AUGUST 2017

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

AUG 2017

SINGAPORE

Work From Home:

Office Styling Tips

Rooftop Rendezvous Bars with a view

Cool Spaces Fromcondo comforts to life on a boat

TheBigC Dealing with Cancer

EDITOR’SNOTE

As I mature, I realise there is only one way we can be unsuccessful – and that is if we don’t try. I am an “undomesticated goddess”. Cooking, sewing and stuff like that doesn’t come naturally to me, and my attention span for it is limited. When I was 24, necessity (i.e., lack of money) drove me to make an outfit for myself. With a pair of large knitting needles and some thick cotton I knitted two squares and two rectangles and created a white top. Then with a tube of pink ribbed t-shirt material (very “in” then) I made myself a skirt. It fitted quite snugly over my hips so I decided it didn’t need elastic round the top. With my pair of pink patent leather shoes and belt (it was the 80s!) I thought I looked fairly cool as I headed off to a nightclub. It was the Gunston 500 surf competition in Durban at the time and we ended up giving two cool dudes a lift to their nearby hotel. I got out of the front of my friend’s mini and stood on the pavement, of a fairly main road, to let them get out of the back. And, as we said goodbye, my skirt fell to my ankles. Luckily, the top covered my knickers and I managed to whip it back up in nano-seconds, but it was a slightly awkward farewell. Once I was back in the car, my friend and I collapsed with laughter and kept going for most of the night until her mum told us to be quiet. But at least I tried – and, it’s given me a great story to tell! If you have any stories where you’ve tried but it hasn’t quite worked out the way you’d planned, email me at editorial@expatliving.sg. And if at first you don’t succeed...

REBECCA BISSET Editor-in-Chief

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AUGUST2017

Editor-in-Chief REBECCA BISSET

Group Editor SHAMUS SILLAR Creative Projects Director, Fashion & Beauty Editor SUSANNAH JAFFER Editors HOME & PROPERTY: AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE LIFE & FAMILY: KATIE ROBERTS ARTS & LEISURE, WINE & DINE, HEALTH: AMY GREENBURG Copy Editors VERNE MAREE | PIP HARRY Online Editor EMILY FINCH Junior Editors LINDSAY YAP | ANTHIA CHNG IT & Web Support RENE YUTIAMPO Client Services & Production LEANDA RATHMELL | LIANA TALIB | NUR HANANI KAMAL LUDDIN Senior Graphic Designers MICHAEL BERNABE | BEATRICE NG | JEANNE WONG Circulation & Administration ANNA TSERLINGAS | GRACE BANTARAN | SITI SHAHIRAH KHIRUDEEN Marketing & Business Development VEENA GILL Advertising Sales, Singapore KARIN GALLEY-DICK | DANIELLE ROSSETTI | LARA SAGE | JACQUI YOUNG

Partnerships & Events SUSAN KNUDSEN-PICKLES Executive Producer, Video Content MELINDA MURPHY Chief Operations Officer COLIN PURCHASE Contributing Writers PHILIPPA BARR | CAROLYN BEASLEY | LINDA DE FLAVIS | HARSHARAN KAUR | HEIDI SARNA

Contributing Photographers KEN TAN (WITHINIMAGES.COM)

CONTACT US General Enquiries: +65 6812 1780 | info@expatliving.sg Advertising Sales: +65 6812 1781 | sales@expatliving.sg Subscription: +65 6812 1783 | subscription@expatliving.sg Production: +65 6812 1787 | production@expatliving.sg Editorial & Media Releases: editorial@expatliving.sg Calendar of Events: calendar@expatliving.sg Events: events@expatliving.sg Websites: expatliving.sg | expatliving.hk I exmag.sg Printed by Ho Printing Singapore Pte Ltd (hoprinting.com) Published by Expat Living Publications Pte Ltd 18 Howard Road, #08-10 Novelty Bizcentre, Singapore 369585

Dany Bolduc’s Sentosa boat home, Capri

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CONTENTS

46

Home at the Marina

NEWS 22 Calendar Updates: 30 Readers’ Letters 32 EL Forum:

What’s on in the coming months

What we’re up to online, plus our upcoming events

34 Around Town:

Photos from recent openings, parties, festivals and more

HOME & PROPERTY 42 News 46 Real Homes:

67 Ideas for a great home- office setup

Living the boat life in Sentosa

52 Furniture Focus:

Which showroom just got bigger and better?

54 Shopping Edit:

Our favourite frames for your home

57 Real Homes:

From New York to Novena

65 Suite Stay:

Check out this serviced residence

67 Work from Home:

Be productive in comfort and style

74 Street Talk:

Life on Meyer Road

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CONTENTS

LIFE & FAMILY 82 News 88 Environment News 90 Noticeboard: New births and more 93 Culture Vulture: About the Hungry Ghost festival 97 School News: Education updates 100 Handy Tips: Equipping preschool kids for later learning 102 Hard Talk: How to discuss tragedy with your children 104 Into the Future: Graduates on life after international school 112 Expat Profile: We meet voice actress Michelle Ford 115 Animal Aid: How you can help orphaned elephant Payichit 118 Good Causes: One boy’s story of giving to charity WINE & DINE 128 News 134 Bar Tab: New and notable venues for a tipple 136 Bella Italia: The best places for pizza, pasta and more 148 Drinks with a View: Cool rooftop spots in town 152 Recipe Corner: Fail-safe favourites to add to your repertoire 154 Clean Meat: What to know about this future food

176 Fun

activities on a cruise to Malaysia

136 Irresistible Italian restaurants

TRAVEL 162 News 166 Aussie Road Trip: Perth to Wave Rock, Albany and Margaret River 172 Beauty Found: A fab festival in the Japanese Alps 176 Cruise News: Family-friendly fun 178 Penang Insights:

