best colour/s: Grey and brown Most compatible with: Dragon

Dragons are advised to abstain from alcohol. Health-wise, there might be occurrences of heart problems, high blood pressure and headaches. Do take care of it as it might develop into something more serious. It is also best to avoid fried foods.

Don’t dwell too much on matters and instead, let nature take its course. In other words, focus on the positive and ignore the negative. You are recommended to carry a jade ornament or pendant to improve your overall luck and energy. For the home, try to have yellow bedding to enhance your energy.

Best number/s: 9 Best colour/s: Yellow Most compatible with: Chicken

It’s a peaceful year for snakes as there won’t be major tribulations coming your way. Health-wise, to keep your body in tip top shape, avoid sour foods. If not, you might encounter backaches. To strengthen your health, you can also place a bowl of salt and a bowl of rice in the north-west area of your room.

You will have money luck so you can consider doing some investments at the south regions to gain a small windfall. Playing the lottery is also recommended. For relationships, you will have love encounters but they will not last. Hence, because of these shortlived romances, you should not neglect your own family. Married snakes should also try to avoid marital squabbles.

Best number/s: 8 Best colour/s: Grey and white Most compatible with: Horse

Knit yellow pillow, S$62.95, from CB2

Generally, dogs will enjoy good fortune in the year of the horse. This is the ideal timing for investments and expanding your business. A word of caution though; even if things look favourable for you this year, you should still stay wary of negative people. They can cause a lot of damage in your life.

If you are thinking of doing a renovation, you can consider something minor like changing the flooring or revamping your bathroom.

If something major has been planned, female dogs should renovate their kitchen while the males, the master bedroom.

Best number/s: 6 and 9 Best colour/s: Blue, pink, white and black Most compatible with: Rabbit

Boars should not be greedy or overly ambitious this year. Be contented with what you have and be constant with your life decisions. For instance, don’t switch jobs or venture into new investments. You should also avoid travelling this year.

You should also watch your health and skip vigorous exercises altogether.

Opt for lighter activities like stretching or yoga. This will not be so hazardous on your waist which will be more vulnerable to injuries this year. To improve your relationships and career, place seashells in the living room.

Best number/s: 3 and 1 Best colour/s: Bright, floral tones Most compatible with: Tiger Featuring Georgette pack of white sea shells, S$55, from Bungalow 55

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bare basics

renos under S$50K

We showcase the renovation of 6 homes that were transformed for S$50,000 or less. Check out how you can do the same Text Jasmine Goh

Budget:

S$35,000 Reno File Home type: 3-bedroom condominium unit Size: 1,300 square feet Designer: Thaddeus Interior Design Reno duration: 7 weeks Completed: Late 2012

BE FORE Images courtesy of Thaddeus Interior Design

BEFOR E

The new occupants of this condominium unit, a married couple with two young kids and a newborn, saw that this 10-year-old apartment needed only some sprucing up for it to look fresh and modern again. The flooring and wardrobe in the bedrooms were changed while the marble flooring in the living room was polished to regain its sheen. The kitchen, which looked dated, was given a new set of cabinets and countertops, and furnished with brand new appliances.

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Images courtesy of Free Space Intent

Budget:

S$40,000 Reno File Home type: 3-bedroom condominium unit Size: 1,200 square feet Designer: Free Space Intent Reno duration: 2.5 months Completed: Late 2012

BEFOR E

BEFOR E

After living here for some years, the homeowners decided that it was time for a change. Fresh wall treatments were applied to transform this bland all-white space into an energising arena. In the living room, the walls are clad in wallpaper from Japan, creating a rustic tiled look. The bedroom walls are painted a vibrant shade of purple. The kitchen was also given a makeover, with its cabinets replaced by new ones while a new solid surface countertop and black glass backsplash complete the look.

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bare basics

Budget:

S$42,000 Reno File Home type: 3-room HDB flat unit Size: 850 square feet Designer: Space Define Reno duration: 8 weeks Completed: May 2013

Images courtesy of Space Define

BEFOR E

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The young couple who bought this resale flat decided on an industrial theme. To achieve this, the existing dÊcor had to be completely removed. In its place now is a stucco brick wall, cement screed flooring and bold wood grain patterns. The kitchen was remodeled to cater to the couple’s needs. A portion of the budget was also spent on hacking the wall separating the private and communal bathrooms to combine them into one.

Images courtesy of The 80’s Studio

BEFOR E

Budget:

S$45,000 Reno File Home type: 4-room HDB flat unit Size: 1,200 square feet Designer: The 80’s Studio Reno duration: 2 months Completed: December 2013

For their first home, the couple wanted an industrial-style Scandinavian design.

Since it was a new flat, the design team had a clean slate to work with. Neutral colours and lots of woody touches were incorporated into the white space, drawing out the Scandinavian feel. A white brick

wall in the living room adds a rustic edge to the atmosphere. The kitchen features a backsplash of white subway tiles, infusing the space with a chic vintage feel. Part of the budget also went into tearing down a boundary wall to have sliding glass panels installed.

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bare basics

Budget:

S$48,000 Reno File Home type: 4-room HDB flat unit Size: 1,033 square feet Designer: Thom Signature Design Reno duration: 1.5 months Completed: March 2013

Images courtesy of Thom Signature Design

BEFOR E

It’s hard to imagine that this velvety-like lounge is actually the interior of a HDB flat. Occupants of this new flat, Brandon and Indrie, love the modern boutique style and wanted it for their love nest.

Besides the use of luxe finishes, the apartment also

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boasts an open-concept kitchen and a luxurious walk-in closet. For this, a couple of walls had to be taken down. A decorative divider which functions as a bookshelf and TV console was constructed to provide privacy in the cosy living room.

Images courtesy of Distinct Identity

Image courtesy of Distinct Identity

Budget:

S$50,000 Reno File Home type: 1-bedroom SOHO apartment unit Size: 807 square feet Designer: Distinct Identity Reno duration: 1.5 months Completed: November 2013

Unlike the previously cramped conditions, this two-storey loft apartment is now a snazzy parlour.

By day, the homeowner can work and meet clients in it and by night, it is a bachelor pad for him to kick back and relax. To create more personal space for this finance and wealth management professional, the mezzanine level was extended to set up a private study area away from his workstation downstairs.

Glass panels and mirrors are applied to help brighten up the entire space.

BEFOR E

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look

Image courtesy of Ferm Living

lines of symmetry

From monochromes to colour clashes, there are many inspiring ways to incorporate stripes at home Text Jasmine Goh

stripe hype

Create a feature wall with stripes.

If painting those straight lines is too much effort, try wallpaper.

Featuring Vertigo wallpaper, retailing online at www.fermliving.com/webshop

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black and white Rows of vertical brush strokes form horizontal stripes on an off-white two-seater.

Featuring Suitor Graphite Stripe Loveseat, S$2,499 from CB2

Ferm Living black striped cylinder cushion, from The Design Store

Jazz up your tea time experience with these zebra-print crockery pieces.

Featuring Moda plate, Moda mug, and Moda teapot, S$15–S$32 from Francfranc

Stripes underfoot will add some pattern to a whitewashed space.

Featuring Stockholm rug, S$399 from IKEA

Ferm Living black striped quilted blanket, from The Design Store

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look

step up

While painting your stairs in different hues creates a fun look, it coincidentally incorporates a runway of stripes into your interior design.

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Image courtesy of AkzoNobel

Featuring the ‘Do It Now’ palette from AkzoNobel ColourFutures 2014

colour medley

A multi-coloured rug with a rainbow’s worth of hues is sure to brighten any living space.

Featuring Zumba rug, S$545.95 from BoConcept

Bedroom looking a tad boring? It won’t be with a statement piece like this French chest of drawers.

Featuring Multi-striped French chest, retailing online at www.notonthehighstreet.com

If decorating with stripes makes you nervous, start small. Introduce the pattern by throwing in a striped cushion amongst the solids.

Featuring Boja multi cushion cover, S$24 from Francfranc

If an entire wall of stripes is just too much for your liking, a wall clock with cheery stripes might be more subtle.

Featuring Rainbow stripes clock, S$74.50, retailing online at www.hipvan.com

Upholstered in Willow fabric from Swaffer’s Eden collection, this ottoman adds a romantic touch.

Featuring Ottoman, S$1,250 from Danovel

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focus

open success

Industry experts fill us in on how to make an open-concept kitchen work Text Chew Hui Ling

One of the most important goals of kitchen design is to make the most of the space available.

Cabinets with greater depth, high pullouts with closed side panels and far-sighted planning create extra space, which would otherwise be wasted.

Blum

Image courtesy of Blum

“It’s important to make sure that the spatial relationship between the kitchen and living or dining space is appropriate for an open plan layout.”

Lee Chi Ho, director, The Orange Cube

Planning Appliances Image courtesy of Häfele

“Create enough space around your kitchen island in order to move around comfortably, but everything should still be well within your reach. We would suggest having a one metre distance from the island to any other facilities.”

Daniel Magg, general manager of the kitchen division, TOTO Kitchen

To ensure a smooth, consistent look with the living and dining space, select similar or complementary materials and colours suitable for the kitchen.

Cecilia Huang, director, Ultimate Interior Creation 32

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Island unit “An open-concept kitchen allows you to have an island. Add a movable worktop. It’s a well thoughtout multifunctional piece of furniture that provides additional work surface. Quick installation, invisible technology and a high level of convenience are the credentials of the modern kitchen island.”

Häfele

Note all the appliances that you’re going to have for your kitchen.

Then, analyse your cooking habits and position the products into a comfortable layout. Consider easy accessibility, cabinet volume and aesthetic exposure to or from its adjacent room.

Cecilia Huang, director, Ultimate Interior Creation

Storage As an open-concept kitchen is visible to guests, incorporating closed storage solutions can keep the space neater and clutter-free.

Design: Substance Living

Elden Lim, consultant manager, Substance Living “An open-concept means sacrificing wall space, which may otherwise have been used to install storage cabinets. One may consider having storage cabinets hung from the ceiling, hence making it into a feature.”

Lee Chi Ho, director, The Orange Cube

Aesthetics “Be creative! Get some beautiful accessories and bar stools and line it around the island. Spice up the wall backsplash by giving it colour, integrate shelving or other accents such as hanging racks for cooking utensils. Also, uplights and downlights in cabinets help to create a nice ambience.”

Daniel Magg, general manager of the kitchen division, TOTO Kitchen

Landren Lim, senior interior designer, Fuse Concept

Image courtesy of TOTO Kitchen

Habits “To plan the perfect openconcept kitchen layout, we first have to understand the homeowner’s cooking lifestyle, as well as the fixtures they wish to include in their new home.

For example, those who enjoy holding gatherings might find two sinks – one big, one small – useful at times. The smaller option can be used as an icebox to store ice cubes.”

Landren Lim, senior interior designer, Fuse Concept

Image courtesy of TOTO Kitchen

When engaging in heavy cooking, it’s best to use a better chimney with more power. Do service the filter regularly. Washing the floor might also be difficult at times, so I recommend having a recessed drop from the living space. It will be much easier for you to clean up the mess.

Cooking fumes “For those who cook frequently, the oil fumes and smell can be a problem. Combat this by using a stronger suction cooker hood that can filter out the greasy cooking smell. Or build a glass partition, which offers some help on the odour issue, yet still allows light in.”

Elden Lim, consultant manager, Substance Living

To keep out odours, a good cooker hood ventilation system is obligatory for an open kitchen concept. Recirculation is not recommended. The hood should always be ducted out to the outside of the house.

