Trust, as they say, is of the essence in any relationship – and that’s most certainly true in the one between a homeowner and his or her appointed interior designer, to whom the lofty responsibility of crafting one’s most treasured haven is entrusted.
And when that quality is in place, it shows. Such is the case between the designer and founder of Studio 1618, Alfred Lam, and the young family of three whose 3,300sqft, four-bedroom Manhattan-style home he recently completed; it’s perched on Magazine Gap Road, right at the foot of the Peak.
“We have developed a great working relationship over the last 10 years,” Alfred recalls of his and the homeowner’s long-standing collaboration that includes designing the homeowner’s previous China abode. “I understand her lifestyle and what she really wants. She trusted me and gave me free hand to work on this project.”
This fundamental synergy lays the groundwork for this stately, characterful, and inviting apartment that brings to life the client’s request for “a strong New York vibe with an art deco feel”. Looking out to spectacular views of the Victoria Harbour through a window by a quaint breakfast area, a sprawling open-plan living and dining area – the latter sits on an elevated platform that acts as a seamless divider – impresses with a sheer sense of grandeur that’s rare for this city. “The high ceiling enabled us to play with its intricate moulding since the volume was available,” explains Alfred.
Within this volume houses a tapestry of jazz-era style features that are the result of thoughtful collaboration. “They were looking for a warm, gold-coloured scheme that’s inviting, rich, and subtle,” elaborates Alfred. “We thus designed a bespoke golden screen to add a prominent highlight in the dining area.”
The Great Gatsby-esque piece is among the many golden accents punctuating the abode, from a gilted 19th-century candle stand to the gold-framed full height mirror that reflects a beautiful painting that’s hung across the room.
Adding to the home’s splendour are a craved-in European-style fireplace in the living room set against luscious pale-blue wall panel moulding, a pair of French antique armchairs, and a vintage chandelier from furniture boutique L’s Where.
Despite the home’s many ritzy features, Alfred and the homeowners’ choice of their favourite spot – revealing, once again, their shared sensibilities – is surprisingly understated and cosy. “The breakfast area next to the window is my client and I’s favourite spot,” recalls Alfred of the quaint corner that houses a small breakfast table specially configured for three guests. “The setting and the surrounding environment make the place very ‘un-local’ – almost like being in an apartment in New York City.”
