We don’t often get inside one of these massive Good Class Bungalows, and from the road it’s difficult to grasp the size and magnificence of them. I grab the chance whenever I can to look at these kind of Singapore houses, but I think the space and architecture of this one is particularly impressive.
There was a charity art exhibition at this bungalow, supported by one of my favourite artists, P. Gnana of Gnani Arts, and I was blown away by the size of it! So I asked the host, fellow artist SONIA ADLAKHA, if she would let us feature it in the magazine, and she agreed.
The family has actually recently moved from Singapore, so I’m glad we got in quick. We mightn’t be able to afford homes like this, but it’s nice to have a look-see!
The family: Sonia and husband Rajan, son Bharat and daughter Saieesha (she did her graduation year from San Francisco in Singapore during the Circuit Breaker). Sonia adds: “We also have our street smart Zaza – my daughter’s cat in San Fran – and Zizou, our gentle Singaporean feline.”
The space: 15,000 square feet (builtup: 10,000 square feet)
Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey here.
My husband and I moved our work headquarters here in 2011. We flipped a coin between Dubai and Singapore; I was already leaning towards Singapore because it is greener and also much better to raise a family! The schooling was much better for the children too.
What kind of Singapore houses did you look at or want?
We always wanted a good class bungalow, because we’re used to living in large spaces with frangipani trees in India; plus a swimming pool and a large kitchen!
This good class bungalow is amazing! Tell us more about the property.
The house is designed beautifully with large windows, high ceilings, lots of sunlight and an open plan overlooking the greenery and the sky. The spacious kitchen is our favourite area as we all love to cook together as a family! Another favourite spot for me is my art studio.
The home is just off Chatsworth Road, so it’s very close to Orchard but still nice and quiet.
Tell us more about your art. What mediums do you work with and what inspires you?
I work with acrylics and oils. I love to read, and I write my thoughts in short poems. My paintings are abstract and conceptual, inspired by a line I’ve read or written, or an emotion. The concept for each piece is really strong before I approach the canvas, and as the work develops it becomes a conversation between the canvas and the brush. The process to the end result is always an exciting one.
Where do you source your furniture and décor from? How would you define your interior style?
Our pieces include high-end European brands like Roche Bobois, to items from local shops like Lim’s and Space – and anything that catches my eye on the street. My husband and I enjoy picking up things on our travels, so our home has an eclectic vibe!
What would your advice be to those looking at Singapore houses?
Take your time to find your space; Singapore is larger than it seems.
What’s your favourite thing about Singapore?
I love that the country is so diverse and multicultural. Its architecture is a dynamic blend of contemporary and historic buildings, which gives Singapore its own charm!
And, most importantly, the safety of the place always puts me and my family at ease.
Sonia’s Recommendations
Furniture & Artworks
Gnani Arts (sculptures) | gnaniarts.com
Roche Bobois | roche-bobois.com
Space | spacefurniture.com.sg
Taylor B | @taylorbdesign
Molecule | moleculeliving.com
Dining
StraitsKitchen | Grand Hyatt Singapore
Various restaurants at Dempsey Hill
The Ritz-Carlton (“for Sunday breakfast”)
PS.Cafe at Fullerton Bay (“especially for the views”)
Various restaurants at Collyer Quay (“including Sabai Fine Thai”)
Caffe Fernet | caffefernet.sg
Art & Culture
Art Friend | artfriendonline.com
National Gallery Singapore | nationalgallery.sg
ArtScience Museum | marinabaysands.com/museum
Exhibitions at Gillman Barracks | gillmanbarracks.com
This article first appeared in the February 2022 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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