Prior to embarking on the project, we brainstormed on the interior themes and styles that we liked. We discussed our life goals and aspirations, how we live and wanted to live. We both come from a country where space is not a premium commodity. Thus, our vision for our new home naturally tended towards more open, brighter and visually connected spaces. We wanted to maximise our living space, and make full use of the available day-lighting and ventilation. At the same time, we wanted to keep the flexibility to be able to quickly reconfigure the interior as our family changes. These requirements, while seemingly conflicting, informed our design decisions.
Project goals
Flexible spaces
To maximise day-lighting and ventilation, we freed up all the windows by removing the existing partition walls. Operable acoustic walls, usually a familiar component of open-plan offices, provide the possibility for privacy when required. The operable walls are concealed in continuity with the rest of the joinery and furniture. Provisions are made within the study for the addition of partitions to reinstate the bedrooms should it be required in the future.
Maximising storage and ceiling height
A closet-like core is positioned to structure and configure the flat, integrating precious corridor area into the living spaces. The closet, aside from providing ample storage, helps in concealing beams, electrical conduits and air-conditioning piping so as not to compromise on ceiling height within the corridor.
Minimal and clean
The cabinetry details are simple to facilitate maintenance. The material and colours are selected to complement the light-filled spaces and exude a warm and comforting atmosphere, with high considerations with regards to replace-ability and maintenance. Appliances are integrated into the joinery only where necessary to allow for flexibility and ease of replacements.
Value of the work
Empowering choice
The resulting free-flowing spatial configuration expands the entertainment capacity and flexibility of the apartment, while providing ample flow of light and ventilation. As lifestyle and family need change, there is an increased desire for flexibility. The public housing landscape in Singapore is evolving, encouraging wall-free planning, breaking away from the generic, one-type-fits-all model. This new-found flexibility provides residents with the freedom to uniquely curate their living spaces to adapt to their changing needs.
