Serene Cove
A 5-Room BTO Transformation Embracing Quiet Luxury
I recently had the opportunity to work on Serene Cove, a 5-room BTO in Tampines. This unit belongs to a couple in their early 30s who wanted a quiet luxury concept. The project centered on soft minimalism, warm textures, and functional elements that would last. I am pleased to share this detailed renovation journey, offering insights into design, cost, and practical tips.
A 5-Room BTO Transformation Embracing Quiet Luxury
This 5-room BTO renovation shows that an understated approach can create a sense of serenity. It also proves that thoughtful designs can optimize daily living. We hope this case study sparks ideas for homeowners who want a sleek yet welcoming home. If you plan a renovation, consider investing in finishes and storage that will serve you well over time. The final outcome is a place that feels personal, stylish, and relaxing.
The homeowners desired muted tones, curved forms, and natural textures. The layout promoted open-concept zones, giving the living, dining, and kitchen spaces a sense of flow. Custom carpentry and tactile contrasts added depth. The core aim was an understated yet refined style that felt calming.
Location: Tampines 10 (5-room BTO)
Design Theme: Quiet luxury with understated colors and curved details
Key Elements: Open zones, custom carpentry, textural contrasts, and cohesive finishes
Client Background & Pain Points
The couple wanted a space that balanced sophistication with everyday comfort. They struggled with the standard BTO layout, which felt restrictive. Their concerns included:
Generic Layout: The default structure restricted the sense of spaciousness in shared areas.
Storage Issues: There was limited storage for clothing, accessories, and hobby items.
Aesthetic Differences: She preferred soft minimalism; he liked warm textures. Both needed a unifying theme.
They approached me and the team at Plush Interior Design to create a home that felt elevated yet livable. The wife was drawn to neutral palettes, while the husband leaned toward deeper tones and visual warmth.
Renovation Plan & Design Approach
The design team embraced quiet luxury by pairing muted elements with natural materials. We focused on:
- Open Layout: We removed some non-structural partitions to merge the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Curved cove ceilings and fluted laminate walls quietly defined each zone, allowing light to flow through.
- Material Harmony: Light timber laminates, matte grey tiles, and terrazzo flooring established a neutral base. Marble-like backsplashes and leather-trimmed cabinetry brought visual interest without distracting patterns.
- Custom Solutions: We integrated a walk-in wardrobe with tinted glass doors and curved shelving. This solution extended storage while keeping the look clean and uncluttered.
We aimed to keep the design consistent in every corner. This approach aligned with the homeowners’ desire for an understated aesthetic.
Execution & Challenges Faced
- Spatial Constraints: We decided to remove one bedroom to form a multipurpose lounge. This required careful planning to maintain structural stability.
- Artisan Crafting: The curved ceiling details demanded specialized skills, which stretched the renovation timeline by about three weeks. Coordinating carpenters and electricians in tight schedules needed teamwork.
- Lighting Balance: The home required a blend of cove lighting, recessed LED strips, and wall sconces to soften angles and highlight special features. Finding the right lighting temperature and beam angle took extra effort.
Despite these hurdles, steady communication with the homeowners helped us move forward. Daily site visits gave us a chance to spot issues early and refine solutions on the go.
Key Highlights & Features
- Architectural Detail: We introduced a pitched ceiling in the living area with timber rafters, which gave the flat a distinctive look. Many guests said it reminded them of a landed property’s cozy vibe.
- Upgraded Bathroom: The master bathroom featured checkered floor tiles and a free-standing bathtub, contrasting modern fittings with rustic textures. This added visual interest to a usually overlooked space.
- Adaptive Storage: Rotating timber doors separated the living and dining areas. These doors gave the couple freedom to open or close the space for hosting or privacy.
These features embodied the idea of quiet luxury: everyday materials used in a refined way.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Custom Carpentry | $35,000 |
| Material Finishes | $28,000 |
| Lighting & Fixtures | $12,000 |
| Labour & Fees | $25,000 |
| Total | $100,000 |
Below is a simple chart showing the approximate cost distribution by percentage:
- Custom Carpentry: 35%
- Material Finishes: 28%
- Lighting & Fixtures: 12%
- Labour & Fees: 25%
This breakdown shows how the bulk of the budget went to custom carpentry, reflecting the focus on built-in solutions. Material finishes also took a sizable share, which included tiles, laminates, and special surfaces. Lighting and fixtures had a smaller portion, while labor and fees accounted for about a quarter of costs.
Customer Feedback
The homeowners said, “The curved ceilings and hidden storage made our flat feel luxurious yet lived-in. We did not expect a BTO to have these custom touches!” They appreciated the neutral palette and the way each element served a functional purpose. The wife loved the new walk-in wardrobe, while the husband highlighted the living area’s pitched ceiling as a conversation starter among friends.