Home Guide 2015

Creative LivingSomething for everyone seeking a beautiful living space

Home Guide 2015+

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CONTENTS

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Creative Living

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KITCHENSCooking up a Delicious Kitchen Space HOME ACCESSORIESTurning Your House into a Home INDEX

EDITOR’S LETTER LIVING AND DINING ROOMSLiving the Dream BEDROOMSAnd so to Bed!

BATHROOMSGet Naturalin the Bathroom

HOME GUIDE 2015 3

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4 HOME GUIDE 2015

Dear Readers,

It’s true what they say—THERE REALLY IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME!So it’s important to make sure your living space is perfect for you; the home of your dreams.

Everyone wants their home to be beautiful and comfortable, as well as being highly livable. The ideal home should be both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

That said, here in Hong Kong lack of space is a problem faced by most of us, so finding innovative and creative ways to maximize what room you have is a top priority.

But fear not! The solution to your space dilemma is at hand.

Creative Living–a unique collaborative effort between HK Magazine and The List–is an indispensable Home Guide that’s packed to the brim with inspirational ideas.

It also offers useful lifestyle tips and valuable inside information on home essential products and services, “how-to” projects, interior decoration tips and much more.

In a nutshell, Creative Living is a comprehensive guide for homeowners and consumers interested in décor, design trends and home improvement. There is something for everyone seeking a beautiful living space.

Hidden within this little treasure trove you will find answers to your questions about every section of your home, from the living and dining areas, to the bedroom, the bathroom and the kitchen. So whether you have a small apartment in the heart of the city or a big house in the New Territories, we aim to give you tips and inspiration to help you create the perfect home for you and your family.

Enjoy the benefits of Creative Living, the ultimate home lifestyle publication.

The Home Guide Team

Editor-in-Chief Luisa Tam

Managing Editor Daniel Creffield

Senior Editor Adam White

Director of Sales Gary Wong

Strategic Sales Director Jan Cheng

Senior Sales Manager Joyce Wu

Senior Advertising Manager Kent Ma

Account Manager Fiona Lin

Advertising Executives Bonita Yung, Celia Wong

Marketing Manager Tiffany Yew

Marketing Executive Ricardo Ng

Advertising & Marketing Coordinator Yan Man

Senior Art Director Pierre Pang

Senior Graphic Designer Kay Leung

Contributing Designer Tym Tang

Production Supervisor Kelly Cheung

Senior Accountant Alex Fung

Accountant Winson Yip

Creative Living is published by HK Magazine

Media Group Copyright ©2015 HK Magazine

Media Group. The titles “HK Magazine,”

“Creative Living” and their associated logos

or devices, and the content of the Creative

Living are the property of HK Magazine Media

Group. Reproduction in whole or in part without

permission is strictly prohibited. Additional

copies of this guide are available for $50. This

guide may not be distributed without the express

written consent of HK Magazine Media Group.

Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates

and specifications. All advertising must comply

with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of

which are available upon request.

Editorial enquiry [email protected]

Sales enquiry 2565 2222 or

[email protected]

Marketing enquiry

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Circulation enquiry

[email protected]

HK Magazine Media Ltd.

Morning Post Centre, 22 Dai Fat Street,

Tai Po Industrial Estate, New Territories,

Hong Kong

Who’s in charge?

Where to find us

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Award winning International Designer Analisa Corr is the founder and Head Designer of Bella Loco Hong Kong. With extensive background in luxury interiors and European furnishings her attention is now focused on the Asian market with her creative personalised designs and customised furniture.

Bella Loco, Hong Kong Club Building,Central, Hong Kong, Tel: +852 3974 8702Email: [email protected] www.bellaloco.com

AWARD WINNING INTERIOR DESIGN & LUXURY EUROPEAN FURNITUREAward winning International Designer Analisa Corr is the founder and Head Designer of Bella Loco Hong Kong. With extensive background in luxury interiors and European furnishings her attention is now focused on the Asian market with her creative personalised designs and customised furniture.


& LUXURY EUROPEAN FURNITUREAward winning International Designer Analisa Corr is the founder and Head Designer of Bella Loco Hong Kong. With extensive background in luxury interiors and European furnishings her attention is now focused on the Asian market with her creative personalised designs and customised furniture.


& LUXURY EUROPEAN FURNITURE

Email: [email protected] www.bellaloco.com

Award winning International Designer Analisa Corr is the founder and Head Designer of Bella Loco Hong Kong. With extensive background in luxury interiors and European furnishings her attention is now focused on the Asian market with her creative personalised designs and customised furniture.

& LUXURY EUROPEAN FURNITURE

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“Not life, but good life, is to be chiefly valued” - Socrates, Greek philosopher

LIVINGAND

DININGROOMS

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Interior designer Annkie Chan of Mercer House serves clients in Hong Kong and overseas, including some of the rich and famous. Here she talks to M.C. Hughes, offering expert insider advice on the best way to decorate living and dining areas.

