Air of Refinement: Beauty and functionality flow in harmony through the open spaces of this Island South residence

Nestled amid lush greenery and overlooking the blue sea, a 2,789-square-foot flat in Residence Bel-Air on the Pok Fu Lam waterfront affords its lucky residents a serene and picturesque environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Home to a couple with two daughters and a son, the apartment reflects the personality of each family member through meticulously designed interiors.

The residence offers spacious living areas throughout, allowing everyone to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious lifestyle. Within this open-plan layout, fine décor and details instil a feeling of sophistication and refinement. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, allowing residents to bask in the beauty of the city’s skyline and natural scenery. The natural light is maximised, so there is a sense of openness that makes the apartment seem even more spacious and inviting.

The living room exudes elegance and comfort, making it the perfect space for relaxation and socialising. The design concept harmoniously balances aesthetics and functionality, with soothing neutral tones such as beige and cream interspersed with pops of dark colour in accent pieces that add visual interest and intriguing contrasts.

The lounge has ample space for family and guests to unwind. It features a large, plush sectional sofa with a round coffee table which breaks the monotony of angles. A wide bar runs parallel to the sofa while the dining space is at its back, making the living room a multipurpose area especially suitable for large gatherings. Tall windows permit natural light to flood in and provide stunning vistas to those chilling within; a balcony lets residents get even closer to the outside spectacle.

The bar boasts a white marble wall and a marble kitchen island with a statement lighting fixture hanging above it. A delicate white-frosted glass chandelier atop the dining table also serves to accentuate the beauty of the entire lounge.

A see-through glass frame next to the dining area visually connects the hallway leading to the master bedroom. Tall pots of plants punctuate every space hinting at the owner’s love of natural beauty.

The master bedroom follows a minimalistic theme, emphasising only the essentials of the space. Storage is on the side, adding further functionality and freedom from clutter. Wide windows open onto a balcony with spectacular views of the ocean and the nearby islands. The en suite plays a game of contrasts as its black marble floor and walls are at variance with the white and gold fixtures.

The daughters share a bedroom where two adjacent single beds make a cosy space for sisterhood to bloom. Facing the beds is a feature wall with a widescreen television for the girls to relish movie nights in their beds. Pink headboards and bright colours give the room a hint of feminine energy, and the same colour palette can be seen in their bathroom.

The son’s room is designed to function both as a play area and a bedroom. A mezzanine has been added to distinguish the spaces, the lower floor being designated for toys and games.

A capacious study with two separate tables enables the youngsters to delve into their homework undistracted. Next to it is a brightly appointed guest room. Like all the bedrooms, the guest room also features a television for everyone to enjoy their own entertainment.

The whole apartment is created to be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, and its location in a prestigious neighbourhood known for tranquillity and superb views makes it the perfect abode for a modern Hong Kong family.

Photos: Taste Interior Design Ltd.

Wonder in the Woods: A Happy Valley home embraces nature with wooden walls imbuing warmth, depth and feeling

Nestled in the picturesque neighbourhood of Happy Valley is an apartment that perfectly embodies contemporary elegance and soothing aesthetics. Radiating charm and sophistication, the living space is swaddled in wood – from the wooden floor to the wall panels to the furniture. Cool modern style seamlessly meets the warmth of natural materials in the intricate details of this exquisite space.

Designed by UK-based firm TG Studio, this home is a thoughtful blend of East and West. Upon stepping into the stunning living room, one is immediately greeted by the captivating sight of wooden walls encompassing the entire space. This panelling adds depth to the room, showcasing the perfect marriage of contemporary design and natural elements. The walls, with their rich, warm tones, create an inviting atmosphere, instantly making occupants feel at ease and connected to nature.

Complementing the wooden walls, the colour scheme of the living room revolves around warm and earthy tones that exude vitality and tranquillity. Grounded by carpeting underfoot, soft hues such as sandy beige, warm browns and gentle creams dominate the space, while splashes of muted green bring a touch of serenity in contrast. These carefully chosen colours ensure a harmonious ambience, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The furniture is a testament to the remarkable artistry and design acumen of the apartment’s designer. In a delightful blend of functionality and aesthetics, the wooden pieces integrate flawlessly with the overall design theme. With clean lines and understated elegance, each piece adds a hint of sophistication to the room while maintaining a cosy and comfortable atmosphere.

The focal point of the living room is a large, plush, L-shaped sofa upholstered in a luscious dark- grey fabric accompanied by two comfy armchairs in cream. This centrepiece provides an inviting spot for relaxation and socialising. Completing the seating arrangement is a pair of sleek wingback swivel armchairs in ochre adorned with contrasting throw cushions. The chairs are cleverly positioned to encourage both intimate conversations and effortless flow throughout the room. Given the elevated height of this apartment block, wide bay windows offer spectacular night views of the city and a source of abundant natural light during the day.

