Aju, a 35-year-old assistant restaurant manager, and Joe, a 29-year-old dance instructor, had always dreamed of creating a home that embodied comfort, openness, and warmth.
Their newly renovated 3-room HDB resale unit at Marine Crescent, measuring 635 sqft, was a 50-year-old property that required significant transformation to meet their vision. Through collaboration with Michelle and BuildBuilt, they reimagined their space into a modern, inviting sanctuary that serves as a perfect haven for relaxation, hosting, and dreaming about the future.
The Living Room
The living area was the heart of their vision. Aju and Joe prioritized a large, open layout that seamlessly connected the living and dining spaces, creating a welcoming environment for friends and family. By removing a bedroom wall, the previously cramped unit gained an airy, spacious feel.
Their new modular couch and floor-friendly design reflected their lifestyle, flexible, adaptable, and filled with movement, whether for dancing or hosting intimate gatherings. A custom-designed niche by Michelle provided accessible storage for books and collectibles, eliminating the need for bulky furniture while maintaining a clutter-free aesthetic.
The Kitchen and Dining Area
The kitchen underwent a functional and visual transformation. Extended toward the dining area, it became an integral part of the open-plan design. Simple bottom cabinets, an open shelf for glassware, and level flooring created a cohesive look that made the space feel larger and more practical. A sleek, minimalistic design aligned perfectly with Aju and Joe’s preference for a clean and contemporary feel.
The Bedroom
In their master bedroom, Aju and Joe opted for a design that emphasized openness and ease of movement. The arched entrance, with its charming curtain divider, added character and eliminated the need for a traditional door.
Their wardrobe, an open modular system, encouraged tidiness and organization, an effort further supported by Joe’s knack for color coordination. Dehumidifiers played a vital role in maintaining the wardrobe’s condition, combating Singapore’s humidity with efficiency.
The single bathroom in the unit was completely overhauled, merging the previously separate toilet and shower spaces into one larger, more luxurious area. Dark tiles and a black toilet bowl created a bold, intimate atmosphere reminiscent of a high-end hotel. This thoughtful design choice exemplified how even a compact space could achieve both elegance and functionality.
Aju and Joe’s renovation journey began with inspiration from videos of similar layouts and culminated in Michelle’s thoughtful design, which brought their vision to life. Through BuildBuilt’s expertise, they achieved their dream home within their budget, ensuring a smooth and rewarding process. Reflecting on their journey, the couple expressed heartfelt gratitude for Michelle’s design and BuildBuilt’s execution, which transformed an aging unit into a beautiful, personalized space.
Ready to bring your dream home to life? Contact BuildBuilt today and begin your home renovation journey with our team!
