A remarkable transformation took place in Singapore, where an aging terraced house was given a new lease of life by L Architects. This project, named 'My Last Home', holds a special significance as it was the final renovation for a retired professor returning to Singapore. The architects faced a challenging task, aiming to reveal the house's original features while creating a harmonious blend of the past and present.
The journey began with a visit to the house, where the team sensed an authentic spirit waiting to be rediscovered. They embarked on a mission to strip away layers of wall plaster and false ceilings, uncovering the original brickwork and hidden stories within the walls.
But here's where it gets controversial... During the renovation, the team discovered English bond brickwork, which they decided to showcase, along with concrete pillars and beams. This decision sparked a debate, as they convinced the client to retain the grazed tracks on the walls, a testament to the house's history and battles endured.
On the first floor, a surprising revelation awaited as the false ceiling boards were peeled away, revealing a pitched ceiling with exposed timber rafters. The architects sourced solid timber furniture, including a vintage bed and study table, bringing a sense of history and character to the residence.
And this is the part most people miss... The tactile material palette of the house is a unique contrast, with stainless steel surfaces in the kitchen and exposed mechanical services, adding a modern twist. In the bathrooms, glazed subway tiles mimic the proportions of the original bricks, creating a subtle connection to the past.
L Architects, founded by Lim Shing Hui in 2016, has a reputation for innovative design. Their previous project, using double-bullnose bricks, won the residential interior (small) category of the Dezeen Awards 2025.
This renovation project is a testament to the power of uncovering a building's original features, and it leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Should we always strive to preserve the past, or is it sometimes necessary to embrace change and create a harmonious blend of old and new? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
