Square Rooms
Square Rooms
Square Rooms
Walls
Transform
blank walls with
chic and
practical storage
Pro Designs
Real homes
packed with
function and style
BIG IDEAS
FOR SMALL HOMES
Clever tips to maximise
compact spaces
ISSUE 209
OCT 2022
S$5.50
BOLOGNA
T he perfect balance
Warmly,
Yi Ying
REO II RECLINER
NEXT LEVEL RELAXATION
ON THE COVER
In Focus
20
Big Ideas
28
12 Work Your Walls
Cosy Transformation Save precious floor space and
A resale flat becomes a Scandi- PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF
start looking to your walls for
OVON DESIGN
inspired haven for a young couple storage options
CONTENTS
OCTOBER 2022
Home Inspo
34
Like a Fine Wine
Vintage features of this old flat have
been lovingly incorporated into its
new design
42
Fully Functional
A decades-old flat is refreshed with
custom spatial planning to serve its
new homeowners’ needs
50
Savvy Space
Space-saving and multi-purpose
features make the most of this
compact studio apartment
58
Ethereal Elegance
Specially chosen furnishings and
cool built-ins further accentuate this
home’s airy appeal
64
Design Showcase
Intelligent interior design
solutions from our advertisers
69
Resources
ID and shop listings
72
Epilogue
Shake up your decor with fun
hues inspired by Barbiecore
@SquareRooms @SquareRoomsMag
E D I TO R I A L A DV E RT I S I N G M E D I A G R O U P P T E LT D
HUMAN RESOURCES
A RT MARKETING
WENDY CHUA
ART DIRECTOR
SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER
ARIS LAI DENISE LAW
SQUAREROOMS IS PUBLISHED BY
MEDIA GROUP PTE LTD
20 Bedok South Road Singapore 469277
Tel: 6445 3313 Fax: 6445 3373
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Although every reasonable care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information contained in this publication, neither the
publishers, editors and their employees and agents can be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions. We shall not be liable for any
actions taken based on the views expressed, or information provided within this publication. You should always seek professional advice from the
appropriate advisor, professional or institution. Copyright 2022.
SPECIAL REPORT
MODERN
DELIGHT
From light and bright to dusky
black, these countertop colours
will make you fall in love.
Whitelight Collection
The soothing Whitelight Collection
offers a lineup of light, natural colours,
evoking a feeling of calm and
serenity. While some of the hues in this
collection exude a warm glow and
others are sleek and cool, all of them
evoke a sense of soft gracefulness, Aterra Blanca: a soft and Arabetto: a swirling galaxy Adamina: a lush sandstone Alpine Mist: a cool grey
making for a kitchen that’s both misty white base with warm, of grey speckles across a surface that evokes the backdrop for crisp white lines
sophisticated and down-to-earth. earthy veining. crisp white surface. warmth of a golden dune. and darker flecks of grey.
Dark Collection
The Dark Collection brings you
captivating quartz surfaces in rich,
dark hues. These colours are inspired
by the natural elements of dark
marble, further enhanced by the
collection’s tactile finishes. Opt for the
Natural finish for a textured feel and
Oxidian: a deep and mysterious Empira Black: a bold surface, with Black Tempal: a travertine-inspired satin sheen, or choose the Polished
hue with metallic appeal and a subtle fine white veins set against a luxuriant, charcoal base with captivating, finish for something high-gloss and
russet tinge. dark backdrop. textured beauty. smooth to the touch.
Drop by the Suntec showroom to view the slabs in their full glory.
Caesarstone 3 Temasek Boulevard #03-357 Suntec City Mall Tower 3 Singapore 038983 9011 3559 caesarstone.sg
SPECIAL REPORT
Want to start planning your dream kitchen design but have no What was your number one priority when
idea where to start? Here’s how one homeowner did it, ensuring renovating your kitchen?
ease of use by carefully tweaking the space around her My priority for my main kitchen was the workflow. I wanted to
workflow and choosing high-functioning appliances that never be able to reach the various appliances in a few steps in all
let her down. directions. There also had to be sufficient work surfaces.
