Blog : HOUSE

American Industrial Loft Style
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American Industrial Loft Style

Old things can have a refined charm. They show dedication to detail in design that’s hard to find in present-day products. Sharing a love for all things retro, two homeowners have turned them into an online business, “The Kasama.”

/// Thailand ///

Story: Gobbi Chirawat /// Photography: Nantiya /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Designer: Natthaphon Siriphanit and Pitikon Ariyakhajon of TIMEOUTCAMP

 

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Entering their midsize townhouse was like walking into another time. The front door – black steel with a glass façade – leads into a room done up in what you could call an “American industrial” loft style. The living room’s walls bear the marks of the wooden frames, giving them a raw texture to complement the antiques and collectibles on display here: old cameras, tools, and equipment used in factories during the Second World War.

The workroom on the third floor, with its beautiful wall of white brick, is used as a studio where they take pictures of merchandise to be posted on Facebook. Scattered about we see such miscellaneous items as a fine collectible leather “U.S. Mail” bag from the World War II era.

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The owners with their lovable collection: wooden shelving creates order.
The owners with their lovable collection.

“The Kasama started out almost five years ago,” said one of the owners. “We started out with all girls’ and women’s clothes, but with smallness as part of the concept. We kept that in mind as we branched out to sell things people depend on, and coined the name ‘lifessories’ for another store to sell useful items, bric-a-brac, and house decorations. We want the concept to reach further than to just what people wear, to be an expression of their lifestyles.”

Their personal tastes have mixed with ideas coming from creative circles in the industry to find a place in every detail of the interior décor. Each spot in the house has a story begging to be researched.

“The house itself is not so detailed, but the little things here are. The beauty is in their details and their narratives, and these themes are repeated everywhere in our house and possessions. We always give a lot of consideration to the origin of each thing. And the detailed elements must contribute to functionality, too. Yes, the kitchen should be pretty, but you have to be able to actually cook there!”

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The owners are fortunate to share so many preferences and styles. That makes the house something greater than just a place to show off private collections. It collects happiness and contentment, too, and here this couple can share things they both admire and make use of, in a setting that reflects both their passions.

And here are last words from The Kasama owners before we left. “We’re surrounded by little things we love. This gives us happiness and the feeling that this is our own special space, where we can be who we truly are.”

“We designed things so as to mix our collections together in a harmonious way.”
“We designed things so as to mix our collections together in a harmonious way,” said the owner.

Link: www.facebook.com/thekasama

Home Renovation / Classic Meets Avant-Garde
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Home Renovation / Classic Meets Avant-Garde

Classic meets avant-garde in this unique space, yet it still has the warm feeling of a real home.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Wilasinee /// Photos: Nanthiya, Damrong /// Style : Praphaiwadee /// Designers – Decorators: Butsakon Sapsanthitikun and Radikan Wetsawan

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When the long trip of taking her college-age daughters from the old house in Samphran district of Nakhon Pathom Province for drop-off in the center of Bangkok became too exhausting, the owner decided to find a place to live near the University instead. She needed both convenience and a place close enough to Samphran that she could occasionally go back and forth.

Eventually she found this 350- square-meter condominium and fixed it up as a second home. It took two years of design and decoration, but in the end it filled her every need.

“From our first discussions with the designers we developed a pretty clear concept. Mom used to favor the classic Roman style, but when we bought these rooms, we all agreed to switch to a more contemporary look,” said the eldest daughter.

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The space was adapted to fit the family. The original three bedrooms became four, one for each of them. Coming through the front door brings us into a large central room with a dining area and a small corner with a counter and fancy round modern-looking table. Décor includes a classic-style chandelier and a contemporary display case. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming,  simply with the feeling of being a nice place to live.

The design plan splits rooms into a left and a right wing. To the left, next to the dining room is a parlor dominated by navy blue, with an exotic beauty of rippling velvet drapes giving the wall a dimension of light and shadow. Furthest inside is a trendy entertainment room decorated in dark tones energized by the warmth of a big red leather sofa. Outside, the balcony holds a little garden where you can drink in the fresh atmosphere while enjoying a wide urban view.

Also in the left wing is the eldest daughter’s room, decorated in clean, easy-on-the-eye and relaxing tones of white. Here are contemporary touches: cigarette-smoke-colored velvet drapes, a bedside table with a classic form. The middle daughter’s bedroom is here, too, no less special with bright colors, and the same secret sweetness you’ll find in its occupant’s personality,

The right wing includes kitchen, storage room, and a maid’s room. The youngest sister, who is studying fashion design, has dressed up her bedroom in an avant-garde modern style she’s completely in love with.

The mother designed her own room to be sweet, but still full of contemporary chic with a dark wood floor, modern vintage furniture, and shiny sequined throw cushions on the sofa.

