Bright, Warm & Functional: A Modern 5-Room HDB Transformation

Entryway

When we first stepped into this resale 5-room HDB, the enclosed kitchen and outdated layout immediately felt closed off and dim. The homeowners envisioned an airy, open, and inviting entryway, a space that sets the tone for the rest of the home.

Here are some of the main highlights:

Opening Up the Space

We hacked down the kitchen wall. This instantly allowed natural light to flow through, creating a bright semi-open-concept kitchen that connects seamlessly with the entryway and living area.

Smart Storage with a Hidden Door

To keep the space neat and clutter-free, we concealed the storeroom with a hidden door. This clever design detail maintains functionality without breaking the clean, streamlined aesthetic of the entryway.

A Fresh New Look for the Main Door

The once-dark wood-finish main door was given a fresh coat of crisp white paint, complementing the light, airy colour scheme of the home. This subtle yet impactful change enhances the overall brightness of the entryway.

A Breakfast Bar That Works Double Duty

Right by the entrance, a stylish breakfast bar now anchors the space. It not only serves as a casual dining spot but also offers additional countertop space and ample storage tucked neatly beneath, perfect for busy mornings or quick meals.

What was once a cramped and outdated entryway is now a functional, bright, and welcoming space, perfectly blending style and practicality.

Kitchen

In the heart of the home, the kitchen was given a full refresh. We installed sleek custom cabinetry in timeless ivory and dark walnut for ample storage and a warm, modern look. The cement-like sintered stone countertop and backsplash bring in contemporary elegance, while textured grey vine-pattern floor tiles add depth and personality.

To make the space even more functional, we extended the countertop along one wall with dedicated niches for the washing machine and dryer, keeping everything neat and integrated.

Dining & Balcony

Originally dominated by full-height open shelves, the dining area felt cluttered and disorganized. We replaced them with half-height cabinets that double as a functional dry kitchen, featuring a built-in filtered water point for quick access and generous storage for everyday essentials.

To personalize the space, a turntable corner was added, letting the family enjoy vinyl records during dinner. We also removed the balcony doors, levelled the floors, and extended the dining area seamlessly into the former balcony space.

We took out the balcony doors, levelled the floors, and extended the dining area seamlessly. This not only makes the space feel larger but also creates a smooth transition between the dining and balcony zones.

The former balcony now features black Gemini patterned floor tiles, adding a touch of relaxed retro character. This distinctive flooring helps visually unify the extended space with the main dining area, creating a harmonious flow.

Living Room

To maintain spaciousness, the piano was placed beside the TV console in a tidy, parallel arrangement, keeping the flow open and allowing parents to enjoy their children’s music from the sofa. This placement also keeps the piano away from windows, protecting it from sunlight.

A curved feature wall with concealed lighting adds softness and warmth, creating an inviting ambience for family gatherings. Underfoot, oak wood vinyl flooring enhances the cosy, natural feel that runs throughout the home.

Master Bedroom

The master bedroom had plenty of potential, but the original layout wasn’t doing it any favours. With the bed and wardrobe facing the entrance, the room lacked privacy, and the old patterned tiles made it feel dim and dated. The goal was to create a welcoming, functional, and cohesive retreat that tied seamlessly with the rest of the home’s design.

Here are some of the modifications we implemented:

A Layout That Works

We reoriented the space by moving the bed to the opposite wall, instantly improving flow and privacy. A stylish headboard was added to anchor the room, giving the sleeping area a warm and inviting presence.

Clever Storage with a Walk-In Twist

Next to the bed, we designed an L-shaped walk-in wardrobe, a clever use of space that maximises storage while also creating a subtle separation from the rest of the room. This layout offers both functionality and a sense of enclosure, making the bedroom feel more intimate.

Brightening the Space

The dated patterned tiles were replaced with sleek, modern flooring, instantly refreshing the look. To further enhance brightness, the walls were repainted in a crisp, ivory white, creating a backdrop that reflects natural light beautifully.

Master Bathroom

In the master bathroom, earthy-toned terrazzo tiles meet deep green subway tiles, creating rich contrast and visual depth. This mix channels Mediterranean warmth while a subtle industrial edge keeps it modern.

A sintered stone vanity countertop with a gentle granite pattern sits atop walnut-finished cabinetry, blending elegance with functionality. The mirror cabinet, featuring open niches, adds layered visual interest and storage. Warm ambient lighting ties it all together, transforming the space into a private retreat.

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