Houzz Tours
Houzz Tour: Mixing Monochromes with Character in A Kinfolksy HDB Flat
A crisp, classic black-and-white combo is elevated by layers of eclectic finishes in this storage-minded home
Simplicity takes a delighful design turn in this starter home belonging to two young professionals. Their design brief to Raymond Seow, design director at Free Space Intent, was a clean-lined, monochromatic living space but Seow saw beauty and charm beyond this light and easy style. Incorporating kinfolk (a nature-centric blend of Scandinavian and bohemian styles), classic and industrial design influences, this light-filled HDB flat now emits a balanced sense of richness and warmth.
Borrowing elements of the kinfolk style, Seow teamed vinyl flooring of light woodgrain with whitewashed walls. A suspended shoe and display built-in enhances the air of simplicity. “Leaving the floor area bare compared to bulky, full-height cabinetry projects a lightweight-looking form,” he remarks. For visual impact, the cabinetry doors sport diagonal design strokes and gold knobs. “We also installed recessed lighting and which when illuminated, outlines the form and highlights these gorgeous details.”
Noting that the homeowners often host large gatherings, Seow planted a dual-function storage seat next to the window. “This long bench works well for their entertaining needs,” he says. “There is generous seating for guests and the base offers hidden storage.” The bench forms part of a L-shaped storage ensemble which is integrated with the TV console.
One reason why this HDB flat appears bigger and brighter than most flats lies in its newly-configured study room which is now encased in glass. The glass panels sit on cabinetry which also offers hidden storage. With these bespoke fixtures replacing conventional walls, the homeowners get practical usage out of it.
The original study is now a multi-purpose space with a wall which is coated in light cement screed. “This room is used for entertaining, displaying art pieces and even as an additional wardrobe,” reveals Seow. “Using cement screed for the wall doesn’t just add an industrial aesthetic, it is a neutral background to cater to the various uses.”
While the kinfolk style creates a relaxed vibe in the living area, the dining and kitchen spaces are more industrial with aluminium powder-coated framing and a barn door separating the two areas.
When the barn door is open, daylight pours into the previously enclosed kitchen. “We employed a lattice pattern for the aluminium frame,” says Seow, “and this lets the light into the kitchen even when the door is shut.” The natural light highlights the pristine beauty of the kitchen’s predominantly white palette featuring subway tiles, and the elegant gold cabinet knobs and the faucet.
This section of the kitchen cabinets is mounted on the half-height wall, giving the kitchen a spacious feel.
The master bedroom was re-configured as well: it was merged with its adjacent bedroom. Having the walls whitewashed creates a wide expanse of space and a clean Nordic appeal.
To make the most of a structural beam that stands between the two newly-connected rooms, Seow designed a half-wall divider with a glass panel that better demarcates the sleeping area from the walk-in wardrobe. He explains: “Whoever’s in the study and closet can get a good view of the TV through this glass opening.”
Vertical storage of open shelving and cabinetry maximises the wall space behind the sleeping area. The well-planned walk-in ensuite is outfitted with glass-topped showcase cabinets for organising small accessories.
Outlined by touches of black, the master bathroom is decked in a subtle backdrop of glossy white wall tiles in hexagonal forms. This sleek pairing of monochromes is a style extension of the kinfolk-industrial theme in the communal zones. Even with its limited palette, this home doesn’t feel cold or underwhelming. The cherry on top definitely stems from Seow’s trained eye in layering beautiful textures and chic design symmetry.
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TELL US
What do you love about this home? Tell us in the Comments below. And don’t forget to save your favourite images, bookmark the story, and join in the conversation.
Who lives here: A married couple in their late 20s
Location: 5-room HDB BTO flat unit in Tampines
Size: 102 square metres (1,100 square feet)
Looking back on the style the homeowners specified, Seow recalls: “They wanted something super clean and modern.” While it all sounded sleek and achievable, he was concerned that the final look would be cold and not very welcoming. “Since the homeowners aren’t keen on having colours, introducing stronger textures to the material palette would enrich the overall picture.”
His masterful layering of light wood accents and eclectic design details plays an important role in establishing this bold but effortless style.