Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 2/2)

IS IT A HOME OR AN OFFICE? (Part 2/2)
‘The office is not just a workplace, it’s a reflection of the company, the face of the firm’

By Alexis Pabasi | Photos by James Liang
Repinted with permission from Home Concepts Magazine

Click here to read Part 1 and more photos

THE DIRECTORS’ OFFICE FEATURES A QUAINT LIBRARY.

“WE occasionally hold sit-down luncheons or dinners for guests and we will get chefs from different restaurants to prepare the food at our kitchen,” Khaiz shares.

At the end of the first floor is an exhibition gallery, which is used for hosting events such as property launches.

This space, together with the conference area, used to be the interior courtyards of the house. To retain the flavour and character of the place, Khaiz kept the original air wells and skylights, which also allow natural, light to flood the entire space.

“As the house is long and deep, we have to make sure the space is not dark and cramped, hence the use of a light colour palette for the walls and floors and lots of skylights.”

The second floor houses the company’s trading and management offices, which seat a total of 12 people comfortably; a side staircase allows staff to enter these offices without having to cut through the first floor.

The company’s three directors occupy a large, open-concept office in the front section. Brimming with personality, this space features authentic Peranakan furniture from Malacca which are sourced personally by Khaiz and Jerry, both of whom are avid antique collectors.

Inside also is an intimate living room to host private meetings with clients.

Taking a departure from the Asian design influences on the first two levels, the third floor and attic are inspired by New York loft apartments.

These light-filled spaces are the private lounge areas for the fortunate staff and the third floor even comes complete with shower facilities and a cutting-edge Vitalife massage chair, which was specially imported from Europe.

Originally intended as a private suite for the directors, Khaiz says that the space eventually became the staff’s chill out area for them to unwind, hold parties and even sleep in.

THE TOP FLOOR HAS BEEN TRANSFORMED INTO A STAFF LOUNGE.

Says Vincent Wee, personal assistant to the company’s directors: “This office ensures that we have a healthy work-life balance. Even though we work in an exciting, high-stress industry, the staff lounge gives us a quiet, warm, ‘family’ environment to relax in.”

Khaiz leaves one tip for people keen on transforming their office spaces: “The office is not just a workplace. It’s a reflection of the company, the face of the firm. I would like to think that when people think of Jerrytan Residential, images of our luxurious, residential-looking office space come to mind. To give your space a unique personal touch and show your clients your personality, include accent furnishings like antiques, carpets and even captivating artworks.”

Source: Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 2/2)

Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 1/2)

IS IT A HOME OR AN OFFICE? (Part 1/2) Jerrrytan Residential opens up their office — a shophouse brimming with character and style exemplifies the new type of commercial space

By Alexis Pabasi | Photos by James Liang
Repinted with permission from Home Concepts Magazine

IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL ART, THE WALLS ON THE FIRST LEVEL ARE LINED WITH INK PAINTINGS BY THE LATE CHUA EK KAY.

ASK anyone who has been to the office of Jerrytan Residential and they will tell you that walking into the 3½-storey shophouse is an experience to be remembered. When Home Concepts dropped by, the company was hosting its annual year-end gathering for clients and friends and the entire first floor had been transformed into an inviting yet posh

The brains behind this chic 500sqm office located in Club Street is Sydney-trained interior designer and Jerrytan Residential executive director Khaiz Noor, who worked closely with the architects from day one of the project.

“We certainly do not want a normal-looking office,” Khaiz emphasises. “Our premises reflect the nature of our business dealing in beautiful and luxurious residential properties in Singapore and the region. Because we represent beautiful homes, our office needs to look and feel like a warm and beautiful home that has its own personality.”

THE PERFECT SPOT FOR THOSE WHO WISH FOR A BIT OF SUN OR SOME QUIET TIME.

So far, the space has been a hit with clients. “Everytime new clients come, they are impressed. We serve them champagne, wine and cheese and sometimes they stay for hours because they feel so comfortable. To make them feel even more at home, our managing director, Jerry, plays the piano and we all sing along,” Khaiz adds with a laugh.

The first floor, inspired by the heritage homes on Emerald Hill, is pristine yet far from clinical.

