Cover Accents of red and blue jazz up the home’s living area and channel the hues of the artworks displayed close by
Accents of red and blue jazz up the home’s living area and channel the hues of the artworks displayed close by
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A home designed by Nikki Hunt’s Design Intervention embodying an impactful blend of Eastern and Western influences, this cosy, liveable apartment is replete with character and soul
When tasked with refreshing the interiors of this apartment in downtown Singapore, designer Nikki Hunt revelled at the opportunity to wield her signature application of pattern and colour in crafting a stylish yet comfortable abode that represents its occupants’ diverse cultural experiences.
Encompassing a unified selection of elements and styles, the home shows off its continental and Asian design influences proudly, making for a comfy, classic residence that is warmly welcoming and utterly liveable.
The apartment is home to a husband and wife, their teenage son and daughter, and their pet dog and two helpers. The husband, who collects Indian art and sculptures, had lived in Japan for several years and appreciated the serene, calming quality of Japanese design. He requested that Japanese-inspired elements be incorporated into his personal spaces.
The wife, who is partial to a soft palette and Chinese motifs and design details, had resided in the US and was a fan of the classic American East Coast ambience; she asked that the main entertainment areas communicate a crisp, Hamptons-like feel.
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The rich veining of the onyx table is highlighted beautifully by built-in illumination
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Hunt, the founder of award-winning interior design and architectural consultancy Nikki Hunt’s Design Intervention, reveals that ultimately, the owners “did not want a show home or one that felt like a hotel”.
“They didn’t care about impressing others, this home was for them and they wanted one that would help them de-stress,” she says. Among the other requirements were plenty of storage, communal spaces in which the family could bond, and private spaces for each individual to enjoy their own quiet time.
Part of the 40-year-old Beverly Hill condominium at Grange Road just below the Orchard area, the 3,500 sq ft apartment was acquired in its original condition and had not been renovated at any point. The electrical and plumbing systems also required a total overhaul.
Hunt used the owners’ collection of art and sculptures as a key point of inspiration for the design process, taking care that they became part of the overall design rather than dominate it. Some of the more noteworthy pieces include a 150kg stone Buddha statue, which called for a substantial base to support it, as well as an oversized 6ft by 6ft painting in a bright red hue.
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Above This customised dining table features a tapered base that mirrors the unusual shape of the condominium building
Above Set on a bespoke base, this Buddha statue almost seems to watch over the entrance to the powder room
This customised dining table features a tapered base that mirrors the unusual shape of the condominium building
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Every space in the home features a treasure trove of surprises waiting to be discovered. The lift lobby sets the arrival experience, featuring a textured plaster finish akin to crushed velvet in a deep blue hue; this rich, mysterious tone was inspired by an artwork owned by the client.
Things lighten up in the foyer, a light, refreshing zone aimed at welcoming the family back to their home. The stone Buddha is displayed here, cutting a sedate figure.
Nearby, an antique Indian door opens to reveal a gorgeous powder room featuring a red chinoiserie-print wallpaper, along with a gold ceiling that helps to brighten the room. A Japanese sword the husband collected is framed by a hammered metal frame from India; his time in Japan is also referenced by a ginkgo-leaf motif on a lampshade overhead.
The airy living room is a carefully composed space filled with clever touches. Decorative wall panelling hints at the American East Coast style, while the bespoke sofas represent a modern take on the traditional form. The upholstery on these also features a subtle tone-on-tone pattern that is forgiving to stains, and extremely practical.
Blue velvet on the backs of the armchairs mirrors the hue of an artwork nearby, while underfoot, a subtly patterned rug ties the whole look together.
Wall-hung plates act as colourful conversation starters in the clean-lined kitchen
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A specially crafted table in the dining area sports a tapered form that channels the unusual shape of the building; mirrored panels soften this piece’s robust form. A fridge and storage are concealed behind hand-painted chinoiserie doors, while red silk lampshades and gilded details imbue this zone with subtle glamour. Just outside, the balcony also features seating for al fresco meals or drinks.
In the bar area, specially customised cabinets in dark wood house all the glasses and accessories, and match the look of the room. Plush bespoke bar stools, an internally lit onyx table and drawers lined in red leather lend a touch of opulence. Incidentally, everything in the home was fully customised, with all the furniture designed by Hunt’s team and manufactured locally.
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An ethereal wallcovering depicting a misty mountain range and soft furnishings in a deep lilac tone bring a serene quality to the master bedroom
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Besides the sleeping areas for the parents and children, the home’s private zones also comprise separate study nooks for the husband and wife. The husband’s space is a snug sanctuary, featuring an elongated sofa on which he can lay down and watch TV. The desk is finished in leather with a decorative stitch detail, while a bespoke rug features a gently undulating wave motif. Backlit shelves infuse the room with a soft glow.
The wife’s private space is an internal room brightened by clever lighting, a mother-of-pearl table top and a leaf-print wallpaper in vibrant green. The sleek sofa here is a feminine complement to the one in the husband’s study. In the adjacent bathroom, a lively wallcovering perks up the petite and dim space.
As for the children’s bedrooms, each was specially crafted to suit their young occupants’ likes and needs. The son’s room incorporates an area in which he can play his guitar as well as a dedicated gaming corner, while the daughter’s room features a dressing table, along with a canopy and cloud-patterned wallpaper for a dreamy mood.
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Above The master bathroom features soft backlighting for a relaxed, spa-like ambience
The master bathroom features soft backlighting for a relaxed, spa-like ambience
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Overcoming various delays caused by the pandemic, the project took a year to complete. Hunt voiced her satisfaction at being able to accommodate the clients’ existing possessions, including integrating the two wine fridges into the design of the main living space, and another fridge into the dining room seamlessly.
Notably, the home was also recognised as the 2024 World’s Best Winner for Best Residential Interior (Apartment) at the International Property Awards. “It is not the most luxurious apartment,” says Hunt. “But I think the judges were impressed by how we fulfilled the brief. It is, first and foremost, a family home. It feels warm and friendly, and reflects their personalities. The design is uniquely theirs, and that’s what makes it so special.”
Above The outdoor countertop features a glass return to prevent accidental spills over the balcony
The outdoor countertop features a glass return to prevent accidental spills over the balcony
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Credits
Photography: Nikki Hunt’s Design Intervention