Daniel Magg, general manager of the kitchen division, TOTO Kitchen FEB

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practical

furniture facelifts Don’t trash that old piece of furniture just yet. Here are some ingenious ways to turn trash into treasure

Getty Images

Text Jasmine Goh

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1

Fix

Re-upholstery

Re-upholstery is the process where the padding and covering of the furniture piece are taken out and replaced with new ones.

This is usually done for chairs, sofas, and headboards when the padding has gone flat or the fabric is torn.

Sofa with attached side table

This sofa comes with an attached side table that can be turned over to provide extra seating when required.

Re-upholstered in grey and slate blue, it fits in easily with the trending Scandinavian look.

Retailing at S$1,500, from Like That One BE FORE

Bentwood star chair

The damaged leather seat of this Bentwood chair has been replaced with UV-resistant canvas in ivory and pinned down with studs.

The loose joints were fixed and secured with leather strips.

Retailing at S$263 (AUD235), from www.etsy.com/shop/LittleRedIndustries

70s Lounge chair

BE FORE

Found in deplorable condition, these classic club chairs have been repaired and upholstered with most of its original elements being retained.

Retailing at S$676.27 (290â‚Ź), from www.updatechair.com

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practical Wood restoration

Wood restoration isn’t always about making old wood look like new. Most of the time, giving a wooden piece a good cleaning up and varnishing is sufficient to bring out its natural antiquated beauty.

Vintage bookshelf

The wood is washed down to strip away varnish, stains and paints. Then a layer of matte varnish is applied to the surface to enhance the natural colour and grain pattern.

D-I-Y inspiration Craft enthusiast and blogger of www.findingsilverpennies.com, Danielle Driscoll, shares how she single-handedly painted her furniture at home.

Image courtesy of www.findingsilverpennies.com

2

Fix

Retailing at S$490, from Restore Living

Painting

Painting is another way to breathe new life to an old piece of furniture. It is also useful when you change the design theme of your interiors and need the furniture to match the look. Instead of buying a new set of furniture and home accessories, you could paint your existing furniture according to the new colour scheme.

Blue-dipped chair

The old layers of white paint had chipped and yellowed. The BE FORE revamp of this sturdy little chair saw all surfaces sanded and finished in matte white furniture paint with a chalk-textured surface. Its blue-dipped legs give it a distinctive look.

Retailing at S$245.61 (AUD210), from www.etsy.com/shop/LittleRedIndustries

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Owen grain sack dresserÂ

The top of this dresser was given a stain to give it a rich glow while the body was painted in Old White Chalk Paint.

Inspired by the lines on grain sacks, Danielle added red stripes to the front. She then gave it a distressed look with sanding blocks.

Image courtesy of www.findingsilverpennies.com

3

Fix

BE FORE

Talia wine table

BE FORE

Two coats of Milk Paint in Mustard Seed were applied to this wine table without any bonding agent to allow the piece to chip and flake naturally for that distressed effect. It was then lightly sanded with sandpaper and sealed with clear wax.

4

Fix

Re-purposing

Instead of relegating old items to the dumpster, find another use for them. Wooden planks from a bookshelf can be upcycled as stools, while fabrics from old curtains can be turned into cushion covers. It takes effort but it most probably is worth the while in light of being environmentally conscious.

Originally: Barn wood

Now: Stool

Reclaimed wood form the top of this seat while its hairpin legs are hand fashioned. The legs can be painted in a variety of colours.

Retailing at $356.89, from www.etsy.com/shop/LeventhalVermaat

Originally: Provision shop shelf

Now: Kitchen rack

more than colour A simple rack, presumably from an old provision shop, has been cleaned up and now can be used anywhere in your home. S-hooks allow you to hang anything from kitchen pots and pans to mini planter pots.

The folks over at Art from Junk go beyond reviving secondhand vintage furniture pieces when they paint them.

Damask and chrysanthemum chest of drawers

This vintage chest of drawers boasts three differently-coloured drawers – teal with a distressed finish, natural wood with a white Damask design, and white with a hand-painted chrysanthemum design.

Retailing at S$350, from Like That One

Retailing at S$350, from Art from Junk

Originally: Suitcases

Now: Side table Suitcases or side table, you decide.

Besides evoking the nostalgia of vintage and the romance of travel, a stack of leather suitcases carry with it the convenience of hidden storage.

Price upon application at Like That One

Chinoserie kopitiam chair

The seat of this vintage “kopitiam” chair has been fully hand-painted with a colourful oriental plate design, incorporating four Chinese characters carrying an auspicious saying.

Retailing at S$380, from Art from Junk

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spotlight

table talk

Get the right coffee table fit for your household profile Coordination Chew Hui Ling

family size White Lacquered Coffee Table Retailing at S$595 at BoConcept

Big Walnut Veneer Coffee Table

Zanotta by Ink Price upon enquiry at Proof Living

Retailing at S$795 at BoConcept

Ember Coffee Table Retailing at S$629 at CB2

Starfish Coffee Table Retailing at S$1,200 at Standard of Living

Ovale Coffee Table Retailing at S$1,200 at Standard of Living

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Teak Coffee Table Retailing at S$1,200 at Standard of Living

couple size

singleton size Circuit Electric Blue Coffee Table Retailing at S$629 at CB2

Waikiki Coffee Table Retailing from S$2,006 at Danish Design

Walnut Veneer Coffee Table Retailing at S$595 at BoConcept

Tray Coffee Table Black by HAY Retailing at S$519 at Grafunkt

Oota by Walter Knoll Price upon enquiry at Proof Living

Yukon Small Coffee Table-Bench Retailing at S$999 at Crate & Barrel

Prism Coffee Table Retailing at S$212.93 at Comfort Design

Shroom Coffee Table Retailing at S$899 at CB2

r’s Editok!

Pic

Neon Coffee Table Retailing at S$418 at Grafunkt

JASEN Coffee Table Retailing at S$1,099 at Scanteak

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spaces

yesterday once more

This HDB flat unit pushes the boundaries between old school and industrial chic with its eclectic use of materials and keen attention to detail Text Deborah Jane Goon Art Direction Kevin Wong Styling Jasmine Goh Photography Justin Loh from Shining Head Media

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At A Glance

Space Five-room HDB flat unit Size 1,300 square feet Location Fernvale Link Home to Desmond Tan and

wife Floris

Designer Andy Tan from

The 80’s Studio

F

irst there was “Little Nyonya” – the critically-acclaimed Channel 8 period drama series that gave us something to look back at and reminisce about.

Then came a love for retro and vintage style furniture that took the nation by storm. These days, this love has grown deeper and has evolved into recreating this nostalgia at home. This home in Fernvale Link is a great example of this passion that has been specifically created to link back to the couple’s past and keep a portion of history within the home.

LIVING AREA A tall bar counter decked out in vintage glass mosaic tiles adds interest and functional space in the living room. The couple can either use this as a chic bar counter or as an informal dining spot.

Owl plush & Franjipani tiffin, both from Standard of Living

Director of The 80s Studio, Andy Tan worked closely with the homeowners in order to come up with a design that would suit their needs and requirements. The result is a fusion of styles incorporating modern elements with old school twists and clever use of materials to balance out the two.

The kitchen received the most work with walls torn down in order to create a large open concept kitchen and adjoining dining space. A custom-made dining table in cement screed joins the matching kitchen counter surfaces in one seamless finish. The clever idea ensures that the kitchen and dining flow seamlessly into each space. In order to create some privacy for the dining space however, one wall serves as a partition for the dining space, while allowing for quirky art to be mounted and enjoyed from the dining room confines.

Budget S$40,000

KEYIDEAS

1 2 3 4

Cement screed is utilised on the floors and continues as the surface of choice for the custom designed dining table and kitchen counters.

An eclectic mix of weathered laminate floorboards, old school hexagonal mosaics, cement screed and Peranakan style tiles create interest in this abode.

Colourful upholstered seats give this home its character-rich, laid back approach. Vintage style wood furniture is infused with industrial style pieces for an eclectic approach to interior design.

One wall in the dining space is finished in blackboard paint to recreate that old school “classroom” familiarity that the homeowners crave.

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COMMUNAL ZONES The custom designed cement screed dining table joins the kitchen counters that are in concrete and cement screed.

This fluid design concept keeps the look neat while providing the homeowners with a functional space to entertain in.

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spaces

In order to reinforce the old school flavour in the kitchen, fancy brick was used on one of the kitchen boundary walls.

This allows light to flow through the space while casting lovely shadows on the wall beyond. The clever application of these fancy bricks also allows the kitchen to be demarcated from the rest of the space, without boxing it in too much and also serves to keep kitchen splatter and oil within its confines since the stove is behind this wall.

Within the kitchen itself, a unique attention to detail with a vintage industrial style sets itself apart. Metal mesh with an aged rust finish and glass cabinet doors are combined with concrete surfaces for that true blue industrial chic.

Andy finished one entire wall in the dining room in chalkboard paint to provide a creative but cheeky “classroom� vibe. The homeowners can now use this space for leisurely doodling, for recipes or for notes to each other.

Pendant lamps complete the dining space that has a range of different upholstered chairs in loud, energetic shades.

The living room shares the same open confines as the dining space and is complemented by a custom-designed mosaic clad bar counter. This versatile addition allows the couple to entertain

KITCHEN (left) For that true blue industrial chic, a combination of metal mesh and glass cabinet doors with an aged rust finish and cement screed surfaces is utilised here.

DINING (opposite page) There’s nothing more fitting than the full-height chalkboard wall to complete the vintage look in this retroesque home.

On the dining table: Enamel mugs; Enamel tray & Franjipani floral jug, all from Standard of Living

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spaces

COMMON BATHROOM (left) Maintaining the design language within the bathroom, old school hexagonal floor tiles are combined with cement screed walls and weathered laminates.

MASTER BEDROOM (above) The new and improved master bedroom features weathered laminate flooring and an industrial style bed frame. ‘All You Need is Love’ cushion, from Standard of Living

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here and also have informal meals in front of the TV, should they feel like it. A vintage style settee and two occasional chairs add more seating and lounging space. Quirky dĂŠcor items like a large pink elephant perched on carpet grass add to the whimsical wonder of this nostalgic inspired home.

In the master bedroom, a complete overhaul including breaking down the wall between the second bedroom and the master bedroom mean this is now one very large space. The new master bedroom takes over the original second bedroom as the couple knew this space would just be used at night time. Keeping the master bedroom small and concise allows for a roomy walk-in wardrobe and a cosy suite with its own lounge area.

In order to give the space a completely

unique revamp, weathered vintage style laminate flooring was utilised. This is further accentuated by an industrial style bed frame that really sets the look in the room. It’s a lovely finishing touch to this eclectic home that embodies exactly what the homeowners want.

The bathroom continues the same unrefined design language. In order to keep the style constant, cement screed was applied on the walls while old school hexagonal floor tiles add that memorable blast from the past. Weathered laminates were chosen to box up the mirror and create shelving for bathroom essentials.

The look is raw, unpolished and yet so very charming.

The 80’s Studio, +65 6604 8880, www.the80studio.com

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spaces

perfect chemistry

The camaraderie between homeowner and designer shows in the shining design sensibilities of this condominium unit

Text Disa Tan Images courtesy of Free Space Intent

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At A Glance

Space Two-bedroom condominium unit Size 1,119 square feet Location Upper Thomson Road Home to A married couple Designer Free Space Intent Budget Undisclosed

KEYIDEAS

1 2 3 4

If you are bringing over your existing furniture to your new place, be sure to first notify your designer so they can plan the design scheme accordingly.

