Away from the glittering gowns and shimmering veils, Steve Thio’s recycle-and-restyle philosophy led to an eclectic furniture collection with layers of history. Let’s check out this Her World Brides editor’s four-roomer in Ang Mo Kio.
Retro Main Door Gate
Though this metal grille gate is no longer produced in Singapore, homeowners Steve and Choon Kian found an old man who was willing to customise one for the home. It costs about $2,000.
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Refurbished Furniture
Steve’s definition of beauty is the refurbished, the recycled and the handmade; anything with a story.
The flat is decorated with hand-me-down Persian and Indian rugs, and the wooden daybed in the living room explodes with colours – thanks to over a dozen patterned and embroidered pillow covers.
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British India Coffee Table
The homeowners engaged Panerai Decor to create a home that would be adorned with their many statement furniture pieces. This coffee table is from lifestyle and fashion retailer British India.
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Vintage Furniture
“The idea is to not waste anything, as much as we can. We are proud to say this is a home of mementoes.
The dining stools are from my mother’s home and are as old as I am, and these patchwork cushion covers are from Vietnam.
Admittedly, I bought so many without realising I had no cushions, so I had to buy some!” says Steve, with a chuckle.
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Bhutan Table Runner
This handcrafted table runner from Bhutan, with intricate and colourful weaves, is proffered to us Steve gushes: “When I saw it, I couldn’t resist it.”
The editor flew to Bhutan for the pre-wedding photo shoot of local celebrities Jesseca Liu and Jeremy Chan last year.
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Upcycling Furniture
Steve’s advice to homeowners: Adapt your current furniture for your new home.
Steve upcycled his old bookcase into this headboard. They also traded unwanted items with a used furniture dealer, for sandpapering service
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Renovation Cost $75,000
The renovation set them back $75,000, most of which went towards the cost of extensive glass and metal doors throughout the home.
They’ve combined the master and common bathrooms, too; the space is accessible via the bedroom and kitchen.
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Amankora, Thimpu Souvenirs
The tiny cymbals were a gift from luxury resort Amankora in Bhutan, while the Buddha hands were bought in Thailand.
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Religious Souvenirs
The couple are drawn to religious souvenirs and have an entire rack (and more) dedicated to them.
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One of a Kind Furniture
“Go to garage sales to find unique, one-off pieces. Think of ways to revamp them, whether by reupholstering or re-varnishing, or let its authenticity resonate within your home.
With a well- furnished space, your personality will naturally shine through,” says Steve.
This article was first published on Sona Decor in June 2018.
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