Home Rejuvenation (by KNQ Associates)

GLOWING LIGHT BALL BENCH BY MANFRED KIELNHOFER

2012-01-27T00:09:00.005+08:00

The Glowing Light Ball Bench, created by Manfred Kielnhofer, was presented at the Light Art Biennial Austria recently. The bench, which has a very simple design, consists of three light balls and two wooden board perforates that lay over the light balls.

Kielnhofer invited the viewer literally to an intellectual debate and puts one to an intellectual, philosophical stimulation. In his own words, the artist stressed ""The moment you try the artwork in my thoughts and words to capture, one realizes that this task almost limitless variations, offers viewpoints and approaches. Kielnhofer redeemed by shape, material, resulting in an avalanche of application functionality and solutions / results on different levels of perception."

Stan

INNTEL HOTEL IN ZAANDAM

2012-01-24T12:56:00.002+08:00

The Netherlands is a hotbed for innovative designers. And the Inntel Hotel Amsterdam Zaandam is set to cement that notion. What stands on the hotel site is a madcap building structure with a facade comprising a pile of traditional Dutch houses in bright blues and greens, seeking to grab your attention the moment you set eyes on it. If this is all part of the hotel's marketing gimmick, it sure works.

The 'sane' interior design is a radical departure from its over-the-top exterior though. The hotel has 160 calm and stylish rooms, meeting and party facilities up to 350 persons as well as the bar and restaurant ‘Puur Saen’.

Stan

REDEFINING THE BACHELOR PAD

2012-01-05T23:15:00.007+08:00

A single male, a finance executive with a growing sculpture and wine collection contracted Guillaume Gentet to design a traditional Park Avenue luxury apartment. His principal goals were to create additional value to the apartment and to craft and completely outfit a home that would accommodate entertaining as well as a small family should he decide to marry.

The problem: This four bedroom apartment had only two bathrooms. Not to mention the Master Bedroom was fitted with only 2 small closets.

Solution: To Gentet and the women of Park Avenue this meant one thing....Storage! Storage! Storage!

• The discovery of a plumbing chase made the conversion of the hall closet to a new powder room relatively inexpensive.

• Gentet drew up plans for custom cabinets to enclose the PTAC’s and provide extra storage space.

• The third bedroom was converted into a den and the PTAC was moved to the west window to provide room for a new wall unit and sofa.

• The maid’s room was converted into an intimate tasting room to accommodate the client’s burgeoning wine collection.

• Adjacent to the master bedroom entrance, an awkward triangular closet was removed. The entrance door was relocated to make room for a new walk-in closet. Additionally, one of the three existing small closets was eliminated and made part of an expanded master bathroom.

In the foyer, the original 12 x 12 granite floor was replaced with a 24 x 24 scissor stone pattern with mother of pearl inlay. This was designed to elongate and expand the space.

Despite its size, the apartment lacked a bathroom for visitors. The discovery of a plumbing chase made the conversion of the hall closet to a new powder room relatively inexpensive. Guillaume created a boiserie for the new powder room and finished it with a patina on its new walls.

A hand-painted de Gourney wallpaper was used to create a sense of space and light. A narrow sink was designed to respond to the tight space constraints.

A custom designed daybed and sofa were used with antiques (including several mirrors, a Commode du Chinoiserie, and an early 20th Century Impressionist painting that was found at auction) and commercially available lines of furniture and lighting. The space features an understated placement of reflective surfaces including a mirror above the fireplace that incorporates contemporary fabric with the antique frame.

As a painter and muralist Gentet employed a faux ceruse oak treatment for the new den and entire wall unit. This was then paired with new furniture, custom draperies, hardware and lighting.

In the master bathroom, Gentet designed a custom sink cabinet based on two silver antique legs that were purchased at auction. Stain color and top were also selected.

Stan

MAKING SPACE IN MANHATTAN

2011-12-15T22:58:00.003+08:00

We just received images of a newly completed 3 bedroom Manhattan apartment designed by Guillaume Gentet.

65 West 13^th Street (The Greenwich) is a full service pre‐war condo in a prime Greenwich Village location. This 12‐floor building was constructed in 1905 as a former Macy’s department store, and converted to luxury condos in 2001.

A young professional couple with a toddler and twins on the way needed two more bedrooms and an extra bathroom to accommodate their expanding family. Preserving space for entertainment and incorporating their previously purchased art into the final design were also priority.

The former kitchen area was converted into a discreet office space and laundry room that opened into a third bathroom for the children. The dining area was divided to create an additional two bedrooms for the kids. The partition separating the children’s rooms was designed to be easily removable for maximum flexibility.

On the opposite side of the loft, plumbing was installed for the newly constructed kitchen. Next to the kitchen, custom cabinetry was built along the periphery of the living room. The lofted mezzanine was doubled to make room for additional storage space, the children’s play room and a guest alcove.

Stan

KNQ ASSOCIATES FEATURED IN COLLECTION OF THE 18TH ASIA-PACIFIC INTERIOR DESIGN AWARDS BOOK - LIVING SPACE

2011-12-02T20:59:00.003+08:00

Our Keng Lee Road project entry was recently featured in Asia-Pacific Interior Design Awards 18th annual book "Living Space".

Asia Pacific Interior Design Awards (APIDA) is organized by the Interior Design Association of Hong Kong - a member of the International Federation of Interior Architects and Designers. It aims to to promote public awareness of interior design as an important aspect of everyday life and to encourage and promote professional standards and ethics among interior design practices operating in the region.

We are honored to have our entry shortlisted amongst 600 other entries from the region for inclusion in the book.

Stan

THE BEAUTY OF WIRES

2011-11-27T19:18:00.010+08:00

Many people like to hide as many wires and cables they can. No doubt, they can be one big visual distraction when things get out of hand. In many homes, the fact that the light sources on the ceiling are far from where you wish to position the lamps poses another bigger problem - those awful plastic casing which house the electrical cables.

Take a step back and start thinking about how to make the best out of the situation. As displayed by the examples shown below, you might begin to adore the idea that showing wires can be a beautiful affair.

Where We Work: Creative Office Spaces

SquareONE

Take the bare essentials of lighting: wires, sockets and bulbs and elevate them to an industrial, lofty aesthetic. This 'chandelier' can be hung in any configuration to suit a room's decor.

Pa-Design

Add decoration to an appliance's cable and it suddenly becomes an admirable art piece.

A Life Measured In Coffee Spoons

Play around with the colors of the wires. Bunch the wires up and you'll be surprised how 'clashing' bright tones together can actually make them look pretty.

Yi-Cong Lu

Or how about putting the lamp on a pulley system, making it flexible to be moved around the room? Yi-Cong Lu has exactly this interesting idea up his sleeves.

Stan

5 HIGH-END FURNITURE BRANDS EVERY SELF-RESPECTING HOME OWNER SHOULD KNOW

2011-11-06T01:50:00.001+08:00

It's interesting that I should write this post, simply because I don't recommend high-end furniture to my clients that much. Yes, I'm a firm believer that price does not always equate to quality when one is talking about furniture. Good quality and durable furniture are available in various price points. Furthermore, not everyone has deep pockets.

Then why should one go for high end furniture? The pretentious few will tell you that since people should always be dressed in their best, they expect their home to look the part and impress their guests. If they can splash on Louis Vuitton or Chanel bags, what's another $30,000 for a sofa?

Beyond the looks, comfort, craftsmanship and quality assurance will be the key considerations for justifying the purchase, something low-end or mid-tier manufacturers cannot provide. Forget about just pleasing others, getting high end furniture is really about making you feel comfortable in your home.

The following are five exceptional companies which produce extremely stylish (and expensive) furniture. Their products have been copied by various imitators and sold at a fraction of the price, but when it comes to attention to detail, the fakes just wouldn't cut it.

B&B Italia SpA is an Italian modern furniture company known for its modern and minimal aesthetic. Its luxury products are sold worldwide. The company comprises the brands B&B Italia and Maxalto. Within B&B Italia, there are 4 different collections.

Under the B&B Italia Home Collection, the world has seen now classic products such as the Up Series Chair by Gaetano Pesce, the Charles Sofa by Antonio Citterio, Tufty Time by Patricia Urquiola and The Moon System Sofa by Zaha Hadid. On the other hand, Maxalto is a comprehensive line of interior furnishings designed and coordinated by famed architect Antonio Citterio.

Baker Furniture, part of the Kohler Interiors Group, may well be U.S's most prestigious furniture maker. Granted, their exotic, Art Deco-inspired ware is largely a matter of personal taste and preference. Old World craftsmanship, attention to detail and custom-selected materials are combined to create furniture with a classic sensibility in form, finish and function. Baker's versatility is apparent in the broad spectrum of its traditional, contemporary and casual collections.

In essence, Baker offers options for living today with a full range of classic forms and proprietary finishes.

DEDON is a German company which specializes in the production of luxurious outdoor furniture. Founded in 1990 by former professional soccer player Bobby Dekeyser, the company revolutionized outdoor furniture design, producing individually hand-woven all-weather furniture using Hularo, a totally weatherproof man made fibre developed in Germany. Unlike other plastic fibres, it contains no PVC, does not crack, is easy to clean and also biodegradable.

Cassina operates at an industrial level in the contemporary furnishing sector, with special skills relative to upholstered furniture and wood and leather working as well as with other precious materials. It produces chairs, tables, armchairs, sofas, furniture items and beds.

Founded by the brothers Cesare and Umberto Cassina in 1927 in Meda, Brianza, (Northern Italy), Cassina's continuous pursuit of design innovation and quality remains as true today through the work of some of the world's leading designers of the 20th and 21st century, "I Contemporanei" (Modern Masters) including: Mario Bellini, Gio Ponti, Vico Magistretti, Toshiyuki Kita, Gaetano Pesce, Theodore Waddell, Hannes Wettstein, Philippe Starck, Jean-Marie Massaud, Piero Lissoni, and others.

Cappellini is Italy’s leading high-end furniture design firm. Under the vision of its founder Giulio Cappellini, the firm's collections are known for tapping new trends and far-flung talents, and have included sofas, kitchen sinks, shelving and light fixtures displayed in an industrial hangar far from the gold-plated shopping district along the Via Monte Napoleone.

