A House Full of Surprises

Only pleasant ones, of course — as is characteristic of RT+Q Architects.

- LOW SHI PING

The dense population of Singapore makes it normal for landed property owners to request their homes be as private as possible. It is no different with this 14,260-sq ft bungalow in the Mountbatten area that was designed by RT+Q Architects.

The boundary wall with the road is bordered by trees while beyond that, the facade is solidly opaque. Rather than brusquely demanding “leave us alone”, the entrance has distinct design details that politely convey the same message — even while prompting passers-by to stop and stare.

For starters, it has a moon gate-style opening fitted with a pocket sliding door made from chengal wood strips and a mild steel frame. It immediately brings to mind classical Chinese gardens. Flanking it is a concrete-grey wall randomly interspersed by horizontal and vertical groove lines creating a geometric pattern that contrasts strongly with the natural timber finish.

On the right side of the house, where it rises two storeys, vertical aluminium screens with a wood finish that pivot open stand tall, creating a peek-a-boo effect to the interiors.

Funny enough, once you pass through the main door, you immediately realise how this home is the antithesis of the entrance. The L-shaped building hugs a deliberately undulating lawn and swimming pool, imparting a sense of porosity throughout.