From now till 30th Nov Visit the V-ZUG Studio @ Henderson: 201 Henderson Rd, #05-13/14, Singapore 159545
From Dec Visit the all-new V-ZUG Experience Centre Showroom: 2 Orchard, ION Orchard #02-07B Singapore 238801
In Focus
NEWS
Celebrate in style
What could be a better way to celebrate with
friends and family than a good old hotpot
session? With WMF’s new Lono Hot Pot &
Steam, you can gather your loved ones around
the table for a delicious meal, minus the fuss. Its
compact design, safe operation and range of
accessories make it straightforward to use for
the whole family, while the transparent glass
lid allows you to keep an eye on the cooking
while you chat the night away.
wmf.sg
Fresh air
If you’re moving into your new home, you
may be shopping around for a good fan
to keep the heat at bay—and you may be
simultaneously looking for an air purifier to
keep your space clean and fresh. Instead
of cluttering your home with two separate
appliances, get the new LG PuriCare
AeroTower, a two-in-one air purifying fan with
a strikingly modern, almost futuristic look. It
comes with a strong three-step filtration system
to remove allergens, fine dust, unpleasant
odours and harmful gases from the air, as
well as self-sanitising technology, so you can
unwind at home with peace of mind. Affordable luxury
lg.com/sg If you love the cosy Scandinavian style
and IG-worthy wooden furniture, drop
by the brand-new Castlery showroom
along Orchard Road! The space spans
a whopping 24,000 square feet and
occupies two floors, creating an easy,
comfortable browsing experience across
various living, dining and bedroom settings.
Beyond allowing you to touch and feel the
furniture in person, the showroom is also
bound to evoke inspiration with its inviting
design, from the solid walnut sales counter
to the custom Barrisol ceiling lending light
to a soothing zen garden.
castlery.com/sg
10 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Mini but mighty
Meet the new kid on the block: the Sonos Sub Mini, a wireless
subwoofer that sets a new standard for powerful, balanced
sound despite its minute size. It generates deep and dynamic
audio that will immerse you in every scene and song, neutralising
distortion for a more realistic sound experience. To top it off,
it also looks great from every angle, drawing little
attention with its minimalist design.
trysonos.sg
Make it yours
Samsung’s Bespoke Home
range is getting an upgrade, and
it’s definitely one worth keeping
on your radar. The Bespoke
Versatile elegance Refrigerator is now available in
If you love Dekton surfaces as much as we do, even more colours and patterns,
you’ll be excited to know that two new ranges including Disney-inspired
have hit the market: Dekton Onirika and wallpapers and even customised
Kraftizen. While Onirika is a stunning series looks to suit your kitchen
of eight bold yet elegant colourways inspired aesthetic to a T. The Bespoke
by marble patterns, Kraftizen reinterprets the Jet, already a gorgeous vacuum
beauty of Venetian stucco in a series of five cleaner beforehand, also got
versatile colours. Impervious to scratches, treated to a brand new colour,
stains, heat and much more, these surfaces are now available in a sophisticated
a foolproof pick for every kitchen. Midnight Blue shade.
cosentino.com/en-sg samsung.com/sg
11
FEATURE
Cosy
Transformation
This resale flat was turned into a Scandi-inspired
haven for a young couple.
T e x t YA I Z A C A N O P O L I P h o t o s J U D E S I G N ST U D I O
The Brief
Located along Punggol Drive, this resale HDB flat was missing a lot
of essentials for its new homeowners. The young couple needed
a spacious, open-concept layout that would be conducive to their
work-from-home lifestyle, as well as a bright and airy aesthetic
reflective of their love of Scandinavian interiors. A complete
renovation was in order, turning the house upside down in the span
of 12 weeks.
Alex Chang from Ju Design Studio took charge of the project,
carefully considering the homeowners’ preferences and needs.
Significant space planning was undertaken, hacking multiple walls
to achieve a more efficient layout. This not only maximised the
storage space but also improved ventilation and the flow of natural
light throughout the flat.
For instance, the current work-from-home setup once
served as a spare bedroom. This particularly bright corner of the
living area was the perfect candidate for a working environment
that’s pleasant and gentle on the eyes, so hacking the walls and
connecting it to the rest of the living room was a natural decision.
The other various nooks and crannies around the house weren’t
neglected either, fitted out with practical additions, including
plenty of storage space. Some of the storage fixtures were attached
externally, while others were built into the walls as streamlined
niches, lending the home an organic, almost rustic touch.
The design team then focused in on the couple’s dream vision,
cladding the space in Scandi-inspired pastel tones and wood-look
textures. They kept the interiors fresh by alternating between paint,
carpentry and tiles and even extending these textures to the quirky
home decor.
The happy couple now gets to enjoy a spacious, open-concept
home flooded with natural light and a dreamy palette—the perfect
place to do it all, be it working from home, enjoying a relaxing
weekend together or unwinding at the end of a long day.
12 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
AT A G L A N C E
Space F O U R - R O OM R E S A L E H D B
Location P U N G G O L D R I V E
Reno period 12 W E E KS
Home to A YO U N G CO U P L E
Reno budget $40 K
13
FEATURE
14 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Previous page
Overall view
Instead of sticking with the flat’s original layout,
the living area was combined with the dining
and working spaces, making the home feel extra
airy and expansive. To enhance this feeling of
openness even further, the entire area was fitted
out with the same vinyl flooring.
