JULY 2017

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

JULY 2017

SINGAPORE

Exotic India and Sri Lanka Explore: Get Motivated: Try Personal Training!

Cool Furnishing Ideas 50+

CBD Dining Hotspots

Find out who won! p78

COMPETITION

EDITOR’SNOTE

With the recent traumatic events around the world, it’s inevitable that many of our conversations touch upon their causes – and, of course, any possible solutions. One common discussion revolves around how individuals can get drawn into a mindset that is so far removed from how a caring, understanding human should be. How can they become so detached from themselves? It’s true that, in the past, some movements have been motivated by violence and trauma, but there’s also a flipside of how encouragement, sympathy and a sense of belonging and achievement can turn minds – especially young ones. Kamikaze pilots and Nazi soldiers, for instance, were recruited and used inappropriately by being made to feel that they were special, that they would be appreciated, even revered by peers and leaders. We all want to be seen in a good light, and it’s much easier to draw someone in by praise and flattery than by bullying. It’s a distraction that can cause us to overlook flaws in an ideology or the manipulating nature of personality traits. While solutions may be hard to find, the influence of others (positive as well as negative) is usually lessened if there is support and encouragement in the home. I think this is one of our biggest challenges and, having recently gone through the teenage phase with my own children, I know it’s easier said than done! I’m sure all of us will be feeling for the victims of terror and war all over the world, so let’s use that to make us appreciate what we do have, and work towards instilling a sense of belonging and support within that unit first, and then the community as a whole. As we head off for holidays or business travel, safety will be high on the agenda but I do hope you enjoy time with friends and family. The images we received as entries in our photo competition (the results are on page 78, and you can see more at expatliving.sg) are a reminder that the world around us is both extraordinary and beautiful.

REBECCA BISSET Editor-in-Chief

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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 | SARASWATI DATAR | 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

Colours by Andrey Petrov (@right_piano_pedal); pictured: Ivan (@ivho)

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JULY2017

CONTENTS

Stunning Shots: Check out all the winners of this year’s photo competition 78

NEWS 22 News Headlines 24 Calendar Updates: 32 Readers’ Letters 34 EL Forum:

64

Stylish buys for your lounge area

60 Inside Stories:

Our readers’ favourite sofas and more

What’s on in the coming months

64 Buyers’ Guide:

Stylish buys for your lounge area

What we’re doing online, plus our upcoming events

72 Street Talk:

Life on Mount Sinai Rise ARTS&LEISURE 78 Photo Competition 2017: Find out who all the winners are! 86 On the Wall: What’s on in Singapore’s art scene 88 On the Stage: The latest in live music, dance and theatre 90 On the Page: Recent book releases and reader reviews 92 On the Screen: Cinema and TV highlights for the month

HOME & PROPERTY 38 News 43 Comfort & Convenience: Two serviced apartments reviewed 44 Real Homes: Why this family loves its Nassim Hill condo 50 Product News: A bed that can keep growing with your child 53 City Stays: Accommodation in two different neighbourhoods to try

54 Expert Voice:

Trends and tips for creating the best living room

58 Shopping Edit:

Cool cushions to perk up your décor

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JULY2017

CONTENTS

LIFE & FAMILY 96 News 98 Noticeboard: New births and more 100 Back to School: Essentials for a new year of learning 102 Spotlight on Sport: Run, hit, kick and pass at Shaws Little League 104 Swiss Innovation: Meet the man behind the famous Micro scooter 108 Leasing Explained: Tips for getting on the road in Singapore 110 Clean & Tidy: DIY advice for keeping your home spick and span 114 Ready for Repatriation: Help with your transition home 117 Money Matters: Financial pointers to remember when relocating 120 Social Snaps: Events around town WINE & DINE 130 News 136 Bar Tab: Watering holes worth checking out 138 CBD Bites: Great spots for dining downtown 144 Spoilt for Choice: A guide to tasty eats at Tanglin Mall 146 Destination Dempsey: We try three new hotspots 150 Low-carb Option: Read more about this guilt- free pasta 152 Recipe Corner: Fail-safe favourites to add to your repertoire

104 We chat

with Micro scooter creator Wim Ouboter

162 Witnessing Patagonia’s spectacular glaciers and ice fields

TRAVEL 158 News 162 World’s End: 168 Beach Break: Sri Lanka’s best sand and surf escapes 173 India Calling: Exploring life along the Brahmaputra River 178 Step Back in Time: Cruising Myanmar’s Inle Lake 170 Sri Lanka Highlights: From hill country to coast Discovering Patagonia

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JULY2017

CONTENTS

Driven by Passion: Meet interiors entrepreneur Emelie Hedén 185

FASHION 192 News 194 Style Hunter:

Street style in Singapore – snapped!

196 Dressing for Events:

Style yourself right for all occasions

BEAUTY 202 News 204 Great Hair Now: Products and treatments to tame your mane HEALTH & FITNESS 214 News 216 Winning Smile: The latest in dentistry and orthodontics 224 One-on-One:

Readers’ personal training experiences

228 Weight Solutions:

What’s behind a bariatric procedure?