Adjacent to the lounge is a dining area that is partially hidden behind a wooden wall creatively cut into sharp shapes. The long dark grey dining table is embellished above with two giant glass chandeliers whose geometric design reflects the interior’s primary theme. At the other end of the living space, a wooden wall acts as a partition to frame a bar and cosy den.

The bright yellow bar counter is the focal point within this darkened area, and it is offset by an array of niches in the walls which display wine bottles. A plum-coloured sofa sits opposite two large ottomans with a glass table in between, making it a perfect place to unwind at night with a drink or two. The kitchen is kept simple with all-white cabinets and gleaming marble walls.

To bring the outdoors inside, potted plants are positioned around the lounge, kitchen and even the bathroom. This vibrant greenery adds life and freshness, while also promoting a natural atmosphere conducive to relaxation and well-being. Furthermore, carefully placed ambient lighting fixtures accentuate the wooden textures, creating a homey, welcoming vibe once the sun sets.

The master suite is spacious – its ample proportions would not seem out of place in a palace – yet an abundance of earthy tones spanning the upholstery, walls and floor make it seem invitingly snug. Rows of windows along both sides of the room allow light to flood the space in the day, acting in glorious contrast with the mellow colour palette.

Walls have indentations that not only work as storage space but also enhance the attractiveness of the décor. A study table sits on one side, while casually displayed artworks on the other provide lively colour and contemplation. The vastness of the bedroom allows freedom to change the layout as one likes to add variety to luxurious living, while the splendid white ensuite bathroom with its hillside views would cheer the spirits on the bleakest of mornings.

Seamless Serenity: Open concept, dual layers, expansive views – this redesigned Kowloon peninsula penthouse is top draw

Modern, minimalist styling throughout a remodelled penthouse at Royal Peninsula in Hung Hom, Kowloon, reveals a masterclass in subtle extravagance. Entrusted to award- winning firm Grande Interior Design, the renovation of this 1,787-square-foot duplex apartment showcases a beautiful blend of aesthetics and practicality. Comfort merges with a unique design to epitomise sophistication and elegance.

From towering glass façades that offer awe-inspiring views to a meticulously designed floor plan that maximises space, the architectural brilliance here is captivating. High ceilings, an open-concept layout and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces create an ambience that exudes both grandeur and tranquillity.

In the open-plan living quarters, plush sofas, custom-made cabinets and carefully curated décor reflect the discerning taste of the residents while ensuring optimal comfort. The materials used are premium, the furnishings are exquisite and the artwork is stunning. An interplay of subtle colours and natural light enhances the sense of serenity.

Light shades of wood for the floor and stairs, and bright white paintwork on the walls and ceiling follow the living room into the dining space and then the kitchen area. This luminous colour palette is highlighted by functional spotlights as well as a variety of lighting features to suit different activities. An airy frame ending in black- bronze pendent lamps drops down from the ceiling towards the grey marble-topped dining table, serving to mark the division between lounging and eating.

Modular furniture crafted from natural materials adorns the living area and allows for a flexible layout. The feature wall behind the TV has display shelves for art pieces and wooden cabinets for storage. Bronze lines running vertically along the back wall give a delicate layering to the dining area.

Parallel to the dining table, the designer has added an open bar area, with a wooden counter and high stools. It delineates the open kitchen equipped with spacious cabinets and attractive appliances that make preparing meals an enjoyable experience. Dressed in white and touched with marble, this area is coherent with the living and dining spaces.

A former bedroom on this floor has been transformed into a multifunctional space by adding an upper level. The double-level design provides an area for entertaining and shared family activities below, and a guest bedroom with a private bathroom above, accessed by an internal flight of steps. It is another versatile feature of a home unhindered by boundaries.

The staircase from the lounge that leads up to the more private second storey of the penthouse blends harmoniously with the interior by disappearing into the wall after the first landing. An earthy colour scheme distinguishes the master bedroom. The bronze lines of the dining area reappear, etching the wall behind the bed, while the grey fabric wallpaper provides texture. The bed faces an expansive window that affords stirring views of the urban outdoors.

To suit the needs and lifestyle of the owners, the master suite spans a bedroom, study, walk-in closet and ensuite. A darker wood veneer creates a mature yet cosy environment. The closet is equipped with a dresser and high wardrobe to maximise storage, and the ensuite is furnished in relatively brighter tones with an abundance of glass and marble.

Adjacent to the master bedroom is their daughter’s room, where lighter earth tones evoke a more youthful ambience and textured wallpaper imparts a tranquil vibe. The ensuite here, which echoes that of the master bedroom, is accessed through a sliding door. A high wardrobe and tall mirror enhance the practicality and feeling of spaciousness in a compact closet.