With its neutral attributes, a monochromatic colour scheme makes a good backdrop to embrace loud, funky furnishings. The appeal of these modern hues will also not fade so quickly.

A semi open-concept study room will have sufficient natural light so artificial illumination is not required during the day. Another bonus is the daylight will make the room appear visually spacious.

For the ultimate hotel-inspired room treatment, carpeting, wallpaper and an open-concept ensuite bathroom should be the pre-requisites.

However, if carpeting is too high maintenance, an area rug will suffice.

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spaces

A

brand new home usually signifies spanking new furniture. For this corner condominium unit with its own private lift lobby, it is just the contrary.

Fond of buying homeware and funky furniture from far flung destinations, the homeowners have quite a Bowerbird habit of amassing quirky pieces. Therefore, it was quite a unique situation for their commissioned designers from Free Space Intent (FSI) as part of the design scheme had to accommodate their existing furnishings.

While some designers might feel restricted by this requirement, the FSI design team was instead, spurred by inspiration by their clients’ eclectic finds.

The homeowners had unconventional taste and they tend to go for eye-catching, conversation starters. Case in point: A light

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fixture depicting Mao Zedong’s profile. Like the late communist himself, it commands quite a presence in the balcony where it has been erected.

With the design team and homeowners working closely together and in sync, a stylised setting of grey wallpaper with slightly textured stripe patterns was proposed for one entire stretch of wall space for the living area. Once that was up, the modern contemporary theme came to life. However, the designers felt that something was amiss and decided to fill the other side of the wall with grey wallpaper. With both walls complementing each other in terms of the matching colour palette, a monochromatic-hued entertainment console was worked in. Made of high gloss laminates, the lustrous sheen from the console adds to

PRIVATE LIFT LOBBY (above) Interestingly, this home has no front door but is privy to its own lift lobby. There’s even room to accomodate a wallhung shoe cabinet.

LIVING ROOM (opposite page) The colour scheme is wellbalanced and this makes pairing it with the existing furniture an effortless feat.

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spaces

STUDY (above) Tearing down some of the boundary walls here proved to be an advantageous move. It increases the flow of daylight to other areas of the home.

BALCONY (left) There was never a definite look for this outdoor set. The owners just mixed and matched their funky furniture pieces to conjure this playful style.

DINING & KITCHEN (opposite page) Outfitted simply with a dark tinted mirror, this shiny surface adds some visual contrast to the matte wallpaper treatment.

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the modern appeal. Most of all, through careful planning and accurate visualisation, these permanent fixtures match the existing furnishings like a dream.

In the private zones, the two rooms and master bathroom have undergone drastic transformations. The study for instance, was converted into a semi open-concept space. Since the room did not have the luxury of space to start with, hacking away some of the boundary walls brought in a significant amount of natural light. This in turn, creates an open and airy ambience, conducive for a studious setting. The homeowners’ Pulp Fiction wall hanging of Uma Thurman however, prevents the atmosphere from becoming too serious. And if things do ever get too stuffy, the open air balcony is just a few steps away. Besides fresh air, it is made up of a funky medley of furniture pieces with an inviting presence.

Speaking of travels, the homeowners love the hotel experience so much they

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spaces

wanted to enjoy the same indulgence in their own bedroom. For the ultimate five-star touch, the floorboards are clad with plush grey carpeting. Even though it is not the easiest of all to maintain, they wanted that cosy feel above anything else. The carpet teams well with the grey floral textured wallpaper, which glisters with a slight sheen. The effect BATHROOM (left) Even though it is new, this space underwent quite a big overhaul.

Save for the existing sanitary wares, the tiles were all replaced with grey homogeneous tiles.

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BEDROOM (above) A TV console was topped on the bay window. Saving space, it allows the homeowners to engage in some light entertainment before bedtime.

BATHROOM (top right) To create an open-concept layout, the bathroom’s door was taken down and a window opening was carved out.

also evokes a boutique hotel feel. And since the room has a cool, curved layout and a bay window that looks out to the condominium’s lush garden, the addition of PVC cushion padded seats creates a lounge-worthy corner.

And where would the classy hotel experience be without an open-concept bathroom? Naturally, the door was removed and the designers even carved out a window opening, to showcase more of the bathroom. Inside, existing tiles were replaced with dark grey homogeneous tiles. That rendered a more sophisticated look, which is befitting of a hotel-inspired

bathroom. A high gloss long vanity top and a wall-hung mirror cabinet make glamorous accents to the space. With that, the homeowners can enjoy a staycation in the comfort of their bedroom. And should they ever want to reminisce about their travels, their memorabilia are everywhere in the confines of their modern contemporary abode. The designers even made sure that there’s room for more so we can expect more worldwide shopping trips!

Free Space Intent, +65 6392 8885, www.fsi.com.sg

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spaces

chic intervention

The interracial couple living in this place wanted a breath of fresh air that reflected their distinct cultures, while keeping spaces relevant and modern Text Joseph Lim Images courtesy of Substance Living Pte Ltd

It’s a great way for us to relax as a family – whether it is curling up with a good book on the armchair, watching TV or just enjoying a coffee at the dining table – and good reason for us to stay at home!

Abhijit Shankar Singh, homeowner

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At A Glance

Space Two-bedroom condominium unit Size 915 square feet Location Chancery Court Home to A family of three Designer Elden Lim, Syed Agil

and Pinky Kywe from Substance Living

Budget Undisclosed

KEYIDEAS

1 2 3 4

Add a touch of personality to your interior with objects sourced from your travels.

Use colour as an accent on walls and to put some pizzazz into your space. Different paint colours applied in different rooms can also better define each space.

Look to the past for ideas: old bricks could be turned into a feature wall.

Think out of the box: even flooring can be an attentiongrabbing feature for guests to talk about.

LIVING & DINING Co-sharing the same layout, the best way to demarcate the living from the dining is the different flooring applications.

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T

he knack of executing a space to reflect two distinct cultures of their homeowners can be daunting for the inexperienced interior designer. But for husband and wife Abhijit Shankar Singh and Sophia Chia Chye Hong, their interior design firm Substance Living took to their project like fish to water.

However, their resale condominium unit was in need of a dire makeover as the design was outdated, certain fixtures had seen better days and there were no design sensibilities to include the practical living for the couple’s newborn daughter.

The brief to their designers Elden Lim, Syed Agil and Pinky Kywe of this 915-square-foot space was to bring out nuances of their cultures – Sikh and Chinese – in the space while juxtaposing modern touches of refinement and design sensibilities. “We wanted a cheerful, inviting space that didn’t compromise practicality,” explains the homeowner. This means that the home had to embrace the past while looking to the future, a task that the designers relished at the thought of it.

Situated in leafy suburban estate of Chancery Court, this space offers two decent-sized bedrooms. The previously dated and lacklustre space is now replaced by bright bursts of cyan and limegreen walls that inject pizzazz to stunning effect. Case in point: a lick of cyan in a corner of the spare bedroom where it is counterbalanced by a vintage chair; a splash of lime-green paint dominates the walls of the common restroom, emanating an air of modernity and energy.

A touch of pattern-play by way of wallpaper is seen in the master bedroom. The unique paisley wallpaper pattern dramatises the space while the bedroom’s palette of dark browns, beiges, creams and dark woods achieve a masculine look. The master bathroom’s look of slate stone walls, white sink countertop and cantilevered mirror cabinets conjure the look of minimalism that is chic and sophisticated. The wood-carved basin is often the topic of conversation when guests pop by because its handcrafted aesthetics add warmth.

UPCLOSE

KITCHEN Against the monochromatic backdrop of cabinetry, the distinctive tile flooring design shows up prominently.

A pull-out table serves as a handy coffee counter.

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Like with any project, there are the inevitable challenges. The dining and living space has an angular and awkward layout and to get a centre point to make it balanced proved to be a spatial feat. The design team beams, “In order to make the space more interesting, we played with floor demarcation in the dining area. We brought out the beauty of its awkward angle by using dark wood floors.� The asymmetrical shape creates a striking contrast with the tiled living room without sticking out like a sore thumb.

Today, the most striking room has to be the co-joined living and dining space. Here, sheer curtains diffuse the light to create a sense of airiness. The TV feature wall constructed from old bricks is undoubtedly the most-talked about feature in the home. The AV system and TV are held by a custom-made TV console

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MASTER BEDROOM (opposite page) With proper planning, the modern colour scheme and ethnic-looking paisley wallpaper go surprisingly well together.

COMMON BEDROOM (below) Wardrobes with a cement screed design help to soften the angled layout of the spare bedroom. The cyan wall also takes away the distraction.

COMMON BATHROOM (right) Playing with bright tones and texture here, it gives this tight space more visual interest.

which is mounted on the brick wall.

The dining space is graced by “decanter” lights designed by British designer Lee Broom. Two iconic “Wishbone” dining chairs stained in black sit opposite a vintage-looking bench where the family convene over meals. An old Bollywood movie poster decorates a wall that faces the dining table.

Even the kitchen is not spared from being transformed creatively. The attention-grabbing black-and-white floor tiles are durable while offering a timeless decorative touch. Two Tom Dixon “Beat” dining lights offer a slice of heritage in

the inviting and practical kitchen. These brass lights’ internal shade is hammered by artisans in North India – a nod to Abhijit’s heritage. Gleaming white modern cabinetry work ensures the kitchen appears chic and spotless while offering plenty of storage for cutlery and paraphernalia.

A unique feature of this kitchen is a specially constructed floor-to-ceiling cabinet that accommodates the couples’ prized manual coffee machine that churns out delish cups of espresso to satisfy their caffeine addiction. A pull-out table holds the cups while a decent-sized nook houses the chrome contraption. An eye-catching vintage lantern suspends from a wall which offers light when making coffee.

After four months of renovation, the current home’s totality in its contemporary look is a seamless collaboration of the homeowners’ desires channelled by the designers’ tasteful choice in aesthetics, practical features, colours and materials.

Substance Living, +65 6323 3139, whitecorps.com

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ode to the past

Paying homage to its estate’s pre-war heritage has paid off handsomely for the aesthetics of this character-rich home

Text Disa Tan Images courtesy of Three-D Conceptwerke

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At A Glance

Space 2-bedroom walk up apartment unit Size 800 square feet Location Tiong Bahru Home to An expatriate couple Designer Peter Ng from

Three-D Conceptwerke

Budget S$60,000

KEYIDEAS

1

M

ost homes are designed based on style preferences but for this old walk-up apartment, its charming neighborhood is where inspiration transpired. Located in quaint Tiong Bahru, the lingering nostalgia left behind by its still standing pre-war estates takes people back to the 1960s. So much so that it enchanted this Australian expat couple to snap up a charming piece of Tiong Bahru in this two-bedder apartment.

To make it their home away from home however, the couple engaged design consultant Peter Ng from Three-D Conceptwerke. Renovation works were still warranted to give this old-timey space a fresh overhaul.

Also taken with Tiong Bahru’s old school appeal, Peter proposed a vintage Scandinavian theme; befitting of the neighborhood’s heritage.

The homeowners were open to his suggestions as well and entrusted their home in his good hands.

The one thing the owners did specify for was a cosy and low-maintenance home. They also wanted to host guests, should occasions for entertaining arise.

Taking all that into account, Peter first kick-started the overhaul on the structural works: to tear down one of the bedrooms and turn it into the dining area.

Hacking away the boundary walls also factored in more room for the kitchen.

2 3 4

Salvage what you can in an old apartment. Take this walk-up apartment’s exposed brick wall and window grilles for instance; being able to retain these existing elements means the renovation cost can be kept down.