230 Legging It:

Treating spider and varicose veins

REGULARS 235 Numbers & Websites 236 Horoscopes for July

238 Advertiser List 240 Parting Shot:

Lessons learnt from children

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JULY2017

NEWS

Earlier this year we featured an amazing hiking expedition in Iran undertaken by members of non-profit organisation Women On A Mission , and since then they’ve pushed themselves to the limit on a challenging StandUp Paddle Board (SUP) trip to Bhutan. As well as being the first SUP team to travel to Bhutan, the team raised awareness, conducted leadership development workshops and presented $20,000 toRENEW, a charity dedicated to the empowerment of women and children, including survivors of domestic violence. womenmission.com Paddling FORWOMEN

Co-working Deals! At ClubCo , members can work, meet, showcase their products and network in a sleek co-working space, and they have the privilege of converting membership value into food and beverage credits for use at Club Meatballs restaurant. In July and August, Expat Living readers can enjoy 20 percent off all contract co-working memberships, 25 percent off product showcase opportunities and a 50 percent reduction on boardroom hire. ClubCo is open from 7.30am to 11.45pm. 20 Cross Street, #01-05/06, China Court. 6221 8076 | clubco.sg

Sing out Loud Disney fans are in for a treat on 14 and 15 July

when music f r o m t h e o r c h e s t r a l s c o r e s o f w e l l - l o v e d Disney films is

performed live at Disney in Concert: Dream is a Wish . Sing along as the film footage appears on a big screen, and the hits are performed by talented singers backed by the Base Philharmonic. MasterCard Theatres, Marina Bay Sands. entertainment.marinabaysands.com

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CALENDAR

SHOPPING & FAIRS HotLotz Auction House: Fine Antiques

& Interiors (2-26 JUL)

HotLotz has teamed up with the-saleroom.com for an auction of gorgeous antiques, including an exclusive jade collection belonging to Singaporean entrepreneur Jannie Chan. This will be a timed online-only auction, and you can browse the full catalogue of items at the HotLotz website. hotlotz.com SPORTS & FITNESS Nee Soon Fiesta 3TEN Run 2017 (29 JUL) Join Singapore’s first night golf-course race this month, and run through the beautiful grounds of the Orchid Country Club. Sign up for the 10km race, the 5km fun run or the 1.5km family run. Registration ends 14 July. Orchid Country Club. 3tenrun.com Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer 2017 (30 JUL) Raise funds for cancer welfare assistance, rehabilitation, free screenings and more in this run for a good cause. There’s a 5km fun run, or you can tackle the 10km or 15km competitive routes. Angsana Green, East Coast Park. raceagainstcancer.org.sg

Nee Soon Fiesta 3TEN Run 2017

DANCE, DRAMA & THEATRE

Boeing Boeing (UNTIL 22 JUL)

This Wild Rice favourite returns, directed this time by Pam Oei. The hilarious production tells of Bernard, a modern-day Casanova whose three beautiful air stewardess girlfriends are all happily unaware of each other’s existence. His perfect plan falls apart when his friend Robert comes to stay. Victoria Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. BANKS – Live in Singapore (11 JUL) Catch the alternative R&B star as she performs live in Singapore. You’ll hear singles such as “Gemini Feed” and “Trainwreck”, performed with BANKS’s trademark seductive vocals and soul- baring lyrics. Capitol Theatre, Capitol Piazza. Tickets from Sistic. Sungha Jung Live (22 JUL) Popular Korean guitarist and YouTuber Sungha Jung performs in Singapore this month. Expect beautiful renditions of contemporary, jazz, Broadway and classical tunes from one of the finest fingerstyle guitarists in the world. Kallang Theatre, 1 Stadium Walk. Tickets from Sistic.

BANKS – Live in Singapore

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JULY2017

CALENDAR

Shaws Little League Sports Holiday Camps

The xx – Live in Singapore with special guest Sampha (25-26 JUL) UK indie phenomenon The xx returns to Singapore after a four-year hiatus, and will perform live with British singer Sampha (who has worked with the likes of Drake and Kanye). It’ll be a night of eclectic electronic tunes, including recent singles “On Hold” and “Say Something Loving”. Singapore Sports Hub. Tickets from the Sports Hub website.

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 little ones to a range of sports including rugby, baseball, hockey and ultimate frisbee. Shaws Little League @ The Cage, 38 Jalan Benaan Kapal. shawslittleleague.com Children’s Season at the National Museum (UNTIL 30 JUL) Take the littlies to the National Museum this month for discovery and play. Check out interactive exhibitions and sensorial stations, and take part in engaging storytelling sessions. Drop by the Young Cinema for your favourite cartoons and children’s classics. National Museum of Singapore. nationalmuseum.sg The Curious Adventures of Pinocchio (25 JUL – 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.

