Yumei and Jing Hao had a long road ahead of them when they first requested their BTO flat in 2015. It took them six whole years to get their keys and finally dive into the renovation—plenty of time to refine their preferences and settle on the look of their dreams.
Now freshly wedded, the couple recounts scoring this flat on their second attempt and opting out of all the preexisting BTO components, such as flooring, plumbing and even doors. This gave the homeowners lots of playing room to exercise their own creativity on what was essentially a clean slate.
They knew from the get-go that they wanted an open-concept kitchen and a king-sized bed, so the layout of the flat had to be adjusted accordingly. Despite their clear vision, however, the couple felt that a professional interior designer would come in handy, providing visualisation plans and technical expertise, and of course, managing the entire project.
With the help of the design team, Yumei and Jing Hao were able to transform their bare-bones shell of a flat into a minimalist, mid-century modern haven with a hint of art deco. Refreshing their design ideas periodically while they waited for their keys, they witnessed the evolution and growth of their tastes, finally narrowing it all down to a very clear-cut concept. They never strayed from the mood board—a testament to the care and attention to detail that went into their home.
We caught up with the freshly married couple to find out more about their design journey and unearth their coveted renovation secrets.
Considering your positive experience with your interior designer, do you have any tips for finding a good ID?
This story is from the IdealHomes Vol.14 2022 edition of SquareRooms.
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 IdealHomes Vol.14 2022 edition of SquareRooms.
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.