Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 2/2)

IS IT A HOME OR AN OFFICE? (Part 2/2)
‘The office is not just a workplace, it’s a reflection of the company, the face of the firm’

By Alexis Pabasi | Photos by James Liang
Repinted with permission from Home Concepts Magazine

Click here to read Part 1 and more photos

THE DIRECTORS' OFFICE FEATURES A QUAINT LIBRARY.

“WE occasionally hold sit-down luncheons or dinners for guests and we will get chefs from different restaurants to prepare the food at our kitchen,” Khaiz shares.

At the end of the first floor is an exhibition gallery, which is used for hosting events such as property launches.

This space, together with the conference area, used to be the interior courtyards of the house. To retain the flavour and character of the place, Khaiz kept the original air wells and skylights, which also allow natural, light to flood the entire space.

“As the house is long and deep, we have to make sure the space is not dark and cramped, hence the use of a light colour palette for the walls and floors and lots of skylights.”

The second floor houses the company’s trading and management offices, which seat a total of 12 people comfortably; a side staircase allows staff to enter these offices without having to cut through the first floor.

The company’s three directors occupy a large, open-concept office in the front section. Brimming with personality, this space features authentic Peranakan furniture from Malacca which are sourced personally by Khaiz and Jerry, both of whom are avid antique collectors.

Inside also is an intimate living room to host private meetings with clients.

Taking a departure from the Asian design influences on the first two levels, the third floor and attic are inspired by New York loft apartments.

These light-filled spaces are the private lounge areas for the fortunate staff and the third floor even comes complete with shower facilities and a cutting-edge Vitalife massage chair, which was specially imported from Europe.

Originally intended as a private suite for the directors, Khaiz says that the space eventually became the staff’s chill out area for them to unwind, hold parties and even sleep in.

THE TOP FLOOR HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A STAFF LOUNGE.

Says Vincent Wee, personal assistant to the company’s directors: “This office ensures that we have a healthy work-life balance. Even though we work in an exciting, high-stress industry, the staff lounge gives us a quiet, warm, ‘family’ environment to relax in.”

Khaiz leaves one tip for people keen on transforming their office spaces: “The office is not just a workplace. It’s a reflection of the company, the face of the firm. I would like to think that when people think of Jerrytan Residential, images of our luxurious, residential-looking office space come to mind. To give your space a unique personal touch and show your clients your personality, include accent furnishings like antiques, carpets and even captivating artworks.”

Source: Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 2/2)

Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 1/2)

IS IT A HOME OR AN OFFICE? (Part 1/2)
Jerrrytan Residential opens up their office — a shophouse brimming with character and style exemplifies the new type of commercial space

By Alexis Pabasi | Photos by James Liang
Repinted with permission from Home Concepts Magazine

IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL ART, THE WALLS ON THE FIRST LEVEL ARE LINED WITH INK PAINTINGS BY THE LATE CHUA EK KAY.

ASK anyone who has been to the office of Jerrytan Residential and they will tell you that walking into the 3½-storey shophouse is an experience to be remembered. When Home Concepts dropped by, the company was hosting its annual year-end gathering for clients and friends and the entire first floor had been transformed into an inviting yet posh

The brains behind this chic 500sqm office located in Club Street is Sydney-trained interior designer and Jerrytan Residential executive director Khaiz Noor, who worked closely with the architects from day one of the project.

“We certainly do not want a normal-looking office,” Khaiz emphasises. “Our premises reflect the nature of our business dealing in beautiful and luxurious residential properties in Singapore and the region. Because we represent beautiful homes, our office needs to look and feel like a warm and beautiful home that has its own personality.”

THE PERFECT SPOT FOR THOSE WHO WISH FOR A BIT OF SUN OR SOME QUIET TIME.

So far, the space has been a hit with clients. “Everytime new clients come, they are impressed. We serve them champagne, wine and cheese and sometimes they stay for hours because they feel so comfortable. To make them feel even more at home, our managing director, Jerry, plays the piano and we all sing along,” Khaiz adds with a laugh.

The first floor, inspired by the heritage homes on Emerald Hill, is pristine yet far from clinical.

Three Chinese ink paintings of the exteriors of shophouses by celebrated local artist, the late Chua Ek Kay, adorn the walls leading from the entrance.

A firm supporter of local arts, Khaiz has filled nearly every wall of the office with artworks by local artists ranging from calligraphy paintings to photo prints by Russell Wong.

