Studio Metanoia's Design Alchemy: Crafting Harmony in a Singaporean Duplex –
A Minimalist Tapestry of Richness, Warmth, and Styling
In a space where every detail whispers of intention and care, Studio Metanoia has crafted a home with a narrative told through design, texture, and light. A place where the boundaries between architecture and emotion blur, inviting those who enter to experience a deep sense of belonging and quiet wonder.
The homeowners, a vibrant young couple with an unyielding passion for adventure and connection, sought a home that would reflect both their roots and their journeys. They envisioned a space that could embrace the fluidity of their ever-evolving lives, one that would honor their love for entertaining, their worldly travels, and the moments they cherish together. Studio Metanoia translated this vision into a design that is both timeless and deeply personal.
Set atop a low-rise building, this 150 sqm duplex is a dance between expansiveness and intimacy. The first level opens up to vast, open spaces, a place to gather and share, while the second level offers an intimate retreat—a sanctuary for moments of quiet reflection. The material palette becomes a tactile language, where the cool, luxurious veining of Calacatta Viola marble meets the warmth of dark walnut cabinetry and oak flooring, grounded by the smooth serenity of plastered walls. Each material was chosen not just for its beauty, but for the stories it tells—each surface a canvas, each texture an invitation to pause, to touch, to feel.
Among the many captivating details, the staircase stands as a symbol of transformation. Originally simple and functional, it now rises as an elegant sculptural element. Instead of replacing the original steel railing, Studio Metanoia enveloped it in hand-molded concrete, creating flowing curves that transform the space into a living piece of art. Above, a Tense pendant light by New Works floats gracefully, its presence soft and ethereal, casting gentle shadows that play off the walls and add a sense of mystery to the atmosphere.
On the second level, the landing is not just a passage, but a moment to be savored. Here, a minimalist pedestal cradles a patina-rich clay vase, while an abstract painting in deep, earthy tones evokes a sense of grounding, of connection to the earth. Cher, the Studio Lead, shares, “In a place like Singapore, where space is at a premium, the design challenges were many. But instead of seeing limitations, I saw an opportunity to create something more meaningful—something that would transform an ordinary moment into an experience. Every step between levels, every detail, was designed to be a journey of discovery.”
A moment of inspiration arrived near the project’s completion, one that would further elevate the space’s emotional depth: the addition of a clear glass panel. Cher reflects, “When I saw the early construction photos, I was struck by a hidden perspective of the staircase—one that would have been lost behind walls. It was a fleeting, almost magical view, and I knew I had to preserve it. That clear panel allows the homeowners to experience a shifting perspective every day, a reminder that beauty can often be found in the most unexpected places.”
This project is not just a reflection of Studio Metanoia’s design philosophy—it is a testament to their belief in the power of mindful, intentional living. With their “Feeling First” approach, Studio Metanoia creates spaces that are not merely designed to be lived in, but to be felt in. It’s an invitation to slow down, to be present, to connect deeply with both the space around you and the people you share it with. Through their work, they don’t just shape interiors—they shape experiences that leave a lasting impression on the soul.
