A BALANCE IN FORM

The home of Ruby Chong and Kenny Ren is the perfect blend of romantic whimsy and functionality.

- AZHAR RAHIM

While most people would engage an interior designer for an ambitious project such as renovating their home, Ruby Chong and Kenny Ren decided to take a different route. The couple, who live in a chic penthouse in the east, chose to design their home entirely on their own. This was not a decision they made lightly. It came after their experience with their first home, where the interior designer’s ideas fell short of their expectations.

“In our previous home, we had so many ideas, and when we engaged an ID, they kept giving us things we didn’t want. Plus, the suggestions were very cookie-cutter,” Ren recalls. “So we thought, why not just do it ourselves?”

This choice stemmed from their desire to create a space that reflected their unique vision and style, something they felt only they could achieve. And so, their journey of self-design began with countless hours of research and planning. Chong, who works in digital marketing in the pharmaceutical industry, and Ren, who works in retail, were determined to bring their ideas to life, no matter how unconventional they seemed. This hands-on approach allowed them to infuse their personal tastes into every corner of their home, making it a reflection of their personalities and preferences. They also document their home and life on their Instagram account @hellohomebodies, sharing their design journey and inspirations.

Stepping into their home, one is greeted by a serene palette of neutral colours with a touch of grey. What really strikes you is that despite the beige, eggshell, and light wood tones, the space is incredibly cosy and welcoming. It’s almost like being transported to another place outside of Singapore. The living area features a mixand-match of styles—a bit of Japandi, a bit of modern farmhouse, and a touch of Los Angeles vibes. The result is a harmonious blend that feels both curated and effortlessly lived in.