Cover Rowena Gonzales of Liquid Interiors on designing sustainable, intentional spaces
Rowena Gonzales of Liquid Interiors on designing sustainable, intentional spaces
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With her Hong Kong-based practice, Rowena Gonzales, a Filipina interior designer, speaks to Tatler about her commitment to create sustainable homes that centre on ideas of wellness
Sustainability and wellness are today’s hot topics of home-related discussions. Rowena Gonzales, a Hong Kong-based Filipino interior designer, specialises in this arena and approaches her practice by focusing on how these concepts impact one’s overall health.
As she sits down with Tatler, she lists the elements homeowners should consider when creating an environment at home that supports their well-being. She discusses her thoughts on these concepts and elaborates on why they matter and how closely they relate to connecting with natural elements. In living sustainably, it seems making considered choices that reap long-term benefits is key to doing so successfully.
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Above Dining chairs by Timothy Oulton reupholstered with stain-resistant fabric
Dining chairs by Timothy Oulton reupholstered with stain-resistant fabric
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How does sustainability in the built environment correlate with wellness and health? What type of sustainability do you refer to in your work?
Sustainable interior design transcends mere trendiness; it embodies a deep commitment to crafting spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable, functional and environmentally responsible. As humans, our well-being is intrinsically linked to our connection with nature. By prioritising design choices that reduce our negative impact on the environment, we simultaneously enhance our health and wellness. In one project, for instance, we chose St Leo Marble Paint is made from organically derived liquid pigments and clay, ensuring a rich, natural finish. Its water-based, solvent-free and low-VOC formulation significantly improves indoor air quality, making it a perfect choice for spaces designed with both beauty and sustainability in mind.
Please walk us through the assessment and feasibility study your firm does when designing a home. How does this fit in with WELL and LEED standards, and why do these standards matter?
In Hong Kong, most homes are located in high-rise buildings in urban environments. Both WELL and LEED focus more on commercial spaces. While they are highly credible when looking at certification for homes for our project, the most accessible certification is BEAM for Residential. This is a certification designed specifically for the local environment in Hong Kong and focuses on both the environment and human health. By utilising BEAM, we can ensure that our designs not only meet rigorous sustainability standards but also enhance the well-being of residents in our unique urban landscape.
Above Touch Stone tiles from Coem have an Environmental Product Declaration and contribute to LEED certification, aligning style with environmental responsibility
Touch Stone tiles from Coem have an Environmental Product Declaration and contribute to LEED certification, aligning style with environmental responsibility
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Please tell us a little bit about your healthy home interior design concepts.
We prioritise a non-toxic environment by specifying low-VOC materials and meticulously controlling the construction process. This includes a thorough flush-out to ensure that air quality is safe and healthy at the time of move-in. This can make the move-in experience much more comfortable.
Our lighting design incorporates a variety of options to enhance mood, comfort and functionality. We specify non-glare fixtures and multiple sources of indirect lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. For example, we use soft, dim lighting for relaxation, brighter daylight tones for tasks and subtle night lighting to facilitate navigation without disrupting sleep.
To improve acoustic comfort and enhance sleep quality, we install door seals and drop seals on all interior doors to minimise noise transfer. Additionally, we incorporate soft surfaces like fabric headboards, rugs and curtains to absorb sound. Double-glazed windows are also utilised to reduce external noise, creating a more peaceful indoor environment.
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Of these concepts, which do you suggest clients should prioritise?
When considering which concepts clients should prioritise, it’s essential to recognise that all of them play a crucial role in effective design. However, the specific needs and priorities of each client should guide the decision-making process. For instance, if a client has allergies, then air quality becomes a top priority.
On the other hand, if they are focused on overall well-being, aspects like wellness, lighting and acoustic design may take precedence, as these factors significantly contribute to stress reduction and improved sleep quality.
Ultimately, understanding the client’s unique circumstances will help in determining which elements to emphasise for the best possible outcome.
Above Eco-friendly elements, such as bamboo silk bedding for soft and breathable comfort are present in this guest bedroom
Eco-friendly elements, such as bamboo silk bedding for soft and breathable comfort are present in this guest bedroom
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How can clients discern between a truly sustainably designed and built space versus one that is greenwashed?
Clients can discern truly sustainable spaces from greenwashed ones by seeking recognised certifications and researching the company’s sustainability track record. Additionally, they should scrutinise marketing claims, evaluate the overall system and demand transparency about materials and practices.
If a home was not built with sustainability in mind, what are the quickest, easiest changes or improvements homeowners can make to make it more sustainable?
Start by using layered curtains that allow natural daylight while also blocking out the sun, optimising both light and temperature control. Replace traditional light bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs, and ensure that your washing machine and dryer are Energy Star-certified or with the highest energy-saving standard. Upgrade air conditioners to be energy-saving. Additionally, seal any gaps in windows to improve insulation and consider investing in an attractive outdoor drying rack for air-drying clothes, which is both eco-friendly and visually appealing.
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Credits
Photography: Steven Ko
