MARCH 2018

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

MAR 2018

SINGAPORE

NZ & Canada plus Lombok on a budget Escapes

Do you like the preschool you chose?

Social Clubs & Things To Do Ideas Easter

VintageVibes &How tomake your bedroom inviting

EDITOR’SNOTE I watched Meet Joe Black for the first time recently. Not sure why it took me 20 years to see it – maybe because I was always put off by how long it is. Apart from enjoying watching a very buff Brad Pitt and the superb acting of Anthony Hopkins, it made me think about what seeing and experiencing the world for the first time as an adult would be like; remembering what it would be like to taste peanut butter or touch water for the first time – instead of it just being “normal”. There were other elements that made me think too; like being without ego or reacting to situations without fear. The houses and the settings were spectacular and it made me look around my little home and wonder what it would be like to live on the waterfront of Rhode Island with a helicopter that took you to work – instead of a jam on the CTE! So it was quite an inspirational and useful way to spend three hours. It’s very easy to get jaded and not appreciate the comfort of a good bed, or the creativity of a firework display. And the final tune, “What a Wonderful World”, sums it all up. If you’re wanting to get out into the world a bit more often, we have a trip to Canada in this issue, plus some New Zealand highlights to pique your interest. And, if your bed really isn’t comfortable, head to page 59 for loads of ideas for a new one! Most of all though, let’s remember what we do have.

REBECCA BISSET Editor-in-Chief

P.S. I often wonder who I would choose if I were given the chance to meet one well-known person … It’s a difficult one. If you know yours, ping us on Facebook – I think it would make a great little article!

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MARCH2018

Editor-in-Chief REBECCA BISSET

Group Editor SHAMUS SILLAR EditorIal Team HOME & PROPERTY: AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE EDUCATION: MONICA PITRELLI LIFE & FAMILY: LINDSAY YAP WINE & DINE, HEALTH: AMY GREENBURG

FASHION: SUSANNAH JAFFER HAIR & BEAUTY: ANTHIA CHNG Copy Editors VERNE MAREE | JULIET KEYS Online Team EMILY FINCH | MICHAELA BISSET IT & Web Support RENE YUTIAMPO Client Services & Production LEANDA RATHMELL | LIANA TALIB | NUR HANANI KAMAL LUDDIN Graphic Designers MICHAEL BERNABE | BEATRICE NG | JEANNE WONG Circulation & Administration ANNA TSERLINGAS | GRACE BANTARAN | SITI SHAHIRAH KHIRUDEEN Marketing & Business Development VEENA GILL Advertising Sales KARIN GALLEY | DANIELLE ROSSETTI | LARA SAGE | JACQUI YOUNG

Partnerships & Events SUSAN KNUDSEN-PICKLES

Video Content MELINDA MURPHY Chief Operations Officer COLIN PURCHASE Contributing Writers KAROLA CLARK | HARSHARAN KAUR | KATIE ROBERTS | SERENE HUANG | JUSTIN HARPER

Contributing Photographers KEN TAN (WITHINIMAGES.COM) KATIE MARTIN-SPERRY (KATIEMSPERRYPHOTOGRAPHY.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 Printed by Ho Printing Singapore Pte Ltd (hoprinting.com) Published by Expat Living Publications Pte Ltd 37 Jalan Pemimpin, #07-06 Mapex Building, Singapore 577177

FairPrice Antique (fairpriceantique.com)

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MARCH2018

CONTENTS

NEWS 18 Calendar Updates: 26 Readers’ Letters 28 EL Forum: HOME & PROPERTY 32 News 34 Win a Willow Mattress! 37 Home Showcase: An American couple and their Ardmore apartment 45 Easter Décor 48 Business Profile: Meet the team behind Flower Addict 50 Product News: Ethnicraft Online’s cool new collection 53 Inside Story: Readers tell us why they chose their beds 59 Buying Guide: The best of bedroom furniture 70 Overseas Investment: Buying property in Melbourne 72 Street Talk: Living in Yishun What’s on in the coming months What we’re up to online, plus our upcoming events

59

Shop for beds of every kind

xxxxx

LIFE & FAMILY 82 News 90 Car Talk: The advantages of leasing 92 Serviced Apartment Review 94 Noticeboard: New baby announcements 99 Football Fever: The HSBC Rugby 7s returns! 100 Trampoline Fun 102 Profile: In conversation with Stephanie Syptak-Ramnath 107 Expert Voice:

108 Life Coaching: Jasrin Singh’s tips for happiness 111 Find a Social Club 115 Employment Entrepreneur: We meet Nadia Al Sheik, founder of Deal’n 116 Towards Zero Hunger 119 Charity Focus: A HOME volunteer’s exciting book project 122 Around Town: Photos from recent

45 Spring style for the home

Marital issues and legal proceedings for Aussies

openings, parties, festivals and more

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MARCH2018

CONTENTS

WINE & DINE 134 News 136 Bar Tab: A new and notable spot for a tipple 138 Recipe Corner: Fail-safe favourites to add to your repertoire 140 Prime Positions: Where to eat some of the best meat dishes across town

162 Finding France in Canada

140 Steaking out the city’s best beef

TRAVEL 152 News 156 Family Fun:

Top destinations for all ages across the globe

158 Summer Escapes: Book now for mid-year getaways 160 NZ with Kids: Antipodean adventures with little ones 162 Exploring Quebec Province 168 Laid-back Lombok: A wallet-friendly Indonesian island escape

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MARCH2018

CONTENTS

STYLE & BEAUTY 176 Style News 178 Style Hunter: Fashion on Singapore’s streets 180 Inside Story: Readers recommend their favourite jewellers 184 Buying Guide: Dress your baby bump with these chic finds 186 Beauty News 188 People Profile: The brains behind Glowella 190 Tried & Tested: Three face cleansers reviewed 192 Facial Reviews: Our team tries five different salons