A white baby grand piano is the life of every party held here since Jerry and Khaiz, both talented performers, enjoy entertaining guests with their wide repertoire.

To add expanse to the narrow room, large mirrored sliding panels were positioned on one wall. These cleverly conceal a kitchen complete with sleek Miele appliances, a fridge, a wine chiller and even an oven.

THE COMPANY'S THREE DIRECTORS AND THEIR STAFF WORK IN A
COMPLETELY OPEN ENVIRONMENT FOR EASY COMMUNICATION AND BONDING.

Click here to read Part 2 and see more photos

Source: Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 1/2)

This Yellow Is The Color of 2009

Yellow 135 is 'color of change, hopefulness, warmth and good cheer'
From The Washington Post

PANTONE has named Mimosa, an orange-juice tinted yellow, the 2009 color of the year.

First Lady Michele Obama lit up the inaugural ceremony and parade on Tuesday in a sunny shade of yellow, which Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, says is the color of change, of hopefulness, of warmth and of good cheer.

"We chose yellow based on the ... elephant in the room, the economy," says Eiseman. As an antidote to doom and gloom, dab your home with a dose of yellow. Eiseman recommends painting Mimosa in a front entry for an instant message of welcome.

Avoid overdosing by experimenting with small accessories, such as pillows, throws, plates and sheets.

Just in time for the news, major home retailers -- Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn and Williams-
Sonoma -- introduced bright new items for spring in "lemon," "citrus," "sunburst" and "turmeric."

How optimistic-sounding.

Source: This Yellow Is The Color of 2009

Expert Advice: Choosing Fabrics For The Home (Part 1/2)

How To Choose A Fabric For Your Home (Part 1/2)

Colour, design and texture may be foremost on your mind when choosing fabrics for curtains or upholstery. But there's also fabric mix, durability and flammability to consider.

By Grace Chan | reprinted from "Expert Advice" by Home Concepts Magazine

WHEN selecting curtains or any other upholstery, fabric is one of the main considerations and is essential to the overall design and practicality of your home.

The cost of a fabric, or how heavy or substantial it feels, is not necessarily an indication of its suitability. However, it should always resist ignition from a lit match or cigarette.

Over and above the aesthetic aspects, fabric care is also vital to the durability of your furnishings. Sending them to the professionals for dry cleaning may be the best and easiest way out. However, should you prefer to do your own washing, you need to check carefully if the fabric allows for machine wash, tumble-dry, bleach and ironing.

Atmosphere has over 1,300 different fabric selections in its store and has its own mill in Bangalore, which is among one of the largest and most modern in the world. With a multinational team of designers working in their fabric design studios in New York and Bangalore, there is no doubt that Atmosphere's fabrics are contemporary and innovative.

Dolly Mirpuri, business manager of Atmosphere, has been in the fabric industry for the past 10 years and has this to share.

HOW ARE FURNISHING FABRICS NORMALLY USED IN THE HOUSE?

Curtains, upholstery, cushion covers and bedspreads are traditional ways of using fabrics in the home. Wall panelling, bed runners, table runners and Roman blinds are more innovative methods of using the fabrics.

WHICH TYPES OF FABRICS ARE SUITABLE FOR CURTAINS?

Light or heavyweight fabrics can be used for curtains depending on the look and style required. Using silk fabrics, for example, will reduce noise inside the home as it has the ability to absorb sound and ‘breathe'. Breathing allows movement of air via the fibres in the fabric, enabling its surface to stay cool and within the range of atmospheric temperature.

For Roman blinds, heavier weight fabric will give a better drop. Curtains are also often used together with sheer fabrics which are translucent. Even when drawn, sheers allow some light into the room, unlike curtains which cut off light significantly.

WHICH TYPES ARE SUITABLE FOR UPHOLSTERY?

Heavyweight fabrics which are durable are suitable for upholstery. Upholstery fabrics sold under our brand, Atmosphere, pass the International Rub Test for durability and therefore each upholstery fabric has been categorised as either light or of dual usage (curtain and upholstery) depending on its suitability for use as curtains or upholstery.

WHAT ARE THE CONSIDERATIONS FOR A FABRIC FOR THE HOUSE?

The fabric selection would depend on the style and design of the home. During the selection process, you have to decide on the appropriate colour after picking out the fabric design. If the house is too bright, it may require shade curtains.