Described as a "tutti-frutti affair, with minimalism offered up alongside pop fashion, computer tech and amoebic forms", Cappellini's collections have included works by Tom Dixon, the Erwan & Ronan Bouroullec brothers and Ora Ito.

KUS

CEILING FANS

2011-10-30T18:46:00.002+08:00

If you are a discerning homeowner who is living in Singapore and am currently looking around for good looking ceiling fans to be installed in your home, I must warn you that you are in tough luck. I can't understand why many manufacturers haven't fully embraced the notion that ceiling fans need to look as good as they perform in a home, especially those in Southeast Asian countries where the temperature and humidity can be too much to bear at times. Or shall I say most times...

In my line of work, I have come across too many cheesy looking fans which just would not cut it if style and function are what you are wishing for. Some are just ridiculously 'designed' with blades that spin outwards or shades that look more like hideous little trumpets.

But before you start to whine, you'd be happy to know you stumbled upon this post.

Last Friday, I passed by this little shop called Amasco at Joo Seng Road and what a surprise I had when I saw these gems inside. Yes, these are by no means great beauties, but their clean fluid curves and lines really caught my eyes. And a brief 'fan audition' proved that these fans are not just banking on their handsome looks alone - they move a hell lot of air too.

So hop over to the shop if you're seriously considering a ceiling fan for your home. You'd be glad you made the trip.

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: MARTYN LAWRENCE BULLARD

2011-10-24T00:59:00.001+08:00

Award winning interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard is widely known for his glamorous and worldly home interiors for clients such as Cher, Elton John, Christina Aguilera, Eva Mendes and Ozzy Osbourne. His illustrious career also includes designing commercial projects such as the Colony Palms Hotel Group and the executive suites for Paramount and Warner Bros Studios.

Bullard was profiled in the January 2010 issue of Architectural Digest as one of the top interior designers in the world. Late last year, he also received the prestigious Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year Award. Recently, Bullard appeared on Bravo TV's Million Dollar Decorators and published his first personal book, Live, Love & Decorate.

Home Rejuvenation has the pleasure to speak to the man himself about his fascination with the industry, lifestyle and of course, interior decor.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? is that original fascination still alive within you today?

I was drawn to design from an early age , apparently my mother tells me I used to scribble the shape of houses on a chalk board and play with the rearranging the furniture in my sisters doll houses from the age of 3 ! .... My passion developed as I grew older and visited the great houses and museums of Europe eventually culminating in my love of all the decorative arts and finally filtering this knowledge into a full fledged design business 18 years ago.

I am still fascinated by all things decorative and literally live and breath my industry. I am as passionate today as I was the day I started , actually probably more so.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

My day starts usually with about 50 emails from around the world which I will try to answer as I sip my coffee first thing in the morning. As I am working in 4 different countries currently I have to juggle all sorts of time zones. I usually make my way to my office first for an hour or so to go over the days tasks and then my appointments start. Either client meetings , vendor appointments or site visits. We line 3 or four of these up , depending on where in the city they are. I try to be back at my office by 4 pm to re group with my staff and look at what we have to do , what needs immediate attention and how our delivery schedules are going. I also may meet re new furniture or fabric designs and review whatever needs my attention from my various licensing partners.

We usually close around 6pm , sometimes I will stay later to review accounts and important client needs.

Finally once home I will work out in my gym for 45 minutes and get ready for either a client dinner or meeting friends , or the thing I love the most these days with my busy schedule , to stay home and have dinner and a movie in my mini screening room set up. That to me is the ultimate relaxation and leaves me refreshed and inspired to re start up my new day !

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence?

The key challenges to designing a residence is really to get an understanding of your clients needs and decorative desires. Its vital to me that my clients homes are a representation of their personal taste and style. I decorate for them and not to infuse my style on them , I want the interiors to sing their personality and be completely custom to each person or family. This can take time and trust to become so acquainted to each persons taste and translate it for them.

Tell us about your own home.

My personal home is a Mediterranean villa built in 1923 by Rudolph Valentino , later becoming home to Gloria Swanson and William Faulkner. Because of the history and design style of the architecture I have decorated it to look how I believe it would have in its original days. I have used lath and plaster on the walls as they did in the 1920's. Wonderful stencils in between the beams , rich , full draperies , fine 18th century Italian and Portuguese furniture , but of course it has my personal twist of lots of colorful fabrics and contemporary art and photography.

The floors were reclaimed from an old barn so they retained their original patina and all the houses hardware was reconditioned and restored. I historically restored the residence as much as I possibly could and have taken great pride in retaining as many original features as possible.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

An inviting home is one that is made comfortable and warm. Modern luxury I believe is comfort and because of that I think all furnishings should be deep and lounge-like, nothing should look uncomfortable or appear too precious that your guests are afraid to sit down. I think lighting plays a great part in this also. Always have lights on dimmer switches to create atmosphere and use lamps for ambient lighting wherever possible. It is vital to an inviting home not to clutter the space. Let your possessions breath and thus become more special and attractive. Also never save anything for best , use everything you love , every day , as today is your Best . Live , love and decorate !

SCRAPWOOD FURNITURE BY PIET HEIN EEK

2011-10-24T00:11:00.005+08:00

I'm guessing Dutch designer Piet Hein Eek's design style may not be everyone's cup of tea. Mr. Eek faithfully kept to the environmentally friendly ethos of “reduce, reuse, recycle” for his thesis project and turned to some very fine cabinetmaking techniques to transform wood scrap into, well, some very chic looking pieces of furniture. Or rather, should I say art.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: MAGAZINE-FRAMED MIRROR

2011-10-16T12:15:00.009+08:00

This week, courtesy of Fleeting Thing, we show you the steps to create a mirror frame out of some cardboards and old magazines. It's really not difficult to make and the result is well worth the effort.

Stan

NEON COLORED APARTMENT BY RE-ACT STUDIO

2011-10-16T11:55:00.004+08:00

We are loving the electrifying neon colors infused into this contemporary home, as envisaged by Romanian studio Re-Act and architect Mario Kuibus.

Against the white and grey background, the violet glass/ plastic walls, yellow chairs and orange screens immediately pop out and demand one's attention. The transparent and reflective nature of the materials used in the design work to create an ethereal and somewhat futuristic effect effortlessly. Link

Stan

PARVEZ TAJ - HOME REJUVENATION CONTEST: WIN AN EXCLUSIVE PRINT ON RECLAIMED WOOD

2011-10-15T23:47:00.011+08:00

Los Angeles-based artist Parvez Taj is setting his eyes on your home. In collaboration with Home Rejuvenation, Parvez is giving away an exclusive piece of his eco painting - a 36" x 22" Douglas Fur wood plank harvested from old buildings in Southern California and printed with beautiful graphics using UV curable inks - to one lucky reader who resides in the U.S.

Parvez has dedicated his career to making beautiful art accessible. He uses paints, photographs, software and UV cured inks to create his signature style of wall art - of which he is a pioneer of the technique. This is a reflection of his dedication to the principles of elegant, sustainable design - a waste-to-energy initiative that presents a low impact art alternative. His works are often formal and conceptual motifs that engage issues of mass culture and comment on contemporary society, creating an imposing presence of irony, wit and play.

To stand a chance to bring this stunning piece of art home, you only have to send us an email by 30th Oct, telling us why you like it and where you intend to install it if you win. Kindly note that this contest is open only to U.S readers of Home Rejuvenation.

And if you like Parvez's other prints on reclaimed wood, you might like to visit the upcoming Gilt sale on the 18th of October. His works will be featured and available for sale on that very day!

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: ROBERT & CORTNEY NOVOGRATZ OF SIXX DESIGN

2011-10-11T10:24:00.014+08:00

Sixx Design is made up of married designers, Robert and Cortney Novogratz who can renovate and turn around even the most ho-hum of properties. Their company is named after their six children (which has now turned into seven) and specializes in blending vintage flea market finds with modern furnishings to create unique, one-of-a-kind homes. They also have a fabulous book Downtown Chic out in bookstores, as well as a TV show 9 by Design on Bravo.

The lovely couple tells Home Rejuvenation their original aspirations as designers, lives as parents of seven children and the design of their abode at 400 West by Matthew Williams.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? is that original fascination still alive within you today?

We were both doing different things when we first came to New York. But we decided to completely makeover a condemned brownstone in Chelsea, and learned a lot and realized this was our true passion. We have evolved since then, but our love for architecture, design and décor has only grown.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

Our office is in our kitchen, so that allows us to be home part of the day to be around our seven children. We sit with our design team around a huge French lab table (that is our dining room table!) and we meet with clients there, go to job sites, go off to shoot our TV show, and make other TV appearances. It is a very hectic life, but we love it!

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence?

You always want to strike the right balance between looking stylish and also serving the needs of the people who are living there. Also, we sometimes have some ideas that the owner of the house might not think is right for them, and that means we have to reach a compromise but still not dilute our design aesthetic. But we love the challenge.

Tell us about your own home.

Our current home was originally a dilapidated BMW garage - bright pink two stories with no roof! We razed it and built a six-story townhouse with a garage, a basketball court, lots of outdoor space. Now it's a complete getaway within the city. An oasis for all of us...

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

An inviting home has to be functional, comfortable, and soothing to the people who live there. It should also be colorful, fun and stylish. A home should be a place of refuge for the people who live there, and also a place they can show off their creativity and style. We like to do this with an eclectic mix of colors and neutrals, vintage and modern, high and low. This make every member of the family feel good to be there.

WEBGUERILLAS TOILETS BY TULP DESIGN

2011-10-10T21:38:00.003+08:00

Toilets are not known to be areas where one's creativity can run wild, whether you are talking about the person who designs them or the end users. And by 'wild', I really do mean WILD.

German studio TULP Design have done something very unusual when they are designing the toilets for Munich based advertising agency Webguerillas. The toilets are supposed to encourage doodlers, narcissists and greedy toilet-roll users to 'do' something when they are answering nature's call.

The marker installation (attached with magnets) invites staff and clients to design the room by doodling on the walls. Numerous mirrors give a twisted sense of space within, while a blue lighted toilet paper sky takes care of toilet paper replenishment.

