In this week’s episode, we delve into James’ journey of renovating his apartment in the vibrant neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru. With a vision to fuse modern sophistication with traditional charm, James embarked on a meticulous design process to transform his living space into a reflection of his personal style and the rich heritage of the locale.
At the core of James’s design inspiration was the desire to cultivate a masculine, urban ambience infused with hints of Bali’s serene vibes. Central to this vision was the preservation of the apartment’s original elements, a homage to its history and character.
Homes like this are as much about the property underneath as the design on top. The right layout, block and tenure make renovations like these possible, or much harder to achieve later.
That's often where we help readers: evaluating the property first, before committing to a big purchase.
Over time, that's also why we decided to work with agents who shared the same data-driven and advisory-led approach behind our editorial, consultants who could help readers think through decisions more objectively, rather than simply push transactions.
Today, the team has worked with more than 2,000 clients across over $5B in property transactions.

As visitors step into the home, they are greeted by an entryway adorned with a corten rusty steel door, reminiscent of the wrought iron gates that are ubiquitous in Tiong Bahru.

The living area serves as the focal point of James’s apartment, designed to be open and fluid, conducive to both relaxation and socializing. Custom-made furniture and shelving, inspired by the scaffolding commonly seen in urban landscapes, lend a contemporary edge to the space, while a swivel TV adds an element of versatility, allowing James to enjoy his favorite shows from multiple angles.

In the kitchen and dining area, James opted for an open-concept layout, fostering a sense of connectivity and conviviality. A custom-made travertine table and island anchor the space, providing a focal point for gatherings and culinary adventures.

The balcony, with its original mosaic tiles and Scandinavian-designed wooden chairs, serves as a tranquil oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Here, James has created a sanctuary where he can unwind amidst lush greenery, reconnecting with nature in the heart of the urban jungle.

Even the bathroom has undergone a transformation, featuring a micro-cement sink countertop for an industrial aesthetic and hidden storage cleverly concealed behind the mirror.


Every detail has been meticulously curated to enhance functionality without compromising on style, resulting in a space that is as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing.

Through his renovation journey, he has succeeded in creating a living space that transcends the ordinary, offering a captivating fusion of modern luxury and timeless elegance.

Special thanks to the homeowner for letting us tour their lovely home. If you’d like to get connected to their ID for the design of your own home, you can reach out to them here. Successful projects get a $500 Stacked Store voucher!
At Stacked, we like to look beyond the headlines and surface-level numbers, and focus on how things play out in the real world.
If you’d like to discuss how this applies to your own circumstances, you can reach out for a one-to-one consultation here.
And if you simply have a question or want to share a thought, feel free to write to us at stories@stackedhomes.com. We read every message.
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