Also, the type and quality of fabric matters. If there is strong, direct sunlight, some dark-coloured fabrics may not be practical as very dark colours tend to fade under direct and harsh sunlight. However, this problem can be solved by using a suitable blackout fabric lining. Customers may also opt for silk cotton blends.

Fabrics from Atmosphere have designs inspired from all parts of the world, so whether your home has a Far East or a minimal-and-modern New York classical or contemporary look, we will always have a suitable fabric for you.

WHICH ARE THE TRENDY FABRICS USED FOR CURTAINS IN MODERN HOMES?
This, again, depends on the décor. For a home with an airy and casual feel, linen is great as it hints of the tropics especially when the place comes with lots of greenery. Dramatic patterns work best as accent pieces. Textured fabrics are interesting and add depth to the fabric. Two-sided fabrics could be used on throw pillows with the reverse side for the back or on light sliding panels as a divider between spaces.

Click here to read Part 2

Source: Expert Advice on Choosing Fabrics For The Home

Expert Advice: Choosing Fabrics For The Home (Part 2/2)

(Click here to read previous chapter)

Colour, design and texture may be foremost on your mind when choosing fabrics for curtains or upholstery. But there's also fabric mix, durability and flammability to consider.

By Grace Chan | reprinted from "Expert Advice" by Home Concepts Magazine

CAN YOU TELL US WHICH FABRICS NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE?

Plain and textured fabrics are perennials. They are easy to match and are safe as they never go out of style. Silk as a category has been popular for the last 2,000 years. Fabrics that have fine linen, cotton and pure yarns will always be evergreen favorites as more and more people around the world prefer organic and pure fabrics rather than polyesters. Blended fabrics are durable and elegant and timeless, too.

WHAT DOES ONE NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT FABRIC DESIGNS?

For a small apartment, avoid big prints. Use small patterns, textures and lighter shades of colour. If there is a need to use big prints, use them only as accents. Big patterns for a big area will sit better than a small patterned fabric. Smaller prints may end up looking too busy if used to fill a big area.

WHAT DURABLE MATERIAL WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO A FAMILY WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?

Cotton, polyester and acrylic fabrics will be more suitable for them. These fabrics are more durable, easy to maintain and are washable at home.

WHICH MATERIAL ARE BEST SUITED FOR SOMEONE WITH A DUST ALLERGY?

Avoid heavy velvets and chenille. Cottons, silk blends with polyester or acrylic fabrics are suitable when you have a dust or allergy problem.

WHAT KIND OF MAINTENANCE IS NEEDED FOR CURTAINS AND UPHOLSTERY?

Regular vacuuming and periodic dry cleaning is required. Using Scotch-Guard treatment helps to protect it further. All curtains and Roman blinds must be lined with good quality lining fabric. This helps in good draping and extends the durability as the sea wind and sun tend to reduce the life of fabrics.

CAN ANYTHING BE DONE TO REMOVE STAINS ON FABRIC SOFAS?

Leave it to the professionals to do the dry cleaning. There are specialists who do spot cleaning for upholstery. For curtains, take it to your trusted dry cleaner.

WHEN PROPERLY MAINTAINED, HOW LONG WOULD QUALITY FABRICS FOR UPHOLSTERY AND CURTAIN LAST?

When well maintained, fabrics can last for several years. While fabrics may last long, they can look dated if not changed once in say, two years.

WHAT ARE FIRE RETARDANT CURTAIN FABRICS?

Silk is inherently fire retardant as silk is a protein fibre and not a cellulose like cotton. We do fire retardant treatments on our non-silk fabrics, if so required; it takes about two weeks for the treatment.

WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY FABRICS?

Linen, silk and cotton are eco-friendly. Our fabrics are silks and blends of silks and cotton and are all environmentally friendly.

Source: Expert Advice on Choosing Fabrics For The Home

Securing The Home…And Peace Of Mind

The importance of home security can never be overemphasised and goes beyond the brick-and-mortar of our house. We hear from Corinna Choong, Senior Vice President, Group Marketing & Communications of Certis CISCO, on how to keep me and mine safe and sound.

By Nadya Huang | Photos courtesy of Certis Cisco | reprinted with permission from "Expert Advise" by Home Concepts magazine

WHAT BASIC FEATURES SHOULD A HOME SECURITY SYSTEM HAVE?
For homes, a security system with an intrusion detection feature is a must-have. The system will be triggered if a door or window is tampered with. Some homeowners may install a CCTV to monitor home situations where there are elderly parents, young children and maids.

