Balancing Natural Light And Privacy In This Bukit Timah Semi-Detached Home

The use of greenery and vertical fins on the facade helped to maximise natural light, while maintaining a sense of privacy for this family

Edward Hendricks
Edward Hendricks
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Spatial planning was key for the design and renovation of this semi-detached home in Bukit Timah, home to a multi-generational family. As with most homes, there also had to be a balance between maximising natural light and maintaining privacy – something that Casey of ADX Architects achieved with the use of vertical fins on the facade and a veil of greenery.

“It was important that we understood the lifestyle and family preferences when it comes to the space planning, and paying special attention to the selection of materials,” he says.

Another request in the design brief was easy maintenance, so large-format marble-look tiles are used throughout the home. These lend the same regality as real marble, with none of the accompanying hassle when it comes to cleaning. Although the construction process was delayed by almost 6 months due to COVID-19, it was completed in time for the family to move in at the end of April this year.

AT A GLANCE
Home: Semi-detached home in Bukit Timah
Size: 450 sqm
Who lives here: A multi-generational family
Architect: 
ADX Architects

Credit: Edward Hendricks
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On the facade of the home, vertical fins provide privacy and help to shield the sun from the northwest direction that would otherwise shine into the grandparents’ room.

From the outside, one can also glimpse the timber textured walls and greenery that adorns the bathroom on the upper level.

Credit: Edward Hendricks
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To maximise natural light and ventilation, Casey incorporated large sliding doors into the communal spaces. The size of the living and dining areas is visually emphasised with the use of large-format marble-look Italian tiles, which are also easy to maintain.




Credit: Edward Hendricks
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One of the focal points of the home is the staircase, which features accent lighting, integrated seating and a water feature.





Credit: Edward Hendricks
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In the powder room, timber accents and marble-look tiles form the backdrop for a large mirror, lending a sense of minimalist luxe. 




Credit: Edward Hendricks
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On the uppermost level, a skylight and planter with lush greenery make showering a semi-outdoor experience.

Text: Melody Bay/Home & Decor






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