February-March 2018

The Winners Announced!

EDITOR’SNOTE

Hong Kong is a great place to reinvent yourself. I know many people who have come here with their company or a partner, and who have ended up starting businesses or turning hobbies into new careers. The opportunities that the city offers to those looking to try something new, really give you a chance to find something that you love. I arrived in HK as a primary school teacher, but after having my own babies I realised I didn’t want to spendmy days with other people’s children! I loved writing, though, and, after quietly blogging for a while, I decided to try and make a living out of it. Inspired by friends, I took a leap of faith and started my own copywriting business. It wasn’t always easy, but after lots of hard work freelancing for magazines and small businesses, I found myself interviewing for the role of editor at Expat Living four years ago. In all, it’s been eight years since I took a chance and tried something different, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. And that’s the beauty of a place like Hong Kong. It can break you at times, but it can also give you the chance to find out who you want to be. The flipside of this expat life is that we all have to move on eventually, and while I know my own career change will be permanent, sadly my time at Expat Living has come to an end. Last issue, I wrote about saying goodbye to dear friends, and it’s with a heavy heart that I farewell my “work family”, our wonderfully supportive readers, and the amazing, talented and inspirational people who I have had the honour of meeting and working with. I’ve loved hearing and sharing your stories, and I want to thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for making the last four years so memorable. I’m not going far, and if you look closely you’ll probably see my name pop up from time to time. But for now, I’m looking forward to reading the next issue of Expat Living with a cup of tea and my feet up, like everyone else! All the very best.

Stay updated online

NEWS – WHAT’S GOING ON? Read the latest Hong Kong happenings EVENTS CALENDAR – POST YOUR EVENT FOR FREE! Having a party or a promotional launch and want to get the word out about it on our website? Just head to www.expatliving.hk , click on “Post an event”, and fill in the details. We’ll do the rest! WHERE TO BUY A list of retail outlets where you can buy the latest copy of Expat Living

BROOKE CHENOWETH

A huge thanks to Brooke for all she’s done for us over the years! Melissa Stevens, who has been EL’s Online Editor for the past year, will be taking over the helm of both our online and print editions. We wish them both well in their endeavours. Rebecca Bisset, Editor-in-Chief

facebook.com/expatlivingHK

twitter.com/expatlivingHK

pinterest.com/expatlivingHK instagram.com/expatlivingHK

2

FEB-MAR2018

Editor-in-Chief REBECCA BISSET Group Editor SHAMUS SILLAR Editors BROOKE CHENOWETH | MELISSA STEVENS Client Services & Production LEANDA RATHMELL | LIANA TALIB | NUR HANANI KAMAL LUDDIN Senior Graphic Designers MICHAEL BERNABE | BEATRICE NG | JEANNE WONG Circulation ANNA TSERLINGAS Subscription & Administration GRACE BANTARAN | SITI SHAHIRAH KHIRUDEEN Sales & Marketing KATE WOODBURY | WENDY CHAN | DANIELLE HIGGINS Marketing & Business Development Executive VEENA GILL Chief Operations Officer COLIN PURCHASE Contributing Writers ORLA BREEZE | OLIVIA PARKER | JACQUI YOUNG | BELINDA BATH Contributing Photographers MARIELLA AMITAI (MARIELLAAMITAIPHOTOGRAPHY.COM) SUZANNE GOODWIN (SUZANNEGOODWINPHOTOGRAPHY.COM) Printed by MIRACLE PRINTING CO. LTD.

CONTACT US General Enquiries: +852 3480 7614 | +65 6259 0058 | info@expatliving.hk Advertising Sales: advertising@expatliving.hk | sales@expatliving.hk Subscription: +65 6812 1783 | subscription@expatliving.hk Production: +65 6812 1787 | production@expatliving.sg Editorial & Media Releases: editor@expatliving.hk Calendar of Events: calendar@expatliving.hk Events: info@expatliving.hk Websites: expatliving.sg | expatliving.hk I exmag.sg Printed by Miracle Printing Co. Ltd. Published by Expat Living Publications Pte Ltd 37 Jalan Pemimpin, #07-06 Mapex Building, Singapore 577177

Cover: Altfield (altfield.com.hk)

4

FEB-MAR2018

CONTENTS

UPFRONT 10 What’s New 14 Calendar of Upcoming Events 16 Readers’ Choice Awards 2018: We reveal the winners! 18 Follow Us Online HOME & PROPERTY 20 News 24 * Showcase: A sneak peek into our editor’s home 31 Behind the Scenes: The inside scoop on the Asia Contemporary Art Show 34 Art & Moving: Moving and maintaining paintings with care 36 Company Profile: Secrets to a successful furniture business 38 Buying Guide: Ideas for living rooms 42 On the Market: Properties for sale and lease

LIFE & FAMILY 48 News 50 Rated PG: Our regular parenting column 52 Book Previews 54 Fashioning a Career: Getting creative at SCAD 56 Woodland Turns 40 61 The Boarding Option: First-hand experiences from across the region 66 Beyond the Classroom: Learning outside and in the community 68 People Profile: A new approach to family photos

Hong Kong fashion 54

38

Living room furniture and accessories

Showcase Features: Each issue, our home showcase features provide a through-the-keyhole look into some of our readers’ lifestyles and their interior design decisions. If you’d like us to profile your own home – whether it’s beautiful, quirky, historic or modern – and you’re willing to be interviewed and photographed, drop us a line at info@expatliving.hk.

