Grappling in all things Asia is like stumbling upon a lost treasure trove of hidden gems. Asia has been the continent for the basis of much imagination of stories and legends that continue to hold on to a certain air of charm and mystery. And with that old world mystique, architecture of today still reflects the characteristics and elements that have created a distinct embodiment of that Asian feel.
Touching on the different parts of the continent, this month we take a look at books that inspire and educate while keeping the focus in close proximity from home.
NEW ASIAN STYLE: CONTEMPORARY TROPICAL LIVING IN SINGAPORE
Jane Doughty Marsden
Focusing on interior design, this book is a resource to gather inspiration of Asian style and design. Immersing into an eclectic selection from modern tropical, retro, Zen and minimalist the homes encompasses the diverse cultural elements showcased in the various rooms indoors to the landscaping outdoors. And where better to feature 30 showcase homes with a reflection of ethnic mix and heritage than in Singapore.
THE HOTEL BOOK: GREAT ESCAPES ASIA
Christiane Reit
Sometimes the best inspiration comes when you think big! And where better than to explore grand hotels and rustic back-to-nature retreats. Profiling various hotels from within Asia, this book covers hotels from Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, China, India, Myanmar and a few others. A book to dream and gather inspiration or to stay during your next vacation focuses on the architecture and style of these Asian getaway stays.
THE NEW ASIA PACIFIC HOUSE
Patrick Bingham-Hall
Featuring an array of spectacular and innovative houses across Asia Pacific, this book leans on the issues of sustainability and good building practices. A reference book not just students but also for prospective homeowners looking for a source of inspiration with lavish photos and drawings with coverage on viewpoints through essays that examine the history, realities and possibilities.
SINGAPORE SHOPHOUSE
Julia Davison/Photography By Luca Invernizzi Tettoni
The Peranakan shophouse is a timeless gem of Singapore’s architectural history. Still in existence alongside its modern architecture, this book brings a detailed insight to all things related to the concept. Taking a Peranakan shophouse tour throughout the island, this book features houses, temples, hotels, shops and coffee-shops that have taken up residency in these historical buildings. From Chinese Baroque, Neoclassical, Jubilee-Style, Edwardian, Rococo and Modern there is more than meets the eye with these elaborately designed and painted shophouses through vivid photography and text.
FENG SHUI STYLE
Stephen Skinner/Photography By Graham Price
The art of Feng Shui has become an integral part in many homeowners list when building their homes. Designer Stephen Skinner touches on the various themes and aspects of Feng Shui. Displaying 26 project showcases, the book demonstrates the integratation of Feng Shui styles and elements with architecture from residential homes to restaurants.
THE NEW SINGAPORE HOUSE
Robert Powell
Architect-writer Robert Powell takes an insight look at identifying and analyzing major trends in Singapore houses from 1945. In five sections – Using Vernacular Forms, Contemporary Vernacular, Rethinking Typologies, Focus on the Shophouse and Beyond Modernism. Through his analysis, Powell highlights projects through a walkthrough in partnership of photography and architectural plans.
IN MY OPINION: THE THIRD QUARTERBy Brian Kow
We are already in the third quarter of 2012 and our hit rate is at its all time high with an average hit rate in excess of 4000 per day. Great job - Marcom's Director, Nicole and thank you for your readership and we promise more exciting and effective services to follow.
Another exciting inclusion is The Real Estate Developement Wing - Nic & Wes Lifestyle Homes Pte Ltd where we would create unusual Lifestyle Homes that would be developed with a member's preview prior to sale.
Our commitment to supporting Eco Homes and to tap Alternative Energy for domestic use has been transformed from the drawing board to reality and hope to provide this service shortly to assist in more cost effective homes and promote cost efficient energy solutions.
The month of August has been a truly exciting one as we celebrate our 10th Anniversary and we are sure that there is a whole lot more to come with our creative and technological team constantly trying to break the barriers of conformity and innovation.
PROPERTY WATCH
[click on image for more info]
Type: Intermediate Terrace
Tenure: Freehold
List Type: For Rent
Built Up: 3132 sq. ft.
Rooms: 4+1 bedrooms, utility room, 4 bathrooms, kitchen, living room
Amenities: Close proximity to Yio Chu Kang MRT and mins drive to the Expressway and schools (Anderson Primary School, Presbyterian High School, Yio Chu Kang Secondary School)
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