Marcus and Cynthia’s Morning Routine in Their Whampoa Home
Every morning, Marcus and Cynthia wake up and have breakfast on a platform by the window while looking out at the fountain and the lush garden. The winding stone path, manicured shrubs, and pine trees create a tranquil English garden atmosphere, making it hard to believe that this is actually a corner of Whampoa. In this quiet part of the neighborhood, the only sounds one can hear are trickling water and the chirping of birds.
Retirement House in Whampoa
For the couple, who are enjoying an early retirement in their forties, this HDB terrace home in Whampoa was exactly the kind of life they had pictured settling down in after moving six times in ten years. The home, with a size of 1,270 sq ft (117 sqm), is shared by the couple and their pet Shih Tzu. They worked with interior designer Daniel Ho of Cottage Crafts to bring their vision to life.
Design and Renovation of the Home
The couple’s main priorities for the design and renovation of their home were natural materials and simplicity. Daniel Ho focused on opening up the space to let in natural light and air flow through. Walls were removed, a glass front door and large front window were installed, and the garden view was visible from anywhere on the ground floor.
Natural materials, particularly wood, were used throughout the home. A platform, shelf, and TV console seamlessly blend into each other, providing storage and a raised table. A live-edge suar wood bench and table in the dining room add to the natural aesthetic. The color tones in the home are kept simple and minimalist.
Functional Spaces in the Home
The kitchen, a priority for the couple who loves cooking and baking, is spacious and light-filled. A generous island and a bar that looks through to the dining area provide ample prep space. The main bedroom, which was originally two separate rooms, now features a bay window and a concealed walk-in wardrobe. Full-height cupboards were used to section off the bathroom from the bedroom, providing plenty of storage space.
Attention to Detail and Collaboration
Every detail in the home was carefully planned, as the couple had traveled extensively and moved several times before. The placement of details like electrical sockets and switches were considered. The couple’s love for music led to speakers being strategically placed throughout the home, even having their own dedicated shelves in the kitchen.
Designing the home was a collaborative process between the couple and the interior designer. Due to the pandemic, the couple had to cancel their travel plans and instead worked closely with the designer on the renovation. Despite the challenges, the end result exceeded their expectations.
In conclusion, Marcus and Cynthia’s Whampoa home is a peaceful retreat where they can enjoy their retirement years in comfort and style. The thoughtful design and attention to detail make this HDB terrace home a true sanctuary for the couple and their furry companion.