Art of entertaining

Text by Stephanie Peh

Project type: 3-room HDB flat
Floor area: 900sqft

Segregated into different areas, the original layout of this old flat did not match the lifestyle needs of the homeowner, a bachelorette who much preferred an open-plan layout for hosting company. Artistroom stepped in to alter the layout into an open and entertaining-ready communal space for large get-togethers. With its white walls now lined with vibrant artwork, the home welcomes guests with uplifting and eclectic vibes.

An inviting backdrop is formed by well-matched interior elements such as wood-look cabinetry and brown microcement flooring. Together with the white walls, these warm neutral tones allow the owner’s colourful art collection to take centrestage. Plush dining chairs in mismatched colours are paired with the rustic-looking wooden dining table and this interesting juxtaposition details the homeowner’s adventurous design tastes.

As the homeowner enjoys interacting with her guests while she cooks, it was imperative for the designers to propose an ultimate layout for entertaining. The key to it are dry and wet kitchen zones to encourage flowing conversations. Helming the dry kitchen is an island decked in travertine marble for a dash of grandeur.

Upon entering the kitchen, the bold travertine marble island draws attention with dramatic strokes and colours. The monolithic sculpture lends an artful touch while serving as a working countertop with its built-in sink and stove top, so the homeowner can engage her guests in conversation while cooking.

Tapping into the otherwise underutilised space of the original balcony, Artistroom worked in a long console that runs across the length of the living space. Having this elongated built-in console factors in ample storage and tabletop space. The team even installed a pull-up tabletop which can be used as a work desk or a cosy dining spot.

The homeowner was drawn to the charming neighbourhood, and most of all, its heritage, which is evident in the original interior features of the flat itself. Therefore, some parts of the unit have been lovingly preserved and one of it is the original louvred wooden windows. Now repurposed as the wardrobe and bedroom doors, these nostalgic fixtures blend well with the modern furnishings.

Original louvred wooden windows have also been repurposed as the bathroom doors. In pristine white, these iconic doors set the scene for a contemporary palette of microcement flooring matched with nature-inspired finishes that emulate the look of wood and stone. Bathroom fixtures in brushed bronze gold from hansgrohe complete the picture of calming elegance.