6

FEB-MAR2018

CONTENTS

116

Rough it in style in one of these luxury tented camps

BODY & MIND 74 News 76 Buying Guide: Jewellery 78 Work-related Stress 79 Tried & Tested: We try a slimming massage 80 Fitness Regimes: ADHD and relationships 88 What is Play Therapy? 90 Orthodontic Opinions WINE & DINE 96 News 98 Taste Test: New restaurants reviewed 100 Sky-high Dining: Meals with a view for CNY and Valentine’s Day 86 Expert Voice:

TRAVEL 104 News 108 Lisbon, Portugal: 48 hours in Bairro Alto 112 Summer Holidays: Your bucket list, sorted! 114 Asian Stays:

The hippest hotels in the region

Great ways to kick-start your 2018

116 Go Glamping:

76

Bring on the bling!

The best boutique campsites for 2018

118 Thai Time:

Lazy villa days on Koh Samui

REGULARS 122 Important Numbers 123 Our Advertisers 124 Parting Shot: The High-Rise Life

8

FEB-MAR2018

NEWS

Sail Away! Twin Win

You’ll never have the problem again of accidentally mixing colours and whites with the new space-saving four-in-one LG TwinWash . The machine has a compact design that perfectly suits Hong Kong homes, with two washers, a main and a mini, that can be run simultaneously or separately. There’s no need for a separate dryer, either, as it has LG’s eco-hybrid dryer function, while the TrueSteam function penetrates fabric with real steam to eliminate 99.9 percent of household allergens and odours. Plus, Wi-Fi connectivity means you can control the machine on the go! lgnewsroom.com

If you’ve ever wanted to learn to sail, here’s a great opportunity! Brace yourself for an exclusive and exhilarating eight-day offshore voyage to Taiwan aboard the Spirit of Outward Bound Hong Kong . No sailing experience is required – you’ll learn all you need to know on the trip. And as the goal of Outward Bound is to teach you skills you can use in all aspects of life, you’ll also get to practice teamwork,

setting realistic goals, efficiently communicating with others, and taking the initiative to lead. The course runs from 30 March to 6 April and costs HK$14,500. outwardbound.org.hk

Eco-conscious Clothing Environmental NGO Redress is leading the way when it comes to addressing waste in the fashion industry. A recent partnership with Miele, the Get Redressed x Miele Clothing Drive 2017 , took place over two weeks with 4.4 tonnes of second-hand clothing and accessories collected at multiple points across the city. Redress redistributed the collected items to eight local charities as part of its mission to save more clothing from landfills. The initiative proved that, with care, all clothing can be recycled. redress.com.hk

Long Lunch The annual Melbourne Cup Long Lunch in November by Farmer’s Market and Angels for Orphans raised an impressive HK$188,000 for projects supporting underprivileged children in Cambodia and Bali. Held for the first time at the Aberdeen Marina Club, the relaxed setting came to life with 210 glamorous guests,

determined to embrace one of the biggest days i n t h e ho r s e r a c i n g c a l enda r. P l ans a re already underway for more events in 2018. angelsfororphans.org | farmersmarket.com.hk

10

FEB-MAR2018

NEWS

GIFT INSPO Ideas for what to buy on Valentine’s Day and CNY

We love a good collaboration, and this one between Victoria’s Secret and Balmain comes just in time for Valentine’s Day. Inspired by the theme of “Punk Angel”, Olivier Rousteing, creative director of historic Parisian fashion house Balmain, has designed a collection of bags and lingerie exclusively for Victoria’s Secret. The VSxBalmain capsule collection will be carried in selected Victoria’s Secret stores and at victoriassecret.com . Why not pamper your loved one this Valentine’s Day with something from John Masters Organics ? The company’s new gift sets allow you to give them all the goodness nature can offer, while making them feel truly cared for – or you can treat yourself instead! There’s a set “For Him” featuring goodies that make shaving a breeze, and a set “For Her” that’ll have your skin glowing all over. Both are available from all John Masters Organics Hong Kong stores. johnmasters.com.hk

When it comes to gift giving, you can’t go wrong with tea and bickies. Fortnum & Mason is an iconic British brand renowned for its fabulous range of tea and delicacies. This season, Lane Crawford is stocking a wide range of gift sets filled with curated treats in beautiful packaging, perfect for gifting over Chinese New Year. lanecrawford.com

New in Food GrowsFresh is a new online platform offering an extensive range of fresh organic fruit, vegetables, sourdough bread and dairy, plus meat and seafood items from an in-house butchery. The company works with more than 70 farming families across Australia, New Zealand and Alaska to bring fresh, high-quality produce and groceries to town, and placing an online order is about as close as you’ll get to a farmer’s market in Hong Kong; each week, you can have produce delivered straight to your door. For a 20 percent discount off your first or next order, use the code “EXPATLIVING” at checkout (available for a single order). growsfresh.com

12

FEB-MAR2018

ARTS & CULTURE

Art Central (27 MAR-1 APR)

More than 100 leading international galleries will take part in this annual event, including about 30 galleries making their Art Central debut. The event has a dynamic programme of installations, panel discussions and short films. Tours are also on offer for those interested in contemporary art and collecting. In its fourth year, Art Central has attracted international attention, with about 30,000 visitors last year. 9 Lung Wo Road, Central (opposite Hong Kong City Hall). artcentralhongkong.com Art Basel (29-31 MAR) Art Basel is an international art fair staged in Basel, Miami and Hong Kong, which aims to connect galleries and their patrons. Work from both established and emerging contemporary artists from 248 galleries and 32 countries will be exhibited. The establishment of Art Basel in Hong Kong has led to a number of satellite events and for March to be considered “Art Month” in HK. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Road, Wan Chai. artbasel.com

Flower Markets (10–16 FEB)

