HOME & PROPERTY GUIDE 2018

NEW DESIGN IDEAS REAL HOMES STYLISH BUYS BEAUTIFUL INTERIORS

FURNITURE • ACCESSORIES • PROPERTIES • SERVICES

EDITOR’S NOTE

Mountain Teak Furniture Gallery

Is this the best neighbourhood for us? Should we lease some furniture or buy our own? Do our kids need bigger beds? How can we spruce up our outdoor area? Every person, couple and family has their own needs and wants, so we can’t answer all your questions, but we can provide plenty of inspiration to help you in your decision-making. That’s the aim of this, our third annual Home & Property Guide . In these pages, you’ll hear from interior designers on the décor trends to look out for in 2018; owners of Singapore’s fabulous furniture stores will discuss their signature pieces, from dining tables to outdoor settings; experts in real estate will give advice on everything from online searches to overseas investments (so you don’t miss out on any property hikes if you’re renting here); we’ll provide a sneak peek into the actual homes of expats; and you’ll find loads of product pages to get you inspired for your next shopping outing! One thing you’ll soon discover about Singapore is just how much variety there is, from the types of homes that people live in – ranging from HDB apartments and CBD penthouses, to black-and-white colonial houses in the jungle – to the décor and accessories available to buy. You can start a collection of exotic Asian pieces made from stunning tropical hardwoods, for example, or discover the latest in cool contemporary designs. Need more tips? For more fabulous home features, subscribe to our monthly magazine, Whether you’re new to Singapore (and currently unpacking boxes in a condo apartment in Bukit Timah!) or you’re an “old hand” who lives aboard a boat on Sentosa, you’ll always have choices to make about the place you call home. I

and visit our social pages and our website, expatliving.sg. All the best for finding – and beautifying – your ideal home!

– THE EXPAT LIVING TEAM

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Rebecca Bisset

Editor-in-Chief

Shamus Sillar

Group Editor

Amy Brook-Partridge Aimee Fordos

Editors

Melissa Stevens Emily Finch Michaela Bisset

Online Team

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Marketing & Business Development

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Advertising Sales

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COVER: Originals (originals.com.sg)

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CONTENTS

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Ready for a spot of shopping? We have buying guides featuring pieces for all the important rooms of the house PRODUCTS

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DÉCOR Fabulous furniture, furnishings, accessories and design advice to make you feel truly at home in Singapore

What home is best for you: condo, black-and-white, bungalow or ... boat? We take a sneak peek at some expat abodes 60 92 SHOWCASES

PROPERTY Meet the movers, shakers and relocators, with plenty of advice on finding your ideal home in Singapore or abroad

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Fabulous furni ture, furnishings, accessories and design advice to make you feel at home in Singapore.

DÉCOR

Arete Culture

Eden wallcovering from Weitzner

RollUp, Roll Up!

LUXE gilded wallcovering from Altfield

If you have a space in needof amakeover, why not start with the walls?

AMANDA CLARK is director and co-founder of Altfield , an interior design firm known for its array of beautiful decorative accessories. As well as hand- painted screens, porcelain and cushions, it also carries some of the most exciting contemporary wallcoverings around. Here, Amanda gives some pointers on how to use them. #1 Use texture to add interest “Neutral, textured wallpaper is a great alternative to white painted walls. It adds interest to the surface while providing a foundation for decorative features, such as artwork, frames and wall lights.” #2 Create highlights “Play around with feature or decorative wallpaper; different colours, metallics or patterns will draw attention to a particular part of your room.” #3 Take the wallpaper off the wall “Specialty handmade wallpapers, such as Eden and Aura from Weitzner, feature an open-weave pattern. Get creative and use them as hanging room dividers, window shades or screens. When adhered to the wall, these wallpapers enhance any paint colour, offering endless design possibilities.”

#4 Hanging screens “Decorative hand-painted screens can be hung or free-standing. This gives greater flexibility to those who like to change up their interiors often, or are in rental properties.” #5 Divide your space “Screens combine form with function. Our Japanese screens depicting flora and fauna are works of art in themselves. Not only do they enhance the interior, a free standing screen also functions as a stylish room divider.” #6 Magnetic attraction “Wallpaper can be useful too! Magnetic Field from Weitzner combines a hidden magnetic surface with beautiful design – great for study areas and kids’ bedrooms.” #7 Go au naturel “Bring the outdoors indoors with wallpapers made from natural materials, such as grass cloth, jute, leaves and abaca pulp made from banana leaves.”