Three Chinese ink paintings of the exteriors of shophouses by celebrated local artist, the late Chua Ek Kay, adorn the walls leading from the entrance.

A firm supporter of local arts, Khaiz has filled nearly every wall of the office with artworks by local artists ranging from calligraphy paintings to photo prints by Russell Wong.

A white baby grand piano is the life of every party held here since Jerry and Khaiz, both talented performers, enjoy entertaining guests with their wide repertoire.

To add expanse to the narrow room, large mirrored sliding panels were positioned on one wall. These cleverly conceal a kitchen complete with sleek Miele appliances, a fridge, a wine chiller and even an oven.

THE COMPANY’S THREE DIRECTORS AND THEIR STAFF WORK IN A
COMPLETELY OPEN ENVIRONMENT FOR EASY COMMUNICATION AND BONDING.

Click here to read Part 2 and see more photos

Source: Is It A Home Or An Office? (Part 1/2)

Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 3/3)

Garden of Refreshment
Quench your thirst with delicious beverages and
desserts taken right off your little plot of green

By Wilson Wong | Photos by Koh Boon Wei | reprinted with permission from Home Concepts magazine
Thanks to Hortpark for the venue

Click here to read about the Aloe Vera
Click here to read about the Passion Fruit and Dragon Fruit

The Roselle
The roselle is another plant that can be used to make refreshing drinks. Botanically known as Hibiscus sabdariffa, roselle grows as a shrub with attractive red stems and deeply lobed leaves.

The plant grows up to two metres tall and produces yellow hibiscus-like flowers with dark red centres. After the flowers are pollinated, they fade away and fruit production begins.

With time, one will notice a bright red, crown-like, fleshy calyx that forms around the base of each fruit. The useful part of the roselle is this fleshy calyx which is boiled in water to yield a sourish and deep red beverage.

It is best served chilled and sweetened and is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and anthocyanins.

The plants can be grown in the ground or containers using well-draining and fertile soil. Roselle thrives when grown under semi-shade or full sun. Plants do get straggly over time and new ones can be started from seeds and stem-cuttings.

If the calyces of the roselle plant are not to be used immediately, they can be harvested, dried and stored in a cool and dry place.

COOL RECIPES!
1. Passion fruit juice can be made by blending fruit pulp and some cold water at low speed. Filter seeds away using a sieve. Add sugar to sweeten the drink and more cold water to achieve the preferred taste. Best served chilled.

2. Make dragon fruit jelly by dropping small cubes of the pulp into agar-agar. Some people mash up the pulp and add that instead. Allow the jelly to set and the dessert is best served chilled.

3. Peel away the ‘skin’ of a fresh Aloe vera leaf and rinse away any green sap using water. Cut the translucent gel into cubes and boil them in water with rock sugar to taste. The dessert is served chilled.

4. Boil one part of roselle calyces in three parts of water to yield a dark red decoction. Filter away the calyces and add sugar to taste. Allow the beverage to cool and serve it chilled.

Source: Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 3/3)

Expert Advice On Edible Garden Treats (Part 2/3)

Garden of Refreshment
Quench your thirst with delicious beverages and desserts taken right off your little plot of green

By Wilson Wong | Photos by Koh Boon Wei | reprinted with permission from Home Concepts magazine
Thanks to Hortpark for the venue

Click here to read about the benefits of Passion Fruit and Dragon Fruit

The Aloe Vera
The medicinal aloe, botanically known as Aloe vera or A. barbadensis, is a species of succulent plant that we are all familiar with. A cultivar that is prevalently grown here is Aloe vera var. chinensis, which has numerous white spots on its leaves.

The medicinal aloe is a succulent with a rosette growth habit comprising stiff and fleshy leaves that are studded with white teeth. Mature specimens produce a tall flower spike with pendulous, yellow tubular flowers.

The translucent gel-like substance found inside the leaves of the medicinal aloe is used to treat various skin conditions and injuries. The juice obtained from them is traditionally taken internally to treat digestive problems.