For a petite home, opt for the same or matching laminate designs in the communal zones. It’ll set off a consistency in the overall look of the place, and this will also flow well in an open plan configuration.

Curved walls are hard to work with.

Custom-built carpentry works can better accommodate its odd-shaped layout.

Less can be more. Have one or two prominent features in each area and keep the settings neutral for more visual impact.

LIVING AREA Miraculously, the exposed red brick wall was uncovered beneath the old paintwork. It is now a prominent design feature here and ties in well with the vintage Scandi theme.

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Now, with more space to work with, an open-concept kitchen comes to light.

It resides behind the living area. Lightcoloured laminate cabinets topped with solid surface run across the curved layout of the cooking quarters. That brings up another challenge Peter faced: curved walls. It is everywhere, from the kitchen, living, master bedroom to the connecting balcony. To combat its curvatures, Peter outfitted the kitchen and living area with custom-built cabinetry. And to keep the look of the home in sync, the same grainy laminates were utilised for most of the communal zones.

It is prominent in the living area, where a lofty storage unit spans from the floor to the ceiling. This full-height entertainment console has open niches to stash away entertainment peripherals, books and display ornaments. It also houses the flat screen TV in good stead.

One interesting story behind the renovation is that Peter tried to salvage as much of the old materials from the previous state of the home. He made a few successful recoveries. Stripping the previous paintwork bare from one of the walls in the living area, he uncovered a gorgeous red brick wall. The exposed brick wall becomes a distinctive feature in the living space and the best part, it practically cost next to nothing.

DINING & KITCHEN To create an entertainmentfriendly area, more space had to be made to accomodate guests. One of the rooms was torn down to make way for a larger kitchen and the dining.

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The previous window grilles were also removed from the windows and repurposed as decorative elements in the living and bedroom. As much as he wanted to retain the previous flooring, it was in bad shape and he replaced it with compressed stone flooring. His choice proved to be a perfect neutral backdrop for the mid-century designer furniture in the home, which he selected as well.

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Speaking of furnishings, most of it was purchased from Lorgan’s The Retro Store. And where better to shop at than this purveyor of vintage wares?

The pieces Peter chose spark off the Scandinavian feel and by pairing them with neutral settings such as the compressed stone flooring and lightgrained laminates, everything clicked in place.

In the newly expanded bathroom, modernity takes over. Previously, it was a separate washroom and a separate bathroom and that just wasn’t the most practical layout. For the best of both worlds, Peter combined them together, changed the configuration of the entrance and now the homeowners have an ensuite bathroom in their bedroom.

Looking spanking new with grey ceramic mosaic tiles for the walls and off-white homogeneous tiles for floor, the entire bathroom is bathed in an airy and spacious aura.

Three-D Conceptwerke, +65 6293 8001, www.three-d-conceptwerke.com

BEDROOM (opposite page) The previous window grille is now repurposed as a decorative accent and a functional magazine rack.

BALCONY (top) Connecting the communal areas to the bedroom, the curved balcony is another way to get around the apartment.

BATHROOM (left) In stark contrast to the vintage theme, the modern contemporary bathroom presents a polished style with its grey ceramic mosaic wall tiles.

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boutique stay

By incorporating the best of hotel luxe, this family home enjoys spaciousness, practical storage, and of course, holiday amenities Text Jasmine Goh Images courtesy of Ultimate Interior Creation

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At A Glance

Space Four-bedroom condominium unit Size 2,605 square feet Location St Thomas Walk Home to A couple with three children Designer Ultimate Interior Creation Budget S$200,000

KEYIDEAS

1 2 3 4

While all the bedrooms carry a different theme, the transition from room to room doesn’t feel abrupt as the design language of clean lines and sleek surfaces is constant throughout.

Besides being used to make the space appear larger, mirrors can be used to cover and conceal the entrance to another room.

For a room without windows, make effective use of light colours and shiny surfaces to open up the room and to keep it feeling spacious.

To bring out the luxurious hotelinspired look, stick to a neutral palette and play with textures to keep the space interesting.

MASTER BEDROOM Wallpaper, laminated glass, and mirrors are utilised in appropriate amounts to transform this odd-shaped room into an elegant boudoir.

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T

here’s just something about stepping into a well-furnished hotel room that puts people in a relaxed mood. It’s no surprise then that this family asked for a modern hotel-inspired home, since it’s natural to want to return to a comfortable yet stylish home at the end of a weary day. To establish the ambience of a hotel suite, surface finishes and lighting play a huge role and designer Cecilia Huang from Ultimate Interior Creation set out to use them with maximum impact.

Also important to the family is storage solutions. They looked forward to a neat and beautiful home and knew that storage units were essential to contributing to a clutter-free home. Cecilia ensured that this requirement was met by factoring in plenty of cabinets in both the communal and private zones.

The two challenges the design team encountered were in fact, in the master bedroom and study room. These were

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structural issues that Cecilia had to work around for the room to be both pleasing to the eye and ergonomic for everyday use.

Bathed in white and light-coloured neutrals without fussy details, the master bedroom exudes a restful atmosphere for the couple to relax. The custom-made bed frame is accompanied by a headboard and backdrop made of wallpaper and laminated glass. The dark colours of this feature wall provide a lovely contrast, drawing the eye to the bed as the focal point of the room.

The odd layout of the master bedroom came into focus when the couple specified that they wanted to have a television in the room. In order for them to enjoy television programmes from the comfort of their bed, the television had to be positioned parallel to it. However, the bay window slanted away from the bed and so Cecilia had to think of a way to solve this issue. The solution: She positioned the TV feature

GIRLS’ BEDROOM (above) Display shelves for soft toys doubles as a divider, creating a private space for getting dressed.

STUDY ROOM (opposite page) Bearing no windows, this room still looks fresh and bright, thanks to the clever combination of mirrors and sleek surface finishes.

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wall and console in a different angle, covering part of the bay window.

The rest of the bay window was converted to a bench with a velvet cushion seat. It also forms the base of a writing desk that Cecilia constructed to create a reading and writing corner. This feature definitely comes in handy when personal time is needed. The wall behind the desk is clad in full-height mirrors which help to make the room visually larger.

BOY’S BEDROOM (above) The feature wall is made functional with an array of shelves for storage and display purposes.

GUESTROOM (left) Textured wallpaper adds visual interest to the light neutral palette applied in this room.

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MASTER BEDROOM (above) Part of the bay window is used to accommodate the TV feature wall and console which have been intentionally angled to face the bed.

These mirror panels also serve to conceal the entrance of the attached bathroom.

The second challenge lies in the study room. Being situated in the middle of the house, this room has no windows. Cecilia was tasked to transform the room into a bright and airy space that the occupants of the home could enjoy being in. A clever combination of the right materials and colours makes this study room bright and functional and now becomes the designated study area for the children.

The bedrooms of the little ones were designed with functionality in mind as well.

In the girls’ room, the bed is positioned such that there will be sufficient floor area for the girls to play and move about. The bed comes with a pull-out mattress that is used at night and kept in the morning to keep the room spacious. A decorative

divider with display shelves separates the bed and wardrobe, creating a private dressing space. Wallpaper with colourful stripes and a red-coloured back rest conjure a cheerful, lively atmosphere; perfect for kids’ room.

The room belonging to the couple’s son evokes a more calming mood. The feature wall made with laminate and mirror panels consists a cushioned headboard and a collection of shelves, giving the feature wall practicality. Strategically placed lighting fills the room with a warm, cosy glow. With ambience and functionality all in place, this family can certainly boast of being in a holiday mood each time they return home.

Ultimate Interior Creation, +65 6515 9725, www.ultimatedesign.com.sg

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PLUSHHOME wishes all homeowners a Blessed Lunar New Year!

Keep a look out for us in March Expo Fair where there will be lots of cash and prizes to be won!

F Dots N Tots Interior Pte Ltd

+65 6292 0200

rom furniture shopping to scouting for the perfect interior designer, PlushHome has all the solutions for your renovation and revamp needs.

This comprehensive home portal is packed with all sorts of useful information that you can count on. It covers everything related to modern contemporary designs including furniture, home accessories, lighting, floor and wall covering, and other fixtures and fittings for your home.

Be well informed with regularly updated articles and features and get inspired by tips and advice from PlushHome’s home experts and specially selected group of interior design firms. You can even shop for furniture and home accessories from the comfort of home with their online shop.

Desire Houzz Pte Ltd

+65 6252 2250

Be on your way to transform your home with PlushHome today!

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We are decidedly creative when it comes to designing your home. We are always in full-control of projects, taking you from the basic understanding to conception and the final outcome. At Renolab Interiors, we believe in thoughtful design processes rather than churning out cookie-cutter styles.

Our Passion

Your Dream Home

1800 - r e n o l a b 1800 - 7 3 6 6 5 2 2 renolab@singnet.com.sg website w w w. r e n o l a b . c o m . s g email

BCA registered builder : 5 2 8 6 1 7 9 0 k HDB registered contractor : HB-12-3973B

37 Onan Road Singapore 424487

SOHO LOFT DESIGN

Personable & Creative Space Planning

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fresh beginnings Forget bland or clinical. White is the new black as evidenced by this whitewashed home with lots of character

Fact File

Space 1-bedroom

Size

Location

Home to

Designer RENO PERIOD

apartment unit 750 square feet Mandarin Gardens A flight stewardess Brim Design 2 months

#Get The Look

LIVING A white exposed brick finish wall makes a stronger statement than wallpaper. Infusing texture is one thing but it actually makes the whole place look more lived-in. IKEA consoles were also added into the mix and this keeps the entire budget of the home in check.

Light-coloured laminate flooring evokes a clean, crisp look and is half the cost of real wooden flooring.

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KITCHEN (top) The dining zone overlooks into the kitchen. It is decked with white tiles which complements the brick feature wall in the living. Residing next to it is a row of louvered cabinet doors. Since the homeowner jets around for a living, she can stash away her bulky luggage in there when she is at home.

OVERALL LOOK (middle) A sliding door with a cement screed pattern cordons off the sleeping quarters from the communal zones. The rest of the home is kept in pristine white tones and the clinical look is offset with textures from the rugged brick wall and laminate flooring.

MASTER BEDROOM (bottom left) Even with an angled layout, the designers from Brim Design managed to make the most of the space with custom-built cabinetry. They filled the recessed portion of the windows with cabinets and this creates a significant amount of storage space.

MASTER BATHROOM (bottom right) Previously excluded in the original layout plan, this bathroom now becomes part of the master bedroom with some clever space configuration. Black and white floor tiles spark off the classy monochromatic look and it is furnished with other matching bathroom storage units.

With their creative know-how, the designers at Brim Design pride themselves on their flair for practical, everyday ideas and a keen eye for design trends. This boutique interior firm caters to residential and commercial projects of all kinds to suit most budgets. Brim Design attributes their success in the creative field to their skills in building and nurturing meaningful and lasting relationships with their customers.

Brim Design Pte Ltd 9 Marshall Road Singapore 424845 Tel: (65) 6299 5733 Fax: (65) 6299 5676 Email: info@brimdesign.com.sg Web: www.brimdesign.com.sg

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WHY

CHO OS E U S

PROFESSIONAL TEA M OF PR OJEC T C ON SU LTA N TS

H A N D OVER

ON TIME

With a whole new range of styles, concepts and designs. Darwin interior offers unlimited possibilities for your new abode with our showrooms in Bendemeer, Bukit Batok and Tampines! We offer the hottest interior concepts and the latest materials. Our professional project consultants will also be at your disposal. Spanning across 10,000 square feet. Our showrooms are packed with ideas and inspiration that will serve your new abode well.