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Elegant Altfield hand- painted screens divide space beautifully

DÉCOR

Designer magnetic wallpaper

from Weitzner works a treat in kids’ rooms or the study

This Altfield Pandan Teak wallpaper brings you closer to nature

Botanica wallcovering from Innovations

Altfield Interiors Showroom #07-10, Central Mall Office Tower 1 Magazine Road | 6909 2768 | sales@altfield.com.sg “Love the idea of wallpaper, but have children and pets in the home? Consider Type II Vinyl wallpapers from Innovations. These are well-designed but also easy to clean and durable.” #8 Make a statement “If you already have an interior scheme in mind, use the walls as a starting point. There’s a wide array of themed wallpapers ranging from nature-inspired to global travel to movies, all of which make a strong design statement.” #9 Stay in vogue “If you love fashion, keep your home up-to-date with iconic wallpapers from Missoni Home. The signature Missoni geometrics and zig-zag patterns are available in designer colour palettes – perfect for making a large-scale fashion statement.” #10 Durable designs

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The Brief This repeat client was moving to a bigger unit, and wanted Arete Culture to work with their design vision of a contemporary colonial home. The five- bedroom bungalow needed to be feng shui -friendly and accommodate the client’s love for entertaining. The Makeover Key areas included the entryway, lounge, formal and informal dining areas, outdoor entertainment areas, family room, master bedroom, guest bedroom and powder rooms. There were multiple entertainment areas set up, including a formal dining area and an outdoor seating area. The Arete teamwas also in charge of purchasing additional furniture that would work with the existing pieces, as this home was more than double the size of the client’s previous space. They also worked together with the client’s feng shui master to balance both aesthetic and practical demands. Get the Look To achieve the contemporary colonial feel, the team used heavy wooden furniture pieces contrasted with lighter colours and textures. They brought in outdoor furniture from Archipelago (which is exclusively carried by Arete Culture in Singapore). The living room accessories, tripod lamp, art panels and wool-silk rug are from Arete, as are the master bedroom’s blue-and-white rug, bedding, cushions, artwork, mirror and lamps. Creating aVision We find out how Arete Culture helped this client realise their vision of a contemporary colonial home.

Established in2010, AreteCulture’s services include full-suitehome makeovers, streamlined styling services for single rooms (“Design in a Day”), home staging and furniture customisation. It has two retailshowroomsatTanBoonLiat,onededicatedtooutdoorliving.

• Lifestyle Showroom | #06-01 Tan Boon Liat Building • Outdoor Living Lifestyle Showroom | #06-04 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road | 9640 3829 | areteculture.com

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Considering the store’s emphasis on character-filled vintage furniture, eye-catching upholstered chairs and beautiful pieces in recycled wood, it’s no wonder Artful House owner PADMAJA RAJAGOPALAN is often asked for interior design ideas. Here are a few of her top tips! Tips for a Gorgeous Home

Dress up your walls withmirrors Vintage mirrors are an especially great pick because not only do they add sparkle and lustre to a room, they also function as art on the wall. We adore this grey-and-gold vintage arched mirror, which is truly a special piece of history to bring into a home.

Be a collector If you love an item, you’ll find a use for it – and, in the process, create a unique look for your home. For example, here is an antique bridal chest whose central panel opens to reveal ample storage. You no longer need to put a trousseau in it, but it can certainly be used as a one-of-a-kind bar, with a sideboard for glasses and chinaware, or even a linen cabinet.

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DÉCOR

Mingle your styles Decorating your space with differing furniture styles, colours and patterns helps create an interesting home. Here, a taupe console and vintage window mirror has been placed with a contemporary sap-green ikat upholstered chair to create a truly stylish look.

Upholstery makes a great impact At Artful House, we are partial to eye-catching prints – such as this stunning blue-and-white ikat chair – to seriously up the style quotient of a home.

Accentuate with colour

C o l o u r i s a n energising design tool. In particular, using accent furniture pieces – such as this nifty recycled wood cupboard in vibrant blue – is a great way to channel colour into any space.

#08-04 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 8112 6127 | artful-house.com

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DÉCOR

The BigAss FansCompany (BAFCO) tells us more about its stylish ceiling- fan product, Haiku. FanClub

Haiku H-series Bamboo fan

Some love it, some hate it, but whatever your stance, there’s no escaping our relentlessly tropical climate. Using a fan is considered a healthier alternative to air-conditioning, and with the Big Ass Fans’ Haiku ceiling fan, you can make it work as a stylish piece of home décor in its own right, too. The Haiku comes in a variety of premium materials; the H series is made from sustainable Moso bamboo, for instance, and the L series from UV-resistant hybrid resin. The fans also come with in-built SenseME technology – the first of its kind – that works with other smart-home products. This, coupled with the fact that their cooling effect means reduced demand on air-conditioning, and

therefore significantly lower energy bills, makes them a great green choice. Powered by silent, super-efficient motors, the fans come in a variety of finishes and price points. To find out more about the products, head to Big Ass Fans showroom at #06-07 Space@Tampines, 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent.