How tourism is saving George Town’s heritage

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208 All the skincare treats you need

CONTENTS

Reinvention Rules: Four women on how they shook up their 9 to 5 181

FASHION 190 News 194 Style Hunter:

Fashion on Singapore’s streets

196 Savvy Packing:

Create a versatile travel wardrobe

198 Eastern Influence: Collections from India and Pakistan BEAUTY 202 News 204 Anti-Ageing: HEALTH & FITNESS 214 News 217 Pregnancy Fitness: The do’s and don’ts 218 Prenatal Exercise: Moves for mums-to-be 220 Get Checked:

The latest treatments, products and expert tips

Five important screenings for women

223 The C Word:

Specialist opinions on the way forward

REGULARS 235 Numbers & Websites 236 Horoscopes for August

238 Advertiser List 240 Parting Shot: The Art of the Loo

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CALENDAR

SHOPPING & FAIRS

HotLotz Auction

Antique & Vintage Tableware Timed Online Auction (14-30 AUG)

Don’t miss this online-only auction by HotLotz Auction House, where you can pick up stemware, flatware, tableware and more for your next dinner party. Get your hands on lovely vintage coffee- sets, silver warming-stands and Victorian meat-plates. Browse the full catalogue at the HotLotz website. hotlotz.com Piedmont Wine Tasting with Bacco (17 AUG) Indulge in an evening of fine Italian vino at this tasting with Bacco, featuring delectable wines from Piedmont and Langhe, and volcanic wine from the Gattinara region. #02-09 The Herencia, 46 Kim Yam Road. baccowines.com Beerfest Asia 2017 (17-20 AUG) If you love a brew – not to mention good food and music – be sure to drop into Beerfest Asia. Take your pick from over 500 types of beer and be entertained by a variety of music and comedy acts. Marina Bay Cruise Centre. beerfestasia.com SPORTS & FITNESS Ironman 70.3 Bintan (20 AUG) Enjoy beautiful views of Lagoi Bay during the Ironman 70.3 Bintan triathlon. The race comprises a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycling route and a 21.1km run. Lagoi Bay, Bintan. ironmanbintan.com The Greenrace Forest 60 (26 AUG) Run through lush greenery at the newly opened Chestnut Nature Park during The Greenrace Forest 60. You’ll race through the park in the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, starting and finishing at the historic KTM Railway Station. Choose from a 21km solo event, a team race and a 60km challenge. thegreenrace.sg Urban Aquathlon 2017 (26 AUG) Challenge your swimming and running skills at the Urban Aquathlon! Apart from the 400m swim and 3km run, this year’s edition also includes a non-competitive Family Run category with a 50m swim and 500m run, and a Junior category for the kids: a 100m swim and 1km run. Registration closes on 25 August. Orchid Country Club. urbanaquathlon.com

DANCE, DRAMA & THEATRE Films At The Fort – Open-air Cinema (3-20 AUG) Catch a film under the stars at Films At The Fort this August. Screenings include award-winners such as Thelma & Louise , Hidden Figures and The Wall , and you can indulge in fine wines and gourmet bites while you watch. Fort Canning Park. filmsatthefort.com.sg Singapore’s only beachfront jazz event returns for its seventh year this August. Each weekend during the month features live performances from artists such as Rob Collins & The Jukebox Quartet; beers and cocktails will be available. Coastes, Sentosa. A Celebration of Dreams: John Williams – The Music Makers (12 AUG) John Williams’ numerous film scores, including Star Wars , Hook and Close Encounters of the Third Kind , are highlighted in this concert, performed by the Orchestra of the Music Makers (OMM). Esplanade Concert Hall. Tickets from Sistic. Bastille Live in Singapore (14 AUG) Bastille lit up the stage at the F1 Grand Prix last year, and the British alt-pop band returns to Singapore this month to showcase hits from its albums Bad Blood and Wild World . The Star Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Jazz by the Beach (4, 11, 18, 25 AUG)

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CALENDAR

DNCE Live in Singapore (15 AUG)

DNCE Live in Singapore

American dance-rock band DNCE performs in Singapore for the first time this August, promising audiences catchy hits such as “Cake by the Ocean” and “Kissing Strangers”. Suntec Convention Centre. Tickets from Apactix. Midnight Oil Live in Singapore (16 AUG) “The Great Circle 2017” is Midnight Oil’s first world tour in more than two decades, and it has Singapore in its sights for August. Don’t miss this chance to hear the Aussie band’s classic hits from the 80s and 90s, from legendary albums like Diesel and Dust and 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 . The Star Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Cosentino: Anything Is Possible (17-27 AUG) Death-defying escape acts and mind-boggling illusions are what you’ll get at Cosentino’s new show this August. With a mix of dance and magic, and a little help from the audience, it’s sure to captivate both young and old. MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands. Tickets from Sistic. Le Syndrome Ian (24-26 AUG) On the bill of the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) is the Asia-Pacific premiere of Le Syndrome Ian , the conclusion to award-winning choreographer Christian Rizzo’s trilogy of “found” anonymous dances; it features nine performers and some amazing choreography. SOTA Drama Theatre. sifa.sg Young and old will love this classic tale told through special effects, video and magic that promise to take the viewer on a sensory adventure. Gateway Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Foo Fighters Live in Singapore (26 AUG) Dave Grohl and his mega-popular Foo Fighters return to Singapore this August. The Grammy-winning rock band will be belting out hits from its substantial back catalogue, along with new tracks from upcoming album Concrete and Gold . National Stadium. Tickets from the Sports Hub website. Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) (UNTIL 9 SEP) The annual SIFA returns with the theme “Enchantment”. Expect stunning performances such as Trojan Women , a contemporary Asian musical, and activities such as Open Homes , where you can visit homes and hear from the residents. Multiple locations. Tickets from Sistic. The Nutcracker (25 AUG-10 SEP)

