Influences from Brazil to Botswana inform this urban sanctuary

When A2A Safaris director Shy Perez-Sala and her husband, Jay Sala, who works in finance, bought their three-bedroom Pok Fu Lam home almost five years ago, they knew some careful planning was required to create a harmonious riff between light and space. The first thing they did was seek out the help of architect and builder Bruce Harwood of the Hong Kong-based BHI Group, because they were extremely impressed with the seamlessness of the design results they had seen the company achieve. “Bruce had done the work for a lot of our friends’ apartments and we really loved his work,” says Shy.

In the first creative consultation, the couple, who have a daughter, knew that they wanted enough storage to give them a lean, clutter-free space. Bringing in more natural light was paramount, too. The conversation evolved into a wonderful working relationship, which they ultimately found inspirational. Shy recalls, “We were involved with every decision, from the kitchen cupboards to the bathroom fixtures.”

In the understated home office, a beautiful zebra photographed in Tanzania inspires every day. A feature wall painted in Dulux’s Classic Burgundy is the focal point of the master bedroom.

A stunning collection of photographs taken by Jay depicting mother and child adorns the walls of their study. A considered collection of exquisite ethnic pieces add texture to their living space.

By: Ingrid Keneally

Photography: Edgar Tapan
Styling: Jo Lorenz
Production: Kissa Castañeda