Darwin Interior . Creating Dream Homes Bendemeer Branch: 70 Bendemeer Road #01-01 Luzerne Singapore 339940 Tel: (65) 6396 8558

Bukit Batok Branch: Block 634 #01-100 Bukit Batok Central Singapore 650634 Tel: (65) 6786 8558

Email: sales@darwininterior.com.sg

SU PER IOR

Tampines Branch: 5 Tampines Central 6 Telepark, #01-12 Singapore 529482 Tel: (65) 6781 8558

Web: www.darwininterior.com.sg

MATERIAL

8 Jalan Kilang Barat #04-05 Central-Link Singapore 159351 t: (65) 6396 6081 f: (65) 6396 6071 e: contact@designscale.com.sg

www.designscale.com.sg

commercial

HDB registered contractor: HB-03-3470E & HB-03-4142D

LIKE us on Facebook at Designscale Pte Ltd

residential

A&A

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balinese bliss To transform this HDB flat unit into an inviting Balinese haven, warm, earthy elements and other raw textures were utilised

Fact File

Space 4-room HDB flat unit Size 970 square feet Location Toa Payoh Home to A couple Designer Perlyn Poh from

Dzign Station RENO PERIOD 6 weeks

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LIVING To evoke the Balinese feel, a feature wall with a straw weave texture is put into the picture. It serves as the backdrop to other Balinese-style furniture such as the tree stump table set. Contrasting with this resort feel are modern elements like the creamcoloured walls and sofa set.

#Visual Tip

To break the monotony of the grey and white cabinetry, the island unit is swathed in another tone: light brown.

COMMUNAL ZONES (top) With the boundary walls of the kitchen hacked away, the open plan layout of the living, dining and cooking quarters comes into sight. The main colour scheme of neutrals is also visible.

With the design consistency in place, this creates a more spacious feel as the eye is not overwhelmed.

KITCHEN (middle) What sets this area apart from the rest is the light grey homogeneous tile flooring. To match, dark grey Quartz countertops on laminate cabinets were added to the mix. The overhead cabinets are however, in a lighter hue, as to create colour contrast for more visual interest.

MASTER BEDROOM (bottom left) A privacy divider also serves as the TV console.

Using laminate cabinetry with a dark wood grain finish, the TV console infuses a Balinese touch into the space. Behind, strips of laminate sporting dark wood grain patterns enclose the walk-in wardrobe.

BATHROOM (bottom right) Topped with cream-hued solid surface, the laminate cabinets sport a unique-looking design which screams ‘texture’. It seems to mimic the wooden sink that gives the bathroom a nature-inspired appeal.

Going beyond creating beautiful, functional and playful designs for residential and commercial interiors, Dzign Station offers personalised services and different packages to cater to each client’s requirements and budget. With emphasis on each homeowner’s current and future needs, Dzign Station aims to combine both functional and aesthetic aspects to achieve a dream home you’ll love. To them, no project is considered complete until their client is completely satisfied.

Dzign Station Pte Ltd No.18 #01-98B Boon Lay Way Tradehub 21 Singapore 609966 Tel: (65) 9768 0883 / (65) 9798 0883 Fax: (65) 6793 2998 Email: dzignstn88@yahoo.com.sg Web: www.dzignstation.com.sg FEB

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perfect match By being creative with the materials used, fresh design elements are created for this modern contemporary family home

LIVING & DINING Modern meets rustic in this spacious open plan layout and the designers utilised several wall treatments, without ever overwhelming the space. Wallpaper and laminates with wood grain designs are applied to the walls. A sliding panel conceals the flat screen TV and moving towards the front entrance, open niches are carved into the laminate carpentry works.

Fact File

Space 3-room condominium unit Location Prive @ Punggol Home to Eric and Josephine Designer Andrew Chan and

Augustus Yuen RENO PERIOD 4 weeks

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DINING (top) Bench seating is utilised here to maximise space. On a raised plywood platform, the dining area is demarcated clearly from the rest of the zones. Since too much wood textures can create a heavy look, recessed lighting is installed underneath it to evoke a light and ‘floating’ effect.

LIVING (bottom left) A medium brown feature wall, finished with bold wood grains and constructed with display shelves stretches from one end of the living room to the main door, creating a uniformed appearance. The uneven shelves marry functionality and aesthetic appeal with its unique structure, and it is further illuminated with recessed lights to give the shelving more visual interest.

MASTER BEDROOM (bottom right) Though the same colour palette of brown and white was repeated here, a pleasant shade of purple paint was applied to the walls, lending the room a classy vibe. The flooring and headboard sport different tones of wood grains, but everything is so well matched nothing looks out of place.

Integrated in 2009, Euphoric Designs matured into an accredited interior design firm defined by innovative works and their utmost professionalism towards every client.

Their team of designers has amassed diverse experience in handling residential and commercial projects. On top of that, they are also venturing into designing corporate offices and retail premises. Based on specifications and requirements which vary largely for each client, Euphoric Design strives to provide a customised solution through their prompt, efficient and yet personalised services. With that, it’s no wonder it has earned itself a solid reputation for its dedicated service.

#Style Wow

Recessed lighting runs along the base of the custom-built bed frame and this evokes an airy and suspended effect.

Euphoric Designs 7030 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5 #08-10 Northstar@AMK Singapore 569880 Tel: (65) 6659 2672 Fax: (65) 6659 2572 Email: enquiries@euphoricdesigns.com.sg Web: www.euphoricdesigns.com.sg

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form & space is a homegrown interior design firm with a dedicated team of designers to provide premium interior design services for residential & commercial spaces. It’s service orientated designers serve clients with passion and innovations. They pay top notch attention to quality and workmanship of its products.

Services provided include space planning, reconstruction works and project management.

www.formandspace.com.sg

387 Joo Chiat Road #03-10 The Modules Singapore 427623 T: (65) 6853 3683

F: (65) 6752 3083

E: enquiry@formandspace.com.sg

HC Interior pte ltd

562 Balestier Road Singapore 329878

Stylish Design

Tel +65 6562 1433

Fax +65 6566 7433

w w w. h c - i n t e r i o r. c o m

Statement Touches

Headed by their experienced design director Kelvin Toon, HC Interior has gone headlong to brandish their signature knack for creating dynamic living spaces into a multitude of projects. Synonymous with the creativity for creating extraordinary spaces, their priority is set on designing a home tailored to your lifestyle and to enhance everyday living. Armed with a BCA certified Builder license, they also undertake construction, A&A and rebuilding works for landed properties. With a workforce of over 50 skilled workers, rest assured that your project is well taken care of. So come on in and find out more today at HC Interior.

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modern strokes To prevent a cold and clinical contemporary style, warm wood elements are key to this condominium unit’s successful overhaul

LIVING The cosy setting here is attributed by the well put-together neutral colour scheme, and the cove lighting which runs along a curved false ceiling feature. Upping the style ante is the L-shaped TV console which is adjoined to a white feature wall. For the TV console, Alcester used his own DIY ingenuity to create a feature by adding pebbles and lighting underneath the glass top.

Fact File

Space 3-room condominium unit Size 1,000 square feet Location Punggol Home to A family of three Designer Aclester Lim from

Hue Concept RENO PERIOD 1 month

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WALL-HUNG STORAGE (top) Since there is no luxury of space, Aclester decided to go with vertical storage or in other words, storage mounted on the walls. This helps save a significant amount of floor space. He created a compact study desk, an overhead TV console and an open niche for display ornaments. By using a bit of ingenuity, he has made the most out of this bedroom.

MASTER BEDROOM (middle) Making pre-bedtime a relaxing affair is the pair of wall-hung reading lights.

Mounted on the custom-build headboard, it is matched with two bedside tables. Also conducive for a calm ambience is the recessed light installed behind the bedhead. The soft glow creates an enchanting appeal.

Despite its modern outlook, the consistency of the materials used and the colour schemes applied in this home factor in an inviting vibe.

DINING (left) Though Aclester did not have much room to work with here, he whitewashed the space to enlarge it visually for a start. A simple dining set with a raw wood tabletop takes centrestage in the area and a mirror facing it adds a visual boost to the space. At the back, a full-height cabinet hides away clutter and the fridge is flushed level with it for a seamless take.

Turning dream homes into reality, Hue Concept is all about delivering a midas touch of design flair to abodes. Elevating style to another level, they also endeavor to create homes of functionality to better the lives of those living in it. So, if you’re looking for style and substance, you can entrust your living space in the good hands of Hue Concept.

Hue Concept Interior Design Pte Ltd No 33 Ubi Ave 3 #01-25 Vertex Building Singapore 408868 Tel : (65) 6636 7202 Fax: (65) 6636 7205 Email: askhue@hueconcept.com Web: www.hueconcept.com

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#Style Wow

Even the false ceiling adheres to the woody design lingo. It is decked with veneer strips which resemble raw wood.

Fact File

open invitation

Space 5-room HDB unit Size 1,400 square feet Location Toa Payoh Lorong 4 Home to A family of 3 Designer Davin Lau from

Matrix Interior RENO PERIOD 7 weeks

Warm and cosy design elements are applied throughout the abode to evoke a modern resort theme LIVING ROOM To inject a modern resort feel into this abode, designer Davin incorporated interesting visual elements such as the dividers. With a frame of asymmetrical cut-outs and wood panels, it demarcates the living and dining zones.

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DINING ROOM (top) Elevated on a raised platform, this further defines the dining space on its own. The main focal point here is the natural solid wood on the wall. The designer chose warm colours for this feature wall and it does not interrupt the cosy deposition of the overall look.

STUDY ROOM (bottom left) What sets this room apart from the rest of the home is its faux white brick wall. This is used to host the flat screen TV and it pairs well with the woody theme. The same divider with the grid patterns makes another appearance in this room and is matched together with the open shelving.

MASTER BEDROOM (middle) Looking very much like a modern resort hotel suite, the relaxing ambience of this room is accentuated with warm lights. It is enclosed with wood grains and the look is amped up by a feature wall hosting the flat screen TV. Made up of strips of veneer materials joined together, the irregularity of this feature wall lends a distinct style to the room.

KID’S BEDROOM (bottom right) This room has a whimsical twist with plant motifs to conjure a nature theme.

The custom-built desk and bunk bed fit in well with this style, especially with its colourful embellishments.

At Matrix Interiors, they pursue all things creative. However, their biggest inspiration is their clients. They hope to understand their needs and desires, as to create interior designs to fulfill all their dreams. Matrix Interiors also understand that collaboration is important so they aim to work closely with their clients as a team. And the end of the project doesn’t mark the end of the collaboration; they aim to forge long-lasting work relationships with every client. So, expect utmost customer satisfaction from this service-orientated team of creative individuals.

Matrix Interiors 81 Ubi Avenue 4 #01-14 UB.ONE Singapore 408830 Tel: (65) 6538 1711 Fax: (65) 6538 1911 Email: enquiry@matrixinterior.com.sg Web: www.matrixinterior.com.sg

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point of symmetry The use of clean but sharp design lines in this condominium unit draws out a modern Scandinavian look #Get The Look

The clean-cut order of the open and closed shelving on the whitewashed wall enhances the impression of space in the living zone.

Fact File

LIVING ROOM Previously a swing-out door, this space-restricting point of entry in the living zone was replaced with a sliding door made of laminate with a raw plywood design. It leads to the condominium unit’s private lift lobby. Inside the home, other touches of woody features implemented for design consistency keeps the look easy on the eye.

