Recreating a Brooklyn Vibe in Singapore
Why a NY‑inspired Home?
Gunjan and Showbhik Kalra grew up in a cozy New York townhouse, and after seven memorable years there, they still carry that big‑heart, street‑smart charm with them. In search of those same nostalgic vibes, they turned to MU Architects, led by Matthew Lai, for a splash of the city skyline in their new Bukit Timah residence.
Turning a Bungalow into a Brooklyn Bash
Sure, a classic brownstone can’t be shoved into a tight two‑storey bungalow, but Matthew was clever enough to keep the spirit alive.
- Attic Play‑Zone – The attic now doubles as a full‑on entertainment hub. With its black exposed beams and red brick walls, it screams “Brooklyn loft” even if you’re just in Singapore.
- Movie nights? Cheesy desserts? After‑dinner cocktails with friends? All taken to new heights—literally.
- The family flips the switch at least once a week to get back in touch with that old‑school comfort they’ve missed.
Feeling the Brownstone Love
Rather than a complete copy, the Kalras and Matthew Lai opted for a hybrid design that blends the two‑story bungalow’s practicality with a hint of that iconic NYC flair. The result? One of the most stylish, practical, and heartfelt homes in Bukit Timah that makes you wonder why you ever considered leaving New York’s vibe to the past.
Home Tour: Brooklyn‑Bungalow Blend 2019 Edition
Facade Features
Picture a two‑storey bungalow that looks like a single giant brick, but actually a clever collage of three classic Brooklyn textures: limestone, brick, and timber. It’s like watching a local street scene come to life on your front porch.
- Limestone – the subtle, smooth stone that whispers elegance.
- Brick – a familiar wall feel from the borough streets.
- Timber – warm, natural wood that adds character.
To keep things in harmony, the windows were sized just right – the same proportions you’d see around 5th Avenue townhouses. It’s the kind of detail that way up high makes you word‑think, “Yep, this is tailored for Brooklyn vibes.”
Living Room Vibes
Step in, and your eyes open wide. The double‑volume living room bursts with natural light and a fresh breeze. The doors to the garden swing open wide, and the place practically becomes a white‑washed patio. As Gunjan puts it: “When the garden gates are open, you almost forget that you are indoors.”
Gunjan’s word is simple: it’s the breezy, backyard‑in‑a‑room experience. It gives the whole space a casual, “we’re just chilling” feel.
The Staircase Trick
Stairs are usually the practical, “you have to climb” part of the house. But here, the designers decided to keep the staircase landingless. Think of it like a straight‑in‑away adventure that keeps the living room’s airy, open feeling unbroken. It’s a bold move that showcases the room’s height and leaves the space feeling larger-than-life.
Kitchen Dreams
Gunjan wanted NYC’s kitchen charm with a twist: an island that doubles as a dining table, surrounded by a book display. The walls are plastered in white‑painted brick tiles, offering that classic smell of nearby brickwork while keeping the lighting bright and airy. The floors? They are decked out in Peranakan tiles – bright, patterned, and absolutely, absolutely stylish.
The kitchen layout is a smooth blend: the island is a centerpiece, the book display acts as a quirky conversation starter, and the white brick walls keep the entire feel fresh and urban. The result? A place for both culinary sparks and dinner party vibes.
Dining Room Low‑Ceiling Lowdown: Intimacy Is the New Trend
What’s the Deal With a Drop‑Down Ceiling?
Imagine walking into the dining room and the floor above says, “Hey, I’m coming down to keep you close!” A lower ceiling isn’t just a design quirk; it’s the secret sauce that turns a plain table setting into a snug, whisper‑tight space.
Why the Intimacy Matters
- Feel‑good factor: A shorter ceiling keeps the room feeling “just us,” like your favorite pair of jeans – cozy, familiar, and a little bit special.
- Cool lighting: With the sky lowered, light diffuses in a golden haze that conjures candle‑lit dinners rather than bright, generic glow.
- Space control: No giant empty belly floating above the living room; everything stays in the right orbit.
Bottom Line: The More Intimate, The Better
That lower ceiling isn’t just construction; it’s a hug from the heavens that invites you to dine, chat, and enjoy the moment without the drama of an over‑bright, hollow loft. Ready to make your dining space that “just us” vibe? It’s all in the ceiling.
Step Into Your Second‑Floor Sanctuary
Room to spread out – The master bedroom takes up a whole half of the floor, a deliberate design that screams spaciousness.
Wardrobe Wonderland
A walk‑in wardrobe greets you, perfect for those who love to shuffle through their closet like it’s a pastry shop.
Bathroom Bliss
Beyond the wardrobe lies a mostly white bathroom where coziness meets clean elegance.
- Centerpiece tub – The lone, stand‑alone tub commands the room, ready for a soak that feels like a spa retreat.
- Two vanity sinks – One for “him” and one for “her”; it’s a one‑two punch of convenience.
All In One
Designed with your comfort in mind, this master suite is a clean‑cut, easy‑living haven that’s just waiting for you to claim it.
Originally featured in The Business Times.