The seamless flow of space and light throughout this apartment instils a sense of integration and intricacy. It is a home offering commanding views and a calming presence that makes you feel on top of the world.

Photos: Grande Interior Design

Ingrained Elegancy: Wood flows throughout this idyllic apartment in Coloane, Macau, where modern luxury meets Japanese serenity

It is no less than a wonder to create a calm sanctuary amidst one of the most buzzing neighbourhoods of Macau. A luxury apartment in Sky Oasis, just south of the Cotai Strip, achieves this ideal. Envisioned and executed by award-winning Hong Kong-based firm Max Lam Designs, it inspires an inward journey of peace and contemplation.

The location of the property is, first and foremost, ideal for occupiers who are looking for a break away from the bustling casino life that Macau is known for.

The interiors span a generous 3,000 square feet and embrace an oriental theme. Nature’s influence is evident in the different textures of stone, pebbles, granite and wood. The hues and colours used to realise these Eastern aesthetics are also evocative of nature.

An aura of tranquillity is apparent upon setting foot in the residence. Delicate floral accents punctuate the foyer, where a large vase elegantly sits in a recess embellished with wooden slats, and soft lighting emphasises the contrasting wall finishes. A gold-thread painting by sculptor Raymond Pang is displayed by the entrance, across from an ink piece by San Chiu Yan – two of a handful of artworks specially commissioned by the design team for this project.

Expanses of warm, light-coloured wood and trellis structures feature throughout a striking décor, in which minimalism is balanced by intricate details for a modern-luxury take on traditional Japanese interior architecture. The monotony of the wooden walls, floors and ceilings is broken by the varying tones of the finishes, each casting different reflections of light from the same source.

Nature comes to the centre of the living room in a light-grey branch-patterned rug, alongside a sober sofa and two coffee tables with stone tops. The orange-tan leather seats of two armchairs with wooden frames and arms bring shots of colour to the neutral palette. At the end of the room, balcony doors open to a cosy space where a swing provides the perfect vantage point for watching the night lights of Macau.

In the dining area, an installation of decorative wooden planks cocoons an unconventional dining table – a wooden bench flanked by a mix of wooden stools and sleek leather-upholstered chairs. Two large spherical lunar-like lamps hang above, allowing the family to enjoy well-lit meals. Framed calligraphy set at ground level provides artistic food for thought.

On the opposite side of the room stands a stone-topped, metal-framed bar counter. Illumination from underneath the bar’s wood-block base and the shelving unit behind it emits a soft, moody glow, the perfect ambience for a drink or two before dinner.

A semi-open area adjacent to the master bedroom has been converted into a beautiful tea room replete with Chinese ink paintings and delicate teaware. The lack of windows in this part of the residence was a major design challenge neatly solved by creating this serene breathing space. The tatami floor cushions, low table and sliding door of the tea cabinet give it the feel of a true Japanese home.

The wall dividing the tea room from the living area features a curving wood installation and a ceramic vase by Ryan Hui holding a graceful ikebana.

The master bedroom is enchantingly illuminated by indirect lighting that precisely traces the ceiling. A stone-feature wall, sakura-patterned wooden screens and a bespoke Art Deco-style vanity table are harmonious manifestations of understated elegance.

Similarly, two further bedrooms are visions of naturalistic refinement, with minimal furnishing and light design throughout. The craftsmanship of the wooden floors, walls and fittings is outstanding, effortlessly following the natural patterns of the grain. In one room, the headboard of the bed is a huge, accentuated wooden circle edged with light that appears like a sacred halo.

Whether relaxing in the bedrooms or entertaining in the extended living area, this zen-inspired space offers an idyllic retreat from busy daily life. Through masterful design, it instils inner calm and promotes mindful reflection.

This unique residence is truly a treasured gem thanks to the stylish finishes in the extremely tranquil surroundings that is Coloane. Every little detail has been given great thought in order to produce a final product with stunning clean lines and fittings of the highest taste.

Photos: Max Lam Designs

Floor Show: The pull of a customised rug or three at home cannot be overestimated

Rugs are a neat way to lay down extra colour, texture and glamour in your home, effortlessly elevating the interior decoration while protecting the floor. If you welcome their uplifting warmth – both to your feet and your spirits – why not get one or more bespoke creations that will perfectly complement the size and palette of your empty spaces? Customised rugs offer endless design options, and as you step across them every day, they serve as continuous reminders that you have been part of making something beautiful and unique.

Also Read: Creative ways to transform your walls with bespoke wallpapers

Rug Your Life

Taking pride in converting any artwork into an alluring floor covering, Rug Your Life works from your own drawing or a painting you saw at a museum or gallery and absolutely loved. In fact, the company is best known for its rugs based on the works of 20th-century modern artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, Sophie Taeuber-Arp and more.

