ARCHITECTURE

INTERIORS

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

December 2016

www.perspectiveglobal.com

AUSSIE RULES
In its first leap across the ocean, Australian brand Little
Creatures has come to Hong Kong, with a perfect home away
from home created by local interior design firm Charlie & Rose

+ WORLD DESIGN CAPITAL

HK$48
US$18
15

Maxims Centre HK,

by ARK

Fansack @ J Plus
by Yoo, HK

Kelly Hoppens One

Shenzhen Bay

TAIPEI 2016

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Themed Adaptive City Design in

Motion, events and exhibitions show
how design can be integrated into
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HKIA Venice Biennale:

Sim Chan & Vaan Ip

A fresh look for

Grand Hyatt HK

The Master Collection,

Taiwan

p.23

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p.66

Tencent HQ, Shenzhen

K Cottage, South Africa

Ichijoji House, Kyoto

p.26

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Contents

Greg Cox

Editors Letter

OUR CUP
RUNNETH OVER
Weve plenty to keep you occupied this month, starting with

brand in Seoul have in common? Thats right theyre

a stunning makeover at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong (page

all winners of a coveted Best of the Best Trophy at

36), and art galore at J Plus by YOO, an innovative hotel in

Perspectives recent A&D Trophy Awards 2016, held last

Causeway Bay which has turned itself over to Chinese artist

month in Hong Kong.

Fansack for his Rupa exhibition (page 32).

Our focus this month is on residential architecture and
design, and we travel around the world from Shenzhen (page

The full report on these and the rest of the winners is

coming up in our bumper January-February combo issue,
which is also our dedicated Design Issue Dont miss it!

52) and South Africa (page 40) to Taipei (page 66), Seoul
(page 74), Kyoto (page 79) and Yangon (page 87).

sWere opening the call for nominations for the 2017 edition

And dont miss our report on the wonderful, jam-packed

of our annual 40 Under 40 young talent awards in mid-

celebration that was World Design Capital Taipei 2016 (page

December! Nominate a rising star in the fields of architecture,

96) and take a sneak peek at one possible future for the

art, fashion, graphic design and new media, interior design

central business district of Hong Kong (page 100)!

and product design or nominate yourself! The only rule is

Meanwhile, what do a restaurant in Hong Kong, a

that the nominee must be aged 40 or under in 2017, and

barber shop in Wuxi, a lighting collection designed in

must be Asia-based. Head over to www.perspectiveglobal.

Singapore and the flagship store for a Korean skincare

com and click on the link there for more details.

@perspectivehq
www.facebook.com/PerspectiveGlobal
@perspective_mag
www.linkedin.com/company/perspective-global

004

Contents

Courtesy of ARK | www.ark.com.hk

December 2016

020
014

The Digital Perspective

023

What were up to on digital and

social media follow us and stay
in the loop!

016

CALENDAR

018

WHERE WE WORK
Jacanda Travel, by ID-entity Design
in Hong Kong

For our final instalment on Hong

Kongs exhibition at La Biennale di
Venezia, we chat with Sim Chan
and Vaan Ip about their
installations for Stratagems in
Architecture: Hong Kong in Venice

026

020

All under one roof

When Hong Kong-based design
firm ARK was tasked with creating
the new headquarters for leading
food and beverage company
Maxims Group, it combined sleek,
environmentally-friendly features
with a stunning glass faade

028

032

Pop in for art

If home is where the heart is, then in
the 21st century, hotels are where
the art is. At Hong Kongs J Plus
Hotel by YOO in Causeway Bay,
Chinese urban contemporary artist
Fansack showcases Rupa, a largerthan-life exhibition of his works

Connecting on high
Tencent, the worlds third largest
internet company renowned for
communication services QQ and
WeChat, unveils its state-of-the-art
new headquarters in Shenzhen,
designed by American
architectural firm NBBJ

ARCHITECTURE

INTERIORS

The view of the artist

036

With a gentle grace

Fresh from a multi-million dollar
renovation that took almost four
years, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong has
emerged discreetly refreshed and
rejuvenated, as befits one of the
territorys most lauded grand
dames on the hotel scene

Developments

040

Space craft
In South Africa, a spectacular beach
house near Plettenberg Bay revisits
the exuberant organic architecture
of the 1960s while making a gallery
for its owners collection of rare
furniture, art and design

006

Contents

Courtesy of Steve Leung Exchange (SLX) | www.steveleung.com

December 2016

052
FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL
050

Designer Q&A

052

A vision of
grandeur & elegance
Kelly Hoppen has joined hands
with Steve Leung in designing
four stylish apartments at One
Shenzhen Bay to craft a vision of
timeless luxury

057

066

072

At home in the Lebanon

074

A rare and precious jewel

Taking its name and inspiration
from a famous diamond once
included in the Russian crown
jewels, Ashberg House was
designed by Morpheus Londons
Alex Isaac to be just as exclusive
and extraordinary

008

076

Perched on the hills in Great Taipei

New Town district, The Master
Collection comprising 28
premium private homes designed
by five of the world s most
celebrated architects recently
unveiled five houses by Jim Olson

Nestled in the heart of Beiruts

Achrafieh district, Villa Assouad
blends the best of old and new to
become a picture-perfect home

060

Natural luxury

For your eyes only

The brief for this apartment on South
Audley Street, London, was to create
a striking, flexible, contemporary
luxurious interior design firm
Genessia went one better and
partnered with three art galleries to
create a pop-up exhibition when it
was launched to market

A simple, clearly-defined place

Set in the remote, harsh high desert
of Idaho, Outpost is an artists live/
work studio and sculpture garden,
where the buildings compactness
restricts site impact and reinforces
the desire to be outside

079

A self-sufficient town

082

As big cities across the globe face

the challenge of building more
affordable housing, a new tower
block hybrid approach in Seoul,
crafted by Dutch design firm van
Dongen-Koschuch Architects and
Planners, has just won a Korean
Architecture Award

Fusing the modern

and the traditional
An Australian architectural approach
to traditional Japanese artisanship
creates a unique and textured retreat
in the suburbs of Kyoto

A little library at home

Hong Kongers are used to living in
small apartments where storage is
always a challenge but for one
lucky family, local design studio
WALL devised ingenious ways of
using overlooked space

GROHE
EUROSTYLE NEW
THE ART OF INTUITION

PURE EMOTION
Emotions - not just reason and analysis - guide actions. Allow yourself to drift, but maintain
control. Organic shapes that beautifully caress the senses will help you reash this goal. The
Eurostyle line was developed for intuitive, enviromentally conscious people.
AVAILABLE AT
GROHE FLAGSHIP STORE BY CHAN YEE KEE BLDG. MATERIAL CO. LTD. - 369 Lockhart Road, Wanchai |
GROHE FLAGSHIP STORE BY NGA FUNG - 33-36A Estrada de Coelho do Amaral. G/F, Macau |
HOP LUNG - 193 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 293 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 298 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 300 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 199 Portland Street, Mongkok |
237 Portland Street, Mongkok |
LUEN HING HONG - 236 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 370 Lockhart Road, Wanchai | 352 Portland Street, Mongkok | 682 Shanghai Street, Mongkok |
31A Hop Yick Road, Yuen Long |
PACIFIC LIFESTYLE - 357 Lockhart Road, Wanchai |

Contents

Courtesy of New World Development

December 2016

084
084

Perfect imperfections

092

DESIGN

Live like a Parisian

A new residential development in

The northern Chinese city of

Hong Kong, The Pavilia Hill from

Tianjin, with its many colonial

New World Development,

buildings, French churches and

As World Design Capital 2016,

embraces the Japanese concept of

villas, is the setting for luxury hotel

Taipei has hosted projects,

wabi-sabi, an idea that celebrates

group The Ritz-Carltons fourth

workshops and events examining

nature in all its forms

Asian residential project

the world of design as it challenges

A ruling residence

INTERVIEW

096

Believing in design

how the industry can be further

087

integrated into society

A romantic, colonial-style mansion

dating from the 1920s, the

090

094

Keeping up with the times

100

The walkability of Hong Kong

Belmond Governors Residence is

Scientific findings show that the world

Imagine if, instead of for cars, streets

redolent of the days when it was

is facing irreversible climate change,

were designed for pedestrians and

home to the ruler of Myanmars

but architects like Ken Shuttleworth,

trams to become vibrant, green

southern states

founder of Make Architects, are

arteries in the heart of the city this

sparing no effort to ensure that

is a dream which a growing group of

An inspirational setting

everything they design will have

campaigners and business interests

Hong Kong property developer

minimal impact on the environment

are working to achieve

Wheelock Properties recently

launched Capri, a new project

102

A fascinating rapport

located in Tseung Kwan O, and

In the hands of designer Kerry Hill,

commissioned FAK3 to design its

the fourth property in China by

sales office, drawing inspiration

Aman Resorts has received

from the location of the site

unparalleled attention since

being announced

010

Contents

He Wei & Chen Long; courtesy of He Wei Studio / 3andwich Design

December 2016

115
HONG KONG
PERSPECTIVE

DEGUSTATION

Verbal inspiration

COVER STORY
Aussie rules

Architecture and design are very

Born out of Fremantle, Western

brand from Daniele Morabito and

much perceived as visual arts, but

Australia, Little Creatures recently

Dario Pulitan

words from literature and poetry

made its first leap across the ocean

often provide rich sources of

to Hong Kong, where local interior

inspiration and stimulation

design firm Charlie & Rose created

110
108

SNAPSHOT

for them the perfect home away

BEYOND
PERSPECTIVE

120

Into the Wild

Texturae, a new design wallpaper

BRAND SPOTLIGHT
030

Kitchen Infinity

from home

EVENT SPOTLIGHT
DESTINATION

109

Last rites

065

In which designers present a series

115

The lightest of touches

of ideas tackling the sensitive issue

In Pingtian village, located in

of dealing with human ashes

Chinas Zhejiang Province, an

entirely unexpected approach to
renovating an old village home
into a youth hostel sees light, both
natural and artificial, play a key role
in carving out spaces

012

Rafael Moneo: A Theoretical

Reflection from the
Professional Practice. Archive
Materials (1961-2013),
at HKDI Gallery, Hong Kong

Courtesy of Joyce Group

Editorial
Editorial Director
Deputy Editor
Assistant Editors

Contributors

Design & Production

Art Director
Graphic Designer
Photographer
Sales, Marketing & Circulation
General Manager
Business Director
Marketing Executive
Liaison Ofcer
Finance & Administration
Finance & Administration Executive
Management
Executive Directors
Founding Director

Sneak peek:
January/February

Suzanne Miao
Sophie Cullen
Leona Liu
Simon Yuen
Graham Wood
John Batten
Phoebe Liu
Wei Lim

Ivan Ho
Ton Ip
Dicky Liu

Josephine Leung
Graham Cheung
Quincy Luk
Aka Chan

Catherine Chan

Nigel Oakins
Peter Jeffery
Kiki Yau

On the cover:
Leather-upholstered
furniture and communal timber
dining tables set the scene at
Little Creatures in Hong Kong
(see page 110)
Dicky Liu

In the heart of the city, JOYCE Central has been the

epicentre of Hong Kong fashion since the early 1970s and

Subscribe online

in next months bumper double-issue, we take a look at the

recently revamped boutique, with an interview with interior
architect and designer Paola Navone.

Editorial Enquiries
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ISSN 1606-2558

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Published monthly by Perspective Limited. 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 caused. We shall not be liable for any actions taken based on the views expressed, or
information provided within this publication. You should always seek your own professional advice from
the appropriate advisor, professional or institution. Copyright 2016.
Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork or other materials to Perspective Limited for
consideration should not send originals unless specically requested to do so in writing by Perspective.
Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, and other graphics must include a self-addressed envelope with
prepaid postage if material is to be returned. Perspective is not responsible for unsolicited submissions.
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. For permission, please
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perspective

013

The Digital Perspective

The Digital Perspective

As we move into winter, the days grow shorter and the sun
shines less, so we are highlighting some of our most colourful
Instagram snaps from the last month. Over on Facebook, we
have been keeping up with a host of architecture and design
events happening in Hong Kong and further afield, while the
website has seen an array of great stories being added daily to
ensure that you stay at the forefront of the industry

INSTAGRAM
To stave off the gloom of impending winter
days, we've chosen some of our cheeriest
shots on Instagram.

Dont forget to follow us through our different social media platforms:

@perspective_mag

@perspectivehq

www.facebook.com/
PerspectiveGlobal

www.linkedin.com/company/
perspective-global

The sun didnt stop shining during a recent visit to

Taipei, where we enjoyed a stunning view of the
Taipei Dome from our hotel window

FACEBOOK
At www.facebook.com/PerspectiveGlobal, we keep you up-to-date
with numerous public events happening in the world of architecture
and design, not just in Hong Kong, but throughout Asia and the
world. We also share content here from the numerous studios, firms
and industry organisations that we follow across the globe. If you
are an architect or a designer and you want to know whats
happening around town, then this is the place for you.

While interviewing our Pinnacle Award winner for

2016, Steve Leung, we stumbled across these beauties
at his office

Although the weather is getting cooler, faades like

this one in Kowloon Bay help make us smile

014

WEBSITE

We regularly highlight a selection of amazing projects on our website, and this month we have selected two
to give you a taste of what you will find at www.perspectiveglobal.com
If you would like to be included on the website, email us a single page press release on your project

Ossip van Duivenbode

Powerhouse Company
uses unique horizontal form
for Villa CG project

Ossip van Duivenbode

along with a selection of images to digital@perspectiveglobal.com.

Located in the eastern Dutch city of Enschede, Villa CG sits on

unusually long, thin brick and divided vertically by a wide

Museumlaan: a new, particularly special avenue reserved for

cantilevered floor slab. The front elevation is designed to be private

designs by architects of national and international standing,

and closed, with only the entrance door as a single opening.

including SeARCH, Erick van Egeraat and Bolles+Wilson.

The materials used in Villa CG are timeless, with the

The clients, a family of four, commissioned Powerhouse

elongated bricks giving the cube a delicate and elegant level of

Company to design the most beautiful house in the street, and

detail. The colour of the brick was selected very carefully in

the result is a home that spans two storeys and is characterised

combination with the wood veneer of the interior. This, in

by its horizontal form.

combination with the translucent door that separates the

Taking design cues from the surrounding low hedge of the

entrance hall from the living room, the sand-coloured Earthcote

property, the house is all about symmetry, balance and grace. From

wall cladding, light grey polyurethane floor and a variety of

the street, the home presents itself as a simple cube, clad in an

woods, make the house appear dynamic yet harmonious.

Dine amid the clouds

at PAL Designs
Sky Boss restaurant
in Hong Kong

Located in the iconic International

painting, comes alive on the screen

Commerce Centre building (ICC), Sky Boss

partitions in the restaurant that are

sits on the 101st floor, offering guests a

executed in bright colours.

truly heady opportunity for sky-high dining.

A custom-molded wall resembling the

Presenting Guangdong cuisine with a

famed lineage of skyscrapers contrasts

touch of contemporary fusion, the

against back-lit delicate Chinese paintings

restaurant was designed as a unique

complete with familiar elements of

setting where traditional Chinese design

mountains, waters and clouds. The light

motifs exude unconventional elegance

sculptures stretching across the ceiling

alongside western minimalist aesthetics.

including one in a traditional Chinese-style

The challenge for Hong Kongs PAL

Design Group in crafting the interiors for

grid, simulating clouds in an abstract yet

unexpected fashion.

this one star Michelin Cantonese

restaurant was to reinterpret the

aesthetics of contemporary shan shui,
where guests can appreciate the stunning
urban landscape and taste local cuisine in
thoughtfully prepared and spiritually
fulfilling surroundings.
Traditional Chinese elements such as
dainty bird cages and finely painted bird
and floral motifs have been incorporated
into the space. Traditional Chinese
perspective

015

Calendar | Upcoming events in the world of art, architecture and design

HONG KONG
Kate MccGwire: Secrete
Galerie Huit, G/F & 1/F, Shop 2,
SOHO 189 Art Lane,
189 Queens Road West,
Sheung Wan
www.galeriehuit.com.hk
Until Dec 9

The World
of Tim Burton
The World of Tim Burton is a
multimedia exhibition that
ventures visitors into the
artists eccentric world of
visual imagination. It will
feature a retrospective
display of over 500 of his
iconic works, spanning from
his earliest childhood
drawings to his most recent
motion picture artworks. The
exhibition will be divided
into nine thematic sections,
which represent Burtons
ethos in various areas.

Maria Taniguchi Solo Exhibition

Galerie Perrotin, 17/F, 50
Connaught Road, Central
www.perrotin.com
Until Dec 21

ArtisTree, 1/F Cornwall

House, Taikoo Place,
979 Kings Road, Quarry Bay
www.theworldoftimburton.hk
Until Jan 23, 2017

EVENTS

Business of Design Week (BODW) 2016

The 2016 Partner City is Chicago: with its reputation as the

influential centre of American architecture, the Windy City in
Illinois has long been associated with landmark buildings. As
BODWs 2016 partner city, its ChicagoMade slogan will be a
theme at this years forum, with numerous Chicago architecture
and creative experts offering insights on design and
architectural topics from urban renewal to public space use.

