Home Tour: An architecture graduate's $80,000 renovation for his minimalist & open-concept 4-room HDB flat

This article details the renovation of a 925 sq ft, 4-room HDB resale flat at Balam Road for a homeowner who is a music and plant enthusiast and enjoys hosting guests. The interior design, executed by Threehaus Works and led by Thi Yi, focused on creating unique spaces that reflect the homeowner's passions, featuring angled walls and a raw, industrial aesthetic. The renovation cost approximately $85,000 and took about four-and-a-half months to complete, concluding in June 2024. One of the primary design objectives was to create an indoor balcony for entertaining. This was achieved by demolishing an existing wall between the living room and an adjacent bedroom and erecting a new diagonal wall, resulting in a trapezoidal balcony space. The entrance foyer features terracotta tiles in a triangulated section, mirroring the diagonal balcony wall, to signify the transition from outside to inside. This is further emphasized by the main floor being a step up from the foyer, and the contrast between the terracotta and the cement screed in the living and dining areas, eliminating the need for physical partitions. The living room is centered around a custom-built concrete television console designed to house the homeowner's turntable, speakers, and vinyl collection, also serving as a bench for guests. Its angled form complements the other diagonal elements in the home, ensuring cohesive design language and improving circulation towards the kitchen. The living room's raw finishes and grungy aesthetic align with the homeowner's personal style, and a "blank canvas" area above the console provides space to display travel souvenirs and concert posters. The balcony area is specifically designed for the homeowner's extensive plant collection, featuring ample shelving and provisions for hanging plants. A sliding door separates the balcony from the living room, maintaining air-conditioning efficiency, while glass blocks allow natural light to diffuse into the living space. Terracotta floor tiles in the balcony further enhance the illusion of an outdoor area within the enclosed space. In the dining room, a custom-made window grille, reminiscent of classic HDB designs, acts as a nostalgic backdrop for the homeowner's memorabilia and board games. Deliberately mismatched dining chairs add an eclectic touch to the area. The kitchen initially had patterned tiles that the interior designer considered salvaging but were mostly lost during removal. A few pieces were rescued and repurposed as coasters, serving as a memento of the original flat. A bright orange pipe in the kitchen, along with a similar one in the common bathroom, was intentionally retained and highlighted with color rather than concealed. The master bedroom adopts a minimalist approach to foster a calm and restful environment, with no built-in carpentry and an open wardrobe system reinforcing this style. The master bathroom was expanded by repositioning a wall to incorporate a vanity area. A half-height parapet wall separates the shower and includes a niche for toiletries. Finally, a dedicated home office nook was created as a natural outcome of the diagonal wall in the living space, providing a focused area for work. The renovation involved extensive demolition and reconfiguring of internal walls, contributing to the total duration and cost, partly due to the flat's age requiring additional structural and infrastructure assessments. #HomeTour #HDBResale #FourRoomFlat #InteriorDesign #Renovation #ThreehausWorks #BalamRoad #MusicLoverHome #PlantLoverHome

Lynn Yang and her husband Ronald embarked on a home renovation project for their BTO four-room HDB flat in Whampoa, aiming for a timeless, minimalist design that maximized views of the city. Their primary goals included creating an open-concept living space that integrated the living, dining, and kitchen areas, while also maintaining distinct zones and privacy. Interior designer Low Chee Kiang of 932 Design Consultants was tasked with translating these seemingly contradictory requirements into a cohesive design. The renovation began with the removal of walls separating the original kitchen, living/dining area, and the third bedroom. This strategic alteration facilitated a seamless, open-plan layout characterized by clean lines, which visually expanded the flat's footprint. The reconfigured space now features a U-shaped, open-concept kitchen positioned to the left of the main entrance. An island bar counter in the kitchen faces the living and dining areas, allowing for continuous city views from all three spaces and enabling the hosts to interact easily with guests while preparing meals. A built-in induction stovetop was incorporated to ensure a clean, uncluttered countertop, which could then double as a dining surface post-cooking. To achieve both openness and clear spatial demarcation, a clever design strategy was employed. The living area, simply furnished with a low-slung, extra-deep sofa against a wood-paneled feature wall and a wood and metal coffee table, is partially separated from the dining area by a floating divider. This divider is not merely aesthetic; it also serves a functional purpose by housing a flat-screen TV and speakers, eliminating the need for additional furniture. Additionally, it provides a display area for the owners' collection of Kaws Companion figurines, which are among the few decorative elements in an otherwise minimalist setting. Adjacent to the living space, the dining area features a black glass-topped rectangular table and six slim black chairs. This area is designed for both dining and social gatherings, such as poker nights. It is visually connected to the study room, formerly the second bedroom, through a series of white custom-built storage cabinets with central glass panels acting as visual 'windows' between the two rooms. This design choice maintains an open feel while providing functional storage and a sense of separation. In the master bedroom, the couple desired a king-sized bed and ample storage. To maintain design consistency, the old bathroom door was replaced with a concealed entrance to the master bedroom. The walkways between the study, master bedroom, and bathroom were opened up to create an illusion of an en suite with a study, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The master bedroom itself is furnished with a king-sized bed, two utilitarian bedside tables, and floor-to-ceiling built-in wardrobes, all crafted from the same blond wood material as the mid-height, backlit headboard that spans one entire wall. The overall aesthetic of the home is characterized by a soothing and muted color palette of neutrals, including white, grey, blond wood, dark wood, and black, contributing to a unified and timeless ambiance. The owners emphasized the importance of detail in achieving their minimalist vision, such as concealing air-conditioning units behind white grille panels and selecting muted brushed-metal light switches. Instead of elaborate lighting, unobtrusive recessed downlights were chosen. Even home accessories like crockery, vases, and humidifiers were carefully selected to align with the home's aesthetic, reinforcing the clean and neat environment that the owners cherish. #HomeDesign #BTOFlat #OpenPlan #MinimalistInterior #CityViews #RenovationTips #HDBFlat #SpaceSavingDesign #ModernLiving

