Cover Old-style timber ceiling beams incorporate LED strips for ambient illumination in the Peranakan apartment’s communal zones
Old-style timber ceiling beams incorporate LED strips for ambient illumination in the Peranakan apartment’s communal zones
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R+ Studio captures the spirit of a Peranakan shophouse in a modern apartment, turning it into a soulful haven with stories to tell
The Peranakan people are part of a hybrid culture and diaspora that is vibrant and evolving, as their descendants build upon the community’s many cherished traditions. The same can be said for the interiors that thoughtfully bring to life this unique heritage; this 850 sq ft apartment by R+ Studio is one such fine example.]
Founder Rix Yap of R+ Studio was tasked to transform a three-bedroom apartment for a client who is a patron of the arts. The homeowner has been collecting various Peranakan antiques over many years, and has also donated selected pieces to Singapore’s Peranakan Museum.
In case you missed it: Peranakan porcelain: Inside Malaysia’s largest heritage Kamcheng collection
A New Chapter
Above A striking silhouette shot of the dining space
A striking silhouette shot of the dining space
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Having lived in a shophouse for many years, the owner’s newly acquired abode felt soulless and unremarkable in comparison. As such, the challenge to Yap was to uncover the various ways in which a modern apartment could be made more characterful. At the same time, the design had to be tailored for effortless maintenance.
It takes an in-depth understanding of each client’s needs and preferences to create the home they desire. And so it was for this project by R+ Studio. “Initially, the client did not specify a style preference, only expressing that the apartment did not feel like home. I proposed a modern interpretation of Peranakan design—one that retained the cultural essence she cherished, while minimising upkeep. This approach allowed her to enjoy the style she loved in a practical, comfortable environment that suited her lifestyle.”
Living Large
Above Dainty Ferroluce Roma pendant lamps imbue the Peranakan apartment’s dining area with an artisanal character
Dainty Ferroluce Roma pendant lamps imbue the Peranakan apartment’s dining area with an artisanal character
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To make the living and dining room feel more spacious than before, the designer tore down the walls of an adjacent bedroom to enlarge the communal zone. The walls were replaced with a folding-door system that can enclose part of the living space to form a temporary guest room. Antique glass panels on the folding doors make them beautiful to behold, whether the doors are tucked away or in use.
“Finding a craftsman capable of producing them was challenging, as such traditional craftsmanship is rarely requested today. Preserving this skill became an important part of the design process,” shares the designer.
Nostalgic Charm
Above Peranakan collectibles lend a rustic charm to the sleek kitchen
Peranakan collectibles lend a rustic charm to the sleek kitchen
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To create a modern take on Peranakan design, Yap chose materials such as rattan, which was commonly used for traditional furnishings, while also considering practical aspects. “Rattan, a material deeply rooted in Peranakan design, allows for natural ventilation while evoking an old-world charm,” he adds.
Above An elaborately carved antique mirror elevates this bedroom with its rich wood tone
Above An antique console is utilised as a unique vanity in the powder room, which also uses Peacock sintered stone as a feature wall
An elaborately carved antique mirror elevates this bedroom with its rich wood tone
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Curved forms add to the nostalgic atmosphere. This approach continues in the master suite, which features a wardrobe with curved rattan frames and a striking headboard design reminiscent of clouds.
Decorative wooden beams were installed on the ceiling in the living and dining areas, alluding to the interior architecture of a typical shophouse. These beams cleverly hide the LED strips that add a soft glow to the space.
Modern Revival
Above Patterned Peranakan tiles at the entryway offer a colourful welcome to the home
Patterned Peranakan tiles at the entryway offer a colourful welcome to the home
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Another distinctive aspect of Peranakan homes lies in their use of patterned terracotta tiles. These are applied thoughtfully to the entryway which leads to the open kitchen, appearing almost like an inviting “welcome rug” that beckons visitors into the home.
These tiles were sourced by Peranakan Tiles Gallery and laid next to large Dekton flooring slabs in a complementary tone to minimise the appearance of grout lines. The ultra-compact surfaces from Dekton are also durable and easy to clean, making them ideally suited to hardworking spaces such as the kitchen.
“Every area of the home received careful attention, but the entrance demanded the most effort. The Peranakan tiles had to be precisely arranged, requiring contractors to work with utmost accuracy. Any misalignment would have affected the carpentry, the lighting above, and even the kitchen’s visual flow,” the designer explains.
Soulful Spaces
Above Rattan inlays ensure ventilation and bring a vintage touch to these cabinets with their classic woven textures
Rattan inlays ensure ventilation and bring a vintage touch to these cabinets with their classic woven textures
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The careful curation of art and furnishings ensures that the overall home is timeless and elegant. Ultimately, the undertaking proved memorable to both the client and the design studio. “The most enjoyable part of the project was the shopping and sourcing. Together with the client, we explored second-hand markets and visited numerous suppliers, discovering many unique items along the way,” smiles Yap, recalling fond memories of the six-month renovation.
R+ Studio
Above The founder of R+ Studio, Rix Yap
The founder of R+ Studio, Rix Yap
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Rix Yap, the founder of R+ Studio, built his expertise from the ground up, starting with bijou apartments before gradually moving into the realm of luxury interiors. His primary focus is on addition and alteration, as well as rebuild projects. These days, he’s busy working on luxury commercial developments.
Tel: 8181 3780 r-plusstudio.com
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