Singapore-based studio Ministry of Design was created by Colin Seah “to question, disturb and redefine the spaces, forms and experiences that surround us and give meaning to our world.” They state that they question the inherent potential in contemporary design and find ways to explore that in new, innovative and relative ways with each of their projects.
In the case of the Loke Thye Kee Residences, the studio sought to blend traditional architecture features of the pre-war building with more contemporary choices. In doing this, they make bare brick look warm and inviting.
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The studio states that the Loke Thye Kee building is in the heart of Georgetown Penang, one of five UNESCO world heritage sites in Malaysia. The studio used that heritage as a reference point along with the nearby restaurant, which dates back nearly a century. Five suites in the residences are accompanied by gardens, courts and private balconies.
Traditional hardwood floors are contrasted by contemporary furnishings which the studio says “appear as if levitating.” They pull off a similar mix with the building’s original brick walls. Hidden LED “cove lighting” highlights the original brick. Vanities and wardrobes, typically closed, are instead “celebrated as transparent glass boxes which seamlessly extend into the rest of the room.”
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In addition to the furnishings, MOD also designed branding and in-room artwork to carry the theme further. These include a pillow menu, a map to help people navigate the street food on offer and room service and TV menus. MOD states that the artwork was specially commissioned for the project and “reflects the spirit of Penang framed in a modern way.”
What do you think of the way traditional brick accents modern residences? Let us know in the comments.
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Photographs by CI&A Photography. Courtesy of the design studio. Click to see a larger image.
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