Unlike the Zen-like minimalist approach developed by the Japanese, tropical Minimalism in comparison is more functional and adapted to the local climate. The essnce of its style however, remains in line with the unfettered look and calm, peaceful interiors commonly associated with minimalist home designs.
For this home situated along Bukit Timah road, the owners desired simple and clean aesthetics with a neutral colour scheme. The design team from Topos Design Studio proposed a tropical Minimalist style for the architecture, accented by straight lines and wide, open spaces. The large cantilevered roof over the porch sets the tone perfectly, leading to a large wood-panelled wall next to the main door.
A row of window screens further the look of lines running throughout the home, intercepted by the addition of a large spiral staircase. Being the only curved structure in the home, the spiral becomes the centre of attraction when one is passing by the pool area.
As functional as it is easy on the eye, the tropical Minimalist aesthetic comprises simple flat-roofed structures with open corridors and floor-to-ceiling windows. This is a modern interpretation of traditional block housing commonly seen in Southeast Asia.
From the second floor, one gets an unobstructed view of the garden below as well as a glimpse of the living room next to the pool.
The reflecting view of the open living areas make the home look larger and even more expansive.
The simple architecture design allows the homeowner’s collection of designer furniture to become highlights of the spaces.
When left open, the sliding doors allow for cross-ventilation within the home. As a result, the home is cool throughout the day and enjoys constant breezes.
The homeowners also asked for the ceiling height to be raised so that the home feels more spacious and airy.
The white marble flooring becomes an ideal palate for showcasing antique rugs and the Eames lounger.
In a corner, a Fritz Hansen Egg chair offers an inviting space for one to retreat to during the day.
The double-volume space in the main dining area was tricky to decorate because of its sheer size, but the solution presented itself in the form of a stunning chandelier, which helps to put the space into proportion and add warmth to the room.
Textures dominate within the spaces, and one can see a wide variety of that, ranging from rough-cut stone surfaces to sleek marble and dark-stained wood.
An artistic partition wall doubles as the headboard in this bedroom.
The seamless look of the wall panels allow for the concealment of doorways and storage spaces.
Photos Derek Swalwell