DESIGN / Living ASEAN - Inspiring Tropical Lifestyle

Sekeping Kong Heng: A Boutique Hotel Treasures the Charm of Ipoh

By livingasean
March 18, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

/ Ipoh, Malaysia /

/ Story: Wuthikorn Suthiapa / English version: Bob Pitakwong /

/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham /

In the old town of Ipoh, a stylish boutique hotel named Sekeping Kong Heng not only blends into its historical surroundings, but also contributes to restoring all its former glory.

The history of Ipoh dates back to 1880 when Hakka immigrants arrived for work in tin mines and made a permanent home here. As mining industries continued on the decline, the once exuberant town was losing its luster.

A pleasant twist of fate, the waning days of Ipoh attracted the attention of many designers, who banded together to keep the old-world charm from disappearing. Giving it their best shot, they succeeded in bringing Ipoh back in the limelight.

Among the projects aimed at restoring glory to Ipoh was Sekeping Kong Heng, a small boutique hotel designed by Ng Sek San, an internationally renowned Ipoh-born architect.

The charming small hotel is tucked away on the upper floors of a three-story Colonial-era shop-house complex in the old town. The first floor is reserved for a famous local coffee shop known for a variety of Chinese-style coffees and Ipoh’s favorite dishes.

Its food menu includes the noodle dish called Hokkien Mee, satay, and spring rolls. Its existence guarantees that hotel guests will never run short of delicious foods and beverages.

To check-in, know that the entrance to the hotel lobby is located on a small alleyway. Sekeping Kong Heng offers three types of accommodation — standard rooms, a family room and glass boxes.

With its location, hotel guests can expect the authentic Ipoh experience. They wake up each morning to the heavenly smell of coffee being brewed fresh in the shop below. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. The same applies here. Come breakfast time, expect to eat with locals and like locals do. Time well spent is time spent exploring this and other alleyways a stone’s throw away.

The boutique hotel’s time-honored appeal blends seamlessly with Ipoh’s old-world ambience. It’s obvious the Ipoh-born architect has intended to keep this part of town like it has always been.

In the process, the hotel’s existing structure is left intact. A loft-style twist adds contemporary feel to the hotel’s interior, while patches of greenery adorn the exterior walls keeping the building cool.

The open-concept design provides easy access connecting the café to retail shops and a flea market nearby. The architect’s thorough understanding of Ipoh’s lifestyle is manifested in the way the boutique hotel is neatly restored. Sekeping Kong Heng now contributes in its small way to breathing new life into the old city.

Architect: Ng Sek San of Seksan Design Landscape Architecture and Planning

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Sekeping Sin Chew Kee: A Raw Chic Hotel in Kuala Lumpur

One-of-a-Kind Boutique Hotel

By livingasean
February 15, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

Silhouetted against a stone forest, this one-of-a-kind boutique hotel is a thriving, delightful escape adorned with works of art. Check it out.

/// Thailand ///
Story: skiixy /// Photography: Dumrong Leewairoj, Soopakorn Srisakul /// Style: Somboon Kreangkrai /// Design: Thavorn Ko-Udomvit, Kawit Ko-Udomvit, Anan Tantasanee, Kattika Kittiprasarn

Perched atop an abandoned marble yard in Nakhon Ratchasima, the boutique hotel affords views of the rocky landscape. The old rock quarry became inactive after the gleaming stones had been extracted. To create a unique and pleasant setting, the owner went to great lengths to ensure every aspect of the surroundings was kept intact. Hard terrain dictated that accommodation units be built strong like rock. That’s what makes the Nhapha Khao Yai Resort look like no other.

Over time nature goes to work, and the old marble yard comes alive turning lackluster cliff faces into a kaleidoscope of colors. Aptly named “Grand Villas Chom Hin Pha,” the guest lodges at the top boast 90 square meters of well-appointed rooms looking out over the pinkish brown rocky landscape.

If you prefer quirky, unusual locations, the “Villas Ping Pha Hin” are definitely your must-visit. The 40-square-meter cube-shaped lodges are placed inside the rock forest. Ingenious design takes advantage of the existing cliff faces, turning rock formations into naturally beautiful walls. The rocky surroundings turn out to be nifty temperature control inside the interior living spaces.

