Muji-inspired BTO flat for a simple, minimalist way of living

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Text by Janice Seow

For the owners of this 5-room BTO flat, there is nothing more alluring than returning to a calm sanctuary after a hectic work day. With a deep appreciation for Japanese design and culture, the couple, who have two young kids and an infant, wanted minimalism and a ‘Muji aesthetic’ to drive the renovation of their new home.

“The entrance divider at the foyer is inspired by a Japanese ryokan,” shares the designer from Obbio Concept, who has made use of clean lines and warm woodgrain laminates throughout – brightened in areas with pristine white surfaces – to tie the whole look together. Easy to maintain cement-look vinyl flooring also injects a cool and modern element to balance out the warm palette.

In this BTO flat, ample storage was required to meet the needs of a family of five. In line with the minimalist concept, the cabinetry are designed to be seamless, handle-less and unobtrusive, with integrated display shelving of different sizes inserted for visual interest. Thoughtful details aren’t forgotten too, such as a nifty slide out ‘seat’ (top image) that the occupants can sit on to put on footwear.

A glass wall panel and sliding door creates a much more open and seamless dining-kitchen area while still enabling the latter to be closed off when cooking. The wooden dining table and chairs harmonise with the home’s predominantly woody surfaces, and lines up neatly with the kitchen island. Next to the dining area, mirrored shelving does wonders to brighten and enhance the sense of space.

As a 5-room BTO unit, the home comes with an extra space for a study. In the only departure from the neutral scheme, the designer has created a shared family area – painted a cheery turquoise green – where the couple can tutor their kids on weekends. Glass bi-fold doors ensure privacy while maintaining the home’s open views and airy atmosphere.

Further in, various space-saving details can be found. “The vanity in the bathroom is designed with an angled corner to take up less room and facilitate greater ease of movement,” says the designer, who adds that the green tiles are inspired by Japanese onsens.

The angled, mirrored wardrobe in the master bedroom is similarly designed to make the sleeping quarters feel more spacious. And while unseen, the wall between this room and the adjacent one has been replaced with a storage divider for a more efficient use of space.

The two older kids have the same L-shaped desk-wardrobe configuration in each of their rooms where they can focus on their individual studies. Overall, the same design language is maintained in these private quarters, but with wood-look vinyl flooring this time to promote a greater sense of warmth and intimacy.

With its strong Japanese design influences and space-smart features, this home has now become the family’s perfect escape for the bustle of city life.

Obbio Concept
www.obbioconcept.com
www.facebook.com/obbioconcept
www.instagram.com/obbioconcept

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