Celestial Heights - Reflect Illusion

Residential Apartment Renovation by Tik Chan

When Tik Chan, Design Director of Studio 93, was tasked with renovating the home of a Celestial Heights couple, the challenge was clear - how to integrate their European furniture collection into the space while maintaining livability and comfort. Through clever design tricks and thoughtful execution, this project became a triumph of style and practicality.

European furniture often has substantial proportions, so it was crucial to ensure it didn't overpower the living and dining areas. To achieve balance, Tik Chan opted for white wall paint and neutral tones on the floors and shelving, creating a cohesive dialogue between the furniture and the apartment space. The couple desired a simple decor to showcase their furniture, but simplicity didn't equate to plainness.

"Although I didn't use many colors on the walls and cabinets, the irregular form and lighting effect of the cabinets became interesting elements," explains Tik Chan. Mirrors, strategically placed art, streamlined cabinets, and a clutter-free decor contribute to a sense of space and light, despite the physical footprint of the dining table and L-shaped sofa.

The couple's busy lifestyle as IT and fashion professionals necessitated a functional study. This space serves as a practical yet warm office for the husband, while also providing room to host friends with minimal fuss. Practicality was also a priority in the hallways, foyer, and kitchen. A slimline shoe cabinet maximizes space in the foyer, and a sliding partition replaces the kitchen door. Mirrors and shelving in the hall create a useful storage area for the couple's extensive DVD collection while transforming the space into a room-like passageway.

The hall's black paneling with down lighting propels the eye forward into the master bedroom, where mirrors are once again used to great effect. The cubicle space enclosing the bathroom is mirrored from top to bottom, with a hidden door for both the bathroom and wardrobe. This seamless journey from hall to bed maximizes storage and functionality for the couple.

While simplicity was key, the success of this project lies in the translation of simplicity into a classically beautiful canvas on which the stunning furniture pieces could be showcased.

This 150sqm residential apartment renovation was completed in 2013 in Hong Kong by Tik Chan of Studio 93. The project overcame the challenge of integrating the couple's European furniture collection into the space while maintaining livability and comfort. The design features simple white walls, large mirrors behind the sofa to increase the perception of size, and dark cushions and an architectural black lamp to add definition.

This design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2015 in the category of Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design. The Iron A' Design Award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. It is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.