A Zen Brew

Designed to be an Instagram-worthy backdrop, this BTO flat took inspiration from Japanese tea houses for its tranquil makeover.

- ASIH JENIE

Space 4-room BTO flat

Location Central area

Reno period 10 weeks

Home to A couple in their 30s

Reno budget $65K

How important is it for your home to be Instagram-worthy? For the couple who owns this 1,100 sq ft BTO flat in Geylang, Instagrammability is paramount. As the couple operates an online shop that sells Japanese green tea-also known as matcha-from home, the interior of their home had to be transformed to serve as a worthy backdrop to market their products.

Living room Curvy elements and gentle hues soften the look of the living room while translucent curtains diffuse the light. The furniture was sourced by the owners from Taobao and is easily reconfigured should they need the space for a photo shoot.

Tasked with this unique renovation brief was Ascend Design, the design team helmed by Managing Director Jasper Goh. "They wanted a cosy home that is Instagram-friendly because they have to take plenty of product shots in the house," shares Goh. Being a new unit, it came with standard HDB finishes like homogenous tiles and whitewashed walls-a relatively blank canvas for renovation.