And not to worry about rainwater leaking in during storms. The gaps between natural and built environments are sealed tight while a system of gutters are in place to ensure storm water runoff is drain out fast.

Interior design is at the heart of the boutique hotel on the rock. Every unit showcases handcrafted wood furniture by award-winning designer/carpenter Yutthana Bumrungkit.

To make every visit feel like the first time, each villa is designed to highlight a different ambience and character. Together they turn the unique hotel into a thriving, delightful escape. Everywhere paintings and sculptural masterpieces abound. It’s like walking into a museum and actually living history.

Understandably the owner hopes that his unique hotel will one day turn into an attractive art venue in the Region.

Beautiful abstract sculpture adds a modern appeal to the pool.

View from the Grand Villa perched atop the old marble quarry.

The dining room showcases masterpieces by the hotel’s master artist. — The dining room showcases masterpieces by Thai master artist.

2017 looks to be a great year as more exciting attractions are being added to the Nhapha Khao Yai Resort.

The family room at the Gallery Villa showcases works of art with strong imaginative appeal. // Photo: Nhapha Khao Yai Resort

A travel trailer is available on site. Go for the legendary RV if you prefer to live a life of adventure and passion. // Photo: Nhapha Khao Yai Resort

A brand new swimming pool comes with a waterfall descending over a sheer rock face. // Photo: Nhapha Khao Yai Resort

All-in-One Creative Space

By livingasean
January 28, 2017
CULTURE,DESIGN

Great ideas don’t just happen. They come from having a creative work environment, which is vital in the innovative process. An all-inclusive workspace, such as this one, can make a difference in your projects, too.

/// Malaysia ///
Story: LivingASEAN / Photography: Sitthisak Namkham

For the past half-century, the printing factory at Art Printing Works has stood in Bangsar, a suburb on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Recently it has been transformed into an all-inclusive workspace called “APW Campus”. Among its objectives: Combine the art, business, and technology and put them to work together in one creative environment.

Having a fight with colleagues? Vent your fury and settle it with Street Fighter machines instead.

No reception counter, no problem! Use an old printing press instead.

The 6,500-square-meter workspace on the property was redesigned to allocate resources in a different way without any change to the existing structure. A co-working space, appropriately named “Uppercase,” is on the second floor, right above the printing factory that still prints reputable books and magazines.

Whilst there, visitors can also get some grub to refresh their creative energy. A caffeine boost is available at Pulp by Papa Palheta, an on-site café offering all kinds of specialty coffee, while Paper Plates, a food court favorite among locals, serves a wide array of fine foods and drinks.

The surrounding areas, both indoors and outdoors, can be used as venues for extracurricular activities, from art exhibitions and product launches to cooking classes and outdoor rock concerts. The all-in-one creative space is designed to showcase a thousand ways to inspire new inventions and the innovative process.

A Cycling Hotel / Sleep, Eat, and Ride a Bicycle

By livingasean
December 19, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN

Nandha Hotel is a cycling hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, lodging where lovers of all things vintage can enjoy their holiday surrounded by eclectic décor.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Bundaree Deewong /// Photo: Sungwan Phratep /// Interior Designer: Bangkok Day Group by Kasisin Suwattanaphim

The Nandha is named after the mother of owners Anucha and Bheema Jotikabukkana. These two have strong passions for both cycling and photography, and with a designer’s help, have expressed these favorite pastimes through the hotel’s interior decoration.

Kasisin Suwattanaphim, of Bangkok Day Group, is the designer responsible for this project. He came up with the catchphrase “Sleep-Eat-Ride,” which became the hotel’s main concept.

Above the storefront, the hotel façade features striking light blue wooden latticework with a yellow vintage bicycle hanging above its signature slogan. The latticework also acts to screen out harsh daylight. On the left corner is the loft-style Passion Café,in whose cozy, warm atmosphere guests imbibe coffee and other drinks.

The lobby interior is decorated with old collectibles such as rare bicycles and vintage cameras, making it one of guests’ favorite photo spots. The railing on the stairwell to the rooms is constructed of water piping.

Each floor has its own decorative color assigned to it: pink, blue, green and so on. Room entrances play along with the hotel’s concept, and each room even has its own bicycle bell with room number, for use in calling hotel staff for assistance.

An in-room desk is adapted from a real bicycle. There are clothes hangers made from pedals. The secretive little gimmick-like details are part of what makes this place unique and special.