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Space Four-bedroom

Size

Location

Home to

Designer RENO PERIOD

condominium unit 1,500 square feet Upper East Coast Road A family of four and their domestic helper Roy Poh from Prozfile 1 month

DINING (top) Modern is the way to describe the dining zone; with the dark grey painted wall helming the space. The classic monochromatic dining set pairs well with the neutral setting, and create a sense of timelessness here.

MASTER BEDROOM (middle) Decked with a custom-made headboard and bed frame, the bedroom looks edgy with these built-in fixtures. For one, the bed frame has a trapezium-shaped structure and this exudes design flair. Behind, the headboard has a special recess which hosts the cove lighting.

KITCHEN (bottom left) The open-concept cooking quarters is decked in white cabinets and Quartz countertops. The white laminate cabinetry has a high gloss finish and this ups the ante of sophistication in this airy-looking kitchen. Kitchen appliances such as the fridge and oven are flushed against the fullheight cabinetry, keeping the kitchen in a clean-cut, clutter-free state.

STORAGE (bottom right) Beside providing compartments for the family’s keepsakes and display ornaments, this storage unit also serves as a divider that lets the natural light in. With a raw plywood finish, the laminate showcase exudes a Scandi flavour which adds a touch of cosiness to the space.

Prozfile is a dynamic design establishment that firmly believes good design emerges from the smooth communication channel and relationship between clients and their designers. The highly motivated design trio aims to achieve the concept of “a Living space” that is not just aesthetically beautiful, but a reflection of their clients’ lifestyles and personality. Creating modern contemporary homes which embody classic traits such as clean lines and simplicity, this boutique design firm is totally dedicated to achieving only the best with a keen attention to detail and quality workmanship as part of the package. With their unique approach to design while conceptualising highly polished yet simplistic homes, Prozfile is the perfect choice for people who want something different and are not afraid to stand out in the crowd.

Prozfile Pte Ltd 1 Starlight Road Singapore 217754 Tel: (65) 6396 6672 Fax: (65) 6396 6673 Email: info@prozfile.com.sg Web: www.prozfile.com.sg FEB

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game plan With a good space configuration plan set in motion, this home is both spacious and stylish

Fact File

Space HDB Executive

apartment unit

Size 1,400 square feet

Location Jurong

Home to A married couple

Designer Renozone RENO PERIOD 7 weeks

#Get The Look

LIVING To better divide the living area from the kitchen, the existing boundry walls were hacked away and glass panels were put up. This creates a spacious and light-filled living zone. The airy appearance is further accentuated by the white homogenous floor tiles and a recessed ceiling feature. The cove lighting helps to usher in warmth for the monochromatic-coloured space.

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The application of black wallpaper is balanced with white homogeneous flooring and other whitewashed walls.

This offsets the otherwise dreary and somber feel.

BALCONY (top left) To blur the line of separation between the living and the balcony, the designers used glass sliding doors. This see-through application makes the overall look of the entire home more spacious and airy. Black homogenous tiles used in the balcony also adds to the illusion that it is part of the interior.

DINING (top right) Tinted mirrors are the main focal point of the dining zone. To amp up the overall look, a canary yellow dining set sits in the middle of the room. Casting a halo effect in the space is the modern-looking pendant lamp.

KITCHEN (bottom right) No space was wasted here as the designers from Renozone managed to carve out display space at the corner of the kitchen. It is used to showcase the homeowners’ coveted liquor collection.

The classic combo of black and white is also applied to the kitchen and for design consistency. It is reflected in the high gloss white laminate cabinetry and black homogeneous floor tiles.

BEDROOM (bottom left) Charming in its own right with slightly textured wallpaper and wood flooring, the bedroom oozes with class. Wall-hung side tables and the TV console help to save on floor space and to facilitate the ease of cleaning underneath it.

The team of designers at Renozone pride themselves for creating long term relationships with their customers.

One of the main reasons why they manage to cultivate such amiable ties is because the company takes pride in all the projects that they have completed. Renozone guarantees quality workmanship and services, making customer satisfaction their top priority.

Renozone Interior Design House 1 Jalan Klapa Singapore 199313 Tel: (65) 6292 3345 Fax: (65) 6292 3045 Email: admin@renozone.com.sg Web: www.renozone.com.sg

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proads #Get The Look

Balance dark tones with light-enhancing surfaces like mirrors and recessed lights.

That way, your home will not look constricted and instead, still feel open and airy.

Fact File

dark forces Looking fine in monochromes and dark tinted mirrors, this sleek abode is also packed with practical solutions

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Space 4-room HDB flat unit Size 900 square feet Location Yishun Home to A married couple Designer Wilson Teh from

Rezt & Relax RENO PERIOD 8 weeks

LIVING & DINING The usual whitewashed and bare look was opted out and in place, is stylish wall treatments such as stucco texture and dark tinted mirrors. This was specified by the homeowners as they preferred a sophisticated look. As too many dark tones can overwhelm a space visually, Wilson utilised recessed lighting behind the mirrors to brighten up the home.

LIVING (top left) To go with the monochromatic setting, a simple but stylish black-and-white TV console and feature wall was commissioned. The custom-built fixture even has special slot for a hideaway stool.

DINING (top right) The dining zone is in the same arena as the living. To better unify the two zones, Wilson used similar mirror features and a shared ceiling feature which hosts the cove lighting. Demarcating the space is the functional pendant lamp which hovers atop the dining set.

WALK-IN WARDROBE (middle) Besides being a dressing space, the walk-in ensuite also serves as an informal study space. A long working desk has been factored in along the window sill. Cove lighting keeps the ambience here subdued and conducive for relaxing in.

KITCHEN (bottom) Since the couple cooks and entertains a lot, they regard the kitchen as an integral part of their home.

Ample storage space for all major and minor kitchen appliances are worked in here. The monochromatic theme is also evident; seeing how the counters and cabinetry are all in high gloss laminates of black and against the white coloured glass backsplash.

Started in 2001, Rezt & Relax is the brainchild of design partners Wilson Teh and John Foo. Their portfolio includes a wide spectrum of residential and commercial projects with clients such as Mayer, Jean Yip, Sticky Rice, as well as hotel projects in Dubai. The team at Rezt & Relax believes in offering creative design solutions and trend forecasts to help owners to simply relax and unwind in the comfort of their homes.

LIKE us on Facebook at Rezt N Relax Interior & Download the Rezt & Relax App from the iTunes App Store

Rezt & Relax Interior No. 33 Ubi Avenue 3 #02-09 Vertex Tower B (Access Lift Lobby B) Singapore 408868 Tel: (65) 6348 7787 Fax: (65) 6348 7797 Email: wilson@reztnrelax.com Web: www.reztnrelax.com

Call or email to check for fully renovated home tour and interior design talk details.

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paradise calling Adhering to a resort theme transpired into this family home swathed in neutral earthy hues and woody features

Fact File Space 5-room HDB flat unit

Size 1,200 square feet

Location Havelock Road

Home to A family of four

Designer Space Define RENO PERIOD 6 weeks

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LIVING Wooden beams are the order of the day in the living space. They are lined on the ceiling and run downwards towards the recesses of the stucco feature wall. It adds a Balinese flavour to the space and this is seen as the prominent design feature of the home.

DINING (top) The wooden beams flow towards the dining area and this connects the two areas in a uniformed order. Woody features such as the vinyl flooring and laminate backrest with wood grain patterns further add to the resort theme.

FOYER (bottom left) A two-sided cabinet acts as the privacy divider between the front entrance and the rest of the home. One side is bench seating for the dining space and the other, is a glass showcase of the homeowners’ figurine collection.

SON’S BEDROOM (middle) The teenage son’s bedroom is a revitalising blue teamed with white cabinetry. The modern appeal of the high gloss laminate carpentry works offers a timeless style and this means the teenage occupant won’t outgrow it as quickly.

MASTER BEDROOM (bottom right) Two strips of dark tinted mirrors flanking the headboard set a sleek but cosy scene for the sleeping quarters. A recessed ceiling feature with cove lighting casts a soft glow to the room and brings a calm and collected aura to the space.

#Style Wow

Make your bedroom more conducive for rest by turning your bay window seat into a lounge corner. Plush it up with a cushioned seat and pile on the pillows!

Following their slogan, “LOVE Design. BREATHE Design. LIVE Design”, the dynamic team of designers from Space Define believe in creating charisma into the spaces you live, work and play in. The team caters to their clients’ needs by offering creative options in design ideas and concepts to meet your functional requirements. Whether it’s a residential or commercial space, they look beyond design trends to create a concept that works with your space, and more importantly, for you.

Space Define Interior 318, Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427569 Tel: (65) 6345 0318 Fax: (65) 6345 0319 Email: enquiries@spacedefine.com Web: www.spacedefine.com

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Fact File

easy allure Taking a subtle but sophistication approach in the design scheme, the designer created an understated French-inspired dwelling out of this family home To infuse a French style into this home, sophistication was key. That was achieved with light-coloured cream hues and other luxe touches such as homogenous tiles with natural stone patterns and Quartz surfaces.

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Space 4-room condominium unit Size 1,400 square feet Location Elias Road Home to A married couple

Designer

RENO PERIOD

with two kids Andy Tan from The 80s Studio 2 months

LIVING Keeping the look simple in the living area, Andy utilised a laminate panel as the feature wall.

It hides away stray wiring and even hosts recessed lighting that casts a cosy glow. The rest of the walls are painted in a cream hue which goes well with the existing marble flooring.

KITCHEN (top left) Small but well-equipped, the petite kitchen is upsized visually with glass windows.

The choice of lustrous finishes such as the coloured glass backing as the backsplash and Quartz worktops also add to the spaciousness.

STORAGE (top right) Since the homeowners have an extensive Blu-ray disc collection, it was only imperative that ample storage was commissioned for the home.

A wall-hung storage unit with closed compartments keeps the home in a clutter-free and orderly state. The high gloss sheen also brings a modern appeal.

MASTER BEDROOM (middle) Decked with custom-built carpentry works, the bedroom is high in functionality. The pull-out side table for instance, which is concealed within the recess of the full-height wardrobe, allows the occupants to make more tabletop space when needed. Other nifty touches include the drawers underneath the bed frame as hidden storage.

COMMON BATHROOM (bottom) Even the common bathroom is dressed in finesse. Clad in homogeneous tiles of natural stone designs, the shower stall is also dressed to the nines with a simple mosaic tile design.

This bestows the bathroom with a hotel-worthy glow.

Priding itself on its creative and unconventional design concepts that go beyond the typical classic and modern ideas, The 80’s Studio Pte Ltd taps on retro and historic styles for inspiration as well. For them, not being bounded by design rules is their philosophy. Because it is in having an open and free sense of design that allows them to fully cater to each client’s individualistic needs and requirements.

The 80’s Studio Pte Ltd 81 Ubi Ave 4 #01-12 Singapore 408830 Tel: (65) 6604 8880 Fax: (65) 6604 8484 Email: enquiry@the80studio.com Web: www.the80studio.com FEB

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grand showdown At The Orange Cube’s showroom, their designers utilise unique patterns and luxe finishes to create a stunning visage

Fact File Space Showroom

Size 2,500 square feet

Location Ubi District

Designer The Orange Cube RENO PERIOD 2 months

LIVING A laminate feature wall with asymmetrical strokes form the main design feature in the living area of this showflat. Since dark tones can dim the space visually in size, the designers brightened things up with tinted mirrors to usher in more light. It is further complemented by white elements such as the bay window base.

