Cover The magnificent view of Singapore can be enjoyed from the open plan living in this Johor condominium
The magnificent view of Singapore can be enjoyed from the open plan living in this Johor condominium
1 / 1
S/LAB 10’s sprawling condominium in Johor Bahru is alive with artistic details
Johor has long been an attractive destination for those living in Singapore who seek more value for money real estate and a slower pace of life. However, with the growing sophistication of the developments, the financial aspect of this proposition is now a satisfying addition rather than the sole driver of it.
One example is Pangsapuri Straits View 18, a Johor condominium tucked away in an old neighbourhood adorned with charming landed houses and newer seafront apartments.
Its strategic location near the Johor Straits and the bustling Johor Bahru (JB) cityscape offers a perfect balance of serenity and accessibility, appealing to those seeking a slower pace of life.
Read more: 15 best green homes in Malaysia
The foyer with its sleek custom designed shoe cabinet and Porada bench
1 / 2
Spanning an impressive 3,250 sq ft, the original unit was a standard developer-sold unit which underwent an extensive transformation under the capable hands of S/LAB 10.
“The owners are a couple named Andy and Tiffany from the United States with two kids. In 2015, Andy relocated to Singapore for work and was exploring the region to find a property as a retirement home. They found Straits View in JB and found us through a Google search for designers in Johor,” recalls Hao Wang, co-founder of S/LAB 10, the award-winning firm which was initially founded in Australia.
“What attracted us to this project was its location and the views of JB town and the sea. We thought we could craft something to complement the context. Also, we love the flexibility of the owners’ not having a specific design orientation, meaning we could conceptualise freely.”
See also: Milan Design Week 2024: 10 key pieces to elevate your home
Every part of the space in beautifully crafted
1 / 4
With four main bedrooms plus a helper's room, the renovation was mainly focused on the bedrooms, dining, living, dry kitchen, and foyer.
The designers also opened up some existing spaces, such as the study and enclosed kitchen at the entry, to fuse spaces and create an airy open concept—all the better to enjoy the spectacular views from both ends of the condo and allow the breeze to pass through the ample space.
Conceptually, the designers revelled in the clients’ openness and free hand in creating a memorable home. “Given the liberty, we venture into what interests us most, that is, to research lots of art installations. Overall, design is influenced by different art pieces cohesively coming together and artsy luxury design concepts,” muses Wang.
See also: Home tour: An eclectic apartment in Moscow with dramatic colours and bold furnishings
The monolithic marble island
1 / 3
The interiors now exude an air of sophistication, with marble accents, natural timber veneers, and sleek steel finishes adorning the space. Its highlight, however, is the sculpted island kitchen, inspired by contemporary art installations.
Floating effortlessly in the room and illuminated by carefully placed lighting, the monolithic piece, which appears carved from marble, was inspired by the curvature of an ark.
Don’t miss: 9 greenest skyscrapers in Asia
Above The dining room with its kinetic light above it
Above The profile of the island
The dining room with its kinetic light above it
1 / 2
Throughout the design process, the designers strove to practice sustainability with locally sourced materials and eco-conscious choices wherever possible.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project flourished thanks to innovative communication methods and a shared vision between the designers, clients, and contractors.
Read more: From mycelium floors to fruit peel lamps: The sustainable materials shaping eco-friendly design
A view of the surroundings can be enjoyed while dining
1 / 3
Every corner of the home boasts exquisite detailing, and the designer’s art inspiration is evident throughout.
“In the master bedroom, we envisioned an original creation of three-dimensional forms cut into a piece of ‘paper’ for the bedhead, so in the end, we laser-cut the sheet of steel plate and folded it like origami art,” enthuses Wang.
See also: Home tour: A modern tropical villa on Langkawi island, Malaysia with a spectacular view
The master bedroom bedhead is a key element
1 / 4
The guest bedroom also features a specially designed bedhead with hanging discs, and the home is adorned with curated art pieces from the Taksu Gallery.
Furniture and decor were sourced from renowned Italian brands such as Flexform and Porada, adding to the home’s luxurious ambience.
Don’t miss: The Tatler guide to collecting and curating art, with exclusive tips from esteemed gallerists and collectors
Above Contrasting textures
Above Custom designed wardrobe
Contrasting textures
1 / 2
Now that the project is complete, the clients revel in their personalised sanctuary, as Wang puts it: “They’ve likened it to a bespoke luxury hotel experience and love walking into the condo which exudes peace and calm while being beautifully crafted and integrated with the surrounding despite it being a condo unit above ground. They are also delighted by the surprising light feature over dining, giving a sense of motion in a room where everything else is fixed.”
NOW READ
Home tour: A midcentury-inspired residence in California accented with a cedar-clad volume
Home tour: A dreamy holiday home on the idyllic Greek island of Antiparos
Home tour: An interior designer’s Parisian chic makeover of her New York home
Credits
Photography: Heartpatrick
Best of Tatler Asia video highlights
Featured videos from around Tatler Asia: Get exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the interviews we do, the events we attend, the shoots we produce, and the incredibly important people who are part of our community
Jennifer Choo is Regional Managing Editor of Tatler Homes, covering architecture, interior design, and art across Asia. Based in Malaysia, she oversees regional content on luxury residential design and contemporary art collections. Legally trained but choosing to pursue her passion for design, she previously led notable design publications and worked as an interior stylist and art consultant for property developers, design firms, and private clients.
