Home Tour: A sunny and bright Tiong Bahru HDB flat with nostalgic vibes

In this thoughtfully renovated Tiong Bahru HDB flat, the past and present come together in perfect harmony. The homeowners have created a nostalgic apartment that pays homage to Singapore’s architectural heritage while embracing modern comfort and functionality.

Working with interior design firm Space Matters, the homeowners deliberately chose a light-colored palette to maximize brightness and create an airy atmosphere. White furniture dominates the space, serving as a clean canvas that allows the flat’s nostalgic elements to shine through without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.

Tiong Bahru HDB

The home’s character is defined by carefully chosen architectural elements that evoke memories of old Singapore. Mesh wire folding doors recall the ventilation solutions of bygone days, while wood flooring adds warmth underfoot.

A pale green brick feature wall provides subtle visual interest, and traditional bamboo blinds filter sunlight in a way that’s both practical and reminiscent of old Tiong Bahru HDB apartments.

Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves

In a departure from contemporary home design, the living room eschews the typical television centerpiece in favor of impressive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. This choice not only creates a striking visual focal point but also transforms the space into a personal library that adds to the nostalgic apartment’s character and charm.

Nostalgic kitchen design

The kitchen space exemplifies smart design principles with its white cabinetry and abundant natural light streaming through large windows. The deliberate absence of overhead cabinets creates an illusion of expanded space while maintaining the bright, open feel that characterizes the entire home. This thoughtful approach to storage solutions demonstrates how modern functionality can complement nostalgic design elements.

Minimalist bedroom and bathroom

The private spaces continue the home’s minimalist yet nostalgic theme. The bedroom embraces simplicity with concrete screed flooring, while the bathroom maintains a clean, uncluttered aesthetic free from unnecessary embellishments.

These pared-down spaces perfectly complement the nostalgic elements found throughout the rest of this Tiong Bahru HDB flat, creating a seamless flow between different areas of the home.