All over Singapore, new homeowners are transforming their HDB flats into designer apartments in tune with 21st century living. With ample research, a good idea or two, and a helpful interior design consultant, you too can create a cosy modern home that is the envy of your neighbours. P.S.Mag visits one such amazing home and is impressed by its stylish sensibility.

	Nestled in the quiet corner of the north-western suburb of Woodlands -a stark contrast to the bustling Causeway Point a stone's throw away - is an HDB flat so exquisite youÕd not be surprised to know it has been featured on TCS 8's hit TV show Citybeat and in a popular local home design magazine. Clearly, much thought went into transforming this brand new flat into a modern home that fulfils the needs of its occupants, a thirty-something couple and their three-year-old daughter. "I wanted something clean and simple, something contemporary," said owner Mr T H Sim, a product designer with a multinational electronics company. "Simple geometry will do," he added.
	With a budget of $75,000, design consultants Renaissance Design Systems have successfully crafted this 1,458 square-foot five-room HDB executive flat to the owner's requirements, and with many clever touches. Two different flooring demarcate the spaces with the mottled marble tiles for the kitchen, dining room and living room contrasting and complementing the laminated beechwood for the bedrooms, study and family room. The wood imparts natural warmth while marble gives a feel of cool sophistication (and besides, marble is easier to clean - think food spillage).
	To the right of the main entrance, a divider of four pillars - with chest high cabinets in between - has been built. The cabinets are used for storing footwear and a functional low bench completes this divider. Sited right by the door, the bench provides appropriate seating while one puts on his shoes. Great idea! To the left, a wall with display niches for the owners' collection of knick-knacks has been erected. Built-in soft lighting illuminates the display items from below. This wall encases on one end the small study cum home office, custom built on a wooden platform. Here, the owner is able to work in relative privacy while still able to keep an eye (or ear) on the toddler. The nearest bedroom has been converted into a family room and with the adjoining wall partially removed, it is accessible from the living room. A large screen TV (guarded by a pair of long-case speakers) dominates the far end of the family room, while a pair of sub-woofers has been mounted on the beam at the back. This complete home entertainment centre is perfect for the enjoyment of the most soothing of classical tunes or the surround stereophonic effect of the latest DVD. The back wall of the family room has been cleverly modified. Keeping the brick and mortar at waist height, three pieces of sandblasted glass panels have been installed, allowing direct view into the kitchen and the main entrance and keeping the room naturally ventilated. A custom-made bench (which doubles up as storage space) sits against the back wall. With a few cushions, it makes for comfortable seating, yet another neat touch. Perhaps the cleverest feature is in the master bedroom. At first glance, it looks like any other master room - a queen-size bed with a wide headboard, window cabinets and custom-built wardrobe. But aren't we missing the en suite bathroom? Yes, the wardrobe conceals it - just open the right doors and presto! Every trip to the bathroom becomes an adventure, much like stepping into C S Lewis' fantasy land of Narnia. Remember The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe?
	The kitchen is distinguished by the smart choice of a Brandt induction hob and fan extractor, the latter a must for the robust preparation of Asian cuisine. The induction hob works on a principle of magnetic burner rings that heat up only upon contact metal-based pots and pans, a unique safety feature makes perfect sense for a household with kids. An assortment of thingamajigs sit in the corners of the dining room and living room, reflecting the ownerÕs good taste and eye for detail. And as evident throughout the apartment, every modification has been well planned, every item carefully chosen to be consistent in style. As a modern home, this gem in Woodlands truly inspires!