A Labour of Love in Tengah

JJ and Beatrice had a clear design vision for their home: to create a haven of tranquility and warmth

The journey of Tengah residents JJ and Beatrice in building their new home is much like the development of a new town.

Just as Tengah is built from the ground up, the couple took a hands-on approach in shaping a bare 5-room flat into their own personal sanctuary, marking the beginning of their new life together as home owners.

A Labour of Love

From researching and sourcing materials and vendors, to scheduling the various renovation works, doing up their home was a true labour of love.

Their tip on navigating your renovation if you’re planning to DIY? Have a clear design vision in mind. The couple scoured Pinterest, Instagram and Google for inspiration.

“It was a challenge bringing together the whole vision, as we’re not trained architects or interior designers. We used PowerPoint to help us piece everything together,” laughs Beatrice. “But knowing exactly what you want can help guide you every step of the way, even when there are roadblocks in the process.”

The couple was grateful that their contractor offered advice on the feasibility of their design ideas, but the bulk of the decision-making still fell to them as they tried to balance aesthetics and practicality.

“Looking back, having to oversee the entire renovation on our own was nerve-wrecking – yet seeing the final outcome has made all the time and effort worth it.”

Perhaps the perfect symbol of their hands-on renovation journey would be the limewash feature wall in their living room, which the couple meticulously painted themselves over 2 enjoyable days.

The couple's DIY lime wash wall in their living room

From Flat to Tranquil Haven

The result of their hard work is a warm and inviting home ensconced in a palette of soft, neutral hues.

They used sand and nude tones, complemented with travertine accents and touches of walnut wood, to achieve their desired tranquility. “After a long day at work, all we want is to come back to a cosy home,” says Beatrice. 

The living room is intentionally minimal, with just a cosy sofa to create a spacious ambience.

Curves, travertine, and wood accents can be found throughout the flat

As they love hosting, the couple initially wanted a kitchen island where their family and friends would gather around. But due to the square layout of the living and dining areas, they had to forgo their plans. Instead, they created a dry pantry that houses JJ’s coffee bar – now the highlight of their home.  

“My love for making coffee was borne from the COVID days when we were all cooped up indoors,” JJ laughs. “Now that I have my own home, I’m glad I have a dedicated space to refine my brewing techniques and pursue this hobby of mine.”

The dining/ dry pantry area

JJ's favourite part of the home is his coffee bar

Beatrice's favourite spot at home is the bedroom, where the teak wood used for their dining table is also used for their custom bed frame storage

Finding a Home in Tengah

To help others who may be contemplating DIY home renovations, the couple started their own Instagram home account (@sunsetsattengah). There, they chronicle their renovation journey and offer design tips.

Through the account, they have also connected with other residents in Tengah, sharing tips and stories of living in this new town.

“We often get asked why we chose to buy a home in Tengah. For one, our parents live nearby, in Bukit Batok and Jurong,” says Beatrice. “But it was also the town’s long-term vision centered around sustainability and a car-lite lifestyle that aligned with our values.”

While construction and the development of amenities continue in the town, the couple is excited about  what the future holds in Tengah. “I’m looking forward to more gardens and green spaces where we can have evening walks,” says Beatrice. “I’m sure it will be well worth the wait – much like our own home renovation journey!”

Story by: Farihin Khairunan