Redesigned Singapore terrace house now serving as owner's final residence
The "My Last Home" project, a remarkable transformation of an existing mid-terrace residence in central Singapore, has been completed by the emerging studio L Architects. The project, which was undertaken for a client turning 67 and returning to Singapore for retirement, has been a testament to the architects' commitment to natural light, materiality, and historical elements.
Transformation Process
One of the significant challenges in the original design was the lack of natural light on the ground level. To address this, all partitions and existing walls were removed, allowing sunlight to penetrate deeper into the home[1].
The architects uncovered all surfaces as much as possible, adopting a utilitarian, exposed effect. This approach reveals the structure's bones and "spirit," creating a more honest and tactile experience[1]. The design celebrates material surfaces, layering texture and tactility throughout the space, creating a pleasing play of shadows, enhancing the atmosphere and visual interest of the home[1].
Preservation of historical elements was also a key focus. By exposing the structural elements, the architects preserved the essence of the original structure while modernizing it[1]. The architect discovered a beautiful English bond brick tessellation behind the thick plaster on the party walls, which was left exposed to reflect the building's materiality and historical context.
Team and Client
The project was led by Lim Shing Hui, founder of L Architects, along with team members Loo Quan Le and Tse Lee Shing[1]. The client, a retired professor, envisioned this as his "last home," and this personal significance drove the design to be both contemporary and meaningful[1].
Design Philosophy
The transformation reflects a philosophy of going back to basics, showcasing the inherent qualities of the building rather than hiding them behind layers of plaster and ceiling boards. By revealing the structure's materiality, the architects crafted a space that not only feels more open and bright but also tells an honest story of its history and evolution[1]. The architect decided to reveal the old brickwork, pairing it with modern bricks to reflect the history of the renovation.
L Architects, with their approach to the "My Last Home" project, has demonstrated their commitment to sustainable and meaningful design. The studio is featured in the 2024 Architects Directory, further highlighting their growing influence in the architectural community. This project serves as a testament to the power of design to transform not just spaces, but lives.
[1] Information sourced from the L Architects' official website and project documentation.
In the "My Last Home" project, the design philosophy prioritizes the appreciation of the building's materiality and history, as seen in the revealing of old brickwork and the preservation of a beautiful English bond brick tessellation. This transformation, a collaboration between L Architects, Lim Shing Hui, Loo Quan Le, and Tse Lee Shing, serves as a testament to the power of interior-design in enhancing lifestyle and home-and-garden settings, creating a meaningful living space that reflects its historical context.
