How this young couple transformed their 5-room BTO into a zen paradise

Home Philosophy interior designer

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Next came the search for a suitable interior designer. The couple found that they had difficulty connecting with the interior designers recommended by their friends about the use of space and design.

So, they expanded their search and chanced upon Home Philosophy, founded by Rashi Tulshyan, on Instagram. Recognising the easy and smooth communication with the designers, they decided to work with Home Philosophy.

Standard 4-room BTO layout

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Mid-Century Modern Interiors
While the couple were keen on the mid-century modern aesthetic, they also wanted a space that would reflect their lifestyle and individual personalities. They also enjoy hosting and wine. So, they were keen to avoid the typical television room layout.

Instead, they preferred having plenty of seating options for hosting and a bar area to be fitted somewhere close. An open kitchen concept with ample countertop space was also in the brief.
Standard 4-room BTO layout
“With the new BTOs that mostly come in the ‘standard’ layouts, we had to be creative and think of ways to design a space that would reflect the client’s needs, especially the living area since it would be the first thing you see when entering the home,” Melissa Wan, the lead interior designer and project manager, says.

Notably, the BTO unit had plenty of natural sunlight and wind, which would help create the bright and airy home they had envisioned.

Maximising the windows

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Arch window design
Instead of a television wall, the long window wall became the focal point. Arches frame the windows, while slim shelves by the sides bring a sense of symmetry.
Bay window bench
A floating bench stretches across the windows, adding more seating to the living area that is already occupied by ample sofas. Every element was measured carefully to ensure spatial flow, comfort and ease of movement.

BTO Storage ideas

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In addition to that, the interior design team also ensured a host of storage solutions. A bar area sits near the living area. Sliding doors hide the wine fridge and household shelter. A shoe storage unit is also placed in this area.

Kitchen island dining table

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The interior design team customised a dining table connected to the kitchen counter.

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“We found spatial planning to be really important. While we kept carpentry minimal and only proposed what was necessary, we still had to be careful to make sure we got the sizes right to prevent the spaces from feeling too bulky or boxed-up,” Melissa shares.

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A compact home bar area beside the wine fridge offers plenty of storage space. Custom wallpaper adds flair to the space.

Study room

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They also converted the bedroom closest to the living area into a study. Walls were removed so that it would feel like a part of the main living space. Glass doors with arch details provide a sense of continuity.

Neutral interior design

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The overall palette of browns, neutrals, and olive greens softens and warms the ambience. Instead of a uniform wood finish, wood patterns in different hues inject variety and vibrancy into the home.

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Decorative elements like the wall tiles and wallpaper appear in pockets of the home to tie the look together.

BTO Master bedroom design

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Finding a unique look for the master bedroom was also a vital task. The interior design team accomplished it with light green paint on all walls. Of note, flat wall panels in black clad the bottom half of the walls. The combination brings a sense of calm and cosiness while remaining cohesive with the rest of the home.

“An arch nook at the side of the L-shaped wardrobe helps soften the look of the carpentry when you first step into the room,” Melissa says, adding that it also serves as a practical storage area for frequently used accessories.

3 Month renovation

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The couple worked closely with the interior design team over the 3-month project and were open to exploring creative ideas. They have since settled into their home after their move in January 2023.

When asked how living in their home has been like, Jolyn says, “It’s a sanctuary in the quiet moments and the perfect cosy, warm space for our loved ones and friends to gather whenever we host.”

This article was originally published in Home & Decor.