Left
Below
Home office
Fitted out with folding glass doors and placed
right beside a large window, the home office can
be opened up for a spacious living room layout or
closed off for a quiet working environment.
15
FEATURE
Kitchen
Not only does the baby blue hue make for a lovely accent colour,
but it also ensures that the bottom Panaplast cabinets are fairly
easy to maintain in the long run. A light grey Compact countertop
from EDL rounds off the kitchen with style and functionality.
16 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Easy Accents
Cute and practical decor ideas to
spruce up your interiors.
Guest bathroom
Kept simple and down to earth, the guest
bathroom was clad in soothing Hafary tiles
and wood-look textures.
Funky cushions
You can instantly add a pop of colour to
your living area or bedroom by adding a
few striking cushions.
A storage ladder
For a distinctly Scandinavian vibe, get
your hands on a storage ladder, be it for
hanging towels or with a wider surface
area for storing knickknacks.
A table set
Boring dining area? Spice up your
dinners with an eye-catching table set!
17
FEATURE
Below
Bedroom
The combination of redwood wall paint,
warm panelling and matching vinyl flooring
evokes a cosy and thoroughly Scandi-
inspired ambience in the bedroom.
18 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Main bathroom
The main bathroom was clad
in trendy terrazzo tiles from
Hafary, then equipped with a
sink and faucet from Viva Nueva
and finished off with golden
fixtures sourced from Taobao.
Layered
cur tains
To keep things Fabric
Venetian versatile, opt shades
blinds for two layers of If you’re
A classic that curtains—one aiming for
works with sheer day curtain a soft and
almost any to let in some hazy look
style! Especially sunlight and a that Venetian
suitable for the thicker pair to blinds can’t
bathroom and keep out street provide, opt for
other humid lights and traffic fabric shades
spaces. noise at night. instead.
19
INSPIRATION
KIT
BIG IDEAS
Tight on space? These tips will help you make the most of what you have! text YUEN YI YING
20 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Think Outside the Box
We tend to only use our balconies
for outdoor dining, lounging and
gardening activities, but why not
consider using them as home offices
too? They’re often an ideal size, and
you’ll get to take in the view and
enjoy relaxing vibes. Tip! Be sure to
secure your papers in case they get
blown away!
IMAGE COURTESY OF DECOIST
DESIGN BY 2FORM
21
INSPIRATION
KIT
22 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Hide the Bulky
Appliances
Simply tucking large appliances—
such as your fridge, laundry
machines, oven and dishwasher—
behind cabinetry can create a
seamless appearance that gives the
illusion of more breathing room.
23
INSPIRATION
KIT
Think Big
A baby grand piano may seem like the most
ridiculous thing to have in a small home, but it’s
actually a good option for those keen on tickling
the ivories. Besides adding drama, it looks good
placed anywhere, even in the middle of the room,
DESIGN BY EIGHTYTWO
24 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Make Savvy
Seating Choices
Like hosting big gatherings?
Instead of filling up your
dining area with individual
chairs, build a long,
slim bench which can
accommodate more guests
in the same amount of space.
Minimise Clutter
Open shelving adds interest but can be
a clutter magnet that makes small spaces
look busy and crowded. Consider how
much maintenance you can manage and
strike a balance by adding closed storage
for unsightly items like cables, cleaning
tools, product boxes.
DESIGN BY 19EIGHTYTHREE
INSPIRATION
KIT
Get Creative
Don’t be tethered to the idea that you always need a side
table. Perhaps you could frame your bed with built-in
cabinetry for increased storage and just carve out a niche to
slot night-time essentials.
27
INSPIRATION
KIT
WORK
YOUR WALLS
Save your precious floor space
and start looking to your walls for
more storage options. Here are
some ideas to try.
t ex t YA I Z A C A N O P O L I
and STANLEY LIM
29
INSPIRATION
KIT
Get a Grid
Iron grids, also known as frames, offer a different look to
the tool rack shown earlier but provide similar utility. Their
wider spacing reduces overlapping of items, making it
a great option for displaying chunkier jewellery, as well
as attaching photos, sunglasses and keys. If the aesthetic
of the grid is too industrial for your taste, loosely wrap
some fairy lights around it, making it instantly much more
appealing and eye-catching. Finally, don’t forget that
you can attach the frame to the wall any way you like; try
hanging it up at an angle for a more personalised and
highly aesthetic look.
Put Up a Rail
Rails are most commonly used to hang up towels in the bathroom but they’re also a
great option for the kitchen. They don’t take up much space yet allow you to place hooks
anywhere along the length to hang up utensils, towels, gloves, pots and more. Just be sure
to watch for the weight limit! For a gentle and subdued look, consider a wooden bar with
classic utensils. For a more industrial aesthetic, hang metal baskets from the bar alongside
black or silver utensils, and hook pots and pans onto the bar to finish it off.
