Nostalgic about Hong Kong

Happy 2011 everyone! I just got back from visiting my parents in Hong Kong and am settling back into work and life in Seattle. This time around, mom and I decided we'd hit up Horizon Plaza - a giant furniture warehouse on Hong Kong island. Dad was a good sport about it, but complained a little when we decided to make it a full day affair. I tried to explain to him - how could I leave without a visit to the furniture mecca of Hong Kong?? He seemed less than enthused, but tagged along anyway...

Horizon Plaza - I remember visiting this place over 15 years ago - at that time, it was about 1/5th the size. There were fewer stores that catered to a very wealthy and often highly entitled group of people (also known as the expatriate population of Hong Kong!). Now, in post colonial times, the place looks a little less stuffy and a lot more approachable. I wandered through stores like Shambala, Tequila Kola and Tree, marvelling at the raw wood furnishings from India and Bali paired with Belgian linen couches and French bergeres. For those of you who don't know, I grew up in Hong Kong and every time I visit back, I'm struck by the seamless juxtaposition of cultures and the lasting impact it has had on my design aesthetic. As I walked through Horizon Plaza, I was happy to see that eclectic blend of cultures come to life through the styles and designs displayed on the shop floors. It felt like home. Here are a few of my favorites from Horizon Plaza.