This article highlights a $30,000 renovation of an HDB flat in Singapore, transforming it into a contemporary Scandinavian-style home with industrial elements. The project, undertaken by Space Factor, focused on achieving a cohesive and spacious aesthetic within a limited budget. The design incorporates a palette of wood tones, whites, and greys, complemented by light-colored furniture and clean lines, all of which enhance the natural light flowing through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The renovation, completed in 2016, successfully integrated two unique feature walls without exceeding the financial constraints. To add visual interest and depth, the interior designers utilized creative techniques to craft the feature walls. One prominent feature wall in the living room was designed to mimic riveted metal plates. This effect was achieved through imprinted surfaces and painted a soft grey, which creates dynamic shadow play under ambient lighting. This industrial-inspired trompe l’oeil adds character while maintaining harmony with the overall Scandinavian theme, demonstrating how innovative solutions can be budget-friendly. Another feature wall, situated behind the bar counter, was treated to resemble a rustic brick wall, providing a warm contrast to the cooler tones of the living space and serving as a conversation piece without the cost or structural issues of actual exposed brickwork. Recognizing the homeowners' desire for wooden accents, the designers opted for wood-lookalike laminates as a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to real wood. These laminates were extensively used for various elements, including the bar counter, a matching TV console-cum-bench, and wall-mounted cabinetry. This choice not only contributed to the tactile comfort and visual warmth essential to Scandinavian design but also addressed environmental concerns associated with genuine hardwoods. The consistent application of these materials throughout the home, including floor-to-ceiling storage units in the master bedroom and study, creates a sense of unity and makes the HDB flat appear more expansive than its actual size. The renovation successfully balanced aesthetics, functionality, and budget, proving that a well-designed home does not always require significant financial outlay. The selection of materials and design strategies, such as using paint for texture and laminates for wood effects, allowed Space Factor to deliver a stylish and practical living environment. The emphasis on natural light, combined with the strategic use of textures and materials, embodies the Danish concept of 'hygge,' fostering a sense of coziness and well-being for the occupants. This project serves as an example of thoughtful interior design that maximizes impact and provides emotional consistency within an affordable housing context. #HomeTour #ScandinavianInteriorDesign #HDBFlat #Renovation #BudgetFriendlyDesign #FeatureWalls #WoodLikeLaminates #InteriorDesign #SpaceFactor

Designer Laura Hodges transformed a 2,000-square-foot industrial loft in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood into a serene, light-filled home. The original space featured raw concrete floors and exposed HVAC piping under 18-foot ceilings, elements Hodges systematically replaced or reconfigured. Hodges, a New York School of Interior Design alumna who previously worked for Jamie Drake and Thomas Jayne, established her firm in Maryland in 2016 and later opened her home boutique, Domain by Laura Hodges Studio. The renovation began with a complete overhaul of the existing floor plan and infrastructure. The concrete floors were covered with wide-plank oak, and a clunky builder-grade stair was replaced with a minimalist white-painted metal version with oak treads and handrails. A glass-framed mezzanine was added above the stairwell, contributing to the refined aesthetic. Hodges emphasized the role of artwork in the design, with the walls serving as a neutral canvas. The open-plan living areas were painted in various finishes of Benjamin Moore’s Super White, and all custom design details were constructed on site. The living room, designed for media and entertaining, includes twin sofas, a Bernhardt armchair, and vintage chairs upholstered in chocolate brown Edelman Leather. A custom niche with grass cloth backing and integrated lighting houses a large bookcase, accessed by a custom white oak rolling ladder on a steel track. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation, replacing a turquoise-painted space. Hodges concealed an existing column within a paneled box and installed new floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, including specialized storage for a coffee bar and a movable spice rack. The kitchen now features Imperial Danby marble counters and backsplash, Fisher & Paykel appliances, and Visual Comfort pendants. BB LaMartina's artwork adorns the space. Hodges ingeniously created a secondary space by inserting a wall into the living room, forming a den that functions as a guest room for the homeowners' daughters. This space incorporates a sliding door and blackout curtains for privacy, alongside bronze transom windows that subtly reference the loft's industrial heritage. A wall-mounted desk, sleeper sofa, closet, and an additional bathroom were integrated into this versatile area. The dining area is distinguished by double-height windows equipped with motorized sheer curtains and blackout shades. Hodges custom-designed the dining table, featuring a starburst-patterned cerused white oak top and ebony legs, in collaboration with Goodwood Studios. Oly dining chairs complete the setting. Throughout the renovation, Hodges prioritized maximizing natural light and views of downtown Baltimore. The transformation successfully converted a formerly stark industrial environment into a peaceful and elegant residence, reflecting a blend of modern aesthetics with functional design and a nod to the building's history. The homeowners expressed satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting the ample light and scenic views achieved through the design. This project exemplifies Hodges's ability to create sophisticated, livable spaces from challenging industrial settings. #InteriorDesign #LoftConversion #IndustrialToResidential #BaltimoreRealEstate #LauraHodgesStudio #ModernDesign #HomeRenovation #OpenPlanLiving

