Home Tour: A mother-daughter duo’s minimalist condominium in Serangoon Gardens
Interior designers at Bud Studio has reimagined an oddly shaped laid-out condo into a tranquil, modern retreat.
By Home & Decor -
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Close to the vibrant enclave of Serangoon Gardens, where the hum of suburban life coalesces with the tranquil charm of landed homes, you’ll find a private condominium apartment that has undergone a remarkable transformation into a home that epitomises contemporary elegance and innovative interior design.
Boasting a built-up area of approximately 1,300 square feet, this overhaul was left under the capable hands of interior designer Justin Mok, co-founder of Bud Studio, who was referred to the client by a trusted colleague.
Who lives here: A home for a mother, daughter and helper
Home: Private condominium in Serangoon Gardens, Singapore
Size: 1,300 sq ft
Interior Designer: Justin Mok, Bud Studio Pte Ltd
Dining table overlooks the living room and television in this all black and white private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
Trapezoid home layout
The home's original layout presented a unique challenge, with its trapezoid shape and worn-out finishes crying out for a refresh. Upon meeting the client, interior designer Justin Mok was drawn to the project by the promise of creative freedom and the opportunity to rethink the space's layout.
Full-height open display shelves sits to the right of the television console in this private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
With the client's desire for a more extensive living and dining area and additional storage space in mind, interior designer Mok embarked on a journey to craft a design that would seamlessly marry functionality with aesthetics.
Open concept interior design
Inspired by the challenge of redefining the home's spatial dynamics, interior designer Mok conceived an overarching concept where the combination of the foyer, corridor, living, and dining areas was designed to radiate outwards from this central focal point. This approach allowed for the creation of a space that maintained openness while seamlessly accommodating the various functions.
“We felt that this successfully allowed us to create a space that had a high level of visual connectivity between the different programs that an open concept features while enveloping the dining and living where communal gatherings take place,” explains Mok.
Bent curved plywood and lime plaster decorate the walls in this private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
Curved plywood walls
The choice of materials was pivotal in bringing Mok's vision to life. The home's main features, including the TV wall, storeroom, and monoliths, were crafted from plywood and painstakingly bent over several weeks to achieve their desired shape.
Lime plaster walls
Finished with textured lime plaster, these elements evoke the sensation of a cave-like retreat, adding a touch of organic warmth to the modern interior. This choice of finish was a nod to eco-conscious living, offering a low VOC alternative to traditional finishes.
Curved walls demarcate living spaces in this private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
Living room curved design
While the home showcases a high level of care and cohesiveness, the living room undoubtedly stands out as the project's crown jewel, a sentiment echoed by the designer.
Two monoliths, cleverly integrated with a planter and hidden pantry, add a touch of sculptural elegance to the space. “During the golden hour, perforated shadows cast onto the monoliths by the metal façade are quite a sight to behold,” muses interior designer Mok.
Curved store room door concealed in a corner in this private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
Curved store room door
The true beauty of Mok's interior design lies in the space's minutiae- from the storeroom's gracefully curved walls to the concealed pivot door, every detail has been meticulously crafted to perfection. It is these small yet impactful touches that elevate the design from ordinary to extraordinary.
To complement the space, Mok curated a selection of furniture and decor from brands such as CODA SG, Shiok Lighting, New Works, and The Beur. Each carefully chosen piece added layers of texture and personality to the home.
Throughout the design and renovation process, Mok faced numerous challenges, from navigating the asymmetrical layout to adjusting to fluctuating material costs. Despite these obstacles, his unwavering commitment to excellence ensured that the project surpassed expectations, delivering a space that fulfilled the client’s brief and his own high standards.
Glass sliding door creates an enclosed kitchen space in this private condominium apartment in Serangoon Gardens.
The client's satisfaction was palpable as the project drew to a close. With newfound space to indulge in her favourite pastimes of watching TV, snacking, and nurturing her plants, she has found sanctuary within the confines of her living and dining area. It speaks volumes of interior designer Mok's vision and expertise that have transformed the space into a home that truly reflects her lifestyle and personality.