The annual flower markets in Victoria Park are a popular fixture of Chinese New Year celebrations. Each year, the park is packed with stallholders selling orchids, cherry blossoms, daffodils and other festive blooms for decorating the home in one of HK’s key New Year’s customs. Victoria Park, Causeway Bay. discoverhongkong.com Chinese New Year Night Parade (16 FEB) Chinese New Year is the city’s biggest and brightest festival. The arrival of the Year of the Dog will be marked on New Year’s Day with the International Chinese New Year Night Parade, featuring spectacular floats and more than 3,000 performers winding their way through the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui (8pm to 9.45pm). Warm-up entertainment starts from 6pm. discoverhongkong.com

Chinese New Year Night Parade

Hong Kong Arts Festival

Hong Kong Arts Festival (23 FEB-24 MAR)

Hong Kong’s major performing arts festival brings together leading local and international artists in all genres including opera, dance, theatre, multimedia and installation. “Festival PLUS” activities will include lectures, masterclasses, workshops, backstage visits, exhibitions and educational events. Various locations. hk.artsfestival.org Asia Contemporary Art Show (23-26 MAR) The twelfth edition of the event will feature dynamic and diverse artworks highlighting the intersection of past and present and traditional and modern in contemporary Chinese art. It will also see artists from around the world exhibit their works for sale. Whether you’re after original paintings, limited editions, sculpture or photography, you can browse and buy thousands of artworks from both established and emerging artists. Conrad Hong Kong, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong. asiacontemporaryart.com

Picture credit: Gregory Batardon

14

FEB-MAR2018

CALENDAR

FAMILY FUN

SPORT Longines Masters of Hong Kong (9-11 FEB) This international indoor showjumping

KidsFest (UNTIL FEB 11)

Don’t miss the final shows of KidsFest at the start of February. ABA Productions launched the festival with the aim of bringing world-class theatre to young people in Hong Kong, and the last performances of the season include Julia Donaldson’s What The Ladybird Heard , the educational Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo , and Oliver Jeffers’ Lost and Found . Drama Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. kidsfest.com.hk AIA Great European Carnival (UNTIL 25 FEB) The AIA Great European Carnival has become a fixture on the Central Habourfront each winter, with young and old flocking to enjoy the atmosphere. Organisers have upped the ante this season, with new rides and attractions to suit all ages. This year also sees The Great Circus of Europe as part of the fun, featuring more than 25 experienced performers from around the world. There will also be other shows and interactive experiences during the carnival season. Central Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central. tgec.asia

competition comes to HK for three days of world- class competition. Organised by the Hong Kong Equestrian Foundation and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, the Masters includes social events and activities at the Prestige Village. AsiaWorld-Expo, Cheong Wing Road, Chek Lap Kok. longinesmasters.com

Taste of Hong Kong

AIA Great European Carnival

WINE & DINE

Taste of Hong Kong (22-25 MAR) Asia’s premier restaurant festival will showcase food from the city’s top restaurants, along with wine tastings, live entertainment and premium food and drink from artisan producers in the Gourmet Market. Participating restaurants this year include Little Bao, Zuma, New Punjab Club and Duddell’s. Central Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central. hongkong.tastefestivals.com

SHOWS

CATS

CATS (UNTIL 11 FEB)

Following a triumphant season in London’s West End, the acclaimed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical CATS has come to Hong Kong. Based on TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats , the show is alive with entertaining feline characters and witty verse, as the Jellicle Cats come out to play in a larger-than-life junkyard on the night of the Jellicle Ball. Don’t miss one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history. The Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai. lunchbox-productions.com

: www.expatliving.hk

For even more things to do every week, go to our online calendar or sign up for our newsletter

15 FEB-MAR2018

Home Décor Favourite Interior Designer or Home Stylist 1 ST PLACE INDIGO LIVING Favourite Kids’ Furniture Store 1 ST PLACE INDIGO KIDS Best Outdoor Furniture Store 1 ST PLACE EVERYTHING UNDER THE SUN Best Antiques Store 1 ST PLACE ALTFIELD GALLERY Favourite Carpets & Rugs 1 ST PLACE CARPET BUYER Favourite Art Gallery 1 ST PLACE YELLOWKORNER

Votes are in and we’re delighted to announce the winners of the 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards . Do look out for the award decal on the windows or websites of these businesses to spot the winners. A BIG thank you to all those who voted this year and to our partners, Hong Kong Airlines and COMO Uma Ubud, Bali for contributing amazing prizes. Congratulations!

Services Favourite Car Dealer / Leasing Agent 1 ST PLACE TESLA Favourite Moving Company 1 ST PLACE SANTA FE RELOCATION Favourite Dry Cleaners 1 ST PLACE JEEVES Favourite Photography Studio

1 ST PLACE VENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY

Recreation Favourite Social & Sports Club 1 ST PLACE HONG KONG FOOTBALL CLUB Best Indoor Kids’ Activity 1 ST PLACE RYZE HONG KONG Favourite Kids’ Enrichment Programme 1 ST PLACE ESF LANGUAGE & LEARNING Favourite Outdoor Kids’ Activities 1 ST PLACE OCEAN PARK

expatliving.hk/winners Here are some of the winners. For the full list of readers’ votes visit

For the full list of winners and runners-up, visit expatliving.hk/winners

Groceries Best Grocery Store 1 ST PLACE MARKET PLACE BY JASONS Best Online Grocer 1 ST PLACE HONESTBEE Favourite Butcher 1 ST PLACE FEATHER AND BONE Wine & Dine Favourite Date Night / Romantic Venue 1 ST PLACE CAPRICE Favourite Family-Friendly Restaurant 1 ST PLACE PIZZA EXPRESS Favourite Champagne Brunch Venue 1 ST PLACE ZUMA Favourite Wine Bar 1 ST PLACE LA CABANE WINE BISTRO