Customised rugs — Photo Credits: Courtesy of Rug Your Life

Once the starting image has been chosen and sent to Rug Your Life, measurements, shape and cost are discussed. At this point, you will finalise the material from a range of options including wool, linen, silk and mohair. The company will also advise on the appropriate weaving technique based on your design choice and budget.

If your artwork has intricate details, Rug Your Life founder Nayla Ventura recommends going for a Tibetan knot rug as this technique allows the weaver to replicate any design down to every minute detail. This hand-knotting technique results in the softest, densest and most durable rugs. On the other hand, hand-tufted rugs are great for simple designs, take less time to be made, and are easy to maintain. The latter is also more budget-friendly:10 square feet of hand-tufted rug costs about HK$95,000 compared to HK$142,000 for hand-knotting.

No matter the design or type of weaving, Rug Your Life creations are sustainably handmade using the finest materials. Each rug takes between six and 14 weeks to be finished, depending on the size and technique, but to add to the anticipation of its delivery to your home, you will be sent pictures twice a week of it being made.

To order, email inquire@rugyourlife.com

J&P Carpets

If you aspire to highlight your room with a luxury rug that would be right at home in a five-star hotel, then why not get customised rugs from a company that actually makes them for top hospitality groups like the Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Rosewood and Shangri-La. Established in 1993 by John Yu, J&P Carpets crafts high-quality rugs using hand-tufting and the Axminster technique. The latter, a mechanical method based on traditional Oriental carpet weaving, suits large-scale projects, while hand-tufted rugs are a better fit for residences.

persian vs turkish rugs — J&P Carpets at Shangri-La Paris

J&P can custom-make rugs in any size, shape, design or colour using this technique whereby a weaver handcrafts the rug with the help of an electrical tufting gun for a faster and more affordable process. A 25-square-metre rug fashioned from 100% New Zealand wool – the most commonly chosen material – will cost about HK$23,500 and takes less than five weeks to complete.

Customised rugs made from the wool of New Zealand sheep have a smooth, warm texture, and are less prone to tearing, indenting by heavy furniture and other damage. You can also ask for your wool rug to be combined with other materials such as bamboo, bamboo silk, viscose and nylon for extra strength and durability. With good care, such rugs can last for up to 15 years; they are also easy to clean. Pure silk is another highly sought-after raw material since it delivers a supremely soft and exquisite rug that can go up to HK$300,000 for a 25-square-metre piece.

Once you have pinned down the perfect physical attributes for your rug, the design team at J&P Carpets will send you pictures of how it would look, followed by a sample so that you can get a feel of it. After you are completely satisfied with its visual and tactile features, the rug will be made and delivered to your home in just over a month.

To order, email glen_wai@jpcarpets.com.hk or call or WhatsApp (852) 9139 8010

Custom Rugs

One of the go-to rug makers for interior designers and architects, Custom Rugs is also ideal for individuals who need extra assistance in getting customised rugs for their homes. Choosing the right design from the myriad of options available can be overwhelming and exhausting, so the company goes the extra mile to make decisions less burdensome. They will advise on the style, size and colour scheme that is right for your tastes and décor, and help you choose the perfect material from options including, but not limited to, silk, bamboo silk, merino wool and viscose. Browsing through their wide selection of rug designs which can be personalised serves to focus undecided minds.

Once the appearance and feel of the rug are set, Custom Rugs gives customers the option of three weaving techniques – hand-knotted, hand-tufted or hand-loomed. One advantage of hand-loomed rugs is their sleekness – there is less of a risk of tripping over a slim edge than a thick one. They are also reversible and absorb sound. For the premium weaving technique of hand-knotting, the company usually opts for the Persian method. Compared to Turkish double-loop knots, Persian single-loop knots gives a more refined weave and a higher knot count; a weaver can pack anywhere between 85 and 500-plus knots per square inch, allowing for the simplest of designs as well as the most intricate. Depending on the design and the size of the rug, it takes from six to 12 weeks to be made. A 12’ X 10’ fine Merino wool rug with an intricate design that will require 400 Persian knots per square inch can even cost HK$108,000.

To order, email customrugshk9@gmail.com or WhatsApp (852) 9822 0006

The Ocean Within: A compact abode becomes impactful with a mural that echoes the sea and inventive use of space

A home should be as expressive as its owners. Exuding a harmonious creative energy, this tailormade apartment at The Summa in western Mid-levels speaks volumes about the family who reside here. Its soothing character is punctuated by vibrant accents, and a striking artistic statement sets the tone for imaginative living.

Though compact at 1,000 square feet, the apartment is light and bright, with clever design elements and beautiful views of the city skyline instilling a feeling of openness. The designer, Danny Chiu Interior Designs, completely changed the developer’s original floorplan, customising the available space to match the taste and individual preferences of his clients.

