Home is a safe sanctuary for this couple and their Sprollie, Grumie, and it is a beautiful mish mash of warm wood tones and collected vintage furniture. The original marble and parquet flooring of this 3 bedder condo has been retained while the design focused on functional built-in storage customised to the family’s needs.
Nestled in the Bartley area, this 900 sqft condominium serves as the first home for Aud, KK, and their retired search-and-rescue dog, Grumie. As a professional services consultant and a civil servant respectively, the couple envisioned their matrimonial home as a timeless sanctuary that evolves with their tastes over the years. Despite the compact size, the natural light flooding through the balcony and full-length windows creates a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
Designing for Timelessness
The primary goal for this home was to achieve timelessness, go beyond fleeting trends for enduring design. Upon entering, the space opens to a seamless blend of the dining and living areas, leading to a balcony overlooking the pool. The built-in carpentry was intentionally kept clean and understated, providing flexibility for loose furniture to reflect their evolving style. However, standout pieces like the custom rattan shoe cabinet and master wardrobe subtly anchor the space.
The Living Room
The living room is where the family spends most of their time, and it is designed for relaxation and connection. At the heart of the space is a bold, L-shaped teal sofa, chosen early in the design process. The sofa accommodates lounging for all, including Grumie, an 8-year-old Border Collie-Springer Spaniel mix adopted from the SCDF K9 unit. The marble flooring, initially a concern for its upkeep, became an asset, offering a cooling respite during Singapore’s hotter days.
The Kitchen and Dining Area
The kitchen, though small, maximizes functionality with a dedicated nook for laundry and extra storage for Grumie’s treats. A quartz countertop and matching backsplash not only create a cohesive look but also ensure durability against wear and tear, especially from their furry companion. Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining area features a vintage Danish table from Noden, a centerpiece that blends practicality with timeless charm. Despite its vintage scratches and Grumie’s “table surfing,” the table perfectly complements the couple’s mid-century modern aesthetic.
Adapting the Home with Pet Needs
Adapting the home to Grumie’s needs was a thoughtful process. While the compact space seemed daunting at first, creative solutions, including outdoor exercise and indoor mental stimulation, have made this his perfect haven. As KK aptly puts it, “He doesn’t need to get used to the house—the house will have to get used to him!”
The renovation journey with BuildBuilt was as smooth as it was meticulous. While minor hiccups such as dimmer switch adjustments and carpentry tweaks arose, the dedicated team, led by Project Manager Jess, swiftly resolved them. Aud recalls, “Most people chase their PMs, but for us, it was the other way around!” BuildBuilt’s transparency and cost-saving advice, especially for maintaining elements in the fairly new unit, resonated deeply with the couple.
Aud and KK’s home transcends labels like “minimalist” or “Scandinavian.” Instead, it’s a personal blend of styles and stories, where every piece—from vintage furniture to quirky odds and ends—reflects their individuality and shared journey. They encourage others to embrace authenticity: “What makes a house a home are the little things. Choose what resonates with you, and let your designer bring it to life.”
With Grumie adding his unique charm to their sanctuary, Aud and KK have created a space that’s as dynamic and warm as their family. Their home is an invitation to find inspiration, not in perfection, but in what truly feels like your own.
Want to design your space to be a comfortable and accessible home for anyone in your family, including your pets? Contact BuildBuilt today and make an appointment with our designer team.