Business of Design Week (BODW), Asias leading annual

design event, gathers pioneering designers and creative
executives from across the world and different
disciplines to share their insights and stories, and to
explore new ideas and trends in design, business,
technology and branding.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre,

1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 2522 8688
Email: bodw@hkdesigncentre.org
www.bodw.com
Until Dec 3

016

Fansack: RUPA
Art@Jplushk, J Plus Hotel by
YOO, 1-5 Irving Street,
Causeway Bay
www.jplushongkong.com
Until Dec 31
Shifting Objectives: Design
from the M+ Collection
M+ Pavilion, West Kowloon
Waterfront Promenade,
Kowloon
www.westkowloon.hk
Until Jan 5, 2017

Hye Kyoung Kwon

Solo Exhibition
Art Experience Gallery, Room
2009, 20/F Cable TV Tower,
9 Hoi Shing Road, Tsuen Wan,
New Territories
www.artexperiencegallery.com
Until Jan 21, 2017

Jiang Jian: In-between

Object and Shadow
Asia Art Center Beijing,
Dashanzi 798 Art District,
2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang
District, Beijing 100015, China
www.asiaartcenter.org
Until Dec 4
Xyza Cruz Bacani: The Outlier
Arrow Factory Gallery,
38 Jianchang Hutong,
(off Guozijian Jie),
Beijing 100007, China
www.arrowfactory.org.cn
Until Dec 5

Geomantic Intervention
Duddells, Level 3,
Shanghai Tang Mansion,
1 Duddell Street, Central
www.duddells.co
Until Mar 10, 2017

ASIA PACIFIC
Japanese Photographers:
Born in 1920s-1940s
Sin Sin Fine Art, 52 and 54 Sai
Street, Central
www.sinsinfineart.com
Until Jan 31, 2017

Marc Desgrandchamps & Uwe

Kowski: People Surrounding
Aki Gallery, 141, Min Tsu West
Road, Taipei 103, Taiwan
www.galleryaki.com
Until Dec 4

Andy Warhol: Shadows

Yuz Museum, 35 Fenggu Road,
Xuhui District, Shanghai, China
www.yuzmshanghai.org
Until Dec 18

Pictures of the Past: Hungarian

Photographer Dezs Bozky
in Hong Kong
The University Museum and Art
Gallery of the University of
Hong Kong, 1/F TT Tsui
Building, UMAG, HKU, 90
Bonham Road, Pok Fu Lam
www.hkumag.hku.hk
Until Jan 8, 2017

InnoDesignTech Expo
Hong Kong Convention and
Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive,
Wan Chai, Hong Kong
www.hktdc.com/fair/
innodesigntechexpo-en/
HKTDC-Inno-Design-Tech-Expo
Until Dec 3
deTour 2016
PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street,
Central, Hong Kong
www.facebook.com/detourhk
www.detour.hk
Until Dec 4

MAM Screen 004: Watching

the Earth from the Universe
Mori Art Museum, Mori Tower
52/F-53/F, 6-10-1 Roppongi,
Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
www.mori.art.museum
Until Jan 9, 2017

China Floor Expo 2016

Shanghai New International
Expo Centre, 2345 Longyang
Road, Pudong New Area
Shanghai PRC 201204
Tel: +86 21 2890 6888
Email: info@sniec.net
www.floor-expo.net
Dec 1-3

Japan Build
Tokyo Big Sight,
3-11-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo,
Japan 135-0063
Tel: +81 3 3349 8519
Email: visitor-eng.urban@
reedexpo.co.jp
www.urban-innovation.jp
Dec 14-16

Hotelex Guangzhou
Poly World Trade Expo Center
Expo, 1000 Xingang E Road,
Haizhu, Guangzhou,
Guangdong, China
Tel: +86 21 6437 1178
Email: b2b-service@
ubmsinoexpo.com
www.ed.jiagle.com
Dec 12-14

Economic Times Acetech

530, Laxmi Plaza, Laxmi
Industrial Estate, New Link
Road, Andheri West,
Mumbai, 400053, India
Tel: +91 22 6681 4900
Email: sales@etacetech.com
www.etacetech.com
Dec 15-18

Singapore Biennale 2016

Singapore Art Museum,
71 Bras Basah Road,
Singapore 189555
www.singaporebiennale.org
Until Feb 27, 2017

perspective

017

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018

A world to explore
TEXT:
Leona Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Jacada Travel

Dreamed up by ID-entity Design in Hong Kong, the Explorer Lounge at Jacada

Travels office will surely spark your wanderlust. Throughout the space, exotic
items sourced from around the globe are showcased: Kilin armchairs by the
late Rio-born architect and designer Sergio Rodrigues, traditional Khmer
scarves from Cambodia, intricate hand-carved Maasai statues and textiles from
Tanzania, a shadow puppet from Vietnam, an African wooden handled fly swat
made with real horse hair, a coffee table book from luxury safari company
Singita, and natural beauty products from the Alila hotel group.
The space is also decked out with vintage maps, interesting trinkets,
comfortable plush seats, lighting fixtures by the French industrial designer
Sergio Mouille, and hand-woven tapestries from the teams travels.
Rodrigues leather sling-seats were chosen not only for their safari feel, but
also crucially for their association with Rio de Janeiro, the city in which the
concept of Jacada Travel a bespoke boutique tour operator was born.
With us, the fun doesnt start at the beginning of the trip, but from the
moment one steps into the Explorer Lounge, notes founder Alex Malcolm.

perspective

019

Maxims Centre | Hong Kong

The entrance of the building is distinguished by a large cantilevered glass canopy hung above the street, with a ribbon-like curve steel beam to echo
the faade

ALL UNDER ONE ROOF

When Hong Kong-based design firm ARK was tasked with creating the new
headquarters for leading food and beverage company Maxims Group, it combined
sleek, environmentally-friendly features with a stunning glass faade

TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of ARK | www.ark.com.hk

020

ARCHITECTURE

long, long time ago, Cheung Sha Wan was a beach.

Many years and much reclamation later, the area was
turned into todays familiar industrial and residential

district, now getting something of a facelift thanks to a variety of

shiny new commercial towers springing up.
One of these belongs to Maxims Group, renowned in
Hong Kong for everything food-related, from cake shops,
moon cakes and dim sum to fast-food outlets and family
dining. Launched 60 years ago by ST Wu and his brother
James with a single restaurant in Central serving western
cuisine, Maxims is today the largest restaurant group in Hong
Kong, thanks in part to a decision to expand beyond Chinese
restaurants in 2000, when it moved into a variety of cuisines
such as Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese.
As one of the leading food and beverage companies in
Hong Kong, Maxims wanted to bring all its operations together
onto a single site, turning to Hong Kong-based design firm ARK
to design its new headquarters. Fortunately, Maxims had
recently decommissioned one of its food factories on Cheung
Shun Street in Cheung Sha Wan, making it the ideal site for the
construction of its new premises.

From top
The new headquarters of Maxims Group, a leading food and beverage
company in Hong Kong, houses various operations including office
spaces, training zones and conference centres The mullion feature is a
continuation of the glass surface, capturing light differently depending
on the angle of the sun

perspective

021

Maxims Centre | Hong Kong

The buildings glass

exterior features allow the
structure to appear both
transparent and solid when
viewed from different
perspectives

Spanning about 18,000 sq-m, the new 27-storey grade A

office tower houses Maxims various operations which had
previously been spread across Hong Kong. Housing general
offices, training centres, conferences areas and executive floors,
ARK also included a gymnasium, staff food court and other
facilities, along with green spaces, into its design.
The design of Maxims Centre aims at expressing Maxims
corporate culture a mix of tradition and forward-thinking and
showcasing environmentally-friendly features, mainly through its
faade. The building form is that of a generic rectangular volume,
a normal but practical layout for commercial towers, with rounded
corners to express the continuation of surface and space.
As with other commercial buildings, the podium serves as
the public zone, engaging the street with a three-storey glass
wall revealing the entrance lobby atrium inside, effectively
forming a show window between the public and commercial
sector. The entrance of the building is completed by a large
cantilevered glass canopy hung above the street, with a ribbonlike curve steel beam to echo the intriguing faade.
Indeed, one of the highlights of the building is its glass
exterior features, which allow the structure to appear both
transparent and solid when viewed from different perspectives.
Designed by William Liu, director of ARK, the buildings curtain
wall with its vertically-expressed mullion features accentuates the
overall height of the building, emphasising the cuts and shifts of
the faade. The mullion features are evenly spaced, but they
appear ever-changing when viewed from varying angles.
Naturally, this curtain wall is about much more than merely
serving as an eye-catching element. The glass used is a doubleglazed low-emissive reflective glass to achieve the highest
environmental and sustainability standard, while the degree of
reflectivity was meticulously chosen to give a solid appearance
while retaining a high level of transparency to allow good views
in cloudy days.
Having applied such environmentally-friendly features, Maxims
Centre was awarded the Hong Kong GBC BEAM Plus Platinum
award and the Asia Pacific Property Awards in Architecture.

When the building is viewed from different perspectives, the lines on the
faade appear to change due to their irregular shape, even though they
are actually evenly spaced
022

ARCHITECTURE

THE VIEW
OF THE ARTIST
For our final instalment on Hong Kongs exhibition at La Biennale di Venezia, we
chat with two of the artists who exhibited at Stratagems in Architecture: Hong Kong
in Venice. Both of these young practitioners examined the theme of conflict in
their works, and we sat down with them to learn more about their installations

TEXT:
Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
All images courtesy of Sim Chan, Vaan Ip and Hong Kong Institute of
Architects Biennale Foundation (HKIABF)

perspective

023

Hong Kong Institute of Architects Venice Biennale

Clockwise from left

Vaan Ip In his exhibit, Ip proposes that Hong Kong might choose to
renovate old buildings rather than destroy them completely to help
preserve the territorys culture At an earlier exhibition in South Korea,
the artist created an even taller version of the project

Vaan Ip | Transmigrate
How and why did you come up with your concept for

Why do you believe it is important for Hong Kong to preserve

the exhibition?

buildings rather than just demolish them and start again?

The main theme of this exhibition was based on the 36 Chinese

Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated places in the

strategies of war, and I chose the Raise a Corpse from the Dead

world. Its common to see an aged building next to a new

strategy. We often hear that there are disagreements when old

building. While some of the buildings are older, it doesnt mean

buildings get demolished, and its a very common situation in

they need to be completely demolished and rebuilt, as they are

Hong Kong nowadays. I propose that old buildings can be

bound to society and culture.

extended upon rather than demolished completely as, for me,

If we demolish these aged buildings, were not only physically

buildings are more than just spaces; they connect us to our

destroying a building, were also destroying the culture of the city.

culture and act as a diary of the people.

In these situations, maybe renovating the building is a good

option. Renewing an aged building and extending its life would

Explain the materials used and meaning behind them.

be like extending the diary of culture for our children.

I used rusted mild steel and ground and polished stainless steel

Just like the 14th strategy, we can take an institution, a

on my work to show the gradual changing effect from old to new

technology, a method, or even an ideology that has been

over time.

forgotten or discarded, and appropriate it for our own purpose.

We can revive something from the past by giving it a new
purpose or bringing to life old ideas, customs, or traditions and
reinterpreting them to fit our needs.
024

ARCHITECTURE

Sim Chan

Chan selected the final stratagem Run Away to examine the conflict that people endure while
living in such a densely populated environment

Sim Chan | Skykites

How and why did you come up with your
concept for the exhibition?

coexistence between civilisation and nature.

These kites are loaded with problems we face in our lives: demands, hopes and

My installation questions whether the

dreams. The idea of flying kites in the air represents a kind of liberation, and the

construction of urban development for

concept of returning to nature.

mankind is actually providing a better life

or if it is hindering the development of

Why did you choose the final stratagem Run Away?

human nature. The concept Sky City

I chose the stratagem Run Away, the last of the 36 Stratagems, because of a dismal view of

means seeing the sky through gaps

architecture in Hong Kong. Perhaps it is a sense of uneasiness not only regarding Hong

between the citys skyscrapers this is seen

Kong, but also with regards to the whole of the human races abuse of architecture.

everywhere in Hong Kong, a place with

Negative as it sounds, the stratagem is by no means meant as an escape from reality,

high-rise buildings and a dense urban

but rather to reflect on the collapsing of reality at a distance, just in the same way that

environment. It reveals the limitations of

one needs to survive to fight another day. With such rushed and crowded living

community space and lifestyles of the

conditions in Hong Kong, kites cannot fly freely; people cannot breathe freely.

people, expressing a frustration towards

the limitations and barriers of the city.
I tried to portray the 18 different
Hong Kong districts through kites in

What materials were used for the project?

This work uses aluminium as the framework for the kites instead of bamboo, taking into
account that the material has enough durability to sustain the long exhibition period.

different shapes of the city sky. The

The surface of each kite is made of cloth in various shades of blue, which is then

contradiction between the city and the

mounted on the aluminium framework. The cloud patterns on the cloth are painted with

kites show the opposing state of

bleach, and the sky-like effect is achieved through repeated bleaching.

Each kite was made of blue cloth that was then

bleached to attain the desired sky-like effect
before being mounted on an aluminium frame

The artist took photographs of the sky as seen between the gaps of the citys skyscrapers. These
shapes were then turned into the kites in the exhibition

perspective

025

Courtesy of NBBJ

Synergy Tower Tencent HQ | Shenzhen China

CONNECTING
ON HIGH
Tencent, the worlds third largest internet
company renowned for communication
services QQ and WeChat, unveils its state-ofthe-art new headquarters in Shenzhen,
designed by American architectural firm NBBJ
TEXT:
Leona Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Terrance Zhang and courtesy of NBBJ

Each connection is a themed area here, the middle bridge highlights health with running areas, basketball courts and swimming pools
026

ARCHITECTURE

ith a track record that includes designing offices for

technology conglomerates such as Google, Amazon,
Samsung and Microsoft, as well as campuses for

institutional leaders such as Cambridge University, Cleveland

Clinic, Massachusetts General Hospital, NYU Medical Center and
Stanford University, American architectural firm NBBJ was clearly
on point when presented with the challenge of creating the new
headquarters for China internet company Tencent.

plan for a complex which would merge the concepts of a

singular high-rise skyscraper and a low-rise campus, combining
the functions and connectivity of each to achieve the best value.

From top
The architecture is designed to reflect the companys rising international
influence, its networked culture and the interconnectivity of the web
Located in the Shenzhen High-Tech Industrial Park in Nanshan,
Tencents new headquarters, designed by NBBJ, combines the value of
high-rises in urban locations and the connectivity of a low-rise campus
Courtesy of NBBJ

Located in southern Chinas new technology district

Shenzhen High-Tech Industrial Park in Nanshan, NBBJ crafted a

Dubbed the Synergy Tower, the architecture aims to reflect

Tencents rising international influence its superpower app
WeChat boasts 806 million users on a monthly basis as well as
its networked culture and the interconnectivity of the web.
Comprising two structures linked by bridges, the taller tower
rises 250 metres, while the other stands at 192 metres. The idea
of the linked configuration is that it activates movement and
exchange within the workplace, creating horizontal streetscapes
and vertical connections.

Synergy Tower will provide

seats for 12,000 additional
employees and nearly
quadruples the size of Tencents
current workplace spaces

Each bridge is a themed area: the higher bridge, soaring up

to 178 metres, is positioned as knowledge, featuring libraries
and conference rooms; while the lower bridge highlights health
with running areas, basketball courts and swimming pools.
Computation design and solar studies were performed to
Terrance Zhang

arrive at a self-shading faade design. The sliding panels are usercontrolled sunshades and can be used as marker boards or
projection screens. In addition, the slight rotation of the towers
and their offset heights capture the sites prevailing winds,
ventilating the atria while minimising exposure to direct sun.
To control glare and heat-gain, the curtain wall incorporates a
modular shading system that varies according to the degree of sun
exposure. In the end, the energy scheme will reduce consumption
and carbon emissions by 40 per cent over a typical office tower.
Due to complete in 2017, Synergy Tower will provide seats
for 12,000 additional employees and nearly quadruples the size
of Tencents current workplace spaces. Following its office
building in Chengdu, which houses a sky garden, the companys
new headquarters in Shenzhen looks set to take the corporates
architectural portfolio to a new high.

perspective

027

Developments

10 Design wins China Resources

Hengqin Wanxiang World

surround the site, says Ted Givens, design partner at 10 Design.

This large central hub becomes the active heart of the
masterplan unifying four neighbourhoods and providing a

10 Design has won the competition to design China Resources

vibrant retail and cultural destination.

Lands (CR Land) Hengqin Wanxiang World in Zhuhai, China, a

Alongside cultural programmes such as an art and

large-scale mixed use development with destination retail as a

performing centre and outdoor multi-purpose venue, there will

major anchor to create a dynamic new city centre.

also be a Duty Free Mall, retail high street and F&B outlets.

CR Land, in cooperation with Macaos New Fenghong Real

Energy requirements will be minimised through passive solar

Estate Development and China Resources Trust, has invested 50

principles, while reflectance and light pollution generated by the

billion yuan in the development, which covers a total GFA of

project will be reduced by maximising the solid areas of the

over two million square metres.

tower faades. With the proximity to the river, treating the storm

The design team created an Experience Central Square,

which marks the nexus of the river and mountain geometries that

water run-off through bio swales and abundant garden spaces

will help achieve an eco-responsible design.

Laguarda.Low Architects unveils design

for OCT Longhua in Shenzhen
New York-based Laguarda.Low Architects has completed the design of
an expansive new 3.7 million sq-ft mixed-use development for
CM-OCT Investment a joint venture between China Merchants and
OCT in Longhua New District, Shenzhen, China.
Comprising eight high-rise towers, two cultural buildings, over 20
low-rise retail buildings, and an abundance of open green space, the
new development will serve as an important hub for both the Longhua
New District and the city of Shenzhen.
As both masterplanner and Master Architect for the project, and
working with renowned landscape design firm SWA, Laguarda.Low has
envisioned the project as a city within a city, giving each building a distinct
architectural character and connecting the residential, office, retail hotel
and cultural buildings through landscaped pedestrian walkways and a
central green corridor that runs the length of the site from north to south.
Laguarda.Lows plan positions a multi-level retail village at the centre
of the site, surrounded by four residential towers, three office towers, a
hotel, an indoor mall and a new performance hall and an exhibition
facility. A central loop connects the various zones and provides access to
parking below.
When completed, the development will connect directly to public
transportation via the existing elevated Honghan Subway Station, and a
new bus terminal on the site.
028

Brand Spotlight | Kitchen Innity

In the year Gaggenau celebrates its 333rd anniversary, its most iconic appliance the EB 388 turns 30, and to commemorate this landmark,
the EB 333 has been launched. A remodelled version of the renowned 90cm-wide oven, it features modernised design and functionality

A legend in German ingenuity

Celebrating its 333rd anniversary this year, Gaggenau has built a reputation for excellence,
designing and crafting revolutionary home appliances that stand the test of time

With the help of a cartridge, the fully automatic cleaning system effortlessly ensures the interior of the 400 Series Combi-steam oven is spotless,
shining and hygienic after every use

030

With the new vacuuming drawer 400

Series, Gaggenau creates the perfect
conditions for users to prepare food by
utilising gentle sous-vide cooking

There are few brands who can claim their

founding date as somewhere in the 17th
century, yet thats exactly true for highquality home and kitchen appliance
manufacturer Gaggenau.
Back in the Black Forest region of
Germany in 1683, the firm established its
f i rs t hamm e r mil l , a nd ha s since
graduated from creating agricultural
machinery to the production of custom80 per cent or 100 per cent humidity, and

Connoisseurs and gourmets praise the

The brand celebrates its 333rd year

steaming without pressure. Inspired by

delicate texture of dishes created through

by launching a re-modelled version of its

the professional kitchen, the products

the sous-vide method, and Gaggenau

iconic 1986 oven, the 90 cm-wide EB 388.

include a fully automatic cleaning system

further innovates through the inclusion of

The most striking new design feature of

to ensure that the ovens interior

three vacuuming and heat sealing levels.

the updated EB 333 is its door a vast,

maintains unrivalled hygiene.

