PropertyLimBrothers’s Haus Collective series latest series uncovers the latest and refined homes in Singapore, from the owner’s perspective. From specific renovation details to culture-inspired murals, we peek into the minds of this highly-driven individuals and get inspirations for our dwelling. Also, check out our latest video of this home!
Into the Home
Step into the home of Celine and Ken, an interesting couple residing in a Singapore HDB apartment in Chai Chee. Initially, you might think a 3-bedroom might have little to expand your imagination on, but this outstanding inspiration proves that square footage shouldn’t limit the possibilities.
This carefully detailed, posh and sensuous unit stands at 732 sq ft, and is evidently inspired by Thai influences, culminating to a studio retreat that is both practical and tasteful.
Fate?
The couple casually balloted for a balance flat from HDB, in the middle of planning for their year-end holiday. They were already house hunting, but didn’t think of it till they got a lucky ballot number: 2. Well basically, any singe digit is a welcoming number here in Singapore. This elated them, and inspired them to make full use of this opportunity.
Interiors
Collecting the keys of balance flats are usually quite quick, but Celine and Ken weren’t in a rush. Renovations went on for a year, and cost roughly $100,000. Identifying likes and dislikes are paramount for a decisive renovation, and Celine intended to transform it into a single-bedder, open-concept design infused with the couple’s personal inclinations.
Celine is half Thai, and although growing up in Singapore, was deeply moved by the Thai’s mystical culture and artwork. It drove her to study at the Chulalongkorn University (Faculty of Arts), and intended her home to resonate her inspiration.
Wood was a key element, which was intended to speak warmth and intimacy — homely, to be precise. That was added to the industrial palette formulated in the couple’s minds, and was used sparingly throughout the home.
The couple initially intended to use an authentic rusted door for the entrance, however, that concept was sadly impossible due to HDB fire safety regulations, and decided to treat a fire rated door to give a similar rusted look.
The next step was lighting, and created a mood that further accentuated the warm mood and aesthetic appeal. Following which was scent, which is something we couldn’t capture for our article and videos (unless you count Celine’s cooking, which was divine). Thailand is renowned for its Jasmine scent, and was used throughout the home.
The gold elephants and buddhist Yak guardian artwork was painstakingly done by Zhang Sitthi, and was flown into Singapore for his craft. To combine the artwork with the modern concept was albeit harder to integrate than perceived; it required to be a focal point of the home, while blending the fusion of the two themes. Some of the furniture choices were focal points of their own, so some furniture had to be downplayed to some extent to pave way for the mural.
At first glance, one might feel the interiors to be a tad dark, intimidated even. But how they described it, was rather enlightening. Dark colours create a relaxing and cosy atmosphere, unifying decorative elements and giving a dramatic effect to other colours. It also made the space feel larger, but it’s always about contrast, which was why trimmings and other elements were used, together with different textures to even it out.
Furniture
It was pretty clear that this couple knew easily what they wanted in their abode, such as a Poltrana Fraus arm chair from Proof Living, Tom Fereday dining chairs from SPACE and Stride rug from PDM.
The bedroom wasn’t spared, with an enchanting Ralph Lauren bed and Jaspal bedding. Some of the lightings were carefully selected from Laptitude and other Thai retailers, which underscored the roots of culture.
Essentially, the homeowners wanted a spacious feel for the interiors inspired by a lifestyle, without any obvious storage spaces.
Her favourite spot: The capacious bathroom.
The two bathrooms were hacked and combined into a single room, which we must say, is more luxurious than even some landed homes. A see-through glass (though partially frosted for the shower area) was adopted, and the idea worked for the couple, as they are the only occupants. The simplicity of using a single- sink, and not spanning the usual his and hers, grants more countertop space to embolden luxury.
The result? A bespoke apartment, exuding both Celine and Ken’s inspirations and character, that they feel is of secondary importance; but a home that guides lives to be healthy, happy and undoubtedly fulfilling.
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