Homeowner Dan Lee (pictured) says he and his partner, John Tan, are polar opposites. He prefers dark hues, while John likes bright colours; he cycles and John runs.
And, says Dan as he gestures towards some Chinese books: “I am fascinated by Chinese literature, while John prefers Chinese decor.”
Couple’s Retirement Home
These differences are, of course, not irreconcilable. They purchased this Keppel Bay apartment as their retirement home.
All they needed was an interior designer who could combine their tastes and requirements into one coherent look.
Full Height Storage Shelves
They chose interior designer Alvin Oh of AO Studios for this task, who created two full-height shelves that separate three living spaces: the living room, dining room, and bedrooms.
Clad in a dark wood finish, these statement pieces check all the requirements.
The open shelves are filled with knick-knacks that introduce not only strong colours like red and orange, but also interesting shapes and finishes to the otherwise linear space.
Display Cabinet Design
The shelves also zone the spaces without closing them off – during monthly family dinners, the homeowners remain connected with guests even as they prepare meals, watch television, or chat in the balcony.
Their large collection of display items includes a Jeff Koons Balloon Dog, Georg Jensen silver pieces, and various books.
$130,000 Renovation Budget
“Staying in some very nice hotels definitely influenced the look we wanted.
For instance, my love for dark wood came about after a stay at the Park Hyatt Shanghai.
The $130,000 renovation cost went mostly to the extensive carpentry work to achieve this contemporary look, storage space — we have lots of winter and sportswear — and converting one common room into a dining area.
This home is a good marriage of what we like, and what Alvin loves to design,” shares Dan.
Condo near Sentosa
The apartment was chosen as it is near Sentosa, where Dan and John love to cycle and jog.
Geometric Rug
The rugs add texture; the living room’s monochromatic and ombre geometric piece transitions into a darker hue to meet the dining room’s deep blue scale-patterned rug.
Slated Bedroom Wall
Interior designer Alvin incorporated homeowner Dan’s love for linear designs with a slatted bedroom alcove.
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This article was first published in July 2018.
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