When the homeowner (a developer) of this expansive plot approached Formwerkz Architects, the brief had been to be mindful of the natural topography of the land and to try to create as much privacy for his family of five as possible. 

Situated on a slope, the architecture team proposed a two-storey family home with an underground basement. Also included were guestrooms for the family’s in-laws and a lap-pool, which extends outwards from the main building.Extensive use of local Chengal mix cohesively with Travertine marble to evoke an elegant yet modern feel. 

The main living structure comprises a single block positioned at the back of the property, providing unobstructed views of the spacious garden out front. According to the architect, this positioning was also influenced by the layouts of colonial Black-and-White bungalows, where long drive ways lead up the slope to a grand entrance. 

A façade formed from wooden slat panels line the front of the home, becoming the most visible feature of the architecture. At the same time, plenty of shaded spaces were created within the home to protect from the sunlight. 

Stairs lead from the parking area to the outdoor living spaces on the next floor. The main living space and dining areas are located here, along a long verandah. 

The pool leads to the sight of a treehouse, which was built by professor Joseph Lim of the National University of Singapore's architecture faculty for a previous owner. The homeowner decided to retain this iconic feature and use it as a reference for the materials used throughout the new home.

The wooden slats along the façade continue all the way onto the roof as well. 

Glass balustrades along the stairs help to keep the spaces uncluttered and visually connected. 

The architecture team also included various elements that allowed for natural ventilation thorughout the home. 

The grand look of the marble and wood building from the driveway entrance. The home is shielded from view by lush greenery and because of its prime positioning at the top of the slope, contrasts beautifully with the sky above.

Photos by Albert Lim.