A place to unwind, gather, and grow

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Text by Olha Romaniuk

Tucked within a residential pocket near the Singapore River, this 1,500-square-foot apartment has been carefully shaped into a calm yet characterful home for a young family of four. Designed by Alex and Jay Liu of Right Angle Studio, the residence reflects a nuanced take on contemporary urban living – one that balances architectural clarity with warmth, tactility, and everyday ease.

The homeowners, a pair of entrepreneurs with a grounded outlook on life, travel frequently and hold a particular affinity for Japan. This appreciation for calm, considered environments influenced the tone of the home, which was envisioned as a place to unwind, gather, and grow with their children. While the family enjoys hosting friends, they were clear that the space should feel relaxed and lived-in rather than overly curated.

From the outset, the designers focused on shaping how the home is experienced as one continuous, flowing space. The main living zone is gently defined by two slanted fins positioned at either end of the apartment, subtly guiding movement and sightlines through the interior. One frames the entertainment area, while the other introduces a detailed pantry that extends hospitality beyond the kitchen. Together, these elements allow the living and dining areas to read as a single pavilion — open, connected, and easy to inhabit.

Furniture and built-in elements are sculptural yet carefully calibrated. “Staying true to our studio’s inclination towards clean lines and restrained forms, we introduced a higher level of refinement through detailed joinery,” mentions Alex. The communal spaces transition seamlessly towards the balcony, where a mini zen garden has been integrated. This outdoor pocket offers a moment of stillness against the city backdrop, reflecting the family’s appreciation for Japanese-inspired spaces and their desire to stay connected to nature.

In the private quarters, custom-built elements play a central role. The junior bedrooms take advantage of generous ceiling heights through custom deck and study configurations that stack functions vertically, while the master suite undergoes the most dramatic transformation. Reimagined entirely from its original layout, it is anchored by a bathroom designed as a personal sanctuary. Dual vanities sit on opposing sides, offering balance and symmetry, while the shower and wet areas are discreetly tucked behind monolithic sintered travertine walls.

Throughout the home, layered fluted details and articulated ceiling planes bring a sense of cohesion and quiet richness. These textural moments are deliberately subtle, adding depth without overwhelming the overall composition.

Material selection was guided by a preference for authenticity and longevity. Natural elements such as marble, wood, and stone form the backbone of the palette, while neutral tones dominate, providing a calm backdrop within the interior spaces. “Our material selection possesses inherent texture and variation, giving the space a sense of life and authenticity,” explains Jay. “More importantly, these materials age gracefully, ensuring the home remains timeless rather than tied to a specific moment or trend.”

Ultimately, this River Valley apartment is a study in balance. It is architectural yet intimate, refined yet welcoming. Through careful spatial planning, tactile materials, and thoughtful detailing, Alex and Jay have crafted a home that feels deeply attuned to its occupants, offering clarity amidst the city’s energy.

Right Angle Studio
www.rightanglestudio.com.sg
www.facebook.com/studiorightangle
www.instagram.com/right.angle.studio

Photography by Studio Periphery

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