Parisian architecture firm f+f architectes has completed the conversion of a former attic space in an Art Nouveau building in Strasbourg, France, into a contemporary and luminous two-storey, four-bedroom apartment. The renovation project involved the fourth and fifth floors of the building, which were previously used as maid rooms. The newly designed apartment spans 240 square meters, offering a modern living space within a historic context. The apartment's layout is split across two levels. The lower level is primarily dedicated to private spaces, featuring four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a home office. Access to this level is through a double-height entrance hall, which is illuminated by a skylight, creating an immediate sense of openness and brightness upon entry. The upper level, in contrast, hosts the communal living areas, including an open-plan living room, a dining area, and a kitchen. This arrangement allows for a clear separation between private and public functions, catering to modern lifestyle needs. A key material choice in the renovation is black dyed MDF, which f+f architectes used extensively throughout the apartment. This material is integrated into various architectural elements, such as storage units and wall coverings, as well as custom-designed furniture, including the dining table. The selection of black dyed MDF is notable for its consistent color throughout its mass, which makes it less susceptible to visible chipping compared to stained or lacquered wood, ensuring durability and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. This material was also utilized for the stairs, creating a cohesive design language. To provide a visual contrast to the dark MDF, the stair banister is constructed from clear, laminated glass. This design choice contributes to the apartment's light and open feel, allowing natural light to penetrate through the structure while providing safety. The original pinewood flooring of the building was retained and updated. It was treated with lye, a substance that helps preserve the wood's natural light shade and prevents it from yellowing over time, ensuring the historical character of the flooring is maintained while integrating with the contemporary design elements. The structural elements of the attic, specifically the trusses, were left exposed, adding an industrial and raw aesthetic to the interior. Additionally, new metal I-beams were incorporated to open up the lower-floor plan and to support the terrace structure. Modifications were made to the roof's truss work to accommodate the new terrace and a new opening was created in the top floor for the stairs, demonstrating a careful balance between preserving existing structures and implementing necessary alterations for the new layout. The kitchen features a marble ceramic island, complementing the natural wood and black MDF, and is situated beneath the original beams. The bathrooms maintain the minimalist design with black MDF cupboards and marble wall and floor tiles, continuing the refined material palette. Two terraces, one of which is carved into the roof, are accessible from the upper floor and offer views of the surrounding park. The architects noted the asymmetrical pitch of the roof, which is steeper towards the street, likely to give the building a more imposing facade facing a large square. This project exemplifies how historic attic spaces can be transformed into functional, bright, and aesthetically cohesive modern apartments while respecting and highlighting the building's original features. #Lofts #Interiors #ResidentialArchitecture #Apartments #France #Strasbourg #AtticConversion

This article details the renovation journey of Audrey and her husband, who transformed their 1,001 sqft 4-room HDB flat in Geylang into a bright, open-plan 2-bedroom home. Initially, they expected a straightforward renovation for their recently MOP-ed (Minimum Occupation Period) unit, budgeting between $40,000 to $50,000. However, upon handover, they discovered numerous issues, necessitating a more extensive overhaul and an adjusted budget of $50,000 to $60,000. The couple's primary design goal was to create a spacious feel reminiscent of their childhood homes from the 1980s, which meant maximizing communal areas and natural light. They achieved this by removing the walls of two common bedrooms, merging them into an expansive living and dining area. This reconfiguration created a 'dumbbell layout,' with the master bedroom and a new study flanking the central communal space. The decision to convert the 4-room flat into a 2-bedroom home was also a strategic move to future-proof their living space, allowing for potential children to share a large room, echoing their own upbringing. A key design element was the open-concept kitchen, which now extends into what was originally the dining area. The island, featuring a sleek black countertop, serves as a central gathering point and provides ample space for cooking and baking. Appliances and taller carpentry are flushed against the wall, maintaining a seamless look. Modifications included changing a louvre window in the kitchen to a fixed glass pane for easier cleaning and better enclosure when cooking, and installing a full-height pantry. The original living room was converted into an enclosed study, providing privacy for remote work and creating a distinct foyer area. A pocket sliding door, intentionally transparent, enhances the open feel and allows light into the kitchen. In the master bedroom, a wall was pushed out to accommodate a wardrobe, and an open wardrobe design was chosen to save on carpentry costs. The room is also arranged to comfortably fit a king-size bed and a future baby cot. Bathroom renovations included minor cosmetic changes in the common bathroom, such as replacing feature tiles with white ones and upgrading fixtures. The master bathroom underwent more significant layout changes, with the shower area relocated for privacy and optimized for length. The sink was shifted to accommodate a long vanity, and a sliding door replaced a swing door to save space. Overhead pipes in both bathrooms were boxed up for a cleaner aesthetic. Audrey and her husband collaborated with The Association, an ID firm, which aligned with their vision of creating a flexible, canvas-like home that could evolve with their needs. They prioritized an ID firm that understood their design principles, emphasizing minimal built-ins. Furniture sourcing was challenging due to the ongoing renovation and logistical constraints, leading them to purchase items one by one and embrace pre-loved pieces from platforms like Carousell. Their general rule for furniture was that materials, colors, and shapes should complement each other, especially crucial in an open-concept home where spaces blend seamlessly. Reflecting on their journey, Audrey highlighted the challenges of property hunting during the lockdown and the unexpected lack of transparency in the renovation industry, which required them to be proactive in coordinating schedules and managing expectations. A key lesson learned was that if they had known the extent of the overhaul required, they might have chosen a flat with a more appealing original layout or one truly in need of a complete makeover. She advises new homeowners to leverage hand-me-downs and pre-loved items for furniture and to prioritize a clear vision of their lifestyle over a rigid design style, encouraging flexibility and evolution in their home's aesthetic. #HDBRenovation #HomeTransformation #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #SpacePlanning #SingaporeHomes #HomeownerStory #RenovationBudget #ModernHome