184

What to wear when you’re expecting

Ramp up your skincare regime

190

HEALTH & FITNESS 204 News 206 Expat Profile:

Paediatric dentist and orthodontist Dr Joel Cooper

208 Family Size:

Influences on this ticklish life choice 209 Pregnancy Preparations:

We ask the experts how to get fit for motherhood

213 An Unexpected Twist:

A medical issue all parents should know about

REGULARS 219 Numbers & Websites 220 Horoscopes for March

222 Advertiser List 224 Parting Shot:

Searching for spiky gold

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MARCH2018

CALENDAR

HotLotz featuring FairPrice Antique

Terry Fox Run for Cancer Research (18 MAR)

DANCE, THEATRE & CONCERTS Kumar50 (UNTIL 11 MAR) Get ready for a night of laughter with Singapore’s famous drag queen Kumar, who’ll be joined by his showgirls to dance and lip-sync to top hits from Whitney Houston to Taylor Swift, while dishing out some hilarious hard truths. Capitol Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Evita (UNTIL 18 MAR) This Broadway and West End musical tells the story of Eva Peron, wife of former Argentine dictator Juan Peron, from her humble beginnings to extraordinary wealth and status. It features powerful songs such as “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” and “On This Night of a Thousand Stars”. Grand Theatre, Mastercard Theatres. Tickets from Sistic. In this family drama, you’ll walk in the shoes of André, a 70-year-old man who is deteriorating under dementia. Watch as his perception of the world around him warps and crumbles. Victoria Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Returning for its eighth edition, this race helps support cancer research in Singapore. Choose to run the 5km or 10km individual event, with the option of a donation, or you can just donate without participating in the race. Registration is through the purchase of a Terry Fox Run T-shirt and/or a donation. Angsana Green, East Coast Park. terryfoxrunsg.com The Father (2-18 MAR)

SHOPPING & FAIRS

HotLotz featuring FairPrice Antique (1-18 MAR)

As part of FairPrice Antique’s relaunch, they have partnered with HotLotz to offer pieces from their back catalogue at this online-only timed auction. All items will be available to view in the HotLotz saleroom. hotlotz.com SuperMom Baby Fair (2-4 MAR) Calling all parents and parents-to-be! This annual baby fair features over 150,000 brands and products for pregnancy and baby’s early years, with plenty of discounts and rebates on offer. Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. supermom.com.sg Boutiques Fair (16-18 MAR) Returning for its Spring/Summer Edition this March, the Boutiques Fair offers over 200 independent and design-led labels. Shop women’s and men’s fashion, accessories, lifestyle products as well as children’s goods. F1 Pit Building. boutiquefairs.com.sg SPORTS & FITNESS Relay For Life (10-11 MAR) Organised by the Singapore Cancer Society, this overnight walk aims to raise awareness and funds for the fight against cancer. Teams will take turns to walk around a designated path, with each team member on the path at all times, signifying how cancer never sleeps. National Stadium. singaporecancersociety.org.sg

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MARCH2018

CALENDAR

RuPaul’s Drag Race: Kim Chi and Naomi Smalls (4 MAR) Join iconic drag duo Kim Chi and Naomi Smalls for a night of madness and laughter, as the finalists from Season 8 of RuPaul’s Drag Race bring their hilarious comedy and lip-sync show to Singapore. Kallang Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. I Love 90s (10 MAR) Relive your youth and enjoy a fun night of dancing and nostalgia at I Love 90s , with an amazing line-up of hot acts that includes 911, 5ive, and S Club. The Star Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. Fifth Harmony PSA Tour – Live in Singapore (14 MAR) American all-girl pop group and former X Factor contestants Fifth Harmony are playing in Singapore this March on the back of their self-titled third studio album, which includes lead single “Down”. Zepp@BigBox Singapore. Tickets from Sistic. Swan Lake by American Ballet Theatre (15-18 MAR) Expect brilliant choreography and captivating storytelling in the American Ballet Theatre’s adaptation of Swan Lake . The most-loved ballet will be accompanied by the Singapore Lyric Opera Orchestra. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Tickets from Sistic.

True Colours Festival (23-25 MAR) Witness the talents of 20 local and international performing artistes and troupes with disabilities at this inclusive festival, and drop by the festival village where you can learn more about different kinds of disabilities while admiring artwork and trying your hand at paralympic sports. truecolours.sg LANY – Live in Singapore (29 MAR) Catch Los Angeles-based indie pop band LANY when they tour in March. The trio’s music combines 80s radio pop, 90s R&B soul and atmospheric synths. Capitol Theatre. Tickets from Apactix. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (29 MAR – 8 APR) This award-winning production tells the story of 15-year- old Christopher Boone who has an extraordinary brain but is ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When Christopher is suspected of killing his neighbour’s dog, his detective work to identify the true culprit takes him on a life-changing journey. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. Tickets from the Esplanade website.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

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MARCH2018

CALENDAR

FAMILY Circus! Science Under the Big Top (UNTIL 18 MAR)

GESS International School Open House

Experience first-hand the role of science in the circus at this exhibition, and hold various circus acts up to scrutiny, investigating illusion versus reality and more. Science Centre Singapore. Tickets from Sistic. Tanglin Trust School Introduction to Nursery (2 MAR) Experience a day in the life of a nursery student at this open day. Learn more about the school’s personalised curriculum and check out unique facilities such as the new infant climbing wall and outdoor kitchen. Register online or contact admissions@tts.edu.sg for more details. Tanglin Trust School, 95 Portsdown Road. tts.edu.sg The Nightingale (7-20 APR) Hans Christian Andersen’s well-loved fairy tale tells the story of the Emperor of China who captures and keeps a nightingale in a gilded cage for his daily entertainment. The nightingale eventually loses her voice and is replaced by a singing mechanical bird. KC Arts Centre Home of SRT. Tickets from Sistic. Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Celebration (9-11 MAR) Peppa Pig is back with a new musical show this March. Take the kids along and look forward to songs, games, surprises and more. MES Theatre at Mediacorp. Tickets from Sistic. Disney On Ice celebrates Everyone’s Story (14-18 MAR) Look forward to meeting Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and Disney Princesses including Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White and Tiana in Disney On Ice , and sing along to over 30 songs from your favourite Disney movies. Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets from the Singapore Sports Hub website.

