Some homes are carefully considered over months. Others simply feel right the moment you walk through the door.
For celebrity chef Wu Sihan and actress Tay Ying, it took just one viewing to know they had found their home.
The apartment ticked every box they had discussed with their property agent: a practical, boxy layout, the potential for an open kitchen, and a generous living space where family and friends could gather. But it was the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and unobstructed views that ultimately sealed the deal.
Today, the couple has transformed the apartment into a calm, light-filled sanctuary defined by timeless minimalism, thoughtful technology and a kitchen built around the way they truly live.
Designing a Home That Works Hard Every Day
Although the home’s all-white palette might seem daring for pet owners, Sihan approached it with practicality in mind. Scratch-resistant upholstery, robot cleaning systems and carefully selected finishes allow the couple to enjoy a clean, timeless aesthetic without sacrificing everyday functionality.
“Having the common space painted all white gave it a blank-canvas feel,” he shares. “With careful lighting, we can completely change the mood throughout the day.”
Lighting, in fact, became one of the home’s defining design features. Fabric ceiling lights diffuse a soft glow throughout the apartment, subtly elevating every surface while creating a warm atmosphere that changes how the space feels.
The Kitchen Every Chef Dreams Of
As head chef of Italian bistro Supply & Demand, the kitchen naturally became the heart of the renovation.
Rather than recreating a commercial kitchen, Sihan focused on designing one that supports daily life. A powerful induction cooktop with integrated ventilation, efficient workflow, durable surfaces and generous preparation areas make cooking both practical and enjoyable.
“At home, cooking is less about perfection and more about connection,” he says.
It’s a philosophy that reflects how the couple now entertains, trading restaurant-style plating for communal meals shared with family and close friends.
Smart Living, Without Losing Warmth
Technology quietly supports many aspects of daily life throughout the apartment.
Automated honeycomb blinds open with the sunrise and close at bedtime, while smart switches allow lighting to be controlled remotely. Yet despite embracing smart home features, Sihan intentionally selected traditional-looking switches to preserve the home’s timeless aesthetic.
“I still prefer controlling things by hand rather than by voice,” he laughs. “Maybe I’ll ease into it slowly.”
Renovation Advice Worth Listening To
Having completed his own renovation journey, Sihan believes one decision matters above all others.
“Choose the right interior designer. Pick someone whose portfolio already aligns with your vision.”
He also encourages first-time homeowners to build a clear mood board before starting renovations, research extensively, and purchase appliances early to take advantage of better pricing.
More Than Just a Beautiful Home
Beyond its carefully considered interiors, the apartment represents a new chapter for the couple.
Between balancing Sihan’s growing media presence, his role at Supply & Demand, and their appearances together on Chef vs Wife, the home has become a place to slow down, cook together and build lasting memories.
Looking ahead, they’re most excited about learning family recipes from their parents and continuing to gather loved ones around the dining table — proving that sometimes, the best-designed homes are the ones built around the people who fill them.
Read the full digital issue on Gain City’s website and explore the complete cover story, along with more inspiring homes, renovation ideas and smart living features.
