There were some challenges in achieving this spaciousness and ease of movement. At first, it seemed straightforward to convert what had been the third guest room into the envisioned open-layout dry kitchen overlooking the living area and patio.

However, during the course of hacking the wall of the third guest room, the contractor discovered that a supporting column indicated by the floor plan was not actually there. Therefore, a certified structural engineer had to be engaged. Thankfully, his official report stated that removing the wall would not entail any shift in structural support, as the existing beam was sufficient to bear the entire load. 

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ON HOME GROUND

The tranquil atmosphere of the apartment owes a lot to the way it feels, set apart from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

The garden, in particular, has been integral in defining the whole space as a haven. Shini’s husband took this opportunity to plant trees and put together a little “eco oasis. It has turned into our favourite space to have coffee in the morning,” she enthuses. “It was something that we always wanted. To live in the middle of the city and be surrounded by lush greenery.”

Of course, the outdoor space is also ideal as a personal playground for the couple’s two dogs and one cat.

A further layer of privacy was added since Shini and her husband decided to buy one other unit on the same floor. With their folks installed there, they had the entire floor to themselves. It did not hurt that they could use the lobby as their foyer. 

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TIMELESS AND SEAMLESS

The subtle restraint in the design choices was informed by warm and luxe minimalism. Given the minimalist inspiration, it is no surprise that neutrals play a big part in the colour palette. The aim was to provide a calm, unobtrusive base that would accommodate changes in furniture or splashes of vibrant colour.

The result is a gentle interplay of undertones: beige, ivory, taupe, and off-white shades bring out one another’s quiet complexities. The overall effect is supported by modern Nordic-French wall panels in seamless white.

For Shini, wooden flooring was absolutely indispensable, and she took about half a year to source just the right timber. Since she was going for a chevron laying pattern, it had to be engineered hardwood. Ultimately, she settled on a French Oak Latte as her colour choice. She explains that this “has a beautiful muted ash grey-brown tone to it.”

The smooth texture of marble decorate key areas. For example, Volakas marble in honed finish is used for the dry kitchen countertops and island, while two slabs of Marquina marble in antique finish serve as the backing for the TV. Other accents are added by wood veneers and by wicker pieces which contribute a touch of the nostalgic.

Timeless details, open design, and a focus on the warm and personable—these elements have come together to make this an enviably welcoming home. The previous owners certainly seem to think so. Shini recounts with a smile: “Till today, when we get together for drinks, they would joke that we forced them out of the place!”

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