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CALENDAR

ARTS

SOCIAL Healthy Wine Tasting with Bacco (5 JUL) Say goodbye to morning-after headaches with organic wine from Bacco, sourced from family- run Italian estates. #02-09 The Herencia, 46 Kim Yam Road. baccowines.com classrooms with their own outdoor play decks, shared specialist rooms and an early learning swimming pool, all designed to help support the learning journey of young children. 1 Lorong Chuan. ais.com.sg AIS Early Learning Village Open House (26 JUL) Explore the new AIS campus for children aged 18 months to six years at an open house this month. You’ll see Reggio Emilia-inspired

Hiroji Kubota Exhibition (UNTIL 2 JUL)

Admire more than a hundred of renowned Japanese photographer Hiroji Kubota’s photographs at this exhibition. Go back in time and view black-and-white prints from as far back as the 1960s and colour dye-transfer prints from the 1970s. Sundaram Tagore Gallery. sundaramtagore.com Joseon Korea: Court Treasures and City Life (UNTIL 23 JUL) Take the opportunity to get up close to more than 150 artefacts from the National Museum of Korea and National Palace Museum of Korea. You’ll learn about the Joseon period that shaped Korea and gain an understanding of its rich cultural legacy. Asian Civilisation Museum. acm.org.sg Precious Eggs: Of Art, Beauty and Culture (UNTIL 29 OCT) Feast your eyes on beautiful precious 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

Hiroji Kubota Exhibition

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JULY2017

CALENDAR

A Celebration of Dreams: John Williams – The Music Makers (12 AUG) John William’s 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) Less than a year ago, Bastille lit up the stage at the F1 Grand Prix, and the British alt-pop band returns to Singapore on 14 August, showcasing hits from their albums Bad Blood and last year’s Wild World . The Star Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Midnight Oil Live in Singapore (16 AUG) “The Great Circle 2017” is Midnight Oil’s first world tour in more than two decades, and the band has Singapore in its sights for August. Don’t miss this chance to hear their classics 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. Beerfest Asia 2017 (17-20 AUG) If you love a brew – not to mention good food and music – be sure to drop by 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

Bastille Live in Singapore

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

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 offers a huge variety of brands and products. 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 in August. Take part in games, contests, seminars and snag a good deal at the toy and book stands. Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. riseandshine.com.sg Puma Night Run Singapore 2017 (26 AUG) The Puma Night Run returns in August, with 6km and 12km routes available. You can choose to run as an individual, in a pair or group of four. Seletar Aerospace Park. puma-nightrun.com.sg

: 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

STING FEVER Many thanks for the Sting tickets that I won in your recent Facebook competition. It was a super evening, we had great seats and the show was amazing! – Sarah Unstead Ed: You’rewelcome, Sarah. We frequently have giveaways both on our website (expatliving.sg) and on our Facebook page – so keep a sharp lookout!

EL FOR ALL Prior to our arrival in Singapore in 2015, I had access to your magazine and found it very helpful, especially when searching neighbourhoods for a place to live. However, many of your articles seem to be for people with a limitless income, which many of your readers do not have. I’m sure your readers would appreciate some reviews Best Letter We want to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the magazine, or on any subject under the sun. To thank Laura Camacho for her thoughtful feedback, we’ll be sending her a bottle of champagne.

March2014

TheReferralGuide forSINGAPORE

SINGAPORE

March2014Issue140

March2016

OURVERDICT SplurgevsSave ClinicalFacials TAPAS& TORTILLAS SpanishDining FashionTrends

March2016 Issue164

BEDROOMS•SPANISH FOOD•CLINICAL FACIALS

SINGAPORE

March 2015 Issue152

BEDROOMS• PRESCHOOLS•MEATY EATS HIRE A CAR & ESCAPE!

March2015

of travel destinations with a budget in mind. Or how about affordable fashion suggestions for a European/American-shaped body? I have spent weeks looking for a swimsuit that comes in a size bigger than 38, and I’m sure I’m not the only one. Can you please try to include articles that could be helpful to a broader range of readers? – Laura Camacho (email shortened)

PREGNANCYHEALTH•BEDROOM FURNITURE•MEXICAN FOOD

26 Preschools

GREEK ISLES MAURITIUS MUMBAI Escapes INTERVIEWTIPS &COOKING SCHOOLS Hiring Help

DÉCOR IDEAS FORBEDROOMS

SKYDIVINGNZ

S$6.50 MCI (P)064/02/2013

11/2/142:24PM

MCI (P)092/02/2016

OURMEXICAN DININGGUIDE A Taco Time

S$65

HOW TOHAVE AHEALTHY PREGNANCY

RtypeMar14Cover2.indd 1

ANDRENOVATING

MCI (P)041/02/2014

S$650

In the Bedroom

Thank you for your feedback, which makes some valid points. Ever since we started, 15 years ago, we’ve been very aware of our mix of readers, and we have always made an effort to balance our content and make it inclusive. Even back then, many of us were not on “expat packages” – including the EL team– and so we frequently publish articles on budget- conscious travel, shopping and entertainment, both online and in print. Our newTravel Guide has several readers’ recommendations, and we include these and pointers on free things to do in our City Guide and Kids’ Guide too. We also Shutterstock.com |PI,MarkusGebauer

INDIA

COVER STORY As an avid Expat Living reader since I got here two-and-a-half years ago, I love finding my copy in the mailbox each month. How about doing a showcase of some of the front covers of previous EL magazines over the years? It would be fun to see the changes over time! – Delvene Beaumont Ed: We were thinking of doing something like that for our 15th anniversary last February, so thanks for reminding us – it’s a great idea!

