Cover This bachelor pad by Arche is a moody yet sophisticated space that showcases its deep, rich aesthetic with aplomb
This bachelor pad by Arche is a moody yet sophisticated space that showcases its deep, rich aesthetic with aplomb
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Arche designs a handsome bachelor pad that typifies the essence of modern minimalism
Less is more—this is a design maxim that is easy to appreciate, yet not as easy to achieve as it seems. It calls for an uncluttered aesthetic, open spaces, and matching understated textures and hues with a certain precision to create a streamlined look, all while ensuring that the overall visual concept does not appear clinical or bland.
This minimalist approach guides the hand of Singapore design firm Arche, and has been successfully implemented in its projects thus far. “Our journey starts with a deep appreciation for the elegance of minimalism. We see beauty in simplicity, find inspiration in clean lines, and believe that less truly can be more,” says Edward Seet, the founder and design principal of Arche. “Through a thoughtful curation of elements, a minimalist colour palette and an unwavering attention to detail, we create spaces that speak to the soul.”
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Above A combination of metal, leather and dark wood in similar tones helps to create a layered look in the living room
A combination of metal, leather and dark wood in similar tones helps to create a layered look in the living room
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When tasked with turning a one-bedroom apartment into a “dark, luxurious and masculine” bachelor pad, Arche sought to bring these principles of modern minimalist design to life, while creating a space that was tailored to the needs of the homeowner and his beloved Pomsky. Aside from emphasising the need for “ample storage and space for the pet dog to roam”, the client essentially entrusted the design team to bring his dream home to life. The project was to encompass a complete overhaul of the unit and involved styling the interiors with decorative objects to create a move-in-ready apartment.
For the renovation of this 484 sq ft condominium apartment in Fourth Avenue Residences, Seet worked on the 20-week project with interior designer Aloysius Ng. To start with, the designers aimed to create the perfect backdrop. All the walls in this abode are clad in the same dark wood-effect laminate finish, and the detailing and joinery similarly match its hue and texture to create a seamless look.
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Above A hammered-metal ceiling in the entryway creates visual interest with its light-catching effect
A hammered-metal ceiling in the entryway creates visual interest with its light-catching effect
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As part of this clean-lined aesthetic, the doors to the master suite are clad in an identical finish to the walls, creating a secret entrance to this inner sanctum only the homeowner is privy to.
At the entrance vestibule, a subtle shine overhead catches the eye—the corrugated steel ceiling, with its wavy light-catching form, appears like water rippling in a pond. Upon stepping into the apartment, it’s easy to appreciate the sense of restfulness its dark-hued interior creates. The rationale behind this design treatment is to create a visual demarcation between the compact apartment’s vestibule and kitchenette as the usual floor tile segregation would have made the apartment feel even smaller. It also makes for an eye-catching entrance.
The Delumina wall lamp from DCW Edition is another intriguing detail in the entryway. Comprising two glass discs, the luminaire emits a soft glow and features a rotating rod that can vary the appearance of the upper disc, which can turn from opaque to transparent to allow more light to pass through. “It adds visual interest to the entrance foyer, and can be adjusted to suit the mood,” comments Ng.
The false ceiling conceals all the electrical wiring, resulting in a clean, sleek design
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The apartment is envisioned as a master suite that incorporates a multitude of functions within its unified design concept, which starts from the open-plan living room and kitchen. Worktops can be pulled out when needed, for various uses. “This holistic approach blends diverse elements and different key usage to fulfil various needs within a cohesive space,” says Seet.
For instance, the living area includes a tabletop that can function as a grooming area for the dog, or be used as a desk when the owner is working from home. This can be tucked away within the storage cabinet when it is not in use.
The bedroom similarly incorporates a connected desk and bedside table next to its built-in headboard; the latter features a light grey hue and a curved form. In the bathroom, cubic forms conceal the piping and cistern, creating an understated look true to the minimalist design intent.
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Above The balcony houses a four-seater dining table that looks out to verdant foliage
The balcony houses a four-seater dining table that looks out to verdant foliage
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The apartment’s effortless elegance hides the site challenges the designers initially faced. These included structural columns and beams that could not be removed or relocated, yet were successfully concealed and incorporated into the unified scheme. Arche had designed the spatial concept before the construction of the condominium development was completed and had to adjust the design accordingly after seeing the actual unit.
Seet credits the owner’s support, such that the team was able to work around these restrictions while keeping the overall aesthetic and spatial experience true to their original design intent. “The trust that our client placed in us empowered us and allowed us to keep our ideation very fluid and dynamic, especially when we encountered certain site limitations. The owner maintained a very open mind throughout the entire process,” he says.
Completed last December, the outcome was satisfying to both the designers and the owner. Ng particularly appreciated the creative freedom to select the furnishings. “It was a joy to be able to curate all the furniture pieces we envisioned, carrying the quality that would help elevate the entire experience of the space,” he says.
Arche
Above Aloysius Ng of Arche
Above Edward Seet, founder and design principal of Arche
Aloysius Ng of Arche
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After a decade of experience as an interior designer, founder Edward Seet struck out to start his own firm in 2019, backed by the belief that good design elevates everyday experiences, including the enjoyment of the abodes his clients inhabit. With a focus on the purity of minimalist design, the 11-member team at Arche takes on interior design, project management and interior styling work for clients, and has completed a variety of residential and commercial projects since the firm's inception.
Arche
45B Keong Saik Road
Tel: 8903 0031
arche.sg
Credits
Images: Courtesy of Arche
