Designed by Free Space Intent, this retro-inspired flat captures the essence of Wong Kar Wai films, with nostalgic elements and a masterful play of light and shadow.
8 August 2025
Project type: 5-room HDB flat
Floor area: 1,300sqft
Text by Janice Seow
The homeowner, an avid Wong Kar Wai fan, wanted his flat to have a retro Hong Kong vibe, and to reflect the aesthetic and mood found in the filmmaker’s movies. Leon Luo, Associate Director of Free Space Intent, has employed the play of light and shadow, integral to Wong Kar Wai’s style of moviemaking, with lighting choices that create atmosphere. Dark wood and green shades evoke nostalgia.
Furnishings in this home are one of a kind. Some have been sourced from vintage stores while other are custom made. Designs with a contemporary spin also prevent the space from appearing dated. The homeowner’s vinyl record collection is prominently displayed on shelves, adding more layers to the personality-driven home.
Formerly enclosed, the designer has made the kitchen an open one, and brought in the retro charm with terrazzo countertops, a grille reminiscent of old HDB flats, and a green mosaic backsplash.
The service yard was carved out from the original kitchen space and made into a little garden. The pintu pagar (“gate door” in Malay) inspired design is a unique touch and a nod to Peranakan homes. The small format floor tiles completes the look.
The display divider separates the dining and living zones while maintaining a sense of openness and has lots of space to showcase the owner’s enviable collection of vintage nostalgia. The master bedroom’s ventilation wall continues the theme of visual permeability and can be covered by a reeded glass sliding panel for greater privacy when needed
Patterned flooring zones off the sleeping area from the entrance to the walk-in wardrobe beyond the timbered wall, with a fluted glass panelled door serving as a light filter. The space is simply furnished but carries distinct retrostyle elements.
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