It’s said that first impressions last. Nowhere is that more true than in the home. That’s why it’s really important to get it right when it comes to your living and dining space–the area most visitors see first.

In Hong Kong, where space is at a premium, the two are often combined, making it vital that this

space is warm and welcoming, even if it may not be all that spacious.

First you have to identify the ideal unit, bearing in mind influencing factors, such as fung shui and being able to picture it in sunny and rainy conditions. This is important when it comes to making color choices.

The prerequisite for any home is that it simply has to have direct natural light. Next, make sure there aren’t too many overhead beams or other structural problems that are going to make design difficult.

Also make sure the layout of the property has a good balance to allow room for creativity and functionality.

LIVINGTHE DREAM

LIVING & DINING ROOMS

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The perennial challenge for interior designers in Hong Kong is of course the lack of space. On entering a home one has to feel welcome, so there must be some kind of partition.

For smaller spaces a nice little chair for guests to take their shoes off or a small plant at the entrance would be thoughtful.

And if space allows, a screen or cabinet is another option. This stop-and-greet area also serves to give the occupants a little more privacy from the public area outside the door. Some clever use of soft yellow lighting at the entrance can also create a division between the entrance and the living and dining areas. Basically there are no limitations; just use your imagination!

One way to maximize space is to utilize built-in cabinets, best used along the entire stretch of a wall. This is both aesthetic and effective as it avoids creating a cluttered look, as small items can be hidden. Cabinets can be applied to both big and small apartments.

If you don’t have this budget, another option is to use colored boxes for storage and hide them behind a nice curtain. Boxes are extremely multifunctional and economical.

Comfort is a key requirement when designing the living area. Minimalism is the rule of thumb here, especially for smaller places. For smaller

rooms, opt for versatile furniture that has multiple functions. Japanese-made furniture is ideal because space is at a premium in Japan as well.

Another thing to bear in mind is to be realistic. Many clients furnish or design their home with the wrong perception of space. They design their place like it is a whopping 2,000-square-feet, when in fact it’s only 800!

From an aesthetic point of view, as space is tight in Hong Kong, the clever use of a sideboard or console table provides a subtle division between the dining and living rooms. It can serve a dual function as it’s ideal for placing photo frames, candles, lamps and other personal items to give the space individual character. If you have the space, try an armchair or ottoman.

You should always make a division between living and dining areas. One common mistake people make in Hong Kong is they tend to merge the two, with the dining area spilling into the living space. This detracts from the comfort level of the living area and confuses the functions; it also tends to chase the occupants out of the home.

Never fuse these two zones. You want your family to stay home more often, so make it comfortable for them. Good luck!

Many clients furnish or design their home with the wrong perception of space. They design their place like it is a whopping 2,000-square-feet, when in fact it’s only 800! ”

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Go for bold, colorful cushions

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HOME GUIDE 2015 9


• Personal referrals are a good start, but remember a designer with rich or famous clients is not necessarily the best choice for you. Ask to see their portfolio. Better still, if you have a friend who has used them before, make a date to visit their place and see the work done by the designer.

• Visit the designer’s office to see how their workplace is organized. This way you get to see their office design, how they operate and the quality of the staff.

• A good designer often has a library or archive to display design materials, such as fabrics and various design concepts for customer inspection.

• Always seek a second opinion, which means checking out at least two designers before making a commitment.

• During the initial meetings talk to the designer as much as possible, so both sides get to know each other. This will ensure expectations are aligned. A good designer should never be a “yes” man or woman, they should be able to bounce off ideas and create synergetic communication with you.

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Tips on finding the right interior designer


10 HOME GUIDE 2015



Place a fresh bowl of fruit on the dining table or use a nice tablecloth

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• Let the designer know who will be living in your home, their personal habits and any health needs, so the design can support and enhance their daily lives.

• Ask as many questions as possible regarding every aspect of the project, especially relating to costs. This avoids any misunderstandings.

• If you have a particular concept in mind, it’s best to come up with solid examples to show the designer, like magazine clippings.

• Maintain clear and direct communication, especially when dealing with colors. Remember, one person’s interpretation often differs from another’s. It’s far better to show a sample rather than merely provide a verbal description.

• Be sure to revise the design and get final agreement before getting started. This approach will save you lots of time and money.

• Carry out site inspections to check progress, take notes and ask questions at regular intervals, but not every day because that would prove to be a nightmare for both sides and hinder progress.

• Most importantly, be patient and nice with both the designer and contractor. This will encourage them to make their best effort!


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How to work with your designer


“To provide best-in-class furnishings and design services, empowering people to create beautiful interiors that perfectly match their lifestyle aspirations”, this is the Indigo vision.