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#Style Wow

Bold and engaging, geometric patterns applied on the headboard and dividers are both funky and functional.

BEDROOM (top left) A honeycomb-shaped feature wall with niches offers creative display space for ornaments. This design feature is matched with other geometrical elements such as the white dividers on the other side. Mirrors were also thrown in the mix to evoke a larger impression of space.

KITCHEN (bottom left) This space evokes a chic feel with its black and white colour scheme. It resembles a swanky bar with its spacious island unit. The open-concept kitchen space is also equipped with open shelving which can showcase premium liquor collections.

DINING ROOM (top right) Instead of taking the conventional route with straight-cut mirror panels, the designers opted for ones with slanted ends. The irregularity of this feature wall stands out even more in the sea of black and white tones. More texture is infused with a coarse stone wall next to it.

BATHROOM (bottom right) Unlike many bathrooms, this one exudes grandeur with its spacious arena and the use of sophisticated materials. Be completely blown away by the polished black marble bathtub and illuminated display shelf.

Inspired and motivated to provide a complete package of services, The Orange Cube is equipped to take clients through design conception to building completion.

As a result of this all-encompassing dedication, the company has amassed an impressive portfolio in both residential and commercial projects ever since its establishment 10 years ago. These include HDB flats, condominium apartments, landed properties, corporate offices and F&B outlets. With their can-do attitude and enthusiasm in design and offering impeccable service, it’s no wonder the company has gained a firm foothold in the interior design scene.

LIKE us on Facebook at The Orange Cube

The Orange Cube Pte Ltd 14 Arumugam Road #01-03 Lion Building C Singapore 409959 Tel: (65) 6337 7277 Fax: (65) 6337 7570 Email: enquiry@theorangecube.com Web: theorangecube.com

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bespoke measures Pairing a modern contemporary design with personal touches for each member of this household, designer Thomas Poon carves out a stylish retreat for them to call home

Fact File

Space 4-room BTO flat unit Size 1,000 square feet Location Buangkok Green Home to A mother and her

Designer

RENO PERIOD

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two adult daughters Thomas Poon of Thom Signature Design 1.5 months

LIVING & DINING Glossy white homogeneous tiles contribute to a sense of spaciousness in this communal zone. The feature wall, clad in textured wallpaper, spans the entire length of this space, unifying the different areas. All the walls are painted in a light shade to keep the home looking modern and spacious.

#Style Wow

The design of these tinted mirrors is inspired by the tree branch design of the dining chairs. Not only do the mirrors help to open the space up, they also contribute to the design flow.

KITCHEN (top right) A black-and-white colour theme gives the kitchen a polished look. Since the homeowners did not want overhead cabinetry, Thomas noticed that there would be a lack of task lighting and thus, installed light boxes to provide adequate light for food preparation and cooking.

ELDER DAUGHTER’S ROOM (middle) With the white furniture and ornate metal pulls, this bedroom exudes a tinge of French country charm.

Nippon’s Momento Special Effects Paint creates a stunning feature wall that forms the perfect feminine backdrop for the rest of the furniture pieces to shine.

YOUNGER DAUGHTER’S ROOM (bottom) Nippon’s Momento Special Effects Paint makes an impact in this bedroom as well. Thomas chose a shade of green reminiscent of Tiffany Blue to give this room a sophisticated mood. As the younger daughter requested for a queen-sized bed, which could cause the room to be cramped, a platform was constructed to function as the bed frame.

Established in 2005 by Thomas Poon, Thom Signature Design specialises in interior design consultancy for an array of market segments. It has since expanded in terms of staff strength and portfolio works. Through the team’s dedication and aim for maximum customer satisfaction, it has garnered a reputable clientele, which includes more than 30 MNCS and other prestigious projects. Its wide range of services such as in-house carpentry, tailored-made creative interior design and space planning solutions is also the reason behind its burgeoning success.

Thom Signature Design 754 Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 534624 Tel: (65) 6284 4462 Fax: (65) 6284 4012 Email: info@thomsignature.com.sg Web: www.thomsignature.com.sg

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shop one-stop

Different areas of the home call for different lighting. Modulux has the whole package to suit your entire home

Decorative Wall Lamps

Don’t settle for the same lighting fixtures for your entire home just for convenience’s sake. For one, you might be using the wrong wattage or lighting intensity to light up your room and two, you might be wasting precious electricity.

Lighting provider Modulux has a fool-proof range of LED lighting to keep your home properly illuminated. Take their MODULEDS 14W Chips On Board (COB) LED Downlight for instance, it can be used as general lighting to illuminate a floor area of 5 by 5 feet.

For bigger areas like the living room or homes with high ceilings between

MODULEDS 25W COB LED Downlight

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3.2 metres to 3.5 metres, go for the MODULEDS 20W Chips On Board (COB) LED Downlights. This square-shaped downlight is also recommended for areas spanning 7 by 7 feet. If your home is larger than that, the MODULEDS 25W Chips On Board (COB) LED Downlight will light up your home efficiently. Since the abovementioned lighting fixtures are equipped with the latest LED technology, they are more cost-efficient and last longer than their fluorescent counterparts.

Having said that, these lights are integrated with a die-cast aluminum heat sink to provide good thermal management for the COB LED chip. In simpler terms, this helps to manage the heat generated by LEDs and will help to maintain their efficiency and reliability.

Looking for something more stylish?

Modulux also offers a two-in-one decorative wall lamp which can be used as shelving.

Made of strong polycarbonate material, this 18-watt compact fluorescent lamp can take a 3kg load and will bathe your space with a stunning glow. On top of that, you have a choice of three colours, black, white and yellow to decorate your home with.

MODULEDS 14W (S) 20W (L) COB LED Downlights

Cover can be flipped

Modulux Pte Ltd 285 Jalan Besar Singapore 208948 Tel: +65 6292 2170 Email: sales.modulux@gmail.com LIKE us on Facebook at Modulux Pte Ltd

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work smart

Improve work efficiency in the kitchen with a perfectly planned layout. Blum’s urbanKITCHEN has all the answers

Is the lack of space in your kitchen slowing down your progress in serving up meals? It might not just be space limitations, but rather not making good use of space altogether. Blum’s urbanKITCHEN addresses all these problems that you might encounter. Together with their team of experienced designer and carpenter partners, they aim to provide you with a high quality and highly functional kitchen.

To better maximise the space available in your kitchen, there are simple yet effective designs and workflow principles to adopt from their DYNAMIC SPACE concepts. These kitchens are created by their certified urbanKITCHEN partners, and are in accordance with the highest standards set by the most significant kitchen labels in Europe.

This helps to minus the guesswork when you are doing space planning. Based on your cooking habits, Blum and their certified urbanKITCHEN partners will build you your ideal cooking space, which will put your kitchen needs above anything else. And with Blum’s revolutionary TANDEMBOX antaro box systems combined with their BLUMOTION feature and AVENTOS lift systems, you can rest assured that kitchen inefficiency is a thing of the past.

Blum South East Asia Pte Ltd 150 Ubi Avenue 4 #02-01 Ubi Biz-Hub Singapore 408825 Tel: +65 6547 1760 Fax: +65 6547 1761 Web: connect.blum.com/urbankitchen FEB

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second time lucky

Whether it’s first-time or second-time homeowners, RHB Bank’s Renovation and Furnishing Loans provide the timely financial assistance for your prospective new home

Moving out of your first start-up home?

If you need financial aid to make the jump, RHB Bank has got you covered. Here is one of their applicant’s accounts: If not for her interior designer’s recommendation on RHB Bank loans and its 2.88% special promotion, Ms Phang would still be left with a hefty bill to foot for her Executive HDB flat unit.

She had forked out S$10,000 for brand new furnishings and home accessories to adorn her home-to-be and together with the renovation works; that came up to a rather lavish amount. To help relieve some of the heavy financial strain, she turned to RHB Bank’s Renovation and Furnishing Loans. She took both up as a single applicant.

HOME

FLOORING

FUND

FURNISHINGS

renovation

With the loans offering her the much needed relief, she could then materialise her dream abode.

The kitchen, according to her, had taken up most of the expenditure. Thankfully, the loans helped fund this costly aspect of the budget and also helped to furnish her four-room flat.

LOAN

When asked why she chose RHB Bank amongst the others, she had a practical reply.

“Interest rates”, she said matter-of-factly. The attractive interest rates are also the reason why she would highly recommend RHB Bank’s Renovation and Furnishing Loans to fellow homeowners in need of some financial relief.

Looking For Your Favourite Home Renovation & Furnishing Package?

1. What are the loans available when I plan for my home renovations?

You can take a home renovation loan1 to give you the

4. How much can I get for my furnishing loan?

financial capability to finance your overall renovation costs.

From RHB Bank only, should you need extra financing for your furniture and other furnishings, you can also take up a home furnishing loan 2.

2. How do I determine whether I am eligible for a home renovation loan?

Exclusively for RHB Renovation Loan customers, you can get an additional furnishing loan ranging from one to four times of your monthly income, depending on your annual income and your required loan amount.

5. What documents do I need to prepare before applying for a renovation loan?

Before applying, you may download the application form from www.rhbbank.com.sg.

Complete the application form and attach your copy of NRIC, your contractor’s quotation and required documents for proof of income and property ownership as listed on the application form. Remember to cut and attach the exclusive SquareRooms readers coupon below to enjoy the special rate.

To be eligible for a home renovation loan, you have to be a homeowner of the renovating property, a Singapore citizen or a Permanent Resident, between 21 to 55 years old and earning a minimum monthly salary of S$2,000.

3. How much can I get for my renovation loan?

As a homeowner, you can get a maximum loan of S$30,000 or up to six times of your monthly salary (whichever is lower), repayable in five years. Additionally, RHB Renovation Loan customers enjoy complimentary group insurance coverage which covers the main borrower against accidental death and total permanent disability during the loan repayment period.

Today, we see an increasing trend of homeowners who meet the eligibility criteria to apply for renovation loans individually thus enabling them to have a bigger budget for the home renovations and furnishings, depending on the scope of work and furnishing items required.

6. What is the difference between taking a shorter loan period and a longer loan period?

The difference is in the monthly repayment amount. Also, you need to consider whether you are comfortable to service the loan based on your existing monthly income and commitments. Please refer to the estimated monthly repayment table below.

Looking For Your Favourite Home Renovation & Furnishing Package?

RHB Renovation Loan Repayment Table

3

1 Minimum annual income of S$24,000 per borrower is required. The RHB Renovation Loan will be capped up to six times of the borrower’s monthly income as indicated in the income documents, subject to a maximum of S$30,000 per borrower.

Estimated Monthly Repayment 3

Loan Tenure

1 year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years

Loan Amount $10,000 to $30,000

Approved Loan Amount

Interest Rate (p.a.)

Effective Interest Rate (p.a.)4

$12,000

$15,000

$20,000

$25,000

$30,000

2.88% 2.88% 2.88% 2.88% 2.88%

7.09% 6.36% 6.07% 5.91% 5.79%

$1,029 $529 $362 $279 $229

$1,286 $661 $453 $349 $286

$1,715 $881 $604 $465 $381

$2,143 $1,102 $754 $581 $477

$2,572 $1,322 $905 $697 $572

renovation loan up to S$30,000

additional furnishing loan available

2 For RHB Furnishing Loan: For annual income of S$20,000 to S$29,999, loan amount will be up to two times of the borrower’s monthly income. For annual income of S$30,000 to S$119,999, loan amount will be up to four times of the borrower’s monthly income. For annual income of S$120,000 and above, loan amount will be up to six times of the borrower’s monthly income.