GESS International School Open House (15 MAR)

ART This international blockbuster of an art exhibition features more than 60 paintings from the renowned collection of the Musée d’Orsay, Paris, including key pieces by Monet, Renoir, Manet and Cézanne, as well as works by key Indonesian and Filipino painters of the period. National Gallery. nationalgallery.sg The Artist’s Voice (UNTIL 17 MAR) Exploring the complexity of historical time, this exhibition features 34 contemporary artists from various countries and generations. It focuses on the capacity and competence of art to transfer essential messages about life, truth, historical visions, ethical values and more. Parkview Museum Hubert Le Gall Solo Exhibition: Welcome To My World (UNTIL 25 MAR) Featuring functional design pieces, French artist-designer Hubert Le Gall’s first solo exhibition in Asia includes the most recent addition to his Flower Table series, The Orchid , exclusive to Singapore. Mazel Galerie Singapore. Spend some time with the GESS community, learn more about the curriculum at the Primary and Secondary campuses, and get an exclusive sneak peek of the student-led Grade 5 PYP exhibition and Grade 3 Instruments With Class (IWC) Concert at this Open House day. Register at the school website. GESS Main Campus (Secondary School) and Junior School Campus (Primary School). SSO Concerts for Children: Summon the Superheroes (17-18 MAR) This special SSO concert for little ones includes an action-packed programme with Alasdair Malloy as SuperMac, the Kilted Crusader and conductor Joshua Tan. Victoria Concert Hall. Tickets from Sistic. Century of Light (UNTIL 11 MAR)

Disney On Ice celebrates Everyone’s Story

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MARCH2018

CALENDAR

Prudential Marina Bay Carnival (UNTIL 1 APR) Enjoy a day out with the family at this exciting carnival. Young ones will love classic rides such as the Log Flume, while for thrill-seekers the Booster Maxx reaches a whopping height of 55 metres. Also, dig into fairground eats such as churros and hot dogs. The Promontory @ Marina Bay. marinabaycarnival.sg The Script will be in Singapore as part of their Freedom Child tour, with a show that’s bound to include popular tracks “Breakeven”, “Hall of Fame”, “Superheroes” and “The Man Who Can’t Be Moved”. Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets from Sistic. The Executive Homes Black & White Tour (19 APR) Explore historic black-and-white mansions during this tour with real estate agency Executive Homes. Guided by Diana Chua, an historical homes expert, you’ll visit beautiful locations in Ridley Park and Nassim Road. Proceeds go to the Netherlands Charity Association (NCA). For tickets, contact hestercalkhoven@ ehc.com.sg. Tri-Factor Bike & CycleRun Challenge 2018 (22 APR) This annual race returns with exciting cycling and running events – you can choose to take on both disciplines or just one. There’s also a Tri-Factor Bike 5km category for kids. Republic Avenue / Nicoll Highway. trifactor.sg The Script (12 APR)

Yiruma Live in Singapore (28 APR)

Fall Out Boy (30 APR)

Korean contemporary classical composer and pianist Yiruma will be in town this April to play signature classics such as “River Flows in You” and “Kiss the Rain”. The Star Theatre. Tickets from Sistic. HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens (28-29 APR) Expect two days of fast and frenetic rugby during this year’s Sevens, with 45 matches featuring 16 of the world’s best men’s teams. There’s also live musical acts and a FunZone with great food and activities for the whole family. National Stadium. singapore7s.sg Treasures of the Natural World (UNTIL 29 APR) Explore artefacts and invaluable specimens that have shaped our understanding of the natural world at the ArtScience Museum’s latest exhibition. Over 200 objects from the world- renowned Natural History Museum in London will be showcased. ArtScience Museum.

Hailing from Chicago, long- standing rock band Fall Out Boy – Patrick Stump, Pete Wentz, Joe Trohman and Andy Hurley – are touring on the back of their latest album, Mania , which includes the singles “Champion” and “The Last Of The Real Ones”. Zepp@ BigBox. Tickets from Sistic. Art from the Streets (UNTIL 3 JUN) Featuring nearly 200 works by 50 well-known street artists – from on-site projects and paintings, to installations, videos, archives and sketches, this exhibition is the first major retrospective of street art ever shown in Southeast Asia. ArtScience Museum.

The Executive Homes Black & White Tour

: www.expatliving.sg

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24

MARCH2018

LETTERS

PRINT & DIGITAL Expat Living was my best friend when I first moved to Singapore. I didn’t know anybody and I felt like the mag was with me through those first challenging months. I’m now a “veteran” of five years and I still find it helpful – I love getting my copy each month. And I use the website when I’m out and about now too! – Susan

Best Letter We want to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on the magazine, or on any subject under the sun. We’ll be sending Asif Chowdhury a bottle of champagne for his query about contributing to the magazine – and for wisely using EL as a buying guide in Singapore!

Ed: Thanks so much, we do love hearing those stories – it keeps us going!

