Before turning the fixed timber-louvred wall on the side of their house into a glass facade, the homeowners of this conservation corner terrace had to endure passersby peeping into their home.

The Singaporean/Swiss couple had been living in the house since 2012, and only began to rethink their living space after having children and realising that they had outgrown certain features like the koi pond.

Their designer, Chan Loo Siang – principal at Inte Architects – was inspired by Maison De Verre in France which has glass block facades, and wanted to do something similar. “The way facades can transform in appearance and feeling with passing time through glass blocks is amazing,” says Mr Chan.

On the practical side, because of the vacuum between the glass blocks, they offer very good heat and sound insulation. Generally, glass blocks absorb and retain heat much less than masonry walls.

As the dining and kitchen counter are right behind the glass black wall, there is sufficient daylight that passes through to brighten up the space, while providing privacy from prying eyes.

The Y-shaped staircase is a unique feature of the home. Peranakan tiles from Malacca line the foyer.

HK artist Danny Yung’s 天天向上 series.

Photos by Yen Meng Jiin and Khoo Guo Jie.

This story was first published on The Business Times. Click here to read the original story.