Indigo Living is a fashionable upscale retailer selling furniture and home accessories as well as baby & child products in the Hong Kong, China and the UAE markets and beyond. We offer an extensive selection of innovative accessories and furniture at competitive prices, whilst maintaining a high quality policy and after sales service, and we strive to inspire our customers to Live Beautifully.

As an extension of the retail business, our Rental Service meets the demanding requirements of large corporate clients who need furniture leasing packages for their expatriate secondees as well as individual clients looking for short or long term rental options.

Indigo Living also specialises in sourcing, design and turnkey project business, where we custom design and furnish show flats, serviced apartments, hotels for property developers and more.

Indigo Living

Horizon Plaza - Living & Kids Flagship Store

6/F Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau

2555 0540

[email protected] | open daily 10am - 7pm

Classic and elegant, yet warm and livable, Bowerbird Home offers a thoughtfully curated collection of furniture and homewares that will always inspire and never date.

With products sourced from around the world and in small quantities, Bowerbird Home’s style is described as classic luxe meets Hamptons chic, with a touch of chinoiserie. Bowerbird Home is for the collected home, and is constantly evolving.

Collections change throughout the year following design trends with a nod to the seasons. Core products include a range of classic dining tables and chairs, Belgian linen sofas, Chinese antiques and ceramics. There is an endless collection of blue and white ceramics, textiles and accessories from all around the globe, enough to feather any nest.

Bowerbird Home is run by a group of interior enthusiasts who are focused on delivering an experience and service above and beyond your expectations. The team is dedicated to helping clients furnish their homes in a way that entices them back.

Bowerbird Home

Bowerbird Home

2552 2727

[email protected]

http://www.bowerbird-home.com


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How to work with your designer


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OVOSTUDIO is a furniture and lifestyle store, cultivating quality lifestyle with nature’s attributes and imagination’s extravagance. Not only does it feature the internationally renowned design brands such as, Kenneth Cobonpue, Ethnicraft and Andreu World, it also presents its unique eco-friendly solid wood furniture collections, made by reclaimed wood and FSC certified materials; fulfilling functionality, sustainability and style to modern living.

OVOSTUDIO

Tucked away in a 1960’s factory building in the up and coming enclave of Wong Chuk Hang, Mirth has a funky, eclectic mix of globally-sourced goods and handpicked one-of-a-kind special pieces. The transformed space is housed in an old 1960’s stool factory and occupies a space of 4000sq ft. Furnishings, interior accessories, artwork, books, stationery, childrens’ toys, clothing, shoes and beyond from emerging and established designers. Mirth also regularly hosts craft workshops - including macrame, weaving and tassel making- from skilled and well known overseas designers. A fluid and ever-changing store that will inspire and delight shoppers with an all-round lifestyle experience.

MIRTH

M/F, BT Centre, 23 Wong Chuk

Hang Road, Hong Kong

2553 9811

[email protected]

www.facebook.com/mirthhome

G/F 1 Wan Chai Road,

Wan Chai, Hong Kong

2527 6088

[email protected]

www.ovostudio.com.hk

Shop 12, 66 Yi Chun Street,

Sai Kung, Hong Kong

2750 4800

[email protected]

Shop 2002 Horizon Plaza

Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong

2529 6020

[email protected]

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HOME GUIDE 2015 15

Hong Kong’s favourite eco-wood furniture store was established in 2005 with a vision of beautiful, sustainable home living. At TREE, contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship are brought together to create timeless furniture, from the heart.

Its solid eco-wood furniture is made from responsibly sourced wood that is either FSC-certified, supported through the Trees4Trees foundation or even salvaged from old Indonesian fishing boats, houses, railway sleepers and bridges – giving each piece at TREE a uniquely natural story. Tables, chairs, beds, desks, storage and many more pieces crafted from either sustainable/eco teak, oak or walnut, sit alongside cosy sofas, statement lighting and an eclectic mix of handcrafted finishing touches to help create the perfect home.

Its philosophy extends to a passionate commitment to doing the right thing; for its customers, for the environment and for the communities in which TREE does business.

TREE

28/F Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau, Hong Kong

Other stores: Soho | Sai Kung

2870 1582 | 2870 0352

[email protected] | http://www.tree.com.hk

Shop 209-210, 2/F, Retail Podium, One Island South

2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong

2868 0681 | 2868 1281

[email protected] | www.red-cabinet.com.hk

The Red Cabinet has been a fixture in HK’s interior scene since 1997, with their first showroom on Hollywood Road stocking traditional antique Chinese furniture.

After a decade, we continue to scour provinces throughout China for beautifully-finished one-of-a-kind pieces. Each piece is sourced with your home in mind and will blend effortlessly into modern day interiors.

To ensure an up-to-date look, we have also over the years expanded our portfolio to creating our very own exclusive furniture designs as well as designing children’s furniture to meet the urban living needs of Hong Kong.