30 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Be Flexible
Pegboards are perhaps the most versatile kind of wall-mounted
storage. They can be attached to your wall in any room, come
in a variety of colours, and can save you a massive headache
when looking for something specific in your home. You can
also attach other nifty items to the pegboard itself, such as
shelves and boxes, giving you more versatility when storing
things. Hang a pegboard above your desk to keep notes close
by, or add one in your kitchen to hold spices. These will also
be great in a bathroom to keep toiletries visible and handy.
IMAGE COURTESY OF FERM LIVING
32 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Don’t Leave Baskets on the Floor
Baskets can take up a lot of space. Consider
ways of displaying them that are appealing and
IMAGE COURTESY OF @MRS.WORLD_PEACE
Turn a Corner
Corner shelves are a
nifty way of making the
most of your space,
and simultaneously
making empty corners
look less awkward. For
example, bookshelves are
especially stunning when
wrapped around the
corners of a room. Take a
walk around your home
and look out for empty
corners, then consider
the spaces that are too
crowded, and work on
adapting those corners to
make better use of them.
33
HOME INSPO
Judging by the scuffed-up appearance of for their abode. A simple backdrop of grey a spacious long table that provides ample
the main door, one would be surprised by cement screed floors, white walls, and stark workspace for the owners.
the contrasting contemporary interiors hiding black lines from exposed electrical trunking Buttressing the mood of this cosy space,
behind it. The owners, a videographer-husband defines the living room. Built-ins are kept to a the full-height, stained plywood bookshelf does
and chef-wife, wanted to preserve as much minimum, save for a discreet low cabinet under more than hold tomes, keepsakes, and other
of the 808sq ft, two-bedroom flat’s original the louvre windows to fulfil some of the owners’ bric-a-brac–it replaces the wall that once
architectural features as possible, conveying this storage needs. separated the home office from the primary
point as a priority in their brief to their interior The horizontal line of the cabinet cuts bedroom next to it. To conserve precious
designer Mikael Teh of Monocot Studio. into the connecting communal space, the space in the apartment, the bookshelf and
The door’s striking olive hue, its original home office. Converted from a common wardrobe in the bedroom sit back-to-back to
colour, was achieved by painstakingly stripping bedroom, the home office was necessitated form a substitute wall to bisect the two spaces.
away layers of subsequent paint jobs with by WFH orders during the pandemic. Jet The kitchen floors were yet another
sandpaper. Its unpolished state, with its myriad black aluminium door frames provide the important element that was saved in the
marks from a lifetime of wear and tear is kept flexibility of privacy and connection with a renovation process. Concealed under years
unmasked, for in this home age is a valuable swift push or pull of the glass sliding doors, of compacted dirt and dust, expert chemical
cachet to be proudly displayed. while subtly underscoring a masculine vibe. polishing cut through the grime to reveal a
Owning a collection of bulky videography The eye-catching red brick end wall adds a delicate montage of blue and white mosaics.
gear and multiple sets of handmade porcelain gritty texture that accentuates the industrial As the hospitable couple loves to entertain
kitchenware belonging to the husband and wife undertones of the home, a spatial focal point guests, the bathroom was also given significant
respectively, the couple also required plenty that was restored by removing the lime plaster thought to serve visitors. A “porthole” cut-out
of storage space. Noting their creative careers that had previously concealed it. Following the in the bathroom door evokes the intimate vibes
and personalities, Mikael curated a minimalist clean line of the cabinets in the living room, of boat cabins, while the natural granite floors
design language with an industrial nuance in the home office the storage units lead into provide a luxurious textural surprise underfoot.
35
HOME INSPO
.
.
36 .
OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Left
Living room
Vintage details like the louvre windows and red
brick walls imbue an inimitable patina to this
modern apartment.
Below
Main door
Layers of paint jobs were sanded away to reveal
the original olive hue of the timber door.
37
HOME INSPO
Right
Bookshelf
Spanning the height of the room, this
stained plywood custom bookshelf
acts as a substitute wall separating the
office in which it sits and the primary
bedroom behind it.
Below
Home office
Jean Prouve’s iconic Potence wall lamp
illuminates the minimalist office space.
38 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Below
Kitchen
The tessellation of restored blue and
white mosaics add visual complexity to
the kitchen.
39
H OH M
O EM IE NISNPSOP O
Right
Louvre windows
The timber louvre windows have
been given a similar treatment
as the front door, preserving its
original paint job and signs of age.
Below
Bedroom
The bedroom enjoys plenty
of natural light thanks to the
expanse of windows that face the
apartment’s backyard.