FAMILY Shaws Little League Sports Holiday Camps (UNTIL AUG)

Kids aged three to ten can enjoy four days of fun-filled sport, cooking, and arts-and-craft activities during the holidays. Each day’s three- hour session will introduce a range of sports such as rugby, baseball, hockey and ultimate frisbee. Shaws Little League @ The Cage, 38 Jalan Benaan Kapal. shawslittleleague.com The Curious Adventures of Pinocchio (UNTIL 6 AUG) Enjoy this retelling of the classic tale of Pinocchio by Lyngo Theatre from England. Go on an adventure with the beloved puppet as he meets crickets, cats and foxes. Drama Centre Black Box, National Library Building. Tickets from Sistic. Monster Jam (19 AUG) Get ready for an action-packed evening with the family at Monster Jam, featuring electrifying monster truck performances, freestyle competitions and racing. National Stadium. Tickets from the Sports Hub website.

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CALENDAR

Folds of Mind

SuperMom Baby Fair (25-27 AUG)

Pick up all your baby essentials at the upcoming SuperMom Baby Fair. As one of the largest baby fairs in Singapore, it will present a wide variety of brands and products for mothers and mothers-to-be. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. supermom.com.sg

Rise & Shine (25-27 AUG)

Have a fun day out with the kids at this education fair, which will feature games, contests and seminars. You’ll also be able to snag a good deal at the toy and book stands. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. riseandshine.com.sg Dulwich College (Singapore) Open Morning (30 AUG) Take a tour of Dulwich College campus to meet students and Heads of School and see its state-of-the-art facilities, including a performing arts centre, three swimming pools and even a rooftop bike track for little ones. Go to the school website to reserve your place. 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8. dulwich-singapore.sg | admissions@dulwich-singapore.edu.sg

ARTS Folds of Mind – Free Art Exhibition (UNTIL 23 AUG) Admire the works of artists Deusa Blümke and Hélène Le Chatelier at this showcase featuring sculptures, paintings, installations and drawings that tackle the topics of time, memory, the unseen and the unspeakable. NPE Gallery, Level 2, 39-41 Kallang Place. npe.co.sg Precious Eggs: Of Art, Beauty and Culture (UNTIL 29 OCT) Feast your eyes on rare and beautiful eggs all the way from the Liechtenstein National Museum in Germany, including historical pieces such as Russian imperial porcelain eggs and Fabergé egg pendants. Singapore Philatelic Museum. spm.org.sg Solo Photographic Exhibition by Naida Adell Ginnane (4-20 AUG) Naida Adell Ginnane has spent 30 years in the visual arts – painting, drawing and 35mm SLR photography. The 42 images in her upcoming exhibition were all shot at Gardens by the Bay between 2013 and 2017. Gardens by the Bay, The Colonnade, Supertree Grove. singaporeartmuseum.sg

SOCIAL

AWA Welcome Fair (23 AUG)

Find your feet and make new friends in Singapore among the AWA community. Drop by the AWA Welcome Fair to find out more about the organisation’s interest groups and upcoming annual events. Fort Canning Lodge. awasingapore.org ANZ Aotearoa Ball (26 AUG) Celebrate all things Kiwi at this annual ball, which features plenty of premium NZ wines and food (including traditional pies). Groove along to great music by New Zealand singers such as Jayson Norris and Laughton Kora. Shangri- La Hotel Singapore. Tickets from Eventbrite. zchamber.org.sg

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CALENDAR

HUMAN+ The Future of Our Species (UNTIL 15 OCT) This cutting-edge exhibition, featuring the works of 40 artists, scientists, technologists and designers, considers the question of what it’s like to be a human in a technologically advanced world. Be sure to look out for Nadine, one of the world’s most realistic humanoid social robots. ArtScience Museum. Ballet Under the Stars (1-10 SEP) This iconic outdoor dance event returns in September, with an exciting classical and contemporary line-up. Pack a picnic and come along with friends and family. Fort Canning Green. Tickets from Sistic. Glamorous Giving (8-9 SEP) Glamorous Giving is back for its eighth and biggest-yet edition! Shop from over 50 local boutiques, brands and designers and enjoy a new revolving fashion show.

season this September. Over the three days, enjoy a star-studded entertainment line-up including Grammy-winner Coolio, American R&B singer Macy Gray and British singer Pixie Geldof. The Grand Ballroom, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. podiumlounge.com/sg UWCSEA Annual Open Days (18-29 SEP) Find out more about what UWCSEA has to offer during its open days for students aged four to 14 years. Each year, over 600 new places are created for K1 to Grade 11 students. (Open days for High School and boarding students aged 14 to 17 will run in November.) Applications for August 2018 open on 1 September 2017. Find out more and RSVP on the school website. Dover Campus: 1207 Dover Road; East Campus: 1 Tampines Street. uwcsea.edu.sg EtonHouse International School, Broadrick Open House (22-23 SEP) Drop by EtonHouse International School to explore the campus and curriculum. Located in the East Coast area, the school offers IB and IGCSE and has second- language programmes for Chinese, Hindi and Japanese. Sign up for a tour and enjoy 50 percent off the registration fee. 51 Broadrick Road. ehis.edu.sg The Color Run (23 SEP) You’ll likely get doused head to toe in neon hues at the upcoming Color Run. This year’s race will be the inaugural night event. Take on a 5km course and go through various colour zones, bubbles and colour shows. Sentosa. thecolorrun.com.sg