In 2011, our flagship store was established in a spacious loft-style space in One Island South. Representing a culmination of our past works, our latest showroom showcases a sophisticated collection of carefully edited, one-of-a-kind pieces, together with an evolving range of newly designed pieces that offers practicality and quirkiness all in one.

At The Red Cabinet, we maintain a philosophy of providing beautiful products with longevity at sensible prices. We warmly invite you to visit and meet our friendly and knowledgeable team who are always on hand to work with you in finding or creating just the right piece.

The Red Cabinet


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“Life comes from physical survival; but the good life comes from what we care about.”

- Rollo May, psychologist and author

BEDROOMS

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BEDROOMS

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The bedroom is an intriguingly multi-purpose space—as most of our time there is spent sleeping, it needs offer peace and tranquility and a haven from the harsh realities of the outside world. But it is also a place of leisure, entertainment and of course, romance.

While the rest of your home may be subject to visits from friends, relatives and any number of other welcome or unwelcome callers, the bedroom is sacrosanct. Hidden away from prying eyes, it is one of the few rooms that you can pretty much design and decorate as you desire without fear of anyone casting a disdainful eye over it. You want a medieval four-poster? Your call! Barbie theme from top to bottom? Go for it! Vampire motif with coffin bed? Now that’s just weird…

AND SO TO BED!

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BEDROOMS

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Of course, if you share the space you also need to come to a bedroom design agreement you can both live with. If he is prepared to compromise on his stars and stripes wall theme, perhaps you can agree that hot pink might not be conducive to a good night’s sleep.

And as your bedroom is the last thing you see at night and the first thing you see in the morning, it’s a good idea psychologically to create a positive image in terms of the colors, feel and energy it exudes.

Waking in an environment that stimulates positive mental energy is the best possible start to the day (although occasional breakfast in bed also works–if you’re reading this you know who you are).

So what are some of the most interesting and prominent areas of bedroom design happeningat the moment?


BEDROOMS

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“Calm and cool color palettes have been very popular in 2015, such as olive green and shades of gray,” suggests Gary Lai, founder and director of Spatial Concept, a boutique interior design studio offering a full range of design services.

Metal is also making a big comeback, thanks to Tom Dixon, a British design and manufacturing company producing lighting, furniture and accessories utilizing basic materials and innovative designs. You can see lots of light fittings and accessories in copper and bronze finishes.

“For furniture retro continues to be a hot theme, whether it’s an accent armchair, mirror or bed end bench, combined with modern interiors to give a personal touch.”

Spatial Concept’s portfolio includes corporate, hospitality and high-end residential projects in Hong Kong, Singapore, China and the U.S.

“For walls, I like to use simple paint finishes as the backdrop and use artwork as the focal point. However I do see a lot

of hand-painted wallpaper being used in bedrooms,” adds Lai.

Johnny Wong of FAK3 agrees that wallpaper is currently a particular area of focus.

“For bedrooms, one of the areas where we are seeing advances is in wallpaper technology. It is also incorporating more lux–there are some beautiful, emotive silk finishes in wallpaper which we often use in bedrooms to provide softness and warmth. They are textured with a soft sheen.”

Wong, who founded FAK3 with partner Miho Hirabayashi to focus on unique signature luxury developments, adds that handpainted wallpapers offer interesting textures, such as silk, tea stained or recycled looks.

People are getting more confident with their interiors and experimenting more, says Monique McLintock of McLintock Wong Interiors.

“They are happier to push the barriers generally, which as a designer is great! They are adding more furniture in their

bedrooms, statement pieces such as interesting chairs or vintage style trunks at the end of their beds. They are looking for more unique pieces generally.”

She says she has also observed a more eclectic approach.

“Instead of specific styles, we are instead seeing more mix and matching. With bedside tables, rather than matching pairs, for example, we are seeing more random combinations. There’s also a big increase in vintage, either genuine or recreations.”

In terms of lighting, McLintock Wong is seeing a move away from table lamps and towards pendant lights above tables and also more subtle under lighting.

And she picks out beds as an area where designers have been looking to make a particular design statement.

“Long gone are the days when beds were boring and understated. I have seen an increase in beds becoming statement pieces.”

Set the mood with subtle soft lighting

People are getting more confident with their interiors and experimenting more ”

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BEDROOMS

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BEDROOMS

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• Consider filling quiet corners of the bedroom with a potted plant–this may seem like a simple idea, but the addition of something green and organic makes a big difference to the aesthetics and atmosphere.

• Metallic finishes, especially copper are all the rage for the bedroom, offering a hint of rustic chic.

• Floral wall art, either professionally hand-painted or large prints, add flamboyance and an explosion of color.

• While modern and rustic elements are both uber fashionable at the moment, consider a blend of both.

• The country home theme, incorporating craft, nostalgia and vintage pieces, homemade bed throws and quilts, antiques and objet d’art is also trending for this year.

• Linens are fashionable for the whole house, especially the bedroom. Combine them with sheets of muted colors and a white faux fur throw, set off with accent cushions with a punch of blues and even a stronger red velvet.