The hotel offers two types of room: vintage-style with a contemporary feel and classic-style, with a warm wood décor. Additionally, for groups there is a two-storey duplex suite with two bedrooms.

For those looking for a unique experience and heartwarming hospitality, or simply seeking a cycling hotel with a budget price, Nandha hotel not to be missed.

Morrissey: Hip Hotel in Jakarta

By livingasean
December 16, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN

For a traveler, what could be better than a nice hotel in the heart of the city? Pick a hotel with a relaxing atmosphere and good design. If your destination is Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, the Morrissey hip hotel is the one and only right choice to choose.

/// Indonesia ///
Story: Wuthikorn Suthiapa /// Photos: Soopakorn Srisakul

The Morrissey reception area features modern cubic architecture and a restaurant serving brunch meals.

Designed for high quality accommodations, the Morrissey features a gorgeous mix of Jakarta’s urban tropical ambience and ultramodern architecture. There is a hint of Industrial Loft design that comes with high ceilings, plenty of wall openings, and abundant natural light. Naked concrete finishes alternating with brick painted white, and dark-colored wood floors provide a welcome contrast between stylishly chic design and natural rawness.

The Morrissey interior becomes an enchanting, well-lighted place by night, thanks to beautiful lighting effects and natural textured finishes. /// The rooftop garden features a perfect escape for those seeking a little peace and quiet, in which to read or just sit back and relax.

The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to interesting attractions throughout Jakarta’s CBD. The famed Museum Nasional Indonesia is less than two kilometers away, while the fashionable shopping mall Plaza Indonesia, aka “P.I.” is roughly a kilometer or 7 minutes if you prefer going by train.

Cozy Resident's Lounge looks out over the lap pool with panoramic views of the city skyline stretching farther than the eye can see. — Cozy Resident’s Lounge looks out over the lap pool with panoramic views of the city skyline stretching farther than the eye can see.

If a journey back in time is for you, know that the Old Djakarta Theater, the Jalan Surabaya Antique Market, and the Taman Ismali Marzuki Cultural Center are easily accessible from the Morrissey. It’s a good idea to walk to these great attractions. It only takes about ten minutes. Having been to all of them, we had the most fun exploring the city on foot.

Besides excellent service and upscale accommodations, the Morrissey is also known for Italian cuisine as well as local and fusion foods. Drop into the Ocha & Bella restaurant to find out. Open kitchen design lets you see chefs at work preparing meals right before your eyes.

Along the way, take your time to experience the Indonesian versions of street food similar to the ready-to-eat meals ubiquitous throughout Asian. Highly recommended is Nasi goring, the Indonesian version of fried rice. Buy a set from the street vendor and have it cooked to order right on the spot. Another not-to-be-missed dish is Satay, especially Goat Satay. It smells good and tastes like heaven.

In case you have had a long day, the Morrissey offers plenty of cozy spots in which to relax and unwind. The Sky Lobby offers a vantage point to take in panoramic views of Jakarta city skyline. If fitness is for you, go to the swimming pool, or burn calories and build muscle on the treadmill. Take your pick. A full array of gym equipment is available onsite.

The Morrissey reception area is also home to a lobby café. Most outstanding is the architectural design that is strongly influenced by Le Corbusier, the icon of Modernism.

007 — Large window frames the view of Jakarta city skyline. Simple décor belies the comfy and warm atmosphere. Natural textured finishes, no-fuss ceilings, and painted brickwork add a touch of Industrial Loft to “Double Volume” Room.

Fueled by tropical inspirations, guest rooms at the Morrissey showcase textured concrete finishes and brickwork in relaxing shades of white. Simple, clean design leaves plenty of room for wall openings. Frameless glass doors and panels allow abundant natural light. Such inspiring Modern Tropical details can be applied to many parts of your home.

The Seminar Room with an information center is at your service on the mezzanine.

Workspace on the first floor of “Double Volume” Room consists of a desk-cum-dining-table, a sofa and coffee table. Furniture varies from one room to another. But every piece is representative of the Industrial Era. Chairs in this photo are the Tolix Model A designed by Xavier Pauchard in 1934.

