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<p>San Francisco is known for its eclectic mix of residential architecture, from Victorian-era homes to modern high- rises. Among the city’s diverse array of living spaces, one home stands out, in terms of both distance and mood. Situated away from the urban noise, overlooking redwood trees with peaks beyond, its design pays homage to the beauty of the surrounding landscape while embracing a laid-back, cosy atmosphere.</p>



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<p>Dubbed ‘Golden Villa’ by its interior designer, Yana Prydalna, the house perfectly encapsulates her signature rustic style. The colour palette is an artistic conception of autumn’s golden breath. Ukrainian-born, Sacramento-based Prydalna is inspired by nature and the depth and texture of natural materials, devising concepts that encompass wabi-sabi, modernism and minimalism.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81087" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_006.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>Full of exposed concrete walls, wooden beams, and an abundance of natural light beaming through large windows, Golden Villa is actually a converted warehouse. The young couple who own it moved here to escape fast- paced city life, desiring a home that felt warm and inviting while reflecting their love for the great outdoors.</p>



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<p>A large, airy living area greets visitors entering the home and serves as its focal point. A large white modular sofa reclines around a reclaimed wood coffee table, forming a comfy space that can be arranged in different sitting configurations depending on the occasion. At its centre, the irregular, round- edged low table is a talking point – it has a raw texture and is propped up by spheres.</p>



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<p>The double-height living space is a wonderful blend of light colour and warm wood. The strong industrial vibe of the concrete walls is softened by the beams high overhead that instils charm and character. It is these triangulated timber trusses, in particular, which transform the whole space.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81089" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_011.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>Everything about the décor here is impressively distinctive yet very simple. Huge pots placed on a ledge just below the rafters serve as unconventional artworks. Down low, another ledge holds ceramic objects of various sizes and is raised from the floor by an artistic arrangement of logs.</p>



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<p>Straight, clean lines are softened by bohemian touches of wicker and jute in a wonderful combination of cool and warm materials. Pretty plates and woven table mats are displayed on the walls. Polished concrete, decorative plaster, natural textiles, wood and wicker harmonise with the earthy tones of the outside environment, creating an ambience that is both natural and contemporary.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81086" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_005.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>An open-concept kitchen and dining area is located just off the living room, making it easy for the couple to entertain guests while preparing meals. The kitchen features custom- made shelves crafted from reclaimed wood, a farmhouse sink and a butcher-block island that also serves as a dining table with circular wooden- topped bar stools on one side. Huge wicker pendant lights add to the warm, natural vibe. A wide window along the back wall affords views of the forest.</p>



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<p>Moving onto the bedroom, the designer wanted to create a serene, relaxing space that would help the owners unwind after a long day at work. Built- in wooden closets with ribbed-glass doors flank a desk, where a computer brings the modern world into a rural setting.</p>



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<p>The bedroom walls are painted in an earth tone, picking out one of the colours of the throw pillows on the bed. Adorned with a plush duvet, the bed rests on a large, round jute rug. This rustic charm spreads to an oversized wicker lamp hanging down at one side of the bed and an artisanal blanket laid across a wicker chair. A sleek wooden ceiling fan and angle floor lamp have a more modern feel. This is a bright room during the day – a wall of windows doubles as a door out to the stone patio, where a pool allows for a dip amid a classic American pioneer scene of woodland and mountains.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81085" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/File_002.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>The couple’s bathroom is the most unique space in the home, with concrete slabs serving as minimalist fixtures. Reflecting the view from the window opposite, two door-sized, wooden- framed mirrors behind a twin vanity give the illusion of opening the room to the outside world. In the absence of bathroom cabinets, a long wooden shelf gives a place for toiletries. The bathtub is hewn from concrete and pampas grass placed in one corner brings feathery greenery inside.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="819" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-819x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-81090" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-224x280.jpg 224w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-768x960.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-200x250.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432-800x1000.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/IMG_9432.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px" /></figure></div>


<p>Golden Villa is not just carefully styled and curated as an isolated living space; it is the epitome of aesthetics resonating with the nature around it. The juxtaposition of natural and manmade materials, of wood and concrete, of warm and cool, creates a delightful blend of vernacular and modern design that transcends time.</p>



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<p>Photos: Yana Prydalna</p>


American Dream: Exposed concrete and reclaimed wood bring a rustic modern warmth to a cool Californian home


