This HDB flat showcases the possibilities of integrating living and working spaces in the urban city, offering a blueprint for adaptable and efficient home design.
20 January 2025
Home Type: 2-room flexi HDB BTO
Floor Area: 516sqft
Text by Vanitha Pavapathi
Two-room flexi flats were originally introduced by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) in 2015 for the elderly on shorter-lease scheme before singles aged 35 and above could purchase them in 2013. Faced with increased cost of living and rising property prices, these tiny flats have become a desirable and economical option for singles of late. Such is the case for a professional photographer cum videographer who calls this flat home.
Located adjacent to the tree-lined Punggol Heritage Trail, the property offered a relatively efficient layout. The household shelter and bathroom are centrally located, the latter of which serves as a nexus to the kitchen and bedroom through two entries. While this arrangement works for most, Chalk Architects considered the owner’s lifestyle and reprogrammed it into a SOHO, serving as a versatile space that seamlessly integrates living and working spaces.
“The design concept centres around transforming the apartment into a ‘white canvas’, where every surface and corner performs multiple functions,” shares lead designer Charmaine Wong. The whitewashed ceilings and walls double as projection screens, transforming the bedroom cum photo studio into a personal cinema when paired with black-out curtains that enhance the viewing experience.
Keeping the compact space as airy as possible, window treatments are also used strategically as partitions. Curtains delineate the bedroom from the editing suite cum dining space, while translucent blind panels in front of the open wardrobe not only hide away any mess, but also function as a backdrop for photo shoots.
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a conducive environment for both work and relaxation. The workstation faces the windows, maximising natural light and keeping the owner energised during the day. “Indirect lighting is placed in rest areas, allowing soft light to radiate off the off-white walls and curtains,” explains Charmaine of her approach to create a soothing ambience. This thoughtful illumination design offers visual comfort and relief, especially after long hours of computer work and photo shoots.
Contrary to traditional decluttering methods that rely on built-in cabinets, the flat features metal frame open shelving units along both lengths of the space. This saves considerable space compared to the former – a necessity for compact living. Painted in matte white to camouflage with the walls, these shelves maintain a sense of spaciousness and lightness.
The selection of loose furniture and fittings further enhances the flat’s flexibility. Items such as a folding sofa bed and modular tables can be easily stowed away or reconfigured, facilitating a quick transformation into a home photo studio. This adaptability fulfils the owner’s requirement of working from home without compromising on living space.
In contrast to the predominantly white living area, the kitchen and storage spaces feature dark graphite grey tones. This colour scheme anchors these areas while minimising maintenance, thanks to the choice of anti-fingerprint and stain-resistant materials.
The cooking area shares space with equipment storage and is planned with an efficient footprint. “Smart storage solutions, such as integrated pull-out trays that double as additional countertops and a standalone cooking hob that can be stowed away when not in use, enhance functionality,” says Charmaine.
An unlikely yet inventive solution, a layer of translucent cold room curtains typically used in industrial setting, separates the equipment storage area, maintaining a controlled cool environment and ensuring energy efficiency. Natural daylight illuminates this space during the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting.
From creative use of materials to the highly flexible layout, Chalk Architects demonstrates how thoughtful design can maximise the potential of compact urban living spaces. The owner has been provided with the freedom to pursue creative work while enjoying a comfortable living environment.
Chalk Architects
www.chalkarchitects.com
Photography by Benny Loh of Studio Zeros
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