Link: http://iammorrissey.com

The Best of the Show / Chiang Mai Design Week 2016

By livingasean
December 9, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN,HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

Ideas are all around. Designers and artists create their works from Chiang Mai heritage. The local wisdom was developed under the theme “New Originals”. Living ASEAN picks the must-see exhibitions arranged by locations for your convenience.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Samutcha Viraporn /// Photography: Sitthisak Namkham

Chiang Mai Tobacco Office

Along the walkway lined with graphic design exhibitions, Chiang Mai entrepreneurs open their booths to stage the shows here.

cmdw16-047 — “Tawipob,” a collection of handcrafted metal-frame windows, created by Thai artist Torlarp Larpjaroensook

cmdw16-042 — “Mohhom,” clothes dyed indigo blue the traditional way, are re-created to showcase new uses by MOHHOMM.

TCDC Chiang Mai

The Center of Modern Design Knowledge in Chiang Mai, organizer of this event, puts on shows of many interesting projects featuring works by local and international designers and artisans. Beautiful designs, artworks, and crafts from Japan and Indonesia are on view here.

cmdw16-003 — TRANSFER(S), a creative collaboration between Thai and French designers, features beautiful objects of handicraft made by local artisans and designed by Sam Baron, Charlotte Juillard, Nocc Studio, Thinkk Studio, and Rush PLEANSUK.

cmdw16-002 — “Desk Partition” by TRANSFER(S) / An exhibition by La Fete

cmdw16-007 — “Nanaa Mirror” by TRANSFER(S) / An exhibition by La Fete

cmdw16-019 — “The silk-wool plant collection,” an over-scale flower design, was crafted of Thai silk and Holland wool and designed by WANDSCHAPPEN in collaboration with JIM THOMPSON. / An exhibition by Here and There, Holland

cmdw16-021 — “The Big Face Box,” by Daily Portal Z, isn’t about just making a face big. It makes people around you smile and come away happy. / An exhibition by Knowledge Capital, Japan

cmdw16-032 — Wooden radio sets by Magno / Exhibits by Rumah Sanur Creative Hub, Indonesia

cmdw16-026 — Bamboo coffee set and cutlery inspired by the breakfast tableware of the Bomari village / A show rich in exhibits by Rumah Sanur Creative Hub, Indonesia

cmdw16-035 — “Maikam” is a simple crutch handcrafted of bamboo, rattan and the inner tube of an automobile tire. This physiotherapy equipment is a product of local craftsmanship in Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai House of Photography

The Small Blue House behind the Lanna Folklife Museum becomes a venue for talented designers to showcase their great ideas, which art lovers shouldn’t miss.

cmdw16-050 — Art and design objects made from recycled materials by Chiang Mai designer Pichakorn Chukeaw, from Tua Pen Not

cmdw16-059 — An opportunity to explore production techniques used in making leather lifestyle products by Labrador x Fabcafe

cmdw16-057 — A unique technique of mixing clays by Inclay Studio, a local ceramic studio in Chiang Mai

cmdw01 — “Ta-Ton-Yon: Keep it Slow, and Grow Better,” an exhibition by Design Plant, supported by COTTO

Rachamankha Hotel

Elegance never fades. The best of Chiang Mai Design Week culminates in “720 New Originals,” which consist of three shows at the iconic hotel in Chiang Mai.

cmdw16-102 — “Every Woman Deserves Elegance”, an exclusive art to wear collection inspired by Princess Dara Rasamee, is made by SARRAN and supported by JIM THOMPSON.

cmdw16-103 — Turn waste silk thread into a beautiful bangle by SARRAN x JIM THOMPSON

cmdw16-111 — A bangle made using techniques in pearl inlaid furniture by SARRAN x DEESAWAT

cmdw16-109 — “Wear Our hearts,” an art to wear collection for charity by 17 guest designers

cmdw16-116 — “72 Seats,” the joy of the outdoor living co-created by SARRAN, JIM THOMPSON, and DEESAWAT

Thapae East

“Re-Design Anonymous Chair” features an exhibition depicting the thinking process that goes into making a traditional chair with curved wooden arms.

cmdw16-084 — Virtual diagram of the thinking process of this project

cmdw16-085 — “Ele” by Doonyapol Srichan, of Re-Design Anonymous Chair

cmdw16-139 — A design called “Same, Same” by o-d-a, of Re-Design Anonymous Chair

cmdw16-182 — “Ping” by ease studio, of Re-Design Anonymous Chair

Gallery Seescape, Nimmanhemin Soi 17

“Gallery Seescape” puts on an art exhibition by Anon Pairot, a Thai designer who is curious about the goings-on in our society.

cmdw16-125 — Come 2017 the exhibition “Souvenirs from Depressions” will be staged on an even bigger scale at the Art Stage in Singapore.

