It was a night of glamour and celebration as industry insiders, owners and creatives gathered to fete the winners of the Tatler Design Awards.
Held at Caroline’s Mansion, the new ballroom at St Regis that was inspired by American society doyenne Caroline Astor, the theme of this year’s awards dinner took inspiration from the Jazz Age. The table settings combined Art Deco-influenced details such as metallic trimmings and geometric patterns with sleek design and a splash of colour for a contemporary take on the iconic era; the displays featured bended marble tables from MM Galleri Singapore, accessories from Strange & Deranged and floral arrangements by Beato.
In the residential design categories, seven accolades were presented to the award-winning firms, Design Intervention, Designworx Interior Consultant, Edmund Ng Architects, Inte Architects, Lab Architects, Prestige Global Design and The Mill. Stone specialist MM Galleri Group received the Innovation of the Year for the remarkable design of its Singapore showroom, and Takenouchi Webb was honoured with the Design Project of the Year accolade, in celebration of the beautiful interiors designed for the Straits Clan.
Now into its third edition, the Tatler Design Awards highlights outstanding residential homes and special projects that were completed within the past year.
Here are the 2019 recipients:
Best Tropical Concept: The Mill A stylish selection of Italian furniture from Fendi Casa and Cassina give the tropical abode the aura of a modern Italian villa; these pieces feature rich hues, velvet upholstery, metallic details and dark veneer finishes. The inviting rooftop area is furnished with a customised dining set for al fresco-style relaxation while the outdoor area of the basement has been converted to a spa, complete with Jacuzzi and spa bed.
Best Modern Minimalist Concept: Edmund Ng Architects
Designed by architect Edmund Ng, this modern abode is a study in clean lines and a restrained monochromatic material palette comprising cement, marble, wood, glass and steel.
Best Bespoke Project: Design Intervention
In a nod to the owner’s love for all things floral, especially blossom trees, these delicate blooms are featured on glass etchings, wall murals and even on a rug in the living room. The home’s pleasing palette of blush and cream, together with mother-of-pearl detailing and the soft curves of bespoke furniture draw cues from these lovely flowers.
Best Penthouse Project: Designworx Interior Consultant
With decorative elements inspired by Eastern influences, this three-storey penthouse featured in the June 2018 issue strikes the perfect balance between the East and West. At the behest of the homeowner, Terri Tan, design director of Designworx Interior Consultant pulled out all the stops to incorporate unique Eastern decor details to the property.
(Related: Home Tour: A Penthouse With An Asian Flair)
In the living room, a hand-painted silkscreen featuring Japanese cranes provide the perfect backdrop for a golden bonsai sculpture that was commissioned in Guangzhou, China. In the dining area, a Japanese-inspired timber screen provides a refreshing contrast to British designer Tom Dixon’s metallic Melt pendant lights. Throughout the home, cohesive elements such as timber features and gold flourishes echo the Asia-influenced theme. Designer furnishings from Europe, including pieces by Italian furniture makers Flou and Molteni&C, add a luxurious touch to this holiday home.
Best Luxury Concept: Prestige Global Designs
Guests are greeted with a mural of clouds and mountains at its glamorous entryway, which instantly makes a memorable first impression, before leading to a well-appointed living and dining area. Baccarat crystal chandeliers reflect light on the gold accents, while plush details such as velvet armchairs and decorative cushions in gem-like tones add to the opulent vibe.
Best Landed Project: Lab Architects
Lush nature and Japanese design come together harmoniously in this resort-themed residential property. Designed by Brenda Ang of Lab Architects, this tropical home features a C-shape configuration so that social spaces such as the pool and patio are located in the centre of the property; the layout also allows for good cross-ventilation to minimise stale air in large rooms.
Best Architecture (Residential): Inte Architects
To accommodate a growing brood of grandchildren, the owner embarked on a redevelopment project of his property, which he entrusted to architect Chan Loo Siang, design principal of Inte Architects. This modern residence comprises two concrete “boxes” connected by a link bridge overlooking the pool; its design is also symbolic of the familial bonds between parent and offspring.
Innovation of the Year: MM Galleri Singapore Showroom
Stone specialist and fabricator MM Galleri Group has pioneered an innovative technology that maximises the bending strength of marble without breaking the material. The brainchild of group president Peter Tjioe, this technique cuts the natural stone into ultra-pliable layers, which can be applied as cladding on interior walls and ceilings or as a decorative surface for custom-made furniture and lighting.
Design Project of the Year: Straits Clan
To create a members’ club that the next generation would call their own, the collaborators of Straits Clan, which include The Lo & Behold Group managing partner Wee Teng Wen, The Ate Group co-founder Aun Koh and hospitality veteran Sally Sim turned to local design firm Takenouchi Webb.
Formerly the New Majestic Hotel, the 22,000sqft four-storey building is an adaptive reuse project that features elevated nostalgic accents such as rattan furniture and terrazzo floor tiles. To encourage a vibrant community of creative collaborators, facilities in the members’ club include co-working, meeting and event spaces as well as a gym, spa and various dining options.
This story was adapted from Singapore Tatler Homes Feb/Mar 2019