Mother's bedroom.
The mother’s bedroom.
The older daughter's bedroom.
The eldest daughter’s bedroom.
The youngest daughter's bedroom.
The youngest daughter’s bedroom.

During the design and décor process, the professional designers got to know the individual personalities, tastes, and preferences of family members quite well, and tried their best to pass on some design knowledge to them, which is how each room came to so clearly reflect the taste of the person living there.

 

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White and Bright / A Glowing White Home
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White and Bright / A Glowing White Home

The most striking thing about this home is its whiteness; but it takes a special technique to create dimension and make the white truly glow.

/// Thailand ///
Story: Sara /// Photos: Jirasak, Damrong, Ketsiri /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Design: Anantapha Thongthawat, Anan Interior Architect

The dining table is topped with white marble, which is easy to clean. Decorative branches painted white give the sense of sitting under a tree.
The dining table is topped with white marble, which is easy to clean. Decorative branches painted white give the sense of sitting under a tree.
The standout feature in this room is a modern adaptation. The set of a hundred lights hanging by short stems from the ceiling complements the exquisite white sofa set and flawless acrylic furniture.
The standout feature in this room is a modern adaptation. The set of a hundred lights hanging by short stems from the ceiling complements the exquisite white sofa set and flawless acrylic furniture.

There is a white home tucked away inside a condominium in the heart of Bangkok. It’s luxurious, yet feels as easygoing and welcoming as if we were visiting a single house with a yard. But here, as far as the eye can see, are views of this great city.

Anantapha Thongthawat, who designed the 180-square-meter suite, told us how it came about. “To get the result the owner was looking for, I had to combine distinctly different stylistic concepts: Asian ornamentation, minimalist simplification, and modernity, and give each room a distinct character.”

To the owner, nothing compares to his favorite color. White of many shades was used on floor, ceiling, furniture, and ornamentation, all done for his satisfaction. “I like pure white” he says. “It looks straightforward, clean, comfortable. In a clean, white room I can feel truly relaxed.”

According to what some believe, the placement of acrylic “earthen” jars will make the homeowner a money magnet. On the wall hangs a painted picture canvas entitled “Money Comes,” another charm to induce riches to come pouring in.
According to what some believe, the placement of acrylic “earthen” jars will make the homeowner a money magnet. On the wall hangs a painted picture canvas entitled “Money Comes,” another charm to induce riches to come pouring in.
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Artificial rattan chairs and wooden stools along the edge of the porch and a floor paved with river pebbles creates a refreshing atmosphere, enhanced with an aquarium visible both from inside and outside.

Stepping out of his personal elevator, we walk into the central part of the house passing a parlor/reception area, a desk, and a dining area. All three rooms are directly connected. The concept came from the functionality of the porch in a traditional Thai house. A main walkway connects everything.

From here you can access all the other areas, entering them through sliding doors suspended by rails set above, so that one space flows easily into another. For a practical use, the maid’s quarters are set close to the service area. There’s efficient division of space everywhere.

The large main room with a modern look is arranged with chic finesse. The table and acrylic counter parallel each other, with plenty of space left between for good functionality. Planter boxes filled with white pebbles hold upright large branches resembling trees.

The long continuum of the main room connects to every space in the home. The use of clear acrylic planter boxes is an intriguing artifice. The mango branches are painted white. The space was inspired by Thai house verandahs, which make room for shade trees to grow through.
The long continuum of the main room connects to every space in the home. The use of clear acrylic planter boxes is an intriguing artifice. The mango branches are painted white. The space was inspired by Thai house verandahs, which make room for shade trees to grow through.
A mix of modern and oriental styles: The counter’s marble surface matches the dining table. Hanging lamps are tied to a white steel frame.
A mix of modern and oriental styles: The counter’s marble surface matches the dining table. Hanging lamps are tied to a white steel frame.
Dimension is created with varying shades of white, from clear white to cloudy white to dark white
Dimension is created with varying shades of white, from clear white to cloudy white to dark white.

From any perspective, the whites create a sense of deep order and a startling beauty in this home. We can say without reservation that we’ve fallen under their spell. Have the charms of whiteness begun to work their way with you yet?

