Step into this 5-room apartment, a prime example of a space that epitomizes comfortable living. From the outset, the amiable and design-trained couple had a clear vision for their home's design and it was a tight knit and collaborative effort to bring all the ideas on paper to life.

Within the apartment, a calming palette of natural tones and clever storage solutions create an ambiance that soothes the senses. Take, for example, the stretch of bay window benches nestled alongside the floor-to-ceiling windows. These benches integrate smart storage compartments, which were constructed using solid oak countertops sourced from Ikea’s kitchen collection. Custom-sized to accommodate Blum drawer systems beneath, these low-slung compartments also serve as extra seating when friends and family gather for social occasions.

Throughout the apartment, oak takes center stage, echoing the homeowners' love for nature and their desire to infuse the space with natural elements. To this end, oak-like laminates grace some of the kitchen cabinets, perfectly complemented by white glossy laminates with black piping. This practical choice ensures easier maintenance without compromising on style. Enhancing the overall vibe are Kompacplus countertops with a natural appearance, while a herringbone pattern adorns the timber-effect vinyl flooring. The herringbone motif pattern is recurrent, subtly woven into the flat's fabric, adorning floors, walls, cabinet doors, and even textile prints.

A striking focal point awaits in the communal zone—the entertainment area's feature wall. Painstakingly laid out in a herringbone pattern, this wall showcases solid oak panels, hand-cut and meticulously aligned. Attention to detail and practical considerations were also applied in the master bedroom, where a semi walk-in wardrobe was fashioned with frosted glass panels and built-in oak laminated drawers, flooding the space with natural light. The sleeping zone was likewise optimized with custom platform storage beds, designed with multiple compartments for ample storage.

In essence, this apartment embodies the spirit of a modern Asian home with a strong emphasis on functionality. Meticulous material selection, coupled with practical thinking and personalized touches, have resulted in a space that exudes style, warmth, and serenity. It comes as no surprise that this remarkable home is a proud winner of the Squarerooms Home Search 2016.