Juliana is the owner and principal designer at JAR Design, a company that specializes in renovations of both residential and commercial properties in Hong Kong.  Juliana has been practicing architecture for nearly 15 years beginning in NYC and has spent the last 12 years in Asia.

Most of my clients are looking for innovative efficient use of space. This is a key element of spatial planning in the design phase. I try to give each client an optimal use of space which could mean completely gutting the existing space and relocating the rooms. When it comes to efficiency and compact living, I have developed two JAR components. The JAR SLIDER & the JAR CUBBY WALL. The sliders are made of solid wooden doors that roll on custom steel tracks. Each is custom made to size, finish and character specific to the design. The cubby wall is a unique system that functions as a wall by dividing two spaces, while doubling as storage space accessible from both rooms in various compositions of open and closed cubbies.

I’ve long been inspired by Carlos Scarpa. I’ve visited several of his projects while studying Architecture in Italy. His use of spatial composition, material and detail remain a constant favorite of mine.

What is the easiest way to turn a boring HK apartment into a home?   

Whether you rent or own a property, the easiest way to transform spaces with a low budget quickly is with color. I like to take each room as it’s own challenge creating character in each space. This can be accomplished with an accent wall of your favorite hue, adding colorful artwork to your walls, accent pillows and throws.  I also like to use various sizes of framed mirrors to create an illusion of larger spaces. Another way to create change is to simply rearrange your furniture. It may feel that a room is working perfectly as it is, but try switching things around for a fresh look using simple what you have already.

How do you get your product and business noticed?   

Client satisfaction is of upmost importance to me. I work solely on client referrals by word of mouth. I listen to clients needs and try to offer them spaces they won’t want to leave!

You can check out more of Jar Design at http://www.jardesign.hk or follow them on twitter @JARdesignHK

3 comments on “QQQQQ: Meet the HK Apartment Designer”

1. brielle87

   September 12, 2014

   

   Fabulously interesting and the photos are great. I adore the bedroom in particular and the bold use of colour to structure the spaces.

   Reply
   • theguestroom

     February 20, 2015

     

     Hey Brielle,

     Sorry, just saw this!!

     Thanks for your kind comments!! I’ll pass this on to Juliana!;)

     Cheers!
     MrJ

     Reply
2. theguestroom

   February 20, 2015

   

   Reblogged this on The Guest Room.

   Reply