The Ballroom, Orchard Parade Hotel. facebook.com/Glamorous.Giving The Annual Africa Society Ball (9 SEP) Look forward to an evening of great food, company, dancing and more at the Annual Africa Society Ball. All are welcome to join this special event on the Africa Society calendar. Sofitel Sentosa. africansg.com West Side Story (13-24 SEP) Inspired by Romeo and Juliet , West Side Story is set in 1950s New York. Expect opportunity to sing along to classics such as “Tonight” and “Maria”. Grand Theatre, MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands. Tickets from Sistic. The Podium Lounge 2017 (15-17 SEP) Rub shoulders with the rich and famous at The Podium Lounge during the F1 lively dance routines and stunning vocals in this production, with the

The Color Run

: www.expatliving.sg

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

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LETTERS

Best Letter We want to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the magazine, or on any subject under the sun. For her ideas on inexpensive outings with your kids, we’ll be delivering a bottle of champagne to Katie .

A TRAGIC LOSS I was shocked and grieved to hear of the suicide of the lovely expat mother of one of my son’s school friends. Having met her at several social events at school, I knew that she and her husband had got divorced, but she came across as a smiling, warm, confident, professional woman who seemed to have taken it all in her stride. Never would I have guessed that she suffered from depression – and, let’s face it, picking up your life as a single mother in Singapore has to be a tough call, even for someone with no previous mental health issues. I think it’s terrible that there was no one for her to turn to in her time of need – and I wish that she had felt able to reach out to someone in her darkest days. – Julie McFarlane Ed: As wonderful as the expat life can be, it also has its challenges. We’ve left behind our support network of family and friends, and that’s not something that can be replaced overnight, if at all. Our message? – if you feel even for a second that life is not worth living, seek help.

FREE FUN While I appreciate that many of your readers live pretty lavish lifestyles, there are many of us who can’t afford five-star staycations and Michelin restaurants, and just want simple, affordable things to do with our kids. I’d really like to see an article about the best free (or inexpensive) things to do over the summer holidays. Things like Singapore City Gallery (the URA museum), the Gardens by the Bay playground and water park, scootering around the Chinese Gardens or the Botanical Gardens, visiting the Pinnacle @ Duxton skywalk, and so on. – Katie

Ed: We’re always looking out for great ideas like these to share with our readers. Last month on our website we featured some ways of keeping the kids busy during the holidays, including the Children’s Biennale, Imaginarium at SAM, the NHB Children’s Season and more.

We have an e-book on Things to Do in Singapore that includes “7 Must-See Museums and Galleries” — they’re all free and fabulous; “6 Centres of Worship” — all culturally fascinating; plus our “Top 10 Green Spots”. Our annual City Guide and Kids Guide have plenty of free things to do too. Do let us know if you’d like copies. We also regularly feature articles like “meals for under $10”, or budget holidays in the region. We know how expensive it can be to live here especially with kids — so we hear you!

Email us at info@expatliving.sg

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

AUG2017

SINGAPORE

August2017 Issue 181

Expat Living’s new City Guide out now! For a limited time only, we're giving away a FREE copy. To claim yours, or get Expat Living delivered to your door, simply visit: expatliving.sg/print

HOMEOFFICES • ITALIANFOOD •ANTI-AGEINGTIPS

Work From Home:

Office Styling Tips S l

Cool Spaces Fromcondocomforts to lifeonaboat

Rooftop Rendezvous Barswith aview

MCI (P) 100/02/2017

S$6.50

TheBigC Dealingwith Cancer

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AUGUST2017

Whatwe’reup toon…

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

Snapping street style in Telok Ayer – could you be next?

Trying out yummy new food and dining concepts

Admiring Singapore’s old and new architecture Don’tmissour fantasticevents in AUGUST Visit expatliving.sg/events to RSVP.

33 AUGUST2017

Celebrating Travel Luxury travel operator Scott Dunn celebrated its expansion into Asia with the opening of its regional headquarters in Singapore this past June. Founder Andrew Dunn represented his company at the launch event at Eden Hall, the Residence of the British High Commissioner.

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AUGUST2017

LIFE & FAMILY

Entertaining At Home

At Expat Living’s hugely successfully Dinner Party Inspo event, participants learnt a lot about the do’s and don’ts of dinner parties. Juliana Mamoni of the Lifestyle & Etiquette Institute of Singapore offered great tips on how to be the perfect host or guest; teams from Bungalow 55 and Lemongrass & Aubergine demonstrated how to style a dining table; the ladies from The Fishwives gave delicious menu suggestions; and representatives from Cluny Court and The Big Blow provided fashion tips.

A Little Magic and Sparkle The team at Sing’theatre has been bringing some cheer to little ones at the National University Hospital (NUH) as part of Sing Me A Story @ NUH. This project, which was launched on 19 April and will run until December, treats young patients to bedside songs, music and storytelling.

35 AUGUST2017

Polish Delights Singapore’s first-ever Polish Food Festival offered a wide variety of culinary and cultural events, from a Sunset Party featuring Polish vodka and cider at 1-Altitude, to a musical picnic concert, “Poland Sounds Good”, at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. There were also Polish lunches and dinners at the Conrad Centennial Hotel, SO Sofitel Singapore, the Singapore Tower Club and Botanico at The Garage.

Fashion Indulgence

Melange, one of Singapore’s leading fashion platforms for South Asian designers, held a Spring/Summer showcase featuring three of India’s top designers: Malini Ramani, Namrata Joshipura and Outhouse Jewellery. The collection included a mix of Western, Western fusion and Indian wear. Melange organises multiple fashion events annua l l y, cu r a t ed by founder, Samia Khan.