Beauty Favourite Hair Colouring Service 1 ST PLACE GLOW SALON & SPA Favourite Manicure / Pedicure 1 ST PLACE IYARA DAY SPA Favourite Facial 1 ST PLACE SENSE OF TOUCH Favourite Hair Removal 1 ST PLACE NUDE BEAUTIQUE

Health & Fitness Favourite Gym / Fitness Outlet 1 ST PLACE PURE FITNESS Best Alternative / Complementary Therapy 1 ST PLACE IMI Favourite General Medical Centre 1 ST PLACE QUALITY HEALTHCARE Favourite Paediatrician 1 ST PLACE LITTLE ANGEL PAEDIATRIC Travel Favourite Travel Booking Website 1 ST PLACE EXPEDIA Favourite Airline 1 ST PLACE CATHAY PACIFIC Favourite Hotel Chain 1 ST PLACE SHANGRI-LA Favourite Cruise Line 1 ST PLACE ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES Favourite Hotel – Beach Break 1 ST PLACE JW MARRIOTT PHUKET RESORT & SPA

Favourite Wine Retailer 1 ST PLACE WATSON’S WINE

Retail & Fashion Favourite Tailor 1 ST PLACE SAM’S TAILOR Favourite Women’s Fashion Store 1 ST PLACE ZARA Favourite Jewellery Store 1 ST PLACE CHOW TAI FOOK Favourite Swimwear / Resort Wear 1 ST PLACE OZZIE COZZIE

Favourite Hotel – Romantic Getaway 1 ST PLACE SIX SENSES YAO NOI

expatliving.hk Get more updates and helpful content from Hong Kong’s ultimate lifestyle guide. Followus at ...

Online now... Visit our website today to check out the top 10 destinations for 2018

facebook.com/expatlivingHK

twitter.com/expatlivingHK

pinterest.com/expatlivingHK instagram.com/expatlivingHK

HOMES • FAMILY • ARTS • FOOD • TRAVEL • FASHION • HEALTH • BEAUTY

FEB-MAR18

Feb—Mar2018 Issue39

EXPATLIVING.HK

Readers’ Choice Awards TheWinnersAnnounced!

SAVE 35% ON A YEAR’S SUBSCRIPTION! For only HK$188 (usually $288) you’ll get: • Six bi-monthly issues

PARENTING BoardingSchools PlayTherapy

VALENTINE’S •LIVINGROOMS •PARENTING

GLAMPING BOUTIQUEHOTELS GETTING FIT& FAB

delivered right to your door • Free access to the digital edition worth $230 To subscribe, simply visit expatliving.hk/print HK$48 ART&PHOTOGRAPHY Valentine IDEAS

18

FEB-MAR2018

Whatwe’reup toon…

INSTAGRAM Follow us @expatlivinghk for all our behind-the-scenes antics!

See the most photogenic locations in Hong Kong

Tap into all the top spots for special occasions

Discover the latest foodie finds!

NEW TO HONG KONG ORKNOWSOMEONEWHO IS?

SETTING UP HOME • INTERIOR DÉCOR • THINGS TO DO

Our City Guide features usefularticlesonhealthcare, schools, choosing the right neighbourhoods to live in, as well as all the best places to shop and dine.

SETTING UP HOME • INTERIOR DÉCOR • THINGS TO DO

C TY GUIDE

C TY GUIDE

A L L Y O U N E E D T O N A V I G A T E L I F E I N T H E 8 5 2

A L L Y O U N E E D T O N A V I G A T E L I F E I N T H E 8 5 2

CHOOSING SCHOOLS • HEALTHCARE • DINING ... & MORE!

To get a FREE copy, visit expatliving.hk/shop

CHOOSING SCHOOLS • HEALTHCARE • DINING ... & MORE!

19 FEB-MAR2018

HOME&PROPERTY

22 Year of the Dog: Unique canine

creations for the home

TREE

24 Ocean Abode: We visit the Sai Kung pad of our editor Brooke

31 Wonder Walls: Previewing this year’s Asia Contemporary Art Show

38 Buying Guide: Loads of furniture and accessory ideas for your living room

HOME & PROPERTY

Contemporary Carpets The trend of mixing classic and contemporary is set to continue in 2018. Carpet Buyer last year imported a large selection of contemporary rugs from Europe, and these are now available at discounted prices, along with an extensive range of Persian and tribal carpets. Unit 2604-07, 26/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau. 2850 5508 | carpetbuyer.com

Top Six from Sonder

This season, the team at Sonder Living has assembled some of the interior industry’s top contemporary designers under one roof. Find brand new collections of furniture and home décor from Thomas Bina, Nellcote Studio, Tracey B o y d , An d r ew Ma r t i n , Maison 55, and Coup & Co. 2/F, Horizon Plaza, 2 LeeWing Street, ApLei Chau. 27995878

Year of the Dog Looking for a unique gift for Valentine’s Day? TREE ’s collection of canine characters will warm hearts and homes this season. There are quirky and colourful pooches handcrafted from tin, in a variety of breeds – from inquisitive and playful dachshunds, to poised and regal cavaliers. Also making a return this year are TREE’s naturally sweet pups, handcrafted from recycled paper and a variety of natural woven fibres from the Philippines. tree.com.hk

There’s nothing quite like wallcovering to make a statement in a room, and Missoni Home’s first wallcovering collection offers plenty of inspiration. The collection, now available at Altfield , features iconic geometrics, zig-zags and patterns from the Italian fashion house, in classic Missoni colour combinations, making them instantly recognisable, and guaranteed to get your guests talking! 1101 Nine Queen’s Road, Central. 2524 4867 | altfield.com.hk On theWall