40 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
S
M
A
R
T
BESIDES MERGING
THE TOILET T
AND SHOWER
SPACES, THE NEW ONCE SEPARATED
BATHROOM LAYOUT BY A WALL, THE W
NOW ALLOWS TWIN BOOKSHELF AND
ACCESS FROM THE WARDROBE IN THE E
KITCHEN AND ALSO OFFICE AND BEDROOM
Below
THE BEDROOM. RESPECTIVELY NOW
FORM A SUBSTITUTE A Bathroom
PARTITION DIVIDING
THE TWO SPACES. K The old-style bifurcated bathroom
layout was merged to integrate
S the toilet and shower into one
space. Extra room was carved from
the kitchen so that space for a
washbasin could also be enclosed
within the new bathroom layout.
41
HOME INSPO
42 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Fully Functional
A decades-old flat is refreshed with
custom spatial planning that closely
serves the needs of its new owners.
Space Four-room resale flat
Text I S A B E L L E TOW Photos OVON DESIGN
Location Ang Mo Ko
Reno period 10 weeks
Home to A married couple
Reno budget $100K After acquiring this 979sq ft, four-room Desiring a clean, minimalist aesthetic,
resale flat, the Leongs set out to overhaul cool neutral tones of white and grey
the space in accordance with their in the communal areas set the mood
lifestyle needs. Being frequent hosts, they for the entire home. Since space had
wanted a more spacious communal been taken from the primary bedroom
area. Additionally, they wanted their to expand the living room, this loss was
bathrooms and primary bedroom to be compensated by taking space from the
larger and more functional. The pandemic kitchen. The wall dividing the bedroom
necessitated a home office, so a compact and the kitchen was shifted leftwards,
study nook was also added to their brief. simultaneously narrowing the kitchen
Their interior designer Leon Leong whilst widening the primary bedroom, but
of Ovon Design carefully considered also the common and ensuite bathrooms.
his clients’ requirements in the spatial A galley layout optimises the long
planning of the apartment. To expand and narrow shape of the kitchen. Ample
the shared living and dining space, the storage units and worktop space are
wall dividing the communal zone from the priorities in the dry kitchen, which
the primary bedroom was pushed back. is divided from the wet zone by glass
Built-ins are kept to a minimum in this zone, pocket sliding doors. A glass display
keeping the atmosphere light and airy, cabinet at the entrance of the kitchen
with plenty of room to roam around freely. shows off the owners’ collection of vivid-
The only built-in carpentry is found at the hued cookware and appliances, the
wall adjacent to the main door. A mix of eye-catching cherry red and vermillion
closed and open cabinets provide the tones inject welcome colour in the
flexibility of hiding unsightly belongings otherwise monochromatic kitchen. The
whilst providing opportunity to display wet kitchen is where cooking, cleaning,
travel souvenirs and fan memorabilia. A and laundry happen. The vanity
banquette under the windows provides washbasin for the common bathroom is
extra seating without introducing more situated outside the bathroom, leaving
clutter from additional furniture. more space for a more relaxing shower.
43
HOME INSPO
Below
Dining space
There is more space in the shared dining
and living areas after pushing back the wall
that separates the communal zone and the
primary bedroom.
44 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Left
Study
The entrances to the common
bedrooms were shifted back,
making space for a compact study
sandwiched between the bedrooms.
Below
Living area
A banquette was created under
the windows, adding extra seating
without introducing clutter from
bulky loose furniture.
45
HOME INSPO
46 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Opposite page
Kitchen
The footprint of the kitchen was reduced after
the wall separating it from the primary bedroom
was shifted leftwards. A galley layout optimises
the functional area, integrating the storage
units with the essential kitchen appliances.
Left
Display cabinet
A glass displau cabinet houses prized cookware
and appliances in vivid hues.
Below
Wet kitchen
Besides the gas hob and sink, the wet area of
the kitchen also includes the vanity washbasin
of the common bathroom.
47
H OH
MOE MI N
E SI P
NOSPO
Primary bedroom
An all-white scheme invokes a
vibe of quiet calm in the owners’
private sanctum.
48 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
S
M
A
A LEFTWARDS
SHIFT OF THE WALL
R
SIMULTANEOUSLY
EXPANDS T
THE PRIMARY
BEDROOM WHILST
NARROWING THE
KITCHEN WITHOUT
IMPACTING T
FUNCTION.
W
A NARROW NOOK, E
CARVED FROM
SPACE STOLEN FROM
THE ADJACENT A
COMMON
BEDROOMS, K
BECOMES A POCKET Below
STUDY CORNER.
S Ensuite bathroom
Broody tones dominate the
ensuite bathroom, its dark
interiors an instant balm to
soothe frazzled senses.