3 The calculation is for illustrative purposes only. The figures (round off to the nearest dollar) are computed based on the interest rates quoted and are subject to change when the interest rates change.

4 Effective interest rate is inclusive of 1% processing fee.

Interest rates and product features are subject to change without prior notice.

Enjoy Exclusive Flat Rate

up to 5 years free group repayment insurance period

The effective interest rate (inclusive of 1% processing fee) is from 5.79% p.a. to 7.09% p.a., depending on the loan tenure.

Interest rates and product features are subject to change without prior notice. Visit the website for full terms and conditions.

APPLY NOW! Visit www.rhbbank.com.sg or call 9821

0100

Exclusively for SquareRooms readers

2.88%p.a. with RHB Renovation Loan when you attach this coupon by 30 April 2014

(Source: SquareRooms Feb 2014)

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get connected

To reach out to their online following, Sky Creation is rolling out a new YouTube channel with episodes of fresh interior topics

Regional Design Principal, Astley Ng

Sky Creation is expanding their social media presence with a new YouTube channel. Beginning this very month, you can expect to find interior know-how clips from the experts themselves.

Hosted by its very own Regional Design Principal Astley Ng, the design honcho will share his expertise on different trending and design topics every month.

Some of it slated to appear include DIY tips & tricks; green alternatives for an environmentfriendly home; children room themes; pet-friendly space and Feng Shui for homes, just to name a few. Each episode will be three-five minutes long.

Astley explains why making informative clips is a natural progression for Sky Creation.

“It’s not just to publicise the company’s name, but to educate and engage homeowners on interior design. It opens up different ways to communicate with our target audience on how design can be fun and so rich in context. We hope to use videos to illustrate our expertise with the viewers.”

Besides getting a first-look glimpse of the home projects under their wing, Astley will bring their professional camera crew into tile showrooms, lighting showrooms and more unexplored interior territories. He wants to show the real side of interior design and by showing real renovations and their partner retailers, real solutions are offered.

Sky Creation Design Pte Ltd (Head Office) No 8 Kim Keat Lane Singapore 328865 Tel: +65 6352 8809 Fax: +65 6352 8815 Web: www.skycreation.com.sg SCDC Sky Creation Pte Ltd

Sky Creation Musee 51 Ubi Avenue 1 #02-09 Paya Ubi Industrial Park Tel: +65 6748 8956 IMM Showroom IMM Building 2 Jurong East St 21 #03-36 Singapore 609601

FIND us on Facebook at Sky Creation Sky Creation + Design Consultancy

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expert advice

rules of colour

How to expand and enhance the look of your living space with colour.

Dulux Colour Consultants show us how

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Image courtesy of Dulux

Text Disa Tan

expert advice My living room is tight and narrow. What paint colours would you recommend to make the space more spacious and open?

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Yes, it’s true that light-coloured walls can make a room look larger but they are not the only solution, especially if you have dark furniture. Bright, organic colours like warm yellows and orange, or cool blues and greens can also do the trick. However, up until recently it has always been a challenge to combine somewhat darker tones to make a room look larger. That problem can now be solved with our unique Dulux Light and Space paint. This includes the patented, ground-breaking Lumitec™ technology which reflects up to twice as

much light as conventional paint. This will enhance the feeling of space, making rooms appear brighter, and more spacious.

Some good colour choices are Dulux Pearl Shell LS 26488, Spring Blush LS 22275 and Desert Wind LS 22274. But to be sure, check out the entire available palette in our Dulux Colour Inspiration Book 2014, on our website www.dulux.com.sg or at one of our stores. Dulux Light & Space comes in a smooth-looking matt finish, is low in odour, and is eco-certified under the Singapore Green Label scheme.

In what instances should I take on the paint job myself?

Image courtesy of Inform Design & Contracts

You may consider taking on the paint job on your own if it’s just painting a room or two. Having the proper equipment like ladders, brushes, rollers and other tools might also be a key consideration as you will be spending a certain amount of cash for a one time usage to paint your house.

For bedrooms, what paint colours would be conducive for a restful ambience?

If I prefer a darker palette, should I paint the entire home in dark tones?

Image courtesy of Dulux

Image courtesy of Free Space Intent

For a tranquil bedroom mood, you can paint the walls in pale pastel colours such as Dulux All Sea Shell AL 22073 and Dulux Wash & Wear Caravan WW 22504L or light cool colours such as Dulux All Pine AL 23804 or Dulux All Soft Sky AL 21612.

If you prefer a darker palette for your home, it is recommended to paint one side of the wall in a dark shade of colour and the rest of the walls in a lighter shade.

If you paint all the walls in dark tones, it could make the home feel small, dark and oppressive.

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Image courtesy of Metaphor Studio

expert advice

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How can I maintain the look of freshly-painted walls?

Dust your clean walls occasionally as dust, dirt and cobwebs form over time. Wipe the affected area with a damp cloth immediately after it occurs.

How long will a professional paint job for a five-room HDB flat unit take?

Usually it will be around two to four days depending on the area and the walls. Walls that require treatment will take longer.

Nevertheless, our painting contractor will assess the whole house before he will commit to the actual number of days needed for the painting job.

How should I store leftover paint?

Use cool complementary colours to bring down the vibrancy of the bright tones. For instance, green for red and pink shades and blue for orange shades.

Image courtesy of Free Space Intent

Image courtesy of Dulux

Leftover paint will last longer if the tin is sealed tightly. To reseal a can of paint and make sure it is airtight, wipe the rim of the can clean; replace the lid; place a block of wood over the top and tap it down with a hammer. Then quickly invert the securely lidded can to form an airtight seal which will help prevent skinning.

Store leftover paint upright in a frost free environment, and keep it out of sight and reach of children.

I like bright tones like red, pink and orange. What colours can I employ to downplay the vibrancy of these striking shades?

What is the rule of thumb in painting the entire home? Should I paint all the rooms in the same colour for design consistency and can I choose different tones for each room?

Colour and design when painting a home is subjective. Different people have different ideas and opinions when it concerns decorating their home. One way to adopt a consistent design for all the rooms is to have a feature wall theme. You can use the same light-coloured tone for the three adjacent walls in each room but utilise different colours for the feature walls in each room.

FEB

125

expert advice Colour Of The 4 Year 201

Is there anything to help me visualise my chosen paint colours in my home?

Image courtesy of Dulux

Dulux Private Lagoon 90GG 19/151

The Dulux Colour Consultation Service allows visualisation of colours in realistic images of actual homes. This helps prevent painful mistakes made in colour selection after painting which will incur more cost and inconvenience to re-paint.

All you need to do is take a picture of the room which you want to paint, specify any colour or theme preferences and email the information to Dulux Colour Consultation Service.

We will then revert with photographs of the room in selected colour combinations.

The top trend colour, Teal, for 2014 perfectly combines the natural harmony of green with the tranquillity of blue. Reflecting the overriding trend of unlocking, this muted teal has a gentle character and is a favourite in the world of design. Deeper and more sophisticated than turquoise, teal has a subdued richness which is often used to describe tropical seas of shimmering bluish green.

A tertiary colour, teal is the combination of primary blue and secondary green which today is used to describe several different tones of this majestic colour. Somewhere between blue and green it has come to symbolise balance, but should be combined with neutral tones and shades of wood so as not to overwhelm a space.

For such a statement colour, teal is surprisingly versatile and works well in different colour combinations. Sitting opposite coral on the colour wheel, it works beautifully with delicate pinkish tones and warm ochre yellow, but to be on trend, it should be combined with other tones of teal, green or blue to create a tone-on-tone effect.

126

FEB

Image courtesy of Ingenious Design & Furnishing

What is the on-trend colour of 2014?

I’ve heard about warm and cool hues. What is the difference between the two and how can I capitalise on the attributes of the two colour groups to my home’s advantage?

Warm hues are colours in the red-yellow green end of a colour spectrum while cool hues are colours in the green-violet end of a colour spectrum. Warm hues will advance or appear more active visually while cool hues will recede visually. Warm hues evoke a feeling of warmth, energy and activity while cool hues evoke a cool feeling, calm and relaxed.

A balanced way to use both attributes of the two colour groups is to use a complementary or split complementary theme where a colour or colours from the warm hues and the cool hues are used together to create a pleasing atmosphere in a room.

For more information, visit www.dulux.com.sg

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INTERIOR DESIGNERS

Brim Design 9 Marshall Road +65 6299 5733 www.brimdesign.com.sg Darwin Interior 70 Bendemeer Road #01-01 Luzerne Building +65 6396 8558 634 Bukit Batok Central #01-100 +65 6786 8558 5 Tampines Central 6 #01-12 Telepark +65 6781 8558 www.darwininterior.com.sg Dzign Station No.18 Boon Lay Way #01-98B TradeHub 21 www.dzignstation.com.sg Euphoric Designs 7030 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5 #08-10 Northstar@AMK +65 6659 2672 Form & Space 387 Joo Chiat Road #03-10 The Modules +65 6853 3683 www.formandspace.com.sg Free Space Intent 8 Ubi Road 2 #02-07 Zervex +65 6392 8885 www.fsi.com.sg

Matrix Interior 81 Ubi Avenue 4 #01-14 UB.ONE +65 6538 1711 www.matrixinterior.com.sg Plush Home 1008 Eunos Ave 7 #01-07 +65 6744 6711 www.plushhome.com.sg Prozfile 1 Starlight Road +65 6396 6672 www.prozfile.com.sg Renolab Interior 37 Onan Road 1800-736 6522 www.renolab.com.sg Renozone Interior Design House 1 Jalan Klapa +65 6292 3345 www.renozone.com.sg Rezt & Relax No. 33 Ubi Avenue 3 #02-09 Vertex Tower B +65 6348 7787 www.reztnrelax.com Space Define Interior 318 Joo Chiat Road +65 6345 0318 www.spacedefine.com Sky Creation 8 Kim Keat Lane +65 6352 8809 51 Ubi Avenue 1 #02-09 Paya Ubi Industrial Park +65 6748 8956 www.skycreation.com.sg The 80’s Studio 81 Ubi Ave 4 #01-12 +65 6604 8880 www.the80studio.com

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Thom Signature Design 754 Upper Serangoon Road Singapore 534624 +65 6284 4462 www.thomsignature.com.sg

Dulux www.dulux.com.sg

RETAILERS

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Francfranc 1 Harbourfront Walk #02-41/42 VivoCity +65 6376 8077 www.francfranc.com.sg Fred Lives Here www.fredliveshere.com Grafunkt 85 Playfair Road #02-01 Tong Yuan Industrial Building +65 6281 8465 www.grafunkt.com IKEA 60 Tampines North Drive 2 +65 6786 6868 www.ikea.com/sg Laura Ashley 1 Kim Seng Promenade #01-30/31 Great world City +65 6834 0515 Like That One No. 2 Bukit Batok Street 24 #01-02 Skytech +65 6560 9168 www.likethatone.com Roca 8 Burn Road #12-07 Trivex +65 6333 4080 www.roca.sg Scanteak www.scanteak.com.sg Standard of Living 34 Kandahar Street +65 6298 2349

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diner’s dream

An updated version of booth seating, this dining seat is high on design aesthetics and practicality Text Disa Tan

136

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Getty Images

Everyone loves diner booth seats but truth be told, it is chunky and not very spacefriendly. By using built-in carpentry works, you can have a ‘lightweight’ booth seat and a futuristic-looking ceiling feature all in one. Another plus point is it cocoons the dining zone as a cosy spot and this is the perfect demarcation for a co-shared communal area.

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