22

FEB-MAR2018

Before she moves on to new challenges, we asked our outgoing editor BROOKE CHENOWETH to show us around her home.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIELLA AMITAI

What brought you to Hong Kong and when? We moved here ten years ago after David was offered a job with an airline. I had always wanted to live in Asia so we saw it as a chance to have an adventure before having kids. I planned to stay for a year or two but, as is so often the case with Hong Kong, I fell in love and never left! We came as newlyweds, just the two of us and our dog Pikie, and now we’re a family of four, so it feels like a huge part of our life has been spent here. Both our boys were born in Hong Kong, so it’s home for them. We have an amazing community of friends here, and the lifestyle is pretty unique, so we’ve never regretted the decision. How long have you lived in this particular home? We’ve been here two and a half years, and I don’t plan on living anywhere else while we’re in Hong Kong! Lantau offers a really nice beachy lifestyle, and the community is very small and tight-knit. We liked the open space it offered, and because we knew a few people who lived there already it took a lot of the stress out of moving to a new country. We loved our time on the island, but we did feel a bit isolated after the boys were born. Schooling and basic necessities are a bit limited compared to other parts of the city, and it came to a point where we either had to move back to Australia or try somewhere new within Hong Kong. We managed to get the boys into a school over this way so we made the move, and we haven’t looked back. You previously lived on Lantau; why did you make the move?

24

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

“When the weather’s good we hike to Trio Beach or jump on a sampan to a nearby beach”

What’s the biggest difference between life on Lantau and in Sai Kung? Despite being on opposite sides of Hong Kong there are a lot of similarities between Sai Kung and Lantau. They’re both gorgeous areas, with lots of space and nice beaches, great communities, and they’re remote without being too far away from Central. Sai Kung offers more in terms of schooling, medical care, shopping and weekend activities – all those things you look for when you’ve got a family. Being on the eastern side of Hong Kong, it’s also a lot cleaner, and we’ve noticed a big difference in the air and water quality over here. It’s further from the airport, but slightly closer to Central than Lantau. Tell us a bit about your place. When we decided to move out here we didn’t have much time to find a place and move in before we left for the summer. We had tried village life on Lantau and it didn’t work out at all, so we knew what we wanted, but we traipsed about with estate agents for days and didn’t find anything. We came across this complex after seeing a Facebook post about another house here and we liked it instantly. David actually came out and signed the lease without me even seeing the house – I saw it for the

How would you describe your interior style? I’d like to say I’ve mastered the beach chic/Hamptons style but I think we’ve ended up with something more sentimental and eclectic! I read a lot of interiors magazines and am on Pinterest all the time, but the reality of living with two small boys has dictated a lot of our decorating choices. We inherited a bit of furniture from friends when we moved to Hong Kong, and we made do with that and IKEA while the boys were really small. We lived in a tiny 750-square- foot villa for years and it wasn’t until we renovated it that we had an excuse to invest in some really nice furniture. We’ve always had the philosophy that we wanted pieces that would stay with us forever and be a part of the home we want to live in when we go back to Australia, rather than simply buying things that fit the house we lived in at the time. I’ve had quite a few pieces custom-made too, with the idea of taking a bit of Hong Kong style home to Australia with us one day. We’re lucky that everything we’ve bought works in our current home. Even though I’ve tried

first time the day we moved in! It’s the first house we’ve lived in here that has felt like home. The house is a three-story villa, in a small complex. It’s a five-minute drive to Sai Kung town, and seven minutes to school. We have views over the yacht club on one side, and the mountain range on the other. There’s a pool and tennis court, and the front area is gated and fenced so the boys can ride their bikes outside and play with the other kids without getting into too much trouble. We have about 1,700 square feet, with three bedrooms and two living rooms; it’s just the right size for the four of us. Even though we are only renting, it suits us, and there is very little I would change. I love this house!

25 FEB-MAR2018

26

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

to create a certain look at times, I always end up collecting pieces on our travels, or buying one-off bits of furniture that I’ve fallen in love with, regardless of whether or not they go with anything else in the house! To me, it’s more important that you feel at home and surround yourself with things that make you happy, and I’ve definitely achieved that. It’s hard to narrow it down to just a couple of pieces, but if I had to choose my absolute favourites I’d say our artwork is pretty special. We were given an original Charles Blackman etching as a wedding gift, that I adore, and a painting we bought in Bali on our first anniversary is a real statement piece. I also have prints by Belinda Bath and Louise Hill that I had to buy after meeting both of them, and lots of little pieces that we’ve collected over the years. As well as all that, we have framed drawings that the boys have done, and lots of family photos, which are obviously priceless! Each piece has a story attached, so despite lacking financial worth, our art collection is incredibly valuable to us. We also have a couple of “antiques” that have been with us for years. When we moved to Hong Kong we didn’t bring much with us, but we each chose a piece that we couldn’t bear to leave behind. I have an ancient chest of drawers that I bought at a second-hand shop for eighty Aussie dollars the day I moved to Sydney. It was from a hotel in the Blue Mountains that had a fire go through it, so it still has scorch marks. It’s old and the drawers don’t work but I’m very attached to it. Dave brought over a bookshelf that’s very impractical and doesn’t hold all our books, but it matches the chest of drawers and has as much sentimental value to him. I love our bed too. We invested in a Heveya mattress fromOkooko a few years ago, and it was the best purchase we’ve ever made. The headboard is from Bowerbird and it feels like a beautiful grown-up bed. I miss it when we go away! Our dining table is another one of our aspirational pieces. We bought it at Shambala in their closing down sale, with visions of hosting fabulous dinner parties and family gatherings. It’s a bit big for just the four of us, but it has seen some good times and great meals already, so I know it’ll live up to its potential over many years. What’s your favourite room or area? I needed to make a home here that felt lived-in and comfortable. When you’re an expat and you’re not here for long it can be tempting to make do, but I made an effort with every room in the house, and I’m really proud of it. Each room has something that I love, but I have to admit that my favourite space is my office. I spend a lot of time in it, and it’s the only room that I don’t have to share. Being the only girl in the house, I like having a room that’s just for me – I can fill it with flowers and pink things, and no one can complain! I also have my armchair in the living room downstairs, and that’s my favourite place to curl up with a book or a cup of tea. The boys know that it’s “mummy’s chair” and treat it like a sacred space, so it’s possibly the only corner of the house that doesn’t have any Lego in it. Are there some specific pieces in your home that you love most or that have special significance?

