Slow Living with Empatwalls
516
Virtual House Tour
- Scandinavian
- HDB (BTO)
- ~900 sqft
- 3 br
- Couple Living with Kids
Hello folks! We're thrilled to be here, sharing our home reno/styling journey on HipVan! 'Empat Walls,' translating to 'Four Walls' in English, embodies the heart of our sanctuary. Here, we cherish the positivity of discovering comfort and inspiration within these 'four' walls. It serves as a constant reminder that home is where dreams thrive, memories are woven, and simplicity unveils its beauty. We are also all about embracing a slower, more intentional way of life. 'Slow living' is about savoring life's simple joys & when it comes to our home, it's about getting back to basics, appreciating life's little moments, and being grateful for what we have. Come along as we unveil our path to 'slow living' and the seamless integration of Scandinavian and Japandi design elements that bring 'Empat Walls' to life. 
Our floorplan is based on the blueprint provided by HDB, and per presented, it adheres to the conventional 4-room BTO layout that you probably noticed whenever you visit another BTO. We have, however, seen layouts that are unique in configuration which set them apart from the norm. Ours is the norm. Haha! Initially, we contemplated the idea of reconfiguring the space by hacking walls and utilizing one of the bedrooms as an extended living area. However, after thorough consideration, we opted to retain the original layout, foreseeing that our growing daughters would benefit from having their dedicated spaces in the near future. Back then, we were also given the option to opt in/out for an open kitchen...We were so in! We believed that with an open kitchen, it would create a seamless and inviting atmosphere. The open concept fosters a sense of togetherness and allows for easy interaction while cooking, making family gatherings and meal preparations more enjoyable. Additionally, it maximizes natural light and gives the space a more expansive feel, contributing to an overall sense of airiness and connectivity within our home. 
Our entryway may be limited in space, constrained by the presence of our bomb shelter. However, we've turned this limitation into an opportunity for creativity and aesthetics. These panels lend a touch of sophistication and transform the space into a stylish focal point. We can, and multiple times, be found guilty capturing outfit photos against this panels as backdrop. Plus! - These panels not only mask the shelter but also elevate the overall ambiance, infusing a warm and inviting feel to our home's first impression. We also have hidden shelves behind the panels. We cannot say no to extra storage! Disclaimer: Photos from here onwards were taken professionally by a photographer whom our ID engaged. As you step into our space, you'll find a harmonious blend of simplicity, functionality, and a deep connection to nature. We are all about rediscovering our roots, engaging all our senses, and living mindfully with gratitude—a bit like the Danish concept of 'Hygge'. Our home also embodies a harmonious fusion of Scandinavian and Japandi design influences. Scandinavian design offers clean lines and minimalism, while Japandi adds a rustic, balanced warmth. We've incorporated natural materials, like wood and rattan, which add a touch of earthiness to our home. 
Moving into our dining area, it's a cozy space with a versatile setup. We have a dining table, and depending on the occasion, we either use the accompanying chairs or swap them out for the bench that's part of the set. Our dining nook is a highlight, featuring a beautifully arched settee that adds a touch of charm and creates an inviting spot for meals and conversations - not forgetting loads of photo opportunities for our guests too! 
Our tiny kitchen may be small in size (scroll up to floorplan!), but it's big on character and functionality. The prep area is snug, but it encourages creativity. Being creative in a small prep area means finding innovative solutions and approaches to make the most of the limited space. It involves organizing kitchen tools efficiently, optimizing storage, using multitasking kitchen appliances, and adopting clever cooking techniques. It's about thinking outside the box to ensure that despite the constraints, we can still prepare delicious meals and enjoy the cooking process. The real star (kitchen-wise) is our kitchen island, which not only provides extra counter space but also serves as a hub for cooking, dining, and socializing. It's proof that even in a compact kitchen, every inch can be optimized for both style and utility. 
We also expanded our kitchen's footprint by transforming the adjacent void area into a functional dry kitchen space. This innovative addition not only maximizes our available square footage but it allows us to showcase our design creativity while enhancing our culinary experiences. With contemporary shelving for decorative pieces, it's a visual treat, harmoniously marrying Scandinavian and Japandi influences. The terazzo slab doubles as a sleek cabinet top, housing a convenient, tankless water dispenser. The neatly tessellated white ice cream tiles on the wall complete the look, creating a harmonious, stylish space that perfectly encapsulates our unique design vision. 
Our guest bathroom, adorned in earthy browns and calming neutrals, exudes a soothing ambiance. Its distinctive fish scale tiles add a touch of uniqueness to the cozy space, making it feel like a retreat despite its modest size. So Schmall, so tiny! A thoughtfully designed dresser and powder area feature a generously sized round mirror and delicate dried flowers atop the cabinet. The seamless consistency of the sintered top, mirroring our kitchen and island, ties it all together. This bathroom is a testament to how small spaces can be transformed into havens of tranquility and style. Yasss! 
Given its generous proportions, our master bedroom becomes a tranquil sanctuary - inviting us to embrace the essence of slow living. At its heart, our customized platform bed becomes the focal point. Beyond its chic aesthetics, it offers a practical solution. The platform conceals an abundance of hidden storage compartments beneath the mattress, allowing us to declutter, organize effortlessly & live more intentionally. This versatile space isn't just reserved for slumber; it transforms into a serene retreat for relaxation, contributing to our journey of slow living. Our love for modular furnishings shines as we introduce recliner floor sofas, creating a cozy lounging area. There are times we also indulge in movie nights...finding solace in the comfort of our master bedroom—a multifunctional haven tailored to our lifestyle, where the principles of slow living thrives!
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- 27 September 2023
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