Welcome to the Green‑Themed Dream Home
Imagine a cozy living space that feels like a warm hug from the forest while still rocking a contemporary vibe. That’s exactly what Adrian Chua and Irene Ng created in their three‑bedroom condo in Tampines. The couple, both in their 40s, decided to turn their 1,185‑sqft apartment into a living postcard that celebrates nature, craftsmanship, and the little joys of gardening.
Natural Materials, Modern Touches
- Everything from the walls to the ceilings is clad in teak veneer plywood. Adrian cut 3mm‑thick planks into 4 × 8‑inch strips and staggered them for a textured effect.
- Teak’s distinct grain was a deliberate choice. “It’s more dramatic than woods like oak or pine,” Adrian shared.
- To preserve the wood’s golden‑brown hue, they simply applied a gentle lacquer finish.
- Despite the wood’s bold presence, the room’s leafy greens brings a calm counterbalance.
Green Sanctity: From Walls to Pots
The highlight is a self‑watering living wall powered by Vertical Green inside the living room. But the greenery doesn’t stop there:
- Herbs, ferns, bonsai, and creepers pepper across the rest of the apartment.
- Irene’s history with the National Parks Board came in handy. “I’ve always been a plant person,” she says.
- For a touch of whimsy, the couple browsed Bangkok’s Chatuchak market on Tuesdays, where exotic plants are on sale.
- Each day, the family—especially the daughters—take turns watering, turning the house into a live learning lab.
Furniture That Tells a Story
Family furniture blends rustic charm with practical chic:
- The D‑Bodhi dining table and sideboard were sourced from the International Furniture Fair Singapore.
- A sofa, custom‑made at a factory in Thailand, provides a relaxed seating area.
- All pieces were picked for durability, style, and that earthy feel that complements the teak and greenery.
Behind the Scenes
Adrian and Irene are not just homeowners—they’re the brains behind Paper Carpenter, a cardboard art studio that turns everyday trash into living art. Their knack for design and sustainability shines through this project, proving that you can have a high‑style home while staying eco‑friendly.
They used the space as a backdrop for their growing talent and brought a sense of wonder into their everyday life. Each bright, leafy corner of their house now tells the story of how a shared love for nature can turn a simple condo into something extraordinary.