The vacuuming level determines the

designed, quality home appliances.

single piece of 3mm-thick stainless steel,

As Sven Schnee, global head of

percentage of oxygen extracted, while the

c re a t i n g a p o w e r f u l l y s l e e k a n d

brand Gaggenau, comments: Gaggenau

heat-sealing level controls the duration of

sophisticated faade. The door also

has been regarded as the pioneer in the

the heat-sealing process. Besides pure

enlists new technology that provides soft

field of steam cooking since becoming

enjoyment, extended storage life due to

opening and closing to enhance overall

the first manufacturer 15 years ago to

the extraction of oxygen is an additional

user experience.

offer private kitchens the combination of

benefit of the vacuuming drawer.

Recently, the brand also launched two

steam and hot air cooking, hitherto found

Gaggenau focuses on exclusive

highly innovative kitchen products into

only in the professional sector. The fully

culinary culture and conscious enjoyment.

the region at an exclusive luncheon in

automatic cleaning system is another

The vacuuming drawer completes our

Hong Kong. Held at the Gaggenau

path-breaking innovation. It makes

healthy cooking portfolio to haute cuisine

Culinary Studio at KI Island South

healthy cooking, grilling and gratins even

standard, explains Schnee.

Galleria, and presided over by Michelin-

more attractive because the tiresome

starred chef Ivan Brehm from Singapore,

chore of manual cleaning is dispensed

the new 400 Series Combi-steam Oven

with completely.

and Vacuuming Drawer were launched.

With the new vacuuming drawer 400

KI Island South Galleria

Grade A in terms of energy efficiency,

Series, Gaggenau creates the perfect

Address: 19/F, One Island South,

the Combi-steam Ovens from the newly-

conditions for users to prepare food by

2 Heung Yip Road,

launched 400 Series offer hot air from

utilising gentle sous-vide cooking.

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30C to 230C, can be regulated

Design-matched to the 400 Series ovens,

Tel: +852 2890 1522/+852 2890 9111

electronically, and combined with steam

the drawer is the ideal complement to

Website: www.gaggenau.com/hk/

at zero per cent, 30 per cent, 60 per cent,

the private kitchen.

perspective

031

Rupa by Fansack @ J Plus Hotel by YOO | Hong Kong

The artist and his mural, Hong Kong Dream

POP IN FOR ART

If home is where the heart is, then it appears
that in the 21st century, hotels are where the
art is. At Hong Kongs J Plus Hotel by YOO in
Causeway Bay, Chinese urban contemporary
artist Fansack is showcasing Rupa, a largerthan-life exhibition of his works
TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of J Plus Hotel by YOO | www.jplushongkong.com

ong Kongs first boutique hotel, J Plus Hotel by YOO,

plays host to a pop art exhibition titled Rupa by Chinese
urban contemporary artist Fansack. Launched to much

acclaim in late September, Fansacks works comprise 17 curated

art pieces exhibiting in the hotels dedicated art space, Art@
JPlus, as well as two stunning murals crafted on the exterior of
the hotel, adding a vibrant new look to the property.
Fansacks oriental-inspired art brings to life the subject of
eastern philosophies through vibrant colours that juxtapose the
serenity of what his art conveys, lending a modernistic, urban
edge to each of his pieces. In line with J Plus design and cultural
aesthetic, Rupa explores questions of reality, existence, and
human nature; while inviting guests to further delve into the
transcendental realm through an intense palette and
unconventional postures of Zen.

032

INTERIORS

Known for his installations, Fansack turns Chill@JPlusHK, the

open-air terrace located on the second floor of the hotel, into his
very own canvas, gracing two corner walls on the exterior of the
hotel with two murals, including the aptly named Hong Kong
Dream. Inspired by the iconic personalities of Hong Kong, the
bold statement piece features Tsang Tsou Choi, MC Yan and the
Lantau Big Buddha in shades of fuchsia, orange, and red
emulating the orb of the sun.
Each character represents the mark they have made in Hong
Kongs pop culture Tsang, for example, is best known as the
beloved and self-proclaimed King of Kowloon. A celebrated
graffiti artist, he was a mainstay in Hong Kongs art culture after
claiming Kowloon through art for 50 years, based on the fact that
the city belonged to his grandfather. MC Yan is referred to as
Hong Kongs godfather of hip hop and has influenced the culture
of hip hop through music, fashion, and art in the city. The Tian Tan
Big Buddha, meanwhile, symbolises the harmonious relationship
between man and nature a foundation of Fansacks art.

From top
At Chill@JPlusHK is Wisdom Tree, which celebrates Fansacks meditative
ape with a little tree planted atop its head, representing wisdom
Fansacks God of Love No.2 is displayed in the lobby at J Plus Hotel by YOO

perspective

033

Rupa by Fansack @ J Plus Hotel by YOO | Hong Kong

In addition to two outdoor murals, Rupa also includes 17 curated art pieces exhibiting in the hotels dedicated art space, Art@JPlus

Complementing the unique exterior wall is Wisdom Tree,

they have been delighted by the response which their

which celebrates Fansacks meditative ape a mainstay in the

partnership with Fansack has generated: We love it when artists

artists work draped in a frock to enhance the mystery of the

like Fansack can go one step beyond the normal exhibition, and

character. A little tree is planted atop the apes head,

incorporate our hotel into being part of it, she says.

representing wisdom. A glowing red in colour, the vibrant mural

Fansacks celebrated career began in 2003 with street murals

symbolises the way Buddha calmly observes the city amid the

in his hometown of Chengdu. His artistic talents were refined in

hustle and bustle of Causeway Bay.

his second home, France, where he began making a name for

Inside, 17 curated pieces make up Fansacks first solo exhibition,

himself, creating memorable pieces for solo and group

including three specially commissioned pieces: Ape Karma in red

exhibitions in Asia and Europe which showcases his skills of

and blue, and See No Ego. These three pieces see the meditating

managing nuances and shades of blue as a subject for his works.

ape of Wisdom Tree as its central character, and call to question the
many ways in which Rupa can be manifested in Buddhist teachings.
Vivian Chau, general manager of J Plus Hotel by YOO, says

Rupa by Fansack continues at J Plus Hotel by YOO until 31

December 2016.

Red Bouddha also features contemporary figures such as the band Daft Punk, Japanese cartoon character Shin Chan, fashion mogul Karl Lagerfeld,
and Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama

034

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong | Hong Kong

WITH A GENTLE GRACE

Fresh from a multi-million dollar renovation that took almost four years,
Grand Hyatt Hong Kong has emerged discreetly refreshed and rejuvenated,
as befits one of the territorys most lauded grand dames on the hotel scene
TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Grand Hyatt Hong Kong

036

INTERIORS

ince it opened in November 1989, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong has had an
invincible track record of hosting international dignitaries and heads of state,
the A-list of the entertainment world, celebrities and high society.

Situated on the prime waterfront of Hong Kong Island, facing the world-

famous Victoria Harbour, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong has over the years become
synonymous with hospitality excellence, and has garnered numerous awards and
accolades for everything from its design and premium facilities to its gourmet
cuisine and impeccable service. The arrival experience sets the tone: designed to
embody the glamour of luxury travel, the lobby harks back to the height of the
Art Deco era, representing glamour and exuberance.
With its three-storey-high ceiling, curvilinear staircases leading to the upper
mezzanine floor, grand marbled columns, period dcor pieces and indoor water
features, the mood and impression is that of a luxurious cruise liner the stylish
mode of travel for the rich and famous in the swinging 1930s.
With a similar concept in mind, the guestrooms are built to frame spectacular views
of Victoria Harbour, the vibrant city lights or the hotels tranquil landscaped gardens.
Following the renovation of guestrooms in 2015 by Melbourne-based BAR Studio,
each now has a newly created living zone, featuring a multi-purpose solid timber table
adjacent to the windows.

Left
Designed to embody the glamour of luxury travel, the lobby harks back to the height of the Art Deco era,
representing glamour and exuberance
Below
The beloved Grand Caf is freshly back in the spotlight with open show kitchens and an oriental design elements

perspective

037

Grand Hyatt Hong Kong | Hong Kong

Re-designed according to the

different personalities of guests
who have stayed in the past, the
Presidential Suites are designed
to encourage entertainment and
conversation, as well as business
and social activities

Completing renovation in 2016, two Presidential Suites and

31st floors. Here, an elegant spiral staircase leads to a light-filled

five Ambassador Suites encapsulate 27 years of history of playing

lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a unique birds eye

home to some of the worlds most high profile and, at times,

view of the harbour and the Hong Kong Convention and

demanding celebrities, politicians, actors, singers and media stars.

Exhibition Centre.

Thus inspired, BAR Studio re-created these suites according to the

Among Grand Hyatt Hong Kongs renowned F&B venues

different personalities of these past guests, introducing design

from the elegance of a 1930s taipans mansion at One Harbour

themes such as Classic Traditional, Contemporary Eclectic,

Road to the chic, casual ambience of Grissini, for example BAR

Aristocratic Adventurer and Bohemian Chic.

Studio has redesigned Grand Caf, putting it back in the spotlight

All located on the top three floors of the hotel, these suites

with open show kitchens, and all-time-favourite comfort food.

are afforded extra security and privacy with a separate set of

In summing up Grand Hyatts position in the Hong Kong

elevators. Internally, any corner of the suites can become a social

market, Philip Yu, the hotels general manager, describes it as a

space the dining room for proper lunch and dinner; the living

bridge to a romantic past and a link with the exciting future.

room and foyer for cocktails or socialites afternoon tea, as well

as serious chairmans meetings and media interviews.
Guests staying in suites and on Grand Club floors have

For many years, Hong Kong has combined the cosmopolitan

western world with the mysterious Orient, he adds. Grand Hyatt
continues this theme, but adds the elegance of the past with the

exclusive access to a private two-storey lounge on the 30th and

sophistication of today.

The five Ambassador Suites are all designed to different themes, from
Classic Traditional to Contemporary Eclectic and Aristocratic Adventurer,
to Bohemian Chic as seen here

The Presidential Suite bathroom epitomises luxury with its open

bathtub, elaborately patterned tiled floor, glass light-fixtures and
neutral sand-tone marbled vanities

038

K Cottage | Plettenburg Bay South Africa

SPACE CRAFT
In South Africa, a spectacular beach house
near Plettenberg Bay revisits the exuberant
organic architecture of the 1960s while making
a gallery for its owners collection of rare
furniture, art and design

TEXT: Graham Wood

PHOTOGRAPHY: Greg Cox
PRODUCTION:Sven Alberding
bureaux.co.za

remarkable sight greets you on the rolling, fynboscovered sand dunes of Keurboomstrand, north of
Plettenberg Bay in South Africa. Some liken the pristine

white organically-shaped building to a space station, others to a

ship. Architect Lesley Carstens, who together with her husband
Silvio Rech designed the remarkable form, says, It looks as if it
has been eroded like a piece of whalebone on the beach.
Rech suggests that from certain angles you might discern the
forms or motion of a pair of swimming whales. It has the feeling
of an organic object or being, he adds.
The building is something of a contradiction: it stops people
in their tracks, yet, through its plastic, wavelike form, is
remarkably unobtrusive and sensitive to its surroundings.
Dubbed K Cottage (although at three storeys high, its
substantially bigger than a cottage), it is the holiday home of
South African-born, UK-based activist investor/fund manager
Julian Treger. Treger is also a prominent collector of design and
art, and is passionate about architecture. Although he says he
originally considered a super-minimalist design, his mind turned
to organic architecture given the undulating nature of the hills,
and the mountain behind, and the wave motion of the sea.
At the same time, because he is interested in the history and
DNA of the designs he loves, the architecture was also to be an
exploration of the roots and development of organic
architecture. Treger, Rech and Carstens found themselves
exploring the futuristic art and architecture of the 60s, taking in
designs such as Brazilian modernist architect Oscar Niemeyers
1968 design for Villa Mondadori in Cap-Ferrat, France, Eero
Saarinens early 60s TWA Flight Centre at JFK Airport and John
Lautners futuristic California homes, with more than a nod to the
more recent organic architecture of Zaha Hadid.
040

INTERIORS

The building is something of a contradiction:

it stops people in their tracks,
yet is remarkably unobtrusive and
sensitive to its surroundings

The asymmetrical
curving form of K
Cottage is inspired as
much by the shapes of
the dunes and the
waves of the sea as it is
by the architectural
language of the likes of
Oscar Niemeyer, Eero
Saarinen and Zaha
Hadid, and even the
sculptures of Jean Arp

perspective

041

K Cottage | Plettenburg Bay South Africa

Left
Set again vast windows in the
sitting room are a Tom Dixon
Mirror Ball tripod stand lamp,
a Zaha Hadid prototype sofa, a
Phoenix coffee table designed
by Patricia Urquiola and Swedish
Pod chairs by Overman
Above
The silver organic configuration
of benches is an edition from the
exhibition renowned architect
Zaha Hadid presented at an
Ivorypress exhibition

It was a bit of a love letter to the architects of that era, says Rech.

building. You sense that this building is ever moving, and its

Rech and Carstens are well known as architects of some of

just frozen at the moment you see it, says Rech. As you move

the best and most luxurious lodges and island resorts in Africa

away, you almost feel as if it is about to rise and swell and move.

and around the world. They have refined their approach to

The sense of motion it evokes is part of what prevents it from

architecture as a mediator between man and nature, but have

imposing on the landscape.

also pushed the envelope of the art of architecture as

From the inside, the building itself functions as a remarkable

experience, as an adventure in itself, and integral to the

device for viewing nature. Its almost like a lens on what nature

experience of nature. They brought that philosophy to bear in

is doing outside, says Rech. In some areas, such as the main

their design for K Cottage.

living area and the master bedroom, the windows are gigantic,

First of all, just as the weather and light is constantly

sucking in views of the sea, sky and surrounding landscape. I

changing in Plettenberg Bay Rech refers to the famous four

think the best aspect of the house selfishly is the view from my

seasons in one day typical of the climate there he and

bedroom, says Treger. The windows are enormous, and its an

Carstens designed a kind of dynamism into the forms of the

extraordinary thing to wake up to.

042

INTERIORS

From top
The 25-metre swimming pool on the main deck makes a gentle visual
transition from architecture to the landscape beyond, with the
spectacular curving pillar an organic sculpture in itself Below the
staircase a pair of Favela chairs by Brazilian designers the Campana
Bothers contrasts with the pristine white of the house, while in the
background, a mould for Eero Saarinens iconic Tulip chair is just visible

Rech adds that it has views from 360 degrees around. While
the vast glass curtains in some areas provide as pure and
unmediated views as is possible, at certain points the glass
seems to slip behind what Rech calls a kind of exoskeleton. At
this point the building becomes more like a drum-like skin that
is punctured in various places. The punctures correlate very
specifically to what is happening on the inside, he adds. For
example, from the bathroom, theres an oval opening above the
bath that focuses the eye on a specific view over a lake where
Treger keeps a lakeside office.
As you move through the building you get these views in all
directions, says Rech. Either through this curtain walling that
bends and rides around or these oval type openings that have
been selected so that as you come around a corner, theres a
perfect view.
The other purpose of the house is to function as a gallery for
a selection of pieces from Tregers collection of furniture and art.
I have hundreds of pieces of furniture in my collection, says
Treger. He selected pieces that were appropriate to the
architecture and reflected some sort of organic design, entering
into a dialogue with the architecture. Most of it is mid-century
modernism, he says. But hes selected work by the Brazilian
Campana Brothers, for example, because of the beach-like
organic feel of their materials.
perspective

043

,
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A number of bespoke pieces, some of them almost

the light but forms a neutral, restful backdrop for the contents

extensions of the architecture, were designed by Rech and

of the house, and its views. The landscape and the

Carstens, including a number of the tables, counters shelves

architecture and the furniture is a lot to take in, says Treger.

and cabinets. They were built into the walls themselves, as if

The eye cant take much more stimulation. So its better to

parts of the architecture just morphed out, says Rech.

keep it completely neutral as a backdrop. He notes that it

One of his favourite pieces in the house is the built-in

desk at the top of the stairs, forming a type of balcony that

adds a simplicity to the space, which is appropriate for a

beachside home.

protrudes into the double-volume space of the living room.

Just as the interiors in for 2001: A Space Odyssey evoked

It puts you right into the space, he says. At the desk, you

something heavenly for Treger, so K Cottage captures some of

have a commanding view of the sea, of the fynbos inland,

that purity for him. It has a very spiritual quality, says Treger.

and down into the double volume where you perceive

You feel very grounded and its very restful somehow.

Julians collection of sculptures and furniture.

The white-on-white interior, very much a descendent of
Kubricks sets for 2001: A Space Odyssey, not only captures

044

Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens Architects, adventarch@

mweb.co.za

LETS CELEBRATE
WITH THE WINNERS!
BEST OF THE BEST TROPHIES GO TO:
Architecture
Neri&Hu Design and
Research Ofce
Sulwhasoo Flagship Store

Product Design
Emma Maxwell Design
Flume lighting collection

Interior Design
S5 Design & Consulting
Wuxi Barber Shop

Students
Anthony LIN Lap
From NIMBY to PIIMBY:
Project Dandora

Interior Design
Substance Paradis

Students
Vicky MA Ka Ki The
Hydrological League:
Rejuvenation of A Forgotten
Realm Through Resilient Living

Check out the full list online at

www.perspectiveglobal.com/awards/adt-awards-2016-winners
Read our bumper January/February combo issue
for full coverage of all the winning projects out soon!

Home, sweet home

It is the most basic of human desires: a safe place to lay our heads for rest,
where our families can gather, where we can shelter from the rest of the world
The homes we feature in this months special editorial focus, however, are anything
but basic, from the super-luxe to a new way of approaching public housing

perspective

049

Designer Q&A

Where the heart is

Its the place where we can fully allow our personality to shine, a haven of comfortable
spaces that we can decorate as boldly or quietly as we please. With our focus this month
being on all things residential, we chatted with a group of architects and designers
about what they love most about their home and their idea of the perfect fantasy house
TEXT: Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy of designers

RACHEL CHOW

MAURIZIO PELLIZZONI

Project director
Farrells |
www.farrells.com

Founder and creative director

Maurizio Pellizzoni |
www.mauriziopellizzoni.co.uk

Whats your favourite place in

Whats your favourite place in your home?

your home?