Nowadays, finely cut bits of the gel can be found inside numerous drinks and desserts. The medicinal aloe grows best under direct sun and is a drought-tolerant plant that should be kept on the drier side and grown in well-drained soil.

Harvest the lower and more mature leaves. It is propagated from suckers that appear around the base of a mature plant and can be grown in containers.

Tiny bits of the translucent gel found inside the leaf of the medicinal aloe can now be found as an additive in many beverages right Grow the medicinal aloe plant in a sunny location with well-draining soil to reduce the likelihood of the plant rotting away!

Click here to read about the Roselle and other cool recipes

Source: Expert Advice On Edible Garden Treats (Part 2/3)

Expert Advice On Edible Garden Treats (Part 1/3)

Garden of Refreshment
Quench your thirst with delicious beverages and desserts taken right off your little plot of green

By Wilson Wong | Photos by Koh Boon Wei | reprinted with permission from Home Concepts magazine Thanks to Hortpark for the venue

BESIDES beautifying our surroundings and purifying the air that we breathe, the plants that we have at home can also provide us with food and medicine. Here’s a selection of four edible plants that are easy to grow in the garden for their rich source of phytonutrients and health-enhancing properties:

The Passion Fruit
Passion fruits are popular dessert fruits where the pulp is eaten fresh, together with the seeds, or blended to yield a refreshing beverage.

Passion fruits are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium and dietary fibre. The purple passion fruit, botanically known as Passiflora edulis, is the species that is commonly grown here.

The vine bears round to egg-shaped fruits which turn purple when ripe. It also produces very attractive, large, white flowers with purple centres.

The passion fruit vine, which needs to climb on an outdoor trellis, loves direct sunshine and soil that is moist, well-drained and fertile. Harvest the fruits when they turn purple and wrinkles have appeared on the rind. New plants can easily be propagated from stem-cuttings.

Apartment gardeners who wish to have them at home can also try growing a small vine in a large container under a sunny spot.
The Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruits are borne by cactus species that belong to the Hylocereus genus. Hylocereus undatus produces red-skinned fruits with white flesh while those of H. costaricensis have red-skins and red flesh. Hylocereus megalanthus is rarely encountered locally and has white flesh with a yellow skin.

In general, ripe dragon fruits are sweet and low in calories. It is said that the fruits of H. costaricensis are particularly rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, as well as fibre, phosphorus and calcium.

Look out for the large, showy and fragrant flowers of the dragon fruit plant as they open for only one night.

The dragon fruit plant loves the sun. It is large and adopts a sprawling habit and must be given a strong support outdoors to grow on.

New plants are most easily propagated from stemcuttings and prefer to be grown using well-drained and fertile soil that is enriched with organic matter.

In general, ripe dragon fruits are sweet and low in calories

Click here to read about the Aloe Vera

Source: Expert Advice On Edible Garden Treats (Part 1/3)

Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 3/3)

Rest and Recline (Part 3/3) (click here to read previous chapter)

To get a good night’s rest, you need to start with a good mattress, followed by a good pillow. Michelle Ane Ng, Marketing Manager from Simmons, tells us how to find – and maintain – that perfect cradle

By Grace Chan | reprinted with permission from “Expert Advice” by Home Concepts Magazine

WHAT ARE THE TELL-TALE SIGNS THAT YOUR MATTRESS OR PILLOW NEEDS TO BE CHANGED?
For hygiene purposes, it is generally a good idea to change your mattress every 10 years even if there are no tell-tale signs.

As for pillows, it is advisable to change them every two years or when they get worn out. Change them when they get flat or when you feel a strain on your shoulders or experience continuous neck ache, which may serve as signs that the pillow is too low and lacks the spinal alignment.

SIMMONS HAS JUST LAUNCHED ITS FIRST POCKETED COIL PILLOW, WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
The Simmons Beautyrest NeckCare Pocketed Coil Pillow is permanently soft and plump as there are 296 gallons of air pockets inside each pillow, which means that there is no need to puff up the pillow. Also, the air climate inside the pillow creates an ideal micro air climate around the head and face to improve sleep quality.

