For this couple’s third renovation, they went with a style they call “crash” — a charming mishmash of ideas!
For this couple’s third renovation, they went with a style they call “crash” — a charming mishmash of ideas!
WHO A couple, their two children and their dog
HOME Two-bedroom condominium unit in Upper Bukit Timah
SIZE 1,873sqf
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The mix of furniture styles, such as Victorian, retro, and traditional Chinese, create a sophisticated, global feel. The pendant light fittings were purchased from Verde Light.
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The home’s lightcoloured palette, which includes the polished cement fl oor, shows off the colourful furnishings.
OPPOSITE
The fun houndstooth-fabric sofa in a 1950s’ style is from Lorgan’s.
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The all-white bedroom is a tranquil space for Richard and Hazel to retreat to.
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The master bathroom shows off a mix of styles, such as oldschool subway wall tiles, and the modern country-style tap and door.
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The tiled flooring in the living area acts as an area rug, demarcating the open-plan kitchen from the study and storage area opposite.
Richard Ong and Hazel Poh are no newbies when it comes to renovating their home — their beautiful apartment is the result of their third renovation, all in the span of a few years. And each one has been completely different! After going for a Victorian style, followed by Scandinavian interiors for their previous homes, they went for something entirely new and exciting — a style they have dubbed “crash”.
The couple wanted a feel that is cosy and nostalgic, yet modern, without being restricted to a particular look. To achieve this, the homeowners engaged Alvin Ling and the team at The Scientist to redesign the place. They had worked with the same design team for their two previous renovations. This time, Alvin was tasked to incorporate a myriad of styles and cultural elements into the interiors, while making sure that it remains cohesive and stylish — quite a challenge! And the result is an interior that has an edgy quirkiness, with a sense of elegance and sophistication. “It’s a mixture of Victorian, Mid-Century Modern, retro and cafe-inspired styles,” Richard says.
For the selection of furniture and decor that gives the home its unique look, there are no contrived pieces — everything that is there, the couple loves.
Each area of the open-concept home has a distinct look. A cluster of multicoloured workshop lamps installed above the table lends a cafe-style feel to the dining area, as do the mismatched dining chairs. In the living area, a retro TV unit and couch from Lorgan’s gives a chic 1950s’ vibe to the space, and is complemented by a modern coffee table and drinks trolley.
In a corner near the entrance, the green tufted leather armchair is Richard’s favourite piece in the entire home. Combined with a backdrop of an arrangement of paintings and photos in various frames, as well as a bluish-green cottage-style cabinet from Taylor B, a striking focal point is created. Flooring is kept bare, with just polished cement screed, to let the interesting vignettes throughout the home stand out!
Richard has advice for those trying to achieve a similar look: “Be daring and try out new ideas — if it is something you like and meets your lifestyle needs, definitely go for it!”
WHERE TO GO
The Scientist, TEL: 6743-0363
