Ng and Ngan crafted their perfect pied-à-terre over a year-long process. The pair wanted to be able to display the extensive collection of treasures—“furniture, decorative lighting, rugs, artwork and all kinds of things”—they had acquired over the years, so they employed neutral tones and a minimalist fit-out to allow the pieces to be the stars of the show.

Terrazzo dominates the apartment, from the floors and the kitchen island to the finishes and fittings in the bathrooms, including the bathtub with its picturesque views. Terrazzo, which finds its origins in Italy, was frequently used in Hong Kong construction throughout the last century, so Ng was familiar with it in childhood.

Taiwan, meanwhile, also has a history of using the material, thanks to its Western influences, as well as terrazzo’s affordability and suitability for tropical climates. The use of the material in their new home “really brings in a cultural connection”, Ng says. “The [visual] impact is so strong: everything is one material, from the wall to the floor.”

The layout is also visually striking. “The nice thing about this apartment is that when you walk in, you immediately see a nice balcony between the living and resting quarters,” says Ng. From the entryway, the bedroom—which is bookended by two bathrooms—is to the right, while the living space is to the left. Given the considerable size of the home, the challenge was in creating the right proportions.

“You don’t want something that looks like you’re living in a furniture gallery,” says Ng. The bedroom leads to an intimate lounge that doubles as a work-from-home space; it is decorated with an antique fireplace by Nostalgia UK, a vintage fireplace specialist, and two inviting Papa Bear chairs by Hans Wegner. It then leads to a second sitting area.

Back in the living space, an eclectic selection of mid-century-modern pieces decorates the main living room, which also features various hanging plants that are Ngan’s pride and joy. This is something the two say they are looking forward to taking care of again—Taipei will be the first destination on their list once travel restrictions are fully lifted.

A beautiful space filled with cherished pieces, the apartment is a reflection of the owners’ passions and personalities, while showcasing their “love of light, greenery and simplicity”, says Ngan. “The layout, the materials, each piece of furniture and small trinkets on the coffee table hold a memory and story,” he adds. “I believe each home is a narration of someone’s life story; it takes years to curate every single element, one by one, to make it a home.”

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