With the ongoing appreciation for sustainability and slow living, Yip decided to integrate these values into this latest architectural project. In this pursuit, the four-time President's Design Award winner describes his design philosophy as leaning towards that of a “simple and authentic expression.” 

Borrowing influences from brutalist architecture, the building is clad with a fully concrete wall in a dark hued-finish that mirrors the appearance of charred wood; this alludes to the Japanese tradition of shou sugi ban, an age-old method of preserving cedar wood by treating it with a hot flame, creating a charcoal-black finish makes it both beautiful and weatherproof. The stylistic choice to infuse this technique and material is intentional.

“[Charwood] is a material that’s not much used or seen in this part of the world. What I’m trying to do is use this material and continue it all the way to the inside with different types of wood, and different tones of granite,” adds Yip.

Moreover, the striking black exterior embodies the beauty of the patinas that naturally develops on materials across the years, creating a timeless, weathered yet durable look that also notes the passage of time. It is an approach that keenly celebrates the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection while accepting the transient quality of life. 

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Conveying Kawao's hope for Ikigai to capture “the idea of living in the present moment”, interiors of Ikigai are made simple with an incorporated blend of minimalist design movements established in Japan and Scandinavia. Harmonising the rustic charm of Japan’s wabi-sabi aesthetic alongside the modern sensibilities of Denmark’s hygge (meaning cosiness in Danish), the influence of Japandi is achieved in each space with its impressive use of muted hues, clean lines, well-curated furnishings, natural materials and wooden textures.

Several techniques and materials are employed to give the home a new-age appeal with subtle nods to Japanese aesthetic and traditional craft techniques. For instance, each apartment's ground floor column and entrance hall adopt the Kintsugi technique (typically observed in the process of repairing ceramics) and are clad with gold plating for additional purposes for weather protection and physical damage. There are also bathrooms and washrooms constructed with granite walls and fixtures inspired by those of the Aman Resorts and that retain the effortless sophistication of the modern Asian aesthetic.

Enhanced with a gorgeous touch of nature, Ikigai is abundant with internationally-sourced flora and foliage varieties as well as a medley of rocks and trees that create a mesmerising backdrop to the stunning brutalist architecture. Warding off the tropical heat and humidity, the greenery lends a hand in providing a serene and cooling oasis away from the stressors of modern-day life. 
 
Ikigai, 38 Shrewsbury Road, Tel: 6970 7887, https://ikigai-singapore.com/ 

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