Home Tour: $120,000 Renovation for a tuition centre owner’s 3-bedroom condo at Upper Thomson Road

Nestled right beside the forests around MacRitchie Reservoir, this development by the Housing and Urban Development Company (HUDC) comprising three residential blocks dates back to 1977. Despite its age and relatively original condition, Augustine Heng, who runs a tuition centre, was able to spot the untapped potential in the spaces. Being a former architectural associate, his training in architecture had a part to play.

“The existing layout felt constrained, but I knew that by reconfiguring the walls and rethinking the flow, I could create a more open and seamless living environment. And of course, the breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding forest were key in envisioning how the home could be designed to maximise this connection to nature,” says the 41-year-old.

Bolstered by his architectural background, which gave him the confidence and vision, it seemed a logical decision to undertake the design himself instead of engaging an interior designer. He shares: “For years, I had been imagining my ideal home and this was the perfect opportunity to bring those ideas to life. The chance to shape every detail according to my vision was something I could not pass up, especially in a setting as unique as this, with views that played a major role in the design decisions.”

Who Lives Here: A tutor in his 40s and his pet dog
Home: A 3-bedroom condominium located at Upper Thomson Road
Size: 1,615 sq ft

Scandinavian Muji Interior Design

In terms of artistic direction, Augustine wanted a Scandinavian-Muji aesthetic, guided by the principles of simplicity, comfort and openness. It was important to him that the space be light, warm and welcoming and every decision was made with the natural beauty right outside his windows in mind.

Before, the main door opened right into full view of the apartment. He introduced a partition that creates privacy and a sense of separation without totally obscuring the view, integrated with a bench seat that comes in handy for putting on and removing shoes.

Minimalist Living Room Design

The spacious living area is kept minimalist and uncluttered, with an L-shaped sofa and a small wooden coffee table. The television console almost camouflages with the floor. By keeping the colour and material palettes neutral and restrained, the space takes on a sense of ease and lightness.

Minimalist Dining Room Design

The former balcony next to the living area is now a dining space that comfortably accommodates a table for eight. It is right up against windows that extend the width of the room, serving up a visual feast of an unblocked view of the reservoir and the surrounding forest.

Open Concept Kitchen Design

With the existing kitchen walls hacked, the kitchen and the adjacent former dining room are now one large open space. Instead of separate wet and dry kitchens, Augustine chose to combine the two into one large dry kitchen centred around an island.

The actual expanse of space is astounding and the absence of cabinets above the counter, along with the generous windows that offer views and natural light, reinforce the feeling of openness that seems to extend beyond the four walls of the apartment. “The large kitchen and island were designed to accommodate gatherings with friends and family, and this is reflective of my life and my passions,” he says.

Indoor Garden Design

Heightening this connection with the outdoors, and especially with nature just a stone’s throw away, is the addition of an indoor garden, which holds a special place in Augustine’s heart. “It is as if we have borrowed a fragment of the vast forest that surrounds the property, bringing the greenery from outside into our living space. It is both calming and visually striking, reflecting the natural beauty that drew us to this unit in the first place.”

By removing two perpendicular walls, what used to be a dead space outside the common bathroom has been transformed into a mini, open courtyard of sorts, featuring a central plant that has the effect of bringing an outdoor element into the heart of the home.

Scandinavian Muji Bedroom Design

For the master bedroom, Augustine opted for a platform bed that would allow his dog to sleep beside him. The light wood and white walls and ceiling are consistent with the rest of the home and reflective of the Scandinavian-Muji style.

Master Bathroom Design

The attached master bathroom features a built-in bathtub strategically positioned to provide views of the reservoir, elevating the bathroom into a sanctuary of relaxation.

Bearbrick Display

One of the two remaining bedrooms is now a hobby and movie room where Augustine displays his treasured Bearbrick collection.

Murphy Bed in Guest Room

The third bedroom is a study with a Murphy bed system that allows it to double up as a guest room.

$120,000 Renovation Cost

The entire apartment underwent a complete overhaul to a cost of about $120,000 excluding furnishings. Given its age, the unit was in a state of significant disrepair, which led to numerous unforeseen complications during the renovation process.

“Compounding these issues, I unfortunately hired an inept project manager whose lack of oversight and coordination resulted in multiple mistakes. For instance, the bathroom tiling had to be redone three times, among other areas that required rework,” he reflects. These setbacks caused considerable delays and frustrations, further prolonging the renovation timeline, which ended up taking about three to four months to complete before Augustine eventually moved into the home in mid-June 2024.

Now that everything has come to fruition, Augustine is evidently pleased with the result: “The light wood accents complemented by crisp white walls evoke a sense of calm and serenity, harmonising with the lush greenery visible from almost every room.”