HOME&PROPERTY

Cambay dining set, Gallery 278

CustomisableRoycedining table,Lorren C-873dining chair, luxewhite lamp and assorted table accessories, ranging from $60 to$3,845,AreteCulture

Ontariowhite-washdining table,bench,pyramid cabinet and starhurricane candle holder, ranging from$285 to $3,765,AreteCulture

White carved

doorframe sideboard finished inneutral

LIFE&FAMILY

SID’S SOAPS

white, Artful House

BigHeart

Thank you for publishing my interview in Expat Living . Because of it,

SIDHANTHSINGHmaybe just 11,buthe’salready learnt (and demonstrated)the importance of caring for animals. For the past fouryears,hehashelped stray cats in his estate and community — from finding homes to petitioning for spaying. We speak to the Canadian InternationalSchool student about his efforts and whatkeepshimgoing.

Dining set,WTP

Elvedendining set,Gallery 278

Dining setby E&A Interiors

When andhowdid you start taking care of the cats inyour community? Duringmy summerbreak in2013.Amothercat walkedontomypatiowith fivekittens in towand I decided to feed them.Over time, it became a regular thingand thekittensbecameclose tome.

Whatdoyou love themost about taking careof the cats? The fact that I can do something for themwhere they needmy help the most. I get to learnmore about their behaviour and personalities. They also show their love tome inmanyways; oncewhen Iwas sick, one of the cats,who I call Spooky, stayed bymy bed thewhole night – she did that for twonightsuntil I gotbetter. Weoftenhear aboutnewsofmistreated animals inSingapore. Howdoes thatmakeyou feel? Itmakesme feel sadandguilty;beforeurbanisation,animalsused to roam around freelywithoutbeinghitbycarsor takenaway tobekilled.Wehave taken a lot away from them so I feel that it’sour responsibility to take care of them. It’s important to care for these animals as they are a part of our ecosystem andplanet.Every living thinghas a role and the right to live. How areyoureffortsgoing so far? My friends and Ihave been able to raise apetition to save the cats inmy condoandget them spayed.We’vealsohad18kittensadoptedand Ikeep track of how they are doingwithmymum’s help. I plan to join animal welfareorganisations like theCatWelfare Society tohelp cats around the island. If there isone thingyou’d like to tellour readers,whatwould it be? Be a voice for stray animals – theyneedhelp and compassion. To find out how you can help cats in Singapore, visit theCatWelfare Societywebsite, catwelfare.org.

many of my friends have become more i n t e r e s t e d i n a n i ma l welfare and they ask me many questions about it. 108 NOVEMBER2017 What are some challengesyou faced? A fewpeopleweren’t supportiveof the stray cats being fed and some also felt that theywere abad omen.Cat trapswereputup andmany animals wereput to sleepdue to a lack of adopters.The mothers left behind many kittens. Through Facebook,mymum andher friendsmanaged to find somemothercatswithnew litters,and some of these cats accepted thekittens as their own. It was also difficult to get the cats ready for sterilisation.We had to stop them from eating before theprocedure,and thenplace them incat carriers.Theywouldmeow allnight,keepingus awake. Thankfully,my parents and helper are really supportive and don’t complain.They and my friends alsohelpmeby taking the cats to the hospital, looking for themwhen theygomissing and cleaning up after them. Some residents in my condo have also signedmy petition to save the cats.

CostaNova ceramics, HouseofAnLi

Trinidad chair, DanishDesign

Salt & Pepper Masonry Speckle dinnerware,from$9,HarveyNorman

66

67

JANUARY2018

JANUARY2018

FURNITURE FINDS Hello, I’mwondering if you would accept and publish an article regarding our time living in Singapore as expats? I’ve written a small piece regarding my personal experience with having a car here – perhaps your readers will find it informative and interesting. We moved to Singapore a little over three years ago from Boston and have used your magazine as a guide for multiple things here. Frankly, many of the furniture pieces we’ve purchased have been because of information provided by your publication. Best regards. – Asif Chowdhury Ed: Hi Asif, thank you for the lovely note. We’ve actually got something in this issue about leasing versus buying a car, but we love reader submissions andwill definitely keep yours on file! We always love receiving contributions to our regular Parting Shot column on the back page, too.

I hope you like the soaps. They contain organic soap base, essential oil and Vitamin E! – Sid Singh, Canadian International School Ed: Hi Sid, thanks for this note and for sending us the soaps. For readers who might have missed our article in November, 11-year-old Sid is doing his bit to help care for the stray cats on the island, and he also sells handmade soaps for the cause.

Email us at info@expatliving.sg

26

MARCH2018

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

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March2018 Issue 188

MAR 2018

SINGAPORE

NZ&Canada plusLombok onabudget Escapes

Social Clubs& Things ToDo

Doyou like thepreschool youchose?

PRESCHOOLS •BEDROOMS •FACIALS

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MARCH2018

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Don’tmissour upcoming events! Visit expatliving.sg/ELevents to register.

29 MARCH2018

HOME & PROPERTY

59 Buying Guide: Stylish

ideas for the bedroom

E&A Interiors

37 Home Showcase: Behind the scenes at this Ardmore condo

45 Easter Décor: A sprinkling of spring style for your home

48 Business Spotlight: Find out about the women behind Flower Addict

HOME & PROPERTY

Outdoor Models

Natural Nights Organic cotton luxury bedding company SOJAO has launched its line of bedsheets, all available online at sojao.shop . With a name derived from the Hindi word for “go to sleep”, SOJAO sources its cotton exclusively fromChetna Organic, a cooperative that aims to improve the livelihood of marginalised farmers in India. Bundle sheet sets start from $198 and include a fitted sheet, duvet cover and pair of pillowcases. For other great ideas on shopping for the bedroom, turn to page 59.