6709 8503 | haikuhome.com/sg

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VISHA NELSON of The Cinnamon Room fills us in on her striking customisable rugs, as well as what’s hot and what’s new in her showroom. Fancy Floors & More

Our unique hide rugs have always been best-sellers, and now we have newly launched hand-woven dhurrie rugs in our signature geometric designs. We can customise designs to any size, and offer a personalised service where we work with clients to advise them as to what designs and sizes might suit their space. For customisation, particularly with larger rugs, we can make a visit to your home to measure and ensure that the dimensions are correct; you can even try out a few designs in your home, to see a rug in situ before making a purchase. One key question we’re often asked is how to clean hide rugs, as the common misconception is that they’re hard to maintain. The opposite is actually true; you can drop food and drink on them, or smear them in mud, and it can easily be wiped off – nothing seeps in. This makes them very family- and pet-friendly. We’re launching a new range of lamps soon, which we’re very excited about. All our shades can be customised, and the fabrics I’ve used are from Designers Guild. The aim is to create a range of interesting, stylish lamps at affordable prices. Finally, don’t miss our ever popular range of hand-made aluminium trays and bowls with an enamel finish in striking hues and gold gilt. This will make your home entertaining an elegant, stylish affair. We also stock products by The Elephant Parade, a social enterprise for the rehabilitation of elephants.

#02-74 Jalan Merah Saga | Block 43, The Worklofts@Chipbee, Holland Village | 9727 3051 | thecinnamonroom.com

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Luxury Italian furniturebrand Castilla tailors its furniture for the convenience and comfort of modern living. Here we look at three of its key collections. Italian Luxe

Koinor This collection started 60 years ago from a single upholsterer, and has gone on to become one of the more popular upholstered furniture manufacturers in Europe.

Gamma International The Gamma collection is entirely handcrafted in Italy, and features a wide range of upholstered leather sofas in many styles, colours and configurations. While there’s a strong emphasis on research and innovation, traditional values aren’t forgotten. The result is products with a distinct style and elegance, where handcrafted workmanship meets contemporary design forms and state-of-the-art lines.

Stone International

All of Stone’s classic and contemporary products blend well together, and fit easily into existing interiors including antique, traditional or transitional styles. These are fashionable products with long-lasting appeal.

Big Box Level 3 1 Venture Ave, Lobby B 6801 6595 | castilla.com.sg

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When it comes to great furniture, inspiration comes in many forms, so it’s no surprise that what you see on the catwalk one day, your cat may be walking on the next. For one young S i ngaporean furn i ture and l i festyle company, translating the trends of the fashion world to the world of home furnishing is one means of realising their desire to constantly evolve. FashionableFurniture Bruno This modern vintage collection is a nod to Art Deco trends and the use of herringbone patterns in fashion. It pairs rustic acacia with age-worn brass to create a sophisticated, nostalgic feel. There’s an air of British colonial heritage but the unusual cross-wood design ensures it remains contemporary and refreshing.

Linear Like its namesake, Linear is all about clean lines and sleek, industrial materials. Inspired by the use of military green and elements of modern minimalism i n f a s h i o n , i t s geometric shapes and matte black p o w d e r - c o a t e d steel are balanced by dark, walnut wood overlays and army green panels. This pared-back style results in a look that celebrates minimalism and masculinity, yet stays crisp and light.

Established in 2011, Commune is a home- grown company with an international outlook. Headed up by creative director Julian Koh, Commune’s designs use natural, environmentally-friendly materials and are influenced by trends and ideas from around the world. Here, we showcase three of its collections which, though inspired by fashion-industry aesthetics, maintain a sense of timeless elegance.

Rover The new Rover collection r i d e s t h e wa v e o f t h e equestrian-chic revival in fashion, working it into these stylish-yet-stately modern vintage pieces. Hints of dark, tropical wood, European beech, vintage-inspired leather, traditional British tweed, wire grills and brass caps recall the adventures of the globetrotting leisure classes, country clubs, exotic locales and days at the races.

• 9 Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk, #02-52 (Flagship Store) | 6338 3823 • #04-06 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road | 6338 7789 • Commune Experience Centre, 28 Defu Lane 4 | 6282 9086 • #02-06 IMM Mall, 2 Jurong East Street 21 | 6563 1761 thecommunelife.com

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Looking for the answer to getting a great night’s sleep? We asked the team at bedding experts Dormiente to highlight some of their key offerings. GreenSleepSolutions 4 Dormiente has 50 handcrafted, toxic-free bed frames to choose from, with ten types of sustainably grown FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC-certified (Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification) European hardwoods.

Make an appointment The Dormiente team is orthopaedic- focused, and they recommend mattresses based on height and weight profiles, sleep positions and orthopaedic requirements. Book a one-hour private sleep experience with them to find your best bed-scape. 5 The store’s mattress covers are made with certified organic cotton, or are quilted with pure new wool. Being naturally anti-allergenic, wool is great for moisture balancing and regulation. Those who perspire easily can opt for a horsehair-quilted natural latex mattress. Dormiente’s pillows and duvets are also made from natural materials and are free from chemical residue, to ensure a healthy night’s sleep.

1 Dormiente specialises in organic natural latex mattresses for adults, children and babies. All the store’s products are handcrafted in Germany using natural and certified organic materials, and tested for 200 harmful chemicals. 2 Suffer from back pain? Dormiente’s Natural Classic Orthoform female andmalemattresses provide seven zones of body support, and are recommended by the Association of Back Posture Trainers. You can also select different mattress firmness for yourself and your partner. 3 You can choose from ten types of individually adjustable bed bases for optimal support, including motor slats that let you incline to 90 degrees in a reading position, or elevate your legs for better blood circulation.

