Originally built for a horticulture customer, In a Park is a refurbishment of a three-bedroom condominium in Singapore's northeast. Many homes became interested in gardening during the pandemic. 

For others, this pastime turned into a permanent way of life, while for others it diminished as everyday activities resumed. Many of the dwellings that are currently in use, however, were not built to accommodate this change. This project addresses the misalignment between space and lifestyle.

The client's request was simple: the family had outgrown the flat and wanted a new version of their residence that would better fit their growing collection of plants. Plant placement and growth were restricted by the current arrangement. 

The client mentioned that even though he loves plants, he did not "wake up to them" during the first design session. This discovery turned into one of the project's main conceptual motivators.

The first thing the design team did was to imagine a home park, where plants are not just ornamental elements but are an essential part of daily life. 

When considering Singapore's older public parks, one unique—yet frequently disregarded—feature came to light: the double-bullnose brick. 

This brick, which has historically been used for planters, walkway edges, and outdoor seating, is strongly linked to the charm of Singapore's former parks. The goal of In a Park is to bring this lost content back and reimagine it.

The local firm had stopped producing the double-bullnose brick because of poor demand, it was found during the sourcing process. The supplier offered the client all of the 571 items that were still in stock. 

The material's importance was increased by its restricted availability, which also promoted its thoughtful and deliberate application across the house.

The double-bullnose brick's rounded edges allow for the creation of delicate curves and soften the interior. The study and living room are discreetly divided by a freestanding wall made of tessellated bricks. 

A curved seat was created between the dining and study areas, serving as a common threshold that can be used from either side to increase the amount of area available for relaxation and conversation. The interior acquires the open, flowing, and verdant characteristics of a park as a result of these alterations.

In the end, In a Park uses straightforward yet evocative allusions to explore the beauty of everyday existence. The project shows that innovation does not always require high-tech materials by re-discovering the latent potential of a common material and recontextualizing it in a home environment. 

Rather, it emphasizes how careful attention to detail and discipline can make the ordinary extraordinary, reinforcing the idea that lowly, underappreciated materials can always be relevant.

Floor plan

Axonometric floor plan

Principal architect Lim Shing Hui launched the Singapore-based boutique architecture and design firm L Architects in 2016. The practice is renowned for its deliberate, human-centered approach to design, emphasizing pieces that subtly and profoundly convey meaning and creating environments that arouse feelings and improve quality of life.

All images © Jovian Lim.

All drawings © L Architects.

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