“Our family stays connected despite the large spaces between us; we can reach out to the kids anytime, and vice versa,” say homeowners Elaine and Wui Boon Lim. Their bright and airy abode is the result of clever spatial planning by architectural firm Ehka Studio, whose design revolved around one important requirement – a home that could facilitate family bonding.
The couple bought wooden and neutral-hued furnishings from brands such as Big Ass Fans, HTL, Mountain Teak, and Grafunkt.
The once dark and stuffy two-storey terrace was transformed into a three-storey home (they utilised the ample ceiling space to create an attic) that is illuminated by a skylight and kept well-ventilated by air extractors on the roof.
The family of four spends most of their time in the dry kitchen and dining area. The wet kitchen is separated by a glass door.
The rail-less staircase is close to the countertop, at a safe height. The kids often hang out on the staircase as the parents cook.
The mesh railings were painted white to match the colour palette of the home. A “mother-daughter” painting by their daughter, and gold-finished wall decor from Molecule Living, add a dash of colour to the second storey.
The family retained a tatami set and chairs from their previous home, for a sense of familiarity.
“The opening in the attic gives the family a view of the ground-floor kitchen,” says Hsia Pin of Ehka Studio.