Definitely my open-plan living room, in particular the Eames

I can easily spend half a day in

lounge chair upholstered in Missoni fabric. The chair is very

the kitchen just experimenting

comfortable and, being placed right next to the window, it

with new recipes and new

allows me to enjoy some tranquility.

combinations of flavours. This

laboratory turns into a playground for my family over

Tell us about the most interesting object you have in

the weekend.

your home.
I have few of those! I have sentimental value associated with

Tell us about the most interesting object you have in your home.

some of the art pieces and objects I have collected during my

This has to be my small, hand-made display shelf of acrylic

travels around the world. The signed Madonna poster made

sheets, which was originally the base of my final year

into an artwork is probably the most valuable to me, especially

architecture model. Somehow, this minimalist masterpiece fits

as it was a gift from my partner for my 40th birthday.

into my home so well and forms part of my furniture collection,

and surprisingly it is still in good shape after all these years. It

Whats the most spectacular/interesting residence youve

reminds me of the memorable studio life back in old days.

been to?
Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como, Italy. I visited this magnificent

Whats the most spectacular/interesting residence youve been to?

residence again over the summer and once again I fell in love

Fujian tulou, the traditional dwelling which accommodates

with the architecture, the gardens and the amazing view of the

hundreds of people within one massive earth building. It was a

lake. Truly the best residence I have ever visited around the world.

unique experience as I had the opportunity to stay in one of

the tulou during a trip to Fujian, China, five years ago, and the

If you could live anywhere, where would it be and what

locals introduced me to the area.

would your home look like?

I was impressed by the exceptional size and the comfort

I love London. After moving here 19 years ago, I still think it is one

of the well-ventilated interior in contrast to the plain, solid

of the most vibrant cities

exterior. Though it was built hundreds of years ago, the

to live in. I also love New

response to functional, environmental, and spiritual needs

York City, which is very

are well demonstrated.

similar in many ways to

London, so this would

If you could live anywhere, where would it be and what

most probably be my

would your home look like?

first option if I decided

My dream is to live in a portable modular residence, which can

to leave London. As a

be packed on the back of a truck and moved from place to

holiday home, my

place with freedom of choice beachside in summer,

destination

countryside in autumn, and other unlimited possibilities. The

definitely

interior will comprise foldable and sliding elements, which

childhood hometown,

enable the interior to be opened up and be flexible to fully

Lake Como a beautiful

integrate with the environment around me.

villa facing the lake

would
be

would be perfect!
050

my

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

ROWENA
GONZALES

the outside it was hard to believe that it was a cave home. On the

Founder
Liquid Interiors |
www.liquid-interiors.com

furniture and the style was modern. It also had very fast wifi!

inside, however, the walls were literally stone, but the dcor, the
This type of architecture is indigenous to this area. Many homes
in this area of Granada were created by digging out of the side of
mountains. In the summer, my friend never needs air-conditioning

Whats your favourite place

and in the winter he never needs heating. It was the most interesting

in your home?

residence I have ever been to because it was a big reminder that

My bedroom. Its very light and

there are many ancient building techniques that we can still learn

airy with white flowing curtains,

from and it inspires me to think more sustainably about my designs.

white bedding and natural

accessories. Its full of plants,

If you could live anywhere, where would it be and what would

and I love how the whole room

your home look like?

changes colour at different times of the day.

If I could live anywhere it would be in Granada, Spain, partially in a

mountain with a stunning view of the Alhambra. It would be half

Tell us about the most interesting object you have in your home.

embedded in a mountain and the other part would be a semi-open

My microgreens garden. After many years of trying to grow

and closed area. The other part of my home would be made from

vegetables indoors, I finally found a way to grow food at home

solar glass and I would have a garden atrium for my dining area. I

easy and fast.

would live completely off the grid.

Whats the most spectacular/interesting residence youve been to?

beautiful Moroccan/Spanish tiles and would be equipped with a

It was in Granada, Spain. While travelling, I met an expat living in

steam shower and standing bathtub. A glass eco fire would emit a

Spain to learn Spanish. I asked him where he lived and he said,

glow of warmth in harmony with the traditional and modern

around the corner. I live in a cave. It was so hard to believe that I had

atmosphere. I can imagine evenings watching the fire and admiring

to go take a look.

the view of the Alhambra, which is where I discovered my love for

The interior would be warm and cozy. The bathroom would have

It had a white picket fence, windows, a nice entry path and from

interior design and architecture.

silence there with my dog sitting next to

fascinating and captivating. He sourced

me. A natural touch (colour palette,

six old fireplaces (the historic masonry

fabrics, lighting etcetera) is the key to

heaters) that can be dated back to the

elevating this simple experience.

1960s and fitted them in different parts

of his house.

Tell us about the most interesting object

Another highlight was the granite

you have in your home.

bathtub that was handcrafted in China.

I moved to my current apartment four

It weighed over two tonnes. And of

years ago. One great suggestion from

course, the long history of his house

my interior designer at that time was to

(which was originally a part of the local

get a Bang & Olufsen BeoLab 5 speaker.

train station) makes his residence even

It has turned out to be the object I spend

more spectacular.

TERRY CHOW

most time with after work; music is

Founder
Foxcat Design |
www.foxcatdesign.com

always an important part of my

If you could live anywhere, where

relaxation routine.

would it be and what would your

home look like?

Whats the most spectacular/interesting

Urban life is essential to me. Manhattan

W h at s y o u r f a v o u r i t e p l a c e i n

residence youve been to?

in New York is probably among the top

your home?

I went to the residence of my friend in

of my list. Without a doubt, I would go

It has to be my reading corner. The

Bstad, Sweden once. At that time, the

for a penthouse overlooking Central

Ting Kau Bridge view from the window

interior was still a work in progress and

Park and adopt a minimalist design for

is lovely, and that always accompanies

my friend introduced the ideas behind

the interior. A spacious modern loft

a good book. After work or during

the design when he showed me around.

with a few select pieces of furniture and

weekends, I love to enjoy a moment of

The mix-and-match of old and new was

a super-comfy sofa would be ideal.

perspective

051

One Shenzhen Bay | Shenzhen, China

A vision of
grandeur & elegance
Kelly Hoppen has joined hands with Steve Leung in
designing four stylish apartments at One Shenzhen Bay
to craft a vision of timeless luxury

One Shenzhen Bay is the meeting of superlatives:

a sought-after exclusive development by
Shenzhen Parkland Real Estate Development,
designed by world-famous interior and product

TEXT:
Phoebe Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Steve Leung Exchange (SLX) | www.steveleung.com

designer, author and entrepreneur, Kelly

Hoppen MBE, in association with renowned
international architect Steve Leung, this years
winner of Perspectives lauded Pinnacle Award
for lifetime achievement.

052

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Founded by Leung, Steve Leung Exchange (SLX)

is a platform for collaboration between developers

Awards in 2013) and American designers Thomas

Pheasant, Barbara Barry and Laura Kirar.

and internationally-renowned designers, covering a

It is a complete delight for me to be working

range of high-end residential projects such as

with Steve and the SLX team on this project, and we

restaurants, hotels, serviced apartments and

are greatly encouraged by the success of this

commercial spaces in China. Hoppen thus joins the

collaboration, Hoppen says. We believe this

roster alongside other international designers such as

partnership has given us a good start to access the

Tom Dixon and Martin Kemp, Italian Chinese designer

many opportunities offered by the China market

Chi Wing Lo (a past judge at Perspectives A&D Trophy

and we expect more cooperation in the future.

perspective

Hoppens design
philosophy of sleek,
crisp lines and a subtle
fusion of both eastern and
western details expresses
the developments
positioning as the
ultimate symbol of
wealth and success

053

One Shenzhen Bay | Shenzhen, China

Clockwise from above

London represents a mix of classical structure and heritage elements, always with an unexpected twist Neutral tones are highlighted with dashes of
red, dusty pink, ochre, orange, black and rose gold, lending warmth and opulence to the ambience In the four showflats, Hoppen plays with textures,
mixing beaten metals with different marbles, woods, golds and natural materials

We worked together and overcame the

barriers of language, geography and
culture to truly achieve Design Without
Limits in this project

An extraordinary venture on a scale never seen

with details inspired from Parisian fashion brands

before, four new showflats at One Shenzhen Bay

like Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Celine and bringing

demonstrate Hoppens design philosophy of sleek,

the same elegance into the apartment.

crisp lines and a subtle fusion of both eastern and

Hong Kong illustrates the idea of contrast

w e s t e r n d e t a i l s . C ra ft e d t o e x p re s s t h e

like a mountainous landscape juxtaposed with a

developments positioning as the ultimate symbol

modern cityscape to capture the complexity

of wealth and success, attracting the most

and beauty of modern Chinese design, while

sophisticated upper class buyers and investors,

New York recreates the eclectic vibe of the

her acclaimed style and expertise as the queen of

global citys cultural and architectural influences,

taupe made her the perfect fit for the project.

designed as a modern flat adorned with art and

Taking inspiration from major metropolitan

054

furniture pieces.

cities, the four themes are Paris, Hong Kong, New

Finally, London represents a mix of classical

York and London, and provide the blueprints for

structure and heritage elements, always with an

One Shenzhen Bay apartments. Paris embodies

unexpected twist that lends a charming quirkiness

the idea of Parisian chic in an international context,

to a well-structured space.

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

perspective

055

One Shenzhen Bay | Shenzhen, China

Hoppens acclaimed
style and expertise as
the queen of taupe
made her the perfect fit
for the project

In the four showflats, Hoppen plays with textures, mixing beaten metals
with different marbles, woods, golds and natural materials. The neutral tones
that can be seen throughout are highlighted with dashes of red, dusty pink,
ochre, orange, black and rose gold, lending warmth and opulence to the
ambience. Additionally, iconic pieces, seductive vintage furniture, statement
pendant lighting and tasteful accessories appear effortlessly elegant.
I am very grateful for the enormous trust which Kelly and Parkland have
placed in SLX, says Leung. We worked together and overcame the barriers of
language, geography and culture to truly achieve Design Without Limits in
this project.
www.kellyhoppen.com
056

 Tony Elieh

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

The addition of an opening towards the north faade increased the light flow into the study area

At home in the Lebanon

Nestled in the heart of Beiruts Achrafieh district, Villa Assouad a collaboration
between Rabih Geha Architects and decorator Serge Brunst blends the best of old
and new to become a picture-perfect home
TEXT:
Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Tony Elieh; courtesy of Rabih Geha Architects

Achrafieh is an enchanting mix of partly decaying Ottoman

and went in search of the perfect property. We actually

palaces, fascinating Art Deco, and modernist houses with

visited quite a few villas together discussing potential

contemporary sleek high rises, explains Rabih Geha, founder of

renovation ideas, but when we saw this specific house we

Rabih Geha Architects. Add some trees, old signs in Arabic, and

were both immediately convinced that it was the right one

some oriental music and you get the most charming eclectic

for her. So I took on this architectural renovation project in

urban landscape youll ever see in your life.

collaboration with Serge Brunst; we cooperated to bring

Delighted by the neighbourhood, the architect and his

client decided that this was the location for her new home

back the villas traditional personality hidden under previous

years of refurbishment.
perspective

057

As one of the few remaining examples of a

19th century grand villa in the Achrafieh district,
the transformation made for a unique and

Tony Elieh

Villa Assouad | Beirut Lebanon

fascinating project. Composed of four levels, a

garden with a pool and a guest house, a number
of structural additions and subtractions were made
to the home.
Archways and columns, indicative of the
buildings original era of architecture, were
introduced to the interior, falling perfectly in line
with the villas natural context. Geha explains, The
main challenges we faced were the structural
changes. We tried to carry out these modern
additions without compromising the existing
structure and essence of the existing architecture.
Alongside the addition of archways, a glass
elevator was introduced, both complementing the
b u i l d i n g s a rc h i t e c t u re w h i l e re m a i n i n g
unobtrusive in its presence. Located on the
external west faade, the elevator marries old and
new, and blends perfectly into the faade opening
up to the garden and pool area.
Inside, the structures as well as the adjoining
walls in the living areas were hand painted to give
the appearance of marble, while natural light was
harnessed through the opening of selected vistas
around the villa. Previously built walls in the
original stone vaults magic and keeping in line
with the original architecture.
All the doors were delicately restored to their
former glory and all door additions were designed
and executed to match the existing ones. The
marble patterned floor tiles were renovated, and a
lot were meticulously removed and repaired to
match the 70-year-old ones, notes Geha.
At Villa Assouad, Geha and Brunst have created
an elegant home that embraces the soul of
traditional Lebanese architecture while introducing
just the right amount of modern elements.

Clockwise from right

The main hallway was hand-painted to look like marble,
adding a traditional feel to the villa In the basement,
previously built walls were demolished to bring the vault
back to its former glory The western faade opens up to
the garden and pool area and features the new glass
elevator Ornately carved furniture was selected for the
drawing room where patterned floor tiles were repaired
and renovated
058

Tony Elieh

basement were demolished, bringing back the

 Tony Elieh

Tony Elieh

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

perspective

059

Ashberg House | London England

The residence is
designed in a modern
vernacular to include a
plethora of glass, black
basalt and bronze
details, while the
building elevations
offer a counterpoint to
Chelseas traditional
brick and stucco villas

060

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

A rare and precious jewel

Taking its name and inspiration from a famous diamond once included
in the Russian crown jewels, Ashberg House was designed by
Morpheus Londons Alex Isaac to be just as exclusive and extraordinary
TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Morpheus London | morpheuslondon.com

Ashberg House is a striking new residential

a new-build house in a contemporary design

property situated in the heart of Chelsea, central

vernacular with a bountiful use of glass faades,

London, spanning nearly 9,000 sq-ft arranged over

making it a rare jewel in the midst of traditional

five floors. It takes its name and inspiration from

Chelsea architecture, explains Alex Isaac, head of

the famous Ashberg diamond, an amber-coloured

design at interior design studio Morpheus London

cushion-cut diamond once included in the Russian

and former creative director of Linley.

crown jewels.

The rarity of the property combined with the

Designing Ashberg House offered the

abundant fenestration in turn inspired the name,

opportunity to do something incredibly unique in

Ashberg, from a singular gemstone once part of

a Victorian conservation area of London creating

the Russian crown jewels.

A striking falling leaf chandelier handcrafted by glass couturiers Lasvit, which connects the ground level with the garden floor below via the
impressive internal stairway, is made up of more than 140 glass leaves in graduated colour

perspective

061

Ashberg House | London England

Designing Ashberg House offered

the opportunity to do something
incredibly unique in a Victorian
conservation area of London
creating a new-build house in a
contemporary design vernacular

According to the designer, the swimming pool sums up in one area what he set out to achieve in the whole project, encapsulating a sense of balance
within the house, offering a spa-like quality for relaxation and escaping the buzz of central London

With the name in place, the theme went on to inform various elements of

connecting the interior of the house to the exterior.

the interior design in subtle ways, from chamfers and facets in the joinery and

The property includes five bedrooms, a spacious

furnishings to a bas-relief motif in the polished plaster emulating the refraction

open-plan living, kitchen and formal dining room,

of light through a diamond. Gemstones by their very nature are standalone

private cinema room, staff quarters and a stunning

single items, whereas a home the scale of Ashberg House is the sum of

spa area complete with swimming pool, steam room

multiple component parts, he adds.

and gymnasium. The house also offers vast outside

The linear and clean-lined modern architecture of Ashberg was thus

areas perfect for entertaining.

counterpointed with softening elements inspired by natures organic forms

Overall, the residence is designed in a modern

the rear of the property looks out on some beautiful foliage, which in turn

vernacular to include a plethora of glass, black basalt

inspired two falling leaf chandeliers, one in the entrance hall and the larger of

and bronze details. The building elevations are a

the two spanning two floors above the dining table.

provocative counterpoint to Chelseas traditional

Handcrafted by glass couturiers Lasvit and providing a centrepoint to

brick and stucco villas, with every detail and element

Ashberg House, the larger chandelier connects the ground level with the garden

of the project designed to the highest standard in

floor below. Composed of more than 140 glass leaves in graduated colour, the

fact, more than 90 per cent of furniture pieces were

the chandelier imitates the external foliage of the trees in the garden,

designed bespoke for the property.

062

From top
The interior design drew its influence from the extraordinary Ashberg diamond, not least in its
glass architectural aesthetic and faceted interior details, but also the precise and exacting
construction methods employed A series of bronze foils separates the entrance hall from the
formal reception room, and at the touch of a button, will revolve to allow access into the home
The interior architecture has also been carefully considered to maximise the flow of natural light
around the space, which pours into the home via expansive windows throughout

Ashberg House | London England

The rear of the property looks out on some wonderful foliage which inspired a custom-designed headboard wall in the master suite, hand-painted and
embroidered with leaves and branches on a field of silk

Outside, the excavation of the site down to a depth of 10.5m also allowed
Isaac and his team to produce a tiered garden on the lower ground floor level,
in addition to the two terraces on the ground and first floors.

theatrical reveal of the generous living volume

Ashberg House offers.
The Ashberg diamond is a product of nature

In the main living space which opens onto the garden, both of which are

fashioned by artisans into a jewel that could

supremely private, we zoned the areas into dining, lounging and garden with

never be recreated, Isaac concludes. The same

the use of high-level planting and cladding to the external walls further

could be said of Ashberg House, from its

shielding the space and offering privacy, he says. The introduction of the

location and siting, to the external architecture

external fireplace truly completes the area and really makes the space a

and its bespoke interiors. This unique

useable outdoor living space and extension of the internal family area.

combination of factors make it a project that will

Behind the scenes, the level of technology and facilities are also

always remain extraordinary.

unparalelled. Ashberg House has a fully integrated home automation system;

The whole house has been designed with a

audio-visual, lighting, window treatments, environmental, security and internal

sense of balance and proportion in mind; rough

communications are all controlled, via Crestron and Lutron, through touch

textures against smooth, light finishes contrasting

panels and iPad devices located across the home.

with dark, more feminine elements juxtaposing the

These allow the home owner to manage their comfort and needs easily

more masculine, the exterior blending seamlessly

and effortlessly. One of Isaacs favourite design details is a series of bronze

with the interior. We feel this approach has

foils separating the entrance hall from the formal reception room: at the

resulted in a design that offers a great sense of

touch of a button, these revolve to allow access into the home, creating a

tranquility and wellbeing.

