Home Tour: A social worker’s $73,000 Scandinavian renovation for his 3-room HDB flat

This modish yet personable space belongs to Koh Kuan Eng, a social worker who wanted a “pared down” look for his home – one that is cosy, intimate and devoid of distractions like a TV. 

$73,000 Renovation cost

It’s the first home Kuan Eng has owned, and he sees it as a permanent abode. He sought the services of interior design firm Studio JP, and poured in some $33,000 for the renovations and $40,000 for the furnishings to create a modish yet personable space. They discussed the flooring, laminates, ways to conceal wires and piping as well as hacking walls, so homeowner Kuan Eng can have a “blank canvas” for his furnishings.

“My design background has helped me to understand colours, textures and lines, and choose furniture and art pieces that sit right in the context of the room,” he says.

Meaningful home decor

For the artworks on his wall, Kuan Eng chose things that “resonate with me – pieces that I pick up from my travels, online and also from friends.” The framed pictures of the leaves are photography works by an ex-colleague, Francis Ooi. 

Dining room

Kuan Eng had one of the bedrooms removed and its walls knocked down to open up the space. It is now a dining area where he entertain friends. The original wardrobe now stands as a storage space. The 3-room HDB flat feels spacious and airy.

Cement flooring

Homeowner Kuan Eng chose cement flooring as it reminds him of his childhood days in his grandmother’s home.

Furthermore, “Cement feels cool under the feet and is also a breeze to manage and clean. I also like how its “raw” and “bare” look provides me with a blank canvas to work with. I littered the place with lush potted plants and flowers, for example – the green shades complement the cement and wooden accents of the interior very nicely,” he says.

Minimalist bedroom design

Strictly a space for rest and sleep, the bedroom is kept minimalist with just a bed, table and lamp at the side.

Separate bath and toilet

The homeowner deliberately kept the bathroom and toilet divided into two separate spaces – another nostalgic feature carried over from his grandmother’s home.