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LIFE & FAMILY

A Royal Match At the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, which took place at the Singapore Polo Club in June, Prince Harry took to the field to raise funds for Sentebale, a charity that helps youth affected by the AIDS epidemic in Southern Africa. In an exciting match, the Sentebale ISPS Handa team clinched victory over the St. Regis team for the second year running. The winning goal was scored by Prince Harry in the final chukka of a closely fought game.

Giving Back The Australian International School Parents’ Association (AISPA) recently hosted a morning tea, where the parent community and ICON Singapore matched fundraising efforts dollar for dollar. The result was the presentation of a cheque for $22,062 to the Singapore Cancer Society.

37 AUGUST2017

In the Ring A 1,500-strong crowd witnessed some of the world’s best boxers slug it out in The Roar of Singapore II. They saw the crowning of Singapore’s first world champion, Muhamad “The Chosen Wan” Ridhwan, whose fourth-round knockout v i c t o r y e a r n e d h im the UBO World Super Fe a t he rwe i gh t t i t l e . Another highlight of the night was a face-off between Cairo George and Stevie Ferdinandus for the IBO Asia-Pacific Welterweight title.

Meet The Stars Fans of Downton Abbey, the mu l t i p l e awa r d - w i n n i n g television show, were in for a huge treat at the launch of Downton Abbey: The Exhibition at Marina Bay Sands. Stars such as Sophie McShera, Laura Carmichael and JimCarter posed for photographs and mingled with fans on the red carpet. Creator and writer Lord Julian Fellowes and executive producers Liz Trubridge and Gareth Neame were also present. The interactive touring exhibition featured iconic sets, costumes and props from the TV series.

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HOME & PROPERTY

67 Buyer’s Guide:

Home office furniture for the whole family

FLEXA’s click-on desk

46 Smart Moves: Meet the boat-owner who’s selling up for a life on the land

52 Product News: Spotlight on Taylor B’s expansion

74 Street Talk: The scoop on living around Meyer Road

HOME & PROPERTY

OUTDOOR CHOICE Previously sold as sets, Arete Culture ’s outdoor furniture is now for sale as single pieces. This means you can buy just one or two standalone items, either for a smaller outdoor space or to add to the existing furniture in a larger one. Head to areteculture.com for more details and to find out more about its regular shipments, which include the ever- popular hurricane lamps.

Award Winners Interior design house Design Intervention has scooped four top gongs at the International Property Awards. This includes a gold for interior design work on its Ridout Road residential project ( pictured ), which also won the award for Best Architecture for a Single Residence in Singapore. To check out this and other projects, go to designintervention.com.sg .

MoreDécor Ethnicraft Online Singapore has revamped its Eunos showroom, which now spans 460 squaremetres.ThenewspacehousestheOak Whitebird series ( sideboard pictured ), the Notre Monde Gilded Layers tray collection, Cube and Bullseye occasional tables, as well as woven chairs from Cane-line. Soft furnishings to cast your eye over include 100 percent cotton bedding products by Feroza Designs, and handwoven dhurrie rugs from TheGrey House. Head to #05-01 Singapore Handicrafts Building, 72 Eunos Avenue 7 for a browse.

Dishing up Design

The Cinnamon Room has launched a range of decorative bowls and trays. The striking pieces have an aluminium base with enamel and gold finishes, in signature geometric designs. For location and opening hours, go to thecinnamonroom.com .

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HOME & PROPERTY

Under the Hammer! GOODNIGHT? SLEEP RIGHT

Mattress company Hilker already has an impressive stamp of approval; after launching in 1888, it went on to serve the German royal family. More recently, the company has been growing its green credentials by adopting sustainable production, as well as partnering with eco-suppliers such as Tencel fibre and Latexco, 100 percent natural latex imported from Belgium. To uncover how a Hilker mattress can help you get a great night’s sleep, go to hilker1888mattress.com .

AUCTION: Live, in-room auction of British and European vintage and antique furniture. WHEN: Tuesday, 19 September. The catalogue will be available for viewing from Tuesday, 29 August. WHERE: HotLotz, #01-15 Cendex Centre, 120 Lower Delta Road. WHAT TO EXPECT: Cool mid-century items that will capture the hearts of vintage and antique furniture lovers. AUCTION: Online timed auction of antique and vintage tableware. WHEN: From 14 to 29 August. WHAT TO EXPECT: A curated collection of pieces available online for a specific period of time. Up for grabs will be porcelain, flatware, stemware – pretty much everything and anything you’d need to create the perfect dinner party table.

Alfresco Expansion Renowned for its indoor furniture, Originals has just launched an outdoor collection, featuring sofas, loungers, dining tables and chairs, all in high-quality materials. Its combination of top grade powder-coated aluminium with Sunbrella fabrics, Batyline textilene and Vincent Sheppard resin in a soft colour palette creates a uniquely Originals look. What’s more, it’s comfortable and easy to maintain. Head to #02-03 Sime Darby Centre, 896 Dunearn Road , to see this collection and Originals’ indoor range.

Download the HotLotz app, or head to hotlotz.com to register, view upcoming catalogues, or make a bid online.

WHAT ELSE: With its weekly Interiors and Antiques sales, HotLotz is the perfect place to pick up stylish bargains for your home, particularly if you’ve just arrived in Singapore and don’t know where to start. Not only is it a fun way to shop, but it’s social too – you’re bound to make a few friends. Also, if you head down to the auction on the first Thursday night of each month, there are often big reductions to be had by in-room bidders.

hotlotz.com

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SENTOSA STYLE BY AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY KEN TAN LIVE-ABOARD,

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HOME & PROPERTY

“We love to come up here on a Friday night, sit down with a glass of wine and take in the sunset and the view.”