The result is a cosy home for a couple and their two children who rejoice in each other’s company. Its functionality has been optimised to fulfil their requirements for an apartment with a defined personality that meets the specifics of their lifestyle and storage needs. Walls were removed and relocated to create an open-plan living-cum-dining area with an adjacent kitchen and to accommodate three bedrooms plus the maid’s room and three bathrooms – a feat of design ingenuity considering its modest measurements.

The décor was redesigned with an emphasis on art, colour and lighting effects. A tasteful blend of hues and textures, the interior palette brings a sense of opulence to a rather small space. Natural materials like pale wood for the floor complement the aesthetic wallpaper and ombré lighting. The focus was to inject the living space with an artistic expression, using a smart combination of both white and exuberant colours and carefully curated ambient lighting.

The highlight of the living area is an impressive oil painting patterned like the ocean that frames the far wall of windows – it spans the length of the ceiling in front of the windows and spreads down one of the adjacent walls, where it serves as the backdrop for a giant TV screen. On the opposite wall, above the sofa constructed on a pedestal, the artwork appears again in a three-panel design. Studded with lamps and paired with the layering of the walls, this extensive canvas lends an out-of-ordinary experience when first stepping into the home.

To contrast with and emphasise the mural, two similar yet varying shades of white decorate the communal space – pale white for the walls of the dining area and a grey-white hue to create a cooler ambience in the living area. A seamless row of custom-made fitted cabinets opposite the dining table is edged by vertical lighting, further brightening the dining area for enjoyable meals and family time.

The living area opens onto a small balcony where one can step out to get some air and enjoy the glowing lights from the city’s major landmarks at night. The dining area also has access to its own balcony, with the option to draw close or open the grey velvet curtains that serve as a regal backdrop to the table.

A narrow hall leads to the more private space of the apartment. At the end is the master suite, while the children’s bedroom and the guest room are opposite one another, with separate bathrooms for each situated side by side further along. In a master stroke to boost the size and storage area of the bedrooms from the original floorplan, the family’s two children enjoy a larger shared space that also allows for privacy. Vibrant colours and playful elements create an inspiring, cheerful environment for creative young minds to grow happily together.

The reconfiguration enables each child to have their own walk-in closet, their own desk set beside the window and their own sleeping quarters, which is raised above the floor and accessed by separate sets of stairs. The defining feature here is an archshaped installation of bright interwoven fabric that reminds of a tent. Covering the far wall above the window, it not only draws the two halves of the room together but also becomes the dominant element, filling the room with joyful colour and the spirit of adventure.

The master bedroom is, unconventionally, relatively small, but it serves as a functional yet welcoming space for the couple to enjoy some respite from their busy lives. Its wide bay windows offer a vast view of the Hong Kong cityscape and waterfront. The interior is kept minimal and the palette is more solemn here than elsewhere, though a feature wall exhibiting a similar artwork to that in the living room adds splashes of colour and a restful vibe.

A true reflection of the personality of its dwellers, this characterful abode abounds with vibrant colours and vivid themes amid expanses of white. Its distinctive features and creative design make it not only an inviting living space for the family but also an intriguing showpiece for guests.

Outdoor Perfection: Unveiling The Top Outdoor Umbrella Brands for Your Patio Bliss

Given the unpredictable weather conditions in Hong Kong, it can be easy to be caught off guard especially if you are someone who enjoys chilling in the outdoors. To make the best out of your time on your patio or garden, you not only need an umbrella that is beautiful but also functional, providing cool shade on sunny days and shelter from the rain.

That’s why we’ve done the research, and have compiled a list of the top outdoor umbrella brands to help you make an informed decision and enhance your outdoor oasis. Whether you want to stay protected from the intense summer sun or unexpected showers, our expertly curated list of the best outdoor umbrella brands will have you covered all year round.

Manutti

Taking design inspiration from different beautiful sceneries from nature, Manutti is a luxury outdoor furniture brand that combines craftsmanship with innovative mechanisms to create its products, including outdoor umbrellas, that look minimalistic but rank high in functionality. Currently, Manutti offers two umbrella collections – the centra which is 180cm in width and breadth, and the centra max which goes up to 350cm.

The umbrellas from this brand are typically in lighter shades like beige white and taupe thus ensuring that they do not absorb too much heat. But, if you prefer warm surroundings, there are black-coloured ones that are scientifically proven to absorb heat. Even the choice of materials for the frames, which includes aluminium and teak wood, is super practical and best suited for the outdoors. Both materials are long-lasting as they are least prone to being damaged by light or heat.

