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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
14 May 2019
Design journalist and freelance editor. Dollhouse architect. Serial renter.
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.
1. Santorini retreat
Greece is the word in this Yishun flat designed by Edge Interior.
Greece is the word in this Yishun flat designed by Edge Interior.
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.
In the bedroom, there’s even the oversized porthole niche that celebrates the blue domes of Santorini.
2. Parisian pied a terre
In this shoebox-sized resale HDB, designer Aiden T referenced the small yet chic apartments of Paris.
In this shoebox-sized resale HDB, designer Aiden T referenced the small yet chic apartments of Paris.
Black and white floor tiles with well-coordinated cabinetry and controlled pops of colour contribute to the sophisticated look.
But it’s the tastefully curated art and accessories (including plants!) that give the flat that French flair.
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 gave this flat a muted Moroccan feel – less rich jewel tones and fabrics, but equally plush textures.
The weathered timber surfaces contrast beautifully with the metals of the homeowner’s hookah and hurricane lamp collection.
Moorish tiles in the bathroom, and fretwork and patterned beddings in the bedroom complete the look.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sliding doors replace shoji screens, and while the timber floor planks are not tatami-mat-dimensioned, the linear, Zen feel is definitely felt here.
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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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What is Japanese Style?
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TELL US
Which country would be your ideal holiday escape? Would you replicate its look in your home? Let us know in the Comments!
MORE
What is Japanese Style?
Find a Local Designer to Create Your Dream Home
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