There are two types of eclectic homes—those filled with cookie-cutter, store-bought novelties, and those thoughtfully curated with their occupants’ prized possessions. When the homeowners of this 1,571 sqft maisonette in Ubi met Melissa and Rashi from Studio HP, it was clear which direction their home would take.
“The homeowners are really lively, full of energy and lots of personality. They love traveling and are big into arts and collect awesome artifacts from all over the world,” Rashi shared.
From the start, the homeowners made it clear they wanted something soulful—something that would evoke memories of their former home in the United States. That brief came to life in the foyer, where a terracotta hue ties together the hidden shoe cabinet, arched doorway, and floor borders framing the geometric tiles.
“We love these tiles as we don’t see them often in Singaporean homes. Perhaps the combination of colours and prints are challenging to integrate,” Rashi said, adding that she and Melissa, too, went through several iterations to get it just right.
As the homeowners had a specific art piece in mind for the space, the designers hacked part of the wall to let in more natural light, creating a spotlight effect for the display. This move also revealed the ribbed detailing on the side of the kitchen island, making it visible from the foyer and setting the tone for the rest of the open kitchen.
“Our clients are excellent cooks—we got to try their to-die-for lasagna—and love to host friends, so the kitchen had to be impressive. Everything from the island to the backsplash and the cabinets was carefully designed so no part of the kitchen is forgotten.”
Emerald green cabinets meet a striking jade-toned sintered stone countertop in a bold pairing. Forgoing the usual shaker-style doors, the team chose a more intricate design for added character.
“We also incorporated these beautiful brass handles, which add an element of luxe to the entire kitchen.”
The dining room takes on a more understated tone, showcasing the couple’s personal art collection on a gallery wall. Wooden blinds, a generous potted plant, and warm lighting add to its cosiness, while a charming dining set, brought over from their previous apartment, slips in effortlessly.
In the living room, more of the couple’s beloved furniture pieces have been reupholstered and restyled. Among the new additions are a lightweight piece from Jaipur Rugs and a European-style wallpaper that adds texture without the bulk. The balcony, meanwhile, has been retiled in the same terracotta used in the entryway.
“Our clients love pops of colour, so we kept this in mind when sourcing the outdoor furniture and painted the metal railing in yellow.”
Upstairs, three distinct rooms speak to different needs: work, wellness, and rest. The study houses the homeowners’ existing bookshelves and desk, elevated with a quirky geometric feature wall and embroidered blinds.
“Study rooms often feel like a dumping ground for bulky furniture, but we wanted our clients to enjoy this space as much as the other parts of the home”
The second bedroom is a multipurpose space, outfitted with a sofa bed, treadmill, and a wardrobe inspired by traditional Indian arches. A whimsical rug adorned with eclectic animal prints, again from Jaipur Rugs, brings the room to life.
Emerald green reappears on the walls of the master bedroom, and the adjoining bathroom echoes the theme with dusty rose accents.
“The homeowners requested a bathtub in the master bedroom. Specifically, they said it should feel relaxing and spa-like,” the designers recalled. To accommodate the bathtub, the layout was adjusted to extend the bathroom, resulting in a low-key yet luxurious ensuite.
Despite the mix of shapes, textures, and colours, the home never feels chaotic. What holds it all together is a keen attention to detail, from custom carpentry to the seamless transitions that guide you from one space to the next.
“The greatest compliment is that our clients see their home as a deep reflection of their personalities,” Rashi said, adding that they had become friends with the couple over the course of the project.
“They are so sweet to have invited us for a lovely evening of wine and home-cooked food. It was a very magical project for us to work on.”
Words: Joyce Yang
