Houzz Tours
Houzz Tour: An Old Flat is Refreshed with a Scandi Theme
This three-bedroom apartment becomes a modern yet homey space fit for its human and feline residents
The homeowners took time to find this gem of a place, an old HUDC (Housing and Urban Development Company) maisonette unit. It has a very spacious layout but was in a very worn-out condition when they bought it, say interior designers Kelvin Seow and Salley Gam of Xin Concept.
The husband, a work-from-home engineer, and the wife, who owns an advertising and PR company, spend a lot of time at home, hence it was important that their apartment exudes a cosy ambience, yet remain conducive for work. They’re cat lovers, too. After taking into consideration the needs of the clients and their pets, a complete revamp was in order. “We decided to tear down the old furnishings and rebuild this three-bedroom apartment into a Scandinavian-themed home,” says Gam.
The husband, a work-from-home engineer, and the wife, who owns an advertising and PR company, spend a lot of time at home, hence it was important that their apartment exudes a cosy ambience, yet remain conducive for work. They’re cat lovers, too. After taking into consideration the needs of the clients and their pets, a complete revamp was in order. “We decided to tear down the old furnishings and rebuild this three-bedroom apartment into a Scandinavian-themed home,” says Gam.
“Adding a touch of nostalgia is the old biscuit tin cleverly converted into a tissue box,” says Gam.
Pendant lamp: Foundry
Pendant lamp: Foundry
The kitchen is closed off with glass sliding doors which keep cooking aromas from wafting through the rest of the spaces. Nonetheless, it remains cheery and bright because it receives plenty of natural light. The zesty combination of lime green cabinet and white countertops and backsplash adds to the charm. The flooring was also changed to easy-to-maintain homogenous tiles to cater to their pets.
The grey-and-wood palette continues in the living area. Different wall colours, albeit in similar subdued hues, enhance the laid-back atmosphere in the living area. Colourful and quirky accessories enliven the space.
It was important to the couple that their cats feel at home and have their own play spaces, too. Wall-mounted wood planks serve as both display and cat trail, while a scratching post is placed at the lounge area.
Furniture and accessories: Crate and Barrel
Furniture and accessories: Crate and Barrel
“To allow for corners for quiet reading and relaxation, the little corridor in the living room and both guest rooms have been decorated with lots of soft cushions for the couple or visiting friends to chitchat and lounge on over coffee,” says Gam.
The designers also kept the original structural beams; here, a beam becomes a discreet display surface.
The designers also kept the original structural beams; here, a beam becomes a discreet display surface.
The designers maximised the space in the master bedroom with no-frills furnishings and muted colours. The wardrobe panels were designed with a simple twist: slanted grooves that function as door handles.
One of the bedrooms was converted into a study. Adding a touch of colour and whimsy is the owners’ toy collection and favourite movie poster.
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TELL US
What did you like best about this home? Share in the Comments below.
Who lives here: A married couple and their two cats
Location: Serangoon North
Size: 111 square metres (1,194 square feet)
Project duration: 3 months
The dining space welcomes guests upon entry. An oak table and an eclectic mix of chairs make it a casual and functional space for entertaining. A vibrant painting perks up the grey wall on one side. Across it is a storage cabinet, well hidden through its panel doors. The distressed look of the laminate creates visual interest and complements the Scandi theme.