Exquisite May 2018

COVERFEATURE
“Modern minimalism
continues to evolve,
and has become very
open to different
usage of materials
with a wider range of
colours and texture.”
A Chat with Interior Designer SARA GRAAV
about creating modern minimalist interiors in
Singapore homes
Why is minimalist design such as
Scandinavian and Japanese so much in
demand in Singapore homes today?
Nowadays we tend to have a lot of things, some of which
we do not really need. We frequently seem to be looking for
new things that we believe will make us happier, forgetting to
appreciate what we already have. Minimalist homes remind
us about what is most important in our lives, making us
become more appreciative towards what matters and what we
already have. Perhaps because the world seems to be getting
ever more complicated, people seem to be finding that more
attractive these days.
In addition, practically speaking, minimalist design makes sense
for Singapore. Because Singapore has a high density of people,
space has become limited and residential spaces have shrunk.
The minimalistic home with its clean surfaces and emphasis on
quality helps compensate for the lack of space. A minimalistic
design helps create order, making it easier to keep smaller
spaces tidy and neat. We all work long hours in Singapore, and
minimalist designs free up time – time that would otherwise be
spent cleaning or organising – to spend with friends and family.
You’ve lived in Singapore for about six years
now. How do we add Singapore touches to
minimalist interiors?
Take inspiration from local history or elements from the natural
elements that are native to the tropics. For instance, features
from Peranakan design like patterns and colours are easy to
adapt and to give a slight modern twist in a minimalist way.
Why is minimalist style connected to Japan
and Scandinavia?
Japanese minimalism is connected to Zen and Buddhist
traditions that go back centuries – of using only what is needed,
respecting nature, and providing uncluttered spaces for
meditation and serenity. In Scandinavia it was about saving cost
and being functional. It is important in Scandinavia to create
relaxing, light-coloured spaces that capture as much sunlight as
possible during our long, dark winters.
Above: Norwegian designer Kristine
Five Melvaer’s Spring Lamps evoke
Norway’s forests with beautiful clean
lines and textures
What materials, furnishings, colours and
lighting work best for minimalist interiors?
Wood, stone, concrete, metal and glass. Natural materials
such as wood and stone give a sense of purity while adding a
sense of depth. They create a connection between the natural
environment, the site and the occupants. Concrete, metal and
glass, in contrast, help create more simplicity and openness.
They are easy to take care of and to maintain.
Modern minimalism continues to evolve, and has become
very open to different usage of materials with a wider range of
colours and texture, while neutral colours such as white, light
grey and beige are still commonly used. These colours are
simple and create a nice contrast to materials like wood, stone
and concrete. For example, white ceilings and walls allow a
space to feel more spacious while enhancing the movement of
natural light in space.
Of course, natural lighting is an essential quality in minimalism.
Typically, large windows are used to maximise natural light in
the space and the lighter colours like white, are used to reflect
the natural light. The type of furniture used is also important to
how well lit a space is. For example, furniture that is elevated
allows light to travel through the negative space beneath the
furnishings and to better diffuse throughout the space.
How do you relax after a hard day at work?
Put on my comfy clothes, cook some dinner and just relax
on the couch. More generally, I practise yoga to help myself
disconnect and find a sense of inner peace.
If a young girl tells you she wants to be an
interior designer like you what advice would
you give her?
Find a good school with teachers that are professionals in the
field. When it gets tough and you face difficulties do not search
for an easy way out by cutting corners. Work hard and believe
in yourself.
tinyurl.com/sarakogr
34 | EXQUISITE
EXQUISITE | 35