Gallery 278 has just taken stock of its new outdoor furniture, including comfy lounge chairs and stools. The pieces are casual contemporary seating, combining elements of woven rope, jute and leather, contrasted with wood or powder-coated aluminium legs. Find out more at 278 River Valley Road, or go to gallery278.com for more information.

UNDER THE HAMMER!

WHAT TO EXPECT: After more than 17 years in Singapore, FairPrice Antique will be re-launching under a new name this month. As part of this refresh, HotLotz and FairPrice Antique have partnered to bring you a once-only auction of “almost loved” pieces from the FairPrice Antique back catalogue. Some items are old, some are new, and some have imperfections (which will be catalogued), and all are being offered for sale to make some space! This is an online timed auction ending 8pm on Sunday 18 March. The catalogue will be available online on Thursday 1 March and all items will be available to view in the HotLotz saleroom.

AUCTION: “Almost- loved” pieces from FairPrice Antique WHEN: Online timed auction from Thursday 1 March to 18 March, ending 8pm. WHERE: hotlotz.com

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MARCH2018

HOME & PROPERTY

WIN

a Willow Mattress! Enter this competition and you could soon be the proud owner of a certified 100 percentnatural latexmattress.

HOWTO ENTER Now you know a little about the mattresses

D o you wake up tired, never quite feeling like you’ve had a fully restful night’s sleep?Making sure you have the right mattress can help you rest easy, and the new Willow Mattresses on the market offer a pure 100 percent natural latex product at affordable prices. Willow was founded by Chantal Travers, the owner and operator of FairPrice Antique, and the mattress pop-up shop can be found within that store, in the Tan Boon Liat Building. “We believe that everyone should be able to have a good night’s sleep,” says Chantal. “We spent a year researching and developingwhat we believe to be the healthiest and most comfortable sleep experience – at a reasonable price.” Why a Willow Mattress? The latex in a Willow Mattress is certified as 100 percent natural, with no added fillers, binders or glues. Liquid latex from the rubber tree is tapped and then whipped and baked to create mattress layers of different densities. The anti-microbial, anti-dust mite and anti-

mould properties are some of the key features that make a 100 percent natural latex mattress a healthy sleep surface. It’s also naturally breathable, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep. But the health benefits go further; latex is both conforming and supportive and, with the right firmness for you, will ensure proper spinal alignment, total muscle support and improved circulation. The Willow Mattress comes with three adjustable layers to provide three different firmness and comfort options. It’s available in single, queen and king size, with the option of having “his” and “hers” sides for the king. Willow latex comes direct from Thailand, not via Europe, thereby reducing its carbon footprint. Natural latex is also fully biodegradable, but Willow goes one step further by arranging the removal and recycling of old mattresses free of charge. If you’re still not sure a Willow Mattress is the right one, the 100 Night Sleep Trial is the best way to find out, with a 100 percent money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied.

themselves, head to expatliving.sg/ competitions and tell us in 20 words or less why you would love to sleep on a Willow latex mattress. Get those creative juices flowing, send your answers in, and Chantal will pick one lucky winner!

Willow (located within FairPrice Antique) #01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 8787 7817 willowmattress.com.sg

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MARCH2018

HOME & PROPERTY

BY AMY BROOK-PARTRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY KEN TAN

American expats JANE and RON MARTIN are on their second Singapore stay, and fourth Ardmore apartment. Jane tells us why they love living there, and what life is like in Singapore as empty nesters.

Jane and Ron sit on their custom- made couch, by House of AnLi. The rustic green cabinet in the background is from Taylor B, and the coffee table from China Collection.

37 MARCH2018

J ane and Ron’s second stint in Singapore is decidedly different from their first seven-year residency, from 2004 to 2011. Back then, their daughters Emily and Katie (now 22 and 21 respectively) were with them. Now, with Katie at college in the US, and Emily working as a missionary in the Dominican Republic, Jane and Ron’s Singapore stay has taken a slightly different focus. “It’s so much easier meeting people when you have children,” says Jane, who’s come up with a novel way of ensuring she stays social. “I’m not a morning person, but I make sure I get up at 6.15am. I make Ron a smoothie, and then go downstairs to wait with the other moms. Once they’ve put their children on the Singapore American School buses, I join their walking group, enjoy a morning Starbucks with friends, then head to the American Club for yoga, which I do a few days a week. This group of Ardmore friends, or the ‘Loop Ladies’, as we call ourselves, is what keeps me going! The walking group is constantly changing, as new families come and go from Ardmore, but I’ve made life-long friends on this loop through the Botanic Gardens, and I don’t know what I would do without my morning loop therapy sessions.” Ron and Jane spend weekends on the Singapore Island Country Club golf course, whenever possible. Ron has been a long-time golfer, but when the nest became empty, Jane started taking lessons so they would have an activity they could do together. The couple first came to Singapore with Ron’s job with Emerson and, after a brief stay in Treetops Executive Residences, settled on the centrally located Ardmore area. During their initial seven years, they lived in three different apartments, always within Ardmore. “When we came back in early 2016, we looked around elsewhere, but every time we saw a place we realised we

Below: This console, from China Collection, sits behind the couch in the living room. The photo shows the family dog, Sophie, who they got during their first Singapore stay. She stayed in the US with family friends during this latest assignment.

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MARCH2018

HOME & PROPERTY

“Ron saw the table in House of AnLi one evening; the size is just what we were looking for, so after much thought we bought it, along with 12 chairs.” The buffet behind the table is from Taylor B, where Ron and Jane also purchased their master bedframe and mattresses from (“as well as some lovely white fluffy towels,” says Jane).

