Cover A Scandinavian-inspired home designed by Metaphor Studio (All photos: Metaphor Studio)

Can we move in now?

For some time now, the love affair with Scandinavian and industrial-style interiors in Singapore has been going strong. These minimalist concepts appeal to many for whom the home is a reflection of individual style and personality. However, for this young couple who holidays in Scandinavia frequently, it’s about bringing shared memories and their love of the region into the home.

They roped in Stephen Goh and Angela Tantry, founders of Metaphor Studio, to spearhead the design and construction of their two-storey loft duplex. “The challenges the space presented included translating the trendy industrial look into a luxe Scandinavian ‘barn’ setting and fine-tuning the design profile, proportions and details to complement the owners’ deep appreciation for Scandinavian fine furniture and design,” says Goh.

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Material Matters

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Above Wood laminates create a sense of warmth and cosiness

The team used the same finish, saw-cut elm wood laminates, on the walls and low ceiling in the dining and cosy corners for a warm, intimate atmosphere. These laminates contrast against the dark finishes, such as the charcoal grey interlocking slate tiles, in the double-volume living area. “We used tiles to reduce the amount of reflection from the existing polished marble flooring. It’s one of the strategies to cope with the glare issue from the large windows,” says Goh. “They also give the opportunity to highlight the loft space.” Following the design team’s recommendations on the styles of artworks that will add to the interior, the couple opted for bold calligraphy pieces that complement the broad, black strokes throughout the home.

Elements Of Style

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Above Archival mid-century style furniture pieces add a whimsical charm to each space

The palette of finishes serves as a bold backdrop to the couple’s furniture pieces, many of which were sourced from designer furniture stores like XTRA and Dream. Mid-century modern icons such as the Eames lounge chair and the Egg chair by Arne Jacobsen furnish spaces, from the living area to the bedrooms. “They showed us all the furniture and light fixtures, as well as their preferred audio system, seen on their frequent holidays in Europe. We then weaved their likes into their desired interior style. It turned out to be the perfect match,” says Tantry.

In case you missed it: How to decorate a minimalist home with Scandi-chic furniture

A Refined Touch

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Above A serene bedroom is filled with muted tones

Furniture pieces are kept in neutral, muted colours. The couple also chose to have pops of colour introduced through items such as cushions and other small accessories. That way, they will enjoy the longevity of the design concept with the freedom to change things in small ways. The bedrooms feel open, spacious and cosy. At the same time, they also provide the storage space necessary to keep the home free from clutter. 

Practical Luxury

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Above Material and texture play create depth in this luxurious modern home

Marble, wood-like laminates and fabrics are some finishes that help ensure that the home is easy to maintain for busy professionals like this couple. This attention to the material mix is what gives the home its sensuous and comfortable feel, while channeling a distinct air of modern luxury. The design team also steered away from reflective or glossy materials such as mirror, glass and steel to temper glare issues.


 

Credits

Photography  

Metaphor Studio

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