twentystories
chapter twelve
20 | 2024'01.20. W | sj
Cowdray Avenue
Type: Landed
Project completed: 2023
Near the heart of Singapore, lies a distinctive apartment that takes you away from the busyness of life and warmly invites you into a space centered around the Japanese philosophy of "ikigai."
An Ikigai Living
In this tranquil abode, every element is a verse in a carefully composed poem of living. Concealed behind artfully designed doors, secret storages emerge as unexpected sonnets—a feature wall that dances with soft cove lighting, casting gentle shadows that elevate the refined carpentry below. Open shelves invite the eye to wander, creating an illusion of space that transcends the confines of mere architecture.
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"Simplicity is not about deprivation. Simplicity is about a greater appreciation for things that really matter."
"In dwelling, live close to the ground.
In thinking, keep to the simple."
A masterstroke of design is revealed in the ingenious raised platform—a dual-purpose creation that gracefully serves as both a serene bed and an inviting sitting area. This thoughtful solution, born out of the necessity to preserve openness in a compact space, eliminates the need for additional furniture, weaving functionality seamlessly into the fabric of the home.
The design embraces not only aesthetics but also the spirit of seamless unity. Even the bomb shelter, a sturdy haven, and the elegantly covered bathroom blend harmoniously into the narrative of the home, erasing boundaries and inviting a seamless flow between shelter and sanctuary. Here, every corner whispers a tale of thoughtfulness and grace.
"In dwelling, live close to the ground.
In thinking, keep to the simple."
"The room is not just a room. It is an environment that interacts with senses."
– Tadao Ando
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This apartment is not merely a place to reside; it is a living, breathing canvas where every shadow, every beam of light, and every texture contributes to an ever-evolving poem of home. The design beckons you to pause, to appreciate the quiet luxury of simplicity, and to find beauty in the art of living.
Inspired by the subtle beauty of Japanese minimalism, the space reveals a delicate balance between functionality and art. Warm woods, singular in material yet rich in presence, trace a continuous line throughout the home—a silent storyteller that speaks of nature’s gentle embrace and the beauty of simplicity.