KR MARKET EXPERIENCING

BY MELISSAFU

The first Indian city I ever visitedwasBangalore (alsoknown asBengaluru), the capital cityofKarnataka state. ItsKRMarket is the epitomeof chaos, and althoughan Indianacquaintance toldme thateven some localsavoid thearea, it’sworth a trip there to soak in the atmosphere andbe amazedby themany happenings going on all at once. Iwent toKR–popularlyknownas theCityMarket–with twoother friends atabout9am;wegot therebyauto-rickshaw.BeingChinese,wewereused to standing out in crowds in India, and during our tripwe had a few requests from localswantingus topose in theirphotographs! Our auto-rickshaw dropped us by the road and therewere rows of stalls selling all sortsof vegetables, fruits and spices.Rather than visiting themain building,which is apparently abeautiful flowermarket,wewalked through the streets outside, over ground covered in tossed-out junk and scraps of paper.Wespottedcows restingon theground,andevenacowdefecationarea, where the animals stood around doing their “business” – in close proximity to the stalls. The highlight of the visit happenedwhilewewere stuck in the crowds. Amotorcycle came along, thankfully travelling at a low speed, and decided to just ride intome,hittingme frombehind.The rider got a severe scolding from a local in the end –wewere really shocked!

FACT FILE Getting there: Asmanyas fourdifferentairlines flydaily betweenSingaporeand

Bangalore (4hours25minutes). Trivia time: Ahostof famous Indiancricketplayerscome from Bangalore, includingbatsman RahulDravidand leg-spinner AnilKumble,currentcoachof thenational side.

Despite this, I encourage you to visit KRMarket to experience its one- of-a-kind chaos. (Don’t getme started on the train rides – they’re another adventure altogether…)

TRAVELGUIDE2017

110

make a point of sourcing and featuring clothing in bigger sizes. As with many other lifestyle magazines, some of the homes and travel experiences featured are aspirational. Apart from those readers who can afford them, we believe that many other readers enjoy looking at them, too.

Email us at info@expatliving.sg

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JULY2017

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

JUN2017

SINGAPORE

June2017 Issue 179

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

OUTDOORFURNITURE •AFTERNOONTEA •NATURALSKINCARE

July2017 Issue 180

HoiAn,Saigon&LuangPrabang

JULY2017

40+ Outdoor Décor Ideas

LIVINGROOMSTYLE •CBDDINING •HAIR&SALONGUIDE

SINGAPORE

Exotic India andSriLanka Explore:

GreenUp YourBeauty Routine

GetMotivated: TryPersonal Training!

YourGuideTo Counselling

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CBDDining Hotspots

Cool Furnishing Ideas 50+

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C O M P E T I T I O N

Find out who won! p78

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JULY2017

Whatwe’reup toon…

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

Trying out new foodie spots across the island

Learning new skills at our Expat Living events.

Swooning over luxe travel destinations

EXPAT LIVING’S NEW TRAVEL GUIDE IS OUT NOW!

For a limited time only, we’re giving away a free copy of the print edition.

GUIDE

& BEYOND Greatgetaways &readers’tales

To claim yours, simply visit: expatliving.sg/freeTG

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FAMILY-FRIENDLYTRIPS•BEAUTIFULBEACHES•LUXEHOLIDAYS•BUDGETTRAVELTIPS

Free copies of Travel Guide available while stocks last. Only one copy valid per person living in Singapore.

35 JULY2017

HOME & PROPERTY

64 Buyer’s Guide:

Gorgeous furniture for your living room

Ethnicraft Online

44 Home Showcase: Find out why this family loves living in Nassim Hill

50 Product News: Children’s furniture that grows with your child

54 Expert Voice: Tips on how to jazz up your living room space

HOME & PROPERTY

Tween Trends Ni-Night has launched a range of furniture for tweens, including wrought iron and vintage glam beds. Match it with Duduk batik-print linens in cool pinks, blues, orange and turquoise, available in the store. To see the full range, go to ni-night.com .

SUPER SALES

Kühl Home is offering special discounts across its furniture and lighting range, with between 20 and 40 percent off its Scandinavian- designed made- i n - E u r o p e products. Brands include Bolia, Juul and Norman Copenhagen, and the pieces are sustainable, well made, and free

Chairs and Cocktails Design Intervention has linked up with outdoor furniture specialists the Ratana Group to produce this Piña Colada chair. Designed with a sense of fun, the chair, which can seat two, is perfect for sitting outside and sipping cocktails. Find out more at designintervention.sg .

from harmful substances. Head to Kühl Home, 100E Pasir Panjang Road, #08-01 Century Warehouse for some happy sales shopping.

The Furniture Mall , which carries more than 70 brands including Star Furniture, Sealy and King Koil, is offering a raft of promotions during the Great Singapore Sale – spend $2,000 on a weekday or $3,000 on a weekend and redeem a premium gift set. What’s more, there’s free parking. The Furniture Mall, 10 Toh Guan Road.

