A Combined Penthouse

This particular penthouse in Singapore is unique in that it combines two abutting units. The family, with two young children, had previously lived in a three-bedroom apartment nearby but desired more space. The house also had to accommodate family gatherings and occasional visits of the grandparents. The entrance is located at the larger five-bedroom unit, whose living area is kept intact. An opening in an adjoining wall connects the two units. To enhance functionality, the designers removed one bedroom to create a larger living area, and turned another into the master bedroom’s walk-in wardrobe. The firm also enlarged the son’s bedroom by removing the ensuite bathroom. In the smaller two-bedroom unit, there is now a guest room and entertainment area for accommodating lively children during gatherings. We wanted every corner of the home to be eye-catching and unique, while conveying a consistent design scheme. To achieve this, the firm used recurring materials and tones that manifest in various ways. These include the dark wood joinery and neutral shades on the walls and floors, which are accompanied with accents of blue and grey. Mirrors, brass trimmings and incandescent lamps reflect and amplify the light streaming in from large windows. An Art Deco-style mirror at the entrance enhances the space’s sense of depth. In the dining room, a majestic Gold Moon chandelier from Catellani & Smith spirals like gilded leaves floating in the air. With more space, the owners can indulge in their hobbies. The husband is an avid fan of vodka and the home showcases his extensive collection of spirits—many of them rare bottles—with a display shelf that stretches to the top of the double-height ceiling. An onyx-clad bar counter and a glittering chandelier from Cattelan Italia add to the refined atmosphere. We took advantage of the living area’s soaring ceiling by adding a mezzanine that shares the balconies’ stunning panoramic vistas. The Harry Potter themed library on the mezzanine is the wife’s favourite spot. Influences from nature are also found in the master bedroom’s wallpaper, with gold leaves. By the bedside, Bocci lamps mimic water droplets.