Even today, it may be surprising to some people that HDB flats can have quite unique layouts and attributes. For those looking for something different in their homes, having a high ceiling in your living room is often a major highlight and a real conversation starter.
So for Wallace and Patricia (not their real names), finding this double-volume loft unit was all that was needed to convince them that this was it as they envisioned a bright and minimalist home that would be comforting to return home to. To help them achieve this, the couple worked with Vicknesan, a designer from Aesthete Interior to redefine their space.
Floorplan
Loft area converted with a double-volume living space

Upon entering Wallace and Patricia’s home, you’re immediately struck by the expansive double-height living area. Full-length windows flood the space with natural light, creating an airy, open atmosphere. This impressive feature wasn’t always part of the flat. Originally, a loft occupied this area, but the couple decided to remove it during renovations. They wanted to amplify the sense of space and light, and their efforts really paid off.

To make the space feel even larger, a light colour palette was chosen for the furniture to complement the white walls. This choice creates a seamless and airy atmosphere throughout the home.

Other major changes included the kitchen area. The home was originally configured with an enclosed kitchen, but they knocked down part of the kitchen wall to partially connect it to the entryway. This change not only enhanced flow but still maintained a distinct separation between spaces.
Sleek and consistent carpentry
Before the kitchen’s makeover, it had a conventional layout, and the cabinetry was dark, which did not align with Wallace and Patricia’s vision.

To give the kitchen a new look, Vicknesan used sleek and minimalist carpentry, which was a deliberate choice to keep things clean and clutter-free, with closed cabinets adding to the simplicity.
A touch of luxury came with a marble backsplash and countertop, adding depth and elegance to the space.
Combining two bedrooms together

Another significant change was merging one of the common bedrooms into an extended master bedroom, providing more wardrobe and walking space.
The windows in the home served as guides for Vicknesan to plan and craft the space, as he did not want to obstruct windows, reducing the use of artificial lights during daytime.

“With all the window breaks, it was a challenge to fit the wardrobe in and make it look connected,” said Vicknesan.
Despite this, he managed to plan the space out and even included a little corner nook similar to a bay window.

Wallace and Patricia were thrilled with how it turned out, especially since they hadn’t expected the wardrobe to fit so seamlessly with the windows.
Now, the couple has a space where they can get ready for the day while enjoying the view.

To maintain a cohesive look, the same seamless carpentry used in the kitchen was carried through to the master bedroom, tying the whole home together with a minimalist aesthetic.

A unique headboard was also chosen for their bed frame, adding a subtle yet eye-catching design element.
Classic bathroom design

The bathrooms were kept simple and functional, with minimalist fixtures and light tones that made the small space feel larger and more serene.
Overall, Wallace and Patricia were satisfied with the outcome of their home and they felt that the entire process was smooth and joyous from inception to completion.
Tips for future homeowners
Renovating or designing a new home can be an exciting yet intimidating process, and you can get easily overwhelmed by the different choices you have to make.
“Always learn to create a list of wants and needs, and give priority to the needs. If space and budget permits, have the wants,” said Vicknesan.
He also advises homeowners to keep the builds and permanent fixtures clean and neutral, so that you can go crazy with the loose and non-permanent fixtures or furnishing.
“Avoid filling homes with loud design motifs – you can grow tired of them sooner than you expect.”
Read next from Editor's Pick
New Launch Condo Analysis This New Upper Bukit Timah Condo Starts From $993K: But Would You Trade MRT Convenience for Greenery?
Homeowner Stories “I Didn’t Think Property Prices Could Go Up So Fast Anymore With ABSD” Why One Buyer’s Regret Still Feels Familiar Today
Landed Home Tours I Toured A Rare Quiet Yet Central Freehold Landed Enclave Where Houses Sell For $12 Million
New Launch Condo Reviews W Residences Marina View – Singapore Condo Review: A Luxury Condo Above A 5-Star Hotel From $1.77m
Latest Posts
Property Market Commentary Which HDB Towns Are Getting Close To Condo Prices In 2025?
Pro We Compared Old vs New Condos in One of Singapore’s Fastest-Changing Neighbourhoods — Here’s What We Found Out
On The Market We Found 5 Freehold 1-Bedroom Condos Under $1 Million With The Most Efficient Layouts
Singapore Property News The Hidden Price of Upgrading To A Condo In Singapore: What Most Buyers Don’t Budget For
On The Market We Found 5 Spacious HDB Flats Above 1,300 Sqft You Can Still Buy Under $600K
Pro We Compared Old vs New Condos in One of Singapore’s Priciest Family Neighbourhoods: Here’s What We Found For Family-Sized Units in District 21
Property Market Commentary Why Singapore Homes Feel So Unaffordable (Even If Incomes Have Risen)
Property Investment Insights Which Condos Made the Biggest Profits in 2025? One Owner Earned $3.8M in Just 5 Years
Pro Are Older One- and Two-Bedders in District 21 Holding Up Against the New Launches? We Break It Down
Property Advice Most New Condo Buyers in Singapore Forget to Check This Before Buying (Until It’s Too Late)
Singapore Property News Why This Rare New Queenstown Condo Nearly Sold Out Even At $2,800 Psf
On The Market Surprisingly Affordable 5 bedroom Condos You Can Buy Right Now Under $2.3 Million
Landed Home Tours I Toured A Rare Freehold Landed Street Where $5M Still Gets You A Proper Family Home
Singapore Property News When ‘Fringe’ Homes Cross $2,000 PSF, Has Singapore’s Idea of ‘Prime’ Changed for Good?
On The Market Four Rare Penthouses Overlooking Jurong Lake Gardens On The Market From $4.38m – Each With Over 2,000 Sqft Of Space