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HOME & PROPERTY

New & Notable Well-known Aussie homeware store Bed Bath n’ Table has opened two stores in Singapore, in Suntec City Mall and Parkway Parade. It specialises in designer bed linen, bath towels and homeware, including entertainment and outdoor products. For information on products and locations, go to bedbathntable.com.sg .

Under the Hammer!

A piece from the exclusive jade collection

Why sell with HotLotz? July can be a busy time for expats – you might be moving on to another adventure, or you might even be moving home. HotLotz isn’t just a great opportunity for those looking to bid for a stylish bargain or two, it also offers a stress-free option for people looking to sell their home pieces. MATTHEWELTON, owner and chief auctioneer at HotLotz, explains why selling with them is an easy option: • “It’s hassle-free – there’s no answering emails once you’ve advertised a piece, or opening your home up to strangers and haggling over prices.” • “If there’s no sale, there’s no fee – we only charge a commission if we sell your items.” • “Our logisitics team can collect your pieces, so you can free up space.” • “The beauty of an auction is that if two people want the same thing, the price goes up!” Download the HotLotz app and then click on the consign button to start selling your home pieces. Don’t forget the smaller items. Hotlotz is currently also looking for watches, jewellery and designer handbags for sales later this year. What’s on? Here are just some of the HotLotz sales being held this month: WHAT: FineAntiques and Interiors – a special timed online auction, including an exclusive jade collection owned by Singaporean entrepreneur Jannie Chan

Home Store for Holland Village Lim’s Holland Village has reopened, with reams of home décor pieces in store including hand-painted ceramics and porcelain, hand-woven bamboo storage baskets, hand-spun cotton throws and more. Established by a co-founder of Lim’s Arts & Living, the store is a family-run business with Mr Lim and his three daughters continuing to work closely with furniture makers in Asia. #02-01 Holland Road Shopping Centre, 211 Holland Avenue.

WHEN: 2 to 26 July WHERE: hotlotz.com WHAT: Weekly Interiors and Antiques sales

WHEN: Every Thursday from 7.30pm. Get yourself down to the first Thursday night auction of each month and there are often big reductions to be had by in room bidders. WHERE: HotLotz, #01-15CendexCentre, 120LowerDeltaRoad

Go to hotlotz.com to register and find out more.

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HOME & PROPERTY ADVE T RIAL

DynamicDuo Two Stylish Serviced Residences

With a hotel on almost every corner in Singapore, why would someone choosetostayinaservicedresidence? The team from Far East Hospitality (FEH) gives some reasons, and a few tips on where to stay. With so many accommodation options available here, it can be hard to choose where to stay if you find yourself between leases, or if you’re booking a place for visiting friends or relatives. Serviced residences can work out to be more cost-efficient, especially for groups or families; a two-bedroom apartment can often be less expensive than two deluxe hotel rooms, for instance. Cost isn’t the only factor. A hotel room can feel claustrophobic when you spend weeks in it, whereas a serviced apartment has more personal space, including a living room, a kitchenette and sometimes other private areas. Having your own kitchenmeans you’re able to prepare your own meals, which is perfect for families with young kids, or those with specific dietary requirements. Speaking of food, at FEH properties you have the option of a complimentary light continental breakfast to save you having to prepare something yourself.

Oasia Residence, West Coast The newest FEH property, this residence opened in October 2016. It has 140 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments and a wide range of wellness

facilities, including a fitness centre, a tennis court and a swimming pool. There are also barbecue pits for those who want to host a get-together with friends or family. The property is a stone’s throw from West Coast Park, and

a short taxi ride to VivoCity or Sentosa. 123 West Coast Crescent | 6254 1746

Village Residence, Clarke Quay

Drawing inspiration from the Straits Chinese and Peranakan heritage of Clarke Quay, the 127 rooms and corridors of this property are decorated with woodcarvings and hand-painted ceramic tiles. There’s a gym, swimming pool and sauna for residents, and with the Clarke Quay riverside on its doorstep, plenty of dining and entertainment options. The CBD and Chinatown are also within walking distance. 20 Havelock Road | 6536 7833

FEH residences require only a minimum seven-night stay. To find out more, go to stayfareast.com.

43 JULY2017

We chat to PRABHA SAHA about why her family loves living in this Nassim Hill apartment, and which are her go-to furniture and décor shops in Singapore. NassimHill HOME

BY AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY MICHAEL BERNABE

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HOME & PROPERTY

Who lives here: Prabha and husband Jyotirmoy Saha, daughter Aditi (currently studying in Boston), son Arnab, helper Madelyn and, the youngest family member, Whisky the beagle puppy. Size of home: Five-bedroom apartment, with one bedroom now an office and another a family room. Personal style: Elegant and timeless. Prabha’s favourite area: The balcony.

