SINGAPORE
Can you recall your own serendipity story? A tale woven from coincidences, unexpected encounters, and fortuitous twists that shape the course of our lives. Serendipity, often overlooked, possesses the power to lead us towards life-altering and positive outcomes. At the heart of this narrative lies a dwelling, a family, and the quest for a forever home. A year-long pursuit culminated in the acquisition of an adjacent plot – a slightly larger one, after missing out on their initial choice. As destiny would have it, this seemingly serendipitous turn of events led them to their ideal site.
Positioned within a bustling urban district, Serendipity House claims a fan-shaped plot as its canvas. The curve of the arterial road bestows the residence with prized attributes, like a majestic street presence and close proximity to conveniences. Yet, the allure of city living often accompanies concerns about noise and privacy. Nurtured by memories of tropical getaways, the homeowners sought to evoke the sensation of outdoor retreats even within their urban haven.
Photography, GardenCourtesy of Wallflower Architecture, Design & Marc Tan Shengyi The architectural embodiment of Serendipity House harmoniously blends urban living with the essence of open garden life. An oasis of secret gardens materializes within this city sanctuary, where tranquility and seclusion reign supreme. The structure gracefully recedes amidst layers of lush greenery, creating a haven shielded from the urban clamor. A substantial stone wall, adorned with vertical plantings and soaring trees, veils a significant portion of the residence, providing a refuge and disconnect from the city pulse. Only the sheltered entrance beneath the 9-meter cantilever maintains a subtle connection to the world beyond. The ingenious L-shaped layout huddled against the neighboring lots begets a sprawling lawn and a 25-meter swimming pool cradled by the central garden, forming an intimate, concealed oasis.
PhotographyCourtesy of Wallflower Architecture, Design & Marc Tan Shengyi Marrying the concepts of privacy and communion, each space establishes a symbiotic link with the outdoors. Ribbon glass doors and windows blur the boundaries between inside and out, inviting a seamless merger. These demarcations dissipate when flung open. Sunlit corridors and rooms, skirted by greenery, emanate a connection to nature. A muted palette underscores texture and hue. Timber screens gently filter the tropical sunlight sifting through the tree canopy, blessing the 2nd-story planter. Wide overhangs elegantly shield the façade, culminating in a holistic engagement with tropical elements. The residence cultivates natural thermal equilibrium, minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Notably, the owners have yet to switch on the air conditioning in their capacious living and dining domain since moving in.
With privacy and serenity as the guiding principles, each room finds deliberate placement along the wings of the house, distant from traffic clamor. The calculated positioning of the altar room at one wing’s end and the master bathroom at the other ensures that the bedrooms on the second floor remain tranquil havens far removed from the road. The design brief’s generous parameters allowed for generous spaces and lofty ceilings. Inspired by the aesthetic of a tropical retreat, the creation of a picturesque pitched roof became an essential motif, aligning with the homeowners’ aspiration for a resort-like lifestyle.
PhotographyCourtesy of Wallflower Architecture, Design & Marc Tan Shengyi A year post-completion, the homeowners unveiled their revelation – 15 plots surveyed, 10 architects consulted. Ultimately, the architect confirmed that the second plot was the superior choice on all fronts. Serendipity is an embodiment of the potent confluence between chance and a prepared mind. Beyond merely occupying the right place at the right time, it necessitates mental readiness to transform serendipitous dreams into tangible reality. Serendipity House reminds us of the inherent power of possibilities, the driving force of thoughtful design, and how open hearts can shape transformative outcomes.
Architects: Wallflower Architecture + Design
Area: 2015 m²
Year: 2022
Consultants: GCE Consulting Engineers
MEP Consultants: ALLZ Consulting Services
Builders: Evan Lim & Co. Pte. Ltd
Lighting Designers: Luxlight Pte Ltd
Planting Consultants: Plantwerkz Pte Ltd
