How do you work with a “clean-cut” and “simple” theme? These were the only design specifications given to the Versaform design team after they were engaged for this resale condominium unit’s renovation. Though the design was very much open to different interpretations, the team decided on a relaxed and open style that would best suit the homeowner’s fuss-free and healthy lifestyle. They also noted her interest in Pilates, which she wanted to practise at home.
Assessing the limited square footage of the space, they decided against having too many built-in fixtures, unless necessary, for the communal areas. The living room, dining room and kitchen share the same confines so instead of built-in cabinetry, the blank walls are mostly clad with homogeneous tiles or a light cement screed treatment. Sporting a woodgrained finish, the tiles strike an interesting visual balance with the cement screed finish; as one emits warmth while the other, a cool starkness. Together, these two contrasting wall treatments work in harmony to draw in light and a free-flow appearance of space.
Tweaking the original configuration of the unit also played a part in ensuring space is fully maximised according to the homeowner’s needs. For instance, the living area now faces the bay window, and this is for good reason. The bay window has been repurposed as a TV console and this clever move eliminates the need for an actual console which would only deplete precious floor area. Besides a place to unwind in, part of the original living area is also allocated for the study and a space for practising Pilates.
To accommodate the homeowner’s Pilates sessions, the entrance to the only bedroom has been relocated. This slight shift creates enough wall area to hang a large mirror in the living area and sufficient room in the bedroom for an adequately-sized raised platform. Although the designers didn’t plan on mounting custom-built cabinetry in the communal zones, they had to design one to conceal a small window. A cabinet sporting textured solid plywood strips now covers the opening and besides providing storage, it acts as a privacy screen.
Maintaining a seamless visage between the connecting walls of the living area and kitchen is a sliding door clad in a similar shade of grey as the cement screed finish. This door leading to the bedroom was deliberately changed to a brand new sliding door wrapped in a laminated finish.
No bigger than a usual HDB master bedroom, the sleeping quarters went through quite a major transformation to house both the bed and a walk-in wardrobe. The ultimate solution was to build a raised platform which is level with the bay window. The sleeping area is then separated by a dual-sided headboard which is used as an open-concept wardrobe on the other end. There were also pockets of recessed areas that did not go to waste. The designers fashioned a cosy bedside niche and concealed storage to add more functionality to the space.
By reviving dead zones to fully functional spaces, the ingenuity of the Versaform designers has certainly come a long way. It is this unconventional thinking that has them utilise every inch of the space for a light-filled and welcoming home.
This was adapted from an article originally written by Disa Tan in the May 2017 issue of SquareRooms.
