PROGRAM : Residential
LOCATION : Hong Yat Court, Lam Tin, Hong Kong
DESIGN PERIOD: 2023 June (completed)
DESIGN SCOPE: Interior design & renovation
SIZE: approx 37m²

When designing homes for families, especially young families, we always consider the future. Get the basics done, and keep everything else as flexible as possible. That’s why we like to use systems like wall shelves and peg boards combined with some loose furniture. The protagonists are the owners, not the designer. My job is to hand them a functional, pleasurable and comfortable space and let the space grow with their family.

Designers working on homes in Hong Kong for years can get the layout done in hours or even minutes. No matter what kind of apartment, the plans are similar, people’s lifestyles and expectations are similar, and you don’t have much extra space to play around. We saved the brain juice for the statement gestures, and focus more on thoughtful details. It is more heartwarming for the house owner to feel your considerate attention than big cutting-edge ideas.

In terms of storage strategy, if storage space is adequate and appropriately located, with frequently used items at eye or low level, and easily accessible according to the owner’s habits, it becomes much easier to maintain a tidy and well-organised home. When everything is easy to find and see at a glance, keeping the home neat and shiny is not a difficult task anymore.

Some more organising tips: Installing open shelf storages in kitchen to store frequently used cups, plates, and groceries will allow you to easily see what items are in stock and also showcase one’s favourite tableware. Create a headboard ledge that can hold phone, chargers, glasses, and books without the risk of them falling off if the bedroom is small and there’s no space for a bedside table, . The lamps can also be adjusted so that they won’t disturb the other sleeping partner at night. They are embedded and can be tucked away when not in use.

We believe that the bathroom is the most important place in our homes where we can relax and rejuvenate. Sometimes, it’s the only place where we can truly disconnect from the world, let go of our guards and pamper ourselves. Even in small homes, it’s possible to fit in a little bathtub thanks to curved corner tiles. We’re grateful to the tile mason who helped us figure out the Rubik’s cube-like tile arrangement. The end result was surprising and we’re really happy with it!

We also love creating cozy and inviting spaces that are both hygienic and easy to clean. And who says you can’t add a bit of color to it? I personally love using lime plastering with a waterproof coating to add texture and warmth to the bathroom. Not only does it look great, but it’s also durable and perfect for moisture-prone areas.

Many people are afraid to use colours other than white at home. Yet, adding neutral or earth-tone colours, giving the walls more textures, and playing around with fabrics will add layers to your everyday experiences. It creates different shades in different time of the day, different days of the years. It is when you see shadows you realise light. Adding contrasts and varieties to your all-white walls will surprisingly make you brighter.

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