Stan

CARTOONIZE YOUR HOME!

2011-10-07T00:04:00.015+08:00

Walt Disney once said, “Too many people grow up. That's the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up. They forget. They don't remember what it's like to be 12 years old...”

Its so true. Once we grow up, we hardly remember what it's like to be a kid and have fun like they do. Many of us become preoccupied with money and relationships and start to take the opinions of kids lightly.

Fortunately, there's always a kid inside every one of us. Don't you reminisce about your childhood days when you pass by kids having fun in the playground? Or watching them enjoy their games on the beach with their friends? You do!

ThisNext

The Nest

When it comes to decorating, the kid in us might successfully convince ourselves to bring that element of fun into our homes if we are really passionate about going down that route. After all, we want our homes to showcase what we love. And it's precisely that carefree childlike spirit which leads one's imagination to run wild when designing his or her home!

Max Lam

Arte Luise Kunsthotel art hotel

Hence, toy collections become the center of attraction in the house for some. Others begin to inject bright candy colors and unusual murals to 'cartoonize' their homes. Comic murals or artwork inside the home make people think of you as a very open-minded individual who is young at heart.

Homer

Incorporating elements of fun into your home decor is not wrong, and should not be looked upon as bad taste. As long as you know your limits and execute it with a good artistic sense, the results can be both very stylish and gratifying at the same time.

Stan

ONE CRYSTAL CHANDELIER BY THOMAS FEICHTNER

2011-10-06T23:09:00.004+08:00

A crystal chandelier is known to bring an air of elegance to any space it is installed in effortlessly. However, its formal and traditional looks often make its integration into a contemporary living space tricky.

In pursuit of a new kind of luxury, Viennese designer Thomas Feichtner has reduced the crystal pendant to its very essence with his One Crystal Chandelier. Comprising nothing more than a cable, bent metal tube and a single crystal lit by a LED bulb, Feichtner celebrates the form and materials used in a classic chandelier while doing away with the heavy embellishment we have come to associate with it. While it can be hung as a single lamp, the designer had made it easy to add more lamps and form a cluster of them to form a larger installation.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: THE WIRE CHANDELIER

2011-10-03T00:28:00.004+08:00

Is that dining lamp due for a replacement but you just can't -or don't want to - squeeze out the money to have it thrown out? We know making your own hanging lamp sounds like a tempting proposition but the ideas that are available online can often border on the amateurish and cheeky. All is not lost though, because Orlando Soria is sharing with us how to create a stylish modern looking chandelier which will not embarrass you when your friends and relatives come visiting. Link

Stan

PULPLAMP BY ENRIQUE ROMERO

2011-09-27T16:51:00.009+08:00

We at Home Rejuvenation are getting more and more fascinated with the idea of recycling paper into useful objects.

Even with the advent of technology over a decade ago, none of us can deny that good feeling of leafing through a newspaper in the morning over breakfast or as we get ready for the daily commute. However, newspapers - along with other types of paper - constitute a huge portion of our waste stream.

The good thing is newspapers can be recycled profitably and be reused in various ways.

Many designers have thus realized the potential of newspaper as an experimental material for use in their creations. In this post, we specifically look at how newspaper can be particularly useful in contemporary lamp design.

"At first glance, designer Enrique Romero’s PulpLamps look more like cocoon-esque sculptures than lighting fixtures. Made from 100% recycled newspapers, the lamps come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and each one is completely unique. The oversized shades can be hung solo or grouped together to form makeshift chandeliers of varying grayscale shades."

"To make each lamp, Romero shreds discarded newspapers, mixing them into a pulp much like papier mache. After adding a glue to harden the pulp, the substance is poured into the molds. Bright red cords and fixtures are then added for a punch of color. The resulting recycled lamps are textured and organic, adding a natural glow to any room." Link

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: THE MAGAZINE BOWL

2011-09-26T00:33:00.005+08:00

While we are still on the topic of magazines, this DIY project might finally inspire you to get yourself busy today. Or at least that's what we hope for, ha... Link

Stan

NOT JUST ANOTHER BRICK IN THE WALL

2011-09-14T13:56:00.004+08:00

Don't toss out those old magazines! These days, it seems just about any cast-offs can be recycled. Not only can you recycle more things, but your discards are very much in demand, maybe far more than you realize. That's because we have creative folks like Elding Oscarson, who will have you believe that those expired Maxims and Fortunes can be put to better use than straight into the dustbins. Link

KUS

'DISTRESSED' INTERIORS

2011-09-14T00:01:00.006+08:00

"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring." Nowhere is this statement more true than in interior design. If living in a purposely distressed home can be equated to good taste and creativity, you know the days where only classy chandeliers and plush furnishings call the day are truly over.

Let's face it, not everyone wants a home that looks spanking new. Due to the proliferation of too many homes which are dressed in a predictable contemporary style, people are exploring other options to distance themselves from cookie cutter design. And how do they do this? Some went the road less traveled by opting for unconventional themes like industrial or avant garde. Others decided to introduce a hint of history into their homes - Art Deco, Victorian, Retro-50's or Frank Lloyd Wright's Prairie period fascinates them.

Making an old place new is easy - all you need is spend some money to get it renovated. Dressing up a new place to make it look like it was there for a longer period of time is not so straight-forward, although there are some simple tricks to do this. Antiques and vintage furniture immediately come to mind. But that's not all to it.

The New York Times

Start with the walls. There are plenty of faux painting techniques for achieving a distressed look. Porter's Original Paints offers many suitable paint products to make the job easier too. Else, there is a wide range of wallpaper design to choose from in the market. For those who are more adventurous, raw materials like battered, unfinished brick walls also add decades to the design. Color-wise, do take care that you don't choose something too bright and modern - muted, pastel tones often create a comfortable, nostalgic look.

Gus Wüstemann

To neat freaks, junk and antiques shops can be like little shops of horror at times. With porcelain vases, well-worn colonial-style window frames and other bric-a-brac strewn on the floor, you wouldn't think you have a chance to squeeze through to the end of the shop and back without toppling a gramophone. But the fact is you'll seldom chance upon an artifact of exquisite craftsmanship and rich history unless you really get your hands dirty.

Positively Beauty

Don't overlook the finer details too. Vintage or retro accessories and lighting help to unify the entire theme, while shiny aluminum doorknobs and handles just don't speak 'old'. Add artwork from the era that inspired your home and you'll enjoy a living experience which offers the best of yesterday and today.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: MAKE A BED LOOK GREAT

2011-09-11T23:46:00.006+08:00

From carefully placing sheets and blankets to choosing the right duvets and pillows, making a bed look great is an art form in itself. Rather than viewing it as another mundane activity, think about how a neat and uncluttered bedroom make resting so much more enjoyable!

KUS

MANAGING A RENOVATION PROCESS YOURSELF? GOOD LUCK!

2011-08-29T00:34:00.006+08:00

For those contemplating a home renovation, this question pops up frequently: do you undertake the design and project management work yourself, or would you hire an interior designer to do it all?

I'm bringing this issue up again because a lady recently approached me to design and subsequently manage the construction process for her house, but decided, midway, to just hire me solely for the design. Apparently, the idea of her managing the entire on-site process from start to finish works.

Those opting for such a do-it-yourself approach usually cite budget as the crucial factor: why pay someone to manage your renovation when you can do everything yourself? Surely the money saved from hiring an interior designer to look after things can be better spent on something much more tangible?

The fact is, reality bites when the real action begins on site. Being less knowledgeable about market prices and the internal workings of the renovation trade, homeowners can easily underestimate the cost of the renovation. A professional designer can at least keep expectations - and the client’s financial capabilities - in check throughout the process.

This prospective client told me she has the time to look after things on site full time, but what she may not be aware of at this stage are the stress and dedication which are required for the project. When work starts, there will bound to be many issues which need to be resolved along the way. Will she be able to convey exactly my design intentions (since I am not even required to be on site, as she said) to the tradesmen, considering that she doesn't speak the same 'language' as the trades? Yes, construction drawings may help, but many site issues cannot be solved on paper easily.

More often than not, problems between homeowners and the various trades involved in a renovation stem from lack of understanding about details (usually on the part of the client), indecision and miscommunication. Design mistakes and last-minute changes are what really drive up the cost ultimately. And I haven't even started talking about shoddy workmanship and late delivery...

As you would have guessed by now, I turned down her offer. It's a pretty risky thing to put my design vision on the line in a situation like this, isn't it?

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: A STYLISH GEEK'S KEY CHAIN HOLDER

2011-08-28T00:24:00.006+08:00

Design snobs will hate it, trust me. But an idea as clever - and stylishly geeky - as this will definitely have its own share of fans. With a few cables, a cheap panel and very very little money, you can make the world's most unique key chain and key holder combo. Link

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: JAMIE BECKWITH

2011-08-24T23:29:00.009+08:00

US-based Jamie Beckwith's design team is a unique blend of professionally trained interior designers as well as talented and experienced interior decorators. Under her direction, the Beckwith Interiors (BI) design team creates luxurious, timeless and functional environments for residential, retail, and corporate clients nationwide. International celebrities, high-profile corporations, and discerning clients appreciate the discreet, fresh and unassuming style that BI provides. The firm prides itself on the strong ability to execute traditional and contemporary environments with a focus on transitional flow — the thread that weaves through a project — to create a seamless and cohesive space.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

As a young person I would devour books on architecture, art and design. Through the books and publications I found comfort and creativity. I would visualize and create my own personal environments after being inspired by other architects and designers work on the pages.

My original fascination is definitely alive and thriving. As I venture into different areas of design with product development and manufacturing, I am constantly learning, inspired and renewed.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

My days are definitely very busy, just like any working mothers would be. I have three young children with busy social lives, numerous charity organizations that my husband and I participate in, and of course, family and friend obligations. The wonderful thing about a rich life is the amazing relationships that develop in addition to the inspiring people that I come into contact with.

My day is not altogether typical, which is very exciting to me. It is never the same. Usually I am in the design studio by 9 am meeting with my team. We discuss all of our current projects, from design to scheduling to purchasing. I also have a retail showroom that is always being updated with new furniture pieces and accessories so we plan for upcoming seasons and new purchases.