<p>In Asia’s bustling modern cities, where innovation thrives and life proceeds at breakneck speed, there is a growing appreciation for the ancient Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. This design concept celebrates a quiet beauty grounded in imperfection, authenticity and transiency. Serenity abounds in a Singapore apartment embracing the wabi-sabi worldview. Spanning just over 1,000 square feet, the tranquil living space belongs to a young working couple who envisioned a home where stillness and simplicity inform the aesthetic. Designed by Max Lee of SG Interior, it encapsulates a distinctive Asian style with grace and elegance.</p>



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<p>Stepping into the flat, you are greeted by a minimalist foyer that sets the tone for the wabi-sabi experience. The walls are adorned with textured wallpaper in earth tones, reminiscent of natural elements. A simple wooden bench invites you to take off your shoes and immerse yourself in a world of calmness and peace.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-1024x681.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-80733" width="768" height="511" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-768x511.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8786-800x532.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>An absence of excessive furniture and clutter is noticeable when moving into the living area, where rattan chairs and rattan planters evoke a soft, gentle vibe. The highlight of the room is an irregular-shaped niche where shelving shows the beauty of natural imperfections. The wooden shelves house a number of intriguing sculptures, which in turn are mostly uneven in form, as well as a few books, a clock and photo frames. They diffuse a warm light that accentuates the irregularity of the recess and draws attention to the objects placed within it.</p>



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<p>Positioned beside this niche, an oversized sofa provides a cosy and inviting spot for relaxation. Carefully selected artworks decorate the walls, their muted colours and organic shapes reflecting the simplicity and serenity of wabi-sabi. A feature wall behind the dining area has a rustic design with large, rough strokes forming an abstract pattern, and a large window lets in abundant light, brightening the space.</p>



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<p>Despite the size limitations of this home, the owners wanted a fully functional wet and dry kitchen. Indeed, both the kitchen and the dining area seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetics. The kitchen cabinets are made of reclaimed wood, showcasing a succession of unique grain patterns and knots that tell stories of their own. Handmade ceramic bowls and plates dot the countertops, each displaying charming irregularities. A rustic wooden dining table paired with rattan chairs creates an intimate space for shared meals, encouraging a sense of togetherness and an appreciation of the present moment.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-1024x681.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-80734" width="768" height="511" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-768x511.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8805-800x532.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The master bedroom is synonymous with the art of repose. By removing a wall, Lee succeeded in altering the original layout to extend its size and ensure sufficient space for the couple’s belongings. Once the proposal was approved, the entire renovation took about three months.</p>



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<p>Dressed in linens of earth tones, the bed is placed on a high platform – a simple step that not only highlights its importance but also provides the optimum vantage point from which to reflect upon the surrounding aesthetics.</p>



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<p>Walls are painted in soothing neutral hues that enhance the natural light filtering into the bedroom. A light-coloured rug offers a contrast to the dark wooden floor and matching wardrobes that maximise storage on the wall opposite the bed. A wooden ceiling fan with irregular wings echoes the non-uniform spirit of the apartment. Ceilings throughout the apartment are kept plain, and in the absence of false ceilings instil an airy feeling of additional height.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-1024x681.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-80736" width="768" height="511" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-768x511.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8883-800x532.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


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<p>Even the bathroom embodies the wabi-sabi philosophy. The walls are adorned with handcrafted tiles that proudly show their individuality through imperfections and irregularities. A shower area invites you to indulge in prolonged rejuvenation, while soft, warm lighting conjures a sense of serenity to encourage restfulness and self-care. </p>
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<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="681" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-681x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-80737 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-681x1024.jpg 681w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-768x1154.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-1022x1536.jpg 1022w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-1363x2048.jpg 1363w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-200x301.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-800x1202.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/SWA_8887-scaled.jpg 1703w" sizes="(max-width: 681px) 100vw, 681px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p>A major challenge for the design studio was disguising the plethora of plumbing pipes so that they meld with the prevailing aesthetic. This home is a haven of natural tranquillity amid the frenetic urban environment. From the minimalist entrance to the understated bedroom and the placidity of the bathroom, every corner of the apartment exudes quietude and balance. Embracing its wabi-sabi spirit allows those dwelling within to appreciate the beauty of imperfection and impermanence, to find solace in simplicity, and to cultivate a deeper connection with the passage of time.</p>
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<p>Photos: SG Interior Studio</p>


Wabi Savvy: Serenity and the beauty of imperfection shine in a Singapore flat with a Japanese spirit