Medha Lim, a tech professional and enthusiast of calligraphy, watercolor painting, pottery, and local art, purchased a 980 sq ft four-room resale HDB flat in Compassvale. Her vision for the new home was to create a very welcoming and safe space, reflecting her approach to life and her desire to host friends and family. A unique feature of the flat that caught her attention was a curved wall running along the window-facing side of the living/dining area and an adjacent bedroom. While many homebuyers might view such a feature as a challenge or a source of dead space, Medha saw its potential for creativity and a fluid use of space. She collaborated with an interior designer to transform this seemingly troublesome characteristic into a central design element. The renovation began by sacrificing the bedroom next to the original living/dining area to create a larger, combined open-plan space. To address the curved wall, a custom-built wraparound “bench” made of grey laminate was installed. This bench originated as a narrow trickle from the ceiling in one corner, flowing down the wall and extending along the entire perimeter of the living/dining area, effectively shaping the space into a round, pond-like form. This integrated piece serves multiple functions: as additional seating, a display area for artwork, and discreetly houses open and concealed storage for Medha’s extensive collection of books, ceramics, and art supplies. A concealed lighting strip at the base of the bench adds a soft, ethereal glow, enhancing the ambiance. Complementing the curved bench, the false ceiling was also designed with a sweeping curve, incorporating cove lighting. Along with natural light filtered through sheer day curtains, this creates a gentle luminosity, contributing to a cozy setting. A focal point in this area is a handmade mobile by a local artist, featuring oversized fabric raindrops in muted pastel colors, which inspired Medha to incorporate more color and local elements into her home. Her artistic inclinations are further reflected in her collection of local art, including sketches of shophouses and portraiture, and classic “kopitiam” cup and saucer sets, all adorning her walls. She even commissioned local artist Mary Bernadette Lee to create a uniquely Singaporean hand-painted mural featuring orchids and tropical foliage, complemented by potted plants to evoke a “home in the tropics” feel. The furniture selection in the living and dining area is eclectic and reflects Medha’s artistic personality. A round, four-seater dining table with a colorful speckled terrazzo top provides a retro charm, paired with two dining chairs of different styles but matching wood shades. Instead of a traditional sofa, she opted for lightweight, movable armchair-shaped beanbags, facilitating flexible arrangements for watching TV or social interactions. Additional pieces like a retro rattan armchair, a stool, and a bench further emphasize that harmonious design doesn't require perfectly matching elements. This versatile space serves as a living room, study, dining area, home office, and even a guest sleeping area, with a thick portion of the bench designed to function as a daybed. The master bedroom, though simply furnished, maintains the theme of supporting local craftsmanship, with all furniture, from the bed frame and nightstand to a vintage dresser, sourced from local shops. Medha, an avid cook, designed her kitchen with a retro-modern aesthetic, featuring white countertops, striking mustard yellow base cabinets, and a terrazzo backsplash that mirrors the dining table's surface. This use of terrazzo, though expensive and labor-intensive for flooring, was strategically used as an accent to elevate the space, fulfilling her childhood aspiration of incorporating the material. Ultimately, Medha views her home not just as a living space but as a “friendship canteen,” a warm and welcoming haven for her friends and family, embodying comfort and belonging. #HDBFlat #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CurvedWall #LocalArt #SingaporeHome #SpaceTransformation #TerrazzoAccents #ArtisticLiving

