Designed by principal designer Zhenwei Lai of JOW Architects, this 1,400 sqf HDB maisonette in Hougang is home to bachelorette Suelyn Lim. Drawn to textural materials such as rattan and subway tiles, the homeowner and designer decided on create a contemporary-style home, dressed with these elements.
For flooring, the home is decked in terrazzo patterned porcelain tiles on the lower floor, while timber vinyl boards are chosen for the upper storey. Walnut timber laminate complements in the kitchen, and oak-look laminate is selected for the TV console.
Niches were incorporated into the design of the TV console, where Suelyn showcases her collection of books, vinyl player and records.
Suelyn previously requested for a kitchen island. However, there were constraints on the existing floor plan and building an island in the kitchen was not feasible. Instead, Zhenwei proposed a breakfast counter that connects the kitchen and living space.
This way, there is visual connectivity and is an easy way for Suelyn to interact with her sister (who stays with her), and her guests when they visit.
Roller blind was installed above the breakfast counter so the space can be closed up when Suelyn cooks, preventing fumes and odour from entering other parts of the home.
Square white glazed tiles were chosen for the common bathroom, with a pastel grey-blue shade that brightens up the space too.
Upstairs, Zhenwei converted a bedroom into an open lounge space, complete with glass sliding doors that stretch the length of the room. This strategy ensures more daylight enters the stairwell too.
A study nook was created in the lounge area, and can be transformed into a flexible gathering space when guests come over.
The structure of master bathroom also takes on the silhouette of the pitched roof that brings in a sense of spaciousness overhead.