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Bedroom Quick Tips

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S513, 5/F, Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street,

Central, Hong Kong

2155 2282 | 3020 7465

[email protected] | www.513paintshop.com

HOME GUIDE 2015 23

513 Paint Shop is the first designer paint shop in Hong Kong. Here the concept is simple, “Let’s get creative!” We hope to be an inspiring source for individuals & designers alike. While our feature products are our own lines of artisan paint products which are all VOC free & Toxin free, made in Sweden & Iceland, we stock items which inspire anyone to find that satisfying experience of creating/improving your own living/working environment. We also have our own line of candles, cushions to match with our paint colors and a changing selection of exquisite home accessories from around the world and creative products. We also host regular workshops for individuals and groups, corporate team building events and children or adult birthday workshop party.

Our professional team offers expert advice for all your DIY projects and painting needs and if you need interior renovation help, come for our interior consultation service.

513 Paint Shop

Exclusively available at Lane Crawford

ifc mall | Pacific Place home store |

Canton Road | Times Square

lanecrawford.com

This season, Frette is launching an Autumn-Winter linen line that pays homage to Milan - the artistry and splendour of one of Italy’s greatest cities and the home of Frette for the last 155 years.

Drawing inspiration from the icons of their city, translating the landmark works of its architects and artists into meticulously crafted products. This exclusive Sublime throw is uniquely produced by Frette mixing precious silk and fine cashmere in a jacquard technique. It is finished with a cashmere reverse and a satin border. The resulting collection is unmistakably Milanese – in design, craftsmanship and luxuriousness.

Luxury Sublime Throw - HKD$35,000

Made in Milan:Frette’s Autumn-Winter 2015 Collection

BEDROOMS


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BOSE

Shop 2011, IFC Mall, 8 Finance St., Central, Hong Kong

[email protected] | www.bose.com.hk

2123-9000

“Simply the best” is an overworked cliché. It’s often used, particularly in the world of advertising, to describe something new. It’s a superlative that in most cases can’t be substantiated. But that’s not always so…

For generations the first name people have thought of when it comes to sound systems is Bose. The old adage that things go better with Bose is as true today as it was 50 years ago.

Bose is much more than an audio company. It’s an ideas company that prides itself on driving forward innovation and pioneering important breakthroughs in sound technology.

An inherent ability to move with the times has seen Bose develop cutting-edge refinements that have improved sound systems to unprecedented levels. With the introduction of its next-generation SoundTouch wireless music systems, Bose is heralding a new beginning for the state-of-the-art technology that has revolutionized the industry.

Sound Sensation

Bose SoundTouch 10 wireless music system


Now instant music and multi-room listening is easily available, as every SoundTouch system will have built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability.

Bluetooth allows you to steam music and YouTube from your devices, while Wi-Fi gives you the freedom to broadcast via SoundTouch speakers in any room. The SoundTouch mobile app allows you to explore integrated music services, set personalized presets, and enjoy different music in different rooms.

Continuing to provide an innovative lead for the industry, Bose is also launching two wireless music system firsts, in association with Spotify. The first sees Spotify integrated in the SoundTouch app, while Spotify Connect will be able to control any SoundTouch system from the Spotify app. Both are available soon.

In another advance, bose.com has launched Ready Set ith Spotify, an effective way to preload Spotify playlists on to SoundTouch systems. “SoundTouch has always been about the experience; what listening to streaming music at home should be like,” says John Roselli, general manager of Bose Wireless Speakers. “We engineered everything around that simple idea.” In keeping with the philosophy of modern living, SoundTouch takes you outside, too. The new, efficient SoundTouch SA-5 amplifier powers weatherproof speakers for patios, balconies, and backyards, while the new compact SoundTouch 10 speaker, which plays cleaner, deeper and louder than any comparable single speaker, is a great way to get started with a music system. Meanwhile, The new SoundTouch 20 and 30 Series III speakers are the updated big brothers of the SoundTouch 10.

The new Bose SoundTouch 10 wireless music system is $1,680 and the new SoundTouch 20 and SoundTouch 30 Series III system are available for $3,200 and $4,580 respectively. Bose SoundTouch home theater systems are available from $9,980.

If you’re looking to keep things truly portable when out and about, the Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth speaker II is an ultra-compact speaker with an ultra-big sound. It may fit easily into your palm, but its big, bass-heavy capabilities mean that you can take your music anywhere. This pocket powerhouse connects wirelessly to your mobile device via Bluetooth, making it simplicity itself to hook up to for tunes on the go. Meanwhile, a built-in speakerphone means that you can take and make calls out loud, without having to unhook your phone from the speaker. With 10 hours of rechargable battery life and a sleek, simple design —including swappable protective covers for an extra personal touch —you’ll wonder how you ever went without. The SoundLink Mini Bluetooth speaker II retails for $1,800.

