Home Tour: Mid-century modern walk-up unit in Tiong Bahru

Nestled in the heart of Tiong Bahru, this 50-plus-year-old walk-up apartment exemplifies the charm and timeless appeal of mid-century modern interior design. With its blend of vintage aesthetics and functional elegance, this home beautifully showcases how thoughtful design can bring a historic space to life.

The coffee table (pictured above), an antique piece sourced from Japan, fits seamlessly into the overall decor, complementing the vintage Danish designer furniture that anchors the living area. Each piece has been chosen with care, creating a cohesive and inviting space.

Mid-century modern interior

The dining room is a standout feature of this Tiong Bahru walk-up apartment, thanks to the handcrafted oak dining chairs made by a Japanese artisan friend of the homeowners.

These chairs demonstrate how bespoke craftsmanship enhances the mid-century modern aesthetic. With clean lines and natural wood finishes, the chairs add warmth and character to the space.

Tiong Bahru walk-up apartment

The walk-up unit’s simple yet refined palette of white and wood enhances the sense of openness and airiness. Every corner feels considered, from the living room to the sleeping quarters.

The white walls and wooden accents amplify the abundant natural light, making the entire home seem to glow. This understated elegance is a hallmark of mid-century modern interior design, and the homeowners have executed it perfectly.

Spa Bathroom Design

In the bathroom, subtle textures elevate the all-white design, ensuring it feels anything but plain. The choice of materials and finishes creates visual interest while maintaining the minimalist aesthetic. The effect is a tranquil, spa-like space that blends seamlessly with the rest of the apartment.

Mid-century modern furniture

The homeowners embraced a live-and-work lifestyle within their Tiong Bahru walk-up apartment. Throughout the home, you’ll find thoughtfully placed decor and functional pieces awaiting collection by customers. Their love for mid-century modern interiors is reflected not only in their personal living space but also in the curated selection of items they sell.

Retaining heritage elements

Original features like the walk-up apartment’s vintage shutters and wooden doors have been lovingly retained, adding a layer of authenticity and heritage.

These elements ground the design in its historic context while harmonizing with the mid-century modern aesthetic. Such thoughtful preservation ensures the apartment retains its unique character, bridging past and present.

Rustic open-shelving kitchen

In the kitchen, practicality meets style. Cooking utensils and cutlery are displayed openly, adding a rustic charm while keeping the space organized. This approach also serves as an opportunity to showcase their beautiful tableware, which doubles as decor.

The choice of white tiles for the kitchen countertops and backsplash may seem unconventional, but the grid pattern brings order and structure to the space, perfectly aligning with the mid-century modern design ethos.

Vintage decor

This Tiong Bahru walk-up apartment is more than just a home. By blending vintage charm, functional design, and thoughtful curation, the homeowners have created a space that feels both timeless and distinctly their own.