Timeless California-Inspired Home
Designed & Styled by: Kae Khoo · Photography by Patrick Lau
By reimagining the layout of this apartment’s primary living zone, we focused on creating generously scaled spaces tailored to modern family life. The original configuration fell short of its potential — segmented, closed off, and misaligned with the client's lifestyle. Our brief was clear: to open up the heart of the home into an inclusive, welcoming space with an integrated yet private study, and ample room to host the extended family who live nearby.
Before
After
We began by creating a more intentional entryway. A new doorway was added for feng shui reasons, and we introduced a full-height fluted glass panel to let natural light flow through. Framing the entry with greenery on both sides creates soft silhouettes and sets a warm, welcoming tone from the moment you step inside.
Upon entering, your attention is immediately drawn to the 1.6-metre polished, soft-curved marble kitchen island — a statement piece designed to anchor the home. It’s both functional and sculptural: it provides concealed storage for bags and includes integrated legroom, making it a perfect spot for casual conversations during meal prep or post-dinner chats.
Because of a structural beam positioned at the centre of the open-plan layout — between the kitchen, living, and dining zones — we designed the island and surrounding wooden architrave to act as visual anchors. These elements draw the eye away from the beam and create a natural flow. We also cleverly used the beam to house tall built-ins, such as the fridge and a full-height storage cabinet, since the original storeroom was removed in the new layout.
To bring out the laid-back elegance of California-style interiors, we layered neutral tones with striking black accents for contrast and cohesion. The black feature walls add depth, while black-framed bar stools, fluted glass panels, and minimalist kitchen hardware tie the open-plan space together seamlessly.
Texture plays a leading role throughout the styling and furnishing. A mix of natural materials and tactile fabrics creates a sense of comfort and intention in every corner. A reclaimed teak dining table is paired with boucle-upholstered chairs, while a travertine stone coffee table anchors the living area beside a plush, fabric-rich sofa. At the entry, a curved bench softened with thick seat cushions welcomes guests and offers a moment of pause.
Bringing the outdoors in was a guiding principle. A carefully selected wallpaper in the master bedroom evokes an airy, nature-inspired calm, while the master bathroom features stone textures that ground the space in a quiet, earthy elegance. These elements echo the essence of California living — effortlessly blending indoor comfort with a sense of outdoor serenity.
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