#11-10 Tan Boon Liat Building | 315 Outram Road | 9748 4468 | dormiente.sg

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What was the brief? The client was moving from an apartment into a four-bedroom townhouse with little furniture. They were looking for something modern yet comfortable, suited to family living. The house was very dated so this meant a total overhaul. How was it achieved? We used a base palette of whites and greys, then added black accents and layers of soft blues and greens to give a fresh, calm look. A combination of different finishes such as marble, wood, brass and linens create a sense of understated luxury throughout the house. What were the challenges? There was an existing wet and dry kitchen and an awkward powder room. We removed these entirely, turning the poky, dark space into a light and modern open-plan kitchen and dining area. Lack of storage space was another problem so we added some beautiful carpentry around the master bed. We then wrapped the walls in grass cloth wallpaper to add warmth and depth. We al l wish we could create beautiful, liveable spaces that look effortlessly cool, but sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. CHLOE ELKERTON heads up the team at E&A Interiors , a full-service interior design company that holds your hand every step of the way. From concept to installation, Chloe and her team are experts in liveable luxury. She talks us through one of her recent projects. Liveable Luxury

What were you most pleased with? The office. This was a dead area in the basement (also the main entrance to the house from the car park). We used geometric encaustic floor tiles to add character. Combined with black metal doors that frame the room and a striking “living” wall of plants, it is now a really great space. How long did it take? From start to finish, the full renovation took nine months.

Bottom: A statement “living” wall adds greenery and interest to the small office space. The upholstered master bed and ottoman are

crowned with custom-made woodwork.

#04-24, The Herencia 46 Kim Yam Road 6702 4850 | www.eandainteriors.com

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The team from EDD+ tells us what you might spot – and what’s hot! – in the store today. Tell us about EDD+. We specialise in nature-inspired products that have both an aesthetic and functional appeal. Mostly made of solid wood and metal, our pieces can integrate into various design styles and settings, be they contemporary or classic. Ranging from tables, chairs, consoles and cabinets, to lamps, mirrors, trays and accessories, some of our products are also versatile in function, such as our unique teak-root stools, which work as side tables. We want our products to add unique and personalised touches to any ambience. Where is the furniture sourced from? Our products are mostly made from wood sourced from Indonesia, as well as mixtures of metal and glass materials. Among our ranges are up-cycled products that give vintage pieces a new design and use. What are some of your favourite pieces? I love our suar-wood dining tables and teak-root coffee tables. The former add a solid sophistication while exuding a soft natural ambience for homes, restaurants and even offices, while the coffee tables can add a unique character to homes, receptions and lobbies. No two pieces are the same. Form& Function

What are your perennially popular pieces? Our wavy stools are an all-time favourite, thanks to their sexy- looking curvy panes. Customers use them as dining seats, throw a few in a relaxed balcony setting, and even showcase them as display stands. Another recent popular piece is our organic-shaped teak side table, which fits snugly in cosy corners.

#01-07 B Central 994 Bendemeer Road 6291 0990 | eddplus.com

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Ethnicraft Online was founded by Belgian expats JONATHAN ROELANDTS and KATRIEN BOLLEN. Here, Jonathan describes the benefits of having both an online shop and bricks-and-mortar stores, and he tells us what he’s looking forward to most, furniture-wise, in 2018. TheYear Ahead

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What would you say are the advantages of your “hybrid” store concept? While online stores are undoubtedly convenient – you can shop 24/7 and all information is available with a single click – a physical space offers the opportunity to view, touch and feel the actual furniture piece. Purchasing a piece of furniture is a significant investment to most, so having a physical presence serves to reassure customers and reconciles differences between what is seen online and in person. A physical touchpoint also allows customers to receive personalised assistance from our well-equipped and knowledgeable team – deepening the interaction to something more than a mere sales transaction. With this approach – rather than the commercial high street set-up – we’re able to reach out to a wider audience and reinvest cost savings in a transparent all-in pricing structure, complimentary services and a stock of readily available furniture pieces. We’ve grown exponentially in recent years, and while we’re thankful for the wonderful support for our wood furniture collections, we’ve also been looking to work with other brands to expand our product offerings. Last year, we brought in a range of woven and rattan chairs by Danish brand, Cane-line. The collection has been very well received by customers. For 2018, we’ll continue to introduce new brands to complement our main wood collection. We’re excited to share that we will be partnering with Fermob, a French outdoor furniture manufacturer. This company has a 100-year history of manufacturing fun, playful and colourful outdoor pieces of extremely high quality. We’re confident that these new outdoor chairs, lounges, tables and even outdoor lamps will expand our range and provide variety for home owners. Fermob will be available from April 2018. We’re looking very positively at the emerging home trends that people are excited about – for instance, on Pinterest’s 100 top trends list for 2018. One that’s got us excited is the resurgence of wall art. Bye-bye, blank spaces! And what could be better than having wall art that doubles as functional pieces in the form of serving trays? The new additions to our Notre Monde collection will definitely serve up a dose of modern chic to any home. We’re also strong believers that wood never runs out of style, and our minimalist designs and wide selection of oak, teak andwalnut will always remain at the heart of functional and timeless furniture pieces for every home. What are you most excited about for Ethnicraft Online in 2018? Are there any furniture “trends” that you expect to take off this year?

