Something timeless, something new: A Mediterranean masterpiece on East Sussex Lane for $69 mil
The swimming pool in the rear of the Good Class Bungalow at East Sussez Lane (Photo: Albert Chua/EdgeProp Singapore)
The old English rhyme “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” may have originated in Victorian wedding traditions — but it could just as easily describe Singapore’s Good Class Bungalows (GCBs), where history and modernity often intertwine.
Along East Sussex Lane, a quiet cul-de-sac off Holland Road in prime District 10, stands one such example. A GCB completed in 2022 and designed by Ong & Ong Architects, it draws inspiration from Mediterranean villas, featuring stone facades, arched doorways and windows, and marmorino walls finished in a smooth, stucco-like plaster.
The 17,316 sq ft freehold property marries classical design with modern comforts, reflecting its owner’s vision of a timeless family home.
The owner, a Singapore citizen in his late 30s, is an entrepreneur who manages investments for his family office and businesses in China. The 10,000 sq ft, six-bedroom villa was conceived as a multi-generational family home for the couple, their children and the couple’s parents when they visit.
The formal foyer with circular staircase and cascading light fixture from Czech lighting atelier Sans Souci’s Soul Collection (All pictures by Albert Chua/EdgeProp Singapore)
Designed for family and entertaining
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a dramatic double-volume foyer, anchored by a sweeping circular staircase and a cascading light installation from Czech lighting atelier Sans Souci’s Soul Collection. The formal living room continues this sense of grandeur with a soaring ceiling, while a galleried landing offers views of the manicured gardens on one end and opens to a wide balcony overlooking the pool and landscaped grounds designed by Nyee Phoe Flower Garden.
The lower level of the house is designed as an entertainment area, with a wine cellar and tasting room, a home cinema, a gym, a powder room and a guest suite. Glass doors open out to a spacious covered patio that overlooks the swimming pool, creating an outdoor lounge and dining area that is ideal for hosting friends.
A home lift has also been installed, providing access to all levels.
The wine cellar and tasting room at the entertainment area on the lower level of the house
Space and privacy were top priorities for the family. The study and master suite are therefore separated from the children’s rooms as well as the parents’ rooms, allowing everyone to enjoy having their own space.
The study with a mezzanine level adjoining the master bedroom on the second level
Timeless craftsmanship, luxury details
The owner was meticulous in choosing materials. The stone paving outdoors was selected for its resilience. The stone paving and even the stone facades still look new after three years, as they resist mould and discolouration, according to the owner.
The roof tiles were also chosen to age gracefully, complementing the stone facade for a timeless aesthetic.
Finishes include imported Italian stone, marble, timber and Marmorino plaster walls. The dry kitchen features a solid marble island and high-end German appliances from Miele and Liebherr, complemented by a generously sized, fully equipped wet kitchen.
The formal living room with a double-volume ceiling and a galleried landing
Inside, the home is furnished with pieces from Italian luxury brands, including Molteni&C, Poltrona Frau, Neutra, Maxalto, Flexform, and Riva1920 — celebrated for their artisanal craftsmanship.
While the overall design channels a Mediterranean influence, the details reflect the owner’s personal taste.
He was deeply involved in every detail, from the lighting and materials to the finishing touches. Even though the house was completed in 2022, the family moved in only in 2024 after he was satisfied with every element.
The front of the Mediterranean-inspired GCB with a stone façade and paving, as well as arched windows and doors
Modern home, classical symbolism
“The residence features bespoke furnishings, finely crafted finishes, and an array of indoor and outdoor entertainment areas,” says Lawrence Tan, advisory associate executive director at OrangeTee (a member of Realion Group), a marketing agent for the property.
The owner also incorporated fengshui principles, notably the motif of the Chinese coin — symbolising wealth and harmony — expressed through circular architectural forms and water features, from the small pond at the entrance to the swimming pool’s curved inset seating area.
Despite their attachment to the home, the family has realised they spend little time there — prompting their decision to sell. The GCB is now listed at $69 million ($3,985 psf) via private treaty.
The view of the swimming pool and the house from the rear garden
Viewers have been particularly impressed by the home’s freshness, functionality, and thoughtful design. For instance, the laundry and yard are discreetly located on the attic level. The vaulted garage on the first level accommodates two cars, with space on the driveway for three more cars. Next to the garage is also a storage room, which is ideal for storing suitcases, golf bags and other miscellaneous items.
Based on his viewings, Tan believes the property attracts the younger set, including new Singapore citizens and ultra-high-net-worth individuals below 50.
Follow Us
Property updates, 24/7.
Subscribe to Newsletter
Market insights, delivered weekly.
Top Articles
Search