I try to visit our production facilities, where we manufacture a collection of surfacing materials, at least 3 times a week. When I am there, I meet with the sales team and also enjoy working on the actual assembly line. It is very therapeutic and allows me to be with the people that are creating the beautiful products.

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence (as compared to a commercial project)?

One of the challenges in designing a residential project is there are a lot of emotions involved. You usually have a couple that have poured a lot of time and money into the project so emotions run high. I feel it is our responsibility to listen to the client or clients and be organized, efficient and timely in our services. Good organization and especially budgeting can help a client feel less stress as they have a true picture of the process and the costs involved.

Tell us about your own home.

My own home is my muse. I love to try unique things out in my home. I like to challenge myself to create new designs or architectural features such as acrylic wine cellars, glass floors and the unusual mixing of pattern and shape through fabric or furniture.

I encourage the artisans and sub contractors to stretch outside of their normal thinking process to try to create interiors that are spectacular, not only in beauty but functionality. My home is a perfect spot to entertain my imagination.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

An inviting home is a home that embodies the love and spirit of the people that live there, period.

SHOW GIRL BOUTIQUE AT ORCHARD ROAD BY KNQ ASSOCIATES

2011-08-17T22:42:00.007+08:00

We recently completed the design of a fashion boutique in Orchard Road.

Finding inspiration from the brand's corporate logo, we seek to depict 'butterflies in motion' in the design by playing on imagery of wings and the insect's smooth curves.

The aesthetic is envisaged to be feminine yet 'casually elegant'. Materials including stone tiles, leaves stucco and vintage mosaics – elements one might find in a garden - lend a rustic feel to the space. The clothes are displayed within niches which are shaped to resemble garden arches. The abstract butterfly shape formed by the curved ceiling and floor pattern unifies the central theme.

Against a palette of neutral and darker colors (which work to instil comfort and intimacy for trying on the clothes), the single accent tone of gold stands out, be it in the merchandise section as a background for the clothes or in the theatrical fitting rooms as fabric partitions.

Stan

FREE WALLPAPER* IPAD SEPTEMBER ISSUE FOR HOME REJUVENATION READERS

2011-08-12T09:17:00.011+08:00

Wallpaper* has just launched its first iPad edition of the magazine! As well as presenting the magazine in a new, easily navigable and interactive format, the iPad edition will also bring new life to its coverage with specially commissioned videos, even more photography of the highest standard and cutting edge animations. It's Wallpaper* but even more so!

To celebrate its launch, Wallpaper* will be giving away 5 free digital copies of the September issue exclusively for our Home Rejuvenation readers. Participation is easy: send us an email with the subject headline 'Wallpaper* iPad' from 12th August till 17th August, and 5 lucky readers will be picked to receive a codec code each to download the full digital September issue (existing subscribers need not apply though). The app is free to download.

Good luck, and we are awaiting your entries!

PEEL FRUIT BY YVES BEHAR

2011-08-11T09:13:00.004+08:00

Here at Home Rejuvenation, we constantly advocate simplicity. Nothing works better than an uncluttered home, really.

Talking about clutter, do you realize just how many remote controls (for appliances) there are in an average household? It's not surprising if you tell me that you juggle with 4 remotes (or even more) in front of the TV on a daily basis.

But things are changing.

Yves Behar's Peel Fruit is a small, architecturally crafted device that when paired with the free Peel app, turns your iPhone of iPod touch into a remote control, providing a fun and design friendly way to watch TV. The Peel system eliminates the unsightly disaster of multiple remotes and dusty cables. Users simply pull up the Peel app on their iPhone or iPod touch, click on a show and it appears on the TV regardless of what channel or TV component it's playing on. Users can also use the Peel fruit to change channels, control volume and turn the TV on or off from within the app.

Stan

TIPS ON CHOOSING COLORS FOR YOUR HOME BY YOURSELF

2011-08-08T22:19:00.016+08:00

Almost all of us are natural trichromats. The three different color receptors of green, blue and red combine to let us see a range of colors far broader than many other mammals. So in a way, each of us - a relatively small number of people with one or more of those color receptors missing are considered color-blind - is created equal, and should be able to see and combine colors as the person next to you, right? I can imagine the blank stare on your face now.

The truth is, just about everybody can develop an eye for successful color combinations, and be enlightened by how different colors combine to produce an eye-pleasing result. Provided you 'open your eyes', that is.

To develop your very own color sense, take note of your surroundings wherever you are. Look at magazines, study window displays and even scan through advertising brochures. Make notes of what you like and don't like. Create a mood board by cutting out and putting together interesting pictures of objects that inspire you.

And then there are the 'rules in the books' to guide you along. Cool tones and subtle contrasts create more of a calm and relaxed environment. To emphasize spaciousness, a limited range of white or pale pastels will help open up the spaces.

Warm, bold colors and strong contrasts create a lively and inviting atmosphere.

To bring about a cozy and intimate feel, using deeper tones and bold colors in the warmer ranges is certainly a no-brainer. Just remember to introduce lots of colorful patterns and textures.

Fresh, bright colors will bring life to a dull and dim room, while darker colors will tame a sunny room.

Choosing colors is not an exact science, and there are plenty of books and online materials on color theory and matching for your reference. If you happen to have a favorite color, it's easy to go overboard on its usage in the home. Just don't forget that there are plenty of less obstructive ways to incorporate it into your scheme - whether by way of the accessories you put in, on a feature wall or a piece of painted furniture. This makes it relatively safe for you to bring in colors without the fear of using a wrong color, wasting both effort and money. I mean, what's the worst that can happen? Changing that cushion can't possibly burn a hole in your pocket...

Even though rules are meant to help you along the color selection process, using colors is very much a personal matter. Like music, color varies widely in the mood it creates. So allow your own style to shine as you plan. Have confidence in using whatever colors that may appeal to you and things should be fine.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: THE PIXELATED LIBRARY

2011-08-07T20:33:00.005+08:00

While I know you probably think this is highly impractical, it's still way better than lazing around on the couch and do nothing on a Sunday.

You will need to gather together plenty of books which are similarly-sized and customize new dust jackets with a printed pixel pattern on each book spine. Stack them nicely in their appropriate positions and... er, you suddenly find yourself reminiscing about those good old days when Atari ruled the gaming world. Link

Stan

GET THAT TV OFF THE WALL

2011-08-05T22:57:00.011+08:00

Of all the homes you have visited thus far, in how many of these do you spot the TV mounted on or placed against a wall? I bet most of you will say "All of them".

There are many instances where placing a TV in front of a wall is totally impossible, or less than ideal. Common reasons include a screen facing a bright open window on the opposite wall, lack of a wall which is long enough to accommodate the width of the TV or the viewing distance is simply too far off.

Nevertheless, it's surprising how few people think of placing the TV off the wall even if they encounter those situations as mentioned above. One immediately assumes plonking a large appliance in the middle of the room will block the circulation path and reveals all the wiring that goes on behind it. That's not entirely correct at all, although there are several key points to keep in mind when adopting a layout like this.

1. As equipments and components like DVD player, TV receiver and amplifier will need to be as close to the TV as possible to minimize cabling works, a cabinet to house - and preferably conceal - them will need to be planned for.

2. As most power points are located on the walls, it becomes tricky to access them when you push the TV into the middle of the room. To successfully pull the wires of those points over, a gypsum board ceiling (and a hollow post through which the wires lead into the equipment cabinet from the ceiling level) or a raised floor deck will usually be required, though you might get away with snugging the wires beneath a carpet between the seating and TV position.

3. Whether to hide the back of a TV is very much a matter of personal preference. For me, it's subjected to the treatment that I want to give the room which I'm designing. If I want a look that is more 'refined and polished', hiding the back of the TV is a good idea. In some special cases, like in this West Coast Park apartment design, I opted to expose the back of the TV in its full glory as I wanted to add a raw edge to the entire look. This will juxtaposed against the minimalistic touches and clean lines in the design.

4. If the back of the wall is to be blocked after all, a storage cabinet can act as a half-height partition to define the TV and dining areas without necessarily dividing the room, as shown in this example above.

5. When space is really limited in a room, one can consider integrating a pull-out swivel TV panel into another cabinet. This will allow the TV to be pulled out only when needed and kept away from view at other times. The swivel mechanism allows the TV to be viewed from various angles.

6. Hidden TVs using motorized lift are common in many bed designs nowadays. Based on the same idea as point 5 but more technologically advanced, the TV pops up at the press of a button when needed and hides away when one goes to sleep.

Stan

DUO BOOKSHELF BY ANA LINARES

2011-08-02T21:26:00.005+08:00

The Duo Bookshelf, designed by Brooklyn-based designer Ana Linares, presents itself as two combined simple wall shelves made of powder-coated steel, which are hardly noticeable when filled with books. The design is a fine example of how to achieve maximum results with a minimalistic approach.

Stan

THE MOST DREADED WHITE ELEPHANT IN INTERIOR DESIGN

2011-08-01T22:39:00.006+08:00

Up till this day, I still cannot fathom why people buy massage chairs. I might be a little opinionated here, but I can probably list out a million reasons why it has no place in a beautiful home.

For one, it's ridiculously priced. Considering how quickly one loses interest in it from the day it's brought home, I consider it as a serious waste of money. Forget about the term ROI here because there isn't any (are you still trying to kid yourself an electronic device does the job better than a real life masseur?).

However, my biggest complaint about a massage chair is its bulk, and the amount of space it takes up. Well, if the white elephant in question looks pretty, it can at least sit in the room doing just that: looking pretty as a decorative element. Too bad I haven't really seen any massage chairs that will look great in a room. Have you?

Simply put, a massage chair is one useless piece of gadget. It is like an enemy to interior design. Good luck once you lug it home. No prizes for guessing the line "Can you work in that massage chair into the design?" is my most dreaded client request of all time.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: MAKE A BEANBAG CHAIR

2011-07-31T01:32:00.003+08:00

Running out of wardrobe space is a good thing. That's if you've got other usage for those unwanted clothing. This video shows you how those T-shirts that don't fit anymore can be put to good use. In your home decor.