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T his time it’s for good!” says Prabha about her family’s current stint in Singapore – their third. “We moved here first in 1996, when Jyotirmoy and I were just married. We literally grew up here as a couple.” With subsequent moves to Kuala Lumpur, where their daughter Aditi was born, Mumbai, where son Arnab was born, and a short stint in the US, they’ve experienced their fair share of international postings. They arrived in Singapore for the third time in 2008, living initially in the River Valley area until their move to this Nassim Hill condo in March this year. “River Valley is convenient, but it’s getting so noisy, the roads are really congested, and the area is a bit of a mess with all the building,” says Prabha. Looking for a quieter alternative, they came across this condo hidden behind Cluny Road. “We really like this place; it’s so peaceful, and it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the Botanical Gardens, where my son loves to feed the fish.” The condo has just two blocks, with extensive grounds, a children’s garden,

a pool and tennis courts. “There’s plenty of wildlife too – we sometimes even get hornbills coming to sit here on the balcony,” explains Prabha, as we look out over the unobstructed skyline. Of the apartment’s five bedrooms, two have been reconfigured for different uses: one is an office and the other a family room. “I don’t need five bedrooms, but at the same time if we have guests, which we often do, I want the option of having more space.” The office can also double as a room for guests, although it’s more often used by Jyotirmoy when he’s working at home. Jyotirmoy is the founder of August Media Holdings (AMH) and Prabha is its vice- president; together, they’ve been busy building up the company’s portfolio of kids’ and youth content. The company boasts a rich library that includes hit animated titles like George of the Jungle and Ella Bella Bingo , which are loved by kids in over 100 countries. They also have a joint venture in the Philippines that employs over 200 people, creating content for audiences in Asia Pacific and worldwide. Jyotirmoy is also a keen investor in tech and media startups that work with more than just content.

Left: The artwork above the sofa is by Mohammed The Painter; Prabha picked it up in Bali, a place close to her heart. Next page: After her father retired, Prabha’s parents moved to Kochi, where they built a palatial home. Each the staircase and even the nails were made from teak wood. “This chaise used to be against a huge French window in their home, and Dad used to have his afternoon nap on it. My parents have since passed away, and this piece means a lot to me.” Prabha took up sketching recently, and had these pieces framed at piece of wooden furniture, the doors,

Framing Angie. “I

made them as a gift for my children.”

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Clockwise: The picture above the bed is from the store Iwannagohome (now closed down), and the side tables are offers the best unblocked view of the western sky, making it ideal for observing and photographing from Lims. Arnab and Aditi’s room

Home Style Aside from her career, Prabha also invests a lot of her time and passion into styling her home. “I love spaces, and I enjoy styling as a hobby. I can’t be bothered with clothes shopping, but I jump at the chance to shop for furniture!” She clearly knows where to go for furniture and décor, reeling off a list that includes UnikHome, Lims, Bungalow 55, Tatty Marsh and FairPrice Antique. Then there’s Bali, one of her favourite places to travel to and bring pieces back from. “I have a favourite store there called Domicil, and I love Mahana as well,” she says. “I’ve carried large pieces back from Bali before – I’d rather take them on to the plane and make sure they get here in one piece!” One example is the huge oxhead in the corner of the living room; most of the lamps, too, are from Bali.

Blue is clearly a favourite colour. Plenty of pieces in a variety of shades are dotted around the home, from the turquoise ceramics on the coffee table, to the blue-and-white upholstery on her chairs and the rich, vibrantly blue side-tables. The open-plan living and dining area links through to an inviting balcony, and this is where Prabha spends much of her time – as do her guests when they visit. “It’s so peaceful. We like to have our morning tea or coffee on the balcony, and in the evening we sit out here with a drink. Although we only have two chairs outside, when we have guests everyone invariably ends up sitting on the steps there.” Walking around the apartment, I find it hard to believe that they moved in just two months ago. “I definitely like to keep myself busy and my days full,” says Prabha, by way of explanation.

planetary objects in the solar

system with the family’s state-of-the-art

telescope. The family room has a pull-out sofa from Harvey Norman, for

when extended family members come to stay.

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HOME & PROPERTY

EATING & DRINKING Spiffy Dapper (“for drinks and the atmosphere”) 73 Amoy Street 8742 8908 | spiffydapper.com Artemis Grill (“for great food and the superb view”) #40 CapitaGreen rooftop 138 Market Street 6635 8677 | artemisgrill.com.sg Blu Kouzina (“for delicious Greek food”) #01-21 Dempsey Hill, Block 10 6875 0872 | blukouzina.com Osteria Mozza #B1-42-46 Galleria Level The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Avenue 6688 8522 | osteriamozza.com The Padang Restaurant Singapore Cricket Club, Connaught Drive 6309 9117 | scc.org.sg Brunetti’s at Tanglin Mall (“for a quick bite or coffee”) #01-03/04 & #01-35/36 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road 6733 9088 HOME DÉCOR UnikHome #07-06A Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 6221 3048 | unikhome.com Bungalow 55 #01-05A Cluny Court 501 Bukit Timah Road 6463 3831 | thebungalow55.com Lim's Holland Village 211 Holland Avenue #02-01 Holland Road Shopping Centre 6466 3188 | facebook.com/ limshollandvillage FairPrice Antique #01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 6270 2544 | fairpriceantique.com Tatty Marsh #02-07 Tanglin Mall 163 Tanglin Road 6887 4225 | tattymarsh.com Domicil (Bali) domicil-living.com Recommendations

From top: Prabha’s

favourite space. The frames are from Hacienda Blue, and display typical marble inlay work from Jaipur. “I have my eye on a beautiful chest at the store.” “I’m originally from Kerala, and you’ll find these lamps in every Kerala household; they’re something every mother gives her daughter.” Most of these beautiful antiques, says Prabha; they’re over 100 years old, and have been handed down from generation to generation. brass items are genuine

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Aren’t beds for kids that grow as they do just the best invention? Here are the different stages that FLEXA beds can go through to accommodate toddlers, tweens and teens. GROWING UP FAST!

