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.

- JOYCE YANG

“Go big or go home” was Verena and her husband’s mantra when they tackled this project. As both the homeowner and an interior designer from Resistance, she took that idea to heart—so much so that she did something few HDB homeowners would even dream of: planting a tree right in the middle of her apartment.

“I was blessed to grow up in a landed home where I was surrounded by fauna, greenery, and lots of sun. When I was stressed, I’d go out to the car porch and garden and zone out,” Verena shares.

“Now that I’m no longer living with my parents, this feature helps me to reminisce about my childhood and relax.”

Her husband was fully on board with this idea. It makes sense, given that the couple identifies as a “loud and nonsensical” duo who cares little for convention. Their matrimonial home—a 5-room HDB flat—eventually became an experimental playground combining Peranakan, Balinese, and European styles.

“A non-negotiable of ours was colours. Bright, loud, and eye-catching colours,” Verena says, adding that their wardrobe has few black, white and grey fabrics.

“We’re most proud of how the colours and materials have all come together. Such bold colours and materials, if matched wrongly, could turn the whole house awry and hideous.”

The boldness of Verena’s vision hits you before you even step inside. Inspired by 1960s Hong Kong public housing, she designed and custom-built their main gate from scratch. This sense of nostalgia carries into the foyer, with its floral tiles and glass blocks offering both privacy and light.

“I used a bright turquoise colour to electrify the space, and created a glass cutout that offers a glimpse of the kitchen from the foyer. I thought it would be a heartwarming way to greet my family when they return while I’m cooking.”