An old HDB flat goes through an overhaul that results in a stand-out industrial look
This two-bedroom flat at Queen’s Close was built more than 30 years ago, and now bears the wear and tear that naturally comes with age. Its floor plan and layout was also a problem.
For example, it comes with a single bathroom that can only be accessed from the kitchen. The couple staying here felt that these were some of the things that needed to be addressed, and they engaged design firm Meter Cube to handle the project.
Space Odyssey
One of the first things designer Alvin Seah did was to rework the space planning so that the spaces would be better utilised. For instance, one bedroom is converted into a study and dining area.
A portion of the wall was knocked down and a sliding glass door put in place. This creates greater visual flow throughout the space.
Because the bedrooms are next to each other, Alvin was able to allocate space for a walk-in wardrobe and a music room right next to the bedroom proper, simply by carefully dividing the two bedrooms among the various spaces.
“Measurements had to be precise, which was how we even managed to include the music room,” he explains. A unique feature of this old HDB flat is the niche under each bedroom window where customised storage cabinets now provide space for their belongings.
Past the simply-furnished living area and deeper into the apartment are the kitchen and master bedroom. Here, Alvin’s efforts in reworking the space create direct access to the bathroom from the master bedroom.
Alvin also reduced the size of the kitchen, which in turn results in a more efficient space for cooking.
Going Bare
“The couple wanted a rustic, contemporary look,” says Alvin.
Giving it an industrial slant, the design team exposed the cement on several surfaces, such as the beam above the entrance to the dining area, as well as the wall behind the sofa. Black track lights clearly line the ceiling, adding to a strong industrial feel.
To prevent the space from feeling cold, the designer used wood-grain finishes and brown hues, injecting each space with a warmth that also balances the rawness of the concrete surfaces. In the kitchen, strong wood-grain patterns clad the cabinets for a mood that is decidedly welcoming and homely.
“This apartment is old and small, but we managed to overcome those obstacles,” he continues. “Each space has been utilised well to fulfil what the owners prefer, and we gave the entire home a brand new look that makes it look fresh and new,” he says.
By Rossara Jamil
Article first published in
Lookbox Living #29, Nov/Dec 2013
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