Couple behind Song Saa Private Island reveal new Siem Reap project

Konga, a company specializing in prefabricated, Scandinavian-inspired cabins, has introduced its latest innovation: the Konga Float. This off-grid, solar-powered floating home reflects the company's commitment to nature immersion, eco-friendliness, and Scandinavian design aesthetics. Founded by Paulius Žemaitis and Goda Žemaitė, who drew inspiration from their nature-rich childhoods in Lithuania, Konga aims to connect people with the natural world through their designs. They collaborated with Danish architect Mette Fredskild to bring their vision to life. The Konga Float is highlighted as the company's most exciting project to date, representing over a year of development and boundary-pushing to achieve a 100-percent off-grid, all-electric floating house capable of sustained navigation using only solar energy. The maiden voyage of the Konga Float was for Claartje, who operates a private sailing school in the Netherlands. She sought a contemporary, high-quality, sustainable, and bespoke floating home for her island in a Friesland lake. Claartje and her husband now moor the Konga Float in the lake and occasionally offer it for rent. The base model of the Konga Float is priced at €177,000 before tax and delivery. This 430-square-foot unit is designed to accommodate four people and comes fully electric, equipped with an E-Propulsion motor, a 20-kilowatt battery pack, and 12 rooftop solar panels. An optional 10-kilowatt additional battery is available for €5,000, suitable for extended journeys. What distinguishes the Konga Float in the prefab market is its strong emphasis on eco-friendliness. The design incorporates upcycled materials and off-grid systems to minimize its environmental footprint. The prefabricated construction process ensures controlled manufacturing, thereby reducing construction waste. The floating home features expansive windows and an open-plan layout, providing panoramic views and a direct connection to the surrounding landscape. The interior design strikes a balance between luxury and simplicity, offering modern comforts with wooden finishes while avoiding excessive elements. The overall aesthetic is characterized by a streamlined, Scandinavian-inspired look. Currently, the Konga Float is available across Europe, delivered via ground transport, and can be accessed by road or ferry. While it is not yet pre-permitted in any U.S. municipalities, discussions are underway with potential clients to introduce the Konga Float to the American market. Konga also has plans for global expansion, with the first Konga Cabin soon to be delivered to Mendocino County, U.S. Clients can expect the production of a Konga Float to take four months after placing an initial deposit. Konga manages the quality production and delivery logistics of the houseboat. The client is responsible for obtaining any necessary permits and arranging for a mobile crane to unload the cabin upon delivery, as it does not require on-site installation. Customization options include installing additional batteries for longer trips, choosing different wood types (birch, pine, or okoume plywood) for the poplar panels and furniture, removing bunk beds from the bedroom, and selecting either Thermowood or charred wood for the exterior. The fully electric nature of the Konga Float ensures minimal engine noise during operation, enhancing the tranquil experience on the water. It also includes infrared floor heating for comfort during colder weather. #PrefabHome #FloatingHome #OffGridLiving #ScandinavianDesign #SustainableArchitecture #EcoFriendly #SolarPowered #ModularConstruction #KongaFloat

David and Emma Engerer, a young couple, have embarked on a significant endeavor to revitalize the historic Stuart Neighborhood in Kalamazoo through the renovation and rental of its aging houses. David, 28, from metro Detroit, and Emma, 22, from Austin, Texas, met at a skateboarding contest in Houston and later married in October 2019. Their venture into real estate began after David's graduation from Western Michigan University, encouraged by his father to purchase and renovate older homes to generate rental income. The couple's commitment to the neighborhood is evident in their hands-on approach to renovations, with David performing most of the restoration work alongside Emma. Their efforts have been lauded by local residents, including Gary Wark, president of the Stuart Area Restoration Association, who notes the positive contrast with absentee landlords. The Engerers are part of a growing trend of younger individuals investing in the historic area, which boasts many houses dating back to the 1870s when it was a thriving community for businessmen and professionals. David emphasizes the importance of maintaining a vision for the properties' potential, despite the inherent challenges of home fix-ups. Their first acquisition was an American Foursquare stucco house at 821 Kalamazoo Ave., built in 1910. Originally a single-family residence, it had been converted into a duplex in the 1920s and suffered from neglect, including foundation, roof, plumbing, and electrical