In line with the Japandi theme, the designers were careful not to introduce too many materials and instead chose from a limited palette of neutral colours and natural materials.

For example, the same oak timber imported from Austria was used in the kitchen, the staircase, and the timber flooring on the upper levels. Similarly, the same Caliza Capri limestone was used on the lower ground floor, the garden, the raised ground floor fireplace, and some of the bathrooms. “Using the same stone in slightly different ways across the property enhanced this sense of calm the clients were after,” explains De Rosee.

Crucial to the Japandi aesthetic is the emphasis on clean lines, which requires the design team and contractors to work in perfect synergy. “As more and more elements of the build came together, we had to be incredibly accurate to achieve the crisp detailing that would allow the project to look effortless,” says De Rosee, who acknowledged the efforts of the contractors and stonemasons involved. “They were fantastic and had a real love for their craft which was evident in their approach. Where alignment had to be millimetre perfect, we all discussed the minute details and junctions which they executed excellently.”

A prime showcase of the level of attention to detail in this home is the feature staircase and roof light, which had to be totally redesigned to create a continuous central stairwell. “The staircase was developed with a team of craftsman with details including hexagonal balustrades half recessed into floating treads, and continuing slightly beyond the underside of floating steps to emphasize their shape and break down the side profile of the steps,” shares De Rosee. “These balustrades and all the metalwork were formed in patinated steel which added a raw beauty and honesty to the material choice.”

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The owners too have an impeccable eye for detail, as can be gleaned from the beautiful collection of furniture and art pieces found throughout the home, which the owners sourced themselves. A quick walk through the lower ground living room and visitors will spot various pieces of iconic furniture design, including a Gubi Pacha Lounge Chair by Pierre Paulin, a Fredericia Magazine Table by Jens Risom, and an Oluce Atollo lamp by Vico Magistretti. Together with the neutral colour palette and natural materials used in the rest of the home, the emphasis on fabric and wood furniture helps to strengthen the overall Japandi aesthetic.

The owners' unique personalities also shine through in their choice of artwork. “The clients had an extensive photography collection, and used some of the spaces as backdrops for some of their impressive and lovely pieces,” explains De Rosee. “We particularly love the triptych on the third-floor space. The one-and-a-half-storey space makes it a natural space to position them, and the tones complement the finishes and furnishings.”

For the owners, Japandi design is not only about a calm or minimalist aesthetic, but about having beautiful spaces that work for them and encourage flow and interaction.

Once an unloved basement space, the lower ground floor with the kitchen, dining, and living area features an uninterrupted transition to the garden and is now the owner's favourite space for family bonding, for example. “It’s the space they gather the most as a family, and the sense of openness and connection to the garden, whilst being flooded with light, allows them an incredibly comfortable space connected to nature,” says De Rosee.

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