The latest innovations in home technology help showcase an eclectic array of antiques in a couple's roomy Tai Tam abode.
Technology in the home is not only changing the way we live; it's also presenting designers with fresh challenges. Fifi and Keith Collins had specific requirements about how to blend hi-tech facilities, comfort and style when they renovated their spacious new Tai Tam house (4,000 sq ft plus exterior terrace and swimming pool).
Keith wanted state-of-the-art technology but also a resort-like home that was dog friendly. Fifi required a relaxing place with extensive display space to show off her eclectic collection of sculptures, artefacts and furniture sourced from the mainland and elsewhere.
Enter architects Jason Yung and Caroline Ma of Jason Caroline Design (tel: 2517 7510). 'Our task was to combine all these requirements in one living space,' explains Yung. 'The basic colour scheme of the home is black and natural walnut along with different types of glass and metal to provide a contemporary backdrop and to integrate the Asian artworks and furniture.'
The house has three floors - the dining room, living area and kitchen are on the ground floor; the study, second living room and guest rooms are on the second floor; and the master suite and gym are on the third. Outside is a large terrace with swimming pool and stunning ocean views. Each floor is linked by a geometric staircase that adds a modernist vibe.
'Previously, the house style was very classical,' says Ma. 'It was nice enough but the owners didn't feel it was them.' For the redesign, Ma used tactile contemporary materials such as purple slate, tinted grey glass panels with gradual frosting, grass paper and stonewashed oak, all of which work well with both contemporary furniture and the antique elements.