East Coast Oasis

This DINK couple's apartment is proof that modern organic design goes beyond the usual bouclé sofas and faux plants.

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Those who choose to settle down along Singapore's East Coast often share a love for nature, and Melissa and her husband is no exception. Both professionals with hectic schedules, the couple envisioned their home as a sanctuary from urban life.

"When we first saw the space, the natural light and the view of the garden were immediately striking, and we knew we wanted to make the most of those elements," says Melissa.

The couple wanted to create a bright and airy apartment that echoes its seaside location. But given the spatial limitations and their wish list, including a dry pantry and walk-in wardrobe, this seemed like a lofty aspiration-until they met Ellba from In Theory Design.

"The homeowners had a clear vision, not just for how the space should look but also how it should feel," Ellba recalls. "A distinct challenge was maximising the functionality of the compact layout, while preserving a sense of openness." Ensuring that the homeowners could have their cake and eat it too meant pulling out all the stops, from introducing subtle details to reconfiguring the layouts.

"Solutions like repositioning the kitchen island made a huge difference.

Seeing everything come together so seamlessly, both visually and functionally, was incredibly fulfilling," Ellba adds.