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 street below. 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 embodies the firm's commitment to clear, modern expressions and elegant climatic responses. Tan, a 20 Under 45 selectee, studied architecture in Melbourne and brings a unique vision to the project. The external screens, crafted from powder-coated aluminum profiles, serve a dual purpose: they provide a minimalist aesthetic and shield the interiors from heat, glare, and the busy road outside. This thoughtful design ensures the family's privacy and creates a peaceful atmosphere within.
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 similar sensibilities. 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, featuring a concrete border that doubles as a seat. The garden, lined with tall trees, offers a 'borrowed view' of the street, buffering the family from the bustling thoroughfare just a few meters away.
The interior design is a harmonious blend of warmth and functionality. American white oak is generously used for carpentry, walls, and ceilings, creating a homely atmosphere. The dry kitchen showcases a clever storage solution with an entire wall of cabinetry, while the dining area features a striking painting by Singaporean artist Tay Bak Chiang, mirroring the house's connection to nature. The staircase, tucked away in one corner, continues this material expression, with oak treads and risers and white vertical bars echoing the external screens.
The bedrooms are designed with both comfort and connection to nature in mind. The daughter's bedroom overlooks a small garden with a Leptospermum brachyandrum tree, while the couple's bedroom in the attic boasts a Zen outdoor nook with an olive tree. These green spaces and views are integral to the home's design, providing a sense of tranquility and connection to the outdoors.
Sustainability is a key consideration in the house's design. Tan chose natural materials like limestone flooring and brushed timber panels, and used Bauwerk limewash paint for the bedroom walls. The house represents a significant upgrade from the homeowner's previous two-bedroom apartment, offering a larger space that prioritizes privacy, sunshine, breezes, and nature. It's a testament to thoughtful design and a family's vision for their dream home.
