KNQ Associates brings you fresh ideas on designing and rejuvenating your home.

May 27, 2011

GOOD TILES OR BAD?

The thought of using tiles in spaces other than a kitchen and bathroom usually switches me into high alert mode. That's because the result might just remind you of the public toilets or eateries if the wrong tiles are chosen. Hence, special care ought to be taken in such situations.

And if you were me, would you consider these as good choices? Will these make or break a design? Would love to hear your views!




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May 23, 2011

TAPE HOOK BY TORAFU ARCHITECTS

Tommy from Canada tipped us off on these cutesy little wall hooks that look like curled up adhesive tapes when installed. Designed by Japan's Torafu Architects, the manufacturing process involves soaking each paper hook, curling and then drying it to achieve its form. The range of bright colors available just add to the fun.

Thanks a lot, Tommy! Link





Stan
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May 22, 2011

REVIEW OF SATURDAY IN DESIGN 2011 IN SINGAPORE

Australia’s most popular annual design event Saturday In Design finally made its way to our shores for the very first time on 21st May. The biggest Saturday in Design is purported to be the ultimate way for the design community to gauge trends and spot the who’s whos in the industry. More importantly, it provides the opportunities to connect with like-minded creatives and be inspired by what modern design has to offer.



Warehouse 72-13

The premise sounds great but alas, the Singapore show just fell short of my expectations.

Frankly, I was anticipating some fresh product launches during the event - considering that big names like Artemide, Moroso and Boffi were involved - but that excitement didn't come at all. Simply because there isn't much to see, particularly at the latter two exhibit areas. Well, unless if you deem a Moroso chair upholstered in different fabrics (all sourced locally) fitting as a highlight here.




Moroso and Boffi

There were occasionally little surprises, like the Light-twit lamp by Oon and the Fin Pot series from Cilicon Faytory, but the rest of the stuff just didn't grabbed my eyeballs. Sure, the origami butterfly art installation by Dream Interiors and Elixr was stunning, but I can't help thinking that the seemingly low turnout at the event put a damper on my initial enthusiasm.



Products by Oon

Products by Cilicon Faytory



Dream Interiors

At XTRA, one is treated to some interesting art installations, including the more memorable Duplicity, which "brings products that are found in typical work environment to life". But as with the show exhibit at Dream Interiors, there wasn't anything at the rest of the XTRA exhibit area which I haven't seen the last time I was there at their showroom.

At the end of my short 3 hour visit, I realized the entire event did nothing to inspire or impress me. What a pity.




XTRA


Stan
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May 19, 2011

INCEPTION CHAIR BY VIVIAN CHIU

Ah, that's how you design many chairs all at once! Link





Stan
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May 18, 2011

HOME REJUVENATED!

You know you need to rejuvenate your home when:

1. You have feature walls everywhere that look like they belong to a movie set than in a home. And no, it's not a nice movie to begin with.

2. You've got a kitchen that looks more like a store room than a creative space where you whip up delicious food for your family.

3. The toilet looks so run-down even the mere thought of stepping in for a quick shower (and, ahem, some other private matters) makes you depressed. Alright, depressed is too strong a word to use here...

4. Your children study, play and sleep in ho-hum rooms that are totally uninspiring for their growing minds.

'Nuff said!



Dining room - after

Dining room - before



Living room - after

Living room - before


Kitchen - after

Kitchen - before


Kids' study room - after

Kids' study room - before



Kids' bedroom - after

Kids' bedroom - before


Kids' bedroom bath - after

Kids' bedroom bath - before


Master bedroom - after

Master bedroom - before


Master bathroom - after

Master bathroom - before


KUS
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