KUS

THE HI-TECH BATHROOM

2011-07-29T16:40:00.000+08:00

Technological wizardry impresses men. But when you apply this to a bathroom, there's a high chance that the ladies will be equally as pleased.

Bathroom suites at BestBathrooms

Music in the bathroom is something that everyone desires. Shower units which play your favorite tunes via electronic controls while you are relaxing in your daily cleansing routine are no rarity anymore.

iCarta

If so many things around us are multi-purpose, why should the toilet paper holder be left behind? Connect your iPhone to it and start spinning right away!

Kohler C3 Series toilet seats

Nowadays, high-tech toilets squirt and blow to resounding successes in the market. So are those which warms your bum. Such gadgets are solely about the experience, not only the looks.

Hoessch bathroom mirror TV

TVs, or wet screens, in the shower are popular with businessmen who never want to miss a beat of the markets. Television mirrors make sure your eyes won't leave the screen for one second while brushing your teeth or shaving when your favorite drama serial is being aired.

Aron Lumina LED illuminated tap

LED technology is becoming commonplace, so why not apply it to the faucet? Wash your hands under the magical LED colored lighting of your choosing. This is one gadget which will definitely delight yourself and your guests alike.

Stan

SOHO CLOCKS BY ALEXANDER POLAKOV

2011-07-29T10:24:00.003+08:00

Graphic designer Alexander Polakov's first foray into three-dimensional design re-imagines traditional forms - a cuckoo clock, a Chippendale breakfront, and a rococo mirror - as contemporary minimalistic wall clocks. The laser-cut birch plywood face is etched with Roman numerals, and its exposed edges reveal the plywood’s construction.

KUS

MUSIC FOR INTERIORS

2011-07-28T22:45:00.017+08:00

Do you realize how easy it is to hone in on the visual and textural aspects of a home design, and how difficult it becomes when it comes to the aural aspect of things?

I know, you may have your pet bird's lovely chirps or the sound of flowing water coming from the water fountain. But seriously, nothing beats integrating beautiful music into our living spaces to enhance our lifestyle. Good interior design should cater to every one of our senses, not just our eyes. The things we don't see are equally as important in contributing to a cozy living environment.

I'm a firm proponent of the idea of integrating great music to complement an interior decor. If I have my way, I would compile a soundtrack for every home that I design for my clients!

So go on, spin a tune now. You will feel happier in your home. Here are some pretty good atmospheric tunes I've (secretly) compiled for a contemporary-style apartment I'm working on now. I'm kinda imagining how the songs play out differently in this house during different parts of the day. Hope you folks enjoy them too!

For the morning:

For the afternoon (if you happen to be not at work!):

For the evening:

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: THE WELL-DRESSED COFFEE TABLE

2011-07-17T12:53:00.011+08:00

Styling a coffee table sounds simple enough, especially when you compare it to the interior design process as a whole. But it's exactly simple tasks like this that pose headaches about how to achieve that fine balance between form and function.

Atmosphere Randoms

In essence, a well-decorated coffee table should anchor the sofa and/ or armchairs and make a design statement. You want to accessorize it with a few items that look great together and compliment the style of the room, but you don't want the result to end up too excessive nor too simplistic.

Follow these 3 simple steps to create your very own tablescape:

1. Dressing up a table always starts with books. In the 1950s, David Brower, executive director of the Sierra Club, hit upon the idea of creating books which specifically feature beautiful artwork and photography in an oversized format and designed to be left out on a coffee table to inspire conversation or alleviate boredom for guests. Since then, hardcover coffee table books have become a staple in tablescaping. Stack a few art books or seasonal books on one side of the table so that that they act as a pedestal.

2. Plants or flowers come in next. Put these organic elements into a glass bottle or vase next to the books for a subtle bit of texture and sparkle.

3. Lastly, bring in those accessories to complement the whole setup. The pedestal you created in step 1 will allow you to prop up some decorative objects (but not too much!). If space allows, fill up part of the empty surface with a tray that contrasts with the material or tone of the coffee table on the other side, ensuring a nice visual break. This tray can act as an appropriate-sized frame or holder for smaller, decorative items.

Voilà: a coffee table decorated up in an instant! A point to keep in mind during the midst of the process is to place nothing too dinky if you have a huge table and nothing too towering if you have a small table. Proportion rules. Big time.

Have fun!

Stan

CAST-IRON CLAW FOOT BATHTUB COUCH BY JILL MORRISON

2011-07-12T11:54:00.004+08:00

Just last Thursday, a client called asking for help to remove a huge jacuzzi tub which can accommodate up to 8 people from the balcony of his just-sold penthouse. The tub is so rarely used it looks as spanking new as it was a few years ago. According to him, the cost of hoisting the tub up to the 19th floor when he first bought it is already a staggering $30,000. If only he knew tubs can be recycled for another use altogether...

Yes I know, tubs are annoyingly hard to recycle. Bulky and heavy, one can never imagine it to be used in any other context. But for those who are bold enough to make the attempt, you can take a leaf from Jill Morrison. He shows us how an old-fashioned claw-foot bathtub can be converted into a pretty stylish couch by simply cutting off one side of a classic tub and adding cushions made from recycled materials.

Stan

ALL-WHITE INTERIOR DESIGN: CAN YOU HANDLE THAT?

2011-07-11T12:51:00.007+08:00

Nothing can be more timeless and serene than an all-white interior. A common view is that rooms look bigger and cleaner with such a design scheme. But it's much more than that: white itself is such a 'flexible' color which, when combined with furniture or furnishings in other colors, brings about a positive vibe about the space no other colors can. It is, simply put, a symbol of (quiet) elegance and style.

Light Locations

A common complaint against a room designed in a white scheme is that it is difficult to maintain, especially with children living inside. But this can often be avoided, for example, by going for sofas with removable covers that can be washed clean, or by using paints which are washable. The use of easy-to-clean materials like homogeneous tiles, glossy spray paint or laminates will also be good in such instances. Another wise option is to incorporate glass in the design, which will not interfere with the color scheme given its transparency.

BNO Design

Nevertheless, an all-white interiors is very much a personal choice. The occupant must ask himself or herself if a white room is suitable for his or her own lifestyle before committing to it. No doubt white will be more difficult to upkeep than other colors, but if one keeps the aforementioned pointers to heart, an all-white design is not totally impossible.

Stan

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: DISPLAY ARTWORK FOR CHEAP

2011-07-10T10:56:00.005+08:00

Tired of displaying pictures the usual way? It's time for a change today. For very little money, one can get good-looking pant/ skirt hangers from places like IKEA and clip up their artwork for show.

Aren't you loving this?

KUS

WOVIN WALL

2011-07-08T14:56:00.005+08:00

An interior designer is constantly on the hunt for the next perfect material. And I think I just found it.

Wovin Wall produces a range of modular wall and ceiling tile systems. Their systems are beautiful, 3 dimensional, simple to install and light weight, making them ideal for residential installations. The tiles can be positioned within the grooved extrusions in either a continuous line of tiles or in an alternating fashion which creates an interplay of concave and convex tile finishes.

KUS

HANDS-ON SUNDAY: FURNITURE MADE OUT OF USED BOOKS

2011-07-03T11:27:00.009+08:00

Books remain as one of the most common unwanted objects but they're also not often thought of as being recyclable. And that's why people need to think again: value can be easily be added to discarded books through a little ingenuity and redefinition of context.

Anyone possessed of old magazines or unwanted books can strap them together (although this is optional) into blocks to form makeshift stools and tables. Use them with other easily obtainable materials and household items like plywood, glass or pillow, and there is literally no end to what one can achieve.

Stan

THE ART OF TABLESCAPING

2011-06-27T22:08:00.022+08:00

A couple of days ago, I received a call from a prospect grumbling that she had recently engaged another professional to do up her apartment but found, to her dismay, that the result didn't provide the impact she was looking for. She eventually concluded that one key ingredient is missing and asked if I could help her tie up the loose ends.

That important component she was referring to is the accessorizing of the whole space. Accessorizing is such an important part of interior design, but it's often the part that most home owners miss out. It is the finishing touch to an otherwise bland-looking space.

"How difficult can it be to decorate up a room?" you may ask. But my friend, it's really easier said than done.

Specifically, let's look at tablescaping, which is basically the art of arranging objects on a horizontal surface. Tablescapes are a great way to show off your most cherished items or collections. On a deeper level, it's an insight into the personality of the person who gathers these interesting bits and pieces together. Personally, I find a bare table disturbing. It's comparable to a person without soul.

It's pretty obvious one shouldn't be dashing off to a shop to shop for home accessories right away. Instead, look at what you already have. Run through your collection of books and memorabilia you’ve collected over the years first. A home is not a showroom, so it should never be a staged performance.

All the principles of interior design - unity, harmony, balance, proportion, contrast and rhythm - apply to the art of tablescaping, as I call it. The twist comes from your personal interpretation of those principles.

Here are some tips I hope you will find useful when you are sculpting your own tablescapes:

1. Grouping objects of different shapes but in the same color can be good idea. One can further create strong visual interest with objects in a single color but different textures.

Charlotte Minty

Ideal Home

Vicente Wolf

India Hicks

2. Experiment with the rule of opposites: pair glossy surfaces with matte ones, vintage objects with contemporary pieces, round bowls with square vases. You get it.

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard

Vicente Wolf

3. Balance is everything. Keep items from feeling disjointed by playing around with the heights of the objects so that things will look pleasing but not boring. Ensure the objects are not overly small. And remember to choose at least one bolder item to be a main focal point.

Kelly Wearstler

Kelly Hoppen

4. It is not wrong to decorate with just one object, but do make sure its size is right. For example, wide and bold might work better than tall and skinny.

Spicer + Bank

5. Books make for some of the best decorative accessories around and act as ideal pedestals to elevate shorter display objects. And yes, they make you look intelligent too. Even if you're not.

Juan Montoya

Apartment Therapy

6. This links back to what I've said earlier: a home is not a showroom. Make sure to leave space on a table for it to be actually functional.