27 FEB-MAR2018

28

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

What do you enjoy most about your neighbourhood and Sai Kung in general? And how does a typical weekend unfold? We love this neighbourhood because it’s so close to everything, and many of our friends live nearby. The complex is small and there are lots of kids, so there’s always someone for the boys to play with, and it’s safe too. Sai Kung itself has a lot to offer, and it’s all pretty much on our doorstep. Every weekend starts with pancakes, and a leisurely coffee or two. When the weather is good we try and do a hike to Trio Beach or in the country park, or we jump on a sampan to one of the many beaches nearby. We recently joined the Victoria Recreation Club at Emerald Bay and weekend barbecues out there have quickly become a regular event. It’s a fantastic place for the kids to run around and explore, and it’s a nice spot year-round. The boys play football (soccer) on a Sunday with the Sai Kung Bulldogs, so we usually spend the afternoon at the pitch and come back via the markets along the waterfront. One of the best things about the area is that there’s always something happening. There are enough clubs and facilities in the area that it’s easy to entertain the kids when you need to be indoors, but it’s also naturally beautiful and so there are plenty of outdoor options too.

Brooke’s Recommendations DINING

Little Cove Espresso 34 See Cheung Street, Sai Kung Padstow 112 Pak Sha Wan, Sai Kung The Conservatory 26 Wan King Path, Sai Kung enotecagroup.com

SHOPPING

Bowerbird Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau bowerbird-home.com Okooko Horizon Plaza, 2 Lee Wing Street, Ap Lei Chau okooko.com

Indigo Living indigo-living.com Sofa Sale sofasale.com.hk Yong Chang antiqueyc.com.cn

29 FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

“Book Climb” by Priya Janghu, Canada

BEHIND

BY BROOKE CHENOWETH The Asia Contemporary Art Show (ACAS) brings artists and galleries from all over the world to Hong Kong each year. With the twelfth edition taking place in March, we sat down with founder and director MARK SAUNDERSON to learn more about the show, and how it all comes together. THESCENES

exchange between galleries and artists, and collectors and art buyers. In generous 42-square-metre spaces, paintings, limited editions, sculpture, photography and other objects are creatively curated, sometimes neatly spread across a bed or cleverly hung in strategic locations. Many galleries and artists create special exhibits that extend to bathrooms, using the particular light, mirrors and tiled surfaces to imbue a new feel and character to the artwork. We actively encourage buyer and seller to strike up conversation over a glass of wine or cocktail, with the uneasy and sometimes intimidating gallery experience a memory, replaced by a welcome from the gallery owner or artist. Better still for buyers, exhibitors at the show can price works favourably given the lower costs of exhibiting in a hotel than a big exhibition centre. The format follows in the tradition of other successful hotel art fairs in major art hubs across the world.

How far in advance do you start planning each show? The Asia Contemporary Art Show is a twice-yearly event, and we start planning for the next show as soon as the current one closes. Of course, the show goes on throughout the year on our website, the Asia Contemporary Art Buyer (asiacontemporaryart.com), where our exhibitors and artists get to display their works to potential buyers all year round. Where did the idea come from to run the show in a hotel? It’s a unique concept! We’re a pioneer in the hotel art-fair format in Asia. We’ve been doing this for 11 editions and counting, and there is an appeal to the format that resonates with many people – an intimacy that just doesn’t occur in large exhibition halls. The show is held across four floors of the Conrad Hong Kong in Admiralty. A series of 80 art living spaces provide an intimate setting for viewing a broad selection of artwork, much as you would see art displayed in a new home or office setting. This engaging environment sets us apart from other fairs during Hong Kong Art Week each spring. There’s a relaxing ambience that facilitates sales, dialogue and

“Blurry Marilyn” by CEET Fouad, Amanda Wei Gallery, Hong Kong

About Asia Contemporary Art Show Behind the Asia Contemporary Art Show are three art enthusiasts with more than 25 years’ experience in the region – Mark Saunderson, Douwe Cramer and Sarah Benecke – who consider the interest of artists, galleries and buyers are best served by providing vibrant fairs and online content that stimulate discovery, exploration and conversations about art. The Asia Contemporary Art Show is Hong Kong’s only art fair that takes place twice a year.

