New Beginnings

Warm earthy tones and plenty of space for socialising define this matrimonial home.

- ISABELLE TOW

Space Four-room HDB BTO flat

Location Bedok South

Reno period 12 weeks

Home to A married couple

Budget $50K

2021 was a significant year of milestones for Tricia and Lucius. Besides getting hitched, the couple, who are in their 30s, also moved into their first matrimonial home together.

When they approached the designers at Cozyspace, they came bearing a rather clear vision of their first home: a Scandinavian-inspired abode, awash in soothing earthy neutrals and warm wood. To infuse it with a cosy, lived-in vibe, they envisioned filling it with tasteful mid-century modern furnishings and boho-chic accessories. As avid hosts, the couple also mentioned the need for spacious communal areas so that friends and family can gather comfortably.

At 1,000sq ft, the three-bedroom unit is of middling proportions, which is why deliberate spatial planning was imperative so that the couple’s brief could be thoroughly met. A case in point was deciding the function of the second common bedroom. During discussions, a walk-in wardrobe had been brought up—a dream feature of Tricia’s. However, the designers had to present the couple with a reality check: they would have to choose between the walk-in wardrobe or an expanded communal space, which would require hacking the bedroom; their apartment could not accommodate both. As the creating room for socialising was a priority from the start, the walk-in wardrobe had to be relinquished, although the owners are more than happy with that decision after seeing their finished home.