SHAKEN NOT STIRRED
Award-winning designer has poured his heart into contemporary capital pad
Shiro House could be in a Bond film.
IT looks like something out of a James Bond film. But, to be honest, being the brainchild of an awardwinning designer, we would expect nothing less from this prime property.
The exclusive Edinburgh base is quirky, contemporary and fit for a 007 agent – with a £1m price tag to match.
However, as the old adage goes, you get what you pay for – and with Colin Wong’s property, you get something so unique, it can only be described as priceless.
Dundee-born Colin is a renowned figure in the field of design.
His creative flair has earned him 21 awards to date, including the overall UK kitchen and bathroom designer of the year and Neff’s kitchen designer of the year for five years running.
Colin learned his trade in Hong Kong, where he designed shop fit-outs for large European fashion houses, such as Gucci and Prada.
But he returned to his roots in Scotland to set up his own company, Development Direct in 2004, designing cutting-edge kitchens and bathrooms.
He’s also a magazine columnist and guest lecturer in spatial design.
“I absolutely love design,” Colin said. “Creating something from nothing and seeing the end result is really something extremely addictive and special.”
Six years ago, Colin expanded into commissions, not only for kitchens and bathrooms but whole houses too. He’s overseen numerous builds and renovations, and Shiro House, in the capital’s Cammo area, is the latest on his list.
The 44-year-old transformed the bare plot into a bespoke, contemporary five-bedroom home in 18 months.
And the end result is a sight for sore eyes.
Colin drew on his Asian background and Feng Shui to create a minimalist masterpiece.
He named the house Shiro, which in Japanese means “white” and “castle”.
“I wanted to build a house that has a real presence but with an air of subtly – and I believe I’ve achieved that,” Colin said.
“It’s strong, without being overpowering.”
From the angled louvred wall which subtly provides shadowing from the sitting room to the dining kitchen to the sumptuous marble work surfaces and walnut-lined walk in wardrobes, every detail has been painstakingly thought through.
“It’s all about space,” Colin explained.
“The ceiling as you enter is double height and the space centres around open plan living. The kitchen is one of my favourite areas.”
But the piece de resistance is the wood and steel staircase, which, despite its modern appearance, comes with a little bit of local history.
“It’s made from the heart of an old Elm tree from Holyrood Park,” Colin explains.
“When I first saw it and heard where it was from, I just knew that it had a role to play in the house so I bought the whole tree and designed the stair to suit.”
It’s certainly unique. But how does Colin feel about handing over his labour of love for someone else to enjoy?
“For me, the most amazing part of a project is not only seeing the designs in my head come to fruition, but seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they appreciate something you’ve poured your heart and soul into.”
The luxury family home is just one of only two properties Colin has overseen on the site. The second will be released to the market shortly.
In the meantime, he already has his next commission in the pipeline – a Townhouse renovation in London’s West End.
“I always like to push my boundaries design-wise and love a challenge,” Colin said.
“Shiro is a very inspirational house and will definitely make the new owners feel unique.”
Shiro House is on the market at offers over £1,050,000. Contact Knight Frank on 0131 222 9600.