For enquiries, check out bose.com.hk.

HOME GUIDE 2015 25

SPONSORED FEATURE

Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth speaker II


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“Individually, people are finding thata simpler lifestyle provides greater satisfaction than

relentless pursuit of materialism.” - Laurance Rockefeller, philanthropist and businessman

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BATHROOMS

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BATHROOMS

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GET NATURAL IN THE BATHROOM

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BATHROOMS

While we can all agree it’s not the sexiest room in the house, designing your dream bathroom can go a long way in making your home cozy and comfortable. After a hard day at work, the bathroom is the first place you’ll retreat to for that long and luxurious bath or hot shower to wash away the stress of the day.

The best way to create this spa-inspired sanctuary is through the use of natural elements, which can be incorporated through a few simple design principles and tips.

If you’re seeking to create a serene and relaxing ambience in the bathroom, look to materials that evoke the outdoors, such as bamboo, wood and stone.

Get creative and bring in authentic outdoor elements

such as pebble flooring or tropical plants, or simply recreate the same vibe with tiles that resemble natural wood and stone.

Johnny Wang of design studio FAK3 recommends using “ceramic tiles with multiple patterns of one type of stone to create a more natural visual feeling.”

According to Wang, there are hundreds of varieties of ceramic tiling available locally in China and abroad that replicate solid wood patterns, but with a more durable material.

Look for ceramic bathroom tiles with a faux wood finish, which gives you that rustic look but will hold up in the wet, humid environment of a bathroom.

“If you can spend a bit more, opt for glass mosaics or stone,” says Eve Mercier, Founder of Insight School of Interior Design. “Carrara (white/gray marble) is also reasonable in terms of price and creates a clean, smart look.”

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BATHROOMS

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Stick with a neutral color palette, which creates a sense of tranquility and keeps the space feeling calm and collected, especially if you’re not getting much natural light. Gary Lai, Founder and Director of boutique interior design studio Spatial Concept, recommends “lighter colors such as beige or white, or perhaps contrasting a darker floor with a lighter wall.”

You can pick one color and use various shades to create dimension and interest while keeping the overall look clean, such as using different shades of white, ivory and ecru to create a light and airy yet still visually stimulating effect.

For a more seamless look, Lai also suggests opting for larger tiles to have fewer lines appearing on the walls and floors.

Add comfort with a stylish floor mat

If you have the budget, one great way to evoke natural elements is by installing a rain shower—a large showerhead mounted on the ceiling instead of the wall.

When complemented by rough, uneven natural stone walls and pebble floors, a rain shower gives you the refreshing feeling of showering outdoors and is a great way to add a sense of openness to the bathroom. If you prefer baths, opt for a stone tub, which evokes nature and lends a cool, sleek look to the space.


HOME GUIDE 2015 31

BATHROOMS

Finally, don’t forget about the small detailings and bathroom fixtures, which are just as important in the overall design of your bathroom. Keep things natural with rustic features such as hand-forged faucets and fixtures or sculptural basins with a wooden, earthy look.

“I recommend picking up some beautiful stone containers from G.O.D. and using them for shampoo and conditioner,” says interior designer Monique McLintock. “Also keeping a tray of rolled up hand towels is a nice touch.”

Add candles and fresh flowers or plants to recreate that tropical feel and you’ll have a spa-like sanctuary that you won’t want to leave.

• Keep bath salts and fragrant soapsnext to the tub for long soaks.

• Take products out of their original packaging and use attractive customized containers instead.

• Keep a pair of luxurious bathrobes and fluffy towels on hand – his and hers if you’re living with your significant other.

• Add a bouquet of flowers or another surprising touch to transport you to ultimate relaxation.

• Keep a tray of aromatic oils on hand to refresh and revitalize after a long bath.

5 Ways to Create a Spa-Like Ambience:


32 HOME GUIDE 2015

G/F, 25 Lok Ku Road,

Central, Hong Kong

25040688

[email protected] | www.pantry-magic.com

Pantry Magic was founded by a classically-trained French chef. Our complete product line offers everything for the serious cook: from pots and pans to stockpots, mixing bowls, spatulas and turners, knives and steels, mortar and pestles, silicone and traditional metal bakeware, roasters, whisks, spoons, sieves, basters and much more. We stock food magazines from USA, Australia, and the UK at cover price. Pantry Magic also offers cooking classes, and product demonstrations.

Pantry Magic

KITCHENS

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“The truth is, no matter what your lifestyle or occupation,nothing can really stop you when you’re allowing

yourself to be exactly who you want to be.” - Hayley Williams, musician

KITCHENS

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KITCHENS

34 HOME GUIDE 2015

COOKING UP A DELICIOUS KITCHEN SPACE

If you love to cook but are dealing with a kitchen the size of a closet in Hong Kong, you’re not alone. While the city’s limited space means we’re often chopping vegetables on top of the stove, there are several design tips you can keep in mind to clear up some space in the kitchen, keep your knick-knacks organized and above all, make your kitchen the welcoming space it should be for people to gather over good food and company.

