Sustainable and healthy materials were used to create this salubrious family home that was inspired by Norwegian holiday cabins.
Drawing inspiration from the earthy snugness of Norwegian holiday cabins, Hong Kong interior design firm Liquid Interiors recently completed the interiors of this two-storey home in Hong Kong’s Mid-Levels.
Meticulously crafted with natural limewash wall plaster, rugs made with Tencel – one of the most sustainable fibres harvested from certified wood – and energy-efficient HVAC and LED lighting systems, sustainability and wellness were woven into the design DNA of this home.
Nestled on the ground floor of a site surrounded by trees, the property, which has 3,415 square feet of interior living space, is complemented by a lush and sprawling 2,770 square foot backyard.
Rowena Gonzales, Liquid Interiors’ principal and founder, says this project was inspired by the Norwegian concept of a “hytte”, which is a traditional summer house in Norway. To achieve this look, she and her team used pale wood finishes, black accents, and light colours throughout the home.
The pale wood finishes add warmth and texture to the space, while the black accents provide a modern and sophisticated touch. The cool, light colours, including shades of blue and gray, create a calming and serene atmosphere that encourages relaxation and comfort.
“The couple who sought our services have a beloved dog who is an integral part of their family. As they anticipate expanding their family with the arrival of a new baby, they approached us with a vision to create a warm and welcoming home that exudes a rustic charm while embracing contemporary minimalism,” Gonzales says.
“They are both working professionals, with one mostly working from home and the other partially, so their desire was for a space that would seamlessly blend comfort and functionality.”
In addition to their desire for a rustic, modern, minimal, and cosy home, the couple also wanted to prioritise the health and wellbeing of their new baby.
“Knowing that formaldehyde can have adverse effects on the reproductive system, we took great care in selecting materials for the project. We exclusively used formaldehyde-free plywood for all construction, as well as low-VOC paints and adhesives to ensure optimal indoor air quality,” Gonzales says.
“To further enhance the air quality, we installed a state-of-the-art VRV air ventilation system that brings in fresh, treated outdoor air. We also included an integrated clinical-grade air purification system in the sleeping areas to provide a healthy and nourishing environment for the family.”
The apartment’s ground floor has an open-plan layout and a double-height living room that serves as a grand entrance to the home. This area has custom-made furnishings, art pieces and a fireplace that come together to create a warm and inviting ambience.
Gonzales says that one of the most striking and unique features of this project is undoubtedly the double-height fireplace.
“This feature creates a focal point in the living room, providing both warmth and visual interest. The fireplace was designed with a modern and minimalist aesthetic, using natural materials such as stone and metal to complement the overall design theme,” she says.
“Another standout feature of the home is the use of wood beam ceiling accents. These accents were strategically placed throughout the home, adding warmth, texture, and character to the space.”
The dining room features a unique handcrafted dining table, a decorative wooden ceiling that creates a cabin-like feel, and beautiful pendant lighting.
“Here, the semi-rustic wood beams were carefully selected to complement the overall design theme, creating a cohesive and harmonious look.”
To keep cooking smells out of the living and dining areas, the kitchen has been equipped with sliding doors so it can be closed off when it’s being used to prepare meals. Here, calming blue-coloured joinery has been paired with a handmade clay tile backsplash and warm wood accents for a cheerful look.
The main home office was designed to be functional and comfortable for both the homeowners and their furry friend. A height-adjustable Live Edge wood desk allows the couple to work comfortably and efficiently. This space was designed with plenty of storage for a clutter-free and organised look, and has a low dog bed set against a window that draws in natural daylight.
The property also includes a secondary office, which is housed in a solarium that overlooks the garden, and a quiet Zoom room with a meditation and yoga corner.
The master en suite bedroom, the baby’s room, and a spacious dressing room are located on the upper level. The master bathroom has a curved wall and ceiling finished in Marmorino plaster, which gives it a textured and earthy feel that reflects light and adds natural warmth to the space.
The selection of materials played a crucial role in achieving the desired look and feel of this project. Semi-rustic wood used for decorative wood beams, ceiling features, and architraves throughout the home, not only added character to the space, but also complements the rustic, natural aesthetic of the design.
The natural limewash plaster used for the walls purifies the air by absorbing toxins and pollutants, and also regulates humidity levels, which can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health.
The combination of these materials, along with the use of formaldehyde-free plywood, low-VOC paints and adhesives, and state-of-the-art air ventilation and purification systems, has resulted in a beautiful, healthy, and functional home for the family.
“Overall, the combination of these design elements, inspired by the Norwegian hytte, creates a timeless and elegant look that is both cosy and welcoming. The house is a perfect reflection of our clients’ love for their furry friend and their desire to create a healthy and beautiful home for their growing family,” Gonzales says.