Architect and interior designer Winston Lim has transformed his 3-room HDB flat in Pasir Ris into a biophilic sanctuary, blending nature with functionality. This DIY renovation showcases his sustainable design philosophy, adapting to his evolving needs as both a homeowner and cat owner. With a focus on greenery and outdoor activities, Lim's home is a testament to his creative vision and practical considerations.
One of the standout features is the vertical green walls in the balcony and bathroom. These self-sustaining "hanging gardens" are a result of meticulous planning, ensuring the plants thrive without causing moisture damage. The system includes a waterproof layer, recycled felt, and condensate irrigation from the air-conditioning system. At night, solar-powered lights gently illuminate the foliage, creating a serene atmosphere.
Lim's design choices extend beyond aesthetics. Pegboards, typically found in workshops and craft rooms, are integrated into various spaces, providing multi-functional storage solutions. In the living room, they support display shelves and lighting, while in the kitchen, they contrast with a black quartz countertop. This innovative use of pegboards adds visual interest and functionality.
The bedroom and home office feature sliding mirrored doors, creating flexible spaces. The bedroom can transform into an exercise area or cat playroom with a remote-controlled Murphy bed. The home office, with a park view, doubles as a guest room, showcasing Lim's ability to design multi-purpose rooms.
Feline-friendly elements are seamlessly integrated throughout, including a custom cat condo, feeding station, and a hidden litter box cabinet on the balcony. These features cater to Lim's love for his cats, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Lim's DIY renovation journey was a balance of creativity and practicality. By renovating parts of the flat himself, he saved on labour costs, and the total renovation expense, excluding furniture and accessories, was approximately $92,000. The process took three months, and Lim moved into his dream home in April 2024.
This transformation exemplifies how a thoughtful design approach can create a harmonious living space, catering to both human and feline residents. Lim's work showcases the potential for sustainable and adaptable homes, inspiring others to embrace their unique design journeys.
