To the uninitiated, this almost half a century-old 2,800 sq ft condominium in the East Coast area, with its simple, repetitive geometric form and plain concrete exterior devoid of any ornamentation, may be dismissed as being old-fashioned or outdated.
However, Terence Neo, design director of Eightytwo, recognised its design potential and it presented the perfect opportunity to transform the unit into an eclectic residence for his family of four and their two cats.
“My wife and I love how the arched doorways and terrazzo flooring give the interior an effortless charm. I set out to retain this sense of nostalgia by repurposing and reusing some of the vintage elements of the unit, while updating the look using modern colours and accessories,” says Terence.
The one-and-a-half-month long renovation costing about $150,000 involved hacking away the walls separating the living area and the kitchen, as well as another kitchen wall to create an alcove.
Terence loves to cook and the alcove between the kitchen and dining room allows him to maintain visual contact with the goings-on in the dining area, especially when they have guests over.
Strategically placed art pieces and plants around the living and dining areas liven up the capacious spaces, which can otherwise feel too expansive and empty.
The apartment occupies a relatively large floor area. The spacious interior is definitely a plus point, but it also posed a challenge in terms of ensuring that the various spaces are well- connected to one another.
“It is important that there is a fluid relationship between the spaces, such as the flow from the living area to the dry kitchen, the kitchen to the dining area and the girls’ play area to the cats’ room,” Terence emphasises.
The pink and grey colour scheme, together with a terrazzo solid surface that
matches the flooring, creates a cheerful and interesting area for baking and
preparing light meals.
“Despite this being a big space, it should also feel cosy and homely,” he adds. Terence opted for a whimsical colour palette that was inspired by the visual style of award-winning filmmaker, Wes Anderson. “I feel that it complements the old-world charm of the unit,” he says. The salmon hue of Living Coral, which is the Pantone Colour of the Year, combined with shades of peach and tuna give off an energetic vibe that is vibrant without being overpowering.
The original arched doorways have been retained and add a sense of nostalgia.
The peach colour scheme continues into the bathroom.
The children’s room has a playful streak and is designed to spark their sense of imagination. A wall mural makes for a unique centrepiece.
Designing his own home was both easy and tough- easy to implement his ideas, but tough because he had to live up to his own expectations, which he admits are very high. It allowed Terence to push boundaries as a designer while not compromising on his needs and that of his family. “I could give my vision free rein and I knew exactly what my family and I need and want. It was a liberating experience,” he sums up.
Dark and cosy tones in the master bedroom allow the couple to wind down.
A monochromatic bathroom finds its place amongst the vibrant hues.
Photography Veronica Tay Art direction Nonie Chen
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