Singapore’s Kampung Sayang: A Renovation Blending Past and Present

Renovation of a 1960s house in Singapore, known as Kampung Sayang, has transformed the family home into a modern living space while preserving its nostalgic ties to the past. Located in Bukit Timah, this project integrates elements of the traditional kampung, a Malay village, echoing a sense of community and connection to nature.

The owners, who lived in the house for twelve years after their marriage, decided to renovate and expand their living space as their children grew older. The husband, a CEO of a local food and beverage company, and his wife, a retired CFO of a global cosmetics brand, undertook the project alongside architects Eugene Seow and Emily Zheng of CDG Architects. Their goal was to honor the memories tied to the original structure while creating practical spaces for contemporary living.

Seow, who rebranded the architecture firm in 2018, emphasized a conscious effort to maintain the essence of the old house during the renovation. A distinctive Brutalist concrete exoskeleton envelops the original structure, which has been expanded on three sides and harmonized with the surrounding garden. This design choice reflects a robust and permanent aesthetic, while allowing natural elements to flow seamlessly into the home.

Preserving Memories Through Design

Much of the home’s interior remained unchanged to preserve its historical significance. Seow described the renovation as a “selective expansion,” focusing on sustainability by reusing materials whenever possible. For instance, the patio flooring was constructed from offcuts sourced from a contractor, highlighting the couple’s commitment to minimizing waste.

The heart of the house is found in its main living and dining areas, which have served as gathering spots for family over the decades. This central space informed the new layout, which extends from the old structure to include a sheltered car porch, a front patio, and a new wet kitchen with an attached granny en-suite. The couple also added two new bedrooms and a guest room on the second floor, linked to an open terrace ideal for morning tea.

A unique feature of the renovation is a wall lamp designed by the wife’s late father, Charles KK Chua, a noted architect in Malacca. Chua’s legacy is woven throughout the home, with several of his designs retained as cherished artifacts of the family’s history.

Integration of Nature and Community

The renovation emphasizes a biophilic design approach, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Existing Cook pine trees were preserved, while new fruit trees and flowering vines were introduced to enhance the garden’s natural beauty. Landscape architect Inch Lim collaborated on the project, advising on the reuse and transplantation of existing plants from the family’s former home.

Seow noted the importance of creating thresholds that allow for effortless transitions between the house and garden. Timber seating areas made from repurposed roof rafters offer contemplative spots for family members to enjoy their surroundings. The design encourages interaction with nature, promoting well-being and a sense of tranquility.

The couple’s ethos of sustainability extends to their gardening practices. They regularly compost kitchen scraps, allowing nature to thrive in their garden. The wife shared anecdotes about the unexpected growth of pumpkins, which became a source of amusement and nourishment for the family’s dog.

Seow remarked that the renovation is an ongoing project, with the owners actively participating in decisions that personalize their home. Their shared journey reflects a commitment to building a space that honors both their heritage and their environment.

In summary, the renovation of Kampung Sayang not only revitalizes a cherished family home but also fosters a deeper appreciation for sustainable living and community connection. The project stands as a testament to the enduring bond between architecture and the natural world, creating a harmonious environment for generations to come.