STAGE 1 Single bed with pullout bed or drawers (suitable for ages four and upwards).

Using a single bed as the starting block, this piece of furniture comes in three sizes: single, super single and double. Pullout drawers can be installed for extra storage, as you can see here, or you can opt for a pullout trundle for sleepovers or siblings.

STAGE 2 Single bed with pullout bed and drawers. Transform the single bed with longer leg kits to accommodate both a pullout bed and drawers underneath, which is particularly handy if you have children sharing a room.

STAGE 3 Mid-high bed with steps and/or slide (ages five to nine). As your child grows, it’s fun to add new elements of play to their room. For instance, add a leg kit to the bed to give it more height, and some anti-slip straight or slant steps for access to the bed, or even a straight or slanted slide for fun. Choose from one of FLEXA’s six colourful textile themes to create a unique room.

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STAGE 4 Semi-high bed varieties (ages six and up). Swap the mid-high leg kits for the longer semi-high bed leg kits for added room to play underneath the bed. You can integrate a single bed for sharing (pictured) , or a quiet nook with shelves and beanbags.

STAGE 5 Bunk beds (ages four years and up for the bottom bunk, six years and up for the top). FLEXA’s bunk bed is fully adaptable – you can add colourful textiles for a more interactive bedroom (pictured) , or a wider bottom bed bunk for kids who love sleepovers. Choose from straight or slanted ladders, or add safety rails, bed ends and bedside tables.

STAGE 6 High bed with bottom bunk bed varieties.

The high bed has a variety of set-ups to suit space requirements. The bottom sleeping module is a foldable add-on that makes good use of space, with room for a click- on desk or a side drawer. The classic single bed can also be installed below to form an L-shaped configuration.

SAFE FOR THE FAMILY • FLEXA uses certified wood products that meet the international standards for sustainable forest management. • All of its textiles bear the OEKO-Tex mark, meaning they are free from chemicals and other harmful substances. • Eco-friendly UV-lacquer is used across the range of products; it’s not only free from solvents and toxic colourants, but also hardwearing – it can tolerate tough treatment!

FLEXA is at #01-33/34/35 United Square, 101 Thomson Road. 6354 1310 | flexaworld.com.sg

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HOME & PROPERTY ADVE T RIAL

A stay in a serviced apartment brings with it plenty of benefits – well-appointed rooms with plenty of space including your own kitchen to cook in, and facilities and amenities to take advantage of. But it’s not just what’s on the inside that counts. Here is a look at two centrally located serviced residences and what’s on offer in their immediate vicinity.

ORCHARD ROAD What to do (aside from shopping!) • From brunching at Oriole Coffee + Bar, to having one of the best steaks in town at Bedrock Bar &Grill, you’re spoilt for dining choices on Orchard. • Hunting for a couple of exercise options with a twist? Try BOUNCE Singapore at Cathay Cineleisure or the Via Ferrata Climbing Wall in Orchard Central. • For something a little more sedate, try “art jamming” at Istana Park. • Feed that culture bug with a visit to the Singapore Art Museum and the National Museum of Singapore, Istana. Where to stay Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard From a one-bedroom suite to a two- bedroom penthouse, there are plenty of accommodation options here, not to mention a hydrotherapeutic spa, 30-metre ionised swimming pool, OSIM Massage chairs, Xbox Kinect, golf putting green and fitness centre; in fact, you may not want to leave the building, despite all the activities on the doorstep! 96 Orchard Road 6884 5222 | panpacific.com

BEACH ROAD What to do

• Make some Instagram magic by taking photos of local street art, including the wall murals along Haji Lane. • Explore Kampong Glam and visit the Masjid Sultan Mosque on Arab Street. • There are plenty of watering holes in the area, but one that’s not-to-be-missed is Blu Jaz Café. • Historic movie theatre The Projector is a cinema with a difference, screening plenty of films that you can’t see in mainstream theatres. • Dine in the dark at Nox – though maybe not on a first date! • There’s always a new café to try, and three

recent additions are Hokkaido Ice Cream Puff, A.R.C. Coffee, and Artistry. But don’t forget established favourites like the Dong Po Colonial Café, an old-school bakery serving up classics like pineapple tarts and homemade zesty lemon curd.