Where to buy: Lift Lifestyle Int. Ltd, Unit B, 2F Cheung Hing Ind Bldg, 12P Smithfield
Kennedy Town

Royal Botania

Imagine the bliss of vacationing at a top-class resort and that is the exact comfort and extravagance Royal Botania tries to bring to your home through its outdoor furniture and accessories like parasols, sun loungers, hammocks and more. With the brand selling parasols that range from 220cm to 450cm, these parasols offer sufficient shade and protection, thus allowing you to wind back and relax in your patio or garden without worrying about the sun or rain.

When it comes to the designs, Royal Botania produces four umbrella collections which are namely Bloom, Oazz, Palma and Shady. They are all equipped with an automatic opening system and are complete with wooden or stainless steel frames and poles or a combination of both. There are both squared and rounded versions available in a wide range of colours making it easy for you to pick something that matches your outdoor decoration and colour palette.

Where to buy: Design & Distribution Link, 17/F, Unit 02-03, 88 Hing Fat St, Causeway Bay

Blume Living

Blume Living is yet another outdoor furniture brand that has an amazing selection of outdoor umbrellas that come in different colours, shapes and sizes. Despite all these variations, all the parasols from this brand are either centre-pole umbrellas or cantilever parasols. While umbrellas with centre poles are better suited with sun loungers or tanning beds, the latter which is also known as hanging umbrellas are perfect over tables and chairs as they have the pole on the side that makes it convenient for placing over without any disruption.

Moreover, the deluxe umbrellas from this brand are more long-lasting as they ideally withstand strong winds and sunlight. To add to it, each rib of the umbrella can be replaced which means that if there happens to be damage on one of the ribs, all you need to do is replace it instead of buying a new umbrella.

Where to buy: 4B, Harvest Building, 29-35 Wing Kut St, Central

Umbrosa

Umbrosa is known to exclusively make products like parasols and shade sails that are created to provide shade in the outdoors. As a result, its parasols are one of the best you will find with the brand having a range of parasol options including ones with centre poles, ones that can be mounted on a wall and then there are the cantilever parasols too.

Umbrosa’s umbrellas stand out due to their sleek and stylishly designed canopies that are available in both neutral and bright colours letting you find the perfect umbrella to match your outdoor colour scheme. Additionally, Umbrosa also allows for customisation options making it feasible for your to pick the right shape, size, colour and support system for your canopy.

Where to buy: Zzue Creation, Shop 705-6, Horizon Plaza, 26/F., Shop 2612-17 & 7/F, 2 Lee Wing St, Ap Lei Chau

Age & Beauty: Home alone is a joy when one’s spacious, graceful abode offers personalised attractions

A restful retreat for relaxing after retirement is the dream of many but a realisation for only the fortunate few. Being able to live the later years on your own terms in your own home is a blessing, especially when ensconced in a light, spacious and contemporary apartment that exudes modest opulence while offering tailormade comfort.

Such is the Hong Kong Garden residence of a retiree who lives alone. Despite having to work occasionally, her mantra is to enjoy a life of (almost) leisure to the fullest. Most of her family lives abroad so this 2,000-square- foot apartment conveniently located at Sham Tseng is designed to suit her individual tastes and hobbies. The avid mahjong player loves to invite like-minded friends around for games and parties, which gives people a chance to admire her beautiful home.

Providing relatively quiet living, Hong Kong Garden offers two units per floor and was built almost 40 years ago. This may seem ancient to those city-dwellers obsessed with the newest blocks on the market, but the apartment has been renovated to instil a modern and harmonious flair.

Older properties usually have greater flexibility when it comes to refining infrastructure to boost ventilation and drainage, and designer Ken Leung from Hei Design has smartly taken advantage of this for a freer allocation of the interior space. The remodelled air flow works together with suspended ceilings hiding awkward beams for a smoother, more seamless ambience.

Originally, this was a three-bedroom unit, but with two bedrooms remaining idle after the family moved abroad, the owner sought a revised floorplan to utilise every corner of the home. Now a manifestation of her vision of an enjoyable, indulgent space, it looks elegant to the core.

The serene residence reflects the owner’s heartfelt love of detail, with gorgeous design features and a variety of amenities. Each area has been carefully crafted to cater to moments of enjoyment at home with additions such as a glamorous walk-in closet and a lavish jacuzzi.

Materials including marble, brushed metal, plain and fluted wooden wall panels and tinted glass were intentionally chosen to evoke a sense of detailed design and a deep impression of nature. The colour palette embraces grey, blue and cream with tan accents. Leung cleverly brought the stunning sea view outside into greater focus within, so the lady of the apartment and her guests can enjoy nature during rest, work, dining and entertainment.

The living room is finely styled with a unique floral wallcovering, which also serves as an artistic backdrop for a desk situated among the ample seating. A wall of windows and wide apertures provide a mesmerising ocean view, creating a soothing space for work and relaxation. Delicate figurines adorn the shelves and niches, hinting at the cultured sensibility of the owner. Adjoining the living room is a small dining area. Given its proximity to the entrance, this is a welcoming first sight for visitors. Pendant lights hanging above the round dining table ensure it is sufficiently lit at night, while plenty of sunlight streams in during the day. The tan leather upholstery and curves of the dining chairs nod to the striking accent armchair in the living room. Leading off from the dining nook is a well-equipped kitchen.