49
HOME INSPO
Savvy Space
Space One -bedroom apartment Space-saving and multi-purpose
Location Braddell
features make the most of this compact
Reno period Eight weeks
studio apartment.
Home to A couple and four cats
Reno budget $50K Text I S A B E L L E TOW Photos D ’PHENOMENAL
What happens when you put a family of six and a zone was created so that the walls that the pull-out effect. Besides acting as a TV
small, 700sq ft one-bedroom apartment together? sandwich the space are maximised—floor-to- console, this unit also serves the family’s
A necessity for a well-planned spatial design that ceiling cabinetry on the left and white goods felines. Behind the round cut-outs, the top
optimises every inch of the home is the answer. such as the fridge and ovens on the right. The shelf of the unit is reserved for the cats,
Besides the owners, their four “kids” are their cabinetry is colour-blocked—wood-toned acting as a hideout and “catwalk” for them
brood of felines, Max, Mugi, Mochi and Miko, at the top and black with three-dimensional to roam and perch from. Built-in shelves
strays that they adopted into their family. panelled finishing at the bottom. The textured in the void on the far-left function as steps
The existing layout of the resale home finish is achieved by assembling trapezoidal for the cats to reach this hiding spot and a
needed an overhaul to accommodate the plywood strips, laminating them and attaching climbing post is also integrated into the unit.
lifestyle and needs of the family, so the team at them to the doors. The effect of this panelling is The balcony is designated for rest and
D’Phenomenal were called upon for the job of the joint lines of the cabinets are less apparent. relaxation—a hammock for the humans
renovating the place. Foremost in the brief was For added surface space, a retractable and shelves for the felines provide a spot
apparent: the need for space-saving features worktop is built into the far right of the unit. for everyone to leisurely enjoy the view
that would optimise the one-bedder studio; multi- The most prominent feature in the and fresh air. For their safety, mesh netting
purpose use of the communal areas would be an apartment is the wall-to-wall built-in unit that envelops the space.
added plus. Not forgetting their beloved furkids, clads the living room wall. Spanning 5.3m, After eight weeks of renovation, the
the owners also requested for spaces around the this unit serves multiple purposes apart from family moved into their bespoke apartment
home that are dedicated for the cats to roam, just providing storage. Hidden within it is a last August. 700sq ft may not be big by
play and rest freely. retractable table and benches that emerge most standards, but custom built-ins and
The kitchen is the first thing one beholds upon during mealtimes and also double as a work multipurpose features allow everything the
entering the apartment. A galley-style cooking desk—collapsible hinges from Ewins allow for family needs and more into their home.
51
HOME INSPO
52 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Left
Overall view
From the entrance, one is able to
view the entirety of the apartment's
communal space.
Below
Kitchen
The design of the kitchen maximises
utility of the tight space. Whilst light Pull-out worktop
hues dominate the living room, the The meal prep zone is
black-toned panelled cabinetry in the given a boost with extra
kitchen gives it a chic look. counter space.
53
HOME INSPO
This page
TV console and storage
Spanning the entire length of the wall,
this built-in unit integrates multiple
features. Besides storage compartments,
it also mounts the TV, includes a
retractable table and benches to be
pulled out during meals and climbing
features for the cats.
Opposite page
Living room
Glass panels and a sliding door replace
the solid wall that separates the living
area from the bedroom.
54 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
HOME INSPO
Opposite page
Bedroom
An angular design on the wardrobe
doors adds visual interest to the
simply-furnished bedroom.
Left
Climbing tower for cats
The cats access the “catwalk” along
the top cabinets via the climbing
tower and built-in shelves that act
as steps.
Below
Balcony
The balcony provides a spot for
leisurely lounging for both owners
and cats alike. Mesh netting acts a
safety feature for the cats.
57
Living room
The furnishings here lie closer to the
ground, making the ceiling height appear
taller. To avoid a weighty appearance,
several pieces are either propped up on
skinny legs or mounted on the wall for
a floating effect, letting one take in the
entire floor space. Above, the contrasting
lighting tracks help to visually elongate
the room, while cove lighting above the
media console provides a soft and cosy
ambience for watching TV.
HOME INSPO
Ethereal Elegance
Space Four-storey terrace house Specially chosen furnishings and cool
Location Yio Chu Kang built-ins further accentuate this home’s
Reno period Approximately three months airy and open appeal.