Homepolish designer Tali Roth offers practical advice for renters looking to personalize their temporary living spaces, emphasizing that a rental unit's potential should not be wasted due to its temporary nature. She asserts that individuals often reside in rentals longer than anticipated, making it essential to create a comfortable and personalized environment rather than living in a state of limbo. Roth's own Chelsea loft serves as a prime example of how to infuse personal style into a rental without undertaking extensive, permanent renovations that could jeopardize a security deposit. Roth suggests focusing on easily modifiable elements within a rental. Lighting and window treatments are identified as key areas for impactful changes. For instance, an existing, generic light fixture can be replaced with a more aesthetically pleasing one. In her dining room, Roth replaced an IKEA light with a Synapse chandelier by Apparatus Studio, which helped to make the space feel cozier by lowering the ceiling's visual height. For those hesitant to alter existing wiring, sculptural wall lamps that plug into outlets and can be mounted high are presented as a viable alternative. Installing blinds and full-length curtains is also recommended to add warmth, texture, and privacy, with Roth opting for gray Belgian flax linen curtains to complement her home's modern color scheme. The article highlights Roth's innovative approach to customizing furniture, particularly her collaboration with Semihandmade to transform standard IKEA cabinet systems. Through this, she added custom taupe doors, a counter, and brass hardware to her units, demonstrating how affordable, modular furniture can be elevated to appear bespoke. One of the most significant transformations in Roth's loft was the application of faux concrete to a large wall by i faux. This technique was used to address the challenge of vast, white rental walls, adding significant texture and depth to prevent the space from feeling like a stark, empty box. Roth's design philosophy embraces geometric patterns and chunky forms, which she refers to as a "Flintstones aesthetic," influenced by her appreciation for modernism. This theme is consistently applied throughout her home, evident in sculptural vases, Hubble Wall Sconces by Pietro Russo for Baxter in the living room, and terrazzo wallpaper in the bathroom. While Roth chose traditional wallpaper, the article also suggests removable wallpaper options for renters seeking less commitment. The process of designing each rental space is also presented as a learning opportunity, allowing individuals to refine their tastes and understand what works best for their lifestyle, including considerations for living with young children. Roth shares a personal insight regarding her velvet couch, noting that its susceptibility to watermarks might lead her to choose a different material in future rentals, at least until her son is older. Ultimately, Roth emphasizes that customizing a rental is a common practice, particularly in cities like New York, where landlords generally expect tenants to personalize their living spaces. She reassures renters that most lease agreements simply require the unit to be returned to its original state, detailing her plans to reverse her changes, such as reinstalling the original light fixture, deconstructing the faux concrete, removing wallpaper, and repainting walls white, before moving out. #RentalDesign #LoftLiving #InteriorDecor #HomepolishDesigner #TaliRoth #DIYDecor #ApartmentRenovation #ModernAesthetic #IKEAHacks

Open-concept living spaces have seen a significant rise in popularity, driven by a desire for more spacious and customizable home environments. In response to this growing demand, the Housing & Development Board (HDB) in Singapore has introduced a new type of Build-To-Order (BTO) flat called an “Open-concept white flat.” This initiative aims to provide homeowners with greater flexibility in designing their living spaces, moving away from the rigid layouts traditionally found in HDB units. These white flats are distinguished by their lack of pre-built partition walls in the living areas, offering a blank canvas for residents to configure their homes according to their specific needs and preferences. The fundamental difference between a white flat and a traditional BTO lies in the internal structure. Traditional BTOs come with fixed room layouts due to their pre-built internal walls, which often result in standardized floor plans across many units. In contrast, white flats provide a completely open-concept living area, devoid of these internal partitions. This design choice eliminates the rigid layouts and visible beams commonly associated with traditional HDB flats, thereby granting homeowners unparalleled freedom in space planning. This flexibility allows for innovative home designs that would otherwise be challenging or impossible to achieve without extensive renovation work in a traditional flat. One of the primary advantages of opting for an open-concept white flat is the inherent flexibility it offers. Without internal partitions, homeowners can reconfigure their home layout without the need to demolish any walls, which simplifies and potentially reduces the cost of initial renovation. This design approach caters to individuals or families who value the ability to personalize their living environment deeply. Furthermore, the absence of these walls is factored into the overall cost of the home, leading to projections that white flats will be more affordably priced compared to their traditional counterparts. However, the open-concept design also presents certain considerations. One potential drawback is related to climate control. The larger, undivided volume of air in an open-concept space means that air-conditioning units must work harder to maintain a consistent cool temperature throughout the home, potentially leading to higher energy consumption. Additionally, while the initial cost might be lower, homeowners who later decide to introduce internal walls for privacy or functional zoning will incur additional renovation expenses, effectively negating some of the initial cost savings. This trade-off between upfront flexibility and potential future costs needs to be carefully evaluated. The inaugural launch of HDB’s open-concept white flats is scheduled for October 2024, with the first development located in the Kallang-Whampoa area. Importantly, this new layout will be an optional choice for buyers, meaning those who prefer the traditional flat layout will still have that option available. When considering a white flat, prospective buyers should assess the significant lifestyle changes that come with a completely open living space, particularly concerning privacy. The design is likely best suited for individuals or couples without children, or singles, who prioritize spaciousness and design flexibility over strict compartmentalization and privacy. Homeowners who enjoy engaging in the detailed design and configuration of their living environment will find white flats particularly appealing due to the multitude of layout possibilities they offer. #HDB #OpenConceptLiving #WhiteFlat #HomeDesign #RenovationFlexibility #SingaporeHousing #BTOFlats #InteriorDesign #UrbanPlanning

