Cover The sumptuous living room in this condominium unit features a coordinated medley of textures and materials, all set against a dark palette that fosters a sense of cosiness and intimacy
The sumptuous living room in this condominium unit features a coordinated medley of textures and materials, all set against a dark palette that fosters a sense of cosiness and intimacy
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This condominium unit boasts various opulent details and functional elements that coalesce to form a harmonious whole, underpinned by a sultry facade
Charles Eames once said: “The details are not the details. They make the design.” The renowned American architect and designer was referring to his belief that each component or detail, rather than merely fulfilling an ornamental purpose, also plays a vital role in contributing to the overall effect of a design. Eames, of course, should know, having been credited with conceptualising several iconic furniture pieces that have etched their status in the annals of design history.
Eames’ words would certainly resonate with anyone who beholds this 1,647 sq ft apartment, which is located in the Jadescape condominium in Singapore’s District 20. The overall effect is that of a luxurious designer establishment, characterised by a moody palette, cocooning spaces, and a wealth of design details and practical elements that come together coherently to a memorable effect. Local interior practice Summerhaus D’zign was appointed by the homeowners, a couple in their 50s with two children in their early 20s, to give their new home “a unique look, with the feel of a boutique and lots of detailing”. Plentiful display and storage options were also a must.
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Above Wood fittings are spiffed up with bronzed elements and gilded details in the home’s common areas
Wood fittings are spiffed up with bronzed elements and gilded details in the home’s common areas
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“The homeowner wanted [a design with] as many details as possible, varying textures and striking contrasts,” says Summerhaus D’zign managing partner Larry Lim, adding that the client also desired a “darkish theme and the use of gold” for the condominium unit. The designers ultimately had to strike a balancing act with the wife’s preferences, as she preferred a look that was lighter, simpler, and more subtle.
Through a collaborative process, the design firm developed a deeper and more concise understanding of the clients’ wants. “For example, we discovered that they do not like textures with wood grains, although it was present in a number of the mood images they had sent us,” says Lim. “It took a few variations to reach the final outcome, through different interpretations and the narrowing down of minor details.”
As the concept involved many different elements, the firm had to ensure that the details, materials and textures would go well together, and not result in an overly busy, muddy effect. “This is a home and not a commercial space, and the owners would be spending a lot of time in it,” says Lim. “We did not want to end up with a look that was overwhelming. It had to retain the simplicity and warmth of a home.”
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The husband’s beloved limited-edition sneakers are displayed alongside one of French artist Arman’s iconic violin sculptures
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Summerhaus D’zign started the process by relocating the position of the condominium's entrance from facing the lift to an adjacent wall. Visitors are greeted by a luxurious lobby with backlit shelves that showcase the husband’s treasured collection of limited-edition footwear; this grand space also features one of French artist Arman’s famous “deconstructed” violin sculptures. This remarkable piece adds artistic intrigue to what is already an impressive tableau; augmenting this effect is the main door, which features a geometric design that channels the exuberant spirit of the Jazz Age.
The stylishly dark living room seems to almost transport one back to the 1920s, when the design world was in thrall to the allure of art deco. Leather, dramatically veined Nero Antico marble slabs, metal strips, metal sheets with decorative motifs, mirrors, coloured glass, and richly textural laminates from Austrian firm Sibu Design come together in a heady mix that never seems overpowering, thanks to the restrained hand with which they are applied.
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Above Artworks are placed throughout the apartment to add visual interest and an emotional element, as evidenced by the stern gaze of the rifleman pictured in this figurative piece by Bernard Buffet
Artworks are placed throughout the apartment to add visual interest and an emotional element, as evidenced by the stern gaze of the rifleman pictured in this figurative piece by Bernard Buffet
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An expansive, plush Shiki sofa from Zanotta and soft cove lighting bring a cosy air to this space, which guests could quite happily spend hours lounging in. The lighting also serves to delineate the individual elements and keeps the whole look from descending into stodginess. Along with the simple, light-hued ceiling, pops of colour in the form of artworks, such as the figurative portrait of a soldier by French painter Bernard Buffet opposite the adjacent dining area, and a striking work by Romanian-American cubist artist Alexandra Nechita placed at the end of a corridor, also help to “lighten” the overall dark effect.
More display shelves house collectables and memorabilia throughout the condominium apartment. “The husband wanted ample shelves to display items, and he also prefers a sense of openness as opposed to having closed-door cabinets all around,” explains Lim. “Hence, the living area was designed with mostly shelves in mind.” He adds that the shelves, wall panels and other elements were all “designed in harmony to look like a grand matching set”. Other cabinets and subtle storage fittings throughout the home keep clutter and bric-a-brac hidden from sight.
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Above A vibrant painting by Romanian-American artist Alexandra Nechita lifts this moody corridor with bold swathes of colour
A vibrant painting by Romanian-American artist Alexandra Nechita lifts this moody corridor with bold swathes of colour
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The design language of the home’s common areas continues into its private spaces. The liberal application of a dusky palette, with delectable shades of brown, brings a restful air to the bedrooms; these hues are mitigated by neutral tones that soothe the eye. Backlit elements and cross-cut wood veneer inlaid with metal strips add atmosphere and warmth.
The master bedroom features a walk-in wardrobe with tinted glass doors; a separate bedroom was merged with the master bedroom and transformed into a walk-in closet. An impressive island counter for timepieces and accessories catches the eye with its gilded, monolithic form. Incorporating metal cladding, leather-wrapped concave panels, glass, marble and a suede interior, this fixture also features a customised mirror suspended from the ceiling as well as a useful vanity for the wife. This item is a statement piece that necessitated close coordination between craftsmen from various trades to realise.
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This sculptural island counter is the standout fixture in the walk-in wardrobe
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The other two bedrooms in the condominium unit feature mirrored panels that visually expand their dimensions, and customised beds with platforms with generous storage space and an attached working table each. The bespoke bed frames and headboards are finished with different varieties of fabric and leather, and embellished with metal strips for a subtle sense of grandeur that is understated rather than ostentatious, much like in the rest of the house.
“We focused on creating an atmosphere in which the various elements support one another to give off a sense of luxury,” explains Lim. “When you look at a certain area, you will discover the smaller details, but ultimately, everything gels together as a whole.”
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Above The master bedroom is characterised by delectable chocolate and coffee tones, tempered by creamy hues for a fine balance
The master bedroom is characterised by delectable chocolate and coffee tones, tempered by creamy hues for a fine balance
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Credits
Images: Courtesy of Summerhaus D’zign
