Transforming A Tranquil, Minimalist 825sq ft Terrace Home
See out how this old terrace house in Johor Bahru was given a minimalist makeover with a few simple, but crucial changes
Recently there has been a spate of terrace homes being given total makeovers. This trend can be seen in Singapore as well as in Johor Bahru, where most terrace homes were built around the ’60s.
For this home in Johor Bahru, with a built-up area of 825 sq ft, design firm Supernormal Design Studio decided to give this ageing terrace house a complete revamp inside and out.
The windows were also enlarged, allowing natural light to fill the previously closed-in environment
In the living area, the team decided to hack away the wall separating the living room from the kitchen, creating an open-concept space. The windows were also enlarged, allowing natural light to fill the previously closed-in environment. In order to create a minimalist look, the team also made an effort to do away with obvious shelving spaces, choosing instead to create subtle storage options, such as an alcove behind the sofa area as well as a small platform below the windows. Built-in cabinets in this platform provide plenty of storage space for the homeowner’s belongings.
To enhance the tranquil atmosphere of the home, an earthy and light colour palette was adopted
Lightwood panels line the wall in the dining area, with more storage space concealed behind. A long pinewood table with complementary benches was used in place of the conventional round table and dining chair combo. A pair of Zen-inspired pendant lamps help to diffuse the glow of the light in the evenings.
The design team was careful in keeping to the cream-based tones of the hues used throughout the home
From the entranceway, the home looks much larger and more spacious than its actual square footage. The design team was careful in keeping to the cream-based tones of the hues used throughout the home, and only included a dash of black through the frames and an armchair. The reverse cove lighting above the living area also helps to direct the visual flow of the home towards the dining and kitchen area situated at the back of the property.
Light grey tiles and the same lightwood panels were used in the kitchen, creating a seamless flow. The white countertop becomes a highlight of the space, making the kitchen design as functional as it is visually captivating.
The design team used concealed LED track lighting below the ceiling to give the space a softer touch
The yard area next to the kitchen has ample space for the necessary appliances and sink. Instead of harsh utility lighting, the design team used concealed LED track lighting below the ceiling to give the space a softer touch.
A simple headboard and a side table was built-in to optimise use of the available floor space in this slightly narrow room
Up in the master bedroom, a row of recessed lights help to cast illumination towards the wardrobe. The design team ensured that the glare of the lights did not extend towards the sleeping area, creating a cosy and serene space for resting. A simple headboard and a side table was built-in to optimise use of the available floor space in this slightly narrow room.
A creative way to give an existing home a new look without making extensive architectural changes
Lastly, the master bathroom is clad in white subway tiles. Black frames and fixtures give the space a modern look while keeping to the minimalist theme. All in all, this is a creative way to give an existing home a new look without making extensive architectural changes. By focusing on improving the basic design elements of the home, the team also helped to keep the renovation costs affordable and reasonable.
Text by: Young Lim/Home & Decor