39 MARCH2018

just didn’t like it nearly as much as Ardmore.” The couple love the community feel of Ardmore and its location, being so close to the American Club and Orchard Road. “The facilities are great, and since we have lived here so long it just feels like home.” During their first stay, Ron and Jane brought some furniture with them, including a green-and-blue plaid couch, which Jane admits was “real country style”; “That couch quickly had to be re- covered in a more neutral fabric to make carpet shopping easier!” When they left, they ended up taking a lot of pieces home, including many from China Collection, as well as Lim’s Holland Village. “For this assignment, we just brought clothes and a lot of our bedding, as well as the necessary pots, pans and knives. Getting here and knowing where to go furniture shopping was a lot easier.” After an initial look-see, at which time they purchased much of their furniture, Ron set up home at Ardmore in May 2016, with Jane arriving later that summer. Second-time Style Their current home style has been influenced by the fact they’re considering buying a beach house in North Carolina when they eventually return to the US, so the pieces they have here in Singapore may well end up there. During their first stay, their home décor leant towards browns, golds, reds and earth tones; this time, their aesthetic is more greens and blues, and natural wood features. This includes the multitude of pieces purchased from China Collection, including the rustic console found behind the sofa, two stools in the lift lobby, and the repurposed elm-wood day bed, now used as a coffee table. “I’ve been friends with Anne Lockett since we were first here. I got to know her through my husband’s boss’s wife, and we became friends. I’ve taken plenty of people there to visit, including my mother, who recently passed away, and who loved the store. I just love the subtle Asian style.”

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It’s not just Jane who’s a fan, but Ron as well, who frequently purchases pieces from there, including the large shutters used as décor on the wall, bought by Ron for Jane on their 26th wedding anniversary last year. Jane’s very first purchase was a red antique cabinet, which she still adores and which takes pride of place in her living room back in Texas. “It’s probably my favourite piece.” Although Jane is making the most out of her second time here, it’s clear that home is where the heart is. They make frequent trips back to the US, and their ultimate plan of buying their beach house is not far from her mind. “This time round, I feel like I’m on vacation. I come here, stay for a bit, then go home to our house in Texas, or to Pennsylvania, to take care of my dad. Having no kids here, which affords you more flexibility, is really different. Expat life is great, and I do love it, but you do also give a lot up when it comes to family back home. That is the hardest part of being an expat, especially with ageing parents.”

Left: The dresser is from Taylor B, and mirror from IKEA. Jane brought all the bed linen with her when they relocated for the second time, and the bedside lamp is from China Collection. Right: Jane has been a big fan of China Collection since she first lived in Singapore, and the family has picked up plenty of furniture from its store, including this piece near the entrance to the apartment.

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Just one example of the beautiful artwork picked up in Vietnam by Jane and Ron.

RECOMMENDATIONS

House of AnLi 163 Tanglin Road, #03-17 Tanglin Mall 6235 3851 | houseofanli.com Taylor B 43 Keppel Road 6225 7090 | taylorbdesign.com Woody Antique House #01-05 Block 13, Dempsey Road 6471 1770 | woodyantique.com

Loy Kee Chicken Rice 342 Balestier Road 6252 2318

FOOD & DRINK

UmaUma (“Ron’s favourite food is ramen”) #01-41 Forum Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Road 6235 0855 | umaumaramen.com

HOME

Merlin Frame Maker (“used for our better art pieces”) 292 River Valley Road 6735 1866 | merlin.com.sg

IO Italian Osteria #02-01 HillV2, 4 Hillview Rise 6710 7150 | io-osteria.com/sg

Parklane Framer #01-217 Block 354, Clementi Avenue 2

Din Tai Fung (“one of the things my girls miss the most at home!”) Various locations Wisma Atria Level 4, 435 Orchard Road 6732 1383 | dintaifung.com.sg

LEISURE

Tempat Senang Resort & Spa, Batam tempatsenang.com

Rehmat Oriental Carpets 45 Arab Street 6296 8545 China Collection 20 Malcolm Road 6235 1905 chinacollection.com.sg

Tandoori Corner #01-12 Balestier Plaza 400 Balestier Road 9862 7334

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Pink club armchair, $1,000, WTP

Woven tapestry rooster

cushion, 45cm by 45cm, $95 excluding filling, House of AnLi

Cracking stone floor lamp in fibreglass, $98, EDD+

From pastel pretties to bunnies and roosters, here are some fun ideas to put some spring style into your home.

Eggie floor lamp, $258, EDD+

Canary armchair in soft blue velvet, $1,310, WTP

Rabbit chairs from Qeeboo, $238 and $460 for baby and adult sizes respectively, Journey East

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Tonga baskets from the Nomad Africa range, from $55, Originals

Antique Gansu sideboard, $2,100, black ginger jar, $160, limited edition Louise Hill picture, $2,135, FairPrice Antique.

