The Chic Home: Ex-architectural associate designs dog-friendly dream apartment

Straits Times

23-05-2025

Built in the 1970s, this revamped HUDC unit is home to a former architectural associate and his dog. PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
SINGAPORE – Nestled beside the forests around MacRitchie Reservoir is a three-block development by the Housing and Urban Development Company (HUDC) dating back to 1977.
Despite its age, Mr Augustine Heng, who runs a tuition centre, was able to spot the untapped potential in his 1,615 sq ft, three-bedroom unit in Upper Thomson Road.
'The existing layout felt constrained, but I knew that by reconfiguring the walls and rethinking the flow, I could create a more open and seamless living environment,' says the 41-year-old bachelo r.
As a former architectural associate, he decided to undertake the design himself. 'For years, I had been imagining my ideal home, and this was the perfect opportunity to bring those ideas to life.
'The chance to shape every detail according to my vision was something I could not pass up , especially in a setting as unique as this, with views that played a major role in the design decisions .'
Mr Heng wanted the flat's look to combine Scandinavian chic and the aesthetic of Japanese brand Muji, guided by the principles of simplicity, comfort and openness. It was important to him that the space be warm and welcoming, and every decision was made with the natural beauty right outside his windows in mind.
The main door originally opened to a full view of the apartment. Mr Heng introduced a partition that creates privacy and a sense of separation without blocking the view, along with a bench seat for putting on and removing shoes.
The former balcony next to the living area is now a dining space. A partition and bench seat screen off the rest of the unit from view.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
The spacious living area is minimalist and uncluttered, with an L-shaped sofa and a small wooden coffee table. The television console almost blends into the floor. By keeping the colour and material palettes neutral, the space has a sense of ease and lightness.
The former balcony next to the living area is now a dining space that comfortably accommodates a table for eight. It is up against windows that span the width of the room, with an unblocked view of the reservoir and the surrounding forest.
The large kitchen island is perfect for Mr Heng to entertain.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
With the existing kitchen walls removed, the kitchen and the former dining room are one large open space. Instead of separate wet and dry kitchens, Mr Heng created a single dry kitchen centred on an island. The large windows and absence of cabinets above the counter reinforce the feeling of openness .
By removing two perpendicular walls, what used to be a dead space outside the common bathroom has been transformed into an open courtyard of sorts, featuring more greenery.
A canine wall design demarcates the dedicated area in the backyard where Mr Heng's dog goes for a drink of water.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
For the master bedroom, Mr Heng opted for a platform bed that would allow his pet dog to sleep beside him. The light wood and white walls and ceiling are consistent with the rest of the home.
Mr Heng opted for a platform bed that would allow his pet dog to sleep beside him.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
The attached master bathroom features a built-in bathtub with views of the reservoir, elevating the space into a sanctuary of relaxation.
The master bathroom's beige and white hues match the rest of the home.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
One of the two remaining bedrooms is now a hobby-cum-movie room where Mr Heng displays his Bearbrick collection. The third bedroom is a study with a Murphy bed system that allows it to double as a guest room.
The home owner's Bearbrick collection is on display in the hobby-cum-movie room.
PHOTO: SPH MEDIA
The unit was overhauled to the tune of about $120,000, excluding furnishings. Given its age, it was in a state of significant disrepair, which led to numerous complications during the renovation.
Mr Heng says: 'Compounding these issues, I unfortunately hired an inept project manager whose lack of oversight and coordination resulted in multiple mistakes. For instance, the bathroom tiling had to be redone three times.'
These setbacks prolonged the renovation to around four months. Mr Heng moved into the home in mid-June 2024.
But he is pleased with the result. 'The light wood accents complemented by crisp white walls evoke a sense of calm and serenity, harmonising with the lush greenery visible from almost every room.'
This article first appeared in Home & Decor Singapore. Go to homeanddecor.com.sg for more beautiful homes, space-saving ideas and interior inspiration.
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