Kelly Hoppen

Kelly Hoppen

Stan

WAKE UP LIKE A BUTTERFLY

2011-06-22T22:29:00.004+08:00

Are you one of those people who love the idea of being cocooned when you sleep? Such a treatment is known to lend a feminine touch - I wasn't sure if gender plays a part in such preferences, but hey, I'm a guy and I like it! - to a room and somehow enhances the process of resting.

These days, canopy beds - which epitomize that grand idea so perfectly in the past - are almost passe. The concept of 'cocoon bed' is aggressively expanded upon by various designers and manufacturers to meet the demands of the modern day consumer. Here are some fine examples to gawk at.

Designtripper

Celeste Bed

Lomme Bed

Once Upon A Dream Bed

Enignum Canopy Bed

Stan

STAIRCASE BY VINCENT DUBOURGH

2011-06-20T21:05:00.004+08:00

It's not often that a designer can have total free play to do what he or she wants without the inputs of the client. But things can take on a huge change when the client engages an artist to design a space instead - someone who doesn't necessarily need to place function before form.

Artist Vincent Dubourgh took on that 'challenge' - he had been given free reign to create a staircase for a private art collector with a house in Knightsbridge. One can't be blamed for being startled at the 'havoc' Dubourgh created inside. The aluminium branch-like poles 'ripped' through the timber floor, enveloping the scarily twisted staircase structure like a scene out of a Tim Burton's movie. Indeed, one couldn't have imagined climbing up the stairs could be such a dramatic affair.

Stan

DOODLE LAMP BY JACEK RYN

2011-06-12T23:29:00.002+08:00

This design looks like a graphic representation out of a physics class, but the result is anything but boring. Doodle Lamp (by Gdansk University of Technology graduate Jacek Ryń) is an unique lighting system that utilizes the silver contained within the paint to carry electric current from the switch to the bulb.

Stan

DESIGN ROCKS

2011-06-08T02:20:00.006+08:00

If one design a home out of these furniture, it'll truly be one rocking home, ha!

Banana Rocking Sofa

Rocking Table

Rocking Lamp

Bookshelf Rocking Chair

Eames Molded Plastic Rocker

Private Cloud Rocking Bed

Stan

FAD OR FACT?

2011-06-08T01:24:00.006+08:00

If you wish to find out how different folks in Europe take to interior design trends as compared to Singapore (or parts of Asia in general), read on.

According to research from Post Office Mortgages, several design fads of previous years still "haunt the homes of many people in the UK". These 'decor disasters' are supposed to bring down the value of a home when it's put on the market.

Take it for what it's worth, because these lists do make for some mind-boggling analysis.
Well, I live in a country where it's cool to have exposed brick walls inside the house and laminate flooring are commonplace. Spiral staircases are highly desired and wood panelling are all the rage. And I can safely say that for every 10 houses you visit, 10 comes equipped with Formica (or laminate) finished kitchens.

Do any of these affect the seller's asking price here?

Talk about cultural difference.

Stan

GOOD TILES OR BAD?

2011-05-27T00:11:00.008+08:00

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!

Flock

Found Space

Camelion

Hydrangea

Penny tiles

Stan

TAPE HOOK BY TORAFU ARCHITECTS

2011-05-23T19:45:00.005+08:00

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

REVIEW OF SATURDAY IN DESIGN 2011 IN SINGAPORE

2011-05-22T23:59:00.023+08:00

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

INCEPTION CHAIR BY VIVIAN CHIU

2011-05-19T23:02:00.002+08:00

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

Stan

HOME REJUVENATED!

2011-05-18T23:10:00.009+08:00

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

PLAYING WITH PAINT

2011-05-17T23:01:00.005+08:00

We never understood the true power of paint, or the way it can be used, did we? Else, why do people want to get walls painted in the same old standard manner, house after house? Why are most of us so averse to playing around with paint colors in interior spaces?

But thankfully, for those who did understand, that 'playtime' (and the result) is totally enjoyable.

Felice Varini

Remodelista

Canty Shanty

Stan

MOODS HOTEL IN PRAGUE

2011-05-10T22:37:00.004+08:00

This just spoke to me.

The essence of contemporary design is all captured here: pop colors, clean lines, sleek furniture pieces and even custom made sticky notes. The overall concept of the interiors is based on the usage of organic and natural materials like wood, bamboo, moss to contrast with rough natural materials such as concrete, glass and new technologies. Graphical elements offer an added level of visual interest.

Man, now I'm feeling the itch to travel...

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: JASON BALL

2011-04-27T21:28:00.009+08:00

We are happy to interview US interior designer Jason Ball here on Home Rejuvenation today. Ball is the principle designer at Jason Ball Interiors, where he works closely with clients throughout the design and building process to ensure the final product meets all design specifications. Bringing a high level of creativity and solid design principles to each and every project, Jason helps transform interior spaces into beautiful and functional environments.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

For me, interior design is all about creating beautiful and functional interiors for my clients. Whether it's a home in the suburbs or a high-rise condo, people want to live in an environment that is comfortable and reflects their personal aesthetic. My job, and the part of my job that I absolutely love, is to help my clients realize this desire. I started my design firm 6 1/2 years ago and love what I do even more today than I did then. That's a reflection of my clients and my growth as an interior designer.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

I begin each day in my home office checking emails, and planning for the day's tasks and appointments for myself and my design assistant. I also spend time each morning checking design blogs and social networking websites to ensure I know what's going on in the design world. By being up-to-date on current design trends and themes, I can bring these ideas to my clients and make sure they also get access to the best the design world has to offer.

Later in the morning, I either head in to the design studio to specify materials or furniture, or work on concept renderings, or head out to meet with clients. While each day is unique, the one consistent aspect is that I get to do something I love each and every day. I hope this love of interior design translates to my client's experiences with the design process, and eventually to the finished rooms.

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence (as compared to a commercial project)?

Most of the work my firm undertakes is residential remodeling-related interior design. The main challenge in any of these projects is the potential disruption to a family's home. Different than a commercial project or new construction, I'm dealing with people who continue to live in their home while the remodeling is underway.

The other key challenge with any interior design is to understand someone's design aesthetic and translate that into a finished room. Whether designing a kitchen or bathroom, with all the various hard surfaces, or the soft furnishings of a dining or living room, many people are unclear on exactly what they want their home to look They usually know what they like when they see it, but can have difficulty describing it. My responsibility as their designer is to develop a look that reflects the client's aesthetic and is the best version of that aesthetic as possible.

Tell us about your own home.

My wife and I live in a house built in 1908 in an up-and-coming neighborhood in Portland, Oregon. While this may not be an old house in some parts of the world, this is an older home in this city. We moved into the home in 1999 and immediately began restoring the home after some unsuccessful remodeling endeavors by previous owners. Twelve years later, our home is still a work in progress. Lately I've been working to incorporate more contemporary furnishings while maintaining the true vintage feeling of the architectural features. In one room, you might find a modern Italian side table, a contemporary sofa and a 100 year old Chinese storage chest.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

This is a tough one to answer since the idea of "inviting" differs from person to person. I strive in each project to create an environment that is a perfect representation of their aesthetic. I want their guests to say it feels exactly like them, like they designed it themselves. That type of compliment means I've done my job perfectly.

In my own home, I've worked to create a home that's livable and comfortable. I want my guests to come in, kick their shoes off and sit down on the floor to romp with the dogs. It's all about creating a space that reflects the people who live there.

THE CREATIVE BURNOUT

2011-04-21T21:37:00.006+08:00

Haven't all designers been there - up into the wee hours trying so desperately to come up with a design which is really substantial, only to produce some boring fare nobody wants?

Yes, it sucks to think that your ideas are all used up when you are pressed for time to deliver a proposal. We designers like to think that we are artists, and artists constantly strive to create designs which are not only noteworthy of our clients, but more importantly, satisfy ourselves on a personal level. Yet when push comes to shove, the pressure causes one to burn out and create passionless work.

You are not alone - this happens to all artists and designers. I believe that it is due to the fact that we are people who are not satisfied with formulaic ways of doing things, but instead make every effort to explore new ways of driving home the message.

When the lull moment hits, most of us have to slog through the slump or just simply wait it out. But then again, if you can’t afford to wait it out, you might want to try reading this.

Stan

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION - AT HOME

2011-04-20T23:47:00.006+08:00

Alright, the title is misleading. We are talking about showing off your love for a certain something. While most people would turn their heads at too much clutter in the open, the restrained display of your beloved objects helps keep your mind sane and gives your home that lived-in feel (still thinking about that show-flat look?).

So, how much is really too much then? There's no straight-forward answers, but these examples might hopefully give you some ideas.

Demetrius Tanase

Jane Dandy

La Femme

Design Indulgences

Rainer Subic

Stan

ON OUR FIRST 5 YEARS OF BLOGGING...

2011-04-18T20:51:00.024+08:00

How time flies. I just come to the realization that KUS and I have been penning this blog for 5 good years! It's interesting to note that, at the time we started this blog, interior design blogs were few and far between. During that period, dozens of blogs have come and, ahem, gone.

KUS and I do have many ideas for blog posts, but our workload very often leave us with little time to really sit down and write. In any case, the nature of our work meant that we're exposed to products, information and imagery related to interior design on a fairly constant basis. This probably explains why we don't go ga-ga over EVERYTHING we see, and hence blog about ANYTHING we see. But no, we aren't apologetic about the relatively lesser number of posts compared with other blogs which were started at about the same time as Home Rejuvenation.

A look into our archives shows that the two of us did come up with some really distinctive posts over those years, and we're glad we shared with you all these wonderful information. We love our lovely series of posts on beautiful staircase designs, and were pretty amazed by how 'unorthodox' materials like maps and Post-It notes can create beautiful wall features in another. My, even newspapers come in handy in interior design these days!

We also introduced you folks to some of the most uniquely-designed interiors found around the world and shared here a bunch of chic therapeutic spaces which we believe not only soothe the body but also tame the mind (shouldn't all homes be like that?). I wasn't sure everybody will appreciate those unusual bookshelves we picked, but we loved them.

Our Homes Rejuvenated! posts, which showcase our very own interior design projects, weren't looked at as tools of marketing for KNQ Associates. Rather, we're hoping to obtain feedback from all of you in the hope that we can continually improve on our craft.

