In a land-scarce country like Singapore, many things are considered a luxury, and a scenic view is one of them—especially if you happen to own a HDB flat in a fairly new BTO estate such as Bidadari. Though thoughtfully laid out with amenities aplenty, Bidadari is also densely built, which means that when glancing out of the window, you’ll likely see a sea of other HDB blocks.
To counter this, the homeowners of this Bidadari HDB decided to team up with architectural design studio, ASOLIDPLAN, to transform their home interior into a sanctum of personal style, showcasing their art and decor collection while bringing elements of nature into their abode.
Interior that looks like an Aesop X Gentle Monster store
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
Situated in the heart of Bidadari, which is a fancy way of saying that this 4th storey unit at Alkaff Oasis is closed in on all sides by surrounding HDBs, there’s not much of a view to be found when looking out from the flat’s windows. In response to this, the homeowners sought to create a rich inner world within the apartment itself.
Together with ASOLIDPLAN, the homeowners transformed a cookie-cutter Bidadari HDB into a beautiful abode evocative of an artfully designed boutique store, though the bold botanical lighting fixture in the living area reminds us of the installations in a Gentle Monster boutique.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
Said lighting fixture is actually a pendant light that was jazzed up by the folks at This Humid House, a botanical design studio—yes, that’s a thing!—that has worked with fashion magazines and brands such as Chanel, Cartier, and Dior.
A combination of fluffy dried plants, branches, and a selection of candles is used to create something that looks vaguely animalic—it wouldn’t be far-fetched to call it a piece of art.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
An eye-catching cacti planter lining the window further brings the outdoors into the space, and more greenery—bonsai and other potted plants—embellish the shelves, TV console, and coffee table next to the comfy sofa.
Recessed lights and wall sconces gently brighten the apartment, while the light neutral tones used throughout the space evoke a sense of warmth and help anchor the botanical motifs. Rich, dark wood is used sparingly in the furniture and fixtures to create a sense of luxury without veering into stuffy territory.
Custom-built console partition with dining bench on one side
Image credit: @shwn.id on Instagram
As the homeowners frequently host friends and family at their place, they wanted a spacious living area for gatherings. This was achieved by melding part of a bedroom with the living room, creating a larger space perfect for dinner parties and movie nights.
In lieu of a wall, a custom-built “island” visually separates the dining area from the living space. This “island” is actually a dining bench and table, worktop, and TV console all bundled into one.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
On one side, there’s a plush upholstered dining bench that matches a green marble-topped table. On the other side, there’s a low TV console that doubles as a coffee table. The two are joined by a blonde wood worktop, and the use of different textures and contrasting materials in the worktop visually separates the two areas without needing an actual wall.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
Even the bathrooms were thoughtfully designed to create a boutique hotel-like experience. One bathroom even has a striking grey stone sink that looks like it was hewn from a solid boulder, while the other is kept simpler—but no less beautiful—with a sleek vessel sink. Richly coloured subway tiled walls further spice up the space while keeping things sanitary and easy to clean.
Seamless storage to keep clutter out of sight, out of mind
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
The homeowners are avid collectors of art and decor. And if you’re a collector of trinkets yourself, you know it’s easy to go from “curated collection” to “chaotic clutter”. Hence, it was imperative for the homeowners to integrate seamless storage solutions into the design to keep everyday clutter away to allow their art pieces and ornaments to truly shine.
To accomplish this, custom cabinets spanning an entire wall were built to provide plenty of storage. Look closely at the top and you’ll notice rattan panels hiding away wall-mounted air-conditioner units without obstructing airflow, which is a stroke of genius—aircons aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing, if we’re being honest.
Image credit: @shwn.id on Instagram
The absence of walls cordoning off the kitchen and bar counter lets the homeowners entertain guests while preparing food and drinks, and we love how appliances such as a double-door fridge and oven are flush with the built-in cupboards, keeping things visually neat and tidy.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
One of the cabinet doors behind the bar counter opens up to reveal a LED-lit drinks section, with glasses and drink on the top shelf and a water dispenser at the bottom. Below the shelves is a wine cooler, all within easy reach of the bar counter.
Image credit: ASOLIDPLAN
Off to the side of the dining area, you’ll find a home office nook cleverly hidden by fluted glass doors. This design choice allows the homeowners to clearly separate their designated work zone from areas meant for rest and relaxation, and the fluted glass doors also provide privacy without blocking the flow of light streaming in from the windows.
Together, all these thoughtful design choices in this Bidadari HDB flat create a home that’s not just beautiful, but is also easy to maintain and access. Storage solutions were laid out with function in mind, and it’s something to consider when you’re renovating your own home.
Boutique-style Bidadari HDB with a rich inner world
Don’t despair if you find yourself with a lack of a scenic view when peering out of the windows in your apartment. The world outside may look grim, but you can always create a rich indoor landscape just like the owners of this Bidadari HDB. Why not start by creating a botanic centrepiece on your own?
And if you need more home decor inspo, check these out:
- $45k retro diner HDB kitchen reno
- Coolest HDB maisonette designs
- $60k shipping container-inspired HDB
Cover image adapted from: ASOLIDPLAN
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