A sound home security solution should give you round-the-clock protection, monitoring against break-ins, fire and other dangers. Linked to Certis CISCO’s 24-hour alarm monitoring centre, our home security solution has the following features:

• Signage (Deters burglars)
• Siren (Alerts your neighbours and discourages further attempts)
• Alarm monitoring (Notifies you and sends help when alarms are set off)
• Duress alarm (Enter a duress code instead of the access code to disable the alarm; a duress signal is sent to the centre for help)
• Smoke detector (Alerts you to a fire when you are home; ensures the SCDF is notified promptly)
• Panic alarm (Sends a signal to the centre when activated via the control panel/key fob. Help will then be sent your way)
• Pendant panic button (Ideal for the elderly or infirm; can be clipped onto clothing or mounted by the bedside)

WHICH ARE CURRENTLY THE MOST COMMON AND POPULAR SECURITY GADGETS?
For homes, the most common and popular security gadgets would include RFID readers, card readers, PIN readers, and magnetic locks for doors and alarms.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON MYTHS ABOUT HOME SECURITY? DO YOU THINK PEOPLE ARE CONCERNED ENOUGH ABOUT HOME SECURITY?
There is a general complacency and mindset that “it will not happen to me”. As Singapore, by world standards, is still relatively safe, Singaporeans may not be overly concerned about home security. But we do see an upward trend of people seeking professional advice and service to safeguard their home and loved ones.

HOW DO YOU THINK HOME SECURITY TRENDS ARE GOING TO CHANGE? WHICH IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT?
I believe that homeowners will benefit through education and awareness of the crime situation and that cost-effective solutions are available. With greater education and awareness, homeowners will be more likely to invest in home security systems to protect their loved ones and home.

HOW DO WE KNOW IF THE PERSON INSTALLING OUR SYSTEM IS TRUSTWORTHY?
Engage a reputable security company. Such organizations will have strict selection criteria for technicians and engineers. For example, at Certis CISCO, our engineers are recruited through a rigorous selection process. When [they] conduct site surveys or install systems, customers can verify their identities through uniforms and the company-issued photo ID. Upon installation, our engineers will always advise customers to change the default password to a personalized one.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD WE MAINTAIN OUR SECURITY SYSTEM?
Home security systems should be periodically tested to ensure they are in good working condition. As good practice, security systems need to be maintained every six months.
OTHER MEASURES TO TAKE TO MAXIMISE HOME SECURITY

• Avoid being complacent and be vigilant of and report suspicious characters loitering in the vicinity of your home to the police

• Keep abreast of the latest modus operandi of criminals. Examples include deception and impersonation of government officials/ regulatory authorities; gaining entry through false ceilings, ventilation openings, rubbish chutes; using adjacent properties as a platform to break-in, etc.

• Ensure that all family members especially the young and senior citizens are periodically reminded not to allow strangers into the home

• Ensure all doors and windows are secured when leaving the home even for a short while

• Avoid keeping large amounts of cash and valuables in the home

• Change locks when keys are misplaced and/or when given to renovation contractors

SHOULD YOU BE AWAY FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME, AVOID GIVING SIGNS THAT YOUR HOME IS UNOCCUPIED

• Cancel your newspaper and magazine subscriptions; avoid leaving notes to indicate your absence even for short durations; use timer switches to turn on the lights to give the impression that your home is occupied

• Ask neighbours and/or trusted persons to keep an eye on your home while you are away and to remove unsolicited brochures left outside the entrance of the home

• Inform your Neighbourhood Police Centre that you will be away from home

Source: Securing The Home…And Peace Of Mind

Interior Decorating For Kids

Who spends the most time in the kids’ bedrooms? The kids do of course! So why not make it a room they want to be in?

By Komee Carpenter

I BELIEVE kids are born creative. Unfortunately, living life usually squelches most of that creativity unless it is carefully nurtured. You can help your children maintain their creative nature by allowing them to express it. That’s where interior decorating for kids comes in.

Kids start having color preferences at an early age. Test this out yourself by giving them choices. Rather than purchasing a cute outfit for your child because it’s fashionable or because you like it, pick out two or three and give your child the choice. If you do this often enough with various items and choices, you’ll start to see a pattern emerge. Go with it.

Who spends the most time in the kids’ bedrooms? The kids do of course! So why not make it a room they want to be in? Let your kids have a say in how it’s decorated. Give them choices, and guide them along the way.

Read more about decorating tips for your kid's room.