31 FEB-MAR2018

“1459” by Saverio Lucci, Italy

How many exhibitors and galleries return to the fair each year? About half of the galleries and artists attending our shows are returning; the remainder will be new to the show, and some will be exhibiting in Hong Kong for the very first time. How do you find new exhibitors? We seek out up-and-coming and emerging artists, mid-career artists, and those who have already achieved recognition in private and public collections, and at auction. Applications for each show are appraised by a selection committee, who decide on the 300 artists, more or less, that end up appearing. But it’s more layered than this; about half the exhibitors are returnees, having participated in previous shows. Of course, that’s a feather in our cap because we understand that these exhibitors trust us, enjoy the experience and find success in selling their works. Additionally, there are exhibitors who, thanks to our publicity efforts, agree to sign on to upcoming shows. Again, we must be doing something right! Finally, there are other efforts where we reach out directly to international and local galleries and artists. This requires not only lots of travel, but also a good understanding of the Asian art market – to introduce artworks that will be appealing to art buyers here in Asia. The Spring Edition will feature two exciting sections: “Intersections: China” and “Artist Dialogues”. Intersections is a returning series that focuses on the conceptual crossing of artistic ideas between past and present, traditional and modern, and East and West; the spotlight this time is on China and Chinese artists. Visitors will see artists as diverse as Wang Shuhui, who has turned dumplings into sculpture, and Ding Wenqing, a painter whose goal is to change the way Chinese landscapes are perceived. Unique to ACAS is Artist Dialogues, an entire floor dedicated to artists exhibiting in a solo or joint presentation. This sector allows visitors to interact directly with artists in an intimate environment, and allows artists to articulate their inspirations and artistic practice, transforming their exhibits into a seeing and learning experience. What can we expect to see at the show in March?

“Tranquil Lake” by Ding Wenqing, SUOMEI M50 ART GALLERY, China

32

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

“Bon Rêveur” by Egle Babilaite, 310 Gallery, Russia

Did You Know? Each twice-yearly Asia Contemporary Art Show is limited to 80 exhibiting galleries. The artists represented come from over 20 countries. Over 2,500 artworks from Asia and the world are exhibited, including original paintings, limited editions, sculpture and photography from some of the world’s most interesting and promising artists. With more than 12,000 artworks from over 1,600 artists hailing from 60-plus countries, the Asia Contemporary Art Buyer is Asia’s leading artwebsite (asiacontemporaryart.com).

AsiaContemporaryArt Show(SpringEdition 2018) 23 to 26 March, Conrad Hong Kong 2-for-1 tickets now available at asiacontemporaryart.com/tickets

ArtWeekNews In celebration of the city’s vibrant art scene, Hong Kong Art Gallery Association (HKAGA) is hosting a number of events during Art Week. Add these two to your diary!

Art Gallery Night Monday 26 March, 6-8pm

Art Brunch Friday 30 March, 9am-noon

In anticipation of Art Basel, join participating member galleries for a fun evening immersed in art; you’ll find a list of participating galleries at the HKAGA website.

HKAGA member galleries welcome visitors to a morning of art and culture. The galleries will be open early with special exhibitions, art talks, coffee and refreshments, and the chance to mingle with the art-world crowd. Refer to the HKAGA website to see who’s involved.

G/F, 248 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan 3480 5051 | | hk-aga.org

33 FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

Handlewith Care Moving and maintaining precious pieces of art in prime condition is no walk in the park. The fine art landscape has evolved over recent years in Hong Kong and Asia. For instance, in 2016, more art and antiques were sold by value in mainland China than anywhere else in the world. With art week around the corner, the number of buyers in Hong Kong is set to grow too, and many of them will be wondering how to handle their new art pieces to preserve their quality and value. According to TOMMY K.C. CHAN, Director of Crown Fine Art Hong Kong & Macau , when it comes to transportation or storage of your precious belongings, there are plenty of reasons why you want to leave it to experts. Art fairs and auctions have been around for a while, but online marketplaces are changing the way art is consumed and produced, according to Artfinder’s inaugural art market report. The platform for independent artists claims that the art market is being democratised for buyers and sellers thanks to growing online sales. Artfinder reports significant shifting consumer demographics, too – with a 50 percent increase in sales among under-34-year- olds in the first half of 2017. That’s a lot of art to move and care for! Depending on your needs, the climate your art piece has been kept in, or its dimensions, you need a dedicated fine-art logistics company that understands and recognises that every work of art is unique, and therefore requires special packing, crating, handling and transportation or secured storage. Packing & Crating: It’s important your artwork is packed with acid-free material. Most valuable collections will also require crating. Make sure your provider has an in-house crating team experienced in bespoke crates based on the specific requirements of the artwork. Transportation & Storage: In the mainly tropical, hot and humid all-year-round climate of Southeast Asia, it’s crucial to have specialised air-conditioned transportation to handle delicate artworks. Trucks must be equipped with Air Ride

suspension and GPS systems. For large and heavy items, you need a hoisting team that is thoroughly prepared and ready to take up the challenge. Just like the storage of fine wine, storage of artworks is regulated, and the chosen facility should have renowned certification. Make sure your art storage company is certified with GRASP (Global Risk Assessment Platform), a risk- assessment system for evaluating warehouse and museum facilities, which includes proper design and construction, manned and electronic security, environmental control or contingency and emergency planning. Installation & Beyond: If you’ve just purchased a new artwork or moved to a new home, don’t leave the installation of a valuable piece to a handyman. Make sure your artwork is installed by a “white glove” handling team. Last, but not least, if you’re already a long-term collector, you may be interested in exploring other services, from the restoring or appraisal of artwork, to framing, stretching and unstretching.

2636 8344 | crownfineart.com

34

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

Furniture&Beyond nd BY MELISSA STEVENS

DAVID LAMBERT believes there is a simple reason for the popularity of his business, and that is a focus on service at every step of the process.