The master bedroom is spacious and simply furnished. Here the inspiration came from a Chinese-style bed. Lines are reduced to simplicity, suggesting Eastern influence, as well. Handmade lamps are made from white yarn, a chic artistry that gave the room the name “the Chinese bedroom.”
The master bedroom is spacious and simply furnished. Here the inspiration came from a Chinese-style bed. Lines are reduced to simplicity, suggesting Eastern influence, as well. Handmade lamps are made from white yarn, a chic artistry that gave the room the name “the Chinese bedroom.”
“The Japanese bedroom” is a mix of Eastern influence and a tidy, pleasing contemporaneity. The bed is at a raised level, giving the feeling that the mattress sits directly on the floor.
“The Japanese bedroom” is a mix of Eastern influence and a tidy, pleasing contemporaneity.
The bed is at a raised level, giving the feeling that the mattress sits directly on the floor.
Chic Organic Style Meets the Rawness of Industrial Loft
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Chic Organic Style Meets the Rawness of Industrial Loft

A condo room strikes the right balance between the chic organic style and the rawness of an industrial loft space.

/// Thailand///
Story: Montra /// Photos: Damrong /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Design – Décor: Prasert Chaisitthiroekkul

The living room is an open space that connects to everything else, the result that the owner was looking for. A TV-mounted wall made of black sheet metal separates the parlor from the dining area with brickwork in the background.
The living room is an open space that connects to everything else, the result that the owner was looking for. A TV-mounted wall made of black sheet metal separates the parlor from the dining area with brickwork in the background.
The bedroom is minimally furnished, emphasizing a comfortable use of space. The half-console half-table is a standout feature. It’s both a table and the headboard that turns a basic bedroom into a master suite.
The half-console half-table is a standout feature. It’s both a table and the headboard that turns a basic bedroom into a master suite.

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This room started out from the owner’s fascination with the loft style of Mellow Restaurant & Bar. He loved the place, and asked who had designed it. The restaurant owner then referred him to Prasert Chaisitthiroekkul of Whitespace, PLC.

The two began working together to produce the trendy mix of rough and orderly room that struck such a deep chord with the owner. The designer said that the owner wanted a smart and tidy look. With that in mind, he created as much open space as he could while connecting everything together.

He set aside the basic materials from the original condo, such as polished tile floors and white walls, in favor of unfinished surfaces that had a different kind of beauty.

The old space had 3 bedrooms. The owner thought two should suffice. He converted the small bedroom into a workspace-cum-reading room and – since he loves drumming – a practice studio with electronic drum equipment.

The closet doors are faced with charcoal-colored mesh for a fresh, chic look neatly camouflaging the contents behind.
The closet doors are faced with charcoal-colored mesh for a fresh, chic look neatly camouflaging the contents behind.
A floor-to-ceiling sliding door with safety glass panels in a black metal frame separates off the workspace and drum practice room. Artistry design is evident in the shelving all along the back wall, where the fancy brick shows through open spaces in the frame.
A floor-to-ceiling sliding door with safety glass panels in a black metal frame separates off the workspace and drum practice room.

“I wanted to fill the room with furniture, because the space was so wide open and interconnected, all the way from the front door through the kitchen and living room. I wanted there to be visual points of interest capped by the big table here, a real favorite of mine. It’s more than just a gorgeous piece of craftsmanship; it’s really useful for a lot of things.”

The designer added a lot of little details here and there, for instance using mesh screening instead of an opaque door for the clothes closet, and putting brick walls to build on the contemporary “loft” ambience.

The elegant dining area with a long table connects the counter to the kitchen at the rear. Metal black lamps hang from the ceiling, contrasting with the warm colors of brick and wood
The elegant dining area with a long table connects the counter to the kitchen at the rear. Metal black lamps hang from the ceiling, contrasting with the warm colors of brick and wood
The white bathroom isn’t much changed from the original construction, but the medicine cabinet was recessed to make the mirror even with the wall, and there is a shelf below for placing toiletries.
The white bathroom isn’t much changed from the original construction, but the medicine cabinet was recessed to make the mirror even with the wall, and there is a shelf below for placing toiletries.

When asked about the furniture, the owner chuckled to himself saying: “I bought it all myself, but I always consulted the designer first. If I found something interesting, I’d send him a picture. Sometimes I found myself wondering if this was my house or his.”

The stylishly chic condo is a perfect mix between the feel and functionality, and the modern industrial loft space. Obviously it’s a narrative of what the owner himself is all about.

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Dreamland Villa with European Elegance
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Dreamland Villa with European Elegance

This English-country-style vacation home with a vast European-style garden is quite an elegant one.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Warapsorn /// Photos: Soopakorn Srisakul, Rithirong Chanthongsuk /// Style: Pakhawadee Phahulo /// Architecture: Phumisak Thiankhaprasit /// Interior Decoration: Nitsanat Jaroenthaithawee /// Garden Design: Kongyos Boonrak and Thapana Vachiramas /// Landscaping: My Garden Corner

A rose arbor leads into the center of the garden. Its smooth grass lawn makes for a truly distinctive look the owners love.
A rose arbor leads into the center of the garden. Its smooth grass lawn makes for a truly distinctive look the owners love.
A symmetrical play of hedges and plant beds with squared or rounded frames are interspersed with sweet flowers that relieve any harshness.
A symmetrical play of hedges and plant beds with squared or rounded frames are interspersed with sweet flowers that relieve any harshness.
This grey house in the “English Country” style stands out in the middle of a European-style garden. Open lawns, variegated flowerbeds and flowering plants are spaced at intervals.
This grey house in the “English Country” style stands out in the middle of a European-style garden. Open lawns, variegated flowerbeds and flowering plants are spaced at intervals.

