Home tour: A luxurious corner terrace house in Yio Chu Kang

This corner terrace house in Yio Chu Kang by Create Architecture embraces the home’s history and verdant surroundings with a beautifully resolved hanging garden concept

There is a saying in Singapore that buildings are not allowed to get old. This often refers to the local tendency to replace ageing structures with new developments, fuelled by the city-state’s rapid pace of urbanisation.

However, Singapore has also emerged as a leader in sustainable practices, blending modernity with mindfulness of the environment. And few habits align as closely with sustainability as reusing and repurposing what you already have—houses included.

Thus, we are witnessing a growing number of adaptive reuse projects, alongside Addition and Alteration (A&A) initiatives that breathe new life into old structures, allowing them to meet the demands of modern living while preserving their character as well as the greater environment.

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The cosy living room is demarcated from the dining area by elevation

The indoor kitchen also offers direct access to the poolside zone

This second-level nook is now a cosy seating area

Photo 1 of 3 The cosy living room is demarcated from the dining area by elevation

Photo 2 of 3 The indoor kitchen also offers direct access to the poolside zone

Photo 3 of 3 This second-level nook is now a cosy seating area

The cosy living room is demarcated from the dining area by elevation

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One such example is a corner terrace house occupying an asymmetrical corner plot in Singapore’s Yio Chu Kang neighbourhood. This project, undertaken by Create Architecture, led by Tan Bing Hui, is a case study of how thoughtful design can transform existing structures into contemporary homes. By capitalising on the lush greenery to the east and south of the site, the design team has created living spaces that seamlessly integrate with their environment.

“By thoughtfully revitalising existing structures, the design not only pays homage to the site’s history but also responds to the modern need for inviting and dynamic living spaces,” explains the design team at Create Architecture.

The unique attributes of the corner plot—its asymmetrical shape and surrounding greenery—presented both challenges and opportunities. Rather than imposing a rigid design, Create Architecture embraced the natural quirks of the site, resulting in a home that feels organic and connected to its surroundings. At the heart of the design is a concept inspired by hanging gardens, which blurs the boundaries between the built environment and nature.

The open-plan master bedroom has a sitting area and a study

The walk-in wardrobe has his and hers sides as well as access to the balcony

Finished with a mix of living plants and artificial turf, the home’s perimeter appears just like an extension of its lush green surroundings

Photo 1 of 3 The open-plan master bedroom has a sitting area and a study

Photo 2 of 3 The walk-in wardrobe has his and hers sides as well as access to the balcony

Photo 3 of 3 Finished with a mix of living plants and artificial turf, the home’s perimeter appears just like an extension of its lush green surroundings

The open-plan master bedroom has a sitting area and a study

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This approach transforms the asymmetrical plot into a sanctuary. Previously awkward spaces were reimagined as green zones, creating areas that bridge the architecture and the neighbourhood. By weaving greenery into the structure itself, the design mediates between the indoors and outdoors, softening the house’s presence on the street.

The home’s original form was preserved but elevated through the addition of new walls, windows and roofs, enhancing its connection to the environment. These updates balance functionality with aesthetics, allowing the home to stand out without disrupting the natural harmony of the area.

The interior spaces predominantly feature an open-concept layout. The ground floor’s living and dining areas are subtly partitioned by slight changes in elevation, creating defined yet fluid spaces. These areas open up to the pool via a series of floor-to-ceiling glazed pivoting doors, allowing residents and guests to enjoy the outdoors while socialising.

The ground floor also includes two kitchens—one indoor and one outdoor—where the latter serves as a hub for a canopied poolside living area.

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Above The zen bathroom features an onsen-like wooden bathtub and a picturesque view through the slanted window

Above The pool area is surrounded by greenery

The zen bathroom features an onsen-like wooden bathtub and a picturesque view through the slanted window

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A balcony finished in artificial turf wraps around the perimeter of the second level, providing an outdoor walking space without leaving home. This floor houses the master suite, which comprises an open-plan bedroom with its own sitting area and study, alongside a separate walk-in wardrobe with balcony access.

The material palette of the interiors evokes a palpable Japanese influence through the consistent use of pale wood, concrete surfaces and natural stone. The furniture selection itself also features low-slung pieces with gentle curves that serve as visual counterpoints to soften existing architectural angles.

A wooden bathtub in the roof-level bathroom helps to create the impression of a traditional Japanese onsen, inviting moments of relaxation while offering an elevated view through an eye-catching angled window. This harmonious blend of materials and design elements creates a serene air that enhances both comfort and aesthetic appeal throughout this remarkable home.