Woman's shoebox condo given edgy yet artsy look after $28,000 renovation

Home: One-bedroom condominium apartment

Who: A physical education teacher in her 30s

Size: 592 sqf

It took months before Anne Goh, homeowner of this two-storey shoebox unit, officially engaged an interior designer. Anne was enthralled by the edgy and futuristic loft apartment featured in the sci-fi film, Gattaca, and did not want her home to be "just another Starbucks cafe" - she needed someone who could pull off the specific look she wanted.

"I prefer something dark and edgy, but I also love museums and art. My home has to have a bit of both," says Anne. She finally decided to engage Distinctidentity for the job, after discussing the concept with one of their designers.

The two decided the best way to create this look in a compact space was to go minimalist, and to keep the look streamlined with large storage spaces. This is what they did to customise the home to Anne's lifestyle, and the look she wanted, with a renovation cost of $28,000.

Decluttered the kitchen

Anne doesn't cook, so the kitchen was kept very basic. The walls to the original study, opposite the kitchen, were hacked away to house appliances such as the refrigerator, washing machine and microwave.

Anne also chose a slim and flat induction cooktop for her kitchen. Replacing the traditional dining table is a breakfast countertop, with an extendable surface which she pulls out only when guests come over.

Created a home office

As a physical education teacher, Anne works long hours and often brings paperwork home. As the original study was too small, the designer brought her work area out and created a study table which swivels out from the bay window ledge. There are also pockets of storage under the window seats, where files and books are stored.

This home office cum reading nook is dressed in black and white, complementing her grey-toned living room.

"The natural light also helps to visually enlarge the space," says the designer.

Tweaked the colour palette

Although Anne wanted a dark living room, the designer suggested shades of light grey as well as a concrete finish for the feature wall. This allows the space to sport an industrial look but also be bright and airy, making it conducive for Anne to work at home.

On the other hand, her bedroom features a deep blue wall. "I love the ocean and used to live somewhere with a sea view. This recreates the therapeutic ambience I love, and need, after a long day at work," says Anne.

Where to go: Distinctidentity, Tel: 6846-0033

Home & Decor, Singapore's #1 interior decor magazine is now available in both print and digital formats. Log on to www.homeanddecor.com.sg to subscribe!