Beatty Road
3-Room Condo · 1044 sqft

Vibrant patterns and geometric shapes draw out the Memphis influences in this home designed by The Scientist

Most Singaporean abodes lean towards simple, modern designs. But this 1,044sqft apartment bucks the trend—its bold, eclectic touches are heavily influenced by the Memphis movement, an aesthetic from the 1980s characterised by vibrant, abstract shapes and the prominent use of terrazzo and laminates.

The owners, Bryan Lim and Elaine Seak, told interior design firm The Scientist that they preferred a dramatic departure from cookie-cutter modern minimalist interiors; they wanted their home to feature an exuberant interior that demonstrates a daring yet visually cohesive mix of shapes and colours.

“This project was definitely a challenge for us as the concept is highly uncommon in the Singapore design scene,” says Krystle Teoh, the lead designer of this project. “The clients were initially concerned about the colour selection for their home. However, things just flowed naturally during the renovation process, and we experimented with various combinations until we found the mix that worked best.”

The colour schemes of the living and dining areas were fashioned around the purple Roche Bobois Bubble sofa, which was purchased by the owners months before the renovation began. “The wall colours and built-in carpentry were specially handpicked to complement the sofa as it’s one of the key elements of the home,” says Teoh.

The team also constructed arched entryways and designed various custom-made furniture as well as storage units in playful shapes to reference the influential design movement. These include a royal blue full-height cabinet with teal elements and a custom bench in turquoise in the dining area. Rounding up this stylish setup is a custom granite dining table, accompanied by fuschia velvet dining chairs.

The master bedroom is among the most dramatic spaces in this apartment. Colour blocking on the wall and cabinetry creates visual impact, resulting in a cheerful space for the couple. These bold design elements go perfectly with a daring red headboard and wall lamps that feature terrazzo detailing.

In the study, a striking mural sports candy-like tones painted around a custom-made wall cabinet; it also incorporates a table with a terrazzo top and olive-green drawers.

Swiftly completed in two months, this three-bedroom apartment offers a contemporary take on the Memphis movement; and the owners are thrilled with the result. “At the end of the day, satisfaction from the clients is our top priority,” says Teoh.

Home Tour: A Bold and Colourful Memphis-Inspired Apartment in Singapore