Cover Linear Studio Design’s senior design director Monica Tan drew upon the Australian Outback to shape a beautiful family home spanning two storeys and an attic in the exclusive Bukit Timah enclave
Linear Studio Design’s senior design director Monica Tan drew upon the Australian Outback to shape a beautiful family home spanning two storeys and an attic in the exclusive Bukit Timah enclave
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Linear Studio Design creates a stylish interior in a relaxed Australian style for a family’s semi-detached house
When you think of contemporary Australian abodes, an effortlessly elegant yet unfussy aesthetic comes to mind. Picture bright spaces that invite the outdoors in, while basking in the sunlight. Senior design director Monica Tan drew upon these ideas to shape a beautiful family home spanning two storeys and an attic in the exclusive Bukit Timah enclave.
Linear Studio Design was tasked to transform the interiors of the semi-detached house, in a way that embodies the Outback lifestyle while being suitable for Singapore’s tropical context. The 5,200 sq ft abode features a modern architectural design, brought to life by associate director Adrian Goh of RG Architects. This proved to be the perfect canvas for Tan to begin her masterful interior transformation of the property, turning a house into a home.
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The Heart of the Home
Above Sandy shades and a mix of natural materials define the living area
Sandy shades and a mix of natural materials define the living area
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Visitors ascend the steps to the entrance, and are greeted by a stylish living and dining room swathed in soothing earthy tones. This stunning open-plan space is the abode’s focal point and social centre, bringing its inhabitants and guests together while being impressive to behold.
“The design prioritises openness, a connection to nature and seamless spatial flow—all hallmarks of contemporary Australian living,” says Tan, commenting on the design intent.
In the living area, a large leather sofa provides the perfect spot to convene for movie marathons.
Above A view of the dining area, warmly illuminated by a Market Set Screen 70s large pendant lamp
A view of the dining area, warmly illuminated by a Market Set Screen 70s large pendant lamp
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Next to it is a dining area with a custom-built solid timber dining table from Dad’s Woods. Here, the organic textures of the brick feature wall are juxtaposed with the modern look of the Market Set Screen 70s large pendant lamp in raffia, birch linen and black linen.
Above The immaculate dry kitchen, which features an elongated island for large gatherings
The immaculate dry kitchen, which features an elongated island for large gatherings
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The extra-long kitchen island is another standout feature. It is where the affable family can display their culinary prowess while chatting with their guests at the same time. A series of pendant lamps above the staircase void adds visual intrigue, drawing the eye upwards to the high-reaching space. A central skylight lets an abundance of sunlight enter the interior of the home, from the attic level right down to the ground floor.
Above The interplay of light and shadow brings a sense of dynamism to the attic level
The interplay of light and shadow brings a sense of dynamism to the attic level
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Complementing the nature-inspired design is a timber-look screen by the staircase, which casts an enchanting shadow play on the walls and floors along the steps while also serving as a safety barrier. “It adds a poetic, almost kinetic quality to the otherwise static architecture,” says Tan.
Home at Last
Above The master bedroom is cloaked in stylish grey and brown shades
The master bedroom is cloaked in stylish grey and brown shades
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The mix of dark wood, concrete and light stone finishes on the first storey is carried through to the other spaces, providing visual continuity across the floors. Six bedrooms are spread across the levels, one on the first floor, three on the second and two on the attic.
Above A wallcovering with motifs of eucalyptus trees brings a little slice of the Australian Outback to this bedroom
A wallcovering with motifs of eucalyptus trees brings a little slice of the Australian Outback to this bedroom
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In the bedrooms, decoration is kept to a minimum. A skilful curation of materials and furnishings helps to create a soothing environment. Textured plastered walls, curved alcoves and custom woven details are illuminated by ambient lighting. Patterned wallcoverings add to the layering and are complemented by a tasteful selection of framed photographs and objets d’art.
Above Dark accents and ambient lighting imbue this bathroom with an atmospheric air
Dark accents and ambient lighting imbue this bathroom with an atmospheric air
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The ensuite bathrooms invite their users to indulge in their own leisurely bathing rituals. These are tailored for each family member: an oversized bathtub made for long soaks is set in one bathroom, while another has handrails thoughtfully incorporated into the shower area.
Happy Ending
Above Another bedroom features a bed set within a backlit alcove
Another bedroom features a bed set within a backlit alcove
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Taking two years to complete, the outcome is one both the owners and the designers find immensely satisfying. “Designed with generous proportions, durable materials and warm textures, this residence harmonises functionality with timeless elegance, catering to the needs of multiple generations while staying true to the relaxed, nature-infused spirit of contemporary Australian design,” says Tan.
Linear Studio Design
Above Monica Tan, founder of Linear Studio Design
Monica Tan, founder of Linear Studio Design
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Founded by design director Monica Tan in 2008, Linear Studio Design values individuality while beautifully marrying form and function in all its projects. Tan combines her interest in high fashion with a sense of wanderlust, inspired by her past travels as a former flight attendant. To date, the studio has undertaken projects across Singapore and abroad, including one in Chile that was completed remotely when travel restrictions were in effect.
19 Jalan Kilang Barat, #04-02 Acetech Centre, Tel: 6980 0867, linearstudiodesign.com
Credits
Images: Linear Studio Design
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