Exposed Duct Chic
(Condo, Tanjong Pagar)
Welcome to a renovation story focused on a 980 sqft 2000s-era condo in Tanjong Pagar. The owners—one a fintech analyst, the other a UX designer—desired an industrial look that embraced the raw side of city living. They wanted an interior that highlights Singapore’s MRT infrastructure, visible from their windows. This renovation took four months and saw the transformation of awkward features into design assets.
Exposed Duct Chic
I enjoyed working on this condo because it showed how mechanical fixtures can become a design asset with simple refinements. The owners gained a living space that reflects their passion for urban style and technology. Tanjong Pagar’s city views have also become part of their interior backdrop, tying everything together. This case stands as an example for those who want to embrace an industrial approach while still aiming for comfort and style.
- Location: Tanjong Pagar Conservation Enclave
- Property Type: 2-bedroom high-floor condo (980 sqft)
- Design Style: Industrial loft with parametric accents
- Renovation Timeline: 4 months
- Key Partners: BCA-certified engineers, smart home technicians
I oversaw the project’s planning and followed local guidelines on exposed surfaces. The final design stayed true to an industrial theme by keeping mechanical systems visible yet refined.
Client Background & Pain Points
The couple loves modern technology, and they both value an urban aesthetic. They also have an interest in Singapore’s MRT lines, which pass near their unit. They wanted an open, edgy atmosphere that would reflect city energy and highlight overhead ducts.
They faced several concerns:
- Spatial constraints: Large columns in the living area made it tough to arrange furniture.
- Mechanical clutter: Aircon ducts and plumbing lines were intrusive. Standard condo layouts often hide them behind false ceilings, but the couple wanted them exposed.
- Acoustic problems: Train noise from nearby MRT tunnels affected their sleep and work time.
They looked for a strategy that would change these issues into interesting elements.
Renovation Plan & Design Approach
Industrial Reclamation
We decided to celebrate the condo’s mechanical lines instead of concealing them.
- Original Ceiling Ducts: Cleaned and painted matte graphite to create a uniform look.
- Structural Column Lighting: The main column became a conversation piece with embedded LED strips.
- Balcony Mosaic Tiles: Instead of removing them, we used a chemical treatment to restore their color. This gave the balcony a nostalgic charm.
Space Reconfiguration
We had to rethink the condo’s layout to improve function and flow.
- Parametric Divider: A 3D-printed aluminum screen acts as a divider between the living and dining areas. This screen adds an artful vibe and also frames the condo’s tall windows.
- Multi-Level Platform: Raised sections near the windows create tiered seating, which hides storage compartments below.
- Pivot Kitchen: Rotating cabinetry allows direct access to appliances from either side, saving space.
Smart Integration
Modern life requires smart features, so we added sensors and automation wherever possible.
- Duct-Mounted Motion Sensors: These trigger lights when you enter different areas, reducing energy use.
- Vibration-Dampening Window Films: These films help reduce train noise from the MRT tracks.
- Micro-Cement Flooring: A thin layer of micro-cement covers the entire floor. It has hidden cooling channels to regulate indoor temperature, which helps reduce reliance on air conditioning.
Duct Realignment
We had to reroute some aircon ducts around load-bearing walls. This step took two extra weeks. It also cost an additional $8,200 beyond the initial budget. The delay was worth it because the new route keeps airflow efficient and visually consistent.Material Restrictions
Exposed surfaces must follow BCA fire-rating rules. We used certified paints and sealants on the ducts and columns. Extra checks delayed certain permit approvals, but they guaranteed safety and compliance.Tech Integration
Custom firmware was needed to run the motion sensors inside ducts. This required more coordination between the engineering team and the programming crew, but it resulted in a responsive lighting system with minimal wiring clutter.
Key Highlights & Features
| Industrial Elements | Smart Tech |
|---|---|
| Exposed galvanized ducts | Duct-embedded air quality sensors |
| Graphite-painted ceiling grid | Voice-controlled parametric screens |
| Salvaged warehouse pulleys | Vibration-responsive mood lighting |
| Micro-cement feature wall | Automated blackout shades |
Innovations
- Retractable Projector Screen: Hidden inside one of the ducts, it drops down for movie nights.
- Magnetic Wall Panels: These allow quick swaps of artwork or accessories.
- Balcony Green Curtain: A vertical hydroponic setup for herbs or small plants adds color and filters sunlight.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Cost (SGD) | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Structural modifications | 48,000 | 38% |
| Smart systems | 32,000 | 25% |
| Custom metalwork | 25,000 | 20% |
| Acoustic treatments | 12,000 | 9% |
| Lighting | 8,000 | 6% |
| Total | 125,000 | – |
Note: Furniture and artwork costs are not included.
Spending Chart
- Structural Modifications: 38%
- Smart Systems: 25%
- Custom Metalwork: 20%
- Acoustic Treatments: 9%
- Lighting: 6%
I observed that reinforcing the condo’s structure and adding new tech took the largest part of the budget. The investment in acoustic treatments was also important, given the condo’s proximity to train tracks.