Natural tendencies interiors inspired by nature

Interesting interior design can sometimes be a reflection of historical references, which may well provide visual links to the origins of the site.

Orchard Residences is a high-end 56-storey apartment tower in Singapore, which has an exterior facade that took inspiration from the complex patterns and textures of the fruit and nut trees that once grew here.

The organic reference is also picked up in the interior of this apartment within the tower, which was designed by Kelvin Gan and Jenny Lim of Elements ID Consultants. This combines a variety of naturally textured materials, including a dramatic Poroto Silver black and silver marble wall in the open-plan living space.

"This is a very dramatic marble with a lot of graining," says Gan. "It makes a strong design statement. The apartment is very light and airy, with lots of floor-to-ceiling windows, so I felt it could easily take the dark walls."

The designer says that because the owner wanted a clean-lined, contemporary interior, much of the visual impact is provided by the choice of materials. For example, the marble wall is teamed with dark ebony wood veneer cabinetry that also has a strong textural component. The cabinetry on one side incorporates a sliding mirrored panel that conceals the television when not in use.

Further visual texture is provided by the Poggenpohl kitchen cabinetry, which features walnut with a horizontal grain. The front of the island and end of the cabinetry have a dark, reflective finish and stainless steel toekicks.

The silver travertine marble floor is another highly grained element. Because the floor is such a distinctive part of the interior, Gan chose a glass-topped dining table so the marble could be seen beneath the table.

Further visual impact is provided by the placement of key sculptural items. Above the table, a crystal chandelier is hung on chains of uneven length to create an undulating wave effect. There is also a sculpture that creates a focal point at the end of the hallway to the bedrooms.

Positioned within the curved end of the building, the bedroom suites are also designed to maximise the spectacular 360° views from the apartment.

Story by: Trendsideas