The Gold Standard

Drawing inspiration from the properties of the precious metal it was named after, designers Michael Fiebrich and Adrian L Norman joined forces to build Gold Residences, SMDC’S worldclass mixed-use development

The wisest investments are worth their weight in gold. Now, more than ever, we are investing not just our money, but also a great deal of thought into where and how we live. Experts in building structures and curating lifestyles, SM Development Corporation (SMDC) introduces its clientele to Gold Residences, a masterfully crafted world-class mixed-use development across NAIA Terminal 1 in Parañaque City that sets the precedent for the gold standard of living.

Modern at its core in terms of design, Gold Residences was built to be functional as it is grand, with the residents’ enjoyment of their living conditions made to be top priority. The innovative minds behind its unparalleled elegance are the Singapore-based full-service interior architectural firm Michael Fiebrich Design, and Hong Kongbased design and landscaping business Adrian L Norman Limited.

With 25 years of experience in various regions across the globe, Michael Fiebrich Design has reaped numerous awards, among which are Design Society International’s Designer of the Year 2019 and Best Hotel Suite in Asia Pacific for its work on the presidential suite of Conrad Manila. “Great design should make the mind travel—and there is a psychology to it,” shares Michael Fiebrich in an online interview. “The spaces that we spend time in everyday affect our mood and our thoughts, which then inform our behaviour.” Commissioned to design Gold Residences’ public spaces, Fiebrich was well-aware of how significant this responsibility was; as in a residential development, people are more likely to spend more time in their personal spaces rather than public ones. “You have to understand who your end user is. What do they want to see? How do they want to feel?”

For Fiebrich, it was simple. As long as the concept and the narrative were strong, the rest of the job would be easy. He drew inspiration from the word “gold”, equating it with beauty and richness, but also importance, safety and security. Combining timeless glamour with an artistic touch, he layered black and gold tones for a high contrast impression and set up dramatic art installations to create a stronger overall impact.