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5 HDB Flats That Transport You Out of Singapore

Your home is your sanctuary, so it only makes sense that you decorate it as a refuge from the stresses of urban living – as these flats show

Chiquit Brammall
Chiquit Brammall 13 May 2019
Design journalist and freelance editor. Dollhouse architect. Serial renter.
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The Scandinavian style may be the decade’s reigning foreign influence (and its light, clean look and cool-temperature ambience is more than fitting for Singapore), but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for other destination inspirations. Before this current Scandi-style revival, Gothic-, Victorian- and French Country-inspired HDB flats graced the covers of local magazines. The flats here feature less common holiday references, but they’re just as refreshingly escapist and romantic.
Edge Interior Pte Ltd
1. Santorini retreat
Greece is the word in this Yishun flat designed by Edge Interior.
Edge Interior Pte Ltd
Not only did the designer begin with a textured, whitewashed base, but Edge Interior also incorporated arched niches and coastal effects. The Greek flag and colours also feature in the design.
Edge Interior Pte Ltd
In the bedroom, there’s even the oversized porthole niche that celebrates the blue domes of Santorini.
Edge Interior Pte Ltd
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Mediterranean-style Singapore homes
Aiden T
2. Parisian pied a terre
In this shoebox-sized resale HDB, designer Aiden T referenced the small yet chic apartments of Paris.
Aiden T
Black and white floor tiles with well-coordinated cabinetry and controlled pops of colour contribute to the sophisticated look.
Aiden T
But it’s the tastefully curated art and accessories (including plants!) that give the flat that French flair.
Aiden T
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What is French style?
Ace Space Design
3. Moroccan cosiness
Ace Space Design gave this flat a muted Moroccan feel – less rich jewel tones and fabrics, but equally plush textures.
Ace Space Design
The weathered timber surfaces contrast beautifully with the metals of the homeowner’s hookah and hurricane lamp collection.
Ace Space Design
Moorish tiles in the bathroom, and fretwork and patterned beddings in the bedroom complete the look.
Ace Space Design
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Urban Habitat Design
4. Coastal Scandinavia
Before they were known for iconic furniture, the Scandinavians were shipbuilders. Urban Habitat Design celebrates this, and the nautical heritage of Scandinavia, in this flat.
Urban Habitat Design
Lightly hued wood that shows off not only its grain but joinery and detail (beautifully tapered legs, for example) of the furniture design becomes a highlight in the pastel-perfect space.
Urban Habitat Design
Urban Habitat Design
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Scandinavian-style Singapore homes
Space Concepts Design Pte Ltd
5. Zen cocoon
If Japan is your ideal escape, this Zen-style flat by Space Concepts Design might be your cup of tea.

Rather than today’s more popular light wood hues (very Muji), this flat follows the more traditional espresso brown – so it’s cocooning and cosy.
Space Concepts Design Pte Ltd
Sliding doors replace shoji screens, and while the timber floor planks are not tatami-mat-dimensioned, the linear, Zen feel is definitely felt here.
Space Concepts Design Pte Ltd
Space Concepts Design Pte Ltd
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Which country would be your ideal holiday escape? Would you replicate its look in your home? Let us know in the Comments!

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