A Black & White Good Class Bungalow With A Contemporary Interior

The formal living room features a custom-made rug, interlocking chandeliers, a Minotti sofa and an overall clean-lined aesthetic

Balancing historical elements with contemporary touches, Designworx Interior Consultant transformed an airy black and white bungalow into a chic and cosy haven

How do you transform one of Singapore’s iconic black and white bungalows into a home for modern times? According to award-winning practice Designworx Interior Consultant, it’s by approaching each space with keen eye for balance and harmony. With a built-up area of 8,940sqft, the Good Class Bungalow created ample opportunity for the studio to craft a beautiful abode. The challenge, however, was to create spaces that were each uniquely their own, while celebrating the property’s historic elements.

A view of the bungalow during daytime

The colonial-era house, of which there are only an estimated 500 in existence in the country, is an invaluable structure located in central Singapore. To introduce contemporary elements to its historic architecture meant working around strict guidelines that conserved both the original design and the integrity of the building.

The iconic exterior of the black and white bungalow

The design team focused on highlighting the bungalow’s unique characteristics—such as the black outlines of the main door and windows—by incorporating ceiling coves, staircase balustrades and marble flooring lined with black trimmings that echo the look of the facade. Black screens and geometric accent cushions also cleverly allude to the iconic architecture of the house.

(Related: What Is The Allure Of Black And White Houses?)

Another feature of black and white bungalows is their lofty ceilings. The grand height of the foyer, in particular, allowed the team to create a visual impact via statement lighting fixtures. Imbuing the main entrance with a dose of drama is a bespoke SpectraOne chandelier made of raw crystals; it also forms a grand impression for visitors. In contrast, a wicker pendant light adds tropical flair to the facade outside.

The dining room is among the highlights of this home. Here, an abstract triptych is displayed, with the broad brush strokes forming a bold backdrop to the bespoke 12-seater dining table, which features slabs of bookmatched black forest marble. Box mouldings on the wall further enhance the elegant look of this space.

An abstract triptych is the focal point of the dining room

Bespoke rugs were designed to complement the Minotti sofa in the formal living area on the lower level, as well as the custom-made king size poster bed in the junior master bedroom on the upper level. In the master bedroom, an Amante Plisse king size bed brings contemporary elegance to this soothing sanctuary. Blue and verdant accents on the rugs and cushions in the bedrooms echo the serene shades of the pool tiles and the greenery outdoors.

A blue rug adds a pop of colour, in contrast to the earthy palette in the master bedroom

Doubling as a private retreat and an intimate enclave for entertaining is a cosy corner overlooking the pool and garden. Here, a brass coffee table and gold accessories bring an extra shine to the space. Tasteful pieces by Italian outdoor furniture brand Talenti at the connecting pool terrace also make the area an ideal venue for hosting guests in a relaxed setting.

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