DOWN TO THE BASICS

Businessman Timothy Tay and his wife, Samantha Chew, the general manager of a voluntary welfare organisation, wanted a cosy tropical house filled with personal touches. They entrusted the project to Muzi Design Architects and Sujonohun.

For Molina Hun and Sujono Lim, creative directors of Sujonohun, being involved very early on in the project had its advantages, as well as challenges. “We had the opportunity to work with the architect in creating an efficient interior layout. We proposed the selection of sanitaryware and fittings, marble, tiles, timber flooring, light fixtures and ironmongery. We also assisted the architect in determining the facade colours, materials and textures,” says Molina.

However, being on board right from the start also meant that it was a very long process for the interior designer couple. “It took us about one-and-ahalf years to follow through the architectural development, interior design and carpentry construction of the house. It was not such a clear cut or straightforward approach for us and there were also design changes and some obstacles along the way,” Sujono explains.

Nevertheless, the duo embraced the challenge and went about creating the tropical home with a sense of openness and connection that Timothy and Samantha wanted. The double volume void in the living and dining areas, the earth-toned palette and the pockets of green that have been woven into the fabric of the home were all designed with this concept in mind.

Over the years, the homeowners have amassed a collection of souvenirs from their travels, which they have always displayed in their homes - from their first HDB flat, to various condominium apartments and, now, this semidetached home. This was an important aspect of their brief. Says Timothy: “While these souvenirs are not expensive in terms of value, they form an invaluable part of our personal history and we wanted Molina and Sujono to include spaces to house them, so as to maintain a sense of continuity.”

It was indeed a challenge to come up with a holistic design language that would harmoniously bring together the contrast in styles between new furniture and pieces that were brought over from the homeowners’ previous homes, as well as fittingly display the varied overseas collectibles. “We also had to juggle the budget and adjust the design accordingly without compromising our original intent,” shares Molina.

WHO LIVES HERE

Souvenirs from the homeowners’ travels are displayed on a suspended metal shelf in powder-coated aluminium, with wood laminate as accent.

The bed and rug in the master bedroom are from the owners’ previous home. The open layout allows for the flexibility to rearrange furniture or make changes.

Homeowner Timothy loves singing and watching movies, and his two boys have also caught on. The entertainment room, with its specialistdesigned acoustics, provides just the space for them to indulge in their favourite pastime.

The storage cabinet and wall panelling in the gym have mirrored cladding to draw in the light and reflect the greenery in the adjacent patio.