Find Ethnicraft Online showrooms at 72 Eunos Avenue 7, #05-01, Singapore Handicrafts Building, and 315 Outram Road #02-01, Tan Boon Liat Building. ethnicraft-online.com.sg. Shoppers are becoming more attune to products that are environmentally friendly; what’s your approach to all things “eco”? Wood is the basis of all our products and we take our responsibility to the environment seriously. From the origins of the wood and the energy used in the production and distribution processes, to the treatment of the products and reduction of waste, we continually ensure all processes are sustainable, maximise energy efficiency and reduce wastage – playing our part as good stewards of the earth daily. This commitment is reflectedby theForest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification of our distribution centres. Our teak collection is made from 100 percent FSC- certified wood, which guarantees that our products originate from forests that are managed sustainably. We also make full use of our materials. Production waste, such as remnants of logs, leftover wood and sawdust, is reused for other purposes. Sawdust from the logs is either used as fuel in the drying ovens or compacted as a base for pallets. Any leftovers from cutting planks to size are reused as base material or finger joints for panels.

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The European Bedding team tells us why sleeping on a natural latex mattress is the healthiest choice. Comfort & Support Latex is a natural product made from the sap of the rubber tree, and its inherent elastic property delivers a great sense of comfort and support. Its ability to conform to the body’s curve promotes proper spine alignment. By providing good pressure distribution, blood circulation is also improved on a latex mattress. Air Circulation Healthy Nights

Removable, Cleanable Cover

Picking the right pillow. Together with the mattress, the pillow promotes proper spinal alignment for a quality sleep. Finding the right one will be largely dependent on your sleeping posititon.

Latex has a natural open-cell structure, allowing for good airflow. In addition, a series of pinholes are added during the processing of latex, and this increases airflow even further. This excellent air circulation makes for a cooler night’s sleep – and perspiration doesn’t linger or make a latex mattress feel damp. Dust Mite- & Mould- resistance

Any fabric that’s used every day, but not washed for ten years, will eventually be dirty and mouldy; that’s why European Bedding mattresses come with a removable and cleanable cove r. Cl ean i ng your mattress cover gets rid of all bacteria, dust-mites and odour, and allows you to sleep in a fresh and

hygienic environment.

Latex is naturally mould- and dust mite-resistant, without added chemicals. Many other types of mattresses are either not resistant at all, or they are, but only because harsh chemicals have been added.

32 Eng Hoon Street, Level 2 9654 3228 | europeanbedding.sg

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The newly- launched Willow Mattress brand

Changes are afoot at FairPrice Antique ; we find out what’s new for 2018. Latest Developments

Make a visit to FairPrice Antique and more often than not you’ll meet the owner herself, Chantal Travers, unless she’s on one of her frequent buying trips to Northern China. Wander around the showroom and you’ll find a wide variety of antiques, as well as many sympathetically reproduced pieces – from cabinets to altar tables, consoles to chests – distinctive in their careful restoration and bright colours. There’s also always a local artist’s artwork on the walls – Louise Hill and Sandra Macheroux are just two examples – and plenty of smaller décor items such at lanterns and ceramics, perfect gift items. Mattress matters Not content with running FairPrice Antique, Chantal has also recently launched WillowMattress , a certified 100 percent latex mattress company. The mattresses are breathable and cool, have an organic cotton outer cover, and are available in international sizes. They come with three adjustable layers providing different

Exciting news! On the hunt for a name that was more reflective of the business, Chantal asked Expat Living readers to help come up with a new name. This will be announced imminently – so keep your eyes peeled. firmness and comfort options. The materials are 100 percent biodegradable, and the fact they come direct from Thailand means a reduced carbon footprint. Willow offers a 100-night free trial, and, if you decide you truly don’t like it, the mattress will be picked up and money returned. You can also have your old mattress picked up and recycled free of charge when you purchase a brand new Willow mattress.

#01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 8787 7817 | fairpriceantique.com

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TopTables

A cool design can turn a table into a fully functional work of art, and what could be cooler than water? A beautiful table is a centrepiece in any home; the hub around which the family gathers, the setting for intimate meals or the scene of raucous dinner party conversations. These wavy, water-inspired designs from Gallery 278 are fully customisable and guaranteed to make a splash.

Love it? Lease it! Gallery 278 specialises in art, accessories and furniture from throughout Asia which can be bought as-is or customised to create truly unique pieces. It also offers a handy leasing service, which means you can trial a piece of furniture without having to commit, or kit out your whole apartment without breaking the bank. Best of all? The store will include customised items in lease packages so you can really make your mark on your home. And if you find that you can’t bear to part with it at the end of the day, just switch to the lease-to-own scheme and it’ll be yours forever!