Link: www.chiangmaidesignweek.com

Reuse, Repair, Upcycle

By livingasean
November 17, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN

As a child he liked designs connecting old traditions with environmental awareness. This found expression in this straw-covered cubical building reminiscent of a farmer’s paddy hut.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Nutt /// Photography: Chaiyaphon Sodabanlu

Design: Ronachai Khanbanya, Mae Khaning Creative Co., Ltd

*A single large pane is expensive, so smaller ones are set into a metal frame, economical and also tasteful, reflecting the framework of the building.*

Ronachai “Art” Khanbanya, architect from Mae Khaning Creative Co., Ltd, has redesigned a lot of old offices and developed a preference expressed in the slogan “reuse, repair, recycle.”

“Reuse” is putting things that are still usable back to work again.

“Repair” is fixing broken or abandoned things and making them useful once more.

“Upcycle” is designing discarded materials for new use.

“Our old office near the city moat was small and inconvenient. We relocated here for the pleasant atmosphere. Having to rent, we designed a structure we could easily dismantle and reassemble. Budget was important in choosing building materials.”

The structure is tent-like: a frame of 6-meter-long box steel beams supports a high gabled structure. The entrance gable has glass panes set in a metal framework. Outside walls are thatched with cogon grass, effective heat insulation that helps save energy and is also excellent soundproofing. Sheet metal lines the inner walls.

*An old door panel transformed into a sliding counter for a multipurpose table: adaptable to work desk, dining table, or for kitchen use.*

“Easy-to-use materials like cogon grass are locally available, and give the building a distinctive look. I wanted to show that cheap materials could be not only effective, but also beautiful. We’ve had pretty good success without having to use expensive imports. The new generation of designers should get aware of what’s here already.”

*Metal wall, second floor heat insulation, creating intra-wall space for good air circulation. /// Cogon grass roofing, effective use of local materials for good heat insulation and soundproofing.*

Furniture and décor here is quite simple, as seen in the particleboard shelving and the use of an old door to create a sliding counter. Art was aiming for a universal space, with furniture adaptable for work, eating, or food preparation.

*The tabletop is made from an old unused pane of glass attached to make a new table using shims and pegs.*

“I’m thinking a completely new lifestyle, not like old office designs, more an arrangement of work tables in a relaxing environment, like working at home or chilling at a café. We find comfortable work environments work for other sides of life, too.”

*A shelf is crafted of simple materials such as unpainted particleboard. /// A stepladder: When not in use, it can be used as shelving.*

The garden outside is a comfortable space where you can drink coffee at a table made from a cable spool. Landscaping features fountain grass, which doesn’t require a lot of care and fits in with the “paddy hut” theme. The walkway curves around before shortcutting into the building, evoking the image of paddy dikes. “Everyone wants to live in the country. In Chiangmai these days you see only buildings, not many plants. The plants here make it fun to come to work.”

The outside area in front of the building is used as a living and relaxation space for drinking coffee. A cable spool is used for a table. Landscaping is fountain grass, easy to care for and evoking thoughts of a life in the fields.

This office is comfortable. It has complete functionality, and saves on materials, construction, and energy. Good for the environment, good for the folks working there. “The more you think, the more you save” should be the credo of a good designer. The evidence is here: as Art says, it’s a great place to work.

link: https://www.facebook.com/MKNCOLD/

The Commons / It’s Anything But Common

By livingasean
November 16, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN

The Commons, a new community mall, describes itself as one that stands for a “common” concept. Shops here offer a variety of consumer goods that are necessary for healthy living and meeting daily needs. Open every day from 08:00 to midnight, the new-fashioned building is located in the posh Thonglor neighborhood of Bangkok.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Fernkul /// Photos: Suppakorn Srisakul

Enjoying a social space status, the Commons is open and accessible to the public. People are welcome to visit for business or pleasure as often as they like. Psychologically speaking, the modern complex is designed to focus on a sense of community, promoting the bonds of friendship that members of the public have for one another. Its purpose is slightly different from what is generally referred to as the “Commons” in other countries. Out there it’s more about public spaces that are open and being used by the public at any time for any reason. Ammata Lupaiboon of the Department of Architecture designed this ultramodern four-storey mall.

