Celebrity Couple Snaps Up Dream Home in Minutes Amid Frenzy

Singaporean celebrity couple Tay Ying and Wu Sihan have secured their first home just minutes after viewing it, a decision spurred by the competitive nature of the property market. The couple, who married in June 2024, experienced a whirlwind house-hunting process, having viewed over 10 apartments within three months. Tay described the housing scene as “like a fish market,” noting that units were being quickly snapped up by eager buyers.

When they first entered their new three-bedroom apartment, it immediately resonated with them. “It felt right and checked all the boxes,” Tay explained in an interview with 8Days. The couple opted to keep the exact location and details of the unit private, wanting to maintain some level of confidentiality. They faced significant pressure as other potential buyers were also interested, prompting them to make an offer above the asking price on the very first day the property hit the market.

Despite being slightly above their budget, the couple’s determination to secure their dream home was evident. Tay expressed the importance of this purchase, stating, “This is our first home and also a lifetime home. We don’t plan to flip this house.” They envisioned raising a family in the space, leading them to be selective about renovations.

Transforming a Space into a Modern Haven

The couple undertook a major renovation, investing a “six-figure” sum to transform the old unit into a bright, modern minimalist residence. Tay and Wu wanted a home that embodied clean lines and natural light. Wu, who has experience managing renovation projects for his restaurant and his parents’ home, took the lead on structural changes, while Tay focused on decor and organization.

The couple’s vision materialized into a serene open-concept space featuring soft white tones and concealed storage solutions. They found joy in maintaining their pristine environment, even with their five-year-old dachshund, Tron, sharing their home. Wu noted, “It feels like using correction tape on paper. It becomes very white, and you have a sense of satisfaction. It’s therapeutic.”

They made strategic purchases, including a storage sofa from King’s Living that helped keep clutter hidden, and a sleek marble coffee table from Taobao, which cost less than S$1,000. Wu humorously recounted the delivery challenge, stating, “It’s so heavy that the delivery guys refused to bring it up to the house.”

A Space Designed for Connection

The couple’s dedication to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere is evident in their choice of a round dining table, also sourced from Taobao. Wu explained, “Those long tables… the people at the ends cannot talk. Round tables are more cosy.” Their living room reflects their love for hosting, while the kitchen is a testament to Wu’s culinary passion.

To enhance the kitchen space, they removed the wall separating it from the dining area and even borrowed space from the common bathroom to create a larger kitchen. “I wanted to be able to cook while having conversations with my guests,” said Wu. The kitchen features innovative design elements, including hidden cabinet latches and a minimalist concealed power track.

Lighting was also a priority; they opted for fabric lights that diffuse soft illumination across the ceiling, ensuring a well-lit environment. The couple even took their fridge renovation a step further, opting for separate fridge and freezer units wrapped in white to blend seamlessly with the kitchen cabinetry.

Thoughtful design elements extend to their laundry area, where they customized the height of the washing machine and dryer to suit their measurements. In the master bedroom, they merged two rooms into a spacious suite designed primarily for restful sleep, devoid of distractions like televisions.

The couple’s decision to include a walk-in wardrobe was a special gift from Wu to Tay, who had long envisioned having a proper vanity area. The wardrobe features custom reflective glass panels that double as full-length mirrors, merging practicality with style.

In the ensuite bathroom, inspired by hotel suites, they included his and hers sinks to streamline their morning routines. Wu quipped, “Then we won’t fight.” This practical approach reflects their efficient, collaborative lifestyle.

Tay and Wu’s journey from house hunting to creating their ideal home illustrates the couple’s commitment to each other and their future. As they embark on this new chapter, their apartment stands as a testament to their shared vision and dedication to building a life together.