Home to A couple and a teenage daughter
Budget Undisclosed Text Y U E N Y I Y I N G Photos I-CHAPTER
The homeowners and their designer, Cindy Tan of the interiors. Cove lighting was also installed an ideal match, letting light and one’s gaze pass
I-Chapter, go way back. Starting out as Cindy’s above the TV, creating a moody vibe for cosy through for an expansive appearance.
customers 10 years ago when they worked on an movie nights. To play up the roominess here, the Venture one floor above and you’ll encounter
earlier home, the trio are now friends who trust space is outfitted with only essential furnishings a stately bookcase on the second-floor landing.
and understand each other. Working together that either lie close to the ground to play up This cheeky floor-to-ceiling structure affords the
again for this terrace house’s refresh, their initial the ceiling height, or pieces that “float” or are homeowners additional storage and display
plan was to go with an industrial theme, but that propped up on slim legs, letting the eye take space, but it also swings open to reveal two
soon evolved to have a more polished feel that in the entire length of the communal area. In adjacent rooms: the study and walk-in wardrobe.
would better suit the covetable 4,000sq ft space. the same space, within a nondescript custom Designed to look like a boutique, the closet is a
The home boasted a light and airy aesthetic “storage unit” is a DJ booth to cater to the thing of beauty. Illuminated full-height storage
with tall ceilings and large windows, and Cindy male homeowner’s hobby. The bifold doors units with clear glass fronts allow the homeowners
wanted to enhance that further. open fully to allow unrestricted access to the to display their belongings without making the
In the living room where sunbeams freely equipment, but once the doors are closed, no room seem cramped.
stream in, Cindy matched the drama of the dark one would be any wiser about its contents. While space was never an issue in this
existing marble flooring with special effects Across the hall is the dining zone which sizeable dwelling, it never hurts to play up
paint on the media wall, adding movement and looks out to an outdoor patio. The dining table strengths. By employing popular techniques to
interest to the gathering space. The designer comfortably accommodates six or more but visually expand the interiors, this home managed
also altered the ceiling, adding magnetic lights doesn’t look bulky thanks to its slim profile. The to retain its roominess, yet is more comfortable,
along black tracks that help to visually elongate ghost chairs chosen to complete this setup are chic and purposeful than ever before.
59
HOME INSPO
Right
DJ booth
Tucked behind the living room is this
elaborate DJ setup. Cindy designed this
corner with bifold doors that open fully
for easy access to all the components, but
when the doors are closed, this unit looks
just like a regular closet and blends in
with the rest of the decor.
Below
Hidden entrance
The homeowners came up with the idea
of having a bookcase door that swings
open to reveal the closet and study. Cindy
refined their concept, taking the time
and effort to hunt down the right hinges
(these were made in Europe) to ensure
quality, safety and longevity.
60 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Dining zone
A sleek table and see-
through dining chairs
keep this area feeling
open and airy, while a
mirrored art piece on the
wall expands the space
further. The dining nook
opens up to the outdoor
patio, allowing the
homeowners to enjoy an
alfresco dining experience
no matter where they
enjoy their meal.
HOME INSPO
Walk-in closet
Resembling an upscale boutique,
the closet is equal parts stylish and
practical. A skinny island in the middle
holds accessories, while the clothes
and bags are tucked behind glass panes
to keep them protected. Light strips
embedded in the closets illuminate
the belongings beautifully and serve to
make the room feel wider.
62 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
Feature wall
Nippon Momento
special effects paint
Left
Bedroom
Sporting a similar concept to
the living room, the accent
wall was swathed in special
effects paint and light strips
were added above to visually
lengthen the space. Cindy
wanted a warmer and softer
look for the bedroom so she
installed a fabric headboard
with hidden cove lights and
chose curtains in a dark hue to
create a cosy and elegant vibe
reminiscent of resort hotels.
S
M
A
A SWINGING
BOOKCASE R
DOOR GIVES THE
HOMEOWNERS A
PLAYFUL SPOT FOR
T
DISPLAYING BOOKS
AND TREASURED
KNICKKNACKS.
T
A DJ BOOTH WAS SET
UP HERE TO UTILISE AN W
EMPTY CORNER BY THE
LIVING ROOM.
E
A
K
S
63
DESIGN SHOWCASE
Modern
The idea for this spot was to make it A custom wood-panelled headboard fitted
feel cosy and fully utilise the available with light strips, side tables and sconces
footprint, Nick tells us. The trio decided nicely wraps around the king-sized bed,
DARWIN INTERIOR
Whether you’re looking for a simple design ways of catering creative designs to fit
23 Ubi Road 4 #01-06 update or a complete home makeover, your lifestyle. From conceptualisation
Singapore 408620 Darwin Interior has the expertise to meet to conclusion, the Darwin Interior team
Tel: 6396 8558 your needs. Their designs are always believes that customers are always the
darwininterior.com.sg “human-oriented,” emphasising innovative top priority.
64 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
5 1
65
HIGHLIGHT
Is there anything as luxurious as relaxing on your design is sleek and elegant, with minimalist
own balcony, indulging in a gorgeous view? silhouettes that allow these pieces to seamlessly
Be it at the end of a long day or on a quiet blend with your classic indoor furnishings!