Mud Australia porcelain ceramics, Originals

Japanese-style folding screens that can be used as stylish room dividers or hung as wall features, Altfield Interiors

Antique pink Buddha cabinet, $1,900, blue-and- white dragon ginger jar, $140, FairPrice Antique

Fun and contemporary Mor Mor egg cups, $45 for a pair, by Normann Copenhagen at Kuhl Home

The classic Egg chair by Republic of Fritz Hansen, from $9,410, Danish Design

Intricate solid silver boxes crafted from Cambodian silver, Altfield Interiors

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Versatile island daybed that can be used as a low sofa as well as for sleepovers, $1,659, Scanteak

Directory

Altfield Interiors #07-10 Central Mall, 1 Magazine Road 6909 2768 | altfield.com Danish Design #06-03 Century Warehouse 100E Pasir Panjang Road 6270 8483 | Danishdesignco.com.sg

Little Bird, a family of decorative wooden birds, available in six sizes and two colour variations, from $22 to $79, by Normann Copenhagen at Kuhl Home

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

Ethnicraft Online (various locations) #05-01 Singapore Handicrafts Building 72 Eunos Ave 7 9272 1545 | ethnicraft-online.com.sg FairPrice Antique #01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 6270 2544 | fairpriceantique.com

House of AnLi #03-17 Tanglin Mall, 163 Tanglin Road 6235 3851 | houseofanli

Journey East #03-02 Tan Boon Liat Building 315 Outram Road 6473 1693 | journeyeast.com Kuhl Home #08-01 Century Warehouse 100E Pasir Panjang Road 6878 0180 | kuhlhome.com Originals #02-03 Sime Darby Centre 896 Dunearn Road 6471 9918 | originals.com.sg Scanteak (various locations) scanteak.com.sg WTP The Furniture Company 3 Kung Chong Road 6235 2760 | wtpstyle.com

Vintage grey five-drawer Shandong console, $1,500, pink ceramic drum stool, $200, blue-and-red ginger jar, $160, Clare Haxby print, from $275, FairPrice Antique

Dreamy and creamy Mr Marius Origami television cupboard, $1,395, Ethnicraft Online

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FLOWER If you’re fed up with splashing too much cash on flowers, only for them to droop in a day, here’s a new option for you to try. POWER

It’s not unusual to be surprised by the expense of certain p roduc t s he re , and flowers are no exception. Rather t han be comi ng resigned to this, Australian expats and firm friends KERRY JAMES and SANDI SADEK

Order the “style yourself” flowers and you can practice your flower-arranging skills

decided to find a more reasonable alternative when it came to floral bouquets. Struggling to find good quality, striking bouquets that could be delivered quickly and at a reasonable cost, Kerry and Sandi together came up with their Flower Addict concept, which they launched in September 2017. Starting up the business has run alongside their demanding full-time jobs in real estate (Kerry) and human resources within the financial sector (Sandi). “Our skills really complement each other, and we enjoy the dynamic of working together,” says Sandi. She admits that, though both women are clearly ambitious and driven, one of their key learnings since setting up the business has been to be more patient. This is no sideline business for them, and with full confidence in their team they plan a regional rollout in the future. So how does the business make its mark amongst the crowded floral sector? Customers order online, with a streamlined choice of arrangements on offer. The styles are clean and contemporary, and, with prices starting from $39, costs really are low. Here are five more reasons to check out Flower Addict’s offering.

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One example of Flower Addict’s gift bundles

#1 If you or your recipient are a dab hand at flower arranging, you can order your flowers to be delivered flat-packed. Just choose the “style yourself” option, and you can arrange your own bouquet. This is a cheaper option than a bouquet, too. #2 The bouquets themselves come in unique, creative, modern designs. From the Simply Sunshine bouquet, combining yellows and whites with its spray roses and poms, to its White Magic mix of classic and Peruvian lilies, their styling fits perfectly with Singapore’s modern indoor-outdoor lifestyle. #3 If you think your recipient deserves more than an arrangement, there are a variety of gift bundles to choose from, including candles, herbal tea or, for those who enjoy something a little stronger, prosecco! #4 Never forget an anniversary or birthday again with the Flower Addict reminder service, which you can set up once you subscribe. If you still manage to leave it to the last minute, you can order your delivery online and choose same-day delivery for free. #5 Treat yourself or a friend to a regular bouquet delivery by subscribing to the weekly, fortnightly or monthly service.

To find out more about how you can gift yourself or a friend, go to floweraddict.com.

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If you’re in the market for some new storage options, or a sleek bed for your home, you may just find the perfect piece amongst Ethnicraft Online’s 2018 additions. Storage Solutions The Universo Positivo Monolit Collection, which features symmetrical designs against contrasting attributes, has grown at Ethnicraft Online, and now includes bedside tables, sideboards, television cupboards and consoles. ST RE IT UP!

The contrasting characteristics of wood and the rectangular metal frame of the Monolit television cupboard create a unique backdrop. Prices start from $1,450.

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Combining balance and function, this side table is striking without being overwhelming. Prices start from $265.

The Monolit sideboard

revolves around practicality and aesthetics. Prices start from $1,450.

In the Bedroom The Nordic II Storage Bed is an extension to the Nordic II Bed, with the addition of four storage drawers. Available in teak and oak, and in queen or king sizes. Prices start from $3,495.

This minimalist bedside table is stylish and practical, offering plenty of storage space for bedside essentials. Prices start from $485.

This console provides a prominent level for art and

Ethnicraft Online (various locations) #05-01 Singapore Handicrafts Building 72 Eunos Avenue 7 9272 1545 | ethnicraft-online.com.sg

accessories. Prices start from $1,195.

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Sleep tight in the knowledge that these reader recommendations will help you find the perfect bedtime solutions! Bedroom Buys

PHOTOGRAPHY KEN TAN

Holly Stegman-Lye and twins Sarah and Kate, Australian

We were looking to upgrade our old queen bed to a king when we moved into our new rental house, particularly as I was having a few back issues and felt our old mattress may have been the culprit. I’d been researching and asking friends for recommendations, but soon realised it would be quite an investment in Singapore, particularly for a latex mattress and base. Then Hong from Affordable Style Files suggested a Willow latex mattress from Chantal at FairPrice Antique . It was reasonably priced and very comfortable, and Hong brought in a bedframe from Ethnicraft Online for me as well. The shopping experience was easy; I just went into the showroom to lie on the mattress and test it out. I thought it was comfortable and reasonably priced for a latex mattress, and I opted for the firmest configuration. The follow-up customer service was

fantastic as I had a few questions about how to best take care of it, and Chantal was very responsive. The delivery team in particular were professional and courteous. We find our new Willow mattress really comfortable, and it’s great having more space with a king-sized bed, particularly for the twins’ story-time, or if one of the kids comes in for an early morning cuddle. I think a latex mattress is the perfect choice for this climate as it breathes and is dust-mite and mould resistant. What’s even better is that these mattresses are affordable too.

