When the homeowners of this semi-detached house — a couple in their 60s — met the designers from Ta.le Architects, they requested for a house that is suitable for the tropical climate and at the same time contemporary. For the exterior, it was finished with aluminium cladding to ensure durability. A timber-lookalike film over it ensures that the home will consistently look pristine and not age and discolour.

They also wanted a private home that still has visual access to the natural surroundings. With this brief, Ta.le Architects gave the home a pitch roof (a typical silhouette for homes in the tropics) as well as the extensive use of glass which lets in natural light.

The serrated ceiling panels in the dining room is one eye-catching feature. "The distinctive [angular] lines are softened by the light-coloured material palette consisting of oak timber carpentry and flooring as well as soft diffused lighting," says Tay Yanling, founder and principal architect of Ta.le Architects.

The oak timber veneer gives a lighter colour palette, while soft fabrics in various textures add a luxurious touch to the interior.

A standout feature of the home is a decorative metal screen shared by both the first and second storey.  

"It is many things at one time; first, an integrated screen and lighting design for the internal stairs as well as a a feature wall for the dry pantry. Upstairs, it is a display and storage wall for the calligraphy zone. With a sensitive design, the space around the stairs is functional instead of a transient space," says Yanling.

"For the family spaces wrapping around the central decorative screens, we used beautiful black marble with gold veins called Portoro Gold. You'll see them on the staircase and as countertops," she adds.

A calligraphy area for the lady of the house, who has a deep interest in Chinese calligraphy and paintings.

Ta.le Architects also introduced skylights into various parts of the home, such as the master bathroom. "Skylights are important to make a space feel brighter, more spacious and loftier," says Yanling.

Natural stone in various shades were used throughout the home. It is consistent, yet provides visual interest in every space they are being used.

One of the children's rooms also feature a skylight.

With a well-lit space, a room can afford dark-hued walls.

More by Ta.le Architects here.