Get That Look: Singapore’s Night Skyline

Posted on Sep 13, 2011 in Featured, Get That Look | 0 comments

Singapore is one of the

cleanest and most impressive Southeast Asian cities I have ever visited. It happens to be part of the country of Malaysia, but is referred to as a city-state, because Singapore has it’s own government.

The litter free streets and the towering sky scrapers were a welcomed change of scenery from some of the other more “modest” cities I visited in Southeast Asia. The city’s infrastructure and architecture is nothing short of impressive, and I have fond memories of enjoying drinks along the busy waterfront while admiring the sprawling skyline across the lake.

Since Singapore is not the cheapest country to visit (in fact, it’s the most expensive in Southeast Asia and we were only able to spend 2 full days and 1 over-priced night), I spent most of my time walking through the streets and city districts, trying to take it all in for free. And while I loved luxurious Singapore in the daylight…(click to enlarge)

…night fall transformed the city into a magical, twinkly urban paradise.

So romantic! I loved watching the reflections of the city lights dance on the surrounding glass buildings and on the calm water. And the rest of the city is lit up too:

If I were to summarize Singapore at night in three words, they would have to be: SPARKLY, LUXURIOUS and STRIKING…which are the exact words I had in mind when creating a Dining Room Mood Board inspired by Singapore’s Night Skyline.

GET THAT LOOK: SINGAPORE’S NIGHT SKYLINE

This dramatic look is great for a dining space – it will help create a fun, sexy and romantic vibe that will leave an impact on diners. When you boil it down to the basics, this look is easy to achieve…the magic is all in the lighting!

5 EASY DESIGN TIPS TO ‘GET THAT LOOK’:

1. UP THE CONTRAST
Using a combination of light and dark colours will add instant drama to any space, besides, most people feel more comfortable in a dark and ‘moody’ space while dining. When one human sense is diminished (like the sense of Sight, for example) the other senses are heightened (like the sense of Taste and Smell, for example).

2. CREATE ATMOSPHERE WITH LIGHTING
The Singapore skyline at night is so special because of the ambiance it creates. Using layers of soft, diffused lighting will create a twinkly (and romantic!) space – perfect for sharing an intimate meal or a drink. For the most part, everyone looks better in soft lighting – a reason why most fancy restaurants opt for soft lighting. For added affect, include some sparkly jewel-toned votice candle holders to cast pretty colours on the table and walls.

3. VIBRANT COLOURS
Implement some punchy, vibrant colours (I think jewel-tones work best) reminiscent of the shimmering night life colours. Repeat the same colours throughout the space using coloured cutlery or napkins, and bold solid coloured accessories.

4. IMPACTFUL ART
Incorporate a large-format piece of art that will occupy a lot of space on the wall. The piece of art in the mood board above is by Georgia Gray and reminds me of the twinkling skyline. Use a mirrored or metallic frame for some added glitz.

5. A COLLECTION OF SHINY FINISHES
Using lacquered, mirrored, metallic or other reflective finishes will help reinforce the glamorous night skyline theme. I used a shiny marble dining table, an orb of transluscent capiz shells, a buffet stand with twinkly nickel details, a set of lacquered wood accent chairs, shimmering sequins toss cushions and painted glass accessories. Too much of the same shiny finishes look boring – feel free to mix it up!

What do you think? Is this space “your style”? Do you like the colours? Are you a fan of the finishes and textures? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Design sources:  1stdibs, Georgia Gray, Nate Berkus, House To Home, Candelabra, Elte, Cult furniture, Alibaba, Crate and Barrel