Sleek Void Deck
(Condo, Orchard)
I once visited an Orchard Road condo that had a hidden gem—a void deck with strong potential. The management felt this underused space could become a focal point for social activities. They asked for a design that would match the condo’s sleek branding and serve residents in a more dynamic way. Here is the full renovation story, with key insights on the transformation process.
Condo, Orchard
The journey showed that even a small 800-square-foot area can gain a big upgrade with the right planning. This void deck now stands as a modern social hub, reflecting the condo’s identity on Orchard Road. It offers a place where residents can gather, share ideas, or enjoy a quiet moment. I believe this renovation shows how thoughtful design, combined with functional tech, can reshape communal areas in Singapore’s condos.
Location -Orchard Road Luxury Condominium
Property Type
A 35-storey building with an 800-square-foot communal void deck
Design Style
Minimalist urban oasis with clean lines and simple color contrasts
Renovation Timeline
3 months from start to finish
Key Partners
- BCA-certified contractors for structural reinforcement
- Smart tech integrators for motion sensors and automated controls
I noticed the void deck needed a clear concept. It had dated design elements and lacked a welcoming flow. The project scope covered spatial reconfiguration, modern finishes, and a technology plan to create a practical and visually appealing environment.
Client Background & Pain Points
The condo management wanted a vibrant social hub. They struggled with four main issues:
- Confusing Layout: The space had dead ends that limited movement.
- Outdated Décor: Old fixtures clashed with the luxury image of the rest of the building.
- Poor Ventilation: Hot, stagnant air made the area uncomfortable.
- Low Engagement: Residents used the void deck rarely because it lacked defined zones for meetings or relaxation.
These problems led the management to look for a holistic redesign. They aimed for a cohesive place that would encourage gatherings and casual interactions.
Renovation Plan & Design Approach
Spatial Reconfiguration
- Elimination of Barriers: The team replaced obstructive pillars with steel-reinforced beams.
- Open Sightlines: Retractable glass panels introduced a flexible event area.
- Circular Pathways: A loop design guided foot traffic more smoothly and helped remove dead ends.
Material Strategy
- Monochromatic Palette: Polished micro-cement floors in light gray with subtle black accents.
- Climate-Responsive Finishes: Heat-reflective window films and hidden dehumidifiers to reduce moisture.
- Modular Furniture: Chairs and tables with easy-to-move designs. Magnetic floor sockets allowed quick repositioning of seating.
Tech Integration
- Energy-Efficient Lighting: Motion-activated LED strips placed under benches, giving a soft glow and reducing power use by about 15%.
- Automated Ventilation: Air quality sensors triggered fans and air purifiers, solving the stagnant air issue.
- Smart Charging Points: Charging docks shaped like decorative sculptures, blending functionality with style.
I found these plans addressed both form and function. The reconfiguration would add flow, while the materials and tech would deliver comfort.
Execution & Challenges Faced
Bringing the concept to life took three months. While each phase moved forward, some obstacles arose:
- Regulatory Compliance: Approval for structural changes took six weeks. Documents had to meet specific safety codes.
- Material Sourcing Delays: A global shortage of micro-cement led to a three-week schedule extension.
- Acoustic Concerns: The open design caused echoes. Sound-absorbing panels behind greenery solved the noise issue.
- Budget Adjustments: Due to rising material costs, the team switched some flooring to a local terrazzo-like vinyl. This cut costs by about 30% compared to the planned flooring.
Despite these setbacks, the project stayed on track. The management allowed short timeline extensions to maintain quality. By balancing resources and rethinking certain items, the design maintained its original vision.
Key Highlights & Features
Below is a quick view of standout elements:
| Design Elements | Functional Innovations |
|---|---|
| Floating planters with native ferns | History wall with QR codes showing Orchard Road’s past |
| Retractable projector screen | Modular power cubes with USB-C and wireless charging |
| Aluminum sun louvers | Digital panel tracking real-time air quality |
| Acoustic felt partitions | Magnetic floor system for easy furniture placement |
Signature Zones
- Co-Working Nook: Height-adjustable desks with focused lighting.
- Quiet Pod: A small enclosed area for personal calls or silent breaks.
- Interactive Digital Art Wall: Displays light patterns based on weather data.
Each feature was chosen for a purpose. For example, the digital art wall created a soothing visual effect. The co-working nook catered to professionals who prefer a flexible work setting. The management found that these zones elevated resident interest in using the void deck.
Cost Breakdown
Renovating a communal space involves strategic budgeting. Here is the approximate distribution:
| Category | Cost (SGD) | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Structural changes | 28,000 | 35% |
| Smart systems | 18,000 | 22% |
| Materials | 15,000 | 19% |
| Lighting | 9,500 | 12% |
| Landscaping | 6,500 | 8% |
| Total | 77,000 | 100% |
Costs excluded ongoing maintenance contracts. The largest portion went to structural modifications, followed by smart technology. While the budget was sizable, the management saw the long-term value in improved resident satisfaction.
Visualizing the Cost Distribution
Below is a simple chart showing how each category contributed to the total cost. Values are in SGD:
| Category | Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Structural Changes | 28,000 |
| Smart Systems | 18,000 |
| Materials | 15,000 |
| Lighting | 9,500 |
| Landscaping | 6,500 |
This chart helps readers grasp the spending priorities. Structural safety and smart functionality were top concerns.