d+a | Issue 119

/ ABODE / 78 In an unusual move, the open riser staircase is located on the front corner of the semi-detached house. Had it been positioned on the party wall — which is typical of most houses — Tan would not have been able to make space for the staggered voids on the upper storeys. As the owner had requested for a water feature too, Tan introduced a reflection pool with a water feature underneath it. This approach brings in the element of water both visually and audibly into the living areas. FROM CHALLENGE TO OPPORTUNITY The ceiling height on the first storey was originally designed to be consistent throughout. However, due to the aircon fan coil unit’s large size and concealed ducted design, the ceiling above the dry kitchen had to be dropped. Instead of seeing this as a drawback, Tan turned it into a design feature by introducing a light cove where the change in ceiling occurs, enhancing the illumination in the living room. 02. Thanks to the open riser staircase’s unusual position at the front corner of the house, Tan was able to make space for the staggered voids on the upper storeys. / 03. Although the ceiling above the dry kitchen had to be dropped, Tan turned it into a design feature by introducing a light cove where the change in ceiling occurs. / 04. The dining area is the focal point of the house. An oversized fan hanging above the customised table further accentuates the 7.5m-tall double volume space. 03 02