Aside from installing a long, mirrored walk-in closet in the master en suite, the design team oversaw the demolishing of the wall between this bathroom and the smaller of the two other bedrooms. This served to trim the unused bedroom and enlarge the master bathroom for placement of the jacuzzi tub as well as a walk-in shower. The principles of feng shui were also considered – the new floor plan removes the energy-blocking, ill- fortuned proposition of the en-suite door facing the bed.

The homeowner can now conveniently step into her spacious dressing room after bathing or applying makeup. The bigger bedroom previously used by the family has been transformed into a dual-purpose guest bedroom and entertainment room. Ahead of a mahjong party, the bed retracts into the wall to release space for up to two gaming tables – these are stored in a huge cabinet after use. A pair of sliding doors at the entrance makes the room larger and more easily accessible to guests during mahjong time.

The concealable bed and a large full-length fitted wardrobe embedded in the wall between the guest and master bedrooms allow for occasional stayovers by friends and relatives. The bedroom floors are wooden and the décor minimal; these rooms offer the essentials of comfort without any visible clutter for peaceful days and restful nights.

Fitting the picture of an abode designed for the simultaneous enjoyment of solitude and nature, this is an ideal home for one to spend quality time in their later years. When life is no longer so busy, indulging in favourite activities becomes the daily routine.

Text: Zaira Abbas

Photos: Hei Design

Sunny Disposition: This Cyberport-based flat is a modern interpretation of waterfront living

Summer colours, for the most part, fall under the category of stark whites and ocean blues – and at Residence Bel-Air the vibe is decidedly Mediterranean. Within one of the enclave’s luxury apartments, in particular, simple clean lines, painted cream floors, white shiplap walls and blue and grey upholstery evoke the mood of a wistful seafarer returning to the comforts of a safe harbour.

This spacious 1,700-sq.-ft-plus home, full of natural light and modern design sensibility, would certainly seem like paradise to its owners as they come home to breathe in the calm air after a day in the city. Through a predominantly soft, tranquil colour scheme – with occasional vivid contrasts – the décor takes inspiration from the waves of the sea and their dynamics. Areas purposefully left blank amid free-flowing curved designs across the ceiling and the furniture join the natural sea view in bringing motion into the living space.

The home’s location in Bel-Air served as the starting point for the team at Grande Studio when they were charged to recreate the interiors. Cyberport is a creative digital technology community with a touch of breeze from the old Hong Kong port. The dramatic seaside soul of the area and the city’s signature past are welcomed within, seen in traditional Hong Kong architectural details, a general cosiness and a wraparound outdoor deck boasting sweeping sea vistas.

Upon entering, the immediate impression is one of laid-back simplicity. This radiates through the laminated flooring which is stripped back, a widened foyer, ceilings raised higher than normal, pairs of palazzo-worthy double doors that have been installed, and walls painted in shades of cream and off-white. Accent walls are features of the kitchen, two bathrooms and entrance hall. Within the long living room that extends to the terrace, a piano is recessed between two feature walls that shelter cupboards. Amid a medley of marble, wood and metal, a sleek circular dining table also occupies this part of the room, illuminated by functional lighting and a striking modern chandelier of irregular globes.

The designers have merged modernism with regal classicism for an apartment well suited to hosting chic soirées and house parties – with the interconnecting floorplan and no-fuss regular windows assisting in this regard. Modern pieces also adorn the space: in the centre of the living room is a coffee table of Italian marble, a transparent vase, and just the right hint of greenery via a small decorative plant.

Moving on to the multi-functional bedrooms, it is apparent that they have been carefully designed to suit the needs of their owners. Wood veneer, wooden patterns and curved aesthetics like the open sliding door and minimalist approach to lines and colours reflect a calm yet luxurious ambience.

A TV and sofa combination creates a second living room for family gatherings, with the marble surrounds of the TV wall also nodding to the appeal of waterfront living. A work-from-home corner with a desk is another considerate touch here, catering to what we call the new normal, while the couch can turn into a bed when guests come over. In all, it becomes a practical multipurpose space for anyone who wants to lounge around this part of the home.

(Text: Joseff Musa Photos: Grande Interior Design)

Read the full article in the April 2023 issue (pg: 106). Available on the Gafencu app on Android and Apple.

