A contemporary vision for a bachelor pad breathes new life into this mature flat.
Looking at the interiors of this contemporary-chic 905sq ft four-room flat in Queensway, there is little that gives away the apartment’s half-century age. Besides the terrazzo flooring and old-school bathroom layout that separates the toilet from the shower, the rest of the home has been given a modern update—clean-lined custom furnishings finished in a masculine colour scheme. The apartment’s transformation was designed around the tastes and lifestyle of its new, youthful owner, Alex, a healthcare professional who lives here with his partner.
Like many other bachelors, Alex was drawn to a monochromatic palette for his new pad. His inclination towards charcoal, grey, and oak tones was fortuitous—they would contrast nicely with the existing terrazzo flooring of the communal areas that he wanted to preserve, which had been pristinely kept over the years by previous owners.
Noting the absence of a storeroom, one key requirement that Alex conveyed to Ean Chu of Happe Design Atelier for the makeover was plenty of storage space. Instead of simply creating singular storage units, Ean designed clever multipurpose fixtures that are equally functional and sleek. The foyer now sports a handsome full-height storage unit that hides away household items of various dimensions whilst also serving as a display niche. Designed to maximise storage space, the white oak-toned TV console snugly fits a TV at its centre, with plenty of storage units built all around. A platform bed solves the storage problem in the master bedroom.
Being an avid cook, the homeowner also required a kitchen layout that would be well-suited for meal prep. As countertop space and mobility were the two most important considerations for the space, a galley-style format was an obvious winner.
Any keen-eyed visitor will note how conducive this home is designed for living, but also for working in, too. Accurately predicting the need for office space at home, Alex had one bedroom converted into a consultation room, and saved the last as a guest room cum workshop space. The latter is where he spends his time crafting small leather goods like wallets and passport holders that he sells on the side.
Despite delays caused by the pandemic, Alex was able to move into his spruced-up home with his partner in time to welcome the new year.
This post was adapted from an article originally published in the June 2021 issue of SquareRooms.