278 River Valley Road 6737 2322 | gallery278.com

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As time goes by, families not only grow, they also move – especially expat families. So what does that mean for our furniture? Make itModular

Though it’s a recent arrival on the Singapore interiors s c ene , French br and Gautier has designed a n d m a n u f a c t u r e d stylish contemporar y furniture for over 50 years, using sustainable, environmentally-friendly ma t e r i a l s . Mo d u l a r, customisable and chic, Gautier furniture is a great solution for families on the move. Here we check out three of the brand’s best- selling collections.

PREFACE – for living This cleverly designed storage system can be used in any room. From book shelves to entertainment units, coffee tables and cupboards, you choose what works in your current space, safe in the knowledge that you can easily add and adapt later on. The sleek, minimalist style comes in five finishes (white, grey oak, smoked walnut, natural oak and Sierra oak). Inject a splash of personality with colourful storage cubes or go hi-tech with the Bluetooth sound cube that can play music from any Bluetooth device. We particularly love the angled bookshelves that add an extra cool, designer edge.

DIMIX – for growing up Kids grow up fast and their bedroom needs are always changing, from their first big bed to their teenage years. The DIMIX system is all about making the most of the available space. The Trio is a great example: a cabin bed with various modules, it can be used as bunk beds in a shared room; there’s also a roll-away bed option to add another comfy spot for sleepovers, and a nifty sliding desk that is great for small spaces. Other options in the DIMIX mix include mezzanine beds that amp up your kids’ space by elevating the sleeping area, giving more room to play or work below. The steps up to the bed also offer more clever space-saving trickery by doubling up as shelves.

TALMONT – for sleeping A stylish three-drawer chest bed is the lynchpin of the Talmont collection. It has a good, solid headboard and built-in side tables, with spacious, integrated drawers perfect for stashing bed linen, clothes or anything else you may need. You can then build out to your heart’s content with book shelves around the headboard or standing on the floor, a matching chest of drawers or a bookcase with swivelling mirror. There are three finishes available (white, brown and grey walnut), which also match two other Gautier bedroom ranges (ODEA and the DOVEA) for more choice and flexibility.

#01-15 Space@Tampines 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent 6908 0880 | gautier.sg | singapore@gautier-shops.com

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We give you not one, not two, but ten reasons to visit House of AnLi . Life&StyleSolutions

#1 There’s a wide choice of striking weathered oak furniture to peruse, including extendable dining tables and chairs, cabinets, book cases, consoles and stools. #2 You can choose to use the store’s bespoke service, a simple three-step procedure that can see sofas, armchairs, bedframes, headboards, chairs, curtains and more, made-to-order within three weeks. #3 You can also choose your own 100 percent pure Belgian linen out of a wide collection of upholstery fabrics, and truly customise your furniture. #4 The entire Fatboy light collection can be found at House of AnLi, as well as its classic bean bags and Lamzac inflatable outdoor cushions. #5 There’s also the largest collection of Laguiole knives and cutlery in Singapore, including high-end, fully handmade knives. #6 Check out the Mathy by Bols children’s beds, crafted in Belgium. There are bunk, tent and caravan beds, we well as a combination of beds with desks, drawers and night tables. #7 Discover the exclusive range of Flemish life-sized tapestries woven in Belgium. #8 You can call on the store’s interior design services to help make your perfect home.

#9 In addition to its existing bed collection, House of AnLi carries a comprehensive range of 100 percent pure latex mattresses made in Belgium. #10 Finally, next to all that homeware and furniture, there’s a fully equipped bistro offering breakfast, brunch, high tea and dinner, based on honest food and premium produce. From organic New Zealand eggs on sourdough, to Maria’s moussaka and Mimi’s Belgian waffles, it’s a lovely spot to while away some time, pre- or post-shopping.

#03-17 Tanglin Mall 163 Tanglin Road 6235 3851 | houseofanli.com

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Instead of buying a new bed every few years, a modular bed grows with your child so you (and your wallet) can sleep easy. JEREMY TEO is the general manager of Kids Haven , a specialty retailer of children’s furniture and distributor of Maxtrix beds, the world’s largest kids’ furniture system. Here’s why he says modular is the only way to go. #1 Fully flexible “Whether you change your mind, need to fit it into new home or are just in need of an update for Junior’s room, a modular system allows you to easily switch up the height, style and features of your bed over time.” #2 Tots to teens “A modular bed can be adapted for all ages. As your child enters their teens, you can remove any slides and ladders that are no longer cool and easily revert the bed back to a more grown-up style.” #3 Space saver “Bunk beds are a great way to save space. If your kids aren’t quite ready for a full-height bunk, safety needn’t be a concern. Opt for a low bunk setup today and you can get extenders to raise it up to a high bunk in the future.” From threenagers to teenagers, kids’ needs are always changing. Fads and phases come and go, but unlike clothes and hairstyles, it’s hard for bedroom furniture to keep up. So, how to cope with their ever-changing desires? Meet the modular bed! 5 REASONS toBuy aModular Kid’s Bed

