New Light, a three-storey cluster terrace at The Shaughnessy

It was important to the homeowners that everything, from the timber slats and window blinds to the colour palette, was cohesively designed; silhouettes had to be aligned and symmetrical, and colours had to match. The right materials also created a smooth transition from cool to warm tones.

Now that their children are grown up, the couple's dream for an all-white kitchen can finally be achieved, in the form of a contemporary white Blum kitchen. Taking into account the warm-toned living room, Mikael decided to zone the spaces using two flooring types: white marble tiles for the kitchen and living room, and light-wood timber strips for the dining and television console areas.

The seamless panelling prevents trapped dust. A pull-out bench for additional seating in the dining area is also part of keeping the design clean and minimalist.

Unlike regular sliding doors, this television console panel has a push mechanism that allows it to be completely flush with the console wall, once closed.

Mikael took a long time to carefully put together this built-in sofa, which is undoubtedly the highlight of the Japanese-inspired living room. To achieve the architectural silhouette he had in mind, he gave it a slim and minimalist form. Brass strips and steel leg caps give it some glimmer, while downlights and a light box in the alcove illuminate any art pieces sitting against the timber wall.

For the son's bedroom, Mikael jazzed up the space with a luxurious suede fabric headboard, as well as customised onyx stone-look bedside table.

The son's bedroom features an open glass-wardrobe with a pole system. Unlike the light colour palette on the ground level, the son's bedroom remains an edgy and dark space.

As for the bathroom, an easy way to make a space look brand new is to replace sanitary fittings. The new showerhead and taps add a glamorous sheen to the bathroom, and they match the claw legs of the bathroom, too.

"As clothing may damage wood over time through chafing, I opted for a brass finish on the dining settee. Brass is more durable than timber veneer," shares Mikael.