064

Event Spotlight | Rafael Moneo: A Theoretical Reection from the Professional Practice.
Archive Materials (1961-2013) @ d-mart, HKDI, Hong Kong
Held at HKDI Gallery, the exhibition showcases
about 250 works by Rafael Moneo, including
drawings, photos and models, spanning his
entire career

projects are the National Museum of

Roman Art in Mrida, Spain, which was
designed to co-exist with Roman ruins on
the site; the Kursaal Congress Centre and
Auditorium in San Sebestin; and the
Bankinter headquarters in Madrid.
These and other works can be seen at
the exhibition. Of Hong Kong itself,
Moneo says he admires the unbiased
way it [has] tried to solve the problem of
the collective housing using towers as a
support. To transform the notion of the
tower as a building with symbolic content

Rafael Moneo Mastery

to one which is simply the solution to

residential living is for me an exciting
revelation that no other city expresses
quite so eloquently, he says.
Moneo is a little more cautious about

HKDI Gallery presents the first major retrospective of award-winning

Spanish architect Rafael Moneo in Asia, inspiring future architects and
designers through his remarkable professional and academic work

the future. It is one thing to speak of

whatwillhappen in the next 25 years and
quite another to talk about what I would
like to happen. Since I am unable to
describe the first one, I will say that I would

Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI),

hope that the evolving practice of

dedicated to the advancement of design

architecture doesnt destroy the city, and

education through the exposition of

that it finds a certain means of establishing

international exhibitions and contemporary

continuity between the old, built world

issues on design, presents the first major

and that of the near future.

retrospective of the works of award-winning

Spanish architect Rafael Moneo in Asia, in
collaboration with Fundacin Barri and
Estudio Rafael Moneo.
Running until 14 January 2017, Rafael
Moneo: A Theoretical Reflection from the
Professional Practice. Archive Materials
(1961-2013) is a unique opportunity to

Moneo believes drawings are instrumental for

architects, but digitalisation has changed the
way of thinking and how architects deal with
elements of construction

Rafael Moneo: A Theoretical Reflection

review the architects thinking and

development over the past 50 years. It is

quite touching to see how ones practice

from the Professional Practice. Archive

is embedded in the movements of

Materials (1961-2013)

architectural practice and theory in the

last decades, Moneo says.
To see a lifes work as a testimony of an

d-mart
Hong Kong Design Institute

architectural culture broader than simply the

3 King Ling Road,

concerns of an individual architectbecomes

Tseung Kwan O, New Territories

apparent whencontemplating an exhibition

(MTR Tiu Keng Leng Station Exit A2)

like this one.

Tel: +852 3928 2566

Moneo has been acclaimed as one of

Email: hkdi-gallery@vtc.edu.hk

the greatest Spanish contemporary

www.hkdi.edu.hk/hkdi_gallery/2016/rm

architects, for timeless designs which

Until 14 January 2017

embrace the uniqueness and the past of

(10am-8pm; closed on Tuesdays, 18

their local surroundings which are often

December 2016 and 8 January 2017)

ignored. Among his most prominent

The National Museum of Roman Art in Mrida,
Spain, is one of Moneos most prominent
projects, built to co-exist with Roman ruins

perspective

065

Jim Olson Houses @ The Master Collection | Taipei Taiwan

Natural luxury
Perched on the hills in Great Taipei New Town district, The Master
Collection comprising 28 premium private homes designed by
five of the world s most celebrated architects recently unveiled
five houses by Jim Olson
TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Phoenix Property Investors

Jim Olson, the Seattle-based

architect and founding partner
of Olson Kundig Architects
066

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

From facing page

Jim Olson drew inspiration from lanterns to build the entrance of Lantern House, and a bridge was built to connect the
separate blocks Facing Xueshan (Snow Mountain) and Yangmingshan National Park, all houses have been individually
designed to fit the topography and immediate landscape of each particular site

The Master Collection, a new luxury development by Hong Kong-based

take their inspiration from nature and have been

developer Phoenix Property Investors, certainly lives up to its name. Everything

named Taiwan Villa, Lantern House, Sky House,

about it demands superlatives, from its verdant setting to the 28 houses designed

House of Reflection, and Mountain House.

by five internationally renowned architects Pritzker Prize winner Richard Meier;

The three or four-storey houses, spanning from

Olson Kundig Architects founder Jim Olson; Annabelle Selldorf, founding

7,484 sq-ft to an expansive 13,718 sq-ft, each

principal of New York-based Selldorf Architects; Steve Harris, a professor at Yale

include a swimming pool and a private garden

Universitys architecture faculty and recipient of multiple AIA awards; and TsAO &

ranging from 4,077 sq-ft to 23,961 sq-ft. Targeted

McKOWN co-founder Calvin Tsao.

at sophisticated buyers and art-lovers, one of

Most recently unveiled were the houses designed by Seattle-based Olson,

Olsons design elements is long hallways, acting

marking his first project in Taiwan. Positioned in Herfeng Village, the Jim Olson

not just as connecting pathways, but also doubling

Houses comprise five individual villas. Appropriately, given their setting, these

up as gallery space to display art collections.

perspective

067

Jim Olson Houses @ The Master Collection | Taipei Taiwan

House of Reflection,
designed by Jim Olson,
is now used as the sales
gallery showcasing
models and detailed
information regarding
The Master Collection

Every house was individually crafted to

family, vacation or retirement home. Taiwan Villa,

integrate into the immediate landscape, as Olson

the most spacious of the five designed by Olson,

himself explains: The steep topography of The

includes large living and dining rooms, a study, a

Master Collection site is the most appealing

separate family room, as well as gym and

feature. From the beginning, I was deeply amazed

recreational spaces. Each of his five houses also

by the mountains, so I framed the spaces inside

boasts a garage, a landscaped pool, a private

and outside to enable residents to focus either on

garden and multiple terraces House of

the mountains or the interiors.

Reflection, for instance, has four terraces, making it

With their well-proportioned spaces, each of

the recently completed villas functions equally as a
068

a striking choice in its incarnation as a showflat and

sales gallery for The Master Collection.

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

I framed the spaces

inside and outside
to enable residents
to focus either on
the mountains or
the interiors

Each of the five houses boasts a private

garden, further immersing them
into the surroundings

Jim Olson Houses @ The Master Collection | Taipei Taiwan

Taiwan Villa, the most spacious of the Jim Olson Houses, spans approximately 13,718 sq-ft over four levels, and includes a 23,961 sq-ft garden

The Master Collection houses face Xueshan

to grow out of the mountain that anchors them.

or Snow Mountain and Yangmingshan National

Distinctive overhanging trellises and roofs shade

Park, providing unparalled views for residents. At

residents from the sun, wind and rain, while a range

The Olson Houses, a connection between the

of energy-efficient features including insulated

residences and their natural surroundings can be

glass windows adds to the appeal of the homes.

experienced via the intimate gardens and pools. I

Also incorporated are a number of water features

always feel that architecture should fit into its

around the villas, designed to enhance the micro-

context, Olson says.

climate of the houses.

Buildings should melt into the landscape as if

The architecture [of The Master Collection] is

they grew there. In the case of The Master

very beautifully integrated into the landscape, says

Collection, I fitted the houses into this dramatic

Olson. The identity of each house really grew out

vertical topography, which gives them a distinctive

of its setting. Located on the top of the mountain,

character and draw.

the houses are designed to offer amazing views in

The importance of integration with the site was

every direction.

further elaborated through materials. With the use

of natural stone, Olsons five houses were designed
070

www.olsonkundigarchitects.com

Enhancing Your Building with Our LED Facade Lighting System

Unit 2A, Luk Hop Industrial Building

8 Luk Hop Street, San Po Kong, Kowloon, HK

Outpost | Bellevue Idaho, USA

A simple, clearly defined place

Set in the remote, harsh high desert of Idaho, Outpost is an artists
live/work studio and sculpture garden, where the buildings compactness
restricts site impact and reinforces the desire to be outside
TEXT:
Phoebe Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Tim Bies; courtesy of Olson Kundig Architects | www.olsonkundigarchitects.com

All the materials used

in the structure,
including the concrete
block, car decking
(structural tongue-andgroove material) and
plywood, are capable
of withstanding the
extreme weather that
characterises the Idaho
deserts four seasons

072

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Design principal:
Tom Kundig
Project manager:
Kirsten R Murray
Project architect:
Steven Rainville
Staff:
Christopher Gerrick,
Nahoko Ueda

Aptly named Outpost, Kundig chose a readily available construction material, concrete block, for the primary structure

An arid region of canyons, volcanic rock, sagebrush and grass makes up the

think that influences virtually every decision I make

9,375 square miles (24,280 sq-km) of the Owyhee Desert. Sprawling across

about architecture in its context.

northern Nevada, southwestern Idaho and southeastern Oregon, its located

Outpost has been described as a Tootsie Roll

on the south edge of the Columbia Plateau southwest of Boise, Idaho,

Pop: like the American candy, it is designed to be

stretching east from the Santa Rosa Range.

hard on the outside and soft on the inside. Kundig

It is here in this isolated, windy place that Seattle-based Olson Kundig

chose a readily available construction material,

Architects, led by co-founder and principal architect Tom Kundig, created a

concrete block, for the primary structure; commercial

stunning home/studio for a client, with an enclosed paradise garden

builders assembled the building quickly and cheaply.

separated from the wild landscape by thick masonry walls. Nothing outside the

The house is designed around one open,

walls has been modified, the footprint of the house is the limit of intrusion into

multifunctional room overlooked by a mezzanine

the land a simple, clearly defined space.

bedroom, with separate studio/office and utility

Aptly named Outpost, this structure exemplifies Kundigs belief that the

spaces on a lower entry level. Elevated above the

architects job is to create an experience of place. When you grow up in the

ground (snowpack in winter), the main living levels

Palouse or you spend time in the high desert, you learn very quickly how

have 360-degree views of the surrounding high

insignificant your place in that larger landscape is, he muses. To this day, I

desert and mountains.

Interior finishes include unfinished recycled fir
floors, walls, and cabinets; plaster made from
natural clays and pigments; and Carrara marble
kitchen counters. Other materials used in the
structure, including the concrete block, car
decking (structural tongue-and-groove material)
and plywood, require little or no maintenance and
are capable of withstanding the extreme weather
that characterises the Idaho deserts four seasons.
See also page 66 for Olson Kundig Architects
founder Jim Olsons designs for The Master
Collection in Taipei, Taiwan.

The house is designed around one open, multifunctional

room overlooked by a mezzanine bedroom, with separate
studio/office and utility spaces on a lower entry level
perspective

073

Gangnam District Apartment Blocks | Seoul South Korea

A self-sufficient town
As big cities across the globe face the challenge of building more affordable housing,
a new tower block hybrid approach in Seoul, crafted by Dutch design firm van
Dongen-Koschuch Architects and Planners, has just won a Korean Architecture Award

TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Myoung Sik Kim; courtesy of Korea Land and Housing Corporation | world.lh.or.kr

A common problem facing the governments of major cities, wherever they

complete 1,500 apartments, 1,600 parking

are in the world, is that of public housing: where to locate it, what does it need

spaces and a community centre. One of the

in terms of urban planning, infrastructure, amenities and facilities, and so on.

clients hopes for the project was that it would

Seoul, the ever expanding capital city of South Korea, is no different, having

provide affordable public housing for low-income

been seeking solutions to develop big housing estate projects in recent years.

families, and showcase a new public housing

Launched by the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (KLHC) in 2010, the

prototype in the country.

task of developing a housing complex of 180,000 sq-m was awarded to Dutch

So, before construction began, the design

design firm van Dongen-Koschuch Architects and Planners (vd-k.eu),

team conducted thorough research of the

previously known as De Architekten Cie. They set out to create an urban

topography of the site. Located adjacent to green

masterplan in Seouls Gangnam district, and were also placed in charge of

hills, the apartment blocks were built at different

overseeing the landscape design.

heights in line with the hills behind them, in order

Led by Frits van Dongen, the design team took just five months to
074

to avoid visual disharmony and an awkward

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Client: Korea Land & Housing Corporation

Architect: van Dongen-Koschuch Architects and Planners
(formerly known as De Architekten Cie)
Design team: Frits van Dongen, Jason Lee, Jan-Willem Baijense,
Marie-Aline Rival, Rene Bos, Magdalena Szczypka,
Andrea Sooyoun Kim, Mathew Winter, Danil Grnberg,
Rink Alberda, Rui Duarte, Patrick Koschuch, Miren Leon,
Nam Dong Ho, Laura Mezquita Gonzalez, Sasha Hendry,
Eun Song Park, Joost Baks, Remi Versteeg, Paulos Kinfu,
Ron Garritsen, Lucas Kuncevicius, Ton Dekkers
Landscape design: Frits van Dongen, van Dongen-Koschuch
Architects and Planners
Sustainability consultant: Transsolar, Stuttgart

The project aims to provide affordable homes for low-income families, and a new public
housing prototype for South Korea

skyline. This layout, called tower block hybrids, is

spaces have a clear distinction between them, but each individual block has its

not commonly seen in Seouls property market.

own courtyard that serves as communal space with sports facilities,

Within these blocks, the apartments have been

playgrounds and gardens.

designed to be suited to all incomes, lifestyles and

One of the key achievements of the project is that it has managed to

family sizes, with differing layouts and sizes. Each

avoid the problem of isolation suffered by previous satellite cities, with

has views over the internal landscaping as well as

their lack of job opportunities and social interaction, hence they are being

the nearby hills.

described as sleeping cities. Despite being on the periphery of Seoul, this

Additionally, the new urban planning scene

devised by van Dongen-Koschuch Architects and

project in Gangnam district is nonetheless connected but, more

importantly, it is also largely self-sufficient.

Planners ensures that residents enjoy public roads

The existence of a community is based on the possibility for social

and private inner courtyards, aimed at enhancing

interconnection and the sense of ownership, a pride of place, explains

social interaction. Public and private outdoor

van Dongen.

perspective

075

South Audley Street apartment | London England

For your eyes only

The brief for this apartment on South Audley Street, London, was to create a striking, flexible,
contemporary luxurious interior design firm Genessia went one better and partnered with three
art galleries to create a pop-up exhibition when it was launched to market

TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Genessia | www.genessia.com

076

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

The apartment offers

ample entertainment
space and a study
which can be
transformed into
a bedroom

Launching a new property in todays heated

Locatelli. A unique way to showcase the apartment,

market in the British capital of London might seem

the experiment resulted in the property being sold

like a piece of cake, but taking the easy route is not

within a week of launching.

for the co-founders of Genessia, a new real estate

Rather than viewing the apartment as an

development company set to re-define the citys

empty space, albeit with stunning finishes and

luxury property market with stylish and refined

joinery, and rather than viewing art and furniture in

properties of exceptional quality.

stark gallery settings, our concept allowed for a

Founded by A&D Trophy Awards 2016 judge

coherent vision of all elements together, Misra

Shalini Misra together with Ekta Varma, a first floor

explains. The art, furniture and interiors were in

lateral apartment on South Audley Street, London,

conversation with each other, which was a

provided a launchpad for their company and ideas.

challenge as it also needed to be cohesive.

The timeline and budget were tight, which meant

that sharp informed decisions had to be made.

The apartment offers ample entertainment

space and a study which can be transformed into a

We had this amazing space in an exclusive

bedroom, a kitchen with all necessary amenities,

historical area of London and wanted to open it up

three bedrooms and bathrooms and a powder

for the public to enjoy, Misra explains. We teamed

room. Even the locations of sockets and light

up with Nilufar Gallery and two other art galleries to

points anticipate different uses and the

create a pop-up exhibition in the apartment when it

possibilities of future furniture layouts.

was launched to market. This would in turn provide

When Genessia came on the scene, the

a means to create a new domestic landscape as we

apartment had not been redecorated for at least

furnished and dressed each area as a home with

30 years, so a full strip-out was necessary.

museum quality artwork hung in all areas.

Always respecting the inherent architecture of a

Artworks, which included pieces supplied by

property, our vision was to reinstate many

Italian galleries Gi Marconi and Robilant + Voena,

original features, such as high ceilings, cornices

were curated by Nilufars founder Nina Yashar,

and skirting while using high-quality finishes

while the furniture and lighting ranged from mid-

such as marble and polished plaster and

century classics by Gio Ponti to contemporary

opening up the space with methods such as

pieces by Laura Bethan Wood and Massimiliano

raising door heights, says Misra.

perspective

077

South Audley Street apartment | London England

Clockwise from above

The fully-equipped kitchen is sleek and modern, capped off with a dramatic, oversized copper lampshade As the aim was to sell the apartment, the
look which Genessia created was luxurious and striking, but at the same time a little eclectic The overall concept stemmed from a marble floor
designed by Gio Ponti; inspiration was taken directly from this for the entrance floor, with hints at Art Deco, made from Nero Marquina and white
Thassos marble

From planning the implementation to completion took just

five months. The aim was to sell the apartment and the look we
were creating was luxurious and striking, but at the same time a
little eclectic this could alienate certain buyers but it was a risk
that we wanted to take. The design is poles apart from the
average high-end development and rightly so, as we wanted to
stamp our design sensibilities and acumen onto it.
Turning the apartment into a pop-up gallery set a number of
challenges, such as the practical problems of selecting the furniture,
lighting and artwork from a working gallery and shipping them over
and installing them on a tight timeline and keeping them secure.
Each room is treated uniquely with varying bespoke finishes.
For example, the master bedroom suite with a walk-in wardrobe
is sleek and neutral with walls clad in linen wallpaper, and soft
velvet cupboard doors next to wood veneered media unit doors
with bronze edging. The bathroom is a sumptuous combination
of white Calacutta Vagli marble-clad walls set off with a black
New Portoro stone top to the dark oak vanity unit and bronze
accents. Illuminated mirrors suspended in bronze frames create
sleek sophistication and add subtle lighting.
The overall palette of the apartment is a wealth of varying
textures and finishes which all complement each other but create
surprises in every space. This development project was not solely
about improving an existing apartment and selling it, Misa says.
We created a richly textured contemporary space with
period aspects and transformed it into a new temporary pop-up
gallery space open to the public.
078

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

An unconventional combination of traditional techniques and materials

has enabled the retention and enhancement of much of the homes
traditional character

Fusing the modern

and traditional
An Australian architectural approach to traditional
Japanese artisanship creates a unique and textured
retreat in the suburbs of Kyoto

Originally constructed in 1961 as one in a block of four homes,

this typical exemplar of the post-war Japanese row house
typology had been left largely unaltered and allowed to
dilapidate for over half a century. This is where the client, a

TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Eiji Kitada and atelier Luke | atelierLuke.com

Danish-Australian furniture maker, entered the picture.

With property prices escalating at home, he looked to his
favourite travel destination, where the low cost of real estate,
combined with a wealth of culture and a welcoming society,
provided the perfect destination to create a desirable and
attainable second home. Turning to young Australian architect
Luke Hayward and his Japan-based firm atelier Luke, the client
issued a project brief which called for extensive renovation of the
existing home and a small extension at the rear to accommodate
new indoor plumbing and increased flexibility of use.
perspective

079

Ichijoji House | Kyoto Japan

Clockwise from top

A sensitively flexible and multilevelled living, dining and
kitchen space transforms the spatial and experiential
qualities of the interior, where a timber ladder provides
access to a small loft A new prospect to the outdoors
and an increased sense of spaciousness are provided by
a screened courtyard, which flows from the living space
through sliding timber doors

Unlike many similar renovations in Japan,

which erase historical building stock through the
unremarkable application of low durability
prefabricated systems, Hayward decided upon an
unconventional combination of traditional
techniques and materials which would allow for
the retention and enhancement of much of the
homes traditional character.
From the stained wallpaper to the lacquered
floorboards and the timber joinery, every element
was hand-finished using traditional techniques.
Existing structural timber elements have also
been alternately concealed and revealed to
Project team:

experiment with and occasionally subvert

Junko Nakatsuka, Luke Hayward

traditional Japanese approaches to building

Construction:

character, adds Hayward.