#4 Fun and functional “While kids’ beds need to be solid, safe and comfortable, there’s no reason they can’t be fun too. From a slide to get out of bed in the morning to a fairytale tower, modular beds can be customised to your tot’s content with accessories and fun fabric décor. More practical additions include trundle beds for sleepovers, desks, dressers and drawers.” #5 Built to last “Best of all, modular beds are designed to see kids through to their adult years, so quality is assured. US brandMaxtrix uses premiumsolid birchwood and builds to withstand 350 kilograms – that’s a lot of monkeys jumping on the bed! They comewith a five-year warranty, adhere to strict US and EU safety standards, and are part of the largest kids’ furniture system in the world.”

166 Joo Chiat Road 9178 0225 | kidshaven.sg | maxtrixkids.com.sg

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We asked AUDREY LIM from Lim’s Holland Village to give us three reasons why a visit to her store is a must for anyone shopping for the home. One-stopShop

#1 Customers are catered for “A customer once told us that we carry items that people need, before they know they actually need them! We use our own requirements as rulers to measure if the products we bring in are the ones that we will use in our own house. With three sisters as filters, we’d say the items we have selected for the shop have been through stringent tests!” #2 There’s something for everyone “It’s never an easy question when people ask what items we carry. We have Chinese furniture, home decorations, accents, homeware – the list goes on. What we do feel we have, though, is something for everyone. Be it a housewarming gift for a longtime friend, or a statement piece of furniture for a pair of newlyweds, there’ll be something here for you.”

#3 It’s an Asian melting pot “You can expect to be immersed in amelting pot of Southeast Asian handcrafted décor in our store, from Chinese furniture and reproductions, to handcrafted items with enchanting stories behind them. Be it as a starting point for incoming expats, or a destination to pick up accent décor and knickknacks, our aim is to mesh culture with functionality.”

#02-01 Holland Road Shopping Centre 211 Holland Avenue | 6466 3188

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Conscious Shopping Thanks to its firm stance on eco- friendly furniture, Mountain Teak allows you to maintain your green credentials while finding stylish pieces for the home. Here are some top picks available in store now.

The Wendelbo hug chair in leather is also available in fabric. Karpenter’s Simplicity ladder shelf , seen in the background, comes in three timber options, and is finished with a water-based coating, which is more environmentally friendly than lacquered products. Lacquer can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be detrimental to health, particularly to pregnant women and children.

Karpenter’s bookcase from the Brooklyn French Touch collection is made from 100 percent FSC-certified reclaimed mixed hardwood and finished with French polish, which involves several layers of shellac coating and brass details. Shellac is an organic liquid product that comes from resins secreted on trees by female lac bugs.

Karpenter’s vintage leather chair , armchair and sofa are all made with vegetable-tanned leather. This tanning method is chromium- free with no harmful chemicals. The leather has a very natural and organic look and ages beautifully with daily use.

Th e s e Squ a r e Roots oak stumps are made from 100 percent solid PEFC-certified French Burgundy oak, and have a natural oil finish.

#07-02 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road | 6224 7176 | mountainteak.com

• PEFC: The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification is an international non-profit, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification.

GLOSSARY • FSC: The Forest Stewardship Programme is an independent, non-governmental, not-for-profit organisation established to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests.

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When and how did the business start? My co-founders and I started in 2010, making our own bean bags from a home office and a storage unit. Encouraged by the popularity of these, we expanded into other remarkable products, starting with getting the distributorship rights for Qualy Design, an award- winning Thai brand. Today, we have a dozen brands under our care in the region, and we created Mrphy to be the home for them all. Having a central shop for all our brands helps customers in many ways – by reducing shipping costs, for example. Where did the name come from? It comes from Murphy’s Law, which says that if something can be used or done the wrong way, it will be. We consider Murphy’s Law important in the design SHANE LOWof home accessories specialists Mrphy (branded as “mrphy”) gives us an insight into the company’s fascinating and functional products. Products with Punch

Above: “A brilliant marriage of form and function, this ladle balances upright, whether it’s on a plate or floating in your pot.” Left: “The shaker compartments create a diorama representing the four seasons – a great conversation piece for the table, matched only by the awesomeness of the pun!” “This one started the whole shebang – a versatile bean bag made of high-quality Japanese rayon that can be moved into all sorts

of a functional product; the aim is to design something so it’s impossible to use it wrongly. (If you’ve assembled flat-packed furniture before, you know what I mean!) What sets you apart fromother stores of this kind? We’re committed to telling the story of not just the product but the brand behind it. So, each brand page has its own style – like a store within a store. Our products are also sorted by interior style (“Scandi”, for example), so customers can easily narrow down the options. We also inject a bit of a personality into what we do. Online stores can be clinical and cookie- cutter, so we try to express ourselves in our website graphics and our slightly irreverent (but not too much!) content.

of seating positions.”