According to John McLennan, Founder and Managing Director of Indigo Living, when it comes to kitchen design you should ask yourself three simple questions: Is it beautiful, is it necessary and is it useful?

“The kitchen can be the worst area for clutter as it tends to be the area with the least amount of space,” says McLennan. “Any item in the kitchen needs to answer yes to at least two of the three questions above.”

He points to the current trend toward cleaner surface areas and a much more scaled back design, yet incorporating the finer “design details that separate it from a simple laid back product.”

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HOME GUIDE 2015 35

KITCHENS

“To save space, more and more people are opting for cabinet drawers with groove handles instead of stick-out ones, as well as magnetic strips on walls for storing knives and condiments,” says interior designer Monique McLintock, who has managed major residential design projects around the world.

“Other great space-saving solutions are fold-out kitchen bars which can double as dining tables, and built-in fridges and microwave ovens.”

Founder of Insight School of Interior Design Eve Mercier adds, “Think about traffic flow and the way you move around the space during the design process. For instance, don’t put the kitchen sink on the opposite corner of the oven, unless you want to be slipping on spills all day!”


KITCHENS

36 HOME GUIDE 2015

Organization and storage is another key element in maximizing kitchen space, especially with the increase in tools and knick-knacks used around the kitchen these days. Whether it’s a cabinet drawer or a magnetic strip fixed to the side of the wall, there should be a proper storage place for everything.

“IKEA is a great place to start for picking up handy hooks and storage units,” says McLintock. You can purchase hanging racks to store your pots and pans, or shelves that hang on the back of pantry doors for keeping various sauces and condiments out of the way. You can also get magnetic strips at IKEA for hanging knives and keeping blades intact.”

As far as color palette, the trend now is toward one dominant color, rather than various pops of colors or layering of different color palettes.

“With small spaces, you can actually play around with using bold colors such as a bright red or black, as long as you are sticking with that one color,” says McLintock. If you prefer neutral colors, she suggests going for a glossy white lacquer or black mirror finish, which reflect light and make the kitchen look much bigger than it is.

“Whether you’re going bold or neutral, I always advise using as few colors and materials as possible. It keeps the kitchen looking uniform and clean.”

Finally, like every room in the house, lighting is essential to how the kitchen space is perceived.

“Lighting is becoming much more of a statement in people’s homes, almost an art piece in itself,” says McLennan. Both McLennan and McLintock advise using one central ceiling light for smaller kitchens, which creates a uniform brightness in the kitchen and opens up the space.


HOME GUIDE 2015 37

KITCHENS

Disperse cooking smells with a scented candle

3 Best Space-Saving Solutions

Build ceiling-high cabinets

Make the most of cramped quarters by building your kitchen cabinets all the way to the ceiling —the incremental storage can really make a difference.

Remove the kitchen door

A small kitchen will feel much larger if it opens up to the dining room or living room, plus it’s much easier to cook and keep company at the same time.

Install a pull-out pantry

We’d all love a walk-in pantry, but who has room for that? A pull-out pantry can be installed into even the tightest of spaces, with easy access for pulling sauces and condiments out as needed.


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14 HomeGuide2015_HomeAccessoriesCover.indd 38 19/10/2015 4:33 PM

“The good life is one that’s artistically made.” William Shatner, actor

HOMEACCESSORIES

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HOME ACCESSORIES

40 HOME GUIDE 2015

TURNING YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME

A home should be a place that makes you feel comfortable, somewhere you want to be, somewhere special. If you’re looking to turn your apartment or house into a home, pick up some useful tips here that will help you create your ideal home with our helpful quick guide.

From the outside and even on the inside, your house may look perfect. But no matter how well it’s designed or how beautiful it is, you’re never going to convert your house into a cosy, livable home until you work out how to create your own personal living space.

What you should be looking for is a place you look forward to being in to get away from the outside world; a place that provides you with both mental and emotional support. To achieve that goal we turn to something that is often overlooked when creating a home – home accessories.

Everyone, of course, has their own knick-knacks and curios, which add personality and character. But the subtle use of specialist home accessories can make a big difference, without detracting from your home’s je ne sais quoi.

So having established that home accessories are essential to help you make a statement, let’s look at 10 must-have essentials used to create the ideal home.

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HOME ACCESSORIES

1. SCENT – When you first walk into any home the first thing you notice is the smell of the place. The secret to success here is to use just the right amount of scent to set the mood. Incense, candles or oils are the preferred choices.

2. MIRRORS – Making the best use of space is always a priority. But when you want to make a room look bigger and more open, mirrors are the perfect solution. You should however resist any temptation to cover an empty space, and also make sure the mirror is reflecting something worth looking at.

