Wabi-Sabi Townhouse Revival
Bukit Timah
This 3,500 sq ft townhouse sits in Bukit Timah’s conservation zone (District 11). The original structure dates back to the 1980s. The goal was to fuse a Japandi-Wabi Sabi style with subtle Peranakan influences. The property owners sought to modernize the space for a multi-generational household while respecting local architectural guidelines. They wanted a climate-friendly design that highlights natural ventilation and local materials.
The design team introduced a double-volume living space, a floating ash wood mezzanine, and a transformed attic. They integrated raw concrete finishes and reclaimed materials. The design embraces the Wabi-Sabi principle of celebrating imperfections, which can be a challenge in an upscale location. Key strategies included hidden airwells for natural cooling, limewashed walls, and organic fabrics.
Harmonizing Heritage and Modernity
In this project, the Tan family reveals the flexibility of a Wabi-Sabi concept in Singapore’s climate. The home breathes, adapts to environmental factors, and respects historical constraints. The family enjoys a balanced dwelling that meets each member’s lifestyle needs. By blending organic textures with discreet systems, the design celebrates nature’s shapes and the calm of a well-integrated smart home.
Client Background & Pain Points
The Tan family consists of retired architects and their adult children who work in technology. They wanted a comfortable home that blends modern conveniences with heritage architecture.
They faced several issues:
- Outdated mosaic tiles and weakened plaster demanded repairs to preserve heritage details.
- The original floor plan had many walls, reducing airflow and natural light.
- The family wanted Wabi-Sabi’s “imperfect” aesthetic but worried that Bukit Timah’s upscale setting might conflict with raw, rustic finishes.
- They needed discreet smart home features that would not clash with natural materials.
The family’s architectural background fueled their desire for authenticity. They wanted to save existing features and integrate them with modern systems. Their children liked high-tech systems for entertainment, safety, and daily routines. They also hoped for minimal disruptions to the exterior, due to local conservation rules.
Renovation Plan & Design Approach
Spatial Reconfiguration
The renovation team opened the ground floor to improve cross-ventilation. They created a double-volume living area that connects to a floating mezzanine. This mezzanine functions as a library with floor-to-ceiling shelves. A new attic-level clay studio uses raw concrete finishes. This attic space captures morning light and allows the older generation to pursue pottery in a calm, airy environment.
Material Strategy
- Reclaimed Chengal Wood Flooring: The original structure contained Chengal beams and floorboards. These were salvaged, polished, and relaid. Visible nail holes and natural marks were left intact to embrace the Wabi-Sabi concept.
- Limewash and Indigo Textiles: Hand-brushed limewash on walls helps the home “breathe,” which is important in Singapore’s climate. Indigo-dyed shibori fabrics add subtle patterns to cushions and window treatments.
- Smart Materials for Humidity: Certain rooms use anti-fungal tatami mats. These mats hold up in high-humidity spaces and give a soft, warm surface.
Climate Adaptation
- Hidden Airwell: The team introduced a discreet airwell with a vertical garden. This feature circulates air through the central core of the townhouse. It helps lower indoor temperature and adds greenery.
- Breathable Surfaces: The design team used natural plasters and wooden panels with open joints. This supports better air circulation and manages humidity.
Execution & Challenges Faced
Heritage Compliance
Local rules required preservation of the original facade. This facade had ceramic air vents that could not be removed. The team replaced fragile windows with hurricane-rated glass while keeping the old vent patterns visible. This step combined safety with heritage guidelines.
Material Sourcing
Long lead times were common:
- Custom Washi Paper Sliding Doors: These were handcrafted by Kyoto artisans. Shipment took six months.
- Sugi Ban Feature Wall: Local carpenters trained to burn and brush cedar planks in a traditional style. This technique gave a charred, water-resistant coating.
Technology Integration
The Tan family wanted voice-activated lights, climate sensors, and security systems. The design team concealed these systems behind rattan-wrapped conduits, keeping them out of sight. Underfloor heating was hidden beneath reclaimed teak floorboards. The owners can adjust the temperature using a simple smartphone app.
Key Highlights & Features
Entryway
A hand-carved rain chain directs water from the roof to a koi pond. This pond has irregular stone edges that reflect Wabi-Sabi’s focus on organic shapes. The chain’s gentle trickling sound sets a peaceful mood upon entry.
Kitchen
A live-edge marble countertop shows natural fissures, giving each slab a unique look. Scandinavian fixtures with a matte black finish contrast with the natural veining of the marble. The kitchen also has concealed smart lighting for energy efficiency.
Bathroom
An Ofuro-style tub stands out in the master bath. It was crafted from a repurposed wine fermentation barrel. Its curved shape and wooden exterior add warmth, in line with Japanese bathing traditions. This tub fits well in a smaller space and retains heat efficiently.
Garden
A simple garden path uses moss-covered stones. The stepping stones are uneven, making the walk playful. This design encourages guests to slow their pace. The path borders small pockets of greenery, allowing the garden to feel more integrated with the house.
Cost Breakdown
Below is a summary of the renovation costs:
| Category | Cost (SGD) | Heritage Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Structural | $180,000 | Conservation compliance (+25%) |
| Artisan Craftwork | $95,000 | Japanese/Kyoto collaborations |
| Materials | $75,000 | Reclaimed/antique elements |
| Landscape | $50,000 | Biophilic design features |
| Total | $400,000 |
This budget included artisan partnerships, structural work, and green installations.
Cost Allocation Chart
Below is a basic chart describing the percentage split:
These figures show how structural work commanded the highest share. Artisan craftwork covered the skilled labor needed for sugi ban, washi doors, and other niche finishes.