This article details the interior design project undertaken by Lauren Wills of Fort Greene-based Wills Design Associates for a young couple's first home in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The couple, on the cusp of starting a family, acquired a three-bedroom brownstone floor-through apartment. Wills, a close friend of the couple, was tasked with furnishing and decorating the entire space from scratch, as the homeowners possessed only a king-size mattress and two flat-screen TVs upon moving in. The apartment itself was in excellent structural condition, featuring original moldings, tin ceilings, and a large vintage mirror, thus requiring minimal architectural alterations. The primary work involved installing an HVAC system, which necessitated opening up the hall ceiling, and addressing minor cosmetic needs like replacing missing baseboards and molding around one door. Beyond these adjustments, the project focused on cleaning, painting, and furnishing the space to create a fresh, comfortable, and easy-to-maintain environment suitable for a growing family. Wills, a Pratt Institute alumna with a BFA in interior design and prior experience with high-profile Manhattan designers, launched her own firm approximately a year and a half before this project. She managed the budget effectively, sourcing most furnishings from popular retailers like West Elm and CB2, complemented by items from online stores and vintage furniture sites like Chairish. The color palette for the main living areas utilized Benjamin Moore’s White Diamond for walls and Snow White for ceilings, chosen for its clean, fresh, and slightly gray-toned "invisible white" aesthetic, as specified by the client to avoid yellowish off-whites. The living room features a sectional sofa and TV console from West Elm, art from One Kings Lane, and a Verner Panton knockoff chair from Overstock. The dining area includes a distressed green cabinet from Chairish and a concrete composite dining table from CB2, which matches the living room's coffee table. Functional and aesthetic details include a cluster of circular mirrors near the entry to brighten the exposed brick, and ceiling lights from CB2 installed during the HVAC upgrade. In the master bedroom, Benjamin Moore’s Blacktop serves as a statement wall color, paired with a cane headboard from Serena and Lily and artwork from Pure Photo. A discreet bamboo cabinet hides electronics, and blackout shades from Home Depot provide light control without cords. The combo study/guest room is painted in Benjamin Moore’s Blue Danube, with a ceiling light from Jonathan Adler and a wall sculpture from One Kings Lane. An alcove was transformed into an office with a white laminate desk surface and stained-wood shelves. The existing bathroom received a splurge in the form of fish wallpaper from Cole & Sons, with the door painted in a coordinating Benjamin Moore Coral Gables pink. The overall design reflects a thoughtful balance of aesthetics, functionality, and budget-conscious sourcing, tailored to the clients' new phase of life. #InteriorDesign #ParkSlope #BrooklynLiving #FirstHome #WillsDesignAssociates #HomeRenovation #ModernAesthetics #BudgetFriendlyDesign #Brownstone

This article details the $70,000 renovation of Abraham Lim's 4-room HDB resale flat in Bukit Panjang, Singapore. Lim, an art lecturer, collaborated with Black and Butter Interior Design to create a home that reflects his personality and passions for art, nature, and various art movements. The property, spanning 1,001 sq ft, was chosen for its abundant natural light and ventilation, offering unblocked views of Chestnut Nature Reserve from the service yard, contributing to a "balmy feeling" throughout the day. The interior design brief focused on creating an open yet cozy, unique, and timeless space for both personal retreat and entertaining guests. Black and Butter Interior Design focused on the structural elements like flooring and wall colors, while Lim took charge of the furniture selection. The design philosophy involved blending natural stone and wood textures with a timeless color palette, ensuring cohesion without monotony. Lim deliberately incorporated diverse artworks, such as an abstract painting in the dining area and Chinese calligraphy in the corridor, to infuse the space with personal meaning and a sense of calm, translating to a "quiet heart" upon returning home. The master bedroom is described as a personal sanctuary, featuring a corner armchair, Scandi-inspired pendant lights aligned with the headboard, and semi-blackout curtains that allow natural sunlight to filter in during the mornings. Soft textures, like a circular rug and light vinyl flooring, are used to enhance the room's comfort, alongside an abstract painting above the bed. The design maximizes space by integrating a cozy reading nook and a dedicated sleeping zone, achieving a "hotel" aesthetic that is both calming and comfortable. A non-negotiable for Lim was the inclusion of a combined study within the master bedroom. One of the original three bedrooms was converted into a study-meets-walk-in wardrobe by removing a wall and replacing it with a doorless frame, directly adjacent to the master bedroom. This thoughtful separation creates a more restful sleeping environment. The study area features another artwork above the desk and a glass cabinet displaying Lim's collection of childhood memorabilia, travel souvenirs, and global shot glasses, reflecting his sentimental side. Glass bricks along the walkway provide a glimpse into this versatile space. The master en suite bathroom underwent significant changes, with the wall separating it from the master bedroom replaced by a glass panel to enhance openness and make the master bedroom appear larger. The bathroom includes a shower, basin with storage, and toilet, with an oval vanity mirror contrasting against vertical dark grey-stone kit-kat tiles. The color scheme combines dark grey stone and navy blue. The open-plan kitchen is another significant area, reflecting Lim's childhood ambition to be a chef. It features an all-white design with clean laminate carpentry and a textured sintered stone countertop. Artwork, specifically a Josef Albers replica print, adds a pop of color, preventing the cream scheme from appearing washed out and achieving an equilibrium of functionality and elegance. The dining area flows seamlessly from the kitchen, maintaining the open-plan concept initiated by previous homeowners. It features a Nordic-style dining table next to a stone-textured high bar counter, complemented by two chairs and a bench. An artwork depicting a European alleyway with warm hues is positioned above the dining table, harmonizing with the acorn brown wooden table. The living room, adjacent to the dining area, was the starting point for the interior design team due to its long and wide layout, which required segregation into different functional zones. This space continues the home's warm and naturally lit ambiance, with soft yet defined furniture and contrasting shapes, such as rounded coffee and side tables, adding depth. A striking TV wall serves as a focal point. The entire renovation process, including a two-month design phase and a three-month construction period, took approximately five months. Lim's meticulous attention to detail as an art lecturer played a significant role in the project. When asked about his favorite space, Lim emphasized that each area fulfills different needs and emotional requirements at various times, highlighting the success of the personalized design. The home is imbued with personal items, from paintings to ceramic gifts and travel mementos, making it an idealistic oasis and a true reflection of Lim's identity.

