$120,000 renovation transforms old flat into gallery-like abode

Size: 775 sqf

Home: Three-room HDB flat in Everton Park

Who: A bachelor in his 30s

"I bought this flat the instant I turned 35," homeowner Aaron De Silva says, referring to his resale Housing Board (HDB) three-room flat in Everton Park. The HDB allows singles aged only 35 and above to own its flats.

Aaron was drawn to the area because of its "mix of old and new, convenience and vibrancy", even though he knew he had to renovate the flat quite extensively in order for it to suit his lifestyle.

He ended up splashing $64,000 on the renovation, with a further $56,000 on furnishings, appliances and art.

As a freelance editor and art director in the media industry, he wanted "a home that would inspire him".

A proper study area - one that is open and connected to the other spaces - was especially important, as he works from home. He says: "I needed it to be spacious, as I have lots of reference books and 1,001 press kits and materials!"

As such, the design team from Artistroom demolished the walls of the second bedroom to make way for an open-concept study. The designers also custom-made wall-to-wall display shelving with slim, linear aluminium frames, in the study.

Aaron's extensive collection of curios, antiques, art pieces and books, amassed over the years, have all found a place on these shelves, infusing the cosy home with his personality and letting him show off his treasures.

The footprint of the master bedroom was reduced; its walls were demolished and rebuilt to make way for a walk-in wardrobe and additional circulation space around the main living area.

Downsizing the kitchen also contributed to the bigger open-concept living and dining area.

Another key structural alteration is the new doorway from the master bedroom to the only bathroom in the flat, located near the kitchen.

As for aesthetics, the design team gave Aaron's home a clean and sleek look inspired by Italian design, with a masculine colour palette of black, grey, white and dark wood tones. However, the walls were kept white, in order to best exhibit the homeowner's many paintings, photos and prints - adding to the gallery-like feel of his stylish, curated home!

Where to go: Artistroom, Tel: 6557-0244