A sustainability advocate, Rowena Gonzales founded Liquid Interiors in 2014 with a mission to transform urban living through eco-conscious design. The LEED AP and WELL AP certifications specialise in turning country houses and city dwellings into serene sanctuaries where wellbeing takes centre stage.
How do you define sustainability when it comes to Hong Kong homes?
Sustainability in the context of Hong Kong homes is fundamentally about creating designs that are mindful of our climate and the unique challenges posed by living in a densely populated, subtropical environment. It encompasses not only ecological aspects such as using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, but also focuses on promoting health and wellbeing for the residents and supporting the local economy. In a city where space is at a premium, sustainable design must be innovative, utilising every inch effectively while ensuring it benefits both people and the planet.
What was your proudest project this year?
My proudest project this year is undoubtedly our Organic Minimalist project, which received the Home Journal Green Design award for Sustainable Residential Space. It was an incredible honour to discuss the project with the judging panel, particularly one judge who elaborated on how our adherence to the newly released BEAM for Residential certification played a crucial role in our recognition. With my background in LEED AP and WELL AP, designing with sustainability and wellness in mind has always been second nature to me. Receiving this acknowledgment felt like a long-awaited validation of the extra effort we put into making our clients' homes not just beautiful, but also healthy and sustainable.
What did 2023-2024 mean to you?
The past year has presented significant challenges within our industry, with many firms downsizing and numerous shops closing their doors. However, Liquid Interiors has thrived for 16 years, navigating through various economic cycles. During downturns, I believe it’s essential to focus on improvement rather than contraction. Instead of reducing our team size, I chose to invest in their growth through education and skill enhancement while also restructuring for better collaboration. Now, I see the fruits of that investment; my team has become stronger and more innovative, ready to support each other and tackle new challenges together.
What's next for your company?
Looking ahead, what’s next for Liquid Interiors – and indeed for Hong Kong – is a period of rebuilding. The city is ripe for new energy, personality, and innovation as it seeks to reshape its global outlook. I have a deep love for Hong Kong; it’s a fantastic place to live, raise a family, and run a business while enjoying its unique blend of Asian culture and international flair.
I believe it’s time for Hong Kong to rediscover its creative spirit, reminiscent of its vibrant film industry from the 1970s. My vision is to bridge aesthetics from both northern and southern Asia with global influences, fostering a renewed appreciation for creativity within our local context in a more sustainable way. I aim to use more and more talented Asian artisans in our work that help to tell stories and help communities.
