Back in 2017, Charmaine Wong of Chalk Architects received an unprecedented brief in her inbox: to transform a 5-room HDB flat in Bukit Merah into a wheelchair-friendly home, with a budget of just $80,000.
The brief came from a couple in their thirties, accompanied by their lively eighty-year-old son. The wife, recovering from a spinal injury, needed a space that could aid in facilitating in-home physiotherapy sessions while preserving the family’s ability to host their cherished gatherings.
They dreamed of a home where universally accessible features, which are often associated with a clinical atmosphere, do not take away from its conviviality.
“This project was our first time addressing universal design features,” says Charmaine, sharing insights into her preparation to strike the right balance between form and function. “We arranged several meet-up sessions over coffee and food near the homeowners, followed by visits to their previous home to understand their requirements and living habits.”
After sizing up the 1,313 sq ft space, Charmaine identified two challenges. First, they needed to level the flooring throughout the house to ensure seamless movement. Second, addressing the structural columns necessitated a complete overhaul of the flat’s layout—and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Transform your laundry routine
Designed for the demands of modern urban living, Samsung’s Bespoke AI Laundry Combo redefines convenience by combining washing and drying in a single, space-saving unit.
Personal moments and timeless design
In a cosy flat filled with curated art and travel mementos, Amirul and Clarice's home tells a story of love, inspiration, and evolving tastes. From mid-century elements to modular classics, the couple shares how they shaped a space that reflects their journeys-and how it's still growing with them.
Old meets bold
Tim and Nicole were so enamoured with their Tiong Bahru rental that they bought it, preserving its midcentury charm while personalising the pre-war unit.
Branching out
With a tree at its centre and a mix of global influences across the ages, this home feels more like a living art gallery than a typical apartment.
Minimalist marvel
Thoughtfully designed by Ray Seah and Kate Sitchon, the space combines sleek aesthetics with practical solutions, offering the perfect balance of style and comfort.
Petite Paris
Channelling Parisian charm with a touch of Peranakan flair, this 4-room HDB flat looks like it belongs on the set of Emily in Paris.
Across the ages
In this one-of-a-kind home, the tastes of three generations— Baby Boomer, millennial, and Gen Z-converge.
Living artfully
Explore how Kave Home's Gala, Aiguablava, and Jondal collections bring together comfort, craftsmanship, and timeless style to transform any space into a haven of modern living.
A new chapter
Caesarstone adds 9 styles to its Porcelain Collection
The natural balance
Inspired by the serene beauty of dewdrops, the Antao Collection by Villeroy & Boch transforms bathrooms into wellness sanctuaries, combining sustainability with timeless elegance.
