L Architects, a Singapore-based architecture studio, has transformed a 98-square-meter (1,054-square-foot) apartment in the Hougang neighborhood using distinctive double-bullnose bricks that reference the city-state's historic parks. The renovation was designed for a couple who developed a passion for gardening during COVID-19 lockdowns and needed their home redesigned to accommodate their expanding plant collection.
"In this project, because we had to design around quite a large collection of plants, we felt that finding good placements for them ranked quite high among our design priorities," L Architects principal Lim Shing Hui explained. "We had to make sure that the plants would enjoy the spaces we planned for them as much as the users themselves." The design philosophy centered on creating an environment where both plants and humans could thrive together.
The architectural team drew inspiration from Singapore's older parks, where double-bullnose bricks were commonly used for outdoor benches, walkway edges, and planters. However, sourcing these materials proved challenging, as local factories had ceased production due to low demand. L Architects managed to acquire the final remaining batch of 571 double-bullnose bricks from a local supplier, making this project particularly unique.
To create the open-plan living space, the architects demolished walls from two original bedrooms, transforming the apartment into a one-bedroom unit with integrated living, study, dining, and kitchen areas. The double-bullnose bricks became the defining feature throughout the space, used strategically to create functional divisions while maintaining visual continuity.
In the study area, the bricks form a perforated partition wall that separates it from the living space while allowing light and air to flow through. At the intersection of the study and dining areas, the team constructed a distinctive two-way curved bench using the same double-bullnose bricks. The kitchen island's base is also crafted from these bricks, topped with a limestone counter that complements the overall design aesthetic.
The flooring design reinforces the park theme, with terracotta-toned tiles resembling a brick pathway extending from the entrance to the dining area. Dark grey textured tiles cover the remaining floor areas, creating visual contrast and defining different functional zones. Wood-clad kitchen cabinetry and open shelving provide storage while maintaining the natural material palette.
Furniture in muted colors is strategically placed throughout the open-plan space, with the clients' plants scattered throughout to create a garden-like atmosphere. Above the limestone-topped dining table, a pendant lamp resembling a corrugated roof adds an industrial touch that complements the brick elements.
The bedroom underwent significant modifications to improve natural lighting and ventilation. L Architects replaced solid walls with glass doorways and louvered windows, allowing for better airflow and daylight penetration throughout the apartment. This design decision supports both plant health and human comfort.
"So much effort has been put into ensuring that the plants have sufficient daylight and cross ventilation," the architects noted. "Unknowingly, that also created a wonderful environment for our clients where they would be able to use the space in the daytime, where they were less reliant on artificial lighting and active cooling methods."
L Architects, founded by Hui in 2016, has gained recognition for innovative residential projects. The "In a Park" apartment has been shortlisted in the residential interior (small) category of Dezeen Awards 2025, highlighting its creative approach to urban living. The project demonstrates how thoughtful material selection and spatial planning can create environments that serve both human needs and support urban gardening initiatives.