Willow Mattress (FairPrice Antique) #01-10 Tan Boon Liat Building, 315 Outram Road 8787 7817 | willowmattress.com.sg

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Rose and Cyriac (Benny) Verghese, daughter Charishma, and son Joshua, Singaporean We were looking to replace our master bed, and my husband and I have always liked woody, earthy tones for our home. Benny was very keen on having a really solid piece that looked good and would hopefully last us a lifetime. Wewere neighbours and friends of Bhani Karthigesu, the founder of Brasswoods , before we became customers. We saw the furniture he had in his beautiful, cosy home and knew instantly that we wanted some pieces from him. In terms of bedroom furniture, we now have three queen-sized beds from Brasswoods, picked mainly because of how they looked, but also for their size. We chose the first for our master room, then subsequently moved to a bigger place and bought one each for our guest room and son’s room. On top of the beds,

we’ve bought plenty more furniture from the store, including a dining set, console table, coffee table (which used to belong to Bhani himself), reclining chair and writing desk. No matter what your style of décor or your budget, you can always mix in a couple of solid pieces from Brasswoods. It’s not your run-of-the-mill furniture;

it’s for keeps and yet doesn’t cost you the earth. If you’re house-proud and have an eye for quality and detail, you won’t be disappointed.

Brasswoods #04-47 YS One Industrial Building 1 Yishun Street 23 6455 0551 | brasswoods.com

Silvia, Armin, Emil andValentinSeiler, German

when we first moved here. The products caught our eye, and luckily the Tan Boon Liat Building, where they have a showroom, wasn’t too far away, so we went to take a look. We immediately felt at home there and were particularly impressed by the friendly yet discreet staff. The bigger showroom in Eunos is just as inviting, too. The staff were able to answer all of our questions and were very polite, and the delivery was fast and professional. They even gave us a stand-in bed until ours was shipped to Singapore and delivered. We ended up buying a king-sized light-frame teak bed. We just fell in love with the colour of the wood and the workmanship of the piece. We also wanted something that wasn’t too bulky and that would fit in with our temporary home here just as well as in any other place we move to in the future, and its modern simplicity means it does just that. For those looking for good craftsmanship paired with appealing design, and for a reasonable price, I would highly recommend Ethnicraft Online. We’re very happy with our purchase; it’s exactly what we were looking for – even the baby prefers it over his own crib! Ethnicraft Online (various locations) #05-01 Singapore Handicrafts Building, 72 Eunos Ave 7 9272 1545 | ethnicraft-online.com.sg

We had decided to buy a new bed shortly after our second boy was born, as we felt the old one had become too small for the four of us. Our aimwas to buy a European-sized, sturdy, solid wood bed. We came across Ethnicraft Online while looking through a copy of Expat Living that we found in our serviced apartment

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Grace Williams, Singaporean, Arthur Oink, Dutch, and daughter Rie Williams I’ve had an Asian queen-sized mattress for the past six years, and it’s served me well. However, my partner Arthur moved in last year, and, with himbeing twometres tall, his legs were dangling off my 190cm mattress! Sleeping on this mattress made his back progressively worse, and he’s also a pilot, which puts even more stress on his back. We started looking for a mattress that was over 200cm in length, and I began researching for custom-made mattresses, when EuropeanBedding poppedup on the internet. I contacted the general manager, Thijs, and he was so informative before we even visited the store in Tiong Bahru. He was never pushy and even encouraged us to try out another brand we had in mind. We purchased a California king-size firm- density Heveya natural organic mattress, which is 213cm in length. This was the key Marie-Christine and Alexis Ionine, and Gregory, Maxime and Anna, French We were looking for a good-quality large bed that had a unique feel and looked nice, as well as two bedside tables. I’d heard about Originals from friends, and

factor in our purchase, as it had to be the right fit for Arthur. Rather than opting for a custom-made mattress, we decided to go with the California king as it was easier to get sheets for; also, we’re going to bemoving soon, and it will fit the new space better. It currently fits our bedroom perfectly, so we have no doubt it will look great in our new home, with more space. From the first time we stepped into European Bedding’s boutique store, we also came across them during my online searches. The last time we bought furniture for our bedroom was before our wedding, and our bed was literally falling apart! My son’s bed was also in bad shape – broken, in fact! – so we actually ended up buying two beds and four bedside tables.

had good vibes about it. The team know the products well, and they offer a 100- day trial, which really sealed the deal for us. Buying a mattress is really a matter of sleeping on it for a longer period to truly know if it suits each individual.

European Bedding 32 Eng Hoon Street, Level 2 6735 6658 | europeanbedding.sg

For our master room we wanted a timeless piece, but not classical or too dark, and something of good quality that would last. For my son, who is now 16, we were looking for a bed that would also last for a long time, and something he would be happy to take with him when he leaves. We’ve tended to wait too long before replacing furniture for our children, and in the end they’ve never had really nice bedrooms. Because we move every two to three years, we always say we’ll buy new pieces once we move again; as I mentioned, though, the reality is that we’ve waited until our beds fall apart before buying new ones! The beds fit well, which is important as our bedrooms are huge, and we are very happy with our new furniture.

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

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