GOING WITH THE FLOW

How does one approach the ancient philosophy of feng shui in a modern way? Three leading Hong Kong-based designers share their thoughts on this revered art of placement and how to introduce its principles into our spaces

- Kissa Castañeda

An ornate gold figurine, an unconventionally placed water feature, a litany of sometimes contradictory “rules”—feng shui can be intimidating and confusing at first glance. At its core, however, is the pursuit of simplicity. The ancient Chinese practice, which is over 3,000

years old, is more than just a guide to decorating—it’s a way to enhance one’s life by arranging a space according to the principles of natural energy flow.

Tatler speaks to three leading designers about how they meld this ancient practice with their modern approaches to design.

ED NG 

Co-founder, AB Concept 

“Being Chinese, we put emphasis on the warmth of the space because hospitality is in our nature,” says Ed Ng, co-founder of AB Concept, the award-winning Hong Kong design studio, whose latest projects include the Paper Moon restaurant at the Raffles London at the OWO (Old War Office).

Although he’s not a feng shui expert, Ng respects the philosophy deeply—and sees it as a way to create a sense of warmth. “To me, feng shui is ancient wisdom. It helps to guide us in how we feel in the different times of the day and during different seasons of the year,” he says. Having grown up in Hong Kong, Ng says its principles of “striving for harmony and comfort” come naturally to him.