Skeleton stairs, lots of light and blurring boundaries are just some of the latest exciting design elements of 21st-century landed homes
As land becomes increasingly scarce in Singapore, there has been a significant change in the design of local landed homes. It’s a change that seems to make its occupants happier. Perhaps it’s the floor-to-ceiling windows that let in the sunshine, or the feeling of liberation afforded by open concept homes with space that stretches from foyer to living room to kitchen and backyard unimpeded by walls and doors. Yes, there is something alluring about modern, fluid design, which doesn’t just challenge conventional architecture, but nudges you to think differently about how you want to live. The four state-of-the-art properties featured on this page will have you viewing landed living in a whole new light — literally.
Roughed-out textures like unpolished wood and brass furniture, coupled with whimsy portraits, give a refined, industrial look. Design: Architology
Refined-edgy
Gritty urban décor can be both funky and family friendly. The owner of this house in Jalan Chempedak decided to honour his heroes while injecting a dose of industrial grit into its interior. Cement screed floors, white brick walls, Moroccan carpets, unpolished wood furniture and a lush vertical garden make a compelling mix. There is a sense of mystery created by the different levels, air-well and lighting. Sunshine streams in and invites you to explore.
A tall tree adds height and drama to a room, and works well in awkward corners and tiny balconies. Design: LATO
Organic lifestyle
We all know that plants add colour and life to a room. Like artwork and furniture, they are versatile and can make a powerful design statement. While a well-manicured lawn, or a wall of ferns in the garden or air-well is a common sight, this home in Jalan Mariam takes it to another level by placing a tree in the bedroom. A large, well-developed tree adds height and drama to a room. It works well in awkward corners or tiny balconies where nothing else fits.
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The pool and spiral staircase transform this recreation area into a work of art. Design: HYLA
Water feature
Instead of a pond, Singaporean homeowners are making the most of their narrow yards and opting for a lap pool that runs the length of the house and also functions as a water feature. To maximise the living and recreation area, this homeowner built a swimming pool on the ground floor, along with an entertaining area. The rest of the home is situated from the second floor onwards.
In modern architecture, the original staircase design has become part of the home’s whole décor. Design: LU+C Studio
State-of-the-art staircase
When there isn’t much space to spare, everything has to be well thought through. As such, even the staircase has become an important architectural element in home design. Floating staircases such as this create a simple and chic look while their minimalist structure and shape give them character.
Sylvia Ong is a writer at Qanvast.com, a renovation and interior design portal
This article appeared in The Edge Property Pullout, Issue 744 (Sep 5, 2016) of The Edge Singapore.