Miura Construction

In some cases, such as with the large

Finishes:

cambered roof beams, previously hidden

Kiso Artech

elements are celebrated as striking sculptural

Cabinetmaker:

forms within the home.

Jurinsha

Programatically, the house has been inverted

from its original design, with living spaces placed
080

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

A new bathroom and toilet on the ground floor replace outbuildings that were demolished to allow for extension of the house; here, lacquered
wallpapers bring a vibrancy of colour in contrast with the warm neutrality of the living areas

on the upper floor and private areas on the

the home. A fixed oak dining table is supported from the building structure,

ground. A sensitively flexible and multilevelled

allowing it to almost float in space. Finally, a timber ladder provides both

living, dining and kitchen space transforms the

access to a small loft as well as an invitation to touch and grasp these specially

spatial and experiential qualities of the interior. A

crafted elements.

new prospect to the outdoors and an increased

Externally, the front faade of the home has been treated largely as a

sense of spaciousness are provided by a screened

restoration in order to retain a traditional aesthetic within the streetscape.

courtyard, which flows from the living space

Where possible, existing joinery elements have been retained and in some

through sliding timber doors.

cases rebuilt to match the originals.

The old kitchen has been converted into a

Traditional plasterwork, typically only seen in the restoration of temples and

traditional Japanese bedroom with tatami mats,

shrines, has been applied to bring extensive improvements to the existing render

shoji screens and handmade wallpaper. A new

finish. At the rear, a new faade subtly pokes through the context of

bathroom and toilet on the ground floor replace

unsympathetically renovated neighbours, with a fine timber screen concealing a

outbuildings that were demolished to allow for

deep overhang and a layering of timber windows, sliding doors and paper screens.

extension of the house. In these private and

Working in close collaboration with craftspeople in Kyoto, Osaka and

contained spaces, lacquered wallpapers bring a

Nagano, atelier Luke brought an outsiders design approach to the renovation

vibrancy of colour in contrast with the warm

of this densely layered and tactile residence. This transformation has allowed

neutrality of the living areas.

the client to modernise their home without abandoning the traditional design

A series of bespoke furniture pieces have also

aspects that make Japanese houses unique.

been created. Japanese oak kitchen cabinetry is

For the client, this new home has created not only a satisfying pride of

combined with a unique copper worktop and

ownership, but through the process of its making has unlocked new cultural

services ducting, resulting in a sensitively utilitarian

experiences, forged new friendships and enabled a whole new life in Japan,

aesthetic that complements the raw materiality of

Hayward says.

perspective

081

The Library House: Ocean Shores apartment | Hong Kong

A little library at home

Hong Kong people may be used to living in small apartments, where storage is always a
challenge but for one lucky family, Hong Kong-based design studio WALL devised
ingenious ways of using overlooked space
TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of WALL | www.wall.com.hk

Two arched ceilings in the living room provide focal points, beneath which are cabinets and wooden shelves, making good use of space for storage

082

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Forced by soaring property prices into ever smaller

apartments, Hong Kongers are used to living in
spaces which are so petite that calling them
compact would be generous. Resigned to their lot,
many residents often resort to hiring mini-storage
spaces in which to store their personal items, usually
at some inconvenience to themselves.
A good interior designer, however, would be
able to spot and exploit opportunities which are
often overlooked in the quest for storage like
corridors, often dismissed as wasted space in an
already space-starved environment. Fortunately for
the book-loving owner of an apartment at the
Ocean Shores complex, Hong Kong design studio
WALL, led by Wilson Lee and Alex Siu, were able
to do just that.
The owner of this house loves reading and
he hoped that the apartment would be an ideal
space for this, says Lee, one of the founders of
WALL. We realised that the corridor area is
often neglected, but could in fact be a great
place for storage.
The corridor effectively acts as a showcase for
the designers effort to build a little library within
the apartment, by crafting discreet, hidden
bookshelves. While the net effect may also have
included the narrowing of the corridor, the
shelves proved to be a valuable addition to the
internal plan.
Dubbing the apartment The Library House,
two arched roofs were installed in the living room
as focal points, beneath which are built-in cabinets
and further shelving. The roofs overlap at the
corridor to form a new irregular space the
library with its concealed storage. This redesigned
corridor also functions as a connector or common
foyer between rooms, encouraging the family to
make more use of the space.
With their white oak finish, the walls and ceiling
of the corridor create a sense of warmth and
comfort, continuing into the master bedroom to
create a wall feature. The childrens bedroom is
connected to the library corridor, while another
bedroom has been transformed into a study with a
sliding door that doubles as a blackboard for the
kids to express their creativity and naturally, in
the study, giant bookshelves abound.
And just as important to the overall scheme was
undoubtedly lighting, given the key role it plays in
the enjoyment of reading. In addition to ceiling spots
and recessed lighting, pendant lamps are used
throughout the space, with the designers naming
one particular favourite: We specially picked the
Lumio Book lamp designed by Max Gunawan in
order to match the style of the reading space.

From top
Corridor spaces tend to be overlooked when
apartment interiors are designed, but in this instance,
WALL took the opportunity to extend available storage
by installing bookshelves One of the bedrooms was
redesigned as a study with a sliding door doubling as a
blackboard for writing
perspective

083

The Pavilia Hill | Hong Kong

Perfect imperfections
Sometimes, in order to move forwards in the world of design,
we need to take a look back to traditional ideas. A new residential
development in Hong Kong, The Pavilia Hill from New World
Development, does just this by embracing the Japanese concept
of wabi-sabi, an idea that embraces nature in all its forms

TEXT:
Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of New World Development

084

Derived from Buddhist teachings, wabi-sabi

the projects chief planner, executive vice-chairman

accepts the natural cycle of birth and decay and

and joint general manager of New World

finds beauty in the irregularities of impermanence.

Development Adrian Cheng envisioned the property

It looks to trim away any excesses to reveal the

to be a pavilion-like form, seamlessly merging into

simplicity beneath, and incorporates elements

the adjacent hillside.

such as asymmetry and symbolism. Although the

When I was furthering my studies in Kyoto,

aesthetic is often described as the beauty of the

the citys rich culture and heritage, its verdant

incomplete, today, it is widely adopted in the

environs and the calming note from temple bells

worlds of architecture and design.

lulled me into deep meditations, through which I

Located in Hong Kongs historic Tin Hau district,

submerged myself into the world of deep,

The Pavilia Hill is the first residential development in

philosophical thought, explains Cheng. I had

the region to imbue the concept into its design. As

the vision of bringing this mesmerising cultural

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Left
Located on the third floor of the clubhouse, the indoor swimming pool was
designed to create the sense of intimacy that is common in Japanese onsen hotels
Below
The interior spaces incorporate a selection of natural materials that have been
minimally altered from their original states

experience into all my projects from that time

o n w a r d s . T h e Pa v i l i a H i l l i s i n d e e d a n
actualisation of a dream.
To bring this dream to life, he tasked two
leading Japanese designers with the project.
Re n o w n e d l a n d s c a p e a rc h i t e c t S h u n m y o
Masuno crafted the setting for the development,
creating a serene oasis within the heart of Hong
Kong. Inspired by the hillside location of the
project, Masuno has mimicked rolling hills
throughout the garden, demonstrating the
beauty of the natural surroundings.
perspective

085

The Pavilia Hill | Hong Kong

From top
Grounded in the idea that natural simplicity is beautiful, the
wabi-sabi concept incorporates elements of asymmetry
and symbolism Landscape architect Shunmyo Masuno
believes that gardens are special places where the mind
dwells, so he handpicked five stone sculptures to heighten
the tranquil effect

To help heighten the tranquil ambience, he

even brought five hand-picked stone sculptures
from Japan to represent five elements of nature:
mountain, water, existence, purity and sound.
Masuno, who is also the 18th generation head
priest of Kenkohji Temple and a professor at the
Tama Art University in Japan, believes that
gardens are special places where the mind dwells.
Located between buildings, the gardens at The
Pavilia Hill emphasise the importance of space

materials while deliberately avoiding any unnecessary decoration, to bring

and express a spiritual attitude towards time and

out the understated beauty of nature in every detail.

being, the perfect representation of wabi-sabi

aesthetic principles.

The indoor swimming pool at The Pavilia Hill is not located on the podium
level, but on the third floor of the clubhouse instead. This is to create the sense

Additionally, Singapore-based Japanese

of intimacy that is common in Japanese onsen hotels. Users can also

interior designer Koichiro Ikebucho was selected

appreciate the panoramic sweep of greenery soaring up the hill. Golden

to design the clubhouse for the project.

leaves decorate the ceiling of the pool area which opens out to the hill, while

Throughout the public areas, he has chosen to

light floods in through the windows to glisten on the water, eliciting a sense of

showcase the natural expression of different

deep calm and relaxation.

086

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

The patio umbrellas are designed after the shape of Pathein, the traditional Myanmar umbrellas resembling colourful blossoms

A ruling residence
A romantic, colonial-style mansion dating back
from the 1920s, the Belmond Governors
Residence in Yangon is redolent of the days
when it was home to the ruler of
Myanmars southern states
TEXT:
Leona Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Belmond

Myanmar or, as it used to be known, Burma is full of

construction wonders, from centuries-old temples and floating
gardens to ancient monasteries and wooden bridges. To visit is to
immerse yourself in the countrys built history, and offering a
unique way to do that is the Belmond Governors Residence in the
capital city of Yangon, a teak mansion where the citys past rulers
once lived, now converted into a boutique hotel.
As a home, the residence is as opulent and grand as was
befitting for the countrys former colonial masters: once part
of the British empire, Myanmar gained its independence in
1948. Retrospection on bygone days comes naturally amid
the teak walls of the Belmond Governors Residence, which
date back to the time it was built in the 1920s to serve as the
official home of the governors of the British Crown Colony of
Burma, such as Sir Reginald Dorman-Smith and Hubert Rance.
In 2006, it became part of Orient-Express Hotels group, which
in 2014 changed its name to Belmond, and renamed the
Belmond Governors Residence.
perspective

087

Belmond Governors Residence | Yangon, Myanmar

The property is tucked away in leafy gardens hidden from the citys bustling centre

From left
Belmond Governors Residence in Yangon is built on a two-storey teak mansion dating back to the 1920s, and was formerly home to many of the citys
leaders Guestrooms combine Burmese tradition with contemporary luxury Wood is widely used from exterior to interior, yielding an old-time atmosphere

088

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

The property is located within Yangons elegant

Local patterns are widely infused into ornamentations that form the space,

Embassy Quarter, close to cultural attractions such

where hardwood floors, intricate woodcarvings and delicate silks speak to

as Shwedagon Pagoda, the National Museum, and

Roberts early days as a designer for the Christian Dior fashion house in 1960s,

the lively Bogyoke Market but, subtly tucked away

where he styled negligees.

in leafy gardens, it lies discreetly hidden from the

His later works as a scenographer curating exhibitions from the Centre

citys bustling centre. The journey into Yangons past

Pompidou to the Guggenheim nurtured a flair for the dramatic which can also

begins upon entering the Belmond Governors

be detected at the Belmond Governors Residence: behind silk-panelled doors

Residence, where a verdant garden dotted with

in the Governors Rooms, for example, a spacious bathroom equipped with a

lotus pools provides a peaceful green haven.

free-form dark marble bathtub and metal fittings strikes the balance between
the vintage and modern aesthetics.
Over in the Mandalay Restaurant, 1920s British teak and hand carved

As a home, the residence

is as opulent and grand
as was befitting for the
countrys former
colonial masters

furnishings are showcased amid polished floors. Broad bay windows offer
guests views of the hotels manicured gardens and allow a tropical-scented
breeze to circulate through the space.
Traditional lanterns illuminate the alfresco dinner space to yield an
authentic Burmese dining experience, while Kiplings Bar and Lounge, named
after English writer Rudyard Kipling whose creations including the famous
poem Road to Mandalay, is decorated in classical European style with
extravagant chandeliers and plush sofas upholstered in vintage stripes.
Outside, a fan-shaped freshwater pool is surrounded by patio umbrellas
designed in the shape of Pathein, the traditional Myanmar umbrellas

Honouring the hotels past, carved teak and

resembling colourful blossoms.

sumptuous silks combine to create a rarified,

A major issue emerging in Yangon is how to balance development while

refined and timeless air. Crafted by French interior

maintaining its indigenous character. Its past, specifically its time under British

designer and architect Patrick Robert, the

colonial rule, can be seen throughout the city from the historic Secretariat

guestrooms, particularly the Governors Rooms, fully

complex the former administrative seat of British Burma that US President

reflect its bygone era. A hand-carved bed canopy

Barack Obama toured in 2014 to the embassy quarter, where the Belmond

stands as the focal point in each room, with antique

Governors Residence conveys an enticing narrative inviting travellers to

wooden furniture adding sophisticated charm.

discover this home of ancient architecture.

perspective

089

Capri Showat | Hong Kong

An inspirational setting
Hong Kong property developer Wheelock Properties recently
launched Capri, a new project located in Tseung Kwan O, and
commissioned design studio FAK3 to design its sales office, drawing
inspiration from the location of the site

a model of the clubhouse and a zone that

showcases the luxury villas available.
The sales office by FAK3 was inspired by
Tseung Kwan Os seaside locale. The studio
programmed key zones that were shaped by the

TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of FAK3 | www.fak3.com

organic nature of shorelines and cliff faces, while at

the same time working with the curved or squaredoff architecture of the buildings floor plate.
Taking a three-bedroom unit, FAK3 transformed
it into two bedrooms and an atelier. The combined
living and dining area includes a Lasvit crystal-clad

Showflats are a particular phenomenon in Hong Kong where, every year, there

feature wall boasting a central fireplace with a nickel

are numerous new residential developments launched across the territory.

silver mantel surround, while sky grey marble

Property developers are required by the government to provide model

flooring and a stone dining table with nickel silver

apartments, or showflats, so that potential buyers can view these for a clear idea

accents are balanced by touches of warmth in

of what they would be purchasing.

nubby yellow upholstered dining chairs and a silk

Recently launched by Hong Kong property developer Wheelock Properties

rug with gold highlights.

was Capri, located along the coast in Tseung Kwan O, a satellite town in the

The master bedroom is a sensual space, with a

New Territories which itself was launched in the 1980s. To give potential

chromatic silk wall glimmering in cream and gold

buyers a holistic feel for Capris design standards, Wheelock looked to Hong

tones, and an adjacent bathroom with a translucent

Kongbased FAK3 to design a 16,000 sq-ft sales office that includes showflats,

white stone vanity counter with carved flower accents

The combined living and dining area includes a Lasvit crystal-clad feature wall boasting a central fireplace with a nickel silver mantel surround
090

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

and an egg-shaped cream resin bathtub.

The concept is an emotive interpretation of the beautiful
natural characteristics of the site, says Johnny Wong, one of the
founders of FAK3 along with Miho Hirabayashi. We translated
the sea, shoreline and cliffs nearby into space, light and
materials of the sales office.
Immediately to the right of the lift lobby, a foyer is housed
within an oval room featuring backlit onyx panels. Dubbed the
Wow Foyer, its recessed waveform ceiling with cove lighting
reiterates the curved walls, while grey striated marble flooring
alludes to Tseung Kwan Os rocky hills. Here, an oval chrome
plateau delicately showcases a floating cloudlike mobile
installation overhead, incorporating more than 1,000 crystals
and handcrafted in the Czech Republic before being
transported to Hong Kong.
In contrast to the Wow Foyer, an adjacent media room is
designed for emotive cinematic projections, accessible via a
band of five pivoting doors clad in white leather with black
chrome trim. Potential buyers are then led towards the feature
showflat along a corridor hugging the perimeter of the floor
plate that engages with a progression of visual media.

The master bedroom is a sensual space, with chromatic silk wall glimmering
in cream and gold tones

The Wow Foyer, with a floating, cloud-like mobile installation incorporating more than 1,000 crystals and handcrafted in the Czech Republic, and the
adjacent media room
perspective
091

The Ritz-Carlton Executive Residences | Tianjin China

In the living room, the light colour palette is paired with

complementary colours like beige and mint

Live like a Parisian

The northern Chinese city of Tianjin, with its many colonial
buildings, French churches and villas, is the setting for luxury
hotel group The Ritz-Carltons fourth Asian residential project

During the Qing dynasty in China (1644-1912), a

number of concession territories within Tianjin were
ceded to various European countries, the US and
Japan, resulting in the wide range of architectural
styles which can be seen throughout the city. Inside a
century-old landmark building beside the Hai River,
surrounded by 19th and 20th century architecture of

TEXT:
Leona Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton

the European nations that sought trade with China,

luxury hotel group The Ritz-Carlton has unveiled its
latest residential project.
Behind a grand faade, the interiors are
created by French hospitality designer Pierre-Yves
Rochon, who specialises in design solutions for
luxury hospitality environments his works can be
seen at the famous Four Seasons George V in Paris,
for example, and the groups properties in
Florence, London and Geneva, as well as The
Peninsula in Shanghai and Shangri-La Hotel Paris.

092

FOCUS: RESIDENTIAL

Pastoral motif wallpaper

accentuates the classic
French style

In Rochons designs, each space is composed

of elements drawn from the propertys location,

nonchalance of French style. A vintage chandelier adds a touch of glitz,

bringing a sense of indulgence and history to the luxury apartment.

culture and history, supported by classic French

While refined furniture and flower arrangements create romantic flair, art

style and ideals. Traditional and modern materials,

objects inject some fun into the space, balancing out the serious elements and

textures and furniture combine to create new

shaping the pleasant home-like atmosphere.

interiors that are elegant, engaging and soothing.

Bedrooms are kept simple and elegant. Pastoral motif wallpaper

The aesthetics of the 118 residences is equally

accentuates the classic style, while the arched window and accessories subtly

impeccable, reflecting Tianjins unique Chinese

introduce architectural curves. Inside the bathroom, gilded decorations,

and European heritage.

another feature seen often in French homes, stand out from the black-and-

Unlike colourful Scandinavian style, Parisian

white fittings yet make for a stylish mix.

homes are mostly painted in creamy white. In the

These world-class luxury designer homes, which are serviced apartments,

living room, the light colour palette is paired with

are not only defined by sophisticated style and luxurious finishes, but

complementary colours like beige and mint,

furnished with Ritz-Carlton service that makes them unlike any residence in the

yielding calm, chicness, and the quintessential

heart of Tianjin.

