Home Tour: A bachelor’s monochrome condominium in Tampines

What is a bachelor’s pad? A man’s den with every single knick-knack from the toolshed? An apartment of manly indulgence, comprising a lush whisky collection and perhaps an indoor gym? Or simply, as Hollywood posits, a home replete with leather, art and wine?

For one Singaporean bachelor, the reality is far more nuanced. His newly built 581 sq ft condo in Tampines is a showcase of modern contemporary finesse. ”I wanted my home to be a true reflection of who I am—simple, yet with a sense of luxury,” says Christopher Lum, the 35-year-old homeowner, who appointed interior designer Kenny Tei of DISTINCTidENTITY to carry out design works.

This guiding principle is evident in every corner of the space, from the sleek but modular USM shoe cabinet that stands proudly in the foyer to the understated wall feature in the living room that ties the designer furniture together.

USM Cabinet

Positioned to stand out on its own, the USM show cabinet is, at first glance, a storage space for his shoes, yet it allows leeway for him to display his curios. The foyer’s minimalist approach segues smoothly into the rest of the home.

First-timers will likely set their sights on the living area. The living room, though compact, is decked in monochromatic accents and some luxury pieces. A grey sofa, positioned to take full advantage of the natural light streaming through large windows, offers a cozy spot to unwind, while the clear glass coffee table adds a touch of modernity without cluttering the space.

The monochromatic color scheme, dominated by shades of black, grey, and white, is softened by textures—plush throw pillows, a textured area rug, and the smooth finish on some of the furniture pieces, such as the roly-poly armchair by Driade.

Monochrome Bedroom Design

In the bedroom, a custom-built wardrobe runs the length of the wall, offering ample storage while maintaining the room’s crisp appearance. Designed as a personal retreat, the room is peppered with fixtures: a bed dressed in crisp white linens, set against a dark headboard that adds depth and contrast; a small study tucked in a cozy corner of the room; and a wall-to-ceiling wardrobe. The overall vibe is calm and order, and every element has its place.

Monochrome Walk-In Wardrobe

In front of the wardrobe, the homeowner places a grey ottoman, perfect for those quiet moments of reflection, bringing a soft, inviting touch to the space. “I spend some time getting ready daily, so the ottoman was a worthy investment,” the homeowner says.

Bathroom Design

Interestingly, the bathroom seems to be the only place that veers away from the monochromatic theme of the house. Light stone-textured tiles cover the floor and walls, while cabinetry features soft wood accents. A sleek, white vanity contrasts with the dark-framed glass partition that encloses the shower, offering a balance of light and dark that is consistent with the design throughout the home.

On what he kept in mind when designing his home, Christopher explains that using the right colour and lights has been crucial in helping his home evoke that blend of comfort and luxury. But for the most part, he says: “Less is more.”