With its pocketed coils, this pillow can adjust and adapt to any head shape, weight and neck movement. This ability customizes the ideal resting posture for the sleeper, and the different degree of firmness keeps one comfortable regardless of the sleeping position.

click here to read Part 1

Source: Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 3/3)

Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 2/3)

Rest and Recline (Part 2/3) (click here to read previous chapter)

To get a good night’s rest, you need to start with a good mattress, followed by a good pillow. Michelle Ane Ng, Marketing Manager from Simmons, tells us how to find – and maintain – that perfect cradle

By Grace Chan | reprinted with permission from “Expert Advice” by Home Concepts Magazine
WHAT ARE HYPOALLERGENIC MATRESSES AND PILLOWS?
These are ones with fabric made of natural material that are breathable and mite-, mildew- and mould resistant.

HOW SHOULD THE MATTRESS BE MAINTAINED?
Do not fold, bend, stand or jump on the mattress. Use a quilted mattress protector to protect the mattress from getting soiled. A soiled mattress/box spring can negate the warranty. You should also not remove the white cloth law label or the mattress satin trade labels. These labels serve as a means of identification to establish your warranty rights.

In addition, it is important to use a right base/foundation. The base unit such as the foundation box, box spring, or bed frame is built to work with specific mattress construction to maximize the benefits of a particular mattress and to valid the warranty. The base unit boasts high durability and acts as a shock absorber to minimize movement and enhance sleep. An inappropriate base unit may not provide sufficient support and will gradually cause the mattress to sag. This will invalid the warranty.

Also, flipping and turning will help to relieve the compression on the upholstered materials that work with the coils to provide comfort and support.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MATTRESSES AND PILLOWS BE CLEANED?
There is no fixed number of times to clean a mattress. Ways to clean a mattress include brushing, vacuum-cleaning and airing. The best way to protect your mattress from stains or from being soiled is to use a mattress protector.

Simmons mattress protectors feature the unique Expand-A-Grid benefit to hold the mattress protector firmly to a 15-inch mattress. Its glove-like fit also allows proper sheet fit. Filled with polyester fibrefill and antimicrobial-treated fabric, it helps to eliminate household dust mites and protect the fiberfill from the growth of mildew, as well as control odours. It is made of 100 per cent cotton, is very comfortable and adds an additional layer of breathable comfort to your mattress. It is also machine washable and dryable. You can wash the mattress protector each time you change the bed linens.

Simmons Beautyrest NeckCare Pocketed Pillows cannot be washed as there are coils inside. You can keep your pillow clean and sterile with a pillow protector (available at department stores) in addition to the pillowcase.

HOW SHOULD THE MATTRESS BE CLEANED WHEN SOILED?
Baking soda is a simple way to spot clean your mattress. Simply apply it to the soiled area and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Vacuum and repeat as needed. It’s also a good idea to air the mattress as much as possible. Never use dry cleaning fluid or any liquid cleaning solution on your Simmons mattress or foundation as it may damage some of the materials and void your warranty.

Click here to read Part 3

Source: Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 2/3)

Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 1/3)

Rest and Recline (Part 1/3)

To get a good night’s rest, you need to start with a good mattress, followed by a good pillow. Michelle Ane Ng, Marketing Manager from Simmons, tells us how to find – and maintain – that perfect cradle.

By Grace Chan | reprinted with permission from “Expert Advice” by Home Concepts Magazine

AN AVERAGE person spends approximately a third of his life sleeping, and what he sleeps on makes a big difference in the quality of sleep he gets every night. When your body is allowed to rest in its natural position, muscles are relaxed and sleep is more refreshing. A good mattress should maintain the same natural spinal alignment you have when standing, while one without enough support for your spine and neck can lead to muscle fatigue and a poor night’s rest.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF MATTRESSES AND PILLOWS AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET?
Under the coil constructions mattress range, there is the open coil mattress and the pocketed coil mattress. The open coil constructions consist of Bonnel and continuous coil, just to name a few, and is typically connected by helical wire. The original simmons Pocketed coil mattress is barrel shape, pre-compressed and joined in the middle to deliver the independent movement of coils and provide resilience and support for one’s back. The other types of mattresses in the market include latex mattresses and viscose-elastic mattresses.