issues. Emma humorously compared it to the 'Money Pit' movie. Despite its condition, the house had existing tenants, and its structural integrity was surprisingly sound. This initial project served as a significant learning experience for the couple. Following this, the Engerers purchased two more 19th-century homes in the neighborhood, with plans for additional acquisitions. One of these is their personal residence, a 4,000-square-foot Queen Anne Victorian at 418 Stuart Ave., known as the French/Allen House, built in 1895. This house, rich in history with four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, stained-glass windows, and a sweeping veranda, was originally appointed by Marshall Field. It was once owned by Dorr French, a justice of the peace and city attorney, and later by Harold Allen, vice president of First National Bank and corporate secretary for The Upjohn Co. They acquired this house in May 2020 at a reduced price, undertaking interior upgrades such as replacing old galvanized steel pipes and plumbing, replicating door moldings, and re-doing bathrooms, all while meticulously preserving the historic integrity. David expresses strong disapproval of renovations that strip old homes of their original charming features. Local historian Sharon Carlson, a resident of the Stuart Neighborhood, commends the Engerers' dedication, noting that landlords who live in the neighborhood tend to be the most effective. In July 2020, they bought another rental property at 500 Stuart Ave., a four-unit dwelling built by George Rickman in the late 1880s, one of three brick Queen Anne-style houses on the street. They are currently performing exterior and limited interior renovations, with more extensive work planned as tenant leases expire. This house, along with its neighbors, is distinctive for its brick construction, unusual for Victorian homes of that era. Emma, who initially had no plans to leave Texas, credits her move to Michigan to her relationship with David and a strong sense of divine guidance. She discovered Michigan's distinct seasons, a new experience compared to Texas. David's background includes a past as an aspiring professional skateboarder and snowskater, sponsored by Ambition Snowskates. He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in exercise science, initially intending to become a physical therapist, but discovered a passion for home renovation after summer jobs involving repairs. David's father, a successful physical therapist and experienced home renovator, has been a significant mentor, guiding them with insights into making properties profitable and managing renovations. The Engerers emphasize that while financial viability is crucial for such projects, passion and vision are paramount. They plan to remain in the Stuart Neighborhood long-term, expressing their love for the community and its historical homes. #HistoricHomeRenovations #StuartNeighborhood #KalamazooRealEstate #PropertyInvestment #CommunityRevitalization #QueenAnneVictorian #OldHouseRestoration #RentalProperties #NeighborhoodDevelopment

The article details the renovation of a San Diego kitchen, focusing on a unique statement island designed by Gabriel Sepulveda-Villarini of Jackson Design and Remodeling. The homeowners waited 16 years for this renovation, replacing a 'spec' kitchen that did not suit their lifestyle. The remodel included the kitchen, an adjacent family room, and a beverage bar. The centerpiece of the kitchen is the island, which features a multiple waterfall design of Taj Mahal quartzite. This design evolved from an initial two waterfalls to four, made possible by the clients' budget and their minimal need for extensive seating, allowing for a more elaborate aesthetic. The island is highly functional, with distinct areas for different activities. Seating on two sides allows the husband to join his wife while she cooks or for them to share coffee from the built-in Miele coffee station. The island also includes a prep sink with Brizo faucets, a Miele dishwasher, and specialized storage for kitchen items. Additional storage and a pull-out trash can are integrated into the Caramel Apple-colored quarter-sawn white oak cabinetry from R.D. Henry & Co., which also features matching waterfall edges. Consistency in design elements was a key objective, extending the quarter-sawn white oak cabinetry into the family room to create a 20-foot long built-in shelving unit and TV surround. This wood also panels the Miele refrigerator and freezer, maintaining a cohesive look across the interconnected spaces. The kitchen's perimeter hosts a suite of Miele cooking appliances, including convection, speed, and steam ovens, and a warming drawer. The homeowner particularly appreciates the steam oven, having adopted it as her primary cooking method. Sepulveda-Villarini prioritized balance over strict symmetry in arranging the appliances and cabinetry, integrating floating shelves for visual interest. The Taj Mahal quartzite from the island is repeated on the perimeter countertops, chosen for its neutral yet rich aesthetic and distinctive veining. The previous kitchen was dark, so the