Divided into small sections, the garden starts at the front of the house, with a neatly trimmed Hokkien tea hedge formally arranged for a welcoming effect. This spot has an intentionally playful feeling. Seasonal flowers are planted in open areas while the formal design is preserved with the Hokkien tea hedges framing the flowerbeds.

Next to the house is a cobblestone path; here landscaping is in “mixed border garden” style. Assorted plants with detailed leaves and bright flowers grow together for a natural look, rather than clearly separated into plots. From here two more spots are visible; a circular grass lawn surrounded by rose beds, and a courtyard set up like a chessboard.

Behind the house is a beautiful and varied rose garden, once more hedged in by Hokkien tea plants. In spite of the single level garden design, there is a background of tall trees to dispel any sense that dimension might be lacking.

Hokkien tea hedges are laid out in elegant symmetrical lines, giving just the right feeling of formality to this expansive garden.
Hokkien tea hedges are laid out in elegant symmetrical lines, giving just the right feeling of formality to this expansive garden.
Big “chessboard” in the garden: Concrete squares alternate with savanna grass. Cement chess pieces add narrative.
Big “chessboard” in the garden: Concrete squares alternate with savanna grass. Cement chess pieces add narrative.
Mountains and tall trees fill out the landscape, making the garden appear like a natural continuation of local topography.
Mountains and tall trees fill out the landscape, making the garden appear like a natural continuation of local topography.

Stepping into the house you still feel the owners’ dedication to the natural world. Glass doors all around open on the beautiful garden outside.

Each bedroom on the second floor has a private balcony for coming out to sit, feel the breeze, and enjoy the garden. A simple look around shows that the European garden, plants, and nature itself are things this family takes delight in, and provide a true retreat from the workaday world.

The parlor has lots of openings for outside light. One wall is of brown brick with orange accents, rising all the way to the ceiling to add visual warmth.
The parlor has lots of openings for outside light. One wall is of brown brick with orange accents, rising all the way to the ceiling to add visual warmth.
The dining area connects to the parlor, which has a lower ceiling.
The dining area connects to the parlor, which has a lower ceiling.
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The bedroom has a warm feeling even with its cream-colored drapes, bedstead, quilt, and wooden floor.
Inside the arbor is a glass table, attractive and comfortable to use.
Inside the arbor is a glass table, attractive and comfortable to use.

 

Link: http://apinyagarden-coffee.blogspot.com/2014/05/my-garden-corner.html

 

A Light and Airy Home Goes Big with Lush Tropical Gardens
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A Light and Airy Home Goes Big with Lush Tropical Gardens

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Story: ATH / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham / Styling: Pakhawadee Pahulo /

Set among lush greenery and a relaxing atmosphere, this light and airy house with gardens brings the whole family closer to nature.

house with gardens
The swimming pool area features a large open space for walking. For simple maintenance, in some places plots of spike moss are planted instead of grass.

After living in an old house on this same plot for 30 years, the Srijakarin family bought additional parcels of land and rebuilt a comfortable home with gardens for three generations of family members.

The newly rebuilt house is divided into three parts. The first is the old house, which was set aside for the owner’s parents. It was remodeled with the comfort of older people in mind.

The second building is a two-story house where the owner lives with his family, and the third a modern Tropical-style structure with a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere. The couple keep their belongings and stay here during weekends and holidays. In the fewest possible words, it’s about reconnecting with nature at home.

house with gardens
Trees and shrubs shade the semi-enclosed pathway connecting the two houses with the swimming pool, giving the sense of walking through a sparse jungle.
house with gardens
The overall harmony of garden and house architecture creates a relaxing atmosphere.
house with gardens
The stairway overlooks a courtyard between the two houses, showcasing the English style in landscape design.

The front yard is in the English style characterized by neat, clean lines. There are park benches set in corners and trees in zones, while bright flowers thrive in large weathered stone urns.

The inner zone is a Tropical rainforest garden. There’s a good-sized waterfall and the gentle sound of a small brook. The garden is filled with verdant green mosses under the shade of trees carefully selected with the help of the landscape architect.

house with gardens
A delightful Tropical forest garden provides an oasis of calm in the courtyard between the two houses.
house with gardens
A veranda along the outside of the house lies in the warm cocoon of a lush Tropical resort atmosphere the owners really love.
house with gardens
A wide-angle view shows the interaction relationship between residential architecture and surrounding lush vegetation.

