A tiny rundown 550 sqft shoebox flat in Singapore has undergone a remarkable transformation. The owner and her mother needed a stylish and modern home. It was time for a complete rejuvenation by Stanley Tham and Kusnin Tan from KNQ Associates. “While she is not exactly living alone, we wanted to create a chic and functional ‘semi-bachelorette pad’ which would reflect her personal style as much as possible. We wanted to transform the once ho-hum dwelling into a serene and cozy retreat that she could escape to at the end of a busy day. One which will also not be too feminine.” The transformation from before to after is amazing. I particularly like the conversion of a utility room at the back of the kitchen into a private play-and-work room for the owner with built-in seating for lounging and watching TV as well as guest sleep overs. You can read more about the renovation on Home Rejuvenation.

Like a bower bird, a cabinet of curiosities, dark light and light and bright. Layers and meanings, beauty and quirkiness, memories and stories. Rough and luxe, ordinary and natural and found but always inspirational. The work of stylist Hans Blomquist.

my latest finds… Indian wood blocks

Time to settle in. Time to surf the net. Time to share “new to me” blogs. Yes it’s time for a DTI reading guide. There is so much to explore. I hope you have the time 🙂

“At Castello di Vicarello history lives on each path, in each stone and every wall sings a song of the ancient past.”

Crowning a hilltop amidst olive groves in southern Tuscany is a fairy tale castle come to life. But this castello is no dream. It’s a rustic luxe retreat that will sweep you up in its history, embrace you in its family’s arms and spoil you rotten with its quirky luxury. Aurora and Carlo Baccheschi Berti have restored the ruins of the twelfth century castle over many years and now play host to lucky guests who have the choice of seven luxury villas and suites. Rooms are filled with exquisite antiques and furniture and artifacts from the family’s life in Indonesia. As for the gardens and views. Sigh. A truly once in a life time experience. One day. One day I will go.

Contemporary architecture from Croatia. Family run firm DAR612 create family homes. From concept to completion the approach is holistic and the resulting homes all about shared space. Today I am featuring two apartment renovations that put the client, families, in the centre of the design. The family home is a stage for the rituals of everyday life, to share the precious times without being “precious” or over conceived. Bright, liveable, fun and friendly. A great canvas for the family’s personality. Although I’m concentrating on interiors today (this is an interiors blog remember) don’t miss their new build family homes for more inspiration.

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