Eco-brutalism brings serenity to a walk-up

Home Type: Walk-up apartment

Floor Area: 1,800sqft

Located in the vibrant Bukit Timah neighbourhood, this walk-up apartment in Lorong Kilat is a stunning embodiment of eco-brutalism, a design approach that harmonises raw, natural materials with sleek modernist elements. The home, a canvas of creativity and warmth, belongs to three siblings who have cultivated a space that truly mirrors their passions and personalities. Done at a renovation cost of $184,000, the apartment has been transformed into a sanctuary that blends the rigidity of industrial aesthetics with the softness of organic, natural touches.

Interior designer Diana from Oblivion Lab, whom the siblings had engaged for this project, aimed to balance strength and warmth, merging concrete and stone surfaces with natural wood finishes and greenery. The project began with a clear vision from the homeowners: an open, airy space that seamlessly integrates the living and kitchen areas, offering a sense of unity and flow. They desired a layout that would allow them to entertain guests comfortably, particularly for their regular Mahjong sessions, while also providing intimate corners that reflected their individual tastes.

One of the first tasks was to tackle the original entrance, where a partitioned room blocked the main door. “The entrance felt cramped, so we redesigned the space by aligning the shoe cabinet, settee and dry pantry along the wall, seamlessly connecting to the kitchen,” explains Diana. This clever reconfiguration created an ideal spot for gatherings without sacrificing the sense of privacy in other parts of the home.

A standout feature of the redesign is the extensive use of planters, which act as a living thread connecting the various spaces. The main balcony was extended into the new living area, not only providing more room but also offering a chance to introduce greenery into the home.

The layout changes also extended to the master suite, where the incorporation of the balcony allowed for a more expansive bedroom and bathroom. This redesign not only enlarged the space but also elevated the sense of luxury and comfort, turning the master suite into a haven of relaxation. The space also has a planter that flows effortlessly into the bathroom, creating a tranquil setting around the tub. “Our goal was to design a soothing experience, where you can relax in a bathtub surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene, spa-like atmosphere,” Diana shares.

The transformation wasn’t just about adding new elements; it was also about celebrating the apartment’s existing charm. The team decided to keep the original arch beams and windows, which add a timeless character to the space. “The unique arches soften the aesthetic, elevating the home’s visual appeal,” Diana says. “We wanted to preserve them to contrast with the modern, structured elements.”

From the stone-textured wall that welcomes visitors, to the beautiful interplay of shadows and light around the planters, every detail has been thoughtfully executed to reflect the siblings’ love for nature and artistic expression. Walking through this home, it’s clear that the eco-brutalism aesthetic is more than just a look – it’s a lifestyle choice that celebrates simplicity, functionality and beauty.

Oblivion Lab
www.oblivionlab.com
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Photography by Marcus IP

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