It’s not easy to put together a landscaping combination like this, but in the end a skillful and artistic integration of components, textures, patterns, and colors brought about a lasting and unified harmony of two garden styles – English in the courtyard, and Tropical forest upfront.

The living room showcases the beauty of open-concept design, while a double-height ceiling gives the feeling of openness and relaxation, all with a view of the garden.
The living room showcases the beauty of open-concept design, while a double-height ceiling gives the feeling of openness and relaxation, all with a view of the garden.
[Left] The multipurpose room has a big natural wood table ready for all sorts of activities, from casual work to comfortable pleasure reading. / [Right] The pantry is in white, designed for increased light and a feeling of space and comfort.
[Left] The multipurpose room has a big natural wood table ready for all sorts of activities, from casual work to comfortable pleasure reading. / [Right] The pantry is in white, designed for increased light and a feeling of space and comfort.
The dining room is ringed by glass to let in natural light during the day. The dark furniture color reinforces a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The dining room is ringed by glass to let in natural light during the day. The dark furniture color reinforces a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

All things considered, it’s a house with beautifully landscaped gardens that’s the perfect fit for an extended family, an expression of pleasure and the combined happiness of the three generations that live here.

[Left] The master bedroom is furnished in a chic, fashionable way that invites relaxation. / [Right] The downstairs bathroom has a classic décor, with natural stone floor, walls, and washbasin counter. To one side, mirrors give a sense of spaciousness.
[Left] The master bedroom is furnished in a chic, fashionable way that invites relaxation. / [Right] The downstairs bathroom has a classic décor, with natural stone floor, walls, and washbasin counter. To one side, mirrors give a sense of spaciousness.
For an elegant and practical look, pantry décor is primarily in natural materials and colors.
For an elegant and practical look, pantry décor is primarily in natural materials and colors.
house with gardens
[Left] An outdoor “living room” for the family elders. / [Right] A large sculpture adds dimension and narrative to the Tropical forest garden.
house with gardens
A spot in the garden where plants grow as naturally as they would in the wild. The natural effect is enhanced by setting plants at different heights, from ground cover through low shrubs, on up to tall vegetation.

Architecture/Interior Designer: Architecture and Interior Office Co., Ltd. (AIO) by Kowit Suriyporn (www.aiodesigns.com)

Garden Design: Worawut Kaewsuk

Visit the original Thai version…

ความหมายของ…ที่อยู่ ณ บ้านโมเดิร์นบรรยากาศคลาสสิก แห่งนี้

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A Touch of the Exotic
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A Touch of the Exotic

For his second home, the owner of The Library resort in Samui sets his mind on a vibrant, exotic look. A style that is totally different from his first residence.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Gobbi Chirawat /// Photos: Jirasak /// Assistant Photographers: Nattaphong /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Designer: Amphon Jiramahaphokha

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The pantry is striking. With its red wall and ceiling and multicolor drapes, the dark metal Arabian-style partition setting it off from the rest of the home.
The pantry is striking. With its red wall and ceiling and multicolor drapes, the dark metal Arabian-style partition setting it off from the rest of the home.

The owner was already familiar with  straightforward, minimalist interior decoration. So, he wanted to change to a more intense mood with mystical charm. Yong (Amphon Jiramahaphoka), a designer of the award-winning SODA group was called upon to complete this creative project.

Dark colors alternate with paler ones, giving dimension to the "living room." The light gray wall is adorned with framed pictures. The teakwood floor is polished to a lighter shade, contrasting with the dark ceiling, and opens out onto the balcony, with its set of wicker chairs.
Dark colors alternate with paler ones, giving dimension to the “living room.” The light gray wall is adorned with framed pictures. The teakwood floor is polished to a lighter shade, contrasting with the dark ceiling, and opens out onto the balcony, with its set of wicker chairs.

“I bought this room three or four years ago because of its prime location. But the new decoration was done last year. I removed the flooring, the ceiling and the walls. To avoid disturbing the neighbor, the work was limited to few hours per day. It took about eight months in total.” the owner explained.

Dark colors alternate with paler ones, giving dimension to the "living room." The light gray wall is adorned with framed pictures. The teakwood floor is polished to a lighter shade, contrasting with the dark ceiling, and opens out onto the balcony, with its set of wicker chairs.
The room is vibrant with a strong artistry at work. The TV sits on a mock up fireplace. LED lights give a romantic mood during the nighttime.