renovation aimed to brighten the space while maintaining warmth. This was achieved through the use of Sherwin Williams' Drift of Mist paint for custom wall cabinets, illuminated by LED lights, and Sonoma Tile Maker’s Market Collection ceramic tile in Ashbury Pebble for the backsplash. The herringbone pattern of the tile, with a light-colored grout, extends around the window and behind the floating shelves, adding subtle texture and varying shades of color. Finishing touches include Kichler Edmar pendants above the island, chosen for their frosted half-globe design and open tops that direct light upwards, illuminating the ceiling without harsh glare. The pendants' polished nickel finish complements the Brizo plumbing fixtures and Berger Hardware cabinetry pulls and knobs, adding sophistication and warmth. The remodel also addressed a functional issue by creating an official beverage bar between the kitchen and dining room. This replaced a makeshift bar cart and trash can, enhancing the flow and aesthetics of the home. The beverage bar features a Taj Mahal quartzite countertop, custom white painted wall cabinets with glass doors and LED lighting, and a Miele beverage refrigerator. A smoke glass mirrored backsplash reflects wine glasses stored on a rack, creating depth and a glamorous feel, avoiding the traditional metallic look of a standard mirror. The overall project successfully transformed a dated kitchen into a functional, aesthetically pleasing space that supports the homeowners' new daily routines and traditions. #KitchenDesign #StatementIsland #HomeRenovation #LuxuryKitchens #InteriorDesign #QuartziteCountertops #CustomCabinetry #ApplianceIntegration #ProjectCaseStudy

DanNi Zhao and Frédéric Rolli, former residents of Mid-Levels on Hong Kong Island, discovered an abandoned 700 sq ft flat with a rooftop of the same size in a village house in Mui Wo, Lantau Island. Despite the property's state, characterized by peeling plaster, floor-to-ceiling mould, and a lack of character, they perceived its potential due to its serene atmosphere, open views, and proximity to a river, which they associated with good feng shui. Zhao, originally from China and working in private banking, has lived in Hong Kong for about 12 years. Their decision to purchase the property was also influenced by their experience living in a traditional Chinese village for a year, which inspired them to integrate a similar aesthetic into their new home. Although they initially sought ideas from Studio Amal through 3D renderings, the couple, both creatively inclined and interested in interior design, chose to manage the renovation project themselves. They developed the design as work progressed, enlisting local workmen for the construction aspects. Prior to the renovation, they organized a graffiti party, inviting friends to paint on the walls, a portion of which, including their handprints, is now displayed in the dining area. Their design approach for the apartment aimed to blend traditional Chinese elements with contemporary comforts. They focused on creating a colorful and character-filled space that reflected their personal style without incurring excessive costs. The renovation involved transforming the dilapidated interior into a welcoming home that balances traditional Chinese design principles with soft furnishings, brushed brass accents, and modern art pieces. The couple's hands-on involvement in the design and execution allowed for a personalized touch, making the apartment uniquely theirs. They demonstrated that an original and inviting home can be achieved through careful planning and personal investment, even with a property that initially seemed beyond repair. The project served as a testament to their vision, transforming what many would consider undesirable into a vibrant living space that celebrates both cultural heritage and contemporary living. Their choice of location on Lantau Island, away from the urban bustle of Hong Kong Island, also reflects a lifestyle preference for tranquility and connection with nature, aligning with the good feng shui principles they valued. The integration of traditional Chinese design is not merely aesthetic but also functional, potentially incorporating elements like specific layouts, material choices, or decorative motifs that are characteristic of such design. The use of soft furnishings and contemporary art provides a modern contrast, preventing the space from feeling overly traditional or dated. The brushed brass elements likely add a touch of modern sophistication and warmth. This combination of old and new, traditional and contemporary, creates a dynamic and balanced interior. The overall project illustrates a successful transformation of a neglected property into a distinctive and comfortable home, showcasing how personal vision and hands-on effort can lead to a highly personalized and characterful living environment, proving that significant financial outlay is not always a prerequisite for creating an original and inviting space. #HomeRenovation #LantauIsland #ChineseDesign #InteriorDesign #DIYProject #MuiWo #CharacterHome #RuralLiving #ContemporaryArt