Materials play a central role in how Atelier Shan designs, because they shape how a space feels to live in, not just how it looks.
Every project begins with context. Residential spaces are deeply personal, shaped by daily routines and emotional attachment. Private clubs, hospitality, and food and beverage environments are driven by brand identity, use, and operational demands. Material decisions respond to these differences, ensuring each space feels appropriate, comfortable, and considered.
Atelier Shan does not apply a signature material palette across projects. Instead, materials are selected in response to the client, the brief, and the atmosphere the space needs to support. What remains consistent is the studio’s focus on comfort and tactility. Fabrics, textured finishes, and warm surfaces are often central, as they introduce softness and ease into high-end environments.
The studio works with some of the most respected international material houses. High-end fabrics sourced from France and the UK, including Pierre Frey, Dedar, Pollack, Perennials, and Zoffany, are selected for their quality, depth, and longevity. In Hong Kong, these are sourced through trusted distributors such as Altfield and Spring Collection.
Attention to detail extends to ironmongery, lighting, and fittings. Handmade brass ironmongery from Dauby and bespoke sockets and switches by Wandsworth are used where appropriate. Faucets and tapware from IB Rubinetti and Brodware are selected for both performance and craftsmanship.
The studio also sources reclaimed and specialist materials. Reclaimed wood from Imondi allows for character and sustainability within projects, while handmade brass by local artisans and rugs from Armadillo introduce texture and warmth. For sanitaryware, Atelier Shan works with high-end brands such as Kohler, Villeroy & Boch, Toto, and THG Paris.
Equally important are collaborations with local makers and specialists. Working closely with Hardwood Hong Kong, Ricardo Lighting, Segula, and Wincci, as well as directly with stone quarries and furniture makers in China. These relationships allow the studio to control quality, detail, and execution at every stage.
A strong understanding of the wider industry workflow informs how materials are selected. Design decisions are made with awareness of how materials will be delivered, maintained, and experienced over time. This holistic approach ensures creativity remains grounded and purposeful rather than purely aesthetic.
Clients often see material selection as a visual choice. In reality, materials define how a space ages, how it feels to touch, and how comfortable it is to occupy. Atelier Shan places great emphasis on communication during this stage, guiding clients through options so they feel confident and informed.
Budget influences material possibilities, but thoughtful materiality is not limited to scale. Larger budgets allow greater freedom, while smaller budgets require precision and care. In all cases, the studio’s role is to bring creative input, access the right crafts and suppliers, and deliver a result that feels harmonious, appropriate, and aligned with the client’s identity.
Ultimately, materials are used to support a sense of ease and coherence. They are not statements for their own sake, but tools that help high-end spaces feel balanced, lived in, and complete.