Sunday morning, these small outdoor spaces are Beautiful from every angle, it comes with
precious and very worth their square footage, a soft, inviting seat and back cushions of
helping us recharge from the hustle and bustle of generous proportions for unsurpassed outdoor
everyday life. comfort. You can also customise the fabric to
To enhance your balcony experience suit your personal needs and ensure a good
and make the most of this magical space, it’s match with your home aesthetic.
important to furnish it with the right furniture For outdoor placement, choose between
that can create a seamless harmony between the resilient WeatherWeave fabric and
indoor and outdoor spaces. Even better, the new, UV-stable Sunbrella covers with
pieces that fare equally well indoors while enhanced waterproofing backed by a five-
withstanding our tropical weather. Here are our year warranty. If you plan on using these
top picks from the King Living Quay Collection chic pieces indoors only, you have the entire
for discerning homeowners unwilling to King Living fabric and leather library at your
sacrifice style for durability and versatility. fingertips—over 200 to choose from! Both
Designed by the award-winning design outdoor and indoor covers are effortless to
team at King Living, the Quay Outdoor remove for professional cleaning or replaced
armchair and sofa combine artistic design with for a fresh new look.
premium materials and top-notch production No matter your lifestyle, the broad Quay
PROJECT BY AKIHAUS techniques to create luxurious seating options range from King Living is bound to take your
that are lightweight, strong and functional. The interiors—and exteriors!—to a whole new level.
King Living Kallang Showroom, 22 Kallang Avenue, Hong Aik Building #01-00 tel: 6805 4198
kingliving.com Alexandra Showroom, 2 Leng Kee Road, Thye Hong Centre #01-02/03 tel: 6232 9106
HIGHLIGHT
I TA L I A N I N S P I R AT I O N
Discover the modern, Italian-inspired faucets in the brand new Bologna Range.
BO 3144AS
67
HIGHLIGHT
H E A LT H Y T I L E S
Topped with a layer of nano glazing, Lian Seng Hin’s
Talos Living tiles bring you health benefits through
the power of nature.
While aesthetics and durability should be your top priorities when choosing
tiles for your home, you don’t have to settle for just those qualities—in fact, you
should be asking for much more! For instance, have you ever considered that
your tiles could actually enhance your health and well-being at home?
Lian Seng Hin’s collection of Talos Living Tiles applies innovative glazing
technology to infuse your home with unique health benefits, utilising the
power of nature to improve your indoor air quality and personal well-being.
A layer of nano-glazed particles is applied directly to the tiles and results in
the continuous, life-long production of negative ions, found naturally near
waterfalls, in forests, on the beach and after storms.
By releasing these negative ions into your home, the Talos Living Tiles allow
you to experience the crisp and healthy air quality of these natural environments
in your own living spaces. This supposedly clears them of airborne allergens,
bacteria, viruses, dust, smoke and other VOCs, helping you to reduce allergy
symptoms, improve cognitive performance and even increase the blood’s ability
to assimilate and use oxygen.
Makarati series - Mocha
Of course, looks aren’t neglected either. The Talos Living Tiles are available in
various sizes, colours and patterns across five design series, ranging from stone
to wood-look tiles, so you’re sure to find something to suit your home interior.
A lustrous matt finish makes the smaller tiles suitable for both indoor and
outdoor applications, be it on the walls or the floors, while the brand’s large-
format tiles come in a glazed, polished, silky matt and matt glazed finish as well.
The best part? Compared to an air purifier that needs to be plugged in,
cleaned and maintained, the Talos Living Tiles only require a gentle cleaning
routine to last you a lifetime.
Lian Seng Hin 568A Balestier Road Singapore 329885 Tel: 6252 2222
liansenghin.com.sg Tradehub 21, 18 Boon Lay Way, #01-141, Singapore 609966 Tel: 6251 2222 / 6252 1030
Crocodile House, 3 Ubi Ave 3, #01-01, Singapore 408857 Tel: 6747 2522
RESOURCES
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RESOURCES
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SERVICES
70 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
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D O L LY C H I C
Been seeing pink everywhere? That’s no
coincidence thanks to the Barbiecore
trend that’s making waves. Shades of pink,
purple, blue, yellow and green associated
with Barbie dolls, which inspired the trend,
are ideal for perking up neutral interiors
that have reigned for the past few years.
If you’re not big on colour but want to
inject some of these cheerful hues into your
decor, try smaller pieces like a lamp, vase
or cushion cover. You can also go for more
subdued tones which may blend better into
your space. For those looking to make a
bigger statement, refreshing compact areas
like your bathroom, kitchen, an accent wall
or your doors in a bolder hue is a great way
to create impact without overwhelming
your interiors.
72 OCTOBER SQUAREROOMS
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