DIY ideas are aplenty on our blog too. For instance, the kooky invisible bookshelf, which was blogged about first on this blog, brought us an insane amount of traffic when popular blogs like Lifehacker talked about it.

In 2007, we 're also extremely proud to hold the very first '10 most influential design bloggers' online poll - with support from the people at Wallpaper* magazine - which garnered an impressive number of 4900+ votes from all you readers. We definitely hope that poll is influential in its own right, given that the list is voted by bloggers and blog readers around the globe. We followed up with two more polls in 2008 and last year.

Frankly, we didn't think we would still be blogging up till this day, and how much fun the blogging process has brought us. If we didn't have supportive readers and clients like you who keep coming back, we believe we don't have a voice at all.

Once again, thanks for reading! We are looking forward to the next 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 years of blogging!

Stan

HOMES OF HOLLYWOOD STARS

2011-04-16T16:12:00.010+08:00

For some reason, we love to peek into the homes of other people. To see it in a more positive light, you can call it as a means to find out more about the other party, because it's usually a case of 'you are how you live'.

When it comes to the homes of celebrities, things become a little complicated. Being in the public eye's on a constant basis, it's not surprising the stars want as much privacy as they can get - a home is almost that last defense line.

Still, some Hollywood big names are not shy to share, and that's how we managed to get that sneak peek into their abodes. Can you imagine the surprises we found?! One would never imagine rocker Lenny Kravitz to be so much in love with clean white spaces (no offense, Lenny). And Gwyneth Paltrow's nicely decorated home is almost as sweet as the lady herself.

Yeah, we're all secretly smiling...

Jessica Alba

Mariah Carey

Gwyneth Paltrow

Julianne Moore

Tina Turner

Lenny Kravitz

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: KENNETH COBONPUE

2011-04-15T18:12:00.019+08:00

Filipino designer Kenneth Cobonpue is an industrial designer known for his signature designs in natural fibers and materials. Based in Cebu, Cobonpue's creations have won numerous accolades and the man himself has been featured in several American films and shows. Apart from that, Cobonpue's creations deck the interiors of some of the world's most plush and modern hotels and resorts in Greece, Spain, Mexico, Dubai and Maldives.

Today, we are excited to have Cobonpue offer his insight on furniture and home design.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

You can say I grew up in the industry when my mother set up her cabinet-making shop at the back of our house. I used to walk barefoot on Saturday mornings as a child to her little workshop to look for suitable wood pieces to build my toys. Those craftsmen taught me to assemble contraptions that rolled, crawled and flew. That love for building led me to a career.

Today, I still celebrate that fascination through my designs which are tactile, handmade and sculptural. I barely work with a computer and prefer to build models by hand. I let the materials speak to me. The process I go through with my designs is no different from my experiments as a child.
Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

I try to structure my days as much as possible but its difficult because of so many pressing engagements. A typical day starts at 9am with a series of meetings with the product design team. After that, I review concepts with the graphic design team. Then it's the same series of meetings at HIVE, a lighting and accessory brand I own and direct.

My afternoons are usually spent designing and meeting people. On Wednesday mornings, I teach Industrial Design students at the University of the Philippines.
In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence (as compared to a commercial project)?

Residences are very personal so you have to work with the owners closely. The rules of design can be bent on an owner's whim. Because of this, residential work takes up so much time. On the plus side, an owner will spend more for himself than a commercial space. But commercial spaces are more exciting because you have to satisfy a broader audience that includes yourself.

Tell us about your own home.

My home is an interpretation of a modern Asian tree-house. Its design looks like several pavilions which are surrounded by water and trees. It has 6 levels connected by short staircases and the views are terrific through the wide and large glass windows.

The materials are mainly concrete and glass. Their cold and sleek characteristics bring out the warmth and texture of my furniture and lighting pieces inside.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

I think it's a very personal question because each one of us has a different idea of what a perfect home is like.

I like to be surrounded by nature and references of it because it always has a calming and soothing effect on me. Working in a concrete jungle and stressed out by the end of every day, I want to retreat to a personal oasis. I do this by pulling the outdoors in. Building this warm, cozy, tactile and beautiful space has always been the cornerstone of Kenneth Cobonpue. I want a home that makes me feel like I am outdoor even when I am indoor.

RUGGED BEAUTY

2011-04-14T16:04:00.005+08:00

I do not remember when shabby became really chic, but the fact is: rugged is in.

Steel cabinets are suddenly cool. Exposed brick walls became really popular. Recycled metal desks are now must-haves as dining tables. Homes converted from old factories are dime a dozen. The proliferation of loft-living around the world has surely further spurred the popularity of a style we've come to know as industrial chic.

We have some fine examples here to show.

Stan

THE DISAPPEARING ACT

2011-04-13T16:10:00.012+08:00

We are often told that it is okay to have fun at times. And what fun designers have these days! We spotted a consistent trend where designers of everything from cabinets to lamps to CD racks are pulling off a disappearing act.

For example, take a look at the surrealistic Parallel World furniture collection designed by Dzmitry Samal. More of philosophy and less of humor, this series reminds us of the possible existence of parallel worlds. Or be amused by Handjobs, a series of coat hooks and wall art based on familiar gestures from the welcoming to the more explicit. It's such a joy looking at these whimsical fixtures.

Even the DIYers are joining in the fun. In case you are still not amused by what's available on the market, you have the option of making a very personal piece of furniture by yourself.

KUS

BALI - A PARADISE LOST OR FOUND?

2011-04-11T00:31:00.019+08:00

With its dreamlike beaches, blue crystalline waters and exuberant green of the picturesque paddy fields, Bali is widely projected to the world as a paradise on earth, whether for stay or visit. The traditional architecture in Bali basically originated from two sources: the great Hindu tradition brought to Bali from India via Java and the indigenous architecture pre-dating the Hindu epic (in many ways reminiscent of Polynesian buildings).

But over the decades, it's clearly evident that the traditional architecture style on this Indonesian island are giving way (or giving in?) to a more contemporary one. It's no surprise. Internationally-renowned architects have been pushing the envelope of tropical design for homes and resorts in Bali for some time, many of which are indeed worth a visit.

Clean, minimalistic lines and materials like glass and steel - elements you would associate with in cosmopolitan cities - are suddenly co-existing alongside traditional wood carvings and stones in local design. The introduction of these modern materials and the rapid growth of hotels, galleries and new homes (many of which are resided by foreigners) have produced mixed results.

Have a look at the Denpasar Residence as an example. Designed by GFAB Architects, this modest house is actually a combination of a newer structure with an existing old mansion. Boosting modern, fluid lines and curves, you probably think this house is located in some Californian neighborhood.

On the other hand, Architects Aboday's Villa Paya-Paya holiday home project saw the integration of a coconut leaf roof in an ultra modern architecture. The overall result retained the essence of tropical architecture much more.

The island is certainly 'westernized' to a certain degree. Richard Neutra's influence is apparent in Luna2, a private beachfront hotel designed by American architect David Wahl. The design of the exteriors and interiors gave little hint it's actually located in Bali.

Even local architects like Maria Paiva are getting into this modernizing act, playing up the natural lush greenery with his living spaces injected with a subtle contemporary sensibility at the Chandra Villas.

It would be interesting to see the future developments on this mystical island. As much as we love to see the design and architecture scene here firmly rooted in its authentic foundations and heritage, we are also keen to see what the influx of global concepts and ideas might bring to Bali.

Let's just hope it's not a paradise that's going to be lost in the process.

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: CHRIS BARRETT

2011-04-08T23:26:00.005+08:00

Adept at fusing electrifying color combinations, multi-cultural reference points and hand-crafted elements into a singular vision, Chris Barrett's mantra is to stay strong about the story - be it an Australian Colonial residence in Beverly Hills, an equestrian farm estate in Lexington, Kentucky, a 1912 Bertram Goodhue residence or one of the firm's residential projects for celebrity clients including Charlize Theron, Candice Bergen and John Stamos. Barrett's repertoire also encompasses a wide range of commercial assignments including the classic California coastal resort Hotel Oceana, a parent's resource room in UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, interiors for Maestro's Ocean Club in Las Vegas and acclaimed Los Angeles restaurant, Comme Ça.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

If one can inherit a design gene, then I must have inherited it from my mom. She was always measuring and drawing our furniture to scale. Then she'd cut them out and shuffle them around on paper. Once I went back to school to study interior design at UCLA, I was hooked. My passion has grown over the years. When I started in this business I had no idea how much thought goes into every decision. I love seeing the results at the end of a project.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

It's not that glamorous! I get up early and reach the office usually at 8:30 (sometimes earlier if we have a site meeting). A typical day is a mixture of pulling together fabrics, furniture and materials for one project, answering questions from contractors on a multitude of other projects, working on plans and elevations, writing emails etc. If I'm lucky, we get to work a bit on our new outdoor fabric collection! If I don't have appointments with friends or a design function to attend after work, I try to work out — usually Pilates.

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence (as compared to a commercial project)?

The challenge is nailing the vision. The residential project is geared toward the clients desired lifestyle and function. It's creating the intangible experience that resonates with them. The commercial project needs to be an experience that a general populace can relate to. The materials that look good and hold up in a commercial project is a huge challenge!

Tell us about your own home.

My house is a 1920s Spanish bungalow. It's very small and very casual.

Over the years I've redone the kitchen and bathrooms, re-plastered the walls and replaced the hardwood floors. My two dogs really rule the house. The garden is very special; when you're there it feels as though you could be in the mountains somewhere. I really love it.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

An inviting home is more a feeling than anything else. It's about a good furniture plan, comfortable seating and good people.

FIRST CRESCENT BY SAOTA

2011-04-08T22:34:00.006+08:00

Stunning architecture. Cozy interiors. Great view. What else can we possibly ask for? Nothing, if your nest of choice is as well endowed as this dramatic contemporary home designed by SAOTA (Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects).

KUS

DOUBLE SIDE CHAIR BY MATALI CRASSET

2011-04-07T22:37:00.006+08:00

The Double Side Chair by French designer Matali Crasset makes life that much easier. With one easy flip, the chair can be transformed into a small desk. Smart indeed.