ONE STANLEY: LUXURY LIVING REDEFINED at the SOUTHSIDE SEAS

ONE STANLEY Design Concept Video by Robert A.M. Stern Architects

Imagine coming home to an exclusive paradise of a breather every day. With One Stanley now opening its doors for success-driven individuals and families alike, that vision is now possible. The entire private residential masterpiece combines the themes of a luxury star-graded destination and the luxury modern home one always dreamed of. Prestigiously located and built near the vibrant seascape in the Southside of Hong Kong, this new complex creates a sense of grandeur and a modern interpretation of luxurious waterfront living.

It is widely recognised that Hong Kong, with its extensive infrastructure and first-rate connections, is an A-League metropolis of the world. Because of the consistent, strong demand, its properties have always deservedly commanded a premium, while the Southside, in particular, has long been a traditional upscale inhabited by the rich and famous.

Here, the seashore ambience manifestly spreads out to the properties’ architectural design and amenities – aiming to bring the luxury lifestyle and atmosphere closer to home. Future owners and residents, amongst them, who want to stay active and healthy through a multitude of recreational options, will find a lot to be pleased about at this seaside architectural odyssey as it allows them to lounge at the relaxing pool areas, go for a swim after a long day or sailing yacht along the coastline.

The Southside of Hong Kong offers incomparable tranquillity and peacefulness with enchanting views of the infinite blue and colourful sunsets providing a private source of entertainment.

HIGH LIFE AT EASE

Taking care of people’s needs is always a breeze at One Stanley. Built on one of Hong Kong’s most picturesque coastlines, it gives quick access to major prestigious international schools such as The International Montessori School and Canadian International School of Hong Kong and a wide array of entertainment and lifestyle options via its neighbouring exclusive and members-only clubhouses like The Aberdeen Marina Club and The Hong Kong Golf Club.

Truly, more than simply a place to live in, One Stanley is designed to make life more enjoyable and at ease as it provides occupants of single-detached houses with their own lifts, gardens and roofs, with some units also including private swimming pools to ensure unparalleled solitude and luxury.

The sea breeze, lush gardens of greeneries and open areas give its residents the space to appreciate and experience this modern architecture and simply enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors and nature.

BY A CREATIVE MIND AND A THOUGHTFUL HEART
In a manner appropriate to this prestigious address, the esteemed firm Robert A. M. Stern Architects (RAMSA), founded by Robert A.M. Stern (Robert Stern), has been known for its signature use of limestone to craft timeless architecture, with more than 50 years to its refined portfolio of projects. Robert Stern, who served as the Dean of the Yale School of Architecture from 1998 to 2016, his individual honours include the AIA’s Topaz Medallion, the Vincent Scully Price, the Athena Award from the Congress for the New Urbanism, and the Richard H. Driehaus Prize. With the vision to be one of the places that’s been around and stay around forever, notwithstanding the ultra-sleek and modern concepts, One Stanley is praised for the way it conjures up famous Mediterranean coastal villages like Santorini, Porto Cervo, and the French Riviera.

The residences at One Stanley share the same sturdy character and historical quality as some of the world’s most iconic structures, developed by K&K Property Holdings Ltd whose major expertise lies in developing diversified residential and commercial projects and managing five-star hotels.

Truly, One Stanley is a unique collection of luxury homes of fascinating pedigree both of grace and grandeur, standing proudly above Stanley Bay.

ONE STANLEY provides 11 blocks of 4 Storey low-density residences containing up to 3,300 square feet in saleable area; and 32 blocks of luxury detached houses ranging from 2,700 to 7,000 square feet in saleable area, its completed units will be up for sale in Q2, 2023. Please visit www.onestanley.com.hk for more information.

About K&K Property Holdings Ltd.:

Established in 2013, K&K Property Holdings Ltd. is a Hong Kong property developer experienced in developing diversified residential and commercial projects and managing five-star hotels. The Group’s diverse portfolio encompasses projects across the world. In terms of luxury residential projects, Hampstead, a low-density detached house project situated in a traditional luxury premise in Tai Po, New Territories East; and 18 ROSEWOOD, a low-density villa-style upscale project in Tuen Mun, have all been sold out.

The ongoing sales of SkyeHi, a trendy urban residential project in Tuen Mun, and Victoria Skye, a large-scale landmark residential project in Kai Tak, have been excellent. There are only a small number of units remaining for sale in Victoria Skye, most of which are special units. On top of residential projects, the Group’s latest commercial project, 21 Ashley in Tsim Sha Tsui – designed with a medical and healthcare focus and equipped with professional facilities – is now available for pre-letting.

K&K Property Holdings Ltd. has always focused on building quality developments with unique designs. Apart from the aforementioned projects, the Group’s developments include a residential and commercial project at Oak Street/Ivy Street, developed in collaboration with the Urban Renewal Authority; 18 Junction Road, a residential project in Kowloon; as well as a number of commercial projects in London, UK, and Moiwa Ski Resort in Hokkaido, Japan.