I meet Dany in the reception of One Degree 15 Marina, and we hitch a ride on a golf buggy to Capri . As we arrive, the sun is beginning to lower in the sky, and the surroundings couldn’t be more appealing; there’s a resort-holiday vibe here that makes it easy to forget the 15-minute drive from the CBD. Dany began his live-aboard life in Hong Kong, where he resided from 2008 to 2010, following assignments first in Brussels and then Paris. When he moved to Hong Kong, he was put in touch with friends of friends who lived on a boat in Discovery Bay, Lantau Island. “I fell in love with the lifestyle, as that’s what it’s all about. I just love being outdoors and living near the water; there’s a real romance to it all,” he explains. He leased a boat during his time in Hong Kong, and when he moved to Singapore he was keen to find another. “I was desperately trying to find a live-aboard; I went to Keppel and other marinas, then a friend pointed out Capri . It had originally been used as a charter boat so it looked different to how it does now; but I fell in love with this part of Singapore, and I bought the boat in 2010.” Does the idea of buying a four-bedroom home in Sentosa for $750,000 sound unbelievable? Well, it’s not; the only difference is, it’s a live-aboard boat. We spoke to Capri ’s current owner, Canadian DANY BOLDUC, and his American fiancée Leah Hevey, about the appeal of marina life, and why he’s giving it all up to be a landlubber.

Who lives here: Canadian expat Dany Bolduc. Size and type

of home: A four-cabin, two-head

(bathroom) boat, Capri , moored in Sentosa. Style of home: Modern, with Asian touches. Dany’s favourite room: “The upper deck by the barbecue when the sun is setting.”

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Left page: Dany loves cooking and had the kitchen extensively renovated, including the addition of a gas cooker, built-in dishwashers and granite counters.

The living room has a projector and screen – “which the kids love”.

This page: Most of the décor accessories throughout the boat are from Taylor B, whom Dany brought in to rework the interior design when he purchased Capri .

Capri is made for entertaining – Dany renovated the kitchen, which has a built-in oven, a gas cooker and granite surfaces. Then there’s the projector and screen in the living room, providing more indoor entertainment, not to mention an upper deck with a barbecue and a teak outdoor dining set. For Dany and Leah, the sense of the community within the marina is a major appeal of living here. “You can be as private or as social as you like, and everyone looks out for one another here.” When he first moved in, there was very little to do in the local area, but now it’s bursting with places to eat and drink, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied. “The club has a gym and a pool, and organises social activities all the time, and you can bike to the beach in less than ten minutes.” There’s also a Cold Storage supermarket a stone’s throw away, and the W Hotel almost on the boat’s doorstep. Sea to land Leah lives in a landed property in Yio Chu Kang with her three children, and teaches at the nearby Singapore American School (SAS) where her children are students. Although they spend many weekends on the boat with Dany, the commute from Sentosa to SAS during the week is just too much for all involved. This, coupled with Dany’s extensive work travel and consequent underuse of the boat, means they have come to the difficult decision that Dany should sell up.

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All the flooring is original.

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Recommendations

“I’ve been living on a boat now for almost ten years, and I would do it again, but it’s just not the right thing for me at the moment. Life is very fluid, and the circumstances are what they are; and if we’re not on board most of the time, it feels like such a waste.” Capri is on the market for $750,000, and comes with perpetual live-aboard rights, which means it has a permanent space in the marina. “The upkeep is quite simple,” explains Dany. “The exterior needs washing once a week, and you need to run the engines once a month to keep the parts moving. The rest of the maintenance is really similar to that of an apartment or house.” Then there’s a monthly berthing fee, and club membership fees. The couple will most definitely be sad to see the boat go. “We’ve had some incredible times here,” says Leah. “I remember when Dany first told me he lived on a boat; I really didn’t know what to expect. When I saw it, I thought it was amazing – I was shocked at how much of a home it was.” Right now, though, it’s time to sell. “This is a real family home that comes with an incredible lifestyle,” says Dany. “If it was just that bit closer to SAS, I wouldn’t be selling.”

FOOD & DRINK W Hotel (“We’ve enjoyed many great Sunday champagne brunches at the W – and Starwood Preferred Guests get 15 percent off”) 21 Ocean Way 6808 7288 | wsingaporesentosacove.com Foodie Market Place (“a great butcher for barbecues”) 225 Outram Road 6224 3290

HOME Taylor B 43 Keppel Road 9420 4000 | taylorbdesign.com

LIFE & FAMILY Dr Chook Sports & Lifestyle Medical Centre #10-02 Orchard Building, 1 Grange Road 6736 3998 | drchook.com Yusni Mustaffa at One Degree 15 Marina Gym (“for good personal training”) 11 Cove Drive, Level 2 6305 6981 | one15marina.com

If you want to find out more about the Capri , or arrange a viewing, go to capriforsale.com, or email bolducdany@gmail.com.

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KEPPEL ROAD

Just when you thought the Taylor B showroom couldn’t get any bigger, it just did! It now sprawls across all four floors of its Keppel Road location, so we went down for a closer look at what you can expect on each. FIRST FLOOR Arriving through the ground level entrance, you’ll find plenty of American-style furniture and furnishings, as well as striking lighting pieces in each section. To explore the rest of the store, head to the back of the showroom, where you’ll find large lifts labelled for Taylor B’s second, third and fourth levels. SECOND FLOOR The second floor has more of an ethnic feel to it, with a plethora of Indian and Chinese-style furniture, together with outdoor furniture. This is also where you’ll find the store’s renowned crepes – specially provided for weekend customers, and a great draw for adults and children alike! THIRD FLOOR Everything on this new third floor is available only online; it gives web customers a chance to come and view the pieces they are tempted by, prior to purchase. The third floor houses a wide assortment of accessories including blue-and- white ceramics, decorative items such as vases, trays, lanterns and lamps, as well as a collection of original oil paintings and a range of decorative wall mirrors. FOURTH FLOOR This is where you’ll find more vintage and retro styles, plus a range of deliciously smelling candles and even wine for sale.

