Let there be light: two homes with bright interiors

1/10

The owners of this three-storey intermediate terrace in Yio Chu Kang, Elaine and Wui Boon Lim, wanted a home that could facilitate family bonding. As fans of Zen and the minimalist nature of Japanese design, their home was rendered in a simple wood and white palette.

The family of of four spends most of their time in the dry kitchen and dining area. The wet kitchen is separated by a glass door.

2/10

Formerly dark and stuffy, the home was transformed as a result of clever spatial planning by architectural firm Ehka Studio.

The couple bought wooden and neutral-hued furnishings from brands such as Big Ass Fans, HTL, Mountain Teak, and Grafunkt.

3/10

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.

4/10

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.

5/10

The family retained a tatami set and chairs from their previous home, for a sense of familiarity. 

6/10

Newlyweds Robertson and Joanne Tay were clear how they wanted their home to look. "We wanted a bright and airy home, with a good combination of materials like wood and concrete against a backdrop of white," shares Robertson. With the help of Ivan O, creative director of IDISID, they turned their dream into a reality in their 990sqf, four-room HDB in Clementi. 

They broke down the walls of two bedrooms, creating a large, open dining room where they can enjoy ample natural light and ventilation. 

7/10

The living room, kitchen and dining areas seamlessly connect in the open-concept home, giving the appearance of generous space. 

8/10

The dining table sits on a raised platform, framed by a suspended swing bench and dining chairs. They also created a mini pebble garden which leads to a bedroom that will eventually be turned into a child's room. 

9/10

The look of the master bedroom was kept pared down for easy maintenance. Their enviable location affords them unobstructed views of Bukit Timah Hill.  

10/10

The couple wanted a raw look in the bathroom so the walls were cladded with concrete screed.