Koichiro Ikebuchi
Singapore-based Japanese interior designer Koichiro Ikebuchi is best known for pared down, elegant designs that combine traditional Balinese style with influences from his homeland.
Ikebuchi has worked on the interiors of some of Bali's top luxury hotels as well as the Empire Hotel in Wan Chai. He's also designed boutiques, such as those for Celine, and The Westminster Terrace, an all-duplex residential building on Castle Peak Road.
How do you approach a project? 'I like to take into account the local environment and culture. When I designed the interior of the Uma Ubud hotel in Bali, I used lots of wood available locally. I don't follow trends. I like to create timeless designs, so I try to use natural materials such as wood because the older it gets, the better it gets.'
How would you describe your style? 'There is a misconception that I am a minimalist. That may be because I'm probably best known for using a colour palette that is very neutral and natural looking with shades from nature such as stone. But not all the time - I do like vibrant colours sometimes. You need some colour for contrast.'
Do you employ fung shui principles? 'I think fung shui is very logical and its principles come naturally to me. It's obvious where everything from a building to a bed should face.'
Tell us about The Westminster Terrace project. 'This is my first residential design project. I designed the club house, the public spaces and some show flats (below). I am creating the sort of home that I would like to live in - luxurious and special that's also comfortable and cosy.'
What or who are your greatest influences? 'I am inspired by art and artists. I also admire architects who are strong characters with original ideas, such as the Frenchman Jean Nouvel and Toyo Ito from Tokyo.'
