A kid-friendly home where form meets function

Home Type: Executive apartment

Floor Area: 1,507sqft

Text by Janice Seow

The owners of this executive apartment had two kids and wanted a spacious and kid-friendly home that combined aesthetic considerations with practical needs, and where the whole family could live comfortably.

d’Phenomenal was tasked to bring their vision to life, and Kef Tan, the firm’s Creative Director elaborates: “The design brief was to create a harmonious and functional living environment that integrated a balcony into the main living area, and with a dedicated play zone for the children. The design had to be timeless, ensuring it remained both appealing and practical for years to come. It had to factor in safety for the kids, and be a place that the whole family could enjoy.”

The renovation was done at a cost of $170,000 and in a relatively short span of eight weeks. Kef attributes the quick completion to good communication and planning, and the firm’s network of experienced contractors.

“We collaborated closely with our client, and had multiple discussions to work out the details even before we got access to the property. This early engagement allowed us to tackle key issues upfront, ensuring a smoother process with only minor adjustments needed that did not disrupt our schedule,” says Kef. “Additionally, our network of skilled local contractors, including electricians, plumbers, and carpenters based in Singapore, proved crucial. Their immediate availability enabled us to quickly resolve any issues that arose, keeping the project on track,” he adds.

To achieve the desired aesthetic and functional requirements, the designers gave the unit a complete overhaul. Outdated tiles and carpentry were removed, and the wall between the kitchen and balcony was demolished to create a more open and integrated layout.

Following the spatial changes, a kitchen island was introduced as a central focal point. Durable and easy-to-maintain materials in timeless colours and designs were chosen, seamless storage solutions incorporated, and various kid-friendly features included to ensure a safe and practical environment for the young ones.

Beyond function, the unit carries various unique and stylish details and they begin right at the foyer. The space features an eye-catching curved ceiling design adorned with wood-patterned wallpaper, which immediately draws attention as one enters. The different floor tile treatment helps to delineate this space from the main living area, while a long shoe cabinet with a round cutout lends a playful touch.

In the living area, a full-height cabinet repeats the round cutout design, allowing decor to be displayed in a playful but stylish manner. The existing structural beam has also been made into a beautiful curved feature with LED lighting to enhance the ambience and illuminate the balcony space.

The dining area is both inviting and sophisticated. A striking pendant lamp hangs over a round, generously sized dining table that mirrors the circular details around the home.

d’Phenomenal’s knack for offering smart and efficient design solutions presents itself again in the kitchen. The space eschews traditional top cabinets in favour of tall units with innovative pull-out storage. The design also serves the dual purpose of concealing the large water pipes. The island is a central feature here, serving as a practical workspace, with all edges rounded for safety.

The design of the master bedroom integrates feng shui principles, and this has resulted in an unconventional positioning of the bed. The designers have taken advantage of this layout to carve out a walk-in wardrobe area, with a half-height cabinet serving as a divider between the rest and dressing zones. “This cabinet functions as both a bedhead storage unit and a multipurpose space, offering drawers for clothes, a tabletop for personal items, and even a workspace when needed,” says Kef.

In the bathroom, different types of terrazzo tiles are used to demarcate the wet and dry areas. The sleek vanity is thoughtfully designed with ample storage and even features an integrated toilet roll holder, keeping the space well-organised and looking stylish.