The entire design of the Huafa Guanggang Showflats and Sales Center was holistic—from the meticulous choice of materials and finishes, down to the accessories that were curated for the space. Every single element played a part to create the luxe experience envisioned for the property. As the project was constructed in an existing building, sustainability efforts were also undertaken.
LOCATION
The development is located in Guangzhou, which is situated on the Pearl River in China and has a rich history not only as a major port city and transportation hub, but also as a centre for business. The city’s residents are varied in generations and have discerning, distinctive tastes, but are also forward-thinking, as evidenced in the proliferation of avant-garde architecture featured throughout.
NEW LIFESTYLE CONCEPT
The target market for this residential building is a mature family demographic that is increasingly well-travelled, has exposure to the finer things in life and grown to embrace bolder design approaches. Designed for young, newly married couples, the layout and furniture placement at the 142 Huafa Guanggang showflat create a spacious living area adjoined to the open kitchen and dining area. The distinctive layout for the oft-challenging small footprint presents a circulation flow by connecting spaces and creating an interesting lifestyle concept that is uncommon in China. Another distinct feature is the guest bedroom, where the door can be opened 180 degrees, allowing its en-suite bathroom to transform into a powder room. These are unique features that provide flexible use of space according to individual preferences.
DESIGN APPROACH
Interior design firm Wilson Associates was given flexibility by Huafa to plan and design the project. They wanted to challenge the norm of what many perceive a typical residential showflat to be and break the boundaries. The concept is a celebration of a rebellious spirit felt during the French Revolution, in which intriguing architectural icons were heralded for being impactful and provocative. By creating individual and intriguing pieces throughout the space and balancing those with a well-crafted modern interpretation of a classical architectural language, the showflats and sales center reflect an atmosphere of luxe and glamour.
A contemporary interpretation of a modern yet classic interior architecture was created with strong emphasis on black and white hues. Contemporary furniture was curated to show a bold sense of taste for potential flat owners, giving prominence to textures and tactile experiences. The showflat planning shows a flexible use of space by creating distinct pockets of spaces with an open kitchen, dining area and study that can be deconstructed as a spacious social area. Minimal hues are used in the interior and balanced with bold fabric selections for the furniture, paired with other elements such as bespoke walk-in closets with leather handstitched drawers, curated wood veneer panels, and Italian white marble adorned bathroom walls and countertops to create a luxurious crafted atmosphere.
With the soulful voice of modern art, an unprecedented design approach was used for the Huafa Guanggang Sales Center. The sensitive balance of contrasting black and white, with bold furniture pieces positioned in the lobby and bar, is comparable to the engaging balance of abstract impressionism in art, where the furniture pieces perform as sculptures within a strong visual architectural canvas.
MATERIALS
All the artwork, millwork, furniture and decorative furniture pieces were manufactured locally in China. The intricate, towering 13-metre-high metal screen enveloping the sales gallery was also locally sourced. The various accessories and artefacts were from the art consultant’s vision and were sourced from various shops in Hong Kong.
OVERCOMING CONSTRAINTS
Wilson Associates were tested with a challenging time frame, where the team had a small window to construct the entire property. They also had to select unique materials and develop bespoke details that are distinct and yet can be executed well within the given timing. The entire project was well-executed with outstanding workmanship in spite of the challenging timeline.
The designers believe that the China market is ready for a global design vocabulary. With a client who is open towards a bold design vision, they managed to successfully create something exclusive to China’s residential design landscape. This further substantiates their philosophy to go beyond thinking out of the box and create distinctive experiences.
PROJECT DATA
Project Name: Huafa Guanggang Showflats and Sales Center
Location: Guangzhou, China
Completion Date: April 2017
Gross Floor Area: 1,891 square metres
Number of Rooms/Units: 2 showflats and sales center/public areas
Client/Owner/Developer: Huafa
Architecture Firm: Huafa
Interior Design Firm: Wilson Associates Singapore
Principal Designer: Aldwin Ong
Civil & Structural Engineer: Huafa
Mechanical & Electrical Engineer: Huafa
Main Contractor: Huafa
Interior Fit-Out Contractor: Huafa
Images: Huafa
