“The best moment is when every building or space turned out to be used as envisioned. A sense of satisfaction arises.”
Founded in 2003, Kyoob Architects has since grown to become an award-winning architectural practice comprising more than 50 like-minded individuals who have a shared ideal of creativity, determination, and hard work to achieve excellence in all their projects. We talk with Sandy Ng, Director at Kyoob.
Since I was young
I exposed to different art media in the Art Elective Programme in secondary school. I was obsessed with black & white photography and ink drawing and my subject was almost always buildings and spaces. When it came to deciding University courses, I gravitated towards Architecture.
Envisioning Space
I like spaces that show off spatial quality and material tactility in light, complemented by soft landscape. We create by first understanding the lifestyle and routine of users and envisioning how the space can support and add value to that. I feel a sense of awe when such spaces are being used and become characterised by the lifestyle and objects of the users.
A FACADE (AND INTERIORS) WITH CHARACTER
``We were exploring dark coloured material for the façade, such as stone cladding, charred timber, textured paint, mineral paint. As the house is at the edge of the central catchment area, we were concerned that the constant high humidity and moisture will wear down the external surfaces quickly.``
``We decided to use Dekton Bromo which has a natural black stone/slate effect that is not flat-looking. Among its many qualities, we like that it is non-porous, unlike stone, making it easier to maintain and is UV-resistant to be used on the east facing front façade. With a maximum thickness of 12mm, it is thinner and lighter than stone cladding and is easier to install.``
``The Dekton Bromo is used with off-form concrete finished and white walls in a careful composition to break down the scale of the façade to allow the house to sit with the other neighbours in an understated manner.``
My best moment
I cannot think of one major moment. When every building or space turned out to be used as envisioned, a sense of satisfaction arises.
I am partial to black and dark colours
I can use it to give a space an illusion of depth, and on supporting elements that I want to be inconspicuous as the colour recedes. I will complement these with a lighter palette.
My must-have materials
For workplaces and homes, we use timber finishes to achieve a warm and natural feel, to complement the stone or tile surfaces.
“We like that Dekton Soke is stain resistant and will wear better than the original concrete finish.”
Kyoob Architects
Sign up for C·Top Design
Inspiration, community, recognition and services for interior design professionals.