The Commons’ interior is stylishly chic thanks to the ingenious choice of raw concrete finishes that bring out a warm industrial loft look. Softly white shades on the walls help reduce the harshness of bold patterns and textures, making the interior feel friendly and very inviting. Meantime, the lower section boasts wide-open spaces with steps and slopes nicely designed to extend a warm welcome. The third and fourth floors are different. They feature box-shaped design adorned with windows crafted of steel frames, resulting in a light and airy atmosphere. Up here thermal comfort comes from cool breezes that flow in for much of the day. As a precaution, electric fans come in handy to boost natural air circulation if need be.

The trendy mall is designed to offer lots of clear spaces. “Visual continuity is very important. Almost all of the upper floors can be seen in full view from down here,” said Ammata. “Apart from that, our concept has always been about creating a place that thrives on a sense of community. It’s the sense of belonging that will keep people coming back.” To facilitate temperature moderation and natural daylight, the designer put in plenty of leafy trees both in and around the building. Meantime, good orientation helps to maximize certain aspects of the surroundings. As he put it, the project relies on those patches of greenery to connect the built environment to nature.

The Commons is divided into 4 zones, namely; the Marketplace that offers a variety of foods and beverages, and the Village zone, which is a retail area specializing in daily consumer products. The other two include the Courtyard capable of hosting all kinds of activities for both children and adult populations, and the Rooftop zone, which offers rental venues for social gatherings, workshops, and private parties.

Designed to meet urban lifestyle needs, the ultramodern mall is anything but common. It offers plenty of spaces for social gatherings, where people meet for business or just sit back and relax in the company of friends and loved ones. In the shortest possible word, it’s a new kind of urban community center, one that offers much more than just shopping experience.

The Commons is located at No. 335 Thonglor Road, one of the hot spots in Khlongton Nue, Wattana District of Bangkok. It’s open daily from 08:00 to 24:00 hours.

link: https://www.facebook.com/thecommonsbkk/

The New Architecture Icon in Malaysia // The New PAM Centre

By livingasean
November 15, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN

The New PAM Centre just has opened in Bangsar, Kuala Lumper. The design incorporated the use of a narrow tract of land and provides a unique ventilation system as a climate solution. The striking black aluminum façade of this building has made the new architecture icon in Malaysia.

/// Malaysia ///

Story : Samutcha Viraporn /// Photos : Sitthisak Namkham

Malaysian Institute of Architects or also known as Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) held the competition to build the new PAM centre in 2012. The winner, HMA & Associates came up with the ultimate solutions in designing this unique space. The 10-story building features black aluminum screening, concrete slabs and blocks, brick walls, steel staircases, exposed pipes, and green spaces inside the building to balance the space.

koh161013-038 — Mohd Heikal bin Hasan of HMA & Associates

“It is a linear site, very narrow. Actually the size is suitable for a bungalow. The concept is how to bring external space into the building. You can see the green spaces in many areas as staircases design. Because of the limited size, we didn’t have the external Space needed.” Mohd Heikal bin Hasan of HMA & Associates explains.

This type of architectural designcontains 4 main elements

The Space Between, This void merges necessity, functionality, and aesthetic beauty into a remarkable facade.
The Stairs, The vertical staircases create excellent ventilation from one floor to throughout the structure.
The Plane, Also known as the shields blocks neighboring bulky design with eye-straining color scheme.
The Screen, A breathable skin that helps to protect the building from the sunlight from the west.

Once you step into this building, you can feel the natural ventilation around you. Of course, this design reduces energy consumption for saving electricity. All of the elements are not only appealing but also functional. This building is an excellence example of regional tropical design.

Moreover, this building has even more small surprise inside of it. Before the building was built, a small 2-story dwelling was previously located on the land. The architect decided to keep the structure of the house inside the big building. On the first and the second floor, you can see the original columns and beams in the exhibition room. It is amazing how the older structure remain in this big project. The architect wanted to communicate to us to “Please do not forget who you are and where you come from in the new modern world.” Brilliant!

