Step into the enchanting Hideaway House, a sanctuary nestled in the heart of Singapore, where a captivating blend of modern design and tropical charm awaits. This semi-detached residence, spanning 380 square meters, is a haven for a family of four, offering both privacy and a connection to nature. The exterior, shrouded in white screens, creates an air of mystery, shielding the interior from the bustling city outside. But beyond this enigmatic facade lies a warm and inviting home, bathed in natural light and filled with thoughtful design elements.
The brainchild of Tan Cher Ming, founder of Ming Architects, Hideaway House showcases a unique architectural style. Tan, a 20 Under 45 selectee, drew inspiration from modernist principles and tropical climate considerations. The external screens, crafted from powder-coated aluminum profiles, provide a minimalist aesthetic while serving a practical purpose. They shield the interiors from the intense heat and glare of the multi-lane road, ensuring a comfortable living environment. The screens also contribute to the house's privacy, making it a secluded retreat.
Upon entering, one is greeted by a spacious open-plan living and dining area, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame a breathtaking garden view. The homeowner, drawn to Australian residential architecture, wanted a home that reflected a similar sense of openness and connection to nature. The large glass doors seamlessly blend the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing the children to play in the garden, which is both roomy and practical, serving as a seat when needed.
The interior design is a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. The dry kitchen boasts a wall of cabinetry, tidily storing appliances and clutter. The dining area showcases a captivating painting by Singaporean artist Tay Bak Chiang, whose geological-inspired forms mirror the house's connection to nature. The use of American white oak in carpentry, walls, and ceilings adds a warm and homely touch throughout the main areas.
The bedrooms are generously sized, providing more than just a place to sleep. Each bedroom has a unique connection to the outdoors, such as a small garden with a Leptospermum brachyandrum tree outside the daughter's bedroom window and a Zen outdoor nook with an olive tree in the couple's bedroom. These green spaces enhance the home's connection to nature, even with the surrounding screens.
The master bedroom is a sanctuary with a sloped ceiling that mirrors the roof pitch. A custom-made washbasin in bold black Pietra Grey marble adds a touch of elegance, while small skylights in the shower and WC stalls allow natural light to filter in, creating a sense of time passing. The use of sustainable, natural materials, such as limestone flooring and brushed timber panels, aligns with the homeowner's desire for a healthy living environment.
The journey to Hideaway House began with the homeowner's vision of a larger family home. After initially missing out on the plot due to pricing, he eventually secured the property just before the pandemic. The process of designing and building the house was a thoughtful one, resulting in a place that protects family privacy while offering ample sunshine, breezes, and a connection to nature. Hideaway House is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and a harmonious blend of modern architecture and tropical living.