<p>Japanese design more often than not makes references to ancient traditions, culture, and history that carry philosophical ideas that render a peaceful and meditative state not only applicable to art but also to one&#8217;s way of living. This might explain why modern and contemporary Japanese designs have grown in popularity all over the world, especially in the homes of Hong Kong people, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.&nbsp;Wabi-Sabi, Kintsugi and Ma are Japanese philosophies often incorporated in home designs to promote a more calm and joyful living space.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
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<p><strong>Wabi-sabi&nbsp;&nbsp;(<span lang="ja" title="Japanese language text"><a class="extiw" title="wikt:侘" href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/%E4%BE%98">侘</a><a class="extiw" title="wikt:寂" href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/%E5%AF%82">寂</a></span>)&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><em>Wabi-Sabi</em> is a philosophy that embraces the beauty of the impairment, imperfect, and melancholic absence in nature. The aesthetics of wabi-sabi designs are captured with asymmetrical silhouettes, minimalism, and natural elements that portray imperfections, emptiness, and transience that come with time and age – just like a mid-level residence&nbsp;designed by <strong>NC Design &amp; Architecture Ltd </strong>founder, Nelson Chow.&nbsp; The design&nbsp;employs natural materials such as wood, marble, as well as oxidised bronze, and textured plaster which offer occupants a sense of relaxation and calm.</p>
<p><strong>How to incorporate wabi-sabi at home:</strong> Keep it simple and let the reigns loose for perfectly-shaped and symmetrical geometry. Incorporate more natural and rustic elements, such as plants and wood into the furnishings and decor.</p>
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<p><strong>Kintsugi (<span lang="ja" title="Japanese language text"><a class="extiw" title="wiktionary:金継ぎ" href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/%E9%87%91%E7%B6%99%E3%81%8E">金継ぎ</a>)</span></strong></p>
<p><em>Kintsugi</em> is a Japanese art form that roughly translates into &#8220;joined by gold&#8221;. It involves putting broken pottery back together with powdered gold mixed in lacquer. The purpose of repair is not to make the object good as new, but to enhance its beauty by highlighting the breakage as part of its history – discarding perfection as a definition of worth. The art form brings a narrative of embracing flaws and imperfection into the design of the home, offering a sense of security and serenity and promoting efforts to reduce wastes.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>How to incorporate kintsugi at home: </strong>Despite the attention, the art form has enjoyed for centuries, authentic Kintsugi works are not commonly for sale in stores. However, the art form is easily done at home and personalized by purchasing a kintsugi repair kit. Alternatively, <em>Kintsugi</em> workshops provided by art galleries,&nbsp;<strong>Touch Ceramics</strong> and&nbsp;<strong>Waka Artisans</strong>&nbsp;are also available for those who are keen on learning more about the art form and creating their own Kintsugi homewares.&nbsp;</p>
<p>
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<p><strong>Ma&nbsp;(<span lang="ja" title="Japanese language text"><a class="extiw" title="wiktionary:間" href="https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/%E9%96%93">間</a></span>)</strong></p>
<p><em>Ma</em> is a term that represents a Japanese idea that most Western designers refer to as &#8220;negative space,&#8221; and which translates unto space, distance, or gap. It is the artistic interpretation of empty space. The void promotes the mental process of imagination and creativity in visualising the numerous possibilities that can exist in an empty space, gap, or distance from one object to another. A case in point is the Happy Valley residence named <em>Urban Cacoon</em> by designers Lorène Faure &amp; Kenny Kinugasa-Tsui of <strong>Bean Buro</strong>. The use of neutral tones fits into a minimalistic design in which natural light and other elements can shine, including two mirrors facing each other from one end of the residence to the other, creating a conversation in the space and distance between the two objects.</p>
<p><strong>How to incorporate kintsugi at home:</strong> Use monochromatic palates or neutral tones, like light wood and bamboo, to highlight other elements in the home such as paintings, flowers, and cool-toned decor and furnishings. Embrace space and distance between objects to create a story.</p>


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Tag: wabi sabi

American Dream: Exposed concrete and reclaimed wood bring a rustic modern warmth to a cool Californian home

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American Dream: Exposed concrete and reclaimed wood bring a rustic modern warmth to a cool Californian home

Wabi Savvy: Serenity and the beauty of imperfection shine in a Singapore flat with a Japanese spirit

Zen Living: Design a peaceful home with Japanese philosophy