Mrphy has a showroom at 3 Gambas Crescent (#08-09, by appointment) and an online store at mrphy.sg.

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Originals continues to grow and evolve. We find out what’s new. Evolution ofDesign &Style

EXPANSION Originals has just expanded its showroom – in fact, it’s now almost twice the size! This means the store can showcase an ever-growing range of popular sofas, new bed designs and stylish oak pieces, plus its wide selection of curated homewares and lamps from Europe. OUTDOORS The bigger space also allows for a dedicated area to showcase outdoor furniture. After being well received by shoppers on its introduction in 2017, the Originals Outdoor Collection now offers more designs for pools, balconies and gardens. It’s full of contemporary designs and crisp colours, and uses high-quality all-weather materials that require minimal maintenance. The collection’s variety of styles and sizes creates comfortable outdoor living no matter how large or small your space.

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OAK Originals has always maintained an emphasis on stocking solid furniture in light, natural tones and clean designs. With the addition of a new oak range, there are now more choices available to style any home. MOROCCO The new showroom has also given Originals the chance to bring in some new and edgy trends. These include a new curated collection from the souks of Morocco, which will show shoppers a different colour palette than they’re used to seeing in store – think black and gold against natural tones, along with unique home accessories never before seen in Singapore. SEATING Constantly expanding, the much-loved Originals sofa collections are now available in more colours, designs and variations. Also, if you’re looking for an armchair or lounger, the store stocks the very stylish and popular Vincent Sheppard Lounger, or you can take your pick from the many comfortable armchairs available. ACCESSORIES Aside from furniture, there are plenty of smaller décor products to check out, including colourful ceramics by Mud, handmade in Australia from porcelain sourced in France. There are also wall decorations, artwork, candles, artificial flowers and other unique pieces that will transform your home.

The origins of Originals Wanting to set up a business where the key focus was on quality products and great service, Australian Geri Murphy was driven to travel the world and find themost original products she could. It was while on holiday in Rajasthan, India that Geri fell in love with the rustic pieces that inspired her first collection, and the brand grew from there.

#02-03 Sime Darby Centre, 896 Dunearn Road 6471 9918 | originals.com.sg

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Antiquescanharmoniseandevenliftacontemporary setting if you know how to incorporate them. MARIE-HÉLÈNE VAN HOUTEN, owner of antique colonial furniture specialists The Past Perfect Collection , gives us her tips to get it right. Antique&Modern #2 Create a focal point: By sticking to one or two neutral tones in a scheme, the background becomes a perfect canvas for highlighting a particular piece. With the right lighting or a pop of accent colour or trim, an antique piece can immediately stand out.

Antique furniture can be beautifully combined with modern pieces and design. It can give a more contemporary look to a space, while retaining a sophisticated traditional elegance along with it. Assuming that choosing, mixing and placing the pieces is carefully thought out, then the old and new, combined with the right accessories, can learn to live together very well. Here are two top tips to make antiques work in a contemporary interior. #1 Use the 80/20 rule: As long as 80 percent of your interior is unified by the same style, same period or same philosophy, you can deviate with the other 20 percent. In other words, a fine antique can absolutely work in an ultra-modern space; just give it a try.

Business background Top-quality British colonial antiques made during the 19th century in India are the stars of Past Perfect’s showroom, with the collection handpicked by Dutch couple and owners Pieter and Marie-Hélène on their travels to India. Each unique piece is restored to its former glory with exquisite polishing and fresh upholstery, before hitting the store in the Tan Boon Liat Building.

#11-05 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 6737 3078 | pastperfect.sg

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ExpertAdvice

We ask NAAZLI SOMJEE of WTP for her tips on where to start when shopping for the home, and when to call in expert help.

choices you make are the right ones. Our interior designers will help with the spatial management, colour schemes and sizes. What would you say to people who feel interior design is beyond their budget? Cheap decisions can be made when you’re in a hurry, and you end up making choices that you normally wouldn’t make; in the long run, you spend more money trying to fix the mistake. From the start, set a realistic budget, and consider how much you want to spend beyond that if you really, really love something. Our interior design fee is inexpensive – and, if you spend over a small amount, our service is free. We pride ourselves in being able to stick to a budget.

What key furniture items should be bought first? Generally, the sofa and the master bed. Once you have these two pieces, you can then start choosing other items to match the style. If you need help creating a look but don’t know how to go about it without being too literal, your best bet is to call on an interior designer who can work with you to pick the correct pieces and channel the right vibe for your vision. If you’re keen to do your whole living room, focus on making the design decisions one piece at a time so you don’t get too confused, and so that the Why would someone call on the help of an interior designer?

What home shopping trends are you seeing now? We’ve been designing a lot of sofas and armchairs and, to a lesser extent, sideboards. I have my eye on a sideboard made of shisham (or sheesham) wood and walnut. I love the modern vibe of the piece, and the colour gives it a lovely richness and a lush feel!

3 Kung Chong Road 6235 2760 | wtpstyle.com

The sofa is a key piece of furniture in the home; buy it first, then choose items that will work in with it.

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