“In all things of nature there is something of the marvellous.” – Aristotle
A growing body of research has shown that spending time outdoors is essential for supporting mental health. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, volatile changes and restrictions have resulted in more time spent at home. As a result, large nations have seen people living in cities move to rural areas where landed homes offer more spacious living environments. Likewise, Singaporeans are seeing the appeal of landed properties while penthouses are still in high demand.
In Singapore, Good Class Bungalow (GCB) properties and penthouses, which often come with terraces or a garden on the premises, offer a private and comfortable respite from long hours spent indoors. We explore how landscaping ideas and space planning can turn your outdoor spaces into gorgeous personal sanctuaries.
A Rooftop with A View
For this client, we transformed the spacious rooftop terrace of this penthouse into an open lounge area. Low shrubs flanking the shaded seating area bring a slice of nature here while ensuring an unblocked panoramic view of the surroundings. Whimsical rabbit sculptures bring zest and spark optimism.
In another home, an outdoor dining space on a platform is nestled among lush palms for a tropical setting in the sky.
The Majestic Outdoors
Inspired by the tranquillity of this GCB’s sprawling outdoor spaces, we furnished the open spaces with daybeds and sunloungers to create relaxing outdoor ‘rooms’ for enjoying the sun, greenery and water in comfort. For instance, a beautiful daybed sits between two frangipani trees that frame the cerulean pool. Luxurious and vibrant, the interior design connects the indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly.
Japanese-Inspired Outdoor Dining
We make provisions to ensure tree stabilisation for safety when designing terraces. With sculptural bonsai trees, this rooftop terrace exudes a timeless Japanese-inspired minimalist ambience perfect for enjoying a sense of togetherness. This GCB, nestled in Leedon Park, also features a spectacular and lush outdoor environment with a pool.
Immersing in Nature
Landscaping is key in this award winning Bungalow at Chestnut Crescent. This cosy patio is perfect for communing with nature before adjourning to the outdoor dining space via the steps.
With a gym room that looks out to the tree canopy, mental and physical wellness gets a boost at the same time. We also incorporated trees on this balcony of the bungalow for added privacy. Placing them individually in oversized pots gives a sculptural feel and ensures easy maintenance.
As interior designers, we conceptualise indoor and outdoor spaces such that the style and design language flow smoothly. View here for more of our projects.