5-room HDB flat in Choa Chu Kang: Mellowed edges and soft mornings

Tasked with turning a 32-year-old resale HDB flat into a home for a family of five, we had a lot of great space to work with. Like many older units, the original layout was generous, but it needed to be adapted for a modern lifestyle.

By understanding our clients' needs, we were able to make the most of that extra room, centering the design around the kitchen. We introduced a large peninsula as the new focal point of the home - more on that later.

For now, let's start at the entrance.

Rethinking spaces with gentle forms

The main partition is a soft, wave-like gesture that separates the entryway from the living room. It’s a functional piece that doubles as a visual anchor. As light pours in from the window, shadows move across those niches like a sundial depending on the time of day - a gentle detail that remarkably settles the room.

We kept the other elements in muted tones to create a soothing backdrop that complements the organic shapes in the living area, making the home feel grounded and welcoming.

The kitchen as a place to pause

Moving into the kitchen, the palette stays rooted in oatmeal and warm wood. The peninsula is designed with a deep, rounded radius, partly because it looks beautiful, but mostly because it’s a much kinder edge to lean against while waiting for the kettle to boil.

One of the most inviting spots in this home is the arched coffee nook, offering a quiet space for morning rituals. By carving out this specific zone, we kept the main countertop clear of clutter. It holds just the essentials: a few mugs, a coffee press, and other small items within easy reach. With more than enough room for a favourite beverage and a good read, the countertop makes for a generous albeit short stopover in the morning - just what's needed before the rush sets in.

Given the sufficient storage space in this large kitchen, we were able to do away with most upper cabinets. This allowed natural light to hit the walls directly, accentuating the soft and unpretentious finishes.

It is also worth noting that in the original HDB layout, the common bathroom door was located near the middle of the kitchen. By relocating it to the back, we reclaimed a long stretch of wall for cabinetry, much-needed for a household of five. It also opens up the space for more design possibilities.

Other design touches

The homeowners originally wanted layered wavy cove lighting, but that would have made the ceiling feel way too low. Instead, we went with two long, flowing tracks that lead to the corridor outside the bedrooms. It still provides the sense of movement they want without sacrificing the height.

At the end of the day, the house feels like a home because of how the family has made it their own. The kids have claimed their favourite corners, and the niches are filled with things they love. It is now a quiet and restful space that serves as a steady backdrop for their life together.

Looking to renovate your space? Enquire with us here.