Noa Lounge of Mondrian Singapore Duxton has rich Mediterranean palettes
You are an architect who has switched focus to interior design. Interiors must be more rewarding than building facades in terms of colour palette. Is this what led your heart to interiors – colour?
Embracing this broad spectrum of possibilities, from subtle palettes to bold contrasts, continues to fuel my passion for creating new projects; for example, when I was ideating the colour palette for Noa Lounge, I was able to pull elements from numerous landscapes and countries from across the Mediterranean basin, which come together to create a truly unique and vibrant space for groups of friends and family to eat, drink, and be merry in!
For example Noa Lounge reflects the Mediterranean basin and its sunshine colours, whereas the architecture of the building would not have this extensive story of exquisite colour.
The ethos of Noa Lounge surrounds the infection of flavours from the Eastern Mediterranean, Southern Europe, and North Africa into both the food and the atmosphere. Thus, it was key that I reflected this in the colour palette, combining a rich array of terrazzo, garnets, and ochres symbolising the warmth of the Mediterranean soil and sun with hints of dark greens representative of the lush vegetation of the region, and delicate accents of gold that add a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic. The design venture for Noa Lounge has been about reimagining the Mediterranean narrative through a distinct lens, steering away from the conventional blue associated with the sea. The Mediterranean is a nuanced melting pot of cultures and terrains, and the design of Noa truly celebrates this.
Noa Lounge is indeed an intricate design process reflecting the reds and ochres and motifs and lighting of lands spanning the Eastern Mediterranean to Southern Europe. How much research did you do, and must you travel to these countries to truly capture the essence?
Being Spanish, this project resonates deeply with me, and thus, inherently connected to the Mediterranean spirit. In Europe, cross-cultural exploration across borders is a common pursuit, one that has further enriched my understanding and design approach. My personal journey, much like that of Chef Alain Devahive, has been intertwined with these regions, having traversed their landscapes extensively. Italy, where I also resided for a period, Greece, Turkey, and Morocco are among the countries I have intimately explored – delving into their cultures, cuisines, and communities. The essence of the Mediterranean resonates profoundly with me, and this connection has been nourished through firsthand interactions with its diverse facets.
Many patrons take lighting for granted in a space. How do you use the sun and other sources of lighting and types of fixtures to interpret your vision in your Singapore projects – Noa Lounge and Olivia Restaurant?
For me, lighting is one of the most important factors when designing. I like to design my own lamps to give originality and distinction to the space. Light plays a very important role in the perception of spaces. I leverage both natural and artificial sources strategically to achieve my vision. Indirect and accent lighting take centre stage, illuminating spaces while highlighting intricate details. The transition from day to night can be done in a controlled manner, allowing for a play of light that is intense during the day and dim at night – creating mystery in space. The lighting system at Noa makes it a perfect social space for meetings and conversation throughout the day and night.
What is your favourite Singapore food? And do you have a favourite building design in Singapore?
Asian cuisine has always held a special place in my heart. Having savoured an array of dishes, it’s difficult to pick just one favourite, but if I were to single out a standout, it would have to be the iconic chilli crab.
Singapore boasts an array of remarkable designs. Among the many captivating structures, the Raffles Hotel stands out as a pinnacle of elegant and majestic colonial architecture that has gracefully weathered the passage of time. Its enduring allure serves as a testament to the timeless beauty and enduring significance of well-crafted architectural designs.
How do you relax after a hard day at work?
After a day of work, I like to put on comfortable clothes and have a cold beer in the company of my friends or my family chatting calmly about anything that has nothing to do with work!
7.What is your advice to a young architecture/interior design student who wants to be as successful as you are in the world of design?
To aspiring architecture or interior design students, I’d offer several pieces of advice for a fulfilling journey in the world of design. First and foremost, embrace the power of travel as a wellspring of inspiration. Immerse yourself in diverse cultures, absorbing their designs, colours, and perspectives to enrich your creative palette. Devote time to studying the works of great designers, deciphering the language embedded in their creations. Listen attentively to your clients, understanding their needs and aspirations. For instance, in my collaboration with BARMUTEARY F&B Group on the second project, following Olivia Restaurant, I deeply understood the requirements of Chef Alain Devahive, Co-Founder of BARMUTEARY Group. This understanding empowered me to build a strong team uniting our efforts to bring visions to life. Above all, cherish the exhilarating process of design. Let passion drive you forward and find joy in each project.