It will be presented as part of the Danese exposition during the Salone del Mobile 2011 in Milan.

KUS

PRAHRAN HOUSE BY NERVEGNA REED ARCHITECTURE

2011-04-06T21:47:00.006+08:00

Designed on a tight inner city site for an art gallery director, this house is to contain two bedrooms, a private subterranean gallery as well as an extra study which can be used for visiting artists to stay in.

The house extends over 3 levels; the entry is on the middle, ground level, where all the living spaces flow around a courtyard, which is a slice of a circle. The dispersed placement of objects, materials and functions on this level works much like a layout of a pinball machine, each surface hinting at a multitude of possible routes that one could take through the building, sometimes encouraging a certain movement, sometimes not.

The front study with adjoining bathroom is for visiting artists. Downstairs is a basement gallery, indirectly lit by a concrete light shaft / skylight which also functions as a seat and a sculpture podium.

Stan

THE ART (AND TREND) OF LIVING SMALL

2011-04-06T14:58:00.005+08:00

We at Home Rejuvenation love the idea of living large in small spaces: the space constraint restricts one from accumulating more stuff at home and maximizes the functionality of what we can only make do with. It also forces the occupant to get more creative on the usage and planning of whatever space is available.

While most Singaporeans are struggling with the concept of 'Micky Mouse apartments' (with floor area of no more than 500 sq ft), we'd like to be more positive about the whole thing - small homes will be the way of living in the near future. In a trend tailing that in neighboring Hong Kong, where mini-sized houses are already very common, it's only a matter of when the general public here will accept the fact that our homes will be small 20 years down the road.

And for those who are still grumbling, at least you can find consolation with examples like this. No?

Stan

HOBBY PANTON CHAIR BY PETER JAKUBIK

2011-04-05T23:08:00.003+08:00

Seriously, who isn't a fan of the Panton chair? With its elegant curves and super glossy finish, Verner Panton's iconic masterpiece remains as relevant at the time it was first released as it is today. And that's probably the reason why designer Peter Jakubik care enough about this chair to carve one out of a block of wood using a chainsaw.

P.S: Make sure you know how to handle a saw before you start making one yourself though., ha...

Link

Stan

TEXTILES FROM CHRIS BARRETT

2011-03-27T00:44:00.007+08:00

Los Angeles-based interior designer Chris Barrett informed us about her debut attempt in textile design. In line with her laid-back, casual California style, Barrett created this new range of fabrics, which are "born out of need".

It's interesting to see the abstract manner in which Barrett incorporated elements of nature into her design. "I wanted to see something new in outdoor fabrics, designs inspired by nature, but not so literal, using colors that excite me.", so says the designer, who is also known for designing residences for Hollywood luminaries such as John Stamos, Charlize Theron and Candice Bergen.

The complete line consists of seven patterns inspired by iconic cities on the California coastline: Big Sur, Cambria, Carmel, Mendocino, Montecito, Monterey and Ojai. Each city, and respective design, has its own personality and vibrancy, and is infused with Barrett's innate sense of California living.

KUS

MY LIFE IN 80M²

2011-03-27T00:24:00.006+08:00

Are my eyes playing a trick on me? This surely doesn't look like a 80m² house. Well, proves once again size really doesn't matter... Link

KUS

THE HAPPY PROBLEM OF A DESIGN STUDIO?

2011-03-24T21:03:00.006+08:00

We're barely four months into 2011 and here we are, staring at yet another bottleneck situation. Projects are pouring in, but we are faced with the challenge of too much work, too few designers, and too little time. Lest you think we are tooting our own horn here, we're not. I'm just trying to raise a point which many boutique-sized businesses like ours face day in day out. And when you're talking about the interior design line where a designer is expected to engage each and every customer with an unique experience under dreadful deadlines every time, this happy problem suddenly gets blown out of proportion into a nightmare. Albeit still a happy one.

The entire interior design process is a time-consuming (oh did I mention creative-juices-sapping?) one. Our design team is a small one - there are a whopping three of us right now - but what we might lack in manpower, we make up for in ideas (or at least that's what we like our clients to think). We seriously don't care about building a factory churning out one design after another in record time. No, that's not what we set out to do in the first place.

It looks like the day of turning away business might actually come for us but we're not thinking too negatively about it. No doubt the instinct is to say yes to everybody who knock on our door to keep those checks coming in. But we think we know what type of projects motivate and inspire us every step of the way. That might actually be a good thing for our clients too. When we're feeling good and having fun doing our job, they might respond more positively and our projects might just be much more successful!

Are you a small business owner yourself? What are your challenges in the daily running of your business? Share with us. We need a pointer or two.

P.S: Before you think we are sending our business on a backward track by turning away more business because we can’t take on so much work, we are already on the search for (designer) Number 4...

Stan

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: CAROLA VANNINI

2011-03-23T23:54:00.007+08:00

Carola Vannini was born in Rome in 1973; she graduated with a degree in Architecture from Rome “La Sapienza”. She continued her practical education by working in the architecture and design industry in other major international cities including New York and Paris.

Carola’s approach to design stems from her diverse international experiences and respect for the use of existing contemporary architectural languages. Her design strikes a balance between the best of old and new. Her projects are always approached with a careful eye to the clients’ aesthetic and functional needs, involving them in the entire creative process, up to the furniture and detailed design. This creates unique, coherent and personalized architectures.

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

I have always been a creative person. To study architecture was really a very natural choice to me. Since my university education, the original fascination actually grew deeper because of the many interesting work experiences that I have been through. I first started my career working in New York for two years. When I came back to Italy, that experience, mixed with my cultural background, was the starting point of my own firm. This is also the reason why I am very interested in collaborations outside my country.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

I really don't have a typical day. Everyday is peculiar, because of the differences that exist in each work. On one side, being the owner of my own firm gives me a big flexibility; on the other side, it becomes very difficult to take my mind out of work sometimes.

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence?

First of all, the responsibility of creating an environment as important as somebody's home is huge (at least I consider it huge). This is going to be a nest where people can feel protected and be understood. It is not only a matter of designing a project. It is more like an interpretation of people's life and feelings and hence needs to be very well addressed.

I appreciate it the most when my clients tell me that they enjoy living in their new residence. That should be the most important thing to an architect who works in the residential design field.

Tell us about your own home.

My home is very, very different from what I normally design for my clients. But I am actually working on getting a new one now so that I can also "use" it as a work in progress, an experiment so called.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

The poetry that the space inspires. If that magic reaction happens when you enter a space, it is a successful design to me.

WRITABLE BY XIAO TIANYU

2011-03-22T21:45:00.006+08:00

Who needs Post-its? Surely not when you have a table as note-taking-friendly as Writable (designed by Xiao Tianyu). Notes can be scribbled onto the table surface with ease, and this creates a totally fresh way of communication between people. Link

Dorcus

RISKY STEPS

2011-03-20T23:26:00.006+08:00

The 21st century house owner is not one to keep to the safe and tested anymore. In many instances, they even toy around with danger. If treading with caution at home doesn't sound like music to your ears, sorry, you don't belong to that group of people.

Stair Porn

Elite Metalcraft

Techfresh

Stan

TREE BRANCH BOOKSHELF BY OLIVIER DOLLE

2011-03-18T08:57:00.003+08:00

French designer Olivier Dolle shows that nature works in interiors in many ways. More decorative than as a functional piece of furniture (are you sure you can store more than 30 books on it?), his tree branch bookshelf does, however, inject a whimsical touch to a contemporary interior.

If you're into that kind of theme, that is...

Stan

(MELROSE) HOME REJUVENATED!

2011-03-17T21:58:00.010+08:00

We were recently commissioned to revamp the Melrose Home, which aims to provide a supportive environment for children between the ages of 4 to 18 years old, These are children whose parents or family members are unable to provide care for them and hence require supervision and protection in a residential setting.

Dormitories - after

Dormitories - before

And what better ways than using colors to design a space to win the kids' hearts? Children are often drawn to bright and cheerful rooms, and we planned the palette of colors based on that belief.

Common corridor - before

Common corridors - after

Using a mixture of stimulating and subtle tones, we planned a different scheme for each room according to their age groups.

For example, yellow and purple compliment each other perfectly and make a great choice for an uplifting (yet not kiddish) interior for the older children. A soothing blue mixed with a playful green balances tranquility with playfulness for the young. A light apple green hue freshens up the original dim and narrow common corridors.

Locker room - before

Locker room - after

It is hoped the revamp will create a better living and study environment for the children.

KUS

HOUSE I BY YOSHICHIKA TAKAGI

2011-03-15T22:30:00.003+08:00

Today we bring you another Japanese home design - a project by Japanese architect Yoshichika Takagi and located in Akita, Japan. Called House I, this modern Japanese concrete house isn’t just about being minimalist. It involved enclosing the kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms and storage in interconnected boxes, whereby the spaces between these volumes form courtyards, corridors and living spaces.

Dorcus

'DESIGNER TALKS HOME' INTERVIEW SERIES: PIETRO CARLO PELLEGRINI

2011-03-15T22:25:00.000+08:00

What drew you to the architectural and design industry? Is that original fascination still alive within you today?

I was drawn to the architectural and design industry by its rigor, and the 'great and mysterious' man-made built environment. The fascination lives on even today, but I do get tired of it at times because architecture in Italy is subjected to some unnecessary bureaucracy.

Tell us about your typical day (at work and at home).

My office is in the same house where I live. It's very pleasant for me to have my home and workshop in the same location. When I'm in my office, I like to have a close relationship with my partners, just like in a renaissance workshop. Every concept and construction is studied very carefully in detail here. During the lunch break, my family and my partners will come together to have lunch, so it sort of becomes a 'family-office'.

In your opinion, what are the key challenges in designing a residence?

The key challenge is to combine the customer's requirement with those of the architect, finding a balance point that satisfies the two principal actors with a project that will stand the test of time.

Tell us about your own home.

I live in a Manor house on the hills, about 6km from Lucca. It's an ancient house where I intervened with a philological renovation, without too many contemporary elements. I have a warehouse very close to my home too.

As an architect/ designer, what do you think defines an inviting home?

A living home!