Pods and Swirling Staircases

This quirky and playful home designed by Park Associates is shaped after its owners, a young family with three children.

- LUO JINGMEI

What makes a house a home? How this terrace house designed by Park + Associates for a couple with three daughters is a perfect case study.

Unlike many ubiquitous houses in Singapore enslaved to the trappings of an anonymous, Modernist language — think white boxes with plentiful glass — this dwelling is idiosyncratic and unique to the family that lives here.

AN ORIGIN STORY

A key protagonist is the red brick facade. It curves in and out, turning a robust material into something as fluid as cloth. “Our clients met while studying at university in the United States. Their personal story gave us a starting point in the design, reflecting the ubiquitous use of facing brick in many universities in the country,” shares Christina Thean, director of the Singaporean firm that eschews formulas to approach each project with originality.

She complemented the brick with other everyday simple materials such as steel and timber. A conscientious approach to detailing and curated colour palette “brings to life a playful architectural identity and expression both inside and out,” says Thean.

Inside, there are so many beautiful moments that provide delight and comfort. Behind the modestly sized living room, the drama unfolds through a red spiral staircase rising unabashedly in a frozen dance amidst surrounding white walls.