Inside the bathroom, gilded decorations, another feature seen often in French homes, stand out from the black-and-white fittings yet make for a
stylish mix

perspective

093

Interview | Ken Shuttleworth Make Architects

Make has offices across the globe including Hong Kong, where the firm has a residential project under construction at Lun Fat Street in Wan Chai

Keeping up
with the times
Scientific findings increasingly show that the world is
facing irreversible climate change, but architects like Ken
Shuttleworth, founder of Make Architects, are sparing no
effort to ensure that everything they design will have minimal
impact on the environment, in both the short and long terms

TEXT:
Simon Yuen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Make Architects

When asked why they picked their chosen career, many architects say they loved building
Ken Shuttleworth came to Hong Kong in the
1970s to oversee the construction of HSBC
headquarters in Central during his time at
Foster + Partners, and has witnessed how the
city has changed dramatically over the years

things during their childhood and this is certainly true for Ken Shuttleworth, founder of
Make Architects. I just wanted to build things when I was young, he says. The city I lived in
had plenty of new buildings, which I found amazing to have so near to home.
Born in Birmingham in the 1950s, Shuttleworth witnessed the redevelopment of the
city after World War II; his curiosity piqued in particular by the large number of new
concrete buildings being constructed. He went on to study at the Leicester School of
Architecture, where he gained the nickname Ken the Pen thanks to his natural skills in
sketching. Post-graduation, he went to London, where he met Norman Foster, eventually
becoming a partner at Foster + Partners. During his time with the firm, Shuttleworth
oversaw two key projects in Hong Kong: the headquarters of HSBC in Central, and the
citys Chek Lap Kok Airport.

094

Determined to make his own mark and do things his way in

completed the handball arena for the Summer Olympics in

the industry, Shuttleworth went on to establish Make Architects

London; while in Hong Kong, the firm handled both

in 2004. Different from the start, Make began and continues

architecture and interior design for Dunbar Place, its first

today as a wholly employee-owned architectural firm, with its

building in the city.

focus still firmly on designing energy-efficiency buildings and

minimising environmental impact.

Of course, Shuttleworth is no stranger to the territory, having

overseen the construction of the acclaimed HSBC headquarters

The world may have changed significantly since Shuttleworth

in the 1970s. He feels, however, that as a densely populated city,

began his career, but his motivations remain steadfast.

Hong Kong needs meticulous urban planning to make better

Architecture, he says, is not just about putting things together,

use of its space. Hong Kong is a sophisticated city, but the

but about how best to utilise space and the environment, with

challenge ahead is how to preserve historical buildings, he says.

environmental protection now one of the industrys greatest

concerns. Architects now focus on things like reducing
greenhouse gases, he says.

I dont think density is a problem here, but the government

has to enhance the walkability of the city.
Apart from simply driving less, Hong Kongers should walk

At Make, we examine every project before construction

and cycle more, and rely on public transport. Hong Kong has

begins, and hope that we can figure out the best solution to

the best metro system in the world, he points out. The country

achieve our goals.

parks here are fantastic; it takes less than an hour to travel from

Make has received more than 160 awards since its inception,

the heart of the city to the countryside. There is no need to

but when Shuttleworth is asked how he plans to expand the

develop these country parks; the city just needs to undertake a

business and further respond to market demands, his answer is,

comprehensive study before using any space.

to say the last, unconventional.

Having worked in the industry for four decades, Shuttleworth

I really have no ambition to expand the business, he muses.

continues to embrace new ideas and remains curious about

Already, we study every detail of our projects and place our

everything to this end, he established The Future Spaces

utmost efforts into putting our ideas into practice. With the

Foundation in 2013 as the research and development arm of

experience we have gained, we can handle bigger projects, but

Make Architects, aiming at exploring how to shape the cities of

we still remain flexible.

the future.

Though Make does not necessarily aim for projects of a

Curiosity comes first for architects, he says. Architecture is

specific scale, the firm has managed to finish a number of

about how to improve what we have done before. Thats why I

landmark works over the years. In 2012, for example, it

always say our next project will always be better.

The City of London Information

Centre, built in 2007,
showcases contemporary
design along with
environmentally-friendly
features such as groundsource heat pumps and a
rainwater collection system
perspective

095

Design | World Design Capital Taipei 2016

Believing in design
For the past year, the title of World Design Capital 2016 has been bestowed on Taipei by the
International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID). During these 12 months, the city has
seen a number of projects, workshops and events take place around the world of design as it
challenges how the industry can be further integrated into society
TEXT:
Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY & IMAGES:
Courtesy of World Design Capital Taipei 2016

During the International Design

House Exhibition, artists such as
Noritake were asked to illustrate
their interpretation of Taipei

Over the course of the year, Taipei has

We wanted to show people that design is not

Taipei 2016 (WDCT 2016), hosting a selection

only to do with products and brands. We also tried

of events and exhibitions that seek to show how

to lift the misconception that design is only about

design can be integrated into society to help it

creation, culture and heritage its not, says Dr

function optimally. Themed Adaptive City Design in

Pei-Ni Beatrice Hsieh, commissioner of the Taipei

Motion, it is hoped that by applying innovative design

City Department of Cultural Affairs. We must

thinking, the city may overcome a range of constraints

make sure that the next generation believes in

that limited resources place on its development.

design that design is not only in the things they

As the event wraps up this month, is it clear that

096

be incorporated into the decision-making process.

relished the title of World Design Capital

have, but part of their thinking.

it has been a success. Not only increasing public

In celebration of this success, we take a look at

awareness on the abilities of the industry, but also

some of the final events that Taipei hosted as

showing governing policy-makers how design can

World Design Capital 2016.

Over 100 signboards throughout the city were updated by designers in

collaboration with business owners, such as these ones at Dazhi Market

The Small Shop Signboard

Manufacturer Project
Organised in tandem by local Taipei design firms Archicake
and Agua Design, The Small Shop Signboard Manufacturer
Project sought to bring together young designers and local
shop owners throughout the city to create a new typology for
street signs.
A number of local businesses were approached, and
owners who were willing worked together with the designers
to generate new signboards. Coffee shops, grocery stores and
everyday street vendors took part in the project, with the
hope that a more harmonious and appealing street
environment could be created.
At Dazhi Market, with help from the chairman of the
Dazhi Market Stall-owner Committee Huang Xiangjin, nine
business owners agreed to consult with the designers and
have their storefronts redesigned. Since the signboards
have been updated, many of the shopkeepers have felt
empowered by the new designs and are taking even more
pride in how their stall looks every day, notes Tammy Chen
from Archicake.
perspective

097

Design | World Design Capital Taipei 2016

Participants at the International Design Forum included design week organisers from across the globe

International Design Forum

Co-ordinated by Ben Chiu, executive director and

The second day of the forum was open to the public, and consisted of talks

international curator of the annual Taiwan Designers

around design in general and how design events work throughout the world.

Week, the International Design Week Forum brought

I think that its important for design weeks that, together, we look into how we

together organisers of design weeks from cities and

can strengthen the ties between the weeks, to make a network that is useful for

countries across the globe, including Beijing, Chiang

our design communities, notes Ingrid Van der Wacht, international projects

Mai, Dubai, Eindhoven, London, Tokyo Paris, Sydney,

manager of Dutch Design Week.

Mexico, Singapore, and Taiwan.

The two-day event saw a closed-door internal

If you are interested in bidding for the WDC 2020 title, visit www.icsid.org

discussion taking place on the first day, as

and download the new Becoming a WDC guide, which explains the process

organisers shared ideas on how to overcome

from bid submission through designation. The deadline for applications is 31

common challenges and develop strategies to

March 2017, and the designated city will be announced at the 30th Icsid

share resources in the future.

General Assembly in October 2017.

International Design Policy Conference

Held over the course of two days in October, the International Design Policy
Conference brought together leaders in design thinking from around the world
in Taipei to share their ideas on the future role of designers, public servants,
and private firms in facing the challenges of urbanisation and resource scarcity.
The conference was attended by an audience of 3,000, and featured a
range of topics and forum discussions such as Design for Public Policy,
Design for Future Living and Design for Sustainable Cities. Speakers at the
event included mayors from cities that had previously held the World Design
Capital title, who spoke on how the event had continued to impact their
respective societies.
At the International Design Policy Conference,
Dr Pei-Ni Beatrice Hsieh, commissioner of the
Department of Cultural Affairs of Taipei City
Government, gave the opening remarks

098

In reference to Taiwans status as an international technology powerhouse, a

number of groundbreaking trends were identified and discussed in a hope that
by combining them with good design a better future could be sought.

A delight for all the senses, Visual Taipei showcased works from international and local artists,
many of whom depicted the city in their works

International Design House Exhibition

One of the four signature events that took place during October, the
International Design House Exhibition presented an exploration into how
global cities can use design to impact societal challenges and urbanisation.
Exploring the WDCT 2016 theme Sisheng: Quality of Life and Health,
Ecological Sustainability, Smart Living, and Urban Regeneration, the five
exhibits showcased the best local and international design exhibitions.
In Taipei Issuuuue, curated by Agua Chou of Taipei-based studio Agua Design,
a number of installations showed the results of innovative WDCT 2016 projects,
including the International Open Call and Designer in Residence programmes,
and explored the impact of public planning and design policies in Taipei.
The International City Pavilion, Unfold Cities, saw participants from 13
international cities, countries, and organisations present an exploration into
how design is used to successfully in society. Austria, Beijing, Cape Town,
Germany, Helsinki, India, the Netherlands, Osaka, Paris, the Philippines,
Switzerland and Yokohama were all represented, with a range of product and
conceptual designs being displayed.
Visual Taipei, curated by Page Tsou, featured more than 300 works by renowned
illustrators, graphic designers and visual artists from around the world. Selected
illustrators were tasked to show their own personal representations of Taipei, while
other artists used the classic Eames chair by Hermann Miller as a canvas.
Curator Li Wei-Lang, the creative director for Afterain Design, presented an
exhibition called Breakthrough, showcasing innovative Taiwanese design in the
fields of science and technology, art and craft, and sustainability, while
renowned Taiwanese contemporary calligraphic artist Tong Yang-Tze
presented From Ink to Apparel: A Crossover between Calligraphy Art and Fashion
Design. This collaborative exhibition featured the works of six up-and-coming
Taiwanese fashion designers, which interpret Tongs art.

Design | Des Voeux Road Central Walkability Proposal Hong Kong

Benoys vision is to energise the 1.4km stretch of Des Voeux Road Central to become a walkable linear park, catalysing the potential upgrading of the
wider area including the uphill links to Hollywood Road, SoHo, Mid-Levels and beyond

The walkability of Hong Kong

Imagine if, instead of for cars, streets were designed for pedestrians and trams to
become vibrant, green arteries in the heart of the city this is a dream which a
growing group of campaigners and business interests are working to achieve

TEXT:
Phoebe Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Benoy |
www.benoy.com

Benoy has lent its support to a campaign which

would support the movement. Coming together

seeks to see Des Voeux Road Central in the heart

with our partners, we hosted a number of

of Hong Kong Islands main business district

creative Think Tanks to elevate the concept and

transformed into a pedestrian-tram green zone

have delivered, what we believe to be, a

as part of the initiative, Benoys cross-studio team

compelling proposal for Des Voeux Road

in Hong Kong and the UK collaborated with

Central to be a globally recognised destination

StartJG and Walk DVRC to develop a conceptual

in Hong Kong.

vision for the pedestrianisation of the

thoroughfare, one of the citys busiest.

Des Voeux Road Central supports vehicular traffic,

The campaign for pedestrianising Des Voeux

the citys tram line and between 4,000 to 8,000

Road Central is an initiative we have followed

pedestrians per hour. Small streets and laneways

closely over the last couple of years, explains

dissect the road, along with a number of elevated

Trevor Vivian, global director at Benoy.

walkways and footbridges. The area is often

We wanted to bring a renewed vision to the

idea and further develop the visuals which
100

One of the citys most hectic major arteries,

congested with poor air quality and pedestrian

amenity is challenging.

The potential for Des Voeux Road to be a global attraction and exciting

and pop-up opportunities for retailers and

pedestrian gateway to Hong Kong itself, however, is very tangible due to its

restaurants. 3D light projections on buildings, as

connections to the Airport Express, MTR and Central Ferry Piers. Energising the

mentioned, bring a digital experience and

1.4km stretch of road to become a walkable linear park could catalyse the

opportunity to promote and celebrate a wide

potential upgrading of the wider area including the uphill links to Hollywood

range of events and themes.

Road, SoHo, Mid-Levels and beyond.

An active sports programme creates a strong

Des Voeux Road Central provides a great model for the walkable cities

attraction and first-to-market offer in the city centre.

debate. We have here an already highly trafficked street which is well

Stages for events facilitate community gathering

connected for pedestrians and to transport hubs, says Simon Bee, managing

and provide a platform for engagement. Outdoor

director of global design.

markets and squares deliver a changing calendar of

The opportunity to open this up, redesign and animate the streetscape for
pedestrians, and enrich the heart of Hong Kong with the power of a public
realm which is commercially and socially enhanced is very persuasive.

events throughout the year and present further

commercial opportunities.
We believe the visuals speak for themselves in

Benoys design focuses on delivering a connected and diversified realm of

terms of relaying the type of atmosphere,

experiences, such as the removal of cars and buses, giving real public space to

experience and walkability we want to bring to the

pedestrians and addressing the congestion and pollution issues. The citys historic

heart of the city. While based in Hong Kong, this is

tram network remains intact, celebrating the significance of this early form of

also a model which can be applied to other cities,

public transport. The concept also uses digital technologies and light projections

local nuances observed of course, says Bee.

to capture the evolution of Des Voeux Road Central and its transformation over
many decades through the citys extensive harbourfront reclamations.

The overarching message we want to promote

is that as we urbanise, we will continue to live, work

Benoys concept journeys from The Gateway at Pedder Street, to The

and play in ever-densifying environments. These are

Courtyard at Queen Victoria Street, The Plaza at Hillier Street, and culminates

our neighbourhoods, our backyards, and we should

at The Market, next to the historic Western Market building. Each of these

be inspired to see them evolve as engaging, green,

areas has been specifically themed with refreshment, recreation and relaxation

walkable districts which promote a better quality of

to create a strong identity and sense of belonging.

life in the hearts of our cities.

Taking a multi-faceted approach to experiential street design, Benoys concept

introduces a wide spectrum of architectural and design features. Temporary

Walk DVRC dvrc.hk/our-campaign

structures, installations and semi-permanent faades allow for constant evolution

StartJG www.startjg.com

The concept uses digital technologies and light projections to capture the evolution of Des Voeux Road Central and its transformation over many decades
perspective

101

Design | Aman Resorts

A fascinating rapport
In the hands of designer Kerry Hill, the fourth property
in China by Aman Resorts renowned for its spectacular
retreats around the world has received unparalleled
attention since being announced

TEXT:
Leona Liu
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Courtesy of Aman Resorts

Set to launch in 2017, Amans fourth property in China, the highly anticipated

No images have yet been released for Aman

Aman Shanghai will comprise a village of historic dwellings dating back to the

Shanghai, but admirers of the Aman Group and

Ming and Qing dynasties, which have been moved from Jiangxi province.

Hills work have no doubt that it will be nothing

Surrounded by a sacred camphor forest, the architecture embodies the

less than breathtaking. At the Aman Tokyo, for

essence of Chinese traditional culture, carefully blending the old with the new.

example, the architect brings to the brands first

Ornate carvings and elaborate stone reliefs, which would have taken up to 10

city retreat a combination of traditional and edgy

years to carve, depict family histories dating back more than 2,000 years.

design, subtly combining both for a strikingly

This cultural and historical luxury haven has been conceived by Australian

minimalist style. Classic Japanese materials such

architect Kerry Hill, marking the ninth project by the Singapore-based practice

as camphor wood, washi paper and stone are

for the Aman Resorts group the others being Amanusa, Bali; Amansara, Siem

blended with modern technology and a variety

Riep, Cambodia; Amankora, Bhutan; Amangalla and Amanwella in Sri Lanka;

of fabrics and textures to create a beautiful

Aman Tokyo and Amanemu in Japan; and the former Aman New Delhi, now

interplay of shadow and light fundamental to

known as The Lodhi.

its design and ambience.

102

Clockwise from left

As imagined by the Singapore-based practice, Amanemu is a hot spring
resort based on a contemporary interpretation of Japanese minka
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featuring charcoal-coloured basalt stone tiles and floor-to-ceiling
windows reminiscent of private onsen

The centrepiece of Aman Tokyo is its lobby, soaring nearly 30

metres high; a majestic architectural feature resembling the
interior of a Japanese paper lantern. Created with layers of
textured washi paper and stretched with a shoji frame, the lantern
rises six floors through the centre of the building. Beneath this is
the hotels inner garden, celebrating the creative and cultural
tradition of Japan with the disciplined art form of Ikebana.
Still in Japan but some 300km southwest of Tokyo, Amanemu,
crafted by the same design team, is a hot spring resort based on a
contemporary interpretation of Japanese minka buildings, with
traditional low-slung tiled roofs and dark-stained Japanese cedar
exterior walls, reflective of the simple nature-influenced design of
ryokans, Japans traditional bathing retreats.
perspective

103

Design | Aman Resorts

Clockwise from left

The warm interior spaces of Amanemu offer elegant
simplicity and have been carefully crafted in light
shades of Japanese timber Aman Shanghai, set to
open in 2017, features historical architecture dating
back to the Ming and Qing dynasties which have moved
from Jiangxi province

For Aman Shanghai, the story begins in Jiangxi,

main entrances revealed family histories dating back more than 2,000 years.

the mountainous cultural heartland of eastern

The transportation of all these valuable artifacts to Shanghai required

China, some 800 kilometres southwest of

a diverse team of world-class specialists, including botanists, engineers

Shanghai. Here, the construction of a reservoir in

and traditional Chinese architecture experts. On arrival, trees were

the province threatened houses dating back

planted in native soil, facing the same direction as they had previously.

centuries and trees that had stood for more than a

Meticulous records were made during the process, and the ancient

millennium. A bold plan was conceived to save

dwellings were carefully reconstructed by the few remaining craftsmen in

these cultural and natural treasures along with

China with knowledge and skills to reassemble the ancient structures.

10,000 of the oldest trees from the ancient

After three years of careful nursing, new shoots began to appear on the

camphor forests growing in the hills and

trees and contemporary structures were built alongside the ancient houses.

mountains around the town of Fuzhou. The trees

A peaceful sanctuary, spread across 100 acres, the new Aman property is a

are symbols of strength and contemplation, and

living reminder of Fuzhous past a serene refuge, combining ancient

their calming scent is renowned across China for

heritage and delicate natural beauty with modern elegance.

inspiring equanimity.

