Sean Liew, 37, and his wife Kathleen Lau have created a stunning three-storey contemporary intermediate terraced house that stands out among the rest along Lorong H Telok Kurau. The couple purchased the property in November 2017 and completed the purchase in March 2018. The house, completed a year ago, sits on a 2,009 sq ft freehold site with a built-up area of 3,800 sq ft. It boasts five en suite bedrooms, including the master suite, a living and dining area, a kitchen on the first level, a mezzanine-turned-entertainment room, a family room on the second level, and a roof terrace with a jacuzzi. The house was built with ample storage space.
The original property was a single-storey terraced house built in 1962, similar to the neighboring unit. Despite the east-west orientation of the house, a feature most Singaporean home buyers try to avoid, the couple saw potential in the property and decided to tear it down and redevelop it. They upgraded the glass windows and doors to unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) double-glazed windows to enhance heat insulation and comfort in the home. Sean Liew, as the general manager of Sapphire Windows, a window and door systems specialist founded by his father, understands the importance of quality windows and doors in a home.
The couple faced challenges during the construction phase, especially with the installation of the heavy glass panels in the house. However, they were able to overcome these challenges and complete the project within two years. The house now features a loft effect with high ceilings in the living and dining area and mezzanine, creating a spacious and well-lit environment. The master suite, junior master suite, and additional bedrooms have been personalized to suit the couple’s lifestyle, with the rooftop jacuzzi being a favorite spot for relaxation.
Home automation plays a significant role in the house, allowing the couple to control electronic devices with voice commands or through their mobile phones. Personal touches, such as a bonsai tree from Liew’s grandmother and a framed painting from his father, add character to the home. The couple is pleased with the outcome of their home but continues to make improvements, such as adding more plants and seating areas on the roof terrace and balcony.
Overall, Sean Liew and Kathleen Lau have created a modern and comfortable home that reflects their style and preferences. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a vision for the future, they have transformed a dated property into a contemporary masterpiece that stands out in the neighborhood.