Renovating Without Fear

Renovating without fear, Ideasxchange completely turned this cookie-cutter HDB unit around with bold configurations and statement materials

Disa Tan

Not everyone is open to bold ideas, especially when it comes to their humble abode, but this married couple certainly set a different tone with their new marital home which is brimming with character. Designer Caine Cheong from Ideasxchange, who worked with the couple on their renovation, said: “The homeowners weren’t looking for anything that was run of the mill, so we were on the same page to create something unconventional.”

Among some of the couple’s unusual design requirements were a grand reading room style for their living area, an NYC loft-like kitchen and a combined wardrobe-bathroom ensuite for their bedroom. To materialise these ideas into a cohesive style that doesn’t compromise everyday ease, Caine had to plan the layout carefully.

In the kitchen, he hacked away the boundary walls between the dining area and service yard. That opened up the communal zones exponentially to amplify the expanse of space and light. This bright and free-flowing configuration also allowed Caine to explore a darker palette with confidence without overwhelming the final look.

Black laminates in a matt finish now line the open-concept kitchen as well as the dining room wall. Of the material’s chic, dark tone, Caine remarks: “There’s a velvety touch to this laminate which is almost like suede, and it brings a premium touch to elevate interiors.” Pairing this sleek finish with the rose gold-hued kitchen backsplash, the dark, masculine tone draws out a perfectly brilliant contrast against the soft metallic palette.