The article details the renovation of Unit 622, an apartment located within Montreal's historic Habitat 67 housing complex. Designed by the interior and industrial design firm Rainville Sangaré, the project transformed the space into a bright, open, and modern home. The renovation focused on simple lines, material integrity, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Brutalist architectural style of Habitat 67 itself. The original complex, conceived by Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie in the 1960s, aimed to provide affordable urban living through 158 stacked, prefabricated concrete units. Unit 622 features a unique T-shaped layout formed by two prefab blocks. A key aspect of the renovation involved preserving the concrete junction where these two volumes meet, leaving it exposed as an homage to the apartment's history, complete with original construction markings. The design choices were also influenced by Habitat 67's location on the Saint-Laurence River, particularly the challenging winter conditions. Rainville Sangaré opted for a minimal material and color palette, incorporating raw finishes like steel and concrete throughout the space to enhance the natural light and reflect the building's robust character. The living room features built-in shelves framing the window, and custom-made ventilation grids were installed, reflecting the owners' interest in local craft and design. A notable artistic element is a commissioned piece by local artist James Kennedy, mounted on a sliding door that conceals the television. The apartment is entirely outfitted with Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting, a collection inspired by Habitat 67's rectangular prefab blocks. The kitchen, designed for efficiency, was crafted by local brand À Hauteur d’homme. The guest room is designed for versatility, featuring a hideaway bed that allows the space to function as an office, also lit by Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting. The main bedroom is predominantly oak, with a custom-designed bed and nightstand, and also features lighting by Sangaré. Streamlined oak panels are used for the wardrobe. In contrast to the minimalist living areas, the bathrooms introduce color and intriguing finishes, including a dichroic glass shower divider that changes color under different lighting conditions. Concrete tiles in the bathrooms further reference the building's Brutalist origins. The renovation successfully marries contemporary design with the historical and architectural integrity of Habitat 67, creating a sophisticated and functional living space. #Habitat67 #MontrealRenovation #ModernApartment #BrutalistArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #PrefabHomes #RainvilleSangaré

This article details a significant renovation project undertaken by Shakespeare, Gordon, Vlado: Architects (SGVA) on a late 19th-century, four-story townhouse in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The clients, a couple with two young children, sought to address the common challenge of disconnectivity across multiple floors in townhouse living, aiming for better spatial interaction between family members and access to the garden. Architect Amy Shakespeare's innovative solution involved a complete gut renovation and a re-imagining of the internal floor levels in the lower half of the building. The redesign involved lowering the floor plate at the back of the house to create a sunken living room directly accessible at garden level. The kitchen's floor was also lowered, reducing the number of steps from the entry level and improving connectivity to both the entrance and the garden. This extensive structural modification was feasible due to the building's prior state, which consisted of four rundown apartments with no original features deemed worth preserving. The upper floors, the third and fourth, maintain a more traditional layout, accommodating a master bedroom, children's rooms, and additional bedrooms for visiting family. These floors also feature dedicated spaces for entertainment, such as movie-watching and video gaming nooks. Throughout the home, the design incorporates a predominantly white color palette, punctuated by bold, jewel-toned wall colors and dynamic textile patterns, adding vibrancy to the interiors. Upon entering, a vestibule and mudroom are located at the front, leading to a double-height library situated centrally in the floor plan. This library is distinguished by a striking wall of teal-colored bookshelves. Sustainable materials were a key consideration in the project, with extensive use of 100 percent certified wood, including fumed oak for the flooring. The double-height central space is illuminated by a Triad 15 light fixture from Apparatus. The sunken living room, furnished with a sectional sofa from B&B Italia, offers direct access to the garden. Visual transparency between spaces is enhanced by a glass panel incorporated into the kitchen's wood railing. The kitchen features a blue Lacanche range with nickel trim, a high-priority item for the clients, along with appliances from Sub-Zero/Wolf. The painted wood cabinetry was custom-built by the general contractor, Fulton Contracting. Nancy Angel, a Brooklyn-based designer, was responsible for all custom upholstery, including the dining area banquette adjacent to the kitchen. From the kitchen, an unobstructed view extends towards the front of the house, across the top of the library. Tempered glass and steel were used for the new stair railings, contributing to the open and modern aesthetic. The top floor includes a black-painted TV room, which also accommodates a queen-size platform bed for guests. On the exterior, the architects created a geometric composition on the blown-out back wall using standard-sized Marvin windows. Despite the lot being fully built out, a balcony was added by indenting the back wall to form a small terrace. The backyard was designed by Joanna Pertz Landscape Architecture, featuring a play area with a sandbox and swings at its far end. The project successfully transformed a multi-level townhouse into a cohesive and family-friendly living space. #ParkSlope #TownhouseRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyLiving #SGVA #FloorLevelModification #SustainableMaterials #BrooklynRealEstate

