This 2,200 square foot apartment in the prestigious Jardine’s Lookout, known as House Y, has been designed for serious art lovers. It is more than just a living space; it’s a private gallery brought to life by Melt and designer Alvin Lee.
“The design hinges on two pillars,” Lee explains, “meticulous attention to detail and a harmonious interplay of materials. The goal was to create a space that resonates with artistic sensibility.”
This philosophy is evident from the moment of entry. The front door has been crafted with traditional French Straw Marquetry – hand-inlaid straws that shimmer with light. “The straw’s fibres possess a subtle sheen, and create varying light reflections from different angles.”
A copper-clad entryway serves as a transition into this art-filled sanctuary. Custom-made maple veneer cabinets line the living area, showcasing impressive craftsmanship.
“We used a special technique to curl the veneer edges, mimicking the stitching on leather goods,” Lee notes.
“The wood grain spacing across the cabinet wall varies for a natural, organic feel. The door handles, shaped like delicate butterflies, also required a high degree of skill and effort to create.” He adds that the cabinet doors are constructed from lightweight and durable aluminum honeycomb panels, making them equal parts aesthetic and durable.
The living room blends natural materials for a comfortable feel. Marble walls in the living and dining areas provide subtle elegance, contrasted by light wood cabinets and dark, textured flooring. This creates a connection to nature, as he explains: “Wood and marble bring the outdoors in.”
This aesthetic extends to the furniture. “The abstract pattern on the living room TV cabinet intentionally highlights the natural veining of the marble, like Chinese ink painting art. Even the outlet covers are designed to maintain the continuity of the pattern.”
Art is everywhere in this home, from artwork and materials down to the carefully chosen furniture and lighting. For example, the Viabizzuno chandelier that crowns the dining room. “Its design, reminiscent of a bicycle chain, features textured crystal rods that cast unique light patterns on the ceiling, creating a simple, yet artistic statement.”
In the living room, the iconic Herman Miller Eames chair mingles with a Poltrona Frau sofa and an Ottoman coffee table. Harmony is central to the design. Lee compares it to a painting: “From afar, you don’t see the individual brushstrokes, Up close, the details become apparent.”
The biggest challenge, he adds, was translating these intricate designs into reality. “Constant communication with manufacturers was paramount, especially for complex pieces like the master bedroom’s marquetry cabinet. Ensuring the final product aligned with the vision was a significant undertaking.”
