A Singapore apartment by Dwell Interior Design with Japanese influences and panoramic views of Marina Bay

Dwell Interior Design reconfigured this Singapore apartment into a breezy abode that elevates its amazing views with touches of luxury and nods to Japanese culture

The first time Ed Ong stepped into this apartment on the 28th level of The Sail @ Marina Bay condominium, he was struck by the sight of the sweeping panorama outside its expansive glass windows. The founder and creative director of Dwell Interior Design knew that the commanding view, which encompasses the scenic Marina Bay area and Singapore skyline, had to be integral to the home’s refurbishment. “I felt that the view [from the apartment] was just at the right level,” he says, explaining that it was neither too lofty, nor too low.

The owner, a businessman who is often out of town and uses this home as a pied-à-terre, wanted to maximise the view for his gathering with friends, particularly during major events such as the Formula 1 race that took place in Singapore this September. “The apartment is all about the view,” declares Ong. “The owner wanted his guests to be able to enjoy views of Marina Bay Sands and the Formula 1 night race, so the apartment had to be modern, luxurious, and suited to entertainment.”

Ong was tasked to open up the apartment and imbue it with a greater sense of space.

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Above The spectacular views of Marina Bay make the apartment a choice spot for entertaining

The designer decided to turn the original three-bedroom layout into a two-room home, inclusive of a master suite and a guest bedroom for when the owner’s family members come to visit. The 1,700 sq ft unit’s wide and open spaces expand its boundaries visually, bring in more natural light, are ideal for hosting guests in and, above all, are a perfect complement to the dramatic vista outside.

Light pours in through the large windows of the open-plan living room and casts a glow over the pale marble-topped coffee table, chairs with leather armrests and a cosy Giorgetti sofa which practically begs to be lounged upon; its textural upholstery is matched by a geometric rug underfoot, sourced from British brand Riviere Rugs. All the seats are oriented to face the stunning cityscape outside.

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Above An array of vibrant Japaneseobi belts is displayed in the hall

Above A marble backsplash amps up the luxurious look of the kitchen cabinetry

Standing in front of a pillar in one corner of the living area is a Bang & Olufsen Beovision Harmony TV, an almost sculptural piece that catches the eye with its bronze-tone aluminium and walnut wood-panelled speaker fronts, which are modelled after mid-century entertainment cabinets. It is set on the floor, so it does not obstruct the outdoor view.

Another visual standout in this space is a hand-built wooden display stand behind the sofa from which hang five sumptuously patterned obi—fabric belts for Japanese kimono—that the owner is fond of collecting. The obi rack, which was designed by Ong to mimic the look of traditional Japanese timber architecture, works beautifully as a backdrop that revels in its juxtaposition of the cream, marigold yellow and gold-hued sashes against the dark wood fixture.

Above Mirrored panels add to the glamorous look of the kitchen

Above A view of the hallway, where a beautiful kimono catches the eye with its ombre tone

The adjoining dining area and open-plan kitchen are part of the roomy living space. The former features a dining table and chairs from B&B Italia that were selected for their elegant silhouette and arranged to face the view, along with an island bordered by bar stools also from B&B Italia, around which guests can mingle with a drink in hand. The kitchen island, countertop and backsplash are luxuriously clad in marble, its ebony hue markedly shot through with gold and white veining; the island also features a base incorporating thin strips of metal laid by hand.

“I didn’t want the kitchen to feel like a [typical] kitchen. We made this open kitchen the defining space of the home,” states Ong, alluding to the liberal application of tinted, mirrored surfaces and metal trimmings here, which adds an undeniably glamorous touch.

Above Metal trimmings on the walls bring a sense of elegance to the master suite

Above A displayed obi belt adds a graceful touch to the desk and built-in cabinetry

Above The use of metal accents and an earthy scheme continue in the master bathroom

Above Visitors can enjoy a movie in this cosy nook in the guest room before bedtime

The home’s private spaces are in the master suite, which consists of a study, wardrobe area and an ensuite bathroom characterised by book-matched, marble-effect porcelain tiles on the wall and flooring. The guest room also features a comfortable lounge complete with a sofa and a TV, as well as an adjoining powder room and linen room. These areas now feel infinitely more spacious than their former incarnations.

Just above the desk in the study is another obi in off-white with a delicate floral pattern, displayed horizontally like a wall panel. Outside the study and in the owner’s line of sight hangs a regal kimono in a mint-green hue, suspended from a slim hang-rod in dark wood that was also designed by Ong.

Above The copious use of metal trimmings, paired with the tactile fabric panels, creates a chic yet cosy environment in the master bedroom

Above The durable marble-effect tiles on the walls and floor combine function with beauty in this airy bathroom

The renovation was completed in early 2021, with project taking six months to realise after experiencing delays because of the Covid-19 pandemic. “Most of the communication was done online because the client was not in town, which called for a lot of trust and clarity,” says Ong. “Regardless, it was a hugely rewarding experience. The owner was also extremely happy with the results, and offered his personal thanks for the job we did.”

Above Another view of the living room

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Photography

Jasper Yu

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Home tour: A Singapore apartment with Japanese influences and panoramic views of Marina Bay