Ki Residences: Get Inspiration from its Minimalist Japanese-Inspired Designs

Designed by 2nd Edition, the Ki Residences show apartments convey a sense of tranquility that’s inspired by Japanese aesthetics

Nestled within the exclusive District 21 enclave, the Ki Residences condominium offers a moment of quiet respite within an idyllic setting. To be built by property developers Hoi Hup Sunway, a joint venture between Hoi Hup Realty and Sunway Development, the luxury residential complex sits on a quiet stretch shrouded by lush greenery; thus offering the highly-desired combination of both enviable views and privacy.

To capture Ki Residences’ tranquil elegance, the developers tasked 2nd Edition—renowned for creating inspiring show units for luxury developments—to dress the interiors of three show apartments as well as the main sales gallery.

The whole development is to be based around four important keywords that all represent the Japanese word, ki. A word with multiple subtle nuances, ki is often used to represent energy, atmosphere, mind, spirit, or even feelings.

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Above The design team made modern references to Japanese sensibilities with natural materials and textures

Above The screens within the sales gallery takes cues from the shoji sliding screens that can be found in traditional Japanese architecture

Drawing inspiration from this concept, 2nd Edition decided to reflect this ethereal spirit by evoking an aura of calm within the apartments.

“For us, Japanese-inspired modern living incorporates modern sensibilities and elements into traditional Japanese design foundations,” explains Hilary Loh, design director of 2nd Edition. “This makes Japanese design principles more palatable to current tastes and trends required by the market.”

Above The sales gallery is centered around the central courtyard of the development

The team started by crafting an immersive sales gallery inspired by its Japanese influences. “The architecture of the sales gallery was designed simply; we wanted to place emphasis on the courtyard as it's an important element in the actual development,” explains Loh. “We based the show units as an extension of the visual journey, from the foundational beginning represented by the sales gallery.”

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Photo 1 of 2 A kitchen bar counter double as a partition and a breakfast nook within this spacious living area

Photo 2 of 2 This bedroom within the three-bedroom apartment exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere with its dark and dramatic colour palette

The show units that 2nd Edition have designed cater to the needs of different buyers. While each apartment radiates a distinct atmosphere, the rich colour palette is a common design thread that ties the units together.

The monochromatic scheme, comprising a combination of dark-stained wood panels, light wood furnishings and an earthy palette, evokes a sense of zen. “The colour scheme is mostly derived from the natural wood tones that are widely used in Japanese architecture and interiors; it’s further inspired by the four seasons and the moods invoked from these periods,” Loh describes.

Above This living and dining space boast a calming appeal with the combination of light and dark wood

The studio also displayed their meticulous attention to detail by incorporating decorative accents inspired by Japanese sensibilities and elevating them with brass accents.

“We started by looking at Japanese architecture and interiors, and applying it to a local context with the three show units,” Loh recalls. “The material palette for the three units was inspired by natural materials prevalent in Japanese homes to create a slow tranquil mood. We also injected elements inspired by the Japanese tea and sake drinking culture to make the space cosier.”

Above This large open-plan living space within the four-bedroom apartment emanates tranquility with its Japanese aesthetics

With a sophisticated and contemporary ambiance, the urban sanctuaries emit calm and serenity.

“It was a challenge to design the sales gallery and the units to appear as a cohesive whole, whilst injecting individual character to each unit,” says Loh. “We also had to change the public perception that Japanese-influenced designs are typically too clean, zen, and unobtrusive for a show unit. Our biggest hurdle was to think of ways to augment the designs and how to make them more attractive to the market.”

Photo 1 of 2 The use of beige tones and brass accents elevates the restful atmosphere of this bedroom

Photo 2 of 2 A cosy balcony area offering a breath of fresh air can be found within this master bedroom

Loh is extremely proud of the final result, likening the design process to storytelling. “I love that the emotion and the experience of each unit is different, from the sales gallery to the show units. It feels like I’m writing a story that unfolds at different points.”

Above Hilary Loh, design director of 2nd Edition

2nd Edition

Founded by design director Hilary Loh in 2005, 2nd Edition is a homegrown studio known for crafting beautiful show units for luxury condominium developments. Combining its expertise in spatial planning and custom furnishings with a meticulous attention to detail, the interiors that the firm designs are richly layered and tactile spaces that embody authenticity, style and functionality. Besides Ki residences, other recent projects by the firm include Park Colonial and Parc Komo by CEL Unique Development.

2nd Edition is located at 46 Kim Yam Road, #05-04, The Herencia | 2ndedition.com.sg

Credits

Photography

Marc Tan / Studio Periphery

Topics

interior design decor furnishings japanese minimalist

Tatler Asia

Find Your Zen in These Japanese-Style Apartments at Ki Residences

2nd Edition