Set within easy reach of central Shanghai, Hills designs for the property

From the floodplain, 50 Ming and Qing dynasty

embody the essence of Chinese traditional culture. With warm earthy tones,

houses were also chosen for preservation. As

creamy whites and moss greens forming much of the colour palette, the resort

master craftsmen documented architectural details

will comprise an Aman Spa with two pools; six dining venues; and Nan Shu

for their reconstruction, ancient building techniques

Fang, a serene garden centred by one of the Antique Villas, curated as a space

were rediscovered, and inscribed boards above the

for contemplation, learning and discussion.

104

Industry Focus | Green & Eco Living

Green days
Thanks to these environmentally-responsible designs,
green living is more achievable than ever

Verosol SilverScreen fabric

Verosols SilverScreen is suitable for roller

fabric, SilverScreen prevents light and

blinds, panel tracks and vertical blinds,

excessive heat from passing through.

reducing light transmission, luminance

Nicedrape Solar Protection System,

contrast and preventing glare. It also

28/F Block L, Shield Industrial Centre,

reflects solar radiation and reduces air-

84-92 Chai Wan Kok Street, Tsuen Wan,

conditioning energy usage without

New Territories, Hong Kong. Call +852

obscuring views. By applying a very thin

2413 3119, email hongkong@nicedrape.

layer of aluminium on the back of the

com.hk or visit www.nicedrape.com.hk

Minka Aire
Aviation ceiling fan
The Aviation fan from Minka Aire has a
striking design that stands out from the
crowd. Inspired by the propeller of an
airplane, the wooden finish on the three
blades are individually handpainted and
crafted, and with an ultra-low power
consumption DC motor, the Minka Aire is
the perfect balance of beauty and
sustainability.
El:ar Group. Call +852 2164 7228,
email info@elar.com.hk or
visit www.elar.com.hk
106

H Series ceiling fan

Built from premium materials like sustainable Moso
bamboo, the H Series ceiling fan offers an
exceptional number of customisable options.
Onboard SenseME Technology allows for automated
fan operation, tailoring it to fit your unique comfort
needs and minimising energy use year-round. H
Series holds top rankings from ENERGY STAR, and is
capable of reducing reliance on air conditioning and
cooling costs by 20 per cent.
Big Ass Fans, Room 808, 8/F Tai Yau Building,
181 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. Call
+852 2836 5808, email info@bigassfans.hk or visit
www.haikuhome.com

Sui Rich Magic Flex / Magic Thin

With its environmentally-friendly design, Sui Richs Magic Flex is one of the
slimmest and lightest tiles in the market. Through patented technology, the LED
display can be bent or twisted to almost any shape such as convex, concave,
wave, curve to meet designers needs. Installation and maintenance is simple,
thanks to a magnetic system.
Synergy Lighting, Unit 404B, 4/F Block B, Sea View Estate, No. 4 Watson
Road, Hong Kong. Call +852 2121 8033, email info@synergy-group.com or visit
www.synergy-group.com

perspective

107

Hong Kong Perspective

Verbal inspiration
Architecture and interior design are very much
perceived as visual arts, but like many artists,
words from literature and poetry often provide
rich sources of inspiration and stimulation

Interior of Cathedral of the

Immaculate Conception,
Hong Kong, 2016

Ill let you think about that for a

few moments as I briefly discuss
Thiens paragraph.
You can picture this scene despite it
being only a few words and no given
context to the time, place or characters. A

TEXT & IMAGES: John Batten

restaurant, a candle-lit corner in a

restaurant; a waiter, a waiter speaking
slowly; two people, one a woman
named Ai-ming; the other, the narrator,
unknown (actually a 10-year old girl);
waiting together; and time, time, time,
passing to run its course.
An interior of an entire restaurant
could be designed around that paragraph.
The most obvious example of buildings
and structures designed with words as
inspiration are religious. The word of God.
Such words as in The Bible or the Holy
Koran. A Gothic cathedrals height, gilt and

I am reading Madeleine Thiens 2016

slowness of ages, until I, too, felt my pulse

sparkling coloured leadlight windows built

Booker Prize-shortlisted Do Not Say We

slow, and time became relative, as the

by unknown architects and craftsmen, and

H a v e N o t h i n g a n d t h i s e v o c at i v e

physicists had proved it was, so perhaps

no doubt women, whose construction

p a ra g ra p h w a s c o m p e l l i n g : Th e

Ai-ming and I are still seated there, in a

spanned centuries.

candlelight grazed all the objects of the

corner of the restaurant, waiting for our

Or, the magnificant, mathematically

room. The waiter spoke to us kindly, as if

meal to come, for a sentence to end, for

symetrical mosques built throughout the

we had come from very far away, from a

this intermission to run its course.

Ottoman Empire, best expressed by the

place where words waited for their echo. I

Visual artists, musicians, film-makers

prolific Mimar Sinan (Sinan the Architect,

feared my childhood would pass before

and composers are inspired by words,

1489-1588), who lived at the same time

he finished a sentence. And even when I

literature and poetry. Words assist them

as Michelangelo. Architectural expression

a n s w e re d h i m i n m y i m p e c c a b l e

in their own creativity. Are architects

was culturally specific, but communication

Canadian accent, he continued with the

similarly inspired by words?

between the east and west was incredibly

fluid with knowledge, expertise, manpower
and engineering and construction
techniques freely crossing borders.
The Turkish Nobel laureate Orhan
Parmuk wrote the poignant The Museum of
Innocence, and then designed and opened
a real museum in Istanbul based on his
book (www.en.masumiyetmuzesi.org) I
propose a new architectural design
competition; to be inspired by literature,
books and poetry. Any takers?

John Batten is
co-convenor of the
Central & Western
Concern Group and
writes on art, culture
& heritage issues
Books Love the Kids, Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York, 2013
108

Beyond Perspective

Last rites
How would you like to go? Perhaps embed your ashes
into bits of rice paper and be scattered to the wind? Or
pressed into pebbles so your loved ones can carry you
to other parts of the world and leave you by a quiet
stream? Or perhaps use those ashes to craft bone china
bowls to remain at home?
TEXT: Wei Lim
PHOTOGRAPHY: Courtesy of designers

Cornerstone, by John Zheng and Desiree Lim: human ashes pressed into pebbles could be carried by your loved ones to lay you to rest anywhere in the world

Industrial design students from National

The idea came to us when we were

The Intimate niche plaques designed

University of Singapore (NUS) School of

looking at taboos around urns in our

by Fabian Ong and Lee Hsiao Fong are

Environment and Design recently took an

society. They are usually kept out of sight

made of soft grey Bardiglio marble,

unflinching look at the subject of death,

in places far away from the living, Yang

treated so that etched images of the

and came up with the Death By Design

says. Why do we need to establish

departed are hydrophilic. These will only

exhibition consisting of 13 concept

boundaries in the first place, when we

be revealed when wiped with a wet cloth,

designs for funeral urns that are as

were once so close while they were still

a tender and poignant gesture that

transcendental as they are taboo-busting.

alive? Cant we maintain the intimacy by

reconnects the living to the dead.

Inspired by how cattle bone ashes

turning them into precious objects to be

are added to minerals and kaolin to give

kept in the house?

A lot of niche visitation rituals that we

have learnt to re-enact without

bone chinaware its unique milky white

The iconoclastic design combines the

understanding or questioning only create

translucency and strength, design

heritage-laden symbolism of rice in Asian

distance between us and our beloved

students Yang Ran and Dyllis Teo

culture with the pragmatism of bowls as a

deceased, Ong muses. Wed like to

wondered if human ashes could be used

ritual of daily remembrance for the

re-examine why certain rituals exist, and

the same way. Although their prototype

departed. The designers have calculated

how to update them with new meaning.

(me in Chinese) bone china rice

that human ashes on average can make a

We want to enable ourselves, the living,

bowls are made with cow bone ashes,

set of eight bowls, also an auspicious

to physically act out our care and respect

the same can be achieved with human

number, each measuring 12cm in

for our loved ones. When their images

ashes as both incinerate at 1,250

diameter and, when filled with rice, will

magically appear and slowly fade, it is as

degrees Celsius, the same temperature

form a perfect circle to represent

if we have invited them to momentarily

used for firing porcelain.

(reunion in Chinese).

come into our midst.

From left
Natures Will, by Ng Yin Lin & Ellvixson Yap: ashes
are embedded into rice paper and scattered to
the wind , by Yang Ran and Dyllis Teo

Wei Lim is a lifestyle

editor based in Asia, a
globetrotter, storyteller,
trend hunter, and
discoverer of creative
fineries from all over
the world.
perspective

109

Degustation | Little Creatures Hong Kong

The brewing kits are exposed behind the bar so that

guests can see the beer-making process unfold, while the
red pipes pump the finished product around the space

Aussie Rules
Born out of Fremantle, Western
Australia, Little Creatures is a brewery
and restaurant that focuses on craft
beer and community. The company
recently made its first leap across the
ocean to Hong Kong, where local
interior design firm Charlie & Rose
created for them the perfect home
away from home

The story of Little Creatures goes back to the year 2000, when four friends
decided they wanted to create a product around their passion: beer. They
purchased two old sheds right on the fishing boat harbour in Fremantle (which
had previously been used as a crocodile farm) and opened a small brewery
and a restaurant seating 150 people.
Fast-forward to present day and the original brewery/restaurant has
extended to accommodate almost 2,000 guests, making it the second biggest
tourist attraction in the region.
The company has always been based on a passion to make bloody good
beer, explains Stewart Wheeler, GM of hospitality for Little Creatures. Craft
beer in Australia is approaching 15 per cent of the total market volume and

TEXT:
Sophie Cullen
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Dicky Liu

growing aggressively, as it is in every other modern western country. Asia is at

about three per cent, but growing faster than any other market.
So the cross-continent move seemed logical for the company, though not
without its challenges and difficulties, not least of which being space. We
110

Clockwise from above

Charlie & Rose scoured vintage stores in Australia to find
some pre-loved additions to the space, such as a trio of
chairs from Melbournes Forum Theatre Decorated
pegboards were installed throughout the venue to break
up the large wall expanses and conceal acoustic
panelling The large dining area features long-lasting
materials such as leather-upholstered furniture and
communal timber dining tables

needed a big space. For our business model we

We see ourselves as custodians of the site, so we havent tried to change

needed 500 sq-m with four-metre-high ceilings to

the fabric of the building. Instead, weve protected the original volumes of the

accommodate the brewing equipment. We also

space and tried to make our concept fit within those, Wheeler explains.

wanted little glimpses of the harbour and a quiet,

For instance, although weve obviously needed to build new kitchens and

leafy street in front with wide sidewalks, and of

bars and things, we havent physically altered the building to accommodate

course the real estate agents were like, Are you

those. All of the columns existed previously, and we just clad them and

joking?, muses Wheeler.

increased them in size slightly to help improve the intimacy of the space.

Luckily, however, one day the team was

The floors, walls and ceilings were not touched at all during the

wandering alongside the waterfront in Kennedy

transformation, creating a raw foundation for the interiors. Red pipes that run

Town, a suburb that they had recently fallen in

around the ceiling heighten this industrial feel, and also function to move the

love with, and noticed an open roller door

beer around the premises. To juxtapose the warehouse aesthetic, design firm

fronting a huge space. The former sugar and flour

Charlie & Rose chose communal tables made from timber and leather-

warehouse seemed the perfect location for the

upholstered furniture to stand the test of the time. They also wanted to ensure

operation, so the owners were approached, and

that guests would be surprised at the level of comfort available in the highly-

the rest is history.

industrial space.
perspective

111

Degustation | Little Creatures Hong Kong

From the street,

the brewery/restaurants
size is difficult to see,
but when guests step
inside, they are instantly
surprised by how big
the space is

As the original building had such large wall

vintage items from Australia that add the perfect homey touches. Coloured

expanses, the team had to get creative to ensure a

German pottery sits next to vintage work benches and sideboards, and a trio

warm and inviting atmosphere. We always place

of chairs from Melbournes Forum Theatre even make an appearance at the

importance on this. Its done by offering customers

entrance of the space.

choice in terms of different seating types, sizes,

Drawing inspiration from where a brewer might hang his tools, pegboards

heights etcetera, and identifying and controlling

were installed throughout the space and decorated with images of other Little

different nooks within the space via varied ceiling

Creatures Breweries, Australian ephemera and a selection of merchandise.

heights, changing materials, feature lighting and

These also have a more practical function, allowing acoustic paneling to be

utilising inherent building character, notes fellow

hidden beneath for sound absorption.

Australian Ben McCarthy of Charlie & Rose.

We love the environment we were able to create using cheap and readily

As a result, polished concrete, copper, stone,

available materials, says McCarthy. This is helped by the fact that all furniture

marble and timber can be seen throughout the

and feature lighting is custom-made and designed by us which gives the

project. The team also brought over a number of

space an additional layer of individuality.

112

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Destination | Papas Hostel Pingtian

The lightest of touches

In Pingtian village, located in Chinas Zhejiang Province, an
entirely unexpected approach to renovating an old village home
into a youth hostel sees light, both natural and artificial, play a
key role in carving out spaces
TEXT:
Suzanne Miao
PHOTOGRAPHY:
He Wei & Chen Long; courtesy of He Wei Studio / 3andwich Design

The communal ground floor area is open to both hostel residents and the local villagers to make use of and enjoy
perspective

115

Destination | Papas Hostel Pingtian

In Songyang county, set in the mountainous southwestern region of

Zhejiang province in China, there are about 100 traditional villages whose
traditional way of life, farming techniques and ancient culture have been
preserved by their geographical isolation. While the rest of China urbanises
to become cities dominated by concrete skyscrapers, you can still find in
Songyangs villages the distinctive yellow mud walls and black and grey roofs
of its centuries-old architecture.
As idyllic as it sounds, however, villages like Pingtian are at risk of literally
dying out, as young folk seek jobs and greater opportunities in the cities,
usually never to return. But moves are afoot to rejuvenate this and other
Songyang villages, as regional governments and village elders realise that they
can attract businesses and tourists drawn to the beauty of the area, and its
ancient way of life.
Principal architect He Wei

In keeping with the overall style and architectural features of the rest of the village homes, the exterior of Papas Home was left almost completely
unchanged in its transformation into Papas Hostel

PAPAS HOSTEL, PINGTIAN VILLAGE,

ZHEJIANG PROVINCE, CHINA
Client: Jiang Bin-Long
Architectural design company:
He Wei Studio / 3andwich design
Principal Architect: He Wei
Architectural design team:
Chen Long, Li Qiang,
Chen Huang-Jie, Cheuk Chun-Yung
Lighting design team:
Zhang Xin, Han Xiao-Wei, ZhouXuan-Yu

116

With the insertion of a long, horizontal window, the seating area on the second floor has been transformed into a cosy nook with glorious views over
the village and surrounding mountains

The goal of the design was to

renovate it into a place with new
functions and spaces

This is where Papas Hostel comes in

completely unchanged. A window was inserted at

belonging to village elder Jiang Binlong, it used to

the second floor level to allow for fresh air,

be called simply Papas Home, a literal description

sunshine and views over the valley.

of what it was. An ordinary, unprepossessing

It is on the inside where Hes bold interventions

rammed earth dwelling two storeys high, it covers

can be found. On the ground level, originally

an area of approximately 270 sq-m. The goal of

divided into several rooms, an open space was

the design was to renovate it into a place with new

created by removing the clapboard walls breaking

functions and spaces, explains He Wei, founder of

up the space. Transformed into a communal area

He Wei Studio / 3andwich Design and principal

for socialising and play, both tourists and villagers

architect on the project.

are welcome to make use of it.

After discussions with the owner and the local

As for the second floor, we intended to retain

government, we decided to put a young face on

the original characteristics of the space, so the

Papas Home, transforming it into an international

conventional method that uses fixed walls to

standard youth hostel.

divide was rejected, says He. Instead, we

In keeping with the overall style and

introduced the concept of rooms within rooms,

architectural features of the rest of the village

implanting several space elements into the

homes, the exterior of Papas Home was left almost

original house.
perspective

117

Destination | Papas Hostel Pingtian

These space elements are quite literally

boxes. Made of lightweight polycarbonate sheets,
they are easily dismountable, portable and
translucent. Creating rooms within rooms which
He described as gentle and lightweight in the
context of the original construction, these make up
the living units of Papas Hostel.
Each unit can accommodate 4-6 people; their
dividing walls specially designed to create a soft,
blurry effect which highlights their material
characteristics compared with the original hard
materials used for walls and roof. Windows of
different sizes have also been cut into the
polycarbonate walls, not just for aesthetic or
dramatic effect, but to confer an active quality to
the units by enabling people to peek in and
communicate with each other.

From top
Soft LED lights were placed in the wooden framework of
the rooms within rooms, changing both spatial
atmosphere and mood when switched on after dark On
the second floor, rooms within rooms were created
using lightweight polycarbonate sheets, which are easily
dismountable, portable and translucent

118

The units can accommodate from 4-6 guests, and are simply decked out with wooden bunk beds and minimal furniture

The rooms within rooms are also designed to walk, thanks to the addition
of a set of universal wheels under the structure plate. The mobile structures
can thus be moved to reconstruct the space, changing the nature of the
dialogue among the units and between them and their host building.
Light is another important element in Hes design. Transparent tiles on the
roof and large side windows will let natural light flow in during the day, turning
the occupants gazes outwards to the the village and its surrounding
mountains and greenery. Meanwhile, at night, warm lights illuminate the whole
room through reflection and refraction of the polycarbonate and in turn, the
villagers find their gaze drawn inward to the interiors of Papas Hostel.
The changing shadows offer people a sweet, vague and elusive feeling,
says He. But as the evening draws on, colourful lights are turned on to
transform the space into a vibrant place.

perspective

119

Snapshot

Into the wild

Familiar lines reinterpreted in new creativity, images brought

In Texturaes first, amazing collection, flora and fauna

to life, space turned into open windows overlooking any

break free from clichd realism to turn into graphic elements

world your imagination can take you to: this is Texturae, a

from another world, capable of shaping space and walls

new design wallpaper brand launched by Daniele Morabito

seen here is Dino, a simple, playful graphic design by

and Dario Pulitan, two young entrepreneurs from Italy.

product designer and artist Elena Salmistraro.

Curating the brands range is art director Serena

Confalonieri, a young product, textiles and graphic designer.

120

www.texturae.it

D E S I G N P O R T R A I T.

Michel Club, seat system designed by Antonio Citterio - www.bebitalia.com

333 lockhart road wan chai hong kong - (852) 2295 6263 - info@colourliving.com - www.colourliving.com

Flagship store is coming soon at 31st oor 333 lockhart road wan chai