Designer darling DSL Furniture has become a go-to store for a number of Hong Kong interior designers, and David believes that his background in construction and home renovation both here and in the US is a key reason for this. “We’re very lucky to work with interior designers on all kinds of residential and commercial projects – from luxury homes in Discovery Bay to the Four Seasons Hotel in Central,” he says. “Our background in renovation projects gives us an edge. Designers want to work with people who understand the process and logistics in each project and we provide that for them, as well as offering furniture.” How it works “We’ve got furniture for every room of the home at affordable price points,” David says. “And for those who want to invest a little more in creating custom one-off pieces, we’ve got you covered too.” DSL’s contemporary collections, such as the Hvar collection, have proven to be perennially popular and can be delivered to

No doubt it’s this approach that has helped the business to flourish: last year, DSL Furniture opened a showroom on Bonham Road, Mid-Levels, while also relaunching its e-commerce website, which aims to provide beautifully crafted, high- quality contemporary furniture at a reasonable cost. New and notable “Each year, we continue to develop the business with new products and improved services,” says David, who is originally from England, where he studied and trained in management before moving to the United States and then Hong Kong. “We treat our customers as friends, and so we created the

your home within two to five weeks from purchase. The versatile Lamberi and Modern Classic collections take about six weeks from the time of ordering. Custom furniture can be produced about six weeks after an order has been confirmed. There’ll also be some new products available in 2018, according to David, so watch this space!

showroom with the same attitude in mind. Customers will sit and chat with us – often with a cup of tea – and we’ll discuss their projects in detail, whether they’re looking to design their home layout or simply to find the perfect piece of furniture.” This characteristic attention to customers is also evident in DSL’s website relaunch, which features sophisticated search tools to enhance the user experience. “The goal of the relaunch was to make the ordering process user-friendly and fast,” David says. “It was finalised only after a year-long process of gathering customer feedback and doing research.”

DSL Furniture is at 1A, 28-30 Bonham Road, Mid-Levels. 8191 3885 | dslfurniture.com

36

FEB-MAR2018

Living From cosy and casual to luxe lounging, these living room ideas are sure to inspire. Rooms to Love

Scalamandré Botanica Collection, price on request, Altfield Interiors , 2525 2738, altfield.com.hk

Ashley chaise longue in paprika micro velvet, Tequila Kola , 2877 3295, tequilakola.com

Lamberi armchair, $6,700, DSL Furniture , 8191 3885, dslfurniture.com

38

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

Bar cabinet in lacquered wood and stainless steel, Tequila Kola , 2877 3295, tequilakola.com

Scalamandré Botanica Collection, Altfield Interiors , 2525 2738, altfield.com.hk

Semi-antique Veramin carpet in hand-spun wool, CarpetBuyer , 2850 5508, carpetbuyer.com

Lamberi sofa, $11,600, DSL Furniture , 8191 3885, dslfurniture.com

Orb coffee table, $6,450; Gabbia lounge chair, $3,950; Kompagnon bar cart, $4,950, all from the Universo Positivo Collection, TREE , 2870 1582, tree.com.hk

39 FEB-MAR2018

Kalama coffee tables in solid munggur wood, available in natural or black finish, from $12,501, Atelier Lane , 9558 3007, atelierlane.com

Contemporary designer carpets, CarpetBuyer , 2850 5508, carpetbuyer.com

Tuareg extendable TV cabinet, from $6,450, TREE , 2870 1582, tree.com.hk

Nelson cabinet, available in black, white, ash wood and navy blue, $15,598, Atelier Lane , 9558 3007, atelierlane.com

Living room furniture, from $2,800; soft furnishings and accessories, from $420, INSIDE , 2873 1795, inside.com.hk

40

FEB-MAR2018

T he Lunar New Year is a time to welcome new things and get ready for a new start – maybe even a new home! But now that the holiday parties are over and everyone is back to their regular routine, my team and I have been thinking a lot about firm residential market favourites – tried and tested neighbourhoods whose appeal for expats never seems to falter. One of the highlights of living in Hong Kong is its convenience – and nowhere is this more apparent than in neighbourhoods like Mid-Levels and Happy Valley. A world of culinary choices, where East meets West, and proximity to the business district, playgroups, schools and hiking trails continue to attract newcomers to Hong Kong to these areas. These are definitely two of my favourite neighbourhoods for their sense of community. If your lai see red packets do not stretch to an opulent apartment, you’re not alone. As expatriate housing allowances become a thing of the past, we are seeing more tenants become cost-conscious. Luckily, there are some high-specification homes out there that won’t break the bank. To make the most of your money, it’s best to work with a single agent who can understand your needs – and your budget! Here are our top picks of luxurious living, without the top- end price tag! Kung hei fat choi!

Stella Abraham Head of Residential Leasing & Relocation Services National Director Jones Lang LaSalle Limited (JLL)

URBAN LIVING Area: Happy Valley Rent: HK$24,400 per month Size: 366 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 1 Bathrooms: 1

Newly launched in December 2017, this unit features a stylish and contemporary interior with an open-plan kitchen and top-of-the-line appliances. Clubhouse facilities include an elegantly-appointed function room, outdoor barbecue area and an exclusive fitness centre.

42

FEB-MAR2018

HOME & PROPERTY

SPACIOUS & PICTURESQUE Area: Happy Valley Rent: $150,000 per month Size: 2,451 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 3

Th i s n ew l y r e f u r b i s h e d apartment boasts beautiful views of Happy Valley. It features large dining and living rooms, as well as a walk-in closet in the master bedroom – perfect for those looking for plenty of storage space. Residents are just 15 minutes away from Central, Causeway Bay and the Southside.

This development is highly sought-after given its convenient location and exceptional facilities – it has a gym, swimming pool, squash court and even bowling alleys. This unit has a well-appointed layout and unbeatable harbour views.

PERFECT FAMILY HOME Area: Mid-Levels West Rent: $64,000 per month Size: 1,070 sq. ft

Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2

43 FEB-MAR2018