A Family Home Reimagined

A 30-year-old Joo Chiat condo combines the whimsy of eclecticism with the warmth of mid-century modern design.

- Words: Joyce Yang

Space is often a big question for young Singaporean couples starting a family.

With children on the way and sometimes a live-in helper, newer flats can start to feel a little cramped. That's when many turn to resale condominiums for more breathing room, family-friendly facilities, and the security of a gated community.

With a young child, a newborn, a live-in helper, and two cats, this couple in their thirties was no exception, and were immediately drawn to this four-bedroom condo unit in Joo Chiat.

"They fell in love with this apartment for its spacious, squarish layout, which allowed them to create dedicated zones for their children to play and rest," explained Debbie from Loco Division, one of the two interior designers behind the project. She worked on the home with her colleague, Yoo Feiyi.

There was just one catch: the apartment was 30 years old and required what Debbie calls a "full gut renovation." After all, the homeowners had envisioned an eclectic mid-century modern facelift which would reflect both the youthful energy of their growing family and the couple's appreciation for art and culture.

"They have an expanding collection of quirky art pieces and trinkets gathered from travels and makers markets, and wanted opportunities to showcase these little stories throughout the home."