This article showcases a $30,000 contemporary Scandinavian renovation of an HDB flat, completed in 2016. The design, executed by Space Factor, focuses on creating a cohesive and spacious environment using a limited budget, proving that effective design is achievable without extensive financial outlay. The interior utilizes a soothing palette of wood tones, whites, and greys, complemented by light-colored furnishings and clean lines, which are characteristic of Scandinavian aesthetics. Natural light is maximized through floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing the sense of openness in the open-concept living area. A key aspect of this renovation involves the creative use of feature walls to add visual interest. To maintain budget constraints, expensive materials were avoided, and paint was strategically employed to achieve desired textures. In the living room, one feature wall features imprinted surfaces designed to mimic riveted metal plates, painted in a soft grey. This trompe l’oeil effect provides an industrial edge while contributing to the Scandinavian simplicity. When illuminated by ambient lighting, the textured surface creates engaging shadow play, adding depth to the space without actual metalwork costs. Another feature wall, situated behind the bar counter, is designed to resemble a rustic brick wall through imprints and paint. This faux-brick treatment introduces a warm, conversational element, balancing the cooler tones present in other areas of the flat and contributing to a dynamic design. To incorporate the homeowners' desire for wood elements, wood-lookalike laminates were extensively used as a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to real wood. These laminates clad the bar counter, a matching TV console-cum-bench, and wall-mounted cabinetry, providing the warmth and tactile comfort essential to Scandinavian design. The use of these laminates extends to the master bedroom and study, where they cover floor-to-ceiling storage units. This material continuity across different rooms helps create a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere, making the HDB flat feel more spacious and contributing to the 'hygge' factor—a Danish concept of coziness and well-being. This approach highlights how thoughtful material selection and design can achieve both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits within a defined budget, emphasizing form and function.

This article features an interview with Cara Irwin, the blogger behind Goldalamode, offering a tour of her home in Brick, New Jersey, which she shares with her fiancé Mike, their three dogs, and numerous plants. Irwin discusses her journey into home and design blogging, which began shortly after she and Mike purchased their home in 2013. Initially, she started decorating and fixing up the house, sharing her progress on Instagram for fun, eventually realizing her passion for home design due to positive feedback from her growing audience. Irwin describes her aesthetic as bright and minimal, with a clear lean towards midcentury modern style infused with boho elements. She emphasizes keeping spaces fresh and incorporates plants extensively in her decor. Her design process, initially spontaneous, evolved into a more structured, room-by-room approach after experimenting with different wall colors, ultimately settling on white walls to allow furniture, patterns, and colors to stand out. She also uses black accent walls, considering black a neutral that helps bright elements pop. When it comes to sourcing decor, Irwin highlights Home Goods and thrift stores as her top choices, valuing the "hunt appeal" of discovering unique pieces. She believes these sources provide distinctive items that are not commonly seen elsewhere, and she advocates for budget-friendly decorating. Her tips for affordable design include shopping second-hand from platforms like Craigslist, Letgo, and Facebook Marketplace, and fixing up items herself. She also recommends stores like Home Goods and Target for their affordable home decor, especially during clearance sales, emphasizing that good design doesn't require expensive items. Irwin shares her passion for plants and art, crediting her mother for these interests. She finds mature plants at estate sales, Craigslist, and other selling apps, often rehabilitating distressed plants. For art, she supports local artists and Instagram creators, in addition to finding pieces in thrift and antique stores. Her favorite room is the dining room, which she uses as her workspace, followed by the living room, due to the company of her dogs. She draws inspiration from diverse sources, including beach aesthetics and vintage decor books from the 1960s to 1980s. The role of her fiancé, Mike, in their home design is also discussed; his handiness enables many DIY projects. Irwin notes that Mike's willingness to build and execute her design ideas, even when unfamiliar with a task, has been instrumental, mentioning a significant DIY project where they installed a window in their dining room to enhance natural light. Her favorite memory in the home is Mike's proposal in their backyard, a moment she cherishes despite the then-undeveloped landscape. Irwin also explains the bold choice of painting their front door blush pink, driven by a desire to embrace a design idea that initially felt scary, believing such choices often lead to amazing results. She expresses appreciation for tassels and fringe in her decor, finding them fun and effective for adding texture. Ultimately, Irwin values the community and relationships she has built through blogging, aiming to help others create more enjoyable homes. #HomeTour #BohoChic #BudgetDecor #DIYHomeDecor #MidcenturyModern #PlantDecor #ThriftStoreFinds #HomeDesignBlog #NewJerseyHome