There are many types of pillows including feather, down, cotton, polyester, latex, and viscose-elastic. However, Simmonsis the only brand that carries he pocketed coil pillow called the Simmons Beautyrest NeckCare Pillow. It also boasts four levels of firmness(soft, medium, firm and ultra) to suit different head size and shape, neck and shoulder length and width, as well as sleeping patterns.

HOW SHOULD ONE GO ABOUT SELECTING A MATTRESS?
Do your research. It is always good to know your existing mattress type. Such as it’s firm of soft, or a foam or coil mattress, etc. your choice should not deviate too far from the firmness of your existing mattress as the body needs time to adjust to the feel and firmness of the new mattress.

A visit to the store and testing the beds in the showroom will help you determine your personal comfort preference. Lie down on each mattress to help you decide which model is best suited to your needs. Many components make up the feel of a mattress. They include the coil unit construction, foam and upholstery layers, and cover fabric.

Ultimately, the mattress you choose will depend on your personal preference and the sleep benefits the model delivers. You may also want to try a maximum of three mattresses at any one time. Anything more would simply confuse you. To safeguard your interests, you should purchase the product at the brand’s gallery, a reputable department store or through the brand’s appointed authorised dealers.

ANY TIPS FOR CHOOSING A GOOD PILLOW?
First, you need to relax and lie down in your usual sleeping position to try the pillows available in the stores. Then, ask yourself if you are comfortable and if there’s any strain around your neck and shoulder area. Check for comfort, firmness and the height of the pillow at the neck area to ensure that it gives you good spinal alignment. A good pillow should not be too high such that you feel a strain at your shoulders or too low such that it gives you a neck ache. Also, the pillow material should promote good airflow to help keep you cool. The four key factors for consideration when making your purchase are your head size, height of neck, width of shoulder (sloping or broad) and sleeping position (back, side or stomach).

Click here to read Part 2.

Source: Expert Advice On Beds And Pillows (Part 1/3)

Do It Yourself Guide

Do It Yourself Guide

In a house, a small amount of things are maintenance free. But sometimes, there are some instances that you cannot avoid some damage. So 88DB Do It Yourself Guide is here to lead you in different home maintenance and house repair for a safety living.

Learn how to fix your doors and gates, electrical, floors and walls, pipes and plumbing and windows. 88DB Do It Yourself Guide to house repair and home maintenance.

Expert Advice on Home Security (Part 2/2)

Securing The Home…And Peace Of Mind
The importance of home security can never be overemphasised and goes beyond the brick-and-mortar of our house. We hear from Corinna Choong, Senior Vice President, Group Marketing & Communications of Certis CISCO, on how to keep me and mine safe and sound.

By Nadya Huang | Photos courtesy of Certis Cisco |
reprinted with permission from “Expert Advise” by Home Concepts magazine

Click here for Part 1

OTHER MEASURES TO TAKE TO MAXIMISE HOME SECURITY

• Avoid being complacent and be vigilant of and report suspicious characters loitering in the vicinity of your home to the police

• Keep abreast of the latest modus operandi of criminals. Examples include deception and impersonation of government officials/ regulatory authorities; gaining entry through false ceilings, ventilation openings, rubbish chutes; using adjacent properties as a platform to break-in, etc.

• Ensure that all family members especially the young and senior citizens are periodically reminded not to allow strangers into the home

• Ensure all doors and windows are secured when leaving the home even for a short while

• Avoid keeping large amounts of cash and valuables in the home

• Change locks when keys are misplaced and/or when given to renovation contractors

SHOULD YOU BE AWAY FOR EXTENDED PERIODS OF TIME, AVOID GIVING SIGNS THAT YOUR HOME IS UNOCCUPIED

• Cancel your newspaper and magazine subscriptions; avoid leaving notes to indicate your absence even for short durations; use timer switches to turn on the lights to give the impression that your home is occupied

• Ask neighbors and/or trusted persons to keep an eye on your home while you are away and to remove unsolicited brochures left outside the entrance of the home

• Inform your Neighborhood Police Centre that you will be away from home

Source: Expert Advice on Home Security (Part 2/2)