A perfect blend of colors and cultural influences gives the style a touch of the exotic. The entrance way, paved with black granite, makes the room feel cool and comfortable. The opposite walls features pictures and plates with vintage European designs. The kitchen has an elegant pantry designed for easy dining and food preparation.

The room is vibrant with a strong artistry at work. The TV sits on a mock up fireplace. LED lights give a romantic mood during the nighttime.
With a convertible sofa bed, this workspace also serves as a guest bedroom. Various types of decorative cloth highlight an Eastern flavor. Lighting under the sofa keeps things interesting.

The red wall and ceiling contrast strikingly with the wrought-metal Arab-style partitioning that sets the space off from the living room. There is a set of coffee table and black chairs imported from India. A sofa of bright navy blue is set on an Arabian rug, whose gray matches the wall color. The TV stands on a chic piece of shelving built into the wall to mimic a fireplace.

A built-in cabinet with a fold-down desk. Cabinets are draped with metal mesh and pleated cloth, striking the right balance between hard and soft materials.
A built-in cabinet with a fold-down desk. Cabinets are draped with metal mesh and pleated cloth, striking the right balance between hard and soft materials.

Made for a romantic mood, the dark-colored ceiling is fitted with recessed LED lights that seem sparkling like stars at night. Next to the corner is one of the owner’s favorite places — the workroom that doubles as a guest accommodation. The walls are painted green, contrasting with purple curtains to bring out beautiful textures when sunlight enters. Arabian fabrics are seen in sofa covering, pillowslips, the carpet, and the silk cloth that covers the wall behind the built-in bookshelf. These intriguing touches are the signature of the designer.

A connecting walkway features black granite flooring with a gold trim. It is designed to match the mysterious-looking ceiling in black.
A connecting walkway features black granite flooring with a gold trim. It is designed to match the mysterious-looking ceiling in black.

The bedroom features the most straightforward décor. Relaxing white walls pair with parquet flooring and a large window that allows plenty of natural light. Yong puts his signature details everywhere, especially the black Italian lacework that is drawn tight against the glass pane, separating the bed from the living room, while letting the light through.

A clear glass wall sits behind the headboard. Black-dyed lace allows light to shine through. The ceiling comes in black adorned with LED lights.
A clear glass wall sits behind the headboard. Black-dyed lace allows light to shine through. The ceiling comes in black adorned with LED lights.

Excitements add spice to life, but make sure it’s to your liking. The same applies to this homeowner, who has  ventured into the exotic territory. The vibrant style may be unfamiliar to many of us, but for him the enthusiasm is worth it.

The bedroom's parquet flooring is set in the fishbone pattern. Wall décor makes for a strong contemporary style consisting of framed pictures, beautiful hangings, and movie posters of various origins.
The bedroom’s parquet flooring is set in the fishbone pattern. Wall décor makes for a strong contemporary style consisting of framed pictures, beautiful hangings, and movie posters of various origins.
Campus Theme Combines Seriousness and Fun
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Campus Theme Combines Seriousness and Fun

Sharing a condo with siblings, even when they have different tastes, can be a lot of fun.

/// Thailand ///

Story: Montra ///  Photos: Jirasak  /// Style: Praphaiwadee /// Designer: Kritcha Sinchaothong, ‘Elevacon’ Interior Design Work


The designer put a hint of Japanese style with this built-in table. It can be used as a sofa, too.
The designer put a hint of Japanese style with this built-in table. It can be used as a sofa, too.
The rooms are not very spacious, but the design allows for large, attractive overhead lamps in the living room because of its raised ceiling.
The rooms are not very spacious, but the design allows for large, attractive overhead lamps in the living room because of its raised ceiling.

Three young sisters, came to live together in a two-bedroom condominium. Naturally, interior design and décor was high on the list of priorities.

The eldest sister saw a TV program. Impressed with the detailed interior décor there, she searched out the designer, Kritcha of ‘Elevacon’ Interior Design Work, who agreed to take on the job.

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“These three young ladies have truly differing tastes,” said the designer. “The oldest likes a combination of English and American styles. The middle one likes the Japanese minimalist style, while the youngest favors realism, showing the natural surfaces of materials.”


The campus theme combines seriousness and fun. To reflect that, the combination of dark and light wood are used and different styles of lamps are installed.
The campus theme combines seriousness and fun. To reflect that, the combination of dark and light wood are used and different styles of lamps are installed.

The designer said: “An important feature here is the sliding wooden partition we put in to separate the sleeping area from bathroom and dressing room, so that each of them has privacy. With one person at a time in each section, no one feels cramped.”

The small bedroom of the eldest has a clear underground American hip-hop flavor. The gray brick wall is really stylish. “The eldest one has a clear concept on both preferred design and functionality. She even let me know exactly what she would put in her closets.” the designer commented.

