TIA Home Design

This apartment, which belongs to an Australian expat, reflects much of what antipodeans miss about home – lots of natural light and organic materials.

The simplicity of the white interior and open-plan kitchen helps to reflect light around the main living area. A custom-made walnut wood bookcase and flooring crafted from oak has been employed to warm things up and provide a textural counterpoint.

The 1,000 square foot flat in Happy Valley has been designed with functional living in mind, with a study nook off the kitchen and plenty of built-in storage along the walls.

Clean, angular lines in the kitchen and living area are achieved by hiding appliances. These include television speakers that are mounted flush with the wall and disguised behind white cloth; a cable management box that is behind the television; and air-conditioning units hidden within the walls. The use of spotlights instead of pendant lights also helps to keep everything streamlined.

In the kitchen the island bench is often used as a gathering place for pre-dinner drinks with friends. A similar look has been used for the two bathrooms, with white cabinets and Corian tops.

The main bedroom features tropical-looking white wood shutters and a custom-made platform bed, while the second bedroom was also renovated.

Government permission was granted to install an internal staircase leading to the rooftop. The staircase also features a glamorous glass roof that has blinds that can be opened or closed. This space has been done up like an outdoor room for when the weather permits. Potted palm trees line the terrace, while outdoor furniture is perfect for lazy days, and a mobile kitchen makes entertaining easy and fun.