3. ART – Finding the ideal piece of art to fit the look of your home is easy. All you have to do is like it! It’s that simplicity that makes art one of the most popular and versatile home accessories and one you simply can’t go wrong with.

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4. RUGS – The reassuring warmth and cosy, homely feeling created by rugs make them a surefire winner in any home. They have been used to brighten up homes for

thousands of years and the fact they come in such varied styles and colors adds to their lasting versatility.

5. PERSONAL MEMORABILIA – For most of us this is a no-brainer. After all, who doesn’t have a couple of unusual items of some kind? Whether it’s a vinyl record collection or something a bit more offbeat we all have that something that makes us different, but the important thing is it makes your home feel it is really yours.

6. VASES AND HOUSE PLANTS – The presence of some greenery is very uplifting, be it in the shape of fresh flowers or house plants. And a touch of green is not just environmentally friendly, studies have shown flowers and plants actively reduce stress, while bamboo, snake plants and spider plants improve air quality.

7. CANDLES – This is a simple and cost-effective way to add a special ambience to your home. Candles are, of course, often associated with romance, but they are also an ideal way to create a relaxed and calm mood. Alternatively, they can be used

simply as an attractive decoration.

8. LIGHTING – Getting the right lighting is really important. It reflects your character and your mood, yet at its best it’s invisible. That, say the experts, is because no one notices good lighting. If a room is well lit it enhances the atmosphere and makes everyone feel good.

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9. ELEMENTS OF SURPRISE – Be brave. Go for something totally different. Add an unexpected touch. The trick here is to think outside of the box. The options are limitless, from a bold dash of color to a 3D sculpture on the wall to generating a centerpiece from a repurposed item.

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10. NOTHING – This concept works on the old theory that sometimes less is more. This is not to suggest for a minute that your home should accessory-free. The idea here is one of minimalism; choose quality over quantity and keep things simple by using color and structure rather than create clutter.

boconcept.com/en-HK/

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10 must-have essentials used to create the ideal home


HOME ACCESSORIES

42 HOME GUIDE 2015

GO GREENFlowers and house plants can improve your mood and help you feel more creative. They’re also good for the environment.HOME

ACCESSORIESQUICK TIPS

THINK BIGSmall rooms look bigger when you use a giant rug.

BAD CHOICEExperts are in favor of mirrors in the home, but they warn against using them on ceilings. That’s just tacky!

BE POSITIVEIf you fancy going for modern décor then go for it! Experiment with something exciting like a wall sculpture or a bright, bold, colorful painting.

CANDLE POWEREven if you never light them, candles can add a magical ambience to your home.

SWEET SMELLWhen choosing a scent, if you have any doubts, then play safe and go for citrus. Orange, lemon and lime are ideal choices, along with grapefruit and bergamot.


HOME GUIDE 2015 43

HOME ACCESSORIES

GO GREEN

THINK BIGSmall rooms look bigger when you use a giant rug.

LET THERE BE LIGHTWhen it comes to lighting there’s a general misconception that you need to light the whole room. Not true. Try to use multiple light sources.

ANTIQUE LOOKDoing the unexpected often pays off around the home. Never look past the element of surprise. It may be that you boldly decide to refurbish an old piece of furniture destined for the rubbish. Use your imagination!

misconception that you need to light the whole room. Not true. Try to use multiple light sources.

Doing the unexpected often pays off around the home. Never look past the element of surprise. It may be that you boldly decide to refurbish an old piece of furniture destined for the rubbish.


44 HOME GUIDE 2015

G/F, Dominion Centre, 43-49 Queen’s Road East,

Wan Chai, Hong Kong

2866 6733 | 2866 6377

wcshop@@joineur.com | www.joineur.com

Joineur Family Store Limited

Room 1112-5, 11/F, Horizon Plaza,

Aberdeen, Hong Kong

3542 5771 | 3542 5772

[email protected] | www.joineur.com

Taste, aestheticism, timelessness are the core design principles that drive Joineur. To make every piece of furniture a sustainable, collectable artwork, Joineur uses precious hardwood, namely the yellow rosewood, red sandalwood and ebony.

“Fully utilising its potential” - With no excessive use of production material, Joineur insists in designing timeless, everlasting furnishings. By using precious and natural hardwood, together with the improved tenon structure, this gives birth to the artistic and ergonomic furniture at our store.

In Joineur, we focus on traditional Chinese culture. Wood is a natural eco-friendly material. With its tranquil nature, this not only brings home a peaceful ambience, but also encourages people to love the Earth in its entirety.

HOME ACCESSORIES

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INDEX

513 Paint Shop

Bella LocoBo ConceptBOSEBowerbird

Decor 8

Frette at Lane Crawford

Home Square

Indigo Living

Joineur

46 HOME GUIDE 2015

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LexZ Group

Mirth

OVOHOME & OVOSTUDIO

Pantry Magic

The Red CabinetThe Store HouseTree

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