https://www.scmp.com/rss/310490/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Gone are the days of clunky padlocks and brass fire-alarm bells. Today, advances in IoT – the internet of things – have paved the way for smarter, more sophisticated home security and safety measures that provide peace of mind whether you’re inside your home or away from it. Benjamin Bertrand, connected solutions director of smart home automation brand Somfy, says he sees two major trends in smart home security: the increasing application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enable earlier and... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3048185/how-latest-cybersecurity-and-smart-home-tech-can-help?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3048185/how-latest-cybersecurity-and-smart-home-tech-can-help?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 30 Jan 2020 10:00:11 +0000 Comfort, simplicity, multifunctional furniture and eco-consciousness will be the cornerstones of bedroom design in 2020. John McLennan, founder of Indigo Living, says we’ll see more padded headboards such as the brand’s Whitney, and storage beds like the elegant Carlton, and expects soft greys and warm off-whites to be the dominant colours next year. “Texture and layering will also be important, so seek out tactile, big weave throws and pile these with different-sized pillows in a relaxed,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3041808/how-sustainability-and-environmental-concerns-will?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/article/3041808/how-sustainability-and-environmental-concerns-will?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Dec 2019 04:00:09 +0000 When designing or remodelling your home, floors and walls often take priority, while ceilings remain an afterthought. This is a shame, because attractive ceilings make powerful aesthetic statements, and provide backdrops that elevate any interior concept. At Milan Design Week this year, brightly coloured and patterned ceilings were on trend. “Bold colours are hot at the moment, and so are contemporary gypsum or wooden mouldings. We are also seeing a revival in fabric designs depicting... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/presented/topics/home-essentials/article/2175547/how-good-lighting-can?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/tech-design/presented/topics/home-essentials/article/2175547/how-good-lighting-can?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 08 Dec 2018 18:00:30 +0000 There is a very precise kind of casualness to David Zwirner, the German-born, New York-based art dealer named one of the art world’s most powerful people by ArtReview since 2003, most notably in the manner of his appearance. He is always dressed in an open-necked shirt and blazer, often paired with blue jeans, whether in the company of a Hollywood celebrity, the hottest new artist, a former US president, or all three at once. To date, Zwirner and his team represent close to 60 artists –... https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2136142/new-king-gallerists-brings-his-act-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/culture/arts-entertainment/article/2136142/new-king-gallerists-brings-his-act-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Mar 2018 03:04:47 +0000 From rainwater harvesting to hydroponic gardens, remotely controllable home appliances to alterable furniture and storage, homes today are certainly becoming smarter and more intuitive. According to experts, however, it's not just about buying the latest gadget or installation; today's home is about customisation and synchronicity - including features that enhance the homeowner's life while also improving the design aesthetic. "As the world rapidly changes, our ability to predict future needs... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1780091/smart-homes-provide-convenience-and-sustainable-living?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1780091/smart-homes-provide-convenience-and-sustainable-living?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 May 2015 13:00:45 +0000 American Rachelle Simpson, winner of the first ever Red Bull Women's World Series cliff-diving championship held last year, says, "cliff diving has so many exciting things to offer". "From the amazing locations all over the world, to the rush that overtakes you as you speed towards the water. If you are brave enough to take the plunge, you join an exclusive group of only a few hundred in the world." The first recorded cliff dive in history took place in 1770, when a Hawaiian king named Kahekili... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1723878/cliff-diving-gaining-popularity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1723878/cliff-diving-gaining-popularity?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Mar 2015 15:15:00 +0000 While the number of international schools in Hong Kong has grown over the past decade, non-Chinese parents, among them long-time residents in Hong Kong, are looking for a bilingual education for their children, and at a much lower cost. And two public schools have sought to meet their need. "Eight years ago, we noticed that the number of non-Chinese families living in Sai Kung was growing," says the principal of the Lee Sin Yam Memorial Primary School, Lewis Ng Chor-kung. "Some of them had... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/family-education/article/1689991/bilingual-classes-hong-kong-public-schools-suit-chinese?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/family-education/article/1689991/bilingual-classes-hong-kong-public-schools-suit-chinese?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 25 Jan 2015 22:15:52 +0000 Often located in the basements of standalone houses, rec (recreation) rooms are usually the play dens of many a teenage boy or bachelor, and a place they can get together with friends, kick back and have fun. While the rec rooms of most folks usually involve a comfy old couch and television, and maybe table tennis and a dartboard, Gettys Hong Kong imagines what a billionaire's rec room might look like. Think James Bond, Austin Powers, or perhaps Leonardo Di Caprio in The Great Gatsby. According... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1653979/ultimate-billionaires-rec-room?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1653979/ultimate-billionaires-rec-room?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 11 Dec 2014 14:00:45 +0000 When it comes to hotels, the word "luxurious" is an adjective that might be losing its impact. Top celebrities are increasingly looking to more majestic surrounds for their holidays, and we're taking a leaf out of their book. Rather than seek out places that simply have the most opulent amenities and décor, we've gone a step further to discover imperial destinations where you'll be treated like royalty. It's not just a castle and comfy chambers that make a king or queen smile - it's the special... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1581216/live-king-or-queen-luxury-getaway?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1581216/live-king-or-queen-luxury-getaway?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:30:45 +0000 WHO: Alex Wong INTERIOR DESIGNER Alex Wong worked in Sydney, where he designed awardwinning boutique hotels, serviced apartments and speciality food and beverage outlets for Australian design firm IDIOM before returning to Hong Kong in 2005 to head the interior design department for world-renowned architecture firm RMJM's Hong Kong office. In 2010, Wong started his own design practice ?Paring Onions. His firm's philosophy is attention to design details, precise spatial planning, efficient use of... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1581188/ultimate-luxury-dog-paradise-hk155-million?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1581188/ultimate-luxury-dog-paradise-hk155-million?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:30:00 +0000 Childhood is a time for fun and learning, and doting parents who have the means and space will spare no expense when it comes to building the ultimate home playground for their children. "Parents who want to build a private playground for their children are looking to make play part of their child's daily life," Ramiro says. "It's important that the playground encourages unguided play, so parents and child-minders won't have to worry about constant supervision." The ultimate dream playground... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1540360/build-ultimate-play-space-your-children-hk16-million?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1540360/build-ultimate-play-space-your-children-hk16-million?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Jul 2014 15:15:30 +0000 After a long day at the office, nothing beats a long, lazy bath. But those with limitless imaginations and budgets might also look forward to coming home to a bathroom-spa complete with a sauna, steam bath and a Jacuzzi set on a virtual beach. "These days, homeowners are looking for a bathroom where they can relax completely and escape from the pressures of the daily grind. They want more than just a bathroom with standard sanitary fittings - they are seeking a multisensory experience that... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1520521/dream-bathroom-spa-hk685-million?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1520521/dream-bathroom-spa-hk685-million?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Jun 2014 15:15:15 +0000 Why settle for goldfish in a jar when you can have the ocean in your home? These days, aquarists are taking their passions to new depths as they explore the many possibilities inherent with a fish tank, such as a dance floor, bathroom sink, coffee table or even a bus-stop billboard. Last year, British luxury gadget designer Stuart Hughes designed the Aquavista Dinosaur Gold, made from a piece of T-rex bone that costs close to US$4.9 million - though some might consider it too small and... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1457789/hk1166-million-ultimate-aquarium?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1457789/hk1166-million-ultimate-aquarium?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Apr 2014 15:00:00 +0000 In Africa, e-learning programmes can make a huge difference in poorly resourced schools and universities. English is one area where educators are particularly interested in using information and communication technology (ICT) to help develop students' learning. In many parts of the continent, there is little opportunity for students to meet English-speaking foreigners. Universities simply do not have the money to invest in ICT resources  Andrew Stokes, clarity english But interactive... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/family-education/article/1437230/local-firm-brings-e-learning-africa?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/family-education/article/1437230/local-firm-brings-e-learning-africa?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 03 Mar 2014 01:49:27 +0000 SPEC CHECK RESIDENTS Stephen Fisher, his wife Shijung and their children, Scion and Miko  ARCHITECT Guz Wilkinson LOCATION Sentosa Island, Singapore SIZE 5,800 sq ft SHOPPING LIST Bespoke abalone-shell kitchen splash back Moon sofa by Zaha Hadid for B&B Italia UFO sofas by Cellini Red sofa from Pace Gallery New York Kartell dining table with Louis Ghost chairs by Philippe Starck Outdoor furniture by Dedon and B&B Italia Paintings by Victor Rubin   Design and technology blog Gizmodo named Fish... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1343679/something-fishy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1343679/something-fishy?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 Nov 2013 14:30:30 +0000 Steeped in history, with spacious grounds and courtyards, peaceful gardens and mysterious atmospheric chambers, restored monasteries make surprisingly stunning luxury hotels.  "Convents and monasteries can be an immediate success, because they serve as destinations in themselves," says Efrain Rosa, general manager of Hotel El Convento in San Juan, Puerto Rico. "Their unique structure, architecture, interior design and the intriguing history lying between their walls make them national historic... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1317664/heaven-earth?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1317664/heaven-earth?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000