Where to stay Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Beach Road

There’s a warm touch to the spacious suites in this property; each one features modern fittings and sleek furnishings, with well-appointed spaces for work and rest. The long- and short-term residents have access to premium facilities and services, too, from a rooftop swimming pool with stunning views to a fitness centre, and 24-hour Personal Assistants to help with all your needs. 7500B Beach Road 6678 8888 | panpacific.com

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Living Room Trends We a s k e d C H L Ö E ELKERTON from E&A Interiors to talk us through key living room trends, and put the spotlight on four of her recent projects to glean some inspiration. T h re e cu r ren t t rend s a re showcased through these featured projects. The first is the use of Moroccan rugs ; there is currently a shift away from bold geometric pieces, which are less versatile and harder to move between spaces. Moroccan rugs are softer, and more durable and long-lasting. Mixing of styles is popular right now, and the combination of different themes such as Asian, Moroccan, African or Classic incorporated into a design scheme makes for a more interesting and dynamic design style. It tells more of a story and often results in a more liveable space than a single themed room. Finally, the use of warmer metals such as brass on lighting, fixtures and furniture is trending over colder stainless steel and similar materials.

Materials used: Velvet, linen, leather, wool, ceramic and glass Level of difficulty: Intermediate Cost: $12,000 Steal the look: • When using a sofa in the middle of the room, upholster the side and back in a different texture or pattern to the seat. • Use a monochrome palette – painting the walls white, for instance – when adding a pop of strong colour. • Don’t be scared of colour – it’s a great way to bring a happy, bright and vibrant feel to a room. • Use art as inspiration for the colour palette of a room.

CASE 1 White was used on the walls, the floor and in the detail of the picture frames to act as a background to showcase a pop of colour and create a fresh, fun, light and elegant room. An existing sofa was moved to the middle of the room, and reupholstered with the sides and back featuring a striking pattern. We used reflective surfaces to add elegance as well as light to the space, through the leather stools and mirrored cabinet.

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Materials used: Linen, wool, brass, wood, wallpaper Level of difficulty: Advanced Cost: $25,000 Steal the look: • Mix patterns on a neutral palette to create an interesting and coordinated look. • Use lighting in

different finishes on different levels.

• Add in a fabric

ottoman instead of a coffee table – this is also an opportunity to add in a patterned or different textured fabric.

CASE 2 An open-plan living-dining room area was created, and a bespoke banquette added to create a dining section. The neutral palette worked as a thread to showcase interesting patterns and textures, creating a warm, elegant interior.

Lighting was added in different finishes, from an upholstered lampshade to different types of brass. The large Moroccan rug worked to “ground” the furniture, and make the space feel larger, and a soft geometric wallpaper was used to add texture and style to the room.

• Use a neutral geometric

wallpaper to add texture and a luxurious feel.

Materials used: Brass, linen, ceramic, wool and glass Level of difficulty: Advanced

Cost: $15,000 Steal the look: • Reupholster

existing furniture such as an old

armchair or lampshade. • Move artwork

around, and use an existing piece as inspiration for the mood of the room. through the use of cushions, trays, photo frames and ornaments. two new pieces to compliment family favourites.

• Accessorise

CASE 3 The striking piece of art was used as inspiration for the room, and the colour palette acts as the thread for the theme of the space. The room is linked together by drawing on accents like the black frame, and incorporating this into other elements such as the ceramic stool and armchairs.

The understated luxe vibe was created through the combination of interesting textures such as linen, brass, mirror and wood. By mixing different styles, a very sophisticated, warm and liveable space was created. Existing pieces were worked with, including the wooden cabinet and two armchairs, which were reupholstered and combined different looks.

• Invest in one or

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Chloe’s recommendations

CASE 4 An unused space in a black-and- white house was given a new lease of life, and turned into a family and kids’ playroom. To create a lounge feel, a bespoke large and low-level sofa was made, using the majority of the floor space. A wooden built-in media unit was secured to the wall, ensuring there is no risk of it falling. There’s plenty of storage space for toys and the shelves are at different heights, so more precious items can still be displayed. Two mirrored panels make the space feel bigger, and a soft patterned wallpaper adds texture and light. The choice of sofa along with the cabinet makes the room versatile, which means that it will grow with the child.

Asiatique Collections (accessories) 14A Dempsey Road 6471 3146 | asiatiquecollections.com

Materials used: Cotton, spray-painted wood, wallpaper, very soft bamboo silk rug Level of difficulty: Intermediate Cost: $30,000 Steal the look: • Using baskets is an elegant way to store toys, especially if the space is shared by teens and adults. • Change handles on existing cupboards – this can add to the theme of a room. • Invest in a bespoke sofa for an awkward space. • Add mirrors to make a room feel bigger. • Use wallpaper to create texture and light.

Bungalow 55 (accessories) #01-05A Cluny Court, 501 Bukit Timah Road 6463 3831 | thebungalow55.com Crate & Barrel (furniture and accessories) crateandbarrel.com.sg Cuckoo (kids’ furniture, décor, bedding and toys) Block 6A Dempsey Road 6475 1792 | cuckoolittlelifestyle.com

E&A Interiors (interior design) #04-24 The Herencia, 46 Kim Yam Road 6702 4850 | eandainteriors.com

House of AnLi (accessories, flat ware and furniture) #03-17 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road 6235 3851 | houseofanli

Ruby Slipper (for rugs) rubyslipper.com.sg

Vaughan (lighting) Found at E&A Interiors, listed above.

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