Link: www.pam.org.my

Manila FAME 2016

By livingasean
October 29, 2016
CULTURE,DESIGN,HAPPENING,SPECIAL SCOOP

This year’s Manila FAME Exhibition features objects of handicraft from a regional collaboration project. The landmark event is being held under the theme,
ASEAN Design to the World.

/// The Philippines ///

Story: Rush Pleansuk /// Photos: Teerapong Thammacharoen

A strikingly beautiful mirror on wooden frame

A Schema lamp exhibition /A new collection by Kenneth Cobonpue — A Schema lamp exhibition /// A new collection by Kenneth Cobonpue

The “ASEAN Design to the World” exhibition is the product of collaboration among five regional member countries.

Highlights of the exhibition are beautiful products of collaboration among regional members, such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam.

Each country has its unique ways of transforming local materials into beautiful works of handicraft. Such are taking place within the ASEAN region, where member countries have come together and integrated their efforts in a project called “Improving the Current Status of ASEAN Master Craft Designers.” They also reached out to collaborate with other experts in the field.

It’s about repurposing. This eye-catching stool made of bamboo basketry is by Phanida Prommetta of the ASEAN Master Craft Program.

A metal lampshade from Indonesia is curate by Lim Masulin.

Inspired by shadow play, this lampshade from Thailand is designed by Rush Pleansuk of the ASEAN Master Craft Program.

From Thailand, Teerapong Thammacharoen of the ASEAN Master Craft Program crafted this chandelier out of bamboo basketry.

An eye-catching object of handicraft is the product of collaboration with Peruvian’s designer Nelson Sepulveda. The design is pure and simple with a naive charm. Rough natural textures are preserved. Sepulveda recycles local wastes, i.e. coconut leaves, pineapple-fiber papers and abaca plants. It’s amazing how he develops found materials into furniture that fits in well with contemporary lifestyle and residential spaces.

Inspired by techniques from the shadow play, these leather screens are by Chalan Thawornukulphong from Thailand.

Also from Thailand, a red coffee table comes in the form a wild boar’s head, by Sasiwimol Chalearmrith of the ASEAN Master Craft Program.

Fashion modern chairs in mock-up settings by Budij Layug — Fashion modern chairs in mock-up settings by Budji Layug

Frontal view of the Citem exhibition by Nelson Sepulveda

The Citem exhibition by Nelson Sepulveda

Citem exhibition designs by Nelson Sepulveda

The “ASEAN Design to the World” booth features woven fabrics by Awika Samukraman.

This year, Budij Layug has put on another interesting exhibition in the Philippines. His selections and perspectives not only offer home décor items, but also fuse with fashionable influences. Equally intriguing are “Lucent Objects,” a design exhibition by the Design Center of the Philippines in association with Stanley Ruiz. Here lampshades are produced from different natural materials. A lovely touch of creativity comes in the form of a lampshade made of fiber from the coconut shell. The ingenious design aims to reduce adverse effects on the environment. In the process, toxic chemicals are avoided as best as possible.

Meantime, the Peacock Chair Redux Exhibition gives a new meaning to the iconic chair. Philippine designers develop these innovative designs based on the original Peacock Chair using a variety of techniques and materials.

Blog : DESIGN

Sekeping Kong Heng: A Boutique Hotel Treasures the Charm of Ipoh

In the old town of Ipoh, a stylish boutique hotel named Sekeping Kong Heng not only blends into its historical surroundings, but also contributes to restoring all its former glory.

One-of-a-Kind Boutique Hotel

Silhouetted against a stone forest, this one-of-a-kind boutique hotel is a thriving, delightful escape adorned with works of art. Check it out.

All-in-One Creative Space

Great ideas don’t just happen. They come from having a creative work environment, which is vital in the innovative process. An all-inclusive workspace, such as this one, can make a difference in your projects, too.

A Cycling Hotel / Sleep, Eat, and Ride a Bicycle

Nandha Hotel is a cycling hotel located in the heart of Bangkok, lodging where lovers of all things vintage can enjoy their holiday surrounded by eclectic décor.

Morrissey: Hip Hotel in Jakarta

For a traveler, what could be better than a nice hotel in the heart of the city? Pick a hotel with a relaxing atmosphere and good design. If your destination is Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, the Morrissey hip hotel is the one and only right choice to choose.

The Best of the Show / Chiang Mai Design Week 2016