TIP FOR ONLINE SHOPPING Keep an eye on the “Grab It Now” section of the website for some bargains. Theseareoffers that change frequently –oftendaily – socheckback regularly.

Taylor B 43 Keppel Road 6225 7090 | taylorbdesign.com

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Beachcomber frames, Bed Bath n’ Table

Black and white contemporary frames, from 10cm by 15cm, $45, The Cinnamon Room

We bet you’ve got way toomany photos on your phone that could take pride of place on your wall or desk. Check out these frames that will give your pictures the attention they deserve. Framed! You’veBeen

Enamel geometric frames, Bed Bath n’ Table

Beige mother-of- pearl inlay frame, 25cm by 20cm, $120, The Cinnamon Room

Mint-green mother-of- pearl inlay frames, from 10cm by 15cm, $60, The Cinnamon Room

Regency mirrored frame, from $85, Arete Culture

Gold frames available in different textures, from $30, Lim’s Holland Village

Azure frames, from $85, Arete Culture

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HOME & PROPERTY

Vintage Art Deco-style Waterford crystal frame, 35cm by 29cm, estimated price $160 to $200, available at auction on Thursday, 31 August, HotLotz

Patchwork frames, Bed Bath n’ Table

Bamboo Moretta frame by Flamant, from 10cm by 15cm, $65, House of AnLi

Metina frame, $85, Bungalow 55

Directory

Colleridge collection frame, from $85, Arete Culture

Arete Culture (various locations) areteculture.com

Bed Bath n’ Table (various locations) bedbathntable.com.sg Bungalow 55 #01-05A Cluny Court 501 Bukit Timah Road 6463 3831 | thebungalow55.com

Silver-plated Tiffany frame by Flamant, from 10cm by 15cm, $45, House of AnLi

The Cinnamon Room #02-74 Jalan Merah Saga

Block 43 The Worklofts@Chipbee 6467 4202 | thecinammonroom.com Crate & Barrel (various locations) crateandbarrel.com.sg

House of AnLi #03-17 Tanglin Mall 163 Tanglin Road 6235 3851 | houseofanli.com HotLotz #01-15 Cendex Centre 120 Lower Delta Road 6254 7616 | hotlotz.com

Lim’s Holland Village #02-01 Holland Road Shopping Centre 211 Holland Avenue 6466 3188

Turn to our home office shopping spread on page 67 for some great desk ideas!

Eliza brass frame, $19.95, Crate & Barrel

Brushed silver triple wall-frame, $99.95, Crate & Barrel

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HOME & PROPERTY

FamilyLife inNovena Arriving in Singapore from New York City, LOUISE ALVERSON and her family moved into a Novena condo. Here she explains what drew them to this spot, andwhy they rented much of their furniture to fill up their home space.

BY AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY KEN TAN

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L iving the expatriate life is nothing new for Louise; she moved to Hong Kong when she was 21, and stayed for six years before moving to Shanghai for three years, where she met her husband Harry. They then left Asia for New Hampshire in the US while Harry gained his MBA, before moving to New York suburbia with Harry’s post-grad tech industry job. Both of their daughters were born in the US. So, when a move to Singapore reared its head, Louise wasn’t daunted. “I had worked in business events and conferences when I was based in Hong Kong, and had visited Singapore before. I didn’t need to be convinced about the move; the only difficult part was leaving friends behind and the fact that my little girls had become established where we were.” Although familiar with Singapore, Louise was not so certain about specific locations to live in. Not wanting to start off in a serviced apartment, the race was on to find a suitable area and condo for the family. During their “look-see” trip, they pinpointed the Novena area due to its proximity to Stamford American International School, and although they decided against the school for their daughters in the end, the location still suits them perfectly. “This particular place is so convenient; it’s close to the MRT, there’s United Square and Velocity malls, and we’re also close to Orchard.” Harry’s work was originally based out of Changi Business Park, so the East Coast was another option, however his company opened a downtown office and Novena became an even better fit.

Who lives here: Brit Louise and American husband Harry, and daughters Emmeline (almost seven) and Mirabelle (four). Size of home: Four-bed apartment, with one room converted into an office. How long have they lived here: Since the beginning of January 2016. Style of home: Modern, muted colours mixed with warm natural tones.

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One of Louise’s American friends crafted the embroidered name pictures on the wall after each girl was born. “They’re on reclaimed wood, and embroidered with buttons; they were the absolute best baby gifts – my friend is so talented.” Matching name cushions complete the look.

Clockwise: “We brought the kiwis back from our first trip to New Zealand recently; they might seem a bit tacky but I just fell in love with them!” Louise used to play the piano, and now Emmeline is following suit. The wall hanging was made by Mirabelle and her classmates at EtonHouse – the students made various artworks and then auctioned them off for charity.

Furniture Rental During their recce, they also visited Gallery 278, recommended to them by their relocation agent. “We considered shipping our furniture, but we knew we were coming from a much larger place and we also weren’t sure how the climate would affect our furniture.” Air freighting some basics, including their mattresses, Louise decided that renting key pieces would be the most sensible option. “The furniture we’ve rented is completely different in terms of style to the pieces we have in the US. My husband’s mother is a naturally gifted interior designer, and we’ve inherited family furniture pieces over the years; it’s a darker, more traditional ‘Shaker’ style. Here, with the bright modern condo setting, we decided to go with some very different pieces.” This includes the light wood modern dining table and geometric chairs, the neutral sofas and the coffee table in the living room.

The family love the deep, egg-shaped bathtub.

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Arriving in Singapore late at night, they stayed in a hotel before picking up the keys the next day. “Gallery 278 had agreed to deliver beds for us, and the neighbours gave us some plastic bowls to borrow. I remember being in our stark white empty apartment, waking up at 4am because of the jetlag, and having breakfast with the girls on the floor of the balcony, by the light of the city at night.” Special Projects Louise spent her first six months in Singapore settling the family into their daily routines. Both girls started at EtonHouse initially, before Emmeline moved to UWC Dover. It was through UWC that Louise has since become involved with the Tabitha Foundation, a non-profit organisation that focuses on lifting Cambodians out of poverty through a number of initiatives. “It’s a great opportunity for me to be part of something worthwhile; recently, I even left the girls behind (very unusual for me) for five days to

help with a house-building programme in a rural village in Prey Veng Province near Phnom Penh.” Since the trip, Louise has joined the Tabitha Singapore committee focused on the sale of silk products, which are handmade by Cambodian women, providing them with a dignified trade. She is considering another house-building trip next year, too. Louise is also class parent for both girls’ classes, which has been a great way to meet new people, and with other parents is currently working on an inaugural black tie gala event on 11 November at Marina Bay Sands. Proceeds will go towards funding scholarships, refugee scholarships and sustainable development programmes. “Volunteering for something so impactful, alongside a group of talented and inspirational UWC parent volunteers has been the perfect way to push me out of my comfort zone and refresh some rusty event-planning skills! We’re all excited about bringing this beyond the UWC community, so look out for tickets.”

The bright yellow cupboard was picked up from Singapore Expats Classifieds, and it’s used for arts and craft pieces. The dining table and chairs are Although they downsized the dining table slightly, Louise believes it should fit well when they move back to the US. The high chairs are from IKEA. rented from Gallery 278.

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The huge master bedroom, with bedframe from Gallery 278. The bedspread and pillow covers are made by the Tabitha Foundation, whose products can be found at a variety of fairs and private home sales periodically throughout the year.

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HOME Gallery 278 278 River Valley Road 6737 2322 | gallery278.com Louise’s Recommendations The Grey House (“where I bought my living room cushions and the grey rug that I love”) thegreyhouseonline.com

With the family potentially only here for a couple of years, it’s clear Louise is keen to immerse herself in worthwhile activities during their stint. When they eventually leave, they also plan to take up the option to buy some of their furniture. “Solid wood was important in our furniture selection because of the plan to keep select pieces; I definitely think we’ll take the dining table and sofas. Having said that, hopefully we won’t be leaving for a while yet!”

The versatile side table is a family heirloom of Harry’s and the tall lamp is from Castlery.

LIFE & FAMILY Tabitha Foundation

tabithasingapore.org UWCSEA Foundation uwcsea.edu.sg/about/uwcsea- foundation

WINE & DINE The Clueless Goat 189 Thomson Road 8283 0885

Ju Hao (“as a quicker cheaper alternative to Din Tai Fung”) #B2-02 AMK Hub 53 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3 6481 7459 Ah Chew Desserts (“black sesame and mango sago are firm favourites”) #01-11 Liang Seah Place 1 Liang Seah Street 6254 8198 Super Loco (“for weekend casual brunch”) 60 Robertson Quay 6235 8900 | super-loco.com Blu Kouzina 10 Dempsey Road, #01-21 6875 0872 | blukouzina.com The Library (“for outstanding craft cocktails”) 47 Keong Saik Road 6221 8338

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We find out what’s new at a recently refurbished serviced residence located right on the edge of the Kampong Gl am area , and share some tips on dining and shopping in the neighbourhood. Having opened its doors in 1979, Parkroyal Serviced Suites Singapore occupies a prime spot for exploring the cultural enclave of Kampong Glam, the shopping mecca of Bugis and the drinking hotspots of Bali Lane. But it’s not just what’s on the outside that counts – the residences recently underwent a three- month refurbishment project, which has transformed the lobby and 90 suites. The fully furnished suites feature all the mod cons – LCD televisions, in-room wireless internet access, fully equipped kitchens and self-service laundrettes. Then there’s the adjacent Parkroyal on Beach Road, which provides all the leisure facilities a guest of the Serviced Suites might need, including the St. Gregory spa, an outdoor swimming pool, an aerobics studio and a gym. App and about When it comes to exploring what’s out there, things are made easier with the Parkroyal Picks app, which you can download for free from the App Store or Google Play. The app, which works not just in Singapore but for all Parkroyal Hotels & Resorts locations, promises to help you find whatever hidden gems you’re looking for in the local area, from brunch spots to street food and more. STAYS SWEETER

Things to do in Kampong Glam Just one of the areas close to Parkroyal is Kampong Glam, or the Arab Quarter, which covers the enclave of Haji Lane, Bali Lane and Arab Street. Here are just a few places to head to: • For a feast of Mexican food washed down with frozen margaritas, try Piedra Negra. 24 Beach Road • Blu Jaz Café is a must-visit if you’re into live music or comedy shows. 11 Bali Lane • For home décor with a difference, head to Scene Shang , a mix of Asian heritage and contemporary design. 263 Beach Road

• Alaturk offers authentic Turkish dining within an elaborately decorated interior with traditional Turkish tiles. 15 Bussorah Street • You’ll have to rely on your taste and touch at dine-in-the-dark restaurant Nox . 269 Beach Road

Parkroyal Serviced Suites Singapore is at #01-345/346 The Plaza, 7500ABeach Road. 6296 2511 | parkroyalhotels.com

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