At the front door is a floor-to-ceiling shoe storage cabinet. Next to it, a 15-centimeter-deep storage shelf is raised off the floor to avoid a cluttered look.
At the front door is a floor-to-ceiling shoe storage cabinet. Next to it, a 15-centimeter-deep storage shelf is raised off the floor to avoid a cluttered look.

For the common area–living room, Kritcha felt it would be a place all the young ladies used for having friends coming over, so she did it up in a campus theme. To lighten the reserved atmosphere of a student lifestyle, she added some playful touches: plants, and entertaining decorative items with unique and interesting shapes.

The youngest sister likes to cook, so the new pantry is expanded, adding an L-shaped counter for an extra space. The clothes washer and dryer are covered with matte PVC film, a tasteful addition for an overall harmony.
The youngest sister likes to cook, so the new pantry is expanded, adding an L-shaped counter for an extra space. The clothes washer and dryer are covered with matte PVC film, a tasteful addition for an overall harmony.

Before leaving, the designer whispered to us how these youngsters had altered her original concept quite a bit. She had seen them start really having fun, coming up with new ideas, bringing things they wanted to use to spice up the ambience.


The shared bedroom is orderly and simple. Still, there is interesting detail: lighting works are hidden inside the lowered ceiling panels. The gaps in the ceiling are echoed with the long mirror set in the wood wall paneling.
The shared bedroom is orderly and simple. Still, there is interesting detail: lighting works are hidden inside the lowered ceiling panels. The gaps in the ceiling are echoed with the long mirror set in the wood wall paneling.

“It was fun to watch them doing this,” she said. “Together, they were like school girls. Each one bringing in so many different things. It was like they really went back to the campus!”


Bu’s bedroom offers a bit of underground chic with its stylized gray brick wall, reducing any seriousness implied by the brown leather bed upholstery. The shelf’s inner mirrors add an interesting dimension to the room.
The eldest sister’s bedroom offers a bit of underground chic with its stylized gray brick wall, reducing any seriousness implied by the brown leather bed upholstery. The shelf’s inner mirrors add an interesting dimension to the room.
Beautiful Contemporary House Design for a Good Life
livingasean

Beautiful Contemporary House Design for a Good Life

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Story: Ajchara Jeenkram / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Soopakorn Srisakul / Styling: Pakhawadee Phahulo /

A good life begins at home. This beautiful contemporary house is, no doubt, a reflection of that, plus it provides a fine example of how limitations or site issues can be overcome. Because the land has a narrow frontage to the street, the house is built right up close to a neighboring home. So every square meter counts and has to be used wisely.

contemporary house design

On the whole, it’s a visually stunning design. The modern-style home boasts a distinctive atmosphere that gives it a European flavor. Especially worthy of attention is an intriguing combination of materials such as stone masonry and craftsmanship in the metalwork.

From the outside the house doesn’t appear large, but inside, it’s actually quite spacious. The building has three floors; the first of which holds a common area consisting of a living room, dining room and pantry. The second and third floors are for rest and relaxation.

contemporary house design
Gorgeous privacy fence ideas boast the beauty of stone masonry, wood and metalwork gracing the main entryway.
contemporary house design
The living room is well-appointed and uncluttered, thanks to there being only a few pieces of furniture. The coffee table at the center has hidden drawers for easy storage.

To build the home on a long and narrow lot, the design team at Workspace Architecture Studio comes up with a stretched house plan that puts as much usable floor space as possible in the front and back, yet still leaves enough room for a courtyard filled with fresh greenery for year-round decorating.

contemporary house design
The dining room is decorated in a modern style with a mild classic flavor from stone furniture, candelabra-like ceiling lamps and a cross-shaped table legs.
contemporary house design
A beautifully patterned granite-topped table and leather chairs give the room a classy but relaxed atmosphere.

To overcome construction site limitations, classic design concepts are brought into practical use. Among others, beams and pillars are built in a way that blends with interior décor, while other support structures provide decorative continuity and spots to conveniently hide electric wiring.

A black steel-frame staircase offset with vertical lines gives the interior a light and airy feel.
A black steel-frame staircase offset with vertical lines gives the interior a light and airy feel.
Dimmed light in the room builds a warm mood for soft and airy interiors. Décor is mainly of granite and wood while an opening is provided for ventilation and natural light.
Dimmed light in the room builds a warm mood for soft and airy interiors. Décor is mainly of granite and wood while an opening is provided for ventilation and natural light.
Bathroom décor of natural wood blends well with white and gray.
Bathroom décor of natural wood blends well with white and gray.

The overall effect is impressive. Authentic material surfaces, including stone masonry, metalwork, wood and brass, are left exposed for aesthetic and functional reasons. The stone surface, especially, has its own unique pattern. It’s also durable, lasting for decades, and capable of adding to the variety of textures in the house.

A high-ceilinged bedroom comes in soft-colored décor. Recessed ceiling lights add dimension, creating an illusion of an even taller space.
A high-ceilinged bedroom comes in soft-colored décor. Recessed ceiling lights add dimension, creating an illusion of an even taller space.
contemporary house design
The room for working and reading is located on the top floor. The true surface of the wood beams is exposed for the hint of a loft environment.

As for furnishings, the decorative accessories and furniture, both floating and built-in, are very much a part of the custom design. They are thoughtfully devised to create a harmonious look and, at the same time, perform a dual role in overcoming site limitations and fulfilling the house owners’ needs.

At the end of the day, it’s about making this contemporary home a happy place for everyone in the family.

contemporary house design
Due to limited space, the courtyard and swimming pool are narrowly aligned along the outside of the building. Yet there’s room for plants to thrive luxuriantly along the fence wall for privacy and relaxation.

Architect and Interior Designer: Workspace Architecture Studio, by Worapoj Linkanokrat and Wirawut Nonthawet

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An Amazing Transformation from the Traditional to the Modern
livingasean

An Amazing Transformation from the Traditional to the Modern

/ Bangkok, Thailand /

/ Story: Supachart Boontang, Naruwat Plaimee / English version: Peter Montalbano /

/ Photographs: Sitthisak Namkham / Styling: Pakhawadee Pahulo /

Good ventilation, the core concept of traditional Thai houses, is adapted for the modern age in this contemporary house. From the outside it looks slick and belonging to the present, but this building has the heart and soul of conventional Thai residential architecture.

contemporary house bangkok

The owner has been living in this house with his father and mother since he was young. Now he has a wife and kids, and it’s become too cramped to hold all of them. But instead of moving elsewhere, the young couple built a new place where there used to be a garden right next to the old house.

The new design connects the two homes both inside and out, so family members can easily take part in common activities. This modern living concept is actually not a new one, but arose out of the structure and functionality of houses of earlier times.

contemporary house bangkok
[Left] To fit the unusual shape of the building and glass walls on two sides, furniture in this fashionable high-ceilinged reception parlor is positioned diagonally. / [Right] A colorful painting with chic graphic patterns adds panache to a light-colored room, brightening up the straightforward house design.
Reception parlor following the traditional Thai ‘Sala’ concept. A large glass wall opens wide to the natural world of plants and trees outside. /// The bathroom design has uniquely stylish lines.
[Left] Reception parlor design follows the traditional Thai “Sala” concept. The room is enclosed by glass walls that open wide to the natural world of plants and trees outside. / [Right] The bathroom has uniquely stylish lines.

contemporary house bangkok
There’s a pantry in the middle of the house plan, a nice place for family members to sit and talk.

The dining room and living room are similar to an open “Sala” in a traditional Thai house. All the rooms are connected through a large wooden balcony. Both buildings share a main entryway, carports and service areas.

contemporary house bangkok
A staircase runs along the wall of the entryway with high ceilings, creating a relaxing visual effect.
The continuing space from the first floor to the hallway on the second floor is bright and airy, clearly visible from a wide-angle perspective.
The continuing space from the first floor to the hallway on the second floor is bright and airy, clearly visible from a wide-angle perspective.
contemporary house bangkok
The living room on the second floor has a large window with a view of the old house.

Inside there are lots of windows for good ventilation. Beautiful large trees such as Black Afara (scientific name: Terminalia Ivorensis) are planted all about to provide shade. Excellent landscape architecture components such as ponds, a rock garden, and pathways paved with flagstones are added for a relaxing mood.

Trees and shrubs planted outside the bedroom give a nice view and enhance privacy.
Trees and shrubs planted outside the bedroom give a nice view and enhance privacy.

This contemporary house is an example of how a residence you love can be expanded and transformed beyond its limitations into a bigger home. As this family has discovered, you don’t always have to abandon the old ways to find happiness.

[Left] To make good use of daylight, a small skylight is cut in the upstairs bathroom. / [Right] The main staircase projects out from the wall. Light cream-colored genuine wood paneling and a clear glass railing make the stair look light, as if floating.
[Left] To make good use of daylight, a small skylight is cut in the upstairs bathroom. / [Right] The main staircase projects out from the wall. Light cream-colored genuine wood paneling and a clear glass railing make the stair look light, as if floating.
contemporary house bangkok
The house extends out above the outdoor family area while requiring only minimal support posts